As the new high school football season approaches, coaches and fans alike are turning their attention to a handful of senior athletes whose performances could tip the balance in tightly contested conferences. From the Bulldogs of Inland Lakes to the Cardinals of Onaway and the Blue Devils of Pellston, these players combine experience with the ability to impact the game in multiple roles.
Versatility Across the Board
Landon Fenstermaker of Inland Lakes stands out as a true two‑way threat, slated to quarterback the offense while also anchoring the defense at linebacker. His counterpart, Collin Maves, returns after a breakout 2025 campaign and is expected to continue delivering big hits from the linebacker spot while adding a dynamic rushing option.
Quarterback Leadership
Brett Bonter from Pellston will take the snap as the starting quarterback and also see time on defense and special teams, giving his team a dual‑threat presence. Across the field, Chris Pauly of Onaway will build on a freshman season that already showed flashes of playmaking ability, aiming to stretch defenses with both his arm and his legs.
Line Play and Defensive Anchor
The trenches will be manned by seasoned veterans such as Damian Bradford and Matthew Crawford of Inland Lakes, whose size and technique are expected to dominate both offensive and defensive fronts. Zach Schmoldt of Onaway, a fullback‑linebacker hybrid, will provide a physical edge, while Phineas Benson adds depth to the defensive line and tight end corps.
Sam O'Neil, another senior from Pellston, is poised to be a cornerstone on both sides of the ball, contributing as a tight end and a defensive stalwart. Elijah Perkins, who showed marked improvement in his junior year, will look to amplify the Bulldogs' rushing attack and reinforce their defensive front.
Conference Implications
The collective talent of these seniors is more than just a personal narrative; it represents a strategic shift for each program as they navigate new conference alignments. Their ability to adapt, lead, and perform under pressure will likely determine whether their teams finish atop their respective leagues or face unexpected challenges.