VHSL Football Region Standings After Week 10

One final week left! Teams that are in bold are our area teams, those also underlined have clinched a postseason bid in their respective region.

NOTE: Teams with (**) beside them have clinched their seeding. It will not change regardless of Week 11 results.


REGION 6B (Top 7 In, #1 Seed Bye To Round Two)

1) Colonial Forge: 9-0, 36.0
2) Manchester: 8-1, 33.667
3) Thomas Dale: 7-2, 31.778
4) James River: 5-4, 26.222
5) Riverbend: 3-6, 25.444
6) Franklin County: 3-6, 23.667
7) Clover Hill: 2-8, 21.3
--
8) Cosby: 1-8, 20.222

REGION 6A Top 4: 1) Landstown, 2) Ocean Lakes, 3) Oscar Smith, 4) Woodside

*******

REGION 5B (Top 8 In):

1) Hermitage: 9-1, 33.8**
2) Highland Springs: 8-1, 31.889**
3) Henrico: 7-2, 30.111
4) Varina: 7-2, 28.222
5) L.C. Bird: 6-3, 28.0
6) Lee-Davis: 6-3, 26.222
7) Deep Run: 5-4, 24.556
8) Mills Godwin: 5-4, 23.667
--
9) J.R. Tucker: 4-5, 23.444
10) Meadowbrook: 3-6, 23.0
11) Douglas Freeman: 4-6, 22.6
12) Prince George: 4-5, 22.556
13) Matoaca: 3-6, 22.222

REGION 5A Top 4: 1) Hampton, 2) Salem (VB), 3) Indian River, 4) Princess Anne

*******

REGION 4B (Top 8 In):

1) Dinwiddie: 9-0, 32.222
2) Monacan: 9-0, 31.111
3) Louisa: 9-0, 30.889
4) Eastern View: 9-0, 28.667
5) Midlothian: 5-4, 23.889
6) Patrick Henry: 5-4, 23.556
7T) Courtland: 5-4, 23.333
7T) Huguenot: 5-4, 23.333
--
9) King George: 20.889
10) Hanover: 20.667

REGION 4A Top 4: 1) Lafayette, 2) King's Fork, 3) Deep Creek, 4) Smithfield

*******

REGION 3A (Top 8 In):

1) Phoebus: 9-0, 32.667
2) I.C. Norcom: 8-1, 29.333
3) Hopewell: 6-3, 24.889
4) York: 6-3, 23.444
5) Southampton: 6-3, 22.778
6) Park View-SH: 5-3, 22.625
7) Lakeland: 3-6, 21.556
8) Booker T. Washington: 4-5, 20.778
--
9) Petersburg: 4-5, 19.889
10) Colonial Heights: 3-6, 19.667
11) New Kent: 4-5, 19.222

REGION 3B (Top 8 In):

1) Thomas Jefferson: 6-3, 25.556**
2) Warren County: 5-4, 20.778
3) James Monroe: 3-6, 20.222
4) Spotsylvania: 4-5, 20.0
5) Culpeper County: 3-6, 19.111
6) Brentsville District: 3-6, 18.667
7) Skyline: 4-5, 18.333
8) Armstrong: 2-7, 17.0
--
9T) John Marshall: 1-8, 15.333
      George Wythe: 0-9, 15.333
11) Manassas Park: 1-8, 14.778
12) William Monroe: 2-7, 14.556

*******

REGION 2A (Top 8 In):

1) Poquoson: 7-2, 25.0
2) Goochland: 8-0 (VHSL games only), 24.75
3) Greensville: 7-2, 22.667
4) Amelia: 7-2, 20.556
5) Nottoway: 6-3, 20.222
6) King William: 4-5, 18.222
7) Brunswick: 3-5, 16.375
8) Bruton: 2-7, 16.111
--
9) Prince Edward: 4-5, 15.778
10) Nandua: 4-6, 15.3
11) Arcadia: 3-6, 14.889

REGION 2B Top 4: 1) Clarke Co., 2) Central-Woodstock, 3) RE Lee-Staunton, 4) Luray

*******

REGION 1A (Top 8 In):

1) Essex: 8-1, 23.667
2) Sussex Central: 7-2, 21.889
3) Washington & Lee: 7-2, 19.556
4) Colonial Beach: 6-3, 19.444
5) West Point: 7-2, 19.111
6) Northumberland: 6-3, 18.778
7) Middlesex: 5-4, 16.0
8) Northampton: 4-5, 14.667
--
9) Rappahannock: 3-6, 13.778
10) Surry: 2-7, 13.222
11) Chincoteague: 4-4, 13.0

REGION 1B Top 4: 1) Riverheads, 2) William Campbell, 3) Central-Lunenburg, 4) Altavista

WEEK 10 FOOTBALL FINALS:

#5 Manchester 26, #1 Hermitage 20
#2 Dinwiddie 24, #11 Hopewell 6
#3 Highland Springs 42, Patrick Henry 20
#4 Monacan 41, Midlothian 7
#6 Thomas Dale 55, Granby 24
#7 Henrico 27, Lee-Davis 20
#8 L.C. Bird 53, George Wythe 6
#9 Varina 63, Atlee 21
#10 Goochland 51, Prince Edward 8
#12 Louisa 62, Charlottesville 27
Petersburg 20, Meadowbrook 13
Thomas Jefferson 62, William Campbell 34
Matoaca 28, Prince George 21
Deep Run 39, Glen Allen 33
J.R. Tucker 35, John Marshall 22
James River 49, Cosby 10
Powhatan 28, Albemarle 20
Huguenot 31, Clover Hill 21
Mills Godwin 16, Douglas Freeman 0
Hanover 56, Armstrong 18
King William 39, West Point 26
Essex 35, Washington & Lee 0
Nottoway 28, Amelia 22

WEEK 10 FOOTBALL PRIMER

The playoffs, the rivals, the showdowns, the big games, we cover it all here to get you ready for the biggest Friday night of the season.....so far!

GAME OF THE WEEK BROADCAST: Lee-Davis (6-2) at #7 Henrico (6-2), 7pm (Airtime 6:30pm on WHAN 102.9 FM/1430 AM, online by CLICKING HERE, and on TuneIn Radio App on "Radiall")

Lee-Davis needs a signature win. Their six wins come to teams all at .500 or worse with a combined 15-34 record. Their two losses, both at home, were by a combined 87 points, not finding the end zone against either Varina and Highland Springs. Now they go to Henrico, where they let a win slip away two years ago. Meanwhile, Henrico, bringing one of the area's best defenses to the table, look for revenge from a loss last year in Mechanicsville in a game they let slip away. The Warriors are ranked third in Region 5B and can get a stranglehold on that position with a win. Lee-Davis must win tonight for any hope of a first round game in Region 5B, in fact, Lee-Davis needs a win tonight or next Friday in the Tomato Bowl to fully ensure a playoff bid. Lass vs. Chambers, and two defenses who need some big plays to get their team a win. Hope you'll join us live for all the action! (TWITTER: @hanoversports and @henricosports)

NBC12 GAME OF THE WEEK: #1 Hermitage (9-0) at #5 Manchester (7-1), 7pm

A game we've been discussing since the schedule release over the summer. The Lancers will bring a "measuring stick" to see how far they've come. Their lone loss was a 42-35 shootout with unbeaten Monacan in September. Meanwhile, Hermitage has already defeated #3 Highland Springs, #6 Thomas Dale, #7 Henrico and #9 Varina. If the Panthers win, they are the #1 seed in Region 5B, period. If they lose, the door opens, slightly, for Highland Springs to win out and make it another close race for the top. Manchester needs a win and likely two Colonial Forge (8-0) losses to earn the top seed in Region 6B, which comes with a first round bye. Many will focus on Hermitage's defense trying to stop Manchester's offense, but, the key to this one may be the other way around. Hermitage hasn't had to win a track meet yet this year. In fact, against better defenses, they've scored 14, 21 and 27 points. Does this mean a game into the 30's or 40's favors the homestanding Lancers?  (TWITTER: @Cameron9408, RT's on @henricosports and @cfieldsports)

#2 Dinwiddie (8-0) at #11 Hopewell (6-2), 7pm

The Generals continue another run towards an unbeaten regular season, and their last big hurdle comes at Merner Field, and Dinwiddie probably isn't too happy about the fact that Hopewell comes off their biggest loss of the season last Friday at Thomas Dale. Dinwiddie is one of four unbeaten teams in Region 4B, currently leading Monacan by .75 points in the latest VHSL standings. Beating a six-win Blue Devil squad will help keep them at the top with a game to go. Hopewell, with a win, has an outside chance at the #2 seed in Region 3A, but is more likely headed to the postseason as a #3 seed. York and Southampton loom behind them, so they need at least a 1-1 record in the end to finish there. Can Hopewell's defense be the one to finally slow down Dinwiddie? We're about to find out. (TWITTER: @TheRVASportsNet)

#3 Highland Springs (7-1) at Patrick Henry (5-3), 7pm

It's Senior Night for Hunter Hart and the Class of 2018, a class critical in the recent resurgence of Patriots football. They also remember the pounding they took at the hands of Highland Springs a year ago, and look to make amends. Patrick Henry is one of the few teams in the area with some speed that can at least limit the Highland Springs offense to a point. But they can't always stop them. They also cannot get into a track meet. Three weeks ago, when Varina did just that, and Patrick Henry's offense stalled, it got out of hand quickly. For the Springers, they want to take care of business in Ashland, find out if Hermitage lost, then turn their attention fully to an improved Varina team coming in for the Springers' Senior Night November 3rd. Highland Springs has an outside hope at the top seed in Region 5B, while Patrick Henry is fighting Midlothian, Huguenot and Courtland for playoff position in Region 4B. The Patriots could finish anywhere from 5th to out. We'll know if next week's Tomato Bowl at Lee-Davis on our Game of The Week is a must-win game for the postseason for Patrick Henry by the time we hit the air with "On The Sidelines Extra" on NBC12's Facebook page Friday night at 11:33. (TWITTER: @hanoversports and @henricosports)

#4 Monacan (8-0) at Midlothian (5-3), 7pm

The Chiefs come off an emotional Senior Night win over L.C. Bird, their first in 19 years, and head to Poates Stadium, where they'll run into a buzzsaw in the Trojans, who are on their way to the playoffs for the first time since 1986. Kyle Daniluk now gets a chance to show how good a quarterback he is, facing the Chiefs' defense. The big battle here will be between Monacan tailback Korey Bridy and the Trojans' front seven defensively. Keep Bridy in check, earn a turnover or two, and always score when you're in opponent territory. Do that, Midlothian, and you have a shot. Monacan realizes that, with Dinwiddie ahead of them, and Louisa and Eastern View right behind them, in Region 4B standings, all at 8-0, they cannot afford a slip either tonight or next week at Huguenot. Both opponents could end up being first round Region 4B opponents for the Chiefs in two weeks.

