When Bethany coach Jonn Arthur looks at his offensive and defensive lines, he sees plenty of familiar faces.

The Bronchos hope to benefit from that experience when they open the 2026 season Friday (Aug. 28) against 4A runner-up Elgin, Bethany has everyone returning on the lines except for one player.

“That is such a critical part of the game in high school we are fortunate to return a nucleus of guys at that position,” Arthur said via a preseason questionnaire. “When you are good up front you have a chance each and every week regardless of the opponent.”

Bethany was hit by the transfer portal in the offseason with junior Breck Brady heading to Mustang in the spring followed by senior Wyatt Keefer going back to Putnam City this summer.

“We will definitely need some new and young faces to step up and make plays after losing some players to the new transfer policies the state has enacted,” Arthur said.

Arthur emphasized his team’s mission goes beyond the turf.

“We are focused on the players in our program and helping them become the best young men they can be and learning to be a part of a true team as opposed to functioning as individuals.

“That culture has been a big part of our program for a long time, even prior to my time as the head coach, and we will continue to emphasize that since building men is the most important thing when it comes to high school football.”

Key returnees for the Bronchos include quarterback and safety Brody McLaren (5’11”, 175 lbs). McLaren threw for 1,856 yards last season and 18 touchdowns. The senior completed 129 of 218 passes. McLaren also had 523 yards and six touchdowns on 98 Carries.

Another offensive weapon returning is running back Xzavier McGee (5’9″, 185 lbs). The junior rushed for 267 yards and three touchdowns on 56 Carries.

Also returning is senior wide receiver and safety Eli Mars (5’8″, 170 lbs). Mars had 61 Tackles on defense.

Other Bronchos returning include:
Micah Chatman (OL), 6’1″, 290
Ozzie Brown (OL), 5’10”, 230
Angel Lopez (OL/DL), 5’7″, 230
Gabe Baxter (OL/DL),6’1, 260
James Plummer (DL), 6’1″, 260
Mitchell Pace (LB), 5’9″, 185
Stoli Melton (OL/DL), 6’1″, 260
Isaiah White (OLB), 6’4″, 195
Cruz Burleson (WR), 5’7″, 145

A newcomer for Bethany is senior wide receiver and outside linebacker Cooper Willis (6’3″, 195 lbs). Willis has been a contributor to the Broncho baseball team.

UP NEXT

Bethany hosts 4A runner-up Elgin Friday (Aug. 28) at 7 p.m. at SNU Football Stadium.

The Owls’ sent Bethany to a first-round exit in the playoffs last season.

Photographs courtesy of Kristie Escoe of Life in Action Photography.

BETHANY 2026 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

HOME GAMES in bold

* District game