As the high school football season winds down, Week 8 brings a slate of pivotal matchups for teams in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area. Fans can expect tight contests that could shape the Ohio state playoff picture.
Elder travels to Highlands
Ranked #7, Elder heads to the bridge for a showdown with #8 Highlands. Elder has dropped two close games recently, but quarterback Kaden Estep continues to lead the Panthers in both passing and rushing. Wideout Andrew Lyman remains a key weapon, while sophomore playcaller Bryce Armstrong has been a constant thorn in opponents’ defenses. Running back Tayden Lorenzen also provides a dual‑threat option on both sides of the ball. Elder hopes to snap its losing streak and keep its playoff hopes alive.
Colerain challenges Lakota West
Ranked #16, Colerain looks to revive its program against powerhouse #2 Lakota West. Quarterback Roman Garr leads the league in passing yards, distributing the ball to a deep group of receivers, including standout DeSean Flagg Jr.. Lakota West, a perennial contender, boasts a balanced attack. Running back Kenyon Norman has been a workhorse, while linebacker Judah Blair makes plays across the field. Without a recent loss to Princeton, Lakota West remains a favorite to win the region.
Hughes versus CCPA
Both Hughes and CCPA enter the game undefeated. Hughes relies on dual‑threat quarterback Kyell Alexander, who can hurt defenses with his legs and arm. CCPA’s offense is spearheaded by Kemarion McCray, who leads the CMAC in passing yards, with wideout Kendrick Napier as his top target. The backfield duo of Ramik Bell and Carlito Houston adds depth for coach Jeff Cargile. The contest promises plenty of points on both sides.
Goshen visits Clinton‑Massie
Goshen arrives with a perfect 7‑0 record to take on Clinton‑Massie, a team that has struggled to 2‑5 after the departure of a Hall of Fame head coach. Goshen quarterback Caden Slusher has amassed 906 passing yards this season, while running back Gage Croley contributes 879 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. Defensively, Goshen has allowed only 17 points all year. Clinton‑Massie counters with league‑leading rusher Brady Gray, who has logged 1,039 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. Controlling the clock could give Massie a chance at an upset.
Other notable matchups
The Blitz 5 Tour highlights the game between #6 St. Xavier and #20 La Salle as the week’s featured preview. Additional top‑25 contests include #11 Lakota East at #10 Middletown, Talawanda at #12 Harrison, #18 Fairfield at #22 Mason, and Alter at #24 McNicholas in Ohio, as well as Columbus North at #9 East Central in Indiana.
Fans can follow live updates through local sports feeds and anticipate a dramatic finish to the regular season as teams jockey for playoff positioning.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
