DeCastro took in a Bellevue practice during the Spring

ESPN.com Pac-12 blogger Ted Miller notes that draft analysis originator Mel Kiper Jr. has DeCastro ranked 13th on his Big Board and his counterpart Todd McShay has him 15th. Miller also throws in some superlatives at the end, including saying DeCastro may be the best guard the Pac-12 has produced in a decade. 

I’ve avoided posting updates everytime someone says David DeCastro is good at football, mostly because that happens 10,000 or so times every time he takes the field. But as a regular reader of the Pac-12 Blog, Miller’s regional ties as the former Husky beat guy for the Seattle PI and the input from the two go-to names in NFL Draft analysis, I thought it was worth mentioning.

Kevin is joining the news side of things and also picking up some higher level editorial responsibilities and I will be splitting my time between Bellevue and Issaquah-Sammamish in sports. I don’t anticipate it will be easy and I can only promise I will do the best job I can to keep the coverage at the level Kevin has worked at.

But there will be some changes.

The Powers That Be have decided to place less of an emphasis on live prep sports coverage and focus on profiles, features and issue stories that can be related to our local community and readership. So what does that mean in terms of what you see on your computer screen or in the print paper on Fridays?

No more live game coverage: As a weekly paper that goes to deadline 24 hours before hitting news stands, it is difficult to get pertinent game coverage that is still news by the time it prints in the paper. For football, we are left either printing a game story that will come out a week after the game was played or not printing anything more than a quick score recap. Since the main aspect of our publication (financially if not philosophically) is print coverage, spending time covering a game and writing a story that will only live online is obviously not the best option, especially considering our limited resources in terms of man-hours.

The situation will be different come playoff time and I will do everything I can to get as much live state coverage as possible, but understand that some of that will be out of my control. For the regular season, we will get all the scores and highlights we can for all the prep sports in any given season and put them in daily roundups online (just as we do now) to keep the information flowing, even if it is without some of the deeper context we currently try to offer in game stories.

Features and profiles, sometimes prep, sometimes not: This is one of the smaller changes and is really something we already try to do in sports coverage: featuring and profiling characters in our sports and recreation community that have a great story. I’m going to continue to try and find youths, preps and adults in the community with great stories to tell and tell them in our paper.

The main change here is that we will no longer be running complete previews for every school during every prep sports season. Currently, the goal is to get to each sport at some point during the season, write a general story about the team’s prospects for the year and then revisit those who are still playing when the postseason rolls around.

Moving forward, features and profiles will have a broader reach and will more often include community sports figures and others in the community that may not participate with a prep team.

More issue stories: This is the part I’m most excited about, the chance to take a regional, national or even international issue and bring it down to a local level. The goal is to put together one piece ever month or two that is similar to the two-part series I did on the issue of concussion protocol and the impact to local student-athletes in our area. When something is grabbing headlines in the sports world, it will be part of my job to make that issue relevant in a local way.

That’s the gist of it, at least for now. The situation is always a fluid one and nothing is set in stone for all eternity, but this is the plan we are looking at moving forward after the first of the year. It will be different, but hopefully it offers an opportunity to reach a broader audience and give regular readers of sports a different look at a topic they already know and love.

Without a doubt, readers of sports are some of the most passionate and involved of all and hopefully this new approach offers a take on sports that continues to feed the desire for well-reported coverage of sports and recreation in the community. Please feel free to call or email me anytime with questions, concerns, suggestions or for any reason whatsoever. If you love the new ideas, a pat on the back is always welcome. If you hate them, everyone needs to remain humble and I’m no exception.

Thank you all for your continued support and I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for sports coverage in both the Bellevue Reporter and Issaquah-Sammamish Reporter.

Skyline vs. Woodinville
Kevin – Skyline 28-17
Josh – Skyline 24-13
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Lake Stevens vs. Skyview
Kevin – Skyview 38-30
Josh – Lake Stevens 40-38
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Kaimiakin vs. Bellevue
Kevin – Bellevue 35-14
Josh – Bellevue 42-0
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O’Dea vs. Camas
Kevin – Camas 28-24
Josh – O’Dea 14-10
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W.F. West vs. Lynden
Kevin – Lynden 35-21
Josh – Lynden 44-20
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Prosser vs. Archbishop Murphy
Kevin – Prosser 24-20
Josh – Archbishop Murphy 35-30
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Week 12 results
Kevin: 9-3
Josh: 9-3
Readers: 8-4

