A New Era Begins in McKenzie Under Head Coach Chris Springer

MCKENZIE, Tenn. — With a new head coach, a refreshed staff, and a roster loaded with both experience and emerging talent, the 2025 Bethel University Wildcats are set to launch an exciting new chapter in program history. Following a strong 7-3 campaign in 2024, the Wildcats are preparing to once again compete in the always-tough Mid-South Conference—this time with a new vision and renewed energy.

Springer's inaugural staff features several exciting additions, including multiple coaches from a record-setting season at Illinois College:

• Drew Chance, Offensive Coordinator, looks to bring a fast, dynamic style to the Wildcats' offense.
• Mike Salerno, serving as both Special Teams Coordinator and Wide Receivers Coach, also joins from Illinois College.
• Riley Ried, Offensive Line Coach, and Adam Frey, Running Backs Coach, round out the group of newcomers from Illinois College.
• Will Barto coach the Tight Ends, adding depth to a well-rounded offensive staff.

On defense, continuity and legacy lead the way:

• Defensive Coordinator Kris Beauchamp returns to lead a battle-tested unit.
• Bethel alumnus Bret Peterson will coach the linebackers, while Jaylen Montague leads the secondary.
• Zack Young also returns as a defensive assistant, contributing valuable experience to the staff.
• Terrell Jackson returns as a defensive analyst.

Offensive Outlook

The offense returns five starters, including key veterans Jayden Taylor and Christian Harden on the offensive line, tight ends Jacob Bowles and Ivan Arroyo, and running backs Jordan Cason and Jarvis Stockton. Wide receivers Ethan Bunch, Alonzo Russell, and tight end Clay Powell are poised to step into larger roles.

With standout contributors Avont Burrus, Logan Davis, and Tyrell Wynn having graduated, the Wildcats will lean on new faces to spark the offense. Senior transfer quarterback Destin Chance enters the fold, bringing leadership and experience. Speed and explosiveness arrive at wide receiver through newcomer Rashawn Harvey. On the line, Aaron Robinson, Mason Duke, and Adrian Fisher are expected to make an immediate impact.

Defensive Outlook

The Wildcats return six starters on defense, with a strong front seven that includes TJ Hart, Travis Shaw, Randall Foster, Tyrone Johnson, Amari Chapman, Darrien Lewis, Tyson Hornbuckle, Brylan Jordan, Tatum Oliver, Ethan Dabbs, and Malik Brown.

The secondary brings depth and experience with KJ Murden, Jakobe Gibson, Jose Joiner, Kalen Justice, Detaruis Douglas, Nick Butler, and Durrell Miller all returning. Despite the loss of key veterans Jacious Clark, Dee Hines, and Jamel Goulbourne, the defense is expected to be bolstered by promising newcomers such as Jordan Jackson, Deshawn Love, Darrell Howard, and Caleb Garner adding to an already stout defensive front. Sean Martin, Brenton Hall, Brandon Hall, Meshach Jones, Harrison Brownlee, and Kadarious Rancifer will all add depth and length to the secondary.

Special Team's Outlook

Special Teams Coordinator Mike Salerno inherits a reliable and experienced unit. Jaylyn Johnson returns as long snapper, with Stafford Roditis handling punting duties. Kickers Oziel Hernandez, Josiah Arcadipane, and Zach Clutch bring consistency to the kicking game.

The Road Ahead

The Wildcats look forward to fall camp and are ready to embrace the challenges of the 2025 season. The Mid-South Conference remains one of the most competitive in the NAIA. The Wildcats will kick off the 2025 season on the road with a rematch against the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor at 6 pm.

Coach Springer's Thoughts on the Team & Season

"This team is ready," said Coach Springer. "We're building something special in McKenzie—on and off the field. We've got a talented roster, a hungry locker room, and a staff that knows how to win. Every day is about getting better, staying connected, and competing with toughness and pride. Our fans should expect a team that plays fast, plays physical, and plays for each other."