Andrews (4-1) at Canyon (5-0): Andrews will take the road trip up to the Panhandle as they’ll look to knock off unbeaten Canyon in a game featuring two teams who are close to breaking into the 4A-Division I state rankings. Andrews bounced back nicely from their loss to Seminole two weeks ago with a dominant 64-14 win over Lubbock High. Known for throwing the ball all over the yard, Andrews got the running game going in a big way with nearly 300 yards on the ground and the Mustangs stopped the run holding Lubbock High to just 32 yards rushing. Canyon went out on the road last week to Midland Greenwood and the Eagles slipped past the Rangers 21-14. Sam Johnson had a touchdown run and a touchdown reception for the Eagles, the big concern is the status of QB Derek Clements who left the game with an injury and if he’s unable to go this week that gives Andrews a shot at going on the road and pulling the upset, but with a week to prep a backup QB I think Canyon finds their way to get a tough win to close out non-district play. Stepp’s Pick: Canyon by 9
Brownwood (4-1) at Stephenville (5-0): It’s the Battle of 377 as old rivals Brownwood and Stephenville clash once again and for the first time in a few years, both teams come into this one state ranked and with high hopes. For Brownwood, the rise has been rapid as a young Lions squad took some lumps a year ago, but a strong senior class has grown up and an influx of young talent has made the Lions plenty dangerous early in the year. Last week the Lions ripped past Waco Connally 51-21 as QB Ike Hall threw for 157 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 123 yards and two touchdowns and the Lions defense for the most part contained an explosive Connally attack. Stephenville for the second time this season rallied back from a 21-0 hole to escape with a one-point win over a 5A opponent, this time at home against Wichita Falls Rider 43-42. Sophomore QB Ryan Gafford had a big night throwing for 318 yards and five touchdowns, while Tate Maruska ran for 124 yards and the game winning touchdown with 3:28 remaining. This will be an absolute battle, Stephenville’s defense continues to be a concern, but in key moments the ‘Jackets have gotten stops, I think at home once again they find a way to get it done against a really good Brownwood squad. Stepp’s Pick: Stephenville by 5