2026 Southeast High School Football: Top 15 Preview

The high‑school football season is just around the corner, and USA TODAY Sports is zeroing in on the Southeast for its preseason Super 15 regional rankings. The region is widely regarded as the deepest in the country, boasting familiar powerhouses from Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, and beyond. Eleven Southeast programs earned spots in the broader Super 25 national poll, with three already placed inside the top 10 of the country. The 15 teams listed below make up the opening Southeast slate, representing the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

IMG Academy (Bradenton, FL)

IMG Academy enters 2025 with a 9‑0 mark, riding a string of dominant victories that include a 57‑7 thrashing of Mandarin. The Ascenders’ offense is anchored by senior EDGE Zyron Forstall and senior WR Eric McFarland III, while junior quarterback Jayden Wade adds fluidity to the attack. Their blend of experience and depth makes them a clear contender for a deep postseason run.

St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, FL)

St. Thomas Aquinas finished the previous season 14‑1, posting a high‑octane attack that netted them a top spot in the latest rankings. The squad boasts senior offensive tackle Mark Matthews, senior wideout Julius Jones, and senior EDGE Wyatt Smith, all of whom have drawn comparisons to seasoned college prospects. Their blend of defensive pressure and explosive yardage puts them among the region’s elite.

Thompson (Alabaster, AL)

Thompson compiled an 11‑3 schedule in 2025, demonstrating resilience and a potent ground game that could propel them higher next year. Key contributors include senior EDGE Cameron Pritchett, senior quarterback Trent Seaborn, and senior safety Junior Tu’upo, who provide balance on both sides of the ball. The program’s upward trajectory signals that it may challenge for a state title.

Buford (GA)

Buford finished the recent campaign undefeated at 15‑0, earning its place among the top programs in the Southeast. Junior EDGE Luke Nabors, junior WR Seven Rashad, and senior LB Braden Watson headline a talented roster loaded with playmakers. Their disciplined execution and depth give them a solid foundation to sustain success throughout a lengthy season.

Grayson (Loganville, GA)

Grayson posted a 12‑1 record, showcasing a mix of aggressive defense and scoring offenses that have impressed scouts. Standouts include senior IOL Jordan Agbanoma, junior EDGE Elijah Tillman, and senior safety Jalen Welch, who anchor both lines. Their ability to generate turnover opportunities makes them a tough out for any opponent.

Baylor (Chattanooga, TN)

Baylor closed out the season 12‑0, capping an impressive run that included a Division II‑AAA championship. Senior RB David Gabriel Georges, senior quarterback Keegan Croucher, and junior safety Antwaun Adams form the core of a balanced squad that thrives in both run and pass schemes. Their championship experience will be a key factor as they look to defend their regional standing.

Carrollton (GA)

Carrollton posted a flawless 14‑0 mark, highlighted by a dynamic quarterback play from sophomore CJ Cypher and senior contributions on the line. Notable athletes include junior CB Tyler Boyd, junior OT Kweli Fielder, and a line that has attracted college recruiters. Their cohesive offense and stout defense make them a top-tier contender heading into the regular season.

Brentwood Academy (TN)

Brentwood Academy finished the season 11‑1, displaying a potent aerial attack anchored by senior WR Kesean Bowman and senior LB Kenneth Simon II. Junior S Braylen Bedford adds depth to a defensive backfield that limits opponents. Their experience and recruitment profile suggest they could make a splash in the national conversation.

Creekside (Fairburn, GA)

Creekside compiled a perfect 15‑0 record, riding a high‑powered rushing attack led by senior RB Gary Walker and senior defensive stalwarts Darrius White and Jaylon Moore. Their ability to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball has positioned them as a regional powerhouse. Look for the program to be a fixture in championship discussions this fall.

Carol City (Miami Gardens, FL)

Carol City concluded its campaign with a 6‑5 mark, yet still earned a spot in the regional rankings thanks to senior receiving duo Nick Lennear and Za’kari Johnson. Senior CB Jailen Hill provides a disruptive presence on defense, and the team’s ability to stay competitive against stronger opponents signals growth. Coachings and player development will be key as they aim to climb back into the upper echelon.

American Heritage (Plantation, FL)

American Heritage posted a 9‑5 record, highlighted by junior quarterback Neimann Lawrence and senior CB Amare Nugent. Junior safety Khristian Anderson adds a solid run‑stopping presence. The program’s balanced attack and improvement under center suggest they will be competitive throughout the schedule.

Gainesville (GA)

Gainesville finished 12‑3, powered by junior CB Jai’lil Gorley and senior contributions from quarterback Kharim Hughley and RB Nigel Newkirk. The defense ranks among the region’s stingiest, limiting opponents to manageable totals. Their resilience and ability to bounce back from setbacks will be pivotal as they chase a deeper postseason run.

Ruston (LA)

Ruston concluded the season 11‑3, anchored by senior TE Ahmad Hudson and junior RB Dalen Powell. Senior safety Jayden Anding adds a strong presence in the secondary. Their mix of experience and emerging talent positions them as contenders for a deep postseason run.

Dutch Fork (Irmo, SC)

Dutch Fork posted a 12‑1 record, highlighted by senior DL Jaden Wuerth, senior EDGE Peyton Bishop, and junior IOL Brody Lorenzo. Their ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks while protecting their own signal‑caller has been a recurring theme. Expect the Silver Foxes to be a disruptive force in any matchup.

Edna Karr (New Orleans, LA)

Edna Karr finished the campaign unbeaten at 14‑0, displaying a potent offense led by senior EDGE Juelz Batiste and senior OT Zyion Wesley. Senior RB Jermond Macklin provides a steady ground threat that keeps defenses guessing. Their balanced attack and defensive intensity make them a realistic national contender.

Watch List

• Oakland (Murfreesboro, TN)

• Clay-Chalkville (Pinson, AL)

• Chaminade-Madonna (Hollywood, FL)

These four programs are on the radar as potential dark‑horse entrants. Oakland’s presence in Tennessee, Clay‑Chalkville’s resurgence in Alabama, and Chaminade‑Madonna’s development in Florida could shake up the rankings as the season progresses. Keep an eye on their progress as they battle for playoff berths.

National Rankings Insight

The preseason Super 25 national rankings will be unveiled on Tuesday, July 21, giving the Southeast region a chance to see how its 11 qualifiers stack up against the rest of the country. The early numbers suggest this area is among the most competitive, with depth at every skill position. Fans can anticipate a flurry of storylines as the season kicks off and teams begin to prove their mettle.

For continued coverage, follow reporter Alex Martin on X at @NP_AlexMartin and connect via email at [email protected]. Stay updated with high‑school football news by following @usatodayhss on Instagram and X.