2025 High School Football Preview – Wolverine Conference

The Wolverine Conference is once again shaping up to be one of the most competitive leagues in Southwest Michigan. Niles headlines the field after reaching the Division 4 state finals in 2024, though now competing in Division 3, the Vikings remain a clear contender with size, speed, and physicality. Edwardsburg continues to be a perennial force with its trademark Power-T offense, while Paw Paw looks to carry momentum from last season and make another run at the top of the standings.

Otsego brings back valuable experience on both sides of the ball and is banking on a big senior class to push into playoff contention. Three Rivers, in year two under Jeff Awe, has the depth and returning talent to make noise in the race, while Vicksburg remains steady as one of the most balanced programs in the league. Plainwell and Sturgis also continues to rebuild, stressing offseason strength gains and development in hopes of moving into the mix.

Rivalries such as Otsego vs. Plainwell and the week 9 showdowns with Niles and Edwardsburg could decide the Wolverine championship. With multiple proven contenders and several hungry programs looking to rise, the Wolverine promises another season of parity and playoff-level football every week.

2025 Wolverine Conference Preview:

Edwardsburg Eddies

2024 Record: 7-4 (5-2 Wolverine)

Head Coach: Dan Purlee (3rd season, 12-9)

2025 Schedule
08/29 – at McBain – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – at St. Joseph – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – at Sturgis – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – Paw Paw – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – Otsego – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – at Plainwell – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – Three Rivers – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – at Vicksburg – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – Niles – 7:00 p.m.

After back-to-back winning seasons and postseason berths in 2023 and 2024, the Edwardsburg Eddies enter 2025 looking to continue their tradition of physical, disciplined football. Dan Purlee enters his third year at Edwardsburg, and the Eddies bruising Power T offense and aggressive defensive play is still the tradition.  The Eddies will take the field with a younger, less experienced lineup but one that has shown hunger and chemistry throughout the offseason. The program’s emphasis on hard work, toughness, and accountability will be key as they navigate another challenging Wolverine Conference slate.

Edwardsburg’s trademark Power T attack remains the backbone of the offense, designed to control the clock, wear down defenses, and create opportunities with a steady mix of inside runs, sweeps, and play-action passes. This season’s offensive success starts up front, where the Eddies will rely on senior center Max Morris (6’2, 275) to anchor the line. He’s joined by junior tackle Luke Bidwell (6’7, 260) and junior guard Luke Harman (5’11, 220), giving Edwardsburg a big, physical foundation to push the ground game forward.

With only three returning starters, new skill-position players will need to step up quickly. The quarterback position will work within the system to make efficient throws when needed, but the bread-and-butter will be a committee of backs who run with toughness behind a developing offensive line. The Eddies aim to increase balance this year by incorporating more counters and misdirection plays to keep defenses guessing.

On the other side of the ball, Edwardsburg’s 3-4 defense will be built around speed, discipline, and pursuit. With only two returning starters, it’s a unit in transition but one that’s been quick to learn in offseason work. Senior Alex Rudolph (OLB, 5’9, 180) brings leadership and a hard-nosed mentality to the edge, while junior Cameron Hayden (S, 5’8, 155) provides range and coverage ability in the secondary.

Defensive coordinator Randy Brooks will emphasize gap discipline and swarm tackling, ensuring all 11 players rally to the football. With a younger roster, the defensive game plan will focus on fundamentals—limiting big plays, forcing opponents into third-and-long situations, and capitalizing on turnovers. Depth will be key, and several underclassmen will have opportunities to earn significant minutes.

The Eddies will be tested early with a Week 2 trip to St. Joseph, a physical non-conference clash against one of the area’s most consistent programs. The season finale is the marquee matchup—a Week 9 rivalry game at home against Niles. That contest could carry major Wolverine Conference implications and will be a true measuring stick for how far this young team has come over the season.

If the offensive line gels and the defense adapts quickly, Edwardsburg could again be a tough out for anyone on their schedule.

Niles Vikings

2024 Record: 12-2 (7-0 Wolverine) (Division 4 State Runner Up)

Head Coach: Scot Shaw (5th season, 33-13)

2025 Schedule
08/29 – St. Joseph – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – at Lakeshore – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – at Paw Paw – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – Otsego – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – at Sturgis – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – Three Rivers – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – at Vicksburg – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – Plainwell – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – at Edwardsburg – 7:00 p.m.

