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Siloam Springs returns the bulk of its starters on defense. Assistant coach Jonathan Johnson took over defensive coordinator duties in the offseason, and the Panthers will run a four-man front look. Defensive line Longtime coach Dwain Pippin re- turns to the varsity staff to coach de- fensive line, a position he's coached for a significant portion of his career. Junior Justin Burton (5-7, 248) re- turns up front as the only starter from last season. He'll man a defensive tack- le position. "He did a good job as a sophomore," said head coach Brandon Craig. "He's a very strong kid. He's a short, pow- er-packed player that can use his lever- age and strength to his advantage." Sophomore Christian Mendez (6-3, 199) mans a defensive end. "He's going to be a sophomore, but he's got a good build to him," Craig said. "He's a long athletic kid and he's just learning how to play the position. Once he gets bigger and stronger he could be a big-time player in years to come." Junior Jason Courtney (5-8, 184) is another defensive end after moving from linebacker. Courtney was working through an injury in the preseason, but the team hopes he'll get back soon. "There's a toughness to him," Craig said of Courtney. "If we continues to develop, he's going to be a pretty good player on Friday nights." Sophomore Braxton Majors (5-6, 173) has been getting reps at another defen - sive tackle position and nose guard. "He's a tough kid who really knows how to take on blocks well," Craig said. "He does a good job of giving every- thing he's got on each play." Senior Jonah Sims (5-10, 180) moved in from Kansas, Okla., and will see some time on the defensive line. Craig said Sims is very strong but is still working on technique. 441 Hwy. 412 W. • Siloam Springs 479-524-5131 www.WassonFuneralHome.com Have a great season Panthers!! Our Family Helping Your Family, Yesterday, Today And Tomorrow Serving Siloam Springs And Surrounding Areas Since 1928 http://hunanvillage.business.site/ All-you-can-eat Chinese lunch & dinner buffet Open every day at 11 AM Closed Tuesday 3402 Hwy 412 E. Siloam Springs (479) 524-3979 • Commercial • Auto Glass/Chip Repair • Residential • Shower Doors & Mirrors 721 E. MAIN ST. • SILOAM SPRINGS 524-0553 EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE Servicing your glass needs. Go Panthers! 2022 Football Preview Wednesday, August 24, 2022 n C7 Herald-Leader/Westside Eagle Observer 84 - Jordan Matko 86 - Nohe Jr Rico 81 - Cameron Stafford 89 - Lucino Romero Michael Smith - Wide receivers Brandon Craig - Head coach/Offensive backs/ Defensive backs Brian Nitz - Athletic trainer 82 - Carter Morrell Austin Able - H-Backs/Tight ends Michael Perez - Inside linebackers Dwain Pippin - Defensive line Skyler Sexton - Athletic trainer By Graham Thomas Staff Writer n gthomas@nwaonline.com Panthers' defense leaning on Stephens, veterans See DEFENSE on Page C8 Living Is A Cinch When Safety Belts Are Part of Your Life- BUCKLE UP!