While Alaska often conjures images of majestic wilderness, the state also boasts a fierce gridiron tradition, particularly in its high school football scene. This season, attention turns to a remarkable cohort of top running backs poised to dominate the field, proving that robust ground games are key to success in the Last Frontier’s often challenging climate.

As the 2025 high school football season rapidly approaches, anticipation builds around the offensive playmakers who are set to become the driving force for their respective teams. These returning athletes bring a blend of power, agility, and experience, making them central figures in the upcoming battle for state supremacy.

Among the standout contenders is Patrick Melvin, who returns as the state’s second-leading rusher from last season. His impressive statistics of 892 yards on 134 carries, coupled with eight touchdowns and an average of nearly seven yards per attempt, underscore his exceptional ability to consistently gain significant yardage and find the end zone. Melvin’s five 100-yard games highlight his sustained impact on the field.

Luke Poland also emerges as a formidable force for the Mustangs, having showcased his dynamic playmaking abilities in the previous year. Poland accumulated 526 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 84 carries, maintaining an average of over six yards per carry. His capacity to break free for big gains was evident in his two 100-yard rushing performances.

Riei Anselmo, while seeing limited action last season, displayed tantalizing flashes of his inherent running talent. Across nine games, Anselmo contributed 253 rushing yards and a touchdown on 63 carries. His longest rush of 15 yards and an average of four yards per carry indicate a promising foundation upon which he is expected to build a more significant presence this coming season.

Similarly, Landen Glynn is another talented running back who is eager to expand his role and make a more substantial impact. In 2024, Glynn proved highly efficient with 206 yards and two touchdowns on just 13 carries. His peak performance included a remarkable 142 yards and a touchdown on six carries during a pivotal 32-14 victory over Palmer, showcasing his explosive potential.

The engagement of the fan base is a crucial element of the high school football experience in Alaska. We invite enthusiasts to participate in our corresponding poll, which serves as a fun way to recognize these nominated athletes. This interactive approach allows the community to voice their support for who they believe stands out as the top returning running back for the 2025 season.

This poll is designed to celebrate the achievements of these young athletes and foster a sense of community pride. It underscores the passion for Alaska high school football and the excitement surrounding the individual talents who will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the upcoming season. Fans’ votes will help highlight the players generating the most buzz.