Granby (6-2) at #6 Thomas Dale (6-2), 7pm

The Knights step out of district play one final time to battle the Comets, and, even though their position in third in Region 6B is relatively secure, meaning a home game in Round One in two weeks, a win tonight seals it. Granby knocked off Lake Taylor earlier in October 14-12, so this is a challenge for Thomas Dale, who will look to their "Dark Zone Defense" to again lead the way. If seeds hold in the region, and both teams win their first round game, it could be Thomas Dale at Manchester in the region semifinals in three weeks. First things first, the Knights need a win tonight. (TWITTER: @cfieldsports)

George Wythe (0-8) at #8 L.C. Bird (5-3), 7:30pm

The Skyhawks look to end a rare two-game losing skid against the winless Bulldogs. Heavily favored, the problem facing L.C. Bird is, even with a win, there are no bonus power points for beating a winless team, while the team they are tied for in fourth place in Region 5B, Varina, can pick up four bonus points tonight with a win at Atlee (2-6). It's entirely possible the Skyhawks could be outside the top four, in the playoffs but facing a road trip in the first round, even if L.C. Bird wins out (they have one-win Cosby next week). But all that Marcus Banks, C.J. Donaldson and company can do right now is focus on Friday, get the win, focus on Cosby, get the win, then let the chips fall where they may. The Skyhawks are dangerous in the postseason, any year, every year, including this one. (TWITTER: @cfieldsports)

#9 Varina (6-2) at Atlee (2-6), 7pm

The fact that Varina lost at home in the final minute to Henrico two weeks ago may say more about how good Henrico is as opposed to questioning the return to prominence of Varina. We've seen the Blue Devils up close, and they have tons of playmakers. Tonight they look to spoil Senior Night at Atlee, where the Raiders simply have too many teams to have to overcome to attempt to realistically be in the Region 5B playoff race, even with an upset tonight, with a week to go. But, if Tyler Warren and company can play well, finally get Isaac Abel (and maybe Isaiah) really going in the running game and limit both turnovers and the total number of Blue Devil possessions, anything can happen. For Varina, Brion Logan looks to manage his offensive weapons, get Richardson, Coles and company going earlier, grab a lead and work from there. The Blue Devils want to be 7-2 when they head to archrival Highland Springs next Friday looking for their first win in the rivalry since a 20-0 win in November, 2012. (TWITTER: @henricosports and @hanoversports)

#10 Goochland (8-0) at Prince Edward (4-4), 7pm

The top seed in Region 2A may be a bit out of reach, but the two seed is theirs if Goochland grabs a road win tonight, then takes care of #3 Amelia on November 3rd. The formula never changes for the Bulldogs: running attack, ball control, good defense. Expect nothing different when they travel southwest Friday night. (TWITTER: @TheRVASportsNet) 

Charlottesville (6-2) at #12 Louisa (8-0), 7:30pm

The Lions continue to play at a high level for outgoing head coach Mark Fischer, keeping emotions even in spite of everything happening around them regarding their leader. They've taken it all and used it to their advantage, scoring 62 points in each of their last two victories. Now Charlottesville comes in, currently fifth in Region 4D but still with a shot any of the top four positions, especially with a win tonight. Thus, the Lions must avoid the pitfalls prevalent around them and use their distinct home-field advantage, well, to their advantage. Malik Bell leads the offense, but the Lions' defense is the unit most tested tonight. (TWITTER: @TheRVASportsNet)

Mills Godwin (4-4) at Douglas Freeman (4-5), 7pm

One of a group of games tonight that will go a long way in determining who's in, who's out and who has a prayer in Region 5B for the final two spots with a week to go. This is the Rebels' Senior Night and their last game of the season. A sixth loss would damage their playoff hopes, especially since the team they're playing, would likely vault ahead of them in the standings. Currently, the Rebels are in tenth at 22.778 points, the Eagles 12th at 22.375. If Deep Run, Prince George and Meadowbrook also all win, the Rebels are out with a loss. If Freeman gets the home win, Glen Allen can beat Deep Run and Matoaca beat Prince George, suddenly, the Rebels have high hopes for the postseason. If they make it, a first round date with Hermitage or Highland Springs would be likely. If the Eagles win on the road, they'll likely be one of four or even five teams fighting for two playoff spots next Friday. (TWITTER: @henricosports)

Glen Allen (2-6) at Deep Run (4-4), 7pm

While the Jaguars' hopes for the playoffs are about done, they have much to play for these final two weeks. Wins at Deep Run, then at home over J.R. Tucker, would give Glen Allen a 4-6 mark, which would match the best regular season in the Jags' seven year history. Devin Flowers needs a big night, and, conversely, for Deep Run to stay in the top eight in Region 5B, the Wildcats can't let Flowers grow and pile up points on the scoreboard. He's a threat to score multiple touchdowns every game. The Wildcats have five teams within 1.250 points of them in Region 5B, Deep Run currently in seventh, with Prince George and Meadowbrook tied for eighth just .625 behind. Deep Run cannot afford another loss. Winning out (they face Mills Godwin next week), and they're likely in the postseason. They're hoping, that if they slip tonight or next Friday, Thomas Dale can defeat Prince George and Hopewell can beat Meadowbrook. Both would be positives for Deep Run if they can't take care of business themselves. (TWITTER: @henricosports) 

John Marshall (1-7) at J.R. Tucker (4-4), 7pm

The Tigers are another team in that group fighting for the #7 and #8 seeds in Region 5B. A win tonight won't give them many bonus points, with the Justices having only one victory, but win they must to be in the conversation on the final night of the season. Tucker is 11th, 1.125 points behind Deep Run in seventh. A win tonight, coupled with wins by Glen Allen, Matoaca (over Prince George), and Petersburg (over Meadowbrook), would put J.R. Tucker in prime position for their first playoff berth of the 21st Century. The good news is, most people didn't give the Tigers a chance to be in this position on October 27, yet here they are. They must win, and hope to get some help. Step one is taking care of the Justices, who, with a win themselves, suddenly re-enters them into the Region 3B postseason conversation with a date looming next week with Region leader Thomas Jefferson. (TWITTER: @henricosports)

Hanover (1-7) at Armstrong (2-6), 7pm

The Hawks, yes, are still in the Region 4B conversation, thanks to their rugged strength of schedule. Playing 8-0 Monacan and Massaponax, even at 4-5, in non-district helps the Hawks. But they simply must win tonight against the Wildcats, which means keeping the score under 24 points, as Armstrong has shown several times this season that their offense can do the job. Hanover hasn't scored over 20 points in a game this year. They may need to tonight. The Hawks are less than two points out of the eighth and final playoff spot, and a win tonight, a Caroline win over Courtland, and preferably, a Clover Hill win at Huguenot, to make it a four-team race for the #7 and #8 seeds in the region with a week to go, and King George, a fifth team, also in the discussion. The Foxes have a bye this week. (TWITTER: @hanoversports and @TheRVASportsNet) 

Clover Hill (2-7) at Huguenot (4-4), 7pm

Now we get to the Falcons, who saw Courtland overtake them for seventh in Region 4B, so in the eighth and final spot, they need a win tonight or at least a win over Midlothian next week to be in position to clinch a postseason bid, which would be a giant step forward for the Huguenot program. But Clover Hill has tons to play for. The Cavaliers, with a win tonight, all but clinch a bid in Region 6B, and, with a Cosby loss, likely officially clinches. This will be a desperate game, even though both teams are currently in their postseason races. It will have a feel of a game where two teams must win and get help. (TWITTER: @cfieldsports and @TheRVASportsNet)

Cosby (1-7) at James River (4-4), 7pm

A huge rivalry, desperation for the visitors, opportunity for the home team. The Titans and Rapids have split their last four meetings. For James River, they are fighting Riverbend for the fourth seed in Region 6B, but Riverbend faces North Stafford, and if the Rapids and Bears both win, Riverbend likely takes over fourth by beating an opponent with six wins, 12 bonus points versus two. James River can't worry about that right now, they need to take the great discipline they showed taking Monacan to overtime a few weeks back and get a rivalry win, keeping emotions in check. The Rapids will play in the postseason. They'd love to play November 10th at home, and make Riverbend come to Chesterfield rather than the other way around. (TWITTER: @cfieldsports) 

OTHER GAMES:

Matoaca at Prince George, 7pm: Royals try to stay in Region 5B playoff race, currently tied for eighth and final playoff spot with Meadowbrook with J.R. Tucker, Douglas Freeman and Mills Godwin right behind. The Royals are big Petersburg fans tonight (see below).

Appomattox at Colonial Heights, 7pm: A must win for the Colonials to have any hope of getting into the Region 3A playoffs.

Meadowbrook at Petersburg, 7:30pm: The Monarchs draw a big step closer to grabbing one of the final two spots in the postseason in Region 5B with a win, while rooting for Matoaca, Glen Allen, Mills Godwin and John Marshall to be victorious tonight.

Courtland at Caroline, 7pm: Courtland holds the final playoff berth in Region 4B, Caroline is 12th. Hanover roots for Caroline and with a win over Armstrong, and the race for the final spot goes down to next Friday (ninth place King George is idle).

New Kent at York, 7pm: It's almost make or break for the Trojans tonight in Region 3A. A win vaults them into the playoff picture with a date against Warhill next week, a loss, and some other results going against them, will make the playoff picture difficult.

King William at West Point, 7pm: The Cavs are back in the top eight in Region 2A and, with a win over 7-1 West Point, could solidify that positioning. Five teams are hoping for the final two bids, and the Cavaliers could come very close to taking one of them with a victory.

Thomas Jefferson (5-3) at William Campbell (7-1), 7pm: The Vikings can clinch their first winning season since the Bicentennial with a victory, but to do it they must travel 107 miles to face one of the top teams in Region 1B. It's a first-time meeting, so anything can happen. The Vikings end regular season play next Friday against John Marshall. Winning both ensures clinching the number one seed in Region 3B.

REMINDER: For the latest high school football news throughout Friday night, do the following!

1) Listen to Game of The Week at 6:30pm (information at top of page)

2) Follow our Twitter Network for hyper-local coverage: @TheRVASportsNet for Richmond, Tri-Cities and surrounding counties, @hanoversports, @henricosports or @cfieldsports. 

3) Follow our @Cameron9408 as he'll be live tweeting from #1 Hermitage at #5 Manchester!

4) Watch "On The Sidelines" on NBC12 at 11:15pm with Marc Davis and Matt Estreich, who will be live at Manchester High School, for all the highlights and scores!

5) Join the conversation! Go to www.facebook.com/NBC12News right after "On The Sidelines" at 11:33pm for "On The Sidelines Extra", as Rob Witham of the RVA Sports Network joins Marc Davis for in-depth analysis of the Week 10 action, the latest look at the region playoff races, AND we take your questions on Facebook, live!

TEAMS WHO HAVE CLINCHED PLAYOFF BERTHS:

Region 6B: Colonial Forge, Manchester, Thomas Dale
Region 5B: Hermitage, Highland Springs, Henrico
Region 4B: Dinwiddie, Monacan, Louisa, Eastern View, Midlothian
Region 3A: Hopewell
Region 3B: Thomas Jefferson
Region 2A: Goochland, Amelia
Region 1A: Essex 

HONORS: All-Region 5B Competition Cheer Team

Congratulations to the following student-athletes for being named to the Region 5B Competition Cheer All-Region Team:

FIRST TEAM:

Halsey Perry, Deep Run
Livvie Irwin, Deep Run
Lily Bengel, Deep Run
Berkeley Ayers, Deep Run
Kate Anderson, Atlee
Caitlin Holzman, Atlee
Sydney Ellis, Atlee
Mikaelyn Whittaker, Atlee
Amyia Mason, Matoaca
Kaylee Mitchell, Matoaca

SECOND TEAM:

Demoni Stephenson, Matoaca
Haley Field, Matoaca
Brianna Cappelli, Lee-Davis
Sophie Knighton, Lee-Davis
Alexis Williams, Lee-Davis
Emma Hasley, Lee-Davis
Logan Gutzmer, Mills Godwin
Isabella Wilder, Mills Godwin
Erika Reiter, Mills Godwin
Morgan Blackwell, Mills Godwin

TOURNAMENT CENTRAL: Field Hockey, Volleyball

FIELD HOCKEY:

REGION 6B:

QUARTERFINALS (Wednesday 10/25 at Higher Seed)

#2 Clover Hill 4, #7 Manchester 2
#3 Riverbend 3, #6 Colonial Forge 1
#4 James River 1, #5 Thomas Dale 0 (OT)

SEMIFINALS (Monday 10/30 at Higher Seed)

#1 Cosby 4, #4 James River 2
#3 Riverbend 4, #2 Clover Hill 1

CHAMPIONSHIP (Wednesday 11/1 at Higher Seed)

#3 Riverbend 3, #1 Cosby 2 (OT)

REGION 5B (All matches at River City SportsPlex, Fields TBA):

QUARTERFINALS (Thursday 10/26)

#1 Deep Run 16, #8 Henrico 0
#2 Prince George 3, #7 Glen Allen 0
#3 Mills Godwin 2, #6 Lee-Davis 0
#5 Atlee 1, #4 Matoaca 0 (OT)

SEMIFINALS (Monday 10/30)

#1 Deep Run 5, #4 Atlee 3
#2 Prince George 3, #3 Mills Godwin 1

CHAMPIONSHIP (Wednesday 11/1)

#1 Deep Run 4, #2 Prince George 0

********

REGION 4C:

FIRST ROUND (Wednesday 10/25 at Higher Seed):

E.C. Glass 1, Caroline 0

QUARTERFINALS (Monday 10/30 at Higher Seed

#1 Chancellor 9, #8 E.C. Glass 0
#4 Patrick Henry 2, #5 Charlottesville 1 (OT)
#2 Hanover 4, #7 Louisa 1
#3 Courtland 6, #6 King George 1

SEMIFINALS (Wednesday 11/1 at Higher Seed)

#1 Chancellor 3, #4 Patrick Henry 0
#3 Courtland 4, #2 Hanover 0


REGION 4B:

QUARTERFINALS (Monday 10/30 at Higher Seed)

#1 Powhatan 16, #8 Denbigh 0
#5 Lafayette 1, #4 Grafton 0 (OT)
#3 Midlothian 1, #6 Monacan 0
#2 Warhill 3, #7 Jamestown 0

SEMIFINALS (Wednesday 11/1 at Higher Seed)

#1 Powhatan 1, #5 Lafayette 0
#2 Warhill 1, #3 Midlothian 0

CHAMPIONSHIP (Thursday 11/2 at Higher Seed)

#1 Powhatan 1, #2 Warhill 0

REGION 1-3A:

FIRST ROUND (At Higher Seed):

Bruton 1, Hopewell 0
New Kent 11, Booker T. Washington 0
Phoebus d. Southampton

QUARTERFINALS (Monday 10/30 at Higher Seed):

Game 1: Tabb 9, Bruton 1
Game 2: York 6, Lakeland 2
Game 3: Poquoson d. New Kent
Game 4: Colonial Heights 5, Phoebus 0

SEMIFINALS (Wednesday 11/1 at Higher Seed):

Tabb 4, York 0
Poquoson 9, Colonial Heights 0

CHAMPIONSHIP (Thursday 11/2 at Higher Seed):

Tabb 6, Poquoson 0

REGION 3B:

QUARTERFINALS:
#1 James Monroe 5, #8 Spotsylvania 0
#4 Culpeper 4, #5 Monticello 2
#2 George Mason 6, #7 Northumberland 0
#3 Maggie Walker 6, #6 Western Albemarle 0

SEMIFINALS (Tuesday October 31st at Higher Seed):

#1 James Monroe 8, #4 Culpeper 0
#3 Maggie Walker GS 4, #2 George Mason 2

CHAMPIONSHIP (Thursday November 2nd at Higher Seed):

#1 James Monroe 5, #3 Maggie Walker GS 0

*******

BOYS VOLLEYBALL:

CLASS 1-4 WESTERN SECTION TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE:

FIRST ROUND: (Tuesday October 31 at Higher Seed)

Dinwiddie 3, Armstrong 0
Petersburg d. Thomas Jefferson

QUARTERFINALS: (Thursday November 2 at Higher Seed)

Game 1: #1 Patrick Henry 3, #8 Dinwiddie 0
Game 2: #5 Hanover 3, #4 Maggie Walker GS 0
Game 3:  #2 Midlothian 3, #7 Petersburg 0
Game 4: #3 Colonial Heights 3, #6 Monacan 1

SEMIFINALS: (at Higher Seed)

#1 Patrick Henry 3, #5 Hanover 0
#2 Midlothian 3, #3 Colonial Heights 0

CHAMPIONSHIP:

#1 Patrick Henry 3, #2 Midlothian 0 (Photo Courtesy @PHBoysVBall) 

REGION 5B:

QUARTERFINALS (Monday October 30th at Higher Seed)

#1 Deep Run 3, #8 Prince George 0
#5 Atlee 3, #4 Glen Allen 2
#3 Douglas Freeman 3, #6 L.C. Bird 2
#2 Lee-Davis 3, #7 Mills Godwin 0

SEMIFINALS (Wednesday November 1st, Atlee HS)

#1 Deep Run 3, #5 Atlee 2
#3 Douglas Freeman 3, #2 Lee-Davis 0

CHAMPIONSHIP (Wednesday November 8th, Atlee HS)

#1 Deep Run 3, #3 Douglas Freeman 2

REGION 6B:

QUARTERFINAL (Monday October 30 at Higher Seed)

#4 Clover Hill 3, #5 Manchester 2

SEMIFINALS (Wednesday November 1 at Higher Seed)

#1 James River 3, #4 Clover Hill 1
#3 Cosby 3, #2 Thomas Dale 1

CHAMPIONSHIP (Tuesday November 7, at Higher Seed)

#3 Cosby 3, #1 James River 0

************

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL:

REGION 2A:

CHAMPIONSHIP (Wednesday November 8 at Higher Seed)

Goochland 3, Poquoson 0

REGION 4B:

FIRST ROUND: (Tuesday October 31 at Higher Seed)

#8 Patrick Henry 3, #9 Louisa 0
#5 Powhatan 3, #12 Eastern View 0
#7 Monacan 3, #10 Dinwiddie 0
#6 King George 3, #11 Caroline 0

QUARTERFINALS (Thursday November 2 at Higher Seed)

Game 1: #1 Chancellor 3, #8 Patrick Henry 1
Game 2: #4 Midlothian 3, #5 Powhatan 1
Game 3: #2 Hanover 3, #7 Monacan 0
Game 4: #3 Courtland 3, #6 King George 0

SEMIFINALS (Tuesday November 7 at Higher Seed)

#4 Midlothian 3, #1 Chancellor 2
#2 Hanover 3, #3 Courtland 0

CHAMPIONSHIP (Wednesday November 8 at Higher Seed)

#2 Hanover 3, #4 Midlothian 2

REGION 5B:

QUARTERFINALS (Monday October 30, note site locations!)

