Navasota (2-1) at Huffman-Hargrave (3-0): Navasota got their offense untracked in a big way last week as the Rattlers rolled past Mexia 63-21. NHS trailed Mexia 14-13 early in the second quarter, but rattled off seven straight touchdowns to run away with their second victory of the year. Huffman had no troubles with Bridge City last week in an easy 38-2 win, in fact those two points allowed are the only points scored on the Falcons this season. QB Luke Thomas had a huge game for Huffman in the victory passing for 234 yards and three touchdowns, rushing for 47 yards, he also picked off two passes returning one for a score. The explosive Navasota offense will be Huffman’s biggest test of the young season, but the Falcons again have the look of a team that can win double digit games and win multiple playoff games as well. Stepp’s Pick: Huffman-Hargrave by 7
Cisco (3-0) at Tuscola Jim Ned (3-0): The headline matchup in the Big Country this week sees 2A-Division I Cisco punching well above their weight against defending 3A-Division I state champion Jim Ned. Cisco has knocked off three Division I opponents in a row, but the Loboes have struggled in two of those games, including last week’s 28-27 overtime victory over Breckenridge. CHS QB Hunter long’s touchdown run and two-point conversion run in overtime gave Cisco the needed margin in a thriller. Long finished with 149 yards on the ground and three touchdowns, while rushing for 109 yards and a touchdown. There was no such drama for Jim Ned last week as the Indians easily handled Eastland 48-20. QB Tate Yardley threw for 194 yards and four touchdowns, while RB Xavier Wishert rushed for 112 yards and two more touchdowns to lead Jim Ned. Cisco’s front-line talent can keep up with Jim Ned, but depth and size for Jim Ned in the trenches will wear down the Loboes in the second half. Stepp’s Pick: Tuscola Jim Ned by 14