The calendar is about to flip to October, which means we’re entering the stretch where storylines start to crystallize, streaks harden into trends, and contenders separate from pretenders. Week 4 delivers plenty of intrigue, rivalry games, redemption shots, and one marquee clash that will shape the county’s midseason pecking order.
Thursday, Sept. 25
Seneca Valley (2-1) at Quince Orchard (3-0): Seneca Valley hasn’t always been the easiest out for Quince Orchard historically, but in the current era, the Eagles haven’t found the scoreboard against the Cougars since the rivalry resumed in 2021. That streak feels unlikely to break Thursday. QO’s defense, as suffocating as ever, is hitting its stride, and the Cougars’ balanced attack should wear down SV quickly. Prediction: Quince Orchard 42, Seneca Valley 0
Kennedy (1-2) at Springbrook (0-3): Kennedy made noise last week by thumping Watkins Mill, overshadowed only by Northwood’s historic breakthrough. That win showed the Cavs have some fight. Springbrook, meanwhile, is searching for answers after a slow start, but the Blue Devils have the talent to control tempo if they stay engaged. Motivation is the X-factor here, and Springbrook should summon enough to notch their first W. Prediction: Springbrook 34, Kennedy 25
Pikesville (2-1) at Northwood (1-2):
Northwood shocked the county with 42 points in a wild win over Einstein, ending years of futility in emphatic fashion. Now comes the real test: building on success. Pikesville, a competent Baltimore County 1A program, would beat the Gladiators in most years. But this doesn’t feel like “most years.” Northwood has belief now, and momentum. Prediction: Northwood 20, Pikesville 16
Friday, Sept. 26
Blake (3-0) at Sherwood (3-0) — Game of the Week: Two undefeated rivals, both boasting trenches that can bully most opponents. Sherwood dominated Blake last fall, but the Bengals look much tougher at the point of attack in 2025. Blake’s passing game is heating up, yet this will be its sternest defensive test so far. On the flip side, Sherwood leans on Matthew Larsen’s steady leadership, this is the type of night where his composure could decide everything. Expect fireworks in a playoff-like atmosphere, but Sherwood has just a bit more in reserve.
Prediction: Sherwood 27, Blake 21
Paint Branch (2-1) at Northwest (1-2):
Few stories have shaken MoCo football quite like Northwest’s midseason infusion of Bullis transfers Javonte Williams and Chris Tangelo. Their arrival paid instant dividends against B-CC. Suddenly, the Jags have life. But Paint Branch is humming, with Alijah Bah powering a dynamic attack that’s shredded defenses since Week 1. Northwest will keep it closer than many expected a week ago, but PB remains the more complete squad. Prediction: Paint Branch 21, Northwest 7
Damascus (3-0) at Oakdale (2-1): It’s rare for Damascus to leave county borders in the regular season, but the trip to Oakdale carries weight. These programs share playoff history, including Oakdale snapping “The Streak” in 2018 and Damascus returning the favor in the 2022 title game. This year’s Hornets are undefeated but unconvincing. Oakdale, coming off a loss, will be sharp and motivated. Unless Damascus can grind out clock with long drives, the Bears’ superior firepower wins the night. Prediction: Oakdale 28, Damascus 7
Bethesda-Chevy Chase (1-2) at Wheaton (3-0): Wheaton is riding high with its best start in a generation. But B-CC is a different animal than the Knights’ early slate. The Barons’ physicality could overwhelm a defense that hasn’t yet faced this caliber of opponent. Expect Wheaton to compete early, but B-CC’s depth and toughness should ultimately tilt the balance. Prediction: B-CC 24, Wheaton 8
Whitman (2-1) at Churchill (3-0): The Congressional Cup is on the line, but Churchill’s ambitions are already bigger than that. The Dawgs look like a force in 2025, explosive offense, punishing defense, and an identity that screams contender. Whitman won’t be able to keep pace. Prediction: Churchill 44, Whitman 7
Richard Montgomery (2-1) at Clarksburg (1-2): The Rockets are proving that good execution can outshine raw talent. Their offense is clicking, and they’ll look to air it out again. Clarksburg has shown flashes but hasn’t put it all together. If the Coyotes’ defense can’t bottle up RM’s passing attack, it could be another frustrating night in Germantown. Prediction: Richard Montgomery 29, Clarksburg 19
Walter Johnson (1-2) at Wootton (1-2):
Both took their lumps in rivalry week. Now comes a rebound opportunity. Walter Johnson has more talent across the board and should dictate play from the opening snap. Wootton will need everything to go right to stay in it.
Prediction: Walter Johnson 40, Wootton 13
Watkins Mill (1-2) at Gaithersburg (1-2):
For the first time since Gideon Ituka’s heyday, Gaithersburg seems to have a backfield capable of pounding defenses, with Josiah Garcia and Israel Walker leading the way. That’s bad news for a struggling Wolverines squad. Prediction: Gaithersburg 43, Watkins Mill 9
Einstein (1-2) at Blair (0-3):
Both need a win badly. Einstein has shown flashes, but Blair, despite its worst start under Fields/Nosoff, has endured a tougher schedule. The Blazers’ offense should finally break through under the lights at the Inferno.
Prediction: Blair 34, Einstein 21
Rockville (1-2) at Magruder (0-3):
A pair of programs looking to reverse disappointing starts. Rockville’s defense has struggled, but Magruder hasn’t been able to keep pace on the scoreboard. The Colonels’ ball-control style could frustrate the Rams, but Rockville has more scoring punch. Prediction: Magruder 21, Rockville 13
Saturday, Sept. 27
Poolesville (0-3) at Centennial (0-3):
Two long-struggling programs meet in what could be a rare winnable game for both. Poolesville looks improved from last year, while Centennial continues to search for stability. A close, scrappy game should tilt toward the Falcons, who’ve shown more signs of life. Prediction: Poolesville 29, Centennial 26
Week 4 promises high drama: Sherwood-Blake could be an instant classic, Damascus faces its first real test, and Wheaton’s magical run gets its first gut check. By Saturday, the county picture should be much clearer and a lot more interesting.
