Video: Top 25 Early ContendersWe set the tone for 2018 by looking at high school football's elite programs. Earlier this week we released our
Top 25 Early Contenders and now it's time to dig even further and check out the Top 100.
Four states — California, Texas, Florida and Georgia — claim over
half the field. The Golden State leads the way with 16 teams, a slim edge over the Lone Star State's 15 teams. The Sunshine State has the third most with 12 and
the Peach State has 10 teams represented. Alabama and Ohio are the only other two states to have at least five teams selected.
Twenty-four states are represented
overall, 25 counting Washington, D.C., with 17 of them having
multiple teams selected. Thirty-seven of the 100 teams won state titles
in 2017 and will have a chance to repeat this season.
1. St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif)The
Braves check in as the No. 1 team entering the 2018 season. They are
looking to win their third state title since 2013 and are led by 5-star quarterback
DJ Uiagalelei and 4-star cornerback and 2019 USC commit
Chris Steele. One of the Braves' biggest strengths this year is in the trenches. The top two teams in the nation both come from the Trinity League.
2. Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.)The
defending National Champions have to replace a lot of key players, but
still bring in one of the most complete teams into 2018.
Bryce Young replaces
JT Daniels under center and expect big seasons from
Bru McCoy,
Mike Martinez,
Braedin Huffman-Dixon,
Shakobe Harper and
Sean Dollars on offense. The Monarchs secondary might be the best in the country led by 5-star
Elias Ricks, 2020 Oklahoma commit
Darion Green-Warren, 2019 Oregon commit
Jeremiah Criddell and 3-star
William Nimmo.
3. IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.)Year
in, year out IMG Academy has one of the most talented teams in the
country and this year's squad is no exception. The Ascenders loaded with Division I prospects led by 5-star
Trey Sanders, the No. 1 running back in the Class of 2019, and 2019 Georgia commit
Nolan Smith, who checks in as the top rated player overall on 247sports.
4. Allen (Texas)The
defending UIL Texas 6A-Division I state champs return plenty
from last year's squad that finished 16-0 and No. 3 in the final
Xcellent Top 25 rankings presented by the Army National Guard.
Grant Tisdale,
Theo Wease,
EJ Ndoma-Ogar and
Jayden Jernigan all are back this season as they go for the school's sixth state title since 2008.
5. Grayson (Loganville, Ga.)Georgia AAAAAAA football is one of the best in the business this season. The Rams
bring in a loaded team with over 20 future Division I players led by
5-star linebacker and 2019 Auburn commit
Owen Pappoe. 2019 Nebraska commit
Ronald Thompkins is one of the best playmakers in high school football and watch for 2020 quarterback
CJ Dixon
to have a big junior campaign. The 6-foot, 5-inch, 210-pound gunslinger already has offers from Alabama, Ohio State, Georgia, Florida and a
few others.
6.
St. John's (Washington, D.C.)St.
John's did something last season it hasn't since 1989 — win the conference title. The Cadets finished 2017 on a hot streak, winning
their final seven games and enter this year with a ton of momentum.
Kahuku (Hawaii) transfer
Sol-Jay Maiava takes over at quarterback and expect a big year from the 2020 prospect. 2019 Alabama commit
Keilan Robinson and 4-star 2020 wide receiver
Rakim Jarrett are two of the top playmakers in high school football. The Cadets 5-star linebacker
Mekhail Sherman leads the way on defense.
7. St. Frances Academy (Baltimore)St.
Frances Academy has transformed into one of the best football programs over
the last two years. The Panthers have gone 23-2 over that span, including a 13-0
finish in 2017 and a spot at No. 5 in the final Top 25. This team is
loaded led by 2019 Alabama commit
Shane Lee, 5-star 2020 defensive end
Chris Braswell, 4-star running back
Blake Corum and 4-star defensive end
Demon Clowney.
8. St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.)The
Florida power has won seven state titles since 2007 and has a
good chance to make it eight in the last 11 years. They have more than 20 future college players on the roster led by 2019 Ohio State
commit
Jordan Battle, 2019 Oklahoma commit
Jaden Davis, 2019 Miami commit
Anthony Solomon and 4-star linebacker
Derek Wingo.
9. Lake Travis (Austin, Texas)The
Cavaliers have been to the state championship game three years in a row
and won it all in 2016. It was the school's sixth state title and first
since 2011. 2020
Texas commit
Hudson Card and 5-star Ohio State commit
Garret Wilson will be one of the best duos in the country this year.
10. Chandler (Ariz.)The
Arizona power enters the 2018 season winners of back-to-back 6A state
championships and will be loaded again this season. 2019 BYU commit
Jacob Conover is back under center and is joined by 2019 Texas commit
Brayden Liebrock, 2019 California commit
DeCarlos Brooks,
Avery Carrington and
Zach Bowers. The Wolves also added a couple of marquee transfers in former Mountain Pointe (Phoenix) 4-star defensive tackle
Matthew Pola-Mao and 3-star athlete
Demarcus Griffin, who transferred from El Camino (Oceanside, Calif.).

Jacob Conover, Chandler
Photo by Mark Jones
11. Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas)The
Las Vegas power has dominated football in Nevada for nearly a decade, winning nine consecutive state titles. The Gaels might not have the 4- and 5-stars they usually
do, but don't be surprised if they use that as fuel through the 2018
season. A name to keep tabs on this year is 2020 quarterback
Micah Bowens. He could be the next great Gorman gunslinger joining the likes of
Tate Martell,
Dorian Thompson-Robinson and
Anu Solomon.
