It's
time to put up or go home! Playoff action is here and we have 26
teams from the Piedmont area prepared to battle it out at all odds as
they look to keep their seasons alive. Each week of the regular
season that led up to this point of the year provided experiences for
the members of each team to learn, react, and prepare for what is about
to take place. We'll see who has learned from those experiences,
who will take advantage of the talent they possess and who is willing
to give it all to move on with the competition getting tougher with
each week they advance. There are several interesting matchups
this week so now we will take a look at a few of those games and
provide predictions for all of our contests in the area.
Friday, November 14, 2014
Conference 6A South Conference 3 and 4
(7) Riverbend (6-4) vs. (2) Thomas Dale (8-2) (Danny Lewis)
Thomas
Dale is 13-4 at home in the playoffs Their last loss? 1997 versus
Varina and since that time they are 4-0. Riverbend is making the
playoffs for the second time in their programs history and at 6-4,
their playoff fate wasn't fully known until their final game of the
season. The Knights are a team that could very well be 10-0 with a
one-point loss to Cosby and a Hail Mary loss to the Skyhawks. As the
season has gone on this team has only gotten better on both sides of
the ball. The run game featuring Eric Finney and Trent Williams has
lived up to the hype, Khalid Morris at quarterback has been solid all
season and when you look at their defense, what is there not to like?
Sam Stark, an up and coming, he's been solid all season but next
season, watch out. Simply put, the Knights should win this one and give
Coach Tucker his first ever victory in the playoffs...Knights 27, Bears 10
(6) Patrick Henry-Roanoke (6-4) vs. (3) Colonial Forge (7-3) (Drew Goodman)
Back
on September 26th, Patrick Henry made the trip up north, and left with
a 35-6 thumping at the hands of the Eagles. In that game, Forge jumped
on Patrick Henry early and never looked back. In fact, if it weren't
for a fourth-quarter pick-six by Braxton Macklin, the Patriots would
have been kept off the scoreboard. Not a whole lot has changed since
the last meeting to make me think that the result of the rematch will
be any different than the first meeting. The blowout win kick started a
six-game Colonial Forge winning streak. The Eagles are averaging 45
points per contest over the past six games, and I think that this team
has just too much going for it to be slowed down...Eagles 41, Patriots 14
5A North
(12) Mountain View (4-6) vs. (5) Briar Woods (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
In
their 2013 postseason meeting, Briar Woods cruised to a 49-7 victory
but, one year later, the teams are in slightly different places. A 7-3
team entering the playoffs last year, Mountain View comes in sporting a
4-6 mark this year as they never really found solid footing. They won
twice in their first half of their season and twice in the back half. A
bright spot for the Wildcats is that the offense hit their stride en
route to the playoffs scoring 20 or more in four of their last five.
However, they've not scored a win over a team with a winning record and
they were hit for over 26 points per game allowing 33 or more in half
their games. There is a lot to like about the first eight games of the
season for Briar Woods as they notched seven victories including wins
over Woodgrove and Broad Run scoring at least 20 points in each game
while never allowing more than 22 only once (Colonial Forge 27-20).
However, things went badly in their last two games when the were felled
by Potomac Falls 8-7 and blanked by Tuscarora 41-0. The beginning of
the playoffs means the beginning of a new life for the Falcons and they
should look more like the early season team than the late one...Falcons 28, Wildcats 14
(15) Brooke Point (3-7) vs. (2) Massaponax (10-0)
The
Panthers completed their second straight undefeated regular season when
they beat the very same Black Hawks last week. Even with the loss,
Brooke Point backed into the playoffs after their was a question if the
team would even play after forfeiting their gridiron contest a week
earlier against North Stafford. The contest at Massaponax was much
closer than anyone anticipated even though the improved Brooke Point
program has certainly made a statement this season under Head Coach
Tommy Buzzo. Even so, it's not likely that the Panthers will
underestimate their opponent this week and the group that is led by
Joey Benden on offense and Gus Little on defense should be able to take
the first step towards avenging their regional semifinals loss in 2013
with a solid start to the postseason this week...Panthers 38, Black Hawks 21
(11) North Stafford (5-5) vs. (6) Falls Church (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
Coach
Joe Mangano has taken the North Stafford program to new heights in the
recent past as the Wolverines appeared in the state semifinals in 2011,
2012 and 2013 narrowly missing a state championship appearance each
time. Falls Church, who had notched only one winning season since the
turn of the century coming into last season, is making the same kind of
turnaround under coach Said Aziz as the Jaguars finished 8-4 last
season before turning in a 7-3 regular season mark this year. The
Wolverines have not been on the field since October 24th when they fell
to Massaponax 30-24 as their regular season finale was a forfeit win
over Brooke Point which evened their record at 5-5 on the year. They
are young but have a lot of nice pieces in place including sophomore
quarterback Jimmy Edwards. The Jags won three of their final four games
to earn the home playoff game and they were just eight points away from
carrying a 9-1 record into the postseason behind quarterback Brian Eck
and Will Mejia, a do-it-all athlete. The Wolverines will make it close
but early rust and their youth will ultimately hurt them in this one...Jaguars 26, Wolverines 23
4A South
(12) Booker T. Washington (5-4) vs.(5) Powhatan (9-1)
After
a strong start to 2014, the Mighty Bookers struggled down the stretch
of the season but still managed to earn their first trip to the
postseason since 2010. Booker T. lost to all four of its opponents
this season that finished the regular season with a winning record and
the matchup against Powhatan isn't appealing. The Indians steamrolled
the competition this season behind a strong running game that is led by
senior Logan Allen. The Powhatan defense was remarkable, allowing just
97 points in 10 outings. Three-quarters of those points came in the
one loss the team suffered this season at the hands of Hopewell. The
stellar defense allowed the Indians to pull out the win last week when
the offense struggled and has the team in position to be a contender
well into the postseason with the ultimate goal of a state championship
appearance...Indians 27, Mighty Bookers 10
4A North
(9) Louisa County (7-3) vs. (8) Woodgrove (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
Two 7-3 teams square off in what
figures to be an excellent contest. Louisa has played a pretty tough
schedule topping 8-2 Western Albemarle 56-26, but falling to other
power programs Courtland (35-21), Powhatan (28-6) and Monticello
(58-28). Their single wing, ground-heavy attack has consistently put
big numbers on the board scoring 21 or more in all but two games this
season en route to totaling 334 points on the year. If they've
struggled, it's been on the defensive side of the ball as the Lions
have been hit for 26 or more points in six games allowing 91 in their
last two contests. Like Louisa, Woodgrove has played a difficult
schedule as they've topped John Champe and Loudoun Valley, but were
dropped by power schools Tuscarora, Briar Woods and Broad Run. Powered
by quarterback Billy Sheehan and running back Charlie Clewis, the
Wolverines offense can hit Louisa both on the ground and through the
air as they did throughout the season averaging over 38 points per
contest. The defense, on paper, has been slightly better than Louisa
allowing 20.3 points per game holding five of their opponents to 14 or
fewer points, though they were hit for 28 or more on four occasions.