#1 Glen Allen 3, #8 Prince George 0
#4 Matoaca 3, #5 Douglas Freeman 1
#3 Deep Run 3, #6 Mills Godwin 2
#2 Atlee 3, #7 Lee-Davis 1

SEMIFINALS (Thursday November 2 at Atlee HS)

#4 Matoaca 3, #1 Glen Allen 2
#2 Atlee 3, #3 Deep Run 2

CHAMPIONSHIP (Wednesday November 8 at Atlee HS)

#2 Atlee 3, #4 Matoaca 1

REGION 6B:

QUARTERFINALS (Monday October 30 at Higher Seed)

#1 Cosby 3, #8 Manchester 0
#4 Franklin County 3, #5 Colonial Forge 2
#6 Riverbend 3, #3 James River 1
#2 Thomas Dale 3, #7 Clover Hill 2

SEMIFINALS (Wednesday November 1 at Higher Seed)

#1 Cosby 3, #4 Franklin County 1
#6 Riverbend 3, #2 Thomas Dale 0

CHAMPIONSHIP (Tuesday November 7 at Higher Seed)

#6 Riverbend 3, #1 Cosby 0

FOOTBALL: New VHSL Region Standings

More shakeups in Region 5B, while we still have four unbeaten teams in Region 4B and Thomas Jefferson builds its lead in Region 3B with just two Fridays to go in the regular season. Below are the latest Region standings based on the Virginia High School League (VHSL) point system. Also noted are the top four teams in regions outside the area whose champion will play the region champion for our area in state semifinal action on December 2nd. Team records are posted as well (VHSL games only).

Remember that Region A in all classes will host Region B in the state semifinal round. The top eight teams make the postseason in all listed regions except Region 6B, which takes the top seven teams and gives the #1 seed a bye out of the first round.

*********

REGION 6B:

1) Colonial Forge: 8-0, 35.75
2) Manchester: 7-1, 31.5
3) Thomas Dale: 6-2, 30.125
4) James River: 4-4, 25.375
5) Riverbend: 3-5, 25-125
6) Franklin County: 3-6, 23.222
7) Clover Hill: 2-7, 21.0
---
8) Cosby: 1-7, 19.75

Region 6A Top Teams: 1) Landstown, 2) Ocean Lakes, 3) Oscar Smith, 4) Woodside

********

REGION 5B:

1) Hermitage: 9-0, 33.556
2) Highland Springs: 7-1, 30.875
3) Henrico: 6-2, 28.25
4T) L.C. Bird: 5-3, 27.625
4T) Varina: 6-2, 27.625
6) Lee-Davis: 6-2, 26.375
7) Deep Run: 4-4, 23.625
8T) Meadowbrook: 3-5, 23.0
8T) Prince George: 4-4, 23.0
---
10) Douglas Freeman: 4-5, 22.778
11) J.R. Tucker: 3-5, 22.5
12) Mills Godwin: 4-4, 22.375
13) Glen Allen: 2-6, 20.875
14T) Matoaca: 2-6, 20.625
14T) Atlee: 2-6, 20.625

Region 5A Top Teams: 1T) Hampton and Salem (VB), 3) Indian River, 4) Princess Anne

********

REGION 4B:

1) Dinwiddie: 8-0, 30.75
2) Monacan: 8-0, 30.0
3) Louisa: 8-0, 29.25
4) Eastern View: 8-0, 27.5
5) Midlothian: 5-3, 23.75
6) Patrick Henry: 5-3, 23-25
7) Courtland: 4-4, 22.5
8) Huguenot: 4-4, 22.125
---
9) King George: 3-6, 20.333
10) Hanover: 1-7, 19.25
11) Chancellor: 2-7, 18.556
12) Caroline: 2-6, 18.125
13) Powhatan: 2-6, 18.0

Region 4A Top Teams: 1) Deep Creek, 2) Lafayette, 3) Smithfield, 4) King's Fork

********

REGION 3A:

1) Phoebus: 8-0, 31.5
2) IC Norcom: 8-1, 29.0
3) Hopewell: 6-2, 24.5
4) Southampton: 6-2, 23.0
5) York: 5-3, 22.25
6) Park View-SH: 4-3, 20.857
7) Booker T. Washington: 4-5, 20.333
8) Lakeland: 2-6, 20.0
---
9) Colonial Heights: 3-5, 19.75
10) New Kent: 4-4, 19.375
11) Petersburg: 3-5, 18.375
12) Tabb: 1-7, 15.75

REGION 3B:

1) Thomas Jefferson: 5-3, 23.5
2) Spotsylvania: 4-4, 20.25
3) James Monroe: 3-5, 19.75
4) Warren County: 4-4, 19.5
5) Skyline: 4-4, 18.625
6) Culpeper County: 2-6, 18.25
7) Armstrong: 2-6, 17.375
8) Brentsville District: 2-6, 17.0
---
9T) Manassas Park: 1-7, 14.875
9T) John Marshall: 1-7, 14.875
11T) George Wythe: 0-8, 14.5
11T) William Monroe: 2-6, 14.5

********

REGION 2A:

1) Poquoson: 7-1, 25.25
2) Goochland: 7-0, 23.714
3) Amelia: 7-1, 21.0
4) Greensville: 6-2, 20.625
5) Nottoway: 5-3, 18.25
6) Bruton: 2-6, 16.25
7) King William: 3-5, 15.75
8) Nandua: 4-5, 15.333
---
9) Prince Edward: 4-4, 15.25
10) Brunswick: 2-5, 15.143
11) Arcadia: 3-6, 14.667
12) Bluestone: 2-7, 13.556

Region 2B Top Teams: 1) Clarke County, 2) Central-Woodstock, 3) RE Lee-Staunton, 4) Luray

********

REGION 1A:

1) Essex: 7-1, 21.875
2) Sussex Central: 7-1, 21.75
3) Washington & Lee: 7-1, 19.625
4) West Point: 7-1, 19.375
5) Colonial Beach: 5-3, 19.9
6) Northumberland: 5-3, 17.625
7) Middlesex: 4-4, 15.25
8) Rappahannock: 3-5, 14.0
---
9) Franklin: 2-6, 12.875
10) Surry: 2-6, 12.75
11) Northampton: 3-5, 12.625
12) Chincoteague: 4-4, 12.5
13) Charles City: 2-6, 11.125

Region 1B Top Teams: 1) Riverheads, 2) William Campbell, 3) Central-Lunenburg, 4) Altavista

(Photo Courtesy of Joel Klein)

Final Super 7 Polls: Field Hockey, Volleyball

The 2017 field hockey regular season is in the books, and volleyball comes to a close on Thursday. Thus, here are the final RVA Sports Network polls for each sport as we prepare for postseason play!

FIELD HOCKEY:

1) Deep Run
2) Cosby
3) Prince George
4) Mills Godwin
5) Powhatan
6) Matoaca
7) Maggie Walker GS


BOYS VOLLEYBALL:

1) Patrick Henry
2) Midlothian
3) Lee-Davis
4) Deep Run
5) James River
6) Douglas Freeman
7) Cosby


GIRLS VOLLEYBALL:

1) Goochland
2) Hanover
3) Glen Allen
4) Atlee
5) Deep Run
6) Matoaca
7) Midlothian

WEEK 9 FOOTBALL SCOREBOARD

#1 Hermitage 38, Douglas Freeman 6
#2 Dinwiddie 52, Petersburg 6
#3 Highland Springs 63, Atlee 20
#4 Monacan 37, #7 L.C. Bird 22
#5 Manchester 68, Clover Hill 7
#6 Thomas Dale 41, #8 Hopewell 6
#12 Varina 42, #9 Lee-Davis 3
#10 Henrico 54, Hanover 14
#11 Goochland 51, Randolph-Henry 8

Midlothian 20, Cosby 14
Mills Godwin 28, Glen Allen 21
Meadowbrook 27, Matoaca 10
Prince George 42, Colonial Heights 8
Huguenot 51, George Wythe 0
Deep Run 42, John Marshall 20
Chancellor 28, Caroline 27
Louisa 62, Orange 25
Monticello 49, Powhatan 7
Collegiate 21, Fork Union MA 18
Essex 72, Lancaster 7
Smithfield 28, New Kent 7
King William 22, Middlesex 13
Amelia 56, Central-Lunenburg 49

SATURDAY:
J.R. Tucker at Thomas Jefferson, 12pm
Patrick Henry vs. Armstrong, 4pm, Huguenot HS
Bishop O'Connell at Trinity Episcopal, 2pm

VHSL PLAYOFF PICTURE:

The following teams have clinched playoff berths in their respective regions per RVA Sports Network projections:

6B: Colonial Forge, Manchester, Thomas Dale
5B: Hermitage, Highland Springs
4B: Dinwiddie, Monacan, Louisa, Eastern View, Midlothian
3A: Hopewell
2A: Goochland, Amelia
1A: Essex 

WEEK 9 FOOTBALL PRIMER

Three major matchups within our NBC12/RVA Sports Network Big 12 High School Football Poll, two games that could mean elimination to the loser in Region 5B, and Thomas Jefferson looks to keep their Colonial District winning streak alive. Here's a complete look at Week 9 games and playoff implications!

GAME OF THE WEEK: Atlee (2-5) at #3 Highland Springs (6-1), 7pm (Airtime 6:30pm on WHAN Radio, 102.9 FM, 1430 AM, online by CLICKING HERE, and on TuneIn App on "Radiall"!)

