Fearless 40: Sheridan Yellowjackets

If the Sheridan Yellowjackets make the playoffs this season, it will be the third year in a row they've made the postseason, and that hasn't been done in the program in over a decade. This year also marks the third year that Kevin Kelley has been the head coach of the Yellowjackets. Sheridan was explosive on offense, scoring an average of 43 points a game, one of the top teams in the country in total offense. The problem was the defense, as they gave up way too many points, allowing 57.3 points per game. “Obviously, this is a fix. We got to fix this. We went and looked and found some teams that look like us on defense,” Kelley said. You know, maybe not as fast. You know, maybe not as big and strong, but had success. So, we found some teams in Oklahoma and parts of Arkansas that did that. And we're having a lot of success.” If the defense is improved, the offense should be just as dangerous as last year, headlined by all-state tailback and North Carolina commit Zay Stephens, who feels even more comfortable in the system here in his senior year. “As you go further in, when I kind of came to my junior year, you learn it quicker,” Stephens said. “I mean, it comes easier as you go in, and then you can add more also on top of that.” It’s not just him. Coach Kelley said they've got a whole host of talent just waiting to show what they can do this season. "If we start off on a good run, like we know we can and win, you don't have to ask for media coverage. You get it,” Kelley said. “And the names are going to be said. And really, I'm hoping that's not what these kids are playing for. It's nice to hear your name, but they're playing hopefully as a team for a town or school to change the way that people look at it." The season kicks off on Aug. 28 at home for the Yellowjackets as they host white hall. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLRT - FOX16.com.