The Quad County 2A/3A/4A Conference is gearing up for another unpredictable season, featuring six programs that span three divisions. ALA‑Johnston, Bunn, Louisburg, Nash Central, Roanoke Rapids and Wake Prep will each contend in a landscape reshaped by graduations, transfers and new leadership.
Key Storylines
Bunn entered the previous campaign as champions, finishing with an 8‑3 record under head coach Jessiel Romero, but the team now faces a significant talent drain after losing starting quarterback Josiah Rice to a transfer. The offense will lean on sophomore Cayden Davis as it seeks to maintain its competitive edge.
Nash Central is pinning its hopes on a fresh start with former Southwest Edgecombe coach Carter Varnell taking the helm. Varnell’s reputation for developing defensive schemes helped his previous squad reach the state playoffs’ fourth round, and he now aims to spark a resurgence for the Knights.
Wake Prep, despite losing its prolific quarterback‑receiver tandem of Austin Battle and D.J. Smith, hopes to ride the momentum built by two NCISAA state championships under coach Joe Campbell. The team’s new pieces are expected to keep the program among the contenders.
Louisburg’s 2025 campaign produced a standout season highlighted by Offensive Player of the Year Mikah McKnight, but the graduation of that star and several other key contributors leaves a sizable void that the program must address.
Roanoke Rapids returns several pivotal players from last year’s second‑round playoff run, giving the team a foundation to build upon as it looks to climb higher in the conference standings.
ALA‑Johnston remains the sole 2A program among mostly 3A and 4A opponents, and the school has endured a wave of departures, including quarterback Ian Wands and several other starters. The team will need to integrate new talent while adjusting to the heightened competition.
The broader impact of roster turnover extends beyond individual schools, as coaches across the league emphasize the importance of depth and adaptability. New faces such as Der'Ron Williams, Kegian Blanchard, Michael Beasley, Jett Hamilton, Chris Lyons, Holden Ford and Dontae Lassiter are expected to make their marks.
With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the Quad County Conference promises a season full of surprises, making the 2026 preview one of the most anticipated in recent memory.