For junior Preston Cannon, protecting the quarterback isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a personal mission. “My personal goal as a left tackle for the Antlers Bearcats is to NOT allow any tackles or sacks all season,” he said. That kind of commitment to excellence defines Cannon’s approach to the game, and it’s helping shape the tone for Antlers football heading into the fall.
This season, the Bearcats are taking a fresh approach to preparation. “Our team is preparing differently with a different style of training; focusing more on building speed and explosive strength in the gym,” Cannon explained. “We also do more walkthroughs to work on perfecting our plays.”
The changes are paying off, especially when it comes to team energy and connection. “The biggest improvement that I have seen with the team so far has been our energy in our summer workouts,” he said. “This has helped us work harder, better our skill sets, and just build a better team connection.”
With their eyes on the prize, Antlers isn’t shy about their goals. “Our team goals are to win the district and state championship,” Cannon said. “We will do this by working hard and staying consistent, doing the right training for what we do on the field, and having a really strong team bond.”
Cannon believes the team’s strength lies in its foundation. “Our team’s biggest strength right now is our raw strength and athleticism,” he said. “Our other biggest strength is our will to succeed.”
On the field, Cannon lines up as left tackle and left guard, using both film and instinct to read defenses. “I look at the way the defensive ends I am going against are lined up. I also pay attention to see if they use an angled stance. I watch for outside linebackers or linebackers to see if they are blitzing.”
“My mindset is that I will do anything to protect my guys behind me,” he said. “I want my legacy to be influential in a way that makes every offensive lineman after me want to work as hard as they possibly can for their team.”
Preston Cannon, standing tall at 6’4”, plans to play college football after high school.
