As we roll into Week 2 of the playoffs, Montgomery County’s top teams are ready for intense rematches and rivalries that promise plenty of fireworks. Here’s a breakdown of each matchup and how I see them playing out. The Game of the Week preview and prediction can be seen here.
#4 Churchill at #1 Quince Orchard 4A West: Churchill’s resurgence under Coach Rydzewski continues to impress. Despite a less talented squad compared to last year, Coach Rydzewski has maximized the Bulldogs’ potential, pulling out a winning record in all four of his seasons. But as strong as Churchill’s heart and creativity have been, they’re facing a true juggernaut in Quince Orchard. Even in their regular-season matchup, QO had to grind through all four quarters to seal the win, but the biggest difference this time? The return of star running back Iverson Howard. Expect Howard to chew up the clock and help QO dominate time of possession, forcing Churchill into turnovers and missed opportunities. If Aydan West can clamp down on Churchill’s pass-heavy offense, QO’s path to victory should be smooth. Prediction: Quince Orchard 42, Churchill 7
#3Seneca Valley at #2 Northwest 4A West: The King’s Trophy showdown makes its way back into the playoffs for the second year in a row, this time with Seneca Valley meeting Northwest a week deeper. Coach Cosby’s Eagles have shown impressive defensive fortitude, allowing just 7 points across their last four games. Still, Northwest’s offensive firepower will test every aspect of the Eagles’ defense. The Jags should wear down SV, and while Seneca may manage a defensive stand or two, an upset looks unlikely. Northwest has the clear upper hand in speed, athleticism, and experience on both sides of the ball. Prediction: Northwest 36, Seneca Valley 2
#4 Walter Johnson at #1 Paint Branch 4A North: Walter Johnson’s down year (5-5) is still a testament to their progress in recent seasons. However, Paint Branch is riding high and fresh off a bye week that should give them the edge here. While WJ might stay competitive if PB struggles out of the gate, the Panthers’ defense and offensive versatility should ultimately overwhelm the Wildcats. Despite Jake Forburger’s best efforts, Paint Branch’s talent advantage and depth should be too much for Walter Johnson to overcome. Prediction: Paint Branch 36, Walter Johnson 15
#3 BCC at #2 Blair 4A North: With both teams bringing plenty of heart and rivalry to this playoff rematch, we’re in for a potential classic. The Barons managed revenge on Paint Branch in last year’s playoffs, but Blair’s home-field advantage could be the difference here. Both teams boast physicality, but Blair’s defense and consistency make them better suited for a playoff grind. If Blair’s home crowd turns out in force, that could amplify the pressure. BCC’s clock-controlling ground game gives them a shot to pull off the upset, but Blair’s balance and ability to capitalize on mistakes should allow them to hold on. Prediction: Blair 21, BCC 7
#3 Wootton at #2 Magruder 4A/3A West: This Week 10 rematch has a historic twist, with both teams looking to break a nearly three-decade streak without reaching Week 12. Magruder held on in their last encounter, but they faltered last week against Severn Run, a stark contrast to Wootton’s strong showing against Thomas Johnson. Wootton’s Tyler Siegel and Hunter Humphries give them the offensive versatility that could exploit a struggling Magruder defense. If the Colonels can keep Wootton’s playmakers under wraps, this could go down to the wire, but Wootton’s recent momentum gives them the edge. Prediction: Wootton 28, Magruder 13
#4 Whitman at #1 Blake 4A/3A North: While Whitman put up a solid fight in Week 1, Blake has grown significantly since that opening game. Whitman, on the other hand, hasn’t shown noticeable improvement. Blake’s offense is firing on all cylinders, and Whitman will need a near-perfect game to keep this one close. Expect Blake to dominate from start to finish, putting an exclamation point on their impressive season. Prediction: Blake 37, Whitman 7
#4 Wilde Lake at #1 Damascus 2A West: This matchup has been 14 years in the making, a rematch of one of the biggest upsets in MoCo playoff history. Damascus has had a tough season but showed signs of life with a 53-point outburst against Wootton. Wilde Lake has also been streaky, coming off a 42-6 win over Hammond after a rough midseason stretch. Both offenses have shown recent improvement, and Wilde Lake’s defense could frustrate Damascus if the Hornets stumble. However, Damascus’s experience and home-field advantage may prove decisive. This should be a low-scoring, grind-it-out affair, but Damascus’s resolve and talent give them the edge. Prediction: Damascus 23, Wilde Lake 7
Expect plenty of intensity and possibly some surprises. But come Saturday morning, look for these results to define the next round of MoCo playoff football.
