Five weeks into the season, the picture of West Virginia high school football is getting much clearer, with several dominant teams separating themselves from the competition. While the top tier remains largely unchanged, dramatic upsets and explosive offensive performances have defined the latest Top 25 rankings.
These rankings, compiled using the respected Massey Ratings model (a system that analyzes game outcomes, strength of schedule, and margin of victory), highlight the best programs in the state as we head into Week 5.
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1. Bridgeport Indians (5-0)
The Bridgeport Indians are firmly entrenched as the state’s No. 1 team and show no signs of slowing down. After a perfect 2024 season that ended with a Class AAA state championship, the Indians are maintaining that elite level of play. Last week, they delivered a jaw-dropping 77-6 rout of Robert C. Byrd. With a favorable schedule ahead, Bridgeport is a strong contender to run the table at 14-0 for the second consecutive year. They face Fort Hill this Friday.
2. Huntington Highlanders (3-1)
The Huntington Highlanders have hit their stride, erasing the memory of their season-opening loss with three straight victories. Their most significant win came early in the season when they upset Martinsburg, 22-20, avenging a Class AAAA state semifinal loss from last year and firmly establishing themselves at the top of the AAAA ranks. Coming off a bye week, the Highlanders are fresh and ready for action this Friday night against Capital.
3. Martinsburg Bulldogs (3-2)
After their worst start since 2015 at 0-2—including a challenging opener against New Jersey’s Camden—the Martinsburg Bulldogs have found their legendary rhythm. They’ve taken out their early frustrations on opponents, tallying an impressive 116 points across their last three consecutive victories. This week, the Bulldogs have a chance to secure a fourth straight win when they travel to face Musselman (1-3) on Friday night.
4. Morgantown Mohigans (5-0)
The Morgantown Mohigans are playing at an exceptionally high level, entering the Top 5 with a perfect 5-0 record. They sent a clear message last Friday, defeating Spring Mills 21-0 in a statement defensive victory. Morgantown has previously breezed past teams like Parkersburg, Jefferson, and Hedgesville by a combined score of 134-21. This program now faces a critical three-game stretch, starting with a very good Wheeling Park team this week, followed by a huge matchup with Martinsburg on October 10th.
5. Princeton Tigers (4-0)
Few offenses in West Virginia are clicking like the Princeton Tigers right now. The undefeated Tigers are averaging a staggering 42 points per contest. Their success is anchored by senior quarterback Chance Barker, who has been highly efficient, completing 30 of 48 passes for 483 yards, six touchdowns, and only one interception. The Tigers are back at home this week to take on Winfield (3-1).
West Virginia High School Football Rankings: Nos. 6 – 25
| Rank | Team (Record) |
| 6. | George Washington (5-0) |
| 7. | Independence (5-0) |
| 8. | Wheeling Park (4-1) |
| 9. | Herbert Hoover (4-1) |
| 10. | Spring Mills (3-2) |
| 11. | Frankfort (5-0) |
| 12. | University (4-1) |
| 13. | Fairmont (3-1) |
| 14. | Nitro (4-1) |
| 15. | Chapmanville (4-0) |
| 16. | Spring Valley (3-2) |
| 17. | Bluefield (3-2) |
| 18. | Wheeling Central Catholic (4-1) |
| 19. | North Marion (4-1) |
| 20. | Parkersburg (3-2) |
| 21. | Jefferson (0-4) |
| 22. | Musselman (1-3) |
| 23. | Winfield (3-1) |
| 24. | Wahama (5-0) |
| 25. | The Linsly School (1-4) |
Which unbeaten team outside of the Top 5—like George Washington or Independence—do you think has the best shot at cracking the elite group soon?
