The latest rankings in Connecticut high school football reflect a week of intense competition, with several teams experiencing significant shifts. In the Hartford Courant Top 10 coaches’ poll, three ranked teams suffered losses, yet all maintained their positions within the Top 10. This week’s highlight included Wilton’s narrow victory over the previously third-ranked Greenwich, showcasing the unpredictable nature of high school sports.
Wilton High School, boasting an impressive record of 8-0, moved up to third place after defeating Greenwich 7-3. The victory allowed Wilton to gain nearly 100 points in the poll, placing them just two points behind Killingly High School, which remains unbeaten at 8-0 and holds the second spot. Killingly, the defending CIAC Class SS champion, showcased its dominance with a remarkable 63-27 victory over Norwich Free Academy, highlighted by Hayden Allard setting state records for interceptions returned for touchdowns.
The defending Class LL champion, Greenwich, fell to 6-2 and dropped to sixth place after their second loss to a Top 10 team. Their earlier defeat was to top-ranked New Canaan, who triumphed 14-7 on October 24, 2023. Despite the setback, Greenwich aims to bounce back in their next matchup against Darien, another competitive team.
Another significant game involved Hand edging out Fairfield Prep 20-17. Hand’s victory marked the third consecutive year that the smaller program overcame the larger Jesuits. Hand’s record now stands at 7-1, moving them up to fourth in the rankings, while Fairfield Prep holds steady at seventh.
Friday also saw a surprising upset as Southington defeated Windsor 28-7. Windsor, who had been unbeaten and ranked fourth, now holds a 7-1 record after this defeat. Southington’s win, alongside notable performances from their players, has earned them a spot in the Top 10 at number ten.
As the season progresses, the competition remains fierce. Here’s a detailed look at the current Top 10 rankings:
1. New Canaan, 8-0, 388 points (12 first-place votes), Class L
The Rams secured a decisive 28-0 victory over Staples, rallying for head coach Lou Marinelli, who missed his first game since the program’s 1980 season due to health issues. They will face Trumbull next.
2. Killingly, 8-0, 350 points, Class SS
Allard’s standout performance led to record-setting interceptions, contributing to Killingly’s strong position. They are set to play Waterford next.
3. Wilton, 8-0, 348 points, Class MM
Known for their resilience, Wilton’s next matchup is against St. Joseph, currently ranked fifth.
4. Hand, 7-1, 300 points, Class SS
Lucca Boyce had an impressive game, running for 200 yards in their latest victory. Hand will meet West Haven next.
5. St. Joseph, 6-2, 264 points, Class M
Coach Joe Della Vecchia celebrated his 200th career victory after defeating Fairfield Ludlowe. They are next scheduled to face Wilton.
6. Greenwich, 6-2, 262 points, Class LL
Struggling with penalties and missed opportunities, Greenwich looks to recover against Darien.
7. Fairfield Prep, 6-2, 202 points, Class LL
Remaining seventh, Prep’s next challenge will be against Law.
8. Cheshire, 6-2, 199 points, Class L
Cheshire’s recent success, including a win over Hand, has drawn attention. They face Amity next.
9. New Britain, 7-1, 178 points, NR, Class LL
New Britain powered past Platt and will play Manchester next.
10. Windsor, 7-1, 174 points, Class MM
Windsor aims to recover from their loss against Southington in their upcoming game against East Hartford.
As the Connecticut high school football season heats up, teams will continue to battle for top positions, making every match crucial for playoff aspirations. The rankings reflect not just performance but also the strength of opposition faced, underscoring the competitive spirit that defines high school football in the region.
