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A glance at Week 9 matchups
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| Northland Christian High quarterback Shane Knight will try to lead the Cougars to an upset of Lutheran North on Friday night. |
Thursday’s game
Spring Westfield Mustangs (5-1, 4-1) at Klein Oak Panthers (5-1, 4-1)
7 p.m.
A quick breakdown: This has been one of the most highly-anticipated matchups of the season, and it’s going to be televised live on Fox Sports Network Southwest. It pits two of the area’s top offenses against one another. Westfield has an excellent passing game, and the Panthers are known more for their rushing attack. Klein Forest will be keeping a close eye on the game, they have the head-to-head tiebreaker against Westfield, but not Oak.
When Spring Westfield has the ball: Mustangs quarterback Jacoby Walker has been dominant through the season, and he has plenty of options when it comes to finding open receivers.
When Klein Oak has the ball: Panthers running back Ossam Cook rushed for 245 yards in last Saturday’s 44-17 win over Spring. He’ll lead the way once again for an Oak running game that’s been strong throughout the season with the exception of their 14-7 loss to Klein Collins on Oct. 18.
Keep your eyes on these two: Spring Westfield WR Ja-Mes Logan; Klein Oak QB Andy Wilson
The deciding factor(s) will be: Fatigue, momentum. Both teams will be playing on only five days rest, but that shouldn’t matter at this point in the season. Spring Westfield’s defense has been improving, and Klein Oak can’t afford another slow start like it had against Klein Collins.
Friday’s games
Cy Ridge Rams (5-2, 4-1) vs. Cy Springs Panthers (4-3, 3-2)
7:30 p.m. at Ken Pridgeon Stadium
A quick breakdown: Cy Ridge is playing excellent on both sides of the ball, and the defending district champions appear to be headed to the postseason. Cy Springs is locked on a three-way tie for third place in the district along with Langham Creek, who they beat last week, and Cy Woods, whom they lost to the week prior to that. The Panthers have only made the playoffs in school history, and that was five years ago.
When Cy Ridge has the ball: The Rams have so many options offensively, starting with the one-two combination of senior quarterback Russell Shepard and senior running back Hasan Lipscomb. The duo should continue to put up some impressive numbers on Friday.
When Cy Springs has the ball: Cy Springs turned things around offensively with quarterback Hunter Arter, running back Darrel Lea and wide receiver Darius Wilson all playing key roles in the upset win over Langham Creek last Thursday.
Keep your eyes on these two: Lipscomb; Lea
The deciding factor(s) will be: Turnovers; Panthers’ defense. If Cy Springs can force some early turnovers, they might be able to stay in the game. Cy Springs has played some strong defensive games, especially early in the season. If the defense can return to top form, the Panthers could be competitive in this one.
Jersey Village Falcons (0-7, 0-5) vs. Cy Creek Cougars (5-1, 5-0)
7:30 p.m. at Berry Center
A quick breakdown: The Falcons have been strong defensively at times, but they haven’t been able to stop District 15’s most potent offenses. On Friday, they’ll face Cy Creek, which is averaging about 500 yards per game and is on the brink of going from last place in the district to first. It should be interesting to see how the Cougars offense fares against the Falcons’ defense.
When Jersey Village has the ball: Cy Creek’s defense is much improved, and the Falcons have had a difficult time sustaining drives and holding on to the ball. Both will be important on Friday as Jersey Village needs to keep the ball out of the Cougars’ hands.
When Cy Creek has the ball: Senior quarterback Austin Pugliese and senior running back Jermichael Selders may not be as well known as Cy Ridge’s Russell Shepard and Hasan Lipscomb, but they will likely be the ones claiming the District 15 Championships, thanks to their 31-21 win over the Rams earlier this month. Pugliese and Selders are also among the district’s statistical leaders in several categories.
Keep your eyes on these two: Jersey Village OL Bobby Janisch; Selders
The deciding factor(s) will be: A quick start. If Cy Creek scores a touchdown or two early in the game, it will be very unlikely that the Falcons will have the ability to come back from a double-digit deficit.
Klein Bearkats (2-4, 2-3) at Spring Lions (3-4, 1-4)
7:30 p.m.
A quick breakdown: Klein still has a strong chance to make the playoffs if it defeats Spring and Tomball in its final two games, and Spring is all but eliminated from postseason contention. The Bearkats’ defense and special teams have made them competitive, but they haven’t been scoring enough points.
