The final games of November crown region champions and send teams into state semifinal action and, most importantly, one gigantic step closer to the dream of a state championship becoming reality.
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GAME OF THE WEEK:
REGION 4B CHAMPIONSHIP: #7 Dinwiddie (7-5) at #4 Patrick Henry (9-3), 3:30pm airtime on 102.9 The Mater (102.9 FM/1430 AM), CLICK HERE to listen online, listen on mobile on @TuneIn Radio App on "Radiall"!
Very few people outside the communities of Dinwiddie and Hanover counties saw this matchup coming for a regional championship. It's the second time this century the teams have met in the postseason, Patrick Henry having won a tight game at Dinwiddie in the first round of the old Group AAA, Division 5 playoffs. The Generals, having survived a tough regular season schedule, have become road warriors, winning at #2 Monacan and in Culpeper last Friday at #3 Eastern View. The Patriots smashed #5 Spotsylvania at home to open the postseason, then played a brilliant game to limit possessions, shocking top-seeded, and undefeated, Louisa, 16-15 to earn the home game on Black Friday afternoon. The Patriots want a similar tempo to the one in Louisa last week. The Generals would like to speed things up, and will count on Robert Barlow, who scored seven touchdowns against Monacan two weeks ago, to lead the charge. Both teams have won differently in their two postseason wins. As usual, this game goes to the team with the best line play. The winner gets the Region 4A champion, either #1 Lake Taylor or #2 Churchland, on the road, next Saturday.
REGION 2A CHAMPIONSHIP: #2 King William (10-2) at #1 Thomas Jefferson (10-2), 7pm, Huguenot HS
The top seeds hold form here as the Cavaliers, who learned a lot about themselves in their loss to eventual VISAA Division I State Champion Benedictine late in the regular season, have been scoring at will during the postseason thus far. After going to their backup quarterback, Thomas Jefferson, down by three at the half last week with Greensville, exploded for 29 unanswered points in the second half to give the Vikings their tenth win of the season, the most in the history of a school whose football tradition dates back to the early days of the Great Depression. Whoever comes out of this game will be a fantastic representative from the #RVA to the Class 2 state semifinals. The winner here gets the winner of East Rockingham and top seeded Stuarts Draft in the semifinal round. If East Rockingham, the #6 seed, pulls off the upset, the winner of King William/Thomas Jefferson hosts the state semifinal. If Stuarts Draft wins, it's a road trip for the #Region2A champs.
REGION 6A CHAMPIONSHIP: #3 Thomas Dale (9-3) at #1 Oscar Smith (11-1), 7pm
The Tigers, who missed the Class 6 state playoffs last year, and that's not usual, have not lost since an opening night defeat to Highland Springs, who now watch the remainder of the 2019 postseason from the sidelines. The Springers also know Thomas Dale, having scrimmaged them in mid-August. In that scrimmage, Thomas Dale showed strength, and speed, which rivaled the four-time state champions. After beating Ocean Lakes, a 2018 Class 6 state semifinalist, 36-6 last week, yes, we believe the Knights are peaking at the right time. With some discipline, according to their head coach, Kevin Tucker, speaking on "RVA Locals Only" on ESPN Richmond Wednesday morning, as well as having all hands on deck, not being beset by injuries, this team can win on the road in Tidewater, again. It won't be easy, but the Knights, with a win, would be two victories away from matching their state championship team of one decade ago. If the Knights win, they hit the road again in the Class 6 State Semifinals to face either Colonial Forge or Massaponax, who square off for the Region 6B crown on Friday night.
REGION 5B CHAMPIONSHIP: #4 Varina (10-2) at #2 Manchester (11-1), 1pm (Live Tweet Coverage: @henricosports, @cfieldsports, heard on radio on AM 910):
The best thing that happened to Varina after their titanic victory over Highland Springs last week, ending the Springers' four-year run as Class 5 Champions, was to turn and find Manchester next on their schedule. A major possibility for a team who, after years of frustration, finally vanquishes their arch rival, is to let down in their next game. Fortunately for the Blue Devils, that won't happen, or, at least, it shouldn't. The Blue Devils saw a lead slip away opening night three months ago, falling to Manchester in double overtime. Varina head coach Stu Brown will tell you both of their losses in 2019 were games that the other team did not "win", the Blue Devils "lost". They've avenged one, now we'll see if they can do it again. This is the week where all the experience, even in "mop up" duty, last year during their Class 6 championship season will come in handy for Manchester. So will home field advantage. Watch the turnover battle in this one. If you win it, you'll win the game. Both teams are playing with a lot of confidence, and both want to jump out to big starts. The first quarter, in the end, may be as big as the fourth when all is said and done. The winner gets the survivor of the showdown of unbeatens in 5A with Maury and Salem squaring off.
REGION 3A CHAMPIONSHIP: #3 Phoebus (11-1) at #1 Hopewell (12-0), 2pm (Twitter Updates: @TheRVASportsNet)
Frankly, this was the matchup that should happen. Phoebus did have a better team than York and proved it in their semifinal win last week. Now, the Blue Devils have to beat a playoff pedigree program in order to punch their ticket to the Class 3 final four. Both teams love to find the end zone, so the defense that rises to the occasion will likely be on the winning side. With the Phantoms inevitably keying in on Treveyon Henderson, watch for other skilled players for Hopewell to make big plays and keep the drive alive. If Hopewell makes a championship run, there will be a game at some point where an opponent neutralizes Henderson (i.e., two touchdowns or less), forcing others to perform. This may be the week. Special teams play is huge for both teams here, too. The winner gets the winner of.....
REGION 3B CHAMPIONSHIP: #2 James Monroe (9-3) at #1 Goochland (11-1), 2pm (Twitter Updates: @TheRVASportsNet, heard on radio on FM 100.5)
We expected this to be the finals matchup, as these two squads were the best in the region this year. The Bulldogs, after making the Class 2 state finals last year, now look to return at the Class 3 level. In spite of scheduling snafus, and a change in their region quarterfinal opponent, head coach Alex Fruth has found a way to keep Goochland on the edge, playing their best ball right now. Their toughest test since their opening night loss to Lafayette, 33-0, is this game. The Yellow Jackets hold wins over two Region 4B playoff teams in Spotsylvania (when they still had their starting quarterback) and King George and have won seven straight, their last defeat being 35-7 to Eastern View back on October 4th. We expect the Bulldogs to get the job done, but if they lose the turnover battle, and if the Yellow Jackets can win time of possession, and things might be different.
REGION 1A CHAMPIONSHIP: #2 Rappahannock (9-3) at #1 Essex (11-1), Saturday, 1pm (Twitter Updates: @TheRVASportsNet)
Essex defeated Rappahannock in the regular season 48-0 just three weeks ago. The Trojans will be heavily favored in the rematch, with the winner getting the winner of Sussex Central and Riverheads from Region 1B in the Class 1 State Semifinals next Saturday.
Friday, November 29, 2019
Monday, November 25, 2019
FOOTBALL: Semifinal Scores, Region Championship Schedules
Here are all the scores from this weekend's region semifinal high school football action, plus schedules for next weekend's regional championships as we receive them as well as a look at the other region bracketed for the state semifinals, which will be held on Saturday December 7.
