Week 10 Results 2023

Well the weather makes this a weird week, but we're getting through it.

This Week:

Dallas Christian over McKinney Christian (70-0) -- Correct
--The Chargers win the district title again and now will be off for Week 11 before the playoffs begin at home. The Mustangs will need to defeat Brook Hill to force a 3-way tie for 2nd place and the final 2 playoff spots.

Frisco Legacy Christian over Grapevine Faith Christian (45-14) -- Correct
--Eagles own the District 2 crown this year, and will have good shot at winning a couple of playoff games for the first time in a while. Lions will take on Bishop Dunne for the final playoff spot.

Tyler Grace Community over Dallas Bishop Dunne -- Zonk
--Weather was bad, but maybe send out a tweet or something.

Argyle Liberty Christian over Fort Worth All Saints (42-13) -- Correct
--Saints played well for much of this one and did slow the Warriors offense until the late going. Maybe setting up a rematch in a few weeks. Liberty still the top dog in Division II right now.

Fort Worth Christian over Fort Worth Southwest Christian (21-27) --Wrong
--Cardinals season continues its downturn and now must find a way to beat All Saints to make the playoffs. Eagles are probably safely in.

Victoria St. Joseph over Austin St. Michael's (21-28 OT) -- Wrong
--Crusaders stay in the mix for the last couple spots in District 3. Regents and Hyde Park will get two of the 4 spots, after that its a jumble.h

Houston Kinkaid over Houston St. John's (35-21) -- Correct
--Falcons win the "semi-final" and will rematch with Episcopal next week for the SPC 4A crown.

Week 10: 4-2
Season: 54-17

Quick Hits:

Dallas Bishop Lynch over Fort Worth Nolan (59-21) -- Correct
San Antonio Antonian over Tomball Concordia Lutheran (14-0) -- Correct
San Antonio Christian over Austin Hyde Park (27-19) -- Correct
Houston Lutheran South over The Woodlands Christian (55-30) -- Correct
San Antonio Holy Cross over Corpus Christi John Paul II (72-6) -- Correct
Houston Cypress Christian over Austin Brentwood Christian (48-0) -- Correct
League City Bay Area Christian over Magnolia Legacy Preparatory (14-17) -- Wrong
Lubbock Christian over Fort Worth Temple Christian (50-6) -- Correct
Fort Worth Trinity Valley over Fort Worth Country Day (23-19) -- Correct
Episcopal School of Dallas over Dallas St. Mark's (42-21) -- Correct

Week 10: 9-1
Season: 72-28

Week 10 Picks 2023

We preview DFW's biggest games this week...well besides the World Series. Maybe a bit of weather to prepare us for the early winter chill of the playoffs. Good luck, safe travels, and Go Rangers!

This Week: (Season: 50-15)

McKinney Christian @ Dallas Christian -- The Chargers continue to be the favorites in Division III, and can secure the top spot in District 2 with a season closing win this week. DC has played 10 games in 10 weeks before they'll get the open date in Week 11. Before the brackets were released there had to be a bit of concern that it could be a 1st round bye and back-to-back off weeks for the Chargers. The chaotic District 1 will provide the opening opponent for the District 2 champion. However, we must note that the Mustangs can still win the district title themselves. The 8-1 Chargers are a tall task given the domination of a Covenant squad two weeks ago that defeated McKinney Christian last week.The Mustangs have showed a bit of offensive ability this season, notably scoring 41 against Dallas 1st Baptist and dominating HSAA in similar fashion to DC. However, the Chargers have yet to allow a touchdown in October and the Mustangs just don't have the punch to manage much against the DC defense. Even with a loss here the Mustangs will have it all to play for against Brook Hill next week. Chargers claim the district title, 48-6.

Grapevine Faith Christian @ Frisco Legacy Christian -- The Eagles sole loss of 2023 was to Arygle Liberty. Certainly no shame in that one. Last week was a big road win for Legacy, 28-26 at Tyler Grace. A win here would give the Eagles their first district title since 2013. Strong defense has won the day for the Eagles this season, while the Lions have been up and down. In the middle of a 4 game losing streak, it seemed the Lions couldn't stop anyone allowing 55 and 61 to FWC and Tyler Grace. Since then they've righted the ship, but against lesser offenses from John Paul and Coram Deo. I think the opprutunity is too good for the Eagles here and avoiding Liberty, All Saints, and Midland Christian in Round 1 is a pretty good prize. Eagles claim the district title, 36-26.

