The semis are here. Who will finish their journey to state? We start the week with a chance for 4 of 8 finalists to be the Eagles. Hopefully we avoid that. Can anyone surprise us more than Liberty's upset of Prestonwood? Good luck and safe travels.
Division I
Dallas Parish Episcopal School vs. Dallas Bishop Dunne High School @ SMU -- When we haven't been pushing Prestonwood as the favorite in the top division we've had the Falcons as the favorite in Division I. Of course Bishop Lynch slid in and grabbed a state title one year when we were hyping Dunne and Prestonwood. The Falcons have won 6 in a row since losing a national TV game at St. Pius. Dunne avenged that loss last week with a 35-0 1st quarter to pace to a regional win. The "Red Swarm" defense has lived up to billing never allowing 20 points in any game this season, including holding these Panthers to 7 in their meeting on Oct. 12. The Parish offense will have to find a way around this dominant unit to reach the final. The Panthers have had an up and down season at times, dominating the likes of Fort Worth Christian and notching a win over Bishop Lynch, but then also dropping games to Liberty when the Warriors were not going well. The Panthers shouldn't get blown out by any means as they held the Falcons to 16 in their first meeting. However, I thought that about St. Pius X last week. If Parish can find a way to score in the high 20s the Falcons offense should have trouble matching that. I just don't see the Dunne defense getting picked apart in game 13 after their dominant season. Dunne wins a trench battle, 22-8.
Dallas Bishop Lynch High School vs. Argyle Liberty Christian School @ Irving -- The Warriors stunned us all by sending Prestonwood home in round 2. The Liberty defense posted an amazing season last year that led us to think they could be a surprise team in the playoffs. It turns out we were a year early. The Warriors started just 1-3 with the win being a rain shortened shutout, but over a notable opponent in Brock. Included in those 3 losses was a 49-20 drubbing at the hands of Prestonwood. The Warriors would reach 2-4 after Nolan put up another 49 on Warriors defense in the district opener. It just didn't seem to be Liberty's year. They've won 6 in a row since including last weeks revenge win over Prestonwood. The Friars figured to be a contender in Division I, but maybe in the 2nd group behind the trio of Dunne, Prestonwood, and St. Pius. Well, only Dunne remains of that group and the Friars are still standing. The Friars chances appeared to take a substantial hit when they lost the district opener to Parish and Dunne forced them to 0-2 in the district slate. Then despite digging an early hole Lynch responded with a 50-40 shocker of undefeated Prestonwood. On tiebreakers though the Friars still finished 4th, but the Friars won their most recent state title from a 5th place finish. If the Friars can score like they have in their big wins (Prestonwood, Nolan, MCS, St. Thomas) then they will be a tough out for the Warriors. If the Liberty defense can produce an outing like last week, they will be a similar mountain for the Friars. I think Lynch is the better team, but they've struggled in close games this year. Friars squeak past the Warriors 30-27.
Division II
Fort Worth Christian School vs. Cedar Hill Trinity Christian School @ Grand Prairie -- The Cardinals dominated Dallas Christian defensively last week, scoring first and never relinquishing that lead. DC managed just a 1st half field goal and a trick play touchdown in the 2nd half. While the Cardinals offense hasn't been a highlight unit all season, they feature one of the Division's best playmakers at QB. They've also run off 6 in a row since falling to Parish Episcopal in the non-district. While the defense has led them to key victories over Faith and DC. It almost got them in trouble seeing Brook Hill score 50 in the playoff opener. The Tigers have been the favorites for this year's title since probably Week 10 of last season and nothing in the current 12-0 campaign has changed that. A season opening win over DI semifinalist Bishop Lynch continues to look better each week. A blowout of St. Thomas looks more impressive after St. Thomas took their district title over St. Pius. The Brook Hill team that scored 50 at FWC, scored just 12 against TCCH. While FWC features one of the top playmakers, the Tigers feature 4 or 5 of the best playmakers in Division II. Could there be an upset? The Cardinals defense will have to lead the way and keep the Tigers out of the endzone. Maybe a short field or two could stem the tide. The Tigers are just too much on paper though. TCCH goes back to the final, 40-21.
Houston Second Baptist School vs. Regents School of Austin @ Brenham -- Regents and Second Baptist has been the expected South matchup for a couple of seasons. While the Knights and Eagles squared off in the regular season for two straight years, someone always got in the way of the playoff meeting. The Knights will look to return to the Division II Final for the 3rd consecutive season, having lost to Grapevine Faith and then being handled by TCCH last year. The regular season win streak fell for Regents in a surprise loss to San Antonio Central Catholic. They posted their usual two victories over a competitive Holy Cross squad and have held the opposition to 20 or less in all 10 of their wins. The Eagles bring their usual potent offense to the 3rd round having posted 93 points in 2 playoff victories. Last season the Knights held that attack to just 10 points and the playoff defeats have come when the Eagles offense has gone MIA. Just 9 points in last year's loss to Hyde Park, 10 in the 2016 loss to Holy Cross. 18 and 17 in the 2 playoff defeats before that. Second Baptist needs a big output to pass by Regents and take their shot at TCCH. The Knights I think are too much for the Eagles. Regents gets a 3rd shot, wins 30-17.
Division III
Willow Park Trinity Christian Academy vs. Flower Mound Coram Deo Academy @ Pennington Field -- These two met just three weeks ago with the Eagles taking a 20-14 road victory. Trinity has ascended the 11-man ranks very quickly, reaching the semifinals in all three seasons on the large field. McKinney Christian ousted the Eagles last year. The Lions struggled in 11-man until 2016 and now have secured at least 8 wins in three straight seasons. The 2018 Lions already have 11 wins and just the lone loss to these Eagles. Since that loss in Week 11 the Lions have rolled off 94 points in 2 playoff wins. Just 4 teams have held Coram Deo under 30 points. One is Shelton who the Lions posted 42 on the playoffs. Division II Frisco Legacy held the Lions to 14, and the Trinity's, Lubbock and Willow Park held the Lions down. The Eagles need to repeat that effort to reach the final. The Eagles offense is no slouch either, being only limited by Coram Deo among Division III opposition. I think in the rematch the offenses will show a little more prowess than in their first meeting. Look for a high scoring affair with Coram Deo claiming revenge, 41-35.
Geneva School of Boerne vs. League City Bay Area Christian @ Giddings -- The Eagles have been a force in whatever division they've been in, playing at least 12 games every season since 2012 outside of a transition season from 6-man to 11-man (they went undefeated against that outlaw schedule too). This year they've won 8 in a row after a 1-3 start, including 110 points in 2 playoff games. Only Shiner St. Paul held the Eagles under 40 during the win streak and that was just 38. The Broncos sport a matching 9-3 record after losing their first 3. Only Northland managed more than 14 against the Broncos among the 9 wins. Both teams limited TSD to just 2 touchdowns making me expect a defensive struggle in this one. Eagles finally reach a state final, winning 20-12.
Division IV
Fort Worth Lake Country Christian School vs. Dallas First Baptist Academy @ Pennington Field -- TAPPS smallest division brings us another Eagles. Lake Country struggled in the non-district slate going just 3-4, but have allowed only 34 points in their last 5 games including 4 DIV opponents. The Eagles have always tested themselves in the non-district leading to some less than stellar records, but multiple playoff appearances. The Saints have found their niche after school changes lowered their enrollment significantly. FBA won a 2013 state championship and have been a playoff team each of the past 7 seasons. The Saints in 2018 have scored at least 19 in every full game and at least 32 in every win that went 48 minutes. Both teams offenses should put up some numbers here and the depth in the smaller divisions can make matching up defensively quite the task. Look for a shootout, Saints win 42-35.
