Robinson 2025 Preview

Focus. That’s the word echoed all offseason around the Robinson Rams football program, and for good reason. After a 2024 season that saw flashes of potential but not the consistency they wanted, head coach Sean Blair and his staff have made it clear that every detail matters. Whether it’s how they run through a drill in July or how they close out a game in October, the goal is clear—be sharper, be tougher, and don’t waste a rep.

It’s the second full year in this offensive system, and the staff believes the players are far more comfortable and confident across the board. That should translate to better execution, especially early in the season where tough matchups have sometimes caught them flat-footed in past years. Blair wants his team to get hot early and build momentum—because in a region this deep, every game feels like a playoff. That’s especially true in the Patriot District, where there are no off weeks. “Our conference is unforgiving,” Blair said. “It should be a playoff atmosphere every week.”

Robinson graduated key pieces last year, most notably Zylstra and the Scaperotto twins, who were cornerstones of their identity. Replacing that kind of production is never easy, but the Rams are confident in the guys stepping up. Tyler Nelsen, Brock Riley, Luke Reily, and JJ Boeckx are all players Blair pointed to who will help fill those gaps and take on bigger roles this fall.

But if there’s one side of the ball Robinson might be able to lean on this year, it’s the defense. The linebacking corps could be one of the strongest units in the region, both in talent and depth. Jack Lewis and Cody Friesz will anchor the middle, while Thomas Phillips will be a force up front. Dom Sta. Ana adds versatility and toughness at linebacker, and Bruce Brannon gives them a trusted presence on the back end. Blair flat-out said this defense could surprise a lot of people. They’re physical, smart, and bought in.

There’s a different edge to this year’s group. Blair sees a real shift in chemistry—leadership is no longer isolated to just seniors or skill positions. It’s widespread, embedded in the locker room culture. The returning players seem hungrier, more aware of how small things—like a busted blocking assignment or a missed tackle—can be the difference in a close playoff game. That maturity is starting to show.

Robinson isn’t changing who they are. They’re still going to be physical, still going to try and wear you down. But now they’re trying to do it with a level of sharpness that turns good teams into dangerous ones. If they can start fast, stay healthy, and keep that focus Blair keeps preaching, this could be a team that no one wants to see in November.