The 2026 IE Varsity preseason football rankings have been released, and Centennial High School sits atop the list after finishing the previous season with an 11‑2 record and a league championship streak that spans five years. The Knights’ dominance has set a high bar for rivals as the new campaign approaches.
Top Teams and Their Storylines
Chaparral High School, fresh off a Division 2 quarterfinal run, brings a wave of Division I recruits on both sides of the ball, positioning the team as a formidable contender. Meanwhile, Rancho Cucamonga reclaimed the Baseline League title and advanced to the same stage, driven by the offensive prowess of Treyvone Towns Jr., who will be a focal point of the attack.
Norco High School missed the postseason a year ago because of six forfeited games, but the return of linebackers Henderson Carter V and Tony Gonzalez brings a renewed sense of purpose. Their experience on defense could be the catalyst the team needs to climb back into contention.
Murrieta Valley, now in its third straight semifinal appearance, returns with quarterback Ty Isaia and defensive lineman Wes Gomes, both of whom have proven their ability to influence big games. The team’s consistency makes them a dark horse in any bracket.
Damien High School aims to rebound after finishing third in the Baseline League and exiting the Division 2 playoffs early. Running back Malachi McFarland and receiver Travon Garrison are expected to shoulder the offensive load, while the defense looks to tighten up after a challenging season.
Vista Murrieta, fourth in the Big West Conference‑North, managed a surprise Division 2 playoff win and will rely on center Levi Dean and cornerback Nemirah Davidson to anchor both lines of scrimmage. Their balanced approach could carry them deep into the tournament.
Chino Hills finished second in the Baseline League and reached the Division 3 semifinals, with quarterback Daniel Mielke II and linebacker Noah Curtin leading a young but talented squad. Their growth throughout the season will be closely watched.
San Jacinto’s run to the Division 4 championship game featured quarterback Josue Estrada back under center, while the Tivao brothers helped solidify a secondary that proved difficult to breach.
Cajon shocked Beaumont to reclaim the Citrus Belt League championship, and the duo of quarterback Marcus Washington Jr. and running back Maleek Nolley will be key to maintaining that momentum.
Beaumont’s early‑season victory over Hawaii highlighted quarterback Brandon Cuellar’s readiness to step in, and the return of defensive linemen Braedon Valentich and Brian Shatswell adds depth to a front that could be pivotal.
Aquinas, holders of a 42‑game league win streak, will look to bounce back from injury concerns surrounding running back Champ Brown, while Sosaia Aluesi continues to command the offensive line.
Roosevelt’s Division 6 semifinal run featured Linfield Christian transfer Charlie Bohmer at quarterback and rising defensive back Xavier Marshall, both of whom could shape the team’s fortunes.
Key Players to Watch
The emergence of Jaden Jefferson and Quentin Hale at Centennial adds a dynamic edge to the offense, while Treyvone Towns Jr. will be the focal point for Rancho Cucamonga’s attack. Malachi McFarland and Travon Garrison provide playmaking power for Damien, and Levi Dean anchors Vista Murrieta’s line.
Defensive standouts such as Wes Gomes, Xavier Marshall, and Braedon Valentich bring experience and skill that could tip the balance in tight games. Meanwhile, linebackers Henderson Carter V and Tony Gonzalez return to lead Norco’s defense.
Coaching Changes and New Faces
Etiwanda welcomes back Nick Baiz to the coaching staff, and the emergence of Chad Wakumoto Jr. and Brandon Andrade as an elite receiving tandem adds another layer of excitement for the team’s prospects. Murrieta Mesa begins a new chapter with Justin Evangelist taking the snap, while linebacker Chris Flores and offensive lineman Jacob Escalera provide the defensive and line stability needed for a fresh start.
Alta Loma enters the Valle Vista League as a favorite after Northview’s move to the Sierra League, with quarterback Maximus Fierro returning and linebacker Owen Fiorenza anchoring a defense that looks ready to dominate.