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Tag: OHSAA

  • 2 Ohioans named to McDonald’s All-American game

    OHIO — The 49th annual McDonald’s game brings two Ohioans to the Phoenix hardwood.

    What You Need To Know

    • Anthony Thompson of Western Reserve High School and Geneva and Saniyah of Spire Academy were both named to the games on Feb. 4

    • Hall, a combo guard, averages 20 points per game for her coach Mike Dooley and signed with the University of South Carolina in Nov. 2025

    • Independent scouts and analysts handpicked the rosters from more than 700 nominations

    Anthony Thompson of Western Reserve High School and Geneva and Saniyah of Spire Academy were both named to the games on Feb. 4.

    Thompson plays small forward for coach Michael Brown and averages 22 points per game. He signed with Ohio State University in Oct. 2025.

    Hall, a combo guard, averages 20 points per game for her coach Mike Dooley and signed with the University of South Carolina in Nov. 2025.

    Independent scouts and analysts handpicked the rosters from more than 700 nominations.

    “Nearly five decades into the McDonald’s All American Games, I continue to be amazed by the talent who raise the bar every year, and the fans who show up and show out to support them,” said Elizabeth Campbell, Vice President of Marketing, McDonald’s USA. “We can’t wait to welcome the Class of 2026 into this storied legacy and cheer them on as they write the next chapter of basketball history.”

    Ohio residents can watch Hall and Thompson show off their skills in Phoenix on ESPN. The girls’ game is set for 7 p.m., March 31 with the boys’ game following at 9 p.m.

    Ryan Johnston

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  • High school football playoffs replays on Spectrum News 1

    OHIO — More Ohio high school football playoff games took place Friday night with several closely contested matches, including three state semifinal matchups.

    Fans can watch the OHSAA playoffs replays on Spectrum News 1 and on the Spectrum News mobile app. Fourteen total games are available to watch.

    Olentangy Orange vs. St. Edward – Northern Ohio Division I, Region 1
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Cleveland, Toledo and Columbus

    The undefeated Orange took on the Eagles in the the Division 1 state semifinals. It should be a high scoring matchup, with both teams averaging around 36 points per game. They battled it out at Arlin Field in Mansfield.

    St. Xavier vs. Middletown – Central Ohio Division I, Region 2
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Cincinnati & Dayton

    Another state semifinals battle between the Bombers and Middies took place at Welcome Stadium in Dayton. Its the Bombers first appearance in the state semifinals since 2020. Middletown will be riding high coming into this matchup after capturing their first regional title.

    Big Walnut vs. Anderson – Southern Ohio Division II, Region 7
    Airing on channel 314

    This state semifinal game was grudge match carrying over from last year. The Raptors came into this matchup undefeated on the season, while Big Walnut had only lost one game. Both teams set out to show who really is the better football organization in this matchup at Historic Crew Stadium.

    Other matchups

    Here is a list of games that will be available for fans to watch on the Spectrum News mobile app:

    Ryan Johnston

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  • St. Edward meets another Olentangy school in state semis

    CLEVELAND — The “Road to Canton” has one more stop, one more chance for 28 vehicles to perform maintenance checks to see if they are can go the distance for a state championship. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Olentangy Orange plays St. Edward in a Division I state semifinal live in Cleveland and Columbus

    • The game will air on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App

    • An additional 13 games will be streamed at spectrumnews1.com 

    The Ohio High School Athletic Association state semifinals will be played on Friday night, with 14 winners advancing to a state championship game at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.

    Four programs still have the directions plugged into their GPS from last year, as Avon (Division II), Watterson (III), Indian Valley (IV) and Coldwater (VI) still have title defense hopes alive.

    Six more are excitedly asking for directions, as Olentangy Orange, Middletown (both Division I), Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (III), Indian Hill (IV), Indian Lake (V), and Colonel Crawford (VI) are coming of their first-ever regional championships. 

    Then there are schools that used paper maps the last time they were around this deep into the season. McDonald (1994) and Walsh Jesuit (1999) are both more than 25 years removed from last state semifinal appearances.

    So, start your engines. Spectrum News 1 has you covered with both Division I semifinals live Friday night as part of the OHSAA Game of the Week. All 14 semifinals are available free to Spectrum customers, with direct links below.   

    WATCH LIVE (Friday 7 p.m.) Division I – Olentangy Orange (13-0) vs. St. Edward (11-2) at Mansfield Arlin Field

    Last year at this time, St. Edward watched a 22-game playoff winning streak end at Mansfield’s Arlin Field, losing to eventual state champion Olentangy Liberty, 21-7.

    Fast forward, and it’s a different Olentangy school (undefeated Orange) standing in the way of the Eagles reaching the 2025 state title game. 

    One big difference from 12 months ago is the health of star players Brendan White (running back, Kent State commit) and Zach Hackleman (wide receiver, Toledo commit) who were not available because of injuries in that loss to the Patriots. 

    Both have entries in the St. Edward career record books and are a big reason the Eagles are contending for their fourth state championship in the past five years. 

    Olentangy Orange knows Olentangy Liberty all too well, itself. The Patriots were the only team this year (in both matchups) to finish within two touchdowns of the Pioneers.

    Orange has scored between 35 and 45 points in nine of its 13 games this year, while allowing 14 or fewer points in 11 contests. On average, the Pioneers are winning games by 26 points an outing. 

    Not too shabby for a program on the rise that’s only been in existence since the school opened in 2008. This is the first regional title in football, and the basketball team won its first regional back in March on the way to a state championship in Division I. 

    This is the first-ever meeting between the two schools.

    WATCH LIVE (Friday 7 p.m.) Division I – St. Xavier (10-2) vs. Middletown (11-2) at Dayton Welcome Stadium

    You can make a case that winning Region 4 can be so demanding that there isn’t enough gas in the tank for the state semifinals. 

    From 2021 to 2023, Moeller survived a challenging bracket only to be knocked off by talented Springfield teams in the state semifinals. However, the Crusaders got past Centerville out of Region 2 last year. 

    That’s the task facing St. Xavier, which came from behind to beat Greater Catholic League South rivals Moeller and Elder the past two weeks. Those wins erased the only two losses on the year, falling in back-to-back weeks in the regular season.

    It’s the Bombers’ first regional championship since 2020, the second straight time (2016) that X won Region 4 and went on to win the state title. 

    Advancing from Region 2 is Middletown, the first time the Middies ever lifted a regional championship trophy in football, thanks to a defense that’s only allowed 14 total points in three playoff victories (all to Wayne in the final). 

    It’s a trend that has transcended the entire season, as Middletown is permitting just a tick over eight points a game and has held nine opponents to single digits. 

    While these programs have never met in the postseason, the Middies hold a slim, 5-4 series advantage. St. Xavier won the most recent meeting in 2012, while Middletown’s last win over the Bombers was in 1998.

    It will be the second trip to Dayton Welcome Stadium in three weeks for St. Xavier, which won its playoff encounter with Moeller there.

    WATCH LIVE (Friday 7 p.m.) Division II – Big Walnut (12-1) vs. Anderson (13-0) at Historic Crew Stadium (Spectrum cable channel 314 only)

    There will also be bonus coverage on Spectrum cable channel 314 (note: channel not available on the Spectrum App) of a Division II state semifinal at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus. 

    For the second straight year, Big Walnut and Anderson will play at this venue, with a trip to the state championship game on the line. The Raptors were 28-24 winners a year ago, before falling to Avon in the title contest.

    Ironically, the Golden Eagles beat Massillon in the Region 7 final for a second straight season last week. Big Walnut’s only loss was in week one to Division III powerhouse Watterson. 

    Its defense has five shutouts this year and nine games with opponents in single digits. Anderson will put that to the test with an offense averaging over 45 points a game. 

    The Raptors are led by junior quarterback Owen Scalf, who has thrown for 4,288 yards and 37 touchdowns this season, while scooting for an additional 634 yards rushing (and 7 more scores).

    Spectrum News 1 will also broadcast 11 games on www.SpectrumNews1.com, including the following matchups:

    Division II – Walsh Jesuit (11-1) vs. Avon (12-1) at InfoCision Stadium

    Defending Division II state champion Avon will meet Walsh Jesuit at the University of Akron’s InfoCision Stadium, the first ever meeting between the programs.

    The Warriors won their first regional title since 1999, which is also the last year they won a state football title. Walsh got revenge on Hoban (which handed it its only regular season loss in week six) by beating the Knights 35-7 in the Region 5 final.

    The Eagles’ only loss was to Spruce Creek, Florida, in week two, by just three points (25-22). Avon’s offense has hit 40 or more points eight times this year. 

