OK Conference Power Rankings: Midseason Report
When I decided to rank the 48 teams that comprise the OK Conference this season, I didn’t want it to be a weekly bit that never really offered more than a shuffling of teams even though you don’t necessarily learn something new every week. Instead, I decided the best and most engaging way to do these “power rankings” is to do them in thirds. My first installment was after week two when there was enough data to give a thorough ranking. Well, it's been three weeks since then, and I think we have seen enough development/regression from teams to put out a new ranking. Let’s get into it.
1. Caledonia (5-0, 2-0 OK Red)
Caledonia remains unbeaten following a barn-burning 50-40 win over previously unbeaten Grandville in week five. Mason McKenzie is the front-runner for OK Player of The Year with 22 total touchdowns through five weeks. Simply put, Mason has the dynamic dual-threat talent to take Caledonia to an OK Red title and a deep run in the state playoffs. Junior running back Brock Townsend continues to impress and should see more FBS offers come his way sooner than later. Combine that backfield with outside threats in Justice Reed and Evan Graham plus the stabilizing force of Derek Pennington and you can see why Caledonia remains at the top spot.
2. Rockford (5-0, 2-0 OK Red)
Rockford picked up a big win on the road last week when it took care of business at East Kentwood, winning 41-20. Mac VandenHout has been one of the most efficient passers in the state this season, passing for 15 touchdowns through five weeks. The Ram’s defensive effort, specifically the front seven is what really stood out to me during their win over the Falcons. Rockford has a number of impact players on defense in Aidan Schauss, Thys Segard, and Ryan Ahern. If they can handle Grandville this upcoming Friday, all eyes will be on week nine in what should be a winner-takes-all contest for the OK Red between Rockford and Caledonia.