No. 4 Maplesville and No. 5 Linden has the makings of one outstanding ballgame. By far, it is the most anticipated match-up of games involving our local teams.

Linden and Billingsley played one whale of a ballgame last week. The difference was just a couple of missed extra points. This week, I expect another exciting match-up.

The Red Devils have blown through their early season competition, but Linden is not like any team the Devils have faced.

The key to the game is how effective the Patriots running attack is. If they can run it right at Maplesville, then it will make things difficult. The Patriots will use their dynamic duo of running backs in Maurice Tate and Shantrell Braxton. In doing so, they hope to play keep away from Maplesville and use the offense as their best defense.

Monroe Co. at CCHS

The Tigers have a chance to get their first win of the season on homecoming night. CCHS has played a brutal first half of the season, playing some tough teams including Jemison, Tallassee, Carver-Montgomery, Gardendale and Demopolis (a team that is better than its 1-4 record). The Monroe County Tigers got their first win of the season last week, but they haven’t had a winning season since 2003.

Dallas Co. at Jemison

The Panthers are upset after losing such a controversial game with Chelsea last week. If a couple breaks went Jemison’s way last week, they would probably still be undefeated.

I expect Jemison to get back on the winning track tonight on homecoming. Dallas County’s two wins came over teams with a combined record of 2-8.

Isabella at Pickens Co.

This is a pivotal region game for the Mustangs. Up for grabs tonight is home-field advantage in the first round of the playoffs. If the Mustangs win, then they should have the inside track for second place. A loss doesn’t completely take Isabella out of contention for the runner-up position because the Tornados still have to play American Christian, Fultondale and Vincent. All three of those games will be difficult.

The Mustangs must be able to run the ball and keep a high-scoring Pickens County attack off the field.

Thorsby at Vincent

The Rebels are facing a challenging Yellow Jackets team. Thorsby must have an answer for Vincent’s spread attack. Hopefully, the offense can manufacture some points to keep it close.

Fayetteville at Verbena

The Wolves have only mustered 35 points through five games. Verbena should be able to rebound from a homecoming loss to Isabella to stay in the playoff hunt.

Akron at Billingsley

The Bears are disappointed about coming up a point short last week at No. 4 Linden, but I am impressed with how improved Billingsley is.

Akron shouldn’t present too much of a problem on homecoming night. Expect the Bears to roll through the Rams tonight.

B.B. Comer at Marbury

The Bulldogs should have a good homecoming night as they face the winless Tigers. The off week should have helped any injured guys get healthy. Expect the vote for homecoming queen to be closer than the final of this one.