IHSAA football preview: Class 4A predictions, top players in Central Indiana

East Central was one of the most untouchable teams in recent memory last season, dominating traditional powers like Evansville Memorial, New Palestine and NorthWood on its way to a 15-0 season and second consecutive Class 4A state title.

The Trojans are gone now, though, at least from 4A. East Central moved up to 5A via the tournament success factor. But 4A will be a strong class again, particularly in Central Indiana, where there are several programs, including the 2022 and ’23 Class 3A state champion, Bishop Chatard, that appear ready to make a tournament run.

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Three regular-season games that will shape 4A:

Bishop Chatard at Brebeuf Jesuit, Aug. 23: Yes, Week 1. Get your popcorn and settle in because this could be a good one and potentially just a warmup for a sectional showdown. Chatard handled the Braves 49-23 in last year’s opener and have traditionally controlled this series, but Brebeuf could challenge this year with its high-powered offense and improved defense.

Greenfield-Central at New Palestine, Sept. 27: This Week 6 matchup is another one between programs that could meet again in the sectional. New Palestine only won the regular-season meeting by a touchdown last year before blanking the Cougars 35-0 in the sectional semifinal, then rolling past Mt. Vernon in the championship. Greenfield-Central has been building in Travis Nolting’s six years as coach but still looking for the program’s first sectional title since 1975.

Martinsville at Mooresville, Oct. 11: This looks like a promising setup for Martinsville (more on the Artesians below) with a lot of experience and talent returning and a more favorable sectional field. Mooresville, always a contender under coach Mike…


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Author : IndyStar | The Indianapolis Star

Publish date : 2024-08-09 08:10:37

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