Coach: RYAN McFARLAND
6-7
OFFENSE
As Ryan McFarland enters his third season at the helm of the Webb City Cardinals, he does so with a clear vision and a deep appreciation for the tradition he’s inherited. After going 6-7 last fall and reaching the Class 5 quarterfinals, the Cardinals are aiming to return to the consistent, championship-caliber football that defines the program.
“Last season, we faced our fair share of adversity,” McFarland said. “Injuries forced us to play some younger and less experienced players earlier than expected. But the most rewarding part was watching our team rise to the challenge. Week by week, our players continued to fight, improve, and grow stronger together.”
“We are excited about the 2025 season,” said McFarland. “We return a lot of production on both sides of the football and have great senior leadership.”
That production starts with dual-threat quarterback Gabe Johnson (5-10, 165, Sr.), who, though he missed last season due to injury, in 2023, threw and rushed for over 1,500 yards and 13 touchdowns. Johnson’s top target in the passing game is Slade Hurd (6-0, 180, Sr.), who hauled in 6 touchdowns last year. On the ground, the Cardinals boast a powerful backfield featuring Mason Williams (5-11, 185, Sr.) with 444 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns. Still, consistency on offense is something the Cardinals are working to improve. “The thing offensively that’s kind of been our Achilles heel all year is we’ve made mistakes on long drives,” McFarland said. “Tonight, I don’t know, I’m sure we made some mistakes. We didn’t make any big mistakes. We were able to stay ahead of the chains and get first downs and run the clock, which we wanted to do, and finish drives, which has been a struggle all year.”
The offensive line is big, tough, and experienced, led by Louden Bolinger (6-1, 240, Jr.) and Kayla Chrismon (6-1, 290, Jr.). They will pave the way for a balanced, physical offensive attack.
DEFENSE
Webb City’s defense brings back seven starters and is anchored by playmakers at every level. Up front, Gavin Stodghill (5-10, 185, Sr.) leads the charge after tallying 12 solo tackles last season. At linebacker, River Lenker (6-1, 205, Jr.) returns after also notching 12 tackles.
The secondary is led by Karsen Myers (5-10, 175, Sr.), who recorded 37 tackles in 2024 and provides a reliable last line of defense at safety. Big names to watch on both sides of the ball include Travien Turner (6-1, 175, Sr.), Mason Young (6-3, 195, Jr.), and Holden Johnson (6-3, 180, Sr.). With a mix of experience and rising talent, the Cardinals are poised for another strong campaign.
8-30 – at Joplin
9-6 – vs. Carl Junction
9-13 – vs. Neosho
9-20 – at Republic
9-27 – vs. Ozark
10-4 – at Nixa
10-11 – vs. Willard
10-18 – at Carthage
10-25 – vs. Branson
