2025 High School Football Preview – SMAC | News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM

2025 High School Football Preview – Southwestern Michigan Athletic Conference – SMAC

The Southwest Michigan Athletic Conference (SMAC) is shaping up to be another competitive league in 2025, with several programs expected to be in the hunt for a championship. St. Joseph once again looks like one of the frontrunners, while Portage Central and Portage Northern both have strong returning talent and consistent coaching. Mattawan is coming off a resurgent season that included its first playoff victory in over a decade, and Lakeshore continues to be one of the most disciplined and well-prepared programs in the conference. Kalamazoo Central and Kalamazoo Loy Norrix are also looking to make strides forward as they develop depth and consistency.

In Battle Creek, both Central and Lakeview continue working to rebuild. Central is searching for stability after a pair of challenging seasons, while Lakeview is trying to re-establish itself as a competitive program in a league filled with physical, veteran teams. Gull Lake, which struggled a year ago, returns a more experienced group and hopes to climb back into the mix, while other schools across the SMAC are focused on turning offseason progress into on-field results.

With a mix of proven contenders and rebuilding teams, the SMAC title race looks wide open. Longstanding rivalries like Lakeshore vs. St. Joseph, Portage Northern vs. Portage Central, Battle Creek Central vs. Kalamazoo Central, and Loy Norrix vs. Kalamazoo Central will once again define the conference slate, while programs such as Mattawan could play spoiler in the standings. Known for its physical football and deep tradition, the SMAC promises another season of intense competition across Southwest Michigan.

2025 SMAC Conference Preview

Battle Creek Central Bearcats

2024 Record: 1-8 (0-7 SMAC)

Head Coach: Lorin Granger (14th season, 39-79)

2025 Schedule:
08/28 – at Benton Harbor – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – at Lansing Everett – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – Battle Creek Lakeview – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – Portage Central – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – at Kalamazoo Loy Norrix – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – at Gull Lake – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – Kalamazoo Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – St. Joseph – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – at Mattawan – 7:00 p.m.

After a winless 0-9 campaign in 2023 and a 1-8 finish in 2024, the Battle Creek Central Bearcats enter the 2025 season with one goal in mind: turn the corner. Head coach Lorin Granger, now in his 14th year, is guiding a program eager to rebuild and restore pride through effort, experience, and internal growth.

Despite the recent struggles, the Bearcats return a strong core, including eight offensive and nine defensive starters, many of whom were thrown into the fire as underclassmen over the past two seasons. With that game experience now under their belts, the hope is that the battle-tested roster can begin to translate effort into wins.

Offensively, the Bearcats return eight starters and will operate out of the Spread under offensive coordinator Mario Brown. Sophomore quarterback Lee Campbell (5’10, 165) brings leadership and athleticism to the position, with sophomore Sir Paris (5’9, 150) providing a quick and dynamic target at wide receiver. Anchoring the line are sophomore center Nathan Cretsinger (6’0, 230) and junior lineman Cory Wells (5’11, 180), both expected to be key in establishing consistency up front.

The defensive unit—which returns nine starters—is the team’s most experienced group. Camari Williams (6’3, 420) and Hayden Miller (6’1, 275) form a powerful duo on the defensive line. In the secondary, seniors Karon Gupton and sophomore Braylen McCoy bring athleticism and range to the Bearcats’ 4-2-5 scheme, guided by defensive coordinator Jihad Ford.

While the Bearcats lack standout special teams contributors, the focus for 2025 remains on discipline, improvement, and competitiveness in every game.

This year marks a rebuilding phase for the Bearcats, but the program has reasons for optimism. With a tough schedule ahead, including games against several conference powerhouses, the goal is clear: stay healthy, stay competitive, and take real strides forward. If the younger talent continues to develop, a push for a playoff spot isn’t out of reach.

Granger, expects Kalamazoo Central, Portage Central, and St. Joseph to be the favorites in the SMAC.

Battle Creek Central opens the season at Benton Harbor, St. Joseph will be at Battle Creek Central in their home finale on October 17th, which will be live on News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM and at wsjm.com.