12. St. Louis (Honolulu)The back-to-back state champs bring in one of the best defenses in the country led by 4-star defensive tackle
Faatui Tuitele and 4-star linebacker
Jordan Botelho.
Cal Lee is one of the best coaches in high school football and a
wizard when it comes to quarterbacks. Expect 2020 prospect
Jayden de Laura to be the next big-time QB to come out of St. Louis, joining the likes of
Marcus Mariota,
Tua Tagovailoa, Timmy Chang, Jeremiah Masoli and
Chevan Cordeiro.
13. Central (Miami)Miami
Central is always one of the most talented teams in the country and
that will be the case again in 2018. They added a couple of big-time
transfers in 2020 defensive end/linebacker
Jesus Machado and 2020 Miami commit
Henry Gray. Even with the departure of
James Cook and
Amari Daniels expect the backfield to still be one of the best in the state with
Lexington Joseph and
Kejon Owens.
14. Katy (Texas) Katy
is trying to do something no other Texas high school football program
has ever done — win a ninth state title. They have one of the top running backs in the country in 4-star
Deondrick Glass. Don't be surprised if he is in the mix to be named the National Player of the Year when all is said and done.
15. Marietta (Ga.)Marietta
is the second of three teams from Georgia in the Top 25 and one of the 10 included in the Top 100. This team is as talented as anyone in the
country led by 4-star quarterback
Harrison Bailey, 5-star athlete
Arik Gilbert, 2019 Tennessee commit
Ramel Keyton, 2020 Ohio State commit
Jake Wray and 4-star defensive end
BJ Ojulari.
16. Bingham (South Jordan, Utah)The
Miners have been one of the most consistent football programs in the
country for quite some time. They have won at least 10 games in
every season but one since 2005 and have won nine state titles over the past 12 years. Bingham is going for its third straight state title in
2018.
17. Centennial (Corona, Calif.)The
Inland Empire power has turned into one of the best programs in the
country since Matt Logan took over. The Huskies have gone 148-23 since
2006 and won at least 10 games every season during that span.
Gary Bryant is a name to remember this year, he is one of the best wide receivers in the country.
18. De La Salle (Concord, Calif.)The
Spartans have appeared in the CIF state championship game every year
since it began in 2006. They haven't lost to a Northern California
opponent since 1991 and that streak will be challenged in their first
game of the season against No. 19 Folsom. The Spartans will have a
big-time defense this year led by 4-star linebacker
Henry To'oto'o and a strong running game with
Shamar Garrett back in 2018.
19. Folsom (Calif.)The
defending CIF Division 1-AA state champs rolled through the 2017 season
posting a 16-0 record and finishing No. 18 in the Top 25. They return a
lot of key players from last year's team led by 4-star wide receiver
Joe Ngata,
Kaiden Bennett, one of the most underrated quarterbacks in the country, and 4-star
Daniyel Ngata,
who checks in as a Top 100 player overall from the Class of 2020. They
open up with No. 18 De La Salle on Aug. 17.
20. Cardinal Gibbons (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.)Cardinal
Gibbons was close to beating the eventual 5A state champs American
Heritage twice last year. They lost by a combined five points, including a
one-point, triple-overtime loss in the quarterfinals. The Chiefs return a ton of talent, while American Heritage lost a ton of
big-time players. Matt DuBuc has
done an amazing job since being named head coach before the 2016
season. They have gone 20-4 over that span and he led them to their
first playoff win since 2011 in his first season.
21. Hoover (Ala.) The
Alabama power won its second consecutive state title last year and has won six since Josh Niblett replaced Rush Propst as the head coach
before the 2008 season. Hoover is loaded with talent in 2018 led by
4-star wide receiver and 2019 Auburn commit
George Pickens. Expect a monster year from 2020 quarterback
Robby Ashford and 3-star running back
Larry McCammon III.
22. Pickerington Central (Pickerington, Ohio)The Tigers won their first football state championship last year and look to become the first team in Ohio history to repeat as Division I
champs.
Demeatric Crenshaw
is one of the best quarterbacks in high school football. He set the Ohio Division I state
championship game record last year scoring six touchdowns in their 56-28
win over Mentor.
23. Bergen Catholic (Oradell, N.J.)The
New Jersey power got back to its winning ways last season, winning its
first state title since 2004. While the Crusaders lost a very special player in
Johnny Langan
at quarterback, they still bring back a lot of important pieces. They will have one of
the top backfields on the East Coast with 2019 Nebraska commit
Rahmir Johnson and 3-star
Josh McKenzie both back this year. Expect 2019 Rutgers
Tyler DeVera to be a playmaker on offense and the defense will be led by 3-star defensive end
Aeneas Dicosmo and 4-star safety
Jordan Morant.
24. Narbonne (Harbor City, Calif.)Narbonne
won its second state title since 2015 last season and with the talent
they added heading into this season expect them to have a good chance at its third state championship in a four-year span. They were dealt some tough news by the
CIF earlier this week with 2021 quarterback
Jake Garcia, a Long Beach
Poly transfer, ruled ineligible for the first month of the ,but expect
Jaylen Henderson to fill in nicely. Some players to keep tabs on for Narbonne include 4-star offensive tackle
Jonah Tauanu'u, 4-star cornerback
Brandon Jones and 4-star running back
JoJuan Collins.
