Nebraska High School Football: A New Era Begins in 2026
The Nebraska high school football landscape is undergoing significant changes, with the NSAA Board of Directors unanimously approving a revamped scheduling model for Class A football. These changes, set to take effect in the 2026-27 cycle, mark a departure from traditional district play and introduce a new emphasis on wildcard points for playoff qualification.
Class A Football: Beyond Districts
For years, Class A football has operated within a district system. However, that system is now being eliminated. The decision, made on September 18, 2025, aims to create a more competitive and dynamic environment. The top 16 teams in wildcard points will now qualify for the state playoffs, removing automatic qualifiers tied to district championships. Schools can also expand their priority lists for opponents, potentially preserving long-standing rivalries.
This shift is expected to level the playing field, reducing the likelihood of significant mismatches and ensuring that the best teams, regardless of district affiliation, have a pathway to the postseason.
Interstate Showdowns and Rising Stars
The new schedules aren’t just about internal competition. Several Nebraska teams will face opponents from neighboring states. Millard South will host Lee’s Summit North (Missouri) and travel to St. Louis Cardinal Ritter Prep, although Omaha Westside will host Lee’s Summit High. Other matchups include Omaha Metro teams participating in the Omaha Metro/South Dakota Series, and Bellevue West facing Brandon Valley (S.D.).
The influx of talent into programs like Millard North and Millard South, with players like Tory Pittman III, Kylonn Haynie, and Trae Taylor, adds another layer of excitement to the upcoming seasons. These transfers signal a growing trend of players seeking opportunities at programs with established winning traditions.
Class B Adjustments and Emerging Districts
Changes aren’t limited to Class A. Class B will also see a new scheduling model, and a unique “emerging district” has been created. This district, comprising Beatrice, Blair, Crete, Lexington, and Platteview, operates differently. Wildcard points are irrelevant for playoff seeding within this group, effectively making non-district games less impactful for these five teams.
The Future of 8-Man Football
The NSAA is also investing in the growth of 8-man football. The inaugural 8-man Kickoff Classic, scheduled for August 29, 2026, at Grand Island Senior High’s Memorial Stadium, will showcase six teams in a unique event designed to promote the sport. The event was born from a brainstorming session among coaches looking to increase the visibility of 8-man football.
Bennington and Elkhorn North: A Class A Transition
Bennington and Elkhorn North, both traditionally Class B powers, will compete in Class A for the 2026-27 cycle. Bennington is slated to return to Class B in 2027-28 with the opening of a new high school, while Elkhorn North’s growing enrollment suggests a likely continued presence in Class A.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest change to Class A football?
The elimination of district play is the most significant change. Playoff qualification will now be based solely on wildcard points.
How will the new schedule affect rivalries?
Schools have the opportunity to expand their priority lists for opponents, which could help maintain existing rivalries.
What is the purpose of the Class B emerging district?
The emerging district is a pilot program designed to test a different scheduling model. Wildcard points do not factor into playoff seeding for teams in this district.
Where will the 8-man Kickoff Classic be held?
The Kickoff Classic will be held at Grand Island Senior High’s Memorial Stadium.
Will Class A and Class B be the only classes with schedule changes?
No, schedules for Classes A, B, C1, C2, D1, D2 and Six-Man will be released on Feb. 11, 2026.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on wildcard point standings throughout the season, as they will be crucial for determining playoff berths in Class A.
Did you know? The NSAA Board of Directors approved these changes with a unanimous 8-0 vote, demonstrating widespread support for the new scheduling model.
Stay tuned for further updates and detailed schedule breakdowns as the 2026-27 Nebraska high school football season approaches. Explore NSAA Board Meetings for more information.
