2026 Ridge & Valley-8 Outlook
The upcoming 2026 Ridge & Valley-8 campaign is already generating buzz, with analysts penciling Belmont as the team to beat after its near‑miss in the 2025 semifinals, while North Crawford looks to defend its undefeated title and several schools adjust varsity commitments.
Belmont’s offense will be anchored by sophomore quarterback Wyatt Temperly, who posted a 66% completion rate and 28 touchdowns a year ago, complemented by a deep receiving corps that helped the team finish second overall in the conference.
North Crawford enters the season as the defending champion, having finished the previous year undefeated and now returns ten letterwinners, including a strong core on both sides of the ball that should keep them among the favorites.
De Soto’s veteran leader Ev Wick, who boasts a 162‑70 record, will rely on three returning starters, while Highland’s first‑year head coach Jasen Scanlan acknowledges the team’s youth and the need to develop supporting players.
Kickapoo/La Farge will also feel the loss of five senior starters, especially on the offensive line, prompting a focus on younger talent, while Wisconsin Heights is slated to receive two forfeit wins before the first whistle blows.
Meanwhile, Monticello has announced the cancellation of its varsity schedule for 2026, and Wonewoc‑Center will operate as a standalone program after trimming parts of its schedule, reflecting broader shifts in the conference landscape.