2026 Greater Charlotte 7A/8A Preview: A New Chapter
The 2026 Greater Charlotte 7A/8A Conference football preview sets the stage for a season that could reshape the regional landscape. Among the contenders, Hough stands out not only as the defending state champion but also as the early favorite to capture both the conference crown and the ultimate title.
Myers Park enters the campaign under new leadership, with Duke Howell taking the helm after his father Sam Howell’s NFL pedigree brought attention to the program. Despite a wave of departures, the team hopes to sustain the momentum built in 2025.
South Mecklenburg, fresh off a successful 2025 that saw them climb into the top three of the GCAC, aims to preserve that upward trajectory. Their junior wide receiver Knox Moon will be a central piece of the offense.
West Mecklenburg, after a winless 2025 that left them 1‑10, pins its hopes on a new head coach and the return of sophomore quarterback Drake Lineberger, who now has a full season of starting experience under his belt.
Meanwhile, Garinger looks to build on modest gains, while Hopewell, under coach Brandon Sneed, shows upward momentum that could make them a dark horse in the mix.
Key returning talent includes Hough’s senior quarterback Ethan Royal and junior running back Jamarion Morrison, who will anchor the offense. At Myers Park, senior quarterback Ramir Watson returns after a strong 2025 showing, and Hopewell’s head coach Brandon Sneed continues to drive the program forward.
The conference also welcomes new pieces such as Hough’s junior defender Cory Cunningham, whose arrival adds depth to an already potent defense.
All of this context is brought to readers by Talk it Out NC, an organization dedicated to reducing underage drinking, in partnership with HighSchoolOT and the N.C. High School Athletic Association.