Hallettsville Sacred Heart Catholic School vs. Shiner St. Paul High School @ Columbus -- The Indians and Cardinals face off in the usual playoff rivalry. Sacred Heart claimed what looked like it would be the last Division IV state title in 2011 with a win over St. Paul, but St. Paul went ahead and won 2 titles in Division III in the mean time despite having an enrollment under 100 (smaller than some 6-man champions). The Cardinals are a favorite of this space due to their relatively low numbers and willingness to take on just about anyone anyway. This season though the Cardinals are just 4-8, and that is with 2 playoff wins. They are still very much a threat for the title though and are 4-1 against Division IV opponents. Of course the loss is to these Indians, by a score of 28-7 in Week 9. Among private school opponents the Indians 28 was a season low. Only Nixon-Smiley and Flatonia held Sacred Heart to fewer. In a rematch with short rosters I think you have to expect an offensive showdown. Cardinals get revenge, 36-32.
Season: 78-20
Quick Hits finishes the season at 102-28.
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Regional Playoff Picks 2018
One round closer to the finish line. Just 28 games left in 11-man for the year.
This Week: (Season: 72-19)
Dallas Christian vs. Fort Worth Christian @ Gopher-Warrior Bowl -- The Chargers and Cardinals are long time rivals dating back to before the creation of TAPPS. There have been a number of great battles through the years. FWC once led 20-0 before DC had an offensive snap before DC came back to win 28-20. The Cardinals bested the Chargers in the state title game 3 seasons ago in both schools most recent appearance in the final. The Chargers won last year's regional playoff game 45-35 in Burleson and the regular season meeting 19-14 (after leading 19-0). For this year's matchup, both teams may be lacking some key players from last year's shootout. The defense has led the way for Dallas Christian this season allowing more than 14 in just 2 of 11 games on their way to a 10-1 record. The Cardinals posted an 8-3 campaign including a loss at TK Gorman 54-42. In contrast the Chargers bested TKG 35-0 on a rainy night in Tyler. However, FWC dominated Frisco Legacy 41-13, while the Chargers struggled to get on track offensively in a 17-3 playoff win. The battle appears to be between the Cardinals offense and the Chargers defense. FWC has scored 38 or more in each game of its current five game win streak. In contrast, DC has scored 38+ just 3 times all year. The Cardinals playoff win over Brook Hill may provide the best example. FWC posted 56 while DC managed just 21 against the same squad. Brook Hill scored 50 at FWC but just 7 at DC. If the game gets in the 30s DC will have a very difficult time. Chargers win the slugfest, 26-21.
Grapevine Faith Christian vs. Trinity Christian - Cedar Hill @ Farrington Field -- The Lions looked to be the best challenger to the Tigers throne through 9 games. Then FWC bested them and the Lions needed a missed FG to squeak out a 2 point win against TK Gorman. Now its hard to see the Tigers as anything other than overwhelming favorites to repeat. TCCH was held under 44 points just 3 times this season, by DC, Melissa, and Bishop Lynch. The Faith defense is no pushover, but allowing 33 to TKG who managed just 6 combined against DC and TCCH is not an encouraging sign. The Lions best win was a neutral site win over Canadian, along with a stretch of 3 district wins over various Eagles by a combined margin of 162-10. Recapturing that offensive form will be needed to out gun the Tigers. There can certainly be playoff upsets in high school football, but I don't see it here. Tigers march continues, 48-20.
Houston Second Baptist vs. Houston Cypress Christian @ Delmar Stadium -- The Warriors are the other state champion in the Division II bracket and the only road team to spring an upset last week. The Eagles are the long time favorite in the Houston area in the TAPPS 2nd largest division. Second Baptist is also the last school south of the I-20 corridor to win the Division II (then 4A) state title way back in 1999, for perspective now closed Carrollton American Heritage won the 2A title that year. The Eagles have posted a 10-1 record on the season, losing only at Van Vleck (Leopards by the way) who is still in the UIL playoffs. The Warriors struggled some in the move up to Division II, but after getting blasted by Regents in Week 1 posted 8 wins including some tight battles, 4 point win at Hyde Park, 3 point win over Westbury, and a 4 point win at Victoria St. Joseph. When these two met in Week 9, the Eagles dominated in a 38-10 victory. That game was at Second Baptist and it always feels like beating the same team again can be a challenge. Cypress will be a force for Second Baptist to deal with in the years to come, but will not have enough this week. Second Baptist wins, 38-17.
San Antonio Holy Cross vs. Austin Regents @ Buda -- The battle of Knights reasserts itself for the 2nd time this season, marking the 3rd straight season Holy Cross and Regents will square off in both the regular season and the playoffs. Regents has won 6 in a row in this series, including a 34-7 win this year. You have to go back to 2014 to find a Holy Cross win. The Regents offense has really gotten loose on the Holy Cross Knights scoring 41, 34, and 32 in the last three meetings. The Regents Knights continue to be a hard out for anyone south of the I-20 corridor (and they were playing 6-man when Second Baptist won that 1999 title). Second Baptist is probably the best chance to break the Regents hold on the southern half of Division II, but Holy Cross will get past the Regents juggernaut at some point, but hasn't delivered on the promise that the Central Catholic win seemed to hold. Regents continues it march back to the title game, 30-12.
Fort Worth Nolan vs. Dallas Parish Episcopal @ Gopher-Warrior Bowl -- The Vikings have quietly amassed a 9-1 record and have to be considered a contender in the next tier of Division I. That top tier was probably just Prestonwood and Dunne, but Lynch forced their way in with their win over Prestonwood. The Panthers also have to be considered in that next group having beaten Lynch. In earlier results the Vikings ran over Liberty while the Panthers fell to the Warriors just 2 weeks ago. Nolan has not had the excitement statewide that many 9-1 teams would get, probably a product of not winning more than 5 games for the last 4 seasons. The blowout loss to Lynch was another blow to the Vikings ratings. The Dunne-Pius winner will not get a pushover either way, but I'll take the Panthers in a close one, 30-28.
Houston St. Pius X vs. Bishop Dunne @ Manor -- Probably the main event in the Division I bracket this week is the rematch of Panthers and Falcons. When these two last met, St. Pius took a 17-7 victory in Houston in front of a national audience. These two meet up in the playoffs for the 4th straight season, with the Panthers winning last year after the Falcons took the first two. The Falcons "Red Swarm" defense has been a top unit all season allowing no more than 19 in any game this season. The Dunne defense has done this against top competition, including Desoto, Prestonwood, and St. Pius. Now given that defense the record does include 3 losses. The offense has not always kept pace, getting past 23 on the scoreboard just 4 times in 11 games. The Panthers offense is the dominant unit, having been held under 40 just twice on the season. Somewhat curiously they won both of those games including the previously mentioned game against Dunne. St. Thomas and Prestonwood tripped up the Panthers this year with the former defeat bringing this matchup forward to the Regional round. If this game gets up in the 40s then Dunne will struggle to keep up, but St. Pius bested Dunne in a defensive slugfest last time out so I don't think it goes in reverse. Dunne gets enough points to get over the top this time. Falcons win 23-19.
