WASHINGTON WARRIORS
Coach: BRAD BELLER
15-0
OFFENSE
The Warriors have some rebuilding to do on offense with seven players to replace that started the state championship game. Don’t sweat, the program has elite depth and talent behind those who have moved on. It begins with the trio of Nate Roberts (6-5, 240, Sr.), Hudson Howard (5-6, 185, Sr.) and Mason Singletary (5-10, 165, Sr.). Roberts is one of the top players in the state of Oklahoma, regardless of classification. He’s a tight end on offense that can catch the football but creates more space as a punishing blocker. Roberts scored 11 touchdowns on 33 receptions totaling 836 yards. Howard sliced and diced his way to 1,718 yards rushing and 26 touchdowns as a junior at running back and Singletary caught 28 passes for 450 yards and six touchdowns. Kade Babcock (5-10, 175, So.) had worked his way into the rotation at receiver before suffering a broken leg. He’s healthy and ready to return. The Warriors must replace three-year starter Major Cantrell at quarterback. Creed Barrett (5-10, 180, Fr.) is one of the top players in the state in the Class of 2028. Kinser Scott (5-11, 160, Jr.) and Kale Brakefield (5-11, 200, Jr.) are also capable of taking snaps. Brakefield is especially solid in the Wildcat formation. Kingston Stringer (5-11, 250, Jr.) returns at center. Several other Warriors started games on the offensive line at some point during the season. Jackson Byrd (5-11, 190, Sr.) was a full-time starter at defensive end last year and will step in at left tackle on offense. Sam Cantrell (6-0, 205, Jr.) made big gains in the offseason and should be ready to roll at right tackle. Canyon Dowden (6-0, 220, Sr.) and Wyatt Phillips (6-1, 275, So.) head the depth chart at the guard spots.
DEFENSE
There is a little more experience on the defensive side of the ball. Kane Lampkin (6-3, 250, Sr.) flat out creates havoc at defensive end where Roberts can also play situationally if needed. Tanner Olsen (5-9, 195, Sr.) has started all 30 games the past two seasons for the Warriors. He’s part of a secondary that will be considered the strength of the defense. Olsen and Case Alexander (6-3, 195, So.) were both outstanding in the state finals win over Millwood. Alexander played like a veteran from the moment he stepped on the field, racking up 78 tackles and five interceptions as a freshman. Dawson Thomas (5-6, 165, Sr.) intercepted six passes last year at safety. Thomas and Purcell move-in Kash Guthmueller (5-10, 185, Sr.) solidify that position with Tatum Wilk (5-10, 155, Sr.) joining Olsen at cornerback. Washington’s 30-game winning streak will be tested right out of the gate in the non-conference against Sulphur. Millwood and familiar foe Marlow, down from Class 3A, are obstacles in the chase for three in a row in Class 2A. The Warriors have all the bases covered to be considered the favorite once again for the state championship.
