State championship dreams start to get a little more real for Ohio high school football teams this weekend.
The 2021 Ohio High School Athletic Association football playoffs kick off Friday in Divisons I, II, III and IV. Teams in Divisions V, VI and VII open their playoff journeys Saturday.The OHSAA released the first-round playoff pairings Sunday and they can be viewed here for the entire slate of games.
Each team's goal:A trip to Canton in December for the state championship games at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.
To get you ready for the postseason, webreak down the top teams and players fromthe regions featuring teams from Northeast and North-Central Ohio. We offer up our team to beat in each region, notable contenders and a dark horse. We also look at some of the top individual players in each region.
Breaking down Division I, Region 1
Team to beat
MEDINA: The Bees made a run to last year’s regional final as a No. 8 seed, which included knocking off No. 1 seed St. Edward. There’s no sneaking up on anyone this season. Medina scored 41.5 points a game and torched its competition by 30 points on average on its way to the first 10-0 regular season in school history.
Other contenders
LAKEWOOD ST. EDWARD: The 8-1 Eagles have spent the whole season at or near the top of the Associated Press state rankings in Division I. A Week 9 loss to Cincinnati Moeller was the first time St. Ed’s trailed all season. The Eagles have a rugged front seven on defense and experienced skill players on offense in quarterback Christian Ramos and running back Danny Enovitch.
CLEVELAND ST. IGNATIUS: The Wildcats are 6-4, with those four losses coming by a combined 12 points. They knocked off defending D1 state champion Cincinnati St. Xavier 28-21 in Week 9. Ignatius, led by Chuck Kyle in his 39th season as head coach, has the look of a team that can make a run in Region 1.
Dark horse
MENTOR: The Cardinals are not your everyday No. 11 seed with a .500 record. Mentor started the season 2-0 with wins over McKinley and Ignatius. Then the injuries began to pile up, including at the quarterback position. Well, QB Jacob Snow is back and the Cardinals are getting healthy. A first-round rematch with Ignatius should be very interesting.
Top players to watch
Drew Allar, QB, Medina
The 6-5, 230-pound Allar is a Penn State recruit, an Ohio Mr. Football candidate and one of the top-rated Class of 2022 QBs in the country. The rocket-armed Allar is deadly in Medina’s shotgun spread.
More Northeast Ohio Football:Drew Allar of Medina, Owen Bainbridge of Stow will be friendly football rivals
Brenden Craig, RB, Jackson
Stark County’s leading rusher is a big play waiting to happen with 1,381 yards at 7.5 per carry and 17 total touchdowns. If the 5-9, 170-pound Craig gets into the open, look out.
More on Brenden Craig:No longer idled by injury, Jackson football's Brenden Craig runs wild for Polar Bears
HaroldFannin Jr., WR/S, CantonMcKinley
Fannin’s status for the playoffs is unclear after suffering an injury on Saturday against Massillon. If he’s available, there might not be a more terrifying player in the area than the 6-4, 230-pound Fannin.
More on Harold Fannin Jr.:McKinley's Harold Fannin Jr. has something to say — with his play
Michael Kilbane, DE, St. Edward
Kilbane is a 6-4, 240-pound edge rusher with power, speed and length. He has multiple D1 offers, including one from Cincinnati.
Xavier Preston, RB, Stow
The 6-1, 195-pound Preston is a handful running behind the Bulldogs’ big offensive line, which includes Kent State recruit Mason Mennell. Preston had a 235-yard, three-TD game against North Royalton in Week 6.
Fun fact
Since Stark County’s Division I teams were moved to Region 1 in 2013, Mentor has won the region four times, St. Edward three times and St. Ignatius once. Stark teams are 0-9 in the postseason against those three in that span, losing on average by 26.3 points.
Breaking down Division II, Region 5
Team to beat
ARCHBISHOP HOBAN: The Knights might not have had as dominant a season as last year. Until anyone can get past the defending Division II state champions in the playoffs, however, they remain the team to beat. Anchored by running back Lamar Sperling, Hoban still has plenty of firepower as it seeks its sixth state title in the last seven years.
Other contenders
WALSH JESUIT: The Warriors are two missed conversions away from an undefeated season — and those losses came to Hoban and Benedictine. This is Walsh's best team in more than a decade and it would be no shock to see it avenge one — or both — of those losses in the postseason.
More Walsh Jesuit Football:Walsh Jesuit recaptures 'The Bell' with first victory over STVM since 2014
HUDSON:Just like Walsh, Hudson's two losses this fall each came by one point. The Explorers havepunched above their weight all season and have plenty of experience in close games. The fastest offense in Northeast Ohio will be a headache for anyone in the postseason.
NORDONIA: The Knights have had a couple of hiccups this season, but they've proven to be a much more well-rounded team — especially on defense — than in years past. A gritty Week 10 win over Benedictine could be an indication Nordonia is ready for a big playoff push.
Dark horse
BENEDICTINE: The Bengals looked like contenders through the first seven weeks of the season. Then, weather cancelled their Week 8 game in Erie, Pa., followed byback-to-back losses to Hoban and Nordonia. If Benedictine can put the two losses to the Knights behind it, it's capable of beating anyone.
Top players to watch
Lamar Sperling, RB, Archbishop Hoban
Sperling has been asked to put the Knights offense on his back at times this season. He's answered the call. At 5-foot-7 and 175 pounds, the junior is far from the biggest back in the area, but he plays well above his size.
