Western Mass. football programs are embracing tougher opponents as statewide competition intensifies. news sports entertainment obituaries subscribe

August 22, 2026 High School Sports High School Sports 7 Western Mass. football games that should be on your radar Western Mass. football programs are embracing tougher opponents as statewide competition intensifies. By Jeff Lajoie | jlajoie@masslive.com Read more High School Sports MIAA approves Super 8 tournament for football For the first time ever, football will have a Division 1A/Super 8 state tournament beginning with the 2027 postseason. By Gage Nutter | gnutter@masslive.com MORE    High School Sports MassLive is looking for HS football freelancers this fall Writers are needed to help cover the entire state of Massachusetts on the high school sports desk. By MassLive Staff MORE    High School Sports Reigning MIAA Fall Champions: Here’s who is defending their titles in 2026 Check out which teams across Massachusetts will try to defend their state titles this fall. By Christopher Berry | cberry2@masslive.com MORE    High School Sports 12 Massachusetts high school football players to watch in 2026 Plenty of last year's football stars return this fall, while new players will step into bigger roles. Take a look at who is set to make an impact. By Gage Nutter | gnutter@masslive.com MORE    High School Sports 75 photos from Massachusetts High School Football Media Day Take a look at MassLive's best shots from High School Football Media Day on Friday. By Gage Nutter | gnutter@masslive.com MORE    See more     Get Back to What You've Missed   Unlimited Digital Access   $1 for 3 months   Subscribe Now