For Bridgeport High School's football team and most human polls this year and the past three years, they've generally been right at the top. And if not, they've ended the year in the number one position in Class AA.

Last week, with the first WVSSAC rankings came out, the Indians were listed at No. 2 behind James Monroe. This week, however, the Indians' win against Robert C. Byrd along with bonus points in other games saw the Tribe move into the No. 1 spot.

 

The WVSSAC poll is the one at the end of the year that matters most. The computer-based rankings, which base wins on schedule and how the opponents you beat fare, determine the 16-team playoff field in each classification and where you stand in those final 16.

 

Bridgeport is now 4-0 after its 41-7 win against Robert C. Byrd Friday and is narrowly at the top with a rating of 11.5. Last week's top-ranked team, James Monroe, is 3-0 and dropped into a tie for the No. 2 position.

 

In the second spot is a familiar name and an upcoming opponent. Fairmont Senior, who Bridgeport will close its regular season against, is even with JMHS. Fairmont could make a big jump this week if it can upend Class AAA No. 3 University. The Hawks are 4-0.

 

A win by Bridgeport this week will also be big. The Tribe faces off against Lincoln in Shinnston. The Cougars are 3-1 and are in a three-way tie for the No. 12 spot.

 

Other familiar names are currently in the playoff field, including past and future foes. Lewis County is tied for the No. 6 spot with a 3-1 record, while Keyser at 3-1 is in a three-team deadlock for the No. 9 spot.

 

No other local teams are ranked in the top 16. Grafton, at 3-1, comes in at No. 19.

 

In Class A, South Harrison is ranked No. 3. The Hawks are 3-0 and will boost their status if they can upend homestanding Moorefield - 4-0 and ranked No. 4 - this coming Friday.

 

Click HERE to see the rankings for all three classes.

 

Click HERE to see the story on the MetroNews Power Rankings.

 

Editor's Note: Photos by Ben Queen of www.benqueenphotography.com.