Franklin High School has released its 2026 football schedule, a blend of familiar rivalries and new challenges that promises to test the Panthers' growth after a playoff appearance the previous year.
The season opens on Thursday, September 10, when Franklin travels to face longtime rival Wachusett in a non‑league contest that sets an early tone for the campaign.
A week later, on Friday, September 18, the Panthers host Brockton at home, reigniting a rivalry that has produced some of the most competitive games in recent memory.
Hockomock League play begins on Saturday, October 3, with a road trip to Stoughton, marking the first of several conference battles that will assess the team's depth.
Non‑League Road Tests
Non‑league fixtures include a Friday, September 25 game at Canton, followed by a home matchup against Milton on Friday, October 23, and a road test at Taunton on Friday, October 30.
The centerpiece of the schedule arrives on Thanksgiving, when Franklin journeys to Wrentham to meet King Philip in the traditional holiday rivalry that draws the community's full attention.
Last season the Panthers advanced to the postseason before bowing out in the opening round to Leominster, a team led by star quarterback Osiris Lopez, who will be a key opponent to watch.
The offseason saw the departure of several standout seniors, including Hockomock Kelley‑Rex MVP Alex Weber, as well as Keaton Cooper, Adrian Rampino and Stephon Reed, leaving large shoes to fill.
Looking Ahead
Despite those losses, sophomore quarterback Ethan Edmunds returns with a full year of starting experience, poised to lead an offense that blends youthful energy with seasoned upperclassmen.
Coaches have emphasized that the returning upperclassmen will provide the continuity needed to compete against the tough Hockomock schedule, aiming to turn early-season tests into late‑season victories.