When Klein has the ball: The Bearkats need to find a rhythm offensively, and that will be difficult against a team that’s been strong defensively throughout the season. Junior quarterbacks Clayton Crum and Michael West are both getting playing time for Klein, and running backs Dekota Barnes can make things happen out of the backfield.
When Spring has the ball: Lions quarterback Roman Johnson has done an impressive job filling in over Texas A&M-bound senior Kenric McNeal, but the Lions aren’t in position to make the postseason. Johnson will still lead the Lions’ attack against a tough Bearkats’ defense.
Keep your eyes on these two: Klein WR/DB Tyler Boss; Johnson
The deciding factor(s) will be: Klein’s passing game; Spring’s run defense. West completed a 62-yard touchdown pass to Boss in last Friday’s 13-10 loss to Klein Forest, but it wasn’t enough. The Bearkats need to establish the passing game because Spring is likely to either shut down or limit the run.
Klein Forest Golden Eagles (6-1, 4-1) at Tomball Cougars (2-5, 2-3)
7:30 p.m.
A quick breakdown: The records are very deceiving in this game, which represents a contrast of styles. Klein Forest has been winning a lot of close games with a strong running game and solid defense, while the Cougars have been scoring lots of points, thanks to their passing game. The Golden Eagles can clinch a playoff spot with a win, and Tomball can stay in the postseason chase with an upset victory.
When Klein Forest has the ball: Golden Eagles running back Dominic Wilkins has been one of the area’s most dominant running backs, but the team also has a quality quarterback in Vernell Caldwell, who has the ability to make big plays.
When Tomball has the ball: Chad Tarhini to Jordan Leslie is a phrase that’s familiar to Cougar fans. Everyone in the stadium knows that those two are going to score enough points to keep Tomball in the game.
Keep your eyes on these two: Wikins; Leslie
The deciding factor(s) will be: Tomball’s defense; Klein Forest’s passing game. Tomball’s defense hasn’t caught up with its offense, and that’s been a problem for the Cougars, who have lost 11 of their last 14 games dating back to last season. If they jump out to an early lead, is Klein Forest’s offense may not be strong and balanced enough to make a comeback.
Northland Christian Cougars (2-5) at Lutheran North Lions (7-1)
7:30 p.m.
A quick breakdown: Northland Christian needs to win one of its final two games to qualify for the postseason, and they’ll have a difficult time doing it against the district-leading Lions.
When Northland Christian has the ball: The Cougars need to be more consistent offensively and establish the running game with either Stuart Trahan or Hunter Labrada, both of whom are capable of carrying the ball efficiently.
When Lutheran North has the ball: The Lions are dominant on the ground and have several players who are capable of finding the end zone. They should be able to jump out to an early lead and cruise to an 8-1 record.
Keep your eyes on these two: Northland Christian K/WR Kyle Serres; Northland Christian QB Shane Knight
The deciding factor(s) will be: Ball control and defense. The Cougars need to keep the ball out of the Lions’ hands, extend their drives and force as many 3 and outs as possible.
Saturday’s games
Klein Collins Tigers (5-2, 3-2) at Spring DeKaney Wildcats (0-7, 0-5)
4 p.m.
A quick breakdown: The Tigers have had a remarkable season and appear to be headed to the playoffs. However, their offense has been inconsistent, and it wouldn’t be out of the realm of possibility that Spring DeKaney could earn its first-ever varsity win if the game turns into a defensive struggle.
When Klein Collins has the ball: Running backs JaMichael Rozier and Kenneth Centamore have kept the chains moving for the Tigers, but the team has won primarily on ball control and defense. If Klein Collins builds an early lead of two or more touchdowns, they should cruise to an easy victory.
When Spring DeKaney has the ball: The Wildcats have had trouble turning the ball over this season, but their defense has been ahead of their offseason throughout their inaugural campaign. They’ve already got to be thinking about building for next season.
Keep your eyes on these two: Rozier; Spring DeKaney DB Adrian Bennett
The deciding factor(s) will be: Klein Collins’ offensive momentum. If the Tigers get into a rhythm offensively, this game could be over by the halftime break.
Cy-Fair Bobcats (0-7, 0-5) vs. Cy Falls Golden Eagles (2-5, 2-3)
6 p.m. at Ken Pridgeon Stadium
A quick breakdown: These teams played in a nationally-televised game on ESPN2 last fall, and both had championship aspirations. Now, the Bobcats are hoping to finish the season with a victory, and the Golden Eagles find themselves in a tough battle for a playoff spot along with Cy Springs, Cy Woods and Langham Creek. This matchup pits the tough Bobcat defense against the passing juggernaut that is Kolby Gray and Co.
