WEEK 2 PREVIEW

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#8 Massaponax (1-0) at Glen Allen (1-0):

Two unbeaten teams are set to clash as Massaponax travels to take on Glen Allen in what promises to be a physical, tactical battle. Both teams come off convincing victories, with Massaponax flexing their muscle in a 35-12 win over Independence, while Glen Allen blanked Prince George 35-0. Known for their devastating triple-option attack, the Panthers looked sharp in Week 1, though they added a twist by running more of their option principles out of the shotgun. (Senior) Fullback Josiah Perry led the charge with big plays on the ground, and (Junior) QB Ian Shook delivered key moments in the second half to help seal the win. The defense was stout, giving up only a kick return for a touchdown. Coach Shane Ludden’s squad will be out for revenge after last year’s narrow 10-7 loss to Glen Allen. Massaponax will need to continue their strong start, especially in the trenches, where the battle against Glen Allen's physical defensive line will be critical. Coming off an 8-3 season and a first-round playoff exit in 2023, Glen Allen’s strength is their size and toughness in the trenches. Last week, they overwhelmed Prince George 35-0, setting the tone for a strong start to their season. The Jaguars’ defense will look to replicate last year’s success against Massaponax’s triple-option, where they held the Panthers to just 7 points. Expect them to focus on clogging the running lanes and forcing Massaponax into uncomfortable passing situations. This game will likely be decided in the trenches. If Glen Allen can stymie Massaponax's option attack again, they’ll be in a great position to win. However, if the Panthers can adapt and find ways to break through, they could flip the script from last season and leave with a big road win.

Prediction:

Massaponax 20 Glen Allen 19

Louisa (0-1) at #5 Courtland (1-0):

This matchup between Louisa and #6 Courtland features two teams with high expectations looking to make their mark early in the season. Both programs have storied histories and are eager to show they belong among the area's elite. Coming off a tough 16-7 loss to Patrick Henry (Ashland), the Lions were hampered by four turnovers, which cost them a chance at victory. However, this week brings a major boost with the return of two explosive juniors—RB Savion Hiter and WR Dyzier Carter—who made waves as freshmen before transferring to Woodberry Forest. Their impact on offense will be critical, as Louisa looks to shake off last week’s disappointment and find the form that saw them edge Courtland 30-27 last season. If Hiter and Carter can ignite the offense, Louisa will have a much more dynamic attack than they showed in their season opener. The Cougars opened their season with a dominant 44-14 win over Orange, led by the ground game duo of Khamari Lawton and Laquann Chew. Lawton, a transfer from James Monroe, made an immediate impact, rushing for 57 yards and 2 TDs, while Chew added 78 yards. The team’s experienced core, including Marcus LaRue, Killan Perry, and Cheitan Watson, gives Courtland the leadership and firepower needed to continue their strong start. With high hopes for the season, the Cougars are determined to maintain their momentum and keep their winning streak alive. The return of Hiter and Carter for Louisa adds a dangerous element to their offense that Courtland won't see on film from last week. Courtland will need to stay disciplined on defense to contain these playmakers, while continuing to ride their ground game on offense. Expect a close, physical contest as both teams try to set the tone for their seasons.

Prediction:

Louisa 38 Courtland 24

#2 Eastern View (1-0) at Huguenot (0-0)

This week’s matchup between Eastern View and Huguenot offers an intriguing early-season test for both teams. Eastern View enters the game fresh off a dominant performance, while Huguenot looks to kick off their season on the right foot against a highly ranked opponent. Coming off a 45-12 blowout win over their cross-county rival Culpeper, Eastern View showed why they are considered one of the top programs in the region. Their performance against Culpeper was complete, with both the offense and defense looking sharp. Led by (Senior) LB/TE Brett Clatterbaugh, who has committed to Virginia Tech as a linebacker, and a talented supporting cast including (Junior) QB Aaron Hull and (Junior) WR William Butler, the Cyclones are set on making a deep playoff run this season. After winning big last week, this game against Huguenot will provide a stronger test to see if Eastern View is truly ready for a title push. The Falcons had an opening-week bye and are set to debut against a tough opponent. Coming off an 8-3 season that ended with a first-round playoff loss to Varina, Huguenot is an improving program looking to build on their success. Although they haven’t faced Eastern View in recent years, this matchup gives them a chance to make an early statement in 2024. The Falcons will need a strong performance to slow down a Cyclones squad that has been firing on all cylinders. Eastern View is riding high after last week’s dominating win and will be eager to prove they are a legitimate Class 4 title contender. Huguenot, on the other hand, will look to establish their own credentials in what promises to be a hard-fought game. For Eastern View, this game is about maintaining momentum and showing they can handle tougher competition.

Eastern View 26 Huguenot 24

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OTHER GAMES

* Projected Winners in bold

Alexandria City (0-1) at #1 Colonial Forge (0-0)

(First Forge Friday is here against a team against a team that hasn't won a game since 2022)

#3 Mountain View (1-0) at Woodgrove (0-1)

(Wildcats will take the long bus ride to take a Woodgrove team coming off a last minute loss)

#6 Brooke Point (1-0) at Spotsylvania (0-1)

(Black-Hawks will look to continue to prove that they will be a contender in their district this season)

#7 Riverbend at Forest Park (0-1)

(Riverbend faces a tough test on the road against FPs large Oline)

#9 King George (0-1) at Hampton (1-0)

(Foxes will hope to avoid an 0-2 start, which hasn't happened at KG since 2018)

#10 Stafford (1-0) at Chancellor (0-1)

(Stafford looks to keep their momentum rolling this week on the other side of the bridge as they take on the Chargers)

Fauquier (0-0) at Liberty (0-1)

(With a new energy and coaching staff in place at Fauquier, don't expect this version of the "Bird Bowl" to be a "get right" game for the Eagles)

North Stafford (0-0) at Dinwiddie (1-0)

(North Stafford has just 1 win in their last 20 games, tonight they travel 2 hours to take on one the best teams, with one of the best players in not just the state, but the country)