The Better Made Early Season High School Football Rankings The 2023 High School Football Season is here and in full swing.  Check out Better Mades 2023 early season rankings.  

Fall in Michigan means many things.  Hoodie Season, the return of donuts & cider,  and the excitement of football. High School Football is the sport that unites families, friends, and communities as they gather to watch the younger generations compete for the chance to compete at Ford Field over Thanksgiving weekend.  The Michigan State Championship has been played at Ford Field annually, since 2005. 

As we dive into the rankings of the top 5 Michigan High School teams, the Better Made family acknowledges and appreciates the dedication and effort that every team and individual player invests in this year’s football season. We know that while games are played September through November, the games are often won in the summer.  From early morning gym sessions, afternoon runs, and into two days.  A chance to bring home a championship is way more than just 11 games.

What Makes A Great High School Football Team?

Each of the top 5 football teams brings a unique set of skills to the field. However, more goes into being a great team than just on-field performance.  Character, respect, and connection to their community all are part of the equation. Our football rankings take into account both on and off-field performance.  

Warren De La Salle Collegiate

The defending (two years running) Division Two State Champions, De La Salle Pilots are led by Junior QB Sante Gasperoni and continue to show promise this season. At De La Salle, every student is encouraged to cultivate their faith, character, intellect, and morality, which reflects the school’s motto: “Builders of Boys. Makers of Men.”

Belleville High School

The defending (two years running) Division One State Champions, Belleville High School (3-0) is led by linebacker  Jeremiah Beasley, who has committed to continue his academic and athletic career at the University of Michigan.  With an 81% graduation rate, Belleville continues to focus on improving academics along with their athletic programs.

Davison High School

Primed for its first championship since 2019,  Carter Herriman and Davison High School are ready to take the next step this season. Davison is dedicated to fostering collaboration with its students and athletes to ensure success, both on and off the field, as well as in their personal lives. Shown by their 95% graduation rate.

Northville 

Led by Senior Wide Receiver, the Mustangs are ready to make some noise this season.  In addition to its on-field excellence, Northville boasts a 99% graduation rate and an impressive 61% of all students who take at least 1 AP Exam. It’s clear Northville takes pride in its academics and athletics.  

Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central

Home of the Rangers,  The Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central team has one of their best teams in years paced by senior safety and Northwestern commit Ty Hudkins.  The Rangers pride themselves in providing students with one of the best educations in the state, as well as giving their student-athletes the opportunity to challenge themselves in STEM.

Bear Lake High School

By far the smallest school on our list, the Lakers have made history this season by hiring alumni Samantha Mullet as the head coach of their football team.  Coach Sam is officially Michigan’s first high school varsity female coach.  Bringing her NFL coaching experience back to Bear Lake, Coach Sam is proud of the positive spotlight she has placed on her hometown.  We are excited to see this small school take the field and compete in this upcoming season.

The Evolution of High School Football: A Historical Perspective

High school football has been around since the 19^th century in the United States. One of the earliest recorded high school football games took place on November 6, 1869, between two high school teams: Newburgh Free Academy in Newburgh, New York, and the Classical School in neighboring Beacon, New York. This game is often cited as one of the first high school football games, and it predates the more famous college football game between Rutgers and Princeton in 1869.

Today, high school football has since become a significant part of American high school culture and sports. The rules and organization of high school football evolved over time, leading to the sport we know today.

         In Michigan, high school football, like in other parts of the United States, has a rich and evolving history that reflects the state’s love for the sport and its impact on local communities. Football in Michigan can be traced back to the late 19th century when the sport was still in its formative years. Michigan high school football continues to be a vibrant part of the city’s sports scene. 

The High School Football Special

Football games are a true celebration of community, lively conversations, and, of course, delicious snacks. Here at Better Made, we’re excited to be a part of your next high school football game, where we can all come together and share the local love this fall. Join us for a snack as we cheer on our team while savoring some of the best snacks Michigan has to offer. Try our Party In A Box Snack Pack