HORATIO, Ark. - The Horatio Lions football program is under new management.
Lantz Castlemen is in his first year as Horatio's head coach and also takes over a squad who failed to qualify for the postseason last year.
"We plan to run our offense out of multiple formations," Castleman said. "We like to use our tight ends, but we also would like to get some looks with twins or trips sets.
"Defensively, we'll base out of a 3-3 stack. We'll be able to do some different things personnel-wise with five linebackers or multiple defensive backs. I've been very impressed with the athletes here. They've been very consistent and they have found a way to do everything that we've asked of them. They're a group of kids that want to get better. They're bought-in, so they're doing they're part."
OFFENSE
Senior Matthew Martinez shifts from fullback to quarterback this upcoming season and junior Nick Marsden is also expected to contribute at the position if needed. Martinez led the team in rushing yards last season with 121 yards.
Junior Landon Willis, senior Manuel Hernandez and senior Connor Barron will rotate in the Lions' backfield in 2020. Barron rushed for 74 yards and a touchdown last season for Horatio.
Seniors Lane Moya and Carson McKiever will provide deep threats on the outside for Horatio in 2020. Last season, Moya threw 1,019 yards and three touchdowns, while McKiever snagged 13 passes for 335 yards with three scores. Junior Alexis Ramirez and sophomore Kevin Quiorez are also expected to make contributions at receiver.
Seniors Marco Tinajiero and Adrain Patlan returns on the Lions' offensive front this season. Juniors Dalton Dowell, Ely Moya, Jacob Short and Ethan Wolcott will fill the remaining slots on the offensive line unit for Horatio.
"Football-wise, I've been very impressed with our offensive line," Castleman said. "If I have to look at a specific position group that has exceeded our expectations, it's our offensive line group. They all seem to have good feet and they're strong kids. They all like to get in there and get physical."
DEFENSE
Barron and Dowell will led the Lion's defensive front, followed by sophomore Trey Bradford, junior Vorian Rehm and Duncan Connor. Barron collected 36 tackles a year ago and also led the team with nine tackles for loss.
"We've been averaging 22 kids a day, so we'll have a lot of guys that will have to play both ways," Castleman said. "Most of our guys have a offensive and defensive position that they play."
Martinez and senior Dylan Harrison will roam the second level for the Lions. Martinez finished 2019 with 44 tackles.
McKeiver and Hernandez will be appointed to stopping opponent's top receivers In Horatio's secondary. Sophomores Sonny Harmon and Ryan Garrett will also rotate in the Lions' defensive backfield.
"In a nutshell, I want our guys to understand what we're trying to do, their football knowledge," Castleman said. "What we're trying to accomplish as a team. Angles, leverage, and what we're doing on the football field. Some of our guys are raw. They're picking up on it fast, but as a whole, we have room to improve there."