PLAYOFF CENTRAL
Get complete Texas high school football playoff coverage — including brackets, matchup information and predictions — at TexasFootball.com/Playoffs!
Euless Trinity (7-3) vs. Allen (10-0), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Allen’s Eagle Stadium
As bad of a season as it’s been for Trinity, the Trojans can erase those memories Friday night by handing the Eagles their first ever loss at the new Eagle Stadium. Trinity’s offense is one-dimensional, we all know it and Allen knows it. The question is, can the Trojans keep this close by playing mistake-free football and simply overpowering Allen? This is a dangerous matchup because physically, Trinity is capable of competing with Allen, but a big reason for Allen’s success – aside from great talent – is the Eagles simply don’t beat themselves. They are, for lack of a better term, a “machine.” That efficiency will in the end be Trinity’s downfall, look for the Trojans to make this interesting for three quarters, but Allen pulls away late.
Stepp’s Pick: Allen by 11
Craven’s Pick: Allen
Max’s Pick: Allen
Klein (7-3) vs. Spring (8-2), 11 a.m. Saturday at Spring’s George Stadium
These two really good teams in the northern suburbs are often overlooked because of powerhouse programs within their own ISDs. Klein hasn’t had much success since a semifinal run in 2009, but the Bearkats, led by RB D’Anthony Simms, have aspirations of a deep playoff run. Spring’s two losses this year are to The Woodlands and Spring Westfield, not bad company there. The Lions defense has led the way late in the year as they have pitched back-to-back shutouts. Spring’s not going to wow you with crazy offensive numbers, but they have enough weapons to make things happen.
Stepp’s Pick: Spring by 4
Craven’s Pick: Spring
Max’s Pick: Spring
Dickinson (9-1) vs. Alief Taylor (9-1), 6 p.m. Saturday at Alief’s Crump Stadium
Maybe the best matchup of the week in 6A pits a pair of potential regional title contenders. Last week, both teams looked a bit sluggish as neither had much on the line. Dickinson did get a win as they beat Clear Brook 21-7. The Gators have moved Montel Parker to QB and they have shown flashes of being explosive, but it is definitely in starts and stops. Taylor suffered their first loss of the year last week, dropping a 35-34 decision to Richmond George Ranch. QB Dontay Warren had another big night, but the Lions defense, really for the first time this year, showed a few chinks in the armor. The big key here is, can Dickinson exploit the Lions defense? With Warren and RB Emon Pough leading the way, there’s no doubt Alief Taylor will score points.
Stepp’s Pick: Alief Taylor by 7
Craven’s Pick: Alief Taylor
Max’s Pick: Alief Taylor
Converse Judson (8-2) vs. San Antonio O’Connor (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at San Antonio’s Farris Stadium
The big question going into this game is the health of Judson QB Julon Williams. He didn’t play last week and the Rockets offense suffered in a 17-9 win over New Braunfels Canyon. The Rockets will need his big play ability this week as O’Connor’s offensive attack has shown they can score points against some of the best defensive units in the Alamo City. QB Roel Sanchez has accounted for 32 touchdowns this year and O’Connor’s lone loss came in Week 3 against Steele, so the Panthers and Rockets have an elite common opponent. If Williams plays, this is a pick’em game and I may lean ever so slightly to Judson, but there’s no real indication the Rockets QB will play and be 100 percent, so I’m going with the Panthers.
Stepp’s Pick: San Antonio O’Connor by 3
Craven’s Pick: Converse Judson
Max’s Pick: Converse Judson
Cedar Hill (8-2) vs. Waco Midway (8-2), 2 p.m. Saturday at Hewitt’s Panther Stadium
Once again, Cedar Hill finds itself on the road playing a really good team to open the playoffs. In order for the Longhorns to avoid the same fate of a year ago, they need to get off to a good start. CHHS dug themselves a big hole last year, and they simply couldn’t overcome it. Midway is a tough team; the Panthers started the season slow but they have won eight straight games and seem to be hitting their stride at the right time. New HC Jeff Hulme knows Cedar Hill well from his days at Mansfield, so he won’t be surprised by anything. Cedar Hill has to get their ground game going. If they can get Marquise Foreman and Kaegun Williams untracked they should escape Waco with a hard fought victory.
