OHSAA Football Playoffs: Brackets, Schedules, Results
The OHSAA (Ohio High School Athletic Association) football playoffs are a highly anticipated event in Ohio, bringing together the best high school football teams to compete for state championships. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the OHSAA football playoffs, including brackets, schedules, and results.
Understanding the OHSAA Football Playoffs
The OHSAA football playoffs involve teams from seven divisions, each divided into regions. Teams qualify for the playoffs based on their regular-season performance, with the top teams in each region earning a spot in the tournament. The playoffs culminate in the OHSAA State Championship games, where the top teams from each division compete for the ultimate title.
How Teams Qualify
Teams qualify for the OHSAA football playoffs based on a complex system that considers their record, the strength of their opponents, and other factors. Here's a general overview:
- Winning Percentage: Teams with higher winning percentages have a better chance of qualifying.
- Strength of Schedule: Playing against tougher opponents can boost a team's chances.
- Computer Points: The OHSAA uses a computer system to rank teams and determine playoff eligibility.
Key Dates and Schedule
The OHSAA football playoffs typically begin in late October or early November, with games played each weekend until the state championship games. Here are some key dates to keep in mind:
- Regional Quarterfinals: The first round of the playoffs, featuring the top teams in each region.
- Regional Semifinals: The second round, where teams compete to advance to the regional finals.
- Regional Finals: The championship game for each region, determining who moves on to the state semifinals.
- State Semifinals: The penultimate round, where regional champions compete for a spot in the state championship game.
- State Championship Games: The final games of the season, where the best teams in each division battle for the state title. The OHSAA State Championship games are typically held at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.
How to Follow the Brackets and Results
Keeping track of the OHSAA football playoff brackets and results is essential for fans, players, and coaches. Here are some resources to stay updated:
- OHSAA Website: The official OHSAA website (http://www.ohsaa.org/) is the best source for brackets, schedules, and results.
- Local News Outlets: Local newspapers and TV stations provide coverage of high school football, including playoff updates.
- High School Sports Websites: Several websites specialize in high school sports coverage, offering real-time scores and analysis.
Divisions
The OHSAA football playoffs are divided into seven divisions based on school size. This ensures fair competition among schools of similar enrollment. The divisions are:
- Division I
- Division II
- Division III
- Division IV
- Division V
- Division VI
- Division VII
Championship History
Ohio has a rich history of high school football, with many legendary teams and players emerging from the OHSAA playoffs. Each year, new teams rise to the top, adding to the legacy of Ohio high school football.
Stay updated with the latest news and scores on the OHSAA website!