Gadberry ready to lead Sikeston Bulldogs on both sides of the ball in rivalry showdown

SIKESTON, Mo. — In the world of high school football, where appearances can be deceiving, Luke Gadberry stands tall despite his undersized frame. 

As Sikeston’s quarterback, adorned with the iconic number 44, he defies the typical image of a signal caller. 

However, Gadberry’s tenacity, adaptability and ironclad drive make him an invaluable leader. 

Sikeston's Luke Gadberry returns a blocked punt during practice on Wednesday, October 18. (Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat)

After taking over the quarterback duties just three weeks ago, he will lead the Bulldogs (0-8) into their biggest rivalry game of the season this week against Charleston.

“I just want to get the win,” Gadberry said. “We know it will be packed with Charleston just being right down the road. It’s high pressure and emotions and should be a lot of fun. I’m just going to do my best to keep my composure, go out there and play the best I can and hopefully get the win.”

Although Gadberry is new to the quarterback position this season, he has previous experience as the junior varsity quarterback his freshman year and has also played fullback several games this season, which has helped him familiarize himself with the offense.

Sikeston's Luke Gadberry (44) runs�during a 22-20 loss to Kennett at Sikeston Public Schools Stadium on Friday, September 8.�Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

“I already knew most of the plays,” he said. “I knew what I was doing, so it wasn’t that hard for me to make the change. I had a lot of fun playing the position my freshman season and was eager for coach to give me the opportunity.”

Gadberry has been one of the top defenders for the Bulldogs this season, and his defensive prowess, evident by his 50 tackles this season, gives him a unique perspective on the game and helps him anticipate the opposing defense's next move.

“It’s helped to see where a blitz might be coming from and to get the ball out quick,” he said. “Or change up some other things if it is a run, like pulling it and running it if the linebacker crashes down.”

Sikeston's Luke Gadberry (44) throws during a 53-29 loss to NMCC on Friday, October 13, 2023.�Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Gadberry's ability to maintain a high level of performance on both sides of the ball, despite the physical and mental demands, is a testament to his incredible work ethic and dedication to the game.

"I just have to do my job," he said. "I know I have to get it done on defense, and then turnaround, go out and be the man on offense. I'm grateful for the coaches and teammates who have believed in me and allowed me to succeed.

“The coaches have done a great job of helping me throughout practice, breaking down reads and stuff like that,” he continued. “I’m going to go out there and be a ballplayer no matter what.”

Sikeston's Carter Goodman (54), Luke Gadberry (44) and Bo Riddle (83) run down a ballcarrier�during a 35-8 loss to Farmington at Sikeston Public Schools Stadium on Friday, September 15, 2023.Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Through two games as quarterback, Gadberry has already left his mark on the field. Despite his limited experience, he has completed an impressive 16-of-29 pass attempts for 298 yards, showcasing his accuracy and poise. With two touchdowns and just one interception, Gadberry proves that he can deliver under pressure. But his contributions don't stop there. On the ground, he has amassed 198 yards and added two touchdowns to his name this season, displaying his versatility and playmaking ability. 

Last week, Gadberry's talent shone brightly as he led the Bulldogs' offense with exceptional skill. He threw for an impressive 176 yards and delivered two touchdowns through the air, marking the best passing game by a Sikeston quarterback since Joseph Heckemeyer threw for 189 yards against Cape Central last season.

Gadberry's ability to lead his team and make critical plays is undeniably making an impact and his progression at quarterback has received a significant boost from the emergence of tight end/wide receiver Darryl Jordan. 

Jordan's stellar performance last week, where he caught five passes for a staggering 148 yards and a touchdown, has further fueled Gadberry's success. Their chemistry on the field is palpable, and together they form a formidable partnership that opposing defenses must contend with. 

“That’s my go-to target right there,” Gadberry said. “He’s always doing everything he can to help me out. He’s always open so I’m always looking for him.”

Another crucial factor aiding Gadberry's seamless transition to the quarterback position has been his experience as a scout team quarterback during practice, where he eagerly seized every opportunity that came his way this season.

“He made the most of any chance he got,” said Sikeston coach Treaston Pulley. “We know we had to give him a shot after seeing what he could do back there. He going to do whatever it takes. But having that experience allows him to understand how the defense is going to rotate and move out there. He just makes his magic happen like that.

“[Gadberry’s] top attribute is he’s a competitor,” Pulley continued. “He gives you a real shot just by the way he wants to compete. One thing I know about him is that he is never going to hang his head. If something goes wrong, he’s eager to make up for it and get it back on the next play. That’s just the type of kid he is. “I hate that it took so long to figure this out, but we found a quarterback.”

While Sikeston continues to run the same offensive system, Gadberry’s exceptional wherewithal has opened up new possibilities, enabling the team to delve deeper into its playbook.  

“We just felt like he was one of our more mobile athletes,” Pulley said. “He gives us a great shot at throwing and running the football.” 

As Sikeston and Charleston prepare to clash on the gridiron, it is worth noting that their storied rivalry stands as the oldest west of the Mississippi River in terms of games played between the two schools, adding an extra layer of historical significance to this highly anticipated showdown.

“There are a lot of family ties and all these kids know each other,” Pulley concluded. “There is a lot of respect between the staff and players. It doesn’t matter what sport, anytime we are playing Charleston the atmosphere is going to be incredible and the kids excel in that environment.”