
CIF Southern Section Unveils 2026 Preseason Top 25 Football Rankings
High School On SI releases its annual preseason countdown, highlighting the top 25 squads, key returning players, newcomers and coach insights ahead of August kickoff.
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High School On SI releases its annual preseason countdown, highlighting the top 25 squads, key returning players, newcomers and coach insights ahead of August kickoff.

The University of Southern California's football program is preparing for the 2026 season, with fall practice set to begin on July 31. The early start is driven by a non‑conference game against San Jose State, and the roster features returning starters, high‑profile recruits, and a new defensive coordinator.

With a loaded recruiting class and a debut in the Big Ten, USC aims to translate preseason optimism into on‑field production

The Trojans will open their 2026 schedule against Rutgers in Piscataway, New Jersey, aiming to build on a 9‑4 campaign and a revamped defense under Gary Patterson.

Andy’s updated preseason top 25 high school football rankings for 2026 spotlight the nation’s elite programs, key returning players and the impact of transfers ahead of the upcoming season.

Jayden Maiava threw for 3,711 yards and ranked fourth in Pro Football Focus’s deep‑passing list, while USC prepares to replace top receivers but returns a solid offensive line and new playmakers.

The first edition of the 2026 Way‑Too‑Early Top 25 high school football rankings has been released, blending objective ratings with expert analysis. DeSoto (TX) leads the Massey Ratings, while St. Frances Academy (MD) tops the author’s subjective ranking. The list also features IMG Academy, St. John Bosco, St. Thomas Aquinas and Santa Margarita Catholic among the top five.

The 2026 preseason rankings spotlight IMG Academy at the summit, with St. Frances Academy and Buford close behind. Notable players and early schedule challenges hint at a fiercely competitive season.

Quentin Hale, a highly ranked receiver from Corona Centennial, announced his commitment to USC, joining a rapidly expanding 2027 class that already includes standout recruits such as Roye Oliver III.
The Oilers, downed in the CIF Southern Section Division 2 playoffs, rebound through the Southern California Regional and set up a title clash with an undefeated Bakersfield Christian squad.

Roye Oliver III, a four-star receiver, announced his commitment to USC following an official visit, ending his recruitment and joining a class that already boasts other high-profile prospects.

Indiana leads the latest preseason top 25, with Oregon, Ohio State and a host of other programs rounding out the early rankings. Key players and coaching storylines promise a competitive year.

Jayden Maiava’s 2025 season has turned heads across the college football landscape, as the USC quarterback topped the Big Ten with 3,711 passing yards and positioned himself as a leading candidate for the 2026 Heisman Trophy.

From Texas’s explosive receiving corps to Georgia’s seasoned offensive line, the latest rankings highlight the teams that have mastered the art of roster completeness.