Only two teams left but this is definitely the hardest week to pick so far even with NC and HF having a common opponent in recent weeks. I also have Evanston1's theory that HF doesn't lose at HF even though they already did this season. So that is confusing. Looks like rain is not going to be a factor tonight or tomorrow but cold has some effect on receivers hands, QB accuracy, etc. So here we go:
NC @ HFHS. Voodoo had some good points that made me re-consider this game. NC did put 9 in the box against WN but that actually wasn't that effective. Still ran on them pretty effectively. The difference really was 4 turnovers. A blocked punt that led to a 3 yard drive and a fumble recovery that led to a 43 yard drive aided by penalties. If NC can get 4 turnovers against HF then they win. Getting 4 turnovers is pretty tough in any game especially against an experienced backfield like HF's. So I am going with:
HF 28 NC 21
WN @ Batavia. Man if you like to watch defense then this is the game of the weekend. Take out the SCN game for Batavia and the NN game for Wheaton North and you have the two most stingy defenses in 7A. Both are fast and hard hitting. Breaking it down I give the slight advantage to the Falcons in the secondary with two stud safeties and corners that play man to man and let the line go to work. Batavia has two beasts at LB that fly to the ball so I give them the edge at the second level. On the D line, I believe the starters are a wash but WN goes 9-10 deep here. This could be a big factor in the 4th quarter. On offense I know everyone thinks that WN is just a running team and if you stop the run, you have a chance. That was the case most of the year but the Falcon passing attack has really come alive the last three weeks and definitely has to be respected. Lots of speed and height at receiver and a tight end that will level you. Batavia has three speedy backs and a QB with a quick release, reliable receivers and a tough tight end that loves the seam route. Because Batavia has had more balance all year, I give the slight edge to Batavia on O. Special teams. WN hasn't given up a long KR or PR all season. The kicker can kick 40 yard plus field goals and punts everything over 40 yards. Batavia's kicker appears to be solid. Punter is hit or miss. Edge to the Falcons. Batavia is home team and more playoff experience so you can see why this game is 14-13 on Massey and Edgy is calling it a pick em.
I am going with Massey's pick in reverse:
WN 14 Batavia 13.
