Brock Netter, Staff Writer
Southern Ohio Sports Authority is presented by OhioHealth.
It’s crazy to think that I’ve covered four football games already, yet it’s only been two weeks of football played so far. But this weekend officially starts what will be the best three-month stretch.
High school football on Friday, college football on Saturday and the NFL returns, starting on Thursday. I couldn’t be happier.
So you all know where to find me on the weekends — on my couch, in front of my television.
Two weeks down, eight to go. Here are this week’s Power Rankings.
1. Ironton (2-0)
Week 2 result: 35-14 win over Jackson
Previous Ranking: 1 … —
Until I see it done, there’s no reason for me to believe the Tigers are going anything less than 12-0. This team just gets the job done, no matter what level of experience they have on the field. Also, Shaun Terry is WAY faster in person than any piece of film could ever show. Next-level type of gear. Bring on Fairland.
2. Logan Elm (2-0)
Week 2 result: 43-6 win over Westfall
Previous Ranking: 2 … —
Once the Braves’ rhythm finally caught up to their level of play, it was off to the races. This team caught some teams by surprise last season. This time, they want you to see them coming because they know it’s going to be a struggle to stop their offense. They aren’t on upset alert, but Miami Trace might provide a stiff test.
3. Unioto (2-0)
Week 2 result: 29-10 win over Amanda-Clearcreek
Previous Ranking: 4 … +1
So … what record is Newton Hoops going to break this week? He already owns the career touchdown record, and set a new record for yards in a game against the Aces. Is passing yards in a career up next? The Shermans have Waverly this week, and undoubtedly the ball is going to be flying through the air. If you can’t attend, we (SOSA) are livestreaming the game.
4. Fairland (2-0)
Week 2 result: 56-21 win over Wellston
Previous Ranking: 4 … —
Scoring 28 points in the first quarter alone is highly impressive. Even more so, all three phases of the ball scored in those opening 12 minutes. Honestly, the night couldn’t have gone any better for the Dragons. They handled business early, and got the starters out early and healthy. Now they’re as fresh as can be for a road trip to Ironton.
5. Wheelersburg (1-1)
Week 2 result: 20-17 win over McNicholas
Previous Ranking: 6 … +1
The Pirates’ defense continues to get the job done, while putting their offense back on the field with chances to score. This time around, they finished the job for a hard-fought first win. Remember, this is a usual pattern as of late. They start slow, catch their rhythm by Week 7 and it’s off to the races. Now, a showdown with Jackson.
6. Jackson (1-1)
Week 2 result: 35-14 loss to Ironton
Previous Ranking: 3 … -3
Speaking of Jackson, it doesn’t happen often where the Ironmen are getting pushed over, but they got a taste of that this past week alongside a realization about where they stand as a team. There’s work to be done. Still, keeping pace with Ironton for three quarters says a lot. But with Wheelersburg coming to town, there’s no rest for the weary.
7. West (1-1)
Week 2 result: 31-14 win over Portsmouth
Previous Ranking: 9 … +2
At one point in Friday’s game, it was tied 14-14. Then the Senators just hit another gear that Portsmouth couldn’t keep up with. Maybe they were still mad about how the Fairland game ended and needed to blow off some steam. Their run defense will get quite the workout on Friday with Hillsboro coming to the West side.
8. Piketon (2-0)
Week 2 result: 34-0 win over Oak Hill
Previous Ranking: 10 ... +2
Every team has one night where everything just completely works in their favor. Tip balls for interceptions and touchdowns, fourth down stops, interception returns for touchdowns. The Redstreaks had it all working in their shutout win. Their pass defense will surely be tested this week with a trip to Valley on the horizon.
9. Gallia Academy (2-0)
Week 2 result: 30-0 win over Athens
Previous Ranking: N/A
Two games played and two shutouts pitched. It doesn’t matter who you’re playing, to remain focused on the task for 96 minutes is highly impressive. Not to mention, this team is breaking in new players at key positions. Couldn’t ask for a better start, and now the Blue Devils will cross state lines into West Virginia on Friday.
10. Paint Valley (1-1)
Week 2 result: 49-13 loss to West Jefferson
Previous Ranking: 7 .. -3
Not exactly what the Bearcats were wanting, but give them credit for taking on the challenge of playing a Division VI powerhouse. It’s the only way you get better — playing teams that are better. Take the lessons, learn from them, apply them and get back to work. The yards on the ground should rack up on both sides as McClain invades town.