Small School Top 10 Week 4: A Dramatic Shift in District 4
By: Brad Loff | Sportzwire | September 18, 2024 | Photo courtesy Brad Loff
Small School Top 10 Week 4: A Dramatic Shift in District 4
Week 4 of high school football in District 4 brought about significant changes in the Small School Top 10 rankings, as several key matchups reshaped the competitive landscape. Southern Columbia, a perennial powerhouse, experienced a surprising drop, while Troy and Danville continue to rise as serious contenders. Here’s a breakdown of how the games unfolded and what they mean for the rankings.
#1 Troy Takes Over
Troy catapulted from #2 to the top spot after an impressive 55-0 victory over Athens. Troy’s offense was unstoppable, and their defense was suffocating. The result left little doubt that they are currently the best small school team in District 4. Their rise to #1 is well-earned, and they now sit atop the rankings for the first time this season, displacing Southern Columbia.
#2 Danville Dominates
Danville continued their dominance in Week 4 with a crushing 54-8 win over Central Columbia. Danville moved up from #3 to #2, establishing themselves as one of the toughest teams in the district. Their offense has been firing on all cylinders, and their defensive performance against Central Columbia shows they are ready to challenge for the top spot.
#3 Warrior Run Continues to Impress
Warrior Run held onto their #3 ranking with a solid 38-24 victory over Bloomsburg. The Defenders have been one of the most consistent teams this season, and their ability to pull off key wins keeps them among the elite teams in District 4. They will need to maintain their level of play if they hope to make a push for the top two spots.
#4 Mount Carmel Rises
Mount Carmel had one of the most significant wins of the week, edging Southern Columbia 7-6 in a gritty defensive battle. This victory pushed Mount Carmel up from #6 to #4, a huge leap that reflects their strong form. Mount Carmel’s defense came up big against one of the most decorated programs in the state, and they are now a team to watch closely as the season progresses.
#5 Southern Columbia Falls
Southern Columbia’s shocking 7-6 loss to Mount Carmel led to their drop from #1 to #5 in the rankings. The Tigers are no strangers to tough battles, but this loss marks one of their most surprising defeats in recent memory. While they remain in the top five, Southern Columbia will need to regroup quickly if they hope to reclaim their former glory. Expect the Tigers to come out with something to prove in their next matchup.
#6 Canton Moves Down Slightly
Canton dropped one spot in the rankings, from #5 to #6, despite their high-scoring 51-40 win over North Penn-Mansfield. Canton’s offense was explosive, but concerns about their defense may have contributed to the slight dip in the rankings. Nevertheless, Canton remains a high-powered team capable of competing with the best in the district.
#7 Lewisburg Holds Steady
Lewisburg maintained their #7 spot in the rankings after a comfortable 39-20 victory over Hughesville. Lewisburg continues to perform well and will be looking to climb higher in the rankings as the season progresses. Their balanced offense and defense make them a tough opponent for anyone in the top 10.
#8 Montoursville Maintains Form
Montoursville held their #8 ranking with a 27-20 win over Mifflinburg. Montoursville’s consistency has been key to their success, and they remain a dangerous team capable of pulling off upsets as the season progresses. They have their sights set on moving up the rankings and challenging some of the top teams in District 4.
#9 Loyalsock Twp. Holds On
Loyalsock Twp. remains at #9 after their dominant 54-6 win over Midd-West. This team has been flying under the radar, but their latest performance shows they are capable of putting up big numbers against any opponent. Loyalsock’s offense was in full display, and they will be aiming to break into the top 8 in the coming weeks.
#10 Muncy Enters the Rankings
Muncy’s 61-0 demolition of Northwest Area earned them a spot in the top 10 for the first time this season. This dominant performance has made them one of the most talked-about teams in District 4, and they enter the rankings at #10. With the playoffs looming, Muncy will need to keep their foot on the gas if they want to stay in the top 10 and make a deep postseason run.
Looking Ahead
Week 4 delivered some unexpected results that shook up the Small School Top 10 rankings. Troy’s ascension to the top spot marks a new era for the district, while Danville and Mount Carmel are right on their heels. Southern Columbia’s fall to #5 raises questions about how they will respond, and teams like Warrior Run and Canton are eager to capitalize on any missteps from the top teams.
As we move forward, the competition is only getting fiercer, and more shake-ups in the rankings are almost guaranteed. Stay tuned as District 4’s small school teams continue to battle it out for supremacy
