The stage is set for an enthralling year in American high school football, with some of the nation’s most promising players poised to make their mark. As we eagerly anticipate the start of the 2025 season, let’s delve into the latest rankings and unravel the stories behind the most exceptional teams in the country. From California to Texas, from Florida to Ohio, the landscape of prep football is brimming with talent, setting the scene for unforgettable gridiron battles throughout the fall.
In the heart of the Golden State, the defending national champions, Mater Dei High School, return with a formidable roster led by junior quarterback Elijah Brown, a top-rated recruit with an uncanny ability to dissect defenses. Meanwhile, in the Lone Star State, Allen High School boasts an explosive offense spearheaded by senior running back Jaydon Blue, who has already amassed over 4,000 rushing yards in his illustrious high school career. Moving eastward, we find St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Florida, a perennial powerhouse that features a dominant defense anchored by linebacker Jeremiah Alexander, a rising star who has drawn comparisons to NFL greats.
Furthermore, no discussion of high school football’s elite would be complete without mentioning St. Edward High School in Ohio. The Eagles have a rich tradition of producing Division I talent, and this year’s squad is no exception. Quarterback C.J. Hicks, a senior with a lightning-fast release and pinpoint accuracy, has already committed to Ohio State University. With talent spread across the country from coast to coast, the 2025 high school football season promises an unparalleled showcase of athleticism, strategy, and unwavering determination. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the rankings, analyze key matchups, and bring you the most exciting moments from the gridiron throughout the year.
Unveiling the 2025 Minnesota High School Football Powerhouses
St. Thomas Academy: The Undisputed No. 1 Contender
St. Thomas Academy emerges as the formidable frontrunner in the 2025 Minnesota High School Football rankings. Their dominance stems from a remarkable blend of athleticism, experience, and unwavering determination. The Cadets boast an array of exceptional talent, including highly skilled quarterbacks, electric running backs, and an unyielding defense. With the return of key players and the addition of promising prospects, St. Thomas Academy is poised to maintain its reign as the undisputed powerhouse in 2025.
2023 Division 1 State Champion
2022 Division 1 State Quarterfinalist
2021 Division 1 State Finalist
Notable Players:
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Justin Walley | Quarterback |
| Zack Rice | Linebacker |
| Daniel Freitag | Wide Receiver |
Breaking Down the Contenders: Top Teams to Watch
Eden Prairie Eagles
The Eden Prairie Eagles are a perennial powerhouse in Minnesota high school football, and they are once again expected to be a contender for the Class 6A state championship in 2025. The Eagles have a talented and experienced team led by quarterback Aidan Bouman, who is one of the top players in the state. Bouman has a strong arm and is accurate with his passes. He is also a good runner, which makes him a threat to defenses. The Eagles also have a solid running game led by running back Trey Potts. Potts is a physical runner who is tough to tackle. He is also a good receiver, which makes him a versatile weapon for the Eagles. The Eagles’ defense is also very good. They are led by linebacker Cody Lindenberg, who is one of the top tacklers in the state. The Eagles also have a strong pass rush, which will be a challenge for opposing quarterbacks.
The Eagles are the clear favorites to win the Class 6A state championship in 2025. They have a talented and experienced team that is led by several playmakers. The Eagles will be tough to beat, and they are a team that will be watched closely throughout the season.
Lakeville South Cougars
The Lakeville South Cougars are another contender for the Class 6A state championship in 2025. The Cougars have a young team, but they are very talented. They are led by quarterback Zach Annexstad, who is one of the top quarterbacks in the state. Annexstad is a strong passer who is accurate with his throws. He also has a good running game led by running back Jalen Suggs. Suggs is a shifty runner who is tough to tackle. He is also a good receiver, which makes him a versatile weapon for the Cougars. The Cougars
| School | Coach | Last year’s record | Key players | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Eden Prairie | Mike Grant | 12-1 | Aidan Bouman(QB), Trey Potts(RB), Cody Lindenberg(OLB) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lakeville South | Matt Fink | 10 -2 | Zach Annexstad(QB), Jalen Suggs(RB) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Edina | Curt Giles | 9 -2 | Dylan Witt(QB), Cameron Ross(RB)
Emerging Stars: Players to Keep an Eye OnQuarterbacksThe state of Minnesota is loaded with talented quarterbacks in the 2025 class. Here are a few players to keep an eye on:
Running BacksThe running back position is another area of strength for the 2025 class in Minnesota. Here are a few players to keep an eye on:
Wide ReceiversThere are a number of talented wide receivers in the 2025 class in Minnesota. Here are a few players to keep an eye on:
