A Dual‑Threat Ready to Elevate His Game
Entering his senior year, Collin Maves carries the momentum of a junior season that saw him rank third in the state with 64 total tackles and top the league with five sacks. His blend of speed, instincts and relentless effort has turned him into a nightmare for opposing offenses, while his ability to read plays quickly allows him to disrupt drives before they develop.
Coach Travis Meyer sees a natural progression in Maves’s skill set and plans to give the senior more touches on offense. In 2024, Maves rushed for nearly 250 yards and scored four touchdowns, showcasing a knack for finding seams and turning them into big gains. With the Bulldogs’ offensive scheme built around versatility, Meyer expects the linebacker‑running back to become an even more pivotal piece of the attack.
The Inland Lakes Bulldogs finished the previous season undefeated at 9‑0, capturing a conference title and securing a playoff spot. Maves was a cornerstone of that success, and the team is now focused on repeating that achievement. The coaching staff believes that his continued growth on both sides of the ball will be essential in maintaining the defensive dominance and adding depth to the rushing attack.
Maves’s development has been shaped by the example set by former Bulldogs such as Grant Blumke and Avery Enos, whose leadership he cites as a major influence. He emphasizes the importance of learning from their work ethic and mentality, noting that the lessons extend beyond the field and into everyday preparation and mindset.
Looking ahead, the senior hopes to translate his offseason work into another season of impact. Meyer’s expectations are clear: Maves must remain a standout defensive player while also contributing more heavily in the backfield. If he can stay healthy and continue to refine his technique, the Bulldogs’ pursuit of another conference championship and playoff run appears firmly within reach.