In the heart of Ohio, high school football is gearing up for some exciting changes, and the 2025 season is shaping up to be one for the books. The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has just announced a slew of significant modifications to the football playoff format, and these updates are set to revamp the competitive landscape.

First off, the number of teams qualifying for the playoffs in each region is being trimmed down from 16 to 12. This change means that only the top 12 teams in each region will get a shot at the championship, making every game count even more. But here’s the twist: the top four seeds in each region will earn a coveted first-round bye, giving them a well-deserved break before diving into the intense playoff action[3][4].

Another key change is in the hosting of playoff games. Unlike previous years where only the first two rounds were hosted by the higher-seeded teams, the 2025 format will see the higher-seeded teams hosting the first three rounds. This shift is expected to add an extra layer of home-field advantage, potentially influencing the outcomes of these crucial games[3].

To put this into perspective, Ohio high school football has seen its fair share of format adjustments. From 1999 to 2019, only eight schools per region made the cut for the playoffs. In 2020, the OHSAA expanded this to 12 qualifiers per region, adding an extra week to the postseason. Following positive feedback and the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number was further increased to 16 qualifiers from 2021 to 2024. Now, the OHSAA is refining this system to ensure a more competitive and balanced playoff experience[3].

These changes are not just about numbers; they reflect a broader effort to enhance the high school football experience in Ohio. The feedback from schools over the past few years has been overwhelmingly positive, with lower seeds occasionally pulling off upset victories. OHSAA Executive Director Doug Ute emphasized the joy of seeing more schools participate and the excitement of unexpected wins, which has driven these latest adjustments[3].

As the 2025 season kicks off, fans in Columbus and across Ohio can look forward to a more streamlined, competitive, and thrilling playoff run. With top teams earning byes and home-field advantages playing a larger role, every game will be a battle for supremacy. Get ready for the gridiron action to heat up this fall

In the heart of Ohio, a buzz is building among high school football fans as the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has announced significant changes to the football playoff format for the 2025 season. Starting this fall, the top 12 teams in each region will qualify for the playoffs, marking a return to a more competitive and streamlined postseason.

Gone are the days of 16 teams per region, a format that was in place from 2021 to 2024. Instead, the OHSAA is reverting to a 12-team per region structure, similar to what was implemented briefly in 2020. This change is designed to enhance competition and is based on feedback from member schools who favored a more selective playoff field.

Here’s what you need to know: the top four seeds in each region will earn a coveted first-round bye, giving them a week to rest and prepare for the challenges ahead. Additionally, the first three rounds of the postseason will be hosted by the higher-seeded teams, a shift from the previous format where only the first two rounds were hosted by the higher seeds.

This new setup is a nod to the past, when from 1999 to 2019, only eight schools per region qualified for the playoffs. The expansion to 12 teams in 2020 was a response to a proposal from the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association, and it added an extra week to the postseason. However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to an unprecedented season in 2020 where every school was allowed to participate, resulting in positive feedback and a temporary expansion to 16 teams per region from 2021 to 2024.

Doug Ute, OHSAA Executive Director, reflected on the decision, noting that while more schools experiencing the playoffs was a positive, the feedback from schools indicated a preference for the 12-team format.

The 2025 season kicks off on August 18, with the postseason beginning on October 31. This new format promises to bring more intensity and excitement to the gridiron, as teams will need to be at their best to secure a spot in the playoffs. Buckle up, Ohio high school football fans – the 2025 season is shaping up to be one for the books

In a significant shake-up for high school football in Ohio, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has announced a new playoff format set to debut in the 2025 season. This change is aimed at refining the competitive landscape and enhancing the playoff experience for teams and fans alike.

Starting this fall, the number of teams qualifying for the playoffs in each region will be reduced from the previous format to the top 12 teams. This adjustment is designed to increase the competitiveness of the playoff games, ensuring that only the strongest teams advance to the postseason.

Here’s how it will work: each of Ohio’s football regions will now feature 12 qualifying teams, with the top four seeds in each region earning a first-round bye. This means that the top teams will have an extra week to prepare and recover before entering the playoff fray, potentially giving them an edge as they vie for the state championships.

The postseason will still consist of six rounds, culminating in the state championships, maintaining the excitement and depth of the previous format. This structure ensures that teams will have to navigate through multiple challenging rounds to claim the top spot, adding to the drama and intensity of the playoffs.

For fans, this new format promises more meaningful and competitive games from the outset, as only the best teams will be competing. The reduction in the number of qualifying teams also underscores the OHSAA’s commitment to maintaining high standards and promoting excellence in high school football.

