The latest excitement in South Dakota high school football culminated with the release of the final South Dakota Power 5 Poll of the 2025 season on Monday. As the chill of autumn sets in, the air is charged with anticipation, especially for the top teams gearing up for the championship matches at the iconic DakotaDome.
In the highly competitive Class 11AAA, Brandon Valley and Sioux Falls Lincoln emerged as the top contenders. Both teams secured their spots by garnering nine first-place votes each, leading to a tie at the summit of the 11AAA rankings. Their fierce rivalry is a testament to the quality and passion of South Dakota’s football culture.
The recent upset in high school football circles saw Sioux Falls Jefferson deliver a stunning 24-21 victory over previously top-ranked Brandon Valley. This notable result kept Jefferson locked in the No. 3 position, with O’Gorman and Harrisburg rounding out the top five at positions No. 4 and No. 5, respectively.
Brandon Valley in a tense match.
The Power 5 Poll, a mainstay in South Dakota sports, has extensively analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of each team, and football enthusiasts are eager to see how the championship plays out. Yankton has solidified its position as the top team in Class 11AA, a culmination of a season filled with strategic plays and steadfast defense. Their ascendancy followed an upset where Huron was toppled by Brookings in a 22-14 decision, dropping the Tigers to the second spot.
Looking at Class 11A, Sioux Falls Christian has been unmatched, clinching all 18 first-place votes and holding the top position firmly. They are set to face rising contender Lennox, who climbed from No. 4 to No. 2 after a decisive 34-14 victory against Dell Rapids. Such competitive matchups underscore the vibrant high school football scene in South Dakota.
Here are the final South Dakota Power 5 Poll rankings for the season:
- Class 11AAA
- T1. Brandon Valley (9)
- T1. Sioux Falls Lincoln (9)
- 3. Sioux Falls Jefferson
- 4. O’Gorman
- 5. Harrisburg
- Class 11AA
- 1. Yankton (18)
- 2. Huron
- 3. Pierre T.F. Riggs
- 4. Tea Area
- 5. Sturgis Brown
- Class 11A
- 1. Sioux Falls Christian (18)
- 2. Lennox
- 3. Dell Rapids
- 4. Madison
- 5. West Central
South Dakota’s teams are now poised to clash at the DakotaDome, a venue revered for hosting momentous sporting events. The anticipated matchups predicted by the majority of Power 5 voters are: Brandon Valley vs. Sioux Falls Lincoln in the 11AAA championship, Yankton vs. Pierre T.F. Riggs in the 11AA championship, and Sioux Falls Christian vs. Lennox in the 11A championship.
The DakotaDome itself is a symbol of community pride and sporting excellence. Set against the backdrop of South Dakota’s breathtaking landscapes, it has witnessed countless historic victories and stunning upsets, echoing with the resounding cheers of fervent fans.
Aligning with South Dakota’s growing interest in sports, the Power 5 Poll continues to be a pivotal part of high school football, fostering competitive spirit and highlighting athletic prowess. As we await the culminating events, these matches continue to fortify the community bonds, showcasing the passion and talent inherent within South Dakota’s youth.
The significance of these matches extends beyond local acclaim, as they resonate with the heart of every South Dakotan, fostering state pride and unity through sport. Undoubtedly, this season has been a remarkable one, and as the teams prepare for their final showdown, South Dakota stands united in anticipation and excitement.