Here’s a look at the Wheeler Mustangs heading into the 2024 football season. Take a listen to head coach Matt Hoover in the video at the link above.
2023 resume
Head coach: Matt Hoover, fourth season at Wheeler. Eighth year overall.
2023 Record: 4-7 overall, 3-2 in District 2-2A Division II. Class 2A Division II bi-district finalist.
Returning starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 7
Season opener: at Highland Park, Friday, Aug. 30.
Players to watch
Julius Atherton, 5-foot-11, 205-pounds, RB, Sr.
Atherton was a big-time bright spot for head coach Matt Hoover last season by carrying the load out of the backfield. Behind a very good offensive line, Atherton was the Mustangs leading rusher galloping for 1,187 yards with 10 rushing touchdowns.
Barrett Meadows, 6-foot-2, 275-pounds, OL, Sr.
Meadows has been a staple and the glue up front for the Mustangs. The first-team All-District selection begins his fourth straight year starting at center and has become a mentor for the younger players.
Jackson Graves, 6-foot-4, 220-pounds, DL, Jr.
Graves has great size which allows him to be a problem for offensive lineman coming off the edge. Last year was a breakout campaign of sorts as Graves finished with 78 tackles, 24 of those for a loss with a total of six sacks.