Tyler Grace Community @ Dallas Bishop Dunne -- The Cougar's steady improvement has continued into 2023, but the undefeated run was halted by Frisco Legacy Christian last week. At 7-1, a win here would almost assure Tyler Grace of a top 2 finish and hosting round 1. A 3-way tie could still put the Cougars 3rd but the large margin they have over Grapevine Faith should keep them safely in the top 2. The Falcons have regressed from last year's squad that shared the district title. Dunne is allowing a ton of point this year, and that makes it hard to win. The Cougars are averaging 50 points a game on the season, so it doesn't bode well for the home team here. Maybe the grass of Earl Hayes Stadium can slow the Cougar attack, but it just doesn't look like a good matchup on paper. Cougars win, 42-14.

Argyle Liberty Christian @ Fort Worth All Saints -- The Warriors domination of TAPPS has been impressive all season. The 8-0 campaign has seen just 42 points scored against Liberty all season, less than 6 per game. The Warriors offense has posted 423 points, nearly 53 points per game. This game closes the district slate for Liberty and thus they can secure the top seed with a win here. The Saints 6-1 mark is only blemished by UIL state ranked Anna so this should be the toughest test of the district schedule for the Warriors. The Saints defense has led the charge with just 7 points allowed in its 2 district wins. The offense that only scored 14 against Midland Christian will have a tough time keeping pace with the Warriors though. The Saints have to find a way to score at least 30 to win this one, and I just don't see it. It was 31-0 in Argyle last season so that seems like a good starting place. Warriors win 35-7.

Fort Worth Christian @ Fort Worth Southwest Christian -- The Cardinals travel the 24 miles across Tarrant County to the shores of Benbrook Lake in desperate search of a win. At the halfway mark of the season FWC was 4-1 having just secured a stirring comeback win over rival Grapevine Faith. Then rivals Dallas Christian, Midland Christian, and Argyle Liberty Christian, posted 195 points in 3 routes of the Cardinals. So at 4-4 a loss this week means FWC would have to beat All Saints to even make the playoffs. The Eagles find themselves up against the same problems. At 5-1 entering district play, hopes were high. Then 102-0 in 8 quarters against Liberty and All Saints has them against the wall, having to win in Midland if they drop this one. The Cardinal offense has better on the season, even if a bit inconsistent. The Eagles have the game at home though. FWC does have the best win between the two over Grapevine Faith. This looks like a close one, especially given the high stakes. Cardinals stay alive in the playoff hunt with a 28-21 win.

Victoria St. Joseph @ Austin St. Michael's -- The last playoff spots in District 3 come from a jumble of teams behind Regents and Hyde Park. The winner of this one will keep their hopes alive as they each have to play one of the top pair next week. The Flyers are 4-4 but riding a 3-game winning streak and the 4th district win would almost certainly get them into the playoffs. The difference in October has been the offense with 37 and 49 points the last two weeks for the Flyers. The Crusaders have been trending the other way, entering on a 3-game losing streak. They last scored more than 14 points on September 22nd against St. Anthony's. It is a home game for St. Michael's so maybe they can get the offense in gear. It appears the Flyers are the stronger side here, but it is a long trip from the coast to the capital city. St. Joseph wins 34-14.

Houston Kinkaid vs. Houston St. John's @ Rice Stadium -- The Houston trio will once again decide SPC 4A. Bellaire Episcopal should be safely in the top 2 at a 3-1 district mark, but a Kinkaid win here would create a 3-way tie for 2 spots in the title game. The Mavericks are 3-0 in conference play and secure their spot with a win this week. They beat Episcopal by just a single point while the Falcons fell by 7 last week. St. John's has won games this year a few different ways. They needed all 45 points to beat ESD last week, but held Second Baptist to just 7 in non-district action. The Falcons defense has led the charge and was the issue against Episcopal last week. Last year's meeting was a defacto semifinal and this year is similar but not exactly. Super Bowl VIII was played at this stadium and will host this one for the 2nd straight year. In 2022, the Falcons scored a 38-28 win. This sets up as the same type of game, in the same type of season in SPC 4A. So Falcons win 38-28 and force a 3-way tie at the top.

Quick Hits: (Season: 63-27)

Dallas Bishop Lynch over Fort Worth Nolan
San Antonio Antonian over Tomball Concordia Lutheran
San Antonio Christian over Austin Hyde Park
Houston Lutheran South over The Woodlands Christian
San Antonio Holy Cross over Corpus Christi John Paul II
Houston Cypress Christian over Austin Brentwood Christian
League City Bay Area Christian over Magnolia Legacy Preparatory
Lubbock Christian over Fort Worth Temple Christian
Fort Worth Trinity Valley over Fort Worth Country Day
Episcopal School of Dallas over Dallas St. Mark's

Week 9 Results 2023

This Week:

Dallas Christian over Bullard Brook Hill (55-3) -- Correct
--Chargers dominate the Guard in Bullard again. Guard will look for 3 more wins to get another shot at the defending champs.

