As the 2024 high school football season kicks off, teams across MoCo are gearing up for what promises to be another exciting year. With standout players and championship aspirations, here are the top 10 teams to watch as they look to make their mark on the gridiron:
1. Northwest Jaguars: After a stellar 2023 campaign that saw them reach the 4A state quarterfinals, the Northwest Jaguars are hungry for more. Led by Marshall commit Cam Nti, wide receiver Rahmise Jones, and versatile athlete Anthony Gengarella, this team has the firepower to take it a step further this season. The Jags open their season at home against Watkins Mill on Friday.
2. Quince Orchard Cougars: The Cougars were eyeing a three-peat last season but were stopped in the second round of the state playoffs. Now, with a star-studded roster featuring Maryland commit Iverson Howard, Michigan State commit Aydan West, and Central Michigan commit Triston Pierre, Quince Orchard is determined to return to championship glory. They’ll face a tough challenge in their season opener against South County (VA) on Saturday.
3. Churchill Bulldogs: Churchill had an impressive 2023, advancing to the state semifinals. Quarterback Vasi Hallas will be leading the charge this year, looking to take the Bulldogs all the way to Annapolis. The Bulldogs open their season at home against Seneca Valley on Friday, in what promises to be a thrilling contest.
4. Paint Branch Panthers: Coming off a 6-5 season, the Panthers are poised for a deeper playoff run in 2024. With Penn State commit Yvan Kemajou anchoring the defense, Paint Branch is hoping to reclaim their status among the elite in Montgomery County. However, they’ve hit an early snag, as they will forfeit their Week 1 matchup against Northwood due to an offseason violation.
5. Sherwood Warriors: The Sherwood Warriors had a solid season last year, reaching the second round of the playoffs. This season, wide receivers Jaden Nix and Brendan Heyer, along with defensive lineman Michael Robles, will be tasked with leading the charge. Sherwood kicks off their campaign against Rockville at home on Friday.
6. Walter Johnson Wildcats: Walter Johnson had a breakout 2023, reaching the state quarterfinals. With quarterback Jake Forburger and defensive lineman Jonny Fisher returning, the Wildcats have their sights set on making an even deeper playoff run this year. Walter Johnson hosts BCC on Friday in what’s sure to be an early-season showdown.
7. Damascus Hornets: The Damascus Hornets are looking to bounce back after an uncharacteristic first-round playoff exit last season. Running back Michael Cooley and offensive linemen Daniel Darmon and Noah Fosten will be critical to their resurgence. The Hornets travel to Einstein on Friday for their season opener.
8. Blake Bengals: Blake made history in 2023, reaching the state semifinals for the first time. With wide receivers Joey Faunteroy and Jeremiah Anamalechi-Ford leading the way, the Bengals are hoping to continue their rise this season. Blake hits the road to face Whitman on Friday.
9. Gaithersburg Trojans: The Gaithersburg Trojans had a strong 2023 campaign, bowing out in the second round of the playoffs. With the departure of All-Met running back Gideon Ituka to Wisconsin, there are questions about who will step up to lead the offense. The Trojans will travel to Clarksburg on Friday to start their season.
10. Bethesda-Chevy Chase (BCC) Barons: The BCC Barons are looking to climb into the top tier of teams after a solid 7-5 season last year. They’ll have an opportunity to prove themselves right out of the gate, as they travel to Walter Johnson for the first leg of the Congressional Cup on Friday.
With powerhouse programs, big-time college commits, and intense rivalries, this season is shaping up to be one to remember. Keep an eye on these teams as they fight for playoff spots and championship glory.