[30 going on 40]

Well my prediction is also based off seeing Shelby Valley play several times this year as well but if you want to go based off of stats in general then I'll be happy to do that too. Shelby Valley is 8th overall in the state in rushing offence, Chandler Rowe is 15th overall and I'm sure Tackett isn't far behind. I wonder what NCC's defence ranks in the state. Looking at the figures and reading some of the posts, their defence seems to be their weakest link.

As far as the defense/defence thing, it's the same word with a different spelling. Just like color/colour, neighbour/neighbor, theater/theatre, and several other words. It's a matter of preference. The English language is a funny one like that.

Anyway, nearly game time! I'm excited. Best of luck and safe travels for both teams!

What I meant is, I never look at where teams are in statewide stats b/c many times that's a product of who they played. I'm not sure that NewCath has ever had a top 10 defense in 2A, b/c, to be honest, many of the 2A teams play terrible teams during the regular season and NewCath doesn't. Those AA schools can't help but build huge stats. Look at Owensboro Catholic. They annually average 45pts+ per game during the regular season. Look at Johnson Central, every year they look like an absolute juggernaut statistically, then they run in to Highlands or CovCath and stats go out the window. If you haven't been challenged and had your weaknesses exposed, I don't see how you can get better. It is great running for 300 yards a game, but if you can't pass it consistently at key moments, then you will get beat by teams that can get ahead. If it isn't NewCath, it will be De Sales.