More on Lamar Sperling:Junior Lamar Sperling embraces larger role with Archbishop Hoban football team
Matt Natale, QB, Walsh Jesuit
Natale has been putting up big numbers all season, but it's his attitude and leadership that have turned things around for the Warriors. It's been more than a decade since Walsh has had a long playoff run. He will be the key to it.
More on Matt Natale:Matt Natale brings strong intangibles as a 'culture changer' for Walsh Jesuit football
CeeJay Yarborough, QB, Benedictine
Prior to the Bengals' slump, Yarborough had thrown for more than 1,100 yard and 20 TDs. He needs to rediscover his early-season form if the Bengals are to factor in the Region 5 race.
Aiden Lal, RB, Hudson
If he can shake off a late-season ankle injury, Lal will be the most prolific runner in the region. The Explorers missed their backfield ace in a Week 10 loss to Stow, as he provides perfect balance to Hudson's run-and-gun passing attack.
More on Aiden Lal:Hudson's Aiden Lal, an Air Force football commit, has a love for playing running back that's unparalleled
Cooper Rusk, WR/FB/TE/SS/LB, Nordonia
The number of positions Rusk can play alone makes him invaluable for the Knights.
Fun fact
Hoban has dominated this region every year since 2017, when it moved up to Division II. The Knights' lone loss in Division II, Region 5 was in the 2019 regional championship game to Massillon.
Breaking down Division II, Region 6
Team to beat
BARBERTON: The Magics may have some more tricks up their sleeves in the postseason. Barberton has already knocked off the top-ranked team in this region with a 28-21 win over Highland in Week 5. The Magicsalso became the first team to take down then-unbeaten Aurora in Week 8 with a 14-6 win over the Greenmen. With senior defensive end John Jackson leading the defense and senior running back Cameron Macon a formidable presence on offense, the Magics are never out of any game.
Other contenders
HIGHLAND: A rematch between the Hornets and the Magics could bring the fireworks. Highland hasn’t lost since that Barberton game, and also knocked off Aurora in Week 9, holding the Greenmen scoreless in a 10-0 win.
AVON: The Eagles lost early in the year to unbeaten Medina, and lostto rival Avon Lake in Week 4. In the next five games, Avon outscored its opponents 244-69. The Eagles have won at least a share of the Southwestern Conference in each of the past five years.
TOLEDO CENTRAL CATHOLIC: The Fighting Irishlost their first two games of the year to St. Edward and Benedictine, but they haven’t lost since. Coach Greg Dempsey knows how to have his teams ready for the postseason, as the program boasts 17 consecutiveplayoff appearances and four state titles.
Dark horse
NORTH ROYALTON: The Bears have become a formidable presence in the always stacked Suburban League National Conference this year. They are one of the most experienced teams in the league, boasting a handful of three-year starters. They had a big loss to Hudson (31-0), but their other two losses to Highland and Stow were by a combined six points.
Top players to watch
John Jackson, DE/TE, Barberton
The Kent State University commit has a knack for making big plays just when the Magics need them most, maybe the prime example being his interception return for a touchdown against St. Vincent-St. Mary to give the Magics their first lead of that tightgame. Later, he recovered a fumble in OT to seal the deal. Jackson is a three-year starter and two-year captain.
More on John Jackson:Barberton's John Jackson making big plays in 2021 season
Cameron Macon, RB, Barberton
As the Magics’ leading rusher, he has the same tendency to make big plays as Jackson does. Maconnot only has explosiveness, but adds size at 6-foot and 210 pounds. He can also make plays through the air when needed.
More on Cameron Macon:High school football: Humble and laid back, Macon looks to lead Barberton to American Conference title
Aaron Filips, QB, Highland
Coach Mike Gibbons refers to Filips as the “heart and soul” of this Hornets team. In addition to his physical skill, he’s also been praised for his high football IQ, and his ability to bring a calming presence to any adverse situation. Filips is a three-sport star, also excelling at basketball and baseball.
Jakorion Caffet, RB, Avon
The sophom*ore is in the midst of a breakout season, increasing his rushing total from the prior weekin almost every game. He has had four-, five- and six-TD games this year, and given his athleticism, opens up the offense.
Ty’Wuan Clark, QB, Toledo Central Catholic
The offense flows through the junior signal-caller, who also can make plays on the ground. In big games, such as Central Catholic’s 24-15 win over Fremont Ross in Week 9 that helped the Irish claim a fourth straight Three Rivers Athletic Conference title, he also does a great job at remaining calm under pressure.
Fun fact
Avon has dominated this region in recent years, winning it in each of the past four seasons. The last program other than the Eagles to win it was Whitehouse Anthony Wayne in 2016.
Breaking down Division II, Region 7 football playoffs
Team to beat
MASSILLON: Why Massillon? Why not. The Tigers have won a regional championship each of the last four years. This year’s team has only lost twice, and they were to two of Division I’s best teams in Pickerington Central and St. Edward. Massillon may not have as many high-level Division I college recruits as previous years, but until someone in the region beats it, the money’s on it as the favorite.
More Massillon Tigers Football:'Watched them break right in front of us' -Massillon Tigers football rallies to another win over Canton McKinley
Other contenders
BIG WALNUT:The Golden Eagles have been a machine throughout this season. Nate Severs is a one-man wrecking crew with the football in his arms. Defensively, Big Walnut haspushed its opponents around. There’s a reason this team is undefeated, and could remain that way deep intothe playoffs as well.
