Kentucky High School Football Playoffs: Top Contenders

The KHSAA Playoffs are scheduled to begin this weekend; here are my picks for the top contenders. High school football usually doesn’t produce surprise champions, so it is likely that teams on this list will be taking home the trophy if the playoffs are played to completion.

CLASS 6A

Heavy Favorite – Trinity 

The nationally-ranked Shamrocks thrashed North Hardin (54-7) in the playoffs last year and rolled over Male (43-14) this season.

Other Contenders – North Hardin, Dupont Manual, Male

CLASS 5A 

Co-Favorites – Frederick Douglass, South Warren   

The Broncos have as much talent as any team in the state including UK commits Jager Burton and Dekel Crowdus.  The Spartans have Ohio State commit Jantzen Dunn healthy, making their stingy defense even scarier.

Other Contenders – Covington Catholic, Owensboro, Scott County, Bowling Green

CLASS 4A

Heavy Co-Favorites – Johnson Central, Boyle County

The Golden Eagles defeated the Rebels by 1 point in the 4A championship game last year, capping a 15-0 season.  These teams are expected to meet in the finals again.

Other Contenders – Central, Franklin County, Corbin, Lexington Catholic

CLASS 3A

Favorites – Ashland, Elizabethtown, Belfry 

The Tomcats and Panthers are both undefeated, while the reigning champion Pirates are in the mix as usual.

Other Contenders – DeSales

CLASS 2A

Co-Favorites – Lexington Christian, Beechwood

The Eagles already beat Somerset once this season to earn home field advantage through the district.  Beechwood is led by QB Cam Hergott, a dual threat Mr. Football candidate.  

Other Contenders – Mayfield, Somerset

CLASS A

The Favorite – None

Class A seems to be the most wide open of all the classes.

Teams in the Mix – Pikeville, Louisville Holy Cross, Kentucky Country Day, Crittenden County, Newport Central Catholic