Cabell Midland
2025 Record: 1-9
SSAC Rank: #19
Cabell Midland faced a difficult road in 2025, taking on a challenging schedule while continuing to develop a young roster. Despite the record, the Scarlet Knights showed progress throughout the season and enter 2026 with reason for optimism.
The biggest strength should come along the line, where Braeden Armstead, Aiden Estep, Keian Shelton, and Eli Thompson provide a talented and experienced group. The return of Carson Christian, who transferred to Ohio before returning, gives the skill group a much-needed boost and adds another playmaker to the offense.
The second half of the schedule will be critical. Matchups against Hurricane, Woodrow Wilson, Parkersburg, and Parkersburg South provide opportunities to turn improvement into wins and establish the Scarlet Knights as a playoff contender.
George Washington
2025 Record: 8-2
SSAC Rank: #5 (Quarterfinals)
The Patriots put together an impressive 2025 campaign, earning their first playoff victory since 2022 and extending their streak of postseason appearances to seven consecutive seasons. George Washington continued to prove it can compete with the top programs in the state and enters 2026 with expectations of making an even deeper run.
The foundation of the team starts up front with one of the top recruits in the state, James Payne, leading the offensive line alongside Bradyn Coulter and Parker Chapman. That group will pave the way for standout underclassman Jaden Black, who gives the offense a dynamic playmaking presence. Defensively, transfers Tavion Woods (Riverside) and Jay Butcher (Herbert Hoover) add additional athleticism and experience.
The schedule provides major tests immediately. The opener against Spring Valley begins a difficult stretch, while midseason matchups against Princeton and Huntington will be among the most anticipated games in the classification.
Huntington
2025 Record: 8-2
SSAC Rank: #2 (Quarterfinals)
The Highlanders took on one of the most challenging schedules in recent memory during the 2025 season and still managed to finish the regular season with only two losses. Huntington continued its remarkable stretch of success, earning at least one playoff victory for the fifth consecutive season and remaining firmly among the state’s elite programs.
There is no shortage of talent returning in 2026. The Highlanders are led by one of the deepest skill groups in the classification, highlighted by wide receiver Donte Newsome along with running backs Travon and Mayshaun Okonkwo. Up front, Tyler Avery and Jeremiah Lyles provide strength and experience, while linebacker Ilias King anchors the defense and gives Huntington a tone-setter on that side of the ball.
The schedule will once again test Huntington early and often. The season opens with a high-level matchup against Oakland (TN), while late-season battles with George Washington and Herbert Hoover down the stretch should prepare them for a deep playoff run.
Hurricane
2025 Record: 1-9
SSAC Rank: #20
Hurricane endured a difficult schedule in 2025 but showed significant growth throughout the season. The Redskins became more competitive as the year progressed, averaging nearly 20 points per game during the second half of the season and showing signs of a program moving in the right direction.
That momentum should carry into 2026 with several important pieces returning. Athlete Dylan Widen provides versatility, while Jaxson Rappold brings strength in the box and Devon Short gives the defense a reliable playmaker. The Redskins have a group capable of continuing the upward trajectory if younger players continue developing.
The schedule provides several opportunities to build confidence. Early-season contests against Parkersburg and Cabell Midland are important, while later matchups against Parkersburg South and Oak Hill could determine whether Hurricane remains in the playoff conversation.