I agree with Rod. Obviously, I am pulling for Essex and the NND teams but Riverheads (6-0) should be currently ranked #1.
Yes, Essex has had a tough schedule and losing to JM was expected. Surprised at the lopsided loss, but as we discussed about the byes for east 1A, I don't like 'em. The long layoff hurt Essex and will do them no favors come playoff time either.
At this point, Essex is probably the better overall team, however Riverheads deserves the #1 ranking according to the criteria of polling.
Essex and Riverheads would have to suffer a huge upset to not meet. I'm sure that Riverheads knows that Salem is where they need to play that big game (if it happens). With the final four crisscrossing across the state, that certainly may happen again. However, Essex played great at Salem last year and Thornhill was just insanely good. Still, history says Salem is a big hurdle for Essex.
Also, I think that maybe Rappahannock at 5-1 (outscoring opponents 154-49) may deserve shot at #10 in the rankings. Good D. Lancaster is also 5-1 and played W&L closer. Who is better? I will go with Rapp.