The North Jersey Interscholastic Conference (NJIC) released its regular-season schedules for the 2024 football season, introducing significant changes, including a new scheduling system and division realignment. Division winners will compete in the conference semifinals and the NJIC title game, with Rutherford as the three-time defending champion. The 2024 season will see new faces in new places, the elimination of the Union Division, teams on notable winning and losing streaks, and the prospect of renewed rivalry games in later stages of the season.

Why It Matters

The restructuring of divisions and scheduling format significantly impacts the competitive landscape of high school football in North Jersey for the 2024 season, potentially altering the traditional power dynamics and rivalry matchups.

By the Numbers
  • The NJIC divides its four divisions into an East and West for conference playoffs, with new divisional opponents due to changing enrollment numbers.
  • In 2024, the Union Division was eliminated, reintegrating five teams back into the main field while Harrison opted to drop its varsity football program.
State of Play
  • Rutherford, the three-time defending champion, will face a formidable regular season schedule after shifting into the Liberty Division, including matchups against Pompton Lakes and Waldwick/Midland Park.
  • Traditional rivalry games may not be scheduled for Weeks 0-5 but could be added later in the season as crossover games.
What's Next

The 2024 NJIC season will be closely watched to see how the restructuring impacts team performances, playoff eligibility, and the outcome of potential rivalry matchups added later in the season.