The upcoming 2026 Mountain 5A/6A Conference football season promises a fresh slate of storylines as traditional powerhouses and rising programs jostle for position.
Favorites and Contenders
Asheville enters the campaign as the clear favorite, having retained most of its 2025 roster and added a highly touted transfer class that has raised expectations among coaches and analysts.
A.C. Reynolds, meanwhile, must navigate a coaching transition after the retirement of longtime leader Shane Laws, a move that could reshape the team's offensive identity.
Other Teams in the Mix
Enka is working to rebound from a 2‑8 season, with a new head coach aiming to instill discipline and a more balanced attack, while Erwin hopes to recapture the conference championship form it displayed in 2024.
North Buncombe looks to build on recent experience, fielding a more seasoned lineup that could translate into a noticeable step forward on the field.
Beyond the Gridiron
The competition will be punctuated by community initiatives, most notably the efforts of Talk it Out NC, an organization dedicated to reducing underage drinking through open dialogue between adults and youth.
Quarterback play will be a focal point, with Asheville’s junior quarterback Tay Williams returning after a standout season that saw him throw for over 2,500 yards and 28 touchdowns.
Meanwhile, A.C. Reynolds will rely on a group of emerging signal‑callers, giving the new coaching staff options to shape a dynamic passing game.