JENKS TROJANS
Coach: KEITH RIGGS
8-5
OFFENSE
Don’t let the five-loss record from last year fool you, the Trojans are doing just fine. In 2023 they added another runner-up trophy to the trophy case, but that is not where head coach Keith Riggs wants to be. Riggs added some notable coaches to the staff this season including Willie Ponder and Jeremy Smith. Both bring a wealth of knowledge to the coaching staff. Smith, a former Union, and Oklahoma State standout will likely work with one of the more highly recruited players in Oklahoma, Kaydin “KD” Jones (6-0, 180, Jr.). Every school at the next level would like the services of Mr. Jones, but before he takes his talents to college, Jones wants to bring a state title, or two, back to Jenks. A dynamic runner, Jones is joined in the backfield by Owen Jones (6-0, 200, Sr.) at quarterback. Jones has improved at QB and will continue to improve in his decision making as a QB. One thing no one questions is his toughness and willingness to tuck the ball and get up field. The offensive line may have a hole or two to fill, but the Trojans do return two important starters in Jack Wiltshire (6-3, 240, Sr.) and Zac Cox (5-10, 270, Sr.). Both players have excellent experience up front and will give Jones time to find the open receiver in the passing game. One player Jones will target is Semaj Stanford (5-11, 175, So.). As a freshman, Stanford exploded onto the scene as a two-way player with raw talent and the tools to be a huge recruit for the Trojans. Stanford forces defenses to roll a safety his way opening up the passing game for Jones. One player not overlooked is transfer student Ryley Kester (6-3, 280, Jr.). Kester is one of the more dominant linemen in the state and has started at the 6A level since his freshman season. With several offers from Power 4 schools, Kester improved in the weight room this offseason squatting 600-pounds and benching 350-pounds.
DEFENSE
With six starters returning to the defense, the Trojans and defensive coordinator Adam Gaylor are poised for another great season. Returning linebacker Sam Stone (6-0, 215, Sr.) is built from the same mold as great linebackers of Trojans past. Stone is a leader on defense and plays a physical brand of football. He’s joined by two outstanding linebackers in Jack McInelly (6-0, 220, Sr.) and Jace Hager (5-10, 190, Sr.) in the 3-4 scheme Gaylor will base the defense out of this season. Both McInelly and Hager are willing to do whatever it takes to help this defense be successful. Another player who made some waves in spring ball is Brody Henderson (6-4, 215, Sr.) at outside linebacker. With great size and a frame for college ball, Henderson brings a lot to the defense and will likely start at tight end on offense. The secondary features Cooper Shockley (5-10, 170, Sr.) who brings a wealth of experience to the defense. Stanford will go both ways playing corner again this season, where is athleticism is on full display. Also look for Odaefe Oruru (6-5, 240, So.), a young, athletic lineman who can help the Trojans on both sides of the ball. Zachary Fischer was big on special teams last season and will help the Trojans at multiple spots when needed. Blake Bilby battled through some injuries and looks to return to the field at 100 percent this season. The coaching staff includes Jay Wilkinson, Doug Greenwood, Mason McGee, Tyler Bacon, Prince McJunkins, Josh Elmer, Gary McGraw, Jeramie Tew, Tyler Davidson, Jordan Harding, and Justin Kay.
8-30 – vs. Edmond Santa Fe
9-6 – vs. Owasso
9-13 – at Union
9-27 – at Bixby
10-4 – vs. Norman
10-11 – at Mustang
10-17 – vs. Deer Creek
10-25 – at Moore
11-1 – vs. Enid
11-7 – at Edmond North