    Division III – Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (12-0) vs. Toledo Central Catholic (10-4) at Fostoria

    In Division III, the Royals meet royalty. The Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy Royals are undefeated and in the state semifinals for the first time. 

    Toledo Central Catholic has claimed five state football championships, including back-to-back Division III crowns in 2022-23.

    CVCA has only had one game (28-21 win over Lake Catholic) decided by fewer than 28 points, while allowing more than 20 just once. 

    The Fighting Irish, playing in the challenging Detroit Catholic League, started the year 0-3, including an opening loss to Walsh Jesuit (17-14). The other three defeats are at the hands of Michigan schools. 

    Division III – Watterson (12-0) vs. Tippecanoe (13-0) at Mason

    Defending Division III state champion Watterson (who split title game meetings with Toledo Central Catholic in 2023 & 2024) has scored 37 or more points in all but one game. Just as impressive, no one has topped 15 among opponents, and nine of the 12 were limited to a touchdown or less. 

    Another undefeated team stands in the way of a return trip to Canton. Tippecanoe is no slouch on offense, either, averaging over 41 points per contest. 

    Division IV – Glenville (10-3) vs. Indian Valley (12-0) at Minerva

    Division IV is loaded with three undefeated teams, including defending state champion Indian Valley, plus a Glenville team that plays a challenging schedule and won the previous two Division IV state titles (2022-23).

    The two meet in one of the semifinals at Minerva High School. 

    The Tarblooders split their first four games, a murderer’s row of Massillon, Olentangy Liberty (both wins), Avon and St. Edward (both losses). The only other Glenville defeat was by three points to Hoban. 

    The Braves have won 28 straight games, going back to the beginning of the 2024 season. Senior running back, Mr. Football candidate Grady Kinsey, has run for nearly 7,800 yards in his storied career, as well as an OHSAA record 119 rushing touchdowns.

    Division IV – Indian Hill (13-0) vs. Shelby (13-0) at Sidney

    The second matchup of undefeated teams features Indian Hill and Shelby, who square off in Sidney. 

    The Braves are coming off their first-ever regional championship under the direction of head coach John Rodenberg, who took Moeller to back-to-back state titles in 2012-13. Indian Hill’s defense shut out five opponents this year, all in a six-game span in the regular season. 

    The Whippets claimed their second-ever regional championship, winning the first back in 2017. Quarterback Brayden DeVito, another Mr. Football candidate, powers an offense that failed to hit the 40-point mark only twice this season. 

    Devito is committed to playing at Air Force, just like Indian Valley’s Grady Kinsey. 

    Division V – Cardinal Mooney (10-2) vs. Wheelersburg (13-0) at Westerville Central

    Youngstown’s Cardinal Mooney can match tradition with anyone in the state. The Cardinals have won eight state titles, tied with Coldwater and Newark Catholic. Only Marion Local (15), St. Ignatius (11) and Moeller (9) have more. 

    However, it’s been 14 years since the last one, and 12 years since the previous regional title. 

    Cardinal Mooney played only one other Division V program before the playoffs began, with the others in Division III or IV in the regular season. 

    Wheelersburg has been a machine,= coming out of Region 19. It’s the Pirates’ first state semifinal appearance since 2018, having won their second state title the year before. 

    Only three of 13 opponents have reached double-digits on the Wheelersburg defense. 

    Division V – Indian Lake (11-2) vs. Liberty Center (13-0) at Lima Spartan Stadium

    Indian Lake’s best season in school history was 2016, when the Lakers completed a 10-0 season before falling to Ottawa-Glandorf in a regional semifinal. 

    Now there’s company, as the 2025 squad clinched the school’s first football regional title, following an 8-2 regular season. It’s a team comfortable with close games, winning four of them by a field goal. 

    Liberty Center captured its fourth straight regional crown, and reached the championship game the last two years, before losing to Ironton (2024) and Perry (2023). The Tigers have a 57-3 record since 2022, with the three losses in the state semifinal or state championship game. 

    LC has not been seriously threatened yet this year, with its closest game a 19-point decision over Archbold in week nine. 

    Division VI – Kirtland (13-0) vs. Colonel Crawford (13-1) at Byers Field

    Kirtland earned its ninth straight regional championship last week, and 14th in the last 15 years. Even more remarkable, the Hornets are a perfect 14-0 in the state semifinals all-time. The last loss that wasn’t in a state championship game was to Cuyahoga Heights in a 2016 regional final. 

    The 2025 team hasn’t allowed more than seven points in a game since September 12th. Senior quarterback Jake LaVerde—son of head coach Tiger LaVerde—leads the offense. 

    Colonel Crawford is another first-time regional champion. The Eagles have five wins this season over teams with eight or more victories. The only loss was a 24-14 decision to Carey, which made the Region 22 final.

    Division VI – Coldwater (10-4) vs. Hopewell-Loudon (12-1) at Wapakoneta

    The Region 22 title was won by Hopewell-Loudon, which is a regional champion for the first time since 2021. The Chieftains reached back-to-back state championship games in 2007-08 but are still seeking the school’s first state title. 

    Hopewell-Loudon’s only loss this season was a week seven game against Margaretta (29-26). 

    On the other sideline is a Coldwater program coming off its eighth state championship, winning Division VI over Kirtland last year. 

    The Cavaliers got off to a slow start in 2025, splitting its first four games. Coldwater comes in winners of five of its last six, with the only loss to Marion Local by one point (7-6). 

    Division VII – St. Henry (12-1) vs. Columbus Grove (10-3) at Troy

    Marion Local’s 76-game winning streak (and four consecutive state championships) ended at the hands of fellow Midwestern Athletic Conference member St. Henry.

    The Redskins atoned for their only defeat of the year, a 21-14 decision to the Flyers in week three, with a 24-7 triumph in the Region 28 final.

    The same program that sent Jim Lachey, Bobby Hoying, Tommy Hoying and Todd Boeckman on to play at Ohio State has won six state championships of its own, with the most recent in 2006, which also happens to be the last regional title. 

    Columbus Grove, meanwhile, won its fourth straight regional last week. However, the Bulldogs could not advance past the state semifinals since winning it all in 2003. 

    The 2025 team has won ten straight games after beginning the campaign 0-3. 

    This is the second all-time meeting, with Redskins taking a 1995 regional semifinal played in Celina with a 21-0 score. 

    Division VII – Hillsdale (12-1) vs. McDonald (13-0) at New Philadelphia

    While all of Division VII breathed a sigh of relief when St. Henry knocked off Marion Local, no one exhaled louder than Hillsdale. 

    Coming off the school’s first-ever regional title and championship game appearance a year ago, the Falcons were overwhelmed 74-0 by the Flyers in last year’s championship.

    However, Hillsdale responded with a strong season in 2025, experiencing just one blemish, a 24-17 decision to Norwayne in the regular season finale. 

    McDonald hasn’t played in a state semifinal in 31 years, beating Beallsville before losing to St. Henry in the state championship game in 1994. 

    The Blue Devils completed their first undefeated regular season since 2018 and are making their fourth state semifinal appearance all-time. 

    Let Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App chauffeur you next week for the state championships, Dec. 4 to Dec. 6 in Canton:

    Thursday, Dec. 4: Division II Championship at 7 p.m.

    Friday, Dec. 5: Division IV Championship at 10:30 a.m.

    Friday, Dec. 5: Division III Championship at 3 p.m.

    Friday, Dec. 5: Division I Championship at 7:30 p.m.

    Saturday, Dec. 6: Division VII Championship at 10:30 a.m.

    Saturday, Dec. 6: Division VI Championship at 3 p.m.

    Saturday, Dec. 6: Division V Championship at 10:30 a.m.

    Coverage begins 15 minutes prior with OHSAA Championship Gameday, which returns following each game for interviews and analysis. 

    Previous games from the season are also available on demand through our website.

    Rob Kunz

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  • Title game trip on the line between St. X and Middletown

    CINCINNATI — The “Road to Canton” has one more stop, one more chance for 28 vehicles to perform maintenance checks to see if they can go the distance for a state championship.

    What You Need To Know

    • St. Xavier takes on Middletown in a Division I state semifinal

    • The game will air on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App

    • An additional 13 games will be streamed at spectrumnews1.com 

    The Ohio High School Athletic Association state semifinals will be played on Friday night, with 14 winners advancing to a state championship game at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.

    Four programs still have the directions plugged into their GPS from last year, as Avon (Division II), Watterson (III), Indian Valley (IV) and Coldwater (VI) still have title defense hopes alive.

