Columbia, South Carolina, October 3, 2025
News Summary
As the South Carolina high school football season reaches its midpoint, several teams are facing unexpected challenges. Dutch Fork and Hammond see their championship hopes tested as they recover from recent losses. Meanwhile, teams like Irmo and Newberry continue to excel, boasting perfect records. Upcoming matchups will play a crucial role in the playoff picture, with key games on the horizon that could further shake up the standings.
COLUMBIA, South Carolina – The South Carolina high school football season is at its midway point, with many teams having already completed five or six games. The regular season is scheduled to conclude on October 31, and the playoffs are set to begin the following week.
Despite entering the season as perennial champions, both Dutch Fork and Hammond are facing significant challenges this year that could affect their championship hopes. Dutch Fork’s stronghold was recently broken when Class 3A champion Oceanside Collegiate ended the Silver Foxes’ remarkable 24-game winning streak with a close 24-20 victory on September 20. After their recent bye week, Dutch Fork is regrouping and preparing for critical region play. It’s worth noting that under coach Tom Knotts, Dutch Fork had previously rallied from a 2-5 start in 2023 to capture the state title.
Similarly, Hammond’s impressive 28-game streak was snapped by Northside with a 23-10 loss, marking the Skyhawks’ first defeat to a SCISA team since October 2020. This season, Hammond’s offense has averaged 21 points per game, bolstered mainly by a 56-0 blowout against Hilton Head Christian.
On the rise, Irmo has emerged as a strong contender. Despite losing key players to graduation, they currently sit atop the SC High School Media Poll at No. 1, boasting a perfect 5-0 record after a series of strong performances. Newberry is also making headlines with its best start since 2017, showcasing a 6-0 record and a standout performance from quarterback Kenton Caldwell.
Gray Collegiate recorded its biggest win yet this season by defeating unbeaten North Augusta 41-31, with impressive leadership from freshman quarterback Xavier Wright. Ridge View, with a 3-2 record, is contending for the region title, even while managing injuries to key players such as quarterback Tre Howard and receiver Khristian Jackson.
Swansea is enjoying an undefeated season at 6-0, aiming to surpass previous years’ win totals, displaying a robust running game and effective defense. In an encouraging turn, Eau Claire is celebrating its best season in years with a 4-2 record, securing more wins this year than in the last four seasons combined. North Central has also shown improvement with a solid 5-1 start after a challenging previous season.
As the season progresses into its second half, teams like Heathwood Hall and Westwood are aiming to enhance their records, while Richland Northeast and Chapin continue to struggle, with respective records of 0-6 and 0-5. Key upcoming matchups include South Pointe versus Camden, Ridge View versus Sumter, and Dutch Fork versus Irmo, which are anticipated with great excitement.
The State Newspaper’s mid-season top-10 power rankings highlight teams such as Irmo, Dutch Fork, and Ridge View leading their divisions. South Carolina high school football rankings are dynamic, with teams like Gray Collegiate Academy climbing the ranks following significant victories.
Upcoming Games to Watch
- South Pointe vs. Camden
- Ridge View vs. Sumter
- Dutch Fork vs. Irmo
Current Standings Overview
| Team | Record | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Irmo | 5-0 | Top of SC High School Media Poll |
| Newberry | 6-0 | Best start since 2017 |
| Swansea | 6-0 | Strong running game and defense |
| Eau Claire | 4-2 | Best season in years |
| Richland Northeast | 0-6 | Struggling this season |
| Chapin | 0-5 | Struggling this season |
FAQ Section
What is the current season record for Dutch Fork?
Dutch Fork is regrouping after a bye week before starting region play.
Which team ended Dutch Fork’s streak?
Class 3A champion Oceanside Collegiate ended Dutch Fork’s 24-game winning streak with a 24-20 victory on September 20.
How is Hammond performing this season?
Hammond’s 28-game winning streak was snapped by Northside, losing 23-10, marking the Skyhawks’ first loss to a SCISA team since October 2020.
What teams are currently undefeated?
Swansea and Newberry are both currently undefeated with records of 6-0.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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South Carolina High School Football Rankings Released
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Additional Resources
- SI: South Carolina High School Football Rankings
- On3: South Carolina High School Football Rankings
- The State: High School Football Overview
- Greenville Online: SC High School Football Scores
- Live 5 News: Lowcountry High School Football
- Wikipedia: South Carolina High School Football
- Google Search: South Carolina High School Football
- Google Scholar: South Carolina High School Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina High School Football
- Google News: South Carolina High School Football
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