Austin Texas School for the Deaf vs. League City Bay Area Christian @ Sealy -- Reaching into the smaller divisions, the Broncos enter this 2nd round contest with an 8 game winning streak after they lost their first 3. Bay Area positioned themselves as a Division III contender by squeaking out a 14-6 district opening win over The Woodlands Christian and then dominating the rest of the district slate winning each game by 27 or more. The Broncos posted a 48-7 thrashing of Schertz JPII to open the postseason. The Rangers 8 wins is already their most since 2007 and have responded with four big wins since falling to Boerne Geneva. The TSD offense has been a high powered unit posting 59, 59, and 62 in their last three including a 38 point victory over Northland in round 1. These two offenses should produce quite the shootout. Broncos sneak by 48-40.
Quick Hits: (Season: 94-27)
Dallas Bishop Lynch over Houston St. Thomas
Plano Prestonwood Christian over Argyle Liberty Christian
Willow Park Trinity Christian over Arlington Pantego Christian
Flower Mound Coram Deo Academy over Arlington Grace Preparatory Academy
Boerne Geneva over The Woodlands Christian
Fort Worth Lake Country Christian over Dallas Covenant
Dallas First Baptist Academy over Muenster Sacred Heart
Hallettsville Sacred Heart over Tomball Rosehill Christian School
Shiner St. Paul over Beaumont Legacy Christian
This Week: (Season: 72-19)
Dallas Christian vs. Fort Worth Christian @ Gopher-Warrior Bowl -- The Chargers and Cardinals are long time rivals dating back to before the creation of TAPPS. There have been a number of great battles through the years. FWC once led 20-0 before DC had an offensive snap before DC came back to win 28-20. The Cardinals bested the Chargers in the state title game 3 seasons ago in both schools most recent appearance in the final. The Chargers won last year's regional playoff game 45-35 in Burleson and the regular season meeting 19-14 (after leading 19-0). For this year's matchup, both teams may be lacking some key players from last year's shootout. The defense has led the way for Dallas Christian this season allowing more than 14 in just 2 of 11 games on their way to a 10-1 record. The Cardinals posted an 8-3 campaign including a loss at TK Gorman 54-42. In contrast the Chargers bested TKG 35-0 on a rainy night in Tyler. However, FWC dominated Frisco Legacy 41-13, while the Chargers struggled to get on track offensively in a 17-3 playoff win. The battle appears to be between the Cardinals offense and the Chargers defense. FWC has scored 38 or more in each game of its current five game win streak. In contrast, DC has scored 38+ just 3 times all year. The Cardinals playoff win over Brook Hill may provide the best example. FWC posted 56 while DC managed just 21 against the same squad. Brook Hill scored 50 at FWC but just 7 at DC. If the game gets in the 30s DC will have a very difficult time. Chargers win the slugfest, 26-21.
Grapevine Faith Christian vs. Trinity Christian - Cedar Hill @ Farrington Field -- The Lions looked to be the best challenger to the Tigers throne through 9 games. Then FWC bested them and the Lions needed a missed FG to squeak out a 2 point win against TK Gorman. Now its hard to see the Tigers as anything other than overwhelming favorites to repeat. TCCH was held under 44 points just 3 times this season, by DC, Melissa, and Bishop Lynch. The Faith defense is no pushover, but allowing 33 to TKG who managed just 6 combined against DC and TCCH is not an encouraging sign. The Lions best win was a neutral site win over Canadian, along with a stretch of 3 district wins over various Eagles by a combined margin of 162-10. Recapturing that offensive form will be needed to out gun the Tigers. There can certainly be playoff upsets in high school football, but I don't see it here. Tigers march continues, 48-20.
Houston Second Baptist vs. Houston Cypress Christian @ Delmar Stadium -- The Warriors are the other state champion in the Division II bracket and the only road team to spring an upset last week. The Eagles are the long time favorite in the Houston area in the TAPPS 2nd largest division. Second Baptist is also the last school south of the I-20 corridor to win the Division II (then 4A) state title way back in 1999, for perspective now closed Carrollton American Heritage won the 2A title that year. The Eagles have posted a 10-1 record on the season, losing only at Van Vleck (Leopards by the way) who is still in the UIL playoffs. The Warriors struggled some in the move up to Division II, but after getting blasted by Regents in Week 1 posted 8 wins including some tight battles, 4 point win at Hyde Park, 3 point win over Westbury, and a 4 point win at Victoria St. Joseph. When these two met in Week 9, the Eagles dominated in a 38-10 victory. That game was at Second Baptist and it always feels like beating the same team again can be a challenge. Cypress will be a force for Second Baptist to deal with in the years to come, but will not have enough this week. Second Baptist wins, 38-17.
San Antonio Holy Cross vs. Austin Regents @ Buda -- The battle of Knights reasserts itself for the 2nd time this season, marking the 3rd straight season Holy Cross and Regents will square off in both the regular season and the playoffs. Regents has won 6 in a row in this series, including a 34-7 win this year. You have to go back to 2014 to find a Holy Cross win. The Regents offense has really gotten loose on the Holy Cross Knights scoring 41, 34, and 32 in the last three meetings. The Regents Knights continue to be a hard out for anyone south of the I-20 corridor (and they were playing 6-man when Second Baptist won that 1999 title). Second Baptist is probably the best chance to break the Regents hold on the southern half of Division II, but Holy Cross will get past the Regents juggernaut at some point, but hasn't delivered on the promise that the Central Catholic win seemed to hold. Regents continues it march back to the title game, 30-12.
Fort Worth Nolan vs. Dallas Parish Episcopal @ Gopher-Warrior Bowl -- The Vikings have quietly amassed a 9-1 record and have to be considered a contender in the next tier of Division I. That top tier was probably just Prestonwood and Dunne, but Lynch forced their way in with their win over Prestonwood. The Panthers also have to be considered in that next group having beaten Lynch. In earlier results the Vikings ran over Liberty while the Panthers fell to the Warriors just 2 weeks ago. Nolan has not had the excitement statewide that many 9-1 teams would get, probably a product of not winning more than 5 games for the last 4 seasons. The blowout loss to Lynch was another blow to the Vikings ratings. The Dunne-Pius winner will not get a pushover either way, but I'll take the Panthers in a close one, 30-28.
Houston St. Pius X vs. Bishop Dunne @ Manor -- Probably the main event in the Division I bracket this week is the rematch of Panthers and Falcons. When these two last met, St. Pius took a 17-7 victory in Houston in front of a national audience. These two meet up in the playoffs for the 4th straight season, with the Panthers winning last year after the Falcons took the first two. The Falcons "Red Swarm" defense has been a top unit all season allowing no more than 19 in any game this season. The Dunne defense has done this against top competition, including Desoto, Prestonwood, and St. Pius. Now given that defense the record does include 3 losses. The offense has not always kept pace, getting past 23 on the scoreboard just 4 times in 11 games. The Panthers offense is the dominant unit, having been held under 40 just twice on the season. Somewhat curiously they won both of those games including the previously mentioned game against Dunne. St. Thomas and Prestonwood tripped up the Panthers this year with the former defeat bringing this matchup forward to the Regional round. If this game gets up in the 40s then Dunne will struggle to keep up, but St. Pius bested Dunne in a defensive slugfest last time out so I don't think it goes in reverse. Dunne gets enough points to get over the top this time. Falcons win 23-19.
