DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The Gold team came out on top with a 20-10 win over the Maroon team in Bethune-Cookman's annual Spring Game, held Saturday at Municipal Stadium.
 
The scrimmage gave fans and coaches alike a glimpse at the progress being made on both sides of the ball, especially as the Wildcats continue to adjust under the guidance of their new offensive coordinator, Donte' Pimpleton, after the departure of Joe Gerbino during the offseason.
 
While the final score leaned in favor of the Gold, the tone of the day was set by stout defensive play from both teams.
 
The front sevens were especially active, generating consistent pressure and disrupting rhythm throughout much of the contest. The secondary also impressed with Robert Wimberly and Otis Mounds sharing duties as Co-Defensive Coordinators.
 
Bethune-Cookman's defense showed speed and aggression, particularly at the linebacker spot, as well as signs of improvement from the secondary despite losing a number of players from last season's squad. If that intensity carries over to the fall, it could mark improvement on a side of the ball that's already proven to be one of the best in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) since the arrival of Raymond Woodie Jr. as head coach in Daytona Beach.
 
On offense, the transition under Pimpleton showed promising flashes.
 
Though still a work in progress, the units displayed improved tempo with a balanced approach to play calling.
 
With the Wildcats looking to turn the corner in the SWAC, the spring gave coaches and fans a closer look at the quarterback competition that is surely one to watch heading into the summer – and most likely continuing into fall camp in August. Three different signal-callers will be in contention with returning starter Cam'Ron Ransom joined by Walt Simmons III and transfer Timmy McClain. While no clear starter has emerged after Saturday's contest, all three student-athletes had standout moments.
 
The spring game also highlighted some bright spots on the offensive line. With offensive line coach Brandon Washington now in charge as Run Game Coordinator, the third-year assistant coach now has a new look at his offensive unit up front, as well as noting what they need to improve upon from a different viewpoint.
 
Also of note, several early enrollees and junior college transfers were able to make some noise on both sides in all three phases – offense, defense and special teams. With energy and athleticism on display, new Co-Special Teams Coordinators Pat Brown and Keith Towbridge had a grasp of several players they'll rely on in the fall. The newcomers will be relied upon heavily to compete in the SWAC East, while punter Anthony Frederique and Cade Hechter handled kicking duties for both the Maroon and Gold squads.
 
Bethune-Cookman will now turn its attention to summer workouts as it prepares for the upcoming fall season, with momentum building and plenty of positives to build on.
 
The 2025 season begins August 29, as Bethune-Cookman travels to Florida International for a matchup against the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) opponent. For a complete look at the 2025 schedule, please click here.
 
Follow Bethune-Cookman Football on X/Twitter (@BCUGridIron) for all the latest news and updates. For all Bethune-Cookman Athletics news, follow us on X/Twitter (@BCUathletics), Instagram (@BCU_Athletics) and BCUathletics.com.