FINDLAY, Ohio (WLIO) — The Liberty-Benton Eagles are flying into uncharted territory for the 2026 season, bringing a fresh look and a new conference alignment to Findlay.

Following a stellar 12-1 campaign last year—which matched the program's highest win total since 2017 and secured a third consecutive Blanchard Valley Conference championship—the Eagles are ready to test themselves against new competition. For the past two seasons, Liberty-Benton’s postseason runs have ended in the Division V regional semifinals at the hands of eventual state champion Liberty Center.

To break through that regional barrier, the Eagles must navigate major changes. Liberty-Benton officially transitions into the Cardinal Division of the Northern Lakes League (NLL) this fall. Along with the league realignment, the team welcomes first-year head coach Jason Peters to the sidelines.

As the Eagles adapt to a new conference schedule and a new coaching staff, they will rely heavily on veteran leadership. Senior quarterback Connor Barbara and senior wide receiver Grayson Wages are set to anchor the offense, providing a steadying presence as Liberty-Benton aims to sustain its championship culture in a new era.