Every week, the UCR staff (Noah McKay, Rusty Ellis, Michael Lindsay, Jacob Vinson) will rank the top five high school football teams in the Upper Cumberland.
UC Top 5 – After week one of the 2023 high school football season
1 Upperman
The Bees made a statement in a 26-0 blowout over Fayetteville as they outgained the Tigers 356 yards to 67. The Bees have proclaimed they are on a “revenge tour” and a shutout win over one of the top programs in the state was enough to put them in the top spot.
2 York
The Dragons opened the season in impressive fashion in a shutout victory over the Clay County Bulldogs. 15 returning starters from a semifinal team gives big reasons for optimism in Jamestown. The hard-hitting, well-coached Dragons are one of the top teams in the 2A class and in the Upper Cumberland.
3 Stone Memorial
The Panthers cashed in on a late turnover to open the season with a dramatic road win over Cookeville. Bear Eldridge went off for over 200 yards and four touchdowns. Look for the Panthers to use their momentum to roll towards region play. Their matchup with Sweetwater will be a fun one to watch.
4 Macon County
Gabe Borders is very good…. Fact check: true. The Tigers rolled past rival Westmoreland, but it’s not just Borders, Tyler Gregory is a name the Upper Cumberland will get used to hearing. In a tough Region 4/4A, the Tigers will have a chance every week because of their elite playmakers.
5 Smith County
The Owls cashed in on a pick-six by Peyton Hix to put their biggest rivals away in a win over Gordonsville. We’ll learn a lot about coach Dyer’s squad in week two when they travel to DeKalb County. Their offensive line and physical play will give them a chance against every team.
Honorable Mentions:
White County
Cookeville