Top Matchups From the KC Metro: Week 7

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We're less than two weeks away from the 2025 postseason, and the stakes are getting higher in the <em>Sunflower State</em>. Week 7's slate of games features several marquee matchups, and that's beyond the Kansas City metro. But, for those that do reside in the metro, these are three games to consider attending.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kapaun Mt. Carmel 4A (6-0) @ St. James Academy 5A (5-1)</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Up first is arguably the <em>Game of the Week</em> in the metro, as two of the top private programs in the state square off. Kapaun Mt. Carmel and St. James Academy renewed their cross-state rivalry in 2022, and the powerhouse programs have traded blows since then much like they did in previous matchups. Kapaun is looking to pick up another impressive win, as they've defeated tough teams like Wichita Northwest, Wichita East, and Bishop Carroll. For SJA, after falling to the No. 1 team in the state during Week 2, they've since reeled off four straight wins and have beaten notable teams such as Blue Valley Northwest and Blue Valley. This is one game folks do not want to miss.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Crusaders of Kapaun Mt. Carmel have had a dominant defense this season. They've allowed only one opponent to score over 20 points, and senior linebacker [player_tooltip player_id='1228926' first='Raphael' last='Oblinger'] is a big reason for that. Oblinger is a disruptor and the Crusaders' coaching staff likes to move him around. Since SJA is going to be facing a tough defense, they'll need one of their top offensive playmakers to come up big. That's where junior <strong>John Hornback</strong> comes in. In his first season starting under center for the Thunder he's been responsible for over 1,100 yards of total offense and 11 touchdowns.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mill Valley 5A (4-2) @ Olathe Northwest 6A (5-1)</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It's looking like the <em>Sunflower League</em> title race is going to come down to the wire next week, and this Week 7 matchup could be a deciding factor. Mill Valley and Olathe Northwest are both very much in contention for the title, but a loss could spoil either team's chances at claiming the league crown. In addition to the league title race, a win would also increase both team's odds of locking up a higher playoff seed in their respective classifications. These storylines set up for what should be a thrilling matchup.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With both teams averaging over 30 points per game, getting stops on defense will be key in order to get a win. Two defenders that are likely to standout in this one are seniors <strong>Jaxon Garcia</strong> and [player_tooltip player_id='1402684' first='Tyler' last='Briel']. Garcia leads Mill Valley in total tackles with 67, and has had 12 or more tackles in three straight games. On the other sideline, Briel leads Northwest in total tackles with over 50 total.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lawrence 6A (0-6) @ Shawnee Mission North 6A (0-6)</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This third game will likely get overlooked because of the records both teams carry into the matchup. However, there is definitely plenty of talent that will be hitting the field. Not only that, but a win for Lawrence or Shawnee Mission North could be a momentum boost before the postseason. Something will have to give in this one, as the two squads will be determined to pick up their first win of the ‘25 campaign.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Two prospects that are sure to make plays for their respective teams are seniors [player_tooltip player_id='1343588' first='Tahj' last='Edwards'] and <strong>Alex Casares</strong>. Edwards is one of the more underrated running backs in the Class of ‘26. His dynamic play has been a bright spot for Lawrence, as he's averaging over six yards per carry. Casares is a key leader for SMN's offense. He's a well rounded athlete and is capable of creating some exciting plays. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->