Dusting off the Crystal Ball October 9-11

There is a chill in the air that has some anticipating and others dreading what is coming. No I am not speaking of the weather and thoughts of snow, but of the anticipation some of the successful teams are having in hopes of a deep playoff run, where others are dreading the last time that they take off their jersey's for the season.

Gothenburg vs. Valentine

After getting the short end of the stick from the officials and falling in the previous weeks district matchup, Gothenburg goes on the road to reek havoc on the Valentine Badgers. The only thing that Valentine has going for them is the long road trip that Gothenburg has to endure. The Swedes will step off the bus hungry, and wanting to get the big red rushing attack back on track, and will not have much trouble, since it isn't "Valentine's Day."

Gothenburg 40 Valentine 7

Ainsworth vs. Cozad

Cozad will look to bounce back from defeat, and playing at home adds some extra confidence. It will take a full-game effort to walk away the winner in this contest. Both the Bulldogs and Haymakers are looking for their first district wins. The running game of Cozad has the chance to re-establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with, and turn the Bulldogs back to the pound puppies.

Cozad 21 Ainsworth 6

McCook vs. Lexington

The Bison and their red plague following will travel to Lexington in a district opener for each team. Both teams are 4-2 and looking for their fifth win. If depth is an issue, McCook definitely has the edge, but on the other hand, only 11 players can be on the field at a time and if the Minutemen can get Quarterback Seberger time to throw, it could be devastating to the Bison. It will be a knockdown, dragout type of game, where every little detail could be the difference maker. I feel the Minutemen magic at home will have a slight edge.

Lexington 20 McCook 17

Eustis/Farnam vs. Wauneta/Palisade

This is a battle that should be closer than expected, due to some key injuries on both sides for the Broncos and Knights. A balanced run, pass attack by the Knights, who on paper have a quantity of stellar athletes, will definitely be the difference as Eustis/Farnam prevails.

Eustis/Farnam 30 Wauneta/Palisade 12

Nebraska-Kearney vs. New Mexico Highlands

The Lopers should be able to pick their score in this contest. It is far from the Nebraska prairies, but the Antelopes will run wild all over the field. Offense, Defense and Special teams will be dominated by UNK.

UNK 56 New Mexico Highlands 7