25. Archer (Lawrenceville, Ga.)Archer
put itself back on the map last year, cruising to a 12-1 record. Expect them to be among the best in AAAAAAA again this season. The Tigers
return 2020 quarterback
Carter Peevy and 3-star wide receiver
Braylen Weems on offense. Defensively, they are one of the best in the country led by 5-star cornerback
Andrew Booth, 3-star safety
Jalyn Phillips and 3-star defensive end
Colby Wooden.
26. Warren Central (Indianapolis)The Indiana power is going for its ninth state title in school history this year and with 4-star wide receiver
David Bell back expect them to be among the best in 2018.
Jayden George is back at quarterback along with 2020 playmaker
Roman Purcell. Purcell checks in as the No.
14 dual-threat quarterback from 2020 and it will be his first season at
Warren Central after transferring over from Cathedral (Indianapolis).
27. Colquitt County (Norman Park, Ga.)Colquitt
County gives Georgia its fourth team in the Top 30. The Packers made it
all the way to the AAAAAAA state championship game, but fell just short after a
couple of questionable calls. Expect Rush Propst to have
Colquitt County back in contention this year with both of his top
running backs returning, a strong offensive line, and a very good
defense despite the loss of 4-star
JJ Peterson to Tennessee.
28. Orange Lutheran (Orange, Calif.)The
third team from the Trinity League to be in the Top 30 brings in one of the most explosive offenses
in the country led by 4-star quarterback
Ryan Hilinski. Add 5-star wide receiver
Kyle Ford, 2019 USC commit
Ethan Rae, 4-star wide receiver
Logan Loya and 3-star running back
Reggie Strong Jr. and things look promising for the Lancers.

Ryan Hilinski, Orange Lutheran
File photo by Rich Lawce
29. Trinity (Louisville, Ky.)Bob
Beatty turned Trinity into one of the best high school football
programs in the country since taking over before the 2000 season. He's
led them to 13 state titles during that span, including two in a row.
They have to replace some key players on offense, but will have a
big-time defense in 2018 led by 2019 Michigan commit
Stephen Herron Jr.30. Duncanville (Texas)Reginald
Samples is one of the best coaches in Texas. He's done a
remarkable job since coming over from Dallas Skyline and has led
Duncanville to back-to-back 11-win seasons. The Panthers
will have a big-time defense led by 4-star defensive back
Chris Thompson Jr. On offense, 4-star athlete
Ja'Quinden Jackson
gets the keys to the quarterback position.
31. Rome (Ga.)Rome
enters the 2018 season riding a 27-game winning streak and winners of back-to-back AAAAA titles. The Wolves return 3-star quarterback
Knox Kadum, 2019 North Carolina State commit
Jamious Griffin and
Xavier Roberts,
the team's leading receiver from last year. They were one of the
nastiest defenses in the country last year but will have to replace
5-star linebacker
Adam Anderson in 2018.
32. Archbishop Hoban (Akron, Ohio)The
defending Division II state champs roll into the 2018 season riding a
14-game winning streak. The Knights are looking to win their fourth consecutive
state title. Archbishop Hoban brings back one of the top offensive
lines in the state led by 2019 Michigan commit
Nolan Rumler. A name to keep tabs on is 2020 athlete
DeaMonte Trayanum, one of the best two-way players in high school football.
33. University Lab (Baton Rouge, La.)The
defending Division II state champs finished 2017 unblemished at 13-0 and won
every game by double digits. The Cubs return a lot of key players including 4-star athlete
Christian Harris, 4-star athlete
Makiya Tongue, 2019 Clemson commit
Bryton Constantin and 3-star cornerback
Jordan Clark.
34. DeMatha (Hyattsville, Md.)The
DMV power is coming off its worst season since 2011, but don't expect
a repeat in 2018. The Stags have a very talented team led by 4-star safety
Nick Cross, 2019 Alabama commit
DeMarcco Hellams, 5-star running back
Marshawn Lloyd and 4-star defensive end
Coziah Izzard, who transferred over from Pallotti (Laurel, Md.).
35. DePaul Catholic (Wayne, N.J.)The
defending Non-Public Group 3 state champs have the talent to win their third state
title in a four-year span. The Spartans return their top
two players in 2019 Ohio State commit
Ronnie Hickman and 2019 Penn State commit
Taquan Roberson.
36. St. Joseph's Prep (Philadelphia)The
Philadelphia power has won at least 10 games in five of the last six
years with three state championships during that span. Expect a
big year from 2020 running back
Kolbe Burrell,
Jeremiah Trotter Jr., the son of four-time NFL Pro Bowl linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, and recent La Salle College (Wyndmoor, Pa.) transfer
Marvin Harrison Jr., the son of NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver Marvin Harrison.
37. Mission Viejo (Calif.)Legendary
head coach Bob Johnson retired at the end of last season and if anyone
can replace one of the best high school coaches it's former
St. John Bosco offensive coordinator Chad Johnson. He spent the past
eight season with the Braves under Jason Negro and expect him to have Mission Viejo ready to roll in 2018.
Joey Yellen, a 2019 Arizona State commit, is back at quarterback. Expect
Akili Arnold,
JoJo Forest, and a healthy
Jamari Ferrell all to be impact players this year.
