West Virginia Playoffs Preview: The Quarterfinals

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p id="block-32896c7d-e14b-42fd-9249-e04a7ae8bf4f"><strong><em>Get 30% Off Your Subscription with Code PRZWV30 at Checkout!</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>32 teams have advanced to the playoff quarterfinals after the opening round of the postseason in West Virginia. Here is our playoff quarterfinals preview for round two.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>CLASS AAAA</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#1 MORGANTOWN vs #8 SPRING MILLS</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Morgantown comes in as the top seed, boasting standout names like sophomore QB [player_tooltip player_id='923337' first='Maddox' last='Twigg'], senior WR/DB [player_tooltip player_id='1686033' first='Carter' last='Cooper'], [player_tooltip player_id='1113235' first='Keltin' last='Blunt'], and RB [player_tooltip player_id='1566055' first='Isaiah' last='Thompson']. On the line, the Mohigans feature senior OL [player_tooltip player_id='1238323' first='Blake' last='Buffington'], [player_tooltip player_id='894627' first='Brayden' last='Parks'] and senior defensive tackle [player_tooltip player_id='1138540' first='Zevon' last='Shipman'] leading their physical front. Morgantown's strength lies in its ability to control the line of scrimmage, sustain drives, and leverage Twigg's dual-threat skills along with Thompson's power running.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Spring Mills arrives with plenty of players who can swing the game. Key contributors include senior record-setting QB [player_tooltip player_id='894975' first='Rylan' last='Swartz'], junior WR [player_tooltip player_id='1157627' first='Zane' last='Wipf'], and senior RB [player_tooltip player_id='894727' first='Blake' last='Sanders'], TE/DE [player_tooltip player_id='894977' first='Xavier' last='Anderson'], senior RB/OLB [player_tooltip player_id='1137482' first='Bradley' last='Butts'], senior WR/CB [player_tooltip player_id='894974' first='Isaiah' last='Wang'], and senior OL/DL [player_tooltip player_id='1138543' first='Abelardo' last='Meza']. The Cardinals will need to play with urgency and set the tone early; if they can win the trenches with Butts and Meza and force Morgantown into uncomfortable situations, they have a chance to flip the script and make the top seed work for every yard.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Morgantown 24</strong> Spring Mills 14</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#2 HUNTINGTON vs #7 UNIVERSITY</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The #2 Huntington Highlanders enter the quarterfinals with one of the deepest and most physical rosters in Class AAAA. Senior captain [player_tooltip player_id='894642' first='Tayveon' last='Wilson'] leads the offense with his athletic dual-threat ability, while sophomore running back MayShaun Okonkwo provides explosiveness between the tackles. In the trenches, Huntington leans on veteran linemen [player_tooltip player_id='866257' first='Mason' last='Ramsey'], [player_tooltip player_id='1138205' first='Caleb' last='Parlier'], and [player_tooltip player_id='866258' first='Aryn' last='McPherson'] to control the line of scrimmage, and senior linebacker [player_tooltip player_id='866678' first='Bryce' last='Winkfield'] sets the tone for a defense that prides itself on speed and discipline. Their formula is simple: dominate physically, limit mistakes, and utilize their athletes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The challenge comes from the #7 University Hawks, a team built around skill, tempo, and an explosive passing attack. Quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='1271395' first='Harrison' last='Helbig'] gives the Hawks flexibility in how they structure their offense, with playmakers on the outside, including receivers [player_tooltip player_id='1326514' first='Hayden' last='George'], [player_tooltip player_id='1137708' first='Glenn' last='Brown'], [player_tooltip player_id='1154937' first='Kaleil' last='Lewis'], among others. University's growth under head coach Eric Snyder has been evident, especially with a more seasoned core returning this fall. For the Hawks to pull the upset, they'll need to push the pace, take advantage of matchups in space, and avoid getting bogged down in Huntington's physicality. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Huntington 48</strong> University 21</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#3 MARTINSBURG vs #6 WHEELING PARK</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Martinsburg comes into this game with a young but battle-tested core. Junior [player_tooltip player_id='895900' first='Brian' last='Dick'] has stepped into a bigger role as the Bulldogs' QB and dual-threat, and has already shown he can run and throw effectively with a high-level target out wide in junior [player_tooltip player_id='1154974' first='Boston' last='Todd']. At running back and linebacker, senior [player_tooltip player_id='895913' first='Terrell' last='Cofield'], junior [player_tooltip player_id='1155328' first='Kingston' last='McDonald-Gibson'], and sophomore [player_tooltip player_id='1566054' first='Kevin' last='Myers'] provide valuable experience, speed and toughness. Meanwhile, in the defensive backfield, senior [player_tooltip player_id='1605272' first='Mason' last='Walley'] (CB) and junior [player_tooltip player_id='1154709' first='Ty' last='Ricketts'] (WR/DB) bring speed and versatility. Martinsburg's strength lies in its disciplined, balanced attack and its ability to lean on versatile seniors.