With the weather cooling and the postseason looming, Ohio high school football enters its most intense week. Week 8 offers several matchups that could shape the state playoff picture, and local fans are eager to see which teams will seize the momentum.
Elder vs. Highlands (Bluebirds at Panthers)
Elder travels across the bridge to face Highlands, a game that could decide which team earns a stronger seed in the Ohio state playoffs. Elder has dropped two close games recently, but quarterback Kaden Estep continues to lead the offense with both his arm and his legs. Wideout Andrew Lyman remains a key target, though his health status will be monitored. Meanwhile, Highlands relies on sophomore quarterback Bryce Armstrong, whose dual‑threat ability has made him a constant headache for opponents. Running back Tayden Lorenzen also provides a game‑changing presence on both sides of the ball. Our pick: Elder to snap its losing streak.
Colerain at Lakota West
Colerain is enjoying a modest resurgence, highlighted by quarterback Roman Garr, who tops the league in passing yards and spreads the ball to a deep receiving corps. DeSean Flagg Jr. stands out as a reliable target, while the entire offense steps up when the lights are on. Lakota West remains a powerhouse on offense and defense. Running back Kenyon Norman has been a relentless force, and linebacker Judah Blair patrols the field from sideline to sideline. Without a recent loss to Princeton, Lakota West is a clear favorite. Our pick: Lakota West to win.
Hughes vs. CCPA
Both Hughes and CCPA enter the week undefeated and capable of putting points on the board at will. Hughes quarterback Kyell Alexander continues to threaten defenses with his dual‑threat skill set. For CCPA, Kemarion McCray leads the CMAC in passing yards, with wideout Kendrick Napier as his top target. The backfield duo of Ramik Bell and Carlito Houston provides a solid one‑two punch under coach Jeff Cargile. Our pick: Hughes to come out on top.
Goshen at Clinton‑Massie
Goshen arrives with a perfect 7‑0 record, while Clinton‑Massie sits at 2‑5 after the departure of a Hall of Fame head coach. Goshen quarterback Caden Slusher has amassed 906 passing yards this season, and running back Gage Croley adds 879 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. The Goshen defense has been stingy, allowing only 17 points all season. Clinton‑Massie’s Brady Gray leads the league with 1,039 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, offering a chance for an upset if the Warriors can control the clock. Our pick: Goshen to stay unbeaten.
Other Notable Rankings
Beyond the featured games, the Blitz 5 Top 25 includes several Ohio matchups worth watching: #11 Lakota East at #10 Middletown, Talawanda at #12 Harrison, #18 Fairfield at #22 Mason, and Alter at #24 McNicholas. In Indiana, Columbus North faces #9 East Central.
Week 8 promises high‑intensity football as teams fight for playoff positioning. Fans should keep an eye on the performances of standout quarterbacks and running backs, as their play often determines the outcome in these tightly contested games.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