Stepp’s Pick: Cedar Hill by 7
Craven’s Pick: Waco Midway
Max’s Pick: Cedar Hill
Photo by Mark Flanagan
Lufkin (7-3) vs. Tyler John Tyler (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Tyler’s TMF Rose Stadium
Is there any question about whether Rose Stadium will be 100 percent sold out for this one? A John Tyler playoff game is big news on the North Side of Tyler, but a home playoff game is massive!! CUJO nation will be out in full force as JT has a team that can contend for a regional title, led by a potent offense piloted by QB Bryson Smith who is a Houston commit and WR Damion Miller, a Texas commit. Lufkin’s offense is plenty powerful, as well. In fact, the Panthers have topped the 40-point mark six times this season. The problem for Lufkin is that they’ve lost three of those games. Lufkin’s got an offense that can take them on a deep run, but they’ve struggled on defense. That’s the difference between these two teams. CUJO has shown the ability to play good defense and that will be the reason JT advances and Lufkin again loses in the first round.
Stepp’s Pick: Tyler John Tyler by 12
Craven’s Pick: John Tyler
Max’s Pick: John Tyler
Richmond George Ranch (6-4) vs. Friendswood (7-2), 7 p.m. Friday at Friendswood’s Winston Stadium
It hasn’t been a great debut at the 6A level for last year’s 5A Division I champion George Ranch. The Longhorns may be finding their footing at the right time of the year as they stunned 9-0 Alief Taylor 35-34 to close out the regular season. The test is big this week as they try to contain incomparable Friendswood QB Tyler Page, who pound for pound might be one of the state’s best athletes. Friendswood has beaten the teams they “should” beat, but they have losses to Dickinsion and Alief Taylor, who are similar teams to George Ranch in that they have a physical style of defense and a ton of speed to contain the edge. That formula seems to fit the George Ranch personality, so I’m going with the Longhorns in a very slight upset.
Stepp’s Pick: Richmond George Ranch by 3
Craven’s Pick: George Ranch
Max’s Pick: Friendswood
McAllen Rowe (7-3) vs. Del Rio (9-1), 7 p.m. Friday at Del Rio’s Levermann Stadium
McAllen Rowe was on the playoff bubble last week, but the Warriors got the results they needed, namely McAllen High losing to get into the playoffs. Rowe’s defense had a tough time slowing down the speed of McAllen Memorial last week in a 49-28 loss. That could be a bad recipe this week on the road as Del Rio features multiple playmakers, as well. After dominating the first seven weeks of the season, Del Rio has struggled down the stretch with a pair of single-digit wins and a loss to Laredo United. I expect Del Rio to bounce back this week as they have a huge edge here with McAllen taking a 5 ½ hour bus ride up to Del Rio.
Stepp’s Pick: Del Rio by 21
Craven’s Pick: Del Rio
Max’s Pick: Del Rio
Richland (9-1) vs. Fort Worth South Hills (10-0), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Saginaw’s Roughrider Stadium
Richland will have to dust themselves off after their dream of an unbeaten season went down in flames in the second half of a 53-36 loss to Colleyville Heritage. Richland QB Trae Self had a big game, throwing for 384 yards, but costly turnovers and Richland’s inability to run the football were fatal. South Hills has playmakers all over the field, led by Oklahoma State commit WR Tylan Wallace, WR Calvin Clater, QB Trey Jones and RB Kyran Jackson. The Scorpions will score points, but we just don’t know how good this team is because they have not played great competition. The key here is how well will South Hills hold up in the trenches? The Scorps have good size along the defensive line, but depth is lacking and the offensive line will certainly be at a size disadvantage against a big and physical crew from Richland.
Stepp’s Pick: Richland by 13
Craven’s Pick: Richland
Max’s Pick: Richland
West Mesquite (6-4) vs. Texarkana Texas High (10-0), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Royse City’s Royse City ISD Stadium
After a slow start to the season, West Mesquite got things together once district play began and got back to the playoffs after missing in 2015. Defense has been the Wranglers calling card during district play. In their last four games, WMHS hasn’t allowed more than 17 points. They’ll have maybe their toughest test of the year this week against undefeated Texas High. The Tigers, led by Texas State commit WR Quan Hampton, and QB Cade Pearson, who is committed to North Texas, have the kind of offense to give West some trouble. The biggest question with the Tigers is their schedule. East Texas was a bit down at the 5A level last year, so we aren’t real sure how legit this 10-0 mark is. I think we’ll find a lot out on Friday in Royse City and my gut tells me the Tigers are a Region II contender.