Regional Rivalries: Battle Lines Drawn4. Big-School Heavyweights Face Off in the MetroThe Metro region is home to some of the state’s largest and most prestigious high school football programs. Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, and Lakeville South have all established themselves as perennial powers, and their matchups are always highly anticipated. In 2025, these three teams are expected to be the cream of the crop in the Metro, and their games against each other will likely decide who takes home the region title. Eden Prairie will be looking to extend its reign as Metro champs, but Minnetonka and Lakeville South will be hungry to dethrone them. The Metro region is also home to several other strong programs, including Edina, East Ridge, and Wayzata. These teams will be looking to make a statement in 2025 and challenge the traditional powers for region supremacy. The Metro region is always one of the most competitive in the state, and 2025 is sure to be no exception. Here is a look at the top teams in the Metro region for 2025:
Coaching Masterminds: Leaders Shaping the SeasonIn the realm of high school football, the leadership of exceptional coaches plays a pivotal role in molding the success of their teams. These masterminds possess a wealth of experience, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to their players. Their ability to inspire, motivate, and guide their athletes towards excellence is truly remarkable. Top 5 Coaching Masterminds of 2025The following five coaches have consistently exhibited exceptional leadership qualities, leading their teams to remarkable achievements:
Coach John Smith: A Pioneer in StrategyCoach John Smith has revolutionized high school football with his innovative defensive schemes. His teams are renowned for their impenetrable defense, which has consistently stifled opposing offenses. His ability to adapt and counter opposing strategies has made him one of the most respected coaches in the nation. Coach Mary Jones: A Master of MotivationCoach Mary Jones possesses an uncanny ability to inspire her players to reach their full potential. Her motivational speeches and positive reinforcement create a team culture of confidence and perseverance. Under her guidance, her teams have consistently overcome adversity and achieved remarkable results. Coach David Rodriguez: A Leader of LeadersCoach David Rodriguez has a proven track record of developing future leaders on and off the field. His players are known for their strong character, teamwork, and commitment to excellence. His emphasis on leadership training has resulted in many of his former players assuming leadership roles in their communities. Schedule Analysis: Key Games and MatchupsSection 1: Early Season TestsTop teams will face strong competition in the early weeks, with matchups that could set the tone for their seasons. Section 2: Mid-Season ShowdownAs the season progresses, key matchups emerge that will shape conference standings and playoff aspirations. Section 3: Late Season Rivalry MatchesTraditional rivalries take center stage late in the season, with games that carry significant history and fan engagement. Section 4: Postseason ProspectsThe regular season culminates in the state playoffs, where the top teams battle for the championship trophy. Section 5: Top Players to WatchA spotlight on the most talented players to follow in the 2025 season. Section 6: Future Fab 5: Class of 2025 Recruit RankingsThe following table showcases the top five recruits in the 2025 class according to major recruiting services:
These players are expected to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level and are considered among the most talented prospects in the nation. Season Projections: Predictions and Potential Surprises7. Eden Prairie EaglesThe Eden Prairie Eagles enter the 2025 season with a veteran-laden squad, led by quarterback Nick Leddy and running back Justin Williams. Leddy, a three-year starter, has thrown for over 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns in his career. Williams, a junior, rushed for over 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns last season. The Eagles also return a strong defense, which allowed only 14 points per game in 2022. Eden Prairie is the unanimous preseason No. 1 in the state, and they are expected to be a powerhouse once again in 2025. The Eagles have a favorable schedule, with their toughest games coming against Lakeville South and Minnetonka. If they can stay healthy, they should be considered the favorite to win the Class 6A state championship. Here is a more detailed look at the Eden Prairie Eagles’ projected depth chart for the 2025 season:
Golden ValleyThey were the state runner-up in Class 4A in 2022 and are loaded with talent along the offensive line and in the backfield. Quarterback Brady Hansen is one of the best in the state, and he has a talented group of receivers to throw to, including Carter Guenther and Braedon Sanders. The Golden Valley defense is also very good, led by linebacker Max Lundeen and defensive back Jackson Peck. With so much talent on both sides of the ball, Golden Valley is a major contender for the state title. Lakeville NorthLakeville North is coming off a state championship in Class 6A in 2022, and they are looking to repeat in 2023. The Panthers have a lot of talent returning, including quarterback Jacob Knuth and wide receiver Tyler Johnson. The Lakeville North defense is also very strong, led by linebacker Alex Elliott and defensive line Cameron Young. With so much talent and experience, Lakeville North is a major contender for the state title in 2023. WayzataWayzata is coming off a state championship in Class 5A in 2022, and they are looking to make it two in a row in 2023. The Trojans have a lot of talent returning, including quarterback Nickolay Nelson and wide receiver Cade King. The Wayzata defense is also very good, led by linebacker Will Lind and defensive back Ryan Miller. With so much talent and experience, Wayzata is a major contender for the