The North Coast Section has adopted a completely competitive-based playoff framework for all sports, focusing on achieving balanced divisions. As a result, teams are primarily seeded according to MaxPreps' computer rankings, removing much of the human element from the decision-making process. This system led to notable disparities, as seen when Dougherty Valley, who outperformed California in head-to-head matchups, was placed in a lower division. Meanwhile, Salesian's unexpected inclusion in the Open Division underlines the unpredictable outcomes of this ranking reliance, highlighting both the advantages and challenges of data-driven approaches in sports.
This school year, the North Coast Section has fully transitioned to a competitive-based playoff structure, heavily relying on MaxPreps' computer rankings for seeding, minimizing human judgment.
Despite winning their regular-season matchups convincingly, Dougherty Valley was placed in a lower division than California due to the strict adherence to computer-based rankings.
Salesian's unexpected inclusion in the NCS Open Division illustrates the unpredictable nature of reliance on computer rankings, particularly as they faced significant losses during the season.
The new playoff format allows finalists from Divisions I through V to advance, along with the winner of a third-place game in each division.
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