Homestead at Northrop
Prediction: Homestead wins 34-13
The Spartans defense will show up right away in this game. The offense might take a little longer since it’s the first game, but they should get going fairly early as well. On the other side, Jeremiah Green will need a few big gains to keep the offense from stalling. This will be a challenge against the linebackers of Homestead and that will ultimately decide this game. A good showing from Sparty gives them a comfortable win.
Bishop Dwenger at Wayne
Prediction: Dwenger wins 28-13
The Saints look to carry over the momentum of their state title game into the new season. Their first game is a bit tricky as Wayne will be fired up to play in this game. The Generals might have the best running back in the SAC and he will be on display. However, Dwenger has a highly rated back themselves in Devon Tippmann, and he should be in for a great game as well. A game that features great running backs on both sides will be decided by the offensive lines that lead them. Dwenger wins in the trenches and wins the game, but not necessarily in blowout fashion.
Snider at North Side
Prediction: Snider wins 42-14
North Side will field a good team this year. This just won’t be the game to show it. Unlike Wayne, there’s no true superstar on North Side, although Alex Holliday-Robinson should be in for a great year. It’s just hard to imagine Snider not showing up in this game, with an experienced team. The Panthers win big on the road.
Bishop Luers at Carroll
Prediction: Carroll wins 45-38
It seems like any time these two teams play, it’s an exciting game. Nothing should change this year with both teams starting new quarterbacks and looking to secure the ever-important first win in the first week of the season. It may seem a little odd that Carroll and Luers would both score over 30 points in this game for having two new QBs, but they’ve both looked good thus far. If the offenses get into a rhythm, be prepared for a fun game. Carroll wins a nailbiter in front of their home crowd.
South Side at Concordia
Prediction: Concordia wins 49-7
This is one of those opportunities that the Archers need to take advantage of. They’ll be going against an opponent that they could beat in week 1. And wouldn’t it be something if they did so, after going winless last season and then winning their very first game this season. The momentum they would have going into the next week would be unreal. Unfortunately for them, Concordia’s high-powered offense will be way too much, too quick. This is the reality that South Side has had to face for a while now. We’ll see if they can get it turned around at some point this season. Meanwhile, the Cadets look elite on offense. The defense could struggle at some point this year, but not in this game.
