6A-1 District Matchup Previews

Originally Published: Sep 21, 2009 10:48 PM CDT

Dave Carty
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

Potentially the best high school football district in Oklahoma, the class is led by five undefeated teams, two of which square off this weekend.

Del City (3-0) is led by dynamic wide receivers Donovan Dan and Chris McAlister. They’ve given Chazten Gonzales quite the comfort blanket as he gets used to starting under center. Still, the Eagles have been stingy on defense, allowing about 13 points per game against Midwest City, Norman, and Edmond Memorial.

They’ll play Southmoore (3-0) this week, who is armed to the teeth. Kendal Thompson – son of former University of Oklahoma quarterback Charles Thompson – is a wizard under center, able to create plays and evade tacklers with the best of them. Surrounded by a host of top prospects, including OU-commit Julian Wilson, the Sabercats have flashed a wealth of talent in early season play.

Putnam City North (3-0) has shown the ability to score in bunches, breaking the 40 point mark twice this season. Jace James has latched on to the quarterback spot, tossing five touchdowns. Lawton (3-0) has surprised teams in the district, grinding out an undefeated start. Led by workhorse Charles Smith, who grabbed 77 carries though the team’s three wins.

The Timberwolves of Norman North (2-0) had one game cancelled this year, but have been nothing short of impressive. Outscoring Norman and Westmoore by a staggering 72-9 clip, Norman North had proven ability on both sides of the ball and have received giant contributions from Nick Canavan and Dan Davis among others.

In Mustang (2-1) the points have been plentiful. The Broncos have averaged an impressive 41 points per outing, but lost a Saturday afternoon matchup to skilled Edmond North for their first regular season loss since 2007. Mustang has plenty of firepower despite some inexperience and that loss isn’t about to slow down Ty Prestidge’s well-oiled offense.

First year head coach Bruce Gowen’s first three games have been a mix of good and bad. A big gamble during the team’s season opener lead to a one-point loss – one of two to fellow Edmond schools. But Edmond Santa Fe (1-2) rebounded last week, taking down Putnam City West 55-21. The Wolves will need every bit of the good and none of the ugly to compete against the tough district.

For Moore (0-3), season’s end will present its set of challenges. The Lions have scored just six points in their first three games – the latest of which was against a shaky Norman squad. If there is a silver lining, it’s that the season essentially begins this week, as the upcoming district matchups will serve to separate the mighty from the meek.