Several high school football teams in Northwest Indiana are making headlines as they prepare for the upcoming season. The focus is on Crown Point, Merrillville, Valparaiso, and Andrean, who are all participating in different class levels of competition.
Top 10 Teams
1. Crown Point (10-1)
Crown Point Bulldogs have dominated the Duneland Athletic Conference with four consecutive undefeated regular seasons. Under the leadership of Craig Buzea, the team has shown resilience and skill. Key players include senior quarterback Tyce Custy heading to Lindenwood, senior tight ends Anderson Keller and Cooper Malaski, and a robust defensive lineup.
2. Merrillville (11-3)
The Pirates excelled last season, reaching the Class 5A state championship. With the reclassification to 6A, they look to continue their successful streak. Senior quarterback Michael Hill Jr. aims for a strong comeback after an injury, and senior Cameron Jordan adds strength to their running game.
3. Andrean (13-1)
Andrean, the reigning Class 2A state champion, now competes in 3A. The team boasts talented players like senior Ethan Reyna, set to join Purdue, and junior Javier McCoy, a top prospect. Junior Dylan Gore takes over as quarterback, backed by a seasoned lineup.
4. Valparaiso (2-8)
Valparaiso faces challenges after being reclassified to 6A. However, with nine returning starters on defense and senior leadership on both ends of the field, the Vikings are ready to reclaim their competitive form.
5. Michigan City (8-4)
Under the new coaching of Charles Salary, the Wolves aim to build on their recent sectional championship. The team features Indiana recruit Jeremiah Jones and a host of returning key players for a promising season.
6. Hobart (10-3)
Hobart looks to maintain its momentum following a sectional title win. Senior quarterback Aleks Tatum leads the charge with key contributors across the roster, including Bryce Tolliver and Aiden Kasch.
7. Lowell (9-3)
Lowell continues its growth under Coach Casey McKim. Players like junior Tymothy James and senior Beau Ison provide a solid foundation for the upcoming competition.
8. Chesterton (5-5)
Chesterton aims for its first sectional title with senior Zane Westerlund leading the defense. With developing talent in the squad, the team is poised for progress.
9. Griffith (9-2)
Griffith eyes another successful season, building on its conference championship. The veteran offensive line and record-setting quarterback Ryan Bullion spearhead their efforts.
10. Morton (6-4)
Morton comes into the season as the Great Lakes Athletic Conference champion. The team features junior Corderro Bennett Jr. and a promising squad ready for the challenges of Class 4A play.
25 Players to Watch
- Corderro Bennett Jr., Morton, junior, wide receiver
- Tyce Custy, Crown Point, senior, quarterback
- Gavin Edwards, Griffith, senior, offensive lineman
- Quentavious Fly, Bowman, junior, wide receiver/defensive back
- Rigby Gora, Valparaiso, senior, offensive lineman
- Dylan Gore, Andrean, junior, quarterback
- Jace Harris, Highland, senior, defensive lineman
- Michael Hill Jr., Merrillville, senior, quarterback
- Tymothy James, Lowell, junior, running back
- Jeremiah Jones, Michigan City, senior, offensive lineman
- Cameron Jordan, Merrillville, senior, running back
- Anderson Keller, Crown Point, senior, tight end
- Anthony Layman, Hanover Central, senior, tight end/linebacker
- Javier McCoy, Andrean, junior, linebacker/running back
- Sal Montes, Boone Grove, junior, quarterback/defensive back
- Landen Murray, Andrean, senior, defensive lineman
- Brody Ramirez, Lake Central, senior, linebacker
- Reed Raymond, LaPorte, senior, running back
- Ethan Reyna, Andrean, senior, linebacker/running back
- AJ Summers, Crown Point, sophomore, linebacker
- Aleks Tatum, Hobart, senior, quarterback
- Bryce Tolliver, Hobart, senior, defensive back/wide receiver
- Tyler Vo, Andrean, junior, wide receiver
- Conner Welch, Wheeler, senior, linebacker/tight end
- Zane Westerlund, Chesterton, senior, linebacker