Plymouth Big Red Football Team Eager for New Season with New Head Coach
The Plymouth Big Red football team is gearing up for an exciting fresh start in the upcoming 2023 season. With former head coach Mark Genders stepping away after 16 years at the helm, John Gillum is set to take over as the team’s new head coach. This transition brings a wave of change to the Big Red, as they bid farewell to 10 graduating seniors from last season and welcome a host of new faces to their lineup.
Gillum, who previously spent seven years on the coaching staff and played under Genders during his high school career, is optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead. Coming off a 3-7 season last year, with a 1-5 record in the Firelands Conference, Plymouth is eager to turn things around and start afresh.
Staying healthy and improving their tackling skills are key factors that Gillum believes will contribute to the team’s success. The Big Red will stick to their signature double-wing offense, with junior Landyn Gersh taking on the role of starting quarterback for the first time at the varsity level. Senior Layne Bushey is expected to be the feature running back, following a solid performance last year with 440 yards and six touchdowns in just seven games. Additionally, sophomore Ethan Keefe will share the workload in the backfield.
The offensive line will be anchored by a group of experienced players, including senior Nolan Branham at left tackle, sophomore Basey Bailey at left guard, junior Hunter McClure at center, junior Noah Robinson at right guard, and sophomore Caleb Crouse at right tackle. Gillum believes that the team’s veteran offensive line will provide a strong foundation for the development of a youthful backfield, under the guidance of Bushey’s leadership.
Defensively, Plymouth will adopt a 4-4 formation, which was Gillum’s signature as the team’s defensive coordinator last season. With a focus on physicality, Gillum sees the inside linebackers as crucial in leading the defense and preventing opponents from reaching the end zone. The team has a mix of experience and youth in the secondary, with junior Owen Wright and freshman Lincoln Distl joining forces as cornerbacks, and sophomore Ben Trimmer as the free safety.
The Big Red’s goal is to establish their physicality as the dominant force on the field right from the start of each game. Gillum emphasizes the importance of developing his student-athletes both on and off the field, aiming to create a memorable experience for the seniors.
In terms of their conference competition, Plymouth recognizes the challenges present in the Firelands Conference. Gillum acknowledges the abundance of talented players and dedicated coaches, all committed to a physical brand of football. The team looks forward to the tough battles that await them each week.
The Big Red will commence their season with an away game against Oberlin in Week 1. As they embark on a fresh start under new leadership, Plymouth aims to compete for the Firelands Conference title, a feat they haven’t achieved since 1983.
With a new head coach at the helm and a young but determined lineup, the Plymouth Big Red football team is ready to seize the opportunity and make a lasting impact in the upcoming season. With a focus on physicality, sound fundamentals, and the development of their student-athletes, the Big Red is poised to make their mark in the Firelands Conference.
