McALESTER BUFFALOES

Coach: JEFF CRAIG

8-3  

OFFENSE

The McAlester Buffaloes enter the 2025 season under the direction of new head coach Jeff Craig. Although it’s Craig’s first year at the helm, the Buffs have plenty of experience returning and a strong sense of optimism throughout the program. With a stable of playmakers and returning starters, expectations remain high. “With the chaos of the late season issues behind, the future still looks bright,” said Craig. “Some very skilled players returning gives us quite a bit of optimism.”

The offense is built around a balanced attack using the spread formation with RPO and option elements. “We base off of option principals in our spread offense with Inside zone, counter, and power with RPO’s sprinkled in,” said Craig. “Most of our run game will be in the hands of the QB’s to make the correct decisions and get us in the best play or make the correct read to make a play go.”

Jordan Clark (6-0, 185, Sr.) returns at running back after an impressive junior season where he rushed for 1,167 yards and 11 touchdowns. Expect to see Clark take on an even greater leadership role this year. Brandon Smith (5-11, 170, Jr.) is a dynamic wide receiver who caught 29 passes for 613 yards and 8 TDs last season. De’veion Bickham (6-4, 180, Jr.) adds another strong option on the outside with 336 yards and 4 scores. The offensive line will be anchored by senior Creede Tribbey (6-3, 275, Sr.), while sophomore Jaxon McKinney (6-0, 175, So.) will split time at running back and safety. Rodney Washington (6-1, 175, Jr.) will also aid at the wide receiver position.

DEFENSE

The Buffaloes will line up in a 3-4 base defense, with gap integrity and timely pressure packages being points of emphasis. “We want a solid base gap control defense with calculated blitzes,” said Craig. 

Gavin Mason (6-0, 275, Jr.) is a physical nose guard who made 37 tackles and recorded two sacks before an injury cut his season short. “Quiet and unassuming, but plays the game with a killer instinct,” Craig said. Jordan Clark will also contribute defensively as a senior leader at free safety, while McKinney and Smith patrol the secondary. Bickham returns at outside linebacker and brings length and athleticism to the edge.

8-29 – at Broken Bow

9-5 – vs. Poteau

9-12 – at Ada

9-19 – BYE

9-26 – vs. Coweta

10-3 – at Tulsa Edison

10-10 – vs. East Central

10-17 – at Bishop Kelley

10-24 – vs. BTW

10-31 – at Durant

11-7 – vs. Shawnee