Year to date
Kevin: 114-30
Josh: 109-35
Readers: 116-28

BIG 5

Lakes vs. Bellevue
Kevin – This is a matchup people have talked about since the start of the season (unfortunately it’s in the state quarterfinals). The question is, will it live up to the hype? On one side is the disciplined machine that is nationally-ranked Bellevue. The other side, Lakes, presents some of the best athletes in the state with running back Levonte Littlejohn, receiver Cedric Dozier and lineman Zach Banner. Historically, the the well-oiled machine has won this battle. I don’t see it going any differently this time. Bellevue might bend, but never breaks. The same can’t be said for Lakes.
Pick: Bellevue 31-21
Josh – There has been a lot of talk about how the Lakes defense, after experiencing Bellevue’s offense first hand last year in the semi-finals and facing consecutive Wing-T offenses the past two weeks, will be more prepared and better positioned to get some stops this time around. I don’t think that will make a difference. Simply put, Nathan Hale and Mountain View are not Bellevue. No one is. If the Wing-T’s major flaw was ineffectiveness against opponents the second and third times around, Bellevue would not still be winning conference titles, let alone building the program to the level it sits at currently. KingCo foes like Sammamish and Newport have vacillated between the Wing-T and other three-back, option based offenses for years. But stopping the Totems has never helped anyone stop the Wolverines. The simple fact is that Lakes, while as talented as any team in the state, is going to face the same adjustment period everyone else faces when matching up with the Bellevue offense. The first couple drives of the game will end only one of two ways: a Bellevue touchdown, or a Bellevue turnover. The most important unit in this game is the Bellevue secondary, a group that has not allowed a scoring play of over 20 yards all season. That includes wins over top college quarterback prospects Max Browne, Jeff Lindquist and Luke Falk. The safeties, Michael Carlson and Budda Baker, do a great job of keeping plays in front of them and never allowing a quarterback to take the top off their defense with a big play through the air. Without a deep threat, it’s tough to make any headway against a solid front and well-drilled linebacking corps. Lakes is going to score some points, but they are going to work for whatever they get. In the end, despite what national pundits believe, Bellevue heads back to the Dome.
Pick: Bellevue 38-24
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Skyline vs. Central Valley
Kevin – Skyline’s defense continues to get stronger week after week. The Spartans slowed a hot Mead rushing attack on the road last week. They’ll need to do the same this week against Central Valley. The Bears are a run-first team that mixes in the pass. Two running backs — Alex Jacot and Grayson Sykes — along with quarterback Gaven Deyarmin have combined for more than 1,500 yards on the ground. Like last week’s opponent, Mead, it’s doubtful Central Valley has seen a passing attack anywhere near the level of Skyline’s. If the Spartans continue to bear down on defense, 2011 should mark another trip to the Tacoma Dome.
Pick: Skyline 35-21
Josh – I’m definitely impressed with Skyline’s performance last week, knocking off a highly regarded team some five hours from home. I know rankings are fickle, but it’s safe to say us media types likely wrote off the Spartans far too soon after the losses to Bellevue, Lake Oswego (Ore) and finally Eastlake. It was almost as if we all said, “only Skyline OR Eastlake can remain ranked in the top-10″ when the reality all along was that both were top-10 if not top-five teams in the state. No disrespect to Central Valley, but I think Skyline moves on.
Pick: Skyline 40-28
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Eastlake vs. Lake Stevens
