The West Valley Rams are preparing for a make-or-break season after a roller‑coaster year that left the program with both optimism and unanswered questions.
The offense will have to replace standout running back Devin Anciso, who graduated, and will instead rely on a committee of emerging backs such as Lukas Holmes and Corbin Vincent to carry the load.
Defensively, the Rams surrendered at least 35 points in seven of their ten games last season, a statistic that has put the defensive line at the top of the improvement agenda.
Defensive Line Revamp
Coach Ryan Scott and senior cornerback Dalton Hargraves have highlighted the need for Samuel French, Riley Curfman and Rocklin Borland to anchor the front, while linebacker Chase Massey leads a group of promising youngsters eager to make an impact.
The secondary will be anchored by a quartet of seniors — Dalton Hargraves, Alex Whiteside, Jack Goodrich and safety Micah Jones, a transfer from Davis — who bring a mix of experience and athleticism.
A high‑jumper who missed four games last year is expected to add a new dimension, and junior Brody Vigansky’s growth as a leader has been evident in recent practices.
Assistant coach Angel Mata’s move to the defensive line has injected a fresh sense of aggression, with players noting a quicker, more disruptive front.
On offense, the Rams showed a surge in the second half, averaging 29 points per game before a 72‑7 loss to league champion Moses Lake, and quarterback Birley compiled 1,785 yards and 18 touchdowns in his second season.
The upcoming slate pits the Rams against Mid‑Columbia Conference runner‑up Kamiakin and a road trip to Moses Lake, a test Coach Scott believes will sharpen the team before the postseason.