MORRISON WILDCATS
Coach: HAYDEN GARRINGER
5-6
Morrison heads into this season aiming to build on a 5-6 finish and momentum from a roster that returns a strong core of starters. Head coach Hayden Garringer enters his seventh year at the helm and likes the combination of experience and new staff additions that have energized the program. With eight returning starters on offense, five on defense and key coaching hires, the Wildcats are optimistic they can take a step forward in a competitive district. The focus this year is on consistency, physical play and cleaning up the little details that can swing close games.
Offensively, Morrison will be multiple but base out of a wing formation designed to establish the run while still creating balance. Junior quarterback Colton Mourer (5-11, 180) returns after throwing for 1,026 yards and 11 touchdowns and adding 100 rushing yards and four scores, giving the Wildcats a dual-threat leader under center. Senior running back KJ Burk (5-10, 165) is a proven playmaker after rushing for 900 yards and 10 touchdowns, and he will be the workhorse in the backfield this fall. Junior back Shad Dennis (5-10, 175) is a do-it-all player who can contribute as a runner, receiver and blocker, adding versatility to the attack. Up front, junior linemen Carter Galloway (6-4, 215) and Grady Vaughn (6-2, 200) anchor the offensive line, while senior tight end Kai Warriner (6-1, 185) provides another weapon who can block and make plays in the passing game.
Defensively, the Wildcats will base out of a 4-4 scheme built on playing as a unit and trusting each player to do their job. Warriner returns at middle linebacker, where his size and physicality help control the middle of the field. Galloway and Vaughn form a strong presence on the defensive line at tackle and end, respectively, giving Morrison a sturdy front. Dennis will line up at outside linebacker, bringing range and toughness on the edge, while senior safety Jaxon Sanders (6-0, 180) and sophomore corner Colton Rohlman (6-2, 185) solidify the secondary. Garringer wants this defense to be disciplined, swarm to the ball and make opposing offenses earn every yard.
Burk is Morrison’s VYPE Top 100 nominee and has been taking varsity snaps since his freshman year; after splitting carries last season, he is expected to be the primary back in 2026.
8-28 – vs. Perry
9-4 – at Woodland
9-11 – vs. Dibble
9-18 – at Sperry
9-25 – vs. Commerce
10-2 – at Pawhuska
10-9 – vs. Nowata
10-16 – at Pawnee
10-30 – at Summit
11-6 – vs. Colcord