McKinney Christian over Dallas Covenant (21-28) -- Wrong
--The Knights sneak by a game Mustangs squad. MCA will have to find a win over DC or Brook Hill to reach the playoffs.

Lubbock Trinity Christian over Arlington Grace Prep (13-12) -- Correct
--Grace Prep almost scores the upset, but Trinity will remain on top of District 1. Put this with Colleyville Covenant's win over Lake Country and the District 1 standings are a bit of a puzzle.

Midland Christian over Fort Worth Christian (52-21) -- Correct
--Cardinals early 14-0 lead evaporates and then some. FWC will have to beat Southwest or All Saints to make the playoffs. Mustangs could also use a win over Southwest to improve their playoff standing.

Tyler Grace Community over Frisco Legacy Christian (26-28) -- Wrong
--A 2 point conversion goes wanting with :26 left and the Eagles hold on to move into the District 2 drivers seat. A win over Faith next week can ensure Legacy avoids Liberty until the semifinals.

Dallas First Baptist over Lubbock Christian (47-22) -- Correct
--Saints move to 8-0 and will be favored to finish a 10-0 regular season. Eagles will have to work back to a rematch on neutral turf.

Houston St. John's over Episcopal School of Dallas (45-38) -- Correct
--Eagles almost made it happen, but fall just short and thus will not be in the SPC 4A title game this season.

Houston Kinkaid over Bellaire Episcopal (35-42) -- Wrong
--Falcons 21-point comeback to tie goes for naught as the Knights score late and will be in the SPC 4A title game.

Week 9: 5-3
Season: 50-15

Quick Hits:

Plano Prestonwood Christian over Dallas Bishop Lynch (69-21) -- Correct
San Antonio Antonian over Houston St. Pius X (38-28) -- Correct
Tomball Concordia Lutheran over San Antonio Central Catholic (27-33) -- Wrong
Austin Regents over San Antonio St. Anthony (77-0) -- Correct
Austin St. Michael's over San Antonio Christian (14-27) -- Wrong
Houston Second Baptist over Houston Lutheran South (27-7) -- Correct
Fort Bend Christian over The Woodlands Christian (38-10) -- Correct
Fort Worth Lake Country Christian over Colleyville Covenant (14-42) -- Wrong
Austin Brentwood Christian over League City Bay Area Christian (28-35) -- Wrong
Shiner St. Paul over Temple Central Texas Christian (0-40...What??) -- Wrong

Week 9: 5-5
Season: 63-27

Week 9 Picks 2023

The road is coming to a end as the playoffs are just a few days away. Lots will be decided this week with a few de facto district title games. Big games in the SPC where the regular season ends next week. Good luck and safe travels!

This Week: (Season: 45-12)

Dallas Christian @ Bullard Brook Hill -- The back-to-back champions from Mesquite are off to a dominant start at 7-1. The only loss to Louisiana State Champion Ouachita Christian. Four straight weeks of 55 or more points says the offense is on track. Back-to-back shutouts says the defense is on track. This week is a significant speed bump though. The Guard finished last season 6-6 and lost badly to DC twice, a combined score of 123-21. This year's 5-2 mark suggests improvement from Brook Hill and they were in the Regional round a season ago. The Guard also have this one at home, which they didn't have in either game last year. Brook Hill shutout Covenant on the road last week, turning around a defeat from 2022. Both defenses should provide a strong resistance and this looks to be low scoring. Maybe something like 2019's 21-3 or 2018's 21-7? Its been a hard road for Brook Hill against DC, winning just 1 time in 12 tries and losing 9 straight. They dealt DC a rare home loss in 2014, but I don't see it being replicated this year. Chargers win a defensive struggle, 29-9.

Dallas The Covenant @ McKinney Christian -- The Knights first season in Division III saw them finish 2nd in District 2 but lose the playoff opener at home. They beat Brook Hill last season to earn that home game, but fell last week to the Guard 36-0. This game will likely decide the 3rd and final playoff spot from District 2. The Knights have failed to score in both district contests so far, but should face a more accommodating defense this week. At 4-3 so far this season, there's been good and bad on Valley View Lane. A season ago it was good, as Covenant downed MCA 48-7. The Mustangs managed just 2 wins in 2022, but have already posted 4 wins on the campaign. The Mustang offense is much improved from last year, which has helped the defense out but its still been a struggle on that side for MCA. Neither squad could stop Dallas First Baptist allowing 121 points combined. This looks like a close one, and the Mustangs are at home. Maybe this is there spot to start the path back to being title contenders like they were in the 2017 State Championship game. Mustangs turn around last year's blowout in an offensive shootout, 51-47.

