Week 1 Power Rankings Across Divisions
The opening week of the Wisconsin high school football season has already produced a cascade of storylines, as the Bound Wisconsin Football Coaches Poll reflects both surprise ascents and familiar dominance. In Division 1, Arrowhead, the defending state champions, sit at the summit after a decisive opening victory, while Bay Port, Muskego, Hamilton and West De Pere round out the top five, setting a competitive tone for the year.
Division 2 sees Notre Dame surge to the lead after a narrow win over Neenah, a team that remains the sole Division 1 entrant with a loss on its record. Monona Grove, Homestead, Kaukauna and New Richmond follow, suggesting a deep pool of contenders behind the Irish.
In Division 3, Catholic Memorial’s commanding win over Milwaukee Bradley Tech has propelled them to the top spot, eclipsing traditional powers that have faltered early. Grafton holds seventh place after a tight loss to Mount Horeb/Barneveld, while Pewaukee secures second after a strong showing against Greendale.
Division 4 is led by Freedom, which blanked Lake Mills 40‑0, with Little Chute close behind after last year’s runner‑up finish. The early dominance of these programs hints at a potential shift in the traditional hierarchy.
Division 5’s Darlington has cemented its No. 1 ranking with a running‑clock victory over Saint Mary’s Springs, while Mayville, Grantsburg, Amherst and Lake Country Lutheran occupy the next slots. The poll also notes the emergence of new entrants such as Kenosha St. Joseph, now competing in Division 6.
The upper divisions feature Cloverbelt at the forefront of Division 6, with Mondovi and Regis trailing, and Edgar close behind after a runner‑up finish last season. In Division 7, Cochrane‑Fountain City returns to the summit after a prior runner‑up placement, while Black Hawk/Warren, Coleman, Lourdes Academy and Boyceville round out the top five.
Beyond the rankings, the schedule promises additional drama. Neenah prepares for a rematch with Notre Dame, while Arrowhead is slated to face the Rockets in a highly anticipated matchup. The early season also marks the start of the 8‑player division, where McDonell, the defending champion, sits atop, with Owen‑Withee, Belmont, North Crawford and newcomer Assumption close behind.
As the poll settles into its rhythm, coaches and fans alike will watch closely to see whether these early leaders can maintain their momentum or be challenged by the many programs eager to prove themselves.