In Maryland, high school football is gearing up for an exciting season as the 2024 SBLive Maryland Top 25 High School Football Rankings have been released. The spotlight remains on Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which opens the season holding the No. 1 ranking after a successful run last year that culminated in a Washington Catholic Athletic Association State Championship.
The Falcons achieved their first WCAC title since 2016 and are eyeing a repeat performance this year. Committed to Ohio State University, safety Faheem Delane stands out among the nine Division I athletes at the Olney-based school. Meanwhile, the St. Frances Academy Panthers, after a strong showing against Pittsburgh’s Central Catholic, defeated them 44-16 and boast an elite defensive lineup featuring Blake Woodby, Bryce Deas, and Darrion Smith, all NCAA Division I athletes set to make a significant impact.
On the other hand, Good Counsel remains a major contender in the WCAC as they strive for another championship. With the powerful backfield led by running back Bud Coombs and quarterback Denzel Gardner, they’ve had previous close encounters with Mount Carmel. Spalding, on a quest for a three-peat in the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association A Conference, is led by star quarterback Malik Washington.
Quince Orchard is also making headlines as they seek their third 4A title in four years, with notable commitments from athletes like running back Iverson Howard and defensive back Aydan West. Meanwhile, McDonogh hopes to dethrone Spalding in the MIAA A Conference, led by an impressive roster including Brandon Finney and Jeff Exinor.
The Calvert Hall Cardinals aim for their first championship since 2021, supported by a strong line including Chase Dorsey and JT Taggart. Yet, the journey will be tough as the Jaguars of Montgomery County, returning nine starters, are driven to redeem themselves after an early playoff exit last year.
In Class 2A, the Poets are on a historic run with a state-best 38-game win streak, while teams like Maryland’s own Mervo and Dunbar eye league supremacy with strong returning line-ups. As the season unfolds, Maryland high school football promises to deliver thrilling matchups and plenty of surprises on the field.
