The new kids on the block: Redhawks receivers rack up receptions

In only two games, the SEMO Redhawks' receiving core has snagged over 50 catches, for a combined 491 yards through the air, with two touchdowns as a result of their production.

Compared to last season's receiving core, headlined by SEMO Alumni and current Dallas Cowboys rookie wide receiver Ryan Flournoy, this year's receiving core features players who had limited opportunities in the 2023 season, however this year's receiving room is far from an overnight success.

Last season, senior wide receiver Dorian Anderson reeled in 14 catches, for 114 yards, and one touchdown, however this season he has already matched last season's production, in just two games with 11 catches for 186 yards and one touchdown on a 51-yard pass delivered by senior quarterback Paxton DeLaurent.

Standing at 6-foot-7-inches Anderson towers over opposing cornerbacks. To add to his skillset, Anderson has improved his route running, and pass catching.

“My route running [has improved]. I really put a lot of emphasis on that this year, just because, with Ryan being gone, he was one of our elite guys last year, I was kind of filling those shoes and then my hands definitely when the ball comes my way, making sure I catch it,” Anderson said.

Anderson was also credited for emerging as a leader for this year's receiving core by wide receivers coach Desmond Noird.

“I think Dorian Anderson's been doing a good job of leading us. We have a lot of young guys, so they look up to him to answer questions, and he's done a great job of showing them to see my way and how we play receiver,” Noird said.

One of the receivers Coach Noird believes is developing well is sophomore Cam Pedro.

Pedro, a transfer from the Marshall Thundering Herd, has started his first season with the Redhawks with 15 catches for 112 yards, and his first touchdown as a Redhawk against North Alabama.

"Cam is doing a great job. He's young. He still has a long way to go," Noird said.

Pedro credits his success this season, and his development in the offseason to the Redhawks coaching staff.

“Our strength and conditioning coach [Helped us develop a lot]. Coach West, he's been doing a really good job of, you know, getting us in shape. After practice with Coach Dez and all the receivers has gotten us right,” Pedro said.

Coach Noird coached last year's receiving core which included returning players to watch, junior Kyron Downing, senior Mitchell Sellers, and senior Jack Clinkenbeard.

With many young players in his receiving room, Coach Noird continues to push his receivers to add to the rich history SEMO has when it comes to its receiving room. Noird has his eye on a few younger players who may emerge this season.

“Tristan [Smith], you guys haven't seen him yet, but he'll make his debut on Saturday so we're excited to see what he can do. And then Donnie Cheers had his first game last week. He had three catches, he had a touchdown that day, they said he dropped, but he's been doing a great job and so, I'm excited to see him grow,” Noird said.

The Redhawks have their first home game against the UT Martin Skyhawks, this Saturday, Sept. 7 with a kickoff time of 6 P.M.

Fans and students in attendance have been encouraged to wear all black to support their Redhawks Football Team.