Who's No. 1?
Currently, Don Bosco Prep sits at No. 1 in both the Xcellent 25 and the Freeman Rankings as the last weekend of the high school football season arrives.
However, its reign as the top team in high school football is not beyond reproach, as fans of several other schools have laid claim to the top spot.
Here's an argument for and against the nation's top teams:
Jabrill Peppers, Don Bosco Prep
Photo by Dan Coppola
11-0
Points per game: 41.1
Points allowed per game: 8.3
Opponents won-loss record: 85-40 (68%)
Argument for: The Ironmen came out unscathed after navigating a brutal schedule that featured games against Mission Viejo, St. Edward, and Manatee, three top programs in their respective states. Its physical, athletic defense and disciplined special teams unit produced many game-breaking plays throughout the season, while its offense also came up big. Between
Darius Hamilton and
Jabrill Peppers, Don Bosco Prep would likely have the most talented player on the field against nearly any opponent.
Argument against: While Don Bosco Prep had some truly dominant efforts (against St. Edward and in the Non-Public Group IV final against Bergen Catholic), there were stretches during games where the Ironmen struggled offensively. Additionally, this may not even be one of Don Bosco Prep's Top 3 teams over the last 10 years.
