The road to championship glory begins this Friday as 253 high school football teams across North Carolina embark on their playoff journeys, marking the 110th season of crowning state champions in the Old North State. The North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) released the playoff brackets on Sunday, November 10, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting postseason culminating in four state championship games in December.

This year's championship games will be split between two of the state's most prestigious venues - Kenan Memorial Stadium at UNC Chapel Hill and Carter-Finley Stadium at NC State. Kenan Stadium, which has hosted 81 championship games since 1989, will add two more to its historic legacy, while Carter-Finley will host its 35th and 36th championship contests.

The 2024 playoffs feature an intriguing mix of traditional powerhouses and fresh faces. Four programs will make their NCHSAA playoff debuts this season: Montgomery Central in the 3A bracket, and Palisades, West Cabarrus, and Willow Spring in the 4A bracket. These newcomers will look to make their mark against some of the state's most successful programs.

Speaking of success, nine of the top ten winningest playoff programs in NCHSAA history since 1972 are back in the hunt this year. Shelby, the all-time leader with 120 playoff victories, leads this distinguished group. Other notable returning powers include Reidsville (97 wins), Swain County (97 wins), and Richmond County (89 wins). In an interesting first-round matchup, two of these historic programs will clash as Thomasville travels to Robbinsville.

The 2024 season has already produced some remarkable individual performances that could make the difference in the playoffs. Havelock's Jaylen Hewitt leads all passers with 3,174 yards and 31 touchdowns, while White Oak's Tareavion Mageo has dominated on the ground with 2,095 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns. In the receiving game, Hobbton's Reggie Thompson has been nearly unstoppable, accumulating 1,361 yards on 82 receptions.

This year's playoffs also feature several compelling comeback stories. North Iredell is breaking the longest playoff drought in the state, making their first appearance since 2006 - meaning no player on the current roster was even born when the Raiders last reached the postseason. They're joined by 42 other programs returning to the playoffs after various lengths of absence, including Northern Vance (last appearance: 2008) and South Rowan (2009).

Fans unable to attend the games in person won't miss any of the action, as 68 first-round games will be broadcast live on the NFHS Network. An additional 45 local radio stations will provide coverage of various games across the state, ensuring comprehensive coverage of this historic playoff season.

The path to the championships, scheduled for December 20th and 21st, represents the fourth iteration of the current NCHSAA Football Playoff format. This format was implemented following the 2002-2021 period when eight champions were crowned, including the COVID-19 impacted spring season of 2021.

The seeding process this year maintains its focus on rewarding conference success while utilizing RPI ratings for final placements. Conference champions receive automatic berths and are seeded first, followed by additional qualifiers based on both conference standing and RPI ratings. The system ensures that teams can only qualify if all teams above them in their conference standings have also made the playoffs, maintaining competitive integrity.

As the 110th season of North Carolina high school football championships begins, the stage is set for another memorable playoff season. From historic programs chasing additional glory to newcomers looking to make their mark, the next few weeks promise to deliver the excitement and drama that high school football fans have come to expect from one of the state's most cherished sporting traditions.

See the full list of first-round matchups on Carolina Gridiron's 2024 Championship Central.

The 2024 North Carolina high school football season featured a remarkable collection of standout offensive and defensive talents. From quarterbacks carving up defenses with pinpoint accuracy to running backs racking up eye-popping yardage, these players captivated fans across the state with their exceptional skill and consistent production. On the defensive side, dominant linemen, instinctive linebackers, and ball-hawking defensive backs spearheaded stifling units that made life difficult for opposing offenses. As the postseason approaches, these top performers are poised to continue delivering thrilling moments and highlight-reel plays when the stakes are highest.

Offense

1. Trevaris Jones, QB – Northeastern

Jones has arguably had the most impressive all-around season among North Carolina quarterbacks. With a staggering 75.8% completion rate, Jones threw for 2,805 yards, 34 touchdowns, and just 2 interceptions across 10 games. His accuracy and decision-making were unmatched, and his quarterback rating of 152 was the highest among the top passers. Jones led NHS with precision and efficiency, setting a standard for consistent excellence.

2. Tylik Mitchell, RB – Southern Nash

In just 8 games, Mitchell posted eye-popping numbers, rushing for 1,751 yards with a state-high average of 218.9 yards per game and 13.16 yards per carry. His ability to break big plays is reflected in his 20 touchdowns, making him one of the most efficient and explosive rushers in the league. Despite missing two games, Mitchell’s performance set him apart as a dominant force in the backfield.

3. Bryce Baker, QB – East Forsyth

Baker’s 77% completion rate is a testament to his accuracy and decision-making. He threw for 2,629 yards, 30 touchdowns, and just 4 interceptions, giving him a near-perfect season in terms of efficiency. His quarterback rating of 149 and ability to keep turnovers low highlighted his effectiveness as a leader on the field. Baker’s consistency made him one of the most reliable quarterbacks in the state.

4. Taeshon Martin, RB/DB – Mount Airy

Martin finished the season with 1,721 rushing yards, 28 touchdowns, and an impressive 11.79 yards per carry across 10 games. His 172.1 yards per game average speaks to his impact as an every-down back capable of explosive gains. Martin’s high touchdown total, paired with his double-duty role as a defensive back, underscores his versatility and playmaking ability.