Highland Springs returns from a bye week just under two points behind Hermitage for the top spot in Region 5B, and look to win their fourth straight over the Raiders, who likely face playoff elimination with a loss. A 4-6 record will likely not produce a playoff bid in the region formerly known as 5A South, which has produced the last four 5A State Champions (L.C. Bird's first title in 2012 was in the old Group AAA, Division 5 format). Tyler Warren needs a big night at quarterback for the Raiders, and so does Isaac Abel in the running game. Keep the Springers' offense off the field, that's the best defense for Atlee. The Springers have averaged nearly 52 points per game in their last three wins over Atlee. (TWITTER: @hanoversports, @henricosports)

NBC12 GAME OF THE WEEK: #8 Hopewell (6-1) at #6 Thomas Dale (5-2), 7pm: This is one of three games featuring ranked teams against each other. The Blue Devils travel across the Appomattox River Bridge west on Route 10 riding a six-game winning streak, while Thomas Dale needs a win to solidify their #3 seed currently in Region 6B behind leader Colonial Forge and Manchester. Hopewell has closed the gap some with I.C.Norcom, who lost last week to see Phoebus overtake them for the top spot in Region 3A. This game, as we mentioned on the "On The Sidelines Wednesday Playbook" with Marc Davis Wednesday on Facebook Live could be anything from a defensive slugfest to a track meet, with athletes all over the field on both sides in all three phases of the game. Special teams could drop a big difference-maker in this one. The good news for both teams is a loss won't damage playoff hopes, as both are closing in on first round home games. The Knights and Blue Devils have split their last two meetings. (TWITTER: @MattNBC12, @TheRVASportsNet and @cfieldsports)

#12 Varina (5-2) at #9 Lee-Davis (6-1), 7pm: These Blue Devils are coming off a tough home loss in the final minute to Henrico last week, failing to capitalize on the momentum coming off a big shutout win the week before at Patrick Henry. Lee-Davis comes off a great second half performance in their Stew Bowl win at Atlee. This is Lee-Davis' biggest test since Highland Springs four weeks ago, and that game didn't go well for the Confederates. The latest Region 5B standings go like this:

3) L.C. Bird: 27.571
4) Henrico: 27.429
5) Lee-Davis: 27.143
6) Varina: 25.571

The winner is guaranteed to vault over Henrico into fourth place, thanks to bonus points (two for every win). The Warriors face one-win Hanover. If Monacan knocks off L.C. Bird, the #3 seed is in play, which few people thought could happen. So, both teams are rooting for Monacan, and Hanover. Again, another game with playmakers everywhere, and another game where a special teams play may turn the tide. (TWITTER: @Cameron9408, @hanoversports, @henricosports)

#7 L.C. Bird (5-2) at #4 Monacan (7-0), 7:30pm: It's Senior Night for the Chiefs, whose senior class has been a catalyst to returning a winning tradition to Monacan. But one thing they haven't done is beat L.C. Bird. In fact, they haven't come close, losing by 30 plus points each of the last three seasons. You have to go back to 2010 for the last time the Chiefs lost by just one possession. The Chiefs seek their first win over the Skyhawks this century, while the Skyhawks seek to put last week's disappointing home loss to Manchester behind them. C.J. Donaldson had a big night against the Lancers, can L.C. Bird use a bit of James River on Monacan and try to dominate time of possession with their traditional ground attack? Remember, Monacan is dealing with three other unbeaten teams in their region, Region 4B, while the Skyhawks (see above) are fighting to keep the #3 seed in Region 5B while trying to keep hopes alive to move even higher. (TWITTER: @cfieldsports)

Douglas Freeman (4-4) at #1 Hermitage (8-0), 7pm: It's Senior Night for the Panthers, a class whose three-year regular season record stands at an astounding 27-1. Between them and 9-0 is a Rebel squad who has, by their recent standards, underachieved, but still enter the night as the eighth and final seed in Region 5B. Jack Pollard and Korey Cooper need big nights offensively, as Hermitage will get their points. It's the Panther defensive unit who is key here. If they shut down the Rebel offense, it could be a very happy Senior Night. But even with a loss, Freeman will still be playing for the postseason on their Senior Night next Friday against archrival Mills Godwin, who has a titanic game tonight themselves (see below). (TWITTER: @Noah9700 and @henricosports)

Petersburg (3-4) at #2 Dinwiddie (7-0), 7pm: The Generals seek to take another step closer to another 10-0 regular season as the Crimson Wave enter on the outside looking in in Region 3A, in 11th place, 1.52 points behind #8 Park View-South Hill. Dinwiddie is atop Region 4B, looking at fellow unbeatens Monacan, Louisa and Eastern View right behind them. A Dinwiddie win and a Monacan win likely gives the Chiefs the #1 seed, for this week. Get the job done tonight, Generals, and you'll have the chance to retake #1 next week against Hopewell. (TWITTER: @TheRVASportsNet)

#5 Manchester (6-1) at Clover Hill (2-6), 7pm: The Lancers are sky high after surviving in Chester last week, and still hoping that maybe, with a win tonight and next Friday against a possible 9-0 Hermitage could pull them up to current #1 seed Colonial Forge (8-0) in Region 6B. Two late losses by Forge would do the trick. But the Cavaliers have a lot to play for, too, behind #6 Franklin County by 2.25 points, and leading #8 Cosby by just 1.214 points. If Cosby knocks off Midlothian, Clover Hill, even with a head-to-head win over the Titans earlier this season, could be on the outside looking in with two weeks to go. (TWITTER: @callieyost45 and @cfieldsports)

#10 Henrico (5-2) at Hanover (1-6), 7pm: The Hawks are in "win now" mode, running out of time to enter the top eight in Region 4B, currently ninth, two points behind Courtland. Henrico looks to not get caught in a "trap game" on the schedule after an emotional victory last week at Varina. Lawrence Chambers looks to have a big night, but Hanover did score a season-high 20 points last week when their comeback effort at Patrick Henry fell just short. Henrico's defense, however, continues to impress, and will pose a big test for Hanover. Henrico hosts Lee-Davis next Friday on the Game of The Week. (TWITTER: @andy_loce15 @hanoversports and @henricosports)

Randolph-Henry (0-7) at #11 Goochland (7-0), 7pm: The Bulldogs are within a point of the top seed in Region 2A, but a win tonight over a winless team wouldn't yield any bonus points. The more important news is that their margin over #3 seed Amelia is at nearly four points. They want that cushion as big as possible as their date with the Raiders looms in two weeks on Goochland's Senior Night. Coach Joe Fowler's crew looks to keep the ship moving in the right direction. (TWITTER: @TheRVASportsNet)

Midlothian (4-3) at Cosby (1-6), 7pm: Cosby is another team whose time is running out. It's Senior Night for the Titans, with trips ahead to James River and L.C. Bird. One victory may be enough to sneak into the #7 seed in Region 6B if Clover Hill can't win another game. But it will be difficult against a Trojan team firmly in the playoff mix in Region 4B in one of their most competitive seasons in recent years. With Patrick Henry and Huguenot nipping on their heels, the fifth-seeded Trojans need a win to prevent a fall to sixth or even seventh, with tough games ahead with both Monacan and James River. (TWITTER: @cfieldsports)

George Wythe (0-7) at Huguenot (3-4), 5pm: The Falcons look to keep pace with Midlothian and Patrick Henry in the second half of the top eight in Region 4B. No bonus points for beating a winless team, but tons of confidence for Huguenot with any victory, as they look ahead and see Clover Hill and Monacan left on the schedule. The Falcons' last three games? All at home. (TWITTER: @TheRVASportsNet)

Patrick Henry (4-3) at Armstrong (2-5), 7pm: The Patriots righted the ship last week beating Hanover, and even though they fell one position in Region 4B, they're on the right track for the playoffs. Getting a road win at the Wildcats' Homecoming won't be easy. Armstrong can put up points, and they dare not get in a track meet with them. Look for Samandre Williams and Terrance Oxendine to be keys to the Patriot offense. With Highland Springs and Lee-Davis still ahead, this is an important game for Patrick Henry to win. Armstrong is in a tie for sixth in Region 3B, and could use one more win to ensure a playoff berth. (TWITTER: @hanoversports, @TheRVASportsNet)

Meadowbrook (2-5) at Matoaca (2-5), 7pm: This is an elimination game for the homestanding Warriors, while the only reason it is not for the Monarchs is due to their rugged overall schedule yielding more bonus points. Remember, if a team you lose to wins, you get a bonus point per win in the VHSL ratings formula. They've played L.C. Bird, Varina, Thomas Dale, Dinwiddie and Highland Springs. However, Meadowbrook would need all Colonial District Region 5B teams (Freeman, Deep Run, Godwin, Glen Allen, J.R. Tucker) to somehow go 4-6, and that's not likely. Matoaca, Glen Allen, and Atlee all face virtual elimination with a sixth loss tonight. (TWITTER: @cfieldsports)

Glen Allen (2-5) at Mills Godwin (3-4), 7pm: Another elimination game, this one for Glen Allen, who is hoping Devin Flowers will be to Glen Allen what Wesley Duggar was for most of last year with Mills Godwin. He scored five touchdowns last week in the win over John Marshall. If Flowers and the Jaguar rushing attack gets going, that's not good for an Eagles team which has struggled to produce consistently on offense this season. A loss severely hurts Mills Godwin's chances, but a loss for Glen Allen likely ends theirs. Our Robbie Witham will be live at Axselle Stadium with updates all evening. (TWITTER: @henricosports)

J.R. Tucker (3-4) at Thomas Jefferson (4-3), Saturday, 12pm: The Tigers have not seen the postseason this century, and in past years, this game would be a win J.R. Tucker could count on. Not this year. It's possibly the best season for the Vikings in a generation, seeking their first overall winning season in 41 years. The Tigers will have to do what Glen Allen and Deep Run couldn't do the past two weeks, stop Thomas Jefferson's offense. 55 against the Jaguars, 29 at Deep Run. The Vikings are the top seed in Region 3B and are for real. The Tigers have the advantage of playing last, knowing exactly what implications will be in Region 5B with a win, or, a loss. Thomas Jefferson won this game a year ago. (TWITTER: @henricosports, @TheRVASportsNet)

John Marshall (1-6) at Deep Run (3-4), 7pm: Last week's hiccup to Thomas Jefferson hurts Deep Run, but didn't knock them out of the top eight in Region 5B. The Wildcats need a win here, and will root for Hermitage over Douglas Freeman, Thomas Jefferson over J.R. Tucker, and Matoaca and Glen Allen to beat Meadowbrook and Mills Godwin respectively. First things first, take care of the Justices, who looked good in their opening game, but have lost six straight since, but, with a win here, vaults into the Region 3B playoff conversation, one they haven't been a part of. Yet. (TWITTER: @TheRVASportsNet, @henricosports)

Prince George (3-4) at Colonial Heights (3-4), 7pm: The Colonials have fallen out of the top eight in Region 3A, and tonight could be their last best chance to get a much needed victory, as Appomattox is 6-1, Dinwiddie is 7-0. But they host a Royals team squarely in the middle of the craziness at the bottom part of the Region 5B race, currently tenth, less than a point out of the eighth and final playoff spot. The Colonials won this game in 2015, Prince George took the win a year ago. (TWITTER: @TheRVASportsNet)

OTHER GAMES:

Collegiate at Fork Union, 3:30pm
Caroline at Chancellor, 7pm
Louisa at Orange, 7pm
Powhatan at Monticello, 7:30pm
Essex at Lancaster, 7pm
Amelia at Central-Lunenburg, 7pm
Middlesex at King William, 7pm
Charles City at King & Queen, 7pm

IDLE: James River

6B WATCH: Colonial Forge (IDLE), Mountain View at Riverbend, Franklin County at George Washington

4B WATCH: Eastern View (IDLE), James Monroe at Courtland, Spotsylvania at King George

3A WATCH: Maury at I.C. Norcom
2A WATCH: Poquoson at Bruton
1A WATCH: Sussex Central at Brunswick, West Point at Mathews

CLICK HERE to see the latest VHSL Football Standings.

