New Jersey high school football rankings: Bergen Catholic, Don Bosco Prep headline preseason MaxPreps Top 25

Crusaders look to go back-to-back after capturing first state championship since 2017.

In on of Tennessee's fiercest rivalries, No. 23 Baylor edged No. 25 McCallie 38-35 on Friday night in a back and forth battle that lived up to the hype. A late scoring drive and resilient defense sealed the victory for the Red Raiders, snapping McCallie's momentum ans strengthening Baylor's case in the national Top 25. Both teams showcased elite talent, but it was Baylor's composure in the final minutes that proved the difference.

Baylor Outlasts Rival McCallie in 38-35 Thriller Behind Fourth-Quarter Surge! 229,468 views 3:10

The high school football season in New Jersey kicks off with 206 games scheduled next weekend. After going 12-0 and winning the program's 18th state title last season, Bergen Catholic (Oradell) debuts at No. 1 in the state's preseason MaxPreps Top 25.

The Crusaders notched a 28-7 victory over Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey) in the NJSIAA Non-Public A state championship game and finished the 2021 season ranked No. 3 in the nation. Although the Crusaders have to replace key players on offense, a loaded defense is led by Texas commit Sydir Mitchell and four-star junior D.J. Samuels as the squad starts the season ranked No. 21 nationally.

Don Bosco Prep comes into the season ranked No. 2 in the state and No. 44 in the nation after finishing with an 8-5 record in 2021. The Ironmen have massive players anchoring both sides of the ball as offensive-tackle Chase Bisontis (6-5, 290, Texas A&M commit) is ranked as the country's No. 65 overall prospect in the Class of 2023 and defensive lineman Jordan Thomas (6-5, 296) is the nation's No. 111 prospect in the Class of 2024. Both are No. 1 in New Jersey for their respective class.

Read on for a complete look at New Jersey's preseason top 25 for 2022.