News Summary
The South Carolina high school football season is approaching, with the new SI preseason poll revealing top teams and players. Defending champions Dutch Fork aim to maintain their undefeated record with standout players returning. Gaffney and Summerville are also strong contenders, promising thrilling matchups ahead. Teams like Northwestern, South Florence, and West Florence are gearing up for competitive play. The excitement among fans and players continues to build as the season draws near.
Columbia, South Carolina – The highly anticipated high school football season in South Carolina is set to kick off in just over a month, with the 2025 High School on SI preseason poll recently unveiled. The poll highlights the top teams and players in the state, with a particular focus on the reigning champions as well as strong contenders preparing for an exciting season ahead.
Dutch Fork, who finished the previous season undefeated at 13-0, is looking to defend its Class AAAAA state championship title. The team boasts a significant asset in returning player Julian Walker, a Michigan commit with proven talent. Additionally, the team has welcomed transfers, including the promising wide receiver Stone Furrey, adding depth and skill to their roster. Dutch Fork’s first challenge will come on August 29 when they face Spartanburg.
Another powerhouse, Gaffney, is seen as a strong contender for the 5-A Division II state championship after finishing last season with a 10-2 record. The return of key players such as quarterback Jayvon Gilmore and offensive lineman Scottland Dover solidifies their ambitions for a championship run. The team has demonstrated resilience and consistency, setting high expectations for the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, Summerville aims to make its mark after an impressive 13-1 season last year. With standout players like Jayven Williams and Jaiden Kelly-Murray leading the charge, the team is focusing on another deep playoff run.
Key Matchups and Programs to Watch
In addition to Dutch Fork and Gaffney, Northwestern enters the season as the defending champion in the Class AAAAA Division 2, sporting a perfect 14-0 last year. They will commence their season with a rematch against Hough on August 15, in what promises to be an exciting opener.
South Florence is also a team to watch, having concluded last year with a commendable 12-3 record under the leadership of quarterback Messiah Jackson. The team is determined to showcase their skills and continue their successful trajectory.
Other Notable Teams and Developments
Other teams worth mentioning include South Pointe, who finished last season 11-3, and White Knoll, who ended their campaign with a record of 8-6. Both teams aim to build on their past performances to enhance their competitiveness this year.
A fresh coaching staff is taking the helm at West Florence, with Chad Wilkes stepping in to improve the program. Under his vision, the team hopes to represent the Landsharks with pride, led by returning quarterback Aiden Manavian and running back Javen Cook from the Red Devils, who are expecting strong returns from their key players.
The Yellow Jackets have shown competitive spirit despite losing pivotal players last season. With resilient talents like edge rusher Jaiden Bryant and wide receiver Maleek Miller, they will seek to make an impact in the coming season. Meanwhile, teams such as Berkeley and River Bluff are anticipated to showcase promise, adding intrigue to the state’s high school football landscape.
Conclusion
The preseason rankings released consider past performances, player returns, and noteworthy transfers. As teams gear up for the upcoming season, the excitement among players, coaches, and fans continues to build, setting the stage for an exhilarating high school football season in South Carolina.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Florence Post 1 Advances in American Legion Playoffs
LaNorris Sellers and Dylan Stewart Make Preseason All-SEC Team
LaNorris Sellers Earns Preseason All-SEC Honor and Donates to Local School
LaNorris Sellers Stays Committed to Gamecocks Despite NFL Prospects
Tragic Flooding Claims Life of Young Camp Mystic Camper
Burch and Thomas Reunite as Cardinals Teammates
Florence School District 1 Approves Budget with Tax Increase
Florence Post 1 Secures 2-0 Victory Over Manning-Santee
Florence-Carlton School Board Votes on Grading Policy Change
Colby Richardson Delivers Outstanding Performance on the Mound
Additional Resources
- Sports Illustrated: South Carolina Preseason Football Top 25
- On3: Way Too Early South Carolina High School Football Top 25 Rankings
- Greenville Online: South Carolina High School Football Upstate Top Kickers Ranked
- 247Sports: In Photos: South Carolina Football Freshmen
- High School OT: Guide to the 2025 North Carolina High School Football Season
- Wikipedia: High School Football
- Google Search: South Carolina High School Football 2025
- Google Scholar: South Carolina High School Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football (Sport)
- Google News: South Carolina High School Football News
