AAA Semifinals Showdown: Princeton vs Spring Valley

Get 30% Off Your Subscription with Code PRZWV30 at Checkout!   16 teams have advanced to the playoff semifinals after the second round of the postseason in West Virginia. Here is our playoff semifinals preview for round three.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">#2 PRINCETON vs #6 SPRING VALLEY</h2>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">HOW PRINCETON GOT HERE</h3>    Princeton flipped the script on Herbert Hoover one year after the Huskies ended their season on the ground. In this year's Class AAA quarterfinal matchup, the #2 Tigers overpowered #7 Hoover with 307 rushing yards, 202 of them after halftime, to pull out a 41–35 win and advance to the semifinals for the third straight season. After trailing 21–14 at the break, Princeton leaned heavily on its run game and the versatility of [player_tooltip player_id='1096605' first='Brad' last='Mossor'], who moved into the backfield and became the driving force of the offense. His impact showed immediately as Princeton opened the third quarter with an 80-yard, 19-play march that tied the game and completely shifted momentum.   From there, the Tigers seized control with key defensive plays and more punishing runs. A fourth-quarter interception set up a go-ahead touchdown before a forced fumble on the ensuing kickoff allowed Mossor to score again. Hoover kept things interesting with big plays through the air, but Princeton's ground attack proved too much to overcome. Mossor finished with five total touchdowns and 244 yards from scrimmage, while quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='1011963' first='Chance' last='Barker'] added 178 passing yards. Hoover's [player_tooltip player_id='1166650' first='Peyton' last='Grigsby'] threw four touchdowns in the loss, but the Huskies struggled to run the ball and couldn't match Princeton's physical surge after halftime.   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">HOW SPRING VALLEY GOT HERE</h3>    Spring Valley flipped the momentum after Robert C. Byrd controlled the opening quarter with a long, clock-draining drive that reached the doorstep of the end zone. The Timberwolves stuffed the Eagles on fourth-and-goal, then immediately marched 98 yards the other way to seize control. That turning point broke the rhythm of a Byrd offense that never recovered, and Spring Valley capitalized by scoring on its next four possessions to build a commanding lead before halftime.   From there, the Timberwolves imposed their physical brand of football. [player_tooltip player_id='1683404' first='Zeke' last='Lewis'] led the way with 136 yards and three touchdowns, while Blayne Workman and [player_tooltip player_id='1137479' first='Miguel' last='Cain'] each topped 50 rushing yards as Spring Valley dominated the line of scrimmage on a muddy field. A play-action strike to [player_tooltip player_id='1987819' first='Kanon' last='Dillon'] added another score, and the defense limited Byrd to minimal production after the first quarter. With the 28–0 victory, Spring Valley punched its ticket to the Class AAA semifinals for the first time since 2019, setting up a showdown with Princeton.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">PRINCETON PLAYERS TO KNOW</h2>    As Princeton enters another postseason push, 2026 quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='1011963' first='Chance' last='Barker'] has established himself as the orchestrator of the offense. His first year running the show in new head coach Nathan Tanner's offense revealed just how advanced he already is, showing poise, command, and the natural traits coaches look for in a long-term leader. Barker's combination of size, mobility, and effortless throwing ability gives Princeton a great shot to win its first state title.     Princeton's front seven leans heavily on 2026 EDGE/OLB [player_tooltip player_id='894897' first='Kalum' last='Kiser'], whose disruptive presence has become a defining part of the Tigers' identity. His versatility allows the defense to move him around depending on the situation, and he's shown he can win from multiple alignments with equal effectiveness. He fits the role of a modern edge defender, fast off the ball, fluid in his movements, and able to create pressure even when opponents game-plan specifically for him. As Princeton pushes deeper into the bracket, he remains one of the key matchup problems opponents must solve.     Princeton has a dynamic weapon in 2026 WR [player_tooltip player_id='1096605' first='Brad' last='Mossor'], whose ability to flip the field has become even more valuable now that every postseason snap carries added weight. His knack for creating big gains after the catch gives the Tigers a built-in spark, whether he's breaking loose on a quick screen or slipping through traffic on plays that should've been stopped early. That creativity shows up on special teams as well and at running back, where he's just as capable of shifting momentum in an instant. As Princeton continues its playoff push, Mossor's versatility has become a key part of how they stress defenses.     [player_tooltip player_id='1686629' first='Zayden' last='Neely'] has stepped into postseason action, showing exactly why his ceiling has always been considered so high. His rare combination of length and fluid movement immediately stands out, traits that stem from both his frame and his multi-sport background. Even though he's still ironing out parts of his technique as he continues to grow into the position, the foundation he brings to the field is something coaches can't manufacture. What makes Neely so intriguing long-term is how much growth still lies ahead of him.     