East Region’s Top 15 High School Football Teams

The East region is gaining national attention this preseason, as traditionally overlooked states begin to surge onto the high school football spotlight. Maryland’s powerhouses and programs from North Carolina and New Jersey lead a renewed competitive field. This look at the top 15 clubs highlights where the talent is clustered and why analysts are watching closely.

Elite Standouts at the Top

St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, MD) opens the list with a solid 9‑1 record for 2025. The team’s defensive line features edge Jermaine Smith Jr., while cornerback Raylaun Henry anchors the secondary. Quarterback Denari Hill adds experience behind center.

DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, MD) sits second after going 11‑0 this past season. Key contributors include cornerback Langston Pridgeon, safety Kynair Crumb, and signal‑caller Tristan Sabb. Edge rusher James Pace III provides pressure on every snap.

Hough (Cornelius, NC) stands out with an unbeaten 14‑0 mark. Ethan Royal directs the offense at quarterback, supported by cornerback Joshua Dobson and safety Davion Jones. Their perfect record signals a strong challenge for any opponent.

Grimsley (Greensboro, NC) also posted a flawless 14‑0 season. Returning offensive talent includes tackle Gavin Milton, quarterback Brody Lowe, and edge Andrew Rogers. Their line play and speed on defense have made them a regional powerhouse.

Premier Private Schools in the East

Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, NJ) finished 11‑1 and features quarterback Carson Schoen, linebacker Mikhali Allen, and edge Aidan O’Neil. Their balanced attack has kept them competitive throughout the schedule.

St. Joseph Regional (Montvale, NJ) posted a 10‑2 record, highlighted by linebackers Tahj Gray and the duo of edge players Chaz Gray and Cam Aime. Their defensive depth has been a hallmark.

La Salle College (Wyndmoor, PA) reached 13‑1, powered by offensive guard Andrew Sorge, wide receiver Owen Johnson, and linebacker Zykee Scott. The team’s disciplined run game and stout defense have propelled them upward.

Roman Catholic (Philadelphia, PA) closed out with a 12‑3 mark. Key contributions come from middle linebacker Walter Hudson, safety Coron Russell, and edge AJ Wright. Their ability to generate turnovers has been critical.

Bergen Catholic (Oradell, NJ) finished 8‑3, thanks to wide receiver Austin Busso, quarterback Trey Tagliaferri, and edge Jackson Vaughn. The skill players have provided the spark needed to stay in many games.

Providence Day (Charlotte, NC) compiled a perfect 13‑0 campaign. WR Braylon Clark, interior offensive lineman Cooper Hodson, and defensive line Cory Cunningham have been instrumental.

Archbishop Spalding (Severn, MD) reached 10‑2, anchored by interior lineman Bryce Smalls, receiver Myles McAfee, and defensive lineman Brock Frisby. Their defensive front disrupts opposing offenses.

St. Peter’s Prep (Jersey City, NJ) recorded an 8‑3 season. Offensive tackle Olu Olubobola, cornerback Amiir Woodward, and safety Adrian Woodward have been consistent performers.

St. James Performance Academy (Springfield, VA) posted a 8‑1 record, highlighted by safety Kenaz Sullivan, linebackers Tyson Washington and Wesley Flamer. Their aggressive pass coverage makes them tough to read.

Catholic Memorial (West Roxbury, MA) concluded 10‑2, with standout receiver Ramar Thomas, safety Jackson Tucker, and quarterback Kingston Rust leading the charge. Their speed on the outside stretches defenses.

Central Catholic (Pittsburgh, PA) finished 13‑2, driven by quarterback James Halter, versatile linebacker/runner Roman Thompson, and tackle Jimmy Kalis. Their balanced offense keeps opponents guessing.

Watch List: Up‑and‑Coming Contenders

• West Charlotte (Charlotte, NC)
• Iona Prep (New Rochelle, NY)
• Weddington (Matthews, NC)
• Oscar Smith (Chesapeake, VA)

How the Rankings Fit Into National Picture

USA TODAY Sports will release the preseason Super 25 national rankings on Tuesday, July 21, giving fans a broader view of how these Eastern squads compare to the nation’s best. The East’s surge suggests that more eyes will be on these programs as the season progresses. Stay tuned for deeper analysis that will place these top 15 teams in the larger context of high school football.