High school football in Columbus, Ohio, is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season, filled with new divisions, intriguing matchups, and some notable team movements.

First off, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has announced the divisional breakdowns for the upcoming season. A total of 706 schools will be participating in 11-man football, with the regular season kicking off the week of August 18[2].

One of the most significant changes involves team divisions. While no schools opted to move up to Division I from the lower divisions voluntarily, there are some key shifts. Winton Woods, for instance, is making the jump from Division II to Division I, a move that could bring some thrilling competition to the top tier[4][5].

In Central Ohio, several teams are experiencing divisional changes due to enrollment and competitive balance adjustments. The Badin Rams are returning to Division III after a stint in Division II, while Purcell Marian is stepping up to Division V from Division VI. Cincinnati Country Day, on the other hand, is dropping down to Division VII due to a decrease in enrollment[5].

Local fans will also be keen to follow the Dover Crimson Tornadoes, who have announced their 2025 schedule. The Tornadoes will play 10 games, including notable contests against Columbus Academy, Mansfield Madison, Maple Heights, Steubenville, and West Holmes. Other teams on their schedule include Ashland, Glenoak, Linsly, New Philadelphia, and Wooster[3].

The competitive balance formula, which considers factors such as male student enrollment, continues to shape the divisions. This formula ensures that teams are matched against opponents of similar strength, making for more balanced and exciting games.

For those eager to stay updated, the OHSAA will provide weekly computer points starting from Week 4, and the state playoffs information will be available as the season progresses[1].

As the season approaches, the anticipation is building. With new divisions, exciting matchups, and teams looking to make their mark, the 2025 high school football season in Columbus, Ohio, promises to be one to remember. So mark your calendars, download the SBLive Sports app for live updates, and get ready to cheer on your favorite teams as they take the field this fall.