The 2026 football season for C.M. Russell High and Great Falls High is set to begin on August 28, bringing back a mix of experienced starters and fresh competition that promises to reshape the early standings.
Quarterback competition
At C.M. Russell High, senior Kasey Kegel and junior Beckett Crouch are locked in a quarterback duel that will shape the offense early in the year, each vying for the starting spot under the guidance of veteran coaches.
The Rustlers’ line benefits from the return of Brady Lewis and Noah Dionne, both in their third year as starters, while Cole Deranleau slides back into the center after a injury‑plagued previous season, adding stability to the interior.
Special teams
Special teams feature Tristan O’Leary, who earned first‑team all‑Eastern AA punter honors last year with an average of more than 37 yards per kick, and Riley Collette, a former All‑State punter now contributing on the Tech special‑teams unit.
Running back depth includes Donavin Scribner, who averaged 4.6 yards per carry, and the dynamic duo of Rivers Herring and Mason Cannon for Great Falls High, each topping 400 rushing yards last season and providing a potent ground attack.
The receiving corps for the Bison is anchored by Jonah Perry, Jax Maziarz, Steele Harris, Kayden Davison and Hunter Christensen, giving the offense multiple threats and spreading the defense thin.
Defensive upgrades
Defensive additions such as Ryan Gilbertson and Landon Bahmiller bolster the line, while Shae Patterson returns as a tight end and linebacker, posting over four tackles per game a year ago and anchoring the front.
Mid‑season adjustments see Hayden Hillock move to center after Damen Furthmyre’s graduation, and Carson Hollern taking over at cornerback following the loss of Dalton Heggem and Ben Halko, reshaping the secondary.
Kicking reliability
Kicker Cruz Riggin and punter Decker Schuler provide reliable field‑goal and PAT accuracy, ensuring the teams can capitalize on scoring opportunities in close games.
Coaching stability is highlighted by Coda Tchida’s 21‑19 record over four years, positioning the Bison for another deep run, especially as they prepare for marquee matchups against Billings West, Bozeman High and Bozeman Gallatin that could affect seeding.
Schedule and stakes
The schedule features a Homecoming showdown with Bozeman High on October 9, a September 18 clash at Memorial Stadium against Bozeman, and a season‑ending Crosstown Game on October 23, culminating in the Class AA state championship on November 20, a timeline that will test depth and resilience.