Lubbock Trinity Christian @ Arlington Grace Prep -- District 2 is once again headed Dallas Christian's way. District 1 will be decided among a trio of teams, 2 Lions and an Eagles. The Lions meet in this one, and Trinity having dominated Lake Country last week can actually clinch the district title with a win this week. Grace Prep still have Lake Country to play in Week 11 so it would go to the final night of the season if they spring the upset. With Grace Prep hosting, this is a Saturday afternoon tilt and that always seems to bring out the strange to me. Grace Prep has scuffled on offense this year and that's led to some underwhelming outings against some average opponents. Any sluggishness will be punished severely by Lubbock Trinity in looking to get back to the semifinals and take down likely opponent DC. Even in a season opening loss to Albany, Trinity allowed just 22 points. Everyone else has been held to less. If Grace Prep scored just 14 against Oakridge and 21 against Cistercian, it won't have enough to keep pace with Trinity. TCS-Lubbock dominates 38-6.

Midland Christian @ Fort Worth Christian -- Another long time rival lines up across from the Cardinals. They played Grapevine Faith for the 15th time since 2004 and won 55-53. Next was Dallas Christian for the 21st time since 2004, and an ugly 58-16 loss. It was just the 7th meeting since 2004 against Argyle Liberty Christian but it was even uglier at 85-13. Now they meet the Mustangs for the 17th time since 2004. FWC has won just 4 of those meetings, but won the playoff rematch last season 28-27. The Mustangs are 2-5 this season but have played a very difficult schedule. A tight loss to All Saints gave way to being shutout by Liberty (like everyone in 2023). MCS hasn't had the offensive consistency to get the big wins this year. It feels like they're close though. The Cardinals appeared to be ready to challenge for the top spots but face a situation where they will be looking at an elimination game with Southwest next week if they can't find a home win. Even at home I just don't think the Cardinal offense has enough given the last two outings. Can they find some of that 55 point form they had against Faith? If they do, I don't think MCS has enough to keep pace. A tight one that finishes right in between defensive slog and offensive slip and slide seems the call here. Mustangs win 30-27.

Frisco Legacy Christian @ Tyler Grace Community -- Two teams that seem to have finally figured out their ails. The Cougars are 7-0 and eyeing 10 wins for the first time since 2015. They're just 2 years removed from a 2-9 season. With a win over Grapevine Faith already secured this would win the district title for Grace. The Eagles have a 6-1 start after winning just 3 games combined the last 2 seasons. Neither squad is obviously favored on offense or defense. The Eagles allowed just 45 points in their 6 wins and everyone loses to Argyle Liberty this year. The Cougars have allowed 139 on the season, but have probably played the better schedule. Its a hard one to figure out given the lack of common opponents. So we go home team. Cougars get to 8-0 by winning a close one, 28-23.

Lubbock Christian @ Dallas First Baptist -- We've attempted to decide Division III District 2 and Division III District 1 so far this week. Next we'll look at a possible title game in Division IV District 1. The Eagles take the long trek East to the Saints Athletic Complex carrying the weight of defending last year's state title. Lubbock Christian is 18-2 the last two seasons having lost in Week 7 both years, and to two different schools each season. Just a statistical oddity I found fun. The district slate has the Eagles at 3-0 having shutout all 3 opponents. In last year's title run, Lubbock Christian took out the Saints 57-13. First Baptist after finishing just 5-6 a season ago is off to one of their best starts ever at 7-0.  Given the opponents left for both teams, this should decide the district title. The Saints offense should be as good as any the Eagles have seen, and the same goes for the Eagle defense taking on the Saints offense. That side of the ball decides this one for me. If FBA scores 35 points they win, if not LCS wins. Saints at home is the pick, 36-30.

Episcopal School of Dallas @ Houston St. John's -- With just 5 teams you wouldn't think SPC 4A could jam up at the top, yet here we are again. The Eagles started the season well at 3-1 and only losing to Argyle Liberty that everyone loses to. Then conference play hit and they were dusted by Bellaire Episcopal, 42-9, and Kinkaid, 43-7. To have any hopes at the top 2 they'll need to win a road game this week. The 6-2 Mavericks are the best choice when you need a win though. The win over Bellaire Episcopal 2 weeks a go was a surprise and puts St. John's in the drivers seat. They'll clinch a spot in the title game with a win this week at home. It seems it will be another season of disappointment for ESD being unable to best the Houston trio. Mavericks win 35-12.

Bellaire Episcopal @ Houston Kinkaid -- The other spot in the SPC 4A title game is up for grabs just 5.5 miles down San Felipe St. at Kinkaid. The Falcons are the defending champs in the conference but lost the regular season matchup with Episcopal last year. They are in the title game with a win while Episcopal would have to wait on a possible 3-way tie if they win. The Knights defense has limited the opposition to just 11 points per game this season on the road to 7-1. Given that St. John's scored 33, everyone else has really struggled against Episcopal. Kinkaid though is allowing just 16 points per game. So a defensive appears to be on offer. I'm going to zig while everyone zags though, just a feeling. Kinkaid wins a shootout 42-35.