Kevin – There’s a lot on the line for Eastlake Saturday night as the Wolves look for the program’s first ever trip to the state semifinals. In order to reach the goal, they will have to contain one of the state’s most productive quarterbacks, Jake Nelson. The Lake Stevens signal caller has completed 188 of 262 passes for 2,508 yards, 25 TDs and just five INTs. He’s also rushed for over 600 yards and 14 TDs. Fortunately for the Wolves, they play in one of the best passing conferences in the state and the defense should be prepared. On the flip side, Eastlake quarterback Keegan Kemp has completed 104 of 179 passes for 1,494 yards, 13 TDs, 9 INTs; and has rushed for 520 yards and 10 TDs. With running back Ryan Lewis (1,614 yards, 25 TDs) the Wolves pack a punch of their own. It could be a shootout on the Plateau this Saturday.
Pick: Eastlake 35-24
Josh – Watching Jake Nelson highlights all season, one thing has stuck out more than any other: the kid just makes plays. The scramble that he made to set up the even more improbable touchdown pass in the corner to Christian Gasca was one of the more impressive sequences I can remember from a prep quarterback with so much on the line. It wasn’t so much the plays themselves-the run was set up by some poor tackling and guys with their eyes in the wrong spot- it’s that he looked like he knew what he was going to do the whole time and when he did it, he was the only one who wasn’t surprised. That poise is going to loom large against an Eastlake team that is senior-dominated and hungry to erase the shortcomings of the school’s football past. Keegan Kemp is the X-Factor here. If he manages the game and makes a few plays, his team wins. If he falls apart and turns it over at critical times, the Wolves will not survive.
Pick: Eastlake 22-21
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Interlake vs. Lynden
Kevin – The 2A Saints have proven again that the gauntlet they run might not equal the best regular-season record, but it certainly gets them ready for the state tournament. For the second year in a row they are hosting a state quarterfinal game against one of the state’s top 2A teams. Can Interlake take that next step to the semifinals? Lynden is one of those programs that is successful year in and year out, earning three state titles since 2006. Coach Curt Kramme will no doubt have his Lions keyed in on Saints’ star running back Jordan Todd. Interlake might have to have someone else step up Saturday.
Pick: Lynden 32-14
Josh – Kevin is absolutely right, the Saints need someone else to step up and make some game-changing plays on offense, defense and special teams to win this game. I (incorrectly) thought last week would be the point when a disciplined defense was able to slow Jordan Todd enough to give its offense a chance to win the game. Franklin Pierce had no answer whatsoever for Todd, allowing 432 yards and five scores despite entering the game knowing full-well coach Jason Rimkus’ intentions to get his superstar the ball early and often. This week, it’s Lynden’s turn to try and slow Todd and the Saints’ ground game and that means it’s Kamana Adriano’s time to shine. The wiry, athletic quarterback convert has been good enough in 2011 thus far and is one of the toughest kids I’ve covered. He took a shot against Juanita that I thought was going to leave him unconscious on the ground but before the pile was pulled apart, he was already back up woofing at the defense and getting his squad back in the huddle. If the Turman brothers, Ryuji Kawashima and some of the Saints’ other weapons can get loose on the outside to open up the passing game, that’s going to make life a lot easier on Todd. If not, this one is going to look a lot like the quarterfinal loss to Murphy in 2010.
Pick: Interlake 34-33
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Woodinville vs. Union
Kevin – Woodinville’s defense is the real deal. In 11 games, the Falcons have allowed an average of under eight points per game. They held Bethel, a team scoring 48 points per game, to just seven points last week. Union is much improved since a 27-10 loss it suffered to Bothell in week one, but I don’t see this return trip to Pop Keeney Stadium going much better for the Titans.
Pick: Woodinville 31-10
Josh – Really tough to go against Woodinville in this one, especially at Pop Keeney and with the low numbers that defense has been holding teams to all season. Union’s schedule also just flat out doesn’t match up to the slate the Falcons weathered.
Pick: Woodinville 34-13
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OTHER GAMES