Battle Creek Lakeview Spartans

2024 Record: 2-7 (2-2 SMAC East)

Head Coach: Brett Vernon (3rd season, 5-13)

2025 Schedule:
08/28 – at Harper Creek – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – at Grand Ledge – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – at Battle Creek Central – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – Portage Northern – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – at Kalamazoo Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – Kalamazoo Loy Norrix – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – at Lakeshore – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – Portage Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – Gull Lake – 7:00 p.m.

Battle Creek Lakeview did not reply to our preview questionnaire.

You can hear the October 10th game at Lakeshore on 97.5 The Lake with Al Pscholka and Denny Kniola

Gull Lake Blue Devils

2025 Record: 0-9 (0-4 SMAC-East)

Head Coach: Jalon Simpson (2nd season, 0-9)

2025 Schedule:
08/28 – Marshall – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – Coldwater – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – at Kalamazoo Central – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – at St. Joseph – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – Portage Northern – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – Battle Creek Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – at Kalamazoo Loy Norrix – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – Lakeshore – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – at Battle Creek Lakeview – 7:00 p.m.

After a winless 2024 campaign, Gull Lake football enters the new season with a determination to reset and restore pride in its program. The Blue Devils struggled under first-year head coach Jalon Simpson and a roster filled with underclassmen, often finding themselves overmatched early in games. But while the results didn’t show in the standings, the experience proved invaluable, and now Gull Lake has a new determination to put 2024’s 0-9 season behind them and focus on getting the program going again.

Leading the way is sophomore quarterback Zach Pfennig, who showed flashes of maturity beyond his years as a freshman and now returns as a seasoned starter. He’ll be supported by senior running back Blake Strickler and a trio of junior receivers –– Lucas Hutchinson, JJ Ricca, and Donnell Brooks –– giving the offense more weapons and versatility than it had a year ago. With an expanded playbook and a stronger foundation up front, the Blue Devils believe they’ll be able to spread the field and create more consistent offensive production.

Defensively, the program has emphasized tackling and conditioning throughout the offseason, hoping to become a tougher, more resilient unit. With most of last year’s contributors back and a clearer grasp of head coach Jalon Simpson’s system, Gull Lake expects to be more competitive in 2025. The Blue Devils may not be talking postseason just yet, but the goal is to stay in games, battle until the final whistle, and build the kind of grit needed to re-establish themselves as a respected program in Southwest Michigan.

Kalamazoo Central Maroon Giants

2024 Record: 6-4 (4-0 SMAC-East)

Head Coach: Mike Stanger (5th season, 10-26)

2025 Schedule:
08/28 – at Jenison – 7:00 p.m.
09/04 – at Detroit Renaissance – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – Gull Lake – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – at Lakeshore – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – Battle Creek Lakeview – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – Portage Cental – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – at Battle Creek Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – Mattawan – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – at Kalamazoo Loy Norrix – 7:00 p.m.

Kalamazoo Central enters 2025 looking to build on last year’s 6-4 season, which brought the program its first playoff berth since 2016 and an outright SMAC-East championship. The Maroon Giants are aiming to reach the postseason in back-to-back years for the first time in school history and secure the program’s first playoff victory. With momentum established, expectations are higher than they’ve been in decades.

Kalamazoo Central brings back 10 starters, led by all-conference senior Curtis Whitfield, who excelled on both sides of the ball last fall. He is joined by senior Khy’Miere Bowen and underclassmen Ivory Hegler and Caleb Allen to anchor the skill positions. The offensive line is the team’s biggest strength, highlighted by four-star junior tackle Dewey Young, who holds more than 15 Division I offers, along with seniors Aiden Thomas and Damion Armstrong. With that foundation up front, the Maroon Giants expect to have balance and power on offense, while continuing to develop depth behind senior quarterback Kam Woods and emerging junior Tyrone Sheppard.

Defensively, Kalamazoo Central returns proven playmakers in defensive end David Williams III and junior cornerback Mykell Crayton, who lead a unit built on speed, aggression, and improved physicality. The Maroon Giants believe last season was only the beginning, and the goal in 2025 is clear: solidify themselves as a consistent playoff program and take the next step.

