The Nevada 3A football landscape is gearing up for another competitive year, with defending state champions Churchill County poised to defend their title despite a roster in transition. The team finished the previous season with a 12‑1 overall record and a 7‑1 mark in league play, but will need to fill the void left by several key graduates.
Key Returning Players
Senior wide receiver and safety Maxton Richardson returns after delivering the game‑winning interception in the state championship, giving the squad a reliable playmaker on both sides of the ball. At quarterback, sophomore Camden Richardson will take over the starting role, having previously contributed at multiple positions and showing poise in limited snaps.
Coach Calvin Connors will oversee the adjustments, particularly the need to replace running back Carson Melendy and quarterback Matthew Bird, both of whom were integral to the offense. Their departures create opportunities for younger players to step into prominent roles.
The Competitive Landscape
Elko, under coach Luke Sellers, posted a stellar season that saw them tied for first in the 3A North before a playoff exit, positioning them as a strong contender once again. Fernley, after its first winning season since 2021, will navigate the loss of 11 seniors, including standout rusher Keeshawn Love, while Truckee brings back a productive backfield tandem of Ivan Esparza and Seth Molt, who combined for 16 touchdowns last year.
Spring Creek enters the season with a solid core, featuring starting quarterback McCoy McArtor and top rushers and receivers who helped the team remain competitive. Lowry, which improved from just two wins in 2024 to four in 2025, will look to build on that progress despite losing their quarterback and top rusher.
South Tahoe retains leading rusher Conner Hennessee and junior wide receiver Dane Richey, but must replace 24 seniors, creating a blend of experience and youth. Dayton shows promise with returning seniors such as Duke Evans, who amassed over 2,000 rushing yards, while Sparks continues to battle depth issues, having won only one game in each of the past three seasons and losing their starting quarterback and top rushers.
Overall, the 3A North promises a mix of seasoned contenders and emerging programs, setting the stage for a season filled with strategic adjustments, breakout performances, and the ever‑present quest to dethrone the defending champions.