The Colorado high school football playoffs are set, with first-round action kicking off Friday night in Class 5A and 4A. Here’s a breakdown of what to watch for in these top divisions leading up to the state championships on Dec. 7 at Canvas Stadium.

Class 5A

The Favorite
Cherry Creek: The Bruins are aiming for their seventh consecutive championship appearance. Led by legendary coach Dave Logan, who holds a record 12 state titles, Cherry Creek boasts a highly skilled roster with multiple Division I prospects. After facing a challenging out-of-state schedule, they are poised for another strong run.

The Challengers

• Mountain Vista: The Golden Eagles are on a historic unbeaten run, led by record-breaking quarterback Austyn Modrzewski, a South Dakota commit. Averaging 55.1 points per game, Mountain Vista’s offense has been unstoppable this season.
• Columbine: Known for their toughness, the Rebels return with a formidable lineup, including a strong running duo, James Basinger and Mark Snyder, who have combined for 40 touchdowns.
• Ralston Valley: After narrowly losing to Cherry Creek last year, the Mustangs are back with QB Zeke Andrews and linebacker Matt Gates, hoping to finally clinch the championship.
• Legend: In a standout season, the Titans have shown resilience, falling only to Columbine in a tight contest. With a powerful offense and defensive star John Niedringhaus, they’re aiming for their first title-game appearance.
• Valor Christian: Although they fell to Mountain Vista, the Eagles have defeated strong teams and feature versatile junior Cash Spence, who excels on both offense and defense.

The Dark Horses

• Pine Creek: This team put up a close fight against Cherry Creek earlier in the season, showing they have the potential for a deep playoff run.
• Erie: Moving up to 5A this year, the former 4A champions have held their own against top teams. With standout players like Braylon Toliver on offense and Carson Hageman anchoring the defense, Erie remains competitive.

Key Questions

1. Can Fairview Make an Impact?
   With a 10-0 record, Fairview’s high-powered offense, led by star wideout Jordan Rechel, looks promising. But having faced only three playoff teams, their postseason potential remains to be seen.
2. Can Anyone Stop Mountain Vista’s Offense?
   Modrzewski’s array of talented receivers and a formidable offensive line make the Golden Eagles a tough opponent. Shifty running back Jack Blais adds to their versatility.
3. Does Parity Have a Chance?
   Since 2017, the 5A championship game has featured Cherry Creek, Columbine, or Valor Christian. Could a new team finally break into the final this year?

Class 4A

The Favorite
Montrose: The No. 2 seed is in a strong position to end a 74-year title drought, thanks to a physical team that has already beaten three of the bracket’s top seeds.

The Challengers

• Dakota Ridge: With a nine-game winning streak, depth, and a driven roster, the top-seeded Eagles are poised for a title run.
• Pueblo West: Dual-threat QB Gavin Lockett and a stingy defense make the Cyclones a serious contender, with their only loss coming in a close game against Montrose.
• Palmer Ridge: Despite a midseason loss, Palmer Ridge’s potent offense has them well-positioned to compete for a title.
• Broomfield: With an undefeated record against 4A teams and defensive star Mikhail Benner, Broomfield has the pedigree to contend.
• Mesa Ridge: Known for a high-scoring offense led by dual-threat QB Bryce Riehl, the Grizzlies could make a run if their defense steps up.

The Dark Horses

• Durango: Solid defense and a capable QB in Cully Feeney make Durango a tough out, especially after a season that kept them competitive against top teams.
• Ponderosa: The Mustangs, bolstered by emerging RB De’Alcapon Veazy, have momentum and could pose a threat to higher seeds.

Key Questions

1. Is This a Western Slope Renaissance?
   With four Western Slope teams in the bracket and two of them top-seeded, the region could see unprecedented success this year.
2. Which First-Round Team Could Make a Run?
   Teams like Heritage, Northfield, and Riverdale Ridge show promise, but Riverdale Ridge’s defense stands out as a strong playoff asset.
3. Is This Bracket Wide Open?
   With Montrose as a slight favorite, there’s a real chance for any of 6-7 teams to claim the title. This competitive field promises an exciting and unpredictable 4A playoff run.

Get ready for an exhilarating playoff season!