WAGONER BULLDOGS
KIMES GILBERT
12-1
OFFENSE
After a 3-year run of success including 38 wins, the Class 4A state title and one runner-up finish, Wagoner enters the 2025 campaign with a changing of the guard as Kimes Gilbert takes the reins as head coach and inherits a roster that while dented by graduation and transfers still maintains playmakers and the “bite” of the Bulldogs winning tradition. Keyshaun Brown (6-1, 185, Jr.) has waited for his opportunity to direct the ‘Dogs offense and has earned the confidence of coaches and players to make the most of his abilities. The Bulldogs spread offense will also include quarterback packages for Karson Klinger (6-1, 195, Jr.). Both signal callers have a definite go-to-receiver target in Elijah Love (6-1, 210, Jr.), a VYPE Top 100 nominee who Kimes describes as an extremely gifted and physical athlete with plenty of speed to spare. Also adding to the highlight reel making plays will be receivers Jonah Smith (5-9, 165, Jr.) and Desean Jordan (6-1, 180, Jr.), a transfer from Broken Arrow. Kimes is eager to watch the big plays unfold from the ground game with Blayke Smith (5-8, 165, Jr.) and the development of Gavin Edwards (6-1, 175, Fr.). The lone two returning offensive starters Anthony Harris (6-0, 230, Sr.) and Stavery James (5-11, 240, Sr.) will allow Wagoner to maintain an aggressive and strong offensive line bolstered by the determined efforts of Logan Jones (6-0, 260, Jr.). “The offense still has speed and big play potential on every snap,” said Kimes.
DEFENSE
Even though many of the names may have changed, Wagoner opponents will once again have difficulty in putting points on the scoreboard as VYPE Top 100 pick Javon Smith (5-10, 210, Sr.), a three year starter who returns to anchor defensive play at inside linebacker. “His motor never slows down,” said Kimes. “Javon’s agility coupled with his physical nature lets him make plays from the back side when opponents go away from him.” The linebacker unit will also include Andrew Rathsack (6-1, 190, Sr.), Kaden Holladay (6-1, 195, So.) and Karson Klinger. While nose guard Anthony Harris will battle to control the line of scrimmage, Carter Brown (6-2, 225, Jr.) and Rylin Whitaker (6-0, 205, Sr.) will crash off the edge to stop opponents in the backfield. The secondary will again have the speed to match up in lockdown coverage with cornerback Zion Corey (5-10, 175, Jr.), a member of Wagoner’s state champion relay squad on one side and Bobby Henderson (5-11, 190, Jr.) on the opposite boundary while Mark Goins (6-0, 170, So.) will play with intensity at safety. “Every player on the defensive unit brings physicality and extra effort on every snap of the ball,” said Kimes. With a still fresh memory of the importance of a game winning field goal, Wagoner will welcome the leg strength of Rhett Butler (5-10, 160, Jr.) to flip the field as well a put points on the scoreboard.
“Even though outside voices may say different, our young men know it’s the voices inside the arena of our team that will impact our results everyday,” said Kimes. “We know our expectations and we know what we can do.”
9-5 – at Coweta
9-12 – at Tahlequah
9-19 – vs. Bristow
9-26 – vs. Fort Gibson
10-3 – at Miami
10-10 – vs. Catoosa
10-16 – at Cushing
10-24 – vs. Grove
10-31 – at Skiatook
11-7 – vs. Oologah