Stepp’s Pick: Texarkana Texas by 17
Craven’s Pick: Texas High
Max’s Pick: Texas High
Photo by Christopher Farias
Alamo Heights (9-1) vs. Austin LBJ (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Alamo Heights’ Orem Stadium
It’s pretty rare in this day and age of four teams making the playoffs to get a pair of 9-1 teams meeting in bi-district, but we’ll have that Friday in Alamo Heights. The once-beaten Mules were district tri-champs in 26-5A, suffering their only loss of the season to Dripping Springs, but bouncing back to win their last two games, including a huge Week 10 win over Boerne Champion. QB Will Cheney has plenty of weapons to spread the ball around to as the Mules offense will be a tall order for a very athletic and physical LBJ defensive unit. The Jaguars again ruled Austin ISD at the 5A level – and during the regular season that’s great – but the lack of a tough schedule can sometimes bite the Jaguars. I think LBJ keeps this close on the road, but Alamo Heights is battled tested and too multiple on offense.
Stepp’s Pick: Alamo Heights by 8
Craven’s Pick: LBJ
Max’s Pick: Alamo Heights
Willis (7-3) vs. Cedar Park (10-0), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Yates Stadium, Willis
Defending state champion Cedar Park got a bit of a Week 11 surprise thrown their way as the Timberwolves were bumped to the much tougher Division I bracket with Georgetown’s win over Leander Rouse. The Timberwolves then lost their home and home flip and will have to travel to the northern outskirts of the Houston area to take on an athletic and dangerous Willis squad. It’s all about the “Black Rain” defense for CPHS, who is allowing just 6.7 points per game and has pitched six shutouts this season, but the offense has been plenty good, as well. They’ll get tested by Willis, who brings a lot of speed to the table. The Wildkats played in a tough district and they’ll be fired up in front of what should be a raucous home crowd, but the old adage is that defense travels, and for Cedar Park, they’ll bring their defense east and that will win the day.
Stepp’s Pick: Cedar Park by 20
Craven’s Pick: Cedar Park
Max’s Pick: Cedar Park
El Paso Parkland (7-3) vs. El Paso Bowie (9-1), 8 p.m. Thursday at El Paso’s Baty-Simmang Memorial Stadium
Two of the more pleasant surprises in the Sun City meet up Thursday in what should be an interesting contrast of styles. Parkland is rejuvenated under first-year HC Josh Kirkland. They’ve moved to a more wide open offense that takes advantage of great individual playmakers like RB Deion Hankins, who is making noise on the recruiting scene in a major way. Bowie, on the other hand, gets things done with an old school, team-first approach. There are no stars for Robert Padilla’s squad, but they have a ton of three-year starters and are battle tested. Parkland has played some good teams close, but they have yet to break through and that’s a sign of a young team learning to find its way. Thursday will be a great learning experience for PHS, but for senior laden Bowie, the time is now and the Bears move on.
Stepp’s Pick: El Paso Bowie by 11
Craven’s Pick: El Paso Bowie
Max’s Pick: El Paso Bowie
Mansfield Timberview (6-4) vs. Burleson Centennial (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Mansfield’s Newsom Stadium
If you like old school, smash mouth football, this might be your game. These two teams, in a lot of ways, are mirror images of each other. Both teams love to run the football and rely on incredibly physical defensive units to get the job done. Both teams are option oriented, but get it done slightly differently as Timberview likes to get their athletes in space out on the edge to make plays, while Centennial is more of a smash mouth team behind bruising QB Peyton Strambler. Although Burleson Centennial has the sparkling record, Timberview is battle tested coming out of one of the state’s toughest districts and playing a brutal non-district slate. The Wolves also have the memory of a crushing loss in round one to SOC last year. We’ll take Timberview in an absolute slugfest.
Stepp’s Pick: Mansfield Timberview by 7
Craven’s Pick: Timberview
Max’s Pick: Timberview
Barbers Hill (8-2) vs. Port Neches-Groves (9-1), 7 p.m. Friday at Beaumont’s Umphrey Stadium
What a debut for Barbers Hill and new HC Tom Westerberg, who led the Eagles to an 8-2 mark in a very tough Houston area district. Barbers Hill capped off their regular season in style last week by pulling off an upset of New Caney Porter. Now, they’ll look to do the same against favored Port Neches-Groves, whose only loss of the year was to highly regarded Port Arthur Memorial. PNG has an extremely powerful offense led by sophomore QB Roschon Johnson. He’s got a lot of playmakers and the pressure isn’t on the youngster to do everything. Barbers Hill will have a sound game plan on defense, but PNG’s offense figures things out in the second half.
