State Quarterfinal Football Outlook

Cameron Yoe (11-2) Vs. Malakoff (13-0)

It was the matchup that seemed to be the most favorable before the beginning of the playoffs, and it's now a reality, as these two powers will be squaring off on Friday night.  Cameron and Malakoff are somewhat similar when you look at the skill sets.  Cameron has good speed across the board and likes to keep things balanced on offense.  The same could be said about Malakoff.  I believe there will be two key points to watch in this game.  First, the team that either strikes the most often on the big play or limits those plays on defense could end up winning.  Secondly, I believe quarterback play on both sides will be important.  Zack Andress and Judd Miller can run and throw, and that will put pressure on a defense.  Cameron has been here the past four years, and at the end of the day I believe that experience will play a key roll in the Yoemen advancing on to the state semifinals. 

Josh's Pick: Cameron Yoe by 7. 

Wall (10-3) Vs. Brock (13-0)

Wall was the one team that I felt had a chance at possibly upsetting Brock in region I, and now they will get that opportunity.  Each of these teams have not had many struggles in their first three playoff games, with the margin of victory being well over three touchdowns.  Brock has now won 29 straight games dating back to last season.  Both of these teams are known for their ground-heavy offensive attacks.  I would be surprised if this were more than a 14-point game either way. 

Josh's Pick: Brock by 10. 

Pottsboro (11-2) Vs. Mineola (11-2)

Region II will feature two familiar faces in Pottsboro and Mineola.  Mineola has won the region the past two seasons while Pottsboro now has a record of 55-8 since 2012.  Mineola is senior-laden this year and was ranked as high as number one in some preseason polls.  Mineola and Pottsboro are run-first teams, so this game will probably come down to who can get the other into more predictable passing situations. 

Josh's Pick: Mineola by 7. 

Hallettsville (13-0) Vs. Yoakum (9-4)

It should come to no surprise that we see two 14-3A teams squaring off in the region four finale.  Hallettsville has easily been the most impressive team in the region, going undefeated while winning their district.  Yoakum had a strong showing in non-district, beating Taylor while only losing to Cuero by a touchdown.  Hallettsville upended Yoakum in district play, 35-28. 

Josh's Pick: Hallettsville by 7. 

Bremond (13-0) Vs. Tenaha (13-0)

This is quite possibly the most anticipated state quarterfinal game for all classifications.  Dating back to 2014, Bremond has won a total of 44 straight games.  The last lost for Bremond came to this same Tenaha team in the state quarterfinal round of the 2013 playoffs.  The Tigers have been the number one team in 2A DII all season, but Tenaha has outscored opponents this season, 677 to 56. 

Josh's Pick: Bremond by 7.  

Lexington (11-2) Vs. Boling (11-2)

Lexington picked up their most impressive win of the year last week over perennial power East Bernard.  The game was tied going into overtime before the Eagles kick the game winning field goal to win, 38-35.  Next up is East Bernard's district rival Boling.  The Brahmas beat Boling during district play, 24-3. 

Josh's Pick: Lexington by 7.

La Vega (13-0) Vs. China Spring (12-1)

It's never easy to predict who is going to end up in the fourth round of the playoffs, but this matchup was one that seemed probable.  These two played twice last season, with La Vega winning the district game (16-14) in addition to the state quarterfinals (20-7).  Everything has played out the same so far, with La Vega winning this year's district game (17-10) as the two prepare to meet up again.  If China Spring can break through offensively, they will have a good chance of advancing on.

Josh's Pick: China Spring by 1.