District 2A-5 football preview: District looking like three-team race; Meeker gaining momentum

The Eagles, coached by Larry Crenshaw, were 7-5 last year, and quarterback Hayden Sharp proved to be more than capable of running the Wing-T offense. Sharp threw for almost 1,400 yards last season.

By Robert Przybylo, Staff Writer, bprzybylo@opubco.com | Modified: August 5, 2010 at 8:59 am | Published: August 4, 2010 Comment on this article

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District 2A-5 Coaches' poll

1. Morris (7-5)

2. Stroud (14-1)*

3. Okemah (6-4)

4. Meeker (6-5)*

5. Holdenville (3-7)

6. Mounds (0-10)*

7. Haskell (2-8)*

* Denotes new to district

2009 record in parentheses

Despite the Tigers only returning six starters from last year's group that reached the Class A championship, most of them are on the offensive line.

One player Elerick said should play a huge role is senior Devin Taylor, a two-way starter at tight end and linebacker.

Stroud will be welcomed to the district in a Week 4 battle against Morris.

Pendergraft leading Haskell charge

For a team that was only 2-8 last year, Haskell coach Mike Gaston is extremely excited about the group of kids he has coming back.

Paving the way will be senior Jordan Pendergraft, who will be entering his fourth year as a starter.

"He's a threat to run or pass, gives us a lot of versatility," Gaston said. "He also had more than 100 tackles on defense last year."

Gaston was in his first year at Haskell last year after having spent 14 years in Texas. Not only is he more comfortable, but the players are, too. The Haymakers have 19 returning starters.

Extra points

Holdenville is another team bringing back plenty of starters as the Wolverines have 20 returning from last year, including wide receiver and defensive back Denzel Hughes. ...Mounds coach Jerry Henderson said quarterback Ryan Laws is the toughest player on his team. Laws was the team's leading rusher.

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