Smith Vocational at Northampton
Friday, 7
The Blue Devils (1-0) and Vikings (1-0) meet for the first time ever with Northampton bragging rights at stake. Smith Voke is coming off a momentum-building drubbing of Drury. Hamp is fresh off a big win over rival Amherst. The underdog Vikings will need another big day from Jake Erali (six touchdowns last week).
Amherst Regional at Belchertown
Friday, 7
Last season, these two played a tight game, which the Hurricanes won 16-14. Both are looking for their first win after Week 1 losses. The young Orioles struggled in a loss to Ware. The Hurricanes’ offense stalled after taking an early lead against Northampton.
Easthampton at Mahar
Friday, 7
The Eagles (0-1) played Taconic tough in a low-scoring eight-point loss last week. Five Easthampton turnovers made a difference. The Senators (1-0) fell to Greenfield 24-8. Easthampton will look to follow the Green Wave’s lead and pound the ball on the ground. Greenfield rushed for over 300 yards against Mahar.
Frontier Regional at Greenfield
Friday, 7
The Red Hawks scored 16 straight points in the fourth quarter to beat Pittsfield on the road last week. Bryce Dobosz debuted for Frontier with 103 yards rushing and two touchdowns. The Red Hawks’ defense will need to focus on RJ Bird, who rushed for over 200 yards and scored three TDs against Mahar.
South Hadley at Mashpee
Friday, 6
The Tigers (0-1) face a big challenge in the two-time defending state Division 4 champion Falcons (1-0). The focus should be on Devaun Ford, son of former NFL player Willie Ford (2002-05). According to the Cape Cod Times, the younger Ford led Mashpee in touchdowns (26), 2-point conversions (nine), receiving yards (615), kick- and punt-return yards (894), all-purpose yards (2,171) and interceptions (four) last season.