High School Football Rankings Heat Up for 2024 Season
As Alabama’s high school football season enters Week 8, passionate fans are following their favorite teams’ journeys in the rankings. The Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) has just released its latest polls, highlighting some notable shifts among the top teams. With the push for playoff spots intensifying, every game counts more than ever.
Hoover Head Coach Sees Progress
Hoover High School has made a leap in the Class 7A rankings, moving up to No. 6 after a recent victory against Oak Mountain. Coach Trey English expressed pride in the team’s performance, noting that their hard work is paying off. “We’re seeing improvement every week, and it’s exciting to see the players grow,” he commented. The Bucs, now boasting a 5-2 record, are gearing up for a critical matchup against Tuscaloosa County this Friday.
Class 7A Top 10 Rankings
- Auburn (6-0)
- Central-Phenix City (5-1)
- Thompson (5-2)
- Mary Montgomery (6-1)
- Enterprise (4-2)
- Hoover (5-2)
- Carver-Montgomery (5-1)
- Austin (6-0)
- Hewitt-Trussville (5-2)
- Baker (5-1)
Other teams receiving votes include Opelika, James Clemens, Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa, and Vestavia Hills.
Spain Park’s Shift in Rankings
In contrast, Spain Park fell to No. 4 in Class 6A following a week off. At 6-0, they are still in a strong position as they prepare to host Chelsea, another undefeated team, this Thursday night. Both teams will be aiming to secure their seventh win of the season, making this matchup crucial not just for pride, but also for playoff positioning.
Class 6A Top 10 Rankings
- Saraland (6-0)
- Clay-Chalkville (6-0)
- Parker (6-1)
- Spain Park (6-0)
- Oxford (7-0)
- Muscle Shoals (5-1)
- Gadsden City (5-1)
- Homewood (6-1)
- Hartselle (5-1)
- Chelsea (6-0)
Teams like Mountain Brook, St. Paul’s Episcopal, Russell County, and Spanish Fort also received votes, indicating a competitive field this season.
Exciting Matchups Ahead
With the playoffs looming, teams in all classes are vying for a strong finish. Here are some potential highlights for the coming week:
- Hoover (5-2) vs. Tuscaloosa County
- Spain Park (6-0) vs. Chelsea (6-0)
- Auburn (6-0) looks to maintain its top spot in Class 7A
These games could define the season for many teams, making it essential for athletes to perform at their best.
A Look at Other Classes
The excitement isn’t limited to Classes 6A and 7A. Other classes also have standout teams worth watching:
- In Class 5A, Catholic-Montgomery leads the pack with a perfect 6-0 record.
- In Class 4A, Jackson holds the top position at 6-1.
- T.R. Miller in Class 3A is currently undefeated at 7-0.
These teams are not only looking to secure their spots in the playoffs but also to prove themselves as champions in their respective divisions.
Conclusion: The Race Heats Up
As the season progresses, every game grows more critical. The recent rankings by the ASWA reflect not just the standings but also the excitement and rivalry that fuel Alabama high school football. With key matchups on the horizon, teams will need to dig deep to secure their paths to the playoffs. Fans will be watching closely, ready to support their teams as they strive to emerge victorious amid this tight competition