BARTLESVILLE BRUINS
Coach: HARRY WRIGHT
5-7
OFFENSE
Is there a program hungrier than Bartlesville? Head coach Harry Wright is excited to take the field and compete in Class 6A-II. The expectations remain the same, but the Bruins are putting in the work to compete in their new home. “Excited about the opportunity with new districts. Have a bunch of seniors that have been three-year starters for us, especially offensively. Looking to take another step in the development of this program that can compete in 6A-II yearly,” said Wright. Quarterback Nate Neal (5-11, 185, Sr.) will run the 2-back spread and be expected to find the open receivers downfield. One of his go-to targets will be Damien Niko (6-1, 170, Sr.). Niko is a matchup problem for outside linebackers and smaller corners. The key to the offense lies on the shoulders of the big guys up front. Lucas Wilson (6-3, 245, Sr.), JR Earnhart (5-10, 280, Sr.), and John Torres (5-11, 235, Jr.) are the keystones to offense. Their play will dictate of well this offense runs.
DEFENSE
As we mentioned, Eaves is known for his play on defense. The outside linebacker/safety led the team in tackles for the last two seasons and should clean up against the pass-happy 6A offenses he will face. Pressure up front will come from Avery Hitchings (6-0, 225, Sr.). The pressure Hitchings can provide should make QBs uncomfortable in the pocket and force them to make bad decisions with the ball. The linebacker should benefit from those bad choices. Mason Manley (5-11, 190, Sr.) and Sutton Williams (5-11, 195, Jr.) are two aggressive players who fly to the ball. Add outside linebacker Dmarcus Smith (6-2, 200, Sr.) and you have a formidable threesome looking to ruin Friday night for opposing offensive coordinators. Smith is quick to the ball and has the size to play at the next level. Sam Hobeck (5-10, 175, Jr.) will be tested in the secondary as offenses across 6A have moved to a spread formation. Hobeck will need to help younger player mature into their roles while playing at a high level to keep everything in front of him. Overall, the defense passes the eye test, now it’s time to step up and become the defense the coaching staff believes they are capable of becoming.