    Six more are excitedly asking for directions, as Olentangy Orange, Middletown (both Division I), Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (III), Indian Hill (IV), Indian Lake (V), and Colonel Crawford (VI) are coming of their first-ever regional championships. 

    Then there are schools that used paper maps the last time they were around this deep into the season. McDonald (1994) and Walsh Jesuit (1999) are both more than 25 years removed from last state semifinal appearances.

    So, start your engines. Spectrum News 1 has you covered with both Division I semifinals live Friday night, as part of the OHSAA Game of the Week. All 14 semifinals are available free to Spectrum customers, with direct links below. 

    WATCH LIVE (Friday 7 p.m.) Division I – St. Xavier (10-2) vs. Middletown (11-2) at Dayton Welcome Stadium

    You can make a case that winning Region 4 can be so demanding that there isn’t enough gas in the tank for the state semifinals. 

    From 2021 to 2023, Moeller survived a challenging bracket only to be knocked off by talented Springfield teams in the state semifinals. However, the Crusaders got past Centerville out of Region 2 last year. 

    That’s the task facing St. Xavier, which came from behind to beat Greater Catholic League South rivals Moeller and Elder the past two weeks. Those wins erased the only two losses on the year, falling in back-to-back weeks in the regular season.

    It’s the Bombers’ first regional championship since 2020, the second straight time (2016) that X won Region 4 and went on to win the state title. 

    Advancing from Region 2 is Middletown, the first time the Middies ever lifted a regional championship trophy in football, thanks to a defense that’s only allowed 14 total points in three playoff victories (all to Wayne in the final). 

    It’s a trend that has transcended the entire season, as Middletown is permitting just a tick over eight points a game and has held nine opponents to single digits. 

    While these programs have never met in the postseason, the Middies hold a slim, 5-4 series advantage. St. Xavier won the most recent meeting in 2012, while Middletown’s last win over the Bombers was in 1998.

    It will be the second trip to Dayton Welcome Stadium in three weeks for St. Xavier, which won its playoff encounter with Moeller there.

    WATCH LIVE (Friday 7 p.m.) Division I – Olentangy Orange (13-0) vs. St. Edward (11-2) at Mansfield Arlin Field

    Viewers in Northeast and Central Ohio will see the other Division I state semifinal

    Last year at this time, St. Edward watched a 22-game playoff winning streak end at Mansfield’s Arlin Field, losing to eventual state champion Olentangy Liberty, 21-7.

    Fast forward, and it’s a different Olentangy school (undefeated Orange) standing in the way of the Eagles reaching the 2025 state title game. 

    One big difference from 12 months ago is the health of star players Brendan White (running back, Kent State commit) and Zach Hackleman (wide receiver, Toledo commit) who were not available because of injuries in that loss to the Patriots. 

    Both have entries in the St. Edward career record books, and are a big reason the Eagles are contending for their fourth state championship in the past five years. 

    Olentangy Orange knows Olentangy Liberty all too well, itself. The Patriots were the only team this year (in both matchups) to finish within two touchdowns of the Pioneers.

    Orange has scored between 35 and 45 points in nine of its 13 games this year, while allowing 14 or fewer points in 11 contests. On average, the Pioneers are winning games by 26 points an outing. 

    Not too shabby for a program on the rise that’s only been in existence since the school opened in 2008. This is the first regional title in football, and the basketball team won its first regional back in March on the way to a state championship in Division I. 

    This is the first-ever meeting between the two schools.

    WATCH LIVE (Friday 7 p.m.) Division II – Big Walnut (12-1) vs. Anderson (13-0) at Historic Crew Stadium (Spectrum cable channel 314 only)

    There will also be bonus coverage on Spectrum cable channel 314 (note: channel not available on the Spectrum App) of a Division II state semifinal at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus. 

    For the second straight year, Big Walnut and Anderson will play in this venue, with a trip to the state championship game on the line. The Raptors were 28-24 winners a year ago, before falling to Avon in the title contest.

    Ironically, the Golden Eagles beat Massillon in the Region 7 final for a second straight season last week. Big Walnut’s only loss was in week one to Division III powerhouse Watterson. 

    Its defense has five shutouts this year and nine games with opponents in single digits. Anderson will put that to the test with an offense averaging over 45 points a game. 

    The Raptors are led by junior quarterback Owen Scalf, who has thrown for 4,288 yards and 37 touchdowns this season, while scooting for an additional 634 yards rushing (and 7 more scores).

    Spectrum News 1 will also broadcast 11 games on www.SpectrumNews1.com, including the following matchups:

    Division II – Walsh Jesuit (11-1) vs. Avon (12-1) at InfoCision Stadium

    Defending Division II state champion Avon will meet Walsh Jesuit at the University of Akron’s InfoCision Stadium, the first ever meeting between the programs.

    The Warriors won their first regional title since 1999, which is also the last year they won a state football title. Walsh got revenge on Hoban (which handed it its only regular season loss in week six) by beating the Knights 35-7 in the Region 5 final.

    The Eagles’ only loss was to Spruce Creek, Florida, in week two, by just three points (25-22). Avon’s offense has hit 40 or more points eight times this year. 

    Division III – Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (12-0) vs. Toledo Central Catholic (10-4) at Fostoria

    In Division III, the Royals meet royalty. The Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy Royals are undefeated and in the state semifinals for the first time. 

    Toledo Central Catholic has claimed five state football championships, including back-to-back Division III crowns in 2022-23.

    CVCA has only had one game (28-21 win over Lake Catholic) decided by fewer than 28 points, while allowing more than 20 just once. 

    The Fighting Irish, playing in the challenging Detroit Catholic League, started the year 0-3, including an opening loss to Walsh Jesuit (17-14). The other three defeats are at the hands of Michigan schools. 

    Division III – Watterson (12-0) vs. Tippecanoe (13-0) at Mason

    Defending Division III state champion Watterson (who split title game meetings with Toledo Central Catholic in 2023 & 2024) has scored 37 or more points in all but one game. Just as impressive, no one has topped 15 among opponents, and nine of the 12 were limited to a touchdown or less. 

    Another undefeated team stands in the way of a return trip to Canton. Tippecanoe is no slouch on offense, either, averaging over 41 points per contest. 

    Division IV – Glenville (10-3) vs. Indian Valley (12-0) at Minerva

    Division IV is loaded with three undefeated teams, including defending state champion Indian Valley, plus a Glenville team that plays a challenging schedule and won the previous two Division IV state titles (2022-23).

    The two meet in one of the semifinals at Minerva High School. 

    The Tarblooders split their first four games, a murderer’s row of Massillon, Olentangy Liberty (both wins), Avon and St. Edward (both losses). The only other Glenville defeat was by three points to Hoban. 

    The Braves have won 28 straight games, going back to the beginning of the 2024 season. Senior running back, Mr. Football candidate Grady Kinsey, has run for nearly 7,800 yards in his storied career, as well as an OHSAA record 119 rushing touchdowns.

    Division IV – Indian Hill (13-0) vs. Shelby (13-0) at Sidney

    The second matchup of undefeated teams features Indian Hill and Shelby, who square off in Sidney. 

    The Braves are coming off their first-ever regional championship under the direction of head coach John Rodenberg, who took Moeller to back-to-back state titles in 2012-13. Indian Hill’s defense shut out five opponents this year, all in a six-game span in the regular season. 

    The Whippets claimed their second-ever regional championship, winning the first back in 2017. Quarterback Brayden DeVito, another Mr. Football candidate, powers an offense that failed to hit the 40-point mark only twice this season. 

    Devito is committed to playing at Air Force, just like Indian Valley’s Grady Kinsey. 

    Division V – Cardinal Mooney (10-2) vs. Wheelersburg (13-0) at Westerville Central

    Youngstown’s Cardinal Mooney can match tradition with anyone in the state. The Cardinals have won eight state titles, tied with Coldwater and Newark Catholic. Only Marion Local (15), St. Ignatius (11) and Moeller (9) have more. 

    However, it’s been 14 years since the last one, and 12 years since the previous regional title. 

    Cardinal Mooney played only one other Division V program before the playoffs began, with the others in Division III or IV in the regular season. 

    Wheelersburg has been a machine coming out of Region 19. It’s the Pirates’ first state semifinal appearance since 2018, having won their second state title the year before. 

    Only three of 13 opponents have reached double-digits on the Wheelersburg defense. 

    Division V – Indian Lake (11-2) vs. Liberty Center (13-0) at Lima Spartan Stadium

    Indian Lake’s best season in school history was 2016, when the Lakers completed a 10-0 season before falling to Ottawa-Glandorf in a regional semifinal. 