As Princeton heads deeper into the postseason, 2026 OL [player_tooltip player_id='1138211' first='Jimmy' last='Bowling Jr']. continues to anchor the Tigers' front with the reliability he's shown since he first stepped into a varsity role. Even on a line filled with high-profile talent, he's remained one of the most steady forces, bringing a physical edge that sets the tone for their ground attack. His strength at the point of contact and his ability to control defenders make him an invaluable piece of their playoff push. His toughness, discipline, and finishing ability stand out in a group known for producing quality linemen, and his experience shows in how he handles postseason intensity.     2026 LB [player_tooltip player_id='1475994' first='Landon' last='Crane'] has proven to be a valuable addition to Princeton's defense. After transferring in, he quickly settled into the Tigers' system and brought the kind of size, mobility, and instinct that coaches look for at linebacker. His senior campaign has shown why his stock climbed over the summer, and his growth throughout the fall suggests there's still more room for him to rise. Crane's presence has also helped stabilize the middle of Princeton's defense at a time when reliability matters most. He's formed a strong tandem with [player_tooltip player_id='894897' first='Kalum' last='Kiser'], giving the Tigers a physical, assignment-sound pairing that fits perfectly with their playoff identity. As Princeton continues its push, Crane's ability to diagnose plays and deliver in high-pressure moments has become one of the group's biggest assets.     [player_tooltip player_id='1137701' first='Wyatt' last='Cline'] has quietly developed into one of Princeton's most reliable offensive weapons as the playoffs heat up. While his teammate [player_tooltip player_id='1096605' first='Brad' last='Mossor'] naturally draws much of the attention, Cline has stepped into a vital secondary role in the passing game, showing the ability to make plays when his number is called. He's the kind of receiver who could easily be a team's primary target on most other rosters, and his skill set, smooth route running, reliable hands, and the ability to gain yards after the catch make him a consistent threat.     2027 Princeton OL [player_tooltip player_id='864598' first='Landyn' last='Moore'] has further cemented himself as one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the state this season. His first two games of the postseason have showcased the growth and maturity expected from an upperclassman, with Moore displaying heightened physicality and an aggressive approach to finishing blocks. Beyond his raw power, he's proven capable of operating in open space and reaching the second level, underscoring his athletic versatility. With this level of performance, Moore is shaping up as a top-tier P4 prospect, and his continued dominance in high-stakes games should draw significant attention from college programs.     A new name who has emerged for the Tigers this season and has made an impact in a variety of ways is 2028 ATH [player_tooltip player_id='1880458' first='Alex' last='Cox']. He's made plays on both sides of the ball and has the athletic versatility to play multiple roles on offense and defense. Cox is an explosive athlete who is very slippery in space and can consistently make defenders miss. On defense, he flies to the football and is equally talented breaking down and making a tackle in the open field. Cox is a prospect to keep close tabs on over the next two years as his role increases year over year.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">SPRING VALLEY PLAYERS TO KNOW</h2>    As the playoffs kick into gear, 2026 Spring Valley OL [player_tooltip player_id='971539' first='Marcus' last='Lewis'] is quietly emerging as one of the state's most impressive offensive line talents. Despite flying under the radar compared to some of his peers, Lewis has steadily filled out his 6'5" frame and added the physical tools to dominate at the next level. His combination of length, athleticism, and developing technique makes him a matchup nightmare for defenders, and his senior campaign is poised to showcase why he recently earned a D1 offer from Towson and deserves attention from other programs as well.     As Spring Valley moves deeper into the playoffs, 2026 OL [player_tooltip player_id='1138231' first='Maddox' last='Barron'] has shown why he's a key piece on the line. Over the past year, he's added strength and fully grown into his 6'5" frame, and that development is evident in his senior season play. Barron has elevated his game from last year, delivering consistent, standout performances that highlight his potential. With the size and athleticism that college programs covet, he's on track to earn offers soon, and continued growth could make him a future standout and dependable starter at the next level.     Spring Valley senior OL [player_tooltip player_id='1138207' first='Michael' last='Shy'] has continued to establish himself as one of the premier offensive linemen in the 2026 class. Now more matured at 6'2" and 270 pounds, Shy has built on the foundation he showed as a standout sophomore, earning All-MSAC recognition in his career. He's proven his ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage and is expected to thrive at guard at the next level. Shy's combination of strength, technique, and athleticism allows him to consistently drive defenders off the ball, making him a cornerstone of the Timberwolves' offensive front in their playoff run.     