Kansas high school football isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. From small towns to bustling cities, Friday nights light up with the clash of helmets, the roar of crowds, and the thrill of competition. Whether it’s the powerhouse programs or the underdog stories, Kansas delivers some of the most exciting gridiron action in the nation. In this 1500-word exploration, we’ll unpack the 2024 season’s standout scores, highlight top teams, and dive into what makes Kansas football a cultural gem. Ready to relive the highlights and uncover the stats behind the state’s biggest games? Let’s kick off!
What Makes Kansas High School Football Unique?
Texas might claim the crown for football frenzy, but Kansas holds its own with a rich tradition of athletic excellence and community pride. Governed by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA), the state features nine classifications—from 6A to 6-Man—ensuring every school, big or small, gets its shot at glory. The 2024 season showcased this diversity, with nail-biting finishes, blowout victories, and championship dreams realized.
What sets Kansas apart? It’s the blend of rural grit and urban talent, paired with coaching legacies that turn young athletes into stars. Fans don’t just watch—they live every play, making each score a shared triumph or heartbreak.
Kansas High School Football Scores: 2024 Season Highlights
The 2024 season delivered unforgettable moments across all classifications. Below is a table of key state championship scores from November 29-30, 2024, sourced from reliable outlets like High School Football America and Catch It Kansas:
| Classification | Teams | Score | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6A | Gardner Edgerton vs. Manhattan | 36-33 | Nov 29, 2024 | Last-minute drive sealed the win |
| 5A | St. Thomas Aquinas vs. Hays | 24-7 | Nov 30, 2024 | Aquinas dominated defensively |
| 4A | Wellington vs. Topeka Hayden | 36-19 | Nov 30, 2024 | Public school champ after a decade |
| 3A | Andale vs. Topeka Hayden | 36-19 | Nov 30, 2024 | Andale rallied from a halftime deficit |
| 2A | Southeast of Saline vs. Nemaha | 35-14 | Nov 29, 2024 | Trojans ended a two-year title drought |
| 1A | Conway Springs vs. Centralia | 41-6 | Nov 30, 2024 | Undefeated Cardinals crushed it |
| 8-Man I | Little River vs. Lyndon | 46-0 | Nov 30, 2024 | Perfect 13-0 season for the Indians |
| 8-Man II | Frankfort vs. Dighton | 50-12 | Nov 30, 2024 | Frankfort rolled to victory |
| 6-Man | Cheylin vs. Weskan | 55-48 | Nov 30, 2024 | High-scoring thriller won late |
These scores reflect the season’s pinnacle, but the road to the championships was packed with drama—think overtime upsets and last-second heroics.
A Look Back: How Did Kansas Teams Perform in 2024?
The 2024 season kicked off in September and ran through late November, with over 300 teams battling across the state. Powerhouses like St. Thomas Aquinas (5A) and Andale (3A) continued their dynasties, while surprises like Southeast of Saline (2A) stole the spotlight with a dominant playoff run.
Key Trends from the Season
- Offensive Fireworks: 6-Man’s Cheylin-Weskan showdown averaged 103 points, proving small-school football packs a punch.
- Defensive Standouts: Little River’s 46-0 shutout in 8-Man I showed why they’re a force.
- Close Calls: Gardner Edgerton’s 36-33 win over Manhattan in 6A came down to a final drive, a classic Kansas cliffhanger.
Data from MaxPreps shows Kansas teams averaged 28.6 points per game in 2024, up slightly from 27.8 in 2023, hinting at a trend toward more explosive offenses.
Who Were the Top Teams in Kansas High School Football?
Kansas football isn’t short on talent. Here’s a rundown of the teams that defined the 2024 season:
Gardner Edgerton (6A)
- Record: 12-1
- Highlight: Edged Manhattan 36-33 in the state title game.
- Why They Shined: Senior QB Bryce Woltkamp threw for over 2,500 yards, earning college scout buzz.
