Friday nights in Wicksburg got a whole lot louder in 2025. The stadium lights shone bright. Fans showed up in big numbers. And the Wicksburg High School Football team put on a show to remember. This season brought touchdowns, heartbreak, epic comebacks, and rising stars.
Season Recap: A Year of Big Moments
This year, Wicksburg finished with an impressive 9-2 record. They made it deep into the playoffs, showing grit and heart in every game. The offense lit up the scoreboard while the defense held strong when it mattered most.
- First game: Dramatic win over Dothan Tech, 24-21
- Biggest blowout: 42-7 win vs. Pine Hills
- Rivalry game: Beat Westmont 28-25 in overtime
- Playoff run: Reached the regional semifinals
Coach Terrell Jenkins, now in his second season, led the team like a veteran. “We played for each other,” he said. “That’s what makes Wicksburg special.”
Offensive Stars: Fast and Fearless
This season’s offense was full of speed and skill. The team scored an average of 31 points per game. Let’s meet a few of the players who made that possible.
Brayden “Rocket” Carter – Quarterback
Brayden lived up to his nickname. The senior threw for 2,700 yards and 26 touchdowns.
- Best game: 347 yards and 4 touchdowns vs. Elms Grove
- Strengths: Strong arm, composure under pressure
- Fun fact: Wears a lucky pair of socks each game
“He’s like a coach on the field,” said Coach Jenkins. “And the team trusts him completely.”
Kenny Miles – Running Back
Kenny’s legs never stopped moving. He rushed for 1,340 yards and 16 touchdowns.
- Best game: 210 rushing yards against Fairhope High
- Strengths: Quick first step, great vision
- Fun fact: Eats a peanut butter sandwich before every game
Kenny’s style was all about power meets speed. Defenders had a hard time catching him.
Noah Jennings – Wide Receiver
Noah brought the big plays. With 53 receptions and 10 touchdowns, he was Brayden’s favorite target.
- Best catch: One-handed grab in the end zone against Central Dale
- Strengths: Precise routes, high jumps
- Fun fact: Practices juggling before games to improve coordination
“Noah made at least one jaw-dropping play every Friday,” said a loyal fan.
Defense: The Iron Wall
While the offense scored, the defense stopped opponents from doing the same. This year, Wicksburg’s defense forced 18 turnovers and 31 sacks.
Marcus “Sting” Taylor – Linebacker
Marcus was the heart of the defense. He had 88 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 interceptions this season.
- Biggest hit: A goal-line tackle to seal a win over Hilldale
- Strengths: Reads plays fast, tackles hard
- Fun fact: Has a notebook where he studies opponents’ favorite plays
“He’s everywhere at once,” Coach Jenkins said. “Offenses fear him.”
Dante Barnes – Cornerback
Dante shut down opposing receivers all season long. He finished with 5 interceptions and 12 pass breakups.
- Most clutch moment: Interception to end the game vs. Oak Bridge
- Strengths: Fast feet, smart positioning
- Fun fact: Learned footwork from dancing in his church’s youth group
Dante’s nickname among teammates? “The Blanket” — because he covers everybody.
Special Teams Magic
Luis Ortega – Kicker
He may not say much, but his foot spoke loud and clear. Luis made 11 out of 12 field goals, including a 48-yarder to win a game.
- Most memorable kick: Game-winner vs. South Holt with 3 seconds left
- Fun fact: Watches highlight clips of NFL kickers for inspiration
He’s already getting offers from colleges, and he’s only a junior.
Fan Buzz and School Spirit
Wicksburg’s home games were loud and proud. The marching band, cheerleaders, and the student section all made Friday nights electric.
- Student section theme nights: Neon Night, USA Night, Pajama Night
- Best chant: “We are – WICKSBURG!” (Shouted after every touchdown)
- Biggest crowd: 3,500 fans for the playoff game vs. Lakeshore Bay
“It’s not just a game here, it’s a community event,” said Principal Manning. “Everybody shows up.”
Coaching Staff: Brain + Heart = Wins
Coach Jenkins led a team of passionate and smart assistants. Each one had a role in helping the players sharpen their skills.
- Coach Bailey: Offensive coordinator known for creative plays
- Coach Drew: Defensive guru with a calm voice and tough strategy
- Coach Simmons: Strength coach who made morning workouts fun… sort of
“They don’t just coach football, they coach life,” Brayden Carter said after the season ended.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Many senior stars will graduate, but the future looks bright. Sophomore linebacker Isaiah Fields and junior receiver Tyler Worthington are ready to step up. Fans are already buzzing about what next year could bring.
The offseason focus will be speed drills, weight training, and watching film. The goal? Going even deeper in the playoffs.
Final Thoughts
Wicksburg Football’s 2025 season was exciting, emotional, and unforgettable. From game-winning throws to crowd-roaring interceptions, this team gave it everything.
And the best part? They had fun doing it.
“We played with heart,” said Kenny Miles. “And we made memories that will last forever.”
So as the helmets go back on the shelf and players hit the weight room, one thing is clear — Wicksburg Football is more than a team. It’s a family. And they’re just getting started.