2026 Class 5A State Football Playoffs: Fossil Ridge vs. Regis Jesuit – First‑Round Showdown on Nov. 6
Aurora football fans, mark your calendars! On Saturday, November 6, 2026, the Class 5A state playoffs kick off with a high‑stakes first‑round battle between the Fossil Ridge Raiders and the Regis Jesuit Warriors. Both programs have earned a reputation for gritty defense and explosive offense, and this matchup promises to deliver the kind of edge‑of‑your‑seat action that makes Aurora’s Friday night lights legendary.
Why this game matters: - Fossil Ridge enters the playoffs riding a 7‑2 record, highlighted by a season‑saving upset over the top‑seeded East Aurora Eagles. Their dual‑threat quarterback, senior Jake “Lightning” Martinez, averages 285 passing yards and 3.2 touchdowns per game. - Regis Jesuit comes in hot at 8‑1, boasting the league’s leading rusher, junior Malik “Bull” Thompson, who’s broken off three 100‑yard runs in the past two weeks. Their disciplined defense has held opponents to just 14 points per game.
Local buzz: Tailgate at Miller’s Park (near the intersection of S. 12th St. and Aurora Ave.) for a pre‑game grill and live music—Aurora’s favorite spot for post‑game celebrations. Expect light traffic on U.S. 30 after kickoff, so plan your route early.
Key storylines to watch: 1. Can Fossil Ridge’s high‑octane passing attack keep pace with Regis Jesuit’s ground‑and‑pound style? 2. Which team’s special teams will seize the momentum with a game‑changing return? 3. Will the rivalry spark a new tradition of playoff meet‑ups for Aurora’s youth leagues?
Don’t miss the kickoff at
