High school football rankings: Manhattan headlines Kansas Preseason MaxPreps Top 25

The 2023 high school football season in Kansas kicks off later this month and MaxPreps has your look at the state's top teams. Defending Class 6A state champion Manhattan owns the No. 1 spot in the Preseason MaxPreps Top 25.

The Indians won their first state crown in 35 seasons last year, grabbing the banner with a thrilling 21-20 double overtime victory over Gardner-Edgerton (Gardner) to cap a 13-0 season. They lose senior quarterback Keenan Schartz, who had more than 1,500 yards passing and 1,200 rushing, but have a strong core intact for the repeat bid.

In addition to Manhattan, other defending state champions include Mill Valley (Shawnee) in Class 5A, Bishop Miege (Shawnee Mission) in Class 4A, Andale in Class 3A and Nemaha Central (Seneca) in 2A.

Rankings are computer-generated, factoring in past results and adjustments such as returners and statistical data when available.

Kansas Preseason MaxPreps Top 25

1. Manhattan, 13-0 record in 2022
2. Mill Valley (Shawnee), 12-1
3. Andale, 13-0
4. Bishop Miege (Shawnee Mission), 11-2
5. Saint Thomas Aquinas (Overland Park), 9-3
6. Derby, 9-3
7. Blue Valley Northwest (Overland Park), 6-4
8. Northwest (Wichita), 8-3
9. Maize, 12-1
10. Southeast of Saline (Gypsum), 11-1
11. Gardner-Edgerton (Gardner), 9-4
12. Blue Valley West (Stilwell), 5-6
13. Holton, 11-2
14. Wamego, 12-1
15. Kingman, 12-1
16. Nemaha Central (Seneca), 13-0
17. Hays, 10-2
18. Washburn Rural (Topeka), 8-3
19. Hutchinson, 8-3
20. Clay Center, 8-4
21. Bishop Carroll (Wichita), 7-3
22. Scott (Scott City), 8-2
23. Blue Valley (Stilwell), 5-5
24. Junction City (Junction City), 7-3
25. Olathe West (Olathe),8-3