As the Florida high school football scene heats up, the latest FHSAA power rankings reveal some exciting developments. Currently, Choctawhatchee holds the top spot in Class 4A with a power ranking of 19.804, closely followed by St. Augustine at No. 2 with a ranking of 19.488. Meanwhile, Vero Beach continues to dominate as the No. 1 overall high school football team in Florida, boasting an impressive power ranking of 22.901. Cardinal Mooney and Miami Northwestern round out the top three overall with power rankings of 22.668 and 22.219, respectively, the latter having secured a forfeit win over Orange Lutheran (California) due to an ineligible player.
The FHSAA rankings not only reflect team performance but also determine playoff placements. The top seed in each class guarantees home field advantage through the state semifinals, setting the stage for thrilling matchups across various classes. As we look ahead, a multitude of games will have significant implications for playoff positioning.
Upcoming Games and Playoff Picture
If the season ended today, several teams from the Emerald Coast would be in the playoff picture, including the Crestview Bulldogs, Baker, Choctaw, Freeport, Niceville, and South Walton, as noted in the FHSAA Power Ranks. Baker boasts an unblemished record of 9-0, while Choctaw is right behind at 8-0. Upcoming games include Baker traveling to Port St. Joe and Choctaw visiting Fort Walton Beach (2-6). Crestview (4-3) will host Tate (6-2) at Jack Foster Stadium, and Niceville (4-4) welcomes Milton (7-1) to Eagle Stadium. Freeport (4-3) seeks to end a three-game losing streak against Walton (2-6), while South Walton (6-2) travels to Pensacola Catholic (7-1) for the District 1-2A championship.
The current playoff brackets are shaping up nicely. In Region 1 for Class 6A, we have Buchholz facing Crestview, and in 5A, Mainland will take on Niceville. In Class 4A, St. Augustine is set to battle Booker T. Washington, while Choctawhatchee faces Escambia. These matchups promise to deliver some nail-biting action as teams vie for a chance to play for the state title.
FHSAA Rankings and the Road Ahead
With the FHSAA using the MaxPreps Rankings formula starting this season, the rankings are published every Tuesday leading up to the playoffs. The Week 10 rankings were released on October 28, 2025, showcasing not only the rankings but also each team’s strength and current record. For instance, the top 10 teams include Vero Beach, Cardinal Mooney, and Miami Northwestern, each proving themselves as formidable contenders in their respective classes.
As we approach the postseason, the competition will intensify. District champions automatically qualify for the playoffs, making every game crucial. The excitement surrounding high school football in Florida is palpable, especially with teams like Choctawhatchee and Baker making headlines. For more detailed rankings and updates, check out the official FHSAA website. You can also read more about the rankings from the Palm Beach Post and the Northwest Florida Daily News.
With so much on the line, fans and players alike are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying finish to the season. Stay tuned for more updates as teams strive for glory on the gridiron!