Week 11 of the Ohio high school football season marks the start of the postseason, and families, churches and community members are gathering to cheer on their local teams. The first‑round match‑ups span four divisions and feature several familiar rivalries. Below is a concise preview of each game, the statistical leaders to watch, and our recommended picks.
Division I – Region 4: #9 Middletown at #8 Lebanon
Middletown finished third in the GMC with a 6‑4 record. After a rough start against the league’s top two squads, the Middies rallied to win six of their last eight games, highlighted by a 63‑6 victory over Hamilton. They have amassed 1,473 passing yards and 905 rushing yards this season. Quarterback Kolby Morgerson threw seven touchdowns, while running back Memphis Driscol contributed 500 rushing yards and seven scores. Wide receivers Ka’Leem Taylor, Julius Reed, Will Gibson and Elijah Jones have each produced big plays.
Lebanon also placed third in the ECC, posting a balanced attack. Running back Logan Schmenk led the conference with 1,471 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns. Quarterback Mason Reed threw for 1,498 yards and 13 touchdowns, adding 402 rushing yards. Wideout Wyatt Lassen caught 43 passes for ten touchdowns. Defensively, linebacker Brook Cummings recorded 72 tackles.
Both teams have proven they can dominate the lower half of their leagues, but Middletown’s recent surge gives them a slight edge at home. Bet on Middletown to survive.
Division II – Region 8: #9 Withrow at #8 Badin
Withrow entered the playoffs with an 8‑3 record after a six‑game winning streak. Quarterback/receiver Sa’Vion Davis has been a dual‑threat, posting 1,299 passing yards with 19 touchdowns and 805 rushing yards with seven scores. His top target, Charles Alexander Jr., recorded 569 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Running back Dion Clardy added 711 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. Defensive end Chris Barnes led the Tigers with 10 sacks.
Badin, coming off a loss in the GCL Co‑Ed championship, relies heavily on junior running back Chase Even, who rushed for 1,315 yards and 16 touchdowns. The Rams’ passing game has been limited, emphasizing ball control and a stout defense led by linebacker Jackson Turner (88 tackles) and defensive end Balin Wong (8 sacks).
The game could go either way, but Withrow’s balanced offense and recent momentum make them the safer choice. Bet on Withrow to pull through.
Division III – Region 12: #11 Alter at #6 Indian Hill
Alter finished third in the GCL Co‑Ed behind McNicholas and Badin. Their offense centers on running back Drew Cripps, who logged 1,153 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. The Knights have leaned heavily on the ground game and a physical defense, with linebacker Jake Botti leading the unit with 100 tackles.
Indian Hill captured a CHL crown in a three‑way tie at the top of the league. The Braves’ rushing tandem—running back Jacob Alexander (1,093 yards, 17 touchdowns) and quarterback Devlan Daniel (912 yards, 14 touchdowns)—has been difficult for opponents to stop. Defensively, safety Topher Wachtel and linebacker Joey Jernigan have been standout tacklers.
Given Indian Hill’s recent deep playoff run and balanced attack, they are the clear favorite. Bet on Indian Hill.
Division III – Region 12: #10 Goshen at #7 Hughes
Goshen enters the postseason with a 9‑1 record and a well‑rounded offense. Running back Gage Croley leads the SBAAC with 1,286 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns. Quarterback Caden Slusher has thrown for 1,148 yards and 15 touchdowns while also adding 604 rushing yards and six scores. Linebacker Brian Miller tops the defense with 84 tackles.
Hughes suffered its only loss to Withrow but remains a formidable opponent. Quarterback Faheem Muhammad has passed for 830 yards and nine touchdowns. Running back Omantae Smith contributed 654 rushing yards, and wideout Nehemiah Engleman has been a reliable target. Defensive end Kannen Adams recorded 12.5 sacks.
Hughes’ strong defensive line and balanced offense give them the edge in this matchup. Bet on Hughes to continue its successful season.
Game of the Week Preview
For a deeper look at the featured matchup of the week, see the full preview of #11 Lakota East at #6 Winton Woods, which promises another thrilling contest in Ohio’s high school football playoffs.
These first‑round games set the tone for a postseason that could see several under‑dog stories and classic rivalries. Fans are encouraged to support their local teams, enjoy the electric atmosphere at the stadiums, and pray for safe, sports‑manlike competition.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
