Coach: RAFE WATKINS
LAST 8 YEARS:
2021 – 7-4
2020 – 6-3
2019 – 3-7
2018 – 5-5
2017 – 8-4
2016 – 8-3
2015 – 9-5
2014 – 6-5
OFFENSE
Last season, the Red Devils’ season ended with a first-round playoff exit. First-year head coach Rafe Watkins says while there may be a few changes, he is ready to see what his squad can do. “We have several returning starters on both sides of the ball,” Watkins stated. “We will be running a different offense and defense from what they have been the last few years and how fast they pick that up will be crucial to our success. Staying healthy along the offensive and defensive lines will be a must due to depth at those positions as well.” Aiden Auld (5-10, 165, Jr.) will lead the offense at quarterback. He is more than just a passer, he also has the ability to play running back or receiver if needed. Another quarterback that will see playing time this season is Rex Gieser (6-0, 185, Jr.). He is an athletic kid that knows the game of football. Coming out of the backfield will be running back Trevor McGinnis (6-1, 225, Sr.). He is a strong runner that knows how to find the right place to go. Taking care of the protection up front will be linemen Dex McKee (6-1, 260, Sr.), Taylor Ringle (6-3, 270, Jr.), and Dillon Cooper (6-6, 285, Jr.).
DEFENSE
The Prague defense is in a similar situation as the offense, they have experience coming back and Watkins says that this defensive unit will be important to team success. “I believe on defense you must stop the run game first, just like you must be able to run the ball in my opinion to be a championship team,” the coach said. Stopping the run game begins up front with the defensive line. Grant McGinnis (6-0, 205, Sr.) will play as a defensive end, while Karson Holsapple (6-0, 260, Sr.) will be at defensive tackle. They will work together to anchor the defensive line. Maintaining things at linebacker will be Ryan Dedge (6-0, 205, Jr.) and McGinnis. Working in the secondary to shut down the opponent’s passing game will be defensive backs Peyton Ezell (5-10, 160, Sr.) and Braden Pickard (5-8, 140, Jr.). Assistant coaches this season are Scott Martin, Moses Williams, and Luke Sapp.
SCHEDULE:
8-26 – at Luther
9-2 – vs. Meeker
9-9 – vs. North Rock Creek
9-23 – vs. Henryetta
9-30 – at Keys
10-7 – at Roland
10-13 – vs. Seq. Tahlequah
10-21 – at Warner
10-28 – at Vian
11-4 – vs. Okemah