A New Era for the Generals
Washington and Lee University’s football program entered the 2026 season with optimism after a preseason poll placed the Generals tied for second in the ODAC behind Randolph‑Macon, a positioning that sets the stage for a campaign many expect to be among the most competitive in recent memory.
The poll, which awarded the Generals 38 points, reflects a program that has built momentum over the past two years, culminating in a 7‑4 record and a third‑place finish in the conference during the 2025 campaign.
Key Returners and Offensive Firepower
Headlining the returners is senior quarterback Ty Collins, who will once again steer the triple‑option attack that proved so effective a year ago. Collins will be joined by a dynamic backfield duo — running backs Ryan Clemens and Anthony Crawford — who combined for a potent rushing threat that helped the offense average 316.9 yards on the ground per game in 2025.
Adding to the offensive firepower are senior wideout Teddy Sparrow and slot receiver Joseph Pizzo, both of whom are expected to stretch the field and provide additional options for Collins. The line, anchored by ODAC Lineman of the Year Wesley Howenstein, returns intact and earned preseason recognition as a D3football.com Second Team All‑American.
Defensive Stability and Experience
On the other side of the ball, the defense aims to replicate its 2025 efficiency, having allowed just 19.27 points per game and limited opponents to a 34.3% third‑down conversion rate. The unit brings back linebackers Brennan Stout and Mac Palmer, who together logged over 200 tackles last season, as well as safety Allan Gushue and defensive linemen O’Keefe McKinney and Randolph Smith, all of whom contributed heavily to a front that ranked among the top defensive lines in NCAA Division III.
The defensive line’s depth was further bolstered by the return of O’Keefe McKinney and Randolph Smith, who each posted strong statistical seasons and will look to maintain the unit’s ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
Schedule, Streaming and Rivalries
The 2026 slate features a blend of home and away contests, highlighted by matchups against traditional rivals such as Gettysburg and a much‑anticipated showdown with Randolph‑Macon. Home games, including contests against Wittenberg, Averett and a rivalry clash with Randolph‑Macon, will be streamed live on FloCollege as part of the Generals’ media rights agreement with FloSports, while regular‑season admission remains free for fans.
The schedule also includes high‑profile opponents like Gettysburg and Salisbury, providing the Generals with opportunities to test themselves against some of the nation’s top Division III programs.
With a combination of experienced talent, a balanced offensive attack, and a defense that has proven capable of limiting scoring, Washington and Lee appears poised to translate preseason optimism into a strong on‑field performance. The team’s ability to sustain momentum will depend on health, depth and the chemistry developed during the early weeks of practice, but the pieces are clearly in place for a season that could see the Generals contend for the ODAC crown.