Quick Hits: (Season: 58-22)

Plano Prestonwood Christian over Dallas Bishop Lynch
San Antonio Antonian over Houston St. Pius X
Tomball Concordia Lutheran over San Antonio Central Catholic
Austin Regents over San Antonio St. Anthony
Austin St. Michael's over San Antonio Christian
Houston Second Baptist over Houston Lutheran South
Fort Bend Christian over The Woodlands Christian
Fort Worth Lake Country Christian over Colleyville Covenant
Austin Brentwood Christian over League City Bay Area Christian
Shiner St. Paul over Temple Central Texas Christian

Week 8 Results 2023

This Week:

Dallas Christian over Dallas HSAA (59-0) -- Correct
--Chargers dominant from the start as the likely district title game with Brook Hill is next on the schedule.

Argyle Liberty Christian over Midland Christian (46-0) -- Correct
--At times it seemed the Mustangs could slow the title favorites, but then it still wound up a shutout. Hard to see who is knocking Liberty off the top step.

Austin Regents over Austin Hyde Park (50-14) -- Correct
--Knights dominant again, but Hyde Park did score this year. Regents might have the upper hand on the District 4 squads for a spot in the finals.

Houston Second Baptist over Fort Bend Christian (20-0) -- Correct
--Fort Bend offense just can't seem to get in gear in 2023. How will the rematch look in November?

Fort Worth Lake Country Christian over Lubbock Trinity Christian (7-48) -- Wrong
--Thought this might the be Eagles shot, but they'll have to wait for November to turn the tables.

Bullard Brook Hill over Dallas The Covenant (36-0) -- Correct
--Guard with a dominant outing to set things up for the district title game with DC next week. Knights will face McKinney Christian for the last playoff spot.

Shiner St. Paul over Hallettsville Sacred Heart (14-31) -- Wrong
--Indians go on the road and score a big win to go to 8-0. Seems like a showdown with Lubbock Christian might be on the horizon.

Week 8: 5-2
Season: 45-12

Quick Hits:

Episcopal School of Dallas over Houston Kinkaid (7-43) -- Wrong
Dallas Bishop Lynch over Addison Trinity Christian (6-10) -- Wrong
San Antonio Central Catholic over San Antonio Antonian (0-40) -- Wrong
Fort Worth All Saints over Fort Worth Southwest Christian (53-0) -- Correct
Frisco Legacy Christian over Dallas Bishop Dunne (48-18) -- Correct

Grapevine Faith Christian over Plano John Paul II (43-0) -- Correct
Brownsville St. Joseph over Austin St. Michael's (23-0) -- Correct
Victoria St. Joseph over San Antonio St. Anthony (37-0) -- Correct
Houston Lutheran South over Beaumont Kelly (53-14) -- Correct
Arlington Grace Prep over Willow Park Trinity Christian (64-7) -- Correct

 

Week 8: 7-3
Season: 58-22

Week 8 Picks 2023

There's district showdowns all across the state this week. District favorites have some notable tests and the road to state will be a bit clearer after this week. Good luck and safe travels!

This Week: (Season: 40-10)

Dallas HSAA @ Dallas Christian -- The Chargers draw the Angels to fill the open slot in district play. DC began the district slate with a 55-0 win over Dallas Covenant. The Chargers defense has just absolutely suffocated Division III opponents in the last two seasons, allowing just 34 points combined in 8 such games. The Angels are 2-5 on the season, but were 7-6 a year ago and very competitive for their home school division. HSAA last visited DC in 2012, suffering a 49-0 defeat. While no one from those teams will effect this one on Friday, it looks to be a similar result. The Angels lost last week to McKinney Christian, a team that is included in those 8 dominant win over Division III opponents. Chargers win 50-6.

Argyle Liberty Christian @ Midland Christian -- The featured event of the week is in the Permian Basin. If I didn't hold to my policy of always doing DC first, this should earn top billing. The Warriors have climbed to the top of the pile in Division II (and maybe all of TAPPS) and really just kept climbing. Liberty is crushing opposition in their 6-0 start by 286 points combined. Previously unbeaten Frisco Legacy, 52-0. Longtime rival FWC, 85-13. The Warriors are going to be tough to push off the perch this year, particularly given the struggles of last season's champions. The showdown games do not stop after this one, but this one is a biggie. On the old message board of many years ago, pbae would say "the only thing better than a Midland win is a denton loss" (and yes he would not capitalize Denton). The legendary Game of Inches from 2001 was played on the old Dwight Gailey Field on Bonnie Brae. UNT no longer uses the old field for soccer, but it remains on the old Liberty Christian campus used by the Mean Green. Since then the rivalry has taken place on at least six different fields and no trip West is an easy one. MCS is just 2-4 this year, but held All Saints to just 14 points last week. They also led UIL power Pleasant Grove in the 4th quarter. The Mustangs are never an easy out, but at home against the Warriors especially so. With Liberty's move to Division I next year, it may be the last meeting for a while. The Mustangs will slow the Warriors offense, but even if they bring back the lack of showers from the infamous Showergate I don't its enough to stop this juggernaut. Liberty won a season ago 24-14 and seems to be better this year. Warriors win 29-14.

