Collin Maves is entering his senior season as the centerpiece of the Inland Lakes Bulldogs’ ambitions. The linebacker‑running back has become synonymous with the team’s hopes of securing a playoff berth and capturing the conference championship.
A year ago, Maves posted a breakout junior campaign that saw him rank third on the squad with 64 tackles while also leading the team with five sacks. On offense, he added 250 rushing yards and four touchdowns, showcasing a rare combination of defensive grit and offensive explosiveness.
Coach Travis Meyer has voiced confidence that the senior will see an expanded role in the backfield, giving the Bulldogs more flexibility in both run and pass situations. Meyer’s vision hinges on leveraging Maves’s speed, energy, and strategic reads to maximize every snap.
Maves credits his development to the mentorship of former Bulldogs standouts Grant Blumke and Avery Enos, whose experiences he studies closely. He emphasizes a high‑energy approach, noting that learning from those who have walked the same path fuels his preparation each week.
The Bulldogs open the 2025 season against Hillman on August 28 at Shanley Field, a matchup that will serve as the first test of Maves’s enhanced responsibilities. The coaching staff and players alike are eager to see how the senior’s dual‑threat capabilities translate into tangible results on the field.
A Dual‑Threat Leader
Maves’s blend of defensive leadership and offensive versatility makes him a unique asset in modern high school football. His ability to read opposing offenses, collapse the pocket, and then burst into the backfield as a runner or receiver adds a strategic layer that few teams can match.
As the Bulldogs prepare for a grueling schedule, the focus remains on steady improvement and execution of the game plan. Maves’s leadership, amplified by the guidance of his mentors and the expectations of his coaches, positions him as a cornerstone for the team’s pursuit of a championship.