When Cy-Fair has the ball: Cy-Fair has had difficulty scoring into the 30s and 40s, something that’s essential to keep up with most of the high-octane offenses in District 15. If they’re able to find answer to stopping Gray, they might be able to pull off the upset.
When Cy Falls has the ball: Gray has a lot of young receivers on his team, and they’ve been excellent at times. How far they’ve come from the beginning of the season will determine whether the Golden Eagles reach the postseason this fall. The season finale is against an equally powerful offensive team, Cy Woods, so Cy Falls needs this game as a springboard.
Keep your eyes on these two: Cy-Fair TE Colby Goodwin; Gray
The deciding factor(s) will be: Creating the tempo. If Cy-Fair can shut down Cy Falls’ passing lanes and prevent them from completing short, quick passes, that will be their first step to an upset. The next one will be forcing 3 and outs and making it a defensive slugfest.
Langham Creek Lobos (3-4, 3-2) vs. Cy Woods Wildcats (4-2, 3-2)
6 p.m. at Berry Center
A quick breakdown: The Lobos finished 6-4 each of the last three seasons and missed the playoffs each time. They haven’t made the playoffs since 2002 and qualifying this fall will be a difficult feat. They still have to play Cy Woods and defending district champion Cy-Fair.
When Langham Creek has the ball: The Lobos’ offense has been dominant with junior quarterback Will Bryant eclipsing the 2,000-yard mark (2,094 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and 12 interceptions) in just seven games, and twin junior receivers Mitchell and Garrett Juergens making acrobatic plays, left and right.
When Cy Woods has the ball: The resurgent Wildcats, who appeared to be on the decline after quarterback Lucas Devilliers’ knee injury on Oct. 10 against Cy Creek. Devilliers returned and scored five touchdowns in a 42-20 win over Cy-Fair. This matchup pits him against the district’s leading passer, Bryant.
Keep your eyes on these two: Cy Woods WR Jonathan Cross; Langham Creek WR Garrett Juergens
The deciding factor(s) will be: The Lobos’ running game and defensive playmaking. Langham Creek never consistently established a running game during its 37-35 loss to Cy Springs last week. Nor were they able to stop a Panthers offense that didn’t score a point against Cy Woods the previous week. Langham Creek will have its hands full with the Wildcats, and both teams could easily score into the 50s.
Spring Westfield Mustangs (5-1, 4-1) at Klein Oak Panthers (5-1, 4-1)
7 p.m.
A quick breakdown: This has been one of the most highly-anticipated matchups of the season, and it’s going to be televised live on Fox Sports Network Southwest. It pits two of the area’s top offenses against one another. Westfield has an excellent passing game, and the Panthers are known more for their rushing attack. Klein Forest will be keeping a close eye on the game, they have the head-to-head tiebreaker against Westfield, but not Oak.
When Spring Westfield has the ball: Mustangs quarterback Jacoby Walker has been dominant through the season, and he has plenty of options when it comes to finding open receivers.
When Klein Oak has the ball: Panthers running back Ossam Cook rushed for 245 yards in last Saturday’s 44-17 win over Spring. He’ll lead the way once again for an Oak running game that’s been strong throughout the season with the exception of their 14-7 loss to Klein Collins on Oct. 18.
Keep your eyes on these two: Spring Westfield WR Ja-Mes Logan; Klein Oak QB Andy Wilson
The deciding factor(s) will be: Fatigue, momentum. Both teams will be playing on only five days rest, but that shouldn’t matter at this point in the season. Spring Westfield’s defense has been improving, and Klein Oak can’t afford another slow start like it had against Klein Collins.
Friday’s games
Cy Ridge Rams (5-2, 4-1) vs. Cy Springs Panthers (4-3, 3-2)
7:30 p.m. at Ken Pridgeon Stadium
A quick breakdown: Cy Ridge is playing excellent on both sides of the ball, and the defending district champions appear to be headed to the postseason. Cy Springs is locked on a three-way tie for third place in the district along with Langham Creek, who they beat last week, and Cy Woods, whom they lost to the week prior to that. The Panthers have only made the playoffs in school history, and that was five years ago.
When Cy Ridge has the ball: The Rams have so many options offensively, starting with the one-two combination of senior quarterback Russell Shepard and senior running back Hasan Lipscomb. The duo should continue to put up some impressive numbers on Friday.
When Cy Springs has the ball: Cy Springs turned things around offensively with quarterback Hunter Arter, running back Darrel Lea and wide receiver Darius Wilson all playing key roles in the upset win over Langham Creek last Thursday.