    Now there’s company, as the 2025 squad clinched the school’s first football regional title, following an 8-2 regular season. It’s a team comfortable with close games, winning four of them by a field goal. 

    Liberty Center captured its fourth straight regional crown, and reached the championship game the last two years, before losing to Ironton (2024) and Perry (2023). The Tigers have a 57-3 record since 2022, with the three losses in the state semifinal or state championship game. 

    LC has not been seriously threatened yet this year, with its closest game a 19-point decision over Archbold in week nine. 

    Division VI – Kirtland (13-0) vs. Colonel Crawford (13-1) at Byers Field

    Kirtland earned its ninth straight regional championship last week, and 14th in the last 15 years. Even more remarkable, the Hornets are a perfect 14-0 in the state semifinals all-time. The last loss that wasn’t in a state championship game was to Cuyahoga Heights in a 2016 regional final. 

    The 2025 team hasn’t allowed more than seven points in a game since September 12th. Senior quarterback Jake LaVerde—son of head coach Tiger LaVerde—leads the offense. 

    Colonel Crawford is another first-time regional champion. The Eagles have five wins this season over teams with eight or more victories. The only loss was a 24-14 decision to Carey, which made the Region 22 final.

    Division VI – Coldwater (10-4) vs. Hopewell-Loudon (12-1) at Wapakoneta

    The Region 22 title was won by Hopewell-Loudon, which is a regional champion for the first time since 2021. The Chieftains reached back-to-back state championship games in 2007-08 but are still seeking the school’s first state title. 

    Hopewell-Loudon’s only loss this season was a week seven game against Margaretta (29-26). 

    On the other sideline is a Coldwater program coming off its eighth state championship, winning Division VI over Kirtland last year. 

    The Cavaliers got off to a slow start in 2025, splitting its first four games. Coldwater comes in winners of five of its last six, with the only loss to Marion Local by one point (7-6). 

    Division VII – St. Henry (12-1) vs. Columbus Grove (10-3) at Troy

    Marion Local’s 76-game winning streak (and four consecutive state championships) ended at the hands of fellow Midwestern Athletic Conference member St. Henry.

    The Redskins atoned for their only defeat of the year, a 21-14 decision to the Flyers in week three, with a 24-7 triumph in the Region 28 final.

    The same program that sent Jim Lachey, Bobby & Tommy Hoying, and Todd Boeckman on to play at Ohio State has won six state championships of its own, with the most recent in 2006, which also happens to be the last regional title. 

    Columbus Grove, meanwhile, won its fourth straight regional last week. However, the Bulldogs have not been able to advance past the state semifinals since winning it all in 2003. 

    The 2025 team has won ten straight games after beginning the campaign 0-3. 

    This is the second all-time meeting, with Redskins taking a 1995 regional semifinal played in Celina with a 21-0 score. 

    Division VII – Hillsdale (12-1) vs. McDonald (13-0) at New Philadelphia

    While all of Division VII breathed a sigh of relief when St. Henry knocked off Marion Local, no one exhaled louder than Hillsdale. 

    Coming off the school’s first-ever regional title and championship game appearance a year ago, the Falcons were overwhelmed 74-0 by the Flyers in last year’s championship.

    However, Hillsdale responded with a strong season in 2025, experiencing just one blemish, a 24-17 decision to Norwayne in the regular season finale. 

    McDonald hasn’t played in a state semifinal in 31 years, beating Beallsville before losing to St. Henry in the state championship game in 1994. 

    The Blue Devils completed their first undefeated regular season since 2018 and are making their fourth state semifinal appearance all-time. 

    Let Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App chauffeur you next week for the state championships, Dec. 4 to Dec. 6 in Canton:

    Thursday, Dec. 4: Division II Championship at 7 p.m.

    Friday, Dec. 5: Division IV Championship at 10:30 a.m.

    Friday, Dec. 5: Division III Championship at 3 p.m.

    Friday, Dec. 5: Division I Championship at 7:30 p.m.

    Saturday, Dec. 6: Division VII Championship at 10:30 a.m.

    Saturday, Dec. 6: Division VI Championship at 3 p.m.

    Saturday, Dec. 6: Division V Championship at 10:30 a.m.

    Coverage begins 15 minutes prior with OHSAA Championship Gameday, which returns following each game for interviews and analysis. 

    Previous games from the season are also available on demand through our website.

    Rob Kunz

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  • Ohio becomes next state to allow NIL at high school level

    OHIO — Ohio has become the 45th state to allow Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) at the high school level after OHSAA member schools voted in favor of an emergency bylaw referendum. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The results show 447 schools voted in favor of the referendum, 121 schools voted against it and 247 schools abstained

    • The new bylaw is now in effect

    • This bylaw will allow OHSAA student-athletes to enter into agreements that will allow them to be compensated for appearances, licensing, social media, endorsements and more, OHSAA explained

    In a release, OHSAA explained that the voting period ended on Friday. The results show 447 schools voted in favor of the referendum, 121 schools voted against it and 247 schools abstained. 

    The new bylaw is now in effect. The emergency referendum vote occurred after a Franklin County judge had issued a temporary restraining order after a student-athlete filed a lawsuit on Oct. 15. This bylaw will allow OHSAA student-athletes to enter into agreements that will allow them to be compensated for appearances licensing, social media, endorsements and more, OHSAA explained. 

    “We would like to thank our member schools for taking ownership of this NIL bylaw proposal,” said Doug Ute, OHSAA executive director. “Whether our schools or individuals agree with NIL at the high school level or not, the courts have spoken on this issue across the country that the NCAA and high school athletic associations cannot prevent a student-athlete from making money on their NIL.” 

    OHSAA said it believes the new bylaw will create a stable framework for NIL and Personal Branding Rights at the high school level. 

    The bylaw proposal has been developed over the past year and a half, with consultation from school administrators, the OHSAA board of directors and member school feedback, OHSAA said. 

    “Our member schools helped develop this language,” said Ute. “Now the real work begins, because this will be a continually evolving piece of high school athletics. The OHSAA will track NIL deals and make sure that our recruiting bylaws and transfer bylaws are still enforced, which is something our member schools have asked for throughout this process.”

    Read the full NIL emergency bylaw below: 

    “Pursuant to Bylaw 4-10-1, a student may not participate in an interscholastic sport unless the student is an amateur. Pay-for-play (receiving payments simply for being a student-athlete), entering an agreement/contract with a professional sports team and improper recruiting inducements remain prohibited.

    4-11-1   For purposes of this bylaw, Name, Image and Likeness (NIL)/Personal Branding Rights shall mean the use of self-publicity due to public recognition (athletic fame) and/or the notoriety a student may attain to receive a benefit through appearances, licensing, social media, endorsements and/or the use of branding.

    Note 1: This bylaw has no connection to Bylaw 5, which permits a student to accept awards, gifts and prizes resulting from their participation/finish in athletic competitions. The requirements outlined within Bylaw 4-11 are solely related to a student-athlete’s promotional and marketing efforts based on their public recognition (athletic fame) or notoriety.

    Note 2: A collective is a third-party group, typically formed by alumni and supporters, that pools donations and fundraising to create and manage NIL/Personal Branding Rights opportunities for student-athletes. The collectives provide student-athletes with sponsorships, endorsement deals and other ways to monetize their NIL/Personal Branding Rights, bridging the gap between athletes and the brands or businesses looking to leverage their popularity and control their earnings from their public persona. Collectives are strictly prohibited.

    4-11-2   A student may enter into an agreement/arrangement whereby the student capitalizes on their Name, Image and Likeness/Personal Branding Rights provided the following criteria are met:

    a) The student does not utilize the name, logos, mascots, trademarks or other proprietary properties of the OHSAA or any OHSAA member school or school team while receiving the compensation and/or during any promotions or imply that the OHSAA or the OHSAA member school or school team approves the NIL/personal branding activity, and

    b) The student does not engage in an NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement that is provided by an OHSAA member school or an agent of the school (e.g. collectives, booster clubs, foundations, administrators, coaches or other individuals), and

    c) The student does not engage in any name and image/personal branding activities during school hours, while traveling to or from any OHSAA event or during school or team events including any practice, meeting, contest, tournament or any similar event or facility the OHSAA deems inappropriate or distracting (defined henceforth as “official team activities”), and

    d) The student does not engage in an NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement that provides compensation based on specific athletic performance or achievement (e.g. points scored, etc.), and

    e) The student does not engage in an NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement that is provided as an inducement to attend a particular school, and      

    f) The student does not display the sponsor’s product or otherwise advertise for a sponsor during official team activities, and            

    g) The student is the only person impacted by the NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement and this agreement shall never provide any money, merchandise, services of value or any other benefits directly to the student’s school and/or team, and

    h) The student does not engage in an NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement associated with gaming/gambling, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, cannabis, banned or illegal substances, adult entertainment products or services, firearms or other weapons or any other product or service the OHSAA deems inappropriate or distracting, and

    i) The student is responsible for determining what, if any, effect the NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement may have on eligibility with the NCAA, NJCAA and/or the NAIA.