The Niles Vikings are no longer flying under the radar. After a remarkable 2024 campaign that ended with the program’s first appearance in a state championship game, expectations have never been higher. Under head coach Scot Shaw, now in his fifth season with the Vikings and his 34th overall, Niles has developed into one of the most consistent and physical teams in the Wolverine Conference. In 2025, they’ll test themselves in new waters, moving up from Division 4 to Division 3, where the road to Ford Field becomes even more demanding.

However, this season comes with big shoes to fill. Niles graduated a talented senior class, headlined by the loss of quarterback Talen Bennett and dynamic running backs Sam Rucker and Paul Hess, who were instrumental in the team’s Flexbone offense. Bennett’s leadership and execution will be hard to replicate, while Rucker and Hess accounted for the majority of the team’s rushing yardage and touchdowns last year.

Even with those departures, Coach Shaw remains confident in the group returning — particularly because of how strong and seasoned the Vikings are up front. Offensively, Niles brings back one of the area’s most experienced and physically imposing lines. Brandon Hamilton (5’11, 250) and Chase Brawley (6’0, 280) enter their fourth year as varsity starters and are joined by fellow seniors Trenton Scott (6’3, 285) and Evan Williams (5’11, 240) to form a bruising core that will anchor the Flexbone once again. Malachai Burris (5’9, 240) adds depth and toughness on both sides of the ball.

Skill-wise, Brenden Olson (6’7, 185) offers a unique blend of size and athleticism at wide receiver, while Max Rucker (6’3, 215) returns as a reliable tight end who can contribute as a blocker and pass catcher. Senior Alex Anderson (5’8, 170) will take on a greater workload at wingback, where his speed and vision should allow him to step into a bigger offensive role.

Defensively, the Vikings return seven starters, and their identity will once again be built around toughness and gap control. The defensive line is stout, with R.J. Fiedler (6’0, 240), Burris, and Bryce Young (5’9, 240) all returning to clog up running lanes and disrupt backfields. Ward Cheney (5’11, 190) will lead the linebackers, bringing physicality and experience to the second level. In the secondary, Olson and Anderson are both returning starters, giving Niles playmakers on the back end who can cover and tackle in space. Rucker will also contribute defensively at defensive end, bringing size and power off the edge.

Special teams remain solid with Ben Bruckner handling kicking duties and Anderson back as a proven return threat. The team is still sorting out the punter position heading into camp, but Shaw is confident it will be settled before the opener.

Shaw believes the strength in the trenches and the experience of playing deep into the postseason will give his team an edge. We’ve got a group that’s played in big games and knows what it takes, Shaw said. We’ll need to grow at the skill positions, but the mentality and physicality are already there.

The Wolverine Conference promises to be as competitive as ever. Shaw expects Paw Paw and Edwardsburg to be tough, as always, while Three Rivers, Vicksburg, and Otsego are all showing signs of improvement. And now, with the bump up to Division 3, Niles will face a new caliber of postseason competition. But for Niles, the goal remains unchanged: win the conference, return to the playoffs, and make another deep run — this time, in a new division and with a new identity.

Otsego Bulldogs

2024 Record: 3-6 (3-4 Wolverine)

Head Coach: Damien Ross (2nd season, 3-6)

2024 Schedule
08/29 – at Coopersville – 7:00 p.m.
09/06 – Kalamazoo United – 7:00 p.m.
09/13 – Vicksburg – 7:00 p.m.
09/20 – at Niles – 7:00 p.m.
09/27 – at Edwardsburg – 7:00 p.m.
10/04 – Sturgis – 7:00 p.m.
10/11 – at Plainwell – 7:00 p.m.
10/18 – Paw Paw – 7:00 p.m.
10/25 – at Three Rivers – 7:00 p.m.

After a season of growth under head coach Damien Ross, the Otsego Bulldogs return in 2025 with experience, depth, and a renewed edge. With 14 starters back — including 8 on defense — and 13 seniors leading the charge, Otsego is eyeing major progress in Ross’s second year at the helm.

Offensively, the Bulldogs will be led by senior quarterback Kaleb Hildebrand (6’1, 170), who will direct a spread offense built for balance and tempo. Running behind a veteran line anchored by Alex Robbins (6’2, 255) and Owen Gauthier (6’2, 240), Hildebrand has the protection to make plays and the skill talent to move the chains. Senior running back Kole Engleright (5’11, 195) will power the ground game, while juniors Zeke Andrina (5’5, 145) and Alex Babin (6’0, 185) offer reliable options in the passing game at receiver and tight end, respectively.

