Creating an exhaustive and definitive all-time list of high school football rankings for various states is a challenging task, as such lists are often subjective, and rankings can vary between sources. However, I can provide a general overview of some historically successful high school football programs from different states, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the sport.
In the state of Texas, the Allen Eagles have been a powerhouse in high school football. With numerous state championships and a state-of-the-art stadium, Allen High School has become synonymous with success. Coached by Tom Westerberg and later Terry Gambill, the Eagles have consistently ranked among the top teams in the state, showcasing a commitment to excellence on the field.
Heading to Florida, the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders have left an indelible mark on high school football. Coached by George Smith and later Roger Harriott, St. Thomas Aquinas has secured multiple state championships and produced a plethora of NFL talent, including Joey Bosa and Michael Irvin. The Raiders' consistently high rankings reflect their dominance in one of the most football-crazed states in the country.
In California, the Mater Dei Monarchs have been a perennial powerhouse. Coached by Bruce Rollinson, Mater Dei has consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation. The program has produced NFL stars like Matt Leinart and Colt Brennan, solidifying its status as a football juggernaut in the Golden State.
Transitioning to Georgia, the Buford Wolves have been a force in high school football. Coached by Dexter Wood and later Jess Simpson, Buford has amassed numerous state championships and consistently ranks among the top teams in the state. The Wolves' commitment to a strong football tradition has made them a powerhouse in Georgia.
In Ohio, the Massillon Washington Tigers have a storied football history. Coached by Paul Brown in the 1930s, Massillon has been a perennial contender, securing numerous state championships and earning a reputation as one of Ohio's elite programs. The Tigers' passionate fan base and historic success contribute to their enduring legacy.
In Louisiana, the John Curtis Christian Patriots have been a dominant force in high school football. Coached by J.T. Curtis, the Patriots have consistently ranked among the top teams in the state and have a remarkable streak of consecutive playoff appearances. John Curtis Christian's disciplined and successful approach has solidified its place in Louisiana high school football lore.
Transitioning to Pennsylvania, the Central Bucks West Bucks have been a football powerhouse. Coached by Mike Pettine Sr., Central Bucks West has a rich history, including multiple state championships and an impressive winning streak in the 1990s. The Bucks' success has contributed to the strong football tradition in the Keystone State.
In New Jersey, the Don Bosco Prep Ironmen have been a force in high school football. Coached by Greg Toal and later Mike Teel, Don Bosco Prep consistently ranks among the top teams in the state. The Ironmen's success includes multiple state championships and a reputation for producing college and NFL talent.
These examples offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of high school football across different states. Each program has its unique history, traditions, and contributions to the sport, shaping the landscape of high school football in their respective regions. While creating an all-time list is challenging, these teams have undeniably left a lasting impact on the high school football legacy in their states and beyond.
Connelly's top 50 high school football teams of all time
On Sept. 2, 1989, Cleveland football powerhouse St. Ignatius pummeled Euclid 55-26. It was locally noteworthy because Ignatius and Euclid were two of the region's best teams -- Euclid would go 0-4 against St. Ignatius but 19-0 against everyone else in 1988-89
Thirty-four years later, that's a heck of a lot more common. As part of what is now the 14th GEICO ESPN High School Football Kickoff, ESPN2 will air four high school games Saturday alone. They will showcase both some of the top high school players in the country and some of the game's most storied programs. Three of the programs -- St. Thomas Aquinas (Fla.), St. John Bosco (Calif.) and Mater Dei Catholic (Calif.) -- are represented on the list below featuring the top 50 high school football teams ever.
As you might guess, a list like this is going to be awfully subjective. Comparing high school teams from 1930s Ohio to teams from 2010s Texas is even more difficult than doing the same thing at the college level.
