Damon Anderson is an army veteran and 1992 graduate of Quince Orchard High School who has covered MoCo public high school football for 15 years. Damon and Kevin Grant also started the first ever podcast covering local high school football.
Results of second round Maryland high school football playoff games can be seen below. Scores will be updated as we receive them (an F will signify the score is final).
Thursday, 11/9:
The high school football playoffs are in full swing, and Round 2 promises a fresh set of electrifying battles. Here’s a closer look at the matchups and our predictions as we dive deep into the action:
4A West
Results of first round Maryland high school football playoff games can be seen below. Scores will be updated as we receive them (an F will signify the score is final).
Friday games 11/3
Results of first round Maryland high school football playoff games can be seen below. Scores will be updated as we receive them (an F will signify the score is final).
Friday games 11/3
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
As the regular season closes its thrilling chapters, the gridiron in Montgomery County has witnessed awe-inspiring performances, historical achievements, and fierce battles. Let’s break down the latest rankings as we head into the high-stakes playoffs:
1. Quince Orchard Cougars (Last Week: 1) – 9-0 The Cougars displayed their dominance in a resounding 64-6 victory over Sherwood, completing another flawless regular season. Quarterback Nino Marzullo orchestrated the symphony with 232 total yards and 4 touchdowns. Quince Orchard’s 4th consecutive undefeated regular season and securing the top seed in the 4A playoffs make them the epitome of excellence. They will receive a bye in the 1st round.
Below you’ll see the most recent updates or final scores of the 2023 week 9 MCPS football games. The scores will be updated as we receive them. If a score isn’t listed, it’s because we haven’t yet received a report from the game that we can confirm. An ‘F’ signifies the score is confirmed as being final.
Thursday’s Games:
In the world of high school football, it’s not uncommon to ponder the “what-ifs” and to wonder how the outcome of early-season matchups might differ if they were played later in the year. While it’s thrilling to have marquee matchups right out of the gate, teams often evolve and improve, making early-season assessments less reliable. Such is the case for Churchill and Walter Johnson, who squared off in Week 1 of the last two-year cycle. Last year, their opening encounter was marked by turnovers and a general sloppiness that clouded both teams’ true potential. Churchill, in particular, faced an uphill battle after that defeat, which led to a string of nine consecutive victories, with Running Back David Avit emerging as a star.
Had they met again later in the season or in the playoffs, the narrative might have been very different. This season, the eagerly awaited rematch is scheduled for the final week of the regular season. Both teams have had time to discover their identity, solidify their strengths, and understand what it takes to secure a victory. Barring any unforeseen twists, the better team should be evident on the field.
Richard Montgomery (3-5) at Gaithersburg (7-1): Air vs Ground: A high-scoring showdown awaits as Richard Montgomery’s Anthony “Air Attack” goes head-to-head with Gaithersburg’s “Gideon Ground n’ Pound.” While a repeat of last week’s 64-50 spectacle may be a tall order, the stage is set for an epic clash. RM’s Dixon has been in sensational form all season, but don’t sleep on Gaithersburg’s underrated defense, led by ballhawk Michael Nwaogwugwu. With the Trojans boasting a more balanced offense and the ability to control time of possession, the ingredients seem to favor Gaithersburg as they aim to secure the 3 seed and their best record in 13 years. Prediction: Gaithersburg by 13
Sherwood (6-2) at Quince Orchard (8-0): Unexpected Showdown: While this matchup may have flown under the radar this season, don’t be too quick to dismiss Sherwood’s chances against an undefeated Quince Orchard on paper. After a closer-than-expected contest against Northwest, QO may have some adjustments to make. The teams haven’t faced each other for nine years, and that adds an element of intrigue. Sherwood could make things interesting early, but Quince Orchard is poised to take control as the game progresses. Prediction: Quince Orchard by 35
1. Quince Orchard Cougars (Last Week: 1) – Perfect at 8-0: The Cougars added another thrilling chapter to their rivalry with a resounding 34-21 victory over Northwest. In a game that had fans on the edge of their seats, Wide Receiver Tavahri Groves stole the show with 155 yards of total offense and 2 touchdowns. With an unblemished record, Quince Orchard has its sights set on securing home field advantage for the playoffs as they gear up to face Sherwood in the regular season finale this Friday.
2. Blake Bengals (Last Week: 3) – Chasing Perfection at 8-0: The Bengals maintained their unprecedented run, delivering a shutout performance with a commanding 40-0 win over Northwood. Quarterback Stephen Gyermeh showcased his skills, passing for 205 yards and securing 3 touchdowns. Blake is now on the cusp of an undefeated season as they head to Silver Spring to take on Blair.
Below you’ll see the most recent updates or final scores of the 2023 week 8 MCPS football games. The scores will be updated as we receive them. If a score isn’t listed, it’s because we haven’t yet received a report from the game that we can confirm. An ‘F’ signifies the score is confirmed as being final.
Thursday’s Games: