PANAMA RAZORBACKS
Coach: CHRIS FORD
6-5
OFFENSE
For the first time in five years, the Panama Razorbacks posted a winning record in 2023, making it to the Class Aplayoffs and with nine returning starters on offense, they look to take another step up the playoff ladder this year. Ty Simkins (5-10, 185, Sr.) will move from running back where he rushed for nearly 2,000 yards in two seasons to the quarterback spot this year running out of Ford’s wing-T offense. But they’ll still be plenty of firepower left at running back with the return of seniors Daniel Bledsoe (5-10, 196) and Caleb Brewer (5-8, 185). The duo combined for nearly 2,000 yards and 22 touchdowns last season, and they’ll be spelled by Ruben Morgan (6-0, 175, So.) when needed. Although the Razorback offense is predicated on the run, when Simkins does throw he’ll be looking for wide out Talan Fairless (5-9, 165, Sr.) or tight end Brody Clark (6-2, 220, Sr.). “Brody is returning from a fractured leg last season,” said Ford. “He led the team in receptions his sophomore year and was on his way to doing the same last year before his injury. He’s a beast in the weight room taking gold in powerlifting at regionals last year.”
DEFENESE
The Razorbacks will move from a three to a four-man front on defense this year playing hard and fast and creating turnovers said Ford. Jay Skelton (6-0, 275, Sr.) will anchor the D-line. “Jay is a friend to everyone and a joy to be around. When he’s not busting heads on the field, he can be found loading trucks at his job.” said Ford. Clark, Morgan,and Brewer will line up behind Skelton at linebacker spots. The secondary should be solid again with Simkins who had four interceptions in 2023 at safety and Fairless who recorded 12 pass breakups last year at cornerback. Ford will also be looking find a place on either side of the ball for guys like Aryn Seamans, a three-sport athlete, and up and coming sophomore Chris Gray.
9-5 – vs. Spiro
9-13 – at Heavener
9-20 – vs. Wilburton
9-27 – vs. Chouteau
10-4 – at Hulbert
10-11 – vs. Rejoice Christian
10-17 – at Warner
10-25 – at Haskell
11-1 – vs. Pocola
11-8 – vs. Hartshorne
