GAMES TO WATCH
CLASS AA
No. 4 Bluefield (12-1) vs. No. 2 Bridgeport (12-1)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: The Beavers took out defending state champion Fairmont Senior, 40-24, at East-West Stadium. The Indians beat previously unbeaten Oak Glen, 38-7.
Why it’s important: Two of the storied programs in the state meet on this stage for the first time. Bluefield eliminated Bridgeport in a semifinal each of the last two seasons. The Beavers are pursuing a 12th state championship, while the Tribe are after No. 10.
Who to watch for Bluefield: On a team filled with college prospects, quarterback Carson Deeb has developed into one of the main standouts. Deeb threw four touchdown passes against the Polar Bears to give him 32 TDs this season.
Wideouts Jahiem House and Brandon Wiley are the main components of the passing attack, while tailback J.J. Davis can take it the distance anytime. On defense, Sean Martin is a high-level performer up front and linebacker Shawn Mitchell seems to always get to the ball.
Who to watch for Bridgeport: Carson Winkie continues to shine at any role he’s asked to fill. Winkie rushed for 201 yards against the Golden Bears. Quarterback Devin Vandergrift can hurt the opposition with his legs and will likely have to make plays to keep the Beavers’ defense from focusing too much on Winkie and fellow backs Brian Henderson and Trey Pancake.
CLASS A
No. 10 Wheeling Central (9-4) vs. No. 1 Doddridge County (13-0)
When: Saturday, 7 p.m.
Last week: The Maroon Knights took care of business at Pendleton County, 27-7. The Bulldogs handled Williamstown, 27-3.
Why it’s important: Wheeling Central is seeking a three-peat and its second title in three seasons with four losses and a No. 10 seed. The Maroon Knights had their way with Doddridge County in a semifinal last season. The Bulldogs’ only Super Six appearance came in 1978, but they’ve won 25 of 26 games over the last two seasons.
Who to watch for Wheeling Central: Linebacker Adam Murray is the two-time reigning Huff Award winner and keys a defense that’s allowed 19 points in three playoff games. Jacob Rine has done an admirable job at quarterback since taking over for the injured Curtis McGhee. Jordan Waterhouse and Jalen Creighton are primary playmakers at tailback and wideout, respectively.
Who to watch for Doddridge County: Tailback Hunter America draws the bulk of attention from opposing defenses and is the focal point of the Bulldogs’ offense. The Bulldogs have two playmakers in their secondary in Griffin Devericks and Hunter Jenkins, while experienced lineman Cole James is powerful up front.