THROWING GROWING: Summer league helps Tigers build up passing unit
· Yahoo Sports
Passing league is more important than ever this year for Tahlequah football.
Most seasons, the Tigers are a run-first team; however, in 2026, they look like they’re ready for a potent passing game. The running game is still expected to be solid, but with a trio of veteran players serving as the top three options for senior quarterback Will Talburt.
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During the four editions of the varsity passing league, the Tigers had a chance to work their unit vs. Muskogee, Inola and Stigler. The final edition closed out on a high note for the Tigers, according to head coach Brad Gilbert.
“Our guys competed and we wrapped up the summer and passing league on a good note,” Gilbert said. “I think the guys are understanding the importance of their responsibilities. Whether they’re an upper or underclassman, knowing that in reality this is their team, you’re starting to see some of that ownership from the upperclassmen as you should. As long as they continue to progress, the trajectory of our team will be where it needs to be.”
The challenge of playing Muskogee on their home turf gave the Tigers a chance to test their receiving unit.
A program with a pedigree of State Championship history, the 6A Roughers put up a good fight.
An aggressive defense challenged and helped prime the Tigers this summer.
“Defensively, they give a lot of man pressure as the main coverage,” Gilbert said. “Our guys got to understand and become better at getting off press coverage and those kind of things, which they did really well today. If you can come out here and compete against that and work against it, it’s only going to make you better.”
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Tahlequah quarterback Will Talburt throws Wednesday, July 8, in the final passing camp.
Developing the passing game is key for the Tigers this season, with a bounty of returning receivers. The top three options are likely going to be upperclassmen Michael Torkelson, Ashton Morgan and Kael Dobbins, along with some key backups.
“This is an element we will probably see more from us this upcoming year; there’s not a question about that,” Gilbert said. “Every opportunity we have to work together is an opportunity to get better. That is going to be an identity of who we are to a degree.”
The receivers are crucial; however, Talburt is probably the biggest piece of the equation though.
After taking about half of the snaps last season, the Tigers are hoping their senior leader is making the proper progress this season.
Facing off with the strong press of the Roughers gave the Tiger gunslinger a chance to work through tight windows through lockdown coverage.
“He has continuously gotten better, there’s no doubt,” Gilbert said. “It all starts with his feet and he knows that. I think there’s things we can do in the passing game because of his arm strength. We’ve got to work on the overall development and just understanding he’s got the arm strength. It’s all about his feet and putting him in a position to be successful with his foundation.”
After four editions of camp, the league is over, and the Tigers are looking ahead to about two weeks of lifting before break. Practices officially start Monday, Aug. 10.