Carrboro’s 30-27 loss to South Iredell in the N.C. High School Athletic Association 2AA football championship doesn’t have a big impact on the final 2012 N&O Metro football rankings.

Garner, which lost in the 4AA semifinals to Fayetteville Britt, led from the preseason through the end of the season. Coach Nelson Smith’s club finished 14-1 and clearly was the area’s best team.

Leesville Road had a dominating season and was undefeated before losing to Garner 56-35 in the 4AA quarterfinals. The Pride edged Middle Creek 37-30 during the playoffs to claim the No. 2 ranking over the Mustangs. Middle Creek’s losses were to Garner and Leesville Road.

Wakefield holds the No. 4 position after losing only to Garner and Leesville Road, too.

Carrboro was third a week ago, but following the title loss, it slides to No. 5.