2025 Valliant Football Preview – Presented by Work Ready Idabel

VALLIANT BULLDOGS

Coach: JOE JONES

5-6

OFFENSE

After reaching the playoffs in 2024, the Valliant Bulldogs are hungry for more in 2025, and head coach Joe Jones is confident his squad has what it takes to push even further. “We return eight starters on both sides of the ball. I think our experience and the year of growth in our program will give us a great opportunity to take the next step,” said Jones.

Leading the Bulldogs’ multiple spread attack is Brody Dorries (6-0, 175, Sr.), a versatile athlete who plays quarterback, receiver, and defensive back. The Bulldogs are also loaded with talent up front, including standout linemen Jaxon Jones (6-1, 240, Sr.) and John Morris (5-10, 250, Sr.), both key components in the run game.

That run game is headlined by Kenny Golston (6-1, 205, Sr.), who racked up 1,103 yards and 18 rushing touchdowns last season. “Kenny is a big, physical back with breakaway speed. He’s going to punish defenders and also has the ability to hit the home run,” said Jones. Also helping to stretch the field will be wideouts Ryker Prince (5-10, 165, Jr.) and Auzy Trapp (5-10, 175, Jr.), both dangerous weapons in the Bulldogs’ aerial attack.

DEFENSE

Defensively, the Bulldogs base out of a 4-2-5 and rely on speed, toughness, and execution. “Defensively, we’ve got guys that can fly to the football and play physical. I think we’ll be very solid across all three levels,” said Jones. The Bulldogs bring back eight starters on defense, including dynamic defensive end Jaxon Jones and physical linebacker Jakobi Newsome (5-9, 190, Sr.). Linebackers Gavin Chavez (6-3, 205, Jr.) and Rowen Gee (5-11, 195, Sr.) also return after strong junior campaigns.

Another major presence is rising junior Kyng Golston (6-3, 235, Jr.), who earned District Defensive Player of the Year honors last season. “Kyng is one of the most dominant defensive linemen I’ve coached. He’s nearly unblockable,” said Jones. His younger brother, Kenny, also contributes at outside linebacker, making the Golston duo a nightmare for opposing offenses.

8/22 – at Tishomingo (Scrimmage)

8/29 – vs. Idabel

9/5 – at Hugo

9/12 – vs. Rush Springs

9/19 – BYE

9/26 – vs. Antlers

10/3 – at Spiro

10/10 – vs. Henryetta

10/16 – at Atoka

10/23 – vs. Morris

10/31 – at Wilburton

11/6 – vs. Vian