Spring Valley senior [player_tooltip player_id='1138214' first='Braxton' last='Carter'] has emerged as a key figure on the Timberwolves' offensive line heading into the playoffs. While he is expected to anchor the center position once again, his experience at guard gives the line added versatility. Carter has quietly flown under the radar despite his consistent production, and his skill set makes him a strong candidate for D2 and D3 programs to monitor. As Spring Valley leans on the Wing-T this postseason, Carter's ability to control the middle of the line will be pivotal to their offensive success.     Spring Valley is leaning on the Wing-T this eason, and senior RB [player_tooltip player_id='1137479' first='Miguel' last='Cain'] has again been a key piece to their offense. His powerful, balanced running style allows him to thrive in the scheme, and he's already amassed 750 yards and four touchdowns this season. After bouncing back from injuries late last year, Cain is healthier and making an unselfish impact as their #2 back this season. His performance in the playoffs could elevate his recruitment, making him an attractive option for D2 and D3 programs looking for a strong, versatile back.     Spring Valley senior LB [player_tooltip player_id='894978' first='Camrin' last='Perdue'] has been a key presence in the Timberwolves' defense this season, ranking second on the team with 79 tackles. While he's set to pursue baseball at WV State, his football play has been impressive, especially from the middle linebacker spot, where he's constantly around the ball. Perdue may not have the prototypical size, but his instincts, effort, and ability to track the play make him a standout on the field.     Spring Valley's senior RB [player_tooltip player_id='1683404' first='Zeke' last='Lewis'] has been a game-changer for the Timberwolves throughout the season, now rushing for 1,300 yards and 13 touchdowns. His rare blend of size, speed, and physicality makes him a perfect fit for Spring Valley's Wing-T attack, consistently wearing down defenses while gaining tough yardage after contact. Lewis's ability to break tackles and drive forward will be especially valuable as the playoffs progress, giving the Timberwolves a reliable weapon in crucial late-game situations.     Spring Valley senior LB [player_tooltip player_id='1605767' first='Beau' last='Christopher'] has emerged as the centerpiece of the Timberwolves' defense, leading the team with 101 tackles this season. Though not the biggest linebacker on the field, his instincts, aggression, and relentless pursuit make him a constant presence around the football. Christopher's ability to read plays and strike downhill hard has been a key factor in Spring Valley's playoff push, and his production this fall has put him squarely on the radar for college programs.     Spring Valley senior [player_tooltip player_id='1689135' first='Dae' last='Dae Page'] has quietly become a key contributor for the Timberwolves this season, and his versatility makes him intriguing for college programs. He can impact the game on both sides of the ball, though his frame and instincts project well as a safety at the next level. In the Wing-T offense, Page plays a selfless role, utilizing his size to create running lanes and open up opportunities for his teammates. If he continues to showcase his defensive skills as the playoffs progress, his combination of length, athleticism, and upside could attract D2 attention.     Spring Valley 2026 ATH [player_tooltip player_id='1987819' first='Kanon' last='Dillon'] has quickly made an impact since transferring from Cabell Midland, emerging as a dynamic playmaker for the Timberwolves in the playoffs. He has contributed 329 rushing yards, 262 receiving yards, and six total touchdowns this season, showcasing his versatility as both a slot receiver and scatback. Dillon uses his quickness and explosiveness to turn the corner on sweeps and outside runs, and his multi-dimensional skill set could draw interest from D2 programs as he continues to shine late in the season.     Spring Valley senior [player_tooltip player_id='1994238' first='Logan' last='Henson'] has quietly emerged as a key force for the Timberwolves in the playoffs. He's totaled 56 tackles, 9 TFLs, and 6 sacks this season, showing his ability to disrupt offenses consistently. Henson has the size and athleticism to develop into a true defensive end at the next level, but his agility and quickness also make him a potential EDGE prospect. His ability to shoot gaps, redirect in space, and finish plays demonstrates why D2 programs should be keeping a close eye on him as the postseason unfolds.     2027 Spring Valley QB/ATH [player_tooltip player_id='1154726' first='Caiden' last='Lovejoy'] was thrust into action this season for the Timberwolves a year earlier than expected due to an injury to a teammate. He's done a nice job as a first-year varsity starter and has improved as the season has progressed. Running a Wing-T system, Lovejoy's passing attempts are limited, but he's been efficient when his name has been called in that facet, with 9 touchdowns to just 1 interception. He's also added over 200 yards and 2 touchdowns on the ground as a versatile athlete who will benefit from this unexpected experience this season.

Get 30% Off Your Subscription with Code PRZWV30 at Checkout!