QUINTON SAVAGES
Coach: BRIAN HAYNIE
9-3
OFFENSE
Quinton saw a massive turnaround in 2022, going 9-3 in head coach Brian Haynie’s first season after the Savages went 4-7 the previous year. The Savages won’t have as much experience in 2023, but still return some key pieces. Three starters return on the offensive side of the ball. “We graduated heavily but return some key pieces,” Haynie said. “We need some unproven players to step up and fill roles.” Leading the way will be senior quarterback Eli Blankenship (6-3, 175), a gifted athlete who has been a state qualifier on the track the previous two years. He qualified in both the 100 meter and 800 meter this past spring. “Eli makes our offense go, running and throwing,” Haynie said. Also back is senior offensive lineman and VYPE Top 100 selection Ka’Maree Gragg (6-0, 300) on the offensive line. “Really strong and powerful. Very pleasant hard-working young man with good character and beliefs,” Haynie said. The Savages, who will also see offensive lineman Bo Wagnon (6-1, 200, So.) and running back Brett Barnes (5-11, 170) make contributions on offense, will use a spread no-huddle scheme.
DEFENSE
Defensively, the Savages return four starters from a year ago. Like on offense, Ka’Maree Gragg and Eli Blankenship will be leaned on as leaders. Gragg will anchor the defensive line, and Blankenship will do work in the secondary of Quinton’s 4-1-3 alignment. Bo Wagnon and Brett Barnes will fill roles at linebacker. “Bo is a strong kid with lots of upside and good work habits, and Brett is a hard worker,” Haynie said.
SCHEDULE
9-1 – at Wetumka
9-8 – vs. Keota
9-15 – at Cave Springs
9-22 – vs. Weleetka
9-29 – vs. Arkoma
10-6 – at Midway
10-12 – vs. Caddo
10-20 – at Dewar
10-27 – vs. Porum
11-3 – vs. Webbers Falls
