The Maryland high school football state championships are upon us, and the stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling weekend of gridiron action. From the massive suburban schools in 4A to the scrappy small town schools in 1A, here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each of the five championship matchups (Quince Orchard/Wise will have its own preview, coming soon):
4A/3A Championship: #3 Mervo vs. #4 North Point (Thursday, 7 PM): In what has become a premier rivalry in the 4A/3A classification, Mervo and North Point meet again in a state championship game, though both teams are doing so after navigating some significant roster changes. North Point, having lost many key players from last year’s squad, struggled early with surprising defeats to Leonardtown and Calvert. But, like a classic championship contender, the Eagles have come roaring back in the postseason, outscoring their opponents 157-19. Their multi-headed rushing attack, combined with the steady play of QB Kyler Ferreira, has made them one of the most dangerous teams in the state once again.
Mervo, meanwhile, has bounced back from some early season hiccups, including tough losses to Middletown and Dunbar. The Mustangs’ offense, powered by dual-threat QB Davon Smith Jr., is as explosive as any in the state. Smith’s ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground makes Mervo a constant threat to put up big numbers.
While last year’s matchup was defined by defense, this year’s clash looks set to be more of a shootout. The key will be whether North Point can control the game with its methodical offense or if Mervo can force a high-scoring affair. In the end, North Point’s ability to limit Mervo’s dynamic offense while executing long, grinding possessions will likely prove to be the difference. Prediction: North Point 31, Mervo 13
3A Championship: #1 Linganore vs. #2 Arundel (Saturday, 7 PM): Linganore is back in familiar territory, with Bradly Matthews leading the Lancers to another state championship game. Matthews has been a one-man wrecking ball this season, continuing to build on his record-breaking rushing efforts. However, Arundel’s defense, particularly their front seven, will provide the toughest challenge yet. The Wildcats have shown a knack for stopping elite running backs, as evidenced by their suffocating performances against the likes of Annapolis’ Womack and Sherwood’s Johnson in the playoffs.
The question for Linganore will be whether QB Shawn Pelovitz can make enough big plays if Matthews is contained. If Arundel can bottle up Matthews, it will fall on Pelovitz to step up and become the playmaker his team needs. On the other side, Arundel’s offense, led by a dynamic ground game, will test Linganore’s defense. With both teams boasting elite units, this one promises to be a tightly contested battle, but Arundel’s more diverse attack makes them slightly more dangerous. Prediction: Arundel 24, Linganore 21
2A Championship: #1 Stephen Decatur vs. #3 Huntingtown (Saturday, 3:30 PM): Huntingtown’s path to the title has been one of resilience, overcoming early-season struggles to get back into the state championship mix. After a tough loss to Calvert, the Hurricanes rebounded with dominant playoff wins, showing they are built for the postseason grind. To knock off defending champion Stephen Decatur, however, they will need to execute a perfect game plan.
Decatur’s defense, anchored by their hard-nosed play, has shown it can hold up against any offense. But Huntingtown has been explosive when running the ball, and if they can control the tempo and keep the ball away from Decatur’s offense, they will be in good shape. For the Seahawks, star player Johnny Hobgood remains the key to their success, and his ability to break big plays will be critical. Expect a brutal, physical game with Huntingtown’s defense finding a way to stymie Decatur’s potent offense in the end. Prediction: Huntingtown 17, Decatur 14
2A/1A Championship: #1 Patuxent vs. #3 Dunbar (Friday, 4 PM): Dunbar’s dynasty has been nearly untouchable in the 2A/1A division for years, but Patuxent might just have the formula to knock them off. The Panthers, led by QB Evan Blouir, have been close to beating Dunbar in the past and will be itching to get redemption after two heartbreaking playoff losses to the Poets. Blouir’s ability to lead his team, along with a powerful running game, will be key to keeping Patuxent competitive.
For Dunbar, the challenge will be whether they can stop Blouir without overcommitting defensively, leaving themselves vulnerable to big plays. The Poets’ defense has been stout all season, but Patuxent’s balance on offense could pose problems. This will be a battle of wills, but with Dunbar’s championship pedigree and the firepower they bring, they will likely have just enough to hold off the Panthers. Prediction: Patuxent 33, Dunbar 30
1A Championship: #7 Northern Garrett vs. #8 Fort Hill (Saturday, 12 PM): Northern Garrett’s incredible run to the state finals has been the feel-good story of the year, but now they face the ultimate test: Fort Hill. The Sentinels, with their dominant defense and explosive offense, have been a juggernaut for years, and they have already defeated Northern Garrett by a decisive 42-7 margin earlier in the season.
The Huskies, who have exceeded all expectations this year, will need to come out firing early and try to exploit any weaknesses in Fort Hill’s game. But with the Sentinels’ stifling defense and their ability to score at will, it’s hard to see Northern Garrett keeping pace for four full quarters. The Huskies will put up a fight, but Fort Hill’s sheer talent and experience should carry them to another title. Prediction: Fort Hill 31, Northern Garrett 7
As we head into championship weekend, these games promise to showcase the best of Maryland high school football. From dynasties defending their thrones to new challengers trying to carve out their legacies, expect high drama, intense action, and unforgettable moments on the field.