These are the top seven players in the Ardmore area hub, ranked by VYPE editors regardless of position.
#1 Cal Swanson – QB – Junior – Ardmore
Swanson has a next-level type arm and is one of the best quarterbacks to come through the Ardmore program. Swanson is a leader on and off the field and has two seasons to show what he can do.
#2 Reis Taylor – QB – Senior – Plainview
Last year Taylor completed 50 percent of his passes for 744 yards and nine touchdowns in only four games. An injury sidelined him last season but look for Taylor to lead the Indians to a winning season.
#3 Austin Perdue – RB/WR – Senior – Healdton
As a junior Perdue rushed for 1,081 yards and 12 touchdowns but look for him to contribute from two positions this season thanks to his track speed and ability to get separation.
#4 Blayne Giourgas – WR/LB – Senior – Thackerville
Giourgas was amazing last year with 739 yards receiving on 46 receptions at wide receiver. On defense he made 49 tackles from his linebacker spot. Coach Wolfe has high expectations for Giourgas this year.
#5 Draden Reynolds – NG – Junior – Marietta
The anchor of the defensive line, Reynolds brings strength and explosiveness to the trenches for Marietta. Reynolds made great gains in the offseason and will be a playmaker in 2021.
#6 Aaron Butler – WR/DB – Senior – Fox
Butler accounted for more than 1,000 yards receiving last year thanks to his great hands and great speed. Butler, a three-sport athlete, will also start in the defensive secondary.
#7 Johnny Smith – FB/S – Senior – Dickson
A very athletic player, Smith will be the featured back in the Dickson offense. He will also start at safety where the coaching staff is confident, he will have a breakout season.
FANS CHOICE
Based on fan voting in the Ardmore area hub, here are the top players at seven positions.
OFFENSE
Quarterback: Cal Swanson – Ardmore
Cal Swanson is a great leader for our football team. His arm talent makes him a special player for us. He has a chance to be one the best to ever come through here.
Wide Receiver/Tight End: Brytan Gaddy – Sulphur
Gaddy is a great team player and always works hard.
Running Back: Holden McGahey – Madill
A hard nosed runner, Holden can bust through any hole the line gives him.
Offensive Lineman: Jack Jones – Dickson
Jones is a great kids and a solid teammate. He will be a key player on the line this season.
Defense
Linebacker: Caden Pickens – Plainview
Caden led the team in tackles last season. He is a great all around personality and positive leader.
Defensive Back: Evan Smith – Ardmore
Smith should have a big season in the secondary.
Defensive Lineman: Jeston Gilliam – Plainview
Gilliam had a big season last year. He had 97 total tackles, two sacks, eight tackles for loss, and forced two fumbles.