JONES LONGHORNS
Coach: KEVIN WITT
9-3
OFFENSE
Head coach Kevin Witt returns seven starters from last year’s team that enjoyed success in a tough district. “We’re heading into the upcoming season with confidence and momentum, returning several key starters who bring experience, leadership, and a competitive edge. The team has been putting in the work during the offseason, and we’re excited about the talent, depth, and chemistry developing across the board. Expectations are high, and we’re ready to take the next step this fall,” said coach Witt. Quarterback Acyn Hansen (5-11, 185, Sr.) makes his return for his final year of prep football. Hansen threw for 2,643 yards, rushed for 851 yards and has 38 touchdowns to his credit in his first season as the fulltime starter at QB. “Our offensive philosophy centers around a fast-paced, spread attack designed to keep defenses on their heels. We aim to be balanced and capable of attacking through the air and on the ground while maintaining tempo to control the pace of the game. Our goal is to create mismatches, exploit space, and keep the chains moving,” said coach Witt. Luke DeBusk (6-1, 235, Sr.) is a two-way starter at running back and linebacker. DeBusk is a strong runner who doesn’t shy away from contact. Carlos Hardeman is another two-way player starting at wide receiver and corner on defense. Hardeman is a quick receiver with excellent hands. He joins Hunter Purvis at WR giving Hansen two excellent targets in the passing game. Jack Mendoza will anchor the offensive line giving the Longhorns some experience and strength up front.
DEFENSE
With DeBusk playing linebacker and Hardeman at corner, the Longhorn defense is off to a good start, but needs to find some starters at key positions to replace the six starters lost to graduation. DeBusk recorded 94 tackles last season and is expected to have another stellar year. “Defensively, we operate out of a 3-4 base with a focus on discipline, speed, and physicality. Our philosophy is to be aggressive up front, sound in our assignments, and relentless in pursuit. We emphasize creating pressure, forcing turnovers, and playing fast, smart, and tough from snap to whistle,” said coach Witt. Derek Tempelton (6-2, 175, So.) started as a freshman last year and made some big plays on defense. Tempelton will start in the secondary where he made 25 tackles last season. Look for Tempelton to also see time at WR. Dorian Wiley (6-2, 230, Sr.) had a solid year as a junior in the trenches for the Longhorn defensive line. Wiley accounted for two sacks, three tackles for loss and 25 solo tackles. Wiley applies the same focus in the classroom where he is on track to graduate with honors and a 4.0 GPA. The coaching staff includes Ted Dorrell, Colin Steverson, J Dee Marinko, Austin Maly, Grant Haynes, Riky Oliver, Austin Neasbitt, Nick Vandever, Quinn Keast, Jamarlin Jones, Dana Luebbe, and Alec Mock.
8-29 – at Luther
9-5 – vs. Kiefer
9-12 – at Bethany
9-26 – at Perry
10-3 – vs. Millwood
10-10 – at Crooked Oak
10-16 – vs. Chisholm
10-24 – vs. Mount St. Mary
10-31 – at OCS
11-7 – vs. Blackwell
