Ground game critical for B-C, Swansea

A look at some of the keys to victory this week in Midlands’ football games:

BROOKLAND-CAYCE AT SWANSEA – Let’s try this again … the Bearcats need to run the football; if they don’t, they will be taking up equipment in two weeks. Swansea needs the same – keep it on the ground and utilize the good running back.

DREHER AT CHAPIN – The best shot Dreher has at winning this game is limiting the number of plays Chapin runs, which will take ball control on offense. Otherwise, it could be a long night for the Blue Devils against my Mr. Football, Logan Bailey of Chapin.

IRMO AT LEXINGTON – These teams match up very well, but Lexington is way ahead of Irmo in terms of execution. Irmo needs to limit mistakes or the Wildcats could be a two-touchdown favorite. Lexington needs to not give up the big play on defense and put Irmo in second- and third-and-long situations.

SPRING VALLEY AT DUTCH FORK – The Vikings need to be better in the secondary and not give up big plays in the vertical game. That, along with controlling the ball with long drives and a strong kicking game, could make this a better game than it looks on paper.

MIDLAND VALLEY AT AIRPORT – This game will be for the Region 5-3A crown and for Airport to stay unbeaten, the Eagles will need to play solid defense and prevent big plays. Airport’s speed will be the difference in the game.