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When trying to put together the puzzle for a good season in 2019, Raymore-Peculiar definitely has some big pieces to start with.

The Panthers bring back some strong seniors to support its cast ahead, including one of the most exciting players in the Metro in senior wide receiver Luke Grimm.

Grimm (6-0, 180), was a Missouri Class 6 second-team selection in 2018 after hauling in 676 receiving yards for eight scores. He also scored on a kickoff return and interception return. Grimm enjoyed a strong spring and eventually committed to Kansas in June.

“Luke is one of the best competitors we have had here in a very long time,” stated Tom Kruse, who enters his 20th season as the Panthers head coach. “His skill set sets him apart from other area guys and we are going to rely heavily on him this season.”

Grimm will be a favorite of quarterback Conrad Hawley (6-foot-5, 190). The junior started the final four games in 2018, and threw for 714 yards with six touchdowns for the year.

“He has a chance to be really good,” Kruse said.

Among those lining up in the backfield will be Gabe Shanklin (5-foot-9, 160), who rushed for 377 yards and two touchdowns in 2018.

Up front, senior tackle Micah Baird (6-foot-5, 265) will lead the offensive line.

Defensively, junior Ethan George (6-foot-3, 245) will cause havoc at defensive end. Senior Graham Sutherland (6-foot-1, 215) led Ray-Pec in tackles in 2018 with 78 wrap-ups – eight for a loss – at inside linebacker. Senior cornerback JaQuan Willis (6-foot-1, 175) heads the secondary after a solid junior campaign, highlighted by an 81-yard interception return for a touchdown.

The schedule will again be rugged for the Panthers, with the juggernauts in the Suburban Gold in Blue Springs, Park Hill, Lee’s Summit West and Lee’s Summit North, as well as Rockhurst and Platte County.

“It’ll be a grind for us week in and week out, but we feel we have a good team and will continue to get better and be ready by the playoffs,” Kruse said.