SEMO RedHawks achieve Program-Beast 6th in FCS rankings, but reaching higher

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – The SEMO RedHawks set a university record Monday, achieving its highest ranking in program history, reaching 6th in the FCS NCAA College Football polls. However, both coaches and players remain committed to what’s next, pushing that the ranking is just one milestone in a long season.

RedHawks quarterback Paxton DeLaurent acknowledged the important of the ranking but made it clear that it holds little meaning without continued success on the field.

“Yeah, I mean, I think right now it means nothing to us,” DeLaurent said. “Last year we were ranked eighth in the preseason, and we finished probably around 100. So, we can’t let that distract us from what we have to do.”

The Redhawks, playing in the OVC, face against a 2-5 team this week in Gardner-Webb. DeLaurent stressed that despite records, every team is a worthy opponent.

“We’ve got to continue to stack days, stack weeks, win games, and focus on preparation,” he said. “Every team in the OVC, whether they’re 2-5 or not, they’re still good teams.”

One factor that has helped SEMO stay focused, DeLaurent says, is the “injury bug” that forced constant lineup changes. The team’s ability to adapt each week has helped them avoid overconfidence.

“We haven’t had a full team at any point, so it keeps us grounded,” DeLaurent added. “Every week is a new challenge, and we’re just focusing on that, without letting the outside noise get into our heads.”

SEMO head coach Tom Matukewicz also downplayed the rankings, saying that while it’s a proud moment, the team’s focus is on continued improvement.

“It means a lot, but we try not to think about it much,” Matukewicz said. “There will be a time for highlights at the end of the year, but right now, it’s about doing what we’ve been doing—focusing on being good at practice.”

As SEMO prepares for their next game, both Matukewicz and DeLaurent talk about the importance of consistency. DeLaurent says the team’s steady progress, saying, “We don’t need to talk about playoffs or anything else right now. Let’s just focus on what we are and where we’re at each week, and keep getting better.”

With homecoming around the corner and the team riding the wave of a historic ranking, SEMO fans are hopeful for a deep playoff run. But for the players and coaches, the ranking is just a number, what matters most is the work ahead.