LAKOTA WEST FIREBIRDS
Division I, Region 4
Head Coach: Larry Cox (79-76 @ Lakota West, 15 years, 92-81 overall record, 17 years)
2011 Record: 3-7, 2-5

Overview: Injuries and a trying schedule were too much for Lakota West to overcome in 2011. The Firebirds lost four games by a touchdown or less now they must find a way to finish the deal. More often than not under head coach Larry Cox Lakota West has followed up a down season with a surprisingly pleasant one. Fans are hoping that trend continues this fall.

Lineman Kyle Meadows, who stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 290 pounds, is the anchor of this offense and a holder of multiple BCS offers. Lakota West will wear out a path running behind him. Big Ben Pendry, another 290-pounder, joins him up front. Tyler Jones and Malik Grove will battle for the starting quarterback position. The duo combined for 1,374 yards with 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in 2011. Their top targets are Tyler Williams, Romello White and Grant Pence. Williams will also return punts and kicks. Junior Justin Martin will handle kicking and punting duties as the special teams are on solid footing.

Linebacker Mike Kelly and defensive back Nick Bengal are returning members of a thin Firebirds’ defense that will lack experience. Stopping the run is the top priority for this team. They gave up 208 yards per game a year ago. With so many teams in this conference capable of putting up big numbers on the ground the Firebirds will have their hands full.