38. North Gwinnett (Suwanee, Ga.)North
Gwinnett won its first state title last year ,beating Colquitt County on
a game-winning 38-yard field goal as time expired in the AAAAAAA state
championship. It will be tough to repeat as state champs, but a
lot of people counted them out in 2017 so expect that to fuel Bill
Stewart and his team as he enters his second season as head coach. They
have to replace some key positions, but leading rusher
Tyler Goodson, a 2019 Iowa commit, and 4-star wide receiver
Josh Downs are both back.
39. Carol City (Miami)Carol
City is one of three teams selected in the Top 100 that balls in the
6A-District 16. Benedict Hyppolite is building something special down in
Miami. Expect the Chiefs to be among the best in Florida.
The defense is going to be lights out led by 2019 Miami commit
Jarvis Brownlee. On offense, former Booker T. Washington (Miami) quarterback
Daniel Richardson takes over under center and expect a huge senior season from their 4-star running back
Nay'Quan Wright.

Nay'Quan Wright, Carol City
File photo by Ivan Sebborn
40. Thompson (Alabaster, Ala.)Alabama 7A football is going to be one of the most exciting regions in high school football this year. The Warriors returns a very talented team that went 12-1 last season with their lone loss coming to No. 21 Hoover in the semifinals. They split the season series last year, but Hoover won the one that mattered. 2019 Alabama commit
Taulia Tagovailoa is back under center and expect the younger brother of Tua Tagovailoa to have a big senior season.
41. Hewitt-Trussville (Trussville, Ala.)Hewitt-Trussville is one of the most talented teams in the country. Its lone loss came against No. 21 Hoover in the 7A quarterfinals and you know they can't wait until Sept. 14 when they face the back-to-back 7A state champs, Hoover. A trio of Alabama commits —
Paul Tyson,
Pierce Quick and
Dazalin Worsham are back for the Huskies in 2018.
42. Oaks Christian (Westlake Village, Calif.)It always helps when you have the No. 1 rated player on
247sports player composite rankings on your team —
Kayvon Thibodeaux. He helped lead the Lions to the CIF Southern Section Division title last year. They return a lot of other talented players in 2019 Michigan commit
Zach Charbonnet, the 4-star running back rushed for 2,000 plus yards and 23 touchdowns last year. They also bring back 4-star athlete
Josh Calvert and 2020 Stanford commit
Bryce Farrell.
43. American Heritage (Plantation, Fla.)The back-to-back 5A state champs enter this year having to replace a lot. The Class of 2018 American Heritage was one of the best classes in school history. Patrick Surtain is back for his third season as head coach and still hasn't lost a game.
44. North Shore (Houston)The Mustangs open up with No. 14 Katy (Texas) on Aug. 31 in one of the biggest games of the year. They are loaded with talent led by 5-star running back
Zachary Evans, 2021 quarterback
Dematrius Davis, 2021 wide receiver
Shadrach Banks, and have a couple of 2019 Texas Tech commits leading the defense —
Keeyon Stewart and
Tony Bradford Jr.45. Upland (Calif.)Upland
returns a very talented team that went 12-1 last season. A couple of
Washington commits are back leading the offense in 4-star running back
Cameron Davis and 3-star wide receiver
Taj Davis.
2017 MaxPreps Freshman All-American quarterback
Cole Boop transferred from Calvary Chapel (Santa Ana, Calif.) and is a name to keep
tabs on down the road as he competes for the starting position in 2018. The leader of Upland is 5-star linebacker
Justin Flowe, who could end up being the best player overall from the Class of 2020.
46. Westlake (Austin, Texas)Todd Dodge led the Chaparrals to a 14-1 record last year as they fell just short in the 6A-Division II semifinals.
Nakia Watson, one of the state's best backs, is gone and playing at Wisconsin, but they bring back
Taylor Anderson, one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the state. The defense will be led by
Jake Ehlinger, the younger brother of former Westlake gunslinger
Sam Ehlinger.
47. Serra (Gardena, Calif.)The Cavaliers have been one of the top schools in California at producing big-time talent and this year's
team is no different.
Max Williams is one of the most special players in the country and a name to keep tabs on.
Doug Brumfield is poised for a big year at quarterback and has two legit targets in 4-star
LV Bunkley and 3-star
Melquan Stovall. 4-star 2020 linebacker
Justin Houston will be the leader for a very talented defense in 2018.
48. Wekiva (Apopka, Fla.)The Mustangs going to be one of the hungriest teams in Florida in 2018. They are a team to keep an eye out for in 8A. They bring back a very talented squad, led by 4-star linebacker
Rian Davis, 2019 Florida State commit
Renardo Green and 2019 Pittsburgh commit
Brandon Hill.
49. St. Joseph Regional (Montvale, N.J.)After winning the Non-Public Group 3 state championship in 2016, No. 35 DePaul Catholic got the best of them in 2017. Expect round three to come in 2018.
Howard Cross, a 4-star defensive end committed to Notre Dame, will lead a very good defense and on offense one of the top quarterbacks from the Class of 2020 takes over —
Michael Alaimo.