The Bulldogs’ defense returns most of its core from 2024 and is expected to be the strength of the team. Up front, Caleb Koenig (6’2, 265), Colin Fitzpatrick (6’3, 195), and Rowan McKinley (6’2, 225) form a physical and experienced defensive line. At linebacker, Lane Blanchard (5’7, 155) provides leadership and hustle, while in the secondary, Chris Weirick (6’1, 185) leads a scrappy unit ready to limit big plays.

Special teams are in good hands with Kole Engleright handling punting duties and Zeke Andrina returning kicks and punts — giving Otsego dangerous field position potential in the return game.

Coach Ross is optimistic about the season, noting, I’m excited about all the experience we have on this team. It should serve us well in tough times. That experience will be crucial as the Bulldogs compete in a loaded Wolverine Conference where Niles, the reigning league champion and Ford Field finalist, remains the team to beat.

With a strong senior class and a more seasoned coaching staff, the Bulldogs have the pieces in place to be a tough out in 2025 — and potentially surprise a few favorites along the way.

Paw Paw Red Wolves

2024 Record: 8-2 (6-1 Wolverine)

Head Coach: Dennis Strey (5th season, 26-15)

2025 Schedule
08/29 – Big Rapids – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – at Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – Niles – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – at Edwardsburg – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – at Plainwell – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – Sturgis – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – Otsego – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – at Three Rivers – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – Vicksburg – 7:00 p.m.

Paw Paw did not respond to our request for a preview

Plainwell Trojans

2024 Record: 1-8 (1-6 Wolverine)

Head Coach: Brian Huberty (3rd season 2-16)

2025 Schedule
08/29 – Allegan – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – at Galesburg-Augusta – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – Vicksburg – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – at Three Rivers – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – Paw Paw – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – Edwardsburg – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – at Sturgis – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – at Niles – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – Otsego – 7:00 p.m.

With 17 seniors and a productive offseason in the weight room, Plainwell head coach Brian Huberty believes 2025 could be the year the Trojans take a big leap forward. After two tough rebuilding seasons, this experienced group is bigger, stronger, and ready to compete in the demanding Wolverine Conference.

At the heart of the offense is senior quarterback Luke Filkins (6’1, 210), a strong-armed leader surrounded by a reliable supporting cast. In the trenches, the Trojans boast size and strength with linemen like Brady Aernie (6’3, 270), Grant Comer (6’0, 240), and Sawyer Lilly (6’0, 215) paving the way. Filkins’ targets include big-bodied senior receivers Chib Amazechi (6’5, 215) and Drew Rayman (5’10, 160), along with tight end Truman Summerer (6’3, 220). Senior running back Jacob Wright (5’10, 195) adds balance to the backfield with his tough, downhill running style.

Defensively, Plainwell returns six starters, including a solid linebacker junior duo in Aiden Beck (6’0, 190) and Davis Town (5’8, 220). Up front, Grayson Nash (6’1, 200) anchors the line, while senior Gavyn Steele (5’10, 165) brings experience to the secondary.

Coach Huberty is confident that offseason gains will translate into tougher play on both sides of the ball, I expect our kids to be bigger and stronger to compete in the Wolverine. I think we take a big step forward as a program this year.

While Niles, Edwardsburg, and Vicksburg remain top contenders in the league, the Trojans are focused on building consistency week-to-week — with an extra spotlight on their annual rivalry game against Otsego in week 9, a tradition-rich matchup that always carries added intensity no matter the records.

With depth, leadership, and motivation, Plainwell could be one of the more improved teams in the conference — and a spoiler to watch as the 2025 season unfolds.

Sturgis Trojans

2024 Record: 0-9 (0-7 Wolverine)

Head Coach: Chance Stewart (6th season, 14-29)

2025 Schedule
08/28 – at Coldwater – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – Battle Creek Pennfield – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – Edwardsburg – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – at Vicksburg – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – Niles – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – at Paw Paw – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – Plainwell – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – at Otsego – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – Three Rivers – 7:00 p.m.

The Sturgis Trojans enter the 2025 season determined to shake off the frustration of an 0-9 campaign in 2024 and show signs of progress under head coach Chance Stewart, who is now in his sixth season leading the program. Stewart, a former standout quarterback at Sturgis before playing at Western Michigan and Minot State, knows firsthand what Trojan football can be at its best. His experience both as a player and coach brings a sense of stability and perspective as the program works to regain competitiveness in the rugged Wolverine Conference. For the first time in a decade, Sturgis will field full varsity, JV, and freshman teams—an encouraging sign that depth and player development are trending in the right direction.

