Building blocks in place as Sikeston’s future looks bright

Sikeston teammates Luke Gadberry (4) and Darryl Jordan (14) strategize on the sidelines during practice on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

SIKESTON — Aiming to build momentum this upcoming season after several challenging years, Sikeston is eager to get back to competing at a high level.

While the road ahead may be tough, the Bulldogs are determined to prove themselves and make a positive impact on the field.

“We’re still a work in progress,” said first-year Sikeston coach Jim May. “But we’re moving in the right direction. They all won’t be great days, but our kids are working hard, learning and it is showing. It’s just a matter of mastering the offense and defense. Once they get everything down they will be able to play fast and hard.”

Sikeston is hoping to turn a corner this season. While there is a general expectation that the team will improve, the question remains: how much improvement can they realistically achieve?

One thing is certain: the Bulldogs seem more focused and determined than they were in recent years.

“We have an unbelievable coaching staff that is doing everything possible to get this team ready for week one,” May said. “We try to keep everyone involved and limit standing around. That usually leads to more engagement from the players which makes for better practices.”

The Bulldogs will rely heavily on a talented group of senior impact players, led by Luke Gadberry, Brodie Young, Demarious Brown, and Daryl Jordan.

Gadberry, a standout linebacker, was forced to double duty as quarterback last season. While he showed flashes of brilliance, throwing five touchdowns in a postseason win over Perryville, the coaching staff has decided to focus him primarily on defense. Gadberry’s athleticism and leadership will be invaluable on the defensive side of the ball, and he will also see time at wide receiver.

“Gadberry has shown great leadership,” May said. “He is a dynamic player and he’s very valuable to us at other positions. Plus, you don’t really want your quarterback to play linebacker.”

The coaching staff has emphasized the importance of limiting two-way play, believing that Gadberry can be most effective as a dedicated linebacker. 

The linebacker corps is arguably the team’s greatest strength, boasting a talented group of players. 

Joining Gadberry are Sam McGill, Jayden Wiley, Kenneth Holcomb, James Lepior, and Marcus Sanders Jr. While other position groups show promise, the linebackers have demonstrated a high level of skill and experience. Their ability to disrupt the opposing offense and make plays in the backfield will be a key factor in the Bulldogs’ success.

“We have six or seven guys here that can play here and the team will probably be very good at this spot again,” May said. “We’re going to be a little younger but Gadberry will do a great job leading this group and the younger guys are making strides. I think we will be pretty sound.”

Meanwhile, Young, Brown, and Jordan have emerged as key leaders on the line. Their ability to contribute to a strong line of scrimmage will be crucial to the Bulldogs’ success on both sides of the ball.

“These are our leaders up there with our line and they’ve done a great job,” May said. “My goal for them is to have an enjoyable senior year. Something they can look back on and be proud of. They’ve done what we have asked of them and they are buying in.”

Jordan, a returning starter who was one of the team’s top performers down the stretch last season, is expected to be a big-time player on the defensive end this year.

“[Jordan] is a really good player,” May said. 

The defensive line will be bolstered by the contributions of Young, Brown, and TJ Mitchell. These players will provide depth and talent along the front seven. 

Additionally, Simon Owusu, AC Dixon, and Jonathan Northern are expected to see playing time, further strengthening the defensive line.

“We have some players that we feel pretty comfortable with on the defensive line,” May said. “They’re doing a pretty good job.”

The secondary will be a collaborative effort, with Wiley, Sanders Kaden Gates, Mason King, Cooper Wilson, Kendarrious Love, and Keanne Atkins all expected to play key roles. However, May again emphasized the desire to limit two-way players, particularly early in the season when heat can be a factor.

Sikeston will employ a versatile defensive scheme, adjusting their formations and coverages to best match up with their opponents.

The Bulldogs have high hopes for Pierce Baker at quarterback. 

Baker saw limited varsity action last season, competing 3-for-5 pass attempts for 24 yards, but is expected to be a major contributor to the offense this year. The junior signal-caller has a talented arm, good decision-making skills, and athleticism.

“These are all things we look for out of quarterbacks,” May said. “We want to be multidimensional and he’s shown the ability to help us do that. He’s done a fantastic job and we felt that this was the best decision for us as a team because he’s done a really good job of learning the offense.”

The Bulldogs will rely on a combination of returning talent and new additions at running back.

Kenneth Holcomb, a sophomore who gained valuable experience last season, will be a key contributor to the running game. While Jayden Wiley, a transfer, has impressed the coaching staff with his performance in practice and is expected to be a significant addition to the backfield.

“They’re both working hard,” May said. “They’re strong, fast and coachable.”

The offensive line will be anchored by returning starters Young, Brown, and Marion Pulley. James Hughes, Michael Conway, and Jonathan Northern are competing for the remaining starting positions, but all are expected to contribute. With a solid mix of experience and potential, the Bulldogs hope to establish a strong presence up front.

“What we do is different than what they have done before,” May said. “More is being asked of them. The pace is faster than they’re probably used to and the way we attack is a little different than what they’re used to. But they’re learning, getting better and giving us great effort. I’m confident and we have high hopes that they are going to be a good group.”

The wide receiver position is a competitive group, with several players vying for playing time. Jordan, Love, Gadberry, and Sanders Jr., along with Atkins and Will Lape, and sophomore Mason King, will all be competing for targets. The depth at wide receiver will give the Bulldogs flexibility and options in the passing game.

“We have some athletes and we’re fairly deep at this position,” May said.

May believes that the offense has the potential to be effective both running and throwing the football. While the team is still developing and learning the system, the coach is optimistic about their progress and believes that the offense will be a strength as they continue to improve.

The Bulldogs have a strong special teams unit, led by kicker Mauricio Bautista. Bautista has consistently shown the ability to make long field goals and will be a valuable asset to the team.

“He’s got a great leg,” May said. “We worked with his steps and got him a little more structure. He’s kicking the ball very well right now.”

The road ahead may be challenging, but the team is poised for a brighter future. Sikeston will likely experience both highs and lows throughout the season, but with a talented roster, a dedicated coaching staff, and a renewed sense of optimism, the Bulldogs are well-positioned to make significant strides this upcoming season.