Local high‑school football enthusiasts have a fresh set of picks for this week’s games. After a solid 44‑21 record (69.82% win rate) last week, the “Pick ’Em” analyst kept his confidence high, noting that the computer models and recent film both support the selections below.

Marshall (2‑2) at Texas High (1‑3)

Marshall enters the contest with a balanced attack, averaging 30.0 points per game while allowing just 29.3. The team has won its last two outings and is favored by 18 points according to the computer model. Texas High, though capable of explosive scoring, has struggled defensively, giving up 62‑41 in a recent loss to Terrell. The Tigers have also missed several assignments on Friday nights, suggesting defensive inconsistency. The prediction: Marshall 38, Texas High 24.

Pleasant Grove (4‑0) at C. E. Byrd (0‑3)

Pleasant Grove remains unbeaten and boasts a stout defense that yields only 14.0 points per game. C. E. Byrd has yet to find its footing, scoring just 12.3 points while allowing 31.7. The Yellow Jackets rely heavily on a run‑heavy offense that has struggled to sustain drives. Pleasant Grove’s balanced attack, averaging 41.5 points per game and fresh off a 45‑21 victory over Paris, should dominate early. The pick: Pleasant Grove 42, C. E. Byrd 10.

Liberty‑Eylau (1‑3) at Newton (2‑1)

Newton, the No. 3 team in Class 3A‑2, is a solid 18‑point favorite despite the apparent mismatch on paper. The Eagles score 40.0 points per game and allow 31.0, with their only loss coming against a top‑ranked West Orange‑Stark squad. Newton’s recent 28‑point effort and 350‑yard total demonstrate its ability to compete with larger rosters. Liberty‑Eylau’s defense gives up 33.5 points per game, making it difficult to contain Newton’s tempo. The prediction: Newton 35, Liberty‑Eylau 20.

Arkansas High (1‑2) at Magnolia (0‑3)

Arkansas High broke a road losing streak with a 56‑26 win over Siloam Springs, highlighted by quarterback CJ Cleveland’s 399 total yards and six touchdowns. The Razorbacks average 37.0 points per game and have scored at least 21 points in every outing. Magnolia’s defense has allowed 35.3 points per game while scoring 24.0. Arkansas High’s efficient offense and steady road performance suggest a close but decisive win. The pick: Arkansas High 34, Magnolia 27.

Genoa Central (3‑0) at Malvern (1‑2)

Genoa Central’s defense has been the best in Conference 4A‑7, surrendering only 20 points in three games. The Dragons emphasize a disciplined, run‑first approach, exemplified by a 318‑yard rushing performance in the Parkers Chapel win. Malvern, despite a 1‑2 record, has shown offensive promise, but its defense has allowed 96 points in three games and suffered a 44‑0 loss to Stuttgart. The disciplined Genoa Central defense should control the tempo. The prediction: Genoa Central 21, Malvern 14.

Arkadelphia (2‑1) at Nashville (3‑0)

Nashville’s offense is built on speed and variety, with quarterback DJ Jefferson and receivers Kishon Jefferson and Jakhari Starr stretching the field. The Scrappers have demonstrated the ability to force defenses to cover every inch of the field. Arkadelphia relies on a strong defense and ball control, but Nashville’s tempo often overwhelms opponents. The computer model favors Nashville, and the projection reflects that advantage. Prediction: Nashville 44, Arkadelphia 21.

Atlanta (3‑1) at Van (2‑2)

Van’s two losses were close contests (49‑46 to Lindale and 38‑35 to Pittsburg), both against strong opponents. Atlanta, a 3A‑1 team, is fast, balanced, and confident, but has not yet faced a team with Van’s offensive depth. Van’s ability to match scores with higher‑tier 4A‑2 teams suggests a competitive game. The pick: Van 38, Atlanta 35.

DeKalb (2‑2) at Queen City (3‑1)

Queen City’s recent cultural shift under Coach Kevin Reaves has emphasized ball control, clock management, and brother‑like execution. Although DeKalb won the previous matchup 50‑6, that result is viewed as a historical artifact rather than a predictor. DeKalb’s defense has been inconsistent, and its offensive rhythm has not matched past explosiveness. Queen City’s home crowd and disciplined play give them the edge. Prediction: Queen City 28, DeKalb 20.

Maud (1‑3) at Celeste (0‑4)

Computer projections list Maud as a 29‑point favorite on the road. Maud’s season has been marred by heavy defeats, but those losses came against stronger opponents such as Rivercrest and Cushing. Their lone win, 22‑6 over Alba‑Golden, showed they can execute a clean, run‑first game when matched evenly. Celeste has struggled offensively, never scoring more than 15 points in a game. Maud’s defensive stability and Celeste’s steep trend line favor Maud. Prediction: Maud 34, Celeste 6.

Redwater (3‑1) at New Boston (1‑3)

Redwater quarterback Braelan Morgan provides dual‑threat efficiency, helping the Dragons win five of their past six games. Their defense has allowed 20 points or fewer in three straight contests. New Boston’s roster is strong, but its defense has surrendered 75 points in three losses, lacking four‑quarter consistency. Redwater’s defensive trend and Morgan’s stability give them the advantage. The computer model lists Redwater as a 19‑point favorite.

These picks reflect the latest statistical trends, computer models, and on‑field observations, offering a solid guide for fans planning their game‑day wagers and supporting their local teams.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.