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Wheeling Park brings a dangerous, explosive offense built around its returning playmakers. The star is senior running back [player_tooltip player_id='1137687' first='Brennan' last='Wack'], the 2024 Curt Warner Award winner, whose breakaway speed and power make him a matchup nightmare. At quarterback, junior [player_tooltip player_id='658279' first='Jay' last='Bordas'] has improved steadily and can extend plays, while senior wideout [player_tooltip player_id='894679' first='Owen' last='Dobrzynski-Hines'] gives him a reliable target with big-play ability. On defense and special teams, senior safety [player_tooltip player_id='894628' first='Isaac' last='Sands'] and senior DB [player_tooltip player_id='1139032' first='Jed' last='Hunley'] anchor the secondary. For Park to pull off the upset, they'll need Wack to dominate the line of scrimmage and Bordas to make timely throws under pressure.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Martinsburg 56</strong> Wheeling Park 21</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#4 JEFFERSON vs #5 GEORGE WASHINGTON</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jefferson brings a youthful but dangerous roster into this game, led by quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='896585' first='Jackson' last='Rockwell'], who also contributes in the secondary. On the outside, WR [player_tooltip player_id='1605206' first='Tony' last='Allen'] Jr. and ATH [player_tooltip player_id='894673' first='Takiem' last='Drake'] are a big-play threat at wide receiver and defensive back, and he may even get touches in the backfield in certain packages. Anchoring Jefferson's line is senior Kirk Waldeck, whose physicality up front should give the Cougars some stability as they try to control the pace.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>George Washington counters with a veteran-laden squad under longtime coach Steve Edwards Jr., and they lean on senior quarterback Cy Persinger to run their offense. At the skill positions, the Patriots feature freshman running back [player_tooltip player_id='1826125' first='Jaden' last='Black'], who is equally comfortable carrying the load as a young player, while senior receiver [player_tooltip player_id='894639' first='Sameje'' last='Wesley'] and junior Kai Martin provide big-play potential in the passing game. On defense, LB [player_tooltip player_id='1139383' first='Casey' last='Adkins'] and DL Landyn Hamilton bring energy and tackling prowess, and Martin's versatility in the secondary gives GW flexibility.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction: Jefferson 28</strong> George Washington 21</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>CLASS AAA</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#1 BRIDGEPORT vs #9 CHAPMANVILLE</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bridgeport enters this quarterfinal with a dominant, battle‑hardened squad. Junior [player_tooltip player_id='1155329' first='Gavin' last='Williams'] is a true workhorse in their rushing‑first offense, capable of breaking big runs and even returning punts, while [player_tooltip player_id='1154891' first='Gabe' last='Martin'] helps anchor their backfield and contribute on defense. Up front, Bridgeport leans on its veteran line, including senior linemen like [player_tooltip player_id='2004256' first='Bryson' last='Lowther'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1138213' first='Noah' last='West'], to open holes and control the point of attack. The Indians' physicality and depth give them a big‑play edge, especially in a high-stakes home game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Chapmanville Regional, meanwhile, is riding an undefeated season into this showdown, led by sophomore quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='1315124' first='Dakota' last='Dalton'], who makes plays with both arm and legs. At running back, senior [player_tooltip player_id='1139377' first='Preston' last='Kovach'] is the engine of Chapmanville's ground game, averaging over 100 yards per game, while senior linebacker/running back [player_tooltip player_id='1268282' first='Jeremy' last='Collins'] brings added physicality and versatility. On the outside, junior receiver [player_tooltip player_id='1238236' first='Trey' last='Ward'] gives Dalton a go‑to target and has been a consistent impact both in the passing game and on defense. If Chapmanville wants to pull off the upset, Dalton must stay efficient, Kovach must dominate the line of scrimmage, and Ward needs to make the big plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction: Bridgeport 