New Era, Familiar Expectations: Riverside Looks to Reload Under Jim Tucker
A new chapter begins at Riverside, but the expectations haven’t changed.
Jim Tucker takes over as head coach after helping build one of District 2’s most successful programs, and he inherits a team that finished 8-3 in 2025, reached the District 2 Class 2A semifinals and once again established itself as a contender in the Lackawanna Football Conference Division 3.
The Vikings opened last season with impressive victories over Dunmore and Hanover Area, won eight of their first nine games and scored at least 49 points in seven contests. Along the way, Riverside dominated league competition with convincing victories over Susquehanna Community, Holy Cross, Carbondale Area and Old Forge before falling to eventual district champion Dunmore in the postseason.
Now comes the challenge of replacing a talented senior class.
The Vikings graduated several key contributors, including Tavian Branch, Santino D’Amico, Madden Sandly, Angel Grande, Max Jackson, Ny-Jai Scott-Holt, Cooper Borowski and Dave Keiper.
Despite those losses, Riverside returns one of the area’s premier quarterbacks, a proven No. 1 receiver, an explosive sophomore running back and several experienced defensive playmakers.
The biggest challenge won’t be replacing talent.
It will be learning new systems.
Tucker and his staff are installing new offensive and defensive schemes while maintaining the physical identity that has defined Riverside football for years.
If the Vikings adjust quickly, they have the pieces to remain among the top teams in District 2 Class 2A.
Brayden Rose Returns as One of District 2’s Top Playmakers
Everything begins with senior quarterback Brayden Rose.
At 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, Rose enters the season as one of the most dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Last season he completed 77-of-156 passes for 1,070 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing 99 times for 745 yards and another 15 scores.
His impact didn’t stop there.
Rose also returned three kickoffs and one punt for touchdowns, making him a game-changing threat every time he touched the football.
His athletic ability, leadership and experience make him the centerpiece of Riverside’s offense.
Learning a new offensive system is rarely easy, but having an experienced quarterback accelerates the process.
Rose understands defenses, extends plays and gives the Vikings the ability to attack opponents in multiple ways.
His development within the new scheme will largely determine Riverside’s offensive ceiling.
Jackson Headlines Dangerous Receiving Corps
Senior Jared Jackson returns after establishing himself as one of the Lackawanna Football Conference’s top receivers.
Jackson caught 41 passes for 631 yards and six touchdowns in 2025, consistently providing Rose with a reliable target on critical downs.
At 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, he possesses the size to win contested catches and the athleticism to create yards after the reception.
Jackson’s chemistry with Rose should help ease the transition into the new offense.
Opposing defenses will undoubtedly focus on limiting Jackson’s production, making it essential for other receivers to emerge throughout the season.
If Riverside develops multiple receiving threats, Jackson’s presence alone can create favorable matchups elsewhere.
Anstett Ready for Expanded Role
Sophomore running back Charlie Anstett quietly produced one of the most efficient seasons on the roster last year.
On only 50 carries, Anstett rushed for 516 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging more than 10 yards per carry.
His combination of speed, vision and explosiveness gives Riverside another dangerous offensive weapon.
With a full offseason of development and additional opportunities expected, Anstett could become one of District 2’s breakout performers.
His ability to complement Rose in the running game should prevent defenses from focusing solely on the quarterback.
Together, the pair gives Riverside a backfield capable of creating explosive plays on any snap.
Barnett Provides Versatility
Senior Carmelo Barnett returns after compiling 640 all-purpose yards and 10 total touchdowns.
Barnett’s versatility makes him one of the offense’s most valuable pieces.
Whether lining up as a receiver, runner or return option, he gives the coaching staff flexibility when designing weekly game plans.
The Vikings want to become less predictable offensively.
Barnett’s ability to contribute in multiple ways helps accomplish that goal.
As defenses devote attention to Rose, Jackson and Anstett, Barnett could become the player who consistently creates matchup problems.
New Offensive System Will Define Early Season
While Riverside returns significant talent, the biggest offensive storyline is the installation of an entirely new system.
The coaching staff believes how quickly the players learn and execute the offense will largely determine the team’s success.
The Vikings know Rose, Jackson and Anstett will attract defensive attention every week.
The question is who emerges as the fourth and fifth dependable options.
Developing additional playmakers will prevent defenses from loading the box or bracketing Jackson in coverage.
The offensive line must also develop quickly.
Riverside expects a young but physically strong group to compete for starting roles.
Junior Exavier Pelton returns as the lone experienced tackle, giving the line an important leader.
The Vikings firmly believe success starts in the trenches.
Everything else depends on how well that group develops.
Young Offensive Line Holds the Key
Replacing experienced linemen is never easy, particularly while installing a new offensive system.
The coaching staff expects internal competition throughout preseason camp as younger players battle for playing time.
Pelton provides stability at tackle, but the Vikings will need several inexperienced linemen to mature quickly.
