BLANCHARD LIONS

JEFF CRAIG

8-4

OFFENSE

The Blanchard Lions and longtime head coach Jeff Craig are optimistic about their 2022 season after a few key injuries in 2021 forced the team to shuffle players around. Six starters return on offense with a mix of youth and veteran talent at skill positions. Wide receiver Jaxon Laminack (5-10, 160, Sr.) had 37 receptions for 546 yards and seven scores in 2021 and Brayson Carter (5-9, 135, So.) had 25 catches for 481 and found the endzone five times. Running a spread gun attack, the Lions bring an option mentality to all aspects of their offense, either in run-pass options, or heavy read opportunities. Center Trey Spencer (6-0, 245, Jr.) will be relied upon to keep the offensive line disciplined. Running back Zach Garret (5-8, 150, Sr.) returns for his final season after racking up nearly 500 yards and four touchdowns on the ground in 2021. Quarterback Carson Cooksey (5-11, 170, Jr.) suffered a foot injury week nine in 2021 that quelled a deep run in the playoffs. He still threw for nearly 2,000 yards with 22 touchdowns and only four interceptions while scampering for 150 yards and five more scores. With a strong arm, great pocket presence, and another year of experience, Cooksey should have a very productive season in 2022.

DEFENSE

The Lions will be looking to fill many positions on defense this year with only four returning starters, but the coaches are eager to see which young players emerge and earn a role. After injuries in 2021 forced some players to switch positions the Lions are excited for a fresh start. Two-way starter Laminack will be back in his familiar free safety role this season. In 2021 Laminack had 94 tackles and two interceptions but took over as quarterback last season when starter, Cooksey, suffered a foot injury in week nine. Fellow safety and two-way player, Carter, also had two interceptions in 2021 and is an excellent cover guy that can close on the ball. “He has tremendous hands,” Craig said, “if the ball’s in his area, he’ll catch it.” The Lions run a 3-4 defense with a quarters or route recognition secondary. They’re calculated on blitzes, picking and choosing when to send pressure, and disguising where it’s coming from. Caiden Wright (5-11, 215, Sr.) will be called upon to be a vocal leader, orchestrate the defense, and provide veteran leadership for the talented young Lions.

9-2 – at Noble

9-9 – vs. Piedmont

9-16 – at Shawnee

9-23 – at Harrah

9-30 – vs. Newcastle

10-7 – at Tuttle

10-13 – vs. Classen SAS

10-21 – at Bridge Creek

10-28 – at Bethany

11-4 – vs. Tecumseh