DIVISION 7
Evart (7-2) at Carson City-Crystal (9-0), Friday 7 p.m.
Carson City secured its first league championship since 1961 and its first 9-0 record in school history this fall. The Eagles are looking to build on that success during the playoffs and open the post season hosting Evart. Carson City has a powerful ground game led by running back Will Beedy. Robert Failing is another productive back in the Carson City stable while Rhett Pringle is a talented quarterback who can keep defenses honest with his arm and can gash teams with his speed when he keeps the ball. Evart has a potent offense of its own and its lone two losses came against Beal City and Lake City who have lost just one game combined all season.
HSSS prediction: Carson City-Crystal 28, Coleman 20
Saugatuck (8-1) at Pewamo-Westphalia (8-1), Friday 7 p.m.
This game will be one of the best Division 7 playoff openers of the weekend. Both teams have solid programs and traditions and have enjoyed plenty of success this season. The two teams have outstanding offenses with Saugatuck averaging 48.1 points per game and Pewamo-Westphalia putting up 38.2 points per game.
Pewamo-Westphalia is led by quarterback Kle Nurenberg (6-3, 180) who has an outstanding target in wide receiver Lane Simon. The Pirate ground game has been getting good contributions from Ross Wolnakowski. Defensively, Pewamo-Westphalia is allowing nine points per game while Saugatuck is allowing 12.3 points per game.
HSSS prediction: Pewamo-Westphalia 27, Saugatuck 21
Bath (5-4) at Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port (7-2), Friday 7 p.m.
Bath qualified for the playoffs for the first time since the 2000 season. The Bees feature a solid offense that revolves around the running of quarterback Dylan Moffitt who can also strike through the air. Junior running back Anthony Rhyndress has also turned in a solid season for the Bees.
HSSS prediction: Bath 27, Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port 17