Halfway Through: Time to size up playoff prospects for local football teams

Published 9:44 pm Thursday, September 30, 2010

We’re halfway through the high school season, and it’s time to take a look at playoff prospects for our local teams.

GARDENDALE

Outlook: EXCELLENT

The Rockets are looking good after a big win over Minor. They’re 3-0 in the region, but face the big dogs — Northridge, Tuscaloosa County and Hillcrest — over the next three weeks. Win any one and they’re in the post-season. Lose them all, and they must beat Jackson-Olin to get in. We think Gardendale will beat at least one of the big three and easily handle the Mustangs.

MORTIMER JORDAN

Outlook: IFFY

The Blue Devils can be world-beaters one week and hapless the next. They should beat Curry but will probably fall to Cullman and Hartselle, though the Bearcats could be upset on a good night. If form holds, it will set up what we’ve expected since the schedules were announced — a Week 9 battle with Hayden for the last playoff spot.

HAYDEN

Outlook: PROMISING

The Wildcats have certainly improved in coach Steve Kerby’s second year. They host a rugged Walker team this week, but should prevail over West Point and Brewer. If that happens, then read that paragraph to the left again — and get your tickets early for Oct. 22 against Jordan.

FULTONDALE

Outlook: DIRE

The Wildcats have not fared as well as expected, losing their first four region games before last week’s win over Oakman. They face three more region opponents in as many weeks, including a tough 4-1 Westminster Christian squad this Friday. Simply put, Fultondale must win out and hope for some help from other teams.

CORNER

Outlook: OPTIMISTIC

A 3-2 record for Corner? Who knew? They have a legit shot at the playoffs, but they must win this week over Dora in the NJN Big Game, take out Tarrant, and then handle winless Haleyville. Fayette County is a tall order, but if the Yellow Jackets take two of the other three, they could make the playoffs for the first time since Brent Smith’s first stint at Corner.

TABERNACLE CHRISTIAN

Outlook: UNCERTAIN

Christian Football Association eight-man play is notoriously difficult to figure out, especially since the CFA doesn’t update its website regularly and results are hard to find. The Torches are 2-2 in the league, and likely need wins over two of three remaining CFA foes to get in. But with only six playoff-eligible teams, one more win might be enough.