2025 Preseason Preview –  Plainview-Elgin-Millville High School

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>After a frustrating and injury-riddled 2024 campaign that ended with a 2–7 record, the Bulldogs start the 2025 season renewed. Last fall, the program was decimated by injuries, losing its top two running backs and a key two-way tight end within the first few weeks. Despite the adversity, Plainview-Elgin-Millville showed signs of resilience, and that mindset is now driving them into camp.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With a stable offensive line core, explosive returning backs, and a young, hungry quarterback competition, the Bulldogs are excited to keep on competing.  </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here are some players to watch for:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Aiden Graner – FB/LB</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Graner returns as a three-year starter. A powerful, no-nonsense fullback, he rushed for close to 400 yards last season and will once again be leaned on heavily. A state finalist wrestler at 145 pounds, Graner brings elite body control, explosiveness, and toughness to both sides of the ball. He may be pursued as a collegiate wrestler, but his ability on the field, particularly as a lead blocker and short-yardage back, is undeniable.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Also, the unquestioned leader of the defense, Graner, will anchor the inside linebacker unit for a third straight year. He is a tackling machine with strong instincts. He recorded 75 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and five TFLs last season. His motor, wrestling leverage, and football IQ make him effective in the box.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Nolan Ford – RB/LB</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Ford filled in admirably last season after injuries decimated the Bulldogs' backfield, rushing for nearly 400 yards, including a 175-yard breakout performance against Red Wing. He is a physical runner with solid top-end speed. Like Graner, Ford is also a standout wrestler and is being recruited by colleges. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Ford also contributes at linebacker but may be used sparingly to preserve his impact on offense. When available, Ford adds a physical presence and quick-strike ability to the linebacker group.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>&nbsp;[player_tooltip player_id='1256232' first='Carson' last='Hynes'] – OT</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At 6'7", 305 pounds, Hynes is a game-changer in the trenches. After playing through a torn MPFL (Medial Patellofemoral Ligament) last season at center, he is now healthy and back at his natural tackle spot. Hynes has committed to Northern Iowa and is a violent, athletic blocker who can pull, down-block, and finish in space. He's a road grader with a rare combination of size, agility, and toughness. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In addition to Hynes, the team returns three other starters on the offensive line, giving them continuity and a physical edge. While the group is not massive beyond Hynes, they have made strides in the weight room and have bought into the identity of hat-on-a-hat, physical football. A few newcomers and returning athletes are expected to compete for the one open starting spot.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1815924' first='Brayden' last='Heins'] – OL/DL</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A junior with significant upside, Heins stands 6'3", 190 pounds, and runs over 19 mph. Long, fast, and explosive, Heins has already drawn interest from Winona State and could become a stud upfront.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Landon Staudacher – DB</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Stoudtiger is the lone returning defensive back and arguably the team's most intriguing athlete. At 6'2", 175 pounds with verified 21 mph speed, he has the frame and movement skills to play at the college level. A 4.0 student, Stoudtiger has the tools every coach looks. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->