Jasper (1-2) at Little Cypress-Mauriceville (3-1): A solid added game to the schedule in the Golden Triangle will close out the non-district slate for both of these teams this week. Jasper had their Week 2 and 3 games canceled due to Covid issues, and since the Bulldogs returned to the field two weeks ago the performance has had mixed results, a 33-3 win over Hardin-Jefferson, but last week the Bulldogs offense simply couldn’t get going in an 8-7 loss to Vidor and the defense finally allowed a Vidor score with less than a minute remaining. LCM has made big steps forward under first year head coach Eric Peevey as the Bears rolled past a good private school team in Houston Kinkaid with a 49-20 victory. The key for the Bears in the win was a dominant second half showing as LCM outscored Kinkaid 21-0 in the final two quarters. I don’t expect Jasper to put out another shaky offensive performance this week, look for the Bulldogs to break a couple of big plays late and escape with a close victory. Stepp’s Pick: Jasper by 6
Midland Greenwood (2-2) at Graham (1-3): Two teams who have been contenders in Region I the past few years in 4A-Division II have gotten off to sluggish starts in 2021 and both will look to close out the non-district slate on a positive note. Greenwood saw their two-game winning streak come to a disappointing end last week as the Rangers were knocked off at home by Canyon 38-19. Four turnovers proved to be too much for Midland Greenwood to overcome at home. Graham took one on the chin last week as the Steers were no match for speedy Wichita Falls Hirschi in a 43-9 loss, Graham’s third straight defeat. The Steers are very young, and they are going to be desperate for a win at home just to try and secure a bit of momentum before district play ramps up. Look for Graham to take advantage early as Greenwood may be a bit sluggish coming off the bus from the long road trip. Stepp’s Pick: Graham by 10