NBC12/RVA Sports Network Big 12 High School Football Poll

CLICK HERE to see the latest high school football poll from NBC12 and The RVA Sports Network, as Hermitage continues to maintain the top position with two games left in their regular season, and three weeks to go before the regular season comes to a close!

FOOTBALL: New VHSL Region Standings

A history-making Monday for Thomas Jefferson, Henrico and Essex move up, Goochland moves closer, and the race for the #7 and #8 seeds in Region 5B gets even tighter. Here are the latest Virginia High School League (VHSL) Region Football Standings released by the league office. All regions listed will take the top eight finishers to the playoffs which begin November 10th except Region 6B, who will take only the top seven.


REGION 6B:

1) Colonial Forge: 8-0, 34.25
2) Manchester: 6-1, 31.0
3) Thomas Dale: 5-2, 28.429
4) Riverbend: 3-4, 25.429
5) James River: 4-4, 24.875
6) Franklin Co.: 3-5, 22.75
7) Clover Hill: 2-6, 20.5
--
8) Cosby: 1-6, 19.286

6A LEADERS: 1) Landstown, 2) Ocean Lakes, 3) Oscar Smith, 4) Granby

****

REGION 5B:

1) Hermitage: 8-0, 32.25
2) Highland Springs: 6-1, 30.286
3) L.C. Bird: 5-2, 27.571
4) Henrico: 5-2, 27.429
5) Lee-Davis: 6-1, 27.143
6) Varina: 5-2, 25.571
7) Deep Run: 3-4, 22.714
8) Douglas Freeman: 4-4, 22.625
--
9) J.R. Tucker: 3-4, 22.286
10) Prince George: 3-4, 21.714
11T) Meadowbrook: 2-5, 21.429
        Mills Godwin: 3-4, 21.429
13T) Glen Allen: 2-5, 21.0
         Matoaca: 2-5, 21.0
15) Atlee: 2-5, 20.143

5A LEADERS: 1) Salem (VB), 2) Hampton, 3) Indian River, 4) Nansemond River

****

REGION 4B:

1) Dinwiddie: 7-0, 29.714
2) Monacan: 7-0, 29.143
3) Louisa: 7-0, 27.429
4) Eastern View: 8-0, 26.75
5) Midlothian: 4-3, 22.714
6) Patrick Henry: 4-3, 22.286
7) Huguenot: 3-4, 21.857
8) Courtland: 3-4, 20.571
--
9) Hanover: 1-6, 18.571
10) King George: 2-6, 18.5
11) Caroline: 2-5, 18.429
12) Powhatan: 2-5, 17.714
13) Chancellor: 1-7, 17.125

4A LEADERS: 1) Lafayette, 2) Deep Creek, 3) King's Fork, 4) Lake Taylor

****

REGION 3A:

1) Phoebus: 7-0, 30.0
2) IC Norcom: 7-1, 28.0
3) Hopewell: 6-1, 24.429
4) York: 5-2, 22.714
5) Southampton: 5-2, 22.429
6) Booker T Washington: 4-4, 20.5
7) Lakeland: 2-5, 19.714
8) Park View-SH: 3-3, 19.667
--
9) Colonial Heights: 3-4, 19.571
10) New Kent: 4-3, 19.285
11) Petersburg: 3-4, 18.143
12) Tabb: 0-7, 14.0

REGION 3B:

1) Thomas Jefferson: 4-3, 21.714
2) Spotsylvania: 4-3, 21.0
3) James Monroe: 3-4, 19.714
4) Culpeper Co: 2-5, 18.714
5) Warren Co.: 3-4, 18.286
6T) Skyline: 3-4, 17.429
      Armstrong: 2-5, 17.429
8) Brentsville District: 1-6, 15.571
--
9) Manassas Park: 1-6, 14.714
10T) John Marshall: 1-6, 14.429
        William Monroe: 2-5, 14.429
12) George Wythe: 0-7, 14.286

****

REGION 2A:

1) Poquoson: 6-1, 24-714
2) Goochland: 6-0 (VHSL Games Only), 23.667
3) Amelia: 6-1, 19.857
4) Greensville: 5-2, 19.571
5) Nottoway: 4-3, 16.571
6) Bruton: 2-5, 16.143
7) Prince Edward: 4-3, 15.429
8) Brunswick: 2-4, 15.167
--
9) Arcadia: 3-5, 14.375
10) Nandua: 3-5, 13.75
11) Bluestone: 2-6, 13.625
12) King William: 2-5, 13.571
13) Randolph-Henry: 0-7, 10.0

2B LEADERS: 1) Clarke Co., 2) Central-Woodstock, 3) RE Lee-Staunton, 4) Luray

****

REGION 1A:

1) Essex: 6-1, 21.429
2) Sussex Central: 6-1, 20.714
3) West Point: 6-1, 18.857
4) Washington & Lee: 6-1, 18.714
5) Northumberland: 5-2, 18.286
6) Colonial Beach: 4-3, 17.143
7) Middlesex: 4-3, 15.571
8) Rappahannock: 3-4, 13.714
--
9) Northampton: 3-4, 12.714
10) Surry: 2-5, 12.429
11) Franklin: 2-5, 12.143
12) Chincoteague: 3-4, 11.714
13) Lancaster: 1-6, 10.143
14) Charles City: 1-6, 9.857

1B LEADERS: 1) Riverheads, 2) Wm. Campbell, 3) Central-Lunenburg, 4) Altavista

Super 7 Volleyball/Field Hockey Polls (October 16, 2017)

More changes afoot in the next to last Super 7 Polls of the fall season, especially in volleyball. A reminder that only VHSL teams are eligible for our Super 7 Polls in fall and spring sports.


FIELD HOCKEY:

1) Deep Run (was #1)
2) Cosby (was #2)
3) Prince George (was #3)
4) Mills Godwin (was #4)
5) Powhatan (was #6)
6) Matoaca (was #7)
7) Maggie Walker GS (was #5)

BOYS VOLLEYBALL:

1) Patrick Henry (was #1)
2) James River (was #2)
3) Midlothian (was #4)
4) Lee-Davis (was #3)
5) Deep Run (was #5)
6) Douglas Freeman (was #7)
7) Cosby (was #6)

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL:

1) Goochland (was #2)
2) Hanover (was #3)
3) Glen Allen (was #4)
4) Atlee (was #1)
5) Deep Run (was #5)
6) Douglas Freeman (was #6)
7T) Midlothian (was #7)
       Matoaca (returning)

GAME OF THE WEEK LISTEN LIVE LINK

CLICK HERE to listen online to The 27th Stew Bowl: #10 Lee-Davis (5-1) at Atlee (2-4) on the Game of The Week starting at 6:30 with the On The Sidelines Pregame Powered By Sheehy Ford of Ashland with Rob Witham and Marc Davis of NBC12!

We'll have scores from across the RVA on the Virginia Farm Bureau In-Game Scoreboard, and, immediately after the game, don't miss the Massey Wood And West Scoreboard Show with finals as they come in, a live preview of On The Sidelines on NBC12 at 11:15 with Marc, and we'll talk to the winning head coach live!

RADIO: 102.9 The Mater (102.9 FM) and 1430 AM

APP: @TuneIn, search "Radiall" !

WEEK 8 FOOTBALL PRIMER

Some teams can clinch bids in the playoffs, while others may see their postseason hopes come to an end on this Friday night. Here's a preview of all the action!

GAME OF THE WEEK: #10 Lee-Davis (5-1) at Atlee (2-4), 7pm (Airtime 6:30 on WHAN 102.9 FM/1430 AM, listen online by CLICKING HERE, listen on TuneIn app on "Radiall")

It's a must-win for the Raiders at Homecoming in the 27th edition of "The Stew Bowl", i.e., the battle for Eastern Hanover County supremacy. With a trip to Highland Springs looming next week, Atlee has to get the victory over the Confederates, stay squarely in the Region 5B playoff race, then take their chances against the Springers. The Raiders must control tempo, avoid turnovers, win the time of possession and convert on third downs to keep Zach Lass, Josh Rice, and the Lee-Davis offense off the field as much as humanly possible. Lee-Davis is the two-time Hanover County champions, winners of seven straight against Hanover rivals. Their last loss? 63-35 to Atlee in November, 2014.

NBC12 GAME OF THE WEEK: #5 Manchester (5-1) at #7 L.C. Bird (5-1), 7:30pm

This game should be the next edition in a great series that has flourished this decade between the two schools. The Skyhawks look for revenge from last year's loss to the Lancers, their lone blemish in the regular season. To do it, they need the game to mirror their identity. L.C. Bird needs long, time-consuming drives behind C.J. Donaldson and the offensive line. They need to limit penalties, and, most importantly, they'll need a few defensive stops. If Brendon Clark and company hit "30" on the scoreboard, it will be bad news for the Skyhawks, who need a 20-17 or 21-20 type game to win. Manchester tries to keep pace with Colonial Forge at the top of Region 6B, while L.C. Bird has been an afterthought in some circles in Region 5B, but a win here and they are, again, right in it with Hermitage and Highland Springs at the top of the standings.

Mills Godwin (3-3) at #1 Hermitage (7-0), 7pm: The Panthers hope the beat goes on with the first of two final home games in the regular season (next week against Douglas Freeman is Senior Night) before traveling to Manchester in two weeks to close the regular campaign. The Eagles haven't been able to produce a consistent enough offense to keep up with what Carney and company can do, so it will take a great defensive performance, and winning the turnover battle, for Mills Godwin to pull the big upset.

