WEST LIBERTY – West Liberty University will put a bow on spring football practice with its annual Spring Game this Wednesday at 7 p.m. inside West Family Stadium. Head Coach Roger Waialae, entering his 21st season at the helm, is feeling optimistic about the direction his program is headed–especially in the trenches.

“I’ve seen a lot of growth along the offensive line,” Waialae said. “Guys who were considered projects are now ready to play and be counted on. We’ve had players step up even after being forced to play out of position last year.”

One of the biggest developments this spring has come at the quarterback position. Waialae said he’s more confident now than he was at the end of last season, with four players competing for the starting job. Returners Levi Gullion and Trevor Lagarde–both of whom saw action in 2024–are joined by redshirt freshman Jaren Brickner and transfer Kohl Meisman.

“All four have elevated their games because of the competition,” Waialae said. “It’s the best I’ve felt about the position in a while.”

At wide receiver, the Hilltoppers are looking for a go-to guy with standout Marquez Hurst sidelined for the spring. Waialae pointed to returners AJ McFarland and Jaylin Harcum, along with transfers Trey Singleton, Marcel Holyfield, and Rashad Murray as players who have shown strong potential during spring drills.

Another bright spot on offense has been the tight end group,with returning second team all-conference Will Balgo currently playing baseball; they have been led by Caleb Ratcliffe. Waialae called Ratcliffe “probably the most improved player offensively,” adding that he’s always “where he’s supposed to be.”

The running back room is also shaping up to be one of the deepest on the roster. While leading rusher Hunter Patterson is currently competing with the track team, the Toppers have used the spring to build depth. Waialae highlighted Jaquan Reynolds, Jaedon Alston, Tilan McGee, and Ohio State transfer Rashid Sesay as names to watch moving forward.

On the defensive side, the Hilltoppers are young but showing signs of improvement.

“We’re a little thin in the defensive backfield right now because of injuries,” Waialae said, “but guys like Xavier George and Junas Jackson–who played as true freshmen last year–have made a lot of progress.”

He also pointed out the contributions of defensive backs Nazil Robinson, Kemond Brown, and Jameson Holiday, who’ve stepped up in the absence of some others.

At linebacker, Waialae praised the consistent play of Chris Harm, Nolan Shimp, and Brandon Kinney. He also mentioned that Sawyer VanMetre and Brayden Rauch “continue to get better every day.”

One of the coach’s biggest concerns heading into the fall is the health of the defensive line.

“If we’re healthy, we’re fine,” Waialae said. “But right now, we’ve had too many injuries there.” Still, he was encouraged by the spring performances of Nate Jennings, Melique Lewis, and Grant Neiswonger–who he called “probably the most improved player on defense.” Returners like Bre’Andre Horsley, Grant Thompson, and Delano Marcellus have been sidelined for much of the spring, but are expected to return for fall camp.

Special teams also earned a vote of confidence from the veteran head coach. Waialae said he’s pleased with the consistency in the kicking game, led by Morgan Williamson and Collin McDermitt, with Bryce Bateman handling long snapping duties.

All told, Waialae feels like this spring was a success.

“We’ve accomplished what we needed to,” he said. “There’s been great competition, better execution, and more attention to detail. Most importantly, I think this team is learning how to support one another–and that’s what it’s all about.”