56</strong> Chapmanville 14</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#2 PRINCETON vs #7 HERBERT HOOVER</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Princeton comes in with a dynamic and balanced core. Senior Brad Mossor, who plays both receiver and defensive back, is one of the top weapons in the state, with senior QB [player_tooltip player_id='1011963' first='Chance' last='Barker'] getting him the ball in a variety of ways. A deep and talented offensive line provides adequate support in both the passing and running game, with [player_tooltip player_id='864598' first='Landyn' last='Moore'], [player_tooltip player_id='1138211' first='Jimmy' last='Bowling Jr'], Zayden Neely, and [player_tooltip player_id='1324950' first='Kolton' last='Shockley'] leading the way. The Tigers' strength is their ability to spread the field and make plays in space, forcing their opponents to defend all three levels.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Herbert Hoover counters with a physical, well-rounded squad. Senior Blake Fisher is a leader for the Huskies, while sophomore QB [player_tooltip player_id='1166650' first='Peyton' last='Grigsby'] spreads the ball around and executes the offense effectively. In the backfield and at linebacker, Devin Silvas brings physicality, and on the line, senior center Mighty Lopez anchors Hoover's trench play. For Hoover to pull the upset, they'll need to lean on their toughness up front, let Silvas break free, and disrupt Princeton's timing on offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Princeton 34</strong> Herbert Hoover 21</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#4 NORTH MARION vs #5 NITRO</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>North Marion brings a well-rounded, fundamentally sound team into the quarterfinals. Sophomore running back [player_tooltip player_id='1311022' first='Brian' last='Poindexter Jr'] provides a reliable downhill threat, while senior tight end/LB [player_tooltip player_id='1705455' first='Landyn' last='Stemple'] offers versatility, contributing both as a blocker and a force in the second level. At quarterback, senior [player_tooltip player_id='894625' first='Toby' last='Michael'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1844914' first='Cole' last='Morris'] split time as plus athletes capable of moving around positionally, senior linebacker [player_tooltip player_id='1139400' first='Josh' last='Holden'], and senior defensive tackle [player_tooltip player_id='1138208' first='Logan' last='Gump'] to anchor a physical front. Their identity is built on disciplined play, clean execution, and capitalizing on their opponents' mistakes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Nitro counters with a high-powered, big-play offense and a defense that can strike back quickly. Senior QB [player_tooltip player_id='894669' first='Eian' last='Duffy'] controls the tempo and can make plays with his arm or legs. In the backfield, senior [player_tooltip player_id='1307512' first='Chris' last='Radcliffe'] brings speed and elusiveness, and an imposing target outside in [player_tooltip player_id='866254' first='Malachi' last='Thompson'], who forces matchup issues. Defensively, LB [player_tooltip player_id='894666' first='Wyatt' last='Sowards'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1343744' first='Antonio' last='Lerose'] bring physicality and versatility to both sides of the ball. On the edge and in the trenches, senior linemen [player_tooltip player_id='866256' first='Xavier' last='Patterson'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1723705' first='Cohen' last='Lusher'] are key pieces who can swing momentum with their strength. For Nitro to win, Duffy must stay sharp, Radcliffe must set the tone with their ground game, and the front line must win their battles to disrupt North Marion's rhythm.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>North Marion 28</strong> Nitro 27</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#6 SPRING VALLEY vs #14 ROBERT C. BYRD</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Spring Valley will lean on a disciplined, team‑oriented approach with a big, physical offensive line led by senior [player_tooltip player_id='971539' first='Marcus' last='Lewis'], [player_tooltip player_id='1138231' first='Maddox' last='Barron'], [player_tooltip player_id='1138207' first='Michael' last='Shy'], and [player_tooltip player_id='1138214' first='Braxton' last='Carter'] in the Wing-T. RB [player_tooltip player_id='1683404' first='Zeke' last='Lewis'] has broken out as a senior this season as their top ball carrier, with [player_tooltip player_id='1137479' first='Miguel' last='Cain'] and Camren Perdue plenty capable themselves. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Robert C. Byrd, though a lower seed, has some key contributors who could make this a tight game. Dual-threat QB [player_tooltip player_id='1154702' first='Isaiah' last='Heflin'] orchestrated the Eagles' upset win over Fairmont Senior in round one, with [player_tooltip player_id='1154706' first='Junior' last='Smith'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1701488' first='Isaiah' last='Calvert'] as one of their primary ball‑carriers, and [player_tooltip player_id='1743469' first='Elijah' last='Holmes'] and Kobe Duarte provide potential playmaking in the backfield or as receivers. For Byrd to pull off another upset, they'll need Heflin to manage the game efficiently and have another strong performance by their offensive and defensive lines led by [player_tooltip player_id='882762' first='Trevor' last='Dean'], [player_tooltip player_id='1324949' first='Julian' last='Bailey'], and [player_tooltip player_id='1138210' first='Braydon' last='Hendricks']. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Spring Valley 35</strong> Robert C. Byrd 14</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>CLASS AA</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#1 FRANKFORT vs #8 MINGO CENTRAL</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Frankfort comes in as the top seed with a veteran-laden roster, anchored by senior QB [player_tooltip player_id='1234073' first='Blake' last='Jacobs'], who now leads from under center, and junior [player_tooltip player_id='1154895' first='Braydn' last='Tyler'] and senior [player_tooltip player_id='1580708' first='Carder' last='Shanholtz'], who bring versatility as running backs. At wideout, senior [player_tooltip player_id='2004059' first='Keiton' last='Nester'] gives them a reliable and explosive target in the passing game, and in the trenches, lineman [player_tooltip player_id='1616382' first='Anthony' last='Smith'] anchors their offensive and defensive front. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Mingo Central, despite being the underdog, has some dangerous weapons to make this a real test. Junior QB [player_tooltip player_id='1687819' first='Jamere' last='Knuckles'] is a dual-threat and has thrown and run for big yardage.. Running back Bam Coleman is a breakout threat in the backfield, while senior [player_tooltip player_id='908000' first='Aidan' last='Burke'] offers flexibility from his roles at receiver and defensive back. Linebacker [player_tooltip player_id='907920' first='Taegan' last='Hackney'] gives Mingo Central physicality and leadership in the second level. For the Miners to pull off the upset, Knuckles must be efficient, Coleman and Burke have to make explosive plays, and their defense needs to stay disciplined and bend-but-don't-break against a polished Frankfort offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Frankfort</strong> <strong>42</strong> Mingo Central 7</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#2 BLUEFIELD vs #7 MIDLAND TRAIL</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bluefield comes into the quarterfinal as a powerful, well-balanced team. Sophomore QB [player_tooltip player_id='1166648' first='Max' last='Simpson'] leads the offense with poise, while sophomore RB [player_tooltip player_id='1958273' first='Jeremiah' last='Jones'] is a downhill runner who brings physicality and toughness. On the perimeter, junior WR/CB Jamarius Smith, sophomore Paxtyn Calhoun, and junior [player_tooltip player_id='1866730' first='Tylee' last='Simon'] give them a field‑stretching threat. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Midland Trail, meanwhile, has built its season on toughness and veteran leadership. Senior RB [player_tooltip player_id='2047490' first='Jayden' last='Roop'] is a two-way force, capable of producing in the backfield and putting pressure off the edge. At QB, sophomore Rayce Dickerson provides steady decision‑making and mobility, while a senior-heavy offensive line paves the way with a physical rushing attack. For Midland Trail to pull the upset, Roop and his offensive line have to dominate the line of scrimmage, Dickerson must be efficient, and the Patriots have to play mistake-free football and control time of possession.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Bluefield 35</strong> Midland Trail 13</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#3 PHILIP BARBOUR vs #11 CLAY COUNTY</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Philip Barbour brings a well-balanced, veteran-heavy squad into this game. Senior wideout and defensive back [player_tooltip player_id='928036' first='Cameron' last='Bennett'] is a key playmaker, while senior corner/receiver [player_tooltip player_id='1692921' first='Malachi' last='Poling'] adds size and versatility. At quarterback, [player_tooltip player_id='1430947' first='Robbie' last='Jones'] (a sophomore) provides dual‑threat capabilities, and running back/linebacker [player_tooltip player_id='1580728' first='Tyler' last='Vance'] gives the Colts a physical presence in both the run game and on defense. Up front, senior linemen like [player_tooltip player_id='1138206' first='Malachi' last='Cross'] help anchor the line, making Barbour dangerous in power and tempo.