By Brian Carroll –
As we approach this final weekend of the regular season, Strath Haven and other high school football fans will be wondering what next week’s playoff schedule may look like. With many games still to be played this weekend, lots can change in terms of the game results. That being said, we’re taking our best guess as to where teams could land as the 5A District 1 playoffs begin on 10/31/25. Brian’s Predictions
Please note that this is simply a prediction, and it could change drastically if there are unexpected results. It is not meant to disparage or downplay any of the efforts of any teams– it’s simply our quick estimation, based on the PIAA’s Power Ranking System, of where teams may (or may not) be playing in the postseason. Ultimately, this is just for fun. We’re not worried about being “right” or “wrong” in the predictions, as the teams will play it out on the field. “That’s why they play the games…” 😉The explanation on rankings and how the points system works can be found here: https://www.piaad1.org/sports/fall-sports/football/power-ranking/
A few games for this week that will likely have significant impact on the rankings include:
- Strath Haven at Springfield: A win for Springfield clinches the #1 seed, and would keep them atop the Central League. A win for Haven should solidify the #4 seed, and give them a possible share of the Central title if GV beats Ridley.
- Garnet Valley at Ridley. A win for GV would guarantee a home playoff game and could be as high as a 5 or 6 seed. A win for Ridley gives them at least a share of the Central League title since 2016.
- Oxford at Kennett: A battle for the ChesMont South title, Oxford could grab a home playoff game with a win. Kennet would likely solidify the #5 seed with a win.
- Upper Perkiomen at Spring Ford: A win for Upper Perk clinches the PAC title and would likely launch them into the top 8 for a home playoff game.
- Chester at Quakertown: This game was just added to Chester’s schedule when Quakertown’s original opponent, Cheltenham, suspended their season. A Chester win, a Lincoln win on Saturday, AND a Springfield loss could give the Clippers the top seed in 5A.
- Pottsgrove at Perkiomen Valley : It’s “win and you’re in” for Pottsgrove as they visit the Vikings. If not, they miss the field and likely keeps Upper Dublin in the top 16.
- Academy Park at Interboro: AP needs a win and some help to possibly grab the 16 spot.
After the District 1 committee finalizes the bracket on Sunday afternoon, we’ll be sure to post the matchups on the website. Good luck to all, and we’re looking forward to a fun and exciting Week 10 and playoff season!