Austin Texas School for the Deaf vs. League City Bay Area Christian @ Sealy -- Reaching into the smaller divisions, the Broncos enter this 2nd round contest with an 8 game winning streak after they lost their first 3. Bay Area positioned themselves as a Division III contender by squeaking out a 14-6 district opening win over The Woodlands Christian and then dominating the rest of the district slate winning each game by 27 or more. The Broncos posted a 48-7 thrashing of Schertz JPII to open the postseason. The Rangers 8 wins is already their most since 2007 and have responded with four big wins since falling to Boerne Geneva. The TSD offense has been a high powered unit posting 59, 59, and 62 in their last three including a 38 point victory over Northland in round 1. These two offenses should produce quite the shootout. Broncos sneak by 48-40.
Quick Hits: (Season: 94-27)
Dallas Bishop Lynch over Houston St. Thomas
Plano Prestonwood Christian over Argyle Liberty Christian
Willow Park Trinity Christian over Arlington Pantego Christian
Flower Mound Coram Deo Academy over Arlington Grace Preparatory Academy
Boerne Geneva over The Woodlands Christian
Fort Worth Lake Country Christian over Dallas Covenant
Dallas First Baptist Academy over Muenster Sacred Heart
Hallettsville Sacred Heart over Tomball Rosehill Christian School
Shiner St. Paul over Beaumont Legacy Christian
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
Area Playoff Picks 2018
We have reached the postseason again. Cold has descended across the state, football weather is here for sure. Who will go on the road on surprise a host this week? We'll find out very soon.
This Week: (Season: 64-17)
Division II is where my allegiances lie, so they get the preferential treatment. Michaeljw has an excellent rundown for the Division I playoffs in another thread.
Division II Playoff Preview:
Frisco Legacy Christain @ Dallas Christian -- The Chargers return to the playoffs as the runner up from District 2, having lost only to defending champion TCCH this season. DC will take on an Eagles in the 1st round for the 4th time in 5 years and host a 1st round game for the 8th consecutive season and the 12th time in the last 13 years. The Eagles are a familiar foe for the Chargers having shared District 2 in 2014 and 2015, but also having been district mates in the non-football sports for the last 4 seasons. The Eagles lost both football match-ups with DC in their brief time together, but had the Chargers on the ropes in a 2014 game in Frisco. The 5-4 Eagles will have to be much better than they have been to secure a regional spot. If POP and Shelton are able to reach the 20s on your defense its hard to see holding DC down in the teens. The Eagles likely need that type of defensive against the Chargers who only allowed more than 20 to TCCH. The DC offense has been up and down at times this year, and the turnover bug could be what keeps the Eagles in it. Chargers win at home, 38-15.
Bullard Brook Hill @ Fort Worth Christian -- The Cardinals were pushed down the list of contenders after starting just 3-3 including losses to TKG, MCS, and Parish. Less than inspiring wins over Southwest Christian and Country Day while Faith was bulldozing similar squads and scoring victories over UIL powers Canadian made FWC the underdog for the District 1 title. As always though, "That's why they play the games." A 38-27 win in the de facto district title game gets the Cardinals out of the TCCH quarter of the bracket. The Cardinals offense should give them a strong chance in the playoffs, having been held under 20 by only Parish Episcopal. The Guard saw 4 losses in the campaign this year, but scored the home win over Grace that ultimately put them in the playoffs at 6-4. The Guard played one of the better games against DC, holding the Chargers to just 21 but managed just 7 of their own. They will need 30 points or more to be in the this one on the road. Brook Hill's win at Southwest Christian actually looks a little better than FWC's. However, 20 points allowed to McKinney Christian makes slowing the Cardinals look pretty arduous for the Guard. Brook Hill will battle in this one, but won't have enough to steal a road win. Cardinals win 38-28.
Tyler T.K. Gorman @ Grapevine Faith Christian -- The Lions appeared to be marching to a showdown of undefeateds in the semifinals with TCCH. Then last week's district title game blemished the Faith record finishing just 8-1. The huge offensive performance in a neutral site game against Canadian really announced the Lions as a contender in 2018, but the loss to close the regular season makes for a interesting game in round 1. The Crusaders will like their chances to score an upset, having posted a win over FWC back in September and seeing FWC best the Lions last week. The Crusaders though have struggled in the late season for the last couple seasons. Dropping 3 in a row in district play this year and starting 6-0 last year before finishing 6-4. TKG has also dropped its last three playoff games allowing 83 (but scoring 68), 64, and 56 (to FWC last year). The Crusaders defense has betrayed them in the biggest moments and will need to rise to the occasion to score a road upset. TKG has held just 3 opponents under 28 points in 10 games this year while while Faith has posted 28 or more in 7 of 9 outings (and 27 in one other). The Lions offense overwhelms the Crusaders. Faith wins 44-30.
Austin Brentwood Christian @ Trinity Christian - Cedar Hill -- The Tigers are the defending state champions and have won 19 in a row and 22 of 23 dating back to last year. TCCH has scored 40+ in 7 of 10 this season and in the other 3 posted 37, 26, and 23, against DC, Melissa, and Lynch respectively. The Tigers are going to be heavy favorites this postseason, and sometimes the weight of expectations is the heaviest. The Bears have posted a banner campaign in their first season in Division II and just 4th football season. After reaching the regional round last year, falling to eventual champion Cypress, the Bears started 7-0 before dropping back to back games to Regents and Hyde Park. Those early wins though brought the Bears enough points to beat out District 4-3rd for the last playoff spot. Brentwood is likely in for more than they can take with a road game in Cedar Hill but look to be building a competitive program that will challenge in the years to come, not enough this week though. Tigers win 45-8.
Brownsville St. Joseph @ Houston Second Baptist -- The southern half of the bracket starts with perennial contender Second Baptist. The Eagles at 9-1 have posted their 12th consecutive winning season and are riding high after besting Lutheran South in OT to claim the district title. The Eagle offense has been a little slower than previous seasons, scoring 40 in just 2 of 10 games. When your offense wanes a bit and you still win 9 games that means your defense is a strong unit with the Eagles allowing 20 or more in just 3 games. The Bloodhounds have had a difficult season, posting a 2-7 record. The Bloodhounds scored the victory agasinst San Antonio Christian that put them in the playoffs and geography makes judging them against the rest of the Division pretty challenging. St. Joseph was only beaten 19-0 by district champion Holy Cross and so despite the record I doubt will be blownout. The trip to Houston will be too much, but no pushover the Eagles. As much as I want to move an Eagles out of the playoffs for a Bloodhounds, Second Baptist wins 29-7.
Houston Cypress Christian @ Austin Hyde Park -- The Panthers host last year's Division III champion at The Quarries to open the playoffs. Hyde Park posted a 6-3 record on the season, but just narrow victories against St. Michael's and Brentwood. The latter victory gets the Panthers out of a trip to Cedar Hill and keeps them home to open the playoffs. The best win for the Panthers is probably the season opener at Holy Cross, and the Panthers have won every game they've held the opposition under 30. The Warriors have experienced a very similar season to the Panthers posting a 7-3 record, winning in Victoria the last week to move to 3rd place. Regents punished both teams with the Panthers taking a 44-12 loss and the Warriors a 48-7 loss. This should be one of the most competitive games of the weekend, but its difficult to see them beating the winner of the above game in round 2. When in doubt go with the home team. Hyde Park wins 28-27.
