The 2025 season promises to be a pivotal year for the Tallmadge Blue Devils football program. Coming off a competitive 2024 campaign that saw flashes of brilliance and development in key positions, the team enters this new season with a potent mix of seasoned veterans and emerging stars. Under the continued leadership of Head Coach Marcus Hiller, Tallmadge looks to refine its strategy, capitalize on returning talent, and make a deep run in the state playoffs.
Key Players to Watch
The success of the 2025 football season for Tallmadge heavily depends on the performance of a few standout athletes. These players not only bring skill and experience to the field but also set the tone in the locker room and on the practice field.
1. Jake Saunders – Quarterback
As a returning senior and third-year starter, Jake Saunders enters the season as one of the top quarterbacks in the suburban league. Known for his strong arm and accuracy under pressure, Saunders threw for over 2,400 yards and 28 touchdowns last season. He spent the offseason refining his decision-making and footwork, positioning himself as a true dual-threat quarterback. Expect him to be the cornerstone of the offense and a potential All-State candidate.
2. Khalil Benton – Running Back
Benton burst onto the scene last year with over 1,200 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. His combination of speed, vision, and powerful leg drive makes him a nightmare for defenses. Coaches have reportedly designed new zone-read and screen plays to better utilize Benton’s big-play ability in open space.
3. Devin Marshall – Wide Receiver
Arguably the most athletic player on the team, junior Devin Marshall is expected to take a leap after a breakout sophomore campaign. With 62 receptions and 900 yards in 2024, Marshall has become a reliable target for Saunders. His route-running precision and leaping ability make him an endzone threat every time he lines up outside.
4. Tyler Gibbons – Linebacker
On the defensive side, Tyler Gibbons anchors a fast, physical unit. With 98 total tackles and 6 sacks in 2024, Gibbons brings leadership and relentless aggressiveness from the linebacker position. His football IQ and knack for reading offensive schemes give him a clear edge on the field.
5. Ryan Keller – Offensive Line
A senior captain, Ryan Keller provides stability and toughness on the offensive line. Standing at 6’4” and 295 lbs, Keller is known for his strong hands and quick feet. He’ll play a crucial role in protecting Saunders and opening lanes for Benton.
Offensive Strategy
Tallmadge will stick with its tried-and-true spread offense, a system that maximizes its skill player depth and exploits mismatches in the secondary. However, Coach Hiller has emphasized increasing tempo and offensive fluidity this season.
- Fast-Paced Execution: The team practiced running a no-huddle offense during the spring, aiming to tire out opposing defenses and maintain rhythm.
- Dynamic Formations: Expect more trips, bunch, and motion plays to create confusion and force defenses into misalignments.
- Utilizing the RPO: The Run-Pass Option will be heavily featured, capitalizing on Saunders’ decision-making and Benton’s explosiveness.
Much of this strategy hinges on the ability of the offensive line to provide clean pockets and the receivers executing sharp, disciplined routes. With such a versatile lineup, Tallmadge should be able to adjust on-the-fly depending on opponent schemes.
Defensive Focus
On defense, Tallmadge operates out of a 4-2-5 formation, designed to stop the pass-heavy attacks prevalent in their conference. Defensive Coordinator Eric Lansing has stressed aggressiveness and versatility as the foundation for improvement in 2025.
- Zone Blitzing: By mixing up pressures and disguising coverages, the defense aims to confuse quarterbacks and force turnovers.
- Speed Oriented: The focus in training camp was increasing lateral speed for linebackers and safeties, aiming to close gaps and shut down outside zone runs.
- Strong Secondary: With three returning starters in the secondary, including cornerback Jalen Tate, Tallmadge is expected to be more aggressive in press coverage.
Special Teams Impact
Special teams could quietly become the x-factor for the Blue Devils in 2025. Senior kicker Logan Reed has showcased a booming leg, nailing a 52-yard field goal during summer camp. In the return game, sophomore Miles Turner offers game-breaking potential, returning two kicks for touchdowns in the JV squad last year. If Tallmadge can consistently win the field position battle, it could tilt close games in their favor.
Key Games to Circle
- Week 3 vs. Aurora: A marquee matchup early in the season, facing a perennial power. This game will be a litmus test for the Blue Devils’ playoff potential.
- Week 6 at Barberton: The cross-town rivalry always draws a crowd, and emotions often run high. Tallmadge looks to avenge last year’s nail-biting 21–20 loss.
- Week 10 vs. Highland: A critical conference game to end the regular season. Playoff seeding and league standings could be on the line.
Team Goals and Outlook
Coach Hiller has pointed out that the 2025 squad is one of the most balanced and mentally mature teams he’s coached at Tallmadge. The primary goals set by the program include:
- Winning the Suburban League American Division
- Securing a top-5 seed in the regional playoffs
- Advancing to at least the regional semifinals
With leadership at key positions, strategic enhancements on both sides of the ball, and a favorable mix of opponents on the schedule, Tallmadge has real potential to meet — and perhaps exceed — these goals.
Fans and alumni alike are expected to fill the stands with rising anticipation, especially with several players under college recruitment spotlights. The 2025 season is shaping up to be a special chapter in Tallmadge football history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Who is expected to be the starting quarterback in 2025?
A: Senior quarterback Jake Saunders is the projected starter and brings valuable experience and leadership to the team. - Q: What are Tallmadge’s playoff chances this season?
A: With a talented roster and strategic improvements, Tallmadge is a strong contender for a playoff berth and could reach the regional semifinals or beyond. - Q: Which game is considered the biggest of the year?
A: The rivalry game against Barberton in Week 6 is always a major highlight, but matchups against Aurora and Highland could define the season. - Q: Are there any players with college scholarship offers?
A: Yes. Jake Saunders and Khalil Benton have received interest from several Division I and II programs, with offers likely to come during the season. - Q: What kind of offensive system does Tallmadge use?
A: Tallmadge runs a fast-paced spread offense that leverages the athleticism of its playmakers and includes a heavy focus on RPOs and tempo.
