The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) hosted the 2025 Football State Championships at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.
From Dec. 4-6, high school teams across the state traveled to Canton to compete for their division title. Out of seven divisions, three of the matchups had Northeast Ohio representation from Cuyahoga, Lake and Lorain County. Avon, Glenville and Kirtland won state titles, displaying Northeast Ohio's dominance.
The Division II final between Avon vs. Cincinnati Anderson kicked off the weekend with high energy on Dec. 4. This was a rematch of the 2024 State Championship, one that Avon won 20-13. Avon secured back-to-back state titles, defeating the Raptors 37-20. This title is the Eagles' 19th state tournament appearance and second state title in program history. Senior quarterback Blake Elder led Avon to victory, throwing four touchdown passes, tying the Division II State Championship game record.
The Glenville Tarblooders are no stranger to the OHSAA Football Final either, as they looked to secure three state titles in four years. This was their 22nd appearance in the OHSAA state tournament. Jaquan Gibson scored Glenville's first points, returning a punt for 92 yards. The punt return touchdown was the longest in an OHSAA State Championship game across all divisions. Senior running backs Romell Phillips and Chris Newell Jr. were also standout players from the game. Phillips ran for 133 yards and was named the game MVP while Newell added 81 yards and two touchdowns. Ultimately, the Tarblooders defeated the Whippets 45-7, and earned their third title in school history.
Kirtland won their eighth state title, defeating Hopewell-Loudon 41-6 in the Division VI state final. This was the Hornets' 14th appearance in the Final Four and 21st total playoff appearance. Kirtland has competed in the state championship game for eight consecutive years, winning five out of those eight. Head coach Tiger LaVerde became the third football coach in OHSAA history to win eight or more state championships. Senior running back John Silvestro earned MVP honors of the game, tying the Division VI record with four rushing touchdowns and 255 rushing yards. The Hornets closed championship weekend by continuing their streak of dominating Division VI football.
Athletes and coaches from each team will be invited to the Browns vs. Bills game on Dec. 21, where they will be recognized for their incredible season and championship success.
