The 1A North region is shaping up to be one of the most competitive classifications in the state, with preseason polls already painting a vivid picture of what to expect on the gridiron this fall.
Preseason Favorites and Rankings
North Summit enters as the clear favorite, riding a wave of momentum after back‑to‑back state semifinal appearances in 2024 and 2025. The team returns 13 starters, among them senior quarterback Cru Richins and first‑team All‑State receiver Knox Woolstenhulme, giving the offense a potent mix of experience and talent.
Duchesne, the defending region champions, sit second in the preseason poll despite losing key graduates such as leading rusher Kasen Crum. The team will look to Brex Robinson, a first‑team All‑State defensive back who earned a quarterback role after a standout season on defense.
Millard, picked third in the coaches poll, brings back 18 starters, highlighted by first‑team All‑State defensive lineman Deegan Leatham. The Eagles hope their depth will carry them past the quarterfinals, a round they fell short of last year.
Gunnison Valley, slotted fourth, returns 14 starters, including defensive standouts Wrigley Crouch and Krew Donaldson, aiming to build on last season’s progress.
North Sevier rounds out the top five after a challenging 1‑10 campaign, but the team returns 11 starters, featuring junior quarterback Houston Mickelson and second‑team All‑State receiver Brody Bulloch, giving the club reason for optimism.
Coaching Changes and Player Highlights
Head coach Dalton Ross, who previously served as offensive coordinator under Jerre Holmes, has taken the reins this year, promising a fresh approach while inheriting a strong core.
Robinson’s transition to quarterback is complemented by the emergence of players such as Tayton Pace, Cael Blonquist, Jaymon Bailey, Tom Clark, and many others who are expected to make significant contributions on both sides of the ball.
Millard’s defensive anchor Deegan Leatham will be joined by teammates like Kaydon Fowkes, Jensen Davies, Christian Briceno, Connor Stevens, Austin Jackson, and others who aim to elevate the team’s performance.
Gunnison Valley’s defensive standouts Wrigley Crouch and Krew Donaldson will be supported by Talan Dyreng, Ryder Coates, Waylon Sorenson, Brady Wheeler, and a host of additional athletes looking to capitalize on increased playing time.
North Sevier’s junior quarterback Houston Mickelson and receiver Brody Bulloch will be surrounded by players including Zander Christiansen, Ryner Snow, and others eager to turn last season’s struggles into a comeback narrative.
As the first games approach, the region’s teams are poised to deliver intense competition, unexpected breakthroughs, and a showcase of talent that could reshape playoff brackets. Fans across Utah and beyond will be watching closely as each program fights for a spot in the state semifinals.