5. Treavion Mageo, RB – White Oak

Mageo led the state in total rushing yards with 2,095, averaging 209.5 yards per game and an impressive 9.57 yards per carry. His 26 touchdowns and no fumbles in 10 games highlight his strength and ball security, making him one of the most dependable running backs in North Carolina.

6. Famous Wilson, QB – North Pitt

Wilson put together a strong season with 3,164 passing yards, a completion rate of 63.4%, and an impressive 25 touchdowns to only 7 interceptions. With a quarterback rating of 123, he was a steady performer who could produce big plays and control the pace of the game, showcasing his impact as a central figure in North Pitt’s offense.

7. Reggie Thompson, WR – Hobbton

Thompson led all receivers with 1,361 receiving yards and averaged 16.6 yards per catch. His 12 touchdowns across 10 games were crucial to Hobbton’s passing attack. Thompson’s ability to consistently produce yardage and move the chains made him an invaluable asset to his team.

8. Jayden Jones, RB – Independence

With an astounding 15.19 yards per carry, Jones compiled 2,066 yards and 25 touchdowns in 10 games. His season highlight included a long run of 68 yards, showcasing his ability to break free and add quick points to the scoreboard. Jones’ efficiency on the ground was unmatched, as he led Independence with explosive power and speed.

9. Jackson Byrd, QB – Cleveland

Byrd wrapped up the season with 2,856 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, and only 6 interceptions, giving him a strong touchdown-to-interception ratio and a quarterback rating of 124. His 61.4% completion rate and ability to find the end zone consistently made him a dependable offensive leader for Cleveland.

10. Mitchell Summers, RB – Grimsley

Summers brought consistent scoring with 198 points, totaling 33 touchdowns in 10 games. While his yardage isn’t as high as others, his knack for scoring emphasizes his value in Grimsley’s offensive scheme. Summers’ scoring consistency makes him one of the most efficient red-zone threats.

11. Major Leak, WR – Lake Norman Charter

Leak put up a remarkable season with 1,057 yards receiving, 16 touchdowns, and an average of 19.94 yards per catch. His ability to make high-impact plays and his scoring consistency helped elevate LNC’s offense, and his performance makes him one of the standout receivers of the season.

12. Jeremiah Johnson, FB/OLB – Pender

With 216 points scored and 30 touchdowns, Johnson showcased his versatility and scoring ability. His 1,877 rushing yards and 9.02 yards per carry underscore his impact on the ground. Johnson’s scoring, combined with his efficient yardage, solidifies his place among the top performers.

13. Barian Strickland, RB/OLB – Northern Nash

With 176 points and 29 touchdowns over 9 games, Strickland was a scoring machine, averaging 19.6 points per game. His 1,723 rushing yards and extraordinary 14.01 yards per carry, paired with his high scoring, make him a standout performer in both yardage and points.

Defense

1. Garrison Dibble, DE/TE – Atkins

Dibble led the state with 177 total tackles, averaging 17.7 tackles per game. He also posted an astonishing 31 sacks and 49 tackles for loss, constantly pressuring quarterbacks with 54 hurries. Dibble’s disruptive ability in the backfield makes him the top defensive player this season.

2. Josh Baker, ATH – South Wake

With 153 tackles, including 18 for loss, and 14 sacks, Baker was a constant threat on defense. His balanced skill set allowed him to contribute as both a tackler and a pass-rusher, making him invaluable to South Wake's defensive unit.

3. Cameron Johnson, LB/FB – Southeast Halifax

Johnson’s 146 total tackles included an impressive 127 solo stops, alongside 17 tackles for loss and 8 sacks in just 9 games. His high solo tackle rate reflects his ability to make crucial open-field tackles and prevent big plays.

4. Jack Earley, RB/LB – South Brunswick

Earley racked up 163 tackles, including 97 solo tackles, averaging 16.3 tackles per game. Although he had only 5 tackles for loss and 2 sacks, his consistency in tackling made him a foundational player for his defense.

5. Alex Pannell, WR/S – South Wake

With 10 interceptions in 10 games and 183 return yards, Pannell was one of the state’s top playmakers in the secondary. His knack for forcing turnovers provided game-changing momentum swings and consistently disrupted opponents' passing games.

6. Sawyer Lowe, MLB – Cleveland

Lowe’s 144 tackles—all solo—illustrate his remarkable tackling ability, alongside 21 tackles for loss and 3 sacks. His dominance in solo tackles and ability to create negative plays in the backfield make him a standout run-stopper.

7. Kaleb Caraway, MLB/TE – Gray’s Creek

With 144 total tackles, including 30 for loss, Caraway was a backfield force. Although he recorded only 2 sacks, his high number of tackles for loss highlights his instincts and effectiveness in stopping running plays.

8. Brady Collins, RB/LB – Providence Grove

Collins posted 147 tackles, including 81 solo, providing dependable support in stopping the run. His consistent tackle totals were essential to his team’s defensive success, and his tackling volume highlights his importance on the field.

