The McDonald County Mustangs are entering the 2026 season with a clear mission: rebuild a roster that lost 13 starters from a 6‑5 campaign the previous year while preserving the physical, run‑heavy identity that defines their Big 8 competition.
At the heart of the offensive line is senior center Max Eliam, an honorable‑mention All‑Conference selection, who will be joined by juniors Hayden Ashbaugh, Justice Washam, Jake Townsend and Karson Toney to anchor the front.
Defensively, senior Landen Obed leads a unit that also features junior Steven Benhumea and rising sophomore Sanjay Boaz, who is aiming for a starting spot.
Quarterback battle and skill‑position shifts
Sophomores Easton Merriman and Jake Obrien are locked in a competition for the starting quarterback role, each bringing a distinct offensive style that will shape the team's approach early in the season.
Injured playmakers are expected to be fully healthy, with senior running back Leo Soas returning from an ACL tear and wideout Corbyn Sanderson moving from a fourth‑receiver role to a starter, while JW Riley will contribute on both sides of the ball.
Early schedule and coach’s vision
The Mustangs open with a road test at Marshfield before hosting Lamar in September, a pair of matchups that will serve as a crucible for teamwork and mental toughness as the new scheme takes shape.
Coach Kellen Hoover stresses that controlling the running game and forcing opponents into a single‑dimensional attack are essential to simplifying the offense and maximizing the talent on the line.