Charlotte, NC, July 30, 2025
News Summary
HighSchoolOT has named the West Charlotte Lions as the top high school football team in North Carolina for the upcoming season, narrowly edging out Grimsley. This year marks a notable transition for West Charlotte as they move to the 8A classification after previously winning the 3A state championship. With key players like star quarterback Jamouri Nichols leading the offense and a strong defensive strategy, the Lions are set for an intense competition, especially against their rival Grimsley in the opening week of the season.
Charlotte, NC – HighSchoolOT has named the West Charlotte Lions as the top team in its 2025 preseason statewide football rankings, narrowly edging out the Grimsley Whirlies, who have taken the second spot. This year marks a significant new chapter for West Charlotte, as they transition to the 8A classification after claiming the N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A state championship last season.
HighSchoolOT ranks all eligible schools across North Carolina, compiling a statewide Top 25 and separate top 15s for each of the state’s six area codes. The highly anticipated matchup between the top two teams will take place in the opening week at the “Keep Pounding High School Classic.”
The West Charlotte Lions, led by quarterback Jamouri Nichols, have established themselves as a formidable threat on both offense and defense. Nichols is recognized for possessing one of the five most accurate passing arms in the state. The Lions’ defense showcases an aggressive strategy, effectively overwhelming opponents from various angles.
In close pursuit, Grimsley returns to the spotlight with its own strong talents, primarily the five-star quarterback Faizon Brandon, who recently led his team to a 16-0 record and a 4A state championship last season. Brandon amassed 2,814 passing yards and 35 touchdowns, making him a powerful asset as he enters his senior year. However, Grimsley faces challenges as they work to replace key players such as 2,000-yard rusher Mitchell Summers and defensive end Bryce Davis, who both graduated last spring.
Top Five Rankings
Hough High School sits at No. 3, aiming to maintain its strong performance despite undergoing a quarterback change this year. Hough’s defense is touted to have the best lineup of defensive backs and receivers in North Carolina. Rounding out the top five teams are Weddington at No. 4 and Cardinal Gibbons at No. 5. Weddington’s defense, specifically their front seven, is lauded as the best in the state, although they are looking to fill some crucial offensive positions. Meanwhile, Cardinal Gibbons, led by quarterback Gannon Jones, is anticipated to field one of the region’s highest-scoring offenses.
A noteworthy aspect of this ranking is the regional distribution of the teams, with seven of the top ten and sixteen of the top twenty-five schools located in the western half of North Carolina. Notably, defending 1A state champion Tarboro is ranked No. 23 and is expected to be a favorite in the new 2A classification. Additionally, Monroe, last year’s 2A champion, ranks No. 24, with runner-up Seventy-First positioned at No. 21 in the 3A classification.
Upcoming Season Details
High school football practice officially began this week, with forecasts indicating heat indexes may soar to triple digits. Public and charter schools kicked off their practice sessions on Wednesday, while private institutions commenced on Monday. The first games of the season are scheduled for August 15, with the major event night set for August 22.
Grimsley enters the season with the longest active winning streak in North Carolina at 16 games, followed by Monroe with 15, Tarboro at 10, and West Charlotte, which boasts a nine-game winning streak.
Key Matchups
Excitement builds as notable Week 1 games include Grimsley facing off against West Charlotte at Bank of America Stadium and Hough going up against South Pointe from South Carolina, also at the same venue. With so many talented programs competing, North Carolina football fans are in for an exhilarating season.
Chart: Key Features of the Preseason Rankings
| Ranking | Team | Key Players | Previous Season | Notable Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | West Charlotte | Jamouri Nichols (QB) | 3A State Champions | Aggressive defense, accurate passing |
| 2 | Grimsley | Faizon Brandon (QB) | 4A State Champions | 16-game winning streak, 35 TDs last season |
| 3 | Hough | N/A | Strong supporting cast, QB change | Best defensive back collection |
| 4 | Weddington | N/A | Strong front seven | Filling offensive positions |
| 5 | Cardinal Gibbons | Gannon Jones (QB) | High-scoring offense expected | Highest-ranked eastern team |
FAQ Section
What is the preseason ranking for high school football teams in North Carolina?
HighSchoolOT released its preseason rankings with West Charlotte ranked No. 1, followed closely by Grimsley.
When do high school football practices start?
Practices began this week, with public and charter schools starting on Wednesday and private schools on Monday.
When is the first game of the season?
The first games are scheduled for August 15, with a major event night on August 22.
Who are some notable players in the upcoming season?
Key players include Jamouri Nichols from West Charlotte and Faizon Brandon from Grimsley, who is considered one of the best quarterbacks in the state.
Which teams had the longest winning streak in the last season?
Grimsley holds the longest active winning streak at 16 games, followed by Monroe with 15 games.
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Additional Resources
- HighSchoolOT: HSOT Football Statewide Rankings
- Wikipedia: High School Football
- Charlotte Observer: High School Sports News
- Google Search: High School Football North Carolina
- SI: Coach Accused of Inappropriate Relationship
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football (Sport)
- QC News: Coach Accused of Inappropriate Relationship
- Google News: Charlotte High School Football
Author: HERE Charlotte
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