Tamaqua Leans on Powerful Running Game and Veteran Defense Entering 2026
Tamaqua enters the 2026 season with a clear offensive identity, an experienced defense and confidence gained from last year’s postseason run.
The Blue Raiders finished 4-8 in 2025, but the record does not tell the entire story. Tamaqua earned regular-season victories over Pottsville, Salisbury and Bangor before defeating Saucon Valley, 22-15, in the District 11 Class 3A quarterfinals. The season ended with a semifinal loss to Notre Dame-Green Pond, but the playoff victory provided valuable experience for a roster returning several important starters.
Head coach Sam Bonner welcomes back one of District 11’s most productive running backs, an experienced offensive line and eight defensive starters.
Tamaqua must replace Luke Frohnheiser, Brady McCabe, Malachi Stewart and Shawn Chen, but the Blue Raiders return enough production and leadership to believe they can improve significantly in 2026.
Their formula will begin with a physical rushing attack led by junior Terrence McDowell and a defense determined to play more aggressively.
McDowell Returns After Breakout Season
Junior running back Terrence McDowell enters 2026 as the centerpiece of the offense.
McDowell carried the football 315 times for 1,740 yards and 19 touchdowns last season. He also caught eight passes for 91 yards.
His combination of durability, vision and physicality allowed Tamaqua to build its offense around the running game.
McDowell proved capable of handling a heavy workload and remaining productive against some of the strongest defenses in District 11. His ability to consistently gain positive yardage should again help Tamaqua control possession and stay ahead of the chains.
Opposing defenses will know the Blue Raiders want to place the football in McDowell’s hands.
The challenge will be stopping him behind a line returning several experienced starters.
Schickram Moves Into Larger Quarterback Role
Junior Ace Schickram returns after contributing as a runner, receiver and defensive back last season.
Schickram rushed 27 times for 105 yards and caught 26 passes for 283 yards and two touchdowns. He is now expected to direct the offense from quarterback.
His experience at several skill positions should help him understand the offense from a broader perspective.
Tamaqua does not need Schickram to abandon the running identity that defines the team. Instead, the Blue Raiders need him to manage the offense, protect the football and develop an efficient passing attack.
If Schickram can consistently complete short and intermediate throws, defenses will have a more difficult time committing extra players to McDowell.
His athleticism also gives Tamaqua another runner in the backfield and could create additional options in the read and play-action games.
Walker Adds Physicality to Backfield
Senior fullback CJ Walker returns after rushing for 82 yards on 26 carries and catching five passes for 56 yards and one touchdown.
Walker’s value goes beyond his individual production.
He provides toughness as a lead blocker, helps in pass protection and gives the Blue Raiders another physical option in short-yardage situations.
His presence should allow Tamaqua to use multiple formations while maintaining its downhill rushing identity.
The combination of McDowell and Walker gives the Blue Raiders a backfield capable of wearing down opponents over four quarters.
Offensive Line Brings Valuable Experience
Tamaqua returns junior Carter Trotman, senior Damian Jazowski and senior Flynn Coleman along the offensive line.
That experience is a major reason the coaching staff expects the running game to remain the offense’s strength.
The group must help replace Frohnheiser and continue developing younger linemen throughout the season.
Trotman, Jazowski and Coleman have already played significant varsity snaps and understand the physical demands of the Schuylkill League.
Their ability to communicate, sustain blocks and limit negative plays will be essential.
The Blue Raiders want to lean heavily on the running game, but that plan only works if the offensive front consistently controls the line of scrimmage.
Developing depth behind the returning starters will also be important during another demanding schedule.
Phillips Provides Experienced Tight End
Senior Teegen Phillips returns at tight end and defensive end.
Offensively, Phillips gives the Blue Raiders an experienced blocker who can help seal the edge and support the power running game.
His size and athleticism also make him a potential target in the passing game.
A dependable tight end can become especially valuable for a young quarterback. Phillips can provide Schickram with a safe option in the middle of the field while remaining an important part of the blocking scheme.
Passing Game Must Become More Efficient
Tamaqua’s offense will remain run-oriented, but the coaching staff understands it must develop more balance.
An efficient passing attack would prevent defenses from crowding the line of scrimmage and creating unfavorable numbers against McDowell.
The Blue Raiders do not need to throw 30 times per game.
They need to complete enough passes to sustain drives, convert third downs and punish defenses for overcommitting to the run.
Schickram’s development at quarterback and the emergence of new receivers will determine how quickly that part of the offense improves.
If the passing game becomes dependable, Tamaqua’s offense could take a significant step forward.
Defense Returns Eight Starters
The defense may be the most experienced part of the team.
Tamaqua returns eight starters, including several productive linemen, linebackers and defensive backs.
The coaching staff wants the unit to become more aggressive, create more turnovers and consistently get off the field on third down.
The returning experience should allow the Blue Raiders to play faster and communicate more effectively.
Last season’s younger defenders now understand the system and the level of competition they will face each week.
That should result in fewer missed assignments and better overall execution.
