SEAN BOSTON
Hutch Post
McPherson Bullpups
Following a 5-5 season that fell short of the Bullpups' high standards, McPherson enters the 2025 campaign with a refined identity, explosive skill talent, and a challenge to its younger players: grow up fast.
“We have the smallest senior class this season that we have ever had,” said head coach Jace Pavlovich, who enters his 11th year leading the Bullpups. “But what we have are quality players. We have a chance to be really good but will need help from some sophomores. They will need to mature quickly.”
Pavlovich has built McPherson into one of the most consistent programs in Class 4A, posting an 84-27 record as head coach and contributing to 156 career wins on staff. From 2017 to 2022, the Bullpups averaged over 10 wins per season. But after two straight seasons outside the state quarterfinals, the 2025 team is focused on regaining its postseason edge.
McPherson returns six starters on both sides of the ball and 19 total lettermen. The Spread-I offense is led by senior playmaker Ashton Malm, one of the top receivers in the state, and a supporting cast of experienced skill players including Izyck Puhalla (WR), Bo Barkley (TE), and Dane Becker (TB).
“We are returning one of the best receivers in the state in Ashton Malm and will rely on him heavily,” Pavlovich said. “However, we have a ton of offensive skill players that have the ability to have a breakout year.”
The offensive line will rely on senior Krayton Byrd and Charlie Barrow, but younger players will need to rise into starting roles. A three-way quarterback competition is underway, with upperclassmen vying for the starting spot.
“We have confidence in all of them,” Pavlovich said.
On defense, McPherson is transitioning into a simplified 4-2-5 scheme to emphasize speed and confidence. Returning starters include Jayren Stutzman (DE), Takoda Linn (DB), Nolan Pearcy (LB), Carter Bengston (DB), Dane Becker (DB), and Keaton Crane (C), who also anchors the offensive line.
“Defensively, we will need to cause confusion and use our tremendous team speed,” Pavlovich said. “We need to improve on our team tackling this season as we missed far too many tackles last year.”
Despite roster turnover, McPherson’s expectations remain the same: push deep into November and challenge for a 4A title.
“It has always been about reaching our potential as a team,” Pavlovich said.
2025 Schedule
Sept. 5 at Great Bend
Sept. 12 at Circle
Sept. 19 vs. Chanute
Sept. 26 at Winfield
Oct. 3 vs. Rose Hill
Oct. 10 at Mulvane
Oct. 17 vs. Augusta
Oct. 24 vs. Buhler