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The Horseheads Blue Raiders launched their 2026 football season with Monday’s first practice, aiming to reclaim dominance in Section IV competition. Two years ago, the program captured its first Class A championship since 1998, but fell just short of repeating last year when they lost to Union-Endicott 21-20 in overtime for the title game.
The Raiders finished last season with a 7-4 record and face the challenge of replacing Pat Laney, their standout running back who earned the 2025 Ernie Davis Award. However, the team returns several key contributors including senior running back Bryce Thomas and junior quarterback Lyncoln Bennett. Linebacker Elijah Miller, a senior defensive force who has been invited to major college prospect camps, will anchor the defense as the team looks to return to championship form.
With numerous newcomers on the roster, Horseheads will need productive contributions from younger players to compete at the highest level this season. The team kicks off its schedule on the road against Rochester Aquinas on September 5 at 1:30 PM, followed by matchups against Binghamton and a highly anticipated contest with Union-Endicott on September 18.
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Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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