50. Carroll (Southlake, Texas)A familiar face returns to Southlake Carroll to take over as head coach for the Texas power — Riley Dodge. During his junior season in 2006, he led the Dragons to their third consecutive state title and had over 5,000 yards of total offense and 67 touchdowns while his dad (Todd Dodge) was the head coach. He's hoping he can get Carroll back to the power status they had back in the mid-2000's. This team has a lot of key players coming back, led by 5-star cornerback
RJ Mickens,
Will Bowers,
TJ McDaniel and
Jake Fex.
51. Cajon (San Bernardino, Calif.)The
talented bunch from San Bernardino is one of the most exciting California teams to
watch. They made it to the CIF
Division 2-AA state championship game last year and return a lot of key
players from that squad.
Jayden Daniels and
Darren Jones are one of the most dynamic quarterback/wide receiver duos in the country and 2019 Oklahoma commit
Jonathan Perkins is one of the best linebackers in the state.
52. Deerfield Beach (Fla.)The Bucks have been one of Broward County's best teams over the past few years. The 2018 team has some of the flashiest players in all of Florida. 2020 Oklahoma commit
Jaylan Knighton is one of the top running backs in the country, 4-star linebacker
Ge'mon Eaford is a beast,
Deajaun McDougle is a big-time playmaker and
Marcus Lafrance is one of the most talented cornerbacks in the state.
53. Aledo (Texas)The Texas power enters this season riding a streak of 12 straight years with double-digit wins. The Bearcats have gone 164-15 over that span, winning six state titles in the process. Expect a monster year from 2020 Oklahoma commit
Jase McClellan. The 5-star running back has already rushed for 3,000 plus yards and 46 touchdowns in his first two seasons despite missing some action last year.

Jase McClellan, Aledo
File photo by Robbie Rakestraw
54. South Pointe (Rock Hill, S.C.)The Stallions have won four consecutive state titles heading into the season, but will look for No. 5 without
Derion Kendrick in 2018.
Tahleek Steele takes over at quarterback and will have a strong running game behind him with
Joe Ervin returning along with a strong offensive line led by
Jackson Chappell.
55. JSerra Catholic (San Juan Capistrano, Calif.)Four of the five teams from the Trinity League check in the Top 100 and the last one is the Lions. They have two of the most explosive playmakers in the country with
Tarik Luckett and 2019 USC commit
Munir McClain both back. They also added former Mater Dei running back
Chris Street to help out in the backfield.
Caden Bell takes over under center and the Servite transfer is ready to prove he is one of the best quarterbacks in the state.
56. Eastside Catholic (Sammamish, Wash.)The Crusaders are loaded with some of the best players on the West Coast.
Gee Scott Jr. is one of the top wide receivers from the Class of 2020, 4-star running back
Sam Adams is big-time, 4-star cornerback
Ayden Hector is one of the top defensive backs in the state, 4-star tight end
DJ Rogers is a big red zone threat and 3-star defensive tackle
Will Vea is a beast in the trenches.
57. Our Lady of Good Counsel (Olney, Md.)Good Counsel balls in one of the toughest conferences in high school football (WCAC) and last year only No. 6 St. John's finished above them in the standings. The Falcons are a very balanced team heading into 2018.
Cam Hart, a 2019 Notre Dame commit, is one of the best wide receivers from the DMV area and has his quarterback
Kam Snell coming back this year.
Mason Lunsford and
Lucas Portes help fill out one of the best offensive lines in the country. On defense
Jalen Green and
Julio Ayamel lead the way.
58. DeSoto (Texas)Mike Robinson comes over from North Mesquite (Mesquite, Texas) after 11 years and will be the Eagles head coach in 2018. They have one of the most explosive receivers in the state with 2019 Texas Tech commit
La'Vontae Shenault back and expect a couple of 2020 wideouts to have big junior seasons —
Lawrence Arnold and
Paul Pickens. Keep an eye out for
Shundarion Ward, too. He is one of the most underrated quarterbacks heading into the 2018 season.
59. Mallard Creek (Charlotte, N.C.)Mallard Creek made it to the 4AA state championship game, but fell short against Wake Forest. The Mavericks return a very talented team in 2018 led by quarterback
Jadyn Washington. They will be one of the top teams in the trenches in the state with
Caleb Bryant and
Aubrey Shaw both returning.
60. Saguaro (Scottsdale, Ariz.)Saguaro did something no other team in state history has ever done and that is win five consecutive state championships. The Sabercats have to replace one of the best quarterbacks in school history,
Max Massingale, but still have one of Arizona's most talented squads. 5-star cornerback
Kelee Ringo is the top rated defensive back from the Class of 2020, 4-star
Damian Sellers had 11.5 sacks and 27 tackles for loss during his sophomore season, and
Nate Polk,
Clayton Randall,
Matt Polk and
Jacobe Covington are all back in 2018.
61. Colerain (Cincinnati)Since 2000, the Cardinals have won at least 10 games in 15 of the last 18 years. Over the last three seasons they have gone 34-6. One thing is for certain, they dominate the Greater Miami Conference, they have won 18 consecutive GMC titles, and 67 conference games in a row.
62. Chaminade (West Hills, Calif.)Chaminade is not running from smoke this year. Three of its first five games are against teams in the Top 100 — No. 42 Oaks Christian, No. 19 Folsom, and No. 1 St. John Bosco. The Eagles have to replace a couple of big-time players in
Michael Wilson and
Andrew VanBuren, but their 3-star quarterback
Ryan Stevens is back for his senior season. A name to keep tabs on is 2019 California commit
Blake Antzoulatos. The 3-star linebacker has had 275 tackles over the last two years.
