High school football in Tennessee is heating up as teams across the state begin to unveil their schedules for the 2026 season. The Nashville area, a consistent hotbed for college talent, is once again at the center of the action, with powerhouse programs finalizing their upcoming slates.
One of the most notable programs, the Ensworth Tigers, has officially released its 2026 football schedule. Led by former NFL quarterback Tim Hasselbeck, the Tigers are a perennial contender and a must-watch for fans of high-level prep football. The new schedule mirrors the 2025 campaign, with home and away dates simply swapped.
Coach Hasselbeck will have his work cut out for him this season, as the Tigers are tasked with reloading after graduating a stellar senior class. Key departures include safety Justin Hopkins (Minnesota), tight end Eli Wilt (Western Kentucky), athlete Bishop Starling (Vanderbilt), and quarterback Taylor Hasselbeck (Wyoming). How the new leaders step up will be a major storyline to follow.
The Tigers' path won't be easy, featuring a gauntlet of top-tier Tennessee competition. The 2026 schedule is packed with rivalry games and state championship contenders, promising an electrifying season at Daily Stadium.
Mark your calendars for these key matchups: The season kicks off on August 21 against Whitehaven, followed by a crucial early test against Lipscomb Academy on September 18. Road trips to powerhouses like McCallie (Sep. 11) and Montgomery Bell Academy (Oct. 30) will define the Tigers' playoff hopes. The full schedule is as follows:
Aug. 21 – Whitehaven
Aug. 28 – Nashville Christian
Sep. 4 – Briarcrest Christian
Sep. 11 – at McCallie
Sep. 18 – Lipscomb Academy
Sep. 25 – Brentwood Academy
Oct. 2 – at Knoxville Catholic
Oct. 9 – at Christ Presbyterian Academy
Oct. 23 – Baylor School
Oct. 30 – at Montgomery Bell Academy
Ensworth is coming off a strong 2025 season where they finished 7-4 and were ranked No. 8 in the final statewide Massey Rankings. With a tradition of excellence both on the field and in the classroom, Ensworth High School consistently develops well-rounded student-athletes prepared for the next level. The 2026 season is shaping up to be another thrilling chapter for Tiger football.