Independence enters the 2026 season with a chip on its shoulder after last year's Class AA quarterfinal exit.

The Patriots won 10 games in 2025, including victories over Herbert Hoover and Bluefield, before injuries contributed to a season-ending loss to Doddridge County. For a program that won 11 playoff games from 2021-2024 and captured the 2022 Class AA state championship, expectations remain high in Coal City.

Head coach John Lilly brings back an experienced group led by a deep offensive and defensive line featuring All-State selections Isaiah Conley and Jaidyn Shuck.

Junior quarterback Brock Green returns for his third season as the starter after throwing 25 touchdowns against just five interceptions during the 2025 regular season. One of his top weapons will be sophomore KJ Viars, who caught 41 passes with seven touchdowns and was the only freshman to earn first or second team Class AA All-State honors last fall.

The Patriots face a challenging nine-game schedule with only two home games, including matchups against 2025 Class AA finalists Frankfort and Bluefield.

Can Independence turn last year's disappointment into another championship run? Watch our full 2026 preseason preview.