Team Review - Cedar Ridge Raiders

After finishing the 2025 season with a 5-5 record and a 4-4 mark in district play, the Raiders enter 2026 determined to build on the progress they made. With another offseason of development behind them, the expectation is to take the next step and compete at a higher level each week. Leading the way is head coach Bryan Vardeman, who has the Raiders focused on creating a more consistent and competitive football team as they look to make noise this fall.   Date Opponent Location Time Aug. 27 East View Home 7:00 PM Sept. 4 Copperas Cove Away 7:00 PM Sept. 10 Vista Ridge Home 7:00 PM Sept. 18 Rouse Home 7:00 PM Sept. 25 Round Rock Westwood* Away 7:00 PM Oct. 2 McNeil* Home 7:00 PM Oct. 9 Lake Travis* Away 7:00 PM Oct. 23 Stony Point* Home 7:00 PM Oct. 30 Westlake* Away 7:00 PM Nov. 6 Round Rock* Home 7:00 PM   <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/07/image_a43e7d.png?w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-2257113" /></figure>   Lets Take a Look at the raiders team this year:    Alexander has the ability to be a disruptive force off the edge for the Raiders this season. He brings the athleticism and quickness to create problems in the backfield, whether it's applying pressure on the quarterback or making plays against the run. As he continues to sharpen his technique and develop his pass-rush approach, expect Alexander to be a player opposing offenses have to account for every week.     Torres is an underrated offensive lineman who continues to show why he deserves more attention. He brings a strong work ethic, consistency, and a willingness to do the little things that help an offense succeed. In the trenches, Torres understands the importance of winning leverage, playing with good technique, and staying disciplined through the course of a game.     Ayden is coming off a strong season where he totaled 75 tackles, showing his ability to consistently make plays from the nickel position. He brings good awareness in coverage, the ability to close quickly in space, and the willingness to step up against the run. His production and consistency make him a valuable part of the Raiders' defense, and he will look to build on that performance heading into this season.     Brody is a tough interior presence at nose guard who brings a strong combination of technique and determination to the defensive line. He understands how to use his hands, maintain leverage, and battle through contact in the trenches. His ability to stay disciplined and compete every snap makes him an important piece of the Raiders' defense as they look to control the line of scrimmage this season.     Phillips is a key piece in the trenches who continues to grow as an offensive lineman. He brings a strong work ethic, competes through every rep, and has shown the ability to handle his responsibilities in the run and pass game. His improvement with technique and consistency will be important as he looks to help set the tone for the Raiders' offense this season. Caleb holds 4 offers from UTGRV , SFA, Georgetown and Davison.     Devin brings a powerful running style to the Raiders' offense, giving them a back who can wear down a defense with his strength and physical running ability. While he can be a force between the tackles, Devin also adds another dimension with his ability to catch passes out of the backfield. That combination makes him a difficult matchup and gives the offense another way to create plays in space.     Dylan is coming off an impressive season where he totaled 1,400 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, proving he can be a major factor for the offense. His ability to consistently produce and create big plays gives the Raiders a reliable option when they need to move the ball. With another offseason of preparation ahead, expect Dylan to build on that success and put together another strong campaign this year.     Hunter gives the Raiders another interesting piece because of his ability to line up in multiple roles. Whether he's taking snaps at quarterback or creating mismatches at tight end, he brings athletic ability and a different dimension to the offense.     Jeremiah brings a strong presence to the interior of the defensive line, using his size, strength, and ability to disrupt plays in the trenches. He does a good job creating problems for opposing offenses by fighting through blocks, closing running lanes, and making it difficult for teams to establish a rhythm up front. As he continues to develop his technique and consistency, Jeremiah has the opportunity to be a key piece for the Raiders' defense this season.     Power enters the season coming off a strong year where he recorded 62 tackles, showing his ability to consistently find the football and make plays for the defense. He brings a physical style to the linebacker position, with the awareness to diagnose plays and the effort to finish tackles. As he continues to grow his game, Power will look to build on that production and become an even bigger factor for the Raiders this season.     Harrison brings value in multiple areas, making him a player the team can rely on throughout the season. As a receiver, he continues to develop his skills and find ways to create opportunities in the passing game. On special teams, he is a difference-maker who can change the momentum of a game with his speed, effort, and ability to make plays in space. His impact in both areas gives the Raiders another weapon they can utilize in different situations.     Tyler may not have the biggest frame at the tight end position, but he continues to find ways to make an impact every time he steps on the field. Whether he's being targeted in the passing game or doing the dirty work as a blocker, Tyler brings effort, toughness, and reliability to the offense. His ability to contribute in multiple areas makes him a valuable piece and a player to watch as he continues to develop.     Zion is one of those players who could surprise a lot of people this season. He's embraced the offseason, continued to improve his overall game, and is determined to earn a bigger role on Friday nights.     Trent is a valuable two way athlete who has the ability to impact the game at both wide receiver and safety. On offense, he uses his athleticism to make tough catches, stretch the field, and create plays after the catch. Defensively, he brings good instincts, closes quickly on the football, and isn't afraid to step up and make open field tackles. His ability to contribute on both sides of the ball gives the coaching staff plenty of flexibility and makes him a player to watch throughout the season. Trent has the ball skills you want in a complete player.     Copeland is a dynamic playmaker who brings plenty of excitement every time the ball finds his hands. He does a great job creating separation, tracking the football, and turning short catches into explosive gains with his speed and quickness. Don't be surprised to see the coaching staff get creative with him this season, lining him up for jet sweeps, reverses, and other trick plays designed to get the ball in his hands and let him make defenders miss.     Williams is a young receiver who continues to put in the work to refine every part of his game. As he gains more experience, he'll be expected to play a bigger role in the offense with his reliable hands, improving route running, and ability to create opportunities. A multi sport athlete, Williams also competes on the basketball court, where his athleticism, body control, and competitiveness continue to translate well to the football field.     Jace has been putting in the work this offseason, using 7-on-7 competition as a way to sharpen his game and build chemistry with his teammates. As a receiver, he has focused on improving his timing, route running, and understanding of the offense while creating a stronger connection with the quarterbacks. That extra work and preparation should help Jace step into the season with confidence and make a bigger impact in the Raiders' passing attack.    The Raiders have all the pieces to make a jump in 2026. With experienced leadership, a hungry roster, and a team determined to improve on last season's finish, they'll be a program worth keeping an eye on throughout the year. If they can play consistent football, win the close games, and continue developing on both sides of the ball, don't be surprised to see the Raiders emerge as a contender in district and push for a playoff spot.

After finishing the 2025 season with a 5-5 record and a 4-4 mark in district play, the Raiders enter 2026 determined to build on the progress they made. With another offseason of development behind them, the expectation is to take the next step and compete at a higher level each week. Leading the way is head coach Bryan Vardeman, who has the Raiders focused on creating a more consistent and competitive football team as they look to make noise this fall.