This should be a battle into the fourth quarter, but look for the home
team to pull away late...Wolverines 26, Lions 14
(13) Fauquier (5-5) vs. (4) George Washington-Danville (10-0)
After
clawing their way into the postseason, Fauquier faces a difficult draw
with the Eagles lurking in battle of the birds. George Washington
shutout five of its' 10 opponents and gave up 67 points during those
contests. Magna Vista accounted for half of those points given up by
the Eagles defense meaning in the nine other contest, G.W. allowed an
average of less than four points per game. The explosive Eagles
offense is scoring over 40 points per game and will likely give the
Falcons a rough night on both sides of the ball. All of that on top of
the long trip south for Fauquier appears to be leading to a miserable
night for the Falcons and an even longer bus ride home for the squad...Eagles 38, Falcons 10
(10) William Fleming (8-2) vs. (7) Eastern View (9-1) (Drew Goodman)
William
Fleming has gone through a ton of adversity this fall, but the Colonels
are back in the playoffs for the first time in six years. Fleming has
lost several linemen, and running back Jerome Hill has been sidelined
for several weeks, but Dsean Adams and Warren Craft have picked up the
slack offensively. The Colonels will face an Eastern View squad that
has had no issues putting up points this fall. The Cyclones are
averaging a whopping 45 points per contest, and even managed 34 points
in their only loss to Liberty (Bealeton). This will likely be a high
scoring contest, and I think Fleming gets an added boost with Hill's
return to the lineup...Cyclones 37, Colonels 34
(16) Charlottesville (4-6) vs. (1) Salem-Roanoke (10-0) (Drew Goodman)
Salem
has looked the part of a state title contender all season, and now it
is time for the Spartans to begin their march towards the promise land.
The first test will be a Charlottesville High School team that has had
an up-and-down season. The Black Knights are winless against playoffs
teams, but CHS gave (9-1) Powhatan all it could handle last Friday
night. Defensively, Charlottesville has held four of its last five
opponents to 13 points or less, but CHS has not seen an offense
remotely as good as Salem all year. Between Coleman Fox running the
ball and Isaiah Parker out wide, the Black Knights will be overwhelmed,
and will be sent home with a convincing defeat...Spartans 55, Black Knights 13
(14) Pulaski County (5-5) vs. (3) Liberty-Bealeton (9-1) (Drew Goodman)
Pulaski
County jumped out to a 5-2 start, but reality has started to sink in.
The Cougars went 0-3 against the meat of their schedule, and find
themselves in a tough first round matchup. Liberty is a serious threat
to both Salem and Jefferson Forest n the 4A North bracket, and is four
points shy of being undefeated. The Eagles have held eight of their ten
opponents to 14 points or less, and I don't think that the Cougars have
the firepower to buck that trend. A trip to the playoffs was a step in
the right direction in year one of the Seven James era, but I think it
all comes to a crashing end...Eagles 42, Cougars 14
(12) Dominion (5-5) vs. (5) Courtland (9-1) (Rod Johnson)
Things
looked really good for Dominion after six games as the Titans were
sitting at 4-2 with some big games lined up for their final month.
However, the collected only one more win on the season losing tight
games to Loudoun Valley (10-7) and Woodgrove (35-28) before topping
Park View (35-3) and being blanked by Potomac Falls (27-0). The Titans
are solid on both sides of the ball with the offense, led by
quarterback Scotty Forbes, scoring 23.1 points per game and the
defense, led by All-American linebacker Chad Smith, allowing 17.6
points per contest. They'll see a Courtland team who has won nine
straight games, all but one by at least two touchdowns, as they've
toppled a number of winning teams including Riverbend, Louisa and James
Monroe. Their wing-t attack can overwhelm defenses with Anton Jenkins
working from the inside and Vic Greene and George Cheetham making big
plays happen from the wings. Defensively, they've allowed 52 points in
the last two weeks but, prior to that, only Massaponax had hit them
hard. Figure them to work hard especially hard on the defensive side of
the ball in practice this week which should make a difference in this
game...Cougars 30, Titans 17
3A West
(16) Waynesboro (5-5) vs. (1) Hidden Valley (8-2) (Drew Goodman)[/B]
After
taking a beat on Halloween Night and escaping with a one-point win last
week, top-ranked Hidden Valley is looking to regain its midseason
swagger in the playoffs. The banged-up Titans will welcome the
surprising Waynesboro Little Giants to town for first-round action.
