The Oregon School Activities Association’s 2026 football playoffs are fast approaching, and eight programs from Lane County are generating early buzz.
Playoff Contenders in Lane County
Churchill High School, under coach Layne Coffin, continues to rely on its signature double‑wing offense, a scheme that helped the team reach the 5A semifinals as the No. 13 seed in 2025. The squad’s success has been anchored by standout performers such as Ryder Nagel, who earned third‑team all‑state honors, and teammates Julien Kennedy and Finnley Currington, both recognized on the all‑league squad.
Junction City High School captured its first Sky‑Em League title since 2014 in 2025, a milestone that adds momentum as the team prepares for the next season. Rising sophomore Brayden Rauschert, who earned all‑state baseball honors, will lead the offense, while senior returnees Madix Waldrop, Brody Woods, Landon Van Hecke and Cash Dodson are expected to contribute heavily.
Lowell High School, the reigning Class 2A Special District 3 champions, finished the 2025 campaign at 9‑2 and advanced to the second round of the state playoffs. Defensive standout Jax Norcutt was named defensive player of the year, and placekicker Ben Thurman also earned recognition, setting a foundation for future competitiveness.
Marist Catholic High School encountered early‑season challenges in 2025 but returns playmakers Gabe Dietmeyer, an all‑state receiver, and Aidan Miller, a speed‑focused playmaker. The team will test its mettle against a tough schedule that includes several early‑season matchups.
North Eugene High School placed fifth in the Midwestern League last year, yet its roster features dynamic talent such as D'Mariyae Ireland, a versatile playmaker, and Aiden Hibler, a first‑team all‑league receiver, who could drive a resurgence.
Pleasant Hill High School aims to defend its Mountain Valley Conference title in 2026, bolstered by Ryder Swaim, who earned MVC co‑lineman of the year, and linebacker Kai Davis, a first‑team all‑league selection.
Thurston High School reached the Midwestern League title game in 2025, highlighted by Leofatu Filipe, a second‑team all‑state defensive end/tight end, and quarterback Emmit Distefano, also a second‑team all‑state choice.
Willamette High School closed the 2025 regular season at 10‑1, advancing to the Class 6A quarterfinals. Junior quarterback Zeke Thomas, a Boise State commit, and senior defensive lineman Kawai Chamberlin, headed to Oregon State, headline a group of returning stars that includes Tripp Johansen and Derek Earl.
Overall, the depth of talent across these eight programs suggests that Lane County could see multiple teams break through to the later stages of the OSAA playoffs, making the upcoming season one of the most anticipated in recent memory.