A Season of Promise
The Salem‑Keizer region is buzzing as the 2026 OSAA football season approaches, with eight local squads poised to contend for state titles. From Class 4A to 6A, each program brings a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, all aiming to translate early‑season momentum into playoff success.
Cascade Cougars enter the year with a potent offense anchored by returning all‑state pass‑catchers Josiah Hawkins, Jamison Walsh and Jay Erickson, alongside running back Wyatt Kerrigan and quarterback Madden Hughes. The group hopes to replicate last year’s status as the league’s highest‑scoring unit in Class 4A.
Central Panthers, now competing in Class 4A after a recent classification shift, will rely on starting quarterback JT Girod and three all‑conference offensive standouts — Easton Herbert, Joe Mendazona and Ryan Perkins — to bring continuity and experience to a revamped lineup.
The Dallas Dragons boast seven returning all‑Class 5A Special District 1 honorees, highlighted by defensive lineman of the year Aidan Galusha, all‑state kicker Nicklas Schneider and quarterback Thomas Hess. Their blend of defensive dominance and offensive firepower has many forecasting a strong playoff push.
Dayton Pirates, who finished a near‑perfect 9‑1 campaign last season, return all‑state defensive linemen Kolby Wofford and Royal Carlson. A fresh wave of offensive talent is expected to complement their stout defense and maintain the team’s winning culture.
Silverton Foxes, fresh from a Class 5A state championship, bring back edge rushers Mark Bailey and James Collier, defensive player of the year Lincoln Teeney, and linebackers Luke Horner, Ryder VanDeweghe and Levi Schurter. New quarterback Quinton Lake will look to steer the offense while the defense aims to repeat its dominant performance.
Sprague Olympians, after a 5‑3 record in Class 6A, return all‑conference linemen Emmett Hunsaker and Max Knapp, plus linebackers Gabe Flynn and Paul Herb. The team is embracing a new‑look Special District 1 schedule that offers additional out‑of‑conference matchups.
St. Paul Buckaroos, who reached the Class 2A state semifinals a year ago, will count on all‑state quarterback Noah Hockett and running back Bricen Britton to sustain their momentum and target another deep run in Special District 2.
West Salem Titans, after graduating most of last year’s starters, retain all‑conference linemen Ethan Tatum and Brendan Goodwin, along with two‑way players Josiah Senados and Christian Newton. The group is focused on rebuilding depth and securing a playoff berth.