Waynesboro has been one of the stories of the year in our area, as the
Little Giants are back in the playoffs after a 16-year hiatus.
Quarterback Chris Baker is the kind of playmaker that can make any
defensive coordinator nervous, but the Little Giants have not seen a
defense as good as Hidden Valley all season. If the Titans come out
sluggish, Waynesboro is the kind of pesky team that can hang around,
but I think Hidden Valley pulls away in the second half...Titans 34, Little Giants 13
(12) Lord Botetourt (7-3) vs. (5) Western Albemarle (8-2) (Drew Goodman)
This
matchup is proof that seeding means very little under the new VHSL
alignment, particularly in the rugged 3A West. Lord Botetourt enters
this game as the 12th seed, but the Cavaliers are probably the better
team. Jamie Harless' crew is a missed field goal away from being 8-2,
and could easily be 9-1, despite a slew of injuries on both sides of
the ball. On the other side, Western Albemarle earned a surprising 8-2
campaign, despite losing nearly every offensive contributor from the
2013 squad. Like Botetourt, the Warriors have been hit hard with
injuries this fall, but should be back at full strength on Friday
night. This game will be a battle of imposing lineman and powerful
rushing attacks, with Bradley Lythgoe and Noah Fletcher representing
the Cavaliers, and Oliver Herndon and Josh Meeks carrying the flag for
Western Albemarle. The Warriors have done a masterful job reloading
this fall under head coach Ed Redmond, but I think Botetourt is more
battle-tested, and will win the line of scrimmage, and ultimately the
game...Cavaliers 28, Warriors 18
(10) Tunstall (7-3) vs. (7) Monticello (8-2)
This
contest looks like one that will not be decided until the bitter end at
first glance. Both teams have been tested throughout the season with a
slight edge going to Tunstall for strength of schedule. Still, the
Mustangs have found ways to win the close contests and have a team that
is capable of not only scoring points but also containing opponents.
In addition, running back Kyree Koonce appears to be at full strength
as the team prepares to make a postseason run. Koonce is a powerful
runner who covers ground quickly and can be a factor in the passing
game and special teams in addition to the teams ground attack. In a
showdown with Rustburg at home last fall, Monticello found a way to
earn a victory in a game that may likely resemble what transpires on
Friday night. That experience along with the current positioning of
the group from Albemarle County along with Head Coach Jeff Woody's
resume should likely be enough to help Monticello advance to the second
round...Mustangs 28, Trojans 20
3A East
(11) William Monroe (6-4) vs. (6) John Champe (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
After
missing the postseason in back-to-back years, William Monroe returns to
the playoffs by virtue by their 6-4 mark that was build upon them
beating six of the seven sub-.500 team on their schedule while three of
their four losses came to programs from winning records. The Dragons
competed well even in their losses falling to Broadway (21-14),
Charlottesville (24-19) and Strasburg (31-26). Their one bad loss came
last week as Clarke County topped them 57-15. With the exception of
that game, the Dragons had scored well putting up 28 points in six
games in a row. The defense, on average, allowed just under 20 points
per game. John Champe, like William Monroe, has built their record on
the backs of beating sub-.500 teams beating only one team with a
winning record (Potomac Falls) this season. However, they competed
quite well in their losses to Dominion (28-27) and Loudoun Valley
(39-33) with their worst loss coming to Woodgrove (32-14). The offense
is outstanding scoring over 32 points per game while the solid defense
has allowed 18 per game, on average. Playing at home, in their first
postseason game in school history, the Knights should be able to get
their run game going enough to secure a win...Knights 20, Dragons 13
(14) Warren County (4-6) vs. (3) James Monroe (8-2)
After
beginning the year 0-5, the Wildcats managed to win four of its final
five games of the season to earn a spot in the postseason under first
year Head Coach Steven Crist. As positive as the season turned out to
be after the dismal start, it's highly likely that it comes to a halt
this week when they travel to face James Monroe and get a glimpse of
Maury stadium. The Yellow Jackets have been to the 3A state
championship game three years in a row and although last week ended a
seven game win streak for the team, the group appears to be in position
to make another run this fall. Quarterback Jay Scroggins has an ideal
weapon on the outside with Keyshawn Johnson and Monroe has put forth a
running game that has the ability to produce yardage and points this
season. The defense may not be as strong as it has in the past but if
the group can give the offense a chance, we may once again see Monroe
when it comes down to the Final Four...Yellow Jackets 42, Wildcats 17
2A East
(9) King William (8-2) vs. (8) Strasburg (7-3) (Marsel Mason)
The
Cavaliers can still remember the pain of ending their season in the
first round last year. Now despite winning their district and posting
some impressive numbers, King William will be on the road. Their
opponent Strasburg is a tough team with a tough quarterback in Mark
Smoot who has nearly thrown for 2,000 yards. The biggest obstacle for
the Rams is to slow the Cavaliers no-huddle offense down. Playing on
the coldest night of the football season could help the Rams quite a
bit. Jacob Jones and Camajae Peatross must continue to deliver in this
big contest or the big stage may overwhelm the Cavs. King William has
the advantage in big play capability. Unfortunately, Strasburg doesn't
give up many huge plays of gain. The Cavs will have to be patient and
they must take their shots to Lafeyette Pendleton and Austin Simons in
this one. They will...Cavaliers 35 Rams 20
(13) Nandua (7-3) vs. (4) Clarke County (10-0) (Marsel Mason)
The
Warriors of Nandua have had some moments of flash but then had games of
disappointment and near misses. Nandua should have a better record than
the one they have posted. They will take the trip through Maryland to
play not far from West Virginia versus a Clarke County team who is
anxious to venture deeper into the playoffs. The Eagles haven't had
many close encounters with the exception of Strasburg. Jakorah Parker
(pictured) will need to play one of his best games in order to keep
pace with Clarke County. He can't do it alone as Tyreim Blake must
grind the tough yards to keep the possessions long and keep Clarke's
offense off the field. Without ball control Nandua is going to be in
big trouble. They must stick with what they do best and limit their
turnovers or its going to be a typical Clarke County's quarterback Sean
McDonald will be a handful by himself...Eagles 48 Warriors 26
(10) R. E. Lee-Staunton (6-4) vs. (7) East Rockingham (8-2) (Drew Goodman)
This
is a matchup of two teams that are probably better than their rankings.
