For the first time in five years, Bridgeport does not find itself in the top three of the MetroNews High School Football Power Rankings. The Indians, previously No. 3, dropped from that position following Friday’s 14-10 setback to Fairmont Senior.

 

The drop, however, wasn’t too far. The Indians fell two positions to the number five spot.

 

Bridgeport still can earn the respect of the voters as it has cames left with several quality opponents, including No. 7 Kesyer. The Golden Tornado knocked off No. 7 Weir last week 21-18 to move to 2-1 on the year.

 

Mingo Central, the defending Class AA champions, are still ranked No. 1. The Miners, who crushed Sissonville 69-15, received 28 of the 30 first place votes in the poll of radio broadcasters and sports writers statewide.

 

The Polar Bears received one of the other first place votes and remain at the No. 2 position. Fairmont could open up even more eyes this week as the Bears visit Class AAA No. 4 University.

 

Point Pleasant, 3-1, won its third with a 35-14 win against Herbert Hoover to jump up one spot to No. 4 in Class AA. Bluefield, at 4-0, is No. 4 in the standings after a 54-7 manhandling of Greenbrier East. The Beavers received the other first place vote.

 

No other local teams are in the ‘AA’ top 10. However, Liberty and North Marion are both in the “also receiving votes” potion of the poll. The Huskies are a future Bridgeport opponent.

 

In Class A, South Harrison remained in third place. The Hawks hammered Steubenville Catholic (Ohio) by a 48-14 score.

 

Click HERE for the standings in all three classifications.

 

The MetroNews poll is a reflection of what the statewide media thinks of programs in West Virginia. The WVSSAC poll, which is released Tuesday’s at 2 p.m., determines where teams are ranked for playoff purposes. Bridgeport was ranked No. 2 in the poll last week, but will likely drop several spots. The poll is based on computer power points.

 

Editor's Note: Photos courtesy of www.benqueenphotography.com.