Trophy Club Nelson (6-0, 3-0) at Keller (5-1, 2-1): It’s a big showdown in Northeast Tarrant County as unbeaten and state ranked Byron Nelson visits a Keller High bunch who nearly pulled the upset falling to Southlake Carroll in a close one last week. Byron Nelson’s offense has been absolutely on fire this season, in last week’s 65-7 rout of Haltom QB Jake Wilson threw for 285 yards and six touchdowns and he added a touchdown on the ground. Most of that damage was done in the first half as early in the third quarter, the Bobcats started to empty the bench. Keller fell in a close one to Southlake Carroll last week 38-35, the Indians led 28-24 at the half but after a strong offensive showing in the first half, the Keller offense struggled in the second half. WR Amarion Henry had a big night in the loss with nine catches for 142 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Keller really impressed last week, but can they put that kind of effort together in back-to-back weeks against state ranked opponents? Stepp’s Pick: Trophy Club Nelson by 6
Klein Collins (6-0, 3-0) vs Klein Forest (4-2, 2-1): Unbeaten and state ranked Klein Collins put on an offensive show last week in their 61-49 win over Tomball Memorial last Saturday. The Tigers got six touchdowns from Tucker Parks who ran for two scores and threw for four more, while Justin Castillo chipped in 275 yards rushing and two touchdowns for the Tigers. Klein Forest will look to take down their second straight unbeaten and state ranked Klein ISD opponent as the Golden Eagles a week ago stunned Klein Cain 17-14 on the strength of a supreme effort on the defensive side of the ball. Jalen Bragg’s touchdown run with 37 seconds left in the game provide the winning margin for the Eagles in the upset. Klein Forest has the skill talent to match anyone in this district, but Collins has a big edge up front and the Tigers are good enough at the skill spots to contain Klein Forest. Stepp’s Pick: Klein Collins by 10