    4-11-3   A student engaged in an NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement shall disclose each agreement to the OHSAA within 14 days after entering into said agreement. Students who fail to disclose their agreement(s) or fail to disclose their agreement(s) in a timely fashion shall be subject to a period of ineligibility up to 20 percent of the sport season in which they participate and/or any other penalties as outlined in Bylaw 11.

    Note: Details on how to disclose said agreement(s) shall be posted on the OHSAA website.

    4-11-4   A student engaged in an NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement shall also comply with any other applicable OHSAA bylaws and regulations and any applicable policies of his or her school.

    4-11-5   If a student transfers to a school and the transfer can be shown to be reasonably linked to a student’s NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement, a rebuttable presumption shall exist that the student has been recruited, which is in violation of Bylaw 4-9. The Executive Director’s Office may suspend the privilege of participation in interscholastic athletics during the pendency of any alleged violation of this bylaw.

    4-11-6   Member school administrators and coaches shall have an obligation to educate the school community that any attempt to facilitate an NIL/Personal Branding Rights agreement to help secure the enrollment of a prospective student shall result in penalties as prescribed in Bylaw 11, including a review of the school’s membership status.

    4-11-7   Student-athletes with NIL/Personal Branding Rights deals, along their parents or guardians, are encouraged to seek professional advice, understand contracts thoroughly and prioritize academic and athletic commitments to protect the student-athlete’s eligibility and long-term success. These activities should be regarded as a business, and participants should stay compliant with school and state regulations and focus on building a strong support system to avoid mismanagement of funds and protect future opportunities. 

    4-11-8   Any violation of Bylaw 4-11 shall be subject to penalties outlined in Bylaw 11.”

    Lydia Taylor

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  • High school football playoffs on Spectrum News 1

    OHIO — This Friday, the Ohio high school football playoffs advance to the championships with several closely contested matches on the menu, including five must-see games.

    Fans can watch the OHSAA playoffs live on Spectrum News 1 and on the Spectrum News mobile app. Twenty-two total games will be available to watch at 7 p.m.

    Mentor vs. St. Edward – Northern Ohio Division I, Region 1
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Northern Ohio

    The cardinals are taking on St. Edward in the championship game. The Cardinals are coming off a nail-biter against McKinley that they won 25-24. The Eagles dominated Whitmer last week, winning 38-6.

    Pickerington Central vs. Olentangy Orange – Central Ohio Division I, Region 3
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Central Ohio

    Another battle between the top two seeds will take place in region 3. Pickerington Central will take on Olentangy Orange with a championship title on the line. The Pioneers are coming off a hard fought battle with Olentangy Liberty, winning 21-17, while the Tigers are coming off a close win against Upper Arlington that ended 17-16 in their favor.

    St. Xavier vs. Elder – Southern Ohio Division I, Region 4
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Southern Ohio

    The 3-seeded Bombers are facing off against Elder in the region 4 championship game. Elder last played Princeton, barely coming out on top in the 32-30 victory. St. Xavier also had a close game last week, defeating Archbishop Moeller 17-13.

    Wayne vs. Middletown – Southern Ohio Division I, Region 2
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Western Ohio

    The 6-seeded Wayne Warriors are looking to upset 1-seeded Middletown in the championship game. Wayne pulled off its previous upset against Troy last week with a 6-point victory. Middletown is coming off a 14-point shutout against Springfield.

    Massillon vs. Big Walnut – Northern Ohio Division II, Region 7
    Airing on channel 314

    The Golden Eagles will be taking on 3-seeded Washington region 7’s title game. The Tigers trounced St. Francis DeSales in their last outing, winning 48-14. Big Walnut also dominated their competition with a 35-point shutout against Canal Winchester. 

    Other matchups

    Here is a list of games that will be available for fans to watch on Friday on the Spectrum News mobile app:

     

    Ryan Johnston, Cody Thompson

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  • St. Xavier gets the payoff at Paycor

    OHIO — St. Xavier and Elder played on the biggest football stage in Cincinnati and didn’t disappont, with the Bombers winning Region 4 at Paycor Stadium, the home of the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals. 

    — Watch the full replay here —

    Moved after the original site sold out of 7,000 tickets in roughly an hour on Monday, the OHSAA announced a crowd of over 22,000 in rainy weather on the banks of the Ohio River. 

    One week after Elder (12-1) rallied from a 23-0 deficit to defeat Princeton, it was St. Xavier’s rally towels that worked Friday. Trailing 27-7 and then later by a 34-21 score, the Bombers (10-2) scored the game’s final 21 points in the 42-34 win. 

    Daniel Volmer, also the hero scoring the winning touchdown last week against Moeller, put X ahead for good with just over four minutes to play. 

    Middletown (11-2) is next in a Division I state semifinal next week for St. Xavier. 


    Rob Kunz

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  • History making night for Middletown

    OHIO — After a benign first half with no scoring, Middletown and Wayne turned up the excitement with the Middies scoring the winning touchdown with just 34 seconds left, to win the Region 2 championship, 21-14.

    — Watch the full replay here —

    Middletown’s Jordan Vann took back the opening kickoff of the third quarter to break the scoreless tie. On the ensuing kickoff, Ohio State commit Jamier Brown returned the favor. It was the second straight week the wideout scored a long special teams touchdown, returning a punt for six against Troy. 

    In the fourth quarter, Brown hauled in a touchdown reception to put the Warriors ahead, 14-7. However, with just under five minutes remaining, Demetrian James, knotted things up again with a scoring run. 

    Vann’s secord touchdown with less than a minute to play provided the winning margin for the Middies (11-2), who advance to face St. Xavier next Friday in a Division I state semifinal. 

    Wayne’s season concludes with a 9-5 mark. 


    Rob Kunz

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  • Region 4 final takes on distinct NFL flavor

    CINCINNATI — Anytime a trophy gets handed out, it’s a big deal, and Friday night 28 of them will be distributed to regional champions in the Ohio High School Athletic Association football playoffs. 

    What You Need To Know

    • GCL-South rivals St. Xavier and Elder meet in the Region 4 final in a game moved to Paycor Stadium

    • The game will air on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App

    • An additional 21 games will be streamed at spectrumnews1.com 

    Experience at this level is always a key factor, and 17 regional champs from a year ago are still alive trying to repeat that goal. 

    In the 28 regions, there are 21 top seeds still playing, and 10 of those brackets feature a championship game with the one seed battling the two seed. That includes two meetings of undefeated teams, with London playing Tippecanoe in Division III, Region 12, and Wheelersburg taking on Nelsonville in Division V, Region 19. 

    There are still a handful of Cinderellas hoping it doesn’t turn midnight just yet, as well. Danville is the 11-seed in Division VII, Region 21. In Division VI, Region 22, Carey is still alive as the nine-seed. Eighth-seeded North Union is playing for the Region 20 (Division V) championship, and Garaway is the seven-seed in Division VI, Region 21.

    In all, there are 10 schools seeded fifth or lower, who will playing their fourth postseason contest after needing first round wins to advance. 

    Whether you are pulling for an underdog or a favorite, Spectrum News 1 has you covered with four live games Friday night, going to the Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton markets, as part of the Ohio High School Athletic Association Game of the Week, and bonus coverage of a fifth.  

    According to the website Pro Football Reference, St. Xavier (14) and Elder (12) have combined to send 26 players on to play in the National Football League.

    So, when those schools meet in a regional final for the first time since 2001, it’s so big it must be played in a NFL Stadium. 

    Originally scheduled to be held at Mason High School, the initial allotment of 7,000 tickets sold out in roughly an hour on Monday. A deal was struck with Hamilton County Commissioners, and the game site shifted to Paycor Stadium, home of the Bengals. 

    Just as exciting as the match-up itself is how the teams got here, pulling out wins for the ages in the regional semifinals. 

    The Bombers (9-2) ended a seven-game losing streak at the hands of another Greater Catholic League South Division rival Moeller, scoring the go-ahead touchdown with less than a minute to play, for a 17-13 decision.

