REDZONE 2020: Sweet Water Bulldogs
The Sweet Water Bulldogs made a huge swing in the win/loss stat line last year by replacing 2018’s 6-6 record with a 12-2 record that included a playoff-run in 2019. Coach Pat Thompson relied heavily on a group of sophomores, along with his seasoned juniors and seniors. Those sophomores now have a full season (plus a few playoff games) under their belts to draw from for their junior season. There are always gifted athletes in a Bulldog uniform.
The biggest obstacle Thompson sees for 2020 are injuries and depth. The Bulldogs sport a roster count of 47, but even that number can cause concern for a coach. Injuries can take a toll quickly, even on a talented team. Depth is not always a numbers issue, but an experience differential, even down to certain positions that lack depth.
The Bulldogs will look to run the ball effectively, which has been a staple in Sweet Water for quite a long time. The Bulldogs are a text book example of an effective running game opening up the passing game. One stat that drew attention last year was the Choctaw County game. The Bulldogs rushed for 326 yards. Braiden Broussard went 3-for-4 for 108 yards. That’s 36 yards per completion. So, THAT is how the run sets up the pass.
The Bulldogs will also need to step up and play great defense. The Dawgs gave up 25 and 42 in their two losses last season. The last 42 points was surrendered to the eventual state champions from Lanett.
On the offensive side of the ball, Walker Thompson takes over at quarterback for his junior season. Jaland Lewis-Horton is the top returning ground gainer from last season. The speedy Jaylin Dixon returns in the backfield for his senior campaign. Jaden Lewis, a 6’3” tight end with big play potential will lace up his cleats for his final season in Sweet Water. Michael Alan Cole returns to the offensive line with a year of starting experience under his belt. Cole is an ultimate competitor who wants to win every snap and comes up with big plays at the right time.
Trent Smith and Lashon Young will hold down the wing back and split end positions, respectively. Cameron Mazingo is slated to get the start at center. Jakel Lewis and Tyler Ward will fill the guard spots. Cole and Jake Schroeder will man the tackle positions.
Defensively, Jamarlin Albert will be in the middle at nose tackle. Cole fills the tackle spot and Ward is responsible for defensive end duties. Thompson and Trace Luker will be at the inside linebacker slots, with Jonathan Morris and Lewis-Horton at the outside linebackers. Safeties Jaden Lewis and Young will join cornerbacks Dixon and Christian Dunning in the secondary.
The Dawgs return six starters on offense and seven on defense, so there is plenty experience on both sides of the ball. Adding some fresh energy and enthusiasm of some new starters to the experience already on the field can do great things for the overall success of your team. If the Bulldogs can stay healthy, avoid the injury bug and build more depth, you should expect to see another deep run into the playoffs from the guys in purple and gold from Sweet Water.