BLANCHARD LIONS
Coach: JEFF CRAIG
13-1
OFFENSE
The reigning champions of Class 4A, the Lions will have some spots to fill but head coach Jeff Craig is looking forward to seeing what his team can do this season. “We will have to replace several key starters, starting with our quarterback and four of our five offensive linemen,” Craig said. “Some key skill players return, but quarterback will be the big question mark on offense. The same goes with the defense. Some key players at outside linebacker, defensive lineman, and cornerback are gone and will be key to replace. A tough preseason schedule will give us a good indicator of what we’ll need to work on to contend.” The team’s quarterback will have three outstanding receivers at their disposal. Coric Pierce (6-2, 200, Sr.) totaled 850 receiving yards and seven touchdowns last season, while Brayson Carter (5-9, 155, Sr.) had 683 yards and four scores. Cole Watkins (6-3, 200, Jr.) added 240 receiving yards with a touchdown last season. Another big time threat will be tight end Hudsen Periman (6-4, 210, Sr.), who had 49 receptions for 702 yards and twelve touchdowns. Helping to maintain things on the offensive line will be tackle Brayden Heffernan (6-3, 265, Jr.). While seeing some playing time as a freshman, he worked hard in the offseason and had a solid sophomore year.
DEFENSE
The Lions bring back a lot of experience to the defensive side of the ball. In the secondary, Carter and Pierce will be leading from the free safety position. Last season, Pierce had 71 tackles and three interceptions, while Carter added 63 tackles and five interceptions. Both will be expected to be big time players this season. Gage Ellison (6-3, 200, Sr.) will be outside linebacker after having 78 tackles, five sacks, two interceptions, and a fumble recovery a year ago. Taking care of things at inside linebacker is Brayden Stacy (5-11, 225, Sr.). Last season saw Stacy register 66 tackles and he has worked hard and is looking to increase that number this season. Kade Saunders (5-11, 235, Sr.), who had 21 tackles and five sacks a year ago, will cause problems for opponents from the nose guard position. Assistant coaches this season will be Chuck Blackburn, Caleb Cole, Kirk Kirchner, Chaz Mattocks, Jonathon Prock, Carson Smith, and Adam Wayland.
SCHEDULE
9-6 – at Noble
9-13 – vs. Newcastle
9-20 – vs. Guthrie
9-27 – at Harrah
10-4 – vs. Bethany
10-10 – at Tecumseh
10-17 – vs. Ardmore
10-25 – at Tuttle
11-1 – at Madill
11-8 – vs. Chickasha