HOOVER:The early season issues, which basically centered around young and inexperienced players getting their feet wet on Friday nights, have gone away. A defense led by Drew Loganand Mike Shimek can make life tough on opposing offenses, while the Viking offensehas found its footing since losing its expected starting quarterback in the week of the season opener.
OLENTANGY BERLIN:Led by former Stow coach Mark Nori, the Bears have a mindset befitting a team led by an ex-NFL lineman. Berlin is big and physical, led by Cincinnati commit JonHarderat tackle. It alsoboastsa pair of dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks in Harrison Brewster and Dylan Reyes.
WESTERVILLE SOUTH:Penn State commit Kaden Saunders is the headliner, but this isn’t some one-trick ponyteam.The Wildcats have found their footing with new quarterback Dominic Bertha, whileBrandon Armstrong and Nasir Phillips are a heck of a one-two rushing punch.
Dark horse
DUBLIN SCIOTO:The Irish have three losses, and all three are to teams that are among the favoritesin this region: Big Walnut, Olentangy Berlin and Westerville South. During their season-best four-game win streak from Week 5 through Week 8, Scioto allowed just one score and had three consecutive shutouts. This could be a team that could dole out a little playoff revenge.
Top players to watch
Austin Brawley,WR/S,Massillon
A three-phase standout for the Tigers, Brawley has taken off as a receiver over the second half of the season to go with his steady play at safety on defense. Oh, and he’s altered more than one game with special-teams plays, either with a blocked kick or returning a kick or punt for a touchdown.
Drew Logan,DL-RB, North Canton Hoover
How about a little love for a defensive lineman? Logan haslived in the backfield this season, the opposing backfield, that is. He’s posted double-digit sacks and tackles forloss this year, and has even had his hands involved in some pass coverage. He also can be a handful as a runner and blocker in some of Hoover's power packages on offense.
More North Canton Hoover Football:Double trouble: North Canton Hoover football's Drew Logan, Mike Shimek wreaking havoc
Kaden Saunders,WR,Westerville South
One of the best receivers in Ohio. The Penn State commit has done a little bit of everything this season for the Wildcats. While he’s been an obvious receiving threat, he’s also run the ballwith regularity and thrown it a few times as well.
Nate Severs,RB,BigWalnut
The young buck among this group, as he’s only a sophom*ore. That, however, only shows what a prodigy Severs is running the football. He had 50 touchdowns as a freshman, and hasn’t slowed down this season at all.
Jalen Slaughter,QB,Massillon
The freshman took over the starting job in Week 6 after being thrust into action the previous week against Division I power St. Edward. In his first start, Slaughter threw for 205 yards and two scores in a huge road win over Austintown Fitch. Since then, all he's done is help the Tigers' passing game take huge strides forward compared to where it was during the first five games.
Fun facts
Either Massillon or Perry has won this region every year since 2015. The only exception was in 2019, whenthe Stark County teams were in Region 5.… While there are no rematches in the opening round, there's potential for several in the second round. That includes a possible Hoover-Green rematch should both higher seeds win their openers.… If Massillon and Lake both wintheir first-round games, it would match the two Stark County teams up for the first time ever. The Blue Streaks are the lone Stark Federal League team the Tigers have never played.
Breaking down Division III, Region 9
Team to beat
CHARDON: The defending Division III state champion Hilltoppers have won 22 consecutivegames and 29 of their last 30. Since Ursuline played Chardon close in Week 3, the Hilltoppers have outscored their last six foes by an absurd 284-27 margin. With a defense that creates a ton of turnovers and an offense that is always dominant on the ground, Chardon will be tough to beat.
Other contenders
AURORA: With star QB Alex Moore injured, the Greenmen may no longer be the leading contender they once were in Region 9, but they are still loaded with athletic play-makers, including RB Aiden Henderson and WR Jack Cardaman. Tack on an always stout defense and one of the area's top coaches in Bob Mihalik and Aurora is still dangerous, no matter who is standing under center.
DOVER: The Tornadoes have put together an awfully impressive resume, beating a solid Division I team (Strongsville) at home and taking down another top Region 9 team (Canfield) on the road. Dover has been particularly powerful on defense, never surrendering more than 14 points in a game. The Tornadoes also have gone with an unconventional plan at quarterback, alternating between Ayden Hall and T.C. Molk, and both have been superb, helped by having the Division I state high jump champ at receiver in Joey Farthing.
CANFIELD: Last year's Region 9 runner-up, Canfield's lone loss came early in the season to Dover. Since then, the Cardinals have looked unstoppable, tallying at least 35 points in seven straight games before a more low-scoring Week 10 win over Boardman. With junior quarterback Broc Lowry, who took over midway through last season, playing well in his first full year as a starter, the Cardinals look dangerous.
HUBBARD: While the Eagles haven’t taken on quite the same strength of schedule as the Greenmen, they have been plenty impressive. Perhaps no one has been more impressive than RB TC Caffey, who has well over 2,000 rushing yards on the season.
Dark horse
STEUBENVILLE: Big Red’s lone loss regionally came to Dover and they have a history like few other programs in the state. Steubenville has been superb in its run defense this year while QB Phaeton Hill has formed an aerial connection with WR Inky Jones and RB Spencer Ostovich has led a talented group of runners averaging more than 250 rushing yards per game. Now, Big Red hopes to advance past the second round of the postseason for the first time since they won the 2017 state championship.
