2026 Vian Wolverines Football Preview – Presented by Vian Family Dental Clinic

VIAN WOLVERINES
Coach: LANCE WINANS
12-2


Vian returns in 2026 after a 12-2 season and back-to-back state title game appearances under interim head coach Lance Winans, who has been on staff at the school for 16 years. Winans acknowledges the Wolverines will look different this fall but remains optimistic, saying they “will look to reload after graduating a class that led us to two state title appearances” and that they “will have fresh faces in a lot of different positions but look to be back playing in December.”


Offensively, Vian will run a multiple spread formation while still leaning on a strong ground game. Winans notes, “We will run a multiple spread formation offense. We will establish the run game.” Senior receiver Adoff Stahl and senior wideout Dee Antwine provide experience and size on the perimeter, with Antwine standing 6-4. Sophomore quarterback Carter Madsen steps into a key role as the new signal-caller, while sophomore running back Amos Wright gives Vian a powerful, high-motor runner in the backfield and sophomore lineman Zayden Cheater anchors the offensive line at 6-0, 240 pounds.


Defensively, the Wolverines bring back three starters and will again feature a multiple front and coverage system focused on stopping the run. Winans says, “We will run a multiple front and coverage defense. We will focus on stopping the run.” Stahl doubles as a senior safety, while junior linebacker Manny Terill and sophomore defensive end Wright add size and athleticism in the front seven. Madsen contributes on that side of the ball at linebacker.
Stahl is Vian’s VYPE Top 100 nominee, with Winans calling him “one of the best defensive backs regardless of class.” He has led the team in tackles each of the last two seasons and “makes an impact on offense as well.” Wright is another true game changer who “plays running back and defensive end” and “plays with a high motor,” with Winans noting that he “plays older than his grade.” Even with so many new faces, the combination of proven stars, talented underclassmen and a clear identity has Vian aiming to extend its December tradition in 2026.


8-28 – vs. Holdenville
9-11 – at Kiefer
9-18 – at Muldrow
9-25 – vs. Pocola
10-2 – at Panama
10-9 – vs. Warner
10-15 – at Okemah
10-23 – vs. Coalgate
10-30 – at Haskell
11-6 – vs. Hulbert

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