Offensively, Sturgis brings back six starters, giving the Trojans a mix of experience and potential. Junior Beckett Lamb (6’0”, 175) returns at quarterback and will look to lead Stewart’s Pro-Style attack with confidence and efficiency. He’ll have key targets in senior wide receiver Joel Smith (6’0”, 160) and senior tight end Gavin Lewis (6’3”, 225), whose size and physicality make him a reliable red-zone threat. Senior running back Kaicee Kyle (5’8”, 165) provides speed out of the backfield, while senior lineman Parker Altimus (5’11”, 190) helps anchor an offensive line that will be key in giving the Trojans more consistency moving the ball.

Defensively, six starters also return, giving Sturgis a foundation to build on after a challenging 2024. Lewis and Altimus bring toughness to the linebacker unit, while junior Darren Speelman (5’7”, 145) adds quickness in the secondary. Senior Oliver Lamb (6’4”, 220) provides much-needed size and athleticism on the defensive line, giving the Trojans a potential playmaker in the trenches. Kyle and Beckett Lamb will also play key roles in the defensive backfield, where limiting big plays will be a priority. Junior Servando Gonzalez handles the kicking duties, giving Sturgis stability in special teams.

This year’s group features 11 seniors, a motivated class intent on leaving its mark by helping turn the program in a positive direction. Stewart has praised the group’s leadership and hunger, knowing they’ll need to set the tone for a roster that blends veterans with young contributors. The Wolverine Conference will once again provide a major test, with Niles viewed as the league favorite, but the Trojans are focused on their own progress and competitiveness week to week. With stronger numbers across all levels of the program and a core of seniors leading the way, Sturgis is hoping 2025 can be the year it starts to climb back toward respectability.

Three Rivers Wildcats

2024 Record: 4-5 (3-4 Wolverine)

Head Coach: Jeff Awe (2nd season, 4-5)

2025 Schedule
08/29 – at Charlotte – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – Dowagiac – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – at Otsego – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – Plainwell – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – at Vicksburg – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – at Niles – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – at Edwardsburg – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – Paw Paw – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – at Sturgis – 7:00 p.m.

With a full year under head coach Jeff Awe’s leadership, the Three Rivers Wildcats are looking to take the next step in 2025. Coming off a 4-5 campaign, the Wildcats bring back a strong senior class and a solid core on both sides of the ball, giving them the tools to compete in a tough Wolverine Conference.

Offensively, senior quarterback Mason Awe (5’11, 185 ) returns under center with experience and composure. Awe will lead a Multiple I Formation offense that blends power football with timely play-action passing. One of his top weapons is junior wide receiver Brayden Carpenter (5’10, 175 ), who adds speed and elusiveness to the outside. Another key target is massive tight end Zander Barth (6’7, 240 ), whose size and strength make him a reliable option in the red zone and in the run game as a blocker.

The offensive line will be a strength, anchored by senior Evan Schroeder (6’1, 260) and junior Drew O’Hara (6’0, 250). They’ll be joined by senior Bennett Vandenbrink (6’6, 325), a physical presence who gives Three Rivers the ability to control the line of scrimmage.

On defense, coordinator Drew Bosma returns a fast and physical unit in his 4-2-5 scheme. The defensive line is led by senior Jaxon Smith (6’1, 230), while senior linebacker Hunter Koenig (5’9, 190) and junior Braylon Faile (5’10, 190) provide run-stopping power in the middle. The secondary features athletic playmakers like senior Blake Stewart (5’11, 180 ) and junior Ethan Moreland (6’0, 180), who bring experience and range to the back end.

Special teams will be in good hands with Colton Westcomb (6’1, 190) handling both punting and kicking duties, and Brayden Carpenter serving as a reliable kick returner.

With 19 seniors and depth across the roster, the Wildcats believe they can contend in the Wolverine Conference. While Niles remains the favorite, Coach Awe’s group has the size, speed, and experience to make serious noise in 2025.

Vicksburg Bulldogs

2024 Record: 4-5 (3-4 Wolverine)

Head Coach: Thomas Marchese (19th season, 87-86)

2025 Schedule
08/28 – at Mattawan – 7:00 p.m.
09/05 – at GR Northview – 7:00 p.m.
09/12 – at Plainwell – 7:00 p.m.
09/19 – Sturgis – 7:00 p.m.
09/26 – at Three Rivers – 7:00 p.m.
10/03 – at Otsego – 7:00 p.m.
10/10 – Niles – 7:00 p.m.
10/17 – Edwardsburg – 7:00 p.m.
10/24 – at Paw Paw – 7:00 p.m.

Vicksburg did not complete our request for a preview