As the regular season comes to a close, the excitement is building across the Hoosier State. The Class 3A state football tournament is just days away, and the question on everyone’s mind is: who will punch their ticket to Lucas Oil Stadium and make memories that will last a lifetime? Let’s break down the tournament with Indiana Preps’ “Four Downs.”
1st Down: How Wide Open is Class 3A?
In one word—wide open. With Bishop Chatard now in Class 4A, this year’s Class 3A state tournament feels more unpredictable than ever. On paper, there are at least 10 teams that have a legitimate shot at capturing the state title. Contenders like Ole Miss, Garrett, Maconaquah, Lawrenceburg, Cascade, Heritage Hills, Evansville Memorial, Evansville Mater Dei, Gibson Southern, and Heritage all have the tools to make a deep run. These teams possess dynamic playmakers on both sides of the ball, creating potential matchup nightmares. With health, defense, and a solid ground game being critical in postseason football, the stage is set for a competitive and thrilling tournament.
2nd Down: How Tough is Sectional 32?
Sectional 32 is a gauntlet. With multiple powerhouse teams, it’s arguably the toughest sectional in Class 3A. Top-ranked Evansville Memorial (9-0) kicks things off against rival Evansville Mater Dei (7-2), a game that could easily steal the spotlight as the matchup of the weekend. In addition, Mount Vernon Posey (4-5) travels to face Shortridge (7-2), with the winner facing either Memorial or Mater Dei in the next round. On the other side of the bracket, Vincennes Lincoln (3-6) meets Princeton (1-8), while Heritage Hills (8-1) faces off against Gibson Southern (7-2) in a high-stakes rematch. Sadly, two quality teams will be sent home after the first round. Although it’s a blind draw, pairing heavyweights like Memorial vs. Mater Dei and Heritage Hills vs. Gibson Southern in the opening round feels almost unfair. Whichever team emerges victorious will be battle-tested and ready to make a serious run at Lucas Oil Stadium.
3rd Down: Who Could Be a Dark Horse?
A surprising dark horse this season is Cascade, despite their perfect (9-0) record. The Cadets have flown under the radar due to their unconventional but highly effective Delaware-style Wing-T offense, which is fast-paced and hard to prepare for. Cascade has dominated with impressive wins over North Putnam, Northview, and Greencastle, regularly putting up over 400 yards of offense per game. Their defense is equally tough, and this team’s belief in itself makes Cascade a difficult opponent for anyone they face. They could be the sleeper team to keep an eye on this postseason.
4th Down: Can Heritage Hills Return to the Class 3A Title Game?
Heritage Hills has a legitimate chance to make another deep run after reaching the state title game last season. The Patriots have been a force this year, with senior quarterback Jett Goldsberry leading the offense alongside wide receiver Tyler Ruxer. On defense, Hunter Meredith and Donnie Kline provide the Patriots with formidable playmakers who can disrupt any opposing offense. Should they survive their tough opening-round game against Gibson Southern, they could face Evansville Memorial in the sectional final—a game that could decide the path to Lucas Oil Stadium. Heritage Hills has the experience and talent to be in the mix for a return trip to the championship.
With all these storylines in play, the Class 3A state tournament promises to deliver plenty of excitement. Who will rise to the occasion? Stay tuned as the road to Lucas Oil Stadium unfolds.