Friday Night Lights: Columbus County Teams Gear Up for Postseason Runs

High school football postseason action arrives tonight across North Carolina, with Columbus County’s top programs entering the 2026 NCHSAA state playoffs with high expectations.

While one local squad takes the field for a opening-round matchup on home turf, two county contenders earned high seeds and opening-round byes, setting up a potentially deep playoff push into late November.

South Columbus Hosts McMichael in 3A First-Round Action

The No. 12-seeded South Columbus Stallions (6-3) kick off their postseason campaign tonight at home in Tabor City against the No. 21-seeded McMichael Phoenix (2-8) in the first round of the 3A East bracket.

The Stallions rely heavily on a physical, run-first offense averaging over 178 rushing yards per game. Meanwhile, McMichael travels from Mayodan seeking an upset after navigating a tough regular-season slate.

• Kickoff: Friday, Nov. 6 at 7:00 p.m. in Tabor City.

• What’s Next: The winner of tonight’s matchup advances to the 3A East second round on Friday, Nov. 13, traveling to face the No. 5 seed Martin County, who holds an opening-round bye.

Undefeated Whiteville Rested and Waiting in 3A East

The Whiteville Wolfpack (9-0) enter the 3A East postseason as the No. 2 seed following an impressive undefeated regular season capped by a 48-12 win over South Columbus on Oct. 30.

Thanks to their high seed, the Wolfpack secured a first-round bye for Nov. 6.

• Next Game: Friday, Nov. 13 (Home).

• The Matchup: Whiteville will host the winner of tonight’s first-round game between No. 15 Northwood and No. 18 Kinston.

• Path Ahead: Holding the No. 2 overall seed in the 3A East bracket means Whiteville will retain home-field advantage through the first four rounds of the playoffs as long as they keep winning.

West Columbus Prepares for 2A Postseason Debut

The West Columbus Vikings earned a top-tier seed and an opening-round bye in the 2A East bracket.

• Next Game: Friday, Nov. 13 (Home).

• Path Ahead: The Vikings will host the winner of Friday night’s opening-round matchup between No. 15 Hobbton and No. 18 Northampton County.

2026 NCHSAA Playoff Schedule Overview

• First Round: Friday, Nov. 6

• Second Round: Friday, Nov. 13

• Third Round: Friday, Nov. 20

• Fourth Round: Friday, Nov. 27

• Regional Finals: Friday, Dec. 4

• State Championship Games: Dec. 10–12

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