Houston Lutheran South @ San Antonio Holy Cross -- The Knights might look ahead to the annual playoff matchup with Regents but find a staunch test in Lutheran South. The Pioneers lost last week's district title game to Second Baptist in OT, but finished the regular season 8-2. The Pioneers have been to OT 3 times this season, winning twice. Preparing these previews shows me what a hard luck season Westbury had, dropping 4 district games by 3, 3, 6 in OT, and 13. The Knights lost their opener to Hyde Park and then scored an upset win in the famed Holy Bowl against Central Catholic. They didn't really consolidate that win losing to Boerne the next week and falling 34-7 in the annual match with Regents. If Cypress-Hyde Park is the most competitive game, then this one is the most competitive with best chance at reaching the title game. 3 of the best 4 teams in the southern half of the division are in this quarter and the winner will probably be favored against Second Baptist in the semis. We are getting ahead of ourselves though, The Knights defense has 2 straight shutouts coming into this one and the Pioneers do not have the high flying group of 3 seasons ago. This should be a defensive battle. I'll take the game under a total of 40 points (don't bet on high school football please). Also, I need a road upset somewhere. Pioneers squeak by the Knights, 21-18.
Victoria St. Joseph @ Austin Regents -- The other Knights at Regents have reached the last 2 state title games, falling in 2OT to Faith and then being beaten handily by TCCH last season. The regular season win streak was broken this year, sending the Knights to postseason at just 8-1. The defense has led the way for Regents allowing more than 20 in just one game, the loss to San Antonio Central. The Flyers have been in a bad way in recent years, posting just 7 wins in the last 3 years before responding with a 6-4 campaign this season. VSJ has come up a bit small in the big games this year though, being shutout by LSA, and scoring just 9 in a 31 point defeat against Second Baptist. Geography makes it hard to judge the non-district wins, but the Flyers are definitely better than they've been in recent seasons. The Knights are going to be too much though and will reach round 2 for the 4th straight year. Knights win 30-7.
I used to pick the rest of the bracket, but we all know who I'm picking to win it all so that seems silly. So that finishes the D2 playoff preview. So I bring you the 5th annual rundown of the playoff teams. Some realignment brought us a couple nice mascots to include, but the vinyl "Beat the Eagles" still gets plenty of run though not as much in the playoffs. Only 2 duplicate mascots this year. Good luck on the road to state to everyone. We first find a few staples, 2 Eagles, 2 Knights, and the Panthers. Further, the Cardinals, the Crusaders, the Lions, and the Pioneers will certainly be threats for the top. The bracket finds 2 champions, the Tigers and the Warriors. Realignment has brought us the Bears and the Bloodhounds. Then, returning to playoffs after an absence is the Guard and the the Flyers. And as always, best of luck to the Chargers!
Additional Area Round Picks:
Dallas Bishop Lynch @ Midland Christian -- The Friars scored the huge upset victory against Prestonwood 2 weeks ago, but had already put themselves behind the 8-ball losing to Parish and Dunne to start district play and so still wind up traveling to the Permian Basin to start the postseason. The Mustangs jumped to a 7-0 start but won four of those seven by single digits. The stalwart Mustang defense then saw Liberty post 41 points at Awtry Field. That lax form will probably not see MCS to a playoff win. The Friars 50 point outing against Prestonwood would serve them well in this road test. The team that managed just 20 and 13 in district losses might struggle to get past the battle tested Mustangs. The long trip is certainly a test, but I think the Friars showed what they're capable of in the Prestonwood win. They turned a 5th place finish into a state championship just 2 seasons ago. After last year's undefeated campaign ended in a semifinal loss maybe the Friars need a little adversity for playoff success. Friars pull out a close one, 41-36.
Lubbock Christian @ Arlington Pantego Christian -- The Panthers secured a host position coming off their best season since 2014, winning 6 games for the first time since then. They can exceed 6 wins for the first time since 2009 with a home victory. The Eagles are a perennial contender in Division III, but several contenders have slid past them this year. Notably, Coram Deo posted a 2OT victory back in Week 7 and nearly finished undefeated. Coram Deo was bested by Willow Park Trinity, who also topped the Eagles in district play. Those losses send Lubbock Christian east to start the playoffs. Perhaps moving home games back to campus has led the resurgence for the Panthers who scored a bunch of points against many Division III opponents. In Pantego's 6 wins they scored 42 or more in 5 of them. They were held to 7, 14, and 28 in their 3 losses. The Eagles held opponents under 20 in 5 of their 6 wins and allowed 55, 56, 35, and 35 in their 4 losses. If the Panthers reach 28 they win, otherwise I think the Eagles will prevail. Pantego gets it done at home, 36-20.
BYE @ Fort Worth Nolan -- Bye remains unscored on this season, posing approximately 1000 shutouts this season. However, the offense has struggled. Vikings sneak by with a 1-0 forfeit.
Quick Hits: (Season: 83-27)
Dallas Parish Episcopal over San Antonio Antonian
Houston St. Pius X over Fort Worth All Saints
Dallas Bishop Dunne over Trinity Christian - Addison
Houston St. Thomas over Plano John Paul II
Argyle Liberty Christian over San Antonio Central Catholic
Plano Prestonwood Christian over Tomball Concordia Lutheran
Willow Park Trinity Christian over Colleyville Covenant Christian
Flower Mound Coram Deo over Dallas Shelton
Austin Texas School for the Deaf over Houston Northland Christian
Dallas Covenant School over Sherman Texoma Christian
Shiner St. Paul over The Woodlands Legacy Prep
This Week: (Season: 64-17)
Division II is where my allegiances lie, so they get the preferential treatment. Michaeljw has an excellent rundown for the Division I playoffs in another thread.
Division II Playoff Preview:
Frisco Legacy Christain @ Dallas Christian -- The Chargers return to the playoffs as the runner up from District 2, having lost only to defending champion TCCH this season. DC will take on an Eagles in the 1st round for the 4th time in 5 years and host a 1st round game for the 8th consecutive season and the 12th time in the last 13 years. The Eagles are a familiar foe for the Chargers having shared District 2 in 2014 and 2015, but also having been district mates in the non-football sports for the last 4 seasons. The Eagles lost both football match-ups with DC in their brief time together, but had the Chargers on the ropes in a 2014 game in Frisco. The 5-4 Eagles will have to be much better than they have been to secure a regional spot. If POP and Shelton are able to reach the 20s on your defense its hard to see holding DC down in the teens. The Eagles likely need that type of defensive against the Chargers who only allowed more than 20 to TCCH. The DC offense has been up and down at times this year, and the turnover bug could be what keeps the Eagles in it. Chargers win at home, 38-15.
Bullard Brook Hill @ Fort Worth Christian -- The Cardinals were pushed down the list of contenders after starting just 3-3 including losses to TKG, MCS, and Parish. Less than inspiring wins over Southwest Christian and Country Day while Faith was bulldozing similar squads and scoring victories over UIL powers Canadian made FWC the underdog for the District 1 title. As always though, "That's why they play the games." A 38-27 win in the de facto district title game gets the Cardinals out of the TCCH quarter of the bracket. The Cardinals offense should give them a strong chance in the playoffs, having been held under 20 by only Parish Episcopal. The Guard saw 4 losses in the campaign this year, but scored the home win over Grace that ultimately put them in the playoffs at 6-4. The Guard played one of the better games against DC, holding the Chargers to just 21 but managed just 7 of their own. They will need 30 points or more to be in the this one on the road. Brook Hill's win at Southwest Christian actually looks a little better than FWC's. However, 20 points allowed to McKinney Christian makes slowing the Cardinals look pretty arduous for the Guard. Brook Hill will battle in this one, but won't have enough to steal a road win. Cardinals win 38-28.
