The 2026 high school football season begins with a packed slate of 68 games spread across Thursday, Friday and Saturday, setting the stage for a year that promises both surprise upsets and familiar powerhouse performances.
One of the most anticipated openers pits Cherry Creek against Chatfield in a Class 5A showdown. Chatfield will rely on Elijah Cromwell, the 2025 state title Most Outstanding Player, while Cherry Creek’s standout Cash Williams returns after leading the team in both passing (2,108 yards, 21 touchdowns) and rushing (429 yards, 7 touchdowns) last season. Adding intrigue, Chatfield’s coach Kris Rosholt faces a one‑game suspension after a CHSAA violation.
Rising Stars and Returning Leaders
Resurrection Christian aims to re‑enter the 2A championship conversation, bolstered by quarterback Houston Davis returning to the fold. The team will test its mettle against Palisade, which brings back running back Carter Hayward, who amassed 430 rushing yards and six touchdowns in the previous campaign.
The long‑standing rivalry between Pomona and Monarch is expected to be especially intense this year. Pomona’s Tucker Ingersoll, who topped the team in both passing and rushing last season, will lead the charge, while Monarch’s returning quarterback Nico Rizzello posted 1,500 passing yards and 18 touchdowns in 2025.
In the Class 4A bracket, Mesa Ridge and Vista Ridge, both based in Colorado Springs, vie for top‑tier status. Mesa Ridge’s defense features standout players such as Tishaun Kearney and Sean Calipho, promising a strong defensive front for the upcoming matchups.
The 6‑man football scene sees Granada’s Sebastian Pizarro leading the offense after a 2025 season that yielded 1,354 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns, while Caliche prepares to host the contest.
Fans can follow all the action on the Colorado Preps Friday Scoreboard Show, where Marty Cesario takes over from Kevin Shaffer as the primary host. The scoreboard will track every result throughout the weekend, keeping viewers up to date on the evolving storylines.