MHSAA Football Playoffs Kick Off This Weekend with 288 Teams

Detroit, Michigan – The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) begins its 51st season of high school football playoffs this weekend, continuing its legacy of providing unforgettable experiences while showcasing Michigan’s top teams.

A total of 288 teams will compete, with 8-player brackets concluding in four weeks and 11-player divisions crowning champions in five weeks. The action kicks off with 129 games on Friday and 15 on Saturday.

Tickets for the District and Regional Semifinals this weekend are priced at $7 and can be purchased online. Most playoff games will be broadcast for viewing with a subscription.

Among the standout first-round matchups, Davison (8-1) will take on Clarkston (8-1) for the first time since 2022. Clarkston enters the playoffs after securing the Oakland Activities Association Red championship, with its only loss coming in a close match against undefeated Harper Woods.

Davison’s sole defeat was also against a still-undefeated team, Grand Blanc, in Week 7. This matchup is expected to draw significant attention on Friday.

Traverse City Central (5-4) will face Traverse City West (5-4) on Friday after the latter won their annual Patriot Game in overtime last week. The Titans lead the rivalry with three consecutive victories, giving them a slight edge as they prepare for the playoffs.

Another intriguing game is Zeeland West (6-3) at Niles (9-0). Zeeland West won the Division 3 title last season but now faces Niles, a former Division 4 runner-up that has moved up to Division 3.

Fans are eager for the rematch between Big Rapids (8-1) and Ludington (9-0). Ludington looks to maintain its perfect record since 1989, while Big Rapids aims to secure an upset after winning their last matchup in the District Semifinal.

The playoffs signify a fresh start, as teams like Capac return for the first time since 2011. Capac, at 7-2, is determined to make an impact against Brown City.

As the excitement builds, teams will vie for glory over the coming weeks, with champions set to be crowned shortly after the first round wraps up.