News Summary

As the 2025-26 high school football season set to start on August 15, anticipation is high among Maryland fans. Top-ranked teams like St. Frances Academy, Archbishop Spalding, and DeMatha Catholic are preparing to engage in fierce battles. Notable players and key matchups are expected to heighten competition, making this season an unforgettable one for fans and athletes alike.

Excitement Builds in Maryland as High School Football Prepares for 2025-26 Season

With the summer heat still lingering, football fans across Maryland are gearing up for the thrilling 2025-26 high school football season, which is set to kick off on August 15 for the top-ranked teams. As anticipation grows, the latest rankings and matchups are creating quite a buzz.

St. Frances Academy Leads the Pack

Taking the crown as the top team in Maryland is none other than St. Frances Academy. After bouncing back from a previous season’s struggle, the Panthers finished last year with a solid 8-3 record, an impressive turnaround from their 5-6 record in 2023-24. This season, they’re not taking any chances, as they plan to face off against elite teams such as Chaminade-Madonna, St. John Bosco, St. Joseph’s Prep, and IMG Academy.

The strength of the Panthers doesn’t just lie in their offensive flair. Their defense is studded with five-star recruits like:

  • Zion Elee – Edge Rusher (Maryland)
  • Jireh Edwards – Safety (Alabama)
  • Maurice Medley – Linebacker
  • Alexander Taylor – Edge Rusher
  • Jayden Travers – Defensive Lineman

In addition, their secondary features talented defensive backs such as Raylaun Henry and Amauri Polydor, both ready to snag any pass that comes their way.

Archbishop Spalding Aims for Four-peat

Moving on, Archbishop Spalding is entering the new season with grand aspirations, looking to clinch their fourth consecutive Class A state championship. Last year, they managed a perfect 12-0 record, showcasing their dominance on the field. They’re primed to kick off their season against the Brownsburg Bulldogs from Indiana on August 22. Their first Maryland-based opponent is anticipated to be McDonogh.

Speaking of McDonogh, expectations are high for their standout players, including Myles McAfee, a four-star prospect at wide receiver, and Sean Johnson, a three-star cornerback ready to dazzle the crowd with his skills.

A Busy Schedule for DeMatha Catholic

On the other hand, DeMatha Catholic will be launching their 2025 season against St. Joseph’s Prep from Philadelphia on August 30. They boast several notable players, like three-star prospects Zion Smith, Lavar Keys, and Elijah Lee. Their defense is set to challenge opponents fiercely, featuring the talents of four-star edge rusher James Pace and three-star Darrell Carey.

Good Counsel Seeks Redemption

Good Counsel will begin their journey against Florida’s Columbus Explorers on August 29. After a tough loss to Archbishop Spalding in last season’s championship game, the Eagles are hungry to improve their 7-3 record from 2024. Key players like four-star edge rusher Anthony Sweeney and offensive lineman Jaiden Lindsay will certainly bolster their chances.

The Competitive Landscape

As the season approaches, preseason rankings point toward an intensely competitive landscape in Maryland high school football. Teams like Quince Orchard, Calvert Hall College, and Dr. Henry Wise have made their mark and will be vying for top positions.

This season’s calendar highlights 49 key games, featuring matchups that promise to showcase the best talent Maryland has to offer. Some anticipated highlights include:

  • Quince Orchard vs. Paint Branch on September 5
  • Linganore vs. Mergenthaler on September 5
  • Archbishop Spalding vs. McDonogh on September 12
  • DeMatha vs. Good Counsel on October 10

Looking Ahead

The relationships and rivalries between these teams add another layer of excitement that fans can’t wait to witness. As the schools prepare to clash on the gridiron, we can surely expect an action-packed season filled with unforgettable moments.

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