High School Football Rivalries Heat Up as Playoffs Approach in Youngstown

High School Football Rivalries Heat Up in Final Week

As the high school football regular season comes to an exciting close in Canton, fans are gearing up for some intense matchups. Today, rivalries take center stage across the state, with several teams looking to make their final push into the playoffs.

The century-old rivalry between McDonald (6-3) and Mineral Ridge (4-5) continues as they meet for the 80th time. Their battles date back to 1927, and this marks the 64th straight year they will play each other. McDonald currently leads the series with a score of 53-22-4. The Blue Devils had a strong nine-game winning streak from 2013 to 2021, but the Rams have taken the past two games, making this matchup even more thrilling.

Meanwhile, another historic clash unfolds as Niles (1-8) faces off against Girard (5-4). This will be the 81st meeting between the two teams, echoing a rivalry that started in 1898. Niles leads that series 44-29-8, but Girard is already playoff-bound.

The Holy War in Youngstown sees Ursuline (8-1) taking on Cardinal Mooney (3-6) for the 70th time. Despite Mooney’s losing record, their consistent performances hint at a potential playoff spot, while Ursuline looks to secure a home playoff game.

West Branch (9-0) has a shot at another perfect season, hosting Salem (3-6), and South Range (9-0) also aims for a flawless record as they travel to Hubbard (5-4). South Range seeks its fourth perfect regular season in five years, ensuring an interesting contest.

On another frontline, Poland (7-2) will visit Struthers (8-1) in the Battle of Route 616, adding to the excitement, especially since both teams are playoff-bound. Additionally, Canfield (4-4) must defeat Boardman (5-4) to clinch their playoff spot, making every touchdown critical.

Finally, Champion and Newton Falls, both with 0-9 records aim to break the winless streak today. As teams give their all in these matchups, fans will look out for 27 area teams who have already secured playoff berths.

The playoff brackets will be officially announced this Sunday, marking the end of a competitive and thrilling high school football season.