Austin Regents @ Austin Hyde Park -- Regents continues to be the unstoppable force in District 3 of Division II, last losing a district game in 2015. Notably, that loss was to Hyde Park. The Panthers started last season with 3 district wins and designs on pushing Regents off the perch. The Knights won that one 42-0. The Panthers try the same thing this year having started district play 3-0 again. Regents hasn't been as dominant as some years, but seems to still be the top dog. Hyde Park has failed to score against Regents in 4 consecutive meetings, last reaching the endzone in 2018. A visit to the Quarries is a least a little bit of a hurdle, but not too much to overcome. Knights win 35-0.

Houston Second Baptist @ Fort Bend Christian -- The District 4 Title Game reaches another season, and we finally settle the Eagles score. At least until two more Eagles play each other next week. In 2022 like 2021, one team won the regular season meeting and had the tables turned on them in the playoffs. In 2021, Fort Bend won the district crown but Second Baptist reached the state final. For 2022, Second Baptist won the district title but Fort Bend did them one better winning the state title. The FBCA Eagles title was the first in Division II for a team south of I-20 since Second Baptist won (then 4A) in 1999. So another maybe you don't want to win this one. Fort Bend has struggled in defense of their state title, starting 0-4 but winning their last two. Second Baptist has struggled to 2-4 as well. Neither seems to be able to put offense and defense together on the same night. The SBS defense has competed well, holding opponents under 30 in three of the losses. This should be a low scoring affair, and the defending champs just don't seem to have the mojo this year. Second Baptist wins 23-16.

Fort Worth Lake Country Christian @ Lubbock Trinity Christian -- In Division III, Dallas Christian remains the favorites after winning back-to-back titles. The stakes in this one are the chance to avoid DC until the semifinals. The Eagles are not off to as strong a start as last years 6-0 mark, but the 4-2 campaign so far may be more impressive. The 20 point win over Fort Worth Christian is a more notable win than any from last season. Its a tall mountain to climb this week with the long trip to Lubbock and knowing it was a 49-0 decision for Trinity last year. The Lions won 9 in a row in 2022 before being shutout by DC in the semis. Just the 10th season of varsity football at TCS has already at the top end of the division. Both teams dominated in their district opener, so it should be good one. The Lions are favored for sure, but can't shake that this might be year for Lake Country. I think the Eagles pull their biggest upset since last month when they beat FWC. Lake Country wins a shootout, 42-35.

Bullard Brook Hill @ Dallas The Covenant -- We closely monitor the Dallas Christian district in this space and with just one game a week most of the time its not too much trouble. This week the Guard and Knights figure to settle the 2nd place finish and hosting slot for round 1. The Guard are off to a slightly better 4-2 mark compared with 2022's 3-3, but still lack the big win over a top TAPPS team. The losses to Grapevine Faith and Tyler Grace don't inspire confidence for the district and playoff slates. They did turnaround a loss to the Rabbits of Atlanta this year, and it was just a 28-14 decision at Brook Hill last year. The Brook Hill defense is allowing just 16 points per game in their last 5, and the Covenant offense has not looked as prolific as a season ago. The field on Valley View Lane is an interesting one with cars whizzing by on LBJ just 60 yards away from the sideline. I think Brook Hill claims revenge from last season, but not by much. Guard win 28-14.

Hallettsville Sacred Heart @ Shiner St. Paul -- Just 14 miles separate the longtime South Texas stalwarts, and they'll settle the private school Lavaca County title once again. It was another championship appearance for the Cardinals last year, but they were bested for the title by Lubbock Christian. At just 85 students, St. Paul is one of the smallest 11-man schools in the state but actually has been passed by a couple smaller schools in recent years. A 4-3 start for the Cardinals has them chasing just a bit more than some years, but it seems when the Division IV opponents arrive St. Paul turns the screws. Last week they were totally dominated by San Antonio Holy Cross, and it doesn't get any easier with the 7-0 Indians. The winner here will have a clear path to the district title and 1st round bye. The Sacred Heart defense has stiffed opponents all season. They've dealt three shutouts and seen just 49 points against. The St. Paul hurdle has been one they can't clear, winning just 7 of the last 23 meetings. When the Indians do get over this hump, its usually time to start talking state title. Last season it was a 38-24 win for St. Paul in Hallettsville. I do no think the Cardinals score that many this year, but I'm not sure that will be enough for Sacred Heart. Cardinals survive on the grass of Comanche Stadium, 19-14.