The game at Lakeshore can be heard on 97.5 The Lake

Kalamazoo Loy Norrix Knights

2024 Record: 5-4 (3-1 SMAC-East)

Head Coach: Lorenzon Robertson (5th season, 8-27)

2025 Schedule:
08/28 – Jackson Northwest – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – at Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – St. Joseph – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – at Mattawan – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – Battle Creek Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – at Battle Creek Lakeview – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – Gull Lake – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – at Portage Northern – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – Kalamazoo Central – 7:00 p.m.

Kalamazoo Loy Norrix shocked the SMAC in 2024 with a 5-4 record, finishing second behind rival Kalamazoo Central for the SMAC East Championship on the final week of the season. However for the Knights, the shock wore off quickly as Loy Norrix was the only 5-4 team in the state to not qualify for the playoffs. Head coach Lorenzo Robertson, now in his fifth season looks to take the Knights from perennial cellar-dwellers into playoff and division contenders.

The roster features proven talent and rising stars, highlighted by senior running back David Jones, who rushed for more than 1,200 yards last year and earned a D2 offer, and three-star junior lineman Jakari Lipsey, who has offers from four Division 1 schools. They’ll be joined by new quarterback Jonavan Hare, who has playmakers in receivers Jaylind Motton and Marcarious Coppage. Motton, now healthy, provides a deep threat and defensive versatility.

Momentum is also building off the field, as the Knights will debut a new turf stadium along with a brand-new scoreboard during their Week 3 home game against St. Joseph. Robertson says the continuity of his staff and the hunger of his players have built a culture of accountability and growth, and Hare believes this senior class is laying the foundation for something lasting. “Kalamazoo is really going to hear us this year,” he said. For the Knights, the goal is clear: not just reaching the playoffs, but making noise once they get there and setting a new standard for the program.

The game against St. Joseph will be on News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM

Lakeshore Lancers

2024 Record: 3-7 (1-3 SMAC-West)

Head Coach: Danny Thompson (5th season, 19-22)

2025 Schedule:
08/28 – at Grand Haven – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – Niles – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – at Portage Central – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – Kalamazoo Central – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – at St. Joseph – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – at Mattawan – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – Battle Creek Lakeview – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – at Gull Lake – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – Portage Northern – 7:00 p.m.

For 5^th year Lakeshore coach Danny Thompson, a trip back to Middleville for the Lancers scrimmages last week could and should have been a good thing. Thompson came to Lakeshore as an assistant coach at Middleville Thornapple-Kellogg under Coach Jeff Dock, the son of legendary Lancer Coach Denny Dock.

But in just a few snaps of the Lancers first scrimmage. Lakeshore playing with a backup quarterback lost two starting offensive lineman to season ending injuries. Not long after that back up quarterback also was injured and could not continue.

Lakeshore enters 2025 with a lot of questions after a dismal, but playoff bound season. Lakeshore started 2024 going 0-6 before winning their last three games over Gull Lake, Battle Creek Lakeview and Portage Northern to qualify for the playoffs at 3-6. But then falling at rival St. Joe in the first round.

Also a key loss for the Lancers was not in the practice field, it was via a moving truck. Starting quarterback Landon Hall moved across the state line and is the starting quarterback a Mishawaka Penn. He had 233 yards passing and two touchdowns in Penn’s opening night win against Valparaiso last week in Indiana.

However all is not “gloom and doom” for Lakeshore. The Lancers started 10 sophomores and 1 freshman last year, which means those 10 will be starting juniors and starting sophomore.

Lakeshore’s record setting wide receiver from last year Jonah Chavez will get the bulk of the throws from expected starting quarterback Eli Wheaton. Although Wheaton’s early season availability might be in a little doubt as he recovers from a case of pneumonia.

Thompson told WSJM, during The Coaches show last week that he has a new defensive coordinator who came from Florida. Lakeshore plans on a major change on defense to a 3-3-5 alignment. Lakeshore’s defense had major issues with teams running the ball last season.

Lakeshore’s season begins in Grand Haven, before facing a tough stretch against Niles, Portage Central, Kalamazoo Central, St. Joseph, and Mattawan.

You can hear each Lancers game on Quality Rock 95.7 The Lake with Al Pscholka and returning this year Denny Kniola.

