The Mt. Vernon High School football team closed out the 2025 campaign with a 6‑5 record, extending a streak of four straight winning seasons.
Head coach Tom Cox entered his second year with a clear message: the Mountaineers must embrace discipline and stay focused, even after a 0‑3 start that threatened early optimism.
A Season of Resilience
The squad answered that call, rallying to win six of its final eight games, including narrow defeats to Cassville that highlighted the team’s competitive spirit.
Offensively, the Mountaineers are charting a balanced approach. Quarterback candidates Matt Hodgson, Ty Orr and Loudin Goodson are slated to share snaps, while returning standouts Jakai Krueger and Jackson Collier will anchor the receiving corps alongside newcomers Griffin Cordray and Jett Zerby.
Running back depth will be provided by Memphis Mongomery, Keagan Botts and other emerging backs, and the offensive line features prospects Alex Leonard and Rhylee Martin vying for starting roles.
Defensively, Jeff Piepenbrink steps in as the new coordinator, taking over from Chris Johnston, who retired after 29 years of service. The secondary will be manned by Krueger, Hodgson and Isaac Hernandez, aiming to tighten up the backfield.
The schedule includes a preseason jamboree on August 21 against McDonald County, Forsyth and Strafford, followed by the season opener at home on August 28 against Nevada, a matchup that will test the team’s progress.
Looking Ahead
With a blend of experienced returnees and promising newcomers, the Mountaineers hope to translate their offseason work into tangible results on the field, aiming to add another winning chapter to the program’s recent history.