Medina Bees (7-1, 2-1) at Solon Comets (8-0, 3-0)
As Solon continues to pound everyone that gets in their way, the Medina Bees have quietly put up one of the better seasons in their conference. Having lost only to the Strongsville Mustangs, the Bee's offense has scored 30 plus points in five of eight games.The two square off at Stewart Field in Solon Friday, with blatant indications of post season play. If Medina is able to pull off an upset on the road, they will thus tie the Comets record. But the Comets consistent offense and steady defense display few suggestions of deceleration.
Amherst Steele Comets (8-0, 5-0) at Olmsted Falls Bull Dogs (5-3, 4-1)
I'm sensing the correlation here: Any team named the Comets is pretty good this season. This is no different for Amherst Steele, as the 5-3 Bull Dogs are about to find out. The Dogs hang their hat on their fierce defense, and don't score many points; averaging about 18.5 points per competition. But Amherst's offense can flutter, literally. Their great team speed makes their receiving core a tough cover; same goes for the tailbacks. Amherst is yet to loose a conference game, and will look to continue that streak Friday night.
Mentor Cardinals (5-3, 1-0) at Cleveland Heights Tigers (4-4, 1-2)
For the Mentor Cardinals, it's win, or go home mode from now on out. They've needed to recover for a few early losses against brutal opponents. They've battled an uphill fight for the entire season, but are by no means out of tournament contention. They are better than their record indicates, and the strength of schedule is working in their favor.
Parma Redmen (7-1, 3-0) at North Royalton Bears (7-1, 3-0)
Identical records, both in, and out of conference, would indicate a well balanced game. And it should be that way; one that comes down to the wire. Royalton has played really good football recently, but have not pulled any upsets, or beaten anyone significant. Parma has executed well, and seems to enjoy the final quarter. Both teams will endure a trench fight that will give way to some solid feature running backs. What little is gained in the passing attack will be irrelevant; these two clubs pound out the running game.
John Hay (5-3, 3-2) at Glenville Tarblooders (7-0, 5-0)
This is the first time I am including the Tarblooders in a preview and I am excited to do so! Five in conference wins, and a 304-61 combined score in seven games really puts them as the front running team in the state. John Hay has been a pretty magnificent story, but their Cinderella season may be cut short by a state title contender. The Hornets have struggled in conference, and are coming off of a 14-12 loss to East Tech.