Tyler T.K. Gorman @ Grapevine Faith Christian -- The Lions appeared to be marching to a showdown of undefeateds in the semifinals with TCCH. Then last week's district title game blemished the Faith record finishing just 8-1. The huge offensive performance in a neutral site game against Canadian really announced the Lions as a contender in 2018, but the loss to close the regular season makes for a interesting game in round 1. The Crusaders will like their chances to score an upset, having posted a win over FWC back in September and seeing FWC best the Lions last week. The Crusaders though have struggled in the late season for the last couple seasons. Dropping 3 in a row in district play this year and starting 6-0 last year before finishing 6-4. TKG has also dropped its last three playoff games allowing 83 (but scoring 68), 64, and 56 (to FWC last year). The Crusaders defense has betrayed them in the biggest moments and will need to rise to the occasion to score a road upset. TKG has held just 3 opponents under 28 points in 10 games this year while while Faith has posted 28 or more in 7 of 9 outings (and 27 in one other). The Lions offense overwhelms the Crusaders. Faith wins 44-30.
Austin Brentwood Christian @ Trinity Christian - Cedar Hill -- The Tigers are the defending state champions and have won 19 in a row and 22 of 23 dating back to last year. TCCH has scored 40+ in 7 of 10 this season and in the other 3 posted 37, 26, and 23, against DC, Melissa, and Lynch respectively. The Tigers are going to be heavy favorites this postseason, and sometimes the weight of expectations is the heaviest. The Bears have posted a banner campaign in their first season in Division II and just 4th football season. After reaching the regional round last year, falling to eventual champion Cypress, the Bears started 7-0 before dropping back to back games to Regents and Hyde Park. Those early wins though brought the Bears enough points to beat out District 4-3rd for the last playoff spot. Brentwood is likely in for more than they can take with a road game in Cedar Hill but look to be building a competitive program that will challenge in the years to come, not enough this week though. Tigers win 45-8.
Brownsville St. Joseph @ Houston Second Baptist -- The southern half of the bracket starts with perennial contender Second Baptist. The Eagles at 9-1 have posted their 12th consecutive winning season and are riding high after besting Lutheran South in OT to claim the district title. The Eagle offense has been a little slower than previous seasons, scoring 40 in just 2 of 10 games. When your offense wanes a bit and you still win 9 games that means your defense is a strong unit with the Eagles allowing 20 or more in just 3 games. The Bloodhounds have had a difficult season, posting a 2-7 record. The Bloodhounds scored the victory agasinst San Antonio Christian that put them in the playoffs and geography makes judging them against the rest of the Division pretty challenging. St. Joseph was only beaten 19-0 by district champion Holy Cross and so despite the record I doubt will be blownout. The trip to Houston will be too much, but no pushover the Eagles. As much as I want to move an Eagles out of the playoffs for a Bloodhounds, Second Baptist wins 29-7.
Houston Cypress Christian @ Austin Hyde Park -- The Panthers host last year's Division III champion at The Quarries to open the playoffs. Hyde Park posted a 6-3 record on the season, but just narrow victories against St. Michael's and Brentwood. The latter victory gets the Panthers out of a trip to Cedar Hill and keeps them home to open the playoffs. The best win for the Panthers is probably the season opener at Holy Cross, and the Panthers have won every game they've held the opposition under 30. The Warriors have experienced a very similar season to the Panthers posting a 7-3 record, winning in Victoria the last week to move to 3rd place. Regents punished both teams with the Panthers taking a 44-12 loss and the Warriors a 48-7 loss. This should be one of the most competitive games of the weekend, but its difficult to see them beating the winner of the above game in round 2. When in doubt go with the home team. Hyde Park wins 28-27.
Houston Lutheran South @ San Antonio Holy Cross -- The Knights might look ahead to the annual playoff matchup with Regents but find a staunch test in Lutheran South. The Pioneers lost last week's district title game to Second Baptist in OT, but finished the regular season 8-2. The Pioneers have been to OT 3 times this season, winning twice. Preparing these previews shows me what a hard luck season Westbury had, dropping 4 district games by 3, 3, 6 in OT, and 13. The Knights lost their opener to Hyde Park and then scored an upset win in the famed Holy Bowl against Central Catholic. They didn't really consolidate that win losing to Boerne the next week and falling 34-7 in the annual match with Regents. If Cypress-Hyde Park is the most competitive game, then this one is the most competitive with best chance at reaching the title game. 3 of the best 4 teams in the southern half of the division are in this quarter and the winner will probably be favored against Second Baptist in the semis. We are getting ahead of ourselves though, The Knights defense has 2 straight shutouts coming into this one and the Pioneers do not have the high flying group of 3 seasons ago. This should be a defensive battle. I'll take the game under a total of 40 points (don't bet on high school football please). Also, I need a road upset somewhere. Pioneers squeak by the Knights, 21-18.
Victoria St. Joseph @ Austin Regents -- The other Knights at Regents have reached the last 2 state title games, falling in 2OT to Faith and then being beaten handily by TCCH last season. The regular season win streak was broken this year, sending the Knights to postseason at just 8-1. The defense has led the way for Regents allowing more than 20 in just one game, the loss to San Antonio Central. The Flyers have been in a bad way in recent years, posting just 7 wins in the last 3 years before responding with a 6-4 campaign this season. VSJ has come up a bit small in the big games this year though, being shutout by LSA, and scoring just 9 in a 31 point defeat against Second Baptist. Geography makes it hard to judge the non-district wins, but the Flyers are definitely better than they've been in recent seasons. The Knights are going to be too much though and will reach round 2 for the 4th straight year. Knights win 30-7.
I used to pick the rest of the bracket, but we all know who I'm picking to win it all so that seems silly. So that finishes the D2 playoff preview. So I bring you the 5th annual rundown of the playoff teams. Some realignment brought us a couple nice mascots to include, but the vinyl "Beat the Eagles" still gets plenty of run though not as much in the playoffs. Only 2 duplicate mascots this year. Good luck on the road to state to everyone. We first find a few staples, 2 Eagles, 2 Knights, and the Panthers. Further, the Cardinals, the Crusaders, the Lions, and the Pioneers will certainly be threats for the top. The bracket finds 2 champions, the Tigers and the Warriors. Realignment has brought us the Bears and the Bloodhounds. Then, returning to playoffs after an absence is the Guard and the the Flyers. And as always, best of luck to the Chargers!
Additional Area Round Picks:
Dallas Bishop Lynch @ Midland Christian -- The Friars scored the huge upset victory against Prestonwood 2 weeks ago, but had already put themselves behind the 8-ball losing to Parish and Dunne to start district play and so still wind up traveling to the Permian Basin to start the postseason. The Mustangs jumped to a 7-0 start but won four of those seven by single digits. The stalwart Mustang defense then saw Liberty post 41 points at Awtry Field. That lax form will probably not see MCS to a playoff win. The Friars 50 point outing against Prestonwood would serve them well in this road test. The team that managed just 20 and 13 in district losses might struggle to get past the battle tested Mustangs. The long trip is certainly a test, but I think the Friars showed what they're capable of in the Prestonwood win. They turned a 5th place finish into a state championship just 2 seasons ago. After last year's undefeated campaign ended in a semifinal loss maybe the Friars need a little adversity for playoff success. Friars pull out a close one, 41-36.