As the 2025 season approaches, teams across Ohio are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting and competitive year. With new regional assignments and divisional breakdowns already released, schools are busy finalizing their regular-season schedules and preparing for the challenges ahead.

The OHSAA has also provided detailed resources, including regional maps and divisional breakdowns, to help schools and fans navigate the new format. This transparency ensures that everyone is on the same page as the season kicks off.

In summary, the 2025 high school football season in Ohio is set to be more competitive and thrilling than ever, thanks to the OHSAA’s new playoff format. With top teams earning byes and only the best 12 teams in each region qualifying, fans can expect high-stakes games and intense competition all the way to the state championships.

The 2025 high school football season in Ohio is shaping up to be an exciting one, and for Columbus, there are several key changes and intriguing developments to look forward to.

First off, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has announced the divisional breakdowns for the upcoming season, affecting all 706 schools that will be playing 11-man football. The regular season is set to kick off the week of August 18, marking the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling year for high school football enthusiasts[2][5].

One of the notable changes is that no schools opted to move up to Division I from the lower divisions, but there are still some significant shifts. For instance, Winton Woods, previously in Division II, is making the leap to Division I, a move that could bring some intense competition to the top tier[4][5].

In Central Ohio, several local programs are experiencing changes in their divisions. The Badin Rams are returning to Division III after a stint in Division II last season, due to adjustments in male student enrollment. Purcell Marian is stepping up from Division VI to Division V, driven by competitive balance considerations. Meanwhile, Cincinnati Country Day is dropping down to Division VII following a decrease in enrollment[5].

Other teams are maintaining their current divisions. La Salle will remain in Division II, while Indian Hill and CHCA will stay in Division IV, despite having the option to compete in a lower division[5].

The OHSAA's competitive balance formula plays a crucial role in these divisional changes, ensuring that schools are matched against opponents with similar competitive levels. This formula takes into account factors such as male student enrollment and other competitive balance measures, aiming to create a more balanced and exciting season for all teams involved[5].

For fans in Columbus, the upcoming season promises to be filled with action, suspense, and community spirit. With revamped facilities, rising stars, and a buzz of excitement around the city, high school football is set to be a major highlight of the local sports scene. So mark your calendars, get ready to cheer on your favorite teams, and enjoy the thrilling rides that the 2025 high school football season has in store[4].

High school football in Columbus, Ohio, is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season, filled with new divisions, intriguing matchups, and some notable team movements.

First off, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has announced the divisional breakdowns for the upcoming season. A total of 706 schools will be participating in 11-man football, with the regular season kicking off the week of August 18[2].

One of the most significant changes involves team divisions. While no schools opted to move up to Division I from the lower divisions voluntarily, there are some key shifts. Winton Woods, for instance, is making the jump from Division II to Division I, a move that could bring some thrilling competition to the top tier[4][5].

In Central Ohio, several teams are experiencing divisional changes due to enrollment and competitive balance adjustments. The Badin Rams are returning to Division III after a stint in Division II, while Purcell Marian is stepping up to Division V from Division VI. Cincinnati Country Day, on the other hand, is dropping down to Division VII due to a decrease in enrollment[5].

Local fans will also be keen to follow the Dover Crimson Tornadoes, who have announced their 2025 schedule. The Tornadoes will play 10 games, including notable contests against Columbus Academy, Mansfield Madison, Maple Heights, Steubenville, and West Holmes. Other teams on their schedule include Ashland, Glenoak, Linsly, New Philadelphia, and Wooster[3].

The competitive balance formula, which considers factors such as male student enrollment, continues to shape the divisions. This formula ensures that teams are matched against opponents of similar strength, making for more balanced and exciting games.

For those eager to stay updated, the OHSAA will provide weekly computer points starting from Week 4, and the state playoffs information will be available as the season progresses[1].

As the season approaches, the anticipation is building. With new divisions, exciting matchups, and teams looking to make their mark, the 2025 high school football season in Columbus, Ohio, promises to be one to remember. So mark your calendars, download the SBLive Sports app for live updates, and get ready to cheer on your favorite teams as they take the field this fall.

The 2025 high school football season in Columbus, Ohio, is shaping up to be an exciting and dynamic year, thanks to the recent announcements from the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA). On May 1, the OHSAA revealed the new divisional breakdowns and regional assignments for all 706 participating schools, and there are some significant changes that local fans should be aware of.

