GAMES TO WATCH
George Washington (4-5) at No. 3 Capital (8-1)
When: Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Last week: GW suffered a costly 38-35 loss at Woodrow Wilson. The Cougars handled Riverside 41-0.
Why it’s important: The Patriots can make the postseason by pulling off the upset, while the Cougars want to ensure themselves of at least two home games in the playoffs.
Who to watch for George Washington: Quarterback Grant Wells has played at a high level nearly every week and threw for three touchdowns, while running for another two scores in last week’s loss. Alex Mazelon is Wells’ favorite target and hauled in a pair of receiving TDs a week ago.
Who to watch for Capital: Quarterback Kerry Martin Jr. could have a big game against a defense that’s allowed 34 points per game. For the Patriots to move the ball, they’ll have to account for the Cougars’ disruptive nose tackle, Kalai Clark.
South Charleston (3-6) at No. 12 Cabell Midland (5-4)
When: Friday at 7 p.m.
Last week: The Black Eagles cruised by St. Albans for a 66-6 win. The Knights were on a bye week and last played Oct. 19 when they knocked off Huntington 21-7.
Why it’s important: A Cabell Midland win gives the Knights a better chance of winning an opening round playoff game, while South Charleston is trying to close the season on a strong note after losing each of its first five games.
Who to watch for South Charleston: Quarterback Shyleik Kinney was 9-of-14 passing with 161 yards and three touchdowns, to go with 112 rushing yards and two TDs on five carries in last week’s runaway win.
Who to watch for Cabell Midland: Running back Ivan Vaughn is the focal point of an offense that’s gone back to the basics and been able to win in the trenches to help establish its rushing attack.
CLASS AA
No. 10 Wayne (7-2) at No. 5 Poca (9-0)
When: Friday at 7 p.m.
Last week: The Pioneers picked up a seventh straight win by topping Logan 46-8. Poca stayed perfect for the season with a 14-9 win over Herbert Hoover.
Why it’s important: An eighth straight Wayne win could put the Pioneers in position to host a first-round playoff game. If Poca can remain unbeaten, it will be no lower than the No. 4 seed — ensuring the Dots of at least two home playoff games should they get past the opening round.
Who to watch for Wayne: Quarterback Gunner Harmon keys an offense that relies on production from a number of players. Harmon has 1,008 passing yards and 11 touchdowns and is the team’s fifth leading rusher with 167 yards and five additional TDs.
Who to watch for Poca: Owen McClanahan accounted for all but 15 yards of the Dots’ total offense a week ago.
Other games: Riverside (1-8) at Greenbrier East (5-4); Hurricane (4-5) at St. Albans (1-8); Nitro (2-7) at Scott (1-8); Herbert Hoover (1-8) at Logan (3-6); Sissonville (5-4) at Braxton County (1-8); Winfield (4-5) at Mingo Central (7-2)