COVINGTON-DOUGLAS WILDCATS

Coach: BRIAN SMITH

9-3

OFFENSE

The Wildcats are coming off of a season that saw them advance to the second round of the Class B playoffs. Head coach Brian Smith says that his squad is primed to have another playoff run. “We bring back a lot of production from our skill positions, but we must replace starters on the offensive line,” he said. “We have many split ends and slots that will battle for playing time, but they all contributed last season.” Quarterback Ford Smith (6-0, 165, Jr.) had a spectacular season a year ago, throwing for 2,020 yards and rushing for 674 yards on the ground. He also ended up with 20 total touchdowns. Gavin Hooten (5-10, 160, Sr.) is back at tailback after racking up 1,474 total yards and 22 touchdowns last season. Split ends Kade Griffin (5-11, 160, Sr.) and Camden Thayer (5-8, 145, Jr.), along with slot Miguel Tarango (5-7, 150, Jr.) combined for 984 receiving yards and 160 rushing yards and look to increase their production this season. Derrek Daugherty (6-1, 230, Sr.) is back at tight end.

DEFENSE

The Wildcat defense returns six starters from last year’s team and will look for big plays this season. Cache Pierson (5-6, 170, Jr.) and Daugherty will be back at linebacker. The duo totaled 232 tackles a year ago. The secondary is a highly experienced group that will work to shut down opposing offenses. Hooten had 80 tackles and two interceptions, Tarango accumulated 79 tackles with four interceptions, and Smith had 62 tackles and three interceptions. Cooper Sherman (5-10, 185, Sr.) will see time at defensive end and linebacker but will be impactful wherever he plays.

SCHEDULE

8-24 – vs. Timberlake

8-31 – vs. Medford

9-7 – at Ringwood

9-15 – at Deer Creek-Lamont

9-22 – at Garber

10-6 – at Southwest Covenant

10-12 – vs. Canton

10-20 – at Waukomis

10-27 – vs. Seiling

11-3 – vs. Okeene