CLASS 2A DISTRICT PREVIEW
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Millwood and Washington are two teams in Class 2A that could reach the state championship game
What teams have the best chance of getting to the state title game?
Millwood is an easy choice because of its track record for success.
The Falcons graduated many skill players but return RB/DB Myles Wooten and offensive lineman Perry Lewis, both seniors.
Washington returns plenty of starters on the offensive line and defensive front seven, with Logan Lile leading the way. The Warriors' strength could be pivotal for a deep playoff run.
Eufaula didn't drop a game at home and went on a nine-game winning streak that eventual state champion Sperry ended in the playoffs. If the Ironheads can duplicate their success, another strong season could be in the works.
Can Vian build off last season's success?
Elijah and Solomon Wright, the sons of former Oklahoma State star Kenyatta Wright, are the key forces for the Wolverines. After a double-digit win season, Vian is looking for more.
Elijah and Solomon have each become top recruits, and they're dominating in Class 2A. With their combined skill and a strong supporting cast, Vian is in position to duplicate last season's success, which included knocking of then two-time state champion Millwood in the second round of the playoffs.
Returning stars
Kaden Merrell, Sr., Lindsay: On defense, Merrell had 38 tackles. On offense, Merrill had nearly 800 total yards with eight scores. He can do a bit of everything for the Leopards.
Lance Spaulding, Sr., Washington: Spaulding rushed for 1,580 yards with 20 touchdowns last season. On defense, he also was impressive from his linebacker position.
Myles Wooten, Sr., Millwood: Wooten is a driving force. He rushed
for seven touchdowns and 408 yards. On defense, he picked off two passes and collected four sacks. Elijah Wright, Sr., Vian:
Wright had 45 tackles with three sacks last season, and his leadership will be leaned on throughout the season.
Key games
Millwood at Washington,
Week 6: In a game between two of Class 2A's top teams, it could be a matchup of who is more physical. Both teams play outstanding defense and will match or surpass most opponents' physicality.
Eufaula at Hugo, Week 6:
Two of District 2A-6's top teams face off in a matchup during the latter half of the season that could decide who earns the top seed heading into the playoffs.
Coaches' polls District 2A-5
1. Vian (10-3)
2. Holland Hall (9-3) 3. Spiro (7-4)
4. Seq. Tahlequah (3-7) 5. Keys (3-7)
6. Panama (7-4) 7. Pocola (0-10) 8. Westville (1-9)
District 2A-6
1. Hugo (5-6) 2. Eufaula (10-3) 3. Valliant (6-5) 4. Hartshorne (3-7) 5. Antlers (9-3) 6. Wilburton (3-7) 7. Heavener (2-8) 8. Atoka (0-10)
District 2A-7
1. Millwood (11-1) 2. Washington (10-3) 3. Community Christian (6-5)
4. Lexington (6-5) 5. Stratford (5-5)
6. Little Axe (4-6)
7. Star Spencer (2-8) 8. Crooked Oak (1-9)
District 2A-8
1. Kingston (11-2) 2. Lindsay (6-5) 3. Davis (4-6) (tie) Dickson (5-6) 5. Coalgate (10-2) 6. Comanche (2-8) (tie) Marietta (3-7) 8. Tishomingo (3-7) *Last year's record in parenthesis