In the Class 4A State Championship Game against Poteau, Weatherford’s defense kept the Eagles in the game and only gave up 9 points.
Weatherford returns players on defense such as defensive end Ethan Downs, the University of Oklahoma commit, and defensive back Brett Bozarth.
Defensive coordinator Taylor Sossaman said his players are disciplined and play hard at all times, even in practice.
“I thought our guys did everything we asked them to do in the scrimmages,” Sossamon said. “We always talk about executing and playing relentlessly and I thought they did an excellent job at doing those things. We have a few more defensive schemes to learn before the season begins. The effort and execution I have seen so far has been great.”
Sossamon said their experience on defense will help them go far this season and it can limit early season mistakes.
“We have an experienced team,” Sossamon said. “Some of these guys have been playing football a long time, so this should help get rid of some of the early nerves. Hopefully, this experience will help get rid of early mistakes such as jumping offside on defense.”
Last season, Weatherford gave up an average of 14 points per game and kept seven teams they played to 10 points or less. Junior linebacker Malachi Johnson said he knows football is a team sport and it takes all 11 players on defense doing their part.
“I am excited for the season to begin,” Johnson said. “I have learned the key is to trust your teammates and to do your job. I know I am fast and can make tackles in open space, which can help us get off the field on defense and allow the offense to go on the field and attempt to score.”
Sossamon said there are some high talented offense they will face this season, in district and non-district games.
“We are going to take each game and opponent one week at a time and we have some great offenses we will have to prepare for,” Sossamon said. “We will study what they do and we will most likely try and take their best play away or make it harder for their best offensive player to make a play.”