Virginia High School Football Playoff Preview: Top Teams, Underdogs, and Key Matchups

As Virginia’s high school football playoffs kick-off, the field is stacked with talent, and a mix of top-seeded favorites and surprising underdogs will battle for the title. This year’s championship games are set for December 14, with Liberty University hosting the Class 6, 4, and 3 title games, Salem’s City Stadium hosting Classes 2 and 1, and James Madison University set to showcase Class 5.

Class 6: New Opportunities with Hayfield’s Absence:
Defending champion Freedom won’t return to the postseason, leaving the stage open for other programs. Oscar Smith (10-0), unbeaten in the regular season, and James Madison (10-0) are firm favorites. Meanwhile, Battlefield, led by Pittsburgh commit Cole Woodson, could make a push after reaching the quarterfinals last year. With Hayfield‘s suspension due to rule violations, teams like Oscar Smith and Madison could find their paths more explicit.

Class 5: Maury’s Path to Repeat:
In Class 5, Maury High School (10-0) is the team to beat. The defending champions come in as the state’s top-ranked team, boasting an impressive roster with Power 4 commits and veteran quarterback Au’tori Newkirk. They’ve shown dominance all season, but Green Run (10-0), with crucial talent heading to Virginia Tech and Pittsburgh, may pose a challenge.

Class 4: Phoebus Eyes a Historic Streak:
Phoebus (10-0) aims to continue its remarkable 45-game win streak and capture another title. Known for their stifling defense, Phoebus will face formidable contenders like Dinwiddie, Varina, and undefeated John Champe. These matchups could provide some of the most exciting games of the playoffs.

Class 3: Liberty Christian Defends the Crown:
Liberty Christian (9-0) enters as the defending Class 3 champion with star running back and Clemson commit Gideon Davidson. Lafayette (10-0) is another top contender, while Thomas Jefferson (10-0) will seek redemption after a tough playoff loss last season.

Class 2: Radford and Graham Rivalry:
Last year’s champion, Radford, must contend with Graham (10-0) and Glenvar (9-1) to repeat their victory. Region B’s Clarke County and Poquoson in Region A could pose challenges.

Class 1: New Champion Awaits:
With 2023 champion Galax missing from the playoffs, Altavista (10-0) and Rye Cove (11-0) are among the favorites. Essex (9-1) and Bath County (9-0) also have strong cases for a deep run, setting up intense battles across the brackets.

The path to the Virginia high school championships is filled with talent, tenacity, and the unexpected. With powerhouse programs and breakout teams alike, this year’s playoffs promise excitement and drama from start to finish.