### Divisional Shifts

One of the most intriguing aspects of the new season is the movement of teams between divisions. Schools can change divisions based on factors such as male student enrollment and the OHSAA's competitive balance formula. For the 2025 season, no schools opted to move up to Division I from the lower divisions, but there are still some notable shifts.

- **Winton Woods** is making a significant jump, moving up from Division II to Division I. This change is sure to bring new challenges and opportunities for the team.
- **Badin Rams**, after a stint in Division II last season, are returning to Division III due to enrollment changes.
- **Purcell Marian** is stepping up from Division VI to Division V, reflecting adjustments in competitive balance.
- **Cincinnati Country Day** is dropping down to Division VII following a decrease in enrollment.

### Stability Amidst Change

While some teams are experiencing changes, others are maintaining their current divisions. **La Salle** will remain in Division II, and both **Indian Hill** and **CHCA** will stay in Division IV, despite having the option to compete in a lower division.

### Local Impact

In Central Ohio, the divisional changes will have a direct impact on the local football landscape. Nine local programs will retain their divisions from the 2024 season, thanks to fair competitive balance measures. However, the shifts mentioned above will undoubtedly create new rivalries and matchups that fans are eager to see.

### Schedules and Preparations

As the season approaches, teams are starting to announce their schedules. For example, the **Dover Crimson Tornadoes** have unveiled their 2025 schedule, which includes notable games against Columbus Academy, Mansfield Madison, Maple Heights, Steubenville, and West Holmes. This diverse schedule promises to test the team's mettle and provide exciting matchups for fans.

The OHSAA's announcements have set the stage for a thrilling 2025 high school football season in Columbus and beyond. With new divisions, regional assignments, and schedules being finalized, fans are gearing up for what promises to be an action-packed year filled with surprises and triumphs. Whether you're cheering for a team that's staying put or one that's making a divisional leap, this season is sure to deliver the excitement and competition that high school football is known for.

High school football in Ohio is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season, and there are several key developments that fans in Columbus and beyond should be eager to know about.

First off, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has announced the divisional breakdowns for the upcoming season. As of May 1, 2025, the landscape has been set for the 706 schools participating in 11-man football. The regular season is slated to kick off the week of August 18[3][5].

One of the notable changes involves the divisional shifts due to factors such as male student enrollment and the OHSAA's competitive balance formula. While no schools opted to move up to Division I from lower divisions, there are some significant moves. For instance, the Winton Woods team is stepping up to Division I from Division II, while La Salle will remain in Division II. Other local teams like Badin Rams are returning to Division III after a stint in Division II, and Purcell Marian is moving up to Division V from Division VI[5].

In Central Ohio, several teams are maintaining their current divisions. Indian Hill and CHCA will stay in Division IV, despite having the option to compete in a lower division. These changes promise to bring new challenges and opportunities for teams across the region[5].

For fans of specific teams, the schedules are also starting to roll out. The Dover Crimson Tornadoes, for example, have announced their 2025 schedule, which includes 10 games against a mix of familiar and new opponents. Their schedule features notable matches against Columbus Academy, Mansfield Madison, Maple Heights, Steubenville, and West Holmes. Other teams on their slate include Ashland, Glenoak, Linsly, New Philadelphia, and a road game against Wooster[1].

As the season approaches, excitement is building. The OHSAA will provide weekly computer points starting from Week 4, and the state playoffs information will be available as the season progresses[4].

With new divisions, fresh schedules, and the promise of intense competition, the 2025 high school football season in Ohio is shaping up to be one to remember. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking forward to the Friday night lights, there's plenty to be excited about as these young athletes take the field.

In the heart of Ohio, the excitement is building as the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has unveiled the divisions and regions for the 2025 high school football season. This announcement sets the stage for what promises to be an electrifying year of gridiron battles across the state.

For the upcoming season, 706 schools will be participating in 11-man football, with the regular season kicking off the week of August 18, 2025[3].

The OHSAA has carefully structured the divisions to ensure competitive balance. Here’s a breakdown of the divisions and the number of teams in each:

- Division I: Comprising schools with 592 or more students, this division will feature 72 teams[2].
- Divisions II through VII will also be populated based on adjusted enrollment numbers, ensuring that schools are matched against peers of similar size.

In addition to the division assignments, the OHSAA has also outlined the regional alignments. These regions are crucial as they determine the playoff paths for teams vying for state championships.

The playoff system, a highlight of the Ohio high school football season, will see teams competing in their respective regions to advance to the state playoffs. The OHSAA will begin tracking weekly computer points starting from Week 4, which will help determine playoff seeding[4].

