Full Breakdown
Ohio High School Football Playoffs: Regional Finals and Semifinal Matchups
11/23/2025, 2:00:16 AM
Overview of the Playoffs
The Ohio high school football playoffs are in full swing, with 56 teams remaining in contention for state championships across seven divisions. The regional finals, held on November 21, 2025, serve as the final hurdle before the state semifinals scheduled for November 28. This year, the playoffs began on October 31, with 336 teams initially vying for the title.
Key Matchups in the Regional Finals
The regional finals featured several notable matchups, particularly in Northeast Ohio. In Division II, Walsh Jesuit (11-1) upset the top-seeded Archbishop Hoban (10-2) with a decisive 35-7 victory. Meanwhile, Avon (12-1) triumphed over Highland (12-0) with a score of 36-19. In Division III, CVCA (12-0) dominated Villa Angela-St. Joseph (10-2) with a 42-7 win, while in Division VII, McDonald (13-0) defeated Mogadore (11-1) 42-21.
Semifinal Pairings
Following the regional finals, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) announced the semifinal pairings. Notable matchups include:
- Division I: St. Edward (10-2) vs. Mentor (12-0)
- Division II: Walsh Jesuit (11-1) vs. Avon (12-1)
- Division III: CVCA (12-0) vs. Toledo Central Catholic (10-4)
- Division IV: Indian Valley (12-0) vs. Glenville (10-3)
The semifinals will take place at neutral sites, with all games kicking off at 7 p.m.
Background on Teams
Glenville, a two-time defending champion, will face Indian Valley, which is on a 28-game winning streak. Indian Valley's standout player, Grady Kinsey, is a candidate for Ohio's Mr. Football award. The matchup is highly anticipated, as both teams have demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the season.
Importance of the Playoffs
The OHSAA playoffs are a significant event in Ohio high school sports, culminating in the state championship games scheduled for December 4-6 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton. This venue has hosted the finals for five consecutive years, becoming a central hub for high school football in the state.
Official Statements
The OHSAA emphasized that geographic considerations primarily determine the pairing of regional champions in the semifinals, rather than team records or rankings. This approach aims to create competitive and geographically relevant matchups.
Upcoming Events
As the playoffs progress, the focus shifts to the state semifinals on November 28, where teams will compete for a chance to advance to the championship games. The excitement surrounding these matchups reflects the passion for high school football in Ohio, with fans eagerly anticipating the outcomes.
Conclusion
The Ohio high school football playoffs continue to showcase thrilling competition and remarkable talent. With the regional finals concluded, the stage is set for an exciting semifinal round, leading to the crowning of the state champions in December.
