As we head into the final weeks of the TSSAA football regular season, the races for the state's top individual honor are beginning to come into view.
Every year the TSSAA names a Tennessee Titans Mr. Football in each classification, as well as a Kicker of the Year, based on performances throughout the regular season along with academics and character.
Initially five Mr. Football semifinalists will be named by the TSSAA in each classification, after fielding nominations from high school coaches and media members across the state. Then a committee of Tennessee high school sports writers will meet to determine the winners in each class.
For the remainder of the regular season, each week, The Tennessean will rank the top five players on our Mr. Football
watchlist for every classification, highlighting the athletes we believe have the best shot of claiming the award in December.
Here's The Tennessean's Mr. Football watchlist for Class 3A entering Week 9 of the TSSAA football season.
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Ranking TSSAA Mr. Football prospects in Class 3A
1. Graham Simpson
Westview | Junior | QB
Why chosen: Simpson is the reigning Class 3A Mr. Football winner and this season he's led the unbeaten Chargers completing 95-of-131 passes for 1,527 yards with 22 touchdowns and two interceptions. Westview has not lost a game since December of 2024 and has won 36 of its last 37 games, including 22 straight.
2. Asa Barnes
Westview | Senior | Senior
Why chosen: The Tennessee commit has rushed for 923 yards and 17 touchdowns while adding 232 yards and two touchdowns receiving.
3. Dion Edwards
Tyner Academy | Junior | WR/DB
Why chosen: The four-star athlete with offers from Ohio State, Georgia and more recorded 32 catches for 538 yards and seven touchdowns through seven games.
4. Quincy Mitchell
Forrest | Junior | RB
Why chosen: Mitchell has 98 carries for 1,455 yards and 25 touchdowns, along with 20 receptions for 258 yards and three touchdowns. On defense he's recorded 17 tackles, one for a loss, four pass break ups and an interception.
5. JaDarius Hinton
Tyner Academy | Senior | RB
Why chosen: Through seven games Hinton rushed 93 times for 844 yards and 12 touchdowns while also catching 10 passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns.
Do you have a player worthy of Mr. Football consideration? Email hcampbell@usatodayco.com with the athlete's information and season stats to be considered for our watchlist.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Who leads TSSAA's Mr. Football race in 3A? We rank our top 5, including Graham Simpson
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