The Class 4A state football tournament is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and wide open tournaments in recent years. With big-time players, high-scoring teams, and intriguing first-round matchups, this tournament has something for every football fan. Let’s dive into Indiana Preps’ “Four Downs” to break down the Class 4A tournament.

1st Down: Can Bishop Chatard Win a Title After Moving Up to Class 4A?

After winning last year’s Class 3A state title, Bishop Chatard has moved up to Class 4A—and they are certainly a team to watch. Rob Doyle’s Trojans are 6-2, with their only losses coming to powerhouse teams Cathedral and Cincinnati Elder. As always, Bishop Chatard enters the postseason battle-tested and well-prepared. This year’s squad is strong, capable of putting up points quickly, and has a defense that can hold opponents in check. However, the road to Lucas Oil Stadium is a challenging one. The Trojans open with an athletic Crispus Attucks team and could face tough opponents like Northview, Roncalli, Danville, or Brebeuf Jesuit in the sectional title game. If they advance out of the sectional, the path only gets harder. But with Doyle at the helm, expect the Trojans to be ready for whatever comes their way.

2nd Down: Which Teams Could Make a Deep Run?

Several teams have the potential to make a deep run in this year’s tournament, including East Noble, Martinsville, Danville, Bishop Chatard, and Columbia City. However, one team that should be on everyone’s radar is New Palestine. The Dragons just completed another undefeated regular season and have been dominant all year, regardless of classification. Last week, in their regular season finale, New Palestine outgained Delta 483-49, marking the fourth consecutive game in which they held an opponent to under 100 yards of total offense. Running back Josh Ranes is a game-changer, with the ability to run for over 200 yards and find the end zone at will. Quarterback Jacob Davis has also emerged as a strong leader, making the Dragons a formidable force in the postseason.

3rd Down: Is the Class 4A South the Toughest Road to Lucas Oil Stadium?

Without a doubt, the Class 4A South is the toughest path to Lucas Oil Stadium. With teams like New Palestine, Greenfield-Central, Bishop Chatard, Roncalli, Danville, Brebeuf Jesuit, Martinsville, Silver Creek, and the Evansville schools, the competition is fierce. Some of these great teams will be turning in their equipment much sooner than expected, and whoever makes it through the South will be battle-tested. It’s truly a “Murderer’s Row” of quality teams fighting for a spot at Lucas Oil Stadium, ensuring that the eventual representative from the South will have earned their way there.

4th Down: Who Could Be a Surprise Team This Year?

One team to watch in the North is Lebanon. The Tigers have won six straight games heading into the postseason and looked impressive in their recent win over Western Boone. Quarterback Jackson Folden is the real deal, having thrown for 180 yards and three touchdowns last week. Lebanon will face a tough test against Culver Academy, led by talented quarterback Michael McColgan. If the Tigers can get past Culver Academy, they could be in a strong position to contend for a sectional crown and make a deep playoff run.

With so much talent and excitement in this year’s Class 4A tournament, fans can expect a thrilling ride to Lucas Oil Stadium. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds!