DIVISION 4
Corunna (6-3) at Lansing Sexton (9-0), Friday 7 p.m.
Corunna is making its first playoff appearance since 2004. The Cavaliers have a multi-dimensional offense that is averaging 31.3 points per game. Quarterback Grant Renwick is a versatile signal caller who can strike via the pass or running the ball. Frank Ardelean leads the Corunna ground game while Mikhail Myles is a big-play receiver who can break a game open.
Lansing Sexton is one of the top young teams in the state. The Big Reds have plenty of talent and speed to burn on offense. Junior running back Avonte Bell is a blazer at running back along with fellow junor Ja Von Wray. Junior quarterback Malik Mack is a dangerous dual threat who can exploit opposing defenses through the air or take off running. The Big Reds dominated the CAC Blue this season with no opponent coming within two touchdowns of them.
HSSS prediction: Lansing Sexton 44, Corunna 13
North Branch (6-3) at Essexville-Garber (7-2), Saturday 7:30 p.m.
These two teams met in week five with North Branch claiming a 28-26 victory in a thriller. Garber has enjoyed a solid season thanks to an offense that enters the game averaging 46.7 points per game. Running back Noah Bargouthy rushed for over 1,000 yards for a second straight season. Simeon Barry is a dangerous multi-dimensional threat who can score in a variety of ways. Look for the Dukes to get some payback this time around.
HSSS prediction: Essexville-Garber 30, North Branch 15
Yale (6-3) at Saginaw Swan Valley (9-0), Friday, 7 p.m.
Alex Grace has been one of the most productive players in Mid-Michigan the past two years. Grace ran for over 300 yards three times this season and has rushed for over 2,000 yards the past two years. Swan Valley is putting up 38.1 points per game this season while its defense is allowing 15.1 points per game.
HSSS prediction: Swan Valley 30, Yale 14
Williamston (5-3) at Lake Fenton (7-2), Friday 7 p.m.
Williamston has faced a difficult schedule this year as it played five playoff teams among its eight opponents. The Hornets had the tough task of facing Ithaca in the season opener and have also faced Portland, Lansing Catholic, Corunna and Haslett. Quarterback Ryan Watters is the catalyst of the offense.
HSSS prediction: Williamston 23, Lake Fenton 20