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Clay County, though seeded lower, has some standout names that can make noise. Sophomore QB Cooper Collins leads the Panthers with his arm for an explosive passing attack. At receiver and in the secondary, senior [player_tooltip player_id='1466136' first='Jakoby' last='Nichols'] and sophomore [player_tooltip player_id='1580722' first='Joel' last='Elliott'] bring playmaking upside, while OLB/RB [player_tooltip player_id='1155291' first='Blake' last='Coleman'] and Brody Scarbro add toughness and versatility on both sides of the ball. For the Panthers to pull off the upset, Collins will have to manage the game well, Nichols and Elliott must stretch the field, and Coleman and Scarbro need to make key plays in the running game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Philip Barbour 42</strong> Clay County 34</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#4 INDEPENDENCE vs #5 DODDRIDGE COUNTY</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Independence enters this game with a fast-tempo offensive identity, anchored by rising sophomore quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='1221843' first='Brock' last='Green'], who took over as a true freshman and is now being relied upon to direct one of the state's more dynamic attacks. In the backfield, veteran [player_tooltip player_id='1136973' first='Sylas' last='Nelson'] returns to provide a physical, productive presence. On the perimeter, senior receiver [player_tooltip player_id='1137685' first='Christian' last='Linksweiler'] and freshman [player_tooltip player_id='1690836' first='KJ' last='Viars'] give Green a go-to weapon and the offense a reliable playmaker. Defensively, leaders like EDGE [player_tooltip player_id='1139374' first='Landon' last='Riddle'] and DL [player_tooltip player_id='862720' first='Isaiah' last='Conley'] bring experience and toughness, helping Independence defend aggressively and keep momentum on their side.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Doddridge County, meanwhile, offers a well-balanced, multi-dimensional roster. Senior signal-caller Brysen Dixon brings experience and steadiness under center, while sophomore RB [player_tooltip player_id='1591340' first='Lyric' last='Blake'] and junior [player_tooltip player_id='1354405' first='Brandon' last='Davis'] anchor their backfield with a physical running style. At receiver and on the edge, senior [player_tooltip player_id='866670' first='Landon' last='Thomas'] gives them size and playmaking in both the passing game and on defense. In the secondary, [player_tooltip player_id='1137704' first='Jerod' last='Trent'], a WR/CB, adds speed and coverage ability. For the Bulldogs to pull off the upset, they'll need Dixon to make efficient decisions, their running backs and offensive line to consistently win at the point of attack, and their defense to respond with discipline to Independence's tempo.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Independence 24</strong> Doddridge County 14</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>CLASS A</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#1 WHEELING CENTRAL vs #8 TUCKER COUNTY</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Wheeling Central comes in as the top seed with a roster built on experience and depth. Junior QB Nico Kusic returns as a dual‑threat leader, having demonstrated growth in his second year as a starter. In the backfield, explosive senior [player_tooltip player_id='1580716' first='Kade' last='Koroneos'] brings breakaway speed and power, while receivers like senior [player_tooltip player_id='1473308' first='Max' last='Olejasz'] and junior Joey Jerome give Kusic multiple options in the passing game. Up front, a veteran offensive line anchored by senior tackle [player_tooltip player_id='1693735' first='Luke' last='Wear'] and junior center [player_tooltip player_id='1155194' first='Dominic' last='Paesani'] helps Central control the line of scrimmage. On defense, senior LB [player_tooltip player_id='895003' first='Wyatt' last='Brady'] brings physicality, and the secondary features playmakers like [player_tooltip player_id='895002' first='Joey' last='Hall'] and Kusic who are comfortable making big plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Tucker County, as the #8 seed, features some dangerous playmakers who can threaten Central if given opportunities. Senior QB Sam Marks will try to push the tempo and make big throws. Leading receiver Reid Kisamore, known for his speed, is primed to be a go-to target, while senior lineman [player_tooltip player_id='1693727' first='Josh' last='Crossland'] provides toughness up front and leadership. To pull off an upset, Tucker County will need Marks to be efficient, Kisamore to make explosive plays, and Crossland plus Reall to win the battle in the trenches and disrupt Central's rhythm.