MERRITT OILERS
Coach: DUSTIN BEASLEY
1-9
OFFENSE
The Merritt Oilers enter the 2024 season with a renewed sense of purpose under new head coach Dustin Beasley. With a young and hungry roster, Coach Beasley and his staff — assistants Heath Stehr and Jett Snowden—are focused on building a foundation of discipline, toughness, and team-first mentality. After a 1-9 campaign last fall, the Oilers are committed to taking meaningful steps forward. The Oilers will run a spread offense this season, designed to keep defenses off balance and take advantage of what they give, whether that’s through the air or on the ground. Sophomore quarterback Aaron Partain (6-0, 170, So.) will lead the offense. He’s shown maturity beyond his years and brings a strong work ethic to the huddle. His development at the position will be key to Merritt’s success. Surrounding him are playmakers like wide receivers Hudson Dyer (5-7, 160, Sr.) and Cole Carter (5-6, 145, Sr.), both capable of stretching the field and making plays in space. In the backfield, running backs Ryker Simpson (5-7, 170, Sr.) and Gavin Bashaw (5-8, 175, So.) provide a physical, downhill running style that complements the spread system. Bashaw, in particular, is a tough, hard-nosed competitor who plays the game with heart and grit. Anchoring the offensive line is center Jose Hernandez (5-10, 185, Sr.), whose consistency and leadership will be vital in protecting Partain and opening up lanes for the run game.
DEFENSE
Defensively, the Oilers will line up in a 3-4 base and focus on stopping the run and playing with physicality. Gavin Bashaw will again be a tone-setter with his toughness and motor. Aaron Partain will also play a key role on the defensive side at linebacker, where his instincts and commitment shine. Linebackers Jaden Hartman (6-2, 175, So.) and Trent Shinn (5-11, 160, Jr.) bring intensity and aggression to the middle, while cornerbacks Austin Smith (5-10, 160, Sr.) and Jaxston Hartman (6-2, 175, So.) provide speed and cover skills on the outside. James O’Clair (6-0, 325, Sr.) adds power to the defensive front and will be relied on to clog the interior. While still a work in progress, the 2024 Merritt Oilers are united and driven to take the next step. With new energy and a determined core, they are ready to compete.
8-29 – vs. Texhoma
9-4 – at Mooreland
9-19 – at Apache
9-26 – vs. Cashion
10-3 – at Fairview
10-10 – vs. Sayre
10-16 – at Hinton
10-24 – at Hooker
10-31 – vs. Cresent
11-7 – vs. Watonga
