MIAMI WARDOGS
Coach: ZACH GARDNER
8-3
OFFENSE
Graduation may have taken a few key players, but head coach Zach Gardner and the coaching staff have players looking to step up and fill those gaps. “We will be challenged by replacing several two-way guys in the graduating class. With our returners and youth that were still able to get quality experience we expect to still be competitive within our district,” said coach Gardner. Four starters are back on offense including Josiah Barley (6-4, 310, Sr.) at tackle. Barley and the offensive line will be key for the Wardogs as they look to run a ball controlling offense and grind out drives for points. Barley Running back Donick Garfield (6-0, 175, Sr.) will carry the load this season. Garfield is a strong back with good speed. Look for Bryce Barnes (6-2, 200) at tight end and Kendryck Cook (5-10, 160, Sr.) at wide out. Both players are key when the Wardogs want to throw the ball. Trevor Henry (5-8, 150, Jr.) factors into the run game giving Miami a nice change of pace. Filling holes on the offensive line is crucial for the Wardogs. The coaching staff consists of Brad Homer, Adam Teal, Patrick Billings, Bob Homer, Zach Henry and Pete Overman.
DEFENSE
Five starters make their return to the defensive side of the ball this season. Defensive coordinator Brad Homer will run a 3-4 defense with Carter Santer (5-11, 220, Sr.) at tackle. Santer will also see time on the offensive line. A pair of outside linebackers are a big part of the Wardog defense. Trent Lawson (6-1, 185) and Gavin Fairman (5-10, 170, Sr.) will look to attack the opposing teams run game and drop into coverage when needed. Look for the defense to mix things up and use Lawson and Fairman off the edge. Eli Lewis (5-11, 180, Jr.) is the run stuffer in the middle of the defense. As a middle linebacker, Lewis understands how to shed the block and find the ball carrier. The secondary will feature Cook and Henry, while Garfield and Barnes are expected to play linebacker. Looks for a few fresh faces to make their way to the field this season.
8-29 – at Elkins, AR
9-5 – vs. NOAH
9-12 – vs. Vinita
9-19 – BYE
9-26 – at Oologah
10-3 – vs. Wagoner
10-10 – at Skiatook
10-16 – vs. Grove
10-24 – at Cushing
10-31 – vs. Catoosa
11-7 – vs. Fort Gibson