Phillips Leads Defensive Front
Phillips returns at defensive end after recording 39 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and four sacks.
His ability to create negative plays makes him one of the defense’s most important returning players.
Phillips can pressure quarterbacks, set the edge and disrupt the running game.
His production gives Tamaqua a proven playmaker on the defensive front and an experienced leader for the younger players around him.
Trotman Brings Pressure Inside
Trotman recorded 31 tackles, five tackles for loss and four sacks last season.
His ability to generate pressure from the interior gives the Blue Raiders another disruptive presence up front.
Trotman and Phillips combined for eight sacks and 16 tackles for loss in 2025.
If they continue producing at that level, opposing offenses will have difficulty controlling the line of scrimmage.
Their pressure should also create more turnover opportunities for the linebackers and secondary.
Coleman and Jazowski Add Experience
Coleman returns at defensive end after recording 21 tackles, five tackles for loss and one sack.
Jazowski added 21 tackles, one tackle for loss and one sack from his linebacker position.
Both seniors give the defense valuable experience and toughness.
Coleman helps complete an experienced defensive front, while Jazowski provides leadership at linebacker.
Their ability to play disciplined football will be important as Tamaqua looks to reduce missed tackles and become more effective on third down.
Kraeuter Steps Into Larger Role
Junior linebacker Jon Kraeuter returns after recording 23 tackles and two tackles for loss.
With another offseason of development, Kraeuter should be prepared to take on a larger role.
He will be asked to play downhill, communicate with the defensive front and help limit opponents’ rushing attacks.
The Blue Raiders return enough experience around him to allow Kraeuter to play aggressively.
McDowell and Schickram Strengthen Secondary
McDowell and Schickram also return as defensive backs.
McDowell recorded 29 tackles, one tackle for loss, one interception and four pass breakups last season.
Schickram added 20 tackles, one tackle for loss and one interception.
Their athleticism gives the Blue Raiders two experienced players capable of defending the pass and supporting the run.
Both are important two-way contributors and will be asked to provide leadership in the secondary.
Shannon Brings Youth and Potential
Sophomore safety Gavin Shannon returns after recording 14 tackles and one forced fumble.
His varsity experience as a freshman should help him take a significant step forward.
Shannon gives the Blue Raiders another athletic defender on the back end and should benefit from playing alongside experienced defensive backs such as McDowell and Schickram.
Tackling and Third Downs Become Priorities
Tamaqua’s defensive goals are straightforward.
The Blue Raiders need to tackle more consistently, create turnovers and get off the field on third down.
Those areas often determine whether a defense can turn solid performances into victories.
Returning eight starters should provide the experience necessary to improve.
The defense already has playmakers capable of creating pressure and takeaways. The next step is producing that level of execution throughout entire games.
Special Teams Positions Remain Open
Special teams is the biggest area of uncertainty entering the season.
Tamaqua must identify a new kicker and punter, while several players are expected to compete for return and coverage roles.
The coaching staff understands the importance of controlling field position and converting extra points.
Those responsibilities cannot be treated as secondary.
The competition should continue throughout preseason camp, and the Blue Raiders need reliable specialists to emerge before the regular season begins.
Players to Watch
Terrence McDowell, Jr., RB/DB: Returning offensive centerpiece after rushing for 1,740 yards and 19 touchdowns.
Ace Schickram, Jr., QB/DB: Versatile athlete moving into the quarterback role after producing as a runner and receiver.
Teegen Phillips, Sr., TE/DE: Two-way leader who recorded 39 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and four sacks.
Carter Trotman, Jr., OL/DT: Productive interior defender who totaled four sacks and five tackles for loss.
Damian Jazowski, Sr., OL/LB: Experienced two-way lineman and linebacker expected to provide senior leadership.
Flynn Coleman, Sr., OL/DE: Returning starter who brings toughness and experience to both lines.
CJ Walker, Sr., FB: Physical back and blocker who complements McDowell in the running game.
Jon Kraeuter, Jr., LB: Returning linebacker expected to take on a larger defensive role.
Gavin Shannon, So., S: Young defensive back with valuable varsity experience and significant upside.
My thoughts on Tamaqua
Tamaqua enters 2026 with a proven identity and enough returning experience to become a stronger team.
The Blue Raiders will build the offense around McDowell, one of District 11’s most productive running backs. An experienced line and physical fullback should allow Tamaqua to remain committed to the ground game.
The biggest offensive question is whether Schickram and the developing receiving corps can create enough balance through the air.
Defensively, the outlook is encouraging.
Eight starters return from a unit featuring productive players at every level. Phillips, Trotman, Coleman and Jazowski provide experience in the front seven, while McDowell, Schickram and Shannon strengthen the secondary.
Tamaqua must improve its tackling, third-down defense and turnover production, but the returning experience gives the coaching staff confidence those areas can improve.
Special teams remains the biggest unknown as the Blue Raiders search for a kicker and punter.