Quick Hits: (Season: 51-19)

Episcopal School of Dallas over Houston Kinkaid (ESD seeks revenge at home)
Dallas Bishop Lynch over Addison Trinity Christian
San Antonio Central Catholic over San Antonio Antonian
Fort Worth All Saints over Fort Worth Southwest Christian
Frisco Legacy Christian over Dallas Bishop Dunne

Grapevine Faith Christian over Plano John Paul II
Brownsville St. Joseph over Austin St. Michael's
Victoria St. Joseph over San Antonio St. Anthony
Houston Lutheran South over Beaumont Kelly
Arlington Grace Prep over Willow Park Trinity Christian

Week 7 Results 2023

This Week: (Season: 34-9)

Dallas Christian over Dallas Covenant (55-0) -- Correct
--Chargers just too much for the Knights. A couple of 2nd half turnovers make the score worse than it was, but also a decisive victory. Knights will have better days ahead on the district slate.

Argyle Liberty Christian over Fort Worth Christian (85-13) -- Correct
--Well that's...a lot. Cardinals looking to better days ahead, and probably a huge matchup with Southwest Christian for the last playoff spot. Warriors will have their eyes on the top spot in Division II.

Fort Worth All Saints over Midland Christian (14-7) -- Correct
--Mustangs defense will make the upcoming Liberty rivalry interesting, but its a tough road ahead. Saints will have their own shot at the top.

Grapevine Faith Christian over Tyler Grace Community (35-61) -- Wrong
--Really nice win for the Cougars. They are well placed now for a home game in round 1 and avoiding Liberty and any long road trips.

Plano Prestonwood Christian over Addison Trinity Christian (55-3) -- Correct
--Tough season for the Trojans continues, as the Lions look ahead to a couple of big district showdowns.

Bullard Brook Hill over Arlington Grace Prep (27-7) -- Correct
--Guard with a nice win as the march toward the DC showdown for the district crown continues.

Austin Regents over Brownsville St. Joseph (50-22) -- Correct
--Knights will be a factor in the southern half of Division II. 'Hounds need that 2nd place finish and home game in Brownsville.

Week 7: 6-1
Season: 40-10

Quick Hits:

Fort Worth Lake Country Christian over Willow Park Trinity Christian (48-17) -- Correct
Lubbock Trinity Christian over Colleyville Covenant Christian (48-10) -- Correct
Sugar Land Fort Bend Christian over Houston Lutheran South (26-7) -- Correct
San Antonio Christian over Victoria St. Joseph (17-19) -- Wrong
Dallas Parish Episcopal over Dallas Bishop Lynch (58-14) -- Correct
Dallas First Baptist over Muenster Sacred Heart (42-0) -- Correct
Lubbock Christian over Sunray (0-34) -- Wrong
San Antonio Holy Cross over Shiner St. Paul (53-19) -- Correct
Bellaire Episcopal over Houston St. John's (32-33) -- Wrong
Houston Kinkaid over Dallas St. Mark's (51-28) -- Correct

Week 7: 7-3
Season: 51-19

Week 7 Picks 2023

District play is here for almost everyone. A few 4-team districts continue to wait for the games that count. Realignment talk should spice things up soon. We inch closer to the tournament and the quest for a state title continues.

This Week: (Season: 34-9)

Dallas Covenant @ Dallas Christian -- Much like last season, the Chargers go from a long time rival to a relative new comer to the schedule. Just the 2nd meeting with Knights and Covenant's 1st visit to Wheeler Field make for an interesting matchup. Covenant was very game at home last year before a couple of late scores extended the margin to 40. Both squads enter with just 1 loss on the season and the Knights will have designs on a return to the playoffs. An 8 win season was their best in 11-man and 4 wins already points toward a shot at hosting in Round 1. The wins by Covenant are just not as good as DC's thus far. The Chargers are the defending champs for a reason, and nothing has changed that favorite status so far. With the game in Mesquite, this should be a comfortable victory. Chargers win 42-0.