Top players to watch
TC Caffey, RB, Hubbard
The senior averagesnearly 250 rushing yards per game and reaching the end zone 33 times, averaging close to 9 yards a carry.
Maysun Klimak, QB, Streetsboro
The Rockets' senior signal-caller has taken on an expanded role this year with the graduation of a number of star running backs. Klimak has done so with grace, proving himself to be a top dual-threat quarterback.
Aiden Henderson, RB, Aurora
While much attention has been paid to Greenmen quarterback Alex Moore, and rightfully so, Aiden Henderson has been a powerful lead back for Aurora, averaging almost 7 yards per carry and totaling nearly 1,000 yards between his rushing and receiving totals.
Alex Henry, QB, Chardon
It wasn't clear exactly what to expect from the HIlltoppers this season, given all they lost to graduation, but Henry has helped ensure Chardon has remained toward the top of the fray. He has been absolutely lethal running the ball.
Broc Lowry, QB, Canfield
The Cardinals quarterback was spectacular in last year's postseason and has been playing at a high level throughout 2021, including accounting for Canfield's first four TDs (two passing, two rushing) in a Week 9 rout of Howland. Just like he was against the Tigers, Lowry is equally dangerous running or throwing the ball and rarely turns it over.
Fun fact
Since the present-day Region 9took shape in 2016, the region has had five different champions in five years andaccounted for three of five Division III state champions (Hoban in 2016, Kenston in 2018 and Chardon in 2020).
Breaking down Division III, Region 10football playoffs
Team to beat
NORTON:Shocker, right? The Panthers are the No. 1 team in the region, and for good reason. They have six wins over .500-plus teams and have allowed just 57 points all season. That Panthers defense is the real deal and, as you know, defense wins championships.
More Norton Panthers:High school football: Norton tops Field to finish regular season undefeated
Other contenders
WEST HOLMES:The Knights are the outright Ohio Cardinal Conference champions for the first time in program history. They shared the title three other times. At 10-0, the Knights should be considered the team to beat, but may not have a defense like Norton. From the start, the Knights looked like the real deal, picking up Bishop Watterson in Week 1 after learning Triway came down with a COVID issue and still won 26-16. Since then, the Knights have been rolling, including a 20-17 win over Mansfield Senior and a blowout 51-14 win over Shelby.
MANSFIELD SENIOR:The Tygers know a thing or two about long playoff runs. In 2019, they played for the Division III state championship, losing to Trotwood-Madison in overtime. The Tygers have solid wins this year over Hoover (21-17) and Wooster (44-16). Defensively, this might be the best Mansfield Senior has ever seen. The D gave up 35 total yards to Mount Vernon in Week 9 and recorded 21 turnovers through their first nine games. Like Norton, the Tygers have the defense to go out and win this region.
More Mansfield Senior Football:Sweet revenge: Brock Hill, defense lead Mansfield Senior football to romp of Madison
ROCKY RIVER:The Pirates picked up a solid win over Buckeye in Week 10 to sneak into the top three in the region. It was convincing, too, at 26-12 so Rocky River might be onto something as the playoffs roll around. The Pirates have won five of their last six with their lone loss coming to Glenville in overtime.
Dark horse
TIFFIN COLUMBIAN: Don't let the record fool you, the Tornadoes are for real. Their four losses have come against Division II Fremont Ross, Division II Avon Lake, Division IV Clyde (42-39) and state-ranked Bellevue. So you will not find a more battle-tested team in this region. Their 52-24 win over Perkins in Week 9 might be exactly what the Tornadoes needed to get rolling in the playoffs. Plus, they have a 40-27 win over Mansfield Senior as a nice feather in their caps.Last year, Columbian made it to the state semifinal before falling to eventual champChardon. Although the suspension of several unnamed players for vandalizing houses won't make it easier, .
Top players to watch
Peyton Gardner, FB, Norton
A bruising running back with the speed to bust off big runs. Against Crestwood earlier in the season, the 5-foot-11, 195-pound senior finished with 17 carries for 153 yards and three touchdowns. Only two of his runs were for less than 4 yards, and he has been doing it all season. The Panthers love the ground game and for good reason as Gardner is one of the best of the best.
Noah Clark, QB/S, West Holmes
He is the playmaker for the Knights. In a 51-14 win over Shelby, Clark completed 20 of 28 passes for 358 yards and four TDs. He is lightning in a bottle and can make the defense pay on any given play. His accuracy throwing the ball as well as his ability to use his legs to extend plays makes him dangerous on third down.
Myles Bradley, WR/DB, Mansfield Senior
The heart and soul of the Tygers defense, Bradley has four interceptions — all in a span of two games — with one going for a pick-six. He also has a sack and four tackles for loss, so he is all over the field and creating confusion for defenses when he lines up in multiple positions. On offense, he is closing in on 600 receiving yards and is a big-play machine, no more so thanwhen he torchedNorth Canton Hoover for two long touchdowns in a Tygers victory.
Sam Williams-Dixon, RB/DB, West Holmes
The most dynamic player on the field in any game, Williams-Dixon is the Knights' leading rusher and receiver as a running back. When they need a deep ball, they will split him out wide. He had a 97-yard TD reception against Shelby when he piled up 179 receiving yards on seven catches with another 105 yards rushing. Oh, and he had an interception on defense.
