The 2026 Big South 5A/6A Conference football preview sets the stage for a season that promises both familiarity and fresh storylines. With Ashbrook entering as the reigning champion, the league braces for a mix of seasoned contenders and teams poised to break through.
Ashbrook’s Title Defense Faces a Youthful Overhaul
Ashbrook’s title defense will be tested by a massive exodus of seniors, a group that accounted for much of the team’s production last year. While the roster will be younger, the program’s culture of winning remains intact, and coaches believe the experience gained from recent deep runs will help bridge the transition.
Crest’s New Direction
Crest, the 5A state champion, enters the season under a new head coach after a successful tenure by its predecessor. The team also loses several key contributors, but the coaching staff’s strategic adjustments are expected to keep the program competitive in the playoff hunt.
Forestview, Huss, and the Playoff Landscape
Among the other programs eyeing postseason action, Forestview aims to rebound from a 3‑8 campaign, leveraging offseason work and a determined coaching staff to chase a return to the playoffs. Huss, meanwhile, brings back four of its five all‑conference selections, giving the squad a solid foundation to improve on last year’s record.
Kings Mountain, despite parting with several starters, is still projected to be a factor in the 5A playoffs, thanks to a deep talent pool and a resilient mindset. North Gaston has installed a new head coach who inherits a program eager for a turnaround after a challenging season, adding a layer of optimism to the mix.
South Point rounds out the conversation as a potential dark horse, with analysts pointing to a balanced schedule and a hungry roster that could surprise established powers.
As the first games approach, the conference’s narrative will be defined by how these teams navigate injuries, emerging stars, and the ever‑present quest for a championship. The blend of seasoned contenders and hungry newcomers ensures that the Big South 5A/6A will remain one of the most compelling storylines in high school football this year.