September 26, 2025

Already showing another powerhouse season, Hughson High School Football celebrated a big win against undefeated Ripon (31-28), a preseason favorite in the league.

“Our strength this year is definitely our defense. We’re fast and very physical,” Coach Shaun King said.

Among Hughson’s talents is Bryce McDaniel, committed to playing at Fresno, who begins another season as one of Hughson’s best players. McDaniel is starting next year at tight end and has 16 catches for 251 yards and two touchdowns. Teams have been doubling him up wherever he lines up.

Eli Wilbanks is Hughson's returning running back who currently has 568 yards rushing and three touchdowns.

Another is Lawson Aviles, who plays receiver for Hughson but also runs the ball, and he has 243 yards rushing, 15 catches for 204 yards, and six touchdowns.

Defensively, Valente Soria is back, and, according to King, “he is a menace.”

“Bryce Williams hasn't missed a beat. He's still a lockdown corner, and Brady Caldwell and Nic Wigs pose a problem for teams playing against our defensive line,” King said.

For the first time in four years, the Huskies have a new quarterback, freshman Hudson Baldwin. Another unknown, but sure to become a household name soon, is Titus Beers, who transferred to HHS from Big Valley Christian.

The Huskies are looking forward to playing longtime rival Escalon and Sonora after last year’s classic game. Both schools will host the Huskies as their homecoming opponents.

For King, the season will be an exciting one as Hughson has been promoted to the Division 4 playoffs and will face off with schools they have never played before.

To follow Hughson High Football’s season, check them out on Facebook at Hughson High School Football and Instagram at hughsonhighfootball.