The schedule will again be challenging, with games against Schuylkill Haven, Blue Mountain, Pottsville, North Schuylkill and Selinsgrove among the major tests.
If the offensive line remains healthy, the passing game develops and the defense plays with greater consistency, Tamaqua has the potential to improve upon last year’s record and return to the District 11 Class 3A playoffs.
Head Coach: Sam Bonner
Assistant Coaches:
Mike Bonner
Eddie Titus
Jarrett Reigel
Tyler Skripko
Duane Barron
Team Name: Tamaqua Blue Raiders
District: 11
Class: 3A
League: Schuylkill League – Division 1
2025 Record: 4-8
8/22 Pen Argyl (2A) 7:00 pm L 6-14
8/29 @ North Schuylkill (3A) 7:00 pm L 7-50
9/05 Pottsville Area (4A) 7:00 pm W 21-19
9/11 @ Jim Thorpe Area (4A) 7:00 pm L 27-35
9/19 Salisbury (3A) 7:00 pm W 42-6
9/26 @ Bangor (4A) 7:00 pm W 20-0
10/03 Southern Lehigh (4A) 7:00 pm L 6-49
10/10 Lehighton (4A) 7:00 pm L 16-27
10/17 @ Northwestern Lehigh (3A) 7:00 pm L 16-56
10/24 @ Blue Mountain (4A) 7:00 pm L 20-34
10/30 @ Saucon Valley (3A) 7:00 pm W 22-15 Dist. 11 Class 3A Quarterfinal
11/07 @ Notre Dame GP (3A) 7:00 pm L 16-59 Dist. 11 Class 3A Semifinal @ Lafayette College
2026 Schedule
Date Opponent Kickoff
8/22 @ Hamburg (3A) 10:00 am Scrimmage
8/28 @ Lehighton (4A) 7:00 pm
9/04 Schuylkill Haven (2A) 7:00 pm
9/11 Marian Catholic (1A) 7:00 pm
9/18 Executive Education Academy (3A) 7:00 pm
9/25 Blue Mountain* (4A) 7:00 pm
10/01 @ Pottsville Area* (4A) 7:00 pm
10/09 @ North Schuylkill* (4A) 7:00 pm
10/16 Panther Valley* (3A) 7:00 pm
10/23 @ Selinsgrove (4A) 7:00 pm
10/30 @ Pine Grove Area* (2A) 7:00 pm
Key Starters Lost:
OL/LB Luke Frohnheiser
WR/LB Brady McCabe
FB/DT Malachi Stewart
WR/LB Shawn Chen
Offensive Starters Returning:
Jr RB Terrence McDowell
Jr QB Ace Schickram
Sr FB CJ Walker
Sr TE Teegen Phillips
Jr OL Carter Trotman
Sr OL Damian Jazowski
Sr OL Flynn Coleman
Defensive Starters Returning:
Sr DE Teegen Phillips
Sr DE Flynn Coleman
Sr LB Damian Jazowski
Jr DT Carter Trotman
Jr LB Jon Kraeuter
Jr DB Terrence McDowell
Jr DB Ace Schickram
So Safety Gavin Shannon
Special Team Starters Returning:
None
Key Newcomers:
Sr OL/DL Kaden Krajcirik
Sr OL/DL Alexander Alcantara Pojoy
Sr OL/DL Yaviel Vargas
Sr WR/DB Peyton Schwartz
Jr OL/DL Bryce Nelson
Jr OL/DL Dylan Garcia
Jr OL/DL James Wronski
Sr WR/LB Quinn Coleman
So WR/LB Chance Makovec
So WR/DB Ryder Holmberg
2026 Returning Player Stats:
Offense
Terrence McDowell – 315 carries, 1740yds, 19 TDs, 8 receptions, 91yds
Ace Schickram – 27 carries, 105yds, 26 receptions, 283yds, 2 TD
CJ Walker – 26 carries, 82 yds, 5 receptions, 56yds, 1 TD
Ryder Holmberg – 7 carries, 49 yds, 2 receptions, 24yds
Quinn Coleman – 11 carries, 46yds
Defense
Teegen Phillips – 39 tackles, 11 TFLs, 4 sacks
Carter Trotman – 31 tackles, 5 TFLs, 4 sacks
Terrence McDowell – 29 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 INT, 4 PBU
Jon Kraeuter – 23 tackles, 2 TFLs
Damian Jazowski – 21 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 sack
Flynn Coleman – 21 tackles, 5 TFLs, 1 sack
Ace Schickram – 20 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 INT
Gavin Shannon – 14 tackles, 1 FF
2026 Offensive Outlook: We will look to lean heavily on our run game with all the returning production we have coming back. Developing an efficient passing attack and getting new linemen up experience will be crucial as the season goes on.
2026 Defensive Outlook: We return 8 starters on a defense that will be more aggressive and look to force more turnovers this year. Getting off the field on third down and not missing tackles will be critical for us to be successful.
2026 Special Teams Outlook: There will be multiple players fighting for these special team positions. It will be important for us to find a kicker and punter to try to control field position and make extra points.