by It’s the most wonderful time of the year.
That’s right folks. The 2025 OHSAA Football Playoffs are here! And this article today will be dedicated to predicting who I think will come out on top for each region in Northeast Ohio in Divisions I-IV. So, without any delay, here we go!
D1R1 – In a region where 2/3rds of the teams get in, this region is really top heavy. Some schools such as Cleveland Heights and St. Ignatius are lucky to be in, and will have issues keeping up with their first round opponent. Possible upsets include Brunswick beating Jackson in the first round and if Strongsville beats Medina, they have a fair shot at beating McKinley. However, the St. Ed’s Eagles are the team to beat once again in this region. Prediction: Ed’s over Mentor in regional finals
D2R5 – Now we’re talking the toughest division in the OHSAA this year. Despite this, the four teams that are off have a clear shot to the regional semifinals this year. But out of all the schools that could be upset in this region, Hudson has the best chance to beat #4 Lake. But right now, it seems as if the regional finals are set up already. Prediction: Hoban over Walsh in regional finals
D2R6 – I may be biased as a Highland alum, but this is the hardest region in the state in my opinion. There are three schools to look out for here: Highland, Wadsworth, and Avon. The winner of this one could be the state champion. Highland would take on either the Grizzlies or Eagles in the finals, and the Hornets look to be out for blood this time. Prediction: Highland over Avon in regional finals
D3R9 – According to the Harbin points, the only two teams to be concerned about are Canfield and CVCA, as there are ten points in between second and third. The Cardinals were upset by Boardman last Friday in overtime, and the Royals went undefeated in nine games. Both teams are good, and I would be surprised if someone else crashes the party for the finals. Prediction: CVCA over Canfield in regional finals
D3R10 – Out of all the regions covered thus far, this one may be the most competitive with the most teams. Buckeye is undefeated as they’ve dodged some bullets against schools like Columbian, Bay, and Rocky River. A potential matchup in the playoffs could be Revere and Copley if the Indians stun the aforementioned Bucks. Plus, the Pirates could meet Buckeye again in the semifinals if things fall into place. But another school to not sleep on is Toledo Central Catholic, who has won the region the last three years. Prediction: TCC over Rocky River
D4R13 – This is another good region that’ll be up for bid between many schools. No team is undefeated in the regular season and everyone has under 28 Harbin points. Though it may be the semifinals, Glenville and Lake Catholic could be for the region as both teams have made it to states historically. Overall, it won’t be easy to get out of this region, and the winner will go through many tests. Prediction: Glenville over Perry in regional finals
