Harrah High School sophomore quarterback Colt Cantrell is entering the season with a clear mindset: soak up the good moments, learn fast from the bad ones, and keep pushing the offense forward.
Cantrell already has a strong feel for what makes his team click, and it goes beyond scheme or talent. “Really it’s a lot of things, but at the end of the day I just really like the feel of this place. I have great teammates to work with. We’re all on the same page with our goals for the team and ready to go,” Cantrell said.
That sense of chemistry starts in the huddle, where Cantrell will lean heavily on senior lineman Quaid Smith this fall. “I’ve played with several really good players. Some will probably play high level college football or even beyond that. Probably my teammate Quaid Smith. He’ll be blocking for me this season and that’s a really good thing,” Cantrell said.
Much of Cantrell’s approach to the quarterback position traces back to family. His older brother, Steele, set the standard early, and Colt has modeled his game after him ever since. “My brother Steele. I’ve watched him play QB since I was little. He’s an amazing leader and player and he never gives up no matter what,” Cantrell said.
Football dominates Cantrell’s calendar nearly year-round, a commitment he has fully embraced. “I don’t. It’s pretty much in season football and off-season football for me. I also play 7v7 for Sooner7,” Cantrell said.
That singular focus has shown up in the weight room and on the practice field this summer as Harrah prepares for the season opener. “Work outs are good. Just ready to get out there and execute all we’ve been prepping for,” Cantrell said.
Cantrell pointed to quick decision-making as one of the biggest strengths he brings to the field, along with an offseason spent sharpening the details. “I feel like I get the ball out of my hands pretty quick and have good instincts. I’ve been working on my footwork, speed and decision making,” Cantrell said.
He also carries a simple, direct philosophy for handling adversity during games, something he says will guide him this season. “Learn from mistakes and move on quickly,” Cantrell said.
Looking further down the road, Cantrell already has an idea of where football could take him. “After high school I would like to continue playing football or coach,” Cantrell said.
