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Antlers defense looks disciplined in Edmond North opener
Before an Edmond North player touched the ball, the team had already been penalized.
In Deer Creek’s 35-7 victory against Edmond North to begin the 2021 season, the Huskies couldn’t get out of their own way. First a personal foul on the opening kick, then a shanked punt to give the Antlers prime scoring position before another penalty backed up the Huskies again on the ensuing kickoff.
The difficulties that caused did not go unnoticed to North coach Tanner Roof.
“Really, the way we started the game, putting ourselves in a hole, getting down 21-0 quick just from a lot of self-inflicted things that we can control, I think that had our backs against the wall,” Roof said. “We tried to dig out all night long instead of just settling in.”
After going down 21-0, the Huskies pieced together a drive to earn their only points through an Ethan Barnes quarterback sneak.
A defensive stand got the ball back just before halftime, but before any momentum could be gained, the game took another twist favoring the Antlers. On the final play of the half, Deer Creek intercepted Barnes and returned it 55-yards for a touchdown, snatching the growing North momentum away.
For Deer Creek (1-0), the offense played well as a unit. Brett Pense scored a rushing touchdown and a passing touchdown, while Deontaye Wilson served as the workhorse in the Antlers backfield.
In the game’s final moments, Wilson made his most convincing run, bouncing outside for a 19-yard touchdown. His night impressed Deer Creek coach Wade Standley.
“Deontaye just got stronger and stronger as the game went on, and became more comfortable,” Standley said. “Our offensive line up front was wearing them down some, and you know, there’s going to be plenty to clean up. There’s no question about that, but really proud of our first game effort there.”
Edmond North (0-1) split time between quarterbacks in the second half. Barnes and Carson Horton made due with the situation by showing promise in different ways. The tandem caused the Antlers problems throughout the second half, but couldn’t convert once the Huskies neared the end zone.
That’s a credit to the Antlers defense. Standley noticed and noted the difference the solid defensive sequences had on the result.
“Our defense was able to keep them out of the end zone after they got in the redzone,” Standley said. “So, (I’m) really proud of the stops they made. There was some momentum shift there, and each time they were able to get momentum on their side, our defense was able to shut them down. And so, (I’m) just proud of that.”
Edmond North looks to bounce back next Friday at Edmond Memorial.
Deer Creek turns its attention toward Week 2 opponent Southmoore at home.