Most of the talk within the Cape Ann League throughout the season has been about Masconomet and its dangerous one-two punch of Chris Splinter and Evan Bunker.
The Chieftains have gone undefeated in Cape Ann League play, are 8-2 overall and are highly regarded as one of the premier 2A teams in Eastern Mass. By comparison, North Andover (also 8-2) hasn't even been on the radar of top-notch football teams.
That should change on Thanksgiving, however. The Knights have been playing well over the last month and, if they can establish the same kind of passing attack on Thanksgiving as they did in the second half against Pentucket, while alternating with some Zac Iovanella runs, I envision a minor upset in North Andover's favor.
Of course, the weather and late practice-induced injuries can always make a difference on Thanksgiving. But, if they don't, the Knights should be making plans for the playoffs.
PICK: North Andover 30, Masconomet 24
TOMORROW'S GAME
LAWRENCE (3-7) at MALDEN CATHOLIC (3-7)
Quinn McDonough is a touchdown machine for Malden Catholic, but the Lancers should be able to outscore their host.
PICK: Lawrence 34, Malden Catholic 27
THURSDAY'S GAMES
Lowell (1-9) at HAVERHILL (0-10)
This is a game the Hillies have a good chance of winning, but I'm not sure they can stop Angel Escalera and Lowell's rushing attack.
PICK: Lowell 23, Haverhill 14
PENTUCKET (5-5) at TRITON (6-4)
The Sachems need to find a way to slow down Triton standout Brendan O'Neil and score more than two touchdowns to win. I'm skeptical that will happen, however, which is why I'm picking against them on Thanksgiving for the first time in a decade.
PICK: Triton 20, Pentucket 13
Methuen (8-2) at DRACUT (8-2)
After all of Cal Carroll's heroics, and the performances of their clutch defensive unit during the season, it seems risky to pick against the Rangers. But Dracut is healthy and anxious to avenge last season's loss at Methuen.
PICK: Dracut 28, Methuen 14
GEORGETOWN (1-8) at MANCHESTER Essex (8-2)
Georgetown has had trouble with Manchester even when it had far more talented squads. On paper, this shouldn't be close.
PICK: Manchester Essex 34, Georgetown 8
WHITTIER (10-0) at Greater Lawrence (7-3)
The Reggies should keep it close, and they're capable of an upset, but Whittier has too many weapons and should remain perfect prior to the Division 4 playoffs.
PICK: Whittier 28, Gr. Lawrence 20
ANDOVER (6-4) at CENTRAL CATHOLIC (7-3)
Andover should have a better record with its talent and, if the Golden Warriors can get their act together, they will pull out a thriller.
Then again, Central usually wins when I pick against it.
PICK: Andover 23, Central Catholic 20
LYNNFIELD (9-1) at North Reading (2-8)
It's still hard to believe that Lynnfield is a conference champion headed to the playoffs.
PICK: Lynnfield 27, North Reading 7
Season record: 129-42
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