The Madras White Buffaloes have not yet found the win column through two games of the 2026 football season, but if you ask first-year head coach Andrew McConnell, there is plenty of reason to believe this team is closer than the record suggests.
Madras opened the season 0-2 after dropping a 30-6 decision to Phoenix on their home field on Sept. 11. The Pirates came out firing, jumping to a 21-0 lead after the first quarter on a series of explosive plays. Madras was unable to sustain any offense against a quick and physical Phoenix defensive front, and Phoenix added a safety in the third quarter before closing the scoring late.
The lone Madras touchdown came in the fourth quarter on a freshman-to-freshman connection — quarterback Vance Harris found receiver Aven Valero on a 24-yard strike that gave a handful of bright moments to an otherwise difficult evening. Sophomore signal-caller Julyan Barajas saw most of the snaps under center but was sacked repeatedly behind a line still developing its chemistry.
Youth Movement
The roster tells the story: eight freshmen suit up for Madras this fall, compared to just four seniors. It is a team built for the future, with the present requiring a certain amount of patience from fans and coaches alike.
"We are a young team this year, still learning how to sustain drives," McConnell said after the Phoenix loss. "Right now, we are struggling to keep momentum on our side."
McConnell, who took over the program this offseason, was quick to point out the bright spots. Running back Andreaz Plazola was a standout, rushing for a team-high 62 yards including a 42-yard burst that set up the Buffaloes' only score. Plazola also came up with an interception on Phoenix's opening possession and finished with four tackles on defense.
Defense Leads the Way
"Our defense is our strength this year; they did a great job, causing five turnovers throughout the game," McConnell said.
Linebackers Devin Super and Isaiah Cota led Madras in tackles with seven apiece. Super forced a fumble and recovered it as well. The defensive effort — five turnovers against a team that still scored 30 points — underscores the challenge ahead as the Buffaloes look to match defensive intensity with offensive production.
A Tough League Landscape
For the third year running, the 4A Buffaloes are competing in the 3A Special District 3. The league this year includes Klamath Union — another 4A school currently 3-0 and ranked second in the state at the 3A level — along with Pleasant Hill (2-0, ranked third). The remaining teams, including Madras, Sisters, Elmira, and Creswell, are a combined 1-7 through two weeks.
Madras traveled to face 2-1 Douglas on the road Friday, Sept. 19. Results from that contest were not available by press time. Home games continue to draw community support — check the MHS athletic schedule for upcoming Friday night kickoffs at Madras High School.