Team Preview: Miami Warriors

Miami Warriors

Head Coach: DJ Howell (3^rd Season)

Last Season: 7-4; 2-1 in district (Lost to Happy in bi-district)

Miami Key Players and Storylines

If you want to see a program that has done a complete 180 in recent years, look no further than Miami. After not winning a single district game from 2016-2019, the Warriors have now made the playoffs the past three seasons.

Now, the Warriors have yet to win any of those playoff games, but this year could be different. Howell is excited for his team’ prospects this season as Miami returns all six of its starters on both sides of the ball.

“There are a lot of good programs on our schedule and in our district, so we will have our work cut out for us,” Howell said. “I do believe that we can compete for a district title and make a deep run in the playoffs. Our standards are extremely high so our work ethic and determination must meet and surpass our goals.”

The offense will run through spreadback Haiden Thompson, our reigning 1A Fan Vote Quarterback of the Year. He threw for 1,732 yards and 25 touchdowns a year ago, while adding another 1,234 yards and 18 touchdowns on the ground.

That combo again! Haiden Thompson to Micah Hinshaw and Miami up 59-20 over @WildoradoStangs early in the 4th. #txhsfb @Texas1AFan pic.twitter.com/WMeWfXPI7E

— Craig Sperry (@c_sperry) September 9, 2022

Fullback Luke Wheeler (243 rushing yards, 554 receiving yards, and 21 touchdowns) should be another key cog in the backfield, while offensive lineman Preston Thelen will help pave the way up front.

Defensively, Thompson (85 tackles) and Wheeler (72 tackles, 17 TFLs) were the two leading tacklers last season from their safety and linebacker positions respectively. In front of them, Thelen (40 tackles; 16 TFLs) and Evan Kelley (32 tackles) should anchor the Warrior defensive line.

Howell said his players reflect the town of Miami with their hard work, loyalty, dedication, and toughness. Now, with the pieces they have in place for 2023, the Warriors have an opportunity to put their town on the map with a playoff run this fall.

CLICK HERE to listen to the Texas HS Football Podcast, with Taylor Arenz