Coahulla Creek poised to make run at first playoff berth

Staff photo by Robin Rudd / Tyler Locklear, Coahulla Creek's leading rusher last season, returns this year for a more experienced team.
Staff photo by Robin Rudd / Tyler Locklear, Coahulla Creek's leading rusher last season, returns this year for a more experienced team.

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COAHULLA CREEK COLTS

Head coach: Danny Wilson (2-8 here; 90-57 overall)

Returning starters: 8 offensive; 6 defensive

Last year's record: 2-8, did not qualify for playoffs

Key players: Tyler Locklear (6-0, 220) Sr. RB, Kade Kinnamon (5-10, 170) Jr. QB, Robbie Wiggins (6-1, 270) Jr. DL, Will Douglas (5-11, 200) Jr. RB, Will Bates (6-2, 220) Sr. OL

Season outlook: The Colts are serious about making a run at their first playoff appearance. New assistant head coach Vic Grider, who won three Tennessee state titles as South Pittsburg's head coach, has reunited with former assistant Wilson and brings with him an expectation of success.

For Coahulla Creek to win consistently, it will need to rely on projected improvement on both lines. The offensive front has plenty of experience in Bates, fellow tackle Andrew Elsenrath (6-2, 260), guard Teague Bickford and center Hudson Mardis, while the defensive line is anchored by college prospect Wiggins and senior Thailin Young.

The backfield should also be a team strength, led by Kinnamon, who has shined in summer camps after adding weight and strength in the offseason. Locklear and Douglas could be one of the most physical running back duos in Region 6-AAA.

"We feel great about Kade Kinnamon and his ability to lead our offense," Wilson said. "Tyler Locklear has the ability and strength to carry the football 25 times, and we will lean on him."

The defensive line's progress should allow active linebackers Tankersley - the team's leading tackler in 2020 - and Eion Keener to make plays all over the field.

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