As the 2024 high school football season kicks off in Columbus, Ohio, the excitement is palpable. Here’s a rundown of what you need to know to stay in the loop.

### Season Kickoff and Key Games

The season began on August 23, with several high-profile games already making headlines. For instance, Week 1 saw Cleveland Glenville facing off against Upper Arlington, while in the Southwest region, Cincinnati Archbishop Moeller battled Cincinnati Princeton[2,.

As we move into Week 5, some compelling matchups are on the horizon. On September 20, Grove City will take on Hilliard Darby in the Central region, and Cincinnati Turpin will face Loveland in the Southwest region.

### Players to Watch

Central Ohio is brimming with talented players this season. Among the top seniors are names like Denim Cook from Hartley and Jake Cook from Westerville North, who is also an Ohio State commit. Sophomore QB Declan O'Neil is ready to lead Hilliard Bradley, while Taizaun Burns from Gahanna Lincoln and Terris Dudley from Hilliard Bradley are also players to keep an eye on.

The Dispatch has compiled extensive lists of the top 25 seniors, top 25 juniors, top 15 sophomores, and top performers in various positions, including quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and more.

### Television and Live Coverage

Spectrum News 1 is the official television partner of the OHSAA, broadcasting the Friday night Game of the Week for the Northeast, Central, and Southwest regions. Games are available on Spectrum News 1, the Spectrum News App, and at OHSAA.tv. This coverage expands during the playoffs to include all state semifinal and championship games.

### Coaches and Team Changes

New head coaches are making their mark in central Ohio this season. Coaches like Stephen Ayers from Beechcroft and Jason Peters from Grandview Heights are sharing their insights and strategies through The Dispatch’s “Coaches Confidential” series.

Additionally, there are changes in OHSAA playoff divisions for some teams, and Olentangy coach Wade Bartholomew has made headlines for his selfless act of becoming an organ donor to save a colleague’s life.

### Health and Safety

The OHSAA is emphasizing health and safety, particularly with resources on preventing exertional heat stroke, concussion protocols, and the use of AEDs in athletics. These measures ensure that players are protected and educated about the importance of safety in sports.

### State Playoffs and Championships

The regular season will wrap up on October 26, with playoff qualifiers announced the next day. The regional playoffs will begin on November 1, leading up to the state semifinals on November 29 and the state championships from December 5-7 in Canton.

With comprehensive coverage from The Dispatch, including weekly schedules, scores, and live streaming options, you won’t miss a beat of the action-packed 2024 high school football season in Columbus, Ohio. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as the season unfolds.