Draughn (0-7, 0-3) @ Hibriten (6-0, 3-0) - Prediction: Hibriten 56, Draughn 0
Hibriten is officially the team everyone is trying to chase, and the Panthers are coming off another statement 49–7 demolition of Chase who was living off false-hope based on their non-conference schedule. Draughn did show some life offensively last week with 13 points vs East Rutherford, but the Wildcats are facing a Hibriten defense that has allowed just 51 points all season. This one could be competitive for few minutes in the first quarter before the Panthers' depth and physicality start taking over.
East Rutherford (1-5, 1-1) @ Chase (4-2, 0-2) - Prediction: Chase 28, East Rutherford 21
This is the game where the message board should get interesting. East Rutherford finally found its offense last week, exploding for 60 points against Draughn behind huge performances from Zeke Wingo and Kiawon Whitesides. Chase, however, is coming off consecutive conference losses to R-S Central and Hibriten, so the Trojans desperately need to stop the bleeding and get back on the horse. Chase still has plenty of offensive firepower, and I expect this one to be much closer than either team's last game. Chase received two tough ones in a row and really need to find a way this week. Will this be another game that ER SOS proves to help them out?
East Burke (3-3, 1-1) @ R-S Central (6-1, 3-0) - Prediction: R-S Central 38, East Burke 14
R-S Central looks like the biggest challenger to Hibriten right now after putting together a four-game winning streak and cruising past Patton 42–0 last Friday. East Burke has enough physicality to make this interesting early, but the Cavaliers are coming off a 33–7 loss to Hibriten, have a few key injuries and now draw another conference heavyweight on the road. R-S Central's balance and playmakers, particularly Jakis Smith, give the Hilltoppers too many ways to attack which make a tough gameplan for any DC.
