News Summary

The Ohio High School Athletic Association has announced significant changes to the football playoff format. Starting this season, the top four seeds in each region will receive byes in the first round, reducing the number of qualifying teams from 16 to 12. This new structure aims to elevate competition and prestige, creating an exciting atmosphere for high school football fans. Key dates for the season’s kickoff are set for August 22, with playoff qualifiers announced on October 26, and the first round starting on October 31.

Exciting Changes to Ohio High School Football Playoffs!

Hey there, Ohio! Exciting news for high school football fans! The Ohio High School Athletic Association has just announced some big changes to the football playoff format that are sure to shake things up this coming season. Grab your jerseys and get ready for a different kind of playoff experience!

New Format Overview

So, what’s the scoop? Starting this year, the top four seeds in each region will receive byes in the first round of the playoffs. That’s right – if your team manages to be one of those top four, they’ll advance straight to the second round without even having to play in the first round. Sounds like a nice little head start, doesn’t it?

Along with this new bye system, the number of teams qualifying for playoffs in each region will be reduced from 16 to 12. Yes, you heard correctly. This marks the first time in OHSAA history that a mere 12 teams will have the chance to show what they’re made of in the playoffs. This decision came after extensive polling of coaches and administrators who emphasized a desire for a more exclusive playoff scenario. It seems that many felt that the previous model diluted the excitement and importance of qualifying.

A Closer Look at the Changes

The OHSAA’s executive director shared that the feedback from schools was largely in favor of the reduction to 12 qualifiers per region. It appears that this new format not only heightens the competition but also makes qualifying for the playoffs more prestigious. Historically, teams from seeds six to 16 only claimed a fraction of victories in the playoffs, showing just how difficult it is to win once you’re on that lower rank. The expanded playoff system had let all teams participate during the condensed regular season in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but now it’s time to turn back to a more competitive landscape.

How Will the Playoffs Work?

Now, you may be wondering how the actual playoff matchups will shake out under this new format. Here’s how it works:

  • The No. 12 seed will face off against the No. 5 seed.
  • The No. 11 seed will go against the No. 6 seed.
  • The No. 10 seed will take on the No. 7 seed.
  • Finally, the No. 8 seed clashes with the No. 9 seed.

After the first round, higher-seeded teams will continue to host games for the first three rounds. When it comes to regional finals and state semifinals, those will be held at neutral sites. Of course, the grand finale — or the state championships — will take place at the spectacular Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton.

Key Dates to Remember

As the buzz builds, football lovers should mark their calendars! The season kicks off at the end of August, with the first Friday night game scheduled for August 22. Playoff qualifiers will be revealed on October 26, and the first round is slated to begin on October 31. Remember, with the reduction in qualifiers, a total of 56 playoff games will be eliminated, leaving 112 schools out of the playoff action this season.

What’s in Store for the Future?

The changes are bound to bring a new excitement to high school football, focusing on the best of the best and ensuring that every game truly counts. With the shifts in the playoff structure, coaches and players alike are eager to see how their teams rise to the occasion, hoping for a spot among the elite. Let the countdown begin for an unforgettable football season in Ohio!

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