Under the Friday night lights, the Jack Yates Lions aren’t just winning; they’re suffocating opponents.
In a district where offense often steals the spotlight, Yates’ defense is flipping the script. Led by senior defensive lineman Cortland Blackshire, junior defensive back Aurtrill Watkins and freshman linebacker McKinley Davis, the Lions have turned stinginess into an art form. Through seven games, the Lions’ defense has only allowed 203 rushing yards and 398 passing yards. This defense has quietly become the heart of Yates’ revival and a statement that Third Ward football is once again something to fear.
When defensive coordinator Will Smith returned to his alma mater, his goal was simple: To restore Yates’ identity through defense.
“I wanted the defense to represent a fast, physical brand of football,” said Smith. “Playing lights out means mistake-free football, limiting opponents and creating turnovers.”
Smith’s 3–3–5 scheme replaced last year’s 4–2–5, but the real change came in confidence.
“I wanted them to believe in the system so they could play faster,” said Smith.
For Blackshire, the shift was about unity.
“The intensity changed,” said Blackshire. “We learned each other’s tendencies, played hard, played tough. This team is like a family – the best I’ve been a part of. The coaches are like dads to me; we have everything we need.”
For Smith, the transformation started with a mindset and the results speak for themselves.
Yates’ defense has been nothing short of dominant. Opponents have been held under 100 yards in multiple games and negative rushing totals have become almost routine.
“Negative rushing yards stand out most,” said Smith. “We want to make other teams one-dimensional.”
Those results were by design.
“Before the season started, our goals were less than 100 rushing yards per game and less than 200 total yards,” said Smith.
For the secondary, it’s a source of pride.
“I feel great knowing I can count on everybody on the field,” said Watkins, who is part of a unit giving up fewer than 50 passing yards per game. “Teams respect me enough not to throw my way, but I stay locked in and help with run support.”
However, behind those numbers lies something deeper —a chemistry that blends leadership across classes.
This defense thrives on leadership from all directions, seniors, juniors and even freshmen.
“I set the tone by being a living example,” said Blackshire. “That means showing up ready to work, studying film and holding myself to the highest standard. The younger guys need to see that dedication.”
“I wanted the defense to represent a fast, physical brand of football. Playing lights out means mistake-free football, limiting opponents and creating turnovers.”
Will Smith
To Blackshire, wearing “Yates” means “Family. The Texans Way: Us vs. Us.”
Watkins has grown into a vocal leader.
“I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone, communicating more, encouraging teammates and holding everyone accountable. I’m leading with my voice and my play,” said Watkins.
The bond among the three defensive leaders is both tight and personal.
“We push each other every day,” said Watkins. “It’s all love and competition. Cortland is my cousin.”
For Davis, a freshman adjusting to varsity speed, that mentorship has been vital.
“The older guys taught me that effort and accountability matter most,” said Davis. “Don’t let one mistake turn into more; learn from it.”
That blend of experience and youth has created something rare, a defense that feels like family.
For Smith, this season represents more than wins; it’s a return home. After stints at Humble High School, Ridge Point, Alief Taylor and Dulles, he returned to Yates, the school he once played for.
“It was an opportunity to come back and help them get back to dominance,” said Smith. “No matter where I coached, I’ve always kept an eye on Yates. I’ve known Coach Lewis for over 35 years.”
Leading a defense in the same community where he started brings pride and perspective.
“It feels good but a little weird,” said Smith. “When I played here, I was an offensive lineman. Over time, I developed a love for defense.”
His players see that passion daily.
“Coach Smith is hardworking, he’s really a cool guy,” said Blackshire.
“You can see his passion in how he pushes us and the energy he brings,” said Watkins. “He loves to joke, but when it’s time to be serious, you’d better lock in.”
Davis agreed.
“His passion for the game and for Third Ward makes us play harder, not just for school, but for our community,” he said.
For Smith and his players, this isn’t just a season; it’s a mission to restore Yates’ legacy.
As the Lions continue their defensive rampage, Smith’s vision remains firm.
“I want this defense to be talked about as one of the all-time greats in Yates history,” said Smith. “We’re earning back the respect we deserve. Some people don’t like it, but we’ll keep giving the haters and lovers something to watch.”
Blackshire hopes this era will reshape how people view Yates.
“When people talk about Yates football, I want them to think of a good school to attend and play football at,” said Blackshire.
For Watkins and Davis, it’s about carrying the torch.
“I plan to keep building on what we’ve started,” said Watkins. “Stay disciplined, hold everyone accountable and keep the same energy.”
“I plan to start next year off strong with the same mindset and higher expectations,” Davis added.