9. Mar’quele Harvey, LB/RB – Western Alamance

Harvey tallied 131 tackles, with 114 of them solo. In his 9 games, he maintained a solid tackle rate and contributed effectively in pass-rushing situations with half a sack, underlining his versatility as a defender.

10. Quinton Cypher, MLB – Millbrook

Cypher’s 131 tackles, paired with an impressive 24.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, reflect his disruptive play. His ability to stop plays in the backfield and put pressure on the quarterback make him one of the top linebackers in North Carolina.

11. Elijah Chaffin, MLB – Davie

Chaffin’s 142 tackles included 103 assists, showing his strong presence in team tackling situations. With 7 tackles for loss, he was instrumental in limiting opponents’ yards.

12. Deandre Brown, OLB/RB – Orange

Brown had 125 solo tackles over 9 games, demonstrating his effectiveness as a solo tackler. His four sacks added to his impact on the defensive side.

13. Jackson Forrest, MLB/TE – Northwest Cabarrus

Forrest accumulated 137 tackles, 14 of which were for loss, along with 4 sacks. His versatility in both tackling and pass-rushing made him a reliable defensive asset for his team.

Follow these players and more on our Championship Central page.

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) has released the seeds for this year’s highly anticipated high school football playoffs. Teams from across the state will begin their journey toward the championship on November 15, with the ultimate goal of reaching the State Championships held at Kenan Memorial Stadium at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Carter-Finley Stadium at North Carolina State University.

 Playoff Schedule

- First Round: November 15

- Second Round: November 22

- Third Round: November 29

- Fourth Round: December 6

- Regional Finals: December 13

- State Championships: December 20-21

Road to the Championship

The NCHSAA playoff system is built to recognize excellence across conferences, rewarding top-performing teams and those who fought hard throughout the season. Teams earn playoff berths through conference standings, with champions from conferences of 1-5 teams receiving automatic berths, while conferences of six or more teams also send runner-ups or tournament winners. Further playoff spots are filled by wild-card selections based on Ratings Percentage Index (RPI) ratings.

RPI ratings are used extensively in the seeding process, ensuring that high-performing teams are rewarded based on their conference rankings and season strength. Each region, East and West, is seeded independently, with conference champions getting precedence over other qualifying teams.

Path to Victory

From the opening round, higher-seeded teams will have the advantage of home field until the State Championships, where champions from each division will clash. Fans across North Carolina can look forward to an intense season finale, as the top teams from each region converge in Chapel Hill and Raleigh for a two-day championship event.

