News Summary
As the high school football season nears, the SI preseason poll showcases the top teams and athletes vying for state championship glory. Dutch Fork leads the rankings, bolstered by key players and recent transfers. Other contenders include South Pointe, Gaffney, and Summerville, each featuring standout athletes aiming for victory. This season promises a competitive landscape as established teams and emerging talents prepare for the challenges ahead.
Columbia, SC – As anticipation builds for the upcoming 2025 high school football season, the recently released SI preseason poll highlights the top teams and key players competing for state championships. Dutch Fork, the reigning 5-A Division I titleholder, tops the list after concluding the last season with an impressive record of 13-0 and securing their third consecutive state championship.
Key players from Dutch Fork include senior Julian Walker, a Michigan commit, and Stone Furrey, a standout wide receiver. The team has also strengthened its roster through several transfers, enhancing their chances of retaining their championship status as the season approaches.
Following Dutch Fork in the rankings is South Pointe, ranked second, which is spearheaded by senior quarterback Cam McMillon and his trusted receivers. Their performance will be critical as they aim to build on past successes.
In the race for the 5-A Division II state championship, Gaffney stands out after finishing last season with a 10-2 record. They are led by senior quarterback Jayvon Gilmore and offensive lineman Scottland Dover, both key figures in their quest for state glory.
Summerville made waves last year with a 13-1 record and returns top players Jayven Williams and Jaiden Kelly-Murray. Although they will be looking to integrate a new quarterback, their star cast including Kameron Vance, Zymier Gordon-Miles, and Tamarion Watkins provides a solid foundation for their campaign.
South Florence, boasting a record of 12-3 from the previous season, is focused on achieving a second consecutive title. They rely on quarterback Messiah Jackson, as the team aims to uphold its winning legacy supported by a $16,000 donation from former star LaNorris Sellers. Key defensive players include senior middle linebacker Willie Kennedy and other veterans bringing significant experience to the field.
Meanwhile, White Knoll displayed resilience last season, finishing with a 9-3 record despite falling short in the state semifinals. They will look to bounce back and strengthen their postseason aspirations.
In other areas, Hartsville, currently ranked fourth, will depend on the influence of senior Kylif Miller and vital pass-catchers Tristian Spann and Dorian Mason to drive their success.
North Augusta plans to capitalize on returning running back Mike Doe, who made headlines with 1,828 rushing yards and 32 touchdowns last season, signaling another formidable year ahead.
This preseason poll serves as an indicator of the competitive spirit that prevails in South Carolina high school football, with teams working to overcome various challenges while striving for glory on the field. The landscape is set for an electrifying season ahead as these teams prepare to battle for state titles.
As the kickoff approaches for the 2025 high school football season, fans and players alike are eagerly counting down the days until the opening games begin. The excitement is palpable as programs gear up for what promises to be an action-packed year filled with thrills, teamwork, and emerging talents.
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Additional Resources
- Sports Illustrated: South Carolina Preseason Football Top 25
- High School Sports Report: South Florence Atop Preseason Poll
- The State: USC Football News
- Wikipedia: South Carolina High School Football
- Independent Mail: SC High School Football Playoffs Live Updates
- Google Search: South Carolina High School Football
- SC Now: College Football News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School
- WBTW: Sellers Donates to South Florence Football Program
- Google News: South Florence Football News
