CHOCTAW YELLOWJACKETS

Coach: JAKE CORBIN

11-2

OFFENSE

The runner-up finish in 2022 has head coach Jake Corbin and the Yellowjacket football team hungry for another shot at the gold ball. Off season workouts and weight room goals are being met on a daily basis as Choctaw keeps their eye on the prize coming into the 2023 season. “We’re excited to watch the 2023 season unfold. We have had a tremendous off season. Our team goes to work each day with a joyful obedience and loves one another. We will go as far as our leadership and team connection can take us. The 2023 squad has unlimited potential,” said coach Corbin. Offensive coordinator Jon Garfield returns six starters to the lineup including Juju Smith (5-9, 160, Jr.) at wide receiver who can contribute to the offense in many ways. Last season Smith had 753 yards receiving and 215 yards rushing. Another wide out to watch is Will Smith (6-4, 245, Sr.) who added 433 yards of offense. Nathan Keiffer (5-9, 160, Jr.) is the third receiver opponents will need to defend. Keiffer was good for 559 yards through the air last season. In the spread offense, coach Garfield has two quarterbacks ready to contribute. Cash Williams (6-0, 202, Jr.) and Landon Gatson (6-4, 218, So.) both saw action last season. Williams was 20 of 30 for 261 yards and eight TDs, while Gatson threw for 71 yards passing and rushed for 176. The plan for the Yellowjacket offense is to make the opposing defense cover every inch of the field. Jayden Milsap is a team captain for Choctaw and a big reason the team is coming together and playing for each other. Nolan Bussell returns from an injury and is expected to make an impact this season.

DEFENSE

Defensive coordinator Brad Clark has a full squad returning on defense. Will Smith is the edge rusher every team wants on their roster. His size and quickness make him an elite high school edge player. Last season he recorded 13 sacks and is looking for more this year. Marques McGrew (6-0, 270, Sr.) will play nose guard and is comfortable playing a 1 or a 3-technique inside. McGrew had six sacks a year ago. Easton Costa (6-3, 225, Sr.) had 87 tackles from his linebacker spot and is back for more this season. Costa is a big, hard-hitting backer, and he’s not alone. Braven McConnell (6-3, 210, Jr.) will play next to Costa where he grabbed 78 tackles as a sophomore. The secondary features Cory Childs (5-11, 165, Sr.) and Austin Hubert (6-0, 170, Sr.). Together they accounted for 80 tackles and play a big role in the overall success of the defense. The 3-4 scheme will allow coach Clark to let his kids play fast with excellent technique. Look for Juju Smith to handle the return duties on special teams.

SCHEDULE
 8-25 – vs. Del City

9-1 – at Edmond Santa Fe

9-8 – vs. Westmoore

9-22 – at Putnam City North

9-28 – vs. Capitol Hill

10-6 – at Deer Creek

10-12 – vs. NW Classen

10-20 – at Lawton

10-27 – vs. Putnam City

11-3 – at Ponca City