Stepp’s Pick: Port Neches-Groves by 10
Craven’s Pick: Port Neches-Groves
Max’s Pick: Barbers Hill
Photo by Juan Zamora
Edcouch-Elsa (7-3) vs. Mission Pioneer (8-2), Friday 7:30 p.m. at Donna’s LaPrade Stadium
One of the Valley’s most traditional 5A powers in Edcouch, aka “La Maquina Amarilla,” will hook up with the Valley’s newest 5A power in Pioneer, who is making their first ever playoff appearance. QB Marco Aguinaga is the straw that stirs the drink for Edcouch-Elsa. If he’s playing well, the Jackets can make another run to the third round like last year. Pioneer, in their third year, has broken through to the playoffs and actually earned a share of the 32-5A title. The Diamondbacks offense garners the headlines, but in key moments their defense rose to the occasion and made plays. Playoffs are a different animal and Friday will be a new experience for the Pioneers, so I’m taking Edcouch and their playoff experience to be the key.
Stepp’s Pick: Edcouch-Elsa by 7
Craven’s Pick: Edcouch-Elsa
Max’s Pick: Edcouch-Elsa
Sanger (6-4) vs. Brownwood (5-4), 7 p.m. Friday at Weatherford’s Kangaroo Stadium
If you are looking to go outside of the usual suspects in Region I (Argyle and Abilene Wylie), one of these two teams could be a good pick as a darkhorse. Sanger has shown signs of being extremely dangerous with a win over Krum and losing to Argyle by six, but they have also had some bad performances in blowout losses to Midlothian Heritage and Decatur. QB CJ Jackson and Dameon Moser are two of the most dangerous playmakers in the DFW area, but the Indians need the supporting cast to step up. Brownwood has been similar in a lot of ways. Some weeks they look like a legit contender and other weeks they look very average. The Lions do have a really good non-district win over Giddings, but they haven’t been tested too much in district other than a lopsided loss to Abilene Wylie. If “good” Sanger shows up, I think they take this one and after “bad” Sanger made a Week 11 appearance, I think odds are Sanger puts together a better effort this week.
Stepp’s Pick: Sanger by 4
Craven’s Pick: Brownwood
Max’s Pick: Sanger
Carthage (7-2) vs. Silsbee (6-4), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Lufkin’s Martin Stadium
There is no question the talent is there at Carthage for the Bulldogs to win a state title, but is the consistency there for a run through an incredibly difficult region? Carthage has made a habit of mid-season hiccups and then turning it on come playoff time, and Coach Surratt is certainly hopeful that trend continues. RB Keontay Ingram has had a monster year and if he’s rolling the Bulldogs can control the tempo and keep their defense fresh. Silsbee graduated the house last year, but under new HC Randy Smith they still managed a second place finish in district play. The defense for the Tigers has seen their share of struggles against good teams and that’s a concern as Carthage is battle tested and very talented. Expect a lot of early fireworks, but look for the Carthage defense to make plays down the stretch.
Stepp’s Pick: Carthage by 14
Craven’s Pick: Carthage
Max’s Pick: Carthage
Gladewater (7-2) vs. Tatum (7-3), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Kilgore’s St. John Stadium
After a close loss to Gilmer earlier in district play, many pegged Gladewater as a sleeper contender for the regional title in Region II. However, the Bears were drilled in their season finale to an all of the sudden surging Texarkana Pleasant Grove. That certainly raises a few questions heading into the postseason. Tatum has bounced back nicely from a winless 2015 season under new HC Craig Barker. They finished second in their district, but aside from Jasper it wasn’t a strong group of teams, so it is a challenge to gauge where the Eagles are heading into the playoffs. Gladewater’s defense has been really good save for the two losses, and Tatum is solid but the Eagles are a year away from being a dangerous team once again. Edge goes to Gladewater as they’ll control a smaller Tatum squad in the trenches.
Stepp’s Pick: Gladewater by 7
Craven’s Pick: Gladewater
Max’s Pick: Gladewater
Sinton (8-2) vs. Rio Hondo (7-3), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Harlingen’s Boggus Stadium
Sinton started the year out incredibly strong, but a head scratching blowout loss to Wharton had many wondering how good the Pirates could be. Sinton bounced back later in the year and got a key win over Sweeny to get some confidence back heading to the playoffs. Rio Hondo was tri-champs of 16-4A Division II, and we know that generally, Coach Rocky James’ squad will play some tough defense. RHHS specializes in stopping the run, but teams who throw the ball well can find some success. Sinton throws it well enough that they should move the ball effectively in this rematch from Week 1 (won by Sinton 34-14). I expect a closer game this week, especially since the game is in Harlingen, but Sinton still has a bit too much firepower.