More West Holmes Football:Special night for special Knights: West Holmes wins OCC outright, finishes 10-0
Fun fact
What makes the Norton Panthers dangerous is they are flying under the radar. They have only had four winning seasons since 1997 and wrapped up the first undefeated season since 1959.
Breaking down Division IV, Region 13 football playoffs
Team to beat
VILLA ANGELA-ST. JOSEPH:The Vikingsonly won one game a year ago, although that was in the playoffs.After that season,JeffRotskywas hired as the new head coach.As he has done in previous stops,RotskyhasrapidlytransformedVA-SJinto a team that is capable of winning significantly more than one playoff game. Rotsky won't be coaching for three games in the playoffs because ofan OHSAA suspension, but the players will still be on the field.
Other contenders
WEST BRANCH:The Warriorshave one of the region’s best offenses withdual-threatDru DeShields at the controls at quarterback and Steven Marra providing a complementary rushing threat.The defense has more than done its job as well, which is why West Branch is high up on the list of contenders.
More West Branch Football:West Branch prevails over Salem in instant classic in Week 10
URSULINE:Head coach Dan Reardon’s team hit a couple of hiccups in the latter stages of the season, one of those coming against VA-SJ in ahastly scheduled Week 8 game. When the Irish are rolling, though, they have flattened teams standing in their way.
PERRY (LAKE COUNTY):The only teamsto slow down the Pirates this season were Kenston, which figures to make noise in Division III, and a Kirtland team thatdoesn’t haveany concept of losing games.Otherwise, Perry provides the kind of all-around package one is looking for from a team that could make a deep run.
Dark horse
FAIRLESS:The Falcons have been arguably the feel-good story in Stark County this season, posting the best regular season in school history. A workhorse back in Hunter Campbell, a constantly-growing QB in Carson Colucci and a stout defense are all reasons why Fairless feels it can parlay that great regular season into a November to remember.
Top players to watch
Hunter Campbell, RB, Fairless
Campbell was just coming back from a knee injury at the start of the playoffs a year ago. This season, he’s been healthy and it’s shown. The Falcon senior can lower his pads and take on defenders, but is also a threat to go the distance if he has an open field.
Dru DeShields, QB, WestBranch
One of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the area, DeShields brings experience to the position as a multi-year starter. He also brings a strong arm capable of getting the ball out to a variety of receivers. However, he’s been critical in the run game as well, as the Warriors’ second-leading rusher.
Ty Howard, RB/LB, Villa Angela-St. Joseph
One of the key cogs in the Vikings’ turnaround also was part of JeffRotsky’sprevious success at Euclid. Howard is a powerful runner on offense who also flies to the football from his linebacker spot.
Brady Shannon, QB, Youngstown Ursuline
As Shannon goes, so goes the Irish. The quarterbackisn’t just a capable passer, as evidenced by multiple 200-plus-yard passing nights, but also a threat to tuck the ball and run.
Jack “Poochie” Snyder, QB, Canton South
This isn’t what you normally think of when you think of a sophom*ore. Snyder has more than built on his freshman season to become one of the area’s best passers. That, in turn, has helped turnthe Wildcats into a dangerous team, especially on offense.
Fun fact
Theregion’sNo. 1 seed hasn’tadvanced to the state semifinalssince eventual state champion Steubenville did it in 2017. Since then, Lake County Perry (2018 and 2019) and Northwest (2020) have held that top spot, only to fall short of theregional title.… Glenville didn't play football last fall due to COVID-19. However, the Tarblooders are back in the playoffs for the 18th time overall and first since 2019.…Former McKinley coach Dan Reardon, now at Ursuline, will open the playoffs facing another Stark County team when the Irish host Canton South.… Poland's three losses came to teams who are a combined 28-2: Canfield (9-1), Hubbard (9-1) and South Range (10-0). The Bulldogs open at Fairless.
Breaking down Division IV, Region 14
Team to beat
VAN WERT: The defending state champions have to be the team to beat, right? Van Wert, the No. 5 seed in last year’s region, has figured out ways to replace its top players and looks just as dangerous entering this year’s postseason.
Other contenders
BELLEVUE: The region’s top seed isn’t overly big or athletic, but it limits mistakes and has the stingiest defensive unit among the 16 teams. Since Week 4, Bellevue hasn’t allowed an opponent to score more than 14 points.
CLYDE: The 2019 DivisionIV state champion has been banged up all season, and has still been able to reel off four straight wins, including a Week 10 victory over Bellevue. The Fliers like to mix it up, but running back Mike Daniels has been extremely productive and tough to stop when healthy.
PORT CLINTON: There isn’t much history on Port Clinton’s side, with one playoff win all-time on its resume prior to last season. But with star QB Cam Gillum slinging it, the Redskins might have one of their best teams ever.
Dark horses
SHELBY: With a passing attack that’s one of the best in the state, the Whippets’ offensive ability alone gives them a chance against anyone. Wide receivers Andre Hill and Blaine Bowman each have surpassed 1,200 yards and 15 TDs, as the top targets of QB Marshall Shepherd. That’s not a misprint.
More Shelby Whippets Football:Three-Peat - Marshall Shepherd's 7-TD night nets Whippets MOAC title
TRIWAY: The only loss for Triway during the regular season came on a night when more than a quarter of its two-way starters were out. When the Titans are fully healthy and on, they’re good enough to beat anyone (see: 37-13 win over nine-win Fairless).
