MANSFIELD — Mansfield Senior is on the outside looking in, while Ashland has played itself into contention.
The Ohio High School Athletic Association released the second of seven weekly computer ratings Tuesday afternoon. The ratings determine which schools advance to the postseason.
Mansfield Senior, which was clinging to final playoff spot in Division III, Region 10 last week, slipped out of the top eight after a loss to unbeaten Maple Heights. The Tygers (2-3) dipped to 12th and will host Lexington this week.
Ashland, meanwhile, moved up to seventh in Division II, Region 7 after last week’s win over Mount Vernon. The Arrows (4-1) are at Madison on Friday.
Clear Fork (5-0) moved up one spot in Division IV, Region 14 after last week’s win at Buckeye Valley. The Colts are second and host River Valley on Friday.
Ontario and Galion both slipped out of the top eight in Division IV, Region 14 after losses last week. The Warriors (3-2) are 10th and the Tigers (3-2) are 12th.
Hillsdale (4-1) took over the top spot in Division VI, Region 22 after last week’s win at Rittman. The Falcons host Wayne County Athletic League heavyweight Norwayne (4-1) on Friday.
Loudonville (3-2) moved into second in Region 22 behind Hillsdale after last week’s win at Fairless. The Redbirds host Tuslaw on Friday.
Wynford (4-1) jumped from eighth to third in Region 22 thanks to last week’s win over Colonel Crawford. The Royals are at Seneca East (4-1) on Friday.
In Division VII, Mapleton moved up to second in Region 25 after last week’s win over Crestview. The Mounties are at undefeated South Central on Friday.
In Region 27, Lucas remained in second place despite last week’s loss to Division III Columbus Centennial. The Cubs host Crestline on Friday.
The state’s 700-plus football-playing schools are divided into seven divisions based primarily on enrollment. Each division is divided into four geographical regions and the top eight teams in each region qualify for the playoffs.
The top four teams in each region will host a regional quarterfinal before games are shifted to neutral sites for the regional semifinals, regional finals and state semifinals. All seven state championship games will be played at the recently-renovated Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1.
