By Robert Morgan | Published Thursday, September 20, 2007
Finally! Just like my Boyd Yellowjackets, I came through in mid-season form last week and moved above the .500 mark in covering the winners - I just wish it didn't take three weeks of the season to get the job done.
Just like my Boyd Yellowjackets, I came through in mid-season form last week and moved above the .500 mark in covering the winners - I just wish it didn't take three weeks of the season to get the job done.
The only team to let me down Friday was Bridgeport. The rest was a piece of cake as I moved to 12-7.
We have five games on deck this week as Chico takes a much-needed break and two of our Texas 114 teams square off on the west side. Things on the east side won't be as pretty, and let me tell you why.
Decatur vs. Vernon
A somewhat loaded Eagle team held on for dear life to beat Vernon 14-10 last year. This time, however, the roles are reversed as Decatur is limping into its homecoming game while Vernon is fresh off a rout of 4A Mineral Wells.
Decatur has the personnel to defensively slow down the Lions. On the other side of the ball however, Vernon is flat-out good. The Lion defense is the best the Eagles will face all year, including the playoffs.
The Eagles have not lost three regular season games since 2001 and have never lost a homecoming game under coach Kyle Story. As the old adage goes, all good things must come to an end.
Vernon by 14
Boyd vs. Bridgeport
In a game that has all the makings of being an offensive scorefest, don't be surprised to see a defensive tug-of-war. Boyd's running game and Bridgeport's passing game are the best in Wise County.
Unlike last year's shoot-out in Boyd, both teams will also bring good defenses along for the ride. That's why I like the Bulls this time around. They are playing well on both sides of the line of scrimmage.
Bridgeport is also having offensive success on the ground and in the air, which I think is the difference this time. The Yellowjackets' running game might be the best in Wise County, but its passing game has yet to impress.
Bridgeport by 10
Northwest vs. Timberview
The Texans will need to bring a solid run defense to this game if they hope to win their homecoming game. I don't see it happening.
Northwest has been lit up by two running teams and the Wolves plan to keep the ball on the ground, too. They don't have the same line as Martin or Burleson but it's pretty good.
Offensively, Northwest has made steady progress behind quarterback Bryson Curb and receiver Ricky Broxton. Those are two reasons why this game will be closer than the last two.
Timberview by 9
Alvord vs. Lindsay
The Bulldogs finally get a chance to get a little momentum. They have played two solid teams to open the season and now get to show Lindsay what Alvord football is all about.
The difference this week will be the Alvord defense. This group isn't the biggest around, but they are fast and technically sound. Just ask the Knights after Friday.
Alvord by 21
Paradise vs. Pilot Point
The Panthers finally got to breathe a little easier last week when they routed Electra in front of a capacity homecoming crowd. They were spectacular on defense, solid on offense and impressive on special teams.
That won't happen this week because Electra will not be on the line of scrimmage. The Bearcats are a good 3A team that will likely be a playoff contender.
Paradise is still missing quality players who are injured, and the passing game isn't where it needs to be yet. But it will be by district.
