The 2026 Ohio Preseason MaxPreps Top 25 high school football rankings spotlight Washington (Massillon) as the frontrunner after a 9-4 season. Key returning recruits include Ohio State-bound athletes Deontay Malone and Savior Owens, alongside Braylon Gamble headed to Boston College. Other notable teams in the top rankings are Anderson and St. Edward, both of whom are positioned to make significant impacts this season. The rankings highlight rising prospects like Jamier Brown and Kellen Wymer, with multiple players committed to Ohio State. Ohio's reigning champions cover several divisions, showcasing the depth of talent across the state.

By the Numbers
  • Washington (Massillon) finished with a 9-4 record in 2025.
  • Other top-ranked teams include Anderson (Cincinnati) at No. 2 with a 14-1 record.
State of Play
  • Washington opens the season ranked No. 47 in the national top 100.
  • Several Ohio teams, such as Anderson and St. Edward, also appear in the national rankings.
What's Next

As the season progresses, key matchups, including Washington against reigning Division IV champion Glenville, will be pivotal for determining rankings and playoff prospects. Player performances, especially from Ohio State commits, will be closely monitored and could impact recruitment and future seasons.

Bottom Line

Ohio high school football is primed for an exciting season, with top teams and exceptional talent set to emerge. Keeping an eye on the developments, particularly around young athletes, will be crucial for fans and college scouts alike as the landscape of high school football continues to evolve.