With the 2025 high school football season just around the corner, all eyes on the Mississippi Coast are already turning toward the top teams. Last year, Ocean Springs came out on top, winning their fourth consecutive region title. Will they be able to make it five in a row? The competition is heating up, and several teams are ready to give them a run for their money.
1. Ocean Springs: Can They Pull Off a Five-Peat?
Ocean Springs is coming off a successful 2024 season, finishing strong with an impressive defense and a steady quarterback in Sharroid Whitehead. Whitehead will be back for the 2025 season, which gives the Greyhounds an edge. While their defense was dominant last year, losing star sack master Bryant Ausmer could be a challenge. However, they still have top players like Eric Johnson and their top four tacklers returning. The team is deeper and more experienced this year, so the Greyhounds are still the team to beat on the Coast.
2. Gulfport: Ready to Challenge for the Top Spot
Gulfport finished last season as one of the top contenders and looks like the biggest threat to Ocean Springs’ reign. They are bringing back one of the best defenses on the Coast, led by linebacker Andre Peters. With key players like D’Solomon Stallion and Javon Anderson, Gulfport has a strong front seven that is hard to break through. On offense, quarterback Dane Sullivan returns for another year, and power back Cooper Crosby will give the Admirals a solid running game. Gulfport is gearing up for a fierce battle at the top.
3. Pascagoula: New Faces, Big Expectations
Pascagoula has a new face at quarterback in rising sophomore Jason Glaude, but they still have a strong roster around him. Amarie Jackson, Darius Carter, and DJ Nunnery form one of the most dangerous skill groups on the Coast. Their defense is also stacked, with star safety Tylan Wilson and top tacklers like Jarrad Loper and Jonathan Shelby returning. Pascagoula may be adjusting to a new quarterback, but they are still very much a team to watch in 2025.
4. Poplarville: Defending the State Title
Poplarville shocked everyone by winning the state championship in 2024, and now they will need to defend their title. Running back Ty Keys is one of the top 2027 prospects in the nation, and he could see more action at quarterback this year. On defense, Poplarville is bringing back experienced players like Ayden Harmon and Jobe Lambert, and they are bolstered by the addition of Sam LeJeune, a transfer from St. Stanislaus. Poplarville will face tough competition in their region, but they have the talent to compete at the highest level again.
5. Picayune: Never Count Out the Maroon Tide
Picayune has always been a strong team, and even though they are losing star player Darrell Smith to graduation, they are not to be overlooked. The Maroon Tide is bringing back one of the most fearsome defensive lines in the state, featuring Nolan Wilson and Makon Burnette. The team has some holes to fill in the backfield, but with a strong defense and experienced players, Picayune should remain a serious contender in 2025.
6. Gautier: Adjusting to 6A Competition
Gautier made a huge run in 2024, reaching the state championship game for the first time in school history. But now, they will face even tougher competition, as they are moving up to the 6A classification. The Gators still have a lot of talent, with players like Kasin Thomas and Latrell Pogue leading the offense. Their defense also has some key returnees. Gautier will face challenges in their new 6A district, but they are a team that shouldn’t be counted out.
7. D’Iberville: The Warriors Are on the Rise
D’Iberville ended their playoff drought last year, thanks to a much-improved defense and standout performances from athletes like Jordan Walley. Walley, who played both quarterback and cornerback last season, will be key to the Warriors’ success in 2025. Along with players like Jayquan Havard and Jeremiah Johnson, D’Iberville has the talent to be a strong contender in their region.
8. West Harrison: Can They Break Through?
West Harrison has had some close calls in recent seasons, missing the postseason by just one game in each of the last three years. This year, they will be playing in the 7A classification, which could give them the push they need. The Hurricanes have two of the Coast’s top players in running back Jordan Stapleton and defensive tackle Jazear Carter. Both have had standout performances in the past, and with a little more support, West Harrison could finally make the postseason.
9. George County: A New Era
George County had a breakout year in 2024, with their first playoff win since 2007. But now, they are entering a new era with a new head coach and several key players leaving. The Rebels still have running back Brandon Gautier, who racked up over 1,100 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. George County will have a new district and a tougher challenge, but Gautier’s leadership could help them stay competitive.
10. Vancleave: Looking for First Region Title
Vancleave is entering the 2025 season with high hopes after a strong 2024. Quarterback Wyatt Adams, who threw for over 1,000 yards last year, returns to lead the Bulldogs. Running back Kyle Capers, who rushed for 1,000 yards, will also be a key player. Vancleave has some tough competition in their district, but this could be their year to win their first-ever region title.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