Top players to watch
Cam Gillum, QB, Port Clinton
Expect a lot of high-scoring games in this region because of the high-quality quarterback play. Gillum has passed for 29 TDs and has led his team to wins by double-digits in each of the last seven weeks.
Zack Miller, QB, Triway
His numbers aren’t quite as gaudy as some of the other big-time QBs of the region, but Miller is the absolute engine of Triway’s offense, which relies on short, accurate passes from its short (5-foot-7), accurate QB.
AidanPratt, QB, Van Wert
Replacing DivisionIV Offensive Player of the Year Owen Treece at QB has been a cinch for Pratt, who had thrown for 2,381 yards and 23 TDs through Week 9, along with rushing for 813 yards and 13 scores. He might end up being even better than his predecessor.
Marshall Shepherd, QB, Shelby
There’s chucking it, and then there’s what Shelby calls upon from Shepherd every week. The senior has thrown 30 passes in eight of the Whippets’ games, passing for an absurd 3,666 yards and 43 TDs.
Fun fact
The last two regional champions in Region 14 came into the playoffs as a No. 5 seed or worse. Both (Clyde, an 8-seed, and Van Wert, a 5-seed) ended up winning the state title.
Breaking down Division IV, Region 15
Team to beat
BLOOM-CARROLL: Arguably the best defense last year in Division IV, Bloom-Carroll shut out five opponents. The Bulldogs did it twice in the playoffs and gave up only six points in the regional playoffs before a 17-10 loss to Lake Catholic in the state semifinals. The back end of that defense returns in cornerback Brandon Totten and safety Beau Wisecarver, both All-Ohio selections last year.
Other contenders
ST. CLAIRSVILLE: Drew Sefsick has been solid at quarterback in his first full season at the Red Devils offensive helm. Talented wide receiver Colin Oberdick is a viable target. He caught nearly 1,000 yards in passes last season with double-digit scores and is on pace for those same kind of numbers this season.
INDIAN VALLEY: Gavin Henry and Tyson Pryor provide a solid one-two running punch for head coach Matt Lancaster. They have combined for more than 1,000 yards and double-digit scores. Sam Carter and Trevor Myers have been a sound passing connection for the Braves.
CARROLLTON: Junior running back Chase Oehlstrom is the main cog in the Carrollton offense under Coach Jim Tsilmos's helm with his 1,000-plus yards and double-digit TD output.
Dark horse
LICKING VALLEY: Despite a sub .500 record, the Panthers, coached by veteran Randy Baughman, are always a dangerous playoff team and can get on a roll at anytime.
Top players to watch
K.J. Benedict, QB, Bloom-Carroll
The Bulldogs fearue quarterback KJ Benedict, who anchored Bloom-Carroll's offense to the state semifinals.
Jacob Jordan, RB, St.Clairsville
Jordan has become St. Clairsville go-to runner with more than 800 yards and double-digit TDs for the Red Devils.
Chase Oehlstrom, RB, Carrollton
Oehlstrrom became the all-time leading rusher at Carrollton with a 50-carry, 364-yard performance in an Eastern Buckeye Conference loss to Marlington in Week 9. He broke the record previously held by Frank Boggs. This season alone, he's rushed for 1,864 yards and 19 TDs on 297 carries (6.3 average).
Gavin Henry, RB, Indian Valley
Henry is the leading rusher in a backfield shared by Tyson Pryor and quarterback Sam Carter. Henry, a junior, has rushed for more than 500 yards and three scores.
Fun Fact
Randy Baughman is in his 46th season at Licking Valley after starting out as head coach at Indian Valley North in Midvale for one year.
Breaking down Division V, Region 17
Team to beat
KIRTLAND: The Hornets haven't lost a game since the 2017 state championship and have won Region 21 four straight times. Kirtland looks as fearsome as ever, led by running back Mason Rus, who has rushed for at leas 100 yards every week, a QB in Ramon Lescano who has tossed four times as many touchdowns as interceptions and a receiver in Gage Sullivan who has reached the end zone in eight of ninegames this season.
Other contenders
SOUTH RANGE: The Raiders have won 24of their last 26games. Who did South Range's only two losses come to? Kirtland. Well, there's certainly no shame in that. The Raiders are as dangerous as ever this season, having scored 34-plus points every single week, thanks to a balanced attack that can both pass and run.
GARRETTSVILLE GARFIELD: Led by a power-packed Class of 2021, the G-Men have gone on quite a run over the past three seasons, with a combined record of 28-3. After falling in the first round of the postseason in 2019, Garfield went two rounds in 2020 and has the pieces to make an even deeper run in 2021. Best known for their powerful single-wing offense, the G-Men also have an absolutely loaded defense.
More Garfield G-Men Football:Precise passing plays underrated role for G-Men
GARAWAY: The Pirates are best known for their spread offense, but their defense has been making its own statement of late, posting back-to-back-to-back shutouts from Week 7 through Week 9 for a total of five for the season. With a 1,400-yard passer in QB Logan Yoder,a 1,100-yard runner in Ethan Miller and a pair of strong wideouts in Jenson Garber and JD Young, Garaway is balanced and dangerous.
Dark horse
SOUTHEAST: People will underrate the Pirates because of their schedule and the fact that they were 5-4 a year ago, but they proved they were for real when they marched into Mogadore Memorial Stadium and took down the Wildcats. With a pair of elite runners/linebackers in Aidan Fischer and Jaidyn Sapp and plenty of power on the lines, Southeast will be a tough out for anyone.