East Rockingham is 8-2, but failed to knock off either of the top teams
in its district. On the flipside, Robert E. Lee started off the season
0-3, but rallied to win six of its last seven. I love Tavian Brown and
this Leeman offense, but I like East Rock's explosive playmakers
better. The Eagles would love another shot at Riverheads, and I believe
they will take the necessary step towards achieving it, by knocking off
Lee...Eagles 37, Fighting Leemen 27
(15) Prince Edward County (4-6) vs (2) Wilson Memorial (9-1) (Drew Goodman)
While
Riverheads was caught napping heading into the postseason, Wilson
Memorial was its usual self last week, blanking Buffalo Gap 42-0. The
Green Hornets appear to be on a collision course to meet the Gladiators
again in the state semi finals, but that is several weeks out. In the
meantime, Wilson must tackle at Prince Edward squad that has had a
difficult time stopping anybody this year. The Eagles have played a
tough schedule, but have given up 34 points per game this fall. Look
for Wilson tailbacks Juh-Kwan McCauley and Sevant Swift to find the
holes in that defense and exploit them...Green Hornets 42, Eagles 6
Saturday, November 15, 2014
3A East
(9) Hopewell (4-6) vs. (8) Skyline (7-3) (Danny Lewis)
On
Saturday Hopewell will make the drive to Skyline. The Blue Devils could
very well be hosting this one but losing their final three games of the
season did them in. In fact, two of their four wins on the season came
in the first two games, from there on out they were 2-6! The Blue
Devils have talent; they have just come up short. The defense has
really struggled as they allowed 20 or more points in nine of their ten
games this season. If there is reason for optimism, it would be the
fact that in every playoff the blue Devils have made since 2001, they
have won at least one playoff game. If the Blue Devils are to win on
Saturday, the defense will have had to play their best game of the
season. As much as I want to take the local team, I just don't think
the defense will be able to do enough to help out the offense...Hawks 27, Blue Devils 21
(12) Petersburg (4-6) vs. (5) Kettle Run (6-4) (Danny Lewis)
Records
don't mean much to Petersburg. The Crimson Wave nearly beat Poquoson in
last year's playoff despite a 3-7 campaign. This year the Crimson Wave
is 4-6 and looking to get over that hump they could not last year. One
key to their success will be Gemonta Jackson who had a monster game
last week. Jackson who missed some time during the season is coming
back at the perfect time. He will be counted on for his play and
leadership as the Crimson Wave looks to pull off the upset. Kettle
Run's season ended up on a two-game losing streak, just as their season
started. If the Crimson Wave can get up early, being as Kettle Run is
coming off two straight losses, it could be enough to gain momentum
early and stun Kettle Run. Of course you don't get to 6-4 without being
a good team so this is easier said than done. This is one of those
games that could go either way, the winner will be whoever gets to the
better start in my estimation...Cougars 26, Crimson Wave 21
(15) Culpeper (3-7) vs. (2) Loudoun Valley (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
These
two programs have met on the gridiron twice splitting their 2007 and
2008 games. Culpeper finished this season a game down on last year's
record, but their 3-7 mark this season earned them a postseason berth.
The Blue Devils have had their highs and lows this season scoring 21
points or more in four games but finishing with 15 or less in their
other six games with their highwater mark being the 41 they put up on
Fluvanna. On the defensive side, they held four teams to 16 or less,
but were hit for 20 or more in their other six contests. Their best
effort came in a 35-0 shutout of Brentsville. Loudoun Valley won seven
of their first eight games but stumbled the last two weeks falling to
Loudoun County (28-24) and Woodgrove (49-7). The Vikings can light up a
scoreboard as they scored 24 or more in seven of their ten games though
Tuscarora, Dominion and Woodgrove held them to 10 points or less. The
defense had its ups and downs holding five of their ten opponents to
single digit scores including a shutout of James Wood. However, in
their other five games, they were hit for 22 or more points including a
pair of games where they allowed more than 40. The Raiders have lost
two straight but they've got more firepower than the Devils...Vikings 38, Blue Devils 21
time to put up or go home! Playoff action is here and we have 26
teams from the Piedmont area prepared to battle it out at all odds as
they look to keep their seasons alive. Each week of the regular
season that led up to this point of the year provided experiences for
the members of each team to learn, react, and prepare for what is about
to take place. We'll see who has learned from those experiences,
who will take advantage of the talent they possess and who is willing
to give it all to move on with the competition getting tougher with
each week they advance. There are several interesting matchups
this week so now we will take a look at a few of those games and
provide predictions for all of our contests in the area.
