Fifteen local high school football teams in Ohio are set to compete in the second round of the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) playoffs. This crucial stage follows Week 11, where six teams secured their advancement through victories. Nine other teams, including powerhouses like Austintown Fitch and Canfield, earned first-round byes, positioning them directly into this week's matchups.
Key Takeaways
- 15 local Ohio teams advance to OHSAA playoff Round Two.
- Six teams won in Week 11 to secure their spot.
- Nine teams received first-round byes.
- Divisions II through VII will see intense competition.
Teams Ready for Divisional Battles
The upcoming games will feature teams across multiple divisions, from Division II to Division VII. Each matchup carries significant weight as teams vie for a spot in the next round. The playoff structure ensures that only the strongest teams continue their journey towards a state championship.
Division II includes two local teams. Green, with a 6-5 record, will travel to face Austintown Fitch, who holds an impressive 8-1 record. Boardman, also with a 6-5 record, is set for a challenging game against Akron Hoban, an 8-1 team.
Playoff Fact
First-round byes are awarded to top-seeded teams, giving them an advantage by allowing extra rest and preparation time for their initial playoff game.
Division III Showdown
In Division III, the Canfield Cardinals, boasting a 9-1 record, will host Kenston, a team with a 7-4 record. Canfield's strong season performance makes them a formidable opponent in this division.
Intense Competition in Divisions IV and V
Division IV features two local teams in critical matchups. West Branch, with a 9-1 record, will host Norton, who has a 10-1 record. Salem, with a 7-4 record, faces Glenville, a 7-3 team, in what is expected to be a competitive game.
Playoff Structure
The OHSAA playoff system uses a seeding method to rank teams based on their regular season performance. Higher seeds often receive home-field advantage and byes in early rounds, crucial benefits in the postseason.
Division V promises several exciting games. Cardinal Mooney, with a 7-2 record, will host South Range, a 7-4 team. Girard, an undefeated team with a 10-0 record, will host Akron Manchester (8-3). Poland, with an 8-2 record, is set to host Liberty, who holds a 9-2 record.
"Every game in the playoffs is a championship game. Teams have worked all season for these moments," said a local high school football coach, emphasizing the high stakes of each contest.
Divisions VI and VII Prepare for Action
In Division VI, Crestview, with a perfect 10-0 record, will host Garaway (9-2). United, holding a 9-1 record, will host Smithville, a 9-2 team. These matchups highlight the strength of smaller school divisions in the region.
Division VII features Warren JFK, with a 6-5 record, traveling to face McDonald, an undefeated team with a 10-0 record. East Palestine, with an 8-3 record, will play Mogadore, who holds a 9-1 record.
Team Records
- Austintown Fitch: 8-1
- Canfield: 9-1
- West Branch: 9-1
- Cardinal Mooney: 7-2
- Girard: 10-0
- Poland: 8-2
- Crestview: 10-0
- United: 9-1
- McDonald: 10-0
The Road Ahead for Playoff Teams
The second round of the OHSAA playoffs is a critical juncture for all competing teams. A loss means the end of the season, while a win propels teams closer to their state championship aspirations. The intensity of these games is palpable, with players, coaches, and fans all invested in the outcome.
Local communities rally behind their high school football teams, making these playoff games significant events. The performances in Week 12 will determine which teams have the resilience and skill to continue their postseason journey. Each team has prepared extensively, and the results will reflect their dedication throughout the season.
The focus now shifts to execution on the field. Coaches will finalize game plans, and players will aim to perform at their peak. The atmosphere at these games is often electric, with packed stands and passionate support for the local athletes. This round is not just about winning; it is about showcasing months of hard work and teamwork.
Fans can expect high-energy contests and memorable moments as these 15 teams battle for advancement. The path to a state title is challenging, and every victory in the playoffs is a testament to a team's enduring commitment and talent.