63. Mentor (Ohio)The Cardinals fell short in the Ohio Division I state championship game to No. 22 Pickerington Central. They will be in contention in 2018 and have one of the best teams in the trenches led by a couple of Ohio State commits —
Ryan Jacoby and
Noah Potter.
64. Brentwood Academy (Brentwood, Tenn.)The Tennessee power has won three state titles heading into 2018 and with the talent they bring back there is a good chance they make it a four-peat.
Devyn Curtis,
Nate Clifton,
Thomas Gore,
Tahir Annoor and
Mario Pleasant all return.
65. Dutch Fork (Irmo, S.C.)The back-to-back 5A state champs enter the 2018 season as the favorites to again win the 5A title. The Silver Foxes have gone 28-1 over the last two years and bring back a lot of talent led by 2020 running back
Ron Hoff, 2020 quarterback
Ty Olenchuk, who is a Clemson commit for baseball, and 2020 wide receiver
Jalin Hyatt.
66. Judson (Converse, Texas)It will be impossible to replace
Julon Williams at quarterback, he was one of the most explosive playmakers in high school football. But the Rockets still bring some big-time players led by 2019 Texas A&M commit
Demarvin Leal, 3-star linebacker
Kevin Wood Jr., 3-star athlete
Rashad Wisdom and 3-star running back
Sincere McCormick.
67. Pittsburg (Calif.)Usually Northern California only has two teams in the Top 100, but Pittsburg brings back a loaded roster and are the third and final team from NorCal. The Pirates made it to the CIF Division 1-A state championship game, losing 28-21 to No. 24 Narbonne.
Justin Boyd,
Premier Murphy, and
Willie Harts are back on offense along with talented senior quarterback
Trey Turner, who missed all of his junior season with a knee injury. The team's top recruit is 4-star defensive tackle
Jacob Bandes, who starred at The Opening Finals earlier this month in Frisco, Texas.
68. St. Peter's Prep (Jersey City, N.J.)The fourth and final team from New Jersey is the Marauders. This gives the North Jersey Super United Red League three teams in the Top 100 joining No. 23 Bergen Catholic and No. 49 St. Joseph Regional. Rich Hansen enters his 28th season as head coach and always has his team ready to roll. They lost to Bergen Catholic in the Non-Public Group IV state championship game last season and return some key pieces led by 3-star quarterback
Maasai Maynor, 2019 Duke commit
RJ Oben,
Anthony Summey,
Ayir Asante, and 3-star linebacker
Chase Jones. The big void is replacing
Shayne Simon, who joined
Minkah Fitzpatrick and
Brandon Wimbush as one of the best Marauders teams in school history.
69. Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.)The DC power is the fourth and final team from the WCAC to make the Top 100 joining No. 6 St. John's, No. 34 DeMatha, and No. 57 Good Counsel. It's easily one of the toughest conferences in the country. The Zags have one of the top young signal-callers in the country in 2021 quarterback
Caleb Williams. 2019 Oklahoma commit
Joseph Weté, 2019 Virginia commit
Hunter Stewart, 2019 Wisconsin commit
Dean Engram and 2019 Vanderbilt commit
Justin Ball are back as well.

Gonzaga defensive end Joseph Wete is constantly in opponents' backfield.
File photo by Al Conner
70. Owasso (Okla.)The Rams made some history in 2017, becoming the first school other than Jenks or Union (Tulsa) to win a state title in the largest classification in 22 years. It was Owasso's first football state championship since 1974. Replacing
Josh Proctor will be tough, but they have some key players coming back led by 3-star quarterback
Will Kuehne.
71. Calabasas (Calif.)4-star wide receiver
Mycah Pittman and 5-star 2020 wideout
Johnny Wilson give the Coyotes one of the best duos in the country. 2017 MaxPreps Sophomore All-American quarterback
Jaden Casey threw for 3,000-plus yards and 32 touchdowns last year and expect another big season from the Fresno State commit.
72. McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.)Kyle Hockman had a very young team that won 10 games last season and made it all the way to the AAAAAAA semifinals. 2021 quarterback
Carlos Del Rio is a name to keep tabs on, already landing offers from Florida, Miami, Michigan and N.C. State. Expect Del Rio and 3-star wide receiver
Lawrence Shadd III to be a nice combination in 2018. After a 1,000 yard-plus rushing junior season 3-star
Paris Brown will again be a factor for the Indians. 4-star defensive tackle
Jamil Burroughs is one of the top players overall from the Class of 2020 and will lead a very talented defense in 2018 for Hockman.
73. Blessed Trinity (Roswell, Ga.)The Titans put themselves on the map after snapping Trevor Lawrence and Cartersville's 41-game winning streak en route to the 4A state championship. It was the school's first state title. They bring back a ton of key players led by 2019 Ohio State commit
Steele Chambers, 2019 Georgia commit
JD Bertrand, starting quarterback
Jake Smith, 3-star running back
Elijah Green,
JR Bivens and
Ryan Davis.
74. Walton (Marietta, Ga.)Walton is the seventh and final team representing the AAAAAAA region from Georgia. They went 11-1 last year, with the only loss coming to No. 27 Colquitt County in the second round of the playoffs. The Raiders were the only team to beat the eventual 7A state champs, North Gwinnett, in 2017. They bring back the teams leading passer, rusher, and receiver this year led by 5-star 2019 Georgia commit
Dominick Blaylock.