Skyview vs. Bellarmine Prep
Kevin – Skyview 35-28
Josh – Skyview 42-32
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Kamiakin vs. Kennewick
Kevin – Kennewick 17-14
Josh – Kamiakin 21-17
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Camas vs. Meadowdale
Kevin – Camas 28-21
Josh – Camas 30-10
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O’Dea vs. Capital
Kevin – O’Dea 32-21
Josh – O’Dea 24-22
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Lakewood vs. W.F. West
Kevin – Lakewood 35-21
Josh – Lakewood 35-14
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Archbishop Murphy vs. Othello
Kevin – Archbishop Murphy 28-14
Josh – Archbishop Murphy 44-10
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Ellensburg vs. Prosser
Kevin – Prosser 38-34
Josh – Prosser 24-17
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Week 11 results
Kevin – 18-6
Josh – 16-8
Readers – 20-4

Year to date
Kevin – 105-27
Josh – 100-32
Readers – 108-24

BIG 5

Mead vs. Skyline
Kevin – Obviously, living on this side of the mountains, I haven’t seen Mead. I know they a fly-sweep offense with a ton of motion — and they will pound the ball on the ground. This could be a challenge for Skyline as its one real weakness this season has been stopping the run. That said, I doubt the Panthers have seen a passing offense quite like that of the Spartans. The contrasting styles should equal a very competitive and entertaining game. Even with the long road trip, I give Skyline and its coaching staff a slight edge in this game. They’ve been there before and they will come prepared.
Pick: Skyline 31-28
Josh – On the only road trip Skyline took this season to Lake Oswego, the Spartans’ defense surrendered seven touchdowns. To one running back. As Kevin said, that could be a problem against a run-oriented Mead attack. But the Skyline defense hasn’t been carved up like that since and with Browne leading the passing attack, the offense should be able to do some damage. This game kind of represents the whole 4A tournament to me. A couple of really solid teams, both with impressive resumés and an outcome that could go either way. Call it KingCo bias, call it ignorantly siding with history, call it whatever you want, but I like the Spartans.
Pick: Skyline 35-30
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Federal Way vs. Eastlake
Kevin – Eastlake got back on track last week, thumping Jefferson 48-0. Don’t expect things to be as easy this week, however, as undefeated Federal Way will present a much larger challenge. Both teams have size on the line with the Eagles led by 6-foot-3, 300-pound Uso Olive and the Wolves led by 6-3, 320-pound James Bradley. Each team has speed in the backfield with Eastlake’s Ryan Lewis (1,462 yards, 23 TDs) and Federal Way’s D.J. May (1,288 yards, 21 TDs). Even looking at common opponents, Snohomish and Jefferson, the Wolves and Eagles are almost identical. Eastlake won 42-14 and 48-0, respectively, while the Federal Way won 41-14 and 34-8. This game could come down to who makes fewer mistakes or big special teams plays. In that case, I give the edge to the Wolves.
Pick: Eastlake 35-27
Josh – I haven’t seen an update on Olive, who did not play last week, or Jordan Pulu, who left last week’s game for Federal Way. If both play, give FW a slight edge at least in terms of personnel because along with May, that is one of most talented trios in the state. No disrespect to Eastlake, but I think Federal Way has the horses to keep up and is battle tested enough to survive.
Pick: Federal Way 28-24
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Bellevue vs. Eastside Catholic
Kevin – Eastside Catholic is still reeling after last week’s big 50-33 playoff victory at Oak Harbor. The Crusaders gained some valuable experience defending the Wildcats’ Wing-T offense, but there’s little question that Bellevue executes the run attack better than anyone else in the state — possibly the country. Eastside’s offense is really clicking right now behind quarterback Trey Reynolds and running back Chevy Walker. It will have to be flawless on Friday. Don’t be surprised if they give the Wolverines a scare early on, but depth and experience will be key in this one.
Pick: Bellevue 35-14
Josh – 28 unanswered points to end a playoff game is impressive, no doubt. If the Crusaders can duplicate their ability to create some turnovers, that is going to bode well. Bellevue, despite opening things up considerably from their teams back in the early 2000s, is still going to beat you by grinding your defense for the entire game and making defenders who are out of position pay with a trip to the end zone. Against Glacier Peak, the Wolverines used a couple interesting wrinkles such as a quick-hitting trap play, to break off big chunks when they needed it most and I think that is going to be the story of this one. Bold predictions: EC wins one quarter of the game and is within two scores at the half. Bellevue wins the other three and never lets the margin get closer.
Pick: Bellevue 42-28
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Meadowdale vs. Mercer Island
Kevin – This is a big-time first-round matchup between two quality 3A teams. Can University of Washington-bound quarterback Jeff Lindquist keep the Islanders alive? The senior has completed 130 of 237 passes (55 percent) for 1,839 yards, 22 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He’s also rushed for 771 yards and 12 TDs. The Mavericks don’t have any one athlete who is shattering record books, but they are consistent. The WesCo regular-season champions use an efficient running attack behind Giavani Shepard and Kyle Newsom and can pass with quarterback Brian Marty when necessary. I think the experience of playing in a tougher conference will make the difference in this one.
Pick: Mercer Island 34-17
Josh – How on earth is Meadowdale going to prepare for Lindquist? He is obviously known for the monster arm (he threw a ball against Bellevue from near midfield that landed 10 yards behind the endzone) but in my opinion, the most dangerous part of his game on the high school level is his ability to run. He’s not fast, but he’s definitely fast enough. And the bigger problem for defenders is he is big and does not fear contact. Tracking him down in the open field is tough enough, but getting him on the ground is even tougher. Like any good quarterback, he keeps his eyes downfield when he runs and can make a loafing secondary pay dearly. The Mavs played only one state playoff team in Edmonds-Woodway and are not nearly as tested as the Islanders, who faced four state playoff teams (Interlake, Bellevue, Mount Si, Seattle Prep). Like Kevin, I think that’s the difference.
Pick: Mercer Island 41-23
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Franklin Pierce vs. Interlake
Kevin – Interlake tests itself against some of the best 3A competition in the state during the regular season just for moments like this — the 2A state playoffs. Franklin Pierce isn’t a pushover, however. The Cardinals defeated the same White River team the Saints beat last week (20-13) in a much easier fashion (39-19). Interlake running back Jordan Todd will have to have one of his better performances of the season for the Saints to push through to the next round.
Pick: Franklin Pierce 28-24
Josh – There is no doubt all 22 eyes on the Franklin Pierce defense will be on Todd whenever the Saints have the ball. If they can hold down the shifty Todd, the Cards should be in good shape. But that’s a big if. Quarterback Kamana Adriano has shown flashes at times during the year and if he and his receiving corps can get something rolling through the air early, that will be a huge boost for the Saints’ offense.
Pick: Franklin Pierce 30-28
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OTHER GAMES

