WETUMKA CHIEFTAINS

Coach: DARRELL REID

10-2

OFFENSE

Alex Allford, a VYPE Top 100 selection, will lead Wetumka’s offense from the quarterback position in 2023. Allford (5-10, 180, Sr.) threw for 983 yards and rushed for 1,800 yards with 16 touchdowns as a junior on the Chieftains state quarterfinal team under head coach Darrell Reid. “We’re returning experienced players from our state quarterfinal team. We should be competitive at the state level if we can avoid the injury bug,” Reid said. Also returning on offense are running back Mason Allford (5-10, 195, Sr.), receivers Chole Wright (5-11, 145, Sr.) and Budda Williams (6-3, 160, Sr.) and offensive lineman Phillip Ross (6-4, 220, So.). Mason Allford rushed for 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2022, while Wright and Williams combined for 1,092 yards receiving with 14 touchdowns. “We will be a pro, power-based offense. Use size and speed to move the ball. Throw enough to keep defenses off guard,” Reid said.

DEFENSE

Mason Allford returns to lead the Chieftains’ defense at linebacker after logging 86 tackles and one interception last season. “Fast. State champion in two sports as a junior. A threat to score anytime he gets the ball. Is just as content to deliver a blow blocking as running the ball,” Reid said. Elijah Harrison (5-10, 145, Jr.) is also back at linebacker after collecting 72 tackles a year ago. Logan Melton (6-0, 185, Sr.) will be the key piece up front at defensive end. Melton will be coming back from a baseball injury last spring when he broke both sides of his jaw. Alex Allford and Chole Wright will be leaders in the secondary. “Does everything for us, including carrying the water. Leads by example,” Reid said of Alex Allford. Wetumka will align in the 3-2. “Gap control. We will swarm to the ball,” Reid said.

SCHEDULE

9-1 – vs. Quinton

9-8 – vs. Drumright

9-15 – at Arkoma

9-22 – vs. Regent Prep

9-29 – at Billings

10-6 – at Depew

10-19 – at Summit Christian

10-27 – vs. Davenport

11-3 – vs. Weleetka