Friday, November 14, 2014
Conference 6A South Conference 3 and 4
(7) Riverbend (6-4) vs. (2) Thomas Dale (8-2) (Danny Lewis)
Thomas
Dale is 13-4 at home in the playoffs Their last loss? 1997 versus
Varina and since that time they are 4-0. Riverbend is making the
playoffs for the second time in their programs history and at 6-4,
their playoff fate wasn't fully known until their final game of the
season. The Knights are a team that could very well be 10-0 with a
one-point loss to Cosby and a Hail Mary loss to the Skyhawks. As the
season has gone on this team has only gotten better on both sides of
the ball. The run game featuring Eric Finney and Trent Williams has
lived up to the hype, Khalid Morris at quarterback has been solid all
season and when you look at their defense, what is there not to like?
Sam Stark, an up and coming, he's been solid all season but next
season, watch out. Simply put, the Knights should win this one and give
Coach Tucker his first ever victory in the playoffs...Knights 27, Bears 10
(6) Patrick Henry-Roanoke (6-4) vs. (3) Colonial Forge (7-3) (Drew Goodman)
Back
on September 26th, Patrick Henry made the trip up north, and left with
a 35-6 thumping at the hands of the Eagles. In that game, Forge jumped
on Patrick Henry early and never looked back. In fact, if it weren't
for a fourth-quarter pick-six by Braxton Macklin, the Patriots would
have been kept off the scoreboard. Not a whole lot has changed since
the last meeting to make me think that the result of the rematch will
be any different than the first meeting. The blowout win kick started a
six-game Colonial Forge winning streak. The Eagles are averaging 45
points per contest over the past six games, and I think that this team
has just too much going for it to be slowed down...Eagles 41, Patriots 14
5A North
(12) Mountain View (4-6) vs. (5) Briar Woods (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
In
their 2013 postseason meeting, Briar Woods cruised to a 49-7 victory
but, one year later, the teams are in slightly different places. A 7-3
team entering the playoffs last year, Mountain View comes in sporting a
4-6 mark this year as they never really found solid footing. They won
twice in their first half of their season and twice in the back half. A
bright spot for the Wildcats is that the offense hit their stride en
route to the playoffs scoring 20 or more in four of their last five.
However, they've not scored a win over a team with a winning record and
they were hit for over 26 points per game allowing 33 or more in half
their games. There is a lot to like about the first eight games of the
season for Briar Woods as they notched seven victories including wins
over Woodgrove and Broad Run scoring at least 20 points in each game
while never allowing more than 22 only once (Colonial Forge 27-20).
However, things went badly in their last two games when the were felled
by Potomac Falls 8-7 and blanked by Tuscarora 41-0. The beginning of
the playoffs means the beginning of a new life for the Falcons and they
should look more like the early season team than the late one...Falcons 28, Wildcats 14
(15) Brooke Point (3-7) vs. (2) Massaponax (10-0)
The
Panthers completed their second straight undefeated regular season when
they beat the very same Black Hawks last week. Even with the loss,
Brooke Point backed into the playoffs after their was a question if the
team would even play after forfeiting their gridiron contest a week
earlier against North Stafford. The contest at Massaponax was much
closer than anyone anticipated even though the improved Brooke Point
program has certainly made a statement this season under Head Coach
Tommy Buzzo. Even so, it's not likely that the Panthers will
underestimate their opponent this week and the group that is led by
Joey Benden on offense and Gus Little on defense should be able to take
the first step towards avenging their regional semifinals loss in 2013
with a solid start to the postseason this week...Panthers 38, Black Hawks 21
(11) North Stafford (5-5) vs. (6) Falls Church (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
Coach
Joe Mangano has taken the North Stafford program to new heights in the
recent past as the Wolverines appeared in the state semifinals in 2011,
2012 and 2013 narrowly missing a state championship appearance each
time. Falls Church, who had notched only one winning season since the
turn of the century coming into last season, is making the same kind of
turnaround under coach Said Aziz as the Jaguars finished 8-4 last
season before turning in a 7-3 regular season mark this year. The
Wolverines have not been on the field since October 24th when they fell
to Massaponax 30-24 as their regular season finale was a forfeit win
over Brooke Point which evened their record at 5-5 on the year. They
are young but have a lot of nice pieces in place including sophomore
quarterback Jimmy Edwards. The Jags won three of their final four games
to earn the home playoff game and they were just eight points away from
carrying a 9-1 record into the postseason behind quarterback Brian Eck
and Will Mejia, a do-it-all athlete. The Wolverines will make it close
but early rust and their youth will ultimately hurt them in this one...Jaguars 26, Wolverines 23
4A South
(12) Booker T. Washington (5-4) vs.(5) Powhatan (9-1)
After
a strong start to 2014, the Mighty Bookers struggled down the stretch
of the season but still managed to earn their first trip to the
postseason since 2010. Booker T. lost to all four of its opponents
this season that finished the regular season with a winning record and
the matchup against Powhatan isn't appealing. The Indians steamrolled
the competition this season behind a strong running game that is led by
senior Logan Allen. The Powhatan defense was remarkable, allowing just
97 points in 10 outings. Three-quarters of those points came in the
one loss the team suffered this season at the hands of Hopewell. The
stellar defense allowed the Indians to pull out the win last week when
the offense struggled and has the team in position to be a contender
well into the postseason with the ultimate goal of a state championship
appearance...Indians 27, Mighty Bookers 10
4A North
(9) Louisa County (7-3) vs. (8) Woodgrove (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
Two 7-3 teams square off in what
figures to be an excellent contest. Louisa has played a pretty tough
schedule topping 8-2 Western Albemarle 56-26, but falling to other
power programs Courtland (35-21), Powhatan (28-6) and Monticello
(58-28). Their single wing, ground-heavy attack has consistently put
big numbers on the board scoring 21 or more in all but two games this
season en route to totaling 334 points on the year. If they've
struggled, it's been on the defensive side of the ball as the Lions
have been hit for 26 or more points in six games allowing 91 in their
last two contests. Like Louisa, Woodgrove has played a difficult
schedule as they've topped John Champe and Loudoun Valley, but were
dropped by power schools Tuscarora, Briar Woods and Broad Run. Powered
by quarterback Billy Sheehan and running back Charlie Clewis, the
Wolverines offense can hit Louisa both on the ground and through the
air as they did throughout the season averaging over 38 points per
contest. The defense, on paper, has been slightly better than Louisa
allowing 20.3 points per game holding five of their opponents to 14 or
fewer points, though they were hit for 28 or more on four occasions.
