The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has released its highly anticipated weekly computer rankings for the eighth week of the 2026 high school football season. These comprehensive rankings are a critical indicator for teams vying for a spot in the playoffs, as only the top 12 teams from each region will earn a berth in the postseason tournament, with the elite top four receiving a coveted first-round bye. This latest report provides an in-depth look at the top 16 contenders across all seven divisions, offering a detailed snapshot of the season's competitive landscape as teams push towards the ultimate goal of championship contention. Fans and teams alike are scrutinizing these figures, which will continue to be updated weekly until the final selections are made on October 25th.
OHSAA Unveils Crucial Week 8 Football Ratings: Playoff Picture Takes Shape
COLUMBUS, Ohio – On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) issued its third official weekly computer ratings for the current high school football season. These ratings are pivotal for the 706 schools participating in 11-man football across the state, as they directly influence playoff qualification. According to OHSAA regulations, the leading 12 teams within each region will secure a spot in the playoffs, and the top four seeds will benefit from an initial round bye, gaining a significant advantage in their quest for state glory.
The current standings reveal a fiercely competitive environment across all divisions. Division I, which encompasses the 72 largest schools along with those that voluntarily moved up, showcases robust competition across its four regions. Region 1 sees Lakewood St. Edward (6-1) at the helm with a commanding 21.3049 points, closely followed by Mentor (5-2) and Hudson (6-1). Similarly, Region 2 is led by Perrysburg (7-0), while Gahanna Lincoln (7-0) dominates Region 3, and Cincinnati Princeton (7-0) tops Region 4.
In Division II, standout teams include Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit (5-1) in Region 5 and Avon (5-2) in Region 6. Sunbury Big Walnut (7-0) leads Region 7, and Cincinnati Anderson (6-1) is at the forefront of Region 8. The competitive spirit extends to Division III, where Salem (7-0) leads Region 9, Celina (7-0) in Region 10, Newark Licking Valley (7-0) in Region 11, and Bellbrook (7-0) in Region 12.
Divisions IV through VII also feature intense competition. Rocky River (7-0) leads Division IV's Region 13, with Shelby (7-0) heading Region 14. Gnadenhutten Indian Valley (6-0) is strong in Region 15, and Cincinnati Wyoming (7-0) is a top contender in Region 16. In Division V, Perry (7-0) leads Region 17, LaGrange Keystone (6-0) in Region 18, Ironton (6-1) in Region 19, and St. Paris Graham Local (6-1) in Region 20. Division VI highlights Kirtland (6-1) in Region 21, Lima Central Cath. (7-0) in Region 22, Nelsonville-York (7-0) in Region 23, and Portsmouth West (6-1) in Region 24. Finally, Division VII sees Cuyahoga Hts. (6-1) leading Region 25, Bascom Hopewell-Loudon (7-0) in Region 26, Willow Wood Symmes Valley (7-0) in Region 27, and Maria Stein Marion Local (7-0) in Region 28.
These detailed ratings, which include win-loss records and point totals, provide a clear picture of each team's standing. The complete official report is accessible via the OHSAA website for an exhaustive review of all participating teams. The next update will be released weekly, culminating in the final crucial report on Sunday, October 25, 2026, which will finalize the playoff brackets.
This detailed weekly breakdown serves as a vital compass for high school football teams across Ohio, guiding them through the competitive season. It underscores the importance of every game, as each victory and defeat significantly impacts a team's standing and playoff aspirations. For dedicated players, coaches, and fervent fans, these rankings are more than just numbers; they are a testament to hard work, strategic prowess, and the dream of championship glory. They inspire continued effort and fierce competition, driving teams to perform at their peak as the postseason draws nearer.
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