Edmundson leads by example for Mules

The Poplar Bluff High School Mules football team has gotten off to a rocky start, but junior quarterback Jay Edmundson looks to lead by example as the Mules continue to find their stride.

Despite the Mules 1-3 start to the season, Edmundson is still optimistic that the team will eventually turn the corner and make a strong run in the playoffs, similar to the previous season after an 0-4 start.

“I think we started off a little slower, but I believe we have really found our footing,” Edmundson said. “I think we’re about to start getting on a roll. We always have a tough beginning of our schedule, but it’s going to shape us for the end of the year. I think once we get into week 10 for the playoffs, we’re going to be ready.”

The Mules have five games remaining on their regular season schedule against similar opponents, which they finished 4-1 last season before entering the playoffs.

One would say that the Mules could kick off their run for the second half of the season, and Edmundson is confident that the team has enough talent to get over the hump.

“One of our main goals is to keep getting better as a team,” Edmundson said about the remaining games on their schedule. “We’re at a good spot right now, but we can be in a great spot by the end of the year. I think we really have a lot of talent that we haven’t had in a while, and we can make a run.”

As the Mules get ready for their homecoming matchup against Sikeston, Edmundson said the main objective for the team is to make as many plays as their opponents.

“We just need to react to what they give us. I know I have many playmakers that can get the job done,” he emphasized.

With four games under his belt as the starting quarterback, Edmundson currently ranks third in the SEMO Conference in passing with the most completions of 65. So far, he’s thrown 668 yards with three touchdowns and 201 rushing yards. Edmundson has also taken a few snaps on defense and has tallied nine tackles for the Mules.

Though his main job is leading the team’s offense, Edmundson can be seen playing both sides of the ball. As a player who loves football, he likes to be on the field as much as possible if it helps the team win, but how does he do it?

Junior quarterback Jay Edmundson threw a few reps before the Poplar Bluff Mules football team took on Valley View High School. Edmundson currently ranks third in the SEMO Football Conference in passing with the most completions of 65. So far, he�s thrown 668 yards with three touchdowns and 201 rushing yards. DAR/D�Courtland Christian

“Honestly, it’s the adrenaline in the game that keeps me going most of the time,” Edmundson said. “I believe in never taking playing off, so I’m always honested with the coaches about getting a breather. Sometimes playing both sides can be tough, but after a little rest, I go back out there to make plates for the team, and that’s all that matters is making plays.”

Edmundson said for the remainder of the season, getting better for the team and performing well during the playoffs is his ultimate goal. He wants to make good plays, limit his turnovers, be smart, lead the team, and ensure everyone is on the same page.

“When I’m on offense, the huddle will stay positive,” he said. “We’re all there for each other because we’re a team at the end of the day, and if we’re not together, we can’t win. So, as long as we play together and I can do my part, we will be fine.”