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IN THE GENES: Katy's Brinkley pursuing next-level legacy
Katy football is home to a generational talent, in more ways than one.
Georgia-native Dakyus “Dak” Brinkley has moved around quite a bit in his life. Most recently, the four-star edge rusher decided to bring his talents to the perennial powerhouse of Katy.
“It was a difficult move going from Seven Lakes to Katy,” said Brinkley. “But, when I started practicing with them, everything started to ease out.
“Working with coach (AJ) Blum as a defensive end, he’s one of the best coaches I’ve gotten to know. I think that this decision will benefit me in the long run.”
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
With his 6-foot-4 frame, combined with his versatility as LB/DE, Brinkley has become a true game-wrecker off the edge. His run-stopping capability and relentless disruption in the pocket makes him a nightmare for any opposing offense.
Additionally, it’s made him one of the top prospects in the nation for his position. So much so that Brinkley has become the highest-ranked recruit to ever commit to the University of Kansas.
“I really loved the bond and connection each person has on the Kansas staff,” he said. “Everybody is treated well to make it a unit. It’s just filled with love and I feel like it can be home.”
Brinkley claims that he models his game after two NFL pro-bowlers – Haasan Reddick and Jadeveon Clowney.
However, his primary inspiration is that of his father, Jasper Brinkley, who was a linebacker at the University of South Carolina before advancing to the NFL, where he played for the Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants and others.
“My biggest role model is my Dad, without a doubt,” said Brinkley. “Without him, I likely wouldn’t be where I am today. I’d watch him play football growing up and he’s been an inspiration for me ever since. I look up to him a lot, and he’s just a big part of my life.”
As one could imagine, Brinkley intends to advance his career to continue his family’s legacy of professional athletes.
Some of the stars of 2023-24 Katy Tigers FootballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
But, he’s surprisingly not one to talk up his own game ahead of his senior season with Katy football.
“I was making plays every day during Spring Ball,” he said. “But, I’m not going to say what my numbers are going to be, or say how well I – or Katy – are going to do this upcoming season.”
“I’d rather just show you when the time comes."
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ALL EYES ON 10: Katy's Koger playing for number on jersey
The undefeated Katy Tigers are three wins away from claiming yet another UIL State Title.
After rolling past Fort Bend Clements (59-0), Memorial (62-21), and Summer Creek (35-7), the Tigers have advanced to the Regional Finals. Leading the charge for Katy is senior QB Caleb Koger.
Koger has been the starting QB for the Tigers since his sophomore year, leading Katy to its ninth State Championship in school history. It's seems fitting that No. 10 is under center in the Tigers' campaign for their 10th title.
“I find it kind of coincidental [No. 10 going for No. 10],” said Koger. “It’s kind of funny how that worked out. It’s been a lot of fun over the past three years. Growing and becoming a better person and player with each team has been a blast.”
Koger has thrown for over 1,200 yards, but more importantly is his TD:INT ratio of 18:4. He's blessed with the two-punch knockout of RBs Seth Davis (1,600 yards) and RB Dallas Glass (1,200 yards) and his favorite WRs Adam Jackson, Micah Koenig and and Oliver Ginn. He's backed up by, well, a dominant defense that gives up only 12.5 points per game.
The undefeated Katy TigersBradley Collier (VYPE)
“I think the overall experience of each game has allowed me to become the quarterback I am, today,” Koger said. “As a senior, I’ve tried to soak it all in, but you get lost in the days of constantly working towards a goal. I’ve made the most of it, so far. I’ve learned several life lessons along the way. The value of hard work, consistency and being on time has been instilled in me through the Katy program. ”
The Tigers are set to face off against C.E. King this Friday at 7 PM in NRG Stadium. If they can advance, they will be two more wins away from bringing their State Title total into the double-digits.
“I think we just need to do what we do,” said Koger. “If we can stay consistent in our performances as we have been, then we’ll be one step closer.”
Said like a true Katy QB1.