News Summary
As the 2025 high school football season approaches, excitement is building in Columbia, South Carolina, following the release of the preseason power rankings for local teams. The Silver Foxes lead the rankings with a perfect previous season, while the Yellow Jackets and Blazers are also strong contenders. The War Eagles look to bounce back after a challenging season, and other schools like the Timberwolves and Falcons are ready to make their mark. With a buzz in the air, fans are eager to watch the upcoming season unfold.
Excitement Builds in Columbia as High School Football Preseason Power Rankings for 2025 Are Released!
Columbia, South Carolina – It’s official! The countdown to the 2025 high school football season has officially begun as practice kicks off across the state. With so much anticipation brewing, fans, students, and families are on the edge of their seats to see which teams will take the lead this year. The latest preseason power rankings for Columbia-area schools have just been published, and they’re making waves! So let’s dive in and take a closer look at the top contenders.
Silver Foxes Soar High!
Leading the pack is none other than the exceptional Silver Foxes, who had a stellar last season ending with a perfect record of 13-0. These guys are not just three-time defending state champions; they are the ultimate powerhouse! With new quarterback Jaxon Knotts stepping in to fill the shoes of Ethan Offing, who is currently pursuing baseball, they’re ready to fly even higher. The team has secured some incredible new additions this season, including sensational receiver Stone Furrey and running back Colione Martin, both transferring from Chapin. Their offensive line is also in great shape, anchored by impressive sophomore center Brody Lorenzo. And let’s not forget about a formidable defense, featuring Michigan commit Julian Walker and Georgia transfer Jaden Wuerth!
Yellow Jackets Buzzing Around the Competition!
Following close behind are the Yellow Jackets, who ended last season with a record of 12-2. Though they faced heartbreak in the state championship game last year, these guys have no plans to stay down for long. They’ve lost key players AJ Brand and Donovan Murph, but returnees like running back Amire White and wide receiver Maleek Miller are primed for action. Their offensive line boasts some solid talent with Division I prospects Nate Carson and Bryson Moore right in the thick of things. The defense also looks rock solid, featuring sack leader Jaiden Bryant and Yale commit Major Taylor.
Blazers Blaze a Trail!
After making strides last season with an 8-5 record and advancing to the third round of the Class 5A Division I Lower State playoffs, the Blazers are back in action with renewed energy. Over 30 of their senior players are returning, providing a wealth of experience. Junior Tre Howard is returning as starting QB while running backs Spencer Bobian and Aidan Keeffe look to add some serious heat. With talent like Division I prospect Khristian Jackson and Richmond commit Carter Coleman, expect them to light up the field! Plus, their defense looks fierce thanks to North Carolina State commitment Jordyn Best.
Skyhawks Odds-on Favorite!
The Skyhawks are once again showing great promise after winning their eighth-straight S.C. Independent Schools Association championship last season, going undefeated with a 13-0 record. Favored to secure the 4A title again this year, they’re counting on a strong defensive line filled with Division I prospects like Jordan Boston and linebackers Jackson Ross and Bubba Alexander. As their new quarterback gets integrated into the offense, excitement is building!
War Eagles Ready to Rise!
On the other side of the spectrum, the War Eagles faced a tough season last year with an 0-10 record, including forfeiting seven wins due to S.C. High School League sanctions. But this year, they are looking to bounce back. Key returners include senior quarterback Tyler Waller and top receivers Kaleb Berry and Hiszari Grant. With the addition of Gilbert transfer Trevon Williamson, the team hopes to turn the tide.
Timberwolves and Falcons Join the Fray!
The Timberwolves came through with an 8-6 record last season and reached the lower state championship game for the second consecutive year, but they’re on the hot seat to replace their former quarterback Landon Sharpe. On the flip side, the Falcons wowed fans with one of the most explosive offenses in the area, led by quarterback Roper Wentzky who threw for almost 2,700 yards and 28 touchdowns last season!
The Bulldogs and Panthers Aren’t Far Behind!
The Bulldogs have consistently hit the nine-win mark for six straight seasons. With senior Tylin Drakeford and running back Navi Boykin back in action, they mean business. Not to be overlooked, the Panthers achieved double-digit wins for the first time since 2016 last season. Senior Amadre Wooden rushed for an impressive 2,138 yards and 26 touchdowns, leading his team to a terrific record!
As the season heats up, let’s not forget the Fairfield Central, Gilbert, Lower Richland, and Swansea, each with their own goals and expectations. The buzz around Columbia is electric, and we can’t wait to see what the 2025 high school football season has in store! Grab your gear and support your favorite team!
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Wikipedia: High school football in the United States
- The State
- Google Search: South Carolina high school football 2025
- MaxPreps
- Google Scholar: Preseason high school football rankings
- HighSchoolOT
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American football
- Star News Online
- Google News: North Carolina high school football