1A First Round

East

(1) Tarboro vs BYE

(16) Weldon vs (17) Lejeune

(8) Perquimans vs (25) Northwest Halifax

(9) Warren vs (24) Southside

(5) Northside (Pinetown) vs (28) East Columbus

(12) Gates vs (21) Washington County

(13) Rosewood vs (20) Hobbton

(4) Pender vs (29) Chatham Central

(3) Wilson Prep vs BYE

(19) KIPP Pride vs (14) West Columbus

(6) North Moore vs (27) Union

(11) Bertie vs (22) North Edgecombe

(7) Bear Grass vs (26) Pamlico

(10) Lakewood vs (23) Northampton

(15) East Bladen vs (18) Southeast Halifax

(2) North Duplin vs BYE

West

(1) Mount Airy vs (32) Thomas Jefferson

(16) Mountain Island vs (17) Bishop McGuinness

(8) South Stanly vs (25) Avery

(9) Starmount vs (24) Andrews

(5) Corvian vs (28) Elkin

(12) Mitchell vs (21) Draughn

(13) Cherokee vs (20) Carver

(4) Eastern Randolph vs (29) Swain

(3) Murphy vs (30) Highland Tech

(14) Alleghany vs (19) Christ the King

(6) Bessemer City vs (27) South Stokes

(11) Robbinsville vs (22) Thomasville

(7) North Rowan vs (26) Cherryville

(10) East Wilkes vs (23) Albemarle

(15) Union Academy vs (18) Hayesville

(2) Mountain Heritage vs (31) North Stokes

2A First Round

East

(1) Northeastern vs (32) Hertford

(16) Midway vs (17) Greene Central

(8) St. Pauls vs (25) East Duplin

(9) Nash Central vs (24) West Craven

(5) Martin County vs (28) North Johnston

(12) James Kenan vs (21) Roanoke Rapids

(13) Cummings vs (20) SouthWest Edgecombe

(4) Wallace-Rose Hill vs (29) Washington

(3) Southeast Alamance vs (30) Heide Trask

(14) South Columbus vs (19) Kinston

(11) Ayden-Grifton vs (22) North Lenoir

(6) South Granville vs (27) Edenton Holmes

(7) Eastern Wayne vs (26) Northwood

(10) East Carteret vs (23) Princeton

(15) Farmville Central vs (18) North Pitt

(2) Whiteville vs (31) Pasquotank

West

(1) Reidsville vs (32) RS Central

(16) North Surry vs (17) East Rutherford

(8) Bunker Hill vs (25) Hendersonville

(9) Brevard vs (24) Anson

(5) Salisbury vs (28) West Davidson

(12) Walkertown vs (21) Surry Central

(13) Forest Hills vs (20) Lexington

(4) Randleman vs (29) East Gaston

(3) Monroe vs (30) TW Andrews

(14) Burns vs (19) North Stanly

(11) East Surry vs (22) Southwestern Randolph

(6) West Stokes vs (27) North Forsyth

(7) Mount Pleasant vs (26) West Lincoln

(10) CS Davidson vs (23) Bandys

(15) Lincolnton vs (18) Maiden

(2) Shelby vs (31) Morehead

3A First Round

East

(1) Havelock vs (32) Westover

(16) Western Alamance vs (17) Vance County

(8) Terry Sanford vs (25) South Central

(9) Union Pines vs (24) Scotland

(5) Williams vs (28) East Wake

(12) Jacksonville vs (21) West Carteret

(13) Cape Fear vs (20) Southern Alamance

(4) Aycock vs (29) Eastern Alamance

(3) Northern Nash vs (30) Rose

(14) Southern Nash vs (19) Harnett Central

(11) Southern Durham vs (22) Fike

(6) Currituck vs (27) West Johnston

(7) White Oak vs (26) Lee County

(10) North Brunswick vs (23) Hunt

(15) Rocky Mount vs (18) Richlands

(2) Seventy-First vs (31) Croatan

West

(1) Erwin vs (32) Parkwood

(16) Pisgah vs (17) Smoky Mountain

(8) West Charlotte vs (25) Hunter Huss

(9) Freedom vs (24) West Rowan

(5) Dudley vs (28) Asheboro

(12) AC Reynolds vs (21) Central Davidson

(13) Kings Mountain vs (20) East Lincoln

(4) Robinson vs (29) Northeast Guilford

(3) Hickory vs (30) Tuscola

(14) Statesville vs (19) Franklin

(11) Oak Grove vs (22) North Iredell

(6) Crest vs (27) Eastern Guilford

(7) West Henderson vs (26) South Rowan

(10) North Lincoln vs (23) North Davidson

(15) Ashbrook vs (18) Northwest Cabarrus

(2) South Point vs (31) Montgomery Central

4A First Round

East

(1) Cleveland vs (32) Heritage

(16) Ashley vs (17) Laney

(8) Jordan vs (25) Enloe

(9) Apex Friendship vs (24) Pine Forest

(5) Rolesville vs (28) Middle Creek

(12) Pinecrest vs (21) New Hanover

(13) Clayton vs (20) Corinth Holders

(4) Richmond vs (29) Topsail

(3) Hoggard vs (30) Broughton

(14) Leesville Road vs (19) Conley

(6) New Bern vs (27) Gray’s Creek

(11) Millbrook vs (22) South View

(7) Jack Britt vs (26) Wake Forest

(10) Overhills vs (23) Hillside

(15) Garner vs (18) Southeast Raleigh

(2) Cardinal Gibbons vs (31) Willow Spring

West

(1) Grimsley vs (32) Western Guilford

(16) Reagan vs (17) Southeast Guilford

(8) Charlotte Catholic vs (25) Porter Ridge

(9) Palisades vs (24) Page

(5) Hough vs (28) South Iredell

(12) Mount Tabor vs (21) Independence

(13) Mallard Creek vs (20) Lake Norman

(4) Watauga vs (29) Ragsdale

(3) East Forsyth vs (30) Butler

(14) West Forsyth vs (19) Cuthbertson

(6) Mooresville vs (27) Alexander Central

(11) Northwest Guilford vs (22) Olympic

(7) Asheville vs (26) Marvin Ridge

(10) Northern Guilford vs (23) West Cabarrus

(15) Sun Valley vs (18) Roberson

(2) Weddington vs (31) Brown

The crux of the NCHSAA playoff system is the RPI formula. This formula, used for all team-bracketed playoffs, consists of three components:

- Winning Percentage (WP): Calculated by dividing the number of wins by the total games played, with ties considered as half a win.

- Opponents’ Winning Percentage (OWP): This involves averaging the winning percentages of a team's opponents. It's essential to note that games involving the team whose RPI is being calculated are not included in this process.

- Opponents’ Opponents Winning Percentage (OOWP): Similar to OWP, this is calculated for the opponents of a team's opponents. There's a slight exception for out-of-state teams, which we'll delve into next.

**Handling Out-of-State and International Opponents**

Out-of-state opponents from Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia are treated the same as in-state opponents if they have a verified MaxPreps account and schedule. For all other out-of-state opponents, their direct winning percentage counts, but each of their opponents receives a .500 winning percentage in the formula.

International opponents, on the other hand, do not impact the RPI calculation, ensuring that the system remains focused on in-state competition.

CHARLOTTE – Carolina Gridiron has unveiled its prestigious 2024 Preseason All-Gridiron Team, spotlighting North Carolina’s most exceptional high school football players. This year’s selection features standout athletes from various schools across the state, representing the pinnacle of talent in their respective positions. 

East Forsyth’s quarterback Bryce Baker leads the offensive selections, recognized for his exceptional arm talent and field vision. The running back positions are claimed by Christopher Daley II from East Lincoln and Amareon Blue of Jordan, both known for their explosive play-making abilities.

