
Referee Shortage Forces High School Football Games to Thursday Nights
A shortage of referees is reshaping high school football schedules, pushing games to Thursday evenings and straining recruitment efforts.
Latest Slidescroller coverage in Football.

A shortage of referees is reshaping high school football schedules, pushing games to Thursday evenings and straining recruitment efforts.
The Gaels return nine defensive starters and four offensive standouts, aiming to dethrone the reigning CHSFL AAA champion.

New head coach Kegan Wirtz returns to West De Pere, bringing three state championship experiences as the Phantoms transition from Division II to I, while players like Andrew Greisen eye a championship legacy.

The Terrapins' defense, reshaped by key departures and emerging stars, is poised to turn lessons from last year into a competitive resurgence.

The Monmouth‑Roseville Titans are poised for a strong start as they open the season on the road against Erie‑Prophetstown, buoyed by a quarterfinal run and a core of returning players.

The Cougars and Beavers will meet on Aug. 28 instead of Sept. 25, preserving a rivalry that dates back to 1955 and culminating in a Las Vegas kickoff classic.

Despite a schedule packed with strong opponents from across Dyer County and beyond, the Trojans are focusing on internal development and teamwork, aiming to turn years of near‑misses into a championship‑winning season.

Amazon Prime Video has appointed veteran analyst James Palmer to lead its Thursday Night Football coverage, replacing Ian Rapoport after a high‑profile contract shift that underscores the intensifying battle for NFL media rights.

The Storm aim for a three‑peat, with coach Robert Garza and senior Evan Nanez confident in their title prospects despite key departures.

Florida Gators missed the preseason AP Top 25, yet new head coach Jon Sumrall targets a return to the rankings in 2026, beginning with a September 5 showdown against FAU.

After a 6‑6 campaign, Mater Dei football is focused on unity, discipline and a fresh start as they prepare to face Central on Friday night.
The East Grand Forks Senior High football squad opens its 2026 campaign with a blend of seasoned leadership and fresh faces, aiming to build on last year’s momentum.

The Snider girls' flag football program celebrated its inaugural home game at Russ Isaacs Stadium, edging Wayne 14‑13 in a dramatic second‑half finish that heralds a busy schedule ahead.

The Dexter Tigers football team celebrated a historic milestone by practicing under newly installed stadium lights, enabling Friday night home games this fall. Funding from a T-Mobile contest and community donations made the project possible, and the team is set to host the defending-state-champion Minutemen on September 4.

Michigan State Police are still investigating assault allegations from a June football camp at Gull Lake Community Schools, with no charges filed and no timeline provided.
Jayden Fox, the 2025 Colorado Gatorade Player of the Year, will join the Colorado State football program as a freshman, a move that highlights the program's occasional success in attracting top high school talent.

Nebraska football’s 2026 season hinges on three assistants—Dana Holgorsen, Rob Aurich and Geep Wade—who bring distinct responsibilities to offense, defense and the line, while a fan poll gauges their relative importance.

The Trojans finished fourth in the Centennial League with a 3‑6 record, but a strong start and community support set the stage for a hopeful rebound.

With key seniors gone, the Hornets rely on emerging leaders and fresh offensive tactics to extend their postseason streak.

The Titans rolled past Green Mountain 46‑22 in their season opener, highlighted by Addy Law’s three first‑half touchdowns and early defensive scores.

A look at the players whose early‑round rankings may be inflated by past performance, coaching changes and role uncertainty.

Clemson’s 2026 preseason AP ranking marks the first time since 2011 that the Tigers are absent from the Top 25, a stark contrast to a decade of dominance.
Michigan Wolverines have named their leadership core for the upcoming 2026 season, highlighting quarterback Bryce Underwood, returning captain Jordan Marshall, three‑time captain Rod Moore, and emerging starter Trey Pierce.

The 2026 IE Varsity preseason rankings spotlight Centennial High School as the team to beat, with standout transfers and a deep pool of talent across the region.