High School Football Predictions

Ah, the optimism of a new football season.

Teams that struggled last year just need some confidence to turn things around.

Teams that fell short of their goals are dedicated more than ever to get it done this time.

Teams that won it all have the swagger that comes with knowing how to reach the top.

You may not see your favorite team in a better light than you do right now … before the reality of game time can change everything.

Each week through the high school season, Patch will share our predictions on local football games — and ask for yours. Think you’ve got what it takes to pick a winner?

Let’s get it on.

Parkview at Stephenson: There’s nothing in this matchup that says Parkview can beat the Jaguars. Stephenson is state-ranked in Class AAAAA. The Jaguars are loaded with major-college talent, including Atlanta Journal-Constitution Super 11 pick Jarontay Jones, a defensive end headed to Virginia Tech. The Jags are big, fast and experienced and a favorite to win the Region 2-AAAAA championship.

Parkview, a four-time state titlist, has not been its old self. The Panthers squeezed into the playoffs last year with a 5-5 record, and return few starters from that team.

So why even consider that the Panthers have a chance? Well, because they always have a chance. Period. Coach Cecil Flowe will have them ready to play and his teams always play hard, two important ingredients in football success. Parkview lost in double OT to Stephenson last year, and 10-3 to eventual state champion Brookwood. Stephenson should win but don’t be surprised if there’s an upset. This one is a coin flip ... (flip) ... Stephenson 20, Parkview 19.

Etowah at Berkmar: Experience vs. youth is the theme in this Friday night game in Lilburn. Etowah (9-1 in the regular season last year and a playoff participant) has established itself as a consistently winning program. The Eagles return a solid core of starters who are looking to repeat as Region 5-AAAAA champs. Berkmar, 3-7 and a 56-21 loser at Etowah last year, is light in the experience department, but coach Jonathan Sanks says the Patriots might surprise opponents with its hard play and athleticism. Will it erase the five-touchdown margin of last year? Maybe some of that, but a win will be too difficult. Etowah 35, Berkmar 24.