Rocky Mountain Grizz prepare for home opener against Lusk

The Rocky Mountain Grizzly football team is eagerly preparing for their season opener this Friday at home in Cowley, where they will face off against the Lusk Tigers. Under the guidance of head coach Jessee Wilson, the Grizz are honing their skills and focusing on a strategy that emphasizes effort, execution and physicality.

“With it being the first week of the season, there isn’t much to scout on the other team,” coach Wilson said. “So, we are spending most of our time fixing what we need to improve. The early season is all about effort and execution of our schemes.” 

Wilson has high hopes for the team’s offensive line, which he considers one of the greatest assets on the team. 

“We’re going to utilize our strength with a great group of experienced linemen up front and try to take advantage of space on the field,” Wilson said. 

This emphasis on the line is central to the Grizz’s game plan, particularly given their run heavy approach.

 “I would say we are more of a run-heavy team, but we like to maintain a good balance in terms of players touching the ball. So we will throw a bit to get the ball in the hands of our playmakers.” 

One of the key figures in this strategy is returning quarterback Lafe Files. Last season, Files threw for nearly 1,000 yards in his first year as a varsity starter.

“Lafe has a great arm and is getting more comfortable in the offense,” Wilson said. 

“He’s shown a lot of growth, and I’m excited to see how he leads the team this year.” 

The Grizzlies will also be counting on running back Triffen Jolley, who has transitioned from H-back to the primary running back position. 

“Triffen is a strong, hard running back with good speed and great field vision,” Wilson said. “He’s going to be a big part of our offense, and I’m confident he’ll step up in a major way.” 

In the wide receiver corps, Hudson May is expected to play a crucial role. Moving into the Z receiver position, May’s speed and agility make him a versatile threat. 

“We’re looking to utilize Hudson’s speed and agility in both the pass and run game,” Wilson said. “We want to give him opportunities to win one-on-one matchups and make big plays.” 

Alongside May, receivers Will Watts, Colten Bitton and Mason Moss will also be key contributors as the team looks to build a dynamic and unpredictable offense.

Defensively, the Grizzlies will operate out of a 3-3 stack base defense, a formation designed to maximize their strengths up front.

“We have a tough defense, and it all starts with the guys up front,” Wilson said.

“Stopping the run is a priority for us, and with our new defensive coordinator, Justin Moss, we’ve added some good wrinkles to the defense that take advantage of our players’ abilities.” 

Despite their strengths, the Grizzlies do face some challenges, particularly in terms of depth in certain positions.

 “We have good athletes in our receiving and defensive back groups, but we do lack numbers in those areas,” Wilson said. 

When discussing Friday’s opponent, the Lusk Tigers, Wilson acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with early-season games.

“It’s hard to say a lot about the Lusk Tigers right now,” he said. “I know they have a couple of all-state players returning this year. They had a pretty dynamic duo with their quarterback and one of their wide receivers last year. They really broke the mold of how Lusk has traditionally played football and like to throw it all over the yard now,” Wilson said. 

Coach Wilson noted that Lusk’s defense also presents some challenges, as they tend to alternate between a 4-2 and a 3-3 defense, often playing man coverage behind it.

 “Everything I know about them is from last year, and teams change over time,” Wilson said. 

As the team gears up for the first game, Wilson expressed his enthusiasm for the return of football season. 

“I always tell my wife that football and hunting season are my two favorite seasons of the year,” he said. “It’s fun to be back with the guys and getting to interact with them some more. There’s just something special about this time of year.” 

Wilson also highlighted the importance of playing in front of the home crowd. 

“I think our fans and the school staff do a great job creating a fun game day atmosphere for the kids, so we love to play at home and appreciate the support from everyone,” he said. “The players are definitely excited to play in front of the home fans, and we’re looking forward to a great turnout on Friday.” 

As the Grizzlies prepare to take the field, Wilson is optimistic about the season ahead. His final message to the community and players was clear: 

“Go Grizz,” Wilson said.

Kickoff for the home opener is 1 p.m.