1. Hilliard Davidson - Despite not being the top team on paper right now, the Lady Wildcats have firmly established themselves as the top team in the region. Dominating performances throughout the season, including victories over nationally ranked teams, leave no doubt that they deserve this week’s top spot.

2. Lancaster - Lancaster holds the fastest times, but as any cross-country fan knows, placement often outweighs time. While they’ve posted impressive marks and wins, they haven't yet matched the resume-building victories of Hilliard Davidson. Expect a thrilling showdown between these two teams at the Regional Final.

3. Dublin Jerome - Though not quite on the same level as the top two, Dublin Jerome boasts a formidable team. Led by standout Natalie Fouts, Jerome’s depth behind their star places them in a strong position for a state finals berth.

4. Olentangy Liberty - Liberty finds itself in a similar situation as Dublin Jerome. With Elena Aldrink leading the way, Liberty has its sights set on a top-three regional finish. However, the gap between their second runner and the rest of the team could be a factor to watch.

5. Gahanna Lincoln - Sitting at fifth, Gahanna faces a tough road to the state meet. Their success depends on the strength of their 3-7 runners, as they don’t have a dominant low stick to rely on. However, in the pack-heavy dynamics of regional racing, this may work to their advantage.

6. Bishop Watterson - With Kaitlyn Van Zandt consistently finishing near the top and the best 2-7 spread among bubble teams, Watterson looks like a strong contender for the fifth and final state qualifying spot. A strong supporting pack makes them a dangerous threat.

7. Olentangy Orange - Olentangy Orange features one of the best 1-2 combinations in the region with Chapman and Conforti, both of whom should place in the top 10 at regionals. To punch their ticket to states, though, they’ll need a solid performance from their 3-5 runners.

8. Olentangy Berlin - Another team relying on a star runner, Olentangy Berlin, led by Grace Heitkamp, also boasts a standout #5 runner. While their 2-5 group will need to step up at regionals, they’re certainly in the mix for the final spot.

9. Big Walnut - Big Walnut has had a solid season, but without a standout low stick or a particularly fast #5 runner, breaking into the state meet field will be a challenge. However, if their pack can find improvement on the right day, they could still make a push.

10. Marysville - With a dynamic duo in Gross and Foust, Marysville’s fate rests on the shoulders of their 3rd and 4th runners. If they can deliver strong performances, Marysville could challenge Big Walnut and others for higher placement.

Honorable Mentions

HM. Thomas Worthington - Led by Lainey Fauth, one of the top runners in the region, Thomas Worthington fields a strong 2-4 lineup. However, a significant gap to their 5th runner keeps them just outside the top 10. That 5th runner will need to step up to overcome the deep competition at regionals.

HM. Teays Valley - Boasting an undefeated season and the only sub-17 PR in the state, Katy Zang leads Teays Valley. Their top three runners are solid, but struggles at the 4th and 5th spots make a state meet appearance uncertain. However, a strong showing could still surprise many teams.