High school football is a beloved sport across the United States, and as we approach the 2026 season, it's time to take a look at some of the top teams in each state. While rankings can be subjective, there's no denying the talent and passion that these players bring to the field. From the powerhouse programs to the underdogs looking to make a run, here's a breakdown of some of the best teams in the country, along with my personal insights and commentary.
The Powerhouse Programs
One team that immediately stands out is St. Frances Academy in Maryland. With a rich history of success, they finished No. 2 in the MaxPreps Top 25 in 2025 and are looking to reload for another run at the top. The return of David Gabriel Georges, last year's MaxPreps National Player of the Year, makes them a force to be reckoned with. Georges, a five-star running back, is a key piece in their quest for a third state title in five years. St. Frances has a proven track record of excellence, and with a strong coaching staff led by Brent Browner, they are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs.
Another powerhouse program is Basha High School in Arizona. They took home the state title last season and are looking to win their third championship since 2022. The team's success can be attributed to their strong defense, which has been a hallmark of Basha's program under head coach Scott Pingel. Pingel, in his 19th season, has led the Cadets to 188-34 record and five state titles, making him one of the most successful coaches in the state.
The Underdogs Making a Run
While powerhouse programs often get the spotlight, there are also some underdogs looking to make a run at the top. One such team is the Rams of Archbishop Hoban High School in Ohio. Under the leadership of head coach Lou Marinelli, who enters his 46th season, the Rams have a 399-107 record and 16 state titles. With the addition of Brayton Feister, a talented player from Archbishop Hoban, the Rams are looking to win their second state title since 2023. Feister, a key player on the team, brings a new dimension to the offense and could be the X-factor in their quest for championship glory.
The Rising Stars
For those looking to the future, there are some rising stars who are poised to make an impact in the coming years. One such player is Trae Taylor, a five-star quarterback from Carmel High School in Illinois. Taylor, who made the move from Carmel, is looking to lead the Patriots to their third consecutive Class A state title. With his talent and leadership, he has the potential to become one of the top quarterbacks in the country and lead his team to new heights.
The State Champions
While the focus is often on the top teams, it's also important to acknowledge the state champions. The Braves, for example, have won four state championships in a row and are riding a 33-game win streak. Their success can be attributed to their strong defense, which has been a hallmark of the program under head coach Galen Brantley Jr. Brantley, who has led the Wolverines to 176-10 record and 15 state titles since taking over as head coach in 2007, is a true legend in the state of Michigan.
The Future of High School Football
As we look to the future, it's clear that high school football is in a state of flux. With changing rules and regulations, as well as the rise of other sports, the sport is facing new challenges. However, with the passion and talent of players like Georges and Taylor, it's clear that the sport will continue to thrive. The future of high school football is bright, and with the right leadership and support, it will continue to be a beloved sport for generations to come.
In my opinion, the 2026 season promises to be an exciting one, with some of the top teams in the country looking to make a run at the championship. While rankings can be subjective, there's no denying the talent and passion that these players bring to the field. As we approach the season, it's clear that high school football is a sport that brings people together and inspires young athletes to dream big. So, let's get ready for an exciting season and see what teams rise to the top.