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Wheeling Central 42</strong> Tucker County 13</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#2 WAHAMA vs #7 CAMERON</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In a showdown of last season's Class A state championship rematch, Wahama enters as a powerhouse, building off its recent success with a fast, physical offense. [player_tooltip player_id='1155319' first='Trace' last='Simpkins'], the junior quarterback, returns after a breakout season, and his dual-threat ability is central to the Falcons' attack. With Connor Lambert gone, Wahama will rely on junior [player_tooltip player_id='1155323' first='Reezin' last='Stitt'], if healthy, and transfer [player_tooltip player_id='1693748' first='Treyvon' last='Bearhs']. Up front, linemen like [player_tooltip player_id='1578632' first='Alijah' last='Hicks'] and [player_tooltip player_id='894991' first='Teagan' last='Scott'] anchor the line and give the Falcons the kind of balance and push needed to sustain long drives. Defensively, players such as [player_tooltip player_id='1316520' first='Jake' last='Roberts'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1155323' first='Reezin' last='Stitt'] bring leadership, speed, and playmaking ability, making Wahama dangerous in all phases.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cameron, the underdog, brings back important pieces that could make this a real battle. Junior quarterback Kason Angel is experienced, athletic, and capable of making plays with both his arm and his legs. At running back, [player_tooltip player_id='1154892' first='Marshall' last='Holland'], who has already shown he can be a workhorse, will be key to keeping the chains moving. Cameron will be counting on physicality, timely plays, and discipline to disrupt Wahama's rhythm.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Wahama 35</strong> Cameron 13</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#3 CLAY-BATTELLE vs #11 WIRT COUNTY</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Clay‑Battelle comes into this quarterfinal matchup with a physical, run‑first identity that's powered by seniors like [player_tooltip player_id='1624352' first='Caleb' last='Hall'] and Caleb Snodgrass, whose combined explosiveness in the backfield has been central to the Cee‑Bees' success. Quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='1881425' first='Corey' last='Coen'] provides added versatility and can make plays with his arm or his legs. Coen is backed by reliable targets, including senior receivers [player_tooltip player_id='1137698' first='Braden' last='Ponceroff'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1921624' first='Trey' last='Huggins']. Defensively, Clay‑Battelle leverages its deep line, anchored by senior DL [player_tooltip player_id='1138224' first='Kooper' last='Statler'], to control the point of attack and set the tone against both the run and the pass.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>On the other side, Wirt County heads into this game riding momentum from a gritty first‑round upset. Sophomore quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='882030' first='Tyler' last='Smith'] led the charge with 211 passing yards and three touchdowns in their win over St. Marys, including a critical touchdown to [player_tooltip player_id='1971735' first='Andrew' last='Lemley']. Backing Smith is running back Adryon Hartford, who's been a steady force on the ground, and their passing attack has found playmakers in younger contributors like freshman [player_tooltip player_id='1971735' first='Andrew' last='Lemley']. For Wirt County to extend its run, they'll need Smith to stay poised, Hartford to sustain drives, and their defenders to continue making high‑impact plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Clay-Battelle 42</strong> Wirt County 20</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">#4 PENDLETON COUNTY vs #12 EAST HARDY</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pendleton County comes into this game rooted in experience and playmakers. Sophomore QB [player_tooltip player_id='951269' first='Colton' last='Roberson'] is having another big season, having thrown for over 2,000 yards and rushed for 1,000 yards. The Owens brothers, [player_tooltip player_id='1137709' first='Chase' last='Owens'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1624377' first='Travis' last='Owens'], give Roberson a reliable target and playmaker in open space. Up front, Pendleton returns key linemen, including [player_tooltip player_id='1697679' first='Ty' last='Heavner'], Sam Eason, and Spencer Hartman, to anchor both sides of the ball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>East Hardy may be the underdog, but they're quietly dangerous with an offense built around their talented signal caller, [player_tooltip player_id='864946' first='Trevor' last='Roof'], a junior who's capable of making plays with his arm and legs. Power comes via junior back [player_tooltip player_id='1052387' first='Garrett' last='VanMeter'], who the coaching staff expects to be a downhill force. In the receiving corps, seniors [player_tooltip player_id='1605775' first='Khristian' last='Bauserman'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1235250' first='Levi' last='Price'] bring speed and quickness, while Dayton Dove, another versatile athlete, gives East Hardy flexibility on both offense and defense. Defensively, senior lineman Korbin Miller brings size and toughness, and VanMeter helps lead a unit that will need to stay disciplined.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Score Prediction:</strong> <strong>Pendleton County 48 </strong>East Hardy 32</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->