Stepp’s Pick: Sinton by 12
Craven’s Pick: Sinton
Max’s Pick: Sinton
Photo by Deana Wright
Kemp (7-3) vs. Pottsboro (8-2), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Greenville’s Cotton Ford Stadium
Kemp finished fourth in their district, but they are still a plenty dangerous foe for Pottsboro in the first round. The Yellowjackets lost back-to-back games in district play as injuries depleted the ranks, but late in the year KHS got healthy as QB Dreyson Watters returned and the Kemp offense took off. The defense has some holes and that’s what Pottsboro and QB Hunter Watson, a very talented transfer from Denison, will look to expose. The Cardinals offense can score points in a hurry and defensively they’ve shown an ability at times to generate stops and get the ball back. I look for a shootout in this one, but I lean to the playoff pedigree of Pottsboro.
Stepp’s Pick: Pottsboro by 6
Craven’s Pick: Pottsboro
Max’s Pick: Pottsboro
Franklin (8-2) vs. Teague (8-2) Friday 7:30 p.m. at Hewitt’s Panther Stadium
Class 3A Division I in Region III can make a strong case as being pound-for-pound the deepest region in the state, regardless of classification. These two teams are polar opposites in offensive philosophy, Franklin relies on a powerful old school ground game, while Teague leans on a more wide open offensive system. In the playoffs, everyone is generally good on the offensive side. The teams who are sound and consistent on the defensive side of the ball generally the teams who advance.
Stepp’s Pick: Franklin by 3
Craven’s Pick: Franklin
Max’s Pick: Franklin
Tolar (7-3) vs. Sonora (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Marble Falls’ Mustang Stadium
On paper, you would think Sonora would absolutely have their way with Tolar, but look a bit deeper at this Rattler squad and you can tell they are far from a pushover. Tolar only lost by eight earlier in the year to powerful Cisco, so they are capable of playing tough teams close. The question is, can they slow down a potent Sonora attack led by QB Kaiden Cordell? The Broncos are averaging over 50 points per game, including putting up 81 points in their regular season finale. Sonora’s offensive firepower will be too much for Tolar in this one.
Stepp’s Pick: Sonora by 14
Craven’s Pick: Sonora
Max’s Pick: Sonora
Waskom (4-6) vs. Newton (10-0), 7:30 p.m. Friday at San Augustine’s Wolf Stadium
This is a rematch of the 2014 state championship game in which Waskom pulled off a mild upset of favored Newton. The circumstances are much different this time around as two-time defending champion Waskom is reeling at 4-6, having barely squeezed into the playoffs. Newton, on the other hand, is flying high. The Eagles blitzed through the regular season as the only team to stay within 20 points was 4A Silsbee, who lost by 16. Newton’s defense the past four weeks has been outstanding, allowing just 14 total points, including back-to-back shutout victories.
Stepp’s Pick: Newton by 24
Craven’s Pick: Newton
Max’s Pick: Newton
Poth (8-2) vs. Odem (9-1), 7 p.m. Thursday at Victoria’s Memorial Stadium
Poth was a little up and down this year, especially during district play where it seemed like one week they looked like a legit contender in Region IV, and other weeks they’d lose head scratchers that made you wonder if they’d even make the playoffs. They will need a big effort this week against an Odem squad that has been knocking the door down in Region IV. The Owls, led by record setting QB Michael Everett, can score with anyone in the state. The key for them will be the defensive unit holding up their end of the bargain when the games get tougher around Thanksgiving. I don’t expect Odem to have any issues this week, however.
Stepp’s Pick: Odem by 21
Craven’s Pick: Odem
Max’s Pick: Odem
Photo by Bobby Thomas
Stinnett West Texas (7-3) vs. New Deal (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Canyon’s Kimbrough Stadium
I’m putting this game on possible upset watch. Despite just one loss this year, New Deal doesn’t appear to be a vintage version of itself. West Texas doesn’t have a stellar district record, but the group they play in up in the panhandle is stout with the likes of regional favorite Stratford and Panhandle. New Deal wins this one, but I expect an incredibly competitive game that could go either way.
Stepp’s Pick: New Deal by 3
Craven’s Pick: New Deal
Max’s Pick: New Deal
Goldthwaite (7-3) vs. Bosqueville (8-2), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Gatesville’s McKamie Stadium
After a tremendous start to the year that included a win over Mason, Goldthwaite stumbled late in the year dropping two of their last three games. Bosqueville is another team that’s been good for several years now, but the Bulldogs have been overshadowed in Central Texas by the likes of Mart and Crawford. Last week, BHS nearly got the signature victory they were looking for but they came up just a bit short, losing to Mart 26-21. It appears BHS is peaking at the right time and Goldthwaite is trending down, so we’ll go with Coach Zander’s squad to advance.