REGION 6A:
#3 Thomas Dale 36, #2 Ocean Lakes 6
#1 Oscar Smith 20, #4 Landstown 16
Championship:
#3 Thomas Dale at #1 Oscar Smith, Friday, 7pm
(Region 6B Championship: #4 Massaponax at #3 Colonial Forge, Friday, 7pm)
REGION 5B:
#4 Varina 27, #1 Highland Springs 21
#2 Manchester 35, #3 Deep Run 18
Championship:
#4 Varina at #2 Manchester, Saturday, 1pm
(Region 5A Championship: #2 Maury at #1 Salem/Va Beach, Friday, time TBA)
REGION 4B:
#4 Patrick Henry 16, #1 Louisa 15
#7 Dinwiddie 25, #3 Eastern View 17
Championship:
#7 Dinwiddie at #4 Patrick Henry, Friday, 4pm
(Region 4A Championship: #2 Churchland at #1 Lake Taylor, date/time TBA)
REGION 3A:
#1 Hopewell 35, #5 I.C. Norcom 6
#3 Phoebus 41, #2 York 18
Championship:
#3 Phoebus at #1 Hopewell, Saturday, 2pm
REGION 3B:
#1 Goochland 56, #5 Skyline 22
#2 James Monroe 34, #3 Brentsville District 7
Championship:
#2 James Monroe at #1 Goochland, Saturday, 2pm
REGION 2A:
#1 Thomas Jefferson 44, #4 Greensville 18
#2 King William 56, #3 Poquoson 20
Championship:
#2 King William at #1 Thomas Jefferson, Friday, 7pm, Huguenot HS
(Region 2B Championship: #6 East Rockingham at #1 Stuarts Draft, date/time TBA)
REGION 1A:
#1 Essex 14, #4 Washington & Lee 2
#2 Rappahannock 32, #6 West Point 14
Championship:
#2 Rappahannock at #1 Essex, date/time TBA
(Region 1B Championship: #2 Sussex Central at #1 Riverheads, date/time TBA)
REGION 6A:
#3 Thomas Dale 36, #2 Ocean Lakes 6
#1 Oscar Smith 20, #4 Landstown 16
Championship:
#3 Thomas Dale at #1 Oscar Smith, Friday, 7pm
(Region 6B Championship: #4 Massaponax at #3 Colonial Forge, Friday, 7pm)
REGION 5B:
#4 Varina 27, #1 Highland Springs 21
#2 Manchester 35, #3 Deep Run 18
Championship:
#4 Varina at #2 Manchester, Saturday, 1pm
(Region 5A Championship: #2 Maury at #1 Salem/Va Beach, Friday, time TBA)
REGION 4B:
#4 Patrick Henry 16, #1 Louisa 15
#7 Dinwiddie 25, #3 Eastern View 17
Championship:
#7 Dinwiddie at #4 Patrick Henry, Friday, 4pm
(Region 4A Championship: #2 Churchland at #1 Lake Taylor, date/time TBA)
REGION 3A:
#1 Hopewell 35, #5 I.C. Norcom 6
#3 Phoebus 41, #2 York 18
Championship:
#3 Phoebus at #1 Hopewell, Saturday, 2pm
REGION 3B:
#1 Goochland 56, #5 Skyline 22
#2 James Monroe 34, #3 Brentsville District 7
Championship:
#2 James Monroe at #1 Goochland, Saturday, 2pm
REGION 2A:
#1 Thomas Jefferson 44, #4 Greensville 18
#2 King William 56, #3 Poquoson 20
Championship:
#2 King William at #1 Thomas Jefferson, Friday, 7pm, Huguenot HS
(Region 2B Championship: #6 East Rockingham at #1 Stuarts Draft, date/time TBA)
REGION 1A:
#1 Essex 14, #4 Washington & Lee 2
#2 Rappahannock 32, #6 West Point 14
Championship:
#2 Rappahannock at #1 Essex, date/time TBA
(Region 1B Championship: #2 Sussex Central at #1 Riverheads, date/time TBA)
Wednesday, November 20, 2019
FOOTBALL: Region Semifinal Previews
Miss "RVA Locals Only" Thursday morning on ESPN Richmond? Listen on demand HERE as we preview games and talk with King William head coach Dylan Dehart!
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REGION 4B:
GAME OF THE WEEK: #4 Patrick Henry (8-3) at #1 Louisa (11-0), 7pm airtime on 102.9 The Mater (102.9 FM), CLICK HERE to listen online, or use the TuneIn Radio app and listen on "Radiall"!
Patrick Henry's offense was very impressive, scoring 43 points in the first half of a 56-6 win over overmatched Spotsylvania last Friday in the opening round. Now, the Patriots step up, big time, going into #TheJungle to face a Louisa squad that, since the opening of the 2017 season, has won 36 of 38 games. There was a time where Patrick Henry put up those kind of numbers, but that was 20 years ago. Patriots head coach Ken Wakefield will work hard to keep the focus of his team on what happens within the field of play only, and not worry about the crowd, or the atmosphere. Playing disciplined football is critical if Patrick Henry wants to pull the upset. Forcing a couple of turnovers wouldn't hurt.
#7 Dinwiddie (6-5) at #3 Eastern View (10-1), 7pm: The most dangerous #7 seed in Virginia? You bet. Just ask Monacan, who was controlled last week by the Generals in the first round as Robert Barlow went off for nearly 300 rushing yards and seven (yes, seven) touchdowns. NBC12's Marc Davis puts it best coming up Friday on the "On The Sidelines Pregame" on the Game of The Week: Dinwiddie is playing with house money. With a difficult regular season schedule, if they are able to peak over the next few weeks, a deep run is possible. But the Cyclones are the defending region champions for a reason, and it is a long bus ride from Dinwiddie to Culpeper.
REGION 5B:
#4 Varina (9-2) vs. #1 Highland Springs (11-0), 7pm, Hermitage HS: If you're Varina, you're thinking, it has to end at some point, right? The Springers can't keep winning forever, so, why not make it happen tonight? The Blue Devils did their best to end the Springers' now 40-game winning streak in the regular season finale a week ago Saturday. Now, Varina gets another shot. What did they learn from last time? Perhaps more importantly, what did Highland Springs learn? Lest we forget they get to adjust off the first meeting, too. One important note about the Springers: any team that has a 40-game winning streak (and a 21-game winning streak in the postseason) has found a myriad of ways to win. They also truly believe they are going to win any game. Note we didn't say they thought they had a chance to win, the Springers believe they will win. That's how you score 26 unanswered points at Manchester after being down 16-0 midway through the third quarter. Don't be surprised if, again, the Highland Springs defense needs a late stop to seal another trip to a region championship game.
#3 Deep Run (11-0) at #2 Manchester (10-1), 7pm: These schools have never met in football, Deep Run having begun play back in 2003. The Wildcats have been on a journey this season where they've been looking for a game where they could make a statement, separate themselves from the rest of their rivals in the West End of Henrico, and prove they belong with the Manchesters, Varinas and Highland Springs'. That game is here. As for Manchester, it's a game where they, too, look for a measure of respect, the new breed of Lancers wanting to prove last year's 15-0 Class 6 state champions weren't a one-off. This game will be worth the price of admission to watch the battle between Garcia and Kite. But the defense that plays the best will move on.
REGION 6A:
#3 Thomas Dale (8-3) at #2 Ocean Lakes (8-3), 7pm: A fully healthy Knights squad, as we've believed since watching their scrimmage against Highland Springs in August, can go a long, long way in Class 6. This will be a tough test, but the Dolphins are not the strongest #2 seed. Thomas Dale can win with a time of possession advantage, eliminating turnovers, and, most importantly, their best defensive effort of the season. We haven't seen them hit "Dark Zone" level in a long time. From now on, they'll need to do so.
