Exciting storylines await in upcoming Rogers County high school football season
Jun. 2—The upcoming high school football season in Rogers County is brimming with intriguing storylines and teams eager to make their mark on the gridiron.
As fans gear up for the action-packed season, here are some captivating narratives to follow:
1. Can Claremore break through for a deep playoff run?
The Zebras are poised to make a statement this season with returning eight starters on both sides of the ball. Despite finishing with a 5-6 record last year, they were competitive in many games, with four of their losses decided by two touchdowns or less.
Claremore is determined to shake off past disappointments and aim for its first state semifinals appearance since 1987. With a solid roster and the hunger for victory, the Zebras are a team to watch out for.
2. How will the new-look Verdigris perform?
The Cardinals face the challenge of replacing 17 seniors from last year's successful team, which boasted an impressive 11-2 record. These departing seniors had a remarkable 41-9 overall record and made three semifinal appearances during their high school careers.
However, Verdigris has a group of promising young players ready to step up, including Mason Mittasch and Tyler Willis. Other emerging talents like Chris Zaferes, Ty McKnight and Austin Boren are also expected to play crucial roles this season.
Can Verdigris maintain its recent winning tradition and surpass last year's accomplishments?
3. Is Sequoyah back to being a perennial power?
After a prolonged absence from the spotlight, the Eagles surged to the state quarterfinals in 2022, marking a significant achievement for the program.
Although they lost key starters, including star running back Logan Hattaway who rushed for nearly 2,000 yards in 2022, Sequoyah possess the talent and coaching expertise of Rob Gilbreath to mount another deep playoff run.
Quarterback Landon Gilbreath, who consistently showcased his skills last season, will likely play a pivotal role in the team's success. Can Sequoyah sustain its momentum and reclaim its status as a perennial powerhouse?
4. Inola, Foyil and Catoosa under new leadership
This season, three teams in Rogers County are under new leadership.
Inola has hired Brett Thomas as their new coach, replacing Tommy Rogers. Rogers left to become an assistant coach at Edison after Inola's 3-17 record the past two seasons, including a winless campaign in 2022.
Foyil welcomes Brent Dickey as its new coach, who is taking over for Lance Williams. Williams led the Panthers to a 4-17 record over the past two seasons. Dickey played baseball at Rogers State University from 2020-2022.
Catoosa sees Sal Guerrero stepping in for Christian Hood, with Hood leaving after a 6-15 record in the previous two seasons. Guerrero has recently served as the Indians' offensive coordinator and the Dean of Students at Wells Middle Schools in Catoosa.
These coaching changes bring fresh perspectives and could potentially rejuvenate these programs.
5. Can Chelsea take another postseason step?
Under new coach Brad Farrow, the Green Dragons made a triumphant return to the playoffs last season, ending a drought dating back to 2015.
Although it faced a tough first-round defeat against Stroud, the team aims to build on that achievement. A playoff victory in 2023 would be monumental for the program, for it would be its first since its impressive run to the Class 2A quarterfinals in 2002.
Watch closely as Chelsea seeks to take another step forward under Farrow's guidance.
6. Can Oologah get back on track?
Oologah is looking to regain its former glory after missing out on the playoffs every year since 2018, with a brief appearance in the 2020 playoffs due to the pandemic.
Under the leadership of coach Darrin Wegner, the Mustangs have shown signs of improvement, steadily increasing their win totals each year. With five wins in 2022, Oologah aims to recapture its status as a powerhouse in the region.
Keep an eye on Oologah as it strives to reclaim its past dominance and compete for a playoff spot.
As the anticipation builds for the upcoming high school football season in Rogers County, these captivating storylines add an extra layer of excitement and intrigue.
Fans, players and coaches alike eagerly await the kickoff, ready to witness the triumphs, surprises and unforgettable moments that lie ahead on the gridiron.
