The Hive Sports

by James Tate

Clearfield Falcons

2024 overall and region record (1-9) (0-7)

Head coach: Cody Caputo

Change is no longer the defining theme for Clearfield football; now, it’s all about stability. With second-year Head Coach Cody Caputo leading the charge, the Falcons aren’t just hoping to compete this season; they’re preparing to win. Last year’s early-season triumph over the Jordan Beetdiggers gave this squad a taste of success, and that momentum has only grown.

There’s a renewed energy buzzing through the locker room. Veteran leaders are stepping up. Current and new assistant coaches are bringing a wealth of experience and a renewed focus on fundamentals. Together, they’re laying the foundation for a team that’s more prepared, more confident, and more connected.

Coach Caputo has instilled a clear sense of purpose in his players. He’s challenged them to improve every day, physically, mentally, and emotionally. That work started long before summer camp. In the offseason, the Falcons dedicated themselves to the weight room and focused on building the kind of speed that can rival anyone on their schedule.

“I would say that the biggest difference is the overall team speed and strength,” Coach Caputo said. “We want to be able to spread things out more offensively this season, and we have a few more playmakers to feed.”

Landon Hittle

Quarterbacks/running backs

Sophomore Brik Barlow steps into the spotlight this season as Clearfield’s starting quarterback, bringing poise and promise after gaining valuable experience as a freshman. Barlow saw increased snaps in the second half of last season, stepping up as the offense evolved and the Falcons’ ground game gained momentum. Now, with a firmer grasp of the playbook and growing confidence in the pocket, Barlow is expected to be a bigger factor through the air.

“We expect sophomore quarterback Brik Barlow and senior wideout Alyric Kelley to connect often in the passing game as well,” said Coach Caputo.

The Falcons’ running back corps was a bright spot last season, showing steady improvement and toughness down the stretch. That momentum carries into this fall, with new, talented running backs set to share the workload in the backfield.

“We have a couple running backs that will split carries, Sean Brant and Julius Salima, and we’re pretty excited to see them run the football,” Coach Caputo said.

Zane Bassett

Wide receivers/tight ends

Kelley is a proven playmaker with the ability to stretch the field and make defenders miss. Joining him is senior Landon Hittle, a savvy route runner and tough slot receiver who brings a Swiss Army knife skill set to the offense. Hittle’s versatility allows him to line up in the backfield or at any receiver spot, executing with precision and grit.

Depth and size are also strengths for Clearfield, with seniors Zack Clow and Cadin Seegmiller adding reliability and senior leadership. Standing at six-foot-three, Zane Bassett is expected to be a major red zone threat, using his frame and athleticism to create mismatches against smaller defenders.

At tight end, senior James Tafea offers another big-bodied target with the potential to make a profound impact. His physical presence and soft hands give the Falcons yet another weapon in an offense that’s looking to spread the ball and attack from all angles. Junior Landen Stewart is another dependable receiver for the Falcons.

Tino Rader

Offensive/defensive linemen

The Falcons’ offensive line is poised to be a major strength this season, anchored by the return of senior standouts Dax Taylor, Rhett Ogden, Camron Jensen, and Cannon Strickling. This experienced unit aims to build on the physical, hard-nosed play they showcased in the latter part of last season.

“Senior guard Dax Taylor leads our offensive line,” said Coach Caputo. “They’ll be a solid unit, and we believe they could be difference-makers for us.”

On the defensive side, Clearfield brings back a formidable trio of seniors, Brison Davies, Marley Toafe, and Tino Rader. With their veteran presence and versatility, this group is expected to contribute significantly on both sides of the ball.

Linebackers/defensive backs

Senior Cooper Kirkman returns to anchor the Falcons’ defense after finishing as one of the team’s leading tacklers in 2024. Known for his physicality and leadership, Kirkman will be a key presence on the field. He’ll be joined by fellow senior and returning starter Zack Clow, whose emergence as a force at free safety has made him a cornerstone of the secondary. Coach Caputo will rely heavily on Clow’s versatility and leadership this season.

Another name to watch is senior Drew Taylor, who gained valuable experience last year playing alongside Kirkman and is expected to take on a larger role in 2025.

The Falcons’ secondary also features a mix of seasoned seniors and promising juniors. Seniors Sean Brandt, Tayson Fisher, and Kelley, along with juniors Easton Harmon and Ryan Naylor, are all players to watch as they continue to develop and make an impact throughout the season.

Cooper Kirkman

Special teams

The Falcons will rely on Kelley and Hittle to provide consistency and explosiveness in the kick and punt return game. Both have proven to be dependable options and will be key in setting up favorable field position for the Falcons.

Davies will take charge of punting duties, bringing a steady leg to the unit.

Senior Samuel Smith is expected to get a strong look at handling field goals and kick-offs, giving the Falcons a veteran presence in the kicking game.

Key games

Aug. 29, 2025, vs Jordan Beetdiggers. Last season, Clearfield stunned Jordan on the road with a commanding 40–23 victory. This year, the Beetdiggers are coming to Falcon Field with revenge on their minds. Expect a high-intensity rematch as both teams look to make an early-season statement.

Sep. 5, 2025, at Ogden Tigers. A win here could give the Falcons a crucial two-game streak heading into region play. Ogden’s home turf won’t make it easy, but Clearfield has the momentum and the talent to pull off a road win that sets the tone for the rest of the season.

Oct. 15, 2025, vs Northridge Knights. Senior Night. Final regular-season game. Region finale. This one has all the makings of a classic. With emotions running high and playoff implications potentially on the line, the Falcons will be looking to close out the season in front of their home crowd with a statement win.

photos courtesy James Tate