Walter Johnson (3-2) at Blair (4-1): Two Teams at a Crossroads: If downcounty football is your preference this week, Walter Johnson’s trip to Blair is the game to watch. Blair is looking to bounce back after a tough outing against Quince Orchard—a loss that was somewhat expected, but one that still left some positives for the Blazers to build on. Junior Rodriguez has been quietly effective in their ground game, a key factor for Blair’s chances of keeping pace in the region.
Walter Johnson, meanwhile, remains a bit of an enigma. They narrowly escaped Wootton last week, but the close call doesn’t inspire much confidence. Both teams have tough remaining schedules, with Blair in particular facing a brutal slate. A win here could be a turning point for either side, especially as they vie for playoff positioning. While WJ is capable of pulling off an upset, the Blazers’ rushing attack and defensive discipline give them the edge if they’ve mentally recovered from their visit to the Cougar Dome. Blair 31, WJ 21
Damascus (4-1) at Sherwood (4-1): Not All Records Are Equal: This matchup features two teams with strong records, but different trajectories. Damascus’ offense remains a question mark—while 24 points against Magruder was an improvement, it’s still not a performance that screams readiness for the stretch run. Sherwood, on the other hand, has been impressive, but the health of QB Matthew Larsen looms large. Without Larsen, Sherwood will lean heavily on their run game, which could play into the hands of Damascus’ stingy defense. Still, Sherwood’s own defense has been strong, and it would take a significant turnaround from the Damascus offense or a collapse from the Warriors to change the expected outcome. Sherwood 22, Damascus 8
Quince Orchard (5-0) at Seneca Valley (3-2): Historic Rivalry, Modern-Day Gap: This classic rivalry might not have the same juice as years past, with Quince Orchard dominating the series since its revival. Seneca Valley has yet to score on QO since the rivalry resumed, and while this year’s Cougars defense isn’t as ironclad as recent versions, SV’s offense doesn’t appear equipped to take advantage. Expect a relatively competitive start, but the Cougars should pull away as the game progresses, adding another shutout to their tally. QO 31, SV 0
Rockville (3-2) at Richard Montgomery (2-3): Rams Look to Shift the Balance: Could the tide be turning in Rockville’s favor in this year’s crosstown showdown? The Rams snapped a six-game losing streak to RM two years ago and came close to another win last season, only to be denied by late heroics from Anthony Dixon Jr. This year, RM has struggled to find an identity, while Rockville is starting to gel behind Nicky Holloway at quarterback. With a chance to make a statement in this rivalry, look for the Rams to seize control early and cruise. Rockville 34, RM 13
Churchill (2-3) at Whitman (3-2): Momentum on the Line: There’s potential for a tight contest here. Last week’s win should boost Churchill’s spirits, while Whitman’s decisive victory over Einstein showcased their ability to take command. Both teams have had close encounters against Frederick County squads—Churchill edged out Urbana, while Whitman handled Thomas Johnson. Comparing those results suggests an edge for Churchill, but Whitman has shown resilience. Still, Churchill appears to have turned a corner, and they should have enough firepower to pull away late. Churchill 27, Whitman 14
Wootton (2-3) at Clarksburg (3-2): A Battle of Up-and-Comers: Two teams on the rise after years of struggles clash in this intriguing matchup. Wootton gave Walter Johnson all they could handle last week, and while both teams have had some slip-ups, this game represents a key opportunity for each to reach .500. Wootton’s momentum gives them a slight edge here, but expect a competitive outing. Wootton 28, Clarksburg 22
BCC (4-1) at Wheaton (2-3): Coach Schwartzback’s Homecoming: After a tough loss to Northwest, BCC aims to rebound in Coach Schwartzback’s return to Wheaton. To the credit of their coach, the Knights look more competitive than in recent years, but they likely don’t have the depth to keep up with a Barons team eager to prove last week was just a blip. BCC 42, Wheaton 7
Blake (4-1) at Watkins Mill (0-5): Are the Bengals For Real?: Blake’s offensive firepower should have no trouble handling a winless Watkins Mill squad. Expect a lopsided scoreline as the Bengals look to solidify their place in the upper echelon of the division. Blake 53, Watkins Mill 0
Magruder (2-3) at Gaithersburg (1-4): Gaithersburg’s Struggles Continue: It’s been a tough year for Gaithersburg, whose 1-4 start has defied preseason expectations. Magruder, while inconsistent, has shown flashes of competitiveness. In what should be a low-scoring, grind-it-out affair, Magruder gets the slight nod. Magruder 8, Gaithersburg 0
Kennedy (1-4) at Einstein (0-5): Searching for Silver Linings: Einstein can’t catch a break, with each loss seeming tougher than the last. Kennedy, on the other hand, is coming off their first win in nearly two years after pouring it on against Northwood. It’s hard not to root for a feel-good win for the Titans, but momentum and recent form favor the Cavaliers. Kennedy 18, Einstein 14
Northwood (1-4) at Springbrook (2-3): No Upset in Sight: Northwood is unlikely to find the success they’re searching for this week, as Springbrook should have the talent advantage to cruise to a comfortable victory. Springbrook 35, Northwood 6
Poolesville (0-5) at Boonsboro (4-1): Not in the Same League: Boonsboro’s solid play this season makes them overwhelming favorites against a struggling Poolesville team. Expect this one to get out of hand early. Boonsboro 41, Poolesville 0
Paint Branch (4-1) at Northwest (5-0): Game Of The Week Preview Coming Soon
