Coach: ERIC HENRY

Last 8 Years:
2021 – 7-4
2020 – 4-4
2019 – 8-3
2018 – 8-3
2017 – 9-4
2016 – 8-4
2015 – 12-1
2014 – 10-2

OFFENSE

After a short run in the Class B playoffs last year, the Keota Lions are poised to take the next step with a solid core of returning starters led by running back David Davis (6-0, 175, Jr.) who has rushed for nearly 1700 yards over the past two seasons. “David has the ability to break open the game with a big play at any time,” said veteran coach Eric Henry. “He is a super hard worker, loves carrying the ball and loves contact.” The receiving corps is also in good hands with tight end Mason Edwards (6-1, 185, Jr.) who had 19 receptions for nearly 400 yards and seven touchdowns and Gunner Hill (6-2, 190, Jr.) at the wide out who put it in the end zone
three times in 2021. The line is anchored by Kecher Bustos (5-11, 220, Sr.). joining Davis in the backfield will be fullback James Weece (5-9, 150, Jr.) and Justin Long will be the quarterback out of the I-formation. Long has spent most of his time as a wide receiver but did see some action last year as the QB. There will be a couple of changes in District B-6 this season for the Lions with Welch and Foyil replacing
Summit Christian and Watts as district foes.

DEFENSE

“We try to bring pressure every play by flying to the ball and gang tackling and
being aggressive.” That’s the way Henry describes his 3-3 defense with five returning starters. It begins in the trenches with Johnathan Dillard (6-1, 180, Sr.) with 50 tackles a year ago and Garrett Doss (5-9, 205, Jr.). Bustos and Davis will team up to roam the middle at linebackers while Weece, who had 57 tackles last year and Hill, who chipped in 52 tackles, will man the secondary. A defense that averaged giving up just 14.5 points a game last year should improve on that figure with a year of experience under their belt. “We are excited about the kids we have coming back,” said Henry. “They work hard while having the next man up approach. If we can stay healthy and limit our mistakes, we can make a run in the playoffs.”

SCHEDULE:
9-2 – at Strother
9-9 – vs. Quinton
9-16 – at Porum
9-23 – at Drumright
9-30 – vs. Weleetka
10-7 – at Foyil
10-13 – vs. Welch
10-20 – at Cave Springs
10-28 – vs. Arkoma
11-4 – vs. Gans