Please note: Lakeshore did not return our request for a preview. Information for this was gathered using Coach Thompson’s appearance on The Coaches this past Saturday, plus information that was publicly available.

Mattawan Wildcats

2024 Record: 7-4 (2-2 SMAC West)

Head Coach: Jerry Schultz (2nd season, 7-4)

2025 Schedule:
08/28 – at Vicksburg – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – Lowell – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – at Portage Northern – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – Kalamazoo Loy Norrix – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – at Portage Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – Lakeshore – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – at St. Joseph – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – at Kalamazoo Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – Battle Creek Central – 7:00 p.m.

After years of frustration, the Mattawan Wildcats turned a major corner in 2024, finishing with a 7-4 record, earning their first winning season since 2018, and capturing their first playoff win in 12 years. Now in his second season, head coach Jerry Schultz looks to keep that momentum rolling with a team built on toughness, chemistry, and veteran leadership.

The Wildcats will once again lean on their signature Flexbone offense, with Schultz calling the plays. At the center of it all is senior fullback Will Peterson, a powerful runner who returns as the heartbeat of the ground attack. He’ll be joined in the backfield by two dangerous wingbacks, Nick DeYoung and Patrick Dougherty, both seniors with breakaway ability and varsity experience.

Running the offense is quarterback Nolan Jominy, who steps into a starting role and will be key to executing the timing and reads that make the flexbone go. He’ll be protected by a rugged offensive line featuring Robert Measel, Reid Christiansen, Jackson Kalleward, and Daniel Watson — a group that brings size, grit, and game experience to the trenches.

On defense, the Wildcats transition back to a 3-4 scheme under coordinator Chris Gilliam. That unit is anchored by several two-way standouts, including Will Peterson, who returns at middle linebacker alongside fellow senior Sawyer Doxtator. Up front, the defensive line will be tough to move, with Christiansen, Kalleward, Watson, and Aiden Cooper all rotating in and bringing physicality to the point of attack.

The secondary features speed and ball skills, with DeYoung providing leadership at safety and Dougherty and Brady Mickelson locking down the corners. It’s a unit that may have fewer returning starters than the offense, but one with plenty of upside and playmaking ability.

Special teams are in reliable feet with Kai Jensen, who returns as both the kicker and punter, providing stability in the third phase of the game.

With 15 seniors and a solid mix of returning talent and rising contributors, the Wildcats are aiming to prove last year’s breakthrough wasn’t a one-time thing. The path won’t be easy — especially in a conference where Portage Central and St. Joseph are expected to be title contenders — but Mattawan isn’t shying away from expectations.

This 2025 squad is built to compete. While some key pieces from last year’s run have graduated, the players stepping in are far from green — many have logged important varsity reps and are ready to lead. If the Wildcats can stay healthy and control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, another playoff appearance — and potentially another postseason win — is well within reach. Under Coach Schultz, Mattawan football is officially back on the rise.

Mattawan opens the season at home on Thursday, August 29 against Vicksburg before heading to Lowell the following week. Mattawan hosts Lakeshore on October 3rd , which you can hear on 97.5 The Lake and they will travel to St. Joseph the following week, which you can hear on News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM.

Portage Central Mustangs

2023 Record: 8-2 (7-0 SMAC)

Head Coach: Mick Enders (15th season, 98-45)

Head coach Mick Enders returns for his 16th season at Portage Central with an impressive 111-48 career record, and this year’s team has the look of a veteran squad ready to make noise in the Southwestern Michigan Athletic Conference race. The Mustangs bring back six starters on offense and six on defense, and with 19 seniors among the 38 varsity players, leadership and experience will be two of their biggest strengths.

On offense, Enders and coordinator Mike Freeland will once again operate the Flexbone, an offense built on discipline, ball control, and exploiting defensive mistakes. Senior quarterback Rylan McNally will orchestrate the attack, surrounded by a deep group of playmakers. Senior Nolan Bloomquist and Joseph Gehman will provide punch in the running game, with junior Ben Coleman and sophomore Cam Noe adding speed and versatility. In the trenches, seniors Noah Klein and Armani Jimenez will anchor an offensive line that must establish dominance for the Mustangs’ ground game to thrive. Tight end Charlie Jilek brings size and toughness as both a blocker and a target.

