The 2026 Big South 5A/6A Conference football season is poised to deliver another year of high‑stakes competition, with defending champion J.F. Webb entering the campaign facing the inevitable reshaping that follows a title‑winning year.
The Knights will miss the dual‑threat backfield of Mikelis Hobgood and Josiah Daniel, who together amassed 3,412 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns last season, but the coaching staff believes the returning talent and incoming freshmen can keep the offense potent.
Seaforth’s Quarterback Leads a Resurgence
Seaforth’s junior quarterback Duncan Parker emerged as a standout performer, throwing for 2,604 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2025. Analysts label him one of the most underrated quarterbacks in the state, and his ability to extend plays could be a decisive factor for the Hawks.
Orange, under head coach Fritz Hessenthaler, returns the bulk of its roster and is expected to take a step forward. Junior quarterback Jackson Moody and senior running back Kayden Bradsher give the team a balanced attack, while the defensive line looks to build on last year’s improvements.
South Granville has installed Sterling Johnson as its new head coach, a move aimed at cultivating a winning culture. The team’s top returning rusher, Tyrell Thornton, logged 445 yards in 2025 and will anchor a ground game that hopes to complement a revamped passing attack.
Programs Seeking Turnarounds
Carrboro and Cedar Ridge are both looking to reverse recent struggles. Both squads retain solid core groups and have added fresh coaching perspectives that could translate into more wins on the field.
Meanwhile, other contenders such as Averett, North Carolina A&T, and Fayetteville State are slated to bring non‑conference matchups that could influence playoff seeding, adding another layer of intrigue to the schedule.
Predictions across the board suggest a tightly contested race, with Seaforth, Orange, and South Granville emerging as early favorites. However, the depth of talent across the conference means no team can afford to overlook any opponent.