The Arkansas State Red Wolves are turning their attention to the 2026 campaign after a 7‑6 season that culminated in a 34‑28 triumph over Missouri State in the Xbox Bowl. The victory marked the program’s first back‑to‑back bowl wins since the 2012‑13 stretch, cementing a resurgence that has kept the university’s fan base buzzing.
A Revamped Roster and Coaching Staff
Head coach Butch Jones, who has anchored the program since 2022, emphasized that the team’s culture and values are now “set in stone,” a sentiment echoed by new strength and conditioning chief Ben Armer and offensive coordinator Garrett Altman, formerly of Vanderbilt.
The quarterback position, long a focal point, will see its most intense competition yet. After three seasons as the starter, Jaylen Raynor transferred to Iowa State, opening the door for Ethan Crawford, Trey Owens, Drew Dickey and Jeremy St‑Hilaire to battle for the starting role. The race adds a layer of intrigue to the team’s offensive outlook.
Defensively, the Red Wolves enjoy continuity. Brandon Barnes and AG McGhee are the only returning defensive stalwarts who started every game in 2025, and they will be joined by preseason all‑conference selections Chauncy Cobb, Tristian Smith and Kenyon Clay, who lead a unit that has already begun extra practices and team‑building drills.
The schedule will open with a road test at Memphis on September 5, followed by a home showdown against West Georgia on September 12. Fans can mark their calendars for the annual A‑State Football Kickoff Party on July 30, which traditionally signals the start of fall practice the next day.
While Coach Jones admits uncertainty about the team’s exact ceiling, he also acknowledges a palpable optimism that permeates the locker room. “We’re excited about the direction we’re heading,” he said, a sentiment that could prove pivotal as the Red Wolves aim to extend their winning streak into the new season.