Home Team Friday Week 8 “Power 10”

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – Each Friday, the Tri-State region highlights some of the most talented high school football teams in their respective states. To determine the best of the best, our expert sports team conducts thorough research, taking into account wins, losses, injuries, strength of schedule, and margin of victory/defeat. Here are the Week 8 "Power 10" rankings:

1. Owensboro Catholic (Owensboro, Ky.) – 6-1, previously ranked #1. This team has been impressive throughout the season, never losing by more than three touchdowns in their six-game winning streak since a week one loss. Senior quarterback Dre Mail Carothers had another stellar performance with 416 passing yards and 7 passing touchdowns. The team's defense has also improved, achieving back-to-back shutouts in consecutive weeks. They welcome Fort Knox to Steele in week eight.

2. Memorial (Evansville, Ind.) – 7-0, previously ranked #2. Memorial stayed unbeaten in both the current and previous regular seasons. Their 30-27 win against Reitz Panthers showcased their ability to adjust during halftime, matching Reitz's 13 points in the 4th quarter and securing a field goal victory. Seniors played a crucial role, with QB Luke Brown contributing 234 passing yards and 2 touchdowns, and RB Gene Aimone rushing for 109 yards and a TD. They face a perfect 7-0 Floyd Central team on Friday.

3. Gibson Southern (Fort Branch, Ind.) – 6-1, previously ranked #3. Gibson Southern's game against Washington last Friday ended in a lopsided 70-0 win due to the Titans resting their star quarterback, Caden Rochleau. Backup junior QB Gabe Foster led the team with 191 passing yards and 5 touchdowns. Seniors, especially senior WR Peyton Johnson with 127 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns, were instrumental in their win. They will play Boonville next.

4. Owensboro (Owensboro, Ky.) – 5-2, previously ranked #4. Owensboro scored 50 points in this game against Marshall Co., making it a non-contest by halftime. Their defense remains one of the top units in Kentucky, carrying them through the postseason barring injuries. Star QB Damarcus Ganaway Jr. is expected to return from a collarbone injury in this week, further boosting the team's potential.

5. Reitz (Evansville, Ind.) – 6-1, previously ranked #5. Reitz suffered a 21-point loss to Memorial this season but showed signs of improvement, overcoming a poor first quarter to tie the game late in the 4th quarter. Standout performances came from underclassmen Hunter Moers and RB Amyr Wilford, who rushed for over 200 yards combined. The seniors played crucial roles in keeping the team in the game.