Conference Landscape
The Classic Eight is a six‑team league that pits its members against each other in a crossover schedule with the Greater Metro Conference, creating a compact but intense slate of games. After a dominant 2025 campaign, the conference returns with a mix of proven powerhouses and emerging contenders, each hoping to translate preseason buzz into a championship run.
Star Players to Watch
Breakout candidates include Jerrell Anderson of Mukwonago, who rushed for 740 yards and nine touchdowns in 2025, and Max Baehman, a First Team All‑Conference receiver with 437 yards and seven scores. Arrowhead’s quarterback Nolan Hanson threw for 1,910 yards and 17 touchdowns while leading the Warhawks to a state title, and Tre Oiler is drawing Division 1 scholarship interest after a strong junior season. Muskego’s Joey Shaw completed 56 % of his passes for 887 yards and 14 touchdowns, earning First Team All‑Conference honors, while Ryan Hoeffler paced the Warriors with 1,051 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. George Molitor was a Second Team All‑Conference passer with 1,649 yards and 16 touchdowns, and Austin Munzel has been a three‑year starter at quarterback for Oconomowoc, surpassing 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns. Defensive standouts such as Evan Wozniak of Arrowhead anchor a unit that helped the team secure a Division 1 championship.
Team Outlooks
Muskego will rely on a returning Wing‑T offense anchored by Shaw and a defense that, despite losing two starters, remains formidable. Arrowhead brings back key starters like Hanson and Oiler, complemented by a strong defensive line featuring Wozniak. Franklin enters the league with a new head coach, Drew Ambrose, and quarterback Keegan Best, who previously earned First Team All‑Conference honors in the Southeast Conference. Mukwonago hopes to build on its offensive firepower from Anderson and Molitor, while Oconomowoc aims to capitalize on playoff experience after a 5‑4 season that ended with a shutout loss to Mukwonago. Kettle Moraine, finishing 2‑7 in 2025, will look to rebound with returning playmakers Brody Schimpf and Nico Yttre leading the offense.
Championship Outlook
Preseason rankings place Arrowhead, Muskego, Franklin and Mukwonago among the top four, but the league’s depth means Oconomowoc and Kettle Moraine could challenge the favorites. The blend of returning starters, dynamic offensive schemes and fresh coaching talent creates a tightly contested environment where a single upset could reshape the race. With Muskego’s perfect 2025 record, Arrowhead’s state title and Franklin’s upcoming transition, the 2026 Classic Eight season promises dramatic matchups and a fierce battle for the championship.