New England high school preview — Week 11

Now we are at that point in the season where basically every game is a big one.

We’ve got every MIAA postseason matchup in the eight divisions, plus out of state.

Also, check out our NEPSAC bowl capsules.

Let’s get to it.

Division 1

St. John’s Prep vs. Andover — We knew Andover would be good this season, but did not necessarily think the Warriors woud be back here. At this spot a year ago, the Prep won this matchup convincingly. The Eagles have a terrific offensive line and punishing ground game. Andover has explosive RB Dante Berger and a good passing game, too.

Xaverian vs. Needham — These teams must feel like they are looking in the mirror when watching each other’s film. Both like to run the ball, but have strong passing games, too. Hawks RB Denzil Pierre has put together an excellent season. Needham’s Tate Hoffmeister is a tough runner.

Division 2

King Philip vs. Barnstable — Both of these teams have met, or maybe even exceeded, their preseason expectations. KP has rolled through its schedule undefeated. The Warriors are terrific up front and have three backs who can hurt you. Barnstable has a great skill collection.

Catholic Memorial vs. Marshfield — Catholic Memorial has been rolling along quite well since losing a regular season matchup with St. John’s Prep. Marshfield does not have a big senior class, but has played well against a tough schedule. The Rams are the underdog, but won’t be intimidated.

Division 3

Milford vs. Walpole — This is Milford’s first time in D3 after competing in D2 a year ago, where the Scarlet Hawks lost in the state semifinals to CM. Milford features Nick Araujo, who stars at linebacker, running back, and kicker. Walpole is one of the hottest teams in the state and has explosive skill.

Westfield vs. Milton — This one has plenty of intrigue. Westfield has been one of the best teams in Western Mass. all season, and very few people expected the Bombers to be here, courtesy of a win over a strong Billerica squad. Milton has recovered from a late, three-game losing streak.

Division 4

Duxbury vs. Tewksbury — These teams tend to find each other in the postseason fairly often. Once again, Duxbury is probably the favorite here. QB Trevor Jones, RB Alex Barlow, and WR Zach Falls have led the Dragons. Tewksbury has played in six one-score games.

Scituate vs. Grafton — This is another one that is tough to forecast, because these feel like two evenly-matched teams. Scituate took some time to find itself, but the Sailors are a good team that has strong skill. Grafton avenged an earlier loss to Worcester South, then beat a good Marblehead team to get here.

Division 5

Hanover vs. Danvers — Danvers is a bit of a surprise to be at this point, but the Falcons are worthy. Hanover has looked every bit the contender for a state title, and have a top-notch passing duo in QB Ben Scalzi and WR John McDonald. The Danvers defense has allowed 20 or more points just once all season, and not once in a loss.

Foxboro vs. Shawsheen — Foxboro is bigger up front, and should have the running game with RB Ben Angelini cranking from the start. That said, underestimate Shawsheen at your own peril. This team is undefeated, and has a quarterback in Sidney Tildsley who is one of the best playmakers in the state.

Division 6

Fairhaven vs. Hudson — This is one of the best matchup of the weekend, and both of these teams harbor realistic state title hopes. Fairhaven has that strong running game, led by downhill back Justin Marques. Hudson has one of the best passing attacks around with QB Jacob Attaway.

Stoneham vs. Salem — Another top matchup for the division and the state as a whole. Stoneham features that brutal double-wing that no defense wants to face. Salem has a tremendous skill group, and quarterback Corey Grimes. This should be a fun game, and a contrast of styles.

Division 7

Uxbridge vs. Clinton — Clinton enters this game on a high after just beating Rockland, 49-6. This team has lost to some good programs in West Boylston, Hudson, Tyngsboro, and Maynard. Uxbridge is the favorite, though, led by QB Kellen LaChappelle, and an explosive offense.

Cohasset vs. Amesbury — Both of these teams had to be considered favorites coming into the tournament. Although the Skippers have a few losses, they have been mostly consistent, and know how to perform in big games. Amesbury has been terrific all year with a dominant run game.

Division 8

West Boylston vs. Cathedral — This is a bit of a contrast that sometimes pops up in state tournament play. West Boylston has been dominant, and not played in a close game for its undefeated season. Cathedral, on the other hand, has won two close gaes to start the playoffs. Something has to give.

Carver vs. Hoosac Valley — In some ways, this one is also a contrast. Carver is unbeaten against a tough schedule, and is led by quarterback Tyler Lennox. Hoosac Valley excels in letting its running game lead the way. Carver is the favorite, but this is an interesting matchup.

Bloomfield at Windsor — An interesting showdown between two of the better programs in the state. Windsor is the bigger school, but Bloomfield has the tradition of knocking out bigger teams, and Bloomfield is undefeated.

Leavitt vs. Oceanside — In the Class C championship in Maine, you have two 10-0 teams facing off for the title. Leavitt has played a tougher schedule and is the favorite, but Oceanside cannot be overlooked with a slew of lopsided wins on its resume.

Pinkerton vs. Londonderry — The New Hampshire playoffs are in full swing, and this is a good one in D1. Pinkerton won the regular-season matchup, 24-20, but this really could go either way.

North Kingstown vs.  Bishop Hendricken — This is the Rhode Island D1 championship. North Kingstown is coming off a massive win over La Salle, and Hendricken advanced based on its win over Central. These two teams are familiar with each other, and Hendricken won the regular-season meeting by a touchdown.