Maryland High School Football Playoff Predictions – Round 2 (MCPS Schools)

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

• #4 Northwest at #1 Quince Orchard: This clash between Northwest and Quince Orchard marks the 11th playoff rematch between these two formidable teams. With a long history that has seen both teams trading wins, this showdown carries a ton of history and emotion. Quince Orchard has been dominant in the regular season, winning 9 out of 11 meetings, and they’ve showcased one of the top defenses and offenses in the state. Antonio Berry and Xavier Rivers need to bring their A-game to secure a win for Northwest, but facing Quince Orchard is no easy feat. Prediction: Quince Orchard by 21
• #3 Gaithersburg at #2 Churchill: In this battle of physical football, it’s all about the rushing game. Gaithersburg’s Gideon Ituka, the MPSSAA rushing leader and a Wisconsin commit, goes head to head with David Avit, the #2 rusher in the MPSSAA. Last year, Churchill outlasted Gaithersburg, and they might follow a similar strategy this time to limit Gaithersburg’s offensive production. Expect a gritty clash. Prediction: Churchill by 8

4A North

• #5 Blair at #1 Walter Johnson: Walter Johnson dominated their previous matchup, and they’ll aim to replicate that performance. Establishing a strong ground game could be their key to victory, keeping Blair’s inconsistent yet potent offense at bay. Prediction: Walter Johnson by 27
• #3 BCC at #2 Paint Branch: A mere two weeks ago, the Barons and Panthers locked horns, with Paint Branch edging out a win. It’s poised to be another tight contest with a similar outcome. The rematch will test their mettle once more. Prediction: Paint Branch by 6

4A/3A West

• #4 Wootton at #1 Frederick: Wootton’s defense was pivotal in their last game, but they face a team that recently decimated an opponent by 56 points. Frederick’s prowess is evident, and they enter this contest as clear favorites. Prediction: Frederick by 35
• #3 Urbana at #2 Magruder: Magruder showcased their offensive strength in their previous game, and they’ll rely on Running Back Marcus McCritty once again. However, facing Urbana is no small task. The Colonels must bring their A-game and more to hang with this formidable opponent. Prediction: Urbana by 28

4A/3A South

• #4 Whitman at #1 Blake: A rematch from week 1, this showdown brings the undefeated Bengals against the resurgent Vikings. While Whitman has shown improvement, so has Blake, and they excelled in the first matchup. The Bengals remain strong favorites, and the Vikings face a challenging task. Prediction: Blake by 28
• #3 Einstein at #2 Suitland: While on paper, this might seem like a potential blowout, Einstein’s spirit and determination shouldn’t be underestimated. Suitland boasts superior depth, and while they might pull ahead, Einstein is sure to make this a game worth watching. Prediction: Suitland by 14

3A West

• #4 Sherwood at #1 Oakdale: Sherwood is riding high after dispatching South Hagerstown, and Running Back Van Mahoney had a standout performance. Now, they face the undefeated Oakdale Bears, a team that checks all the boxes for a state championship contender. Oakdale is the favorite, but in the unpredictable world of high school football, upsets can happen. Could the Warriors shock the world? Prediction: Sherwood by 1

2A West

• #4 Walkersville at #1 Damascus: The Walkersville faithful have vivid memories of a painful 2017 loss to Damascus, and they’ll look for redemption in the Hornets’ Nest. With All-County Athlete Michael Cooley getting healthier each week, the Swarmin’ Hornets appear poised to break Walkersville’s hearts once again. Prediction: Damascus by 8

Round 2 of the high school football playoffs is a stage for redemption, history-making, and heart-stopping moments. These young athletes continue to inspire, and we’re in for a treat as we watch their journeys unfold. Buckle up, and enjoy the ride.

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