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Bulldogs' Watson signs to play football at Lincoln University
SIKESTON -- After a year that placed him as one of Sikeston's all-time rushers, James Watson will be heading to Lincoln University to suit up as a Blue Tiger in Jefferson City.
Watson recently signed his letter of intent to play football for Lincoln following a senior season that entailed 1,605 rushing yards -- good enough to place the one-year running back fourth all-time in school history.
"I'm just very humbled by the situation," Watson said. "I plan on taking the hard working attitude that I learned here and taking it to Lincoln."
Although Watson did most of his damage on the offense, Lincoln will be asking him to do a little bit of everything for them.
The nimble Watson, who was an all-conference and all-region selection, will be expected to play both a slot back and a defensive back as well as participate in some punt return duties. Watson feels the transition from a primary running back to a type of do-it-all player should be a smooth one.
"I feel like I'm versatile and I can do the things they're asking me to do," said Watson. "It will just take hard work."
Watson was patient enough to wait his turn to take on the full work load the Sikeston offense presents for a running back. He immediately took to it like a seasoned veteran during his one and only season as the No. 1 running back.
"He's one of those guys that had to wait his turn and he had a great year," Sikeston head coach Kent Gibbs said. "We're real glad he's got the chance to go to Lincoln. He had a couple of things floating out there and I think it's a great opportunity for him."
Lincoln is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
The Blue Tigers are under the direction of former Missouri Tiger and St. Louis Ram, Mike Jones.
Jones, who is known by many for making "The Tackle" in Super Bowl XXXIV against the Tennessee Titans, began his tenure with Lincoln just a year ago. He helped lead Hazelwood East to a state title in 2008.
"It's going to take a little bit of work, but he has good quickness and he obviously is a fast kid," Gibbs said. "They're looking at kids who can play cornerback and shut receivers down. Hopefully, he'll get a shot and with all of the opportunities they are presenting him with, hopefully he'll get that shot early."
Watson will also be joining a few familiar faces.
Former teammates Treston Pulley and Jarian Wims hold spots for Lincoln which should give Watson a warm welcome.
"It's exciting," Watson said on the prospect of playing with his former Bulldogs. "There will be a good vibe and good communication between us."
Lincoln finished 1-10 last season with their only win coming against Avila University during their season opener.