Stepp’s Pick: Bosqueville by 6
Craven’s Pick: Bosqueville
Max’s Pick: Bosqueville
Harper (8-2) vs. Thrall (9-1), 7 p.m. Thursday at Marble Falls’ Mustang Stadium
Harper started the season on fire, winning their first seven games, but the Longhorns struggled down the stretch, dropping two of their last three with the losses coming against Mason and Junction. Thrall will have a decided advantage in speed in this matchup. The Tigers, aside from one stumble against Normangee, have been near perfect this year. Coach Jason Cole’s squad has played a tough schedule and they advanced from a difficult district that saw a couple of pretty decent teams miss the playoffs altogether. Look for some big plays from the purple clad Tigers to be the difference.
Stepp’s Pick: Thrall by 11
Craven’s Pick: Thrall
Max’s Pick: Thrall
Seagraves (7-3) vs. Bovina (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Denver City’s Mustang Stadium
After losing a great group of seniors from a back-to-back state semifinalist team, Coach Steve Heryford’s Seagraves squad has had to rebuild on the fly. There have been some bumps in the road, most notably back-to-back losses in district play to Hamlin and Roscoe, but the Eagles rebounded to win their final two games in blowout fashion. Two-way star and four-year starter Quashus Williams leads the way. They’ll have a tough test Thursday against Bovina, whose only loss this year was by six to a very good group from Farwell. The Mustangs have a potent offense, but despite the strong regular season, they haven’t had much playoff success. I look to a small but talented group of seniors at Seagraves who have been through plenty of playoff battles to step up this week and get a hard-fought win.
Stepp’s Pick: Seagraves by 5
Craven’s Pick: Seagraves
Max’s Pick: Seagraves
Lindsay (7-3) vs. Electra (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Petrolia’s Pirate Stadium
Two of the better 2A programs in the Wichita Falls area hook up on. The Knights closed the season strong with three straight lopsided wins over Perrin-Whitt, Ranger and Era by a combined 161-45. The test this week will be extremely tough against one-loss Electra. The Tigers aren’t very deep, but they have excellent playmakers led by two-way star Xavier Waggoner, who does it all for EHS along with RB Clayton Holes, who had a pair of touchdown runs in last week’s 35-8 win over Archer City. Electra’s speed and big-play ability will be prove to be the difference in this matchup.
Stepp’s Pick: Electra by 7
Craven’s Pick: Electra
Max’s Pick: Electra
Rapid Fire Picks
Midland (8-2) vs. El Paso El Dorado (8-2), 8 p.m. Thursday at El Paso’s Socorro ISD Student Activity Center
Midland has a chance to make a deep run. El Dorado’s offense is very dangerous but I’m not sure the Aztecs can slow MHS down, either.
Stepp’s Pick: Midland by 13
Craven’s Pick: Midland
Max’s Pick: Midland
Rowlett (9-1) vs. Coppell (8-2), 1 p.m. Saturday at Coppell’s Echols Field
This is a classic pick’em game, neither team really has a “signature” win and both haven’t looked great in losses to elite teams. Special teams may be the difference here.
Stepp’s Pick: Rowlett by 2
Craven’s Pick: Rowlett
Max’s Pick: Rowlett
Pearland (7-3) vs. Clear Springs (9-1), 7 p.m. Friday at Webster’s Challenger-Columbia Stadium
A rematch from Week 1 won by Pearland in a barnburner, Clear Springs has improved greatly since the start of the year while Pearland has struggled just to keep quarterbacks upright. Pearland is finally getting healthy, but the Chargers will learn from their mistakes in Week 1 and take out the Oilers in a thriller.
Stepp’s Pick: Clear Springs by 1
Craven’s Pick: Clear Springs
Max’s Pick: Clear Springs
Austin Westlake (8-2) vs. San Antonio Reagan (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at San Antonio’s Heroes Stadium
Not having Sam Ehlinger is tough for Westlake to overcome, and Reagan certainly will be looking to erase the pain of last year’s shocking bi-district exit. Westlake will lean on their running game and defense to gut out a close win, but the playoff run may be limited.
Stepp’s Pick: Austin Westlake by 4
Craven’s Pick: Westlake
Max’s Pick: Westlake
Arlington (6-4) vs. Abilene (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Abilene’s Shotwell Stadium
Abilene’s won nine games in a row and been dominant in doing so. It’s a tall order to ask an Arlington team not used to travelling to walk into Shotwell and win.
Stepp’s Pick: Abilene by 18
Craven’s Pick: Abilene
Max’s Pick: Abilene
Longview (8-2) vs. Beaumont West Brook (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Beaumont’s Thomas Center
Both have a common opponent in Lufkin, with West Brook winning a close one and Longview losing a close one. Longview’s loss came in Week 1 on the road and the Lobos have improved a lot since then. This one could go either way but I lean to the playoff tested Lobos.
