The Guthrie Bluejays football team is gearing up for an exciting season opener next week when they host Class 4A powerhouse Tuttle. However, before that challenge, the Bluejays will have a chance to fine-tune their skills in a three-way scrimmage this Friday night in Elgin, where they’ll face off against Bethany and Elgin.
The scrimmage action kicks off at 7 p.m. with the freshmen, followed by the junior varsity at 7:30 p.m., and varsity at 8 p.m. The scrimmage will not be streamed by Guthrie News Page.
Head coach Kelly Beeby, who boasts a 76-36 record at Guthrie, is set to begin his 21st season for the Jays program, with this being his 11th as head coach. The Bluejays are coming off a strong 10-2 season, with their only losses coming against the eventual 5A state championship contenders.
This year’s offense returns five starters, including three on the offensive line, anchored by junior Cooper Walters.
The Jays will need to replace key positions at wide receiver and quarterback that were instrumental in last season’s explosive offense, which averaged nearly 42 points per game.
Senior Kolten Carlock, returning to Guthrie after playing in Ada, is expected to take the reins as QB1, while junior Zane Thomas will be tasked with leading the ground game. Seniors Eli Plagg and Blake Doles will provide critical leadership and blocking to spark the offense.
Defensively, the Bluejays return just one starter, linebacker Kellen Hirzel. Despite the lack of returning experience, Guthrie’s defense remains focused on maintaining their reputation for stopping the run and limiting points.
Expectations are high for the Bluejays as they aim to secure a home playoff game this season for the third time in the past four seasons.
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