Region Preview
The preseason polls have already crowned the Cedar City Reds as the team to beat in the 3A South region, a prediction that rests on the memory of their unprecedented undefeated campaign and the state championship they captured last year.
Head coach Tye Hiatt, who guided that historic run, says the focus is simple: be the best version of the team on any given night. With only four starters returning, the Reds face an open competition at quarterback that could shape their early schedule.
Across the region, the Juab Wasps are riding the momentum of a semifinal finish, bolstered by the return of quarterback Price Armstrong and a defense that brings back five starters, including 3A all‑state first‑team honoree Wyatt Downard.
Richfield Wildcats arrive with a depth advantage, fielding 20 returning starters on both sides of the ball, highlighted by two‑way standout Trey Yardley, a 2025 3A all‑state first‑team selection.
Manti Templars, though losing their top performers, are pinning hopes on a wave of young talent stepping into larger roles, while Canyon View Falcons and Carbon Dinos look to improve on modest win totals by leaning on experienced returning starters.
The mix of seasoned rosters and fresh arms promises a tightly contested race, with every program eager to dethrone the defending champions and carve out its own moment of glory.