Defensively, coordinator Trevor Haas will field a 5-1-5 alignment designed to stop the run while still defending the pass effectively. Jilek leads the linebacker corps, with Bloomquist controlling the secondary from free safety. Coleman, Noe, and sophomore Colin Steele will provide athleticism and coverage ability, while junior Luke Ludwig adds depth and physicality at linebacker.

Special teams will again be a strength, with Bloomquist handling kicking, punting, and return duties.

While the Mustangs have the senior leadership and skill position talent to contend, the key will be building depth — particularly along the offensive and defensive lines — to withstand the grind of a full season.

One game already circled on the calendar is Week 9, when Portage Central will travel to St. Joseph for what could be another winner take all game for the SMAC West division title. With potential playoff implications and conference pride on the line, it could be the most notable games of the season for both programs, and a chance for the Mustangs or Bears to make a late-season statement.

You’ll be able to hear the game at St. Joe on News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM and the Lakeshore game on 97.5 The Lake.

Portage Northern Huskies

2024 Record: 5-5 (1-3 SMAC West)

Head Coach: Kurt Twichell (5th season, 23-17)

2025 Schedule:
08/28 – Orchard Lake St. Mary’s – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – at Midland – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – Mattawan – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – at Battle Creek Lakeview – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – at Gull Lake – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – St. Joseph – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – at Portage Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – Kalamazoo Loy Norrix – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – at Lakeshore – 7:00 p.m.

The Portage Northern Huskies enter the 2025 season with a renewed sense of purpose and a roster full of experienced, battle-tested athletes. Coming off a rollercoaster 5-5 season that began with a promising 4-1 start before injuries exposed depth concerns, head coach Kurt Twichell believes this group has the resilience and talent to take the next step.

Although the Huskies lost a significant number of offensive starters from last season, they return arguably the most dominant lineman in the region in Gregory Patrick — a Notre Dame commit, 4-year starter, and two-time All-State selection. Patrick (6’5, 275) will anchor a rebuilt offensive line that includes fellow senior tackle Will Martin (6’1, 300) and senior guard Elijah Gillam-Shaffer (5’11, 240), giving the Huskies a powerful presence in the trenches.

While only three offensive starters return, several emerging weapons are ready to step into the spotlight. Fullback Junior Nic Bianco (5’10, 175) and sophomore tailback Aireus Jackson (5’11, 215) give the Huskies a promising backfield combo, and junior receiver Kane Morris (5’10, 175) adds versatility and speed to the outside. The offense will still operate from a Pro Style foundation, but with fresh looks and updated presentations of core concepts to keep defenses on their heels.

Defensively, Portage Northern actually improved in most key statistical categories in 2024, despite the overall record dip from 8-2 the previous year. With six starters returning, the Huskies have experience at every level. On the line, junior defensive end Lucas Pinder (6’3, 240) and senior tackle Zay’vion Branson (5’10, 240) bring physicality up front. The linebacker corps is led by seniors Kinslo Artic (6’0, 175) and Josh Jordan (5’10, 175), both of whom are high-motor, downhill players.

In the secondary, Keniel Ortiz (5’10, 185) and Kaden Taggart bring leadership and coverage skills, rounding out a defense that should be the early strength of this team. Defensive coordinator Andrew Myszak will count on this group to keep games within reach as the new-look offense gets rolling.

Special teams roles remain TBD, but internal competition is expected to solidify those spots by Week 1.

Despite last season’s .500 finish, this 2025 Huskies team feels like one on the rise. With 17 seniors, a fortified line led by one of the state’s elite talents in Gregory Patrick, and a defense that showed real improvement, Portage Northern has the pieces to bounce back and contend.

The conference is tough — Portage Central looks like the preseason favorite thanks to a strong returning core — but don’t count out the Huskies. If they can stay healthy and develop rhythm offensively, a return to the playoffs is not only possible, it’s expected.

This is a team with a clear identity, strong leadership, and unfinished business. With one of the best linemen in Michigan and a motivated senior class, the Portage Northern Huskies are out to prove that 2024 was just a detour — not a destination.

