By Jordan Burton (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
Joplin had a promising start to the 2023 season, going 3-0 before injuries slowed the Eagles season.
Entering Curtis Jasper’s 10th season at the helm, he returns 12 starters so the cupboard isn’t completely bare, but the Eagles (again) must replace a talented senior class.
This one also included multiple Division 1 signees.
“The development of the team is the overall goal, and we have been fortunate to be able to develop individuals who are ready for the next level throughout the years,” said Jasper. “I attribute the team success to the dedication of the players and guys I get to coach with. We work to continue to build the team culture in all that we do through promoting unity, hard work, and giving back.
“No one person is better or more important than any other, and we are always one injury away from the next guy needing to be ready to step up.”
Joplin has plenty of talent and it starts with senior receivers Davin Thomas (6-0, 175) and Collis Jones (6-3, 185).
Thomas was an All-COC and all-area selection after finishing his junior season with 47 receptions for 680 yards and six touchdowns. Jones was a standout defender but also has the chance to have a breakout season offensively.
“Davin has developed mental toughness since last season,” said Jasper. “Between his sophomore and junior year, he went from offense and special teams, to not leaving the field very often. He handled that with grace, but this off season has allowed him time to wrap his mind around his role and prepare his body more thoroughly.”
Juniors Neil Barstow (6-2, 230), John Jasper (6-3, 220) and Layne Royle (5-10, 150) will also see larger roles in the passing game after playing as sophomores.
Senior Toryn Jones will look to be the next guy following the graduation of running back Quin Renfro. Jones (353 rushing yards, 5 TDs) will look to build on his 73 carries from 2023.
The offensive line will be anchored by talented junior Isaac Yust (6-2, 230), as well as veteran seniors Brennen Washington (6-3, 300) and Maurice Clark (5-10, 250).
Joplin will have plenty of newcomers on offense as well.
There’s a quarterback battle between senior Dominic Leesman (6-2, 190) and junior Daniel Rose (6-0, 170). Rose appeared in four games as a sophomore.
“Both candidates have worked hard and have similar strengths, but there are some differences as well,” said Jasper. “Both young men can deliver the football and they both have the ability to run when needed. We are looking for consistency and leadership in this role, and both young men have the opportunity to win the position.”
Seniors Jumond Burrell (6-1, 165) and Alex Whitten (5-10, 150) will see time at receiver, junior Traevian McCadney (6-1, 185) will also see some carries from the backfield and Gavin Landis (6-4, 300), Isaiah Britt (6-4, 290) and Jayden Camerer (6-1, 260) will also compete for spots on the offensive line.
The strength of the defense will be in the trenches, where a trio of seniors in Josiah Hazlewood (6-0, 240), Keshawn Peavler (5-11, 255) and Jakobe Taylor (6-1, 215).
Hazlewood was an all-area selection (63 tackles, 3 sacks).
“Josiah is the complete package, he has gotten bigger, faster, and stronger. His role as a leader has grown and he has a leader work ethic.
Juniors Andrew Snider (5-11, 200) and David Bhend (6-2, 185) return to the linebacking corps.
Thomas and Jones solidify the secondary, with juniors Burrell and Jordan Bozarth also bringing back some experience.
Several newcomers are fighting for roles defensively as well.
Seniors Sergio Maturino and Blayne Giddens will see reps on the defensive line. Juniors Caillou Magee and Gryphon Price will see time at linebacker and classmates Kenyon Washom and Jariah Clark will play in the defensive backfield.
Junior James Clemens will provide versatility to the back half of the defense.
Joplin will also be adjusting to the new COC, which provides the Eagles with a slight advantage as the only team that has played in the old Ozark Conference and COC.
The schedule is brutal, especially early which includes Lebanon in Week 2, at Nixa in Week 3 and a season-ending trip to Webb City in Week 9.
“The biggest challenge the change of conference brings is in the way the schedule lays out,” said Jasper. “We see some tough opponents early in the year that we need to be ready for from the gate. There is no easing into the schedule with the new format. That being said, we are excited for the additions of our new schools. The rivalry between Joplin and CJ will be missed, but changes happen and we roll with them. Losing an area-school game is never ideal – our kids have been playing CJ since they were young.
“We need to continue to improve and build depth as the year goes on. As always, we need to stay healthy.”
Joplin will host Webb City, Seneca and Lamar in a jamboree on Aug. 23, before opening the 2024 regular season at Kickapoo on Aug. 30.
