In Maryland, the high school football scene is heating up as the 2024 season kicks off. St. Frances Academy has long been a top contender in the state, but last year’s champions, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, have taken the spotlight, opening the season with the No. 1 ranking in the SBLive Maryland Top 25. The Falcons made a significant mark last year by clinching the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference title, their first since 2016, and they seem geared up for another strong season.
Leading the way for Our Lady of Mount Carmel is Faheem Delane, a defensive back who is committed to Ohio State University. He is one part of a total of nine Division I commitments making up a strong roster. Their tough schedule will see them travel over 8,000 miles, but with a robust defensive lineup featuring SEC recruits like Blake Woodby, Bryce Deas, and Darrion Smith, they’re well-prepared for the challenge.
St. Frances Academy, after a convincing win against Pittsburgh’s Central Catholic, is also a dominant force in the league. The Panthers boast one of the best defenses in the country, complemented by a fierce offense. Additionally, the dynamic duo of Bud Coombs, a senior running back committed to Maryland, and Denzel Gardner, a Marshall-bound quarterback, is set to lead the Stags in a quest for a championship against Good Counsel, who has been their nemesis in recent seasons.
Another team to watch is Spalding, which is on a quest for a three-peat in the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association A Conference behind star quarterback Malik Washington. Despite losing their longtime coach to Westlake, they have a standout defensive lineup, including senior Trent Wilson, who is committed to Oklahoma.
The competition is fierce, with Quince Orchard also aiming for a Class 4A title, thanks to their Big Ten commits like Iverson Howard and Aydan West. McDonogh is in the mix too, hoping to bring home their first championship since 2014, with talented players like Brandon Finney and Jeff Exinor.
As the season progresses, fans remain excited about the potential for dramatic matchups and unforgettable moments. The high school football landscape in Maryland is competitive as ever, making every game a must-watch.