REGION 3A:
#5 I.C. Norcom at #1 Hopewell (11-0), 2pm, Saturday, Merner Field: Last year, at this time, these two teams met, the defending state champions, at the time, expected to win. When the game ended, Norcom had stunned the Blue Devils 14-12. Hopewell still hasn't forgotten, in spite of exacting a measure of revenge with a 46-25 win back in Week 3. Every team left for Hopewell has to figure out what no one has been able to do so far: stop Treveyon Henderson. Frankly, a team that figures out how to hold him to, say, two touchdowns, would have to be considered successful. There's something special about this Hopewell team. They'll be sure to take it one step at a time because, with a win, their next step would be to either defeat an unbeaten York Falcons team, or a one-loss Phoebus team, neither an easy task. Norcom's defense needs a big day. Let's remember, they can score, losing to power Lake Taylor in a 57-56 track meet earlier in the season.
REGION 3B:
#5 Skyline (6-5) at #1 Goochland (10-1), 7pm: Another step in the region playoffs for Devin McCray and the Bulldogs. They would be heavily favored. Alex Fruth won't let his team look ahead to a possible region final with James Monroe, should they win the other semifinal. Look for Goochland to get out to an early lead and look to build it quickly. But the Hawks have scored at least 20 points in ten of eleven games, so 28 or even 35 points might be necessary for Goochland to move on.
REGION 2A:
#4 Greensville (8-3) at #1 Thomas Jefferson (9-2), 7pm, Huguenot HS: So, last week, the Vikings needed to beat Brunswick, who stunned Greensville in their regular season finale to qualify in Region 2A. That loss sent Greensville down from #2 to #4, so, they're not your normal #4 seed. It's another big test for head coach P.J. Adams' crew, who look to break the Thomas Jefferson record for most wins in a season. No Vikings team has ever won ten games in a season. The Vikings won nine games back in 1952. A heavy dose of Shamar Graham here could wear down Greensville. We'll see if that's the gameplan.
#3 Poquoson (7-4) at #2 King William (8-3), 7pm: It was King William, defeating then 8-1 King and Queen Central two weeks ago on closing night, who benefited from the Brunswick win over Greensville to zoom from #5 to #2 in the region, and thus, getting a home game here in the region semifinals. The Cavaliers have learned from victories, and certainly from defeats, too. Their loss to Benedictine, who went on to win the VISAA Division I state title, definitely showed them areas to improve upon. Now they get Poquoson, who ended John Marshall's season last week. Their best wins are over Essex, the top seed in Region 1A, and King & Queen. The Cavaliers have to be happy with where they are right now, after missing the playoffs in 2017 and falling in this round a year ago to Goochland, now in Region 3B.
REGION 1A GAMES:
#6 West Point at #2 Rappahannock, 7pm
#4 Washington & Lee at #1 Essex, 7pm
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REGION 4B:
GAME OF THE WEEK: #4 Patrick Henry (8-3) at #1 Louisa (11-0), 7pm airtime on 102.9 The Mater (102.9 FM), CLICK HERE to listen online, or use the TuneIn Radio app and listen on "Radiall"!
Patrick Henry's offense was very impressive, scoring 43 points in the first half of a 56-6 win over overmatched Spotsylvania last Friday in the opening round. Now, the Patriots step up, big time, going into #TheJungle to face a Louisa squad that, since the opening of the 2017 season, has won 36 of 38 games. There was a time where Patrick Henry put up those kind of numbers, but that was 20 years ago. Patriots head coach Ken Wakefield will work hard to keep the focus of his team on what happens within the field of play only, and not worry about the crowd, or the atmosphere. Playing disciplined football is critical if Patrick Henry wants to pull the upset. Forcing a couple of turnovers wouldn't hurt.
#7 Dinwiddie (6-5) at #3 Eastern View (10-1), 7pm: The most dangerous #7 seed in Virginia? You bet. Just ask Monacan, who was controlled last week by the Generals in the first round as Robert Barlow went off for nearly 300 rushing yards and seven (yes, seven) touchdowns. NBC12's Marc Davis puts it best coming up Friday on the "On The Sidelines Pregame" on the Game of The Week: Dinwiddie is playing with house money. With a difficult regular season schedule, if they are able to peak over the next few weeks, a deep run is possible. But the Cyclones are the defending region champions for a reason, and it is a long bus ride from Dinwiddie to Culpeper.
REGION 5B:
#4 Varina (9-2) vs. #1 Highland Springs (11-0), 7pm, Hermitage HS: If you're Varina, you're thinking, it has to end at some point, right? The Springers can't keep winning forever, so, why not make it happen tonight? The Blue Devils did their best to end the Springers' now 40-game winning streak in the regular season finale a week ago Saturday. Now, Varina gets another shot. What did they learn from last time? Perhaps more importantly, what did Highland Springs learn? Lest we forget they get to adjust off the first meeting, too. One important note about the Springers: any team that has a 40-game winning streak (and a 21-game winning streak in the postseason) has found a myriad of ways to win. They also truly believe they are going to win any game. Note we didn't say they thought they had a chance to win, the Springers believe they will win. That's how you score 26 unanswered points at Manchester after being down 16-0 midway through the third quarter. Don't be surprised if, again, the Highland Springs defense needs a late stop to seal another trip to a region championship game.
#3 Deep Run (11-0) at #2 Manchester (10-1), 7pm: These schools have never met in football, Deep Run having begun play back in 2003. The Wildcats have been on a journey this season where they've been looking for a game where they could make a statement, separate themselves from the rest of their rivals in the West End of Henrico, and prove they belong with the Manchesters, Varinas and Highland Springs'. That game is here. As for Manchester, it's a game where they, too, look for a measure of respect, the new breed of Lancers wanting to prove last year's 15-0 Class 6 state champions weren't a one-off. This game will be worth the price of admission to watch the battle between Garcia and Kite. But the defense that plays the best will move on.
REGION 6A:
#3 Thomas Dale (8-3) at #2 Ocean Lakes (8-3), 7pm: A fully healthy Knights squad, as we've believed since watching their scrimmage against Highland Springs in August, can go a long, long way in Class 6. This will be a tough test, but the Dolphins are not the strongest #2 seed. Thomas Dale can win with a time of possession advantage, eliminating turnovers, and, most importantly, their best defensive effort of the season. We haven't seen them hit "Dark Zone" level in a long time. From now on, they'll need to do so.
REGION 3A:
#5 I.C. Norcom at #1 Hopewell (11-0), 2pm, Saturday, Merner Field: Last year, at this time, these two teams met, the defending state champions, at the time, expected to win. When the game ended, Norcom had stunned the Blue Devils 14-12. Hopewell still hasn't forgotten, in spite of exacting a measure of revenge with a 46-25 win back in Week 3. Every team left for Hopewell has to figure out what no one has been able to do so far: stop Treveyon Henderson. Frankly, a team that figures out how to hold him to, say, two touchdowns, would have to be considered successful. There's something special about this Hopewell team. They'll be sure to take it one step at a time because, with a win, their next step would be to either defeat an unbeaten York Falcons team, or a one-loss Phoebus team, neither an easy task. Norcom's defense needs a big day. Let's remember, they can score, losing to power Lake Taylor in a 57-56 track meet earlier in the season.
