The latest HighSchoolOT preseason Top 25 has positioned Hough at the No. 1 spot, honoring the defending North Carolina High School Athletic Association 8A champions as the team to watch for the upcoming 2026 season.
Not far behind, Providence Day School holds the second position, while Grimsley secures third place, each program blending seasoned starters with promising newcomers.
Returning Leaders and New Commitments
Hough will field returning starting quarterback Ethan Royal, a Marshall commit, who aims to build on last year’s triumph. The roster also welcomes 5‑star cornerback pledge Joshua Dobson and 4‑star safety Davion Jones, both expected to strengthen the defense.
Providence Day’s rise is amplified by the addition of 5‑star wide receiver Braylon Clark and 4‑star cornerback Nate Dollard, while Grimsley must adjust to a new quarterback in sophomore Brody Lowe following the departure of graduated 5‑star Faizon Brandon.
Regional Concentration
The rankings underscore a geographic tilt, with 16 of the top 25 teams originating from the western half of North Carolina, highlighting the region’s deep talent pool.
Beyond the field, the preseason list reflects ongoing collaborations with entities such as the State Employees' Credit Union, which continues to support athletic programs across the state.
As the season approaches, the convergence of experienced returnees, high‑profile recruits and regional depth promises a competitive landscape that could reshape championship expectations.