Mount Tabor’s Shamarius Peterkin, Forest Hills’ Je’rel Bolder, and Robinson’s Brian Rowe have earned spots for their impressive performances in the receiving corps. Providence Day’s Kendre Harrison rounds out the passing targets as the selected tight end.

The offensive line boasts some of the state’s most dominant blockers, including David Sanders of Providence Day, Trey Blue from Cary, West Forsyth’s PJ Dean, Tai Buster of Brown, and Hoggard’s Michael Gibbs.

Defensively, the line is anchored by a formidable group consisting of Isaiah Campbell (Southern Durham), Bryce Davis (Grimsley), Donovan Darden (Havelock), and Sherrod Henderson (Trask).

The linebacker selections showcase the state’s defensive prowess, featuring Traquin Watson from North Johnston, Weddington’s Thomas Davis, Jr., Taeshawn Alston of Vance County, and Palisades’ Kendric Davis.

In the secondary, Jordan Young (Monroe), JaDon Blair (Mount Tabor), Braxton Winston (Providence Day), and Samari Matthews (Hough) have been recognized for their stellar defensive play.

The team also acknowledges two exceptional athletes in Monroe’s Kaegan Chambers and Havelock’s Jonathan Williams, noted for their versatility on the field.

Special teams selections round out the roster, with Hough’s Kandler Happe as punter, Cuthbertson’s Spencer Crum as kicker, and Charlotte Catholic’s Jack Baade as long snapper.

This year’s All-Gridiron Team reflects the widespread talent across North Carolina, with selections coming from both perennial powerhouses and rising programs. The diversity of schools represented underscores the depth of talent in the state’s high school football landscape.

As the season approaches, these players will be ones to watch on Friday nights. Their selection to the Preseason All-Gridiron Team recognizes their past achievements and sets high expectations for their performance in the upcoming season.

College recruiters and fans alike will keep a close eye on these standout athletes, many of whom are expected to make significant impacts at the collegiate level. The 2024 season promises to be an exciting showcase of North Carolina’s high school football talent, with these All-Gridiron selections leading the way at their respective schools.

RALEIGH – In a game between titans both looking for a return to championship glory, the Reidsville Rams emerged victorious in a hard-fought battle against the Clinton Dark Horses to claim the NCHSAA 2A State Championship. The Rams' explosive offense, coupled with a stalwart defense, propelled them to a 28-18 triumph that extended their NCHSAA-leading record of twenty state championships.

From the opening kickoff, the Rams set the tone for the evening, taking charge with a methodical drive culminating in a 12-yard touchdown pass from Al Lee to Dionte Neal. The Dark Horses responded with a 23-yard field goal from Sumner Brandt, signaling their intent to stay in contention.

The Rams, however, were undeterred. Quarterback Al Lee orchestrated a masterful 18-yard touchdown connection to Kendre Harrison, widening the gap to 14-3 before the end of the first quarter.

As the game progressed into the third quarter, Clinton rallied with a powerful 1-yard rushing touchdown from Amaris Williams, narrowing the Rams' lead to 14-10. Reidsville answered back swiftly, with Lee once again finding Harrison for a 24-yard touchdown reception, restoring the Rams' dominance at 21-10.

The climax of the game occurred in the fourth quarter when Al Lee delivered a 45-yard touchdown pass to Cam'ron Jones, securing a commanding lead for the Rams. Although Clinton fought back with a 17-yard touchdown pass from Nydarion Blackwell to Amaris Williams, the Rams' earlier surge proved insurmountable.

A standout moment in the game was a crucial onside kick by Nydarion Blackwell, reclaiming possession for Clinton. However, the Rams' defense stood firm, denying the Dark Horses an opportunity to capitalize on the turnover.

The game was not short on drama, with key plays punctuating the contest. Jariel Cobb's ground prowess for Reidsville, coupled with timely receptions from Neal, Harrison, and Jones, showcased the Rams' offensive diversity. On the defensive side, Aidan Mansfield's stellar performance, including nine total tackles, played a pivotal role in stifling the Dark Horses' advances.

Clinton's efforts were led by the dynamic duo of Robinson Josiah and Amaris Williams, who consistently found gaps in the Rams' defense. Despite their resilience, penalties and the Rams' formidable defense prevented Clinton from fully closing the scoring gap.

In the end, the Reidsville Rams hoisted the championship trophy, their 28-18 triumph a testament to their skill, teamwork, and unyielding determination. As the teams met at midfield for the trophy ceremony and the Reidsville faithful erupted in celebration, the Rams etched their names into the storied history of North Carolina high school football, savoring a well-deserved 2A state championship victory.

CHAPEL HILL – The Tarboro Vikings and Mount Airy Granite Bears clashed in a highly anticipated showdown during the 1A State Championship match at Kenan Memorial Stadium on the University of North Carolina campus. This marked their second encounter in the state finals, with each team having claimed victory over the other in previous championship matches in 2017 and 2022. On Saturday, Mount Airy emerged victorious, walking away with their ninth NCHSAA Football State Championship with a decisive 21-3 win.

