There’s a lot to like about the Week 4 slate at first glance.

All nine teams in The Times’ coverage area are in action — meaning there are nine critical opportunities for each of those programs to snag important region victories — and there are several matchups that look great on paper.

So, let’s get to it.

Before we do that, though, remember to please visit www.cullmantimes.com, The Cullman Times Facebook or my Twitter account (@winfreyjake) for prep football coverage.

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Class 1A, Region 7

Addison (2-1, 1-0) at Cherokee (2-1, 1-0)

The Bulldogs are 7-0 all-time in this series, outscoring the Indians 259-64 in the process.

Those numbers are all I need to make this pick.

My Pick: Addison

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Class 2A, Region 6

Cold Springs (2-1, 0-1) at Cleveland (1-1, 0-0)

The Eagles let one slip away last week, so I’m sure they’ll be on high alert Friday.

Cold Springs has dropped eight straight against the Panthers — with its most recent win in the series coming back in 2005.

But if the Eagles play a clean game here, I like their chances.

My Pick: Cold Springs

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Class 6A, Region 7

Cullman (1-2, 0-1) at Jasper (3-0, 1-0)

Another Cullman series, another string of close bouts.

These teams have met six times since 2018 — and four of those have been decided by four points or less, including last year’s 15-13 victory by the Bearcats.

The Vikings seem to be an improved team, averaging 50.3 points per game so far this season in wins over Brookwood, Sipsey Valley and Decatur.

Cullman will offer more resistance Friday night, but will it be enough?

My Pick: Jasper

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Class 5A, Region 7

Fairview (2-0, 1-0) at Ardmore (3-0, 1-0)

The Aggies are off to yet another hot start under coach George Redding.

So, too, are the Tigers, who are 3-0 for the first time since 2021.

Fairview, though, is going to be Ardmore’s toughest competition to date — and it’s hard not to see the road team pulling this one out.

But don’t be surprised if it’s a lot closer than last year’s 35-2 outcome.

My Pick: Fairview

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Class 4A, Region 5

Good Hope (2-0, 1-0) at Haleyville (3-0, 1-0)

The Raiders have ridden their defense to a perfect start.

The Lions, meanwhile, are 3-0 for the first time since 2016.

Whichever team wins this game will have a leg up in a competitive region.

Expect a competitive game, then. 

My Pick: Good Hope

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Class 3A, Region 5

Hanceville (0-3, 0-1) at Carbon Hill (1-1, 0-0)

The Bulldogs are still in search of their first win this season.

Friday night offers a good opportunity to make that happen.

Hanceville has never lost to Carbon Hill in six tries — and I still think the Bulldogs are better than what they’ve shown so far.

Siding with history in this one.

My Pick: Hanceville

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Class 3A, Region 8

Brindlee Mountain (0-3, 0-1) at Holly Pond (1-2, 0-1)

The Broncos should be able to take care of business in this one.

After all, the last time these teams met — in 2021 — Holly Pond recorded a 53-0 victory.

A lot has changed in the world the past three years, but this outcome should remain similar.

My Pick: Holly Pond

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Class 3A, Region 5

Vinemont (2-1, 0-1) at Midfield (1-2, 0-1)

What can you say about a four-overtime loss?

No doubt last week was a tough one for the Eagles to swallow. 

However, I think they will recover nicely and pick up their first region win on Friday.

My Pick: Vinemont

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Class 5A, Region 7

Lawrence County (2-1, 0-1) at West Point (0-3, 0-1)

This is another series that typically yields close results.

These teams have met every season since 2012 — West Point holds a slim 7-5 advantage during that stretch — with eight of those being decided by 14 points or less.

The Warriors hope to avoid an 0-2 start in a difficult enough region, while the Red Devils are looking to bounce back from a loss to four-time defending region champion Russellville.

My Pick: Lawrence County

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Season Record: 15-6