Picks:
Memorial at Jasper
Always a classic matchup between these 2 teams. Memorial is on a 3-game winning streak against the Wildcats, which includes them ending Jasper’s season twice. Memorial returns a bunch of players from last season’s 9-4 squad and will be a contender/favorite in the SIAC. They also return their QB from injury back in Week 4 against MD. Jasper took some hits in their offensive backfield losing their FB, but the Wildcats have been eyeing this game since last season. Jasper also opens up the season in a brand new stadium and aspirations for the SIAC crown/deeper postseason run. I have a feeling this game will go back and forth, I’m biased, so give me the Tigers by 6.
Lincoln at Bosse
Both teams lost their valuable QBs to graduation and some key players too. Last season, the Alices were highly underrated in their 8-4 campaign and finally broke out from the bottom of the conference. Bosse also surprised many with their speed and offensive power being the top Offense in the Conference for nearly all the season. However, the Dawgs lost Wagner to graduation, who made up most of their offensive numbers. I think I’m going with the Alices by 2 scores in the game.
Mater Dei at Central
Mater Dei was in some unfamiliar territory last season going 3-7, although a couple games could have gone their way. Central, on the other hand, is still looking for their first win since 2021. Can the Bears see some improvement? Mater Dei should see some improvement this season, but some questions on the offense. However, I’ll take the Wildcats by 2-3 scores.
Harrison at Reitz
Reitz is eyeing for a 3 peat in the Conference and eyeing to win the sectional for the first time since 2016. But took some heavy hits to graduation from last season. Harrison is trying to improve over the years, but returning 16 starters is a start for them. But, give me the Panthers in a running clock.
Game of the Week:
Castle at North
Definitely the best matchup this week is the Knights vs the Huskies. Last year, the Huskies swept the Knights by beating them in the Sectional Championship. However, Castle has been eyeing this game since bowing out last season and wants to make a statement. As Castle enters the season being one of the early SIAC favorites returning a plethora of talent on both sides of the ball. North did take some graduation hits losing valuable players. However, the Huskies returned a majority of their college-sized line and a few other starters. Both teams will be highly energized for their matchup due to a lot at stake and will be a preview for the Sectional. I’ll take the Knights by 12.