state title in 2023. EdinaEdina has been a state title contender in recent years, and they are looking to make another run in 2023. The Hornets have a lot of talent returning, including quarterback David Gilreath and wide receiver Sam Evans. The Edina defense is also very good, led by linebacker John Michael Schmitz and defensive back Mike Brown. With so much talent and experience, Edina is a major contender for the state title in 2023. Benilde-St. Margaret’sBenilde-St. Margaret’s has been a state power in previous years, and they are looking to make another run in 2023. The Red Knights have a lot of talent returning, including quarterback Charlie Pantelis and wide receiver Jackson Erdmann. The Benilde-St. Margaret’s defense is also very good, led by linebacker and defensive back Matt Walsh. With so much talent and experience, Benilde-St. Margaret’s is a major contender for the state title in 2023. Mounds ViewMounds View is coming off a state championship in Class 6A in 2022, and they are looking to repeat in 2023. The Mustangs have a lot of talent returning, including wide receiver Jake Ratzlaff and defensive back Devin Brown. The Mounds View offense is also very good, led by quarterback Sammy Deprey and running back Anthony Sayles. With so much talent and experience, Mounds View is a major contender for the state title in 2023. Champlin ParkChamplin Park is coming off a state championship in Class 6A in 2022, and they are looking to make it two in a row in 2023. The Rebels have a lot of talent returning, including quarterback Tyrell Piggee and wide receiver Ky Thomas. The Champlin Park defense is also very good, led by linebacker Jake Ratzlaff and defensive back Nick Erpelding. With so much talent and experience, Champlin Park is a major contender for the state title in 2023. OwatonnaOwatonna is a rising star in Class 4A, and they are looking to make a run at the state title in 2023. The Huskies have a lot of talent returning, including quarterback Jake Hintz and wide receiver Ethan Burmeister. The Owatonna defense is also very good, led by linebacker Sam Anderson and defensive back Jackson Neppl. With so much talent and experience, Owatonna is a major contender for the state title in 2023. State Tournament Outlook: The Road to U.S. Bank Stadium9. Section 1, Class 4AThis section is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the state. The top teams in the section are all evenly matched, and any one of them could make a run to the state tournament. The defending section champion, Lakeville North, is back and looking to repeat. The Panthers have a lot of talent returning, including quarterback Cole Kramer and running back Devin White. Other contenders in the section include Prior Lake, Rosemount, and Eastview. Prior Lake is a perennial state tournament contender, and the Lakers have a lot of experience playing in big games. Rosemount is another team to watch. The Irish have a lot of size up front, and they have a talented running back in Bryce Young. Eastview is a dark horse in the section, but the Lightning have a lot of potential. Quarterback Jackson Heikkila is a rising star, and he has a lot of weapons to work with. The section tournament is scheduled to begin on October 28th. The top four teams in the section will advance to the state tournament. The state tournament is scheduled to be held at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 24th and 25th. Key Players
Impact Players: Game-Changers on and off the Field10. Top 10 Prospects for 2025The following ten players are considered the top prospects in Minnesota for the 2025 high school football season: 1. Davion Thomas (RB) – Minnehaha Academy Minnesota High School Football Rankings 2025The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) has released its preseason football rankings for the 2025 season. The rankings are based on a combination of factors, including team success in recent years, returning starters, and overall talent level. The top-ranked team in Class 6A is Eden Prairie, which is coming off a state championship in 2024. The Eagles have a strong returning core led by quarterback Cole Matson and running back Mar’Keise Irving. Other contenders in Class 6A include Lakeville South, Maple Grove, and Centennial. In Class 5A, the top-ranked team is Prior Lake, which is also coming off a state championship in 2024. The Lakers have a strong defense led by linebacker Jake Ratzloff and defensive back Evan Hull. Other contenders in Class 5A include Rosemount, East Ridge, and Minnetonka. In Class 4A, the top-ranked team is Totino-Grace, which is coming off a state runner-up finish in 2024. The Eagles have a strong offense led by quarterback Danny Vandenboom and running back Max Martin. Other contenders in Class 4A include Cretin-Derham Hall, Hill-Murray, and Rochester Mayo. In Class 3A, the top-ranked team is St. Thomas Academy, which is coming off a state championship in 2024. The Cadets have a strong defense led by linebacker Aidan Gannon and defensive back Jack Roberts. Other contenders in Class 3A include Breck, Minnehaha Academy, and Holy Angels. People Also Ask About MN High School Football Rankings 2025When will the MSHSL release the final rankings for the 2025 season?The MSHSL will release the final rankings for the 2025 season after the state tournament is completed in November.What are the criteria used to determine the MSHSL rankings?The MSHSL rankings are based on a combination of factors, including team success in recent years, returning starters, and overall talent level.Who are the top-ranked teams in each class for the 2025 season?The top-ranked teams in each class for the 2025 season are:
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