By Chris Parker
Parkview football is in a much different place now than it was this time last year entering head coach Cameron Bruffett’s first season.
“Even though we did not get a win last year, we competed hard and grew each week,” Bruffett said. “We have a lot of months now under our belt in the weight room and focusing on doing the little things right. This program and players have a lot of grit and toughness, it is only a matter of time until that translates into wins. I love this team, our coaching staff, and this school. We are looking to make huge strides in year two.”
Seven starters return on offense.
“We’re fortunate to have returning offensive lineman who bring both experience and size to our line, providing a solid foundation for our offense,” Bruffett said. “Our skill players are very dynamic, capable of making big plays and keeping defenses on their toes. Our offensive scheme is built to utilize these strengths on the ground and in the air. We will keep defenses guessing and capitalize on mismatches. Overall, we are optimistic that this group can produce a high-scoring season for us.”
Junior Willy Otto will lead the offense at quarterback.
“We are excited to debut junior Willy Otto at Quarterback,” Bruffett said. “He was our JV quarterback last year and Willy even came into our district game versus Republic, moved the ball and threw a touchdown pass against them. He’s 6-foot-2, has a strong arm, and has not blinked taking over more of a college style offense.”
Freshman Marcus Grube will be the backup quarterback.
Seniors Eric McGinnis, Rodney Casper and Ben Rice will lead the receiving corps.
“You don’t get a collection of athletes like this often at the same time,” Bruffett said. “There is a really good chance our offense takes off this year and they will be the guys behind that.”
Bruffett said McGinnis in particular is poised for a breakout season.
“He (McGinnis) is a big physical player with speed,” Bruffett said. “He will be a force at wide receiver that can beat you 1-on-1 and will also block for his teammates. Eric took a few kicks back last year and is a dynamic returner as well. His presence in the weight room and on the field has turned him into a highly respected player in our locker room. A weapon and player to watch this year.”
Juniors Isaiah Hampton and Jayce McGuire are the glue to the offense according to Bruffett and will also factor into the receiving game. Hampton led all receivers with 35 catches and 391 yards last season.
Junior Khayse Highley returns in the backfield as the lead back. He had 122 carries for 561 yards and four touchdowns last season.
“He (Highley) was a bell cow for us last year and will be asked to do that again,” Bruffett said. “He has a college ready type build, combined with a smooth effortless running style that is not afraid to lower his shoulder when he wants to. He will catch a lot of balls out of the backfield as well.”
Junior Donald Taylor brings a lot of speed to the backfield as well.
The offensive line will feature returning senior starters Tyce Heslin and Clarence Waite along with junior Trevor Christman. Emory Bell is a senior expected to start this season along with junior Xzavier Teal.
“This line is big with experience and ready to help us move the ball and get our team in the endzone often,” Bruffett said.
Seven defensive starters return as well.
Teal, Waite, Christman, Jalen Elmore and Scott Salmatau will be on the defensive line. Bruffett described the unit as “strong and disciplined with high motors”.
Kaden Woerner, D’Shun Wright, Jermaine Townsend, Noah Grauberger and Jacob Hutchinson will be on the second level at linebacker. Bruffett said they are “tough and smart (and will) apply a lot of pressure”.
A fast, long and physical secondary will be highlighted by Rice, Highley, McGuire, Redje Leveille, McGinnis, Hampton, Holden Oliver and Jazz Giles.
Rice is the leader of that unit returning with a team-high 108 tackles.
“He (Rice) has a great nose for the ball and where it is going,” Bruffett said. “We are moving him around to multiple areas on the defense to play to his strengths and get him around the ball. A big season is in store for Ben, and we will also ask him to help us offensively. He makes plays wherever he is and most likely will not come off the field.”
Last year Parkview went through a coaching change. This year, the Vikings will go through a schedule change. They will play an independent schedule after the Ozark Conference dissolved.
“We look at it as an opportunity to go out and fill our own schedule with competitive teams,” Bruffett said. “Looking for teams that are a challenge and prepare us for districts. Familiar teams such as West Plains, Bolivar, and Hillcrest. Teams also Parkview doesn’t normally get to play such as Central, Mt. Vernon and Marshfield to name a few.”
Parkview will host Bolivar, Willard and Cassville for a jamboree on Aug. 23. The Vikings open the season on Aug. 30 at Marshfield as they look to snap an 11-game losing streak.
“Going out and getting that first win early is important in Year Two. Once we get that out of the way, then I think this is a group of players and staff that can really make some noise this year. Putting in the work each week and having the belief collectively that we can win each game we play this year would be a success,” Bruffett said. “This is a night and day different team coming into the season. They are a tough and hungry group. If we can stay the course and execute, I believe this is a team that can compete for a win on a week and week out basis.