St. Thomas Aquinas (5A)
- Record: 11-2
- Highlight: Beat Hays 24-7 for their fifth straight title.
- Standout Player: Junior RB Calvin “Chip” Holmes ran for 1,800 yards season-wide.
Southeast of Saline (2A)
- Record: 13-0
- Highlight: Crushed Nemaha Central 35-14 in the championship.
- X-Factor: A balanced attack with 2,300 rushing yards and a stingy defense.
These squads didn’t just win—they captivated fans with skill and heart.
What’s the Practice Schedule for Kansas High School Football Teams?
Success starts long before kickoff. Here’s a typical weekly practice schedule for a Kansas high school football team during the season, based on common routines:
| Day | Activity | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Film review, light drills | 2 hours | Strategy and recovery |
| Tuesday | Full pads, offense vs. defense | 2.5 hours | Skill work and game prep |
| Wednesday | Full pads, special teams | 2.5 hours | Playbook execution |
| Thursday | Walk-through, conditioning | 1.5 hours | Final adjustments |
| Friday | Game day | 3-4 hours | Execution and competition |
| Saturday | Rest or optional film | 1 hour | Recovery and reflection |
Coaches tweak this based on weather (hello, Kansas wind!) or injuries, but it’s a grind that builds champions.
How Do Kansas Teams Prepare for Game Day?
Preparation is key in Kansas football. Teams lean on:
- Strength Training: Offseason lifting starts in January, targeting speed and power.
- Film Study: Players analyze opponents’ tendencies—think third-down habits or QB tells.
- Community Boost: Pep rallies and tailgates fire up players and fans alike.
Take Andale, for example. Their 36-19 title win over Topeka Hayden came after weeks of dissecting Hayden’s run-heavy style, a testament to prep paying off.
Where Can Fans Find Kansas High School Football Scores?
Missed a game? Here’s how to stay in the loop:
- Live Updates: Catch It Kansas and High School on SI offer real-time scores.
- Post-Game Recaps: MaxPreps and The Wichita Eagle break down results.
- Social Media: Follow @KSHSAA on X for official updates.
Pro Tip: Download the Scorestream app for instant notifications on your favorite teams.
What Were the Biggest Upsets of the 2024 Season?
Every season has shockers, and 2024 was no exception:
- Bishop Miege (4A): Fell 21-14 to Louisburg in the playoffs, ending a title streak.
- Derby (6A): Lost 31-21 to Manhattan in the semifinals, snapping a dominant run.
These upsets prove Kansas football is unpredictable—any team can rise on any night.
Why Do Kansas High School Football Scores Matter?
Beyond the stats, these scores tell stories—of small towns rallying behind their kids, of players chasing college dreams, of communities bonding over shared victories. A 41-6 rout or a 55-48 shootout isn’t just a number; it’s a memory etched into Kansas lore.
Fun Fact
The highest-scoring game in Kansas history? A 1927 clash between Haven and Sylvia ended 256-0. Modern scores don’t hit that mark, but 2024’s 6-Man title game came close!
How Can Young Athletes Join the Action?
Aspiring to play Kansas high school football? Here’s your game plan:
- Start Young: Join youth leagues like Pop Warner to build skills.
- Stay Eligible: Keep grades above a 2.0 GPA—KSHSAA rules are strict.
- Show Up: Attend summer camps hosted by schools like Aquinas or Andale.
Real-World Example: Southeast of Saline’s QB Tyson Espensen went from middle school backup to state champ by outworking everyone—proof hustle beats talent alone.
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The 2024 Kansas high school football season was a rollercoaster of triumphs, upsets, and unforgettable scores. From Gardner Edgerton’s clutch 6A win to Conway Springs’ 1A dominance, the state proved its gridiron grit. With young stars rising and traditions thriving, Kansas football isn’t slowing down. Whether you’re a diehard fan or a curious newbie, these scores are your ticket to understanding the heart of the game.