    The Pit has hosted Elder football since 1947 but never witnessed anything like what unfolded the week before when the Panthers defied odds to rally for a 32-30 win over Princeton. 

    Elder (12-0) trailed 23-0 early in the third quarter, before responding with 23 unanswered points of its own. Then—all in the game’s final 75 seconds—Princeton blocked a field goal and returned it for a touchdown, the Panthers answered with a 75-yard touchdown on their first play from scrimmage after that, missed the two-point conversation that would have tied it, recovered the onside kick and booted the game winning field goal with 12 seconds left. 

    It means we get the 110th all-time meeting between these long-time rivals, with Elder leading the series 56-47-6, dating back to the first one in 1923. This will be the eighth postseason battle, with St. Xavier holding a 4-3 advantage there.

    While the teams have split over the past two regular seasons, with the Panthers a 23-13 winner on Sept. 26 this year, the Bombers were victorious in the last playoff matchup, 42-7 in a 2021 regional quarterfinal. 

    Friday’s winner will break through a Region 4 stranglehold from Moeller, which had taken the crown in each of the past four years. St. Xavier won it in 2020 on the way to the state title, while Elder won Region 4 in 2019 while reaching the state championship game. 

    Most Spectrum customers will get the Massillon vs. Big Walnut game statewide on channel 314. For those who don’t have that channel, the game is still available as a stream (link above). 

    This Region 7 matchup has become a common occurrence, as they are meeting in the playoffs for the fourth time in five years. Massillon won regional semifinal games in 2021 and 2022, while Big Walnut returned the favor in last year’s regional final, upsetting the then-defending state champions, 14-7. 

    The Tigers (9-3) have won six straight after a 3-3 start to the year, including comfortable playoff wins over Hoover (62-7) and DeSales (48-14). 

    The Eagles (11-1) only loss was in the season opener to a Watterson program that has currently won 27 straight games, including last year’s Division III championship. 

    Additionally, Spectrum News 1 will broadcast 17 games on www.SpectrumNews1.com, including the following matchups:

    Previous games from the season are also available on demand through our web site.

    The playoffs continue next Friday, Nov. 28, with live broadcasts on Spectrum News 1 and all 14 state semifinal games available through the Spectrum News 1 website. 

    The excitement runs all the way through Dec. 4-6 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, site of the OHSAA football championships, live on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App. 

    Rob Kunz

    Source link

  • Battle-tested Trotwood faces Lima Senior

    OHIO — After a rugged, 10-game regular season schedule, having an off week before the playoffs start seems like a good idea on the surface.

    What You Need To Know

    • A battle-tested Trotwood team faces a formidable foe in Lima Senior

    • The game will air on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App

    • As additional 19 games will be streamed at spectrumnews1.com 

    The Ohio High School Athletic Association football tournament went from 16 teams per region down to 12 this season, creating byes for the first time in history, outside of opt outs, forfeits or in 2020 when all schools that wanted to participate in the postseason got in.

    However, high school football coaches are notoriously regimented, and many would prefer to keep the weekly routine going and not lose any momentum or focus.

    Then there’s this—albeit from a very tiny sample size—to give pause to the head coaches of the 112 schools in Ohio that had an opening week bye in the postseason; in last year’s inaugural 12-team college football playoff, the four teams with first-round byes all lost in the quarterfinals. 

    For the glass half-full crowd, the bye represents a week off to rest and heal, before hosting a regional quarterfinal on your home field.

    Spectrum News 1 will give you a home advantage, by presenting four live games Friday night, going to the Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton markets. 

    WATCH LIVE (Friday 7 p.m.): Lima Senior vs. Trotwood (Dayton & Toledo)

    For viewers in Dayton and Northwest Ohio, it’s a Division II, Region 8 battle between Lima Senior (9-2) and Trotwood (6-3). 

    The Spartans, a member of the Toledo City League, blew through the Glass City winning six league games by a cumulative score of 280-34. That momentum carried over into the first round of the playoffs, and a 62-20 win over Cincinnati Aiken. 

    Lima Senior’s two setbacks came at the hands of Findlay and Anthony Wayne, who are both still alive in the playoffs. The Spartans are seeking their first regional title since 1996, which ended with a Division I state championship win over St. Ignatius. 

    Trotwood won it all in 2019, 2017 and 2011, as head coach Jeff Graham is no stranger to postseason success. The Rams earned plenty of computer points (finishing fourth in Region 8) with wins over Division I opponents Cleveland Heights, Fairmont and Springfield. 

    Trotwood hasn’t played a game since Oct. 24, and while the Rams will be rested, they’ll have to guard against rust. 

    Additionally, Spectrum News 1 will broadcast 25 games on www.SpectrumNews1.com, with the following matchups:

    Previous games from the season are also available on demand through our website.

    The playoffs continue next Friday, Nov. 14, with live games in the Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton zones, and as many as 19 games available through the Spectrum News 1 website. 

    The excitement runs all the way through Dec. 4-6 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, site of the OHSAA football championships, live on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App. 

    Rob Kunz

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  • High school football playoffs on Spectrum News 1

    OHIO — The Ohio high school football playoffs kicks off this Friday, which will feature several highly contested games, including four gridiron battles that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.

    Fans can watch the OHSAA playoffs live on Spectrum News 1 and on the Spectrum News mobile app. Nineteen total games will be available to watch at 7 p.m.

    Twinsburg vs. Nordonia – Northern Ohio Divison II, Region 5
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Northern Ohio

    10 seed Twinsburg is travelling to Macedonia to face off against 7 seed Nordonia. The winner of the game would move on to face the 2 seed Walsh Jesuit Wariors in the quarterfinal.

    Grove City vs. Olentangy Berlin – Central Ohio Divison I, Region 3
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Central Ohio

    The Olentangy Berlin Bears will play host to the Grove City Greyhounds in a 8 and 9 seed matchup. The victor will face off against number 1 seed Olentangy Orange on Nov 7.

    Mason vs. Fairfield – Southern Ohio Division I, Region 4
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Southern Ohio

    Another 8 and 9 seed matchup pits the Mason Comets against the Fairfield Indians. The winner would take on number 1 seed Elder in the quarterfinal.

    Marysville vs. Springfield – Southern Ohio Division I, Region 2
    Airing on Spectrum News 1 in Western Ohio

    The 5 seed Springfield Wildcats will host 12 seed Marysville. The two teams will battle to see who gets to play against the 4 seed Springboro Panthers on Nov 7.

    Other matchups

    Here is a list of games that will be available for fans to watch on Friday on the Spectrum News mobile app:

    Ryan Johnston

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  • OHSAA bans Ironton from 2025 football playoffs for recruiting bylaw violations

    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ironton High School will not be taking part in the 2025 football playoffs after the Ohio High School Athletic Association recently discovered “numerous violations of… recruiting bylaws over the last seven years.”

    What You Need To Know

    • The OHSAA confirmed Ironton High School will not be participating in the 2025 football playoffs

    • They said they committed violations of recruiting bylaws over the last seven years

    • The school district said they are disappointed by the decision and the way it will affect their students
    • The football program will subject to a post-season ban for 2025, a three-year probation, a fine of $7,500 and more

    The district confirmed in a letter posted on social media that the OHSAA determined the coaching staff committed recruiting violations in 2018, 2019 and 2025.

    “The OHSAA’s investigation determined that some members of the Ironton football program had engaged in ongoing and coordinated recruiting efforts, including communications with parents and students regarding methods to influence other prospective athletes’ enrollment,” reads an OHSAA press release. “Records show deliberate efforts to conceal recruiting activity, including direction on how to avoid leaving evidence of infractions, which demonstrates an awareness of wrongdoing and an intentional effort to circumvent compliance. The scope and coordination of these activities, as well as the number of impermissible contacts, represents a serious and pervasive violation.”

    Penalties include:

    • Post-season ban for 2025
    • Post-season suspension of some coaching staff next year
    • Three years of probation
    • A fine of $7,500

    The OHSAA clarifies that these penalties and probations are for the football program specifically.

    The district said these penalties are being imposed by the OHSAA and that the school board has taken no action.


    “The OHSAA’s determination followed an investigation during which we repeatedly advocated strongly for the District’s football program and its students, presented all rebuttal evidence available to us, and did everything we could in the short time provided to achieve a different outcome,” the district’s letter reads.

    The OHSAA said it will not make Ironton give up its 2024 Division V state championship or forfeit wins from past seasons. However, they note Ironton allowed an “ineligible student-athlete” to play in its final regular season game on Friday, resulting in a forfeiture.

