High School Football Kicks Off in New York

News Summary

As the fall season begins, high school football teams across New York gear up for an action-packed year. With top teams like Iona Prep and Garden City aiming for glory, fans can expect thrilling matchups, standout players, and fierce competition. This season highlights teams looking for redemption and those hopeful for championship success, promising to deliver unforgettable moments under the Friday night lights.

Excitement Builds for the Start of High School Football in New York

As the fall season approaches, high school football fans in New York are gearing up for an exciting new chapter. With hundreds of teams vying for glory across five classifications, this year promises to deliver thrilling games, standout players, and plenty of action under the Friday night lights!

Top Teams and Players to Watch

The On3 Massey Ratings have released their preseason rankings, spotlighting the top 25 high school football teams in the state. Topping the list is Iona Prep, who are looking to defend their title as the New York State Catholic champions. The team kicks off their season on September 6 against Somers, a formidable opponent with an impressive 27-game winning streak. Eyes will be on Iona Prep’s three-star running back Crew Davis, who has committed to North Carolina. With a strong defensive line led by returning player Dalton Lozin, this team is ready to make waves.

Another team that has fans excited is Garden City, which holds the second-longest active winning streak in the nation at an astonishing 54 consecutive games. Last season, their defense was a force to be reckoned with, keeping four opponents scoreless and allowing double-digit points only four times. If they keep this momentum going, they could tie the state record for consecutive wins on November 1—something that every player and fan has their fingers crossed for!

Teams Looking for Redemption

After a tough loss in last year’s NYCHSFL final, St. Anthony’s is ready to come back strong. This season, they will face challenging non-conference opponents, including McDonogh School from Maryland and Don Bosco Prep from New Jersey. The offensive line will be bolstered by Xavier Bala, a promising 2027 running back with offers from major programs, making them a team to watch.

Meanwhile, Cardinal Hayes enjoyed success in 2023, clinching the New York State Catholic championship, but 2024 was a different story with three regular-season losses and a semifinal exit against St. Anthony’s. They will be looking to rebound this year.

Adding to the Competition

Christian Brothers Academy, which narrowly missed out on a state championship last season, is also making strides with key players like quarterback Archie Jones and running back Thomas Toher. They achieved back-to-back undefeated seasons after their state title win, and there’s hope they can replicate that success again this year.

Canisius captured their eighth league championship in the Monsignor Martin Athletic Association last season, and they will be putting the pedal to the metal with out-of-state matchups against teams like Scranton Prep from Pennsylvania and Ironton from Ohio. With standout performer Elijah Kimble, a four-star 2027 running back, they are poised for another competitive season.

Chasing the Championship

St. Francis is setting its sights on reaching the state championship game for the first time since 2018, while Shaker is aiming to extend its streak of winning seasons to 14 after suffering a tough loss last year. The rankings also include well-known schools such as Chaminade, Sayville, Shenendehowa, and Monsignor Farrell, all eager to make their mark.

Get Ready for Action