2A-5 PREVIEW

District 2A-5 coaches’ poll

1. Vian (10-2)

2. Okemah (8-4)

3. Haskell (4-6)

4. Wewoka (7-4)

5. Henryetta (3-8) (tie) Holdenville (6-4) *Last year’s record in parentheses

Defending champion: Vian

After a nondistrict loss to Prairie Grove, Ark., Vian won eight straight games, including all five district matchups, before falling to Holland Hall in the second round of0 Vian closer than 26 points, either.

Returning stars •Cody Bradford, OL/DE, Okemah:

A four-year starter, Bradford brings some athleticism off the edge at 6-foot and 210 pounds for a defense that returns seven starters. He’s also the center.

•Maquay Shaw, OL/DL, Haskell:

A star within the district due to his blocking ability, Shaw is starting to pick up some interest from Tulsa and Division II schools.

•River Simon, QB/LB, Vian:

He’s moving to quarterback this season in an effort to get the ball in his hands more, but he’s also a stout linebacker for a talented defense. Key will be to remain healthy after an injury limited him to just nine games in 2016.

Big question: Can anyone stop Vian?

The Wolverines have won 10 or more games in four of the past five seasons and in the process dominated their district. The offense will look different following the graduation of some stars, but the defense returns a core group able to carry the team.