In a defensive stalemate that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the first quarter showcased a remarkable 55-yard punt from Tarboro's Oscar Perez Gaspar, landing just shy of the 5-yard line. Gaspar later contributed the initial points of the game in the second quarter, nailing a 39-yard field goal to cap a seven-play, 17-yard drive. As the first half came to a close, Tarboro's defense made a crucial goal line stand, and the Granite Bears missed a 21-yard field goal attempt, leaving Tarboro with a 3-0 lead at halftime.

The turning point occurred in the third quarter when Deric Dandy's pivotal tackle on fourth and one led to a turnover on downs, granting Mount Airy possession on the Tarboro 29-yard line. Seizing the opportunity, Tyler Mason powered through with a 12-yard run after a 5-play sequence, propelling the Granite Bears to a 7-3 lead.

The momentum continued in the fourth quarter as Ian Gallimore executed a quick shovel pass to Mario Revels for an electrifying 89-yard touchdown within the first 15 seconds. Gallimore, orchestrating a patient 9-play, 32-yard drive, connected with Blake Hawks in the endzone, sealing the championship title for Mount Airy with a commanding 21-3 lead.

Tarboro concluded the season with a commendable 13-1 record, marking their 14th appearance in the state finals since their debut in 1984. This year's appearance marked their seventh consecutive entry, maintaining a shot at the state title every year since 2017. Despite the defeat, the Vikings hold a respectable state finals record of 8-6, with runner-up finishes in both 2022 and 2023.

Meanwhile, Mount Airy wrapped up an undefeated season with a flawless 16-0 record. This marked their 14th appearance in the final game of the season, boasting a 9-5 record in championship appearances since their inaugural participation in 1935.

This Saturday at 7 p.m., Carter-Finley Stadium will be the battleground for the NCHSAA 4A State Championship, featuring a tough, physical matchup between Weddington High School and Hoggard High School. Both teams have shown remarkable resilience and skill throughout the season, earning their spots in this highly anticipated championship game.

Team Overview

Hoggard, with an average of 42.6 points per game, has shown a strong offensive presence throughout the season. Their key players include #22 M’kel Bellamy, who averages 58.5 rushing yards per game, and #15 Hudson Wilharm, who contributes 183.0 passing yards per game. On the defensive side, #21 Reagan Printy leads with an average of 12.4 tackles per game.

Weddington, on the other hand, has a balanced approach with an average of 37.5 points per game. Their offense is led by #34 Nick Diamond, who averages 68.2 rushing yards per game, and #12 Tyler Budge, who contributes 197.3 passing yards per game. On defense, #4 Gannon Anthony leads with an average of 8.2 tackles per game.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced Chapel Hill this season, with Hoggard winning 52-0 and Weddington winning 66-13. This common opponent provides a glimpse into the potential dynamics of the upcoming championship game.

The Road to the Championship

Hoggard’s journey to the championship has been marked by impressive victories, including a 41-20 win over Cardinal Gibbons. Weddington, despite a couple of losses, has shown resilience, bouncing back with a 34-14 win over Independence.

As we look forward to this weekend’s championship game, it’s clear that both teams bring a unique set of strengths to the table. It will be exciting to see how these dynamics play out on the field. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling showdown at Carter-Finley Stadium!

A Clash of Titans

Hickory, the West No. 2 seed, is coming into the game with a strong record. The team edged No. 4 Seed Dudley 42-41 in the 3A Regional Championships, scoring the game-winning touchdown with just 1:36 left in the fourth quarter. This victory marks their return to the Championship Game for the first time since 1996.

On the other hand, Seventy-First is making a triumphant return to the state championship for the first time since 2008. They secured their spot after beating No. 11 Seed Northern Nash 50-36, avenging a loss to Northern Nash in the same round last year. Deandre Nance, the team’s star player, was responsible for six touchdowns in the win, running for four and throwing for two.

Stats and Team Leaders

When comparing team stats, both teams have their strengths. Seventy-First excels in rushing yards per game with 348.7, compared to Hickory’s 205.9. However, Hickory outperforms in passing yards per game with 247.4, against Seventy-First’s 104.3. Both teams are nearly neck-and-neck in total yards per game, with Seventy-First at 452.9 and Hickory at 453.3.

In terms of team leaders, Deandre Nance of Seventy-First leads in rushing yards per game (102.1), passing yards per game (103.3), total yards per game (205.4), and points per game (15.3). On Hickory’s side, Brady Stober leads in passing yards per game (246.3) and total yards per game (251.6), while Isaiah Lackey leads in rushing yards per game (119.8) and points per game (13.6).

Season Recap

Both teams have had impressive seasons leading up to the championship. Seventy-First boasts a winning streak, with victories over Richmond, Pine Forest, Hoke County, South View, Gray’s Creek, Cape Fear, Jack Britt, Purnell Swett, Lumberton, Douglas Byrd, Triton, Williams, Fike, Southern Alamance, and Northern Nash.

Hickory, on the other hand, has also had a successful season with wins against Hibriten, Newton-Conover, Cox Mill, East Lincoln, North Lincoln, St. Stephens, North Iredell, West Iredell, Foard, Statesville, Huss, North Lincoln, A.C. Reynolds, West Henderson, and Dudley.

