AIA’s Decision to Exclude 4A Teams from Open Division Playoffs Sparks Controversy in Tucson Football

In Tucson, the AIA’s recent decision to remove 4A Conference teams from the Open Division high school football playoff consideration has caused quite a stir. This decision is seen as a win for 4A teams, especially with the release of the first big-school ratings just last week. When the AIA shared its initial Open ratings on Tuesday, it showed that the 5A Conference is currently leading with notable teams.

The top three rated Open teams are all from the 5A Conference, with Marana taking the top spot, followed by Scottsdale Desert Mountain and Gilbert Higley. Marana’s head coach, Phillip Steward, expressed pride in ranking No. 1, emphasizing the team’s hard work and future prospects. “We appreciate the rankings,” said Steward. “It shows what we have been building over here in Marana.”

Meanwhile, the defending Open state champion, Peoria Liberty, is currently ranked No. 8. With a record of 4-1, Liberty stands strong in The Arizona Republic’s Super 10 rankings. Their only loss came from a match against California’s powerhouse, Corona Centennial. If these ratings hold, Liberty would face Marana in the playoffs, although adjustments are expected as the season progresses.

Critics have raised concerns about the AIA’s methodology, as ratings are determined by a computer system that does not involve human judgment. The process favors the largest schools, with 6A teams getting the highest ratings. According to AIA regulations, only the top teams from the 6A and 5A Conferences qualify for the Open playoffs based on school ratings and multipliers.

Currently, 6A teams such as Chandler Basha and Brophy Prep are vying for a spot in the playoffs, but several other prominent 6A teams find themselves outside the Open rankings. Notably, the computer rankings differ significantly from MaxPreps’ rating system, which predicts that Basha is the top team, followed by Liberty and Red Mountain.

As the playoff picture continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these rankings will shake out in the coming weeks. With so much still on the line, every game matters, and teams are looking to secure their spots in the playoffs.