New era of Sikeston Bulldogs eyeing a return to prominence

SIKESTON — The Sikeston Bulldogs are on a mission to reclaim glory, and it’s a redemption story the football team is hungry to write this season.

After a series of challenging seasons, players and coaches are fueled by an unrelenting determination to rewrite their narrative. With a seasoned senior group and a promising freshmen class, that’s swelled the team’s numbers and breathed fresh life into the program, Sikeston is on the cusp of a transformative season and ready to unleash a new era of Bulldogs football.

“The passion and attentiveness displayed by our team has been impressive,” said Sikeston head coach Treston Pulley. “They are always fully engaged, holding each other to high standards, and it’s something I deeply appreciate about this group. Their enhanced focus has made coaching them joyful and a rewarding experience. The optimism is there and it fuels the faith in the process.”

Sikeston's Kayden Craig throws a pass during practice on Sunday, August 13, 2023. Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Sikeston has experienced a significant boost in depth and upperclassman leadership. The team replaced its five graduated seniors with a robust class of 16, while also welcoming a freshman class of 26. This infusion of talent should provide a strong foundation and a promising future for the Bulldogs.

“We’ve seen remarkable growth,” Pulley said. “All 16 of [seniors] of going to be valuable starters for us this year and I haven’t seen these types of numbers since I started here as an assistant coach in 2016. These kids don’t want to lose. They’re ready to compete and you can see it.”

The Bulldogs’ offense boasts a wealth of talented players, including the dynamic running back duo of senior Keodrick Sherrod and junior Trez Clark.

Sikeston's Pierce Baker and Tyren Jackson compete during a drill at practice on Sunday, August 13, 2023. Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Sherrod, the strongest player on the team according to Pulley, has caught the attention of college coaches with strong performances at summer camps, showcasing his power and skills and picking up offers from South Alabama and Lamar.

Despite battling injuries and missing games last season, he still managed to rush for 356 yards and two touchdowns on 86 carries.

Stepping up in Sherrod’s absence, Clark emerged as a force on the field, carrying the ball 106 times for 484 yards and a touchdown, earning well-deserved All-SEMO Conference honors.

Sikeston players take a minute to chat during a break in practice on Sunday, August 13, 2023. Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

“As a team, our strategy revolves around a strong emphasis on the run game,” Pulley said. “Complemented by a well-balanced passing attack. On the defensive side, our primary goal is to be relentlessly aggressive in shutting down the opposing team’s running game. This approach is crucial in shaping the identity of our team and aligns with our core philosophy.”

The Bulldogs welcome back senior quarterback Kayden Craig, who started several games and led the team in passing last season.

Alongside him, seniors Trey Gorman, Isaiah Jimmerson-Patterson and junior Marcus Sanders Jr. should be threats at wide receiver and in the defensive backfield.

Sikeston's Trey Gorman returns a kick during practice on Sunday, August 13, 2023. Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Meanwhile, Colt Parker has shown some good things at defensive back and the backup quarterback spot, aiming to carve out a role on the offense.

The coaching staff holds high expectations for sophomore Keane Atkins, recognizing his potential.

In terms of player comebacks, senior Bo Riddle is back on the field following an injury that cut his previous campaign short. Additionally, senior Andrew Green and Carter Goodman are expected to contribute in major ways.

Sikeston notably features a talented and experienced group of linemen, including seniors Hayden Hess, Vic Mora, Carlos Blackmon, Demarious Williams, Andon Christian and junior Brodie Young.

Their collective skills and depth bode well for the Bulldogs, signaling a promising season ahead.

“We have depth and a lot of kids we like,” Pulley said. “They’re just a great group to be around because they are positive and optimistic about anything and everything. I hate to leave people out because there are so many of them.”

The team also expects contributions from newcomers this season. Senior Xavier Jackson, junior Demarius Brown, and sophomore Jaharus Goodwin, along with freshmen Ricky Wigfall, Simon Uwusu and Mason King, are expected to make an impact.

“They’re all kids that have stepped up and helped us,” Pulley said.

Sherrod, Craig, Green, Goodman, Hess and Gorman have been appointed as the team’s captains for the upcoming season that begins on Friday, August 25, at Hillsboro High School.

“All of these guys show up, work hard and encourage others,” Pulley said. “They have an influence that galvanizes the team. They’re positive people that do things right and people want to be around them.”

As the anticipation builds, the community’s support becomes paramount in the Bulldogs’ path to resurgence.

“We can support these kids by showing up,” Pulley said. “I know it’s going to be tough for some to get to Hillsboro in week one, but let’s pack the house the following week for the home opener against Dexter. Wear your black and red, and let’s try to sell that place out. I think the crowd will be pleased with what we put on the field this year.”