Points were not at a premium for Highland Park a year ago.
The Scots racked up an average of 47.5 points per game and scored more than 50 points on six occasions.
When the level of competition stepped up, so too did HP. The Scots averaged 46.5 points in their four playoff contests.
HP is hopeful for similar production in 2026, and with good reason. Quarterback Buck Randall is back for his third season starting under center.
Last year, Randall threw for 4,396 yards and 51 touchdowns while also chipping in 509 rushing yards and 12 additional scores.
But if you ask Randall, much of the optimism surrounding HP’s offense comes with its balance.
“I want to say that we’re going to be an explosive offense,” he said. “But at the same time, looking at our new personnel, I think we’re going to have a really good running game … I think we’ll be able to lean on that more and control the game a little better.”
HP’s offensive line features two returning starters in Benton Weathersby and Cooper Alt, as well as Colton Williams — who earned a starting spot a year ago before suffering a season-ending injury in HP’s opener.
Rounding out the projected starters on the line are Luke Swaner and Trey Lander, while Caiden Reeves is projected to be the lead running back with support from James Flowers.
The biggest question comes at receiver, where HP was decimated by graduation. But Randall noted that he is already developing a strong rapport with his new receivers.
Among the players expected to contribute as pass-catchers are James Axley, Evan Snelleman, Liam Thomas, Luke Cecil, Beckett Lawrence, and Dean Dulin.
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