High School Football Teams and Players to Watch

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The 2025 high school football season in Indiana is shaping up to be competitive. Notably, Merrillville and Valparaiso have moved up to join No. 1 Crown Point in Class 6A. Meanwhile, defending 2A state champion Andrean will compete in 3A.

Top 10 Teams

1. Crown Point (10-1)

Under the guidance of Craig Buzea, the Bulldogs aim to maintain their dominance. They have achieved four straight undefeated regular seasons and secured Duneland Athletic Conference titles. Senior players like Tony Brooks, Zach Clark, and Connor Cavalcante bolster their offensive line. The team is solid at skill positions, featuring senior quarterback Tyce Custy and running backs Brayden Schutt and Max Gurnic. Tight ends Anderson Keller and Cooper Malaski add to their strength. Defensively, Jashua Daniels, Ben Clark, Garrett Ortiz, and AJ Summers play pivotal roles, with Oliver Brewer excelling as kicker/punter.

2. Merrillville (11-3)

The Pirates reached the Class 5A state championship game last season, marking their first appearance at this level since 1976. Now reclassified to 6A, they remain formidable. Key players include senior quarterback Michael Hill Jr. and running back Cameron Jordan. Defensive leadership comes from senior linebacker A’marie Eller and lineman Josiah Horton.

3. Andrean (13-1)

After winning the Class 2A state title, the 59ers are strong contenders in 3A. Headliners include senior Ethan Reyna and junior Javier McCoy. Other valuable players are wide receiver Tyler Vo and quarterback Dylan Gore. The defense features Landen Murray, while the offense is supported by seniors Brady Stovall and Mark Grubbs Jr.

4. Valparaiso (2-8)

The Vikings hope to bounce back after a challenging season. With a return to Class 6A, they bring back key players like junior Rigby Gora and senior wide receiver Jimmy Parisi. Their defense includes senior linebackers Brody Wheeler and Evan Courtney, along with Nicolas Fry and JQ Varnado in the backfield.

5. Michigan City (8-4)

New coach Charles Salary aims to continue building the Wolves’ success. Key returnees include senior Jeremiah Jones and lineman Dezmon Howard. With players like Meek Laurent and Jack Soller, the team looks to build on its recent sectional title win.

6. Hobart (10-3)

With their first sectional title in years under their belt, the Brickies promise to be strong contenders. Senior quarterback Aleks Tatum leads a roster featuring Bryce Tolliver and Aiden Kasch. They are joined by players like Vontrell Jones and Brenton Thompson.

7. Lowell (9-3)

Under coach Casey McKim, Lowell will build on last year’s performance. Tymothy James emerges as a key figure in offense, joined by Beau Ison and Gage Wimberly.

8. Chesterton (5-5)

The Trojans are in search of their first sectional title, with Zane Westerlund playing a leading role. Bradley Robinson and quarterback Hunter Boyd will also be key to their success.

9. Griffith (9-2)

Defending Greater South Shore Conference South champions, Griffith has set its sights on a sectional title. Anchored by Gavin Edwards, they feature senior Ryan Bullion and standout Jason Quillin.

10. Morton (6-4)

The Governors, last year’s Great Lakes Athletic Conference champions, boast a skilled lineup led by Corderro Bennett Jr. Promising quarterback Amari Price and running back Michael Walker Jr. add to their offensive depth.