Each week, we will preview and offer a prediction for every Northern 5A football game. Here is our Week 12 preview.
5A-II
No. 5 Reno at No. 4 Douglas: Reno is heading to Minden for a regional quarterfinal game against Douglas. Reno is coming off a win over McQueen, which decided which team would be relegated to the 5A-III division next season. In their regular-season matchup, Douglas beat Reno 20-13. However, WR Brenton Weston has been playing a bigger role for the Tigers in recent weeks with 45 catches for 818 yards and 11 touchdowns. Reno quarterback Braylon Wilson was key in the Huskies’ success against McQueen. If Reno’s run game gets going, it could pose a challenge for Douglas’ defense. Prediction: Douglas 24, Reno 21
No. 6 McQueen at No. 3 Spanish Springs: Spanish Springs faces McQueen in a regional quarterfinal game after falling just short of a first-round bye. In their previous meeting, Spanish Springs dominated McQueen with a 33-13 win. Spanish Springs’ junior Cooper Milligan rushed for three touchdowns in that game. Prediction: Spanish Springs 42, McQueen 24
5A-III
No. 6 Hug at No. 3 Carson: Carson hosts Hug in a quarterfinal game, with the winner advancing to play Damonte Ranch. Carson had a tough loss to the Mustangs in their last game, but they shouldn’t have trouble scoring against Hug, whom they beat 37-0 earlier this season. Prediction: Carson 42, Hug 6
No. 5 Wooster at No. 4 North Valleys: Wooster heads into the quarterfinal game after two wins, including a victory over Hug. North Valleys previously defeated Wooster 42-14, with Hayden Lewis rushing for 162 yards and two touchdowns. Junior quarterback Mikole Almond has been impressive in the last two games. Prediction: North Valleys 42, Wooster 6
As the Northern 5A playoff games progress, the competition intensifies, and teams are giving it their all to advance to the next round. Stay tuned for more updates and results from the exciting matchups in the Northern 5A football playoffs.