The Irmo Yellow Jackets football team is back in the 4A classification and is considered a favorite for the state title, following consecutive appearances in the 5A Division II championship game. Head coach Aaron Brand continues to lead the program, which has become a formidable force in South Carolina high school football.
The team’s 2026 season began with a loss to Rock Hill on August 21, where the Yellow Jackets faced a 17-0 deficit, incurred over 20 penalties, and threw two critical interceptions late in the game. Coach Brand acknowledged the team’s performance, stating they laid an egg, but expressed confidence that adjustments would be made by both players and coaches as the season progresses.
Irmo’s previous championship losses were both against Northwestern, a team no longer in the same classification. The Yellow Jackets also missed out on two region titles due to mistakes in key games against Dutch Fork. Coach Brand emphasized the need for discipline, stating the team cannot continue to self-inflict bad situations.
The 2026 schedule includes a game at Spring Valley on August 28 and another at Lower Richland on September 4. The Yellow Jackets will play Wilson on September 11 and Dorman on September 18 before a bye week. Region play begins on October 2 against North Augusta, followed by games at South Aiken on October 9, at Midland Valley on October 16, and home games against Aiken on October 23 and Fox Creek on October 30. The new 4A region includes several teams from the Aiken area, with no other Lexington County football teams in the classification.
The Irmo roster features several talented players, including junior quarterback Britton Davis, who is expected to be the full-time starter this season. Running back Tai Phillips is committed to Alabama, and offensive lineman Nate Carson is committed to South Carolina. Wide receiver Jay Eady is noted as a top pass-catching target. On defense, edge rusher Jaiden Bryant is committed to Miami.
