High school football rankings: Playoff picture takes shape as final league game looms
The season’s final week is here, and while some teams have playoff spots secured, others’ future depends on this Friday’s results.
Central Catholic continued to prove it can compete with the best in the section after Friday’s comeback win over projected Division II top 5 seed Manteca and Florida State commit Blake Nichelson. Despite Nichelson’s monster seven-touchdown, 400-plus-yard game, Tyler Wentworth, Tyler Jacklich and company exploded in the third en route to victory.
Oakdale was the only Stanislaus District team to lose Friday. The Mustangs lost to Valley Oak League opponent Kimball when their final drive fell just short with 47 seconds left after they failed to convert on fourth down.
Patterson finished its season last week with a win over Buhach Colony. Including the COVID-shortened spring season, the Tigers have won 17 straight games against Central California Conference opponents. They will await their Division III playoff seeding.
Escalon looks to finish the season strong after struggling out of the gate. A big shutout win against Ripon last week and a win against Livingston on Friday can continue the Cougars’ momentum into the postseason.
1. Central Catholic (5-4, 4-0)
Last Week: 56-49 win over Manteca
This Week: vs Sierra
2. Downey (9-0, 4-0)
Last Week: 51-10 win over Gregori
This Week: vs Pitman
3. Turlock (5-4, 3-1)
Last Week: 56-16 win over Enochs
This Week: vs Gregori
4. Patterson (9-1, 6-0)
Last Week: 28-28 win over Buhach Colony
This Week: BYE
5. Oakdale (6-3, 2-2)
Last Week: 39-34 loss to Kimball
This Week: at Manteca
6. Hilmar (6-3, 5-0)
Last Week: 49-8 win over Modesto Christian
This Week: vs Riverbank
7. Hughson (7-2, 4-1)
Last Week: BYE
This Week: vs Ripon
8. Escalon (6-3, 3-2)
Last Week: 43-0 win over Ripon
This Week: at Livingston
9. Orestimba (8-1, 6-0)
Last Week: 44-14 win over Denair
This Week: at Gustine
10. Ripon Christian (7-2, 5-1)
Last Week: 35-7 win over Gustine
This Week: at Delhi
