Last season was the first time since 2008 that Choctaw Central made the MHSAA playoffs in football. 

Now the Warriors are building off that heading into 2021 after going 2-6 in 2020 and reaching the first round of the Class 4A postseason.

“It is something to build off of, and hopefully we’re seeing the program head in the right direction,” Choctaw Central coach Pepper Posey said. “We preach on doing things the right way, and to be in the playoffs for the first time in a long time is something to build on.”

Offensively, the Warriors return six starters, and it’s no secret that the Choctaw Central will lean on a heavy rushing attack. Quarterback Eli Joe and with running back Brydon Wesley will be leading the ground attack.

Offensive linemen Gannon Vaughn, Miles Steve and Haygen Anderson all return up front.

“If you can’t run the ball, you can’t win games,” Posey said. “We’re going to be different offensively in multiple ways and going to be more balanced than other Choctaw Central teams of the past.”

That means the Warriors will be looking to throw the ball around more this season.

Notah Tubby is moving from offensive tackle to tight end, while Eli Spell, Taitan Stokes and Jeriah Jimmie are all back at receiver to lead the passing attack. Spell is the Warriors’ best offensive player and will be moved around quite a bit within the offense, Posey said.

“We need him to stay healthy,” Posey said. “We’re expecting big things out of him this year.”

There are question marks for the Warriors defensively, as they return just three starters on that side of the ball. Dylan Stephens will move from safety to cornerback in the secondary, while Javeon Johnson and Braynon Jim are back at the two defensive end spots up front.

“We’ve got some soul searching to do on defense and need some kids to step up,” Posey said. “We will have to play some guys both ways because we’re going to get tested early.”

Even with this year being a reclassification year, Region 4-4A didn’t change at all with Choctaw Central facing Louisville, Leake Central, Kosciusko, Northeast Lauderdale and West Lauderdale in divisional play.

“The district didn’t change, so it is what it is,” Posey said. “Right now, we’re focused on us and not anyone else. We have to get motivated and see what we’re about.” 

SCHEDULE

Aug. 27 — at Union

Sept. 3 — open

Sept. 10 — Nanih Waiya

Sept. 17 — Lake

Sept. 24 — open

Oct. 1 — Kosciusko

Oct. 8 — at Louisville

Oct. 15 — at NE Lauderdale

Oct. 22 — West Lauderdale

Oct. 29 — at Leake Central