As the season approaches, fans can look forward to intense rivalries, standout performances, and the camaraderie that defines high school sports. The OHSAA's meticulous planning ensures that every game will be a testament to the spirit and talent of Ohio's young athletes.

With the divisions and regions set, the stage is now ready for the 2025 Ohio high school football season to unfold. Get ready for thrilling matches, dramatic comebacks, and the unwavering passion of high school football in Columbus and across Ohio. The countdown to kickoff has begun

The 2025 high school football season in Ohio is just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable, especially in Columbus and the broader Central Ohio area. The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has recently announced the divisional assignments for the upcoming season, and there are some intriguing changes to note.

First off, the regular season kicks off the week of August 18, 2025, with the first Friday of the season set for August 22. This year, 706 schools will take to the field for 11-man football, each placed into one of seven divisions based on a combination of male student enrollment and the OHSAA's competitive balance formula.

Here’s a breakdown of the divisions:
- Division I: 72 teams, schools with an adjusted enrollment of 592 and higher.
- Division II: 104 teams, schools with an adjusted enrollment of 378 to 591.
- Division III: 107 teams, schools with an adjusted enrollment of 268 to 377.
- Division IV: 105 teams, schools with an adjusted enrollment of 202 to 267.
- Division V: 106 teams, schools with an adjusted enrollment of 157 to 201.
- Division VI: 106 teams, schools with an adjusted enrollment of 112 to 156.
- Division VII: 106 teams, schools with an adjusted enrollment of 111 and less.

One of the most interesting aspects of this year’s assignments is that all 634 teams in Divisions II through VII had the option to move up to Division I, but none chose to do so. However, there are still some significant changes for local teams.

In Central Ohio, several teams are experiencing divisional shifts. The Winton Woods team is making a notable jump up to Division I from Division II, a testament to their growing enrollment and competitive balance. On the other hand, La Salle will remain in Division II for another season.

Other local teams are also seeing changes. Badin Rams are returning to Division III after a stint in Division II last season, while Purcell Marian is stepping up to Division V from Division VI. Cincinnati Country Day is dropping down to Division VII due to a decrease in enrollment.

Indian Hill and CHCA are maintaining their positions in Division IV, despite having the option to compete in a lower division.

These changes reflect the dynamic nature of high school football in Ohio, where teams must adapt to enrollment fluctuations and competitive balance adjustments. With 38 teams changing divisions statewide, this season promises to be filled with new challenges and opportunities for growth.

As the season approaches, fans in Columbus and across Central Ohio are eagerly anticipating the kickoff, ready to support their local teams as they navigate these new divisional landscapes. It’s going to be an exciting year for high school football in Ohio

The 2025 high school football season in Ohio is gearing up to be an exciting one, especially for teams in and around Columbus. The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has just announced the divisional breakdowns for the upcoming season, and there are some significant changes to note.

First off, a total of 706 schools across the state will be participating in 11-man football, with the regular season kicking off the week of August 18. This year’s divisions have been determined based on factors such as male student enrollment and the OHSAA’s competitive balance formula, which ensures that schools are matched against opponents of similar competitive levels.

In Central Ohio, several teams are experiencing changes in their divisions. For instance, the Badin Rams are moving back to Division III after a stint in Division II last season, due to enrollment changes. Purcell Marian is stepping up to Division V from Division VI, thanks to competitive balance considerations. Meanwhile, Cincinnati Country Day is dropping down to Division VII following a decrease in enrollment.

Locally, Winton Woods is making a significant jump, transitioning up to Division I from Division II. La Salle, however, will remain in Division II for another season. Indian Hill and CHCA will stay put in Division IV, despite having the option to compete in a lower division.

These changes promise to shake up the dynamics of local rivalries and competitions, adding an extra layer of excitement to the season. The stability and shifts in divisions ensure that teams will face new challenges and opportunities, keeping the competition fresh and engaging.

Aside from the divisional changes, the region’s top athletes had a chance to showcase their skills at the 2025 Under Armour Next Football Camp Series held at Pickerington High School North. This camp provided a platform for players to hone their on-field skills and compete against other top athletes. Four athletes from the Class of 2026 earned invitations to the 2026 Under Armour Next All-America Game, including LB Cincere Johnson from Glenville and LB Chris “CJ” Sanna from Olentangy.

As the season approaches, fans in Columbus and across Ohio are eagerly anticipating the kickoff, ready to support their local teams through the ups and downs of the new divisional alignments. With fresh matchups and renewed rivalries, the 2025 high school football season is set to be one for the books.