The line must establish the running game, protect Rose and create consistency regardless of the opponent.
If the group develops as expected, Riverside’s offense has enough skill talent to become one of the highest-scoring units in District 2.
Tucker Adds New Wrinkles Defensively
Defensively, Tucker is blending the foundation he helped establish under former head coach Harry Armstrong with several new concepts.
The philosophy remains similar, but the details are evolving.
Again, the speed at which players learn the adjustments will determine how quickly the defense reaches its potential.
Riverside must replace several accomplished defenders while developing a young defensive front.
The returning leaders will be responsible for helping those newcomers transition into larger roles.
Rose Becomes Defensive X-Factor
Rose’s impact extends well beyond quarterback.
The senior has already attracted multiple Division I scholarship offers as a defensive player and is expected to anchor the Vikings’ secondary.
His size, athleticism and instincts allow him to erase mistakes and make plays across the field.
Tucker called Rose the defense’s “X-factor.”
His ability to cover receivers, support against the run and create turnovers gives Riverside tremendous flexibility defensively.
Few Class 2A teams have a player capable of influencing the game in as many ways.
Jackson and Grill Bring Stability to Secondary
Jackson also returns at cornerback after contributing on both sides of the football.
His size and physicality allow Riverside to match up against larger receivers while maintaining its aggressive style.
Senior safety Tyler Grill provides additional experience on the back end.
Together with Rose, the trio gives Riverside one of the conference’s more experienced secondaries.
Communication and leadership from those veterans should help younger defenders settle into expanded roles.
Pelton Anchors Developing Defensive Front
Pelton returns at defensive end after gaining valuable varsity experience.
At 6-foot-1 and 250 pounds, he provides size and physicality on the defensive line.
The Vikings are counting on him to help lead a relatively inexperienced front.
Tucker emphasized that football games are won and lost in the trenches.
The defensive line must control the line of scrimmage, occupy blockers and allow the linebackers to play downhill.
If the young front develops steadily, Riverside’s experienced secondary can become even more dangerous.
Fox Ready for Larger Role
Junior Chris Fox returns at outside linebacker after showing promise last season.
Fox’s athleticism and length make him an intriguing player within the new defensive system.
With several veteran linebackers gone, he now has the opportunity to become one of the unit’s leaders.
His development will be important as Riverside looks to maintain its physical defensive identity.
Special Teams Face Major Transition
Perhaps no position will be more difficult to replace than kicker and punter.
Graduated senior Santino D’Amico was a two-time All-Region selection who consistently changed games with field goals, punts and kickoffs.
Replacing that level of production will not happen overnight.
Finding a dependable kicker and punter is one of Riverside’s top priorities throughout preseason camp.
Meanwhile, Rose remains one of the state’s most dangerous return specialists after scoring four return touchdowns last season.
Opponents are likely to avoid kicking directly to him whenever possible.
That means someone else must emerge as a reliable return threat when the football goes elsewhere.
Improved depth in the return game will be essential.
Players to Watch
Brayden Rose, Sr., QB/DB/Returner: One of District 2’s premier athletes, accounting for 32 offensive touchdowns while adding four return touchdowns and serving as the defense’s X-factor.
Jared Jackson, Sr., WR/CB: Proven playmaker who caught 41 passes for 631 yards and six touchdowns while returning as a starting cornerback.
Charlie Anstett, So., RB: Explosive young running back who rushed for 516 yards and eight touchdowns on only 50 carries.
Carmelo Barnett, Sr., ATH: Versatile weapon who produced 640 all-purpose yards and 10 touchdowns.
Exavier Pelton, Jr., OT/DE: Returning two-way lineman expected to anchor both fronts.
Tyler Grill, Sr., S: Veteran safety who provides leadership in the secondary.
Chris Fox, Jr., OLB: Athletic linebacker expected to assume a larger defensive role.
My thoughts on Riverside
Riverside enters 2026 balancing continuity with change.
The Vikings have a new head coach, new offensive concepts and new defensive wrinkles, but they also return one of the most talented quarterbacks in northeastern Pennsylvania and an experienced supporting cast.
Rose gives Riverside a player capable of taking over games, while Jackson, Anstett and Barnett provide proven offensive production.
The biggest offensive questions surround the development of a young offensive line and identifying additional playmakers within the new scheme.
Defensively, the Vikings return an experienced secondary led by Rose, Jackson and Grill, but the development of the defensive line and linebackers will determine how quickly the unit comes together.
Special teams must also replace the tremendous production of D’Amico while continuing to capitalize on Rose’s explosiveness in the return game.
The Lackawanna Football Conference Division 3 again features strong competition, with Lakeland, Dunmore, Lackawanna Trail and Holy Cross presenting significant challenges.
Riverside proved last season it can compete with anyone in the conference.
If the Vikings quickly adapt to Tucker’s systems and the young linemen mature throughout the season, they have the talent to return to the District 2 Class 2A playoffs and compete for another championship opportunity.
Head Coach: Jim Tucker
Assistant Coaches:
Jim Tucker
Bryan Besecker
Ben Thomas
Charlie Grande
Chris Stecik
Corey Talerico
Mike White
Tyler Armillay
Ron Pavalonis
Team Name: Riverside Vikings
District: 2
Class: 2A
League: Lackawanna Football Conference, Division 3
2025 Record: 8-3
8/22 @ Dunmore (2A) 7:00 pm W 17-14
8/29 Hanover Area (3A) 7:00 pm W 34-31
9/05 Lakeland (2A) 7:00 pm L 23-33
9/12 @ Lake-Lehman (3A) 7:00 pm W 49-7
9/18 @ Montrose Area (3A) 7:00 pm W 60-6
9/27 @ Susquehanna Community* (2A) 1:00 pm W 55-7
10/03 Holy Cross* (1A) 7:00 pm W 58-6
10/10 @ Carbondale Area* (3A) 7:00 pm W 55-7
10/17 Old Forge* (1A) 7:00 pm W 49-8
10/24 Lackawanna Trail* (1A) 7:00 pm L 14-40
10/31 Dunmore (2A) 7:00 pm L 7-27 District 2 Class 2A Semifinal
2026 Schedule:
Date Opponent Kickoff
8/22 @ Wyoming Valley West (6A) 10:00 am Scrimmage
8/28 Susquehanna Community (2A) 7:00 pm
9/04 Holy Cross (1A) 7:00 pm
9/11 @ Lake-Lehman (3A) 7:00 pm
9/18 Lackawanna Trail (1A) 7:00 pm
9/25 @ Old Forge (1A) 7:00 pm
10/02 Lakeland* (2A) 7:00 pm
10/09 @ Mid Valley* (3A) 7:00 pm
10/16 @ Western Wayne* (3A) 7:00 pm
10/23 Dunmore* (2A) 7:00 pm
10/30 @ Honesdale* (4A) 7:00 pm
Key Starters Lost:
Tavian Branch
Santino D’Amico
Madden Sandly
Angel Grande
Max Jackson
Ny-Jai Scott-Holt
Cooper Borowski
Dave Keiper
Offensive Starters Returning:
SR. QB Brayden Rose 6-3 210
SR. WR Jared Jackson 6-1 205
SO. RB Charlie Anstett 5’10 175
JR. OT Exavier Pelton 6’1 250
SR. ATH Carmelo Barnett 6-0 160
Defensive Starters Returning:
SR. ATH Brayden Rose 6-3 210
SR. CB Jared Jackson 6-1 205
SR S Tyler Grill 6-0 160
JR.DE Exavier Pelton 6’1 25
JR. OLB Chris Fox 6’0 180
Special Team Starters Returning:
Returner Brayden Rose 6-3 210
Key Newcomers:
SO. OL Aidan Taylor 6-0 250
JR. OL Eli Paroby 6-0 260
JR. OL Markus Ngongo 6-1 270
Sr. WR/DB Tavion Gonzalez 6-2 170
Sr. ILB Carter Whetstone 6-0 180
2026 Returning Player Stats:
Brayden Rose
Passing: 77/156, 1070 yards 17 TDS
Rushing: 99 carries for 745 yards 15 TDs
Special Teams: 3 KOR and 1 PR TDs
Jared Jackson –
41 Receptions 631 yards 6 TDs
Charlie Anstett
50 carries 516 yards 8 TDs
Carmelo Barnett
640 all purpose yards 10 total TDs
2026 Offensive Outlook: Brand new offensive system being installed. How quickly we can learn and properly execute the scheme will be a major factor for our success. Outside of Brayden, Jared, and Charlie, who else becomes a consistent weapon to keep the offense moving when one or more of those 3 are taken away. Will be a young, very strong offensive line group. How well they develop and improve throughout the season will be the ultimate key to our success. Everything begins and ends up front, they have to be the engine that keeps the offense consistently moving.
2026 Defensive Outlook: Marrying the existing system I helped build with Coach Armstrong with new concepts and scheme. Similar to the offense, how quick we understand and are able to execute the scheme a big factor. Brayden has multiple division 1 offers as a defensive player, he will be our X factor in the back end. Who else steps up to help him anchor the group? And like the offense, the game is always won and lost in the trenches. The development of the young, relatively inexperienced defensive line and LBs will be our biggest key to success.
2026 Special Teams Outlook: Replacing a two time all region kicker/punter in Santino D’Amico will not be easy. He helped us win several games during his career, not only with points but pinning teams deep with punts and touchbacks. Developing his replacement into a reliable punter and kicker will be our biggest key in the kicking game.
Brayden will also play a major role in the return game. Who else steps up with explosive returns when the ball is kicked away from him?