Video: Preseason Top 25 high school football rankings We set the tone for 2019 by looking at high school football's elite.
Head coach: Kevin Wright
Last season: 7-1, No. 5 national ranking. Suffered first loss since 2014 against Mater Dei (Calif.). Outscored seven other opponents 309-35.
Last decade: 54-4

Head coach Kevin Wright
File photo by Dave Argyle
KEY PLAYERS
CB Elias Ricks (6-2, 190, Sr.) — A recent Mater Dei transfer, the 5-star cornerback had nine interceptions for Monarchs last season, 2020 LSU commit.
DB Lejond Cavazos (6-1, 195, Sr.) — Along with Ricks, the 2020 Ohio State commit gives the Ascenders one of game's most lethal secondaries.
DT Demonte Capehart (6-4.5, 285, Sr.) — One of nation's top defensive lineman, the 2020 Clemson commit transferred from Hartsville (S.C.).
WR Michael Redding III (6-1, 195, Sr.) — Miami commit is one of the best wide receivers in the country.
DT Warren Brinson (6-4.5, 300, Sr.) — A leader on the defensive line, Brinson is a Georgia commit.

Receiver Michael Redding III
File photo by Jann Hendry
KEY GAMES
Sept. 6 vs. Northwestern (Miami)
Sept. 13 at No. 8 St. Joseph's Prep (Philadelphia)
Sept. 21 at No. 5 St. John's (Washington, D.C.)
Oct. 18 vs. No. 2 St. Frances Academy (Baltimore)
Nov. 1 at Hoover (Alabama)

Defensive tackle Warren Brinson
File photo by Jann Hendry