Just in time for a big rivalry game, Providence pops into Observer Sweet 16 poll
Providence High School started the season 1-3, but coach Wes Ward’s team has come together and won five straight games, including Friday’s 45-0 victory over Ballantyne Ridge.
The Panthers (6-3, 4-0 Southwestern 7A/8A) are now one win away from their first conference title in four years.
Today, Providence joins The Observer’s Sweet 16 for the first time this season and is one of two new teams in the poll.
The Panthers’ conference rival, Palisades (6-3), returns to the poll as well. The Pumas beat Rocky River, 56-6, Friday after losing to Providence in overtime on Oct. 17.
Palisades can win a share of the league title if Providence loses to its archrival, Ardrey Kell, at home Thursday. Ardrey Kell (6-3, 3-1) can force a three-way tie for first if it wins.
Note: The Sweet 16, which started in 1984, is the oldest high school football poll in the region. The winner will receive a large banner to hang in the school gym. The poll is compiled by longtime N.C. high school football expert Chris Hughes, a co-host of The Observer’s Talking Preps streaming show.
The Observer’s Sweet 16 poll
Rk., School, Rec, Prvs.
1. Providence Day (9-0), 1
2. Hough (9-0), 2
3. West Charlotte (7-2), 3
4. Weddington (9-1), 5
5. Mooresville (7-2), 6
6. Independence (7-2), 7
7. Ashbrook (9-0), 8
8. Myers Park (7-2), 4
9. East Lincoln (9-1), 9
10. Lake Norman (7-2), 11
11. Mallard Creek (6-3), 10
12. South Point (7-2), 12
13. JM Robinson (8-1), 13
14. Corvian Community (8-1), 14
15. Providence (6-3), NR
16. Palisades (6-3), NR