    The district said they are disappointed in the OHSAA’s decision and the impact it has on their students.

    “We want you to know, however, that the sanctions initially proposed by the OHSAA would have made our team ineligible to participate in playoffs for two years and their decision to remove the ban in the second year was a result of our advocacy on the team’s behalf,” the district’s letter reads. “We understand that many of you are upset. After consultation with attorneys who have the most successful experience with legal challenges to OHSAA determinations as well as multiple local attorneys, it was their collective recommendation that we accept the negotiated sanctions presented to us at this point in time.”

    The OHSAA said the district will change enrollment and transfer policies as well as attend an educational seminar. If there are further violations of recruiting bylaws while the football program is on probation, it will lose postseason eligibility for the next tournament.

    “Moving forward, we are fully committed to ensuring that appropriate corrective measures are taken to avoid any further adverse impact on our football program,” the district’s letter reads. “This is a setback, but this has not erased the hard work and accomplishments of our students as a team this year. We are so proud of them. We will not let this take away our pride or our legacy, and we will strive, as always, to uphold the values that define Ironton City Schools both on and off the field.”

    Cody Thompson

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  • Historically renowned St. Edward, Hoban battle for national relevancy

    OHIO — Now that Amazon Web Services are back up and running, there won’t be a more taxed server in the state of Ohio Friday night than the one that hosts Joe Eitel’s web site.

    What You Need To Know

    • Multi-time state champions St. Edward and Hoban face off for national relavancy

    • The games will air on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App

    • Playoffs begin October 31 with four games on Spectrum News 1 and several more at spectrumnews1.com 

    That’s because as the regular season wraps up, players, coaches and fans will hit the refresh button to see where the computer points are projected, and who will get into the Ohio High School Athletic Association playoffs.

    With the change this season to 12 teams per region (down from 16 in 2021-24), there are 112 fewer spots available statewide. 

    Heading into the final weekend, 213 schools know their seasons will continue. That includes Olentangy Orange (Division I, Region 3), Elder (Division I, Region 4), Hoban (Division II, Region 5), Anderson (Division II, Region 8), Watterson (Division III, Region 11), Shelby (Division IV, Region 14), Kirtland (Division VI, Region 21), Hillsdale (Division VII, Region 27) and Marion Local (Division VII, Region 28) which have all clinched number one seeds.

    The leaves 123 spots open, with 257 teams still alive to try to earn a post-season berth, according to the calculations on Eitel’s website. 

    All six teams involved in the OHSAA Game of the Week on Spectrum News 1 have their tickets punched.

    Viewers in northern Ohio will see a matchup of two teams that expect to play for a state championship the first weekend in December. 

    St. Edward (8-1) and Hoban (7-1) have combined for 12 state titles, 18 championship game appearances and 25 regional crowns, which includes four (St. Edward) and five (Hoban) straight.

    All-time, the Eagles hold a 4-2 advantage, as the teams are meeting for the sixth straight season. The Knights were 24-21 winners a year ago.

    Both teams are trying to get back on top, as St. Edward lost to eventual state champion Olentangy Liberty in the state semifinals a year ago, while Hoban is in search of its first state title since 2020, after falling three years in a row (2021-23) in the finals. 

    Everything done by these programs is to try to win a state championship, including playing a challenging schedule. They each faced off with power programs from outside the state, as well as here in Ohio. 

    The Eagles are ranked third in the Ohio Associated Press high school football Division I poll and currently sit on top of Region 1. 

    The Knights are fourth in the Division II AP Poll and have already locked up the top seed in a competitive Region 5, which features Lake, Austintown-Fitch, Hudson and Walsh Jesuit. 

    Friday’s games can be seen statewide on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App:

    • Oct. 24: St. Edward at Hoban (northern Ohio)

    • Oct. 24: Pickerington North at Gahanna (central Ohio)

    • Oct. 24: Lakota West at Lakota East (southwest Ohio)

    The playoffs begin on Friday, Oct. 31, with live games in the Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton zones, and 18 games available through the Spectrum News 1 website. 

    The excitement runs all the way through Dec. 4-6 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, site of the OHSAA football championships, live on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App. 

    Rob Kunz

    Source link

  • Columbus high school heavyweights battle on the gridiron

    OHIO — Now that Amazon Web Services are back up and running, there won’t be a more taxed server in the state of Ohio Friday night than the one that hosts Joe Eitel’s web site.

    What You Need To Know

    • Ghanna weclomes Pickerington North for a heavyweight battle with playoff implications

    • The games will air on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App

    • Playoffs begin October 31 with four games on Spectrum News 1 and several more at spectrumnews1.com 

    That’s because as the regular season wraps up, players, coaches and fans will hit the refresh button to see where the computer points are projected, and who will get into the Ohio High School Athletic Association playoffs.

    With the change this season to 12 teams per region (down from 16 in 2021-24), there are 112 fewer spots available statewide. 

    Heading into the final weekend, 213 schools know their seasons will continue. That includes Olentangy Orange (Division I, Region 3), Elder (Division I, Region 4), Hoban (Division II, Region 5), Anderson (Division II, Region 8), Watterson (Division III, Region 11), Shelby (Division IV, Region 14), Kirtland (Division VI, Region 21), Hillsdale (Division VII, Region 27) and Marion Local (Division VII, Region 28) which have all clinched number one seeds.

    The leaves 123 spots open, with 257 teams still alive to try to earn a post-season berth, according to the calculations on Eitel’s website. 

    All six teams involved in the OHSAA Game of the Week on Spectrum News 1 have their tickets punched.

    In Central Ohio, it’s an Ohio Capital Conference Ohio Division battle, with Gahanna (7-2) playing for a fourth straight league title. In the way is Pickerington North (8-1, ranked fifth in the Division I AP Poll).

    It’s also a big game in Region 3, with the Lions sitting one spot higher at five than the Panthers in the computer points. Both teams have not only clinched a playoff spot but know they will host a first-round game. The winner on Friday earns a first-round bye.

    Gahanna has won five straight, with its only two losses to undefeated Olentangy Orange and Pickerington Central. During the winning streak, the Lions have averaged over 40 points a game. 

    Pickerington North has won eight straight after dropping the season opener to St. Edward (24-0). The Panthers defense has been rugged, with three shutouts, five games without allowing a touchdown, and seven outings allowing seven points or fewer. 

    All time, Pick North holds a 10-8 series lead, but the Panthers have lost the last three, with the most recent win in the 2021 playoffs. Gahanna ended a five-year drought with the regular season triumph in 2021.

    Friday’s games can be seen statewide on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App:

    • Oct. 24: St. Edward at Hoban (northern Ohio)

    • Oct. 24: Pickerington North at Gahanna (central Ohio)

    • Oct. 24: Lakota West at Lakota East (southwest Ohio)

    The playoffs begin on Friday, Oct. 31, with live games in the Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton zones, and 18 games available through the Spectrum News 1 website. 

    The excitement runs all the way through Dec. 4-6 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, site of the OHSAA football championships, live on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App. 

    Rob Kunz

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  • Two Lakota football rivals matchup with playoff implications

    OHIO — Now that Amazon Web Services are back up and running, there won’t be a more taxed server in the state of Ohio Friday night than the one that hosts Joe Eitel’s web site.

    What You Need To Know

    • Rival Lakota East and West to battle it out in one of three OHSAA Games of the Week

    • The games will air on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App

    • Playoffs begin October 31 with four games on Spectrum News 1 and several more at spectrumnews1.com 

    That’s because as the regular season wraps up, players, coaches and fans will hit the refresh button to see where the computer points are projected, and who will get into the Ohio High School Athletic Association playoffs.

    With the change this season to 12 teams per region (down from 16 in 2021-24), there are 112 fewer spots available statewide. 

    Heading into the final weekend, 213 schools know their seasons will continue. That includes Olentangy Orange (Division I, Region 3), Elder (Division I, Region 4), Hoban (Division II, Region 5), Anderson (Division II, Region 8), Watterson (Division III, Region 11), Shelby (Division IV, Region 14), Kirtland (Division VI, Region 21), Hillsdale (Division VII, Region 27) and Marion Local (Division VII, Region 28) which have all clinched number one seeds.

    That leaves 123 spots open, with 257 teams still alive to try to earn a post-season berth, according to the calculations on Eitel’s website. 

    All six teams involved in the OHSAA Game of the Week on Spectrum News 1 have their tickets punched.

    Viewers in Southwest Ohio will get Lakota West (6-3) visiting Lakota East (6-3), two schools created out of the split of the original Lakota High School in 1997.

