DIVISION 6
Sanford-Meridian (7-2) at Ithaca (9-0), Friday 7 p.m.
Sanford-Meridian enters the game with a potent offense that is putting up 34 points per game. Quarterback Christian Petre is completing close to 50% of his passes for over 1,185 yards and 21 touchdowns. Running back Jacob Wenzlick has rushed for 1,085 yards this season and added nine touchdowns.
While Sanford-Meridian has a potent offense, Ithaca has an offense putting up video-game numbers. The Yellowjackets are averaging 56.4 points per game. Senior quarterback Travis Smith leads the way as he has completed close to 80 of his passes for 1,831 yards and 26 touchdowns. The University of Toledo commitment has also rushed for over 300 yards. Smith has a variety of receivers to target while running back Bryan Shaw is a punishing running back. Ithaca is not just all about the offense as the defense is allowing just five points per game.
HSSS prediction: Ithaca 49, Sanford-Meridian 7
Reese (8-1) at Montrose (9-0), Friday 7 p.m.
These two teams met in week one with Montrose rolling to a 38-8 victory. Montrose has a high-powered offense that is putting up 46.3 points per game. Ram quarterback Riley Warren is a dual-threat quarterback who has passed for over 1,200 yards and rushed for over 400. Montrose wide receiver Malik Taylor is one of the most under-rated players in the state. Taylor is a game-breaker who can turn a game around in one play. The Rams also have a solid ground game led by Tyler Doyle.
Reese has reeled off eight straight wins after dropping the opener. The Rockets have an outstanding dual-threat quarterback in Cody Peyok. Reese running back/linebacker Tony Bentley (5-11, 180) is an outstanding two-way player and team leader.
HSSS prediction: Montrose 35, Reese 14
Marlette (8-1) at Saginaw Nouvel (8-1), Friday 7 p.m.
Nouvel is rounding into shape after suffering a number of key injuries during the season. Nouvel’s lone loss was a 27-20 defeat against Swan Valley early in the season and since then it has been on a roll. Quarterback Garrett Graham is a dangerous runner and passer while running back Ryan Sullivan is a quality running back. Nouvel also features a solid defense led by defensive lineman Joe Mott and linebacker Tyler Jacqmain.
HSSS prediction: Nouvel 30, Marlette 13
Lakeview (7-2) at Maple City Glen Lake (8-1), Friday 7 p.m.
Lakeview is making its first appearance in the playoffs since 2006. The Wildcats have a potent offense that is putting up 35.9 points per game. Running back Garrett Cavendish is a hard-charging running back while quarterback Nate Shurlow gives Lakeview the ability to strike through the air.
HSSS prediction: Lakeview 17, Maple City Glen Lake 12