Area teams ascended in the latest Associated Press football state poll, released Sept. 25
Columbia was awarded 27 points, enough to put it in the top 10 in Division VI for the first time this season.
“It’s nice to be up there with all of the quality programs in the division,” Columbia Coach Jason Ward said. “There are a lot in Division VI football. It is great football. To be in the top 10 with all of those programs is great. It’s nice to be recognized in that way and know that we have a good reputation as a program.”
In each game, Columbia (6-0) has left room for improvement. However, Ward has seen his team consistently get better. The hope is to peak for the postseason.
"The effort is there, the attitude is there. These guys want to get better. They recognize their faults and they want to get better every week," Ward said. "I don't think there is a shred of arrogance or cockiness in this group. We have to fight for everything that we get."
Columbia's most recent win was against Oberlin (34-6), when running back Marco Cirigliano broke Lorain County records in rushing yards, touchdowns and points scored.
Columbia has had its bumps and bruises this season. The Raiders recently lost right tackle Nate Chapman for the rest of the season. Nose guard Ben Bowling is in as the replacement. His size and willingness to step up brings potential for the offense.
"If (Bowling) didn't come back out this season, I don't know where we'd be, offensively or defensively," Ward said. "He has been a really good player at our nose guard position on defense. He turns right around and is trying like heck to be a right tackle. He's flashed progress from game-to-game and down-to-down."
Columbia expects to meet a physical test on Sept. 29 against Wellington (1-5), which has shown flashes of physicality this season.
In Division II, Avon (170 points) was bumped up from fourth last week to third this week. The Eagles are behind Massillon Washington (222) and Akron Hoban (196).
Avon (6-0) defeated Olmsted Falls, 52-10. Quarterback Nolan Good rushed for over 100 yards and had five rushing touchdowns.
Avon football: Nolan makes Good use of his legs, showcases dominance in win over Olmsted Falls
The Eagles travel to Berea-Midpark on Sept. 29. The Titans enter the game 3-3 (2-1 in SWC). Their most recent wins were back-to-back shutouts of Amherst (53-0) and Midview (37-0).
Avon Lake (5-1) tangled with the 3-3 Comets on Sept. 22, but emerged with a 32-27 victory. Avon Lake received recognition with 14 points.
