2026 Morris Eagles Football Preview – Presented by Hayden Sharp – State Farm Insurance

MORRIS EAGLES

Coach: JIMMY WHITLOCK

1-9

Morris is a young team that made great strides last season, and second-year head coach Jimmy Whitlock says “we are looking to build upon that foundation” as the Eagles enter 2026. Morris returns six offensive starters and seven defensive starters from a 1-9 campaign, and with experience on both sides of the ball and emerging young talent, Whitlock believes his program can take a significant step forward.

The Eagles are a multiple formation offense, and their goal is to “be as even as the game allows running and throwing the football.” Junior quarterback Landon Martin (6-1, 155) returns to lead the offense, while senior wide receivers Hagen Hodges (6-0, 165) and Elijah Edwards (5-7, 150) give Morris playmakers on the perimeter. Junior offensive lineman Rowan Ramirez (6-0, 240) anchors the front, with Whitlock saying Ramirez “holds himself accountable in the classroom and on the field,” is “present at every workout and practice,” and is “at the top of his class” while also volunteering with youth sports and serving as an Eagle Scout and a leader. Senior wide receiver Keith Richardson (6-1, 175) provides another target in the passing game.

Defensively, Morris runs an even front with multiple coverages, and the defensive philosophy is to create turnovers. Hodges doubles as a safety and is a three-year starter on both sides of the ball who “exemplifies hard work and dedication to a program,” and Whitlock calls him “a leader on and off the field” who “had an outstanding junior season playing safety and receiver” and is “the type of kid that always puts his team first and is extremely coachable.” Sophomore linebacker Elias Smith (6-0, 190) started his freshman year at middle linebacker and H-back, and Whitlock says he “is a dedicated athlete and a member of the state champion academic team” who “loves taking on challenges on and off the field.” Junior safety Gage Ausbrooks (5-9, 160), senior linebacker Grant Clay (5-9, 185) and junior corner Trent Whitaker (5-10, 160) give the Eagles additional experience in the secondary and at the second level as Morris looks to build on last season’s foundation.

8-28 – at Henryetta

9-11 – at Liberty

9-18 – vs. Haskell

9-25 – at Holdenville

10-2 – vs. Beggs

10-9 – at Hartshorne

10-15 – vs. Wilburton

10-23 – at Kellyville

10-30 – vs. Stroud

11-6 – vs. Atoka

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