Top players to watch
Mason Rus, RB, Kirtland
A first-team all-state linebacker last year, Rus has carried on the tradition of strong running backs at Kirtland. After rushing for just 95 yards as a junior, Rus is well over 1,000 as a senior. He is averaging more than 10 yards per carry.
Anthony Demma, RB/DB, GarrettsvilleGarfield
Behind an always stout G-Men line, the senior running back has absolutely feasted en route to becoming the program's all-time leading rusher. Crazier than the yardage is the efficiency as Demma has averaged more than 12.5 yards per carry. Moreover, he's a complete playerwho plays strong safety and is a dangerous returner— and also has flourished at linebacker in the past.
Keegan Sell, LB, GarrettsvilleGarfield
As Tyler Knight’s sterling career at Mogadore came to an early end because of injury, Portage County’s next great linebacker has emerged. After recording 27 tackles (3 TFL) as a freshman, Sell has already surpassed 125 (with 14 TFL) as a sophom*ore.
Gage Sullivan, WR, Kirtland
A second-team all-Ohio punter in 2020, Sullivan has caught multiple TD passes in roughly half of the Hornets’ games this year. His wildly successful season began with four TD catches in Kirtland’s opener against Harvey.
Spencer Mesaros, DL, Southeast
An all-state selection as a sophom*ore and junior, Mesaros stands out from the moment one first lays eyes on him. Though Mesaros had a bit of an injury earlier in the season, the senior has looked just fine, tallying 15 tackles for loss through the Pirates' first eight games.
Billy Skripac, South Range
The Raiders QB has been magnificent, including completing 11 of 14 passes for 221 yards and three TDs in a recent win over Lakeview. In addition to tossing deep balls all season, Skripac has been one of South Range's leading runners, alongside Dylan Dominguez.
Breaking down Division V, Region 18
Team to beat
OTSEGO: The defending regional champs have lost just once over the past two seasons—a defeat at the hands of eventual state-title winner Kirtland in last year’s final four. Armed with a potent, experienced offense, led by first-team All-Ohioans Joseph Dzierwa and Trent Leiter, the Knights have their eyes set on a state title.
Other contenders
ELMWOOD: The Royals aren’t going to lose due to lack of offense. Elmwood comes into the playoffs averaging 44.2 points per game. Only twice have opponents limited Elmwood’s spread offense, led by dynamic QB Hayden Wickard, to fewer than 41 points.
ELYRIA CATHOLIC: With size up front and skill in the backfield and on the perimeter, the Panthers have one of the most complete teams in the region. Elyria Catholic is truly balanced and can pass with QB Brady Cook or run with workhorse back Levi Ellis.
OTTAWA-GLANDORF: One of the most consistent playoff qualifiers in the region has only won a single regional title, but has the talent to do it again this year. The Titans receiver duo of Caleb Kuhlman and Colin White can make plays all over the field.
Dark horse
EASTWOOD: Ranked No. 8 in the region, the Eagles are a team nobody wants to see coming into their stadium in the second round. A likely matchup with top-seeded Otsego in the second round — Otsego won their Week 10 matchup 38-35 — would be high drama.
Top players to watch
Joseph Dzierwa, QB, Otsego
The 6-foot-6 signal-caller is an even better baseball player, committing to pitch at Michigan State in college, which means he can sling all over the field with ease. Despite completing just 54% of his passes, Dzierwa has a 22-2 touchdown-interception ratio.
Levi Ellis, RB, Elyria Catholic
A varsity player since his freshman year, Ellis has emerged into a force as a junior, rushing for 1,363 yards and 22 TDs to carry Elyria Catholic’s offense.
Trent Leiter, RB, Otsego
The first-team All-Ohioan has already put together a huge senior year and should have at least a few weeks to add to his already impressive numbers of 1,302 rushing yards and 18 TDs.
Christian Moyer, QB/DB, Chippewa
While it’s going to be tough for the Chipps to get past the first round, Moyer will do all hecan to extend their season. The senior QB is more of a running back who starts each play with the ball in his hands, rushing for 1,752 yards and 17 TDs in just nine regular-season games.
Fun fact
Two of the past three winners of this region failed to make the 16-team playoff field this year —Oak Harbor and Orrville.
Breaking down Division VI, Region 21
Team to beat
NEW MIDDLETOWN SPRINGFIELD: In 2018, the Tigers didn't make the postseason despite finishing 9-1. Springfield has made up for it ever since, winning the Region 21 championship and finishing as the Division VI state runner-up in each of the past two years. While the Tigers are best known for their quarterback, Beau Brungard, a Youngstown State commit, they also have a superb defense that has yielded single-digit scoring in each of the past seven weeks, including four straight shutouts to end the regular season.
Other contenders
MOGADORE: The Wildcats sustained an enormous loss when it was announced that star RB/LB Tyler Knight would be out for the season. Still, Mogadore has another powerful runner in Will Butler, a burgeoning aerial attack led by QB Zeke Cameron and WR Mason Murphy and a bend-don't-break defense that forces opponents to drive all the way down the field. Don't ever doubt the Wildcats, who have won at least one postseason game every year since 2011 and made the Region 21 title game in each of the past three years.
