2026 Season Preview: Valley View

It wasn’t a typical season for Valley View. An inexperienced roster limited the Cougars’ ability to compete against some of the better teams in the LFC. Still, they finished above .500 and qualified for the postseason. Now, those young players return with a year of experience under their belts. The defense should be the strength of the team, while the offense will need to find some playmakers to get back on track.

The good news is that quarterback Caleb Brown returns for his junior season. His growth last year gives the coaching staff confidence that he is ready to take the next step. Tyler Muchal is back at running back after rushing for 609 yards last season. Brady Bachman and Seamus Sprague will also see carries.

Jeffery Waslichak returns at fullback, with Brady Cunningham also expected to see time in the backfield. Ben Evans and Colin Witkowski return at wide receiver, while Marco Ruby and Cash Roe provide depth. Brody Bargella and Aidan O’Connor are the new tight ends.

The offensive line will have to replace some key players, but Brody Call and Cameron Malsberger return. Ryan Sweeney and Jeffrey Ashby are expected to fill two of the remaining spots, while Jackson Siekeirka and Maddox Krupovich will compete for the final position.

The defensive line returns three starters, including Mason Mitchell and Cunningham at defensive end. Call is back at defensive tackle and will be joined by Krupovich.

The linebacking corps should be the strength of the defense, with Waslichak and Muchal returning on the inside. Bachman and Ashby are back at outside linebacker, while freshman Nico Castellani is also expected to see playing time.

The secondary returns all four starters. Tristian Smith and Ruby are back at cornerback, while Gavin Oprishko and Evans return at safety.

Braden Loff returns as both the placekicker and punter.