POPLAR BLUFF RETURNS QB, MUCH OF 'D'

Poplar Bluff was explosive on offense last year and solid on defense. This year head coach Mark Barrouse feels the offense is just as good and the defense will be improved.

"I've been pleasantly surprised with the way things have gone," said Barrouse. "I think we're going to have a pretty good year." The most highly-touted weapon in Poplar Bluff's arsenal is senior quarterback Stan Revelle, who statistically became the most prolific passer in school history last season, throwing for 2,102 yards with 20 TD passes.

"The progress he made from his sophomore to junior year was remarkable, and he's continued that pace this year," said Barrouse.

The Mules lost 10 starters to graduation off last year's 8-2 team, most coming on offense.

On defense, the Mules return seven starters, and will be led by Daniel Larkins.

"If we can keep everybody healthy and play hard, our defense should be improved," said Barrouse.

There are quite a few holes to fill on the offensive side, but some quality players do return, and a few new players opted to play for the team this season.

The most notable newcomer is star track athlete Brent Little, who transferred in from Kansas City as a sophomore.

Little was fourth in the state in triple jump and fifth in the long jump last year as a sophomore.

"We've got a lot of depth on defense," said Barousse. "We're two deep just about everywhere.

Among the returners are all-region lineman Daniel Larkins and all-region linebacker Jeff Mannon, as well as lineman Michael Baker, linebackers Aaron Johnson and Jake McFadden, strong safety Rodney Michler and free safety Erick Schuermann.

A linebacker last season, McFadden is making the transition to defensive end.

Bob Larkins leads a talented group of young linemen who will push for playing time.

"He ran 11 (seconds) flat in the 100 meters, and he's playing at 200 pounds," said Barousse.

Losing both cornerbacks, the Mules will be the least experienced in the secondary. Maurice Moss, Johnny Johnson, Austin Armes, Jon Batson and Jordan Bock are all candidates to fill the vacant cornerback positions.