Stepp’s Pick: Longview by 2
Craven’s Pick: Longview
Max’s Pick: Longview
Clear Brook (6-4) vs. Pearland Dawson (8-2), 7 p.m. Friday at Pearland’s The Rig
It’s been a great run for Clear Brook, who has made massive strides in year two under HC Mike Allison. However, Dawson’s one of the most underrated teams in the Houston area and I’m not sure Brook has the firepower to hang.
Stepp’s Pick: Pearland Dawson by 16
Craven’s Pick: Pearland Dawson
Max’s Pick: Pearland Dawson
San Antonio Brandeis (7-3) vs. Cibolo Steele (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Schertz’s Lehnhoff Stadium
Brandeis and Steele are quite familiar with each other in the playoffs and the common thread is that Steele has won all the meetings. The only question for me is how healthy QB Xavier Martin is. If he’s 100 percent, Steele wins big. If he is still showing effects from that ankle injury, Brandeis could pull the upset.
Stepp’s Pick: Cibolo Steele by 17
Craven’s Pick: Cibolo Steele
Max’s Pick: Cibolo Steele
Lubbock Monterey (8-2) vs. Amarillo (7-2), 7 p.m. Friday at Lubbock’s Lowrey Field at Plains Capital Park
Surprising Monterey, who put together their best season since the James Morton days, will try to slow down the Wing-T offense of Amarillo High. Monterey has the size and speed in the trenches to contain the Sandies, but Amarillo is loaded with playoff experience, and Monterey lacks that playoff pedigree.
Stepp’s Pick: Amarillo by 6
Craven’s Pick: Amarillo
Max’s Pick: Amarillo
Cleburne (7-3) vs. Mansfield Legacy (8-2), 7 p.m. Thursday at Midlothian’s Midlothian ISD Stadium
Look for a ton of points this game, Cleburne has dynamic playmaker Tre’von Bradley, but a very shaky defense. Legacy has a pair of playmakers in Kendall Catalon and Kameron Session, plus the Broncos are better on the defensive side of the ball.
Stepp’s Pick: Mansfield Legacy by 15
Craven’s Pick: Mansfield Legacy
Max’s Pick: Mansfield Legacy
New Caney Porter (7-2) vs. Port Arthur Memorial (8-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Porter’s Texan Drive Stadium
After an unbeaten start, Porter has dropped their last two games, while Port Arthur Memorial dropped their season finale. Which team has the bounce back this week?
Stepp’s Pick: Port Arthur Memorial by 10
Craven’s Pick: Port Arthur Memorial
Max’s Pick: Port Arthur Memorial
Angleton (8-2) vs. San Antonio Lanier (7-3), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Angleton’s Wildcat Stadium
It’s been a great season for the Voks, including sharing a district title, but they are totally outmanned and they are facing a long trip to Houston. This one gets ugly.
Stepp’s Pick: Angleton by 35
Craven’s Pick: Angleton
Max’s Pick: Angleton
Lubbock Cooper (7-2) vs. Canyon (8-2), 7 p.m. Friday at Woodrow’s Pirate Stadium
Both of these teams advanced to the third round last year and had high hopes coming into 2016. Canyon’s offense will be a handful, but Cooper’s fast and physical defense may be able to crack the code.
Stepp’s Pick: Lubbock Cooper by 8
Craven’s Pick: Lubbock Cooper
Max’s Pick: Lubbock Cooper
Wylie East (7-3) vs. Marshall (6-4), 7:30 p.m. Friday at McKinney’s Poe Stadium
Wylie East made a big statement with their Week 11 win over Highland Park. With Eno Benjamin at the helm, they’ll be a tough out. Marshall has been a bit disappointing this year.
Stepp’s Pick: Wylie East by 10
Craven’s Pick: Wylie East
Max’s Pick: Wylie East
Brenham (7-3) vs. Georgetown (8-2), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Bastrop’s Memorial Stadium
Georgetown was staring missing the playoffs for a third straight year in the face, but the Eagles stepped up and got a huge Week 11 win to qualify for the postseason. They are battle tested and ready to make some noise in Region III.
Stepp’s Pick: Georgetown by 11
Craven’s Pick: Georgetown
Max’s Pick: Georgetown
Rosenberg Terry (6-4) vs. San Antonio Highlands (7-3), 7 p.m. Thursday at San Antonio’s Alamo Stadium
What a tough draw for San Antonio ISD. At least Highlands gets a home game and they probably represent the district’s best chance at being competitive. That being said, the Rangers (who run some veer stuff) roll into Round 2.
