Bulldogs to rely on experienced defense
Edmond Memorial football
Senior linebackers Morales, Thomas anchor Memorial D
Edmond Memorial football: Senior linebackers Morales, Thomas anchor Memorial D

By Robert Przybylo

Published: August 29, 2008

EDMOND — Perhaps no team will rely on its defense to set the tone more than Edmond Memorial. With seven returning starters, including the entire linebacking corps, the D is the key for the Bulldogs.

Senior linebacker Anthony Morales anchors the team in every way possible. He said he's excited about the opportunity to lead.

Morales had more than 100 tackles last year and should only improve on those numbers. He's receiving looks from several Big 12 schools, but he's keeping his options open.

If Morales is the leader, linebacker Logan Thomas isn't too far behind. The senior has added 10 pounds in the offseason and had 62 tackles last year.

"We feel like this is our team,” Morales said. "We have a solid offense, but we know the defense is going to dictate everything.”

Junior Adrian Shoecraft completes the linebacking set. He's grown two inches and put on 15 pounds from last year.

While Morales said he's worked on his footwork and speed, there's still nothing like a big hit to get the guys going.

"That's why you play. You want to deliver that big hit,” Morales said. "That doesn't just get you fired up. It gets the whole team fired up.”

One person who will have a chance to deliver some big hits is senior defensive end Matt Woodliff.

At 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds, Woodliff has made huge strides in the last year, said coach Mark Walker.

"He's put the time and effort to get better,” Walker said. "His attitude is tremendous. He's done whatever is needed. You can't ask for more than that.”

After making the Class 6A playoffs for the first time in 13 years, the Bulldogs are looking to only build off that success. Despite losing to Norman North in the first round, Memorial gave the Timberwolves a better game than people expected.

With Norman North being predicted as one of the best teams in 6A, Morales said there is no reason to discount the Bulldogs.

"We've had our growing pains,” Morales said. "Those days are over. This is my last year. I want to make it count.”

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