The 2026 Mississippi high school football season is officially underway, with Week 1 promising an exciting slate of games. As teams across the state prepare to take the field, all eyes are on the top matchups that will set the tone for the season. From reigning champions to rising stars, the first week of action is packed with high-stakes showdowns that football fans won’t want to miss.
The Mississippi High Schools Activities Association (MHSAA) kicks off its season on August 28 with several key games scheduled for that evening. Meanwhile, the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) opened its season on August 14 delivering an action-packed weekend of football. As the state’s top teams take the field, here’s a look at the must-watch matchups and the standout players to keep an eye on.
Top MHSAA Week 1 Matchups
The MHSAA’s Week 1 schedule features some of the state’s most talented teams facing off in what promises to be an electric opening weekend. Here are the top games to watch:
Brandon vs. Tupelo: A Clash of Titans
The Week 1 slate kicks off with a showdown between two of Mississippi’s elite teams Brandon and Tupelo. The Tupelo Golden Wave the 2026 MHSAA 7A runners-up, will host the Brandon Bulldogs who boast a formidable offense led by Illinois commit Sladen Shack at quarterback and Michigan commit Tyson Robinson in the backfield. Tupelo, meanwhile, will rely on Colorado commit Kylan Bobo and transfer quarterback Drew Dean to lead their charge.
Starkville vs. Oak Grove: Quarterback Showdown
In Hattiesburg, football fans are in for a treat as two of the state’s top quarterbacks go head-to-head. Tulane commit Kingston Johnson of Starkville will square off against Old Dominion commit Kellen Hall of Oak Grove. Both signal-callers threw for over 2,500 yards last season and will look to continue their stellar performances in what is sure to be a high-scoring affair.
Gulfport vs. Picayune: Defending Champions in Action
The defending MHSAA 7A champions Gulfport, will look to start their 2026 campaign on the right foot against a tough Picayune squad. While the Admirals lost some key seniors, they return a core group that could make another deep playoff run. Picayune, led by senior running back Xavier Dennis will look to upset the defending champs with their powerful ground game.
Notable MAIS Opening Week Results
While the MHSAA season is just getting underway, the MAIS has already delivered some exciting action. Here are some of the top results from the opening weekend:
Lamar School Dominates Simpson Academy
The Lamar School Raiders kicked off their season with a 29-14 victory over Simpson Academy. The Raiders’ defense was the story of the game, holding Simpson Academy’s offense in check for much of the evening.
Jackson Academy Routs Leake Academy
In another high-scoring affair Jackson Academy defeated Leake Academy by a score of 63-40. The Raiders’ offense was clicking on all cylinders, with multiple players contributing to the explosive performance.
Greenville-St. Joseph Catholic Shuts Out Kirk Academy
The Greenville-St. Joseph Catholic Flames made a statement in their season opener, shutting out Kirk Academy by a score of 36-8. The Flames’ defense was impenetrable allowing just a single touchdown all game long.
Key Players to Watch
As the 2026 season gets underway, several standout players will look to make their mark on the state’s football landscape. Here are some of the top athletes to keep an eye on:
Zaiden Jernigan: Louisville’s Star Running Back
Louisville’s Zaiden Jernigan is one of the state’s most explosive running backs. After a standout performance in last year’s matchup against West Point, Jernigan will look to continue his dominance in 2026.
Acely Brown: Petal’s Four-Star Running Back
Petal’s Acely Brown is a four-star recruit who has drawn attention from top college programs. As the Tigers look to avenge last year’s loss to Hattiesburg, Brown will be a key player to watch.
Chase Craft: Heidelberg’s Dual-Threat Quarterback
Heidelberg’s Chase Craft is a versatile quarterback who can beat defenses both through the air and on the ground. After a strong performance in last year’s state title game, Craft will look to lead the Oilers to another deep playoff run.
As the 2026 Mississippi high school football season gets underway, fans can expect thrilling action and memorable performances from the state’s top teams and players. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just looking for some exciting entertainment Week 1 of the season is sure to deliver.
