2026 - 5A

[FootballSince2008]

With new playoffs unknown of who might go where based on wins and more teams making the playoffs now (high 4A possibly 5A, low 6A possibly 5A) - which teams are in the "top echelon" of 5A come playoff time
Franny - Provi - Kankakee? - Will Rochester be close to 5A? Chatham Glenwood a possible 5A? Unsure who else with the whole new playoff trend of 3wins getting in

 

[cornerrat#1]

All.... Every year can be different. Fwiw Steve Soucie ran the new format for the 2025 teams. Chatham was still in 6A and Rochester 4A . Rocketnation would know but I believe he has mentioned that enrollment will fall a bit which will be reflected in 2026. Last year they were a solid 4A.

Chatham loses a ton of talent. It could be a rough season for the Titans. Making the playoffs though won't be a problem since 4 and 3 win teams and some possibly with two will qualify for postseason play. Ratsy

 

[rocketnation]

Rochester's days of flirting with 5A enrollment classification are gone. After years of being near the top of the 4A playoff schools in enrollment, Rochester was 21st out of the 32 4A playoff qualifiers last year with 682 students. If current trends hold up, they could be as low as 600 students within the next 3 years which could eventually put them on the 3A/4A bubble.

 

[cornerrat#1]

All.... IC or Byron versus Rochester (3A) down the road final could be fun in the future. Ratsy