Stepp’s Pick: Rosenberg Terry by 28
Craven’s Pick: Rosenberg Terry
Max’s Pick: Rosenberg Terry
Carrollton Ranchview (7-3) vs. Mineral Wells (8-2), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Fort Worth’s Ranger Stadium
Surprising Ranchview will have their hands full with a very good Mineral Wells squad that has plenty of playoff experience. Look for the Rams to jump on Ranchview early and cruise.
Stepp’s Pick: Mineral Wells by 17
Craven’s Pick: Mineral Wells
Max’s Pick: Mineral Wells
Rockport-Fulton (7-3) vs. La Feria (7-2), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Rockport’s Pirate Stadium
Rockport-Fulton loves the Slot-T, but they can hit you with the big play in the passing game at times. They’ll have a big edge up front and in the speed department, as well.
Stepp’s Pick: Rockport-Fulton by 21
Craven’s Pick: Rockport-Fulton
Max’s Pick: Rockport-Fulton
Godley (8-2) vs. Graham (6-4), 7 p.m. Thursday at Springtown’s Porcupine Stadium
Godley has a tremendous record, but the Wildcats have no real signature wins and they played in one of the weaker districts in 4A Division II. Graham is battle tested, dropping from Division I and knocking heads with Krum and Iowa Park.
Stepp’s Pick: Graham by 16
Craven’s Pick: Graham
Max’s Pick: Graham
Hardin-Jefferson (6-3) vs. Shepherd (7-2), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Huffman’s Falcon Stadium
Watch out for Shepherd in Region III, this is a team that has big play ability has really impressed all year.
Stepp’s Pick: Shepherd by 8
Craven’s Pick: Shepherd
Max’s Pick: Shepherd
Ponder (6-4) vs. Clyde (8-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Aledo’s Bearcat Stadium
Known more as a basketball school, Ponder is making just their second trip ever to the playoffs. Clyde has one of the top offenses in the state at the 3A Division I level, so look for the Bulldogs to roll.
Stepp’s Pick: Clyde by 22
Craven’s Pick: Clyde
Max’s Pick: Clyde
Bishop (7-3) vs. George West (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Alice’s Memorial Stadium
If this was baseball I might take Bishop. On the gridiron, one-loss, Slot-T oriented George West is more than a handful.
Stepp’s Pick: George West by 19
Craven’s Pick: George West
Max’s Pick: George West
Omaha Paul Pewitt (6-4) vs. Gilmer Harmony (8-2), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Longview’s Lobo Stadium
Paul Pewitt advanced to the third round last year so they are playoff tested, but Harmony has been a pleasant surprise out of East Texas.
Stepp’s Pick: Gilmer Harmony by 4
Craven’s Pick: Gilmer Harmony
Max’s Pick: Gilmer Harmony
Lovelady (7-2) vs. Joaquin (7-3), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Bullard’s Panther Stadium
Last year Lovelady made a run all the way to the semifinals. Now with a new coach and a great senior class gone, they could face a bi-district exit against senior laden Joaquin.
Stepp’s Pick: Joaquin by 3
Craven’s Pick: Lovelady
Max’s Pick: Lovelady
Hull-Daisetta (7-3) vs. Overton (8-2), 7 p.m. Friday at Woodville’s Eagle Stadium
On paper, these two appear to be evenly matched, but slight edge to Overton and HC Richard Strickland’s crew.
Stepp’s Pick: Overton by 6
Craven’s Pick: Overton
Max’s Pick: Overton
Pettus (6-4) vs. Bruni (7-2), 7 p.m. Friday at Refugio’s Sportsman Bobcat Stadium
Bruni has quietly put together a great season under a new HC, and the Badgers keep it rolling.
Stepp’s Pick: Bruni by 17
Craven’s Pick: Bruni
Max’s Pick: Bruni
Garden City (8-2) vs. Ira (9-1), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Robert Lee
Stepp’s Pick: Ira by 9
Craven’s Pick: Ira
Max’s Pick: Garden City
Milford (9-1) vs. Oglesby (7-2), 7:30 p.m. Friday at Valley Mills
Stepp’s Pick: Milford by 14
Craven’s Pick: Milford
Max’s Pick: Milford
PICK ACCURACY THROUGH THE REGULAR SEASON
Max Thompson (DCTF Digital Director): 69%
Matt Stepp (DCTF High School Insider): 68%
Greg Tepper (DCTF Managing Editor): 65%
Mike Craven (DCTF Senior Writer): 63%
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