75. Imhotep Charter (Philadelphia)The Panthers are the second Philly squad in the Top 100 and are led by one of the best duos in high school football with
Tykee Smith and
Yusuf Terry both back.
76. East (Salt Lake City)East made it all the way to the state championship game in the inaugural 6A classification playoffs, but lost to No. 16 Bingham, 27-14. The Leopards will have a good chance to make it back to the state title game with 4-star defensive tackle
Siaki Ika, the No. 1 player in the state, 3-star athlete
Charlie Vincent and 3-star 2020 cornerback
Nick Session all suiting up in 2018.
77. Mansfield Legacy (Mansfield, Texas)The Broncos already were bringing back a very talented team from last season and added one of the top players in all Texas in former Aledo (Texas) playmaker
Jeffery Carter. He checks in as a Top 100 recruit overall from the Class of 2019 and the 4-star athlete makes plays on both sides of the ball. He and 4-star
Jalen Catalon will be one of the most dynamic duos in all of Texas this season. Catalon does it all, makes plays on offense, defense and special teams. They will have one of the top defenses in the country with Carter, Catalon, 4-star defensive end
Taurean Carter and 3-star defensive tackle
Enoch Jackson Jr.
78. Pinson Valley (Pinson, Ala.)The Indians won their first state title since 1999, cruising to a 15-0 mark to hoist the 6A trophy. 2019 Auburn commit
Bo Nix showed why he is one of the best quarterbacks in the country earlier this summer at The Opening. They get a chance to prove they belong among the top teams in Alabama when they face No. 21 Hoover on Aug. 25 on ESPN to open up the season.
79. Klein Collins (Spring, Texas)The Tigers were young, went 11-1 and return a ton of big-time talent. They are turning into one of the better teams in Texas and have won at least 11 games in three of the last four years. 4-star running back
Isaiah Spiller is one of the top playmakers in the country and expect a big senior year from
Carter Rhyne.
80. Chaminade-Madonna (Hollywood, Fla.)The Lions won their first state title since 2005 last season and even though they lost a lot of talent they bring back a very good team in 2018. They added 2019 Penn State commit
John Dunmore, who transferred from American Heritage (Delray Beach, Fla.). They also have a trio of 2019 Miami commits
Te'cory Couch,
Keontra Smith and
Cameron Williams coming back.
81. Southridge (Miami)Despite going 6-4 last year expect the Spartans to be one of the favorites in the 8A region this season. 4-star cornerback
Tyrique Stevenson transferred from South Dade (Homestead) and gives Southridge one of the top players in high school football right away. 2019 linebacker
Diamante Howard, 2020 Miami commit
Marcus Fleming and
Roscoe Parrish III all will be impact players for the Spartans this year.
82. St. Ignatius (Cleveland)The Cleveland power capped off its second consecutive double-digit win season last year, but fell short of winning the school's 12th state title, losing in the Ohio Division I quarterfinals. Legendary head coach Chuck Kyle has always had the Wildcats among the top teams in the state since he started before the 1983 season. His 11 state titles are the most in state history and will have a chance at No. 12 with the team he brings back this season.
83. Trotwood-Madison (Trotwood, Ohio)The Rams capped off their eighth consecutive double-digit win season last year en route to winning the Division III state championship. It was the first state title for Trotwood-Madison since 2011, when the Rams also went a perfect 15-0. They will be one of the favorites to repeat as Division III state champs in 2018.
84. St. Xavier (Cincinnati)Winning an Ohio Division I title is one of the hardest to do and the Bombers have won three since 2005, including in 2016. Steve Specht always has his team ready to compete and will rely on one of the best players overall from the Class of 2020 in 5-star Ohio State commit
Paris Johnson Jr. along with 2019 linebacker
Thomas Kiessling in a quest for the school's fourth title.
85. Northwestern (Miami)The Bulls won their first state title in a decade last year, capturing the 6A state championship. It will be nearly impossible to replace
Tutu Atwell and
Divaad Wilson, but Max Edwards is one of the top coaches in Florida so expect Northwestern to be ready. They bring back some marquee players, led by 2019 Miami commit
Samuel Brooks, who suffered a season ending injury last year, but should ready. Joining Brooks is 2019 Pittsburgh commit
Calijah Kancy, 2019 South Carolina commit
Mark Fox, 3-star athlete
Jacquez Stuart and expect former Coral Gables (Fla.) 3-star running back
Andre Stringfield to have an immediate impact for Northwestern.
86. Pulaski Academy (Little Rock, Ark.)The Arkansas power has won at least 10 games every year since 2010, going 103-9 during that span. The Bruins enter the 2018 season winners of four consecutive 5A state titles and have won seven state championships since 2003. 4-star
Hudson Henry is the top-rated tight end from the Class of 2019 and expect the younger brother of the San Diego Chargers
Hunter Henry to have a monster senior season.
87. Cathedral Prep (Erie, Pa.)The Ramblers enter 2018 winners of 28 straight and back-to-back 4A state championships. Since 2012, Cathedral Prep has gone 81-4.