Keep your eyes on these two: Lipscomb; Lea
The deciding factor(s) will be: Turnovers; Panthers’ defense. If Cy Springs can force some early turnovers, they might be able to stay in the game. Cy Springs has played some strong defensive games, especially early in the season. If the defense can return to top form, the Panthers could be competitive in this one.
Jersey Village Falcons (0-7, 0-5) vs. Cy Creek Cougars (5-1, 5-0)
7:30 p.m. at Berry Center
A quick breakdown: The Falcons have been strong defensively at times, but they haven’t been able to stop District 15’s most potent offenses. On Friday, they’ll face Cy Creek, which is averaging about 500 yards per game and is on the brink of going from last place in the district to first. It should be interesting to see how the Cougars offense fares against the Falcons’ defense.
When Jersey Village has the ball: Cy Creek’s defense is much improved, and the Falcons have had a difficult time sustaining drives and holding on to the ball. Both will be important on Friday as Jersey Village needs to keep the ball out of the Cougars’ hands.
When Cy Creek has the ball: Senior quarterback Austin Pugliese and senior running back Jermichael Selders may not be as well known as Cy Ridge’s Russell Shepard and Hasan Lipscomb, but they will likely be the ones claiming the District 15 Championships, thanks to their 31-21 win over the Rams earlier this month. Pugliese and Selders are also among the district’s statistical leaders in several categories.
Keep your eyes on these two: Jersey Village OL Bobby Janisch; Selders
The deciding factor(s) will be: A quick start. If Cy Creek scores a touchdown or two early in the game, it will be very unlikely that the Falcons will have the ability to come back from a double-digit deficit.
Klein Bearkats (2-4, 2-3) at Spring Lions (3-4, 1-4)
7:30 p.m.
A quick breakdown: Klein still has a strong chance to make the playoffs if it defeats Spring and Tomball in its final two games, and Spring is all but eliminated from postseason contention. The Bearkats’ defense and special teams have made them competitive, but they haven’t been scoring enough points.
When Klein has the ball: The Bearkats need to find a rhythm offensively, and that will be difficult against a team that’s been strong defensively throughout the season. Junior quarterbacks Clayton Crum and Michael West are both getting playing time for Klein, and running backs Dekota Barnes can make things happen out of the backfield.
When Spring has the ball: Lions quarterback Roman Johnson has done an impressive job filling in over Texas A&M-bound senior Kenric McNeal, but the Lions aren’t in position to make the postseason. Johnson will still lead the Lions’ attack against a tough Bearkats’ defense.
Keep your eyes on these two: Klein WR/DB Tyler Boss; Johnson
The deciding factor(s) will be: Klein’s passing game; Spring’s run defense. West completed a 62-yard touchdown pass to Boss in last Friday’s 13-10 loss to Klein Forest, but it wasn’t enough. The Bearkats need to establish the passing game because Spring is likely to either shut down or limit the run.
Klein Forest Golden Eagles (6-1, 4-1) at Tomball Cougars (2-5, 2-3)
7:30 p.m.
A quick breakdown: The records are very deceiving in this game, which represents a contrast of styles. Klein Forest has been winning a lot of close games with a strong running game and solid defense, while the Cougars have been scoring lots of points, thanks to their passing game. The Golden Eagles can clinch a playoff spot with a win, and Tomball can stay in the postseason chase with an upset victory.
When Klein Forest has the ball: Golden Eagles running back Dominic Wilkins has been one of the area’s most dominant running backs, but the team also has a quality quarterback in Vernell Caldwell, who has the ability to make big plays.
When Tomball has the ball: Chad Tarhini to Jordan Leslie is a phrase that’s familiar to Cougar fans. Everyone in the stadium knows that those two are going to score enough points to keep Tomball in the game.
Keep your eyes on these two: Wikins; Leslie
The deciding factor(s) will be: Tomball’s defense; Klein Forest’s passing game. Tomball’s defense hasn’t caught up with its offense, and that’s been a problem for the Cougars, who have lost 11 of their last 14 games dating back to last season. If they jump out to an early lead, is Klein Forest’s offense may not be strong and balanced enough to make a comeback.
Northland Christian Cougars (2-5) at Lutheran North Lions (7-1)
7:30 p.m.
A quick breakdown: Northland Christian needs to win one of its final two games to qualify for the postseason, and they’ll have a difficult time doing it against the district-leading Lions.