Kentlake vs. Union
Kevin – Kentlake 28-24
Josh – Kentlake 24-20
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Woodinville vs. Bethel
Kevin – Woodinville 34-21
Josh – Woodinville 30-12
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Ferris vs. Central Valley
Kevin – Ferris 24-21
Josh – Ferris 30-24
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Bellarmine Prep vs. Edmonds-Woodway
Kevin – Bellarmine Prep 35-20
Josh – Bellarmine Prep 21-20
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Skyview vs. Kentwood
Kevin – Skyview 35-14
Josh – Skyview 30-14
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Lake Stevens vs. Olympia
Kevin – Lake Stevens 35-21
Josh – Lake Stevens 28-21
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Lakes vs. Mountain View
Kevin – Lakes 42-7
Josh – Lakes 50-21
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Kennewick vs. Southridge
Kevin – Kennewick 42-14
Josh – Kennewick 34-10
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Kamiakin vs. Seattle Prep
Kevin – Kamiakin 28-13
Josh – Kamaikin 30-12
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Camas vs. Kennedy
Kevin – Camas 34-17
Josh – Camas 30-18
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Capital vs. Hazen
Kevin – Capital 28-7
Josh – Capital 14-10
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O’Dea vs. Mount Si
Kevin – O’Dea 24-23
Josh – O’Dea 35-13
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North Thurston vs. Lynden
Kevin – Lynden 28-24
Josh – Lynden 40-14
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Sequim vs. W.F. West
Kevin – W.F. West 28-17
Josh – Sequim 21-20
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Lakewood vs. Lindbergh
Kevin – Lakewood 35-14
Josh – Lakewood 35-30
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Othello vs. Steilacoom
Kevin – Othello 32-14
Josh – Steilacoom 14-10
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Tumwater vs. Archbishop Murphy
Kevin – Tumwater 21-17
Josh – Tumwater 24-20
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Prosser vs. Spokane-West Valley
Kevin – Prosser 34-14
Josh – Prosser 28-10
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Deer Park vs. Ellensburg
Kevin – Deer Park 28-17
Josh – Ellensburg 24-14
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Week 10 results
Kevin: 7-3
Josh: 8-2
Readers: 8-2

Year to date
Kevin: 87-21
Josh: 84-24
Readers: 88-20

There are only 14 teams ranked in 2A because there are two qualifying games remaining Tuesday between West Valley Spokane-East Valley Yakima and Ellensburg-Cheney.

4A
1. Bellarmine Prep (10-0)
2. Woodinville (10-0)
3. Eastlake (9-1)
4. Ferris (9-1)
5. Federal Way (10-0)
6. Mead (9-1)
7. Lake Stevens (10-0)
8. Kentlake (10-0)
9. Skyline (7-3)
10. Skyview (8-2)
11. Olympia (9-1)
12. Bethel (8-2)
13. Central Valley (8-2)
14. Union (8-2)
15. Kentwood (8-2)
16. Edmonds-Woodway (6-4)

3A
1. Bellevue (10-0)
2. Lakes (10-0)
3. O’Dea (10-0)
4. Kamiakin (10-0)
5. Meadowdale (10-0)
6. Camas (9-1)
7. Seattle Prep (9-1)
8. Kennewick (9-1)
9. Mercer Island (8-2)
10. Kennedy Catholic (9-1)
11. Eastside Catholic (7-3)
12. Mountain View (8-2)
13. Mount Si (7-3)
14. Southridge (7-3)
15. Capital (7-3)
16. Hazen (7-2)

2A
1. Lynden (10-0)
2. Prosser (9-1)
3. Tumwater (7-1)
4. North Thurston (9-1)
5. Lakewood (9-1)
6. Archbishop Murphy (9-1)
7. Othello (8-2)
8. Deer Park (9-1)
9. Sequim (9-1)
10. Franklin Pierce (8-2)
11. W.F. West (8-2)
12. Steilacoom (7-3)
13. Interlake (4-6)
14. Lindbergh (6-3)

* West Valley Spokane and East Valley Yakima along with Ellensburg and Cheney are squaring off Tuesday night for the final 2A state playoff berths.

Per usual throughout the past decade, Bellevue is primed for another run at a 3A title, though coach Butch Goncharoff told me earlier this week it is likely the toughest road one of his groups have faced throughout that dominant run. An opening round game against Glacier Peak, a potential matchup with Eastside Catholic or WesCo runner-up Oak Harbor followed by a trip south to take on a Lakes team many people are saying is their most talented ever. And that’s all before the semi-finals, which, could include a trek across the Cascades to face an Eastern Washington opponent and what would be a decidedly partisan crowd. Then of course, the challenge of a state title game and everything that comes with, likely against 3A number two O’Dea.

For the Saints, things kickoff against a White River team that should pose little resistance before likely facing 2A SPSL champion Franklin-Pierce in round two. Archibishop Murphy, Lakewood, Tumwater, Lynden, Prosser and a host of other talented, physical teams that won’t sweat the Saints 3A resumé are also lurking throughout the bracket. Things fell apart against Murphy last year in the quarters, but a more experienced, comfortable and confident Interlake team has the potential to stir things up.

We’re not going with the BIG 5 this week, but there are still score picks and polls and you can check out my look at the Glacier Peak-Bellevue and Interlake-White River games, which include conversations with Aaron Swanney of the Everett Herald and Grizzlies’ coach Rory Rosenbach.

Onto the picks.