With both teams bringing their A-game, the NCHSAA 3A Championship promises to be a thrilling event. As the teams prepare for the big game, fans eagerly await to see who will emerge as the champion. Stay tuned for more updates!

This Saturday at 12 p.m., the NCHSAA 1A State Championship will see a thrilling face-off between Mount Airy High School and Tarboro High School at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Despite the 211 miles separating these schools, Chapel Hill proves to be an ideal meeting spot, being 113 miles from Mount Airy and 101 miles from Tarboro.

Last Week’s Highlights

In the 1A Regional Championships, Mount Airy, the West No. 2 Seed, traveled to No. 1 Seed Robbinsville and scored 13 unanswered points to claim a 27-16 win. This victory has given the Granite Bears the opportunity to defend their 2022 state championship. The Bears now hold a 5-6 record in Regional Finals since 1972.

On the other hand, East No. 1 Seed Tarboro defeated No. 2 Seed West Columbus 49-12 in the Regional Championship. Mason Satterfield and Caiden Everette were the stars of the match, with Satterfield running for three touchdowns and Everette rushing for 111 yards and two scores. The Vikings now have a 14-3 record in Regional Finals and have won an East Regional Championship for eight consecutive years.

Team Rankings, Records, & History

The two teams come into this week’s game having held the top two spots in the Carolina Gridiron Top 15 since the preseason rankings were announced. In the 2022 NCHSAA 1A state championship, Mount Airy defeated Tarboro with a score of 20-7. This victory marked Mount Airy’s eighth state title and their first since 2008. The win over Tarboro was the first championship chapter in Mount Airy’s history book in 14 years. Before that, Mount Airy’s last state championship came in 2008 in a 37-14 rout over Williamston in the 1A title. On the other hand, Tarboro has won nine state titles overall in school history (1965, 1984, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2017, 2018, 2020-21, 2021).

Scoring Averages

Tarboro has an average score of 44.2 points per game, with most points scored in the first half. Mount Airy, on the other hand, has a higher average of 52.5 points per game, with a significant number of points also scored in the first half.

Team Stat Comparison

Both teams have unblemished records and impressive stats on both sides of the ball. Tarboro (13-0) scored a total of 575 points while conceding only 91 this season while Mount Airy (15-0) has amassed 788 points while only giving up 88 in quest to defend their title. Mount Airy leads in rushing yards per game (376.0), passing yards per game (56.0), and total yards per game (432.0). Tarboro, however, has a higher average of tackles per game (67.8) and sacks per game (1.5).

Team Leaders

Tarboro’s Mason Satterfield leads in rushing yards per game (87.1) and total yards per game (95.2), while Omarion Lewis leads in passing yards per game (26.9). Cam’ron Harper and Tyler Powell lead in tackles per game (8.1) and sacks per game (0.5) respectively.

For Mount Airy, Tyler Mason leads in rushing yards per game (138.7) and total yards per game (138.7), while Ian Gallimore leads in passing yards per game (41.4) and tackles per game (10.1). Deric Dandy leads in sacks per game (0.9).

Final Thoughts

With both teams undefeated this season and boasting impressive stats, this championship game promises to be a thrilling encounter. Will the Granite Bears successfully defend their title, or will the Vikings extend their winning streak in the East Regional Championship to the state level? Tune in this Saturday to find out!

This Saturday, the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) 2A State Championship will feature an electrifying match between Clinton High School and Reidsville High School at Carter-Finley Stadium. The game is set to kick off at 3 p.m.

Friday, December 8

7:00 p.m. – 3A Championship | Hickory vs. Seventy-First at Kenan Stadium

Saturday, December 9

Noon – 1A State Championship | Mount Airy vs. Tarboro at Kenan Stadium

3:00 p.m. – 2A State Championship | Reidsville vs. Clinton at Carter-Finley Stadium

7:00 p.m. – 4A State Championship | Weddington vs. Hoggard at Carter-Finley Stadium

This Friday night, the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) will host the 2023 Regional Championships, a tradition that has declared state champions in every classification since 1972. From 2001-2021, each classification had two champions. This year’s regional final games promise to be as thrilling as ever, with teams boasting impressive records and histories of regional appearances.

Teams to Watch

Shelby is making its 24th appearance, with a record of 16-7. They have been a regular participant since 1986, with their most recent appearances in 2019, 2021, and now 2023.

Robbinsville is making its 20th appearance, with a record of 13-6. They have been a strong contender since 1973, with their latest appearances in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023.

Clinton and Tarboro are both making their 17th appearances, with records of 10-6 and 13-3 respectively. Clinton has been a regular participant since 1974, while Tarboro started in 1984.

Reidsville is making its 16th appearance with a record of 10-5, and Dudley is making its 12th appearance with a record of 7-4. Independence, Mount Airy, Seventy-First, Hoggard, Northeastern, and Weddington are also teams to watch, each making multiple appearances in the regional finals.

Cardinal Gibbons, Northern Nash, Hickory, and West Columbus are the newcomers, with West Columbus making its first appearance this year.

