FOOTBALL: Class 2A Sectional #33 Preview

THE FAVORITE Rensselaer Central Bombers – The Bombers won this sectional by a combined score of 135-45 last year. This year’s team is markedly better than last year’s. Another trip to semi-state, at the very least, looks likely. THE DARK HORSES

{module Upper Right Banner Box} Wheeler – In most years, a team this good and with as big of a scoring differential as the Bearcats would be the favorites, but getting by the Bombers is going to be a tough task. Wheeler’s been eliminated in the first round in each of the past two seasons, so at least that trend should change. Boone Grove – It’s conceivable that Boone Grove can beat Wheeler in a probable semi-final matchup. They won’t be the favorite, but it’s at least possible and a possible title game appearance gives them Dark Horse status.

TOUGH TIMES AHEAD 

North Newton – Winners of two out of their last three, North Newton at least goes into the tournament with some confidence on their side. Now they just need to get past a Boone Grove team that beat them 33-14 in Week #6.

North Judson – Looking at North Judson’s record (3-6) may have you thinking disappointment, but when you consider they lost to Rensselaer (9-0), Glenn (7-2), Pioneer (8-1), KV (5-4), Winamac (9-0) and TwinLakes (6-3) it’s about exactly where you’d expect them to be with that type of schedule. A dominating win over West Central will be the highlight of the season.

River Forest & Bowman – I’m grouping these two together because one of them won’t go winless and the draw was kind enough to give them both their best chance for victory this year. Of course the reward for the victor is a game against Rensselaer Central, but that’s better than being 0-10….I think.

Bishop Noll Warriors – The Warrior offense has averaged 30.2 points a game over the last four, unfortunately the defense has given up 38.25 over the same span. Noll drew Rensselaer on the road in the opener for the second straight year…which just seems cruel.