2A
White River vs. Interlake
Kevin – Interlake 28-17
Josh – Interlake 42-28
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3A
Bellevue vs. Glacier Peak
Kevin – Bellevue 42-14
Josh – Bellevue 45-6
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Mercer Island vs. Ferndale
Kevin – Mercer Island 35-21
Josh – Mercer Island 45-22
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Oak Harbor vs. Eastside Catholic
Kevin – Oak Harbor 34-22
Josh – Eastside Catholic 30-20
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Peninsula vs. Mount Si
Kevin – Peninsula 28-21
Josh – Peninsula 35-21
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4A
Skyview vs. Issaquah
Kevin – Issaquah 35-32
Josh – Issaquah 40-10
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Eastlake vs. Jefferson
Kevin – Eastlake 42-7
Josh – Eastlake 35-6
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Skyline vs. Monroe
Kevin – Skyline 38-7
Josh – Skyline 50-20
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Bethel vs. Bothell
Kevin – Bethel 35-28
Josh – Bethel 30-21
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Woodinville vs. Curtis/Kentridge
Kevin – Woodinville 35-14
Josh – Woodinville 28-13
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Week 9 results
Kevin: 10-2
Josh: 9-3
Readers: 10-2

Year to date
Kevin: 80-18
Josh: 76-22
Readers: 80-18

Inglemoor vs. Issaquah
Kevin – Two seasons are on the line in this KingCo Crest No. 3 and KingCo Crown No. 3 matchup. Issaquah’s balanced offense has started to click of late behind the ground attack of sophomore Jack Gellatly and the connection between quarterback Ethan Kalin and wide receiver Reed Peterson. The Eagles simply play in a tougher division than the Vikings and it will show Friday night.
Pick: Issaquah 42-21
Josh – Loser-out games always add that extra level of motivation and intrigue and whichever team handles that better is going to have an edge, especially if things get tight. Inglemoor has been solid all season, but its best win was probably over Snohomish (another WesCo North playoff team) back in the season-opener, a 10-0 decision. They also only lost by a pair to Bothell in the Spaghetti Bowl. But the Vikes were slapped around in a 45-25 loss to Lake Stevens and dumped 38-14 by division champ Woodinville. This one is going to be all Eagles.
Pick: Issaquah 40-14
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Bothell vs. Newport
Kevin – Newport has limped into the postseason, losing three of its last four games. The Knights do hold one advantage over Bothell, however, in that they already beat the Cougars, 28-24. Newport will have to find some of the same magic it had in mid-September when quarterback Isaac Dotson ran for one touchdown and threw for two others. Bothell has played better of late, however, and with their significant home field advantage the Cougars will certainly have revenge on the mind. Hard to pick against the Blue Train in this one.
Pick: Bothell 35-28
Josh – I was at the game between these two earlier in the year and there was a lot going on aside from the final score. One was the tragic passing of Newport offensive coordinator Tim Driver, which coaches and players learned about after the game. Another was some spotty officiating on both sides of the ball, specifically one critical pass interference call that extended a touchdown drive for the Knights. The atmosphere is going to be decidedly different at Pop Keeney than it was in the regular season matchup as well and of course as Kevin mentioned, there is the revenge factor. Dotson controlled the game last time around, making the right decisions throughout in running and passing situations. Kizhan Proctor scored two touchdowns on the ground for Bothell and at times, looked nearly unstoppable with the ball in his hands. If the Newport defense can contain the run, they should be fine against a suspect Cougars’ passing game.
Pick: Newport 35-30
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Juanita vs. Interlake
Kevin – An Interlake win would give the Saints the top seed in the Seamount 2A Division. Interlake has caught fire of late, winning its last three games over Sammamish, Lake Washington and Liberty. The Saints will have to get it done on the road, but I like the momentum they carry.
Pick: Interlake 23-20
Josh – The Rebels lost by only two to Liberty and seven to Mount Si, but their only wins have come over Redmond (winless), Sammamish (two wins, one by forfeit) and Lake Washington (two wins, one by forfeit). If Juanita can slow Jordan Todd, they have a chance. I doubt that happens and when Todd gets loose, things open up for the Interlake offense.
Pick: Interlake 30-24
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Roosevelt vs. Skyline
Kevin – Not that any week is a good one to face Skyline’s high-powered offense, but this is definitely a tough situation for Roosevelt’s defense. The Spartans are no doubt looking to get back on track after their first ever loss to Plateau rival Eastlake, 28-21. Look for a fast start from quarterback Max Browne and for the Spartan’s reserves to see time by the third quarter.
Pick: Skyline 48-10
Josh – Roosevelt is going to want no part of a motivated, angry and focused Skyline squad and this one is going to get out of hand early. Bold predictions: Max Browne throws at least five touchdowns, the Skyline defense gets a shutout and a defensive score, all the Spartans’ starters are out of the game in the third quarter.
Pick: Skyline 55-0
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OTHER GAMES
Lake Washington vs. Mercer Island
Kevin – Mercer Island 42-7
Josh – Mercer Island 50-0
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Sammamish vs. Mount Si
Kevin – Mount Si 35-7
Josh – Mount Si 40-20
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Bellevue vs. Liberty
Kevin – Bellevue 42-10
Josh – Bellevue 45-6
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Chief Leschi vs. Bellevue Christian
Kevin – Bellevue Christian 42-0
Josh – Bellevue Christian 35-7
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Eastside Catholic vs. Nathan Hale
Kevin – Eastside Catholic 35-7
Josh – Eastside Catholic 44-12
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Ballard vs. Redmond
Kevin – Ballard 28-24
Josh – Ballard 20-11
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Garfield vs. Marysville-Pilchuck
Kevin – Marysville-Pilchuck 24-20
Josh – Marysville-Pilchuck 21-14
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Week 8 results
Kevin: 11-1
Josh: 11-1
Readers: 11-1

