PREP PREVIEW | Four more games to watch

POLAND vs. HUBBARD

Game time: 7 p.m. today at Hubbard stadium.
Radio: WKBN-AM 570
Last meeting: Hubbard won 29-24 last year.
Notebook: The Bulldogs committed six turnovers in the last two meetings with the Eagles, both losses. Poland junior Gannon Hulea steps in for the graduated Chris Lovell at QB, leading a grind-it-out offense against the wide-open spread preferred by new Hubbard coach Brian Hoffman. Hoffman, who led West Middlesex to the state title game last year, will turn to veteran QB Marc Kanetsky and a host of offensive weapons. The Bulldogs will rely on RBs Tyler and Trent Vallinger and Greg Sabol. “We know we’re in for a track meet on the defensive side, so if it’s raining, we’ll be smiling,” said Bulldog coach Mark Brungard. “No matter what it is, it’s going to be a great game.”

CRESTVIEW vs. LABRAE

Game time: 7:30 p.m. at LaBrae High stadium
Last meeting: Crestview won 45-12 last year.
Notebook: With 21 returning lettermen, including SB Keith Drewnoski and QB Tony Britton, the Rebels seem poised to make another playoff run. LaBrae lost two of its top offensive threats, QB Mike Ryan and RB Eric Hart, to graduation and are probably a year away from serious contention, although there’s a lot of talent in the junior and sophomore classes.

SOUTH RANGE vs. MOGADORE

Game time: 7:30 p.m. at Mogadore High stadium
Last meeting: South Range won 42-13 last year.
Notebook: The Wildcats rebounded nicely from last year’s rout by advancing to the Division VI state semifinals before losing to Shadyside. The Raiders, led by RB Steve Bensinger and QB Jack Dawson, have gone undefeated in the regular season the past two years and seem poised for another playoff run after losing in the regional finals to Warren JFK last year. Mogadore brings back QB Shawn Pierce and RB Cody Destro and should contend for another Portage County League title this fall.

MATHEWS vs. WESTERN RESERVE

Game time: 7 p.m.
Last meeting: Reserve won 44-21 last year.
Notebook: Coming off their best season in 20 years, Reserve must replace All-Ohio QB Brandon Moherman and top wideout Chris Tofilski. RB Jason Lude and WR Nate Lude lead the offense, while LB Bob Banks keys the defense. Mathews counters with four-year starting QB Lucas Buckner and RB Brad Hughes. Both teams are hoping to contend for playoff berths and a win here would help.

Vindicator staff report