It’s an exciting weekend for high school football in Texas, especially in Greater Houston, as powerhouse teams gear up for decisive matchups in the UIL Class 6A playoffs. Here's a breakdown of the top games and predictions:
North Shore vs. Katy
This marquee matchup takes place at NRG Stadium on Friday, November 29, at 2:00 PM. North Shore remains undefeated at 12-0, while Katy boasts an 11-1 record. Both teams have rich histories in Texas high school football.
Keys to Victory:
- North Shore: Dominating defense led by Kylan Darville, Devin Sanchez, Nigel Pringle, and Charles Ross (LSU commit) will be pivotal in shutting down Katy's potent ground game. Offensively, QB Kaleb Bailey and WRs Quanell Farrahkah and Deion DeBlanc could create big plays.
- Katy: Must focus on special teams and lean on their rushing duo, Tremayne Hill and Aqualis Jordan, who average over 200 yards per game. QB Gunner Nelson will need to capitalize on play-action opportunities.
Prediction: North Shore pulls away in the second half, winning by 14 points.
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Atascocita's Brandon Washington
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Fulshear's Patrick Broadway
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Jordan's Zion Jones
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Jerrod Penwright of Klein Collins
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Summer Creek's Brandon Jones
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The Woodlands' Caycen Bartolozzi
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Fulshear vs. Atascocita
Fulshear, transitioning to Class 6A, faces a tough test against Atascocita, a team loaded with explosive talent like Tori Blaylock (OU commit) and Cardae Mack.
Keys to Victory:
- Fulshear: Utilize their physical running game with Patrick Broadway and Zane Smith. UH commits Sheldon Rice and Chance Bryant will anchor the defense.
- Atascocita: Leveraging their speed and big-play ability on offense is critical.
Prediction: Fulshear edges out Atascocita in a high-scoring affair.
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Duncanville vs. The Woodlands
The defending champions, Duncanville, take on The Woodlands, led by dual-threat QB Jack Daulton. Too many injuries plague The Woodlands and Duncanville is Duncanville. The Panthers could make it a three-peat.
Prediction: Duncanville dominates with its size and efficiency.
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DeSoto vs. Willis
DeSoto faces off against a determined Willis squad, featuring star athlete Jermaine Bishop. Yes, DeSoto is formidable and are the back-to-back State Champs, but Willis has a puncher's chance this weekend.
Prediction: Willis pulls off a stunning upset, advancing to the regional final.
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Other Predictions:
- Klein Collins vs. Longview: Longview's ground game secures the victory.
- Jordan vs. Summer Creek: Summer Creek's athleticism and playoff experience prevail. Tons of athletes on display, however. its
- Strake Jesuit vs. Kingwood: A battle of the backs as Jesuit's Johnny Hebert squares up against Kingwood's Marques Davis. Kingwood's balance on offense and defense proves too much for Jesuit.
It’s shaping up to be a thrilling weekend, with several games poised to go down to the wire. Stay tuned for updates!