Regional Rematches

There are several rematches to look forward to. Northern Nash and Seventy-First have met twice before in the East Regional Championship, with both games being closely contested. Shelby and Reidsville have only met once before in the Regional Final, with Shelby emerging victorious. Mount Airy and Robbinsville, and Northeastern and Clinton have also met once before in the Regional final.

Low Seeds and High Seeds

All eight No. 1 seeds reached the regional semifinals, but only five advanced to the regional finals. Both of the No. 1 seeds in the 3A bracket fell in the fourth round. A pair of double-digit seeds, Northern Nash and Independence, will compete for the regional title this week.

The stage is set for an exciting night of high school football. Best of luck to all the teams participating in the 2023 NCHSAA Regional Championships!

This week’s regional final games

4A West:
#1 Weddington vs. #23 Independence
 
4A East:
#3 Hoggard vs. #5 Cardinal Gibbons
 
3A West:
#2 Hickory vs. #4 Dudley
 
3A East:
#2 Seventy-First vs. #13 Northern Nash
 
2A West:
#1 Reidsville vs. #7 Shelby
 
2A East:
#1 Clinton vs. #2 Northeastern
 
1A West:
#1 Robbinsville vs. #2 Mount Airy
 
1A East:
#1 Tarboro vs. #2 West Columbus

x

The 4A West top-seeded Weddington Warriors outmaneuvered Grimsley, securing a 44-27 victory. Meanwhile, #23 Independence rode a strong defense to take down rival Butler with a score of 10-7. Out east, Cardinal Gibbons, the 5th seed, emerged victorious against top-seeded Rolesville, 28-21. On the other hand, #3 Hoggard took down #2 Cleveland on the road by two scores, 51-35.

Dudley, the #4 seed in the 3A West, triumphed over top-seeded Crest with a 46-34 win. In the other 3A West matchup, Hickory, the #2 seed, held off #3 West Henderson by a score of 28-16. In a surprising turn of events in the 3A East, Northern Nash, the 13th seed, broke open a 21-all halftime tie with three second-half scores to defeat top-seeded Havelock on the road. Meanwhile, Seventy-First, the #2 seed, secured a win against #3 Southern Alamance in a squeaker, 32-27.

In the 2A West, Top-seeded Reidsville overcame #4 Bunker Hill by a 41-26 margin. In the other 2A West game, #7 Shelby defeated #11 Forest Hills by a touchdown, 37-30. Clinton, the top seed in the east, ran away from Nash Central, the 4th seed, 55-32. In Elizabeth City, Northeastern, the #2 seed, narrowly defeated #6 Whiteville, 17-14.

Robbinsville, the top seed in the 1A West, outscored #4 North Rowan by thirty points to win 44-14. Meanwhile, Mount Airy, the 2nd seed, held serve against #3 Eastern Randolph, 42-21. In the 1A East, #1 Tarboro, used a third-quarter touchdown to edge past #13 East Bladen 20-13. In the southeastern corner of the state, #2 West Columbus held off #3 Wilson Prep, 21-16.

A Look Ahead at the Regional Finals

As the NCHSAA football playoffs head into the fourth round, anticipation is high for thrilling matchups and historic achievements. Among the standout narratives is Tarboro's remarkable 16th consecutive post-Thanksgiving appearance, the longest streak in North Carolina. The Vikings, eyeing an eighth straight fourth-round presence, have been dominant in the East Regional, clinching the title six years in a row.

In a clash of resilience and ambition, Tarboro faces East Bladen, the No. 13 seed, marking their deepest playoff run since 2009. Wilson Prep, making only its second playoff appearance, is set for a post-Thanksgiving debut, while West Columbus looks to build on last year's near miss, determined to break through the fourth round after a hiatus since 1985.

Robbinsville, a familiar face in the fourth round with six appearances in the last decade, seeks redemption after falling short in the third round last season. North Rowan, making its first fourth-round appearance since 1992, aims to recapture the glory of its 1992 state runner-up finish.

In the 2A bracket, Clinton and Nash Central are making significant playoff strides, with Clinton making its first fourth-round appearance since 2019, and Nash Central celebrating its inaugural entry into the round. Whiteville, back after a 1987 2A Championship, showcases their resilience in the 1A Classification, while Northeastern returns for the seventh time since 2010.

The 3A bracket sees perennial contenders Havelock and Crest making their mark once again, with Havelock on its 14th fourth-round appearance and Crest in its 15th. Southern Alamance is set for its fourth-round debut, adding an element of unpredictability to the mix.

In the 4A bracket, Rolesville continues its dominance with a fourth consecutive appearance, while Cardinal Gibbons looks for redemption after last year's second-round exit. Butler, making its seventh fourth-round appearance, faces Independence, marking the Patriots' return after a hiatus since 2009.

The excitement is further amplified by the notable high-scoring encounters in the third round, setting the stage for a gripping fourth round. Notably, the clash between Nash Central and Hertford County produced a record-breaking combined score, securing its place in the NCHSAA Football Record Book.

As fans gear up for the upcoming matchups, the stage is set for a weekend of thrilling football action, where history will be made, and teams will battle for a coveted spot in the Regional Finals.