The Lone Star Conference preseason poll is out, and West Texas A&M finds itself pegged to finish sixth in the 10-team league heading into the 2025-26 football season. While the ranking may not turn heads, there’s more to this Buffaloes squad than meets the eye—and they’re not buying into the low expectations.
Despite a 5–6 finish last season, head coach Josh Lynn enters his third year with a quiet confidence that this year’s team has the tools, talent, and leadership to flip the narrative. At media day held at McKinney ISD Stadium, Lynn spoke optimistically about the program’s direction, and it’s easy to see why.
A Recharged Coaching Staff
The offseason brought some shake-ups in Canyon. Josh Lynn made bold moves to revamp his staff, signaling that "good enough" isn’t good enough anymore.
Justin Bane was brought in as offensive coordinator. A respected mind known for his up-tempo style and player development, Bane’s addition could be just the spark the Buffs’ offense needs after an inconsistent 2024 campaign.
Justin Richter, previously part of the defensive staff, has been promoted to defensive coordinator. Richter has the trust of the locker room and an intimate understanding of the Buffs’ defensive identity. His promotion brings stability and vision to the other side of the ball.
These changes aren't just cosmetic—they reflect a deeper shift in culture. With Lynn now in his third year, the program is no longer rebuilding. It’s transitioning.
Players to Watch: Manahan and Ives
Leadership on the field will be crucial if WT hopes to outperform its preseason slot, and two juniors have already started turning heads.
Cam Manahan, a defensive back out of Lubbock, brings speed, instincts, and veteran awareness to the secondary. Named to the LSC Preseason Watch List, Manahan is poised to anchor a defense that must slow down high-powered conference offenses.
On the other side of the ball, Kanyon Ives, an offensive lineman from Denison, is the type of player every offense needs—tough, smart, and relentless. He’ll be key to protecting the QB and opening running lanes as the Buffs try to establish an identity on offense.
Both players represent what Lynn and his staff are building: tough, blue-collar football with flashes of explosiveness.
The Road Ahead
It won’t be easy. The Lone Star Conference is as competitive as ever, and the preseason poll reflects that:
Angelo State, the defending champs, are again the favorite, securing 23 of 30 first-place votes.
Central Washington, UT Permian Basin, and Texas A&M-Kingsville round out the top four.
WTAMU sits in the middle of the pack at No. 5 (157 points), just ahead of Midwestern State (139), with Eastern New Mexico, Western New Mexico, and Sul Ross State rounding out the bottom.
Still, this is a conference where games are often decided by a handful of plays. WT’s experience, coaching overhaul, and veteran leadership could very well swing close contests their way.
A Historic Program Ready for Another Chapter
While WT hasn’t claimed an LSC title since 2012, the program’s history—five championships in all—speaks to its potential. With the league dating back to 1931, traditions run deep, but so does parity. Teams like Angelo State and Midwestern State have proven that rising from the middle of the pack to the top is possible, and WT is ready to follow that blueprint.
Mark the Calendar: Aug. 28
The Buffs will open their 2025 season on Thursday, August 28, when they head to Gunnison, Colorado, to take on Western Colorado. It’s the start of a nine-game LSC schedule that will test them early and often. But with a fresh staff, motivated players, and something to prove, don’t be surprised if West Texas A&M makes some noise this fall.
Final Thought