Lubbock Christian @ Arlington Pantego Christian -- The Panthers secured a host position coming off their best season since 2014, winning 6 games for the first time since then. They can exceed 6 wins for the first time since 2009 with a home victory. The Eagles are a perennial contender in Division III, but several contenders have slid past them this year. Notably, Coram Deo posted a 2OT victory back in Week 7 and nearly finished undefeated. Coram Deo was bested by Willow Park Trinity, who also topped the Eagles in district play. Those losses send Lubbock Christian east to start the playoffs. Perhaps moving home games back to campus has led the resurgence for the Panthers who scored a bunch of points against many Division III opponents. In Pantego's 6 wins they scored 42 or more in 5 of them. They were held to 7, 14, and 28 in their 3 losses. The Eagles held opponents under 20 in 5 of their 6 wins and allowed 55, 56, 35, and 35 in their 4 losses. If the Panthers reach 28 they win, otherwise I think the Eagles will prevail. Pantego gets it done at home, 36-20.
BYE @ Fort Worth Nolan -- Bye remains unscored on this season, posing approximately 1000 shutouts this season. However, the offense has struggled. Vikings sneak by with a 1-0 forfeit.
Quick Hits: (Season: 83-27)
Dallas Parish Episcopal over San Antonio Antonian
Houston St. Pius X over Fort Worth All Saints
Dallas Bishop Dunne over Trinity Christian - Addison
Houston St. Thomas over Plano John Paul II
Argyle Liberty Christian over San Antonio Central Catholic
Plano Prestonwood Christian over Tomball Concordia Lutheran
Willow Park Trinity Christian over Colleyville Covenant Christian
Flower Mound Coram Deo over Dallas Shelton
Austin Texas School for the Deaf over Houston Northland Christian
Dallas Covenant School over Sherman Texoma Christian
Shiner St. Paul over The Woodlands Legacy Prep
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Week 11 Picks 2018
We have reached the end of a long season, but as always it comes too soon. When I played, I always found going out to warm-up when it was already dark for the first game after the time change a different tone setter for that week. 2018 will always be one of the wettest season in memory, lets make it a memorable finish.
This Week: (Season: 60-14)
Dallas Christian @ Tyler Grace Community -- The Chargers head east for the 2nd time in district play, and actually head to the same field they visited the first time. Perhaps it will be a drier visit to the Rose City. The DC defense has led the charge allowing only 7 points combined in their three district wins. The offense has been up and down, last week's 56 points was an up. Scoring just 21 at home against Brook Hill or 16 against TCCH were downs. The Cougars have had a curious campaign that sees them at just 5-4, but a win would likely get them into 2nd place in the district standings. In Grace's nine games, both teams have scored at least 28 in seven of them. One game saw the Cougars post a 21 point victory yet still allow 54, then the same team that scored 54 managed just 8 against TKG. The Cougars of course then beat TKG to position themselves to reach 2nd place possibly. The Cougars offense will probably keep them in this to the late stages, but they will have to find the big stops to win. While they've shown they can get those I think the Chargers run their series win streak to 7 in a row. DC wins 35-24.
Trinity Christian - Cedar Hill @ Bullard Brook Hill -- The Guard will welcome the defending state champs to Herrington Stadium with their own chance to climb into a tie for 2nd. They could also land in a 3-way tie for 3rd where one team will be out of the playoffs. In a game you need to win, seeing the 9-0 Tigers across the way is certainly not ideal. In four district games the closest an opponent has been at the end is 21 points and the Guard lost to both DC and TKG who TCCH controlled in their respective meetings. TCCH has only been held under 40 by DC, Melissa, and Bishop Lynch. The Guard may still reach the postseason out of the tie for 3rd, but I can't see where they get enough points to reach the playoffs by any other path. If you only scored 19 against TKG how are you going to post 40 against the Tigers. Tigers reach 10-0 with a 42-14 win.
Tyler T.K. Gorman @ McKinney Christian -- The Crusaders have to win this road tilt to have a chance at the playoffs. A win and losses by Grace and Brook Hill would leave the Cru in a 3-way tie for 3rd and their dominant win over Brook Hill would likely be favorable. A win and a loss by only Brook Hill would definitely put the Cru in the playoffs. The Crusaders are just 5-4 after starting a promising 4-1 including a win over Fort Worth Christian. District play was not kind to TKG scoring just 6 points combined against stalwarts DC and TCCH and dropping a 2 point decision at Tyler Grace. The Mustangs have struggled in their first season in Division II, coming in with just a 2-6 record following a 56-0 shutout against DC. They did have a promising showing against Brook Hill posting 20 on the scoreboard. The Mustangs will have to find a new offensive gear to keep pace with the Crusaders. TKG wins 42-14.
Grapevine Faith Christian @ Fort Worth Christian -- The Lions travel to North Richland Hills as Division II's other undefeated team. Faith also enters well rested, having played just 3 games since October 1st. The Cardinals enter at 6-3 with two losses to Division I squads and the previously mentioned loss to TK Gorman. Both Faith and FWC have punished the district opposition with the lowest offensive output between the two being 40. The Cardinals have been less impressive with really just 2 blowouts on the season over Legacy and Prince of Peace. The Lions meanwhile have at least 41 in their last 5 games, and have an impressive showing besting Canadian in a neutral site clash. If FWC can keep the game in the 30s they have a great chance, especially at home. I think the Faith offense is too much and the potential showdown with TCCH looms on the playoff horizon. Lions win a close one 44-38.
Houston Second Baptist @ Houston Lutheran South -- The Pioneers had a memorable year last year for all the worst reasons after Hurricane Harvey. This season is a memorable one for much better reason as LSA has gone 8-1 and sets up for a district title game at Pioneer field. Only a 2 point loss to Concordia Lutheran blemishes the Pioneers season thus far. The Eagles should provide the strongest test since that loss. Second Baptist brings their own 8-1 record to this district title game, but didn't get to play last week when Fort Bend Christian forfeited. Both teams struggled to put away a Westbury squad that has yet to post a district win. The Pioneers needed OT and the Eagles scored just 22. This should be tight contest with ample points, but probably not a true shootout where the total exceeds 100. SBS beat Concordia Lutheran while LSA lost to them, so I'll go with the Eagles 35-32.
Dallas Bishop Dunne @ Plano Prestonwood Christian -- The Lions appeared to be an obvious favorite in Division I with an 8-0 record, a high powered offense, and an excellent defense. With wins over Liberty, Parish, and St. Pius already posted who was going to beat Prestonwood this year? The answer was Bishop Lynch who posted 50 on the home side of the scoreboard last week at Roffino Stadium, and could actually still finish 5th in the district. The Falcons bested that Bishop Lynch squad 21-13 the week prior and enter this district title clash off a bye week. Dunne lost their matchup with St. Pius but held the high powered SPX offense to just 17. No one has reached 20 against the Falcon defense this season, but the record is just 6-3. So the game hinges on how well the Dunne defense can control the Prestonwood offense. If the Lions post 40 like they did in last week's loss to Lynch they will beat the Falcons. If the Falcons can keep the Lions in that 21-27 area they will have a chance to push past the Lions. Prestonwood wins at home, but its going to be tight one. Lions win 30-26.