#2 Dinwiddie (6-0) at Meadowbrook (2-4), 7pm: The Monarchs could really crash the party in Region 5B with an upset in Central District play, currently 10th in a 15-team region. But to do that, they must find a way to slow down the Generals offense, who expect to ring up 40, 50 or more every time they hit the field. They've only fallen short of 30 twice, both in wins over Salem and Thomas Dale. Dinwiddie, though unbeaten and looking every bit the part of state title contenders, have to be frustrated a bit to look behind them in the Region 4B standings and see no less than three other teams, Monacan (6-0), Eastern View (7-0) and Louisa (6-0) unbeaten. They can't slow down anytime soon.

#3 Highland Springs (6-1) is idle.....

#4 Monacan (6-0) at Cosby (1-5), 7pm: Could it finally be the night that Cosby gets a Cosby-like performance, and victory? They need one to keep close to Clover Hill (who beat them earlier this season) and Franklin County in the race for one of the final two playoff spots in Region 6B. Meanwhile, expect Monacan to take this game very, very seriously after surviving the surprising slugfest that was the first "JimBob Bowl" with the overtime win over James River last week. The Chiefs, too, know they are in a dogfight to earn as many home wins as possible in the region playoffs, one of four unbeatens. They won't overlook Cosby.

#6 Thomas Dale (4-2) at Petersburg (3-3), 7pm: The Crimson Wave may have the worst luck of any team currently in a playoff race in the RVA. At 3-3, they're tied with a 1-5 Lakeland for tenth in Region 3A, less than two points behind New Kent for the eighth and final playoff spot. At home, it's an opportunity to grab what would easily be their biggest win in years. The Knights want to take nothing to chance, currently third in Region 6B, and with a win, and an L.C. Bird win over Manchester, they could come very close to the second seed.

#8 Hopewell (5-1) at Prince George (3-3), 7pm: The Royals with a similar home opportunity tonight but having to stop a Blue Devil team that has played better and better since their opening loss to I.C. Norcom, who currently lead Region 3A, while Hopewell is third. Prince George is ninth, but with a win here and either Deep Run or J.R. Tucker losing, the Royals are in the top eight in Region 5B with three weeks remaining. To do that, they better stop Indiana-bound Ronnie Walker and the Blue Devil offense.

#12 Henrico (4-2) at #9 Varina (5-1), 7pm: It's the first of three weeks of games involving the fourth, fifth, and sixth seeds currently in Region 5B which will go a long way in determining who hosts a first round game, who goes on the road, and, maybe, if someone loses both games, who is fighting just to be in the playoffs on November 3rd. These teams are very similar. The team that controls the penalities has an advantage, and special teams could play a factor, whether putting points on the board, or changing field position for your offense. Varina enjoys multiple weapons in every skill position offensively. That depth could be the difference. Varina goes to Lee-Davis next Friday, then Lee-Davis goes to Henrico two weeks from now. Lee-Davis is fourth in the region standings by less than two-tenths of a point over Varina, with Henrico sixth, a third of a point behind Varina. It's that close as we head down the stretch.

#11 Goochland (6-0) at Bluestone (2-5), 7pm: The Bulldogs are unbeaten, but yet still over three points behind top-ranked Poquoson in Region 2A. If they can't reach them by November 3rd, Goochland needs to make sure they handle what's left on their schedule, beginning with Bluestone, ending with the third-seed, Amelia, on closing night in three weeks. Rushing and defense, the beat goes on for Goochland.

Hanover (1-5) at Patrick Henry (3-3), 7pm: A huge game in Region 4B between two teams now desperate for a win. Hanover has scored just 59 points in their first six games, and only six offensive touchdowns, just two of them coming in the last four games. The Hawks, though, are in ninth place in Region 4B, just outside the top eight and a win likely puts them back in, depending on Courtland's game with 1-5 Fauquier. Meanwhile, after scoring at will in their 3-0 start, Patrick Henry has scored just 15 points in their last eight quarters, none at home against Varina last week. The offense missed tailback Samandre Williams last week, out due to injury. They must recapture the September consistency, and fast, because their #5 seed in the region is precarious, with idle Huguenot and Midlothian nipping at their heels, and fast.

Clover Hill (2-5) at Midlothian (3-3), 7:30pm: A sneaky good game on this week's schedule with two programs looking to make 2017 their turnaround year. The Trojans look to go over the .500 mark and stay in the top eight in Region 4B, while Clover Hill needs at least another win, and a Monacan win over Cosby, to help solidify their ranking in 6B. Fans outside these two schools have ignored this game for the past few years. No one should do that Friday night. This has the potential to be a classic with all the implications involved, between two teams who can taste a postseason bid, and look to seize the day.

Thomas Jefferson (3-3) at Deep Run (3-3), 7pm: So, after a 22-point comeback and a gutsy call that propelled Deep Run to their win over Douglas Freeman, they turn and see a Viking team coming Friday that has won two of their last three over the Wildcats and put up 55 points in a win over Glen Allen last week. Deep Run has no interest in a similar track meet breaking out, so it's the Wildcat defense who will have the most spotlight in this one. The Vikings are second in Region 3B and could clinch a home game in the first round of the playoffs with likely two more victories. The Wildcats won't take Thomas Jefferson lightly, and, Deep Run head coach Chad Hornik understands. He brought the Vikings to Deep Run in 2015 and won as TJ's head man.

J.R. Tucker (3-3) at Douglas Freeman (3-4), 7pm: How do the Rebels respond after being stunned at Deep Run last week? That loss could awaken them to a huge stretch run to try for their fifth straight playoff berth, or it could be the first step in their downfall. The Tigers want to make it the latter as they are close to postseason play for the first time in ages. They haven't defeated Douglas Freeman since 2010, and it won't be easy at William Long Stadium. Much of this game will depend on the mentality of Douglas Freeman. Tucker needs a strong start, and defensively, they must be tough in the front seven, and get pressure on Jack Pollard, while not allowing him to answer that with the good throws he can make when on the run.

John Marshall (1-5) at Glen Allen (1-5), 7pm: Last week's loss at Thomas Jefferson severely damaged Jaguar hopes for a playoff bid. Now they must win out and get help. On top of that, the Justices, despite being mired in a five-game losing streak, are less than a point out of the Region 3B top eight and have a shot at postseason play for first-year head coach Phillip Sims. But to do that, they'll need to stop the Flowers truck at tailback for Glen Allen, and other teams will tell you that's not easy to do.

Matoaca (1-5) at Colonial Heights (3-3), 7pm: Matoaca is in the same boat as Glen Allen, needing to win out and get help. Colonial Heights, who started 3-0, still seeks its first win in Central District play, and this may be their best chance left. Will 4-6 make the playoffs in Region 3A? Unsure. So, as you can see, tonight's winner lives to fight another day. Tonight's loser may look back at this game as the night the door shut.

OTHER GAMES:

James River (3-4) at George Wythe (0-6), 7:30pm
Monticello (6-0) at Louisa (6-0), 7:30pm
New Kent at Lafayette, 7pm
Mathews at King William, 7pm
Trinity Episcopal at Fork Union, 3:30pm
Bishop O'Connell at Collegiate, 4pm
Fuqua at Richmond Christian, 7pm
Eastern View at Caroline, 7pm
Fluvanna at Powhatan, 7pm
Essex at Colonial Beach, 7pm
Charles City at Middlesex, 7pm

THE WRAP: L.C. Bird Ready For Tough Stretch After Clover Hill Triumph

(RVA Sports Network Intern Correspondent Callie Yost files this report.....)

*****

Before going head-to-head last Friday, both the Clover Hill Cavaliers and L.C. Bird Skyhawks thirsted for another victory, after each team was triumphant over their respective opponents last week.

Clover Hill, ranked sixth in Class 6, Region B, made an impressive comeback in a win over rival Cosby, defeating the Titans for the first time in seven years. However, the Cavaliers faced a tougher challenge, as the Skyhawks have dominated this series for well over a decade.

The Skyhawks were ranked third in Class 5, Region B, entering the game with consecutive wins over Midlothian, James River and Huguenot. Eager to add another to their list, the Skyhawks pressured the Cavaliers with intensity immediately after Clover Hill kicker West Brownless kicked off to begin the game.

Skyhawks quarterback Marcus Banks, working with running back C.J. Donaldson, pushed the Cavalier defense back to the one-yard line before scoring their first touchdown, and run by Banks to give L.C. Bird a 7-0 lead. Despite the scoring, Cavalier linebacker Derek Apple remained positive.

Apple said Clover Hill continued to "always go out there and just play the best we can", even though "(Bird is) a really good team, time and time again."

After that first touchdown, both teams struggled to put up points in the opening quarter. Kendall Cross returned a Skyhawks kick to the 33-yard line, but Clover Hill had difficulty moving the ball up the field. On a fourth and six, Brownlee entered to punt, but the attempt wasn't quick enough, blocked by Damontre Blowe, and the Skyhawks had the ball in the Clover Hill red zone.

Under pressure to reclaim possession without allowing another score, Clover Hill doubled their defensive efforts. But the Skyhawks slipped through the defense, as Donaldson scored a rushing touchdown, but it was called back due to a holding penalty. The Cavaliers slowed L.C. Bird's momentum, forcing a field goal attempt. The determined Chauncey Saunders blocked the kick, matching the energy of Blowe's blocked punt earlier. However, undeterred by the Cavs, L.C. Bird's ferocity of play remained unshaken.

Clover Hill quarterback Miles Evans was intercepted by cornerback Xavier Addison, giving the Skyhawks the ball at the Clover Hill 23. Again, a would-be rushing touchdown by Donaldson was called back due to a holding call. But, on the next play, Donaldson finally got that touchdown, scoring with 3:19 left in the opening quarter for a 15-0 lead after a completed two-point conversion.

The Cavaliers began the second quarter with possession, but couldn't threaten down the field. The Skyhawks' running attack continued to find yardage, and, to cap off the latest drive, Banks carried the ball nine yards for a touchdown, making the score 22-0 L.C. Bird with more than nine minutes left to halftime. As in the first, a battle ensued as, while the Skyhawks looked to increase their lead, Clover Hill's defense worked to hold their own, keeping the lead at 22. Apple and Cross recovered Bird fumbles at 7:03 and :53 left, respectively. But Evans and the Cavalier offense could not score, as the Skyhawk defense made it difficult to complete passes, allowing only small gains in the running attack.

