WHEELING — Loyal readers will recall that three months ago in this very space, it was said that we should enjoy this season while it lasts because it will be — as always — the quickest 10 weeks on the calendar. If you blinked, we’re to that point in the state of Ohio as playoff action commences this weekend.
In all, 20 Ohio Valley Athletic Conference squads have qualified for the Buckeye State’s postseason festivities. For many it will be a one-and-done endeavor, but there are a few that have their sights set on deep runs.
One of those teams that figures to have a lengthy postseason stay, is St. Clairsville. It began the season No. 1 in our power rankings, and it ended its regular season in the same spot.
#1
St. Clairsville (9-1)
Last Week: W, 55-28 vs. Cambridge
This Week: vs. No. 15 Licking Valley
Previous Ranking: 1
This first-round matchup is going to be a yawner.
#2
Steubenville (8-2)
Last Week: W, 34-20 vs. University School
This Week: vs. No. 11 Tallmadge
Previous Ranking: 2
Tallmadge’s only victory against a team with a winning record came in Week 1.
#3
Bellaire (9-1)
Last Week: W, 35-6 vs. Martins Ferry
This Week: vs. No. 12 Crestview
Previous Ranking: 3
The Big Reds finished their season in style.
#4
Shadyside (8-1)
Last Week: W, 21-20 at Monroe Central
This Week: vs. No. 14 Fairfield Christian
Previous Ranking: 4
Tigers have been in some dogfights down the stretch.
#5
Barnesville (8-1)
Last Week: W, 26-21 at Union Local
This Week: vs. No. 13 Dawson-Bryant
Previous Ranking: 6
To the victor goes the Milk Bucket.
#6
Cameron (8-0)
Last Week: W, 47-0 vs. Beallsville
This Week: vs. Trinity
Previous Ranking: 7
Dragons, who were No. 1-rated Class A team last week, play Trinity for the second time.
#7
Linsly (5-4)
Last Week: L, 20-14 vs. Louisville, Ohio
This Week: at Holidaysburg, Pa.
Previous Ranking: 5
Perhaps that schedule is having a cumulative effect on the Cadets?
#8
Wheeling Park (3-3)
Last Week: W, 56-7 vs. Brooke
This Week: vs. Parkersburg South
Previous Ranking: 10
Patriots have a chance to make it two in a row.
#9
Wheeling Central (6-3)
Last Week: W, 21-7 vs. Beaver Local
This Week: OPEN
Previous Ranking: 11
Central with a big-time, gut-check victory last week.
#10
John Marshall (5-3)
Last Week: L, 33-7 vs. Morgantown
This Week: vs. Oak Glen
Previous Ranking: 8
Bit of a hiccup last week for the Monarchs.
#11
Beaver Local (7-3)
Last Week: L, 21-7 at Wheeling Central
This Week: at No. 7 Glenville
Previous Ranking: 9
Long winning streak snapped, but playoffs for Beavers.
#12
Fort Frye (8-1)
Last Week: W, 41-9 at Williamstown
This Week: vs. No. 16 Northridge
Previous Ranking: NR
Cadets are one of those area teams looking to cash in this postseason.
#13
Edison (7-3)
Last Week: W, 12-7 vs. Indian Creek
This Week: at No. 3 Manchester
Previous Ranking: 13
Wildcats have been one