— By Fred Persinger II
CLASS AA
No. 5 Keyser (10-1) at No. 4 Bluefield (10-1)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last Week: Keyser notched its eighth shutout this season against Liberty Harrison, 53-0. Bluefield rolled by Man, 48-16.
Why it’s important: Both teams met in this same spot last season and another spot in a Class AA semifinal is at stake here. This matchup is one of the most intriguing of any quarterfinal game. The Golden Torando’s lone loss is to Bridgeport, while the Beavers only setback came against Lord Botetourt (Va.). in Week 3.
Who to watch for Bluefield: Keyser is averaging 50 points per game and the Golden Tornado should provide a strong test for the Beavers’ defense.
It will be interesting to see if the speed and athletic ability of the Beavers can slow down Keyser and what kind of an impact defensive end Sean Martin will have. Martin consistently wreaks havoc off the edge and disrupts opposing team’s rushing attacks and passing plays.
Keyser’s defense has the aforementioned eight shutouts this season, but it remains to be seen if the Golden Tornado can contend with the likes of speedy skill players J.J. Davis and Jahiem House.
CLASS A
No. 5 Williamstown (9-2) at No. 4 Greenbrier West (10-1)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last Week: Williamstown was stingy in its 42-0 win over Tug Valley. Greenbrier West had its way with Tygarts Valley, 52-13.
Why it’s important: The Yellowjackets expect to be in this spot annually, while the Cavaliers have proven themselves to be one of the top teams in Class A all season. With a spot in a semifinal on the line, can Greenbrier West’s potent offense produce against a team that has given up more than 30 points once this season — that in a season-opening loss to Wheeling Central. Williamstown’s only other loss is against No. 1 Doddridge County.
Who to watch for Greenbrier West: Quarterback Kaiden Pack had a memorable performance in last week’s win over the Bulldogs — accounting for touchdowns with both his arm and legs, in addition to playing a pivotal role in the kicking game and being a defensive standout. Noah Brown is a standout in the team’s explosive rushing attack.