STILWELL INDIANS
Coach: JORDAN BARLOW
1-9
OFFENSE
The Stilwell Indians are looking for a turnaround with new coach Jordan Barlow who is excited about the opportunity. “We are entering a new era in Stilwell football. We will be focused on building a championship culture from the ground up,” said Barlow. “With key players like record-setting wide receiver Brayton Carter, defensive leader Chase Benham and rising sophomore Noah Bailey, we bring a talented and hungry roster into a very competitive district.” VYPE TOP 100 choice Carter (6-1, 160, Jr.) set a school record last year with 1335 receiving yards and nine touchdowns while averaging 15.5 yards per grab.
“Brayton was dynamic in all aspects including a last-second kickoff return touchdown that led to our win over Keys and a 16-catch, 241-yard game against Stigler,” said Barlow. “He’s also a standout in basketball and track and he’s already hearing from some colleges.” Benham (6-1, 205, Jr.) will be asked to take up the slack at running back this year while continuing his outstanding play on defense. The Indians will need a new quarterback and sophomore Denver Bruner (6-1, 170) and junior Jett Kimble (5-11, 160) are fighting it out. “Both guys make plays and both have things they need to improve,” said Barlow. “In the end it will come down to whoever takes the extra time and preparation and shows they’re ready to step up.”
DEFENSE
Benham will lead what should be a stronger defense after a freshman campaign that saw him chalk up 75 tackles after moving from defensive end to inside linebacker. “Chase is a stud for us, aggressive and a good leader who is a downhill linebacker that gets involved in every play,” said Barlow. Noah Bailey (5-6, 160, So.) who is also a standout wrestler, led the team in tackles last year with 95, and will be a headache for opposing offenses at his outside linebacker spot. “He is a tough, blue-collar kid that comes to work every day, and you never have to question his work ethic,” said Barlow. The Indians will operate out of a 4-2-5 defense with a two-shell coverage. “We look to be very physical and fundamentally sound with an emphasis on creating takeaways,” said Barlow.
SCHEDULE
8-29 – at Gentry, Ark
9-5 – OPEN
9-12 – vs. Keys
9-19– at Stigler
9-26 – at Poteau
10-3 – vs. Tulsa McLain
10-10 – vs. Broken Bow
10-16 – at Ada
10-24 – vs. Hilldale
10-31 – vs. Sallisaw
11-7 – at Glenpool
