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<p>Willamette is transitioning from 5A to 6A this year, but does so with significant expectations. </p>
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<p>The offense has a star quarterback, weapons galore on the perimeter and an offensive line with a few key, proven pieces.</p>
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<p>While the defense will enter the season with more questions, there's also plenty of upside on that side of the ball.</p>
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<p>Here's a look at the Willamette defense (<a href="https://prepredzone.com/2025/08/willamette-offense-hopes-to-hit-ground-running-in-6a-football/">Willamette offense here</a>):</p>
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<p><strong>Defensive line</strong></p>
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<p>Oregon Ducks commit and four-star edge-rusher [player_tooltip player_id='739439' first='Tony' last='Cumberland'] has taken some big strides since last season and should have a breakout campaign this fall.</p>
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<p>Willamette coach Josh Line believes he's among the most talented young prospects he's seen - in his playing and coaching days. </p>
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<p>“He leads the crew," he said. "Really, really dynamic and athletic. He's emerged as a leader and we're pumped about his desire to be a leader. He's accepted that responsibility.”</p>
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<p>“I think he's the best player in the state and we're expecting him to play like it." </p>
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<p>Star offensive linemen [player_tooltip player_id='1569372' first='Aiden' last='Lewey'] and [player_tooltip player_id='937281' first='Tripp' last='Johansen'] will be joined by Aiden Christian, adding further talent and potential to the group.</p>
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<p>Emerging impact player Jason Strausbaugh filled a need last season, but is more prepared for his key varsity role this fall.</p>
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<p><br>“He's going to be a junior," Line said. "We threw him to the wolves a little bit early last year, but he's gotten himself ready and is in great shape."</p>
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<p>The front should be the strength of the defense, and could prove to be a disruptive force, particularly if Cumberland can truly make the leap to "best player in the state" territory. </p>
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<p><strong>Linebacker</strong></p>
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<p>Junior linebacker [player_tooltip player_id='791149' first='Kawai' last='Chamberlin'] is emering as a true tone setter.</p>
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<p>The 6-foot-3, 220-pound 'backer already holds offers from Boise State, Nevada, Washington State and others, but should see his recruitment hit another gear after he puts together strong junior tape.</p>
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<p>"He's our best guy - big, physical kid," Line said. "He played outside last year, and we're bringing him inside. He's excited about what's in front of him and he's going to make some plays.”</p>
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<p>Two seniors, Blake Pearce [player_tooltip player_id='1112424' first='Kyron' last='Smith'], should also be key contributors - with a handful of others expected to battle for playing time.</p>
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<p>On a team with a blend of veterans, youth and transfer talent, there are maybe more unknowns than a squad that returns its entire core.</p>
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<p>But it's also an exciting problem to have.</p>
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<p>Willamette has a roster loaded with players embracing the challenge and fighting for playing time.</p>
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<p><strong>Defensive back</strong></p>
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<p>The defensive backfield is probably the biggest unknown on the roster for Willamette.</p>
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<p>Returning senior starter Brody Butler is back, and [player_tooltip player_id='1654724' first='Hunter' last='Vaughn'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1103441' first='Maveryck' last='Akers'] are likely to see significant snaps on defense due to the impressive, budding depth at running back and wide receiveer.</p>
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<p>Both Vaughn and Akers are special talents who could prove to be all-league-worthy of both sides of the ball.</p>
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<p>Class of 2028 [player_tooltip player_id='1609776' first='Tevin' last='Candelario'] is a young name to watch.</p>
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<p>From there, Line and the coaching staff will be watching fall camp closely as several names have shown flashes and are battling for playing time.</p>
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<p>A few of those races are quite close. </p>
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Willamette is transitioning from 5A to 6A this year, but does so with significant expectations.
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