The Cheboygan varsity football program will not take the field in 2026, a decision driven by dwindling participation numbers and safety considerations that have left the community searching for new ways to keep the sport alive.
A New Landscape of Rivalries
Yet the region’s football calendar remains packed, with five standout contests slated to shape the early season and ripple through conference standings and playoff hopes.
Long‑standing grudges and recent triumphs are set to flare again, none more anticipated than the historic feud between Pickford and Inland Lakes, a rivalry that has produced three memorable showdowns, including a Bulldogs semifinal win in 2023 and a Panthers home victory in 2024.
Adding to the excitement, the Pickford squad will meet Portland St. Patrick, the defending MHSAA 8‑Player Division 2 champion Shamrocks, who entered the previous season unbeaten and now look to extend their dominance.
Meanwhile, the crossover clash between Gaylord St. Mary and Inland Lakes promises to be a pivotal test in the Bridge Alliance, where Inland Lakes has captured every Ski Valley Conference title for five straight years.
Rogers City opens its schedule with a rivalry game against Onaway, a matchup designed to generate early momentum as the team eyes a showdown with Presque Isle’s rivals later in the year.
Engadine’s return to its home field in Pellston after two grueling road trips marks a turning point for the Hornets, who hope the familiar surroundings will spark a resurgence.
Pellston, competing as an independent this season, will still face a slate of opponents that includes St. Ignace, Inland Lakes and Onaway, ensuring a competitive schedule despite the lack of a traditional conference anchor.
Other games on the docket, such as St. Ignace versus Inland Lakes and Inland Lakes versus Onaway, underscore the depth of competition that will define the 2026 season across the Cheboygan area.