I usually don’t do this, but I am going to start making some predictions on my blog  just to spark some debate.  The game is played on the field so this is just for fun.

Xavier (9-2) at Clinton(11-0):  As I mentioned in an earlier blog I really like the way the Saints are playing and I think they will knock off undefeated Clinton friday night.  Clinton has one of the top running backs in the state in David Johnson, but the Xavier defensive line is playing lights out.  The Saints held Jer Garman to just 32 yards rushing Monday night.  Xavier is balanced on offense and Quarterback Joe Sayre will hurt the River Kings with his arm.

Prediction:  Xavier 28 Clinton 21

Washington (9-2)at City High(11-0):  This a rematch that City High won in week two 65-21.  This a much improved Wash team and they were able to move the ball early against the Little Hawks.  City High is undefeated for a reason and they can beat you on the ground or in the air.  A.J Derby has thrown 16 touchdown passes. WR John Chelf  is a deep threat with 12 T.D catches and he burned the Warriors in week two.  This will be another high scoring game, but not as lopsided as week two.

Prediction: City High  38  Wash 28

Solon (11-0) at Regina (10-1): This is another rematch game that Solon won 42-7 in week 8.  Regina has a solid defense, but as always James Morris the X-factor and the most talented football player in the state of Iowa.  Morris can beat you with his legs (1,656 yards) and even his arm.  The Spartans have won 38 straight games for a reason.

Solon 35 Regina 14

West Branch (11-0) vs Clayton Ridge (10-1)(UNI-Dome): West loves to run the football with Cole Kelly who has rushed for 1,769 yards and 24 touchdowns. Clayton Ridge has won 10 straight and in the span has only allowed 21 points.  This should be a good one… West Branch coach Butch Pederson is a tremendous motivator and they have been in this situation many times before.

Prediction: West Branch 17 Clayton Ridge 14

North Tama (11-0) vs WACO (8-3) (UNI-Dome):  The North Tama defense has only allowed 18 points all year. WACO has a couple of 1,000 yard backs in Tad Morrow and Spencer Shepherd.  They say defense wins championships and how can you pick against the Redhawks.

Prediction: North Tama 21 WACO 7

Turkey Valley  (10-1) at South Winn (10-1): These two teams just played each other in the final regular season game. Turkey Valley beat South Winn 28-14 in week 9 for the District title.  South Winn had some key injuries in that game and they are coming off a 40-6 win over defending state champion Emmestburg.  It’s hard to beat a team twice in three weeks.

Prediction: South Winn 28 Turkey Valley 21