Maryland Prep Football Rankings: DeMatha Climbs After Statement Win
The first regular-season state rankings are out, with St. Frances Academy holding the top spot after a 49-35 victory in Florida. DeMatha Catholic moved up after defeating Archbishop Spalding 35-14, while Saint Mary's Ryken dropped six spots following a lopsided loss in Tennessee. Public school competition begins this weekend.
DeMatha Catholic’s 35-14 win over Archbishop Spalding carried extra weight, as Spalding had claimed the last four MIAA titles. The Stags’ victory pushed them into the national poll at No. 23, while Spalding held steady at No. 3 in state. Saint Frances Academy, ranked No. 2 nationally, needed a strong second half to outlast DeLand, Florida, 49-35. Saint Mary’s Ryken suffered the week’s steepest fall, dropping from No. 9 to No. 15 after a 67-17 loss to McCallie School in Tennessee. Public schools begin play this weekend, with several ranked teams—including Quince Orchard, Linganore, and Dunbar—opening their seasons.
These rankings shape local perceptions of team strength and can influence playoff seeding, recruiting interest, and school pride. Early private-school results may set expectations for public-school programs entering competition, potentially affecting matchups and media attention. Fans, athletes, and coaches across Maryland could feel ripple effects in scheduling and momentum, though outcomes remain uncertain. The rankings also highlight regional rivalries and travel challenges, underscoring how high school football connects communities beyond the field.