Coach: KEVIN ADLER
8-3
OFFENSE
Kevin Adler is the new coach for the Knights as they look ahead to the new season. One of his main projects will be to replace quarterback Brady Norman who led the Knights to the playoffs for two straight years and has moved on to Northeastern State. Taking over that spot will be Nakona Johnson (5-11, 150, Jr.) for whom Adler has high hopes. “Nakona has been fantastic about taking on a leadership role on the offense and has picked up our new 11 personnel scheme quickly. He’s a dual threat guy and has the ability to lead our offense to new heights over the next couple of years.” Johnson will have some experienced receivers to throw to in Nathan Nail (6-0, 165, Sr.) and Blaze Hill (6-0, 200, Sr.). They’re joined by freshman Blazin Davis (6-0, 165), who Adler says has really made an impression through spring practice. Another freshman that could have an impact for the Knights is Mekko McNac. “Mekko has stepped up in multiple roles on offense and at outside linebacker on defense this spring,” said Adler. Big Hayzen Dudley (6-5, 290, Sr.) returns to the O-line and Damon Arthur (6-0, 180, Jr.) will handle the running back duties.
DEFENSE
Adler will operate his defense out of a three-man front.” Our philosophy is to relentlessly pursue the ball and put pressure on the other team on every snap and to be thought of as the most physical team on their schedule each and every week,” said Adler. Davis and McNac have already been mentioned as freshman additions to the defense and they’ll be joined by Hill at defensive end, Arthur at linebacker and Nail at defensive back. The Knights may struggle early as they adjust to a new coach and new quarterback but if Johnson can step up at the QB spot as Adler hopes, Henryetta may be a team to deal with again at playoff time. The Knights will get a little schedule help as well with two of their first three games at home followed by an open date.
SCHEDULE
8-29 – at Kellyville
9-5 – vs. Okemah
9-12 – vs. Beggs
9-19 – OPEN
9-26 – at Morris
10-3 – vs. Wilburton
10-10 – at Valliant
10-16 – vs. Vian
10-24 – vs. Antlers
10-31 – at Spiro
11-7 – at Atoka