88. Muskegon (Mich.)The Big Reds should be just as dangerous in 2018 as they were last season when they went 14-0 and won the Division III state championship. Coming back for Muskegon are 2019 LSU commit
Anthony Bradford, 3-star athlete
Cameron Martinez, 3-star linebacker
Ali'Vonta Wallace and 3-star defensive end
Billie Roberts.
89. Buford (Ga.)The Wolves have won 10 state titles since 2001, but haven't had that taste since 2014. They have a lot of talented players returning in 2018 and a name to keep an eye out for is their 6-5, 225-pound sophomore quarterback
Aaron McLaughlin. He has a chance to be one of the most special players in the country over the next three years. Some other notable players include 5-star offensive lineman and 2019 Ohio State commit
Harry Miller, 3-star cornerback
Jalen Huff, 3-star athlete
T Lee and 3-star athlete
Elijah Turner.
90. Central (Phenix City, Ala.)The Red Devils enter the 2018 season posting three double-digits win seasons over the last four years. They went 11-1 in 2017 with their only loss came in overtime to McGill-Toolen (Mobile, Ala.) in the 7A semifinals. The Red Devils lost one of the best players in the country in 4-star wide receiver
Justyn Ross, but still bring back a lot of talent.
Peter Parrish, a 2019 LSU commit, is must -watch television at quarterback,
Javion Cohen is one of the top offensive lineman in the state,
A'montae Spivey and
Joseph McKay give them two big-time running backs. 2019 Clemson commit
Ray Thornton and
Devonte' Mathews are both back leading the way on defense.
91. Trinity (Euless, Texas)The Trojans have been one of the most consistent programs in Texas, winning at least 10 games every season in 13 of the last 14 years. The Trojans 10-game winning streak came to an end in the quarterfinals of the 6A-Division I playoffs last season against the eventual champs, Allen. One of the main reasons why Trinity has been so consistent is because they have always been good in the trenches, and expect that to be the case again this year.
Keanu Hill is one of the most underrated playmakers in all of Texas.
92. Kahuku (Hawaii)The Red Raiders would've been ranked higher if Sol-Jay Maiava was still under center. Still, Kahuku brings back a very talented team and one of the nastiest defenses led by 2019 Washington commit
Miki Ah You. On offense, 4-star offensive tackle
Enokk Vimahi will make everyone's job easier. He is one of the top offensive lineman in the game. A name to keep tabs on is their 3-star 2020 cornerback
Kaonohi Kaniho, he makes big-time plays on both sides of the ball.
93. Trinity Catholic (St. Louis)The Titans have five 4-star's and seven 3-star's from the Class of 2019 and 2020 combined heading into the season led by one of the best duos in the country —
Isaiah Williams and
Marcus Washington.
94. Edna Karr (New Orleans)The second Louisiana team is the defending 4A state champs. Edna Karr ended last year on a 13-game winning streak and has won 29 of its last 30 games. 4-star cornerback
Devin Bush is back and is the leader on defense. On offense, they have one of the best backfields in the state with
Ronnie Jackson and
Ahmad Antoine.
95. Steele (Cibolo, Texas)The Knights came on strong to end the 2017 season before losing to a very good Austin Westlake team in the 6A-Division II quarterfinals. After starting 1-4, they went 8-1 in their final nine games and 2021 quarterback
Wyatt Beagel got a lot of quality time under center during the winning streak. Replacing
Caden Sterns and
Brenden Brady will be tough, but they bring back a lot of talent led by 4-star cornerback
Jaylon Jones, 3-star wide receiver
Daniel Jackson and 3-star running back
De'Quavion Thomas.

Wyatt Beagel, Steele quarterback
File photo by Lester Rosenbrock
96. Longview (Texas)The Lobos are coming off their first 14-win season since 2009 and made it all the way to the 6A-Division II semifinals. They return a lot from last year's team, including 3-star 2020 quarterback
Haynes King,
Keilyn Williams,
Kamden Perry and 2019 TCU commit
Marcus Williams.
97. Harding University (Charlotte, N.C.)The defending 4A state champs finished last year 14-1 with its lone loss coming against No. 59 Mallard Creek. The Rams have one of the best players in the country in 5-star running back
Quavaris Crouch, who was named the 2017 North Carolina Gatorade Football Player of the Year. He rushed for 3,000 plus yards, 31 touchdowns, and added 14 sacks on defense.
98. Christian Brothers (St. Louis)The defending Class 6 state champs bring back a lot from a 14-1 finish. 3-star quarterback
Brett Gabbert, the younger brother of former NFL first round draft pick Blaine Gabbert, is back under center, along with
Brady Feeny,
MJ Anderson and
Josh Plohr.
99. Wake Forest (N.C.)Wake Forest has been one of the top teams in North Carolina for the last four years. The Cougars have gone 58-2 over that span and are the back-to-back 4AA state champs. Losing some key players are why they're not higher, but expect Reggie Lucas to have his guys ready to roll.
100. Punahou (Honolulu)The last team featured in the Top 100 is the third team from the Aloha State. The Buff-n-Blue are loaded and especially on defense. 4-star linebacker
Maninoa Tufono is one of the best defensive players in the country.
Solatoa Moea`i,
Alaka`i Gilman,
Marist Liufau and
Kaulana Makaula help fill out the defense and 2019 UCLA commit
Duke Clemens, 2019 Army commit
Blake Feigenspan and 3-star fullback
Sitiveni Kaufusi will make everyone's job easier on offense.