Herriman High School is poised to claim the top spot in Region 2 for the 2026 football season, a projection that rests on the return of 13 starters and a coaching staff that entered the offseason with clear confidence.
Building on Last Year’s Momentum
Head coach Matt Rickards emphasized the team’s accelerated speed and added physicality during the offseason, noting that the offense will be anchored by playmakers Filisi Filipe and Bryson Sweeney.
The defensive line, bolstered by returning standout Kemper Castro and a group of experienced linemen, aims to extend the momentum from the 2025 state championship run.
Mountain Ridge’s Counter
Mountain Ridge, which edged Herriman in the 2025 quarterfinals, will field a blend of veterans and newcomers under head coach Nick Robins, who has overseen a noticeable rise in the program’s depth and experience.
Other contenders in the mix include Westlake Thunder, fresh off a breakout 2025 campaign, and the Bingham Miners, who bring 11 returning starters and veteran leadership from head coach Josh Johnson.
Copper Hills, in its second year under Darius Matthews, and Cedar Valley, led by first‑year coach Cody Gardner, are also expected to climb into the top five, each seeking to translate early progress into consistent on‑field results.
A Competitive Landscape
Region 2 is renowned for its weekly volatility, with every squad anticipated to jockey for position and challenge one another throughout the schedule.