West Texas A&M University’s football program is gearing up for a demanding 2026 season after finishing the previous year with an 8‑4 record and a bowl victory. The Buffaloes entered the offseason with optimism, but the roster will soon feel the absence of several key contributors.
Starting quarterback RJ Martinez, who directed the offense last year, will not return, leaving a sizable void under center. His departure forces the coaching staff to look toward younger players and potentially adjust the offensive scheme.
The early portion of the schedule is especially daunting. The team opens against Western Colorado, the No. 11 squad in Division II, followed by a clash with No. 9 Grand Valley State. Both opponents proved formidable in 2025, with Western Colorado edging WT 45‑28 and showcasing a potent offense.
Ranked Opponents to Watch
Grand Valley State returns senior playmaker Kellen Reed and redshirt sophomore Andrew Schuster, giving them a blend of experience and emerging talent that could test the Buffaloes again. Meanwhile, Central Washington, ranked No. 7, avenged a 52‑6 loss to WT in 2025 and was selected No. 1 in the Lone Star Conference preseason poll, underscoring the high expectations for that matchup.
Adding another layer of intrigue, the season‑long rivalry game against Eastern New Mexico will be led by former Baylor and Houston head coach Art Briles. Briles, who boasts a 99‑65 record at the NCAA level, has taken the reins of the program in the Lone Star Conference and brings a wealth of coaching experience to the field.
On the defensive side of the ball, senior linebacker Brycen Indell was named LSC Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, highlighting the firepower that will accompany the offense’s rebuilding efforts. His presence should help stabilize a unit looking to compensate for the loss of key offensive pieces.
Overall, the 2026 campaign promises a test of depth and adaptability as the Buffaloes navigate a slate that pits them against some of the nation’s top Division II programs. The combination of new leadership, a challenging schedule, and the drive to rebuild positions the team for a season that could define its trajectory in the coming years.