CUMBERLAND — The Fort Hill Sentinels are gearing up for the 2026 football season with a renewed sense of purpose following a heartbreaking defeat in the Class 1A state championship last December. The Sentinels, who had enjoyed a remarkable run of four consecutive titles, fell short in their quest for a historic five-peat, losing 35-28 to Patuxent. This loss marked their first defeat in a state title game since 2017, when they lost to Dunbar.
Head coach Zack Alkire reflected on the impact of that loss, stating, “Anytime you lose a game, it’s a wake-up call. Losing in the fashion we did, being up big and squandering the lead, hopefully it’s gonna rejuvenate the program a little bit.” With the goal of returning to Annapolis for another shot at the championship, the team has adopted the motto “rise and reclaim” for this season.
As they prepare for the upcoming season, the Sentinels face the challenge of replacing seven seniors who earned All-Area honors last year, including standout Braelyn Younger, who was named Co-Area Player of the Year. Younger was a force on the field, leading the area with 2,224 rushing yards, which ranks as the third-most in the area’s history, and tying the record for rushing touchdowns with 35. His contributions didn’t stop there; defensively, he recorded 67 tackles, an interception, and several forced fumbles.
Other key departures include defensive lineman Kyler Miller, who was a first-team All-Area selection with impressive stats of 85.5 tackles and 19 quarterback pressures, and Noah House, who earned second-team honors at both quarterback and linebacker. House was fourth in the area for passing yards with 1,279 and had a remarkable touchdown-to-interception ratio of 15 to 1.
As of mid-August, the Sentinels have only conducted one full-contact practice, leaving many starting positions still up for grabs. The quarterback position is particularly competitive, with three players vying for the role. Brady O’Neal, who threw for 50 yards last season, is joined by Levi House and Neek Taylor in the battle for the starting spot. Carson Bender, who rushed for 525 yards and seven touchdowns last year, is expected to take on a significant role as the fullback.
Alkire emphasized the importance of versatility in their offensive strategy, stating, “I feel we’re at our best when we mix it around to a bunch of different guys.” This philosophy will be crucial as they seek to fill the gaps left by their departed stars. Landen Richardson, a first-team All-Area tight end, will be a key target in the passing game, alongside returning receiver Jameson Powell-Morris, who caught 14 passes for 410 yards and six touchdowns last season.
Defensively, the Sentinels are bolstered by six returning All-Area players, including Levi House, who was a first-team defensive back and a standout with 145 tackles. The team’s defensive line will also see contributions from Bender and Riley, who both earned second-team honors last season. Alkire noted that competition remains fierce for starting spots, with 39 players on the roster, indicating that many will have the opportunity to contribute this year.
As they look ahead to the season, Fort Hill will face a new opponent, Belmont Charter from Philadelphia, who reached the semifinals in Pennsylvania’s Class 1A last year. Alkire has noted the athleticism of Belmont Charter, emphasizing the challenge they will present. The Sentinels will kick off their season against Northern, followed by a home opener against Belmont Charter, which will be crucial for setting the tone for the rest of the season.
With the motivation of last season's disappointment fueling their drive, the Sentinels are determined to reclaim their title and restore their legacy in Maryland high school football.
Leave a Comment