REGION 3B:
#5 Skyline (6-5) at #1 Goochland (10-1), 7pm: Another step in the region playoffs for Devin McCray and the Bulldogs. They would be heavily favored. Alex Fruth won't let his team look ahead to a possible region final with James Monroe, should they win the other semifinal. Look for Goochland to get out to an early lead and look to build it quickly. But the Hawks have scored at least 20 points in ten of eleven games, so 28 or even 35 points might be necessary for Goochland to move on.
REGION 2A:
#4 Greensville (8-3) at #1 Thomas Jefferson (9-2), 7pm, Huguenot HS: So, last week, the Vikings needed to beat Brunswick, who stunned Greensville in their regular season finale to qualify in Region 2A. That loss sent Greensville down from #2 to #4, so, they're not your normal #4 seed. It's another big test for head coach P.J. Adams' crew, who look to break the Thomas Jefferson record for most wins in a season. No Vikings team has ever won ten games in a season. The Vikings won nine games back in 1952. A heavy dose of Shamar Graham here could wear down Greensville. We'll see if that's the gameplan.
#3 Poquoson (7-4) at #2 King William (8-3), 7pm: It was King William, defeating then 8-1 King and Queen Central two weeks ago on closing night, who benefited from the Brunswick win over Greensville to zoom from #5 to #2 in the region, and thus, getting a home game here in the region semifinals. The Cavaliers have learned from victories, and certainly from defeats, too. Their loss to Benedictine, who went on to win the VISAA Division I state title, definitely showed them areas to improve upon. Now they get Poquoson, who ended John Marshall's season last week. Their best wins are over Essex, the top seed in Region 1A, and King & Queen. The Cavaliers have to be happy with where they are right now, after missing the playoffs in 2017 and falling in this round a year ago to Goochland, now in Region 3B.
REGION 1A GAMES:
#6 West Point at #2 Rappahannock, 7pm
#4 Washington & Lee at #1 Essex, 7pm
HONORS: All-Region 5B Field Hockey Team
Congratulations to the following student-athletes on being named to the 2019 All-Region 5B Field Hockey team, as voted on by the region's coaches.
FIRST TEAM:
Forward: Taylor Bates, Atlee
Forward: Hanna Pawela, Deep Run
Forward: Alora Dunnavant, Clover Hill
Forward: Hayley Collins, Prince George
Midfield: Kate Miller, Atlee
Midfield: Emma Grace Ficara, Clover Hill
Midfield: Megan McDonald, Douglas Freeman
Midfield: Meg Owens, Deep Run
Defense: Anne Grace Louthan, Matoaca
Defense: Carlin Thompson, Atlee
Defense: Ella Burns, Deep Run
Defense: Anna Williams, Douglas Freeman
At-Large: Anna Hundley, Mills Godwin
At-Large: Bella McNulty, Midlothian
At-Large: Amanda Jennings, Midlothian
Goalkeeper: Becca Kramen, Deep Run
SECOND TEAM:
Forward: Hayden Strausburg, Midlothian
Forward: Lauren Meyer, Glen Allen
Forward: Ellie Bird, Deep Run
Forward: Riley Stowell, Glen Allen
Midfield: Jessica Grob, Glen Allen
Midfield: Rylie Nuckols, J.R. Tucker
Midfield: Paige Stewart, Hermitage
Midfield: Rileyanne Collins, Prince George
Defense: Gracie Matz, Mills Godwin
Defense: Katherine Hicks, Deep Run
Defense: Alison De La Cruz, Clover Hill
Defense: Madison Sherman, Douglas Freeman
At-Large: Charlotte Browder, Douglas Freeman
At-Large: Brooke Betke, Mills Godwin
At-Large: Ariana Lanzo, Atlee
Goalkeeper: Logan Gill, Clover Hill
THIRD TEAM:
Forward: Claire Hoover, J.R. Tucker
Forward: Stella Harrison, Atlee
Forward: Hayden Martin, Douglas Freeman
Forward: Riley Martin, Midlothian
Midfield: Abbey Ritter, Atlee
Midfield: Janie Sanborn, Deep Run
Midfield: Megan Frank, Douglas Freeman
Midfield: Megan McCarthy, Deep Run
Defense: Caroline White, Clover Hill
Defense: Elizabeth Grebas, Prince George
Defense: Lily DeBruycker, Midlothian
Defense: Luci Owens, Deep Run
At-Large: Jillian Shirey, Atlee
At-Large: Kaitlyn Moore, Midlothian
At-Large: Melissa Campanella, Mills Godwin
Goalkeeper: Marissa Perry, Atlee
CLASS 5, REGION B PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Kate Miller, Atlee
CLASS 5, REGION B COACH OF THE YEAR: Heather Hodges, Atlee
FIRST TEAM:
Forward: Taylor Bates, Atlee
Forward: Hanna Pawela, Deep Run
Forward: Alora Dunnavant, Clover Hill
Forward: Hayley Collins, Prince George
Midfield: Kate Miller, Atlee
Midfield: Emma Grace Ficara, Clover Hill
Midfield: Megan McDonald, Douglas Freeman
Midfield: Meg Owens, Deep Run
Defense: Anne Grace Louthan, Matoaca
Defense: Carlin Thompson, Atlee
Defense: Ella Burns, Deep Run
Defense: Anna Williams, Douglas Freeman
At-Large: Anna Hundley, Mills Godwin
At-Large: Bella McNulty, Midlothian
At-Large: Amanda Jennings, Midlothian
Goalkeeper: Becca Kramen, Deep Run
SECOND TEAM:
Forward: Hayden Strausburg, Midlothian
Forward: Lauren Meyer, Glen Allen
Forward: Ellie Bird, Deep Run
Forward: Riley Stowell, Glen Allen
Midfield: Jessica Grob, Glen Allen
Midfield: Rylie Nuckols, J.R. Tucker
Midfield: Paige Stewart, Hermitage
Midfield: Rileyanne Collins, Prince George
Defense: Gracie Matz, Mills Godwin
Defense: Katherine Hicks, Deep Run
Defense: Alison De La Cruz, Clover Hill
Defense: Madison Sherman, Douglas Freeman
At-Large: Charlotte Browder, Douglas Freeman
At-Large: Brooke Betke, Mills Godwin
At-Large: Ariana Lanzo, Atlee
Goalkeeper: Logan Gill, Clover Hill
THIRD TEAM:
Forward: Claire Hoover, J.R. Tucker
Forward: Stella Harrison, Atlee
Forward: Hayden Martin, Douglas Freeman
Forward: Riley Martin, Midlothian
Midfield: Abbey Ritter, Atlee
Midfield: Janie Sanborn, Deep Run
Midfield: Megan Frank, Douglas Freeman
Midfield: Megan McCarthy, Deep Run
Defense: Caroline White, Clover Hill
Defense: Elizabeth Grebas, Prince George
Defense: Lily DeBruycker, Midlothian
Defense: Luci Owens, Deep Run
At-Large: Jillian Shirey, Atlee
At-Large: Kaitlyn Moore, Midlothian
At-Large: Melissa Campanella, Mills Godwin
Goalkeeper: Marissa Perry, Atlee
CLASS 5, REGION B PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Kate Miller, Atlee
CLASS 5, REGION B COACH OF THE YEAR: Heather Hodges, Atlee
Tuesday, November 19, 2019
STATE TOURNAMENT CENTRAL: VOLLEYBALL
A quick reminder that tickets for all state semifinals and championships are $10. Championship games will be available to watch online through NFHS for a fee. Links to championship feeds are listed with each classification below.