Year to date
Kevin: 70-16
Josh: 67-19
Readers: 70-16

BIG 5

Eastlake vs. Skyline
Kevin – This one’s for all the marbles in the KingCo Crest with the winner moving on to face Woodinville for the KingCo 4A Championship. These teams have contrasting offensive strengths and have struggled defensively to stop what the other is good at. Eastlake’s offense is run-heavy behind Ryan Lewis and Keegan Kemp, averaging 254 rushing yards per game. Skyline’s offense is pass-heavy behind junior quarterback Max Browne, averaging 342 passing yards per game. Both teams certainly have the motivation. Eastlake has never defeated Skyline (in five attempts). Skyline is used to being ranked No. 1 and doesn’t like sharing a limelight that historically belongs to the Spartans. Who will be able to rise up and make the big stop on Friday? I see this being a high-scoring affair. The team with the least amount of mistakes wins.
Pick: Eastlake 42-38
Josh – This should be one of the most competitive, well played games of the year. Both teams should be confident in their identity and devoid of silly mistakes at this point in the season. Max Browne gets a lot more attention, but Eastlake signal-caller Keegan Kemp is also a solid passer and is dangerous when he decides to take off and run. I would say the Wolves have the advantage because of Ryan Lewis and their run game, but Browne and the passing attack of the Spartans is so dynamic and precise, it can overcome the lack of a dominant rushing performance. I’m going to make a prediction, but pretending like I know who is going to win this game is a farce. But for the perception of Washington high school football and assuming both teams make deep playoff runs, I hope it’s a good one.
Pick: Eastlake 35-34
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Bainbridge vs. Eastside Catholic
Kevin – Eastside Catholic has had some of the top Metro teams against the ropes this season, falling just short to O’Dea and Seattle Prep. The Crusaders have another stiff test against Bainbridge — a squad that has suffered similar fate in 2011. The winner gets the No. 3 seed out of the Mountain Division. Neither of these teams need a win, but I expect a close one. Look for Chevy Walker and a couple of special teams plays to be the difference.
Pick: Eastside Catholic 28-24
Josh – The Crusaders have missed on their two biggest opportunities of the year against Seattle Prep and O’Dea. Eastside Catholic badly need this win to salvage an otherwise lost season for first-year head coach Jeremy Thielbahr and I think they get it.
Pick: Eastside Catholic 40-20
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Issaquah vs. Newport
Kevin – The winner of this game gets the No. 3 seed headed into the KingCo 4A crossover, the loser falls to No. 4. There’s not much at stake, except for momentum. Something Issaquah will be looking to recover after a tough 44-17 loss to Eastlake last week. Look for the Eagles to pound the ball with sophomore Jack Gellatly and for quarterback Ethan Kalin to rediscover his groove after a tough week (15-44, 2 TDs, 4 INTs).
Pick: Issaquah 35-20
Josh – Newport got exactly what it needed last week by beating Redmond and now has a chance to take a major step forward as a team and program by beating someone from the Crest other than the Mustangs. If Isaac Dotson accounts for five touchdowns like he did last week, the Knights are going to win. Even though the Issaquah defense struggled to finish against Skyline and Eastlake, I think they are going to get enough stops to win.
Pick: Issaquah 34-24
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Mount Si vs. Bellevue
Kevin – Mount Si could create some issues atop the KingCo 3A if the Wildcats could pull off an upset over Bellevue. But that’s a big IF. Bellevue has shown no weakness in recent weeks, rolling over weaker opponents. The Wolverines should make another big statement this week, locking up the top seed in their division.
Pick: Bellevue 42-14
Josh – The Wildcats are one of the more respected and consistently good programs in the conference. They have a long tenured coach, a physical mentality on both sides of the ball and will be playing at home on Senior Night in front of a packed house. The official Mount Si football website is telling spectators to “Come see Mount Si Wildcats new uniforms” as well. Oh and did I mention, a win over the Wolverines would clinch a playoff berth for Mount Si? While all of that would spell potential upset for most other teams, Bellevue isn’t most other teams. Even facing some injury questions, I expect the Wolverines to roll.
Pick: Bellevue 42-19
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Liberty vs. Interlake
Kevin – Interlake certainly has motivation in this game, hoping to lock up a 2A playoff spot and the Saints are coming off big wins over Sammamish and Lake Washington. Liberty has struggled to find any real groove this season, but I think when it comes down to it, the Patriots size and depth will prevail.
Pick: Liberty 28-20
Josh – The Saints are in prime position to earn one of the three playoff spots from 2A Seamount after last week’s win over Lake Washington, but there is no doubt getting at least one of the final two would have folks around Interlake resting a little easier. Jordan Todd was up to his old tricks again last week against the Kangs and if he can find some room to operate in the Patriots’ defense, his team could be in business. Liberty has been up and down while attempting to replace their top three offensive producers from last year (and probably, in the school’s history) but they have won three of four and two straight after the 0-2 start.
Pick: Liberty 20-18
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OTHER GAMES

