Quincy lands Sikeston powerhouse Keodrick Sherrod

SIKESTON — Game film doesn't lie. Watch Keodrick Sherrod run, and a few things become clear: this kid hits the hole with force, runs with a low center of gravity, and sheds tacklers. His hard-charging style makes defenders flinch and linebackers brace for impact.

Now, the 5-foot-10, 190-pound Sikeston senior is ready to bring that physicality to the next level after signing with Quincy University.

“I chose Quincy because they made me feel valued," Sherrod said. "From the first phone call to my official visit, they were welcoming and supportive. It felt like the right fit, and the location is perfect – not too big, not too small."

Sikeston's Keodrick Sherrod (33) runs through the tackle attempt of Farmington's Drew Felker (18) Friday, Sept. 10, 2021, at Sikeston Public Schools Stadium. (David Jenkins/Standard Democrat)

But Sherrod’s drive doesn't end on the field. He's aiming high, both athletically and academically.

"I want to be an All-American, stay on top of my grades, and earn my master's degree," he said.

The bruising back recognizes his strengths – his physical running style – but he's also self-aware.

Sikeston's Keodrick Sherrod gets past Farmington's Jeremiah Cunningham Friday, Sept. 10, 2021, at Sikeston Public Schools Stadium. (David Jenkins/Standard Democrat)

"My weakness is probably long breakaway runs where I get tired," he continued. “But that's nothing a little extra conditioning can't fix."

This football journey was sparked long before signing day. It began with trainer, Justin Robinson, who saw potential in Sherrod at a young age.

Robinson's encouragement and tough-love approach helped shape Sherrod into the player he is today.

Sikeston's Keodrick Sherrod runs for yardage against Cape Central Friday, Oct. 1, 2021, at Sikeston Public Schools Stadium. (David Jenkins/Standard Democrat)

"He took me under his wing when I was very young," Sherrod said. “It showed me what it meant to fight for your goals, even when others doubted you. That's what truly ignited my passion for football."

Sherrod’s early high school years showcased his raw talent. His freshman and sophomore seasons hinted at a rising star, attracting attention.

One standout moment came during his sophomore year. On his second carry of his first varsity start, he exploded for about a 35-yard gain before a defender stripped the ball near the goal line. Undeterred, Sherrod bounced back, ending the game with 207 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

But then, a meniscus injury during his junior year hampered his performance, preventing him from reaching his full potential during his final seasons of high school football.

“I just was in a dark place and lost all motivation but praying daily along with family and friends helped me out a lot,” Sherrod said.

But Sherrod refused to let this setback define his career. Driven by a fierce work ethic instilled by his mother, he remained focused on his goals. His past performances on film, along with his presence at camps, still caught the eye of college coaches. Programs like South Alabama (a Division I FBS program) and Lamar (a Division I FCS program) saw enough to extend offers.

Quincy competes at the NCAA Division II level as part of the Great Lakes Valley Conference, one of the toughest conferences in the nation. The program boasts a solid history, including a National Championship title in 1993.

Additionally, Quincy recently made history when offensive lineman BJ Wilson became its first-ever NFL signee, a promising sign of the program's ability to develop players. The 6-foot-7, 320-pound lineman is set to continue his professional career with the San Antonio Brahmas of the UFL this upcoming spring.