LABRAE: This year's Region 21 top seed, the Vikings went three rounds into the postseason last year and their only loss this season is to undefeated Garfield, one of the top teams in Region 17. With weapons such as QB Aidan Stephens, RB Devin Carter and WR Tre'Von Drake, it's no wonder LaBrae has scored 34-plus points in eight of 10 games this season.
NORWAYNE: The Bobcats have become a postseason fixture, with seven straight appearances, and gave Division VI state runner-up Springfield a heck of a battle in last year’s Region 21 championship game. Norwayne boasts one of the best running back duos in Wayne County, as Jake Gill and Dillon Morlock had combined for 1,569 yards and 27 TDs entering Week 10.
Dark horse
COLUMBIA: The Raiders picked up just their second postseason win in program history last season. The next week, Mogadore knocked Columbia out of the postseason for the second time in three years (2018 and 2020). Can a Raiders team that has made the postseason eight times in the past 11 years take the next step? With a 1,000-yard runner in Marco Cirigliano, a 1,000-yard passer in Andrew Champagne and a pair of powerful wide receivers in Owen Menge and Cody Davis, Columbia is poised to change the narrative.
Top players to watch
Beau Brungard, QB, New Middletown Springfield
For several years, the Tigers quarterback has tormented the Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference and Region 21. Brungard is an extremely accurate passer, completing more than 70% of his throws, and an absolutely dangerous(and surprisingly slippery) runner with 20 rushing TDs through Week 9.
Devin Carter, RB, LaBrae
The Vikings running back has put forth one dominant performance after another, including three TDs (two rushing, one receiving) against Brookfield andturning17 carries into 163 yards in a win over Crestview.
Will Butler, RB, Mogadore
While Zeke Cameron has hurled long touchdown passes down the field, Wildcats junior Will Butler has helped fill the void left by Tyler Knight’s injury as a physical, tough runner who can crash his way through the line of scrimmage time and time again. That recently included Butler turning 23 carries into 181 yards in a win over Rootstown.
Owen Menge, WR, Columbia
A second-team all-Ohio selection a year ago, Owen Menge proved how dangerous he can be earlier this season when he compiled five touchdownsand nearly 200 all-purpose yardsin Columbia’s rout of Clearview. His night included three rushing touchdowns, a receiving score and a kickoff return to the house.
Jack Talkington, QB-LB, Canton Central Catholic
A tough, dual-threat QB who ranks among Stark County's leading passersand rushers. He's thrown for1,437 yards and nine TDs, completing 59% of his 224 attempts. He's rushed for 1,117 yards and 12 TDs on 179 carries. And defensively, he leads the Crusaers with 13 tackles for loss among his 44 first hits. He helped 4-6 Central go on the road and giveLucas its only loss — a 15-0 Crusaders' wina month ago. The Crusaders played up most of the season, including against Federal League teams, and Talkington could help them make some postseason noise.
More on Jack Talkington:'Workhorse' Jack Talkington leads Central Catholic past Perry in Battle of 13th Street
Breaking down Division VII, Region 25
Team to beat
LUCAS: The region’s top seed beat DivisionVI power Mogadore to finish the regular season and plays tough, physical football that can survive the coldest November night. The Cubs were the state runner-up in 2019and have the type of team for another deep run this year.
Other contenders
DALTON: The Bulldogs enter the postseason red hot, winning six in a row, including a huge road win over fellow Wayne County Athletic League powerhouse Norwayne to close out the season. Dalton’s team speed and athleticism will cause matchup problems against most DivisionVII teams.
ST. PAUL: The Flyers got off to a hot start offensively, but haven’t mustered much firepower lately, scoring just 17 combined points in Week 8 and 9. Two-way studs Quincey Crabbs and Will Stieber will look to ignite that offense going forward.
WARREN JFK: The 2020 Division VII runner-up lost a lot of its top talent from last season, but has it clicking at the right time, coming off a 35-0 win over previously undefeated Southeast in Week 10. The Eagles are big and tough up front, headlined by 6-foot-4, 290-pound Patrick Valent and 6-foot-1, 235-pound Eddie Kiernan.
Dark horse
CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS: Counting out one of the most consistent DivisionVII programs in the state over the past two decades would be unwise. Led by first-team All-Ohio back Ryan Krajewski,Heights can hang with anyone in the region.
Top players to watch
Eddie Kiernan, OL/DL, WarrenJFK
The leader of Warren JFK’s group up front, Kiernan made huge plays during the Eagles’ run to the state title game in 2020, even while playing with a broken hand.
Jaiden Malone, WR/CB, Dalton
The two-time All-Ohioan is a big play waiting to happen as a receiver, cornerback and punt/kick returner, giving Dalton a next-level athlete on the perimeter many Division VII teams lack.
Tyler Perkins, K/P, St. Paul
Kickers and punters usually don’t have the biggest impact on the game, but Perkins is one of the best in the entire country, committed to play college ball (as a punter) at Iowa State.
Jaden Schlabach, RB/LB, Dalton
A two-way force, Schlabach averages more than eight yards per carry offensively and is a big-time playmaker at outside linebacker, returning two interceptions for touchdowns in a single game this season.
Fun fact
The winner of this region has gone on to play in the DivisionVII state championship game six of the past seven seasons. Those teams have gone 1-5 in the big game.
OHIO HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYOFF TICKET INFO
All OHSAA postseason tournament tickets for football (and all sports) must be purchased online atwww.OHSAA.org/tickets.
