Lawson, Bulldogs eye Clinton challenge

While Cache put up a strong effort last week against Weatherford, thus far the Bulldogs have been unable to break through against the top teams in their district but tonight they get another shot when Clinton comes to Ulrich Stadium.

Once again, the Red Tornadoes are strong, leading the district and apparently on their way to the title.

Trying to stop that group will be a challenge but senior cornerback/wide receiver Avery Lawson said the team is focused and ready for the challenge.

“Yes, Clinton is pretty good again and we all know that town is big when it comes to football,” the 5-10, 160-pound senior said. “We had a big game last week and played well. I feel like our discipline and chemistry are improving at each position. We are playing with a great deal of passion.”

Indeed, the 2023 Bulldogs have put together their best record in several years against a tough schedule including rival Elgin which is No. 4 in Class 5A, plus playing the three powers in their 4A district.

“We have some good leaders on this team and while I’m not a big rah, rah guy, I think I’m a good quiet leader,” Lawson said. “We want these younger players to have success and we are trying to help them out and leave a good foundation for the future.”

While football is the focus for at least another week, the work in the classroom will continue through the semester and Lawson is a student who loves those duties as well.

“I love all my classes because they are all fun; it’s a chance to be chilled after getting all the basics done in previous years,” he said. “The teachers are all cool because these classes are fun to teach.”

While he’s not sure what his future plans will include, Lawson is thinking about college where he wants to pursue a career in the business world or maybe become and entrepreneur and start his own business.

There was no hesitation when Lawson was asked about his choice of food.

“I’d go to Los Tres (Amigos) in Lawton,” he said. “They have this dish called tacos al pastor which is what I always get. I love the spice and then they give you lime and you squeeze that over them and it makes it even better.”

While he will be on the field on both offense and defense, he’s developed a liking for the defensive side more this season.

“I love defense more now because it’s fun honestly,” he said. “Playing cornerback is a challenge because most teams have those taller receivers but I’m able to be disciplined and stay with those guys most of the time.”

What will Clinton throw at the Bulldogs’ defense?

“They will run most of the time with a toss sweep one of their favorite plays,” he added. “They also have a couple of tall guys and will throw deep shots to them at times.”

Lawson said the defense has gained even more knowledge with the addition of coach Eric Gibson to the staff.

“He really turned things up and made a big impact on our defense,” Lawson said. “He’s coached at the college level and high school and is good at sharing what he’s learned.”

While the defense will get tested, the key to the game may be how much success the Bulldogs have in moving the ball.

“Our offensive line is a little undersized but they stay disciplined and they know the plays and execute well,” he said. “We are playing with a lot of fight and we’re never going to give up until the last play of every game.”