Fort Worth Christian @ Argyle Liberty Christian -- A season ago, FWC entered after a big win over Dallas Christian and hosting Liberty with a chance to plant their flag in a wide open Division II. This season, the Cardinals were dusted by DC and have to travel to Argyle to take on a Warriors squad that might be tops in TAPPS. Liberty is 5-0 outscoring opponents by an average of 41 points per game and scoring just under 48 points per game. Only Prestonwood scored twice in one game against the Warriors defense. With several contenders suffering early defeats that puts the Warriors as the current favorite in Division II and looking like someone that could compete with Parish if they were in the same division. The Cardinals have dropped 2 games this season, both on the road. Lake Country was a surprise loss and losing to DC was not a surprise but getting beat as badly as they did was a shock. Can they rebound in this rivalry? Perhaps, but this is a tall mountain after giving up 58 points a week ago. Liberty looks better than last year when they won this one on the road by 10. So at home? Warriors win handily, 40-14.

Midland Christian @ Fort Worth All Saints -- The Mustangs continue their daunting travel schedule as they head to Tarrant County for the district opener. It feels like everyone is chasing Liberty, so this is a huge one in determining that 2nd place finish and 1st round host. MCS 2-3 start sends a bunch of mixed signals. A 4th quarter lead against state ranked Pleasant Grove, points to a contender. A 4th quarter deficit to Bishop Lynch, points toward the middle of the road. The high number of points allowed to Regents in the opener makes us think they can be scored upon. The Saints played well in a 4-0 start, including a nice win over Prestonwood on the road. A loss to UIL contender Anna, does not erode that start too much. The Saints offense looks to be in position to score a bunch this week. The Mustangs won't get blown out, but on the road its just too much to ask to chase down the Saints. MCS needs to find a way to get ahead early and hang on. Saints win, 35-12.

Grapevine Faith Christian @ Tyler Grace Community -- The Lions 2-0 start is a distant memory at this point. Much as it was a year ago. Faith won its first two and then lost to ESD, Liberty, and FWC. They lost a heartbreaker, 55-53 at FWC in their last outing 2 weeks ago. The Cougars are 5-0, and appear to have turned the corner from their tumultuous stretch of 4 coaches in 3 years. Grace has had a week to rest up for this one as well and winning the district and avoiding the top 3 of District 1 is critical for both squads. Particularly for Grace, given the trip East that would be needed for their opponent. A 2nd straight year of entering district play 5-0 has to have expectations up for the Cougars. The defense will have a tough task to measure up to with 158 points on the board for the Lions in their non-Liberty/ESD contests. The Cougars allowed 50 a year ago. In the Piney Woods this year, they should be a little closer. I think Faith is better though. Lions win 38-32.

Plano Prestonwood Christian @ Addison Trinity Christian -- The Trojans have again won just once before reaching the district slate. No worries about missing the playoffs though since all Division I teams are in. Last season, TCA took out Southwest Christian. This season, it was defending Division II champion Fort Bend Christian on the receiving end of the lone defeat. Its been a struggle to score for TCA and Prestonwood isn't the best or worst choice to try to break out of a rut. The Lions have scored a lot against lesser opposition, but still acquitted themselves well against All Saints and were the only team to reach double figures against Liberty so far in 2023. The Prestonwood is better, but the game is in Addison and home teams always play better. Not enough points for TCA though. Prestonwood wins 22-7.

Arlington Grace Prep @ Bullard Brook Hill -- With each of Pantego and Shelton playing independent schedules in 2023, that left an opening and a logical pairing in the scheduling rooms. The Guard continue to search for that signature victory over a state title contender. The Lions probably aren't that contender, but it would be a step in the right direction for Brook Hill. At 3-2 and having lost to Faith and Tyler Grace, putting offense and defense together is the challenge. The Lions face a similar problem. Score 34 give up 42. Hold the other team to 16, only score 14. So this feels low scoring, and we know this space likes home teams. Guard win 18-14.

Brownsville St. Joseph @ Austin Regents -- The Knights are sort of the forgotten team in Division II. Having won the 2020 state title, but also losing 4 title games in a row before that, then struggling to reach the final in recent year. Regents hasn't lost a district game since 2015, when Hyde Park snagged them. In the years since, Regents has won 43 district games in-a-row. The Bloodhounds lost a stunner to San Antonio Christian a week ago. The scoring touch seems to have left the 'Hounds, and they'll need it back in a big way to over the Knights. Regents at home is the way to go here. Knights win in the cozy confines, 42-21.

Quick Hits: (Season: 44-16)

Fort Worth Lake Country Christian over Willow Park Trinity Christian
Lubbock Trinity Christian over Colleyville Covenant Christian
Sugar Land Fort Bend Christian over Houston Lutheran South
San Antonio Christian over Victoria St. Joseph
Dallas Parish Episcopal over Dallas Bishop Lynch
Dallas First Baptist over Muenster Sacred Heart
Lubbock Christian over Sunray
San Antonio Holy Cross over Shiner St. Paul
Bellaire Episcopal over Houston St. John's
Houston Kinkaid over Dallas St. Mark's