    Since that time, it’s the Firebirds with a 19-9 series lead, including the last six meetings. The Thunderhawks won three in a row from 2016 to 2018.

    These rivals are also closely bunched in Region 4, with West sixth and East seventh. Win or lose, both will host a round one playoff matchup next week. 

    The Firebirds were 2-3 at the midway point but have won four straight since then by a cumulative 169-28 score, including a win over 7-2 Middletown. 

    The Thunderhawks can be dangerous on offense, scoring 30 or more points in six of their contests. 

    Friday’s games can be seen statewide on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App:

    • Oct. 24: St. Edward at Hoban (northern Ohio)

    • Oct. 24: Pickerington North at Gahanna (central Ohio)

    • Oct. 24: Lakota West at Lakota East (southwest Ohio)

    The playoffs begin on Friday, Oct. 31, with live games in the Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton zones, and 18 games available through the Spectrum News 1 website. 

    The excitement runs all the way through Dec. 4-6 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, site of the OHSAA football championships, live on Spectrum News 1 and the Spectrum News App. 

    Rob Kunz

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  • Lawsuit Seeks to Let Top Ohio High School Athletes Profit from NIL

    Source: Luisrojasstock / Getty

    Lawsuit Targets OHSAA Ban on NIL for High School Athletes

    A lawsuit filed in Franklin County challenges Ohio’s ban on student-athletes earning through name, image, and likeness.

    The complaint names the Ohio High School Athletic Association as the defendant. It asks to force an emergency vote among OHSAA member schools to overturn the prohibition.

    The suit cites Jamier Brown, a top high school wide receiver, as the plaintiff. It argues that the ban suppresses economic freedom and unfairly discriminates against top athletes. It also states Brown’s earning power already exceeds six figures.

    It claims the ban restrains his right to profit from endorsements, licensing, social media, and branding tied to his athletic fame.

    Potential Impacts, Legal Stakes, and Local Pressure

    If the court forces a vote, Ohio high school athletes could legally monetize their status.

    The lawsuit notes Ohio is one of only six states that still bar NIL at the high school level. OHSAA had scheduled an NIL referendum for May 2026, but legal action may accelerate the timeline.

    The association said it has prepared for the potential emergency vote and is coordinating with schools. Supporters expect endorsements, sponsorships, and content deals may follow. Critics caution about recruiting imbalance and pressure on young athletes.

    The case may set a trend if other states review their high school NIL rules.

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    Matty Willz

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  • Wheelersburg gets big win in OHSAA Game of the Week

    OHIO — Host Wheelersburg rallied in the second half for a 24-15 win over Ironton in the Ohio High School Athletic Association Game of the Week on Spectrum News 1.

    The Pirates (6-0) trailed 9-7 at half before outscoring the Fighting Tigers (5-1) 21-6 in the final 24 minutes. It’s Wheelersburg’s first win in the series since the 2021 playoffs, and 2018 regular season. 

    Next week, the Pirates visit Oak Hill, while Ironton travels to Uniontown, Pennsylvania.

    This could be the first of two meetings this year, as these were the top two teams in the Region 19 (Division V) computer rankings. 

    Rob Kunz

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  • Springboro football coach brings 20 years of leadership on and off the field

    DAYTON, Ohio — It’s not everyday that you find a head high school football coach devoted equally to growth of the entire student body both on and off the field.

    What’s even more rare is to be in that role for two decades.

    What You Need To Know

    • Springboro High School head coach Ryan Wilhite is also a school counselor

    • He’s been in his role since 2006

    • For 20 years Wilhite has helped students and athletes reach the next level and it’s something he takes pride in

    • Springboro takes on Elder at home at 7 p.m. on Friday Sept. 5

    From practice on the field to hours spent in the weight room, the Springboro High School football team has their eye on the prize as they prepare to take on Elder.

    “There’s probably a lot of people here at Springboro that are surprised we even play that game, to play a school as big as Elder down in Cincinnati. We’ve played them three times and came really close one of them, so this is the fourth meeting and our guys are hungry. They’d like to get one of those for sure,” said head coach Ryan Wilhite. 

    Wilhite is also a school counselor.  

    “I think the people here really really care about each other,” he said. “The schools are a point of pride for our community.”

    For Wilhite, the days are long, but the years fly by.

    He’s been in his role since 2006, and a lot has changed.

    “We went from a small school that was just becoming Division I to the big school you’re at today and I’ve kind of grown with it. That’s been kind of neat to see how our program has evolved how the community has evolved. A lot of our coaches on staff are former players, guys that I’ve coached,” he said.

    And a lot of the players have grown up together.

    “It’s a great community. My dad was my peewee coach until first grade to sixth grade. So that was really nice and same seniors this year, the guys I’ve been playing with since first grade. So it’s going to be really sad to see them go after this year, but I’m ready to put that work in,” said senior Jack Harper. 

    In the beginning, Wilhite didn’t think he’d stay at Springboro so long, but he said it’s been a great place to raise a family and have an influence on the program, including the creation of the nearly 7,000 seat stadium.  

    “I was on the planning committee for the building and the stadium we built. So you get to be on the ground floor of those kinds of things and help with the planning and see it evolve,” he said.

    As a counselor, he’s also seen students and their needs change.

    “There’s something about being in a role of helping, not just your football players but all students here. I think that helps you and that gives you a good in when it comes time to meet with your players, meet with their parents. They see you as someone who helps others in the school, I’ve always kind of embraced that,” Wilhite said.

    “He’s a really great guy, knows how to get a program going. One thing I like about him is he likes to keep the seniors in charge. So yes he’s the head coach, but he gives the seniors a lot of opportunities to be the leaders on the team as well,” said senior Mattias Brunicardi.

    For 20 years Wilhite has helped students and athletes reach the next level and it’s something he takes pride in.  

    “If you ask me do I feel like Springboro is me, 100%. I would say it defines me as much as anything,” he said.

    Springboro takes on Elder at home at 7 p.m. on Friday Sept. 5.

    Alese Underwood

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  • Akron schools cancel game against Revere High School after HFMD outbreak

    AKRON, Ohio — Akron Public Schools (APS) canceled the football game against Revere High School after an outbreak of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) on the latter team, according to a release from APS.

    What You Need To Know

    • Akron Public Schools canceled a football game against Revere High School, due to an outbreak of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease on the latter team

    • In a release, the district said it is keeping students’ health and safety a top priority

    • The disease is very contagious and usually clears in seven to 10 days, according to the Cleveland Clinic

    The district said its top priority is the health and safety of its students.

    “The well-being of our students is non-negotiable,” said Michelle Marquess-Kearns, executive director of School Leadership, in the release. “Out of an abundance of caution, we are taking this proactive measure to prevent any potential spread of the illness to our own athletes and community members. This decision reflects our commitment to prioritizing health and safety above all else.”

    The district highlighted its size, as well as concerns about how quickly an outbreak could spread. It also noted the risk that comes with a contact sport, such as football, in passing the disease.

    According to the Cleveland Clinic, the viral infection is “very contagious” and “causes a blister-like rash on your child’s hands and feet and painful sores in their mouth. The disease most often affects babies and children younger than 5 years old. HFMD is typically mild and usually clears up on its own within seven to 10 days.”

    Cleveland Clinic said symptoms could include:

    • Mild fever
    • Sore throat
    • Runny nose
    • Stomacheache
    • Loss of appetite

    Once those symptoms go away, Cleveland Clinic said these new ones arrive:

    • Itchy rash on hands, soles of feet, elbows, knees, genitals or buttocks
    • Painful sores in the mouth
    • Swollen lymph nodes

    The district said it is making a request with the Ohio High School Athletic Association that it issues a “no contest” ruling on this game, meaning it would not be considered a win or loss for either school.

    “This is a tough call for everyone involved, especially our athletes and their families who have worked so hard for this game,” said Joseph Vassalotti, athletics coordinator for APS, in the release. “We know how much this game means to our players, but the health of our students and our opponents must come first. We appreciate Revere’s transparency and collaboration in this matter.”

    Cody Thompson

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  • Moeller tops Princeton in rivalry renewal

    Moeller tops Princeton in rivalry renewal

    OHIO — After a sluggish start, Moeller rallied for a 38-21 win over Princeton to open the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s football season.

    The Crusaders (1-0) improved their record in the all-time series to 39-7, and visit Fort Wayne Bishop Dwenger of Indiana next week. 

    The Vikings (0-1) meanwhile, take on fellow Greater Miami Conference member Sycamore. 

    Rob Kunz

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