Tomball Rosehill Christian @ Beaumont Legacy Christian -- The Eagles head for the coast to settle Division IV District 4 in a matchup with the Warriors. Rosehill enters at 8-0 with having tossed 7 shutouts this season. They've not allowed a point since September 7th, 6 consecutive shutouts. Legacy is just 5-4 but started 0-3 before hitting their stride. They will have to find the scoring touch against the Eagles to secure the district crown and they have reached 30+ in their last 3. The Eagles defense should be a tougher unit than they've seen lately, and this should position Rosehill for a deep playoff run after securing the first round bye. Eagles win 24-0.
Quick Hits: (Season: 75-24)
Dallas Parish Episcopal over Argyle Liberty Christian
Midland Christian over Fort Worth All Saints
Fort Worth Nolan over Trinity Christian - Addison
Bishop Lynch over Plano John Paul II
Houston St. Pius over Houston St. Thomas
San Antonio Holy Cross over Brownsville St. Joseph
Flower Mound Coram Deo over Willow Park Trinity Christian
Boerne Geneva over Waco Reicher
The Woodlands Christian over Houston Northland Christian
Shiner St. Paul over San Antonio St. Gerard
Hallettsville Sacred Heart over Temple Central Texas Christian
This Week: (Season: 60-14)
Dallas Christian @ Tyler Grace Community -- The Chargers head east for the 2nd time in district play, and actually head to the same field they visited the first time. Perhaps it will be a drier visit to the Rose City. The DC defense has led the charge allowing only 7 points combined in their three district wins. The offense has been up and down, last week's 56 points was an up. Scoring just 21 at home against Brook Hill or 16 against TCCH were downs. The Cougars have had a curious campaign that sees them at just 5-4, but a win would likely get them into 2nd place in the district standings. In Grace's nine games, both teams have scored at least 28 in seven of them. One game saw the Cougars post a 21 point victory yet still allow 54, then the same team that scored 54 managed just 8 against TKG. The Cougars of course then beat TKG to position themselves to reach 2nd place possibly. The Cougars offense will probably keep them in this to the late stages, but they will have to find the big stops to win. While they've shown they can get those I think the Chargers run their series win streak to 7 in a row. DC wins 35-24.
Trinity Christian - Cedar Hill @ Bullard Brook Hill -- The Guard will welcome the defending state champs to Herrington Stadium with their own chance to climb into a tie for 2nd. They could also land in a 3-way tie for 3rd where one team will be out of the playoffs. In a game you need to win, seeing the 9-0 Tigers across the way is certainly not ideal. In four district games the closest an opponent has been at the end is 21 points and the Guard lost to both DC and TKG who TCCH controlled in their respective meetings. TCCH has only been held under 40 by DC, Melissa, and Bishop Lynch. The Guard may still reach the postseason out of the tie for 3rd, but I can't see where they get enough points to reach the playoffs by any other path. If you only scored 19 against TKG how are you going to post 40 against the Tigers. Tigers reach 10-0 with a 42-14 win.
Tyler T.K. Gorman @ McKinney Christian -- The Crusaders have to win this road tilt to have a chance at the playoffs. A win and losses by Grace and Brook Hill would leave the Cru in a 3-way tie for 3rd and their dominant win over Brook Hill would likely be favorable. A win and a loss by only Brook Hill would definitely put the Cru in the playoffs. The Crusaders are just 5-4 after starting a promising 4-1 including a win over Fort Worth Christian. District play was not kind to TKG scoring just 6 points combined against stalwarts DC and TCCH and dropping a 2 point decision at Tyler Grace. The Mustangs have struggled in their first season in Division II, coming in with just a 2-6 record following a 56-0 shutout against DC. They did have a promising showing against Brook Hill posting 20 on the scoreboard. The Mustangs will have to find a new offensive gear to keep pace with the Crusaders. TKG wins 42-14.
Grapevine Faith Christian @ Fort Worth Christian -- The Lions travel to North Richland Hills as Division II's other undefeated team. Faith also enters well rested, having played just 3 games since October 1st. The Cardinals enter at 6-3 with two losses to Division I squads and the previously mentioned loss to TK Gorman. Both Faith and FWC have punished the district opposition with the lowest offensive output between the two being 40. The Cardinals have been less impressive with really just 2 blowouts on the season over Legacy and Prince of Peace. The Lions meanwhile have at least 41 in their last 5 games, and have an impressive showing besting Canadian in a neutral site clash. If FWC can keep the game in the 30s they have a great chance, especially at home. I think the Faith offense is too much and the potential showdown with TCCH looms on the playoff horizon. Lions win a close one 44-38.
Houston Second Baptist @ Houston Lutheran South -- The Pioneers had a memorable year last year for all the worst reasons after Hurricane Harvey. This season is a memorable one for much better reason as LSA has gone 8-1 and sets up for a district title game at Pioneer field. Only a 2 point loss to Concordia Lutheran blemishes the Pioneers season thus far. The Eagles should provide the strongest test since that loss. Second Baptist brings their own 8-1 record to this district title game, but didn't get to play last week when Fort Bend Christian forfeited. Both teams struggled to put away a Westbury squad that has yet to post a district win. The Pioneers needed OT and the Eagles scored just 22. This should be tight contest with ample points, but probably not a true shootout where the total exceeds 100. SBS beat Concordia Lutheran while LSA lost to them, so I'll go with the Eagles 35-32.
Dallas Bishop Dunne @ Plano Prestonwood Christian -- The Lions appeared to be an obvious favorite in Division I with an 8-0 record, a high powered offense, and an excellent defense. With wins over Liberty, Parish, and St. Pius already posted who was going to beat Prestonwood this year? The answer was Bishop Lynch who posted 50 on the home side of the scoreboard last week at Roffino Stadium, and could actually still finish 5th in the district. The Falcons bested that Bishop Lynch squad 21-13 the week prior and enter this district title clash off a bye week. Dunne lost their matchup with St. Pius but held the high powered SPX offense to just 17. No one has reached 20 against the Falcon defense this season, but the record is just 6-3. So the game hinges on how well the Dunne defense can control the Prestonwood offense. If the Lions post 40 like they did in last week's loss to Lynch they will beat the Falcons. If the Falcons can keep the Lions in that 21-27 area they will have a chance to push past the Lions. Prestonwood wins at home, but its going to be tight one. Lions win 30-26.
Tomball Rosehill Christian @ Beaumont Legacy Christian -- The Eagles head for the coast to settle Division IV District 4 in a matchup with the Warriors. Rosehill enters at 8-0 with having tossed 7 shutouts this season. They've not allowed a point since September 7th, 6 consecutive shutouts. Legacy is just 5-4 but started 0-3 before hitting their stride. They will have to find the scoring touch against the Eagles to secure the district crown and they have reached 30+ in their last 3. The Eagles defense should be a tougher unit than they've seen lately, and this should position Rosehill for a deep playoff run after securing the first round bye. Eagles win 24-0.
Quick Hits: (Season: 75-24)
Dallas Parish Episcopal over Argyle Liberty Christian
Midland Christian over Fort Worth All Saints
Fort Worth Nolan over Trinity Christian - Addison
Bishop Lynch over Plano John Paul II
Houston St. Pius over Houston St. Thomas
San Antonio Holy Cross over Brownsville St. Joseph
Flower Mound Coram Deo over Willow Park Trinity Christian
Boerne Geneva over Waco Reicher
The Woodlands Christian over Houston Northland Christian
Shiner St. Paul over San Antonio St. Gerard
Hallettsville Sacred Heart over Temple Central Texas Christian
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)