VISSA Division I semifinal: Fork Union (7-3) at Collegiate (8-1) Saturday 1:30 p.m.
The Basics: The previous meeting between these two was a classic that saw both teams come back from significant deficits with Collegiate scoring in the final minutes of the game to pick up the victory on the road. Just like last time around, it should be a game of contrasting styles with Fork Union looking to run behind their big line and the Cougars passing on nearly every down, with the exception being when their quarterback Jake McGee tucks and runs. Motivation shouldn’t be an issue. The winner heads to the VISAA championship next week.
Key Matchup: The Blue Devils’ defensive line versus Cougars quarterback Jake McGee. According to Woodberry coach Clint Alexander, whose Tiger team is the only squad that beat Collegiate, there’s only one thing you have to do and that’s take the running threat away from McGee. Three weeks ago the Blue Devils were able to do that in the first quarter and jump out to a big lead. They’ll have to do it this time for all four quarters to keep their season alive.
Who to Watch: McGee. Not only is he the cornerstone of the Collegiate offense, he also plays the lone safety position on the Cougars’ defense which is geared to stop the run. If the Fork Union offense can keep McGee at safety and not quarterback, it’ll go a long way toward helping their chances.
SP’s line: Collegiate by 1.5. If the Blue Devils can keep for turning the ball over they can beat any team they play, but at the same time, anyone who’s seen McGee play will attest to this – he’s the best athlete at quarterback Virginia’s private schools have to offer this season.
Woodberry Forest (7-1) at Episcopal (4-4) 2 p.m. Saturday
The Basics: What hasn’t already been said about the South’s longest running rivalry. More than 100 installments of “The Game” have forced tensions to run high in this heavyweight battle. Still, Woodberry appears to be in good shape going into the latest contest, with solid playmakers and a host of strong seniors in key positions.
Key matchup: Woodberry’s defense tries to contain Hunter deButts, Episcopal’s star quarterback. The Tigers have proven that they can beat quarterbacks like McDonogh’s Rudy Johnson and Collegiate’s Jake McGee. Aramaide Olaniyan, Duke Mosby and John Abutu will have to play big-time football to contain deButts, a dual threat style signal-caller.
Who to watch: Woodberry’s Ed Reynolds takes a final crack at Episcopal. Expect big things from the senior Saturday.
SP’s line: Woodberry by 7.5. Based on common opponents, the Tigers get the edge with wins over Collegiate and FUMA, teams that beat Episcopal.
VISSA Division II semifinal: Atlantic Shores (5-5) at Blue Ridge (6-3) 1:30 p.m. Monday
The Basics: Blue Ridge is the No. 1 seed and holds home field advantage. They’ve also got a psychological edge — the Barons beat the Seahawks 40-28 just two weeks ago. Can the Barons take care of business against Atlantic Shores again despite some injuries. This one was delayed from Saturday because of flooding in the Tidewater area that prevented Atlantic Shores from traveling.
Key matchup: Blue Ridge’s linebackers take on the Atlantic Shores rushing attack. Multiple runners carry the load for the Seahawks, and once again the Barons’ linebackers will have their hands full.
Who to watch: Blue Ridge’s A.J. Williams. He’s the top playmaker for the Barons and he’s the top wideout in Central Virginia. If he gets the ball in his hands, good things happen.
SP’s line: Blue Ridge by 7.5. Barons march on.