When Northland Christian has the ball: The Cougars need to be more consistent offensively and establish the running game with either Stuart Trahan or Hunter Labrada, both of whom are capable of carrying the ball efficiently.
When Lutheran North has the ball: The Lions are dominant on the ground and have several players who are capable of finding the end zone. They should be able to jump out to an early lead and cruise to an 8-1 record.
Keep your eyes on these two: Northland Christian K/WR Kyle Serres; Northland Christian QB Shane Knight
The deciding factor(s) will be: Ball control and defense. The Cougars need to keep the ball out of the Lions’ hands, extend their drives and force as many 3 and outs as possible.
Saturday’s games
Klein Collins Tigers (5-2, 3-2) at Spring DeKaney Wildcats (0-7, 0-5)
4 p.m.
A quick breakdown: The Tigers have had a remarkable season and appear to be headed to the playoffs. However, their offense has been inconsistent, and it wouldn’t be out of the realm of possibility that Spring DeKaney could earn its first-ever varsity win if the game turns into a defensive struggle.
When Klein Collins has the ball: Running backs JaMichael Rozier and Kenneth Centamore have kept the chains moving for the Tigers, but the team has won primarily on ball control and defense. If Klein Collins builds an early lead of two or more touchdowns, they should cruise to an easy victory.
When Spring DeKaney has the ball: The Wildcats have had trouble turning the ball over this season, but their defense has been ahead of their offseason throughout their inaugural campaign. They’ve already got to be thinking about building for next season.
Keep your eyes on these two: Rozier; Spring DeKaney DB Adrian Bennett
The deciding factor(s) will be: Klein Collins’ offensive momentum. If the Tigers get into a rhythm offensively, this game could be over by the halftime break.
Cy-Fair Bobcats (0-7, 0-5) vs. Cy Falls Golden Eagles (2-5, 2-3)
6 p.m. at Ken Pridgeon Stadium
A quick breakdown: These teams played in a nationally-televised game on ESPN2 last fall, and both had championship aspirations. Now, the Bobcats are hoping to finish the season with a victory, and the Golden Eagles find themselves in a tough battle for a playoff spot along with Cy Springs, Cy Woods and Langham Creek. This matchup pits the tough Bobcat defense against the passing juggernaut that is Kolby Gray and Co.
When Cy-Fair has the ball: Cy-Fair has had difficulty scoring into the 30s and 40s, something that’s essential to keep up with most of the high-octane offenses in District 15. If they’re able to find answer to stopping Gray, they might be able to pull off the upset.
When Cy Falls has the ball: Gray has a lot of young receivers on his team, and they’ve been excellent at times. How far they’ve come from the beginning of the season will determine whether the Golden Eagles reach the postseason this fall. The season finale is against an equally powerful offensive team, Cy Woods, so Cy Falls needs this game as a springboard.
Keep your eyes on these two: Cy-Fair TE Colby Goodwin; Gray
The deciding factor(s) will be: Creating the tempo. If Cy-Fair can shut down Cy Falls’ passing lanes and prevent them from completing short, quick passes, that will be their first step to an upset. The next one will be forcing 3 and outs and making it a defensive slugfest.
Langham Creek Lobos (3-4, 3-2) vs. Cy Woods Wildcats (4-2, 3-2)
6 p.m. at Berry Center
A quick breakdown: The Lobos finished 6-4 each of the last three seasons and missed the playoffs each time. They haven’t made the playoffs since 2002 and qualifying this fall will be a difficult feat. They still have to play Cy Woods and defending district champion Cy-Fair.
When Langham Creek has the ball: The Lobos’ offense has been dominant with junior quarterback Will Bryant eclipsing the 2,000-yard mark (2,094 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and 12 interceptions) in just seven games, and twin junior receivers Mitchell and Garrett Juergens making acrobatic plays, left and right.
When Cy Woods has the ball: The resurgent Wildcats, who appeared to be on the decline after quarterback Lucas Devilliers’ knee injury on Oct. 10 against Cy Creek. Devilliers returned and scored five touchdowns in a 42-20 win over Cy-Fair. This matchup pits him against the district’s leading passer, Bryant.
Keep your eyes on these two: Cy Woods WR Jonathan Cross; Langham Creek WR Garrett Juergens
The deciding factor(s) will be: The Lobos’ running game and defensive playmaking. Langham Creek never consistently established a running game during its 37-35 loss to Cy Springs last week. Nor were they able to stop a Panthers offense that didn’t score a point against Cy Woods the previous week. Langham Creek will have its hands full with the Wildcats, and both teams could easily score into the 50s.
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