Roosevelt vs. Woodinville
Kevin – Woodinville 35-14
Josh – Woodinville 44-10
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Bothell vs. Ballard
Kevin – Bothell 42-7
Josh – Bothell 42-14
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Garfield vs. Inglemoor
Kevin – Inglemoor 35-6
Josh – Inglemoor 35-6
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Lake Washington vs. Juanita
Kevin – Juanita 28-13
Josh – Juanita 35-12
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Mercer Island vs. Sammamish
Kevin – Mercer Island 45-0
Josh – Mercer Island 55-21
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Edmonds-Woodway vs. Redmond
Kevin – Edmonds-Woodway 35-7
Josh – Edmonds-Woodway 40-12
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Bellevue Christian vs. Tacoma Baptist
Kevin – Tacoma Baptist 28-14
Josh – Tacoma Baptist 33-32
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Week 7 results
Kevin: 11-0
Josh: 11-0
Readers: 11-0

Year to date
Kevin: 59-15
Josh: 56-18

Interlake heads back home on the heels of last week’s Crossroads Cup win over Sammamish with the hopes of earning the kind of victory that can completely change the perception of a season. Obviously the Saints deal with some unique playoff circumstances being the only 2A team in 2A/3A KingCo (as things are currently classified). Each win Interlake earns over a 3A or 4A opponent in the regular season counts as two points in the standings, which are then counted against the teams in 2A Seamount (Lindbergh, Evergreen, Foster, Renton) to find out who gets the three playoff spots to the District playoff round. Currently, Lindbergh and Renton both have two league wins while Foster and Evergreen both have one. If the Saints can pick up a win over beleaguered Lake Washington tonight, they will have set themselves up nicely to get one of those three spots with four points in the standings and only two weeks to play. If they can win tonight and beat either Liberty or Juanita, due to the schedules amongst those four Seamount teams, they are going to get in for sure.

Speaking of teams who need a win…

Newport faces Redmond tonight in a game that will likely decide the fourth and final spot into the 4A KingCo crossover games that will take place in two weeks. The winner is going to get a crack at a Crown division foe (most likely Bothell) for a spot in the round of 32 while the loser is going to finish winless in the division and miss out on the playoffs completely. Last season, the Knights used a win over the hapless Stangs to propel themselves into the crossover game with Inglemoor. That win earned them a trip to the District playoffs, where they promptly stomped Kentlake 52-6 to make their first trip to state since 2007. Could a similar situation play out this time around? The first part, at least on the surface, looks to be set up perfectly for coach Mike Miller’s team as they will face a group from Redmond that is winless and has played its closest game of the season in a  39-17 loss to Lake Washington. The Kangs then lost to Sammamish, a team that had not won a 3A KingCo game in four years. A Newport win could set the table for another playoff run, but a loss would make next week’s game against Issaquah a must-win.

The Totems didn’t have much time to lick their wounds after last week’s rivalry loss and will be back home tonight to face the consensus top team in the state in 3A in the Bellevue Wolverines. Nick Myers and Austin Lee showed promise on offense last week, but will face a decidedly stiffer challenge tonight against a Bellevue defense that boasts at minimum three Division-I prospects in Tyler Hasty, Sean Constantine and Jake Eldrenkamp (and if you listen to the Bellevue coaches, or watch him play, add sophomore Budda Baker to that list in the future).

As for the Wolverines, the test is going to be remaining focused and taking care of an overmatched opponent. That hasn’t always been the case this season. See: 21-20 against Interlake heading into the fourth quarter and 21 straight points by Mercer Island to close the game after it had been 43-7. Both of those games ended with Bellevue making enough plays to win and this one will too, but there’s no doubt coach Goncharoff and his staff want to see a complete performance with games against Mount Si and Liberty coming to end the regular season. If the Bellevue that shut out Lake Washington 54-0 and took care of Juanita 42-14 last week shows up, this one is going to be ugly.

I’ll be back on the sidelines next week, probably at Interlake-Liberty or maybe Bellevue-Mount Si.

Email me at jsuman@bellevuereporter.com or call 425-453-5045.