As the 2024-25 West Michigan Conference Lakes Division high school football season approaches, teams are gearing up for what promises to be another competitive year on the gridiron. Last season saw Whitehall dominate the division, but with a new year comes new challenges, and every team is looking to make their mark.
Whitehall Vikings
2023 Record: 6-0 (Lakes Division), 10-1 Overall
The Whitehall Vikings enter the season as the team to beat. After an undefeated run in the Lakes Division and a dominant overall season, where they outscored their conference opponents 290-7, Whitehall is poised to defend its title. With only one loss last year, the Vikings will rely on their staunch defense, which allowed a mere 98 points all season. Cam Thompson will make the move from star wideout to lead signal caller and could be a nightmare for opposing defenses as he brings a different look behind center for the Vikings. If they maintain their form, another deep playoff run is likely in store.
Manistee Chippewas
2023 Record: 4-2 (Lakes Division), 8-3 Overall
Manistee showed they are a force to be reckoned with last season, finishing second in the Lakes Division. The Chippewas demonstrated balanced play, with a strong offense that scored 381 points across the season. However, their defense will need to tighten up, as they allowed 116 points in divisional play. A return to the playoffs is well within reach, but they’ll need to find a way to close the gap with Whitehall.
Oakridge Eagles
2023 Record: 4-2 (Lakes Division), 7-4 Overall
Oakridge had a solid season in 2023, matching Manistee’s divisional record but ultimately falling short of a higher finish. The Eagles’ defense was a bit of a rollercoaster, giving up 135 points, while their offense managed to score 162. For Oakridge to challenge for the top spot, they’ll need more consistency on both sides of the ball. The potential is there, and with a few tweaks, they could rise in the standings.
Ludington Orioles
2023 Record: 3-3 (Lakes Division), 5-4 Overall
Ludington had a middle-of-the-road performance last season, finishing with a .500 record in the Lakes Division. Their offense showed flashes of brilliance, scoring 161 points, but their defense struggled at times, conceding 186 points. The Orioles closed the season on a two-game winning streak, and they’ll look to carry that momentum into 2024. If they can solidify their defense, Ludington could become a dark horse contender in the division.
Montague Wildcats
2023 Record: 3-3 (Lakes Division), 4-6 Overall
Montague had an up-and-down season in 2023, finishing with an even record in divisional play. The Wildcats’ offense was somewhat inconsistent, scoring 130 points while allowing 141. After ending the season on a two-game losing streak, Montague will be eager to start fresh and make a push for a winning record. They’ll need to find more stability if they hope to compete with the division’s top teams.
Orchard View Cardinals
2023 Record: 1-5 (Lakes Division), 3-6 Overall
Orchard View had a tough season last year, managing just one win in the Lakes Division. The Cardinals struggled on both sides of the ball, scoring 84 points while giving up 243. Despite these challenges, they showed resilience and will be looking to build on the experience gained last season. Improvement will be key, and if they can address their defensive issues, they might surprise some teams in 2024.
Fremont Packers
2023 Record: 0-6 (Lakes Division), 2-7 Overall
Fremont endured a winless campaign in the Lakes Division last season, and it’s clear they’ll be in rebuilding mode this year. The Packers struggled offensively, scoring just 61 points in divisional play, and defensively, they allowed 224 points. However, with the opportunity to develop younger players and a fresh start, Fremont will aim to take steps forward in 2024 and pick up a few more wins.
Outlook
The 2024-25 West Michigan Conference Lakes Division is set to be another thrilling season of high school football. Whitehall remains the team to beat, but with teams like Manistee and Oakridge hungry to dethrone them, the competition will be fierce. Ludington and Montague are poised to be wild cards, capable of pulling off surprises, while Orchard View and Fremont look to improve upon last year’s struggles. As the season kicks off, every team will have their eyes on the prize, making each game a must-watch event for fans of West Michigan high school football.
