Bullpup Football Season Preview: Experienced Core Returns with Playoff Aspirations
Offensive line, skill players lead McPherson into 2025 campaign
The McPherson football program enters 2025 with optimism after a character-building 5-5 season that saw numerous young players gain valuable varsity experience. Head coach Pavlovich believes that experience could translate into a special season if the pieces fall into place.
"I was proud of how our kids handled the many adverse situations we were put in last season," Coach Pavlovich said. "We had great player leadership each and every week. We played quite a few young players last season and many of them got some great varsity experience."
The Bullpups attacked the offseason with purpose, completing nine weeks of training that culminated in productive team camps. After a one-week install camp where the team implemented 90% of their offensive and defensive schemes, McPherson tested themselves at the Fort Hays State University team camp against quality competition including Hays High, Goddard, and Shawnee Heights. A late-July 7-on-7 tournament provided additional reps for the skill position players.
Offensively, the Bullpups return a strong core led by quarterback Carter Bengston and a veteran offensive line featuring Dylan Hall, Krayton Byrd, and Braxton Burgess. The skill positions are loaded with experience as receivers Ashton Malm, Aaron Winter, and Izyck Puhalla return alongside versatile tight end Bo Barkley and running back Dane Becker.
"If we stay healthy upfront and continue to improve, we could have a deep playoff run this season," Pavlovich noted, emphasizing the importance of the offensive line's health and development.
Defensively, McPherson brings back impact players at every level. Jayren Stutzman and Bo Barkley anchor the defensive ends, with Dylan Hall providing interior strength on the defensive line. Takoda Linn leads an athletic secondary that will be crucial in defending spread offenses.
Several newcomers are expected to make immediate contributions, including wide receiver AJ Bullocks and offensive lineman McKoy Bergren. On defense, Colt Chapman and Carter Leathers will add depth to the defensive line rotation.
The schedule presents immediate challenges, with McPherson opening against the third-ranked team in Class 5A. "They are a well-coached team with D1 and D2 commits," Pavlovich acknowledged. Key games throughout the season include matchups with rival Buhler, as well as tough road tests at Chanute and Great Bend.
Despite the Week 1 challenge, Coach Pavlovich and his staff have set ambitious yet measured goals. "Our goal is simple. We want to reach our potential," Pavlovich explained. "We are not sure at this point what our potential is."
With a year of varsity experience under their belts and a strong offseason program completed, the young Bullpups appear ready to take the next step. If they can navigate the early-season gauntlet and develop chemistry, McPherson could emerge as a dangerous team come playoff time.
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