Maryland High School Football Playoff Predictions – Round 1 (MCPS)

The playoff season is here, and the gridiron is set to sizzle with intense matchups. Let’s break down the thrilling contests and offer some predictions for the first round of the MPSSAA football playoffs.

4A West

#7 Richard Montgomery (3-6) at #2 Churchill (8-1): There’s no playing to lose or avoiding competition, and Churchill finds itself facing a resilient Richard Montgomery. RM, led by QB Anthony Dixon, has shown sparks of brilliance. But Churchill, boasting superstar running back David Avit, is all about stability and a ground game that leaves defenses in shambles. With factors like the weather turning colder and home-field advantage, Churchill is poised for success. Prediction: Churchill by 22

#6 Clarksburg (3-6) at #3 Gaithersburg (8-1): Gaithersburg took control in their earlier Week 1 matchup, and it’s safe to assume they’ve improved since then. The highlight will be watching Gideon Ituka closing in on 2,500 rushing yards this season. Prediction: Gaithersburg by 35

#5 Seneca Valley (4-5) at #4 Northwest (7-2): A rematch for the King’s Trophy, but the recent performances hint at a decisive victory for the Jaguars. Seneca Valley’s offense has slowed down, while Northwest remains a formidable force. Prediction: Northwest by 27

4A North

#8 High Point (0-9) at #1 Walter Johnson (7-2): Walter Johnson’s recent close games should toughen them for the playoffs, but this won’t be much of a challenge. High Point has struggled to stay competitive all season, and WJ can probably rest starters early. Prediction: WJ by 49

#7 Northwestern (0-9) at #2 Paint Branch (5-4)
Paint Branch faced stiff competition for a winning record, but now they get a break. Northwestern hasn’t scored a point all season and is arguably weaker than Northwood, whom Paint Branch dominated. Prediction: Paint Branch by 59

#6 Wheaton (2-7) at #3 BCC (5-4): Wheaton, under first-year HC Matt Schwartzback, has shown potential but isn’t ready to compete with BCC. Expect the Barons to secure a comfortable win and set their sights on a potential rematch with Paint Branch. Prediction: BCC by 36

#5 Blair (2-7) at #4 Laurel (4-4): This rematch from 2021 looks different this year. Despite Laurel’s slightly better record, Blair seems like the better team, having faced tougher opponents. Provided Blair remains focused and ready to compete, they should emerge victorious. Prediction: Blair by 22

4A-3A West

#7 Tuscarora (1-8) at #2 Magruder (5-4): Tuscarora’s challenging season aligns with expectations. Magruder should handle this contest with ease. Prediction: Magruder by 34

#6 Watkins Mill (1-8) at #3 Urbana (4-5): Urbana, while not as strong as last year, holds the upper hand. The ‘Rines face a tough test. Prediction: Urbana by 32

#5 Thomas Johnson (2-7) at #4 Wootton (4-5): It’s a Patriots vs. Patriots showdown, but Thomas Johnson’s recent struggles suggest that Wootton’s defense will rule the day. Prediction: Wootton by 17

4A-3A South

#1 Blake BYE

#7 Kennedy (0-9) at #2 Suitland (7-2): It’s a tough end to the season for Kennedy, who has found victories elusive. A challenging season for the Cavaliers comes to a close. Prediction: Suitland by 60

#6 Northwood (0-9) at #3 Einstein (5-4): Einstein emerged victorious in their regular-season matchup, and the trend is likely to continue in this contest. Northwood has shown improvement but faces a formidable opponent. Prediction: Einstein by 35

#5 Springbrook (3-6) at #4 Whitman (4-5): Whitman seeks to break a playoff dry spell dating back to 1978, and it might just be their moment. In a rematch from last week, with home-field advantage, the Vikes should edge out a win. Prediction: Whitman by 6

3A West

#7 Rockville (3-6) at #2 Linganore (8-1): A third consecutive playoff clash between Rockville and Linganore, but history suggests that the result is unlikely to change. Rockville’s speed and skill can’t compensate for their lack of trench play. Prediction: Linganore by 40

#5 South Hagerstown (5-4) at #4 Sherwood (6-3): South Hagerstown’s struggles against winning opponents don’t bode well. Sherwood, battle-tested and at home, seems well-prepared for this matchup. Prediction: Sherwood by 31

2A West

#1 Damascus BYE

#5 Poolesville (1-8) at #4 Walkersville (4-5): This three-year playoff rivalry now seems less intriguing. Walkersville’s earlier win and their superior record make them the favorites. Prediction: Walkersville by 42

As the excitement builds and the playoffs unfold, the stage is set for thrilling action on the high school football scene. Strap in for an adrenaline-pumping ride through the postseason, where dreams will be made and memories etched in the hearts of these young student athletes.