You can hear the Huskies game against St. Joseph on October 3rd on News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM, and the regular season finale at home at Lakeshore on October 24th on 97.5 The Lake.

St. Joseph Bears

2024 Record: 9-2 (3-1 SMAC West)

Head Coach: Andrew Pratley (7th season, 45-197)

2025 Schedule:
08/29 – at Niles – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – Edwardsburg – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – at Kalamazoo Loy Norrix – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – Gull Lake – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – Lakeshore – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – at Portage Northern – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – Mattawan – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – at Battle Creek Central – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – Portage Central – 7:00 p.m.

Entering his seventh season at St. Joseph and his 21st overall as a head coach, Andrew Pratley has helped mold the Bears into a consistent force in southwest Michigan. With a 45-19 record during his time with the program, Pratley has elevated the standard — and the standard remains the standard heading into 2025: compete for a conference championship and make a deep playoff run.

But the Bears face a major challenge this fall as they move forward without two of their most impactful players: quarterback Davis Crossman and record-breaking running back Dylan Chapman, both of whom graduated after spearheading the offense in recent years. Crossman’s command of the option system and Chapman’s relentless rushing style were the heartbeat of St. Joe’s identity — and their absence will be felt.

The Bears will continue to operate out of the Split Back Veer, a system that has powered the program’s success under Pratley. While new faces will step into the quarterback and running back roles, the offensive line will be a major strength, led by a pair of imposing seniors — Maddux Murphy (6’6, 315) and Jacob Richards (6’2, 310) — both returning starters who bring size, toughness, and experience.

The perimeter will be anchored by senior Jace Hopkins (5’9, 160) at wide receiver, a savvy route runner with special teams value as a kicker. Junior Eli Kragt (6’2, 240) returns at tight end, offering a reliable target and a physical edge in the run game. Dual-threat junior Nate Schmitt (6’3, 190) will contribute at wide receiver while also playing a key role in the secondary.

Replacing Chapman’s historic production won’t fall on one player alone, but the staff is confident in the talent waiting in the wings, many of whom gained valuable varsity experience in 2024. The Bears have not yet decided on starting quarterback.

Defensively, the Bears return five starters to their 4-3 front, including standout middle linebacker Isaac Codde (6’0, 225), a hard-hitting senior who will lead the unit both physically and emotionally. Junior linebacker Nick Reeves (5’8, 180) adds speed and instincts to the second level.

Up front, Noah Toney (5’8, 220) returns on the defensive line, providing disruption and leverage against the run. In the secondary, Nate Schmitt will be back as a strong safety, joined by a mix of returning contributors and promising newcomers. The defense is expected to take a leadership role early in the season as the offense settles into its new identity.

Hopkins will also handle kicking duties, a role he was thrust into after injuries prevented now Western Michigan Bronco Rusty Klaer from performing those duties, Hopkins with a season of experience gives the Bears consistency in the kicking game. Punting and return roles are still being finalized, but special teams will continue to be a key component of St. Joe’s disciplined approach.

There’s no denying the impact of graduating Chapman — a players who rewrote the record books of Bears football. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the most productive rushers in school history. But with 19 seniors, a physical front on both sides of the ball, and a coaching staff that knows how to win, the Bears are far from starting over.

Pratley’s teams are known for developing talent quickly and maximizing the skill sets of their players. With strong leadership and proven success in the program’s foundation, St. Joseph enters 2025 poised to reload and remain a contender.

The SMAC will be a grind once again, with Portage Central pegged as the preseason favorite thanks to a strong mix of returners and young talent. But as always, St. Joseph won’t shy away from the challenge — and will be right in the hunt heading into the finale against Portage Central.

The Bears may have lost more than a few stars, but they haven’t lost their identity. Physical football, veteran leadership, and championship-level expectations define this team. With Coach Pratley at the helm for a seventh year, St. Joseph remains one of the premier programs in the region — and they’re not going anywhere.

St. Joe opens the season at Niles on Friday, August 29th. You can hear every St. Joe game live on News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM, also online at WSJM.com, with Joel Cordes and Bret Witkowski