After halftime, the Cavalier offense returned intent on scoring. Attacking the Skyhawks with full force, Clover Hill advanced to the Bird three-yard line. Going for it on fourth down, the Cavaliers fumbled, the Skyhawks recovering at the seven. Then, on the next play, Donaldson raced 93 yards to the house for a touchdown that turned the tide. Instead of Clover Hill getting on the board, L.C. Bird extended their lead to 29-0.

The Skyhawks completed their scoring late in the third with another Donaldson touchdown run, bringing the score to 35-0 with :48.2 left. Apple led the defensive charge to thwart a Skyhawk two-point try to keep the score the same. The fourth quarter was a stalemate, the Skyhawks seeing a third would-be touchdown called back due to a penalty, this time on a punt return. The Cavalier offense never got back in the red zone, and L.C. Bird moved to 5-1 with the 35-0 win.

All Skyhawk units put forth maximum effort to earn the shut out Friday. Donaldson, when asked about the strength of his team, said, "...when the line is working, and all of us are working, it just makes it easier for me."

L.C. Bird must carry that teamwork into Friday's showdown with #5 Manchester at home. When asked what excited him most about the game with the Lancers, Donaldson simply responded, "...to get revenge." Last year, Manchester handed L.C. Bird a seven-point loss.

Meanwhile, Clover Hill, at 2-5, still fighting for a postseason bid with Franklin County and Cosby, travel to Midlothian, who, at 3-3 is in the mix for a playoff berth of their own in Class 4, Region B, another tough challenge for the Cavaliers.

FOOTBALL: Region 4-6 Playoff Outlook With Four Weeks To Go

So, with everyone trying to understand things like, how many "points" do you get for a win, how many if you lose, and, what is a "VHSL Power Point" or "VHSL Rider Point" anyway, let's break down where we are in each region with four weeks left in the regular season. Some teams will clinch playoff bids Friday with victories, a couple of teams are already in, and many others have a lot of work to do.

REGION 6B:

WHO'S IN?: (1): Colonial Forge: They are 7-0, and, even if they lost their last three games, they'd finish in the top seven of this eight-team region. Remember, top seed earns a bye out of the first round November 10th, and the eighth place finisher is out.

LOOKING GOOD: (2): Manchester, Thomas Dale: The Lancers head into their showdown with L.C. Bird at 5-1. One more win gets them in for sure. The Knights, at 4-2, need a win at Petersburg plus losses from any combination of Clover Hill, Franklin County and Cosby of at least two teams to pretty much seal the deal.

WORK TO DO: (5): Riverbend, James River, Clover Hill, Franklin County, Cosby: The final four spots are wide open, even for a Titans team currently 1-5. Riverbend and James River, both at 3-4, have the best chances to clinch soon, but the Bears have two tough games coming out of the bye, especially October 27th at North Stafford. James River gets little in bonus points if they beat winless George Wythe Friday, then hosting Cosby on October 27th, either it will be an elimination game for the Titans, or, by then, they may already be eliminated. Clover Hill may have the toughest road left, at Midlothian Friday, then hosting Manchester and finishing at surprising Huguenot.

*****
REGION 5B:

WHO'S IN?: (2): Hermitage, Highland Springs: An unexpected three-game collapse down the stretch for Hermitage would still leave them in the eight-team postseason region tournament. The Panthers are looking to finish strong, preferably 10-0, to ensure the top seed. The two-time defending champion Springers enjoy a bye this week and look to comfortably make the top eight, but catching Hermitage is a stretch, even if the Panthers lose to Manchester in two weeks.

LOOKING GOOD: (4): L.C. Bird, Lee-Davis, Varina, Henrico: L.C. Bird has a tough battle with the Lancers this Friday. A win would draw the Skyhawks closer to both Hermitage and Highland Springs, while a loss would open the door for teams like Lee-Davis or Varina to become players for the #3 seed that Bird currently occupies. The teams at #4 through #6 all play each other in a round-robin these next three Fridays, with Henrico/Varina this week, Varina/Lee-Davis next week and Lee-Davis/Henrico in two weeks. We'll have a much better idea who could be hosting a first round game as a #4 seed once these three games are played, unless, of course, all three teams exit this at 1-1 against the others. What if L.C. Bird loses to both Manchester and Monacan? Then Lee-Davis and Varina have a shot to finally get into the top three. But that's a lot to ask.

WORK TO DO: (7): J.R. Tucker, Deep Run, Prince George, Meadowbrook, Mills Godwin, Douglas Freeman, Atlee: Currently, the Tigers and Wildcats are in, tied for seventh. So, let's list each team's current VHSL point total and their remaining schedule:

J.R. Tucker (23.0): at Douglas Freeman, at TJ, John Marshall, at Glen Allen
Deep Run (23.0): TJ, John Marshall, Glen Allen, at Mills Godwin
Prince George (22.167): Hopewell, at Colonial Heights, Matoaca, Thomas Dale
Meadowbrook (21.667): Dinwiddie, at Matoaca, at Petersburg, Hopewell
Mills Godwin (21.5): at Hermitage, Glen Allen, at Douglas Freeman, Deep Run
Douglas Freeman (20.857): J.R. Tucker, at Hermitage, Mills Godwin, Bye
Atlee (19.833): Lee-Davis, at Highland Springs, Varina, at Hanover

The eye test gives us the following points:

1) Several Colonial District games down the stretch will serve as elimination games, starting Friday on Three Chopt Road. J.R. Tucker hasn't beaten Douglas Freeman since October 1, 2010. But the Rebels are struggling and the Tigers have improved. After Atlee, Freeman has the toughest road to the postseason for two reasons: 1) they still have to play Hermitage, 2) a 5-5 record in the Colonial may not carry enough bonus points on strength of schedule than a Meadowbrook or Prince George would have coming out of the Central.

2) Deep Run has the best track to the postseason. They spend all of October at home, then go to Mills Godwin November 3rd in a game where the Eagles may have already been eliminated. But lest we forget, Thomas Jefferson comes in Friday, a team that is 2-1 in their last three games against the Wildcats, coming off a 55-point performance in a home win over Glen Allen, and the Vikings are fighting for home-field advantage in Region 3B.

3) Note Central District teams, Prince George and Meadowbrook. If the Monarchs defeat Matoaca, Petersburg and Hopewell (assuming they lose to unbeaten Dinwiddie Friday), it will be hard to keep a 6-4 Meadowbrook team out because their rugged strength of schedule earns them gobs of bonus points. Remember, if you lost to, say, Highland Springs, you get an extra point for each of their victories. The eye test here says Prince George might need 6-4, but there's a small path for Meadowbrook to grab the #8 seed at 5-5.

4) Atlee On The Brink: The Raiders have to pull some upsets in order to really be in the playoff discussion in two weeks. A loss Friday to Lee-Davis makes them 2-5 with a trip to Highland Springs next on the schedule. No one will make the playoffs in Region 5B at 4-6 or worse. Why? There are too many teams ahead that should finish no worse than 6-4 or 5-5.

BY A THREAD: (2): Matoaca, Glen Allen: For the Warriors and Jaguars, it's simple. They must win out, finish 5-5, and likely get some help, like John Marshall beating a couple of Colonial District teams. Matoaca, at least, has some destiny in their hands, as they have Prince George and Meadowbrook coming up. Beat Colonial Heights Friday, win the next two, and they have something to play for November 3rd when they host Petersburg.

*****
REGION 4B:

WHO'S IN? (1): Eastern View: The reason why Eastern View stands alone is they've already played seven games, and they are 7-0. Even if they finish 7-3, they'll stay in the top eight.

LOOKING GOOD (3): Dinwiddie, Monacan, Louisa: Each of these teams are currently 6-0, and with wins on Friday, they'll all be bumped up to "Who's In?" status. Region 4B has become insanely top heavy. It's possible that all four remaining unbeatens could finish 10-0 as each play in different districts. If they all won their home games in the first round, on November 17th we could have two 11-0 teams playing each other at two different games, both for the right to get to the inaugural Region 4B Championship Game.

WORK TO DO (9): Patrick Henry, Huguenot, Midlothian, Courtland, Hanover, King George, Caroline, Powhatan, Chancellor): Now it gets tricky. After the top four, no one has a winning record. Only Patrick Henry and Midlothian are at .500 at 3-3. Huguenot (currently in), King George and Chancellor (both currently out) all have seven games behind them, meaning one less opportunity to win and collect points. Midlothian gets three out of their last four at home, having to go to Cosby October 20th. Monacan will be tough, and their finisher against James River, a big rival, may be a game where the Rapids need a win for better postseason position. Huguenot, after this week's bye, gets George Wythe, Clover Hill and Monacan. Get two wins and that could be enough. Finish 4-6, and it's shaky. Patrick Henry really needs a win over Hanover Friday, one to keep the Hawks from battling back into the picture, two to get some much needed momentum down the stretch with games against Highland Springs and Lee-Davis still to come.

Chancellor and Powhatan have the toughest roads. Unless a lower team gets on a run, the final four bids are Patrick Henry, Huguenot, Midlothian and Courtland's to lose, with Hanover and King George seriously close should someone slip and either can string together a few wins.

NBC12/RVA Sports Network Big 12 High School Football Poll (10-09-17)

There are no changes, having been no upsets in a busy Week 7, in the latest NBC12/RVA Sports Network Big 12 High School Football Poll.

1) Hermitage (7-0, was #1, vs. Mills Godwin)
2) Dinwiddie (6-0, was #2, vs. Meadowbrook)
3) Highland Springs (6-1, was #3, BYE)
4) Monacan (6-0, was #4, at Cosby)
5) Manchester (5-1, was #5, at #7 L.C. Bird)
6) Thomas Dale (4-2, was #6, at Petersburg)
7) L.C. Bird (5-1, was #7, vs. #5 Manchester
8) Hopewell (5-1, was #8, at Prince George)
9) Varina (5-1, was #9, vs. #12 Henrico)
10) Lee-Davis (5-1, was #10, at Atlee on Game of The Week)
11) Goochland (6-0, was #11, at Bluestone)
12) Henrico (4-2, was #12, at #9 Varina)