This should be a battle into the fourth quarter, but look for the home
team to pull away late...Wolverines 26, Lions 14
(13) Fauquier (5-5) vs. (4) George Washington-Danville (10-0)
After
clawing their way into the postseason, Fauquier faces a difficult draw
with the Eagles lurking in battle of the birds. George Washington
shutout five of its' 10 opponents and gave up 67 points during those
contests. Magna Vista accounted for half of those points given up by
the Eagles defense meaning in the nine other contest, G.W. allowed an
average of less than four points per game. The explosive Eagles
offense is scoring over 40 points per game and will likely give the
Falcons a rough night on both sides of the ball. All of that on top of
the long trip south for Fauquier appears to be leading to a miserable
night for the Falcons and an even longer bus ride home for the squad...Eagles 38, Falcons 10
(10) William Fleming (8-2) vs. (7) Eastern View (9-1) (Drew Goodman)
William
Fleming has gone through a ton of adversity this fall, but the Colonels
are back in the playoffs for the first time in six years. Fleming has
lost several linemen, and running back Jerome Hill has been sidelined
for several weeks, but Dsean Adams and Warren Craft have picked up the
slack offensively. The Colonels will face an Eastern View squad that
has had no issues putting up points this fall. The Cyclones are
averaging a whopping 45 points per contest, and even managed 34 points
in their only loss to Liberty (Bealeton). This will likely be a high
scoring contest, and I think Fleming gets an added boost with Hill's
return to the lineup...Cyclones 37, Colonels 34
(16) Charlottesville (4-6) vs. (1) Salem-Roanoke (10-0) (Drew Goodman)
Salem
has looked the part of a state title contender all season, and now it
is time for the Spartans to begin their march towards the promise land.
The first test will be a Charlottesville High School team that has had
an up-and-down season. The Black Knights are winless against playoffs
teams, but CHS gave (9-1) Powhatan all it could handle last Friday
night. Defensively, Charlottesville has held four of its last five
opponents to 13 points or less, but CHS has not seen an offense
remotely as good as Salem all year. Between Coleman Fox running the
ball and Isaiah Parker out wide, the Black Knights will be overwhelmed,
and will be sent home with a convincing defeat...Spartans 55, Black Knights 13
(14) Pulaski County (5-5) vs. (3) Liberty-Bealeton (9-1) (Drew Goodman)
Pulaski
County jumped out to a 5-2 start, but reality has started to sink in.
The Cougars went 0-3 against the meat of their schedule, and find
themselves in a tough first round matchup. Liberty is a serious threat
to both Salem and Jefferson Forest n the 4A North bracket, and is four
points shy of being undefeated. The Eagles have held eight of their ten
opponents to 14 points or less, and I don't think that the Cougars have
the firepower to buck that trend. A trip to the playoffs was a step in
the right direction in year one of the Seven James era, but I think it
all comes to a crashing end...Eagles 42, Cougars 14
(12) Dominion (5-5) vs. (5) Courtland (9-1) (Rod Johnson)
Things
looked really good for Dominion after six games as the Titans were
sitting at 4-2 with some big games lined up for their final month.
However, the collected only one more win on the season losing tight
games to Loudoun Valley (10-7) and Woodgrove (35-28) before topping
Park View (35-3) and being blanked by Potomac Falls (27-0). The Titans
are solid on both sides of the ball with the offense, led by
quarterback Scotty Forbes, scoring 23.1 points per game and the
defense, led by All-American linebacker Chad Smith, allowing 17.6
points per contest. They'll see a Courtland team who has won nine
straight games, all but one by at least two touchdowns, as they've
toppled a number of winning teams including Riverbend, Louisa and James
Monroe. Their wing-t attack can overwhelm defenses with Anton Jenkins
working from the inside and Vic Greene and George Cheetham making big
plays happen from the wings. Defensively, they've allowed 52 points in
the last two weeks but, prior to that, only Massaponax had hit them
hard. Figure them to work hard especially hard on the defensive side of
the ball in practice this week which should make a difference in this
game...Cougars 30, Titans 17
3A West
(16) Waynesboro (5-5) vs. (1) Hidden Valley (8-2) (Drew Goodman)[/B]
After
taking a beat on Halloween Night and escaping with a one-point win last
week, top-ranked Hidden Valley is looking to regain its midseason
swagger in the playoffs. The banged-up Titans will welcome the
surprising Waynesboro Little Giants to town for first-round action.
