Sheridan dominates West Memphis with explosive offense in conference opener

Sheridan 64, West Memphis 20

WEST MEMPHIS — Sheridan opened 6A East play with a burst and never eased off, rolling past West Memphis 64–20 on Friday night. Senior quarterback Dax McMellon steered the Yellowjackets with command, and junior running back Zay Stephens punctuated drives with decisive cuts. Junior kicker Andrew Mitchell capped possessions, while a swarming front repeatedly flipped field position.

West Memphis answered with pride after halftime. Senior wideout Kevius Woods Jr. provided chunk gains on the edge, Alijah McGruder worked both outside and in the slot, and two-way junior Carelle Miller’s physical runs steadied the Blue Devils. Derreyon Key flashed in coverage, and first-year head coach Vincent Newton kept his group engaged to the whistle.

The win gives Sheridan its second road victory and a 1–0 start in league play under head coach Kevin Kelley. Kelley’s club continues to lean on its statistical leaders — McMellon (now nine TD passes this season) and Stephens (six total TDs) — and that formula traveled Friday.

Sheridan controlled field position with disciplined coverage units and a balanced call sheet, alternating quick perimeter throws with inside zone to keep chains moving. West Memphis matched the physicality up front for stretches and found rhythm on longer second-half marches to carve into the margin. Both sidelines rotated depth late, giving underclassmen snaps ahead of October’s conference grind. Sheridan improved to 2–2 (1–0 6A East); West Memphis dropped to 0–4 (0–1).

Scoring Summary

Official play-by-play was not posted at press time. Final: Sheridan 64, West Memphis 20.

Players who stood out

• Dax McMellon, Sr., QB, Sheridan — orchestrated multiple touchdown drives.

• Zay Stephens, Jr., RB, Sheridan — consistent chunk runs and receiving threat.

• Dylan Smith, Jr., WR, Sheridan — reliable target; among team TD leaders.

• Kevius Woods Jr., Sr., WR/FS, West Memphis — perimeter playmaker.

• Carelle Miller, Jr., LB/RB, West Memphis — physical two-way presence.