One of which was to insert Ryan Robison as the running back, while speedster Brenlan Allen is moving from there to linebacker. JaQua Charleston is moving to safety to take Robison's spot.
Ben Henderson (50-of-85, 642 yards, seven touchdowns) has a deep group of receivers, led by Eric Young (17 catches, 251 yards, three touchdowns), Antwone Moore (13 catches, 167 yards, two TDs) and Isaiah Anderson (11 catches, 153 yards, two TDs).

"They have a good offensive system," Burkburnett coach Bill Dalke said. "They're very fast. We'll see a sprint relay team on offense."

The Bulldogs dabbled for a couple of years with a spread look, but they have returned to an option-based running attack. And after graduating a Division I running back in Nate Brown, Burkburnett has excelled with a variety of options in the backfield.

"We feel like we're running the ball on offense well, and we're mixing in some play-action passes," Dalke said. "We're making first downs, and keeping the other team's offense off the field.

"I think we surprised them a little last year. But they'll be more than ready when they come in here on Friday night."

Lyn Barnes is fourth in the area with 344 yards and has scored four touchdowns, while two-way star Jay Gould has 200 yards and two scores. Jonathan Frank has 190 yards and three TDs, but has been slowed by ankle injuries.

"I think defensively we need to make a strong statement," Pride said. "We have to slow their running game. Not too many teams can stop their running game, but for our kids' confidence and overall development, we need to get that corrected and slow them down.

"You have to keep those guys off the field. They'll keep coming at you for four quarters and they'll get in a rhythm."

Pride was also impressed with what he saw on film from the Burkburnett defense. Among the guys who caught his eye were Gould at safety; corner Keaton Green; nose guard Lorenzo Barnes; and linebacker Derek Dowling.

Gould leads the team with 23 tackles and two interceptions.

"Offensively, we need to control the game," Pride said. "We have to complete short passes, mix in the run game and take deep shots when they're presented. We need to have a real methodical first-down offense."

Flashback: Burkburnett won last year's meeting, 28-25, at Memorial Stadium. Gould caught a game-winning touchdown pass from Spoon Horn, who also completed a key fourth-down pass to Keaton Green on the winning drive. Anderson had two touchdown receptions for the Coyotes.

Assistant sports editor Andy Newberry may be reached after 4 p.m. weekdays by calling (940) 720-3470 or (800) 627-1646; or e-mail to NewberryA(at)timesrecordnews.com.