Newton’s Bebout signs to play Wayne State football

Offensive linemen don’t have individual statistics to share with the world. Newton High senior Ike Bebout made his mark in the trenches for the Cardinal football team.

Bebout does have statistics to point to — second-leading rushing team in Class 4A in 2017 and top rushing team in 3A in 2018. He was a major cog up front to allow Newton’s football team to accomplish the top ground game the past two seasons.

Bebout’s determination and work ethic paid off for him as he made it official on Wednesday. The Iowa Class 3A all-state offensive tackle signed a national letter of intent to play NCAA Division II football at Wayne State College next year.

“I’ve always wanted to play football. When I made my visit to Wayne State, it immediately felt like home,” Bebout said. “After visiting and talking to several other D II programs, NAIA schools and others, I knew Wayne State is where I wanted to go.”

Bebout said the Wayne State Wildcat coaches made him feel like family. Wayne State is in Wayne, Neb., and plays in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference.

The Wildcats went 3-8 in 2018 under 14-year head coach Dan McLaughlin. McLaughlin announced on Wednesday the signing of 24 high school student-athletes and that 12 transfers have made commitments to the Wildcat football program as part of his 2019 signing class.

“They need offensive linemen and the other guys I was there with on my visit there was instant connection. We felt like brothers,” Bebout said.

Bebout said he was playing for the Cardinals the past fall weighing about 250. Now, after putting the time in the NHS weight room, he is 6-foot-3 and 290 pounds.

“I wasn’t the biggest kid when I was little. I was told I would never play a down of varsity high school football,” Bebout said. “I was determined to prove those people wrong. I love playing football.”

With Bebout playing at offensive tackle, Newton rushed for a 3A-high 3,05 yards in 2018. The Cardinals scored 38 rushing touchdowns, which was second most in 3A.

Bebout earned 3A District 7 first-team offensive honors. Newton went 5-4 om 2018, which allowed him to be a part of three straight winning seasons for the Cardinals.

Bebout played on the defensive line the last two games of the season, which were district games. He had three solo tackles and one assisted tackles. He also recovered a fumble.

During his junior year, Newton finished second in 4A rushing offense with 3,435 yards on 472 carries, averaging 7.3 yards per rush. The Cardinals’ 48 rushing touchdowns did lead Class 4A.

The Cardinals’ total offensive production for the season was 4,037 yards, which included 602 yards passing. Newton had 56 touchdowns and scored 412 points.

Bebout earned 4A District 4 honorable mention honors.

“Wayne State likes to run the ball just like Newton,” he said with a smile. “I believe I’m smart enough to know defenses and I have the athletic ability to run so that helps me block on running plays.

“I believe I can prove to the college coaches I can be a good player for them. I’m really excited about this opportunity.”

Bebout, who was a three-year starter for Newton football and wrestled for two years, plans to become a teacher — middle school history — and coach. He will pursue an secondary education degree at Wayne State.

He is the son of Dan and Jen Bebout of Kellogg.

Contact Jocelyn Sheets at
641-792-3121 ext. 6535 or jsheets@newtondailynews.com