Waynesboro has been one of the stories of the year in our area, as the
Little Giants are back in the playoffs after a 16-year hiatus.
Quarterback Chris Baker is the kind of playmaker that can make any
defensive coordinator nervous, but the Little Giants have not seen a
defense as good as Hidden Valley all season. If the Titans come out
sluggish, Waynesboro is the kind of pesky team that can hang around,
but I think Hidden Valley pulls away in the second half...Titans 34, Little Giants 13
(12) Lord Botetourt (7-3) vs. (5) Western Albemarle (8-2) (Drew Goodman)
This
matchup is proof that seeding means very little under the new VHSL
alignment, particularly in the rugged 3A West. Lord Botetourt enters
this game as the 12th seed, but the Cavaliers are probably the better
team. Jamie Harless' crew is a missed field goal away from being 8-2,
and could easily be 9-1, despite a slew of injuries on both sides of
the ball. On the other side, Western Albemarle earned a surprising 8-2
campaign, despite losing nearly every offensive contributor from the
2013 squad. Like Botetourt, the Warriors have been hit hard with
injuries this fall, but should be back at full strength on Friday
night. This game will be a battle of imposing lineman and powerful
rushing attacks, with Bradley Lythgoe and Noah Fletcher representing
the Cavaliers, and Oliver Herndon and Josh Meeks carrying the flag for
Western Albemarle. The Warriors have done a masterful job reloading
this fall under head coach Ed Redmond, but I think Botetourt is more
battle-tested, and will win the line of scrimmage, and ultimately the
game...Cavaliers 28, Warriors 18
(10) Tunstall (7-3) vs. (7) Monticello (8-2)
This
contest looks like one that will not be decided until the bitter end at
first glance. Both teams have been tested throughout the season with a
slight edge going to Tunstall for strength of schedule. Still, the
Mustangs have found ways to win the close contests and have a team that
is capable of not only scoring points but also containing opponents.
In addition, running back Kyree Koonce appears to be at full strength
as the team prepares to make a postseason run. Koonce is a powerful
runner who covers ground quickly and can be a factor in the passing
game and special teams in addition to the teams ground attack. In a
showdown with Rustburg at home last fall, Monticello found a way to
earn a victory in a game that may likely resemble what transpires on
Friday night. That experience along with the current positioning of
the group from Albemarle County along with Head Coach Jeff Woody's
resume should likely be enough to help Monticello advance to the second
round...Mustangs 28, Trojans 20
3A East
(11) William Monroe (6-4) vs. (6) John Champe (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
After
missing the postseason in back-to-back years, William Monroe returns to
the playoffs by virtue by their 6-4 mark that was build upon them
beating six of the seven sub-.500 team on their schedule while three of
their four losses came to programs from winning records. The Dragons
competed well even in their losses falling to Broadway (21-14),
Charlottesville (24-19) and Strasburg (31-26). Their one bad loss came
last week as Clarke County topped them 57-15. With the exception of
that game, the Dragons had scored well putting up 28 points in six
games in a row. The defense, on average, allowed just under 20 points
per game. John Champe, like William Monroe, has built their record on
the backs of beating sub-.500 teams beating only one team with a
winning record (Potomac Falls) this season. However, they competed
quite well in their losses to Dominion (28-27) and Loudoun Valley
(39-33) with their worst loss coming to Woodgrove (32-14). The offense
is outstanding scoring over 32 points per game while the solid defense
has allowed 18 per game, on average. Playing at home, in their first
postseason game in school history, the Knights should be able to get
their run game going enough to secure a win...Knights 20, Dragons 13
(14) Warren County (4-6) vs. (3) James Monroe (8-2)
After
beginning the year 0-5, the Wildcats managed to win four of its final
five games of the season to earn a spot in the postseason under first
year Head Coach Steven Crist. As positive as the season turned out to
be after the dismal start, it's highly likely that it comes to a halt
this week when they travel to face James Monroe and get a glimpse of
Maury stadium. The Yellow Jackets have been to the 3A state
championship game three years in a row and although last week ended a
seven game win streak for the team, the group appears to be in position
to make another run this fall. Quarterback Jay Scroggins has an ideal
weapon on the outside with Keyshawn Johnson and Monroe has put forth a
running game that has the ability to produce yardage and points this
season. The defense may not be as strong as it has in the past but if
the group can give the offense a chance, we may once again see Monroe
when it comes down to the Final Four...Yellow Jackets 42, Wildcats 17
2A East
(9) King William (8-2) vs. (8) Strasburg (7-3) (Marsel Mason)
The
Cavaliers can still remember the pain of ending their season in the
first round last year. Now despite winning their district and posting
some impressive numbers, King William will be on the road. Their
opponent Strasburg is a tough team with a tough quarterback in Mark
Smoot who has nearly thrown for 2,000 yards. The biggest obstacle for
the Rams is to slow the Cavaliers no-huddle offense down. Playing on
the coldest night of the football season could help the Rams quite a
bit. Jacob Jones and Camajae Peatross must continue to deliver in this
big contest or the big stage may overwhelm the Cavs. King William has
the advantage in big play capability. Unfortunately, Strasburg doesn't
give up many huge plays of gain. The Cavs will have to be patient and
they must take their shots to Lafeyette Pendleton and Austin Simons in
this one. They will...Cavaliers 35 Rams 20
(13) Nandua (7-3) vs. (4) Clarke County (10-0) (Marsel Mason)
The
Warriors of Nandua have had some moments of flash but then had games of
disappointment and near misses. Nandua should have a better record than
the one they have posted. They will take the trip through Maryland to
play not far from West Virginia versus a Clarke County team who is
anxious to venture deeper into the playoffs. The Eagles haven't had
many close encounters with the exception of Strasburg. Jakorah Parker
(pictured) will need to play one of his best games in order to keep
pace with Clarke County. He can't do it alone as Tyreim Blake must
grind the tough yards to keep the possessions long and keep Clarke's
offense off the field. Without ball control Nandua is going to be in
big trouble. They must stick with what they do best and limit their
turnovers or its going to be a typical Clarke County's quarterback Sean
McDonald will be a handful by himself...Eagles 48 Warriors 26
(10) R. E. Lee-Staunton (6-4) vs. (7) East Rockingham (8-2) (Drew Goodman)
This
is a matchup of two teams that are probably better than their rankings.
