The Arkansas High School Football Rankings for 2023-2024 reflected the hard work, talent, and commitment of teams across the state. The 2023 Arkansas high school football season came to a dramatic close in November, with Parkview capturing the 6A state championship crown and Elkins dominating the 4A classification. But as the confetti settles and players turn their attention to the offseason, one question already hangs in the air: who will be the top contenders in the 2023-2024 season?
While it’s still early to make definitive predictions, several teams have already established themselves as potential powerhouses. Here’s a look at some of the early favorites in each classification:
Read also: Arizona High School Football Rankings 23-24
Arkansas High School Football Rankings 23-24 Winter
- Greenwood
- Parkview (Little Rock)
- Fayetteville
- Bentonville
- Bryant
- Conway
- Little Rock Christian Academy (Little Rock)
- Shiloh Christian (Springdale)
- Rogers
- Benton
- Pulaski Academy (Little Rock)
- Southside (Fort Smith)
- Harding Academy (Searcy)
- Cabot
- Bentonville West (Centerton)
- Valley View (Jonesboro)
- Elkins
- Camden Fairview (Camden)
- Mills University Studies (Little Rock)
- Pine Bluff
- Hot Springs
- Lakeside (Hot Springs)
- Rivercrest (Wilson)
- Mountain Home
- Van Buren
6A
- Parkview Patriots: The defending champions return a wealth of talent, including quarterback Landon Rogers and running back Deon Johnson. With a high-powered offense and a stingy defense, Parkview looks poised for another deep playoff run.
- Bryant Hornets: Bryant always seems to be in the mix for a state title, and this year is no different. The Hornets boast a talented backfield led by running back Caden Costa, and their defense is always one of the toughest in the state.
- Conway Wampus Cats: Conway is another perennial contender, and they’ll be looking to bounce back from a disappointing first-round playoff exit in 2023. The Wampus Cats have a new head coach in Benji White, but they return a strong core of players, including quarterback Ben Rogers and wide receiver Jayden Davis.
5A
- Greenwood Bulldogs: Greenwood hasn’t lost a game since 2021, and they’re the clear favorites to repeat as 5A champions in 2024. The Bulldogs have a dominant defense led by linebacker Jake Henry, and their offense is loaded with playmakers, including quarterback Hunter Shrum and running back Peyton Martin.
- Fayetteville Purple Bulldogs: Fayetteville is always a tough out, and they’ll be looking to make a deeper playoff run in 2024. The Purple Bulldogs have a balanced offense led by quarterback Conner Kenslow and running back Caden Carver, and their defense is always stingy.
- Benton Panthers: Benton has one of the most talented rosters in the state, led by quarterback Braylen Russell and wide receiver Drake Lindsey. The Panthers are always a threat to make a run at the state title, and they’ll be looking to do just that in 2024.
4A
- Elkins Elks: Elkins dominated the 4A classification in 2023, and they’re the early favorites to repeat as champions in 2024. The Elks have a high-powered offense led by quarterback Caleb Whalen and running back Luke Smith, and their defense is one of the best in the state.
- Shiloh Christian Saints: Shiloh Christian is always a contender in 4A, and they’ll be looking to bounce back from a disappointing loss in the state championship game in 2023. The Saints have a talented roster led by quarterback Landon Rogers and running back Caden Costa, and their defense is always tough.
- Pulaski Academy Bruins: Pulaski Academy is another perennial contender in 4A, and they’ll be looking to make a deep playoff run in 2024. The Bruins have a balanced offense led by quarterback Ben Rogers and running back Jayden Davis, and their defense is always stingy.
3A and Below
The 3A, 2A, and 1A classifications are always wide open, with new contenders emerging every year. Some of the early favorites in these classifications include Harding Academy (3A), Warren (2A), and Mountain Home (1A).
Beyond the Rankings
Of course, the rankings are just one way to measure success in high school football. There are many other factors that will determine which teams ultimately have the most successful seasons in 2024. Injuries, coaching changes, and unexpected breakout players can all have a major impact on the season’s trajectory. Even teams not currently on the radar can emerge as threats if they manage to stay healthy and put together a string of impressive wins.
Key Storylines to Watch
Several intriguing storylines will unfold as the 2023-2024 season progresses:
- New Coaches, New Schemes: Several programs will have new faces at the helm in 2024. How will these changes affect the teams’ styles of play and overall performance? Will the new coaches be able to quickly implement their new systems and lead their teams to success?
- Rivalry Renewals: The state of Arkansas boasts some of the fiercest rivalries in high school football. The battles between Parkview and Bryant, Fayetteville and Bentonville, and Greenwood and Conway will be must-watch events this season.
- Star Power: High school football is always a showcase for rising talent. Players like Parkview quarterback Landon Rogers, Greenwood running back Peyton Martin, and Elkins quarterback Caleb Whalen will be household names by season’s end. Which up-and-coming players will emerge as breakout stars in 2024?
- The Road to the Championship: The journey to the state championship is never easy. Each classification will present its own unique challenges and obstacles. Who will rise above the competition and claim the ultimate prize?
Conclusion
Arkansas high school football is a cornerstone of local culture, with teams from across the state vying for supremacy. The sport plays a significant role in community identity, bringing together fans of all ages. The 2023-2024 season saw teams battling in divisions and conferences, each aiming for the coveted state championship titles.
The Arkansas High School Football Rankings for the 2023-2024 season were based on a combination of factors, including win-loss records, strength of schedule, head-to-head results, and overall team performance. Additionally, expert analyses and statewide polls played a role in determining the final standings.