BOYS:
CLASS 6 SEMIFINALS (Tuesday):
James River 3, Cosby 2
Ocean Lakes 3, Floyd Kellam 0
CLASS 6 CHAMPIONSHIP:
James River vs. Ocean Lakes, Thursday, 8pm, Siegel Center at VCU (CLICK HERE to watch ($$))
(LIVE Tweet Coverage: @cfieldsports)
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CLASS 5 SEMIFINALS (Tuesday):
Deep Run 3, Gloucester 0
Glen Allen 3, Frank W. Cox 2
CLASS 5 CHAMPIONSHIP:
Glen Allen vs. Deep Run, Thursday, 6pm, Siegel Center at VCU (CLICK HERE to watch ($$))
(LIVE Tweet Coverage: @henricosports)
***
CLASS 4 SEMIFINALS (Tuesday):
Patrick Henry 3, Warwick 0
Maggie Walker GS d. Churchland
CLASS 4 CHAMPIONSHIP:
Patrick Henry vs. Maggie Walker Governor's School, Thursday, 4pm, Siegel Center at VCU (CLICK HERE to watch ($$))
(LIVE Tweet Coverage: @hanoversports)
***
GIRLS:
CLASS 3 SEMIFINALS (Tuesday):
Tabb 3, Goochland 1
Lord Botetourt 3, Rustburg 0
CLASS 3 CHAMPIONSHIP:
Tabb vs. Lord Botetourt, Saturday, 4pm, Salem Civic Center
BOYS:
CLASS 6 SEMIFINALS (Tuesday):
James River 3, Cosby 2
Ocean Lakes 3, Floyd Kellam 0
CLASS 6 CHAMPIONSHIP:
James River vs. Ocean Lakes, Thursday, 8pm, Siegel Center at VCU (CLICK HERE to watch ($$))
(LIVE Tweet Coverage: @cfieldsports)
***
CLASS 5 SEMIFINALS (Tuesday):
Deep Run 3, Gloucester 0
Glen Allen 3, Frank W. Cox 2
CLASS 5 CHAMPIONSHIP:
Glen Allen vs. Deep Run, Thursday, 6pm, Siegel Center at VCU (CLICK HERE to watch ($$))
(LIVE Tweet Coverage: @henricosports)
***
CLASS 4 SEMIFINALS (Tuesday):
Patrick Henry 3, Warwick 0
Maggie Walker GS d. Churchland
CLASS 4 CHAMPIONSHIP:
Patrick Henry vs. Maggie Walker Governor's School, Thursday, 4pm, Siegel Center at VCU (CLICK HERE to watch ($$))
(LIVE Tweet Coverage: @hanoversports)
***
GIRLS:
CLASS 3 SEMIFINALS (Tuesday):
Tabb 3, Goochland 1
Lord Botetourt 3, Rustburg 0
CLASS 3 CHAMPIONSHIP:
Tabb vs. Lord Botetourt, Saturday, 4pm, Salem Civic Center
FOOTBALL: First Round Scores, Region Semifinal Pairings
REGION 6A:
#1 Oscar Smith 60, #8 Western Branch 0
#2 Ocean Lakes 28, #7 Cosby 12
#3 Thomas Dale 55, #6 Grassfield 28
#4 Landstown 35, #5 Franklin County 27
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Landstown at #1 Oscar Smith, Friday, 7pm
#3 Thomas Dale at #2 Ocean Lakes, Friday, 7pm
REGION 5B:
#1 Highland Springs 38, #8 Henrico 21
#2 Manchester 49, #7 Douglas Freeman 7
#3 Deep Run 49, #6 Prince George 6
#4 Varina 58, #5 Clover Hill 0
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Varina vs. #1 Highland Springs, Friday, 7pm, Hermitage HS
#3 Deep Run at #2 Manchester, 7pm
REGION 4B:
#1 Louisa 49, #8 King George 12
#7 Dinwiddie 49, #2 Monacan 27
#3 Eastern View 42, #6 Huguenot 0
#4 Patrick Henry 56, #5 Spotsylvania 6
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Patrick Henry at #1 Louisa, Friday, 7:30pm (airtime 7pm on 102.9 The Mater and here online!)
#7 Dinwiddie at #3 Eastern View, Friday, 7pm
REGION 3A:
#1 Hopewell 61, #8 Southampton 8
#2 York 55, #7 Petersburg 40
#3 Phoebus 46, #6 Tabb 7
#5 I.C. Norcom 25, #4 Lafayette 7
SEMIFINALS:
#5 I.C. Norcom at #1 Hopewell, Saturday, 2pm
#3 Phoebus at #2 York, Friday, 7pm
REGION 3B:
#1 Goochland 42, #8 Independence 6
#2 James Monroe 60, #7 Central-Woodstock 28
#3 Brentsville District 32, #6 George Mason 21
#5 Skyline 42, #4 William Monroe 20
SEMIFINALS:
#5 Skyline at #1 Goochland, Friday, 7pm
#3 Brentsville District at #2 James Monroe, Friday, 7pm
REGION 2A:
#1 Thomas Jefferson 49, #8 Brunswick 12
#2 King William 60, #7 Amelia 12
#3 Poquoson 43, #6 John Marshall 22
#4 Greensville 36, #5 Nottoway 28
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Greensville at #1 Thomas Jefferson, Friday, 7pm, Huguenot HS
#3 Poquoson at #2 King William, Friday, 7pm
REGION 1A:
#1 Essex 45, #8 Mathews 0
#2 Rappahannock 48, #7 Northumberland 14
#6 West Point 24, #3 King & Queen Central 6
#4 Washington & Lee 34, #5 Colonial Beach 33
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Washington & Lee at #1 Essex, Friday, 7pm
#6 West Point at #2 Rappahannock, Friday, 7pm
#1 Oscar Smith 60, #8 Western Branch 0
#2 Ocean Lakes 28, #7 Cosby 12
#3 Thomas Dale 55, #6 Grassfield 28
#4 Landstown 35, #5 Franklin County 27
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Landstown at #1 Oscar Smith, Friday, 7pm
#3 Thomas Dale at #2 Ocean Lakes, Friday, 7pm
REGION 5B:
#1 Highland Springs 38, #8 Henrico 21
#2 Manchester 49, #7 Douglas Freeman 7
#3 Deep Run 49, #6 Prince George 6
#4 Varina 58, #5 Clover Hill 0
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Varina vs. #1 Highland Springs, Friday, 7pm, Hermitage HS
#3 Deep Run at #2 Manchester, 7pm
REGION 4B:
#1 Louisa 49, #8 King George 12
#7 Dinwiddie 49, #2 Monacan 27
#3 Eastern View 42, #6 Huguenot 0
#4 Patrick Henry 56, #5 Spotsylvania 6
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Patrick Henry at #1 Louisa, Friday, 7:30pm (airtime 7pm on 102.9 The Mater and here online!)