East Rockingham is 8-2, but failed to knock off either of the top teams
in its district. On the flipside, Robert E. Lee started off the season
0-3, but rallied to win six of its last seven. I love Tavian Brown and
this Leeman offense, but I like East Rock's explosive playmakers
better. The Eagles would love another shot at Riverheads, and I believe
they will take the necessary step towards achieving it, by knocking off
Lee...Eagles 37, Fighting Leemen 27
(15) Prince Edward County (4-6) vs (2) Wilson Memorial (9-1) (Drew Goodman)
While
Riverheads was caught napping heading into the postseason, Wilson
Memorial was its usual self last week, blanking Buffalo Gap 42-0. The
Green Hornets appear to be on a collision course to meet the Gladiators
again in the state semi finals, but that is several weeks out. In the
meantime, Wilson must tackle at Prince Edward squad that has had a
difficult time stopping anybody this year. The Eagles have played a
tough schedule, but have given up 34 points per game this fall. Look
for Wilson tailbacks Juh-Kwan McCauley and Sevant Swift to find the
holes in that defense and exploit them...Green Hornets 42, Eagles 6
Saturday, November 15, 2014
3A East
(9) Hopewell (4-6) vs. (8) Skyline (7-3) (Danny Lewis)
On
Saturday Hopewell will make the drive to Skyline. The Blue Devils could
very well be hosting this one but losing their final three games of the
season did them in. In fact, two of their four wins on the season came
in the first two games, from there on out they were 2-6! The Blue
Devils have talent; they have just come up short. The defense has
really struggled as they allowed 20 or more points in nine of their ten
games this season. If there is reason for optimism, it would be the
fact that in every playoff the blue Devils have made since 2001, they
have won at least one playoff game. If the Blue Devils are to win on
Saturday, the defense will have had to play their best game of the
season. As much as I want to take the local team, I just don't think
the defense will be able to do enough to help out the offense...Hawks 27, Blue Devils 21
(12) Petersburg (4-6) vs. (5) Kettle Run (6-4) (Danny Lewis)
Records
don't mean much to Petersburg. The Crimson Wave nearly beat Poquoson in
last year's playoff despite a 3-7 campaign. This year the Crimson Wave
is 4-6 and looking to get over that hump they could not last year. One
key to their success will be Gemonta Jackson who had a monster game
last week. Jackson who missed some time during the season is coming
back at the perfect time. He will be counted on for his play and
leadership as the Crimson Wave looks to pull off the upset. Kettle
Run's season ended up on a two-game losing streak, just as their season
started. If the Crimson Wave can get up early, being as Kettle Run is
coming off two straight losses, it could be enough to gain momentum
early and stun Kettle Run. Of course you don't get to 6-4 without being
a good team so this is easier said than done. This is one of those
games that could go either way, the winner will be whoever gets to the
better start in my estimation...Cougars 26, Crimson Wave 21
(15) Culpeper (3-7) vs. (2) Loudoun Valley (7-3) (Rod Johnson)
These
two programs have met on the gridiron twice splitting their 2007 and
2008 games. Culpeper finished this season a game down on last year's
record, but their 3-7 mark this season earned them a postseason berth.
The Blue Devils have had their highs and lows this season scoring 21
points or more in four games but finishing with 15 or less in their
other six games with their highwater mark being the 41 they put up on
Fluvanna. On the defensive side, they held four teams to 16 or less,
but were hit for 20 or more in their other six contests. Their best
effort came in a 35-0 shutout of Brentsville. Loudoun Valley won seven
of their first eight games but stumbled the last two weeks falling to
Loudoun County (28-24) and Woodgrove (49-7). The Vikings can light up a
scoreboard as they scored 24 or more in seven of their ten games though
Tuscarora, Dominion and Woodgrove held them to 10 points or less. The
defense had its ups and downs holding five of their ten opponents to
single digit scores including a shutout of James Wood. However, in
their other five games, they were hit for 22 or more points including a
pair of games where they allowed more than 40. The Raiders have lost
two straight but they've got more firepower than the Devils...Vikings 38, Blue Devils 21
