The Colorado high school football landscape is buzzing as three Western Slope programs—Montrose Red Hawks, Fruita Monument Wildcats and Palisade Bulldogs—have all cracked the preseason top ten in their respective classes. The early rankings reflect a blend of recent success, experienced rosters and a hunger to translate regular‑season momentum into deeper playoff runs.
Montrose Red Hawks' Historic Run
Montrose enters the season ranked first in Class 4A after compiling a 35‑5 record over the past three years. The team was one win away from back‑to‑back state title game appearances last year, and senior player Ryan Pankey says the squad knows exactly where it needs to improve. "We have holes to fill, but we’re focused on getting better every week," Pankey noted, adding that the Durango rivalry will be a key test early in the schedule.
Fruita Monument Returns to 4A
After two seasons spent in Class 5A, the Fruita Monument Wildcats are back in 4A and sit within the preseason top ten. Coach Nate Wilkinson emphasized a steady, opponent‑by‑opponent approach, pointing out that 4A tends to be less competitive than the league they just left. "Our philosophy hasn’t changed," Wilkinson said. "We’ll prepare the same way each week and let the results speak for themselves." The Wildcats open the season on the road at Vista Peak Prep on August 29 before hosting Central and Grand Junction later in the month.
Palisade's Championship Quest
The Palisade Bulldogs are seeded fourth in Class 3A after a 10‑3 campaign that included back‑to‑back undefeated league records. The team fell just one win short of the 3A championship game last year, losing to Mona in the final. A senior on the roster said the experience has sharpened the group’s focus on fixing the gaps that cost them the title. "We’re ready to address those weaknesses and push for a championship," the player remarked. Palisade will open its 2026 schedule at home against Resurrection Christian on August 20.
All three programs have identified marquee matchups that could shape their conference standings and playoff seeds. Montrose’s early test against Durango, Fruita’s road trip to Vista Peak Prep and home games against Central and Grand Junction, and Palisade’s season‑opening clash with Resurrection Christian are already generating excitement among fans and alumni. With the season still weeks away, the preseason rankings set the stage for intense rivalries and the possibility of multiple deep playoff runs from Western Slope teams.