#7 Dinwiddie at #3 Eastern View, Friday, 7pm
REGION 3A:
#1 Hopewell 61, #8 Southampton 8
#2 York 55, #7 Petersburg 40
#3 Phoebus 46, #6 Tabb 7
#5 I.C. Norcom 25, #4 Lafayette 7
SEMIFINALS:
#5 I.C. Norcom at #1 Hopewell, Saturday, 2pm
#3 Phoebus at #2 York, Friday, 7pm
REGION 3B:
#1 Goochland 42, #8 Independence 6
#2 James Monroe 60, #7 Central-Woodstock 28
#3 Brentsville District 32, #6 George Mason 21
#5 Skyline 42, #4 William Monroe 20
SEMIFINALS:
#5 Skyline at #1 Goochland, Friday, 7pm
#3 Brentsville District at #2 James Monroe, Friday, 7pm
REGION 2A:
#1 Thomas Jefferson 49, #8 Brunswick 12
#2 King William 60, #7 Amelia 12
#3 Poquoson 43, #6 John Marshall 22
#4 Greensville 36, #5 Nottoway 28
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Greensville at #1 Thomas Jefferson, Friday, 7pm, Huguenot HS
#3 Poquoson at #2 King William, Friday, 7pm
REGION 1A:
#1 Essex 45, #8 Mathews 0
#2 Rappahannock 48, #7 Northumberland 14
#6 West Point 24, #3 King & Queen Central 6
#4 Washington & Lee 34, #5 Colonial Beach 33
SEMIFINALS:
#4 Washington & Lee at #1 Essex, Friday, 7pm
#6 West Point at #2 Rappahannock, Friday, 7pm
Friday, November 15, 2019
First Round Region Previews
Time to hit the reset button! If you win five in a row from this point, you will hoist a state championship trophy come December 14th.
REGION 4B:
GAME OF THE WEEK: #5 Spotsylvania (7-3) at #4 Patrick Henry (7-3), 7pm (6:30pm airtime on 102.9 The Mater, 102.9 FM/1430 AM, CLICK HERE to listen online, or use @TuneIn app and listen on "Radiall"!
In their shocking 41-12 loss to King George last week, allowing the Foxes to make the postseason as the eighth and final seed in the region, Spotsylvania did not score an offensive touchdown. The Knights may or may not have the services of quarterback Jake Naccarato, injured early in last week's game. Spotsylvania is no stranger to first-year Patrick Henry head coach Ken Wakefield, coaching against in the regular season and postseason at Culpeper in each of the last two seasons. Expect a power running game and physicality from the Knights, and, watch out for their special teams in you're Patrick Henry. Both scores last week against King George came in the return game. The Knights certainly know about Patriots quarterback Alex Sikkar. The question will be, for Patrick Henry, who can have a big night on the ground to free Alex to be Alex? Tyler Newell and/or Cameron Toliver need a good performance to send Patrick Henry to the next round.
#8 King George (6-4) at #1 Louisa (10-0), 7:30pm: The Lions completed their third consecutive 10-0 regular season. That's 30 straight regular season wins. Last year, Louisa's season ended at the hands of Eastern View. They look to return to the Class 4 state final to take care of unfinished business. First up, however, is a King George team that, essentially already has a playoff win, having to beat Spotsylvania last Friday. Louisa owns a five-game winning streak on the Foxes, who last beat the Lions in 2013. 2019 was the first time in a long time these two teams did not meet in the regular season.
#7 Dinwiddie (5-5) at #2 Monacan (8-2), 7pm: The Chiefs, looking to grab the top seed from Louisa, ran into problems in their loss last week to Clover Hill. The absence of Josiah Nelson was one of them, and they'll need him back in case this game begins to show signs of the track meet the Generals were a part of at home last week in that crazy 46-44 loss to Thomas Dale. Monacan needs this game to be more defensive-minded, with a score in the 20s. In each of the last three postseason meetings in this series, the Generals have come out on top. Dinwiddie may be the best 5-5 team in the playoffs in Virginia.
#6 Huguenot (6-4) at #3 Eastern View (9-1), 7:30pm: The Falcons tied for sixth with Dinwiddie and won the VHSL tiebreaker. The bad news is they get a much longer bus ride than the Generals do, heading to Eastern View, the defending region champions who ended Chancellor's playoff hopes last week, and, in the process, starting a new winning streak. A loss at the hands of Spotsylvania two weeks ago ended the Cyclones' 44-game regular season winning streak. Eastern View looks to score early and often. The first quarter is very critical for Huguenot. They'll need a good defensive start, and maybe a turnover or two. If you're within seven in the fourth period, doubt could set in. Doubt is the underdog's best friend in a "one and done" situation.
REGION 5B:
#8 Henrico (6-4) at #1 Highland Springs (10-0), 7pm, Hermitage HS: They meet again. The Springers earned a pair of 40-6 wins last year, the second in the Class 5 state quarterfinal. The Warriors' quest to finally upend the Springers continues, and, with a week to rest, and two weeks to prepare for their nemesis, Henrico should be ready to give the Springers their best shot. This game might be closer than expected. This Highland Springs team has won differently this year, having to come from behind at Oscar Smith and Manchester, overcoming a turnover-filled performance in Stafford to defeat Colonial Forge. But it's the postseason, where Highland Springs has won 20 straight games, last losing to L.C. Bird, in the midst of their final championship run, back in 2014. The Springers will be ready.
#5 Clover Hill (8-2) at #4 Varina (8-2), 7pm: Of the road teams in this region, the Cavaliers seem to be best built to pull an upset. However, they lack playoff experience, having missed the postseason in each of the last eight years. Varina, still seeking that deep playoff run into December, does know how it is this time of year. This is another game where the first quarter is critical, and the longer the visiting team can be in the game, the more the pressure tilts to the home side. It's been exciting, and fascinating, to watch this Clover Hill team surprise many in their first season in this region. Now, however, they have to find a way to slow down the Region 5B Offensive Player of The Year in Isiah Page, and the rest of the Blue Devils.
#7 Douglas Freeman (7-3) at #2 Manchester (9-1), 7pm: Perhaps the upset least discussed during the final stretch of the regular season was the Rebels' 28-21 loss to Glen Allen last Friday. The Jaguars looked completely out of sorts the week before in a loss to Deep Run that ended their hopes for a postseason return. But they took their frustrations out on Douglas Freeman, who now back into the playoffs a bit against a Manchester team that cannot defend their state championship of a year ago, no longer in Class 6. Other than Loren Johnson, no one knows what it takes to run this marathon to the finish line like Tom Hall. The Lancers will, too, be ready.
#6 Prince George (7-3) at #3 Deep Run (10-0), 7pm: Two Coach of The Year contenders in the RVA collide, though neither won the Region 5B honor (that went to Loren Johnson). Bruce Carroll and his upset-minded Royals make the long trip around Richmond on I-295 to Exit 51 to see if they can be the first (and only) team to hang a loss on Chad Hornik's Wildcats, who seem to improve each week. First Team All-Region quarterback Bo Kite will be a lot to handle for the Royals defense, who couldn't contain Treveyon Henderson of Hopewell a few weeks back. Kite isn't Henderson fast, but he's deceptive, and strong. The closest team to beat Deep Run, Patrick Henry, who fell in the final minute in September to the Wildcats 17-14, at least neutralized Kite. Prince George can only hope to do the same.
REGION 6A:
#7 Cosby (5-5) at #2 Ocean Lakes (7-3), 7pm: The Titans enter the playoffs in a tough position, having lost four straight games. But their schedule down the stretch was among the toughest in the area, if not the state. If anything, it should have created a battle-tested, hungry team who want a chance to come back and atone for their worst game of the season, which was opening night at Thomas Dale. The Dolphins fell to eventual Class 6 state champion Manchester in the 2018 state semifinal, and want another chance to bounce Oscar Smith from their seemingly perennial perch as the best Class 6 team in Hampton Roads. The Tigers open with #8 Western Branch (4-6).
#6 Grassfield (5-5) at #3 Thomas Dale (7-3), 7pm: Man, if the Knights could ever, ever enjoy a few weeks of injury-free football and have as many hands on deck as possible, they have the talent to do what they did a decade ago: win the state championship. It's hard to believe it's been ten years since the magical postseason run with the late, great Vic Williams at the helm. If Chris Tyree can be a full-time, full-on contributor on offense and special teams, and the Knights can get some swagger back defensively after yielding a lot of points (and yards) to Dinwiddie last week, anything is possible. First things first, you fought tooth and nail to win last week and get a home game in the first round. Now, take advantage of it. The winners of these games will meet in a region semifinal November 22nd.
REGION 3A:
#8 Southampton (6-4) at #1 Hopewell (10-0), 7pm: Do we see the playoff Hopewell of 2017, which, after backing into the postseason, roared to a Class 3 State Championship, or the Blue Devils of 2018, who looked prime to go back to back before falling to I.C. Norcom in the second round? The seniors now were sophomores when they lifted the hardware two seasons ago, and they'd love to complete their Hopewell careers by reliving that moment. It begins with a solid performance in the opener, taking nothing for granted, and keeping their season-long momentum going. With 10-0 York as the #2 seed, plus Phoebus and Lafayette, both 9-1, this could be the most top heavy region in the Commonwealth. Be it Goochland, Heritage of Lynchburg or Lord Botetourt, the other Class 3 region top seeds have to look at this region and have reason for concern should they survive into December. With a win, the Blue Devils get the winner of Lafayette and I.C. Norcom.
#7 Petersburg (5-5) at #2 York (10-0), 7pm: The Falcons also go unbeaten, but a win over 0-10 Bruton cost them the top seed. So, they go to work here against a very talented Crimson Wave squad who has enough Central District battles behind them now that they will look to throw the kitchen sink at York. If you're Petersburg, solid defense, get a couple of turnovers and short fields, and when you do, score. The winner here gets the Phoebus/Tabb winner.
REGION 3B:
#8 Independence (2-8) at #1 Goochland (9-1), 7pm: Independence, a new school from Loudoun County, takes the place of original eighth seed Warren County, who dropped out due to concerns of not having enough players for a travel squad. Thus, the Bulldogs, who saw their regular season finale with Bluestone forfeited for the same reason, may go three weeks without a "credible" opponent. Head Coach Alex Fruth and his staff will have to get creative as to how they keep the edge any team needs to make a championship run. Having Devin McCray can't hurt, however.
REGION 2A:
#8 Brunswick (5-5) at #1 Thomas Jefferson (8-2), 7pm, Huguenot HS: Brunswick is this region's King George, having to upset Greensville in their regular season finale last Thursday to make the playoffs. They won 34-28. Now, after the historic nature of their regular season, Thomas Jefferson finds a red-hot team coming to face them under the lights at Huguenot High. This night could belong to Shamar Graham and the Viking offense. The best way to slow down a team on a high of, essentially, already winning a playoff game, is by winning the war at the line of scrimmage early and often, and using Graham to wear down their will, play by play. The last time Thomas Jefferson hit the postseason with this much hope was back in the consolidated era of the 1980's, then known as "JHW"(Jefferson-Huguenot-Wythe).
#7 Amelia (6-4) at #2 King William (7-3), 7pm: The beneficiary of a wild Week 11 in this region was King William, who, after beating eight-win rival King & Queen Central, jumped from fifth to second place, the difference between a road game off the bat and now two possible home games, and a third should the top seed fall. The Cavaliers likely learned a lot in their loss to Benedictine, easily handled King & Queen, and, if they play their game Friday, should advance here. But the Raiders are never an easy out. If this game is close in the fourth quarter, it'll be no surprise. Should the Cavs roll, it'll be a message to the rest of the teams surviving in Region 2A.
#6 John Marshall (6-4) at #3 Poquoson (6-4), 7pm, Poquoson Middle School: There has been a bit of uneven play for the Justices this year, but, as opposed to many previous years, many more ups than downs. Can the John Marshall who held Devin Flowers and Glen Allen to six points show up here defensively? Poquoson can score some points, thus, a lower scoring affair favors the Justices. John Marshall has won eight of their last thirteen games, enjoying their best regular season since going 7-3 in 2011.
OTHER GAMES:
REGION 2A:
#5 Nottoway at #4 Greensville
REGION 1A:
#8 Mathews at #1 Essex
#5 Colonial Beach at #4 Washington & Lee
#7 Northumberland at #2 Rappahannock
#6 West Point at #3 King & Queen Central
REGION 4B:
GAME OF THE WEEK: #5 Spotsylvania (7-3) at #4 Patrick Henry (7-3), 7pm (6:30pm airtime on 102.9 The Mater, 102.9 FM/1430 AM, CLICK HERE to listen online, or use @TuneIn app and listen on "Radiall"!
In their shocking 41-12 loss to King George last week, allowing the Foxes to make the postseason as the eighth and final seed in the region, Spotsylvania did not score an offensive touchdown. The Knights may or may not have the services of quarterback Jake Naccarato, injured early in last week's game. Spotsylvania is no stranger to first-year Patrick Henry head coach Ken Wakefield, coaching against in the regular season and postseason at Culpeper in each of the last two seasons. Expect a power running game and physicality from the Knights, and, watch out for their special teams in you're Patrick Henry. Both scores last week against King George came in the return game. The Knights certainly know about Patriots quarterback Alex Sikkar. The question will be, for Patrick Henry, who can have a big night on the ground to free Alex to be Alex? Tyler Newell and/or Cameron Toliver need a good performance to send Patrick Henry to the next round.
#8 King George (6-4) at #1 Louisa (10-0), 7:30pm: The Lions completed their third consecutive 10-0 regular season. That's 30 straight regular season wins. Last year, Louisa's season ended at the hands of Eastern View. They look to return to the Class 4 state final to take care of unfinished business. First up, however, is a King George team that, essentially already has a playoff win, having to beat Spotsylvania last Friday. Louisa owns a five-game winning streak on the Foxes, who last beat the Lions in 2013. 2019 was the first time in a long time these two teams did not meet in the regular season.
#7 Dinwiddie (5-5) at #2 Monacan (8-2), 7pm: The Chiefs, looking to grab the top seed from Louisa, ran into problems in their loss last week to Clover Hill. The absence of Josiah Nelson was one of them, and they'll need him back in case this game begins to show signs of the track meet the Generals were a part of at home last week in that crazy 46-44 loss to Thomas Dale. Monacan needs this game to be more defensive-minded, with a score in the 20s. In each of the last three postseason meetings in this series, the Generals have come out on top. Dinwiddie may be the best 5-5 team in the playoffs in Virginia.
#6 Huguenot (6-4) at #3 Eastern View (9-1), 7:30pm: The Falcons tied for sixth with Dinwiddie and won the VHSL tiebreaker. The bad news is they get a much longer bus ride than the Generals do, heading to Eastern View, the defending region champions who ended Chancellor's playoff hopes last week, and, in the process, starting a new winning streak. A loss at the hands of Spotsylvania two weeks ago ended the Cyclones' 44-game regular season winning streak. Eastern View looks to score early and often. The first quarter is very critical for Huguenot. They'll need a good defensive start, and maybe a turnover or two. If you're within seven in the fourth period, doubt could set in. Doubt is the underdog's best friend in a "one and done" situation.
REGION 5B:
#8 Henrico (6-4) at #1 Highland Springs (10-0), 7pm, Hermitage HS: They meet again. The Springers earned a pair of 40-6 wins last year, the second in the Class 5 state quarterfinal. The Warriors' quest to finally upend the Springers continues, and, with a week to rest, and two weeks to prepare for their nemesis, Henrico should be ready to give the Springers their best shot. This game might be closer than expected. This Highland Springs team has won differently this year, having to come from behind at Oscar Smith and Manchester, overcoming a turnover-filled performance in Stafford to defeat Colonial Forge. But it's the postseason, where Highland Springs has won 20 straight games, last losing to L.C. Bird, in the midst of their final championship run, back in 2014. The Springers will be ready.
#5 Clover Hill (8-2) at #4 Varina (8-2), 7pm: Of the road teams in this region, the Cavaliers seem to be best built to pull an upset. However, they lack playoff experience, having missed the postseason in each of the last eight years. Varina, still seeking that deep playoff run into December, does know how it is this time of year. This is another game where the first quarter is critical, and the longer the visiting team can be in the game, the more the pressure tilts to the home side. It's been exciting, and fascinating, to watch this Clover Hill team surprise many in their first season in this region. Now, however, they have to find a way to slow down the Region 5B Offensive Player of The Year in Isiah Page, and the rest of the Blue Devils.
#7 Douglas Freeman (7-3) at #2 Manchester (9-1), 7pm: Perhaps the upset least discussed during the final stretch of the regular season was the Rebels' 28-21 loss to Glen Allen last Friday. The Jaguars looked completely out of sorts the week before in a loss to Deep Run that ended their hopes for a postseason return. But they took their frustrations out on Douglas Freeman, who now back into the playoffs a bit against a Manchester team that cannot defend their state championship of a year ago, no longer in Class 6. Other than Loren Johnson, no one knows what it takes to run this marathon to the finish line like Tom Hall. The Lancers will, too, be ready.
#6 Prince George (7-3) at #3 Deep Run (10-0), 7pm: Two Coach of The Year contenders in the RVA collide, though neither won the Region 5B honor (that went to Loren Johnson). Bruce Carroll and his upset-minded Royals make the long trip around Richmond on I-295 to Exit 51 to see if they can be the first (and only) team to hang a loss on Chad Hornik's Wildcats, who seem to improve each week. First Team All-Region quarterback Bo Kite will be a lot to handle for the Royals defense, who couldn't contain Treveyon Henderson of Hopewell a few weeks back. Kite isn't Henderson fast, but he's deceptive, and strong. The closest team to beat Deep Run, Patrick Henry, who fell in the final minute in September to the Wildcats 17-14, at least neutralized Kite. Prince George can only hope to do the same.
REGION 6A:
#7 Cosby (5-5) at #2 Ocean Lakes (7-3), 7pm: The Titans enter the playoffs in a tough position, having lost four straight games. But their schedule down the stretch was among the toughest in the area, if not the state. If anything, it should have created a battle-tested, hungry team who want a chance to come back and atone for their worst game of the season, which was opening night at Thomas Dale. The Dolphins fell to eventual Class 6 state champion Manchester in the 2018 state semifinal, and want another chance to bounce Oscar Smith from their seemingly perennial perch as the best Class 6 team in Hampton Roads. The Tigers open with #8 Western Branch (4-6).
#6 Grassfield (5-5) at #3 Thomas Dale (7-3), 7pm: Man, if the Knights could ever, ever enjoy a few weeks of injury-free football and have as many hands on deck as possible, they have the talent to do what they did a decade ago: win the state championship. It's hard to believe it's been ten years since the magical postseason run with the late, great Vic Williams at the helm. If Chris Tyree can be a full-time, full-on contributor on offense and special teams, and the Knights can get some swagger back defensively after yielding a lot of points (and yards) to Dinwiddie last week, anything is possible. First things first, you fought tooth and nail to win last week and get a home game in the first round. Now, take advantage of it. The winners of these games will meet in a region semifinal November 22nd.
REGION 3A:
#8 Southampton (6-4) at #1 Hopewell (10-0), 7pm: Do we see the playoff Hopewell of 2017, which, after backing into the postseason, roared to a Class 3 State Championship, or the Blue Devils of 2018, who looked prime to go back to back before falling to I.C. Norcom in the second round? The seniors now were sophomores when they lifted the hardware two seasons ago, and they'd love to complete their Hopewell careers by reliving that moment. It begins with a solid performance in the opener, taking nothing for granted, and keeping their season-long momentum going. With 10-0 York as the #2 seed, plus Phoebus and Lafayette, both 9-1, this could be the most top heavy region in the Commonwealth. Be it Goochland, Heritage of Lynchburg or Lord Botetourt, the other Class 3 region top seeds have to look at this region and have reason for concern should they survive into December. With a win, the Blue Devils get the winner of Lafayette and I.C. Norcom.
#7 Petersburg (5-5) at #2 York (10-0), 7pm: The Falcons also go unbeaten, but a win over 0-10 Bruton cost them the top seed. So, they go to work here against a very talented Crimson Wave squad who has enough Central District battles behind them now that they will look to throw the kitchen sink at York. If you're Petersburg, solid defense, get a couple of turnovers and short fields, and when you do, score. The winner here gets the Phoebus/Tabb winner.
REGION 3B:
#8 Independence (2-8) at #1 Goochland (9-1), 7pm: Independence, a new school from Loudoun County, takes the place of original eighth seed Warren County, who dropped out due to concerns of not having enough players for a travel squad. Thus, the Bulldogs, who saw their regular season finale with Bluestone forfeited for the same reason, may go three weeks without a "credible" opponent. Head Coach Alex Fruth and his staff will have to get creative as to how they keep the edge any team needs to make a championship run. Having Devin McCray can't hurt, however.
REGION 2A:
#8 Brunswick (5-5) at #1 Thomas Jefferson (8-2), 7pm, Huguenot HS: Brunswick is this region's King George, having to upset Greensville in their regular season finale last Thursday to make the playoffs. They won 34-28. Now, after the historic nature of their regular season, Thomas Jefferson finds a red-hot team coming to face them under the lights at Huguenot High. This night could belong to Shamar Graham and the Viking offense. The best way to slow down a team on a high of, essentially, already winning a playoff game, is by winning the war at the line of scrimmage early and often, and using Graham to wear down their will, play by play. The last time Thomas Jefferson hit the postseason with this much hope was back in the consolidated era of the 1980's, then known as "JHW"(Jefferson-Huguenot-Wythe).
#7 Amelia (6-4) at #2 King William (7-3), 7pm: The beneficiary of a wild Week 11 in this region was King William, who, after beating eight-win rival King & Queen Central, jumped from fifth to second place, the difference between a road game off the bat and now two possible home games, and a third should the top seed fall. The Cavaliers likely learned a lot in their loss to Benedictine, easily handled King & Queen, and, if they play their game Friday, should advance here. But the Raiders are never an easy out. If this game is close in the fourth quarter, it'll be no surprise. Should the Cavs roll, it'll be a message to the rest of the teams surviving in Region 2A.
#6 John Marshall (6-4) at #3 Poquoson (6-4), 7pm, Poquoson Middle School: There has been a bit of uneven play for the Justices this year, but, as opposed to many previous years, many more ups than downs. Can the John Marshall who held Devin Flowers and Glen Allen to six points show up here defensively? Poquoson can score some points, thus, a lower scoring affair favors the Justices. John Marshall has won eight of their last thirteen games, enjoying their best regular season since going 7-3 in 2011.
OTHER GAMES:
REGION 2A:
#5 Nottoway at #4 Greensville
REGION 1A:
#8 Mathews at #1 Essex
#5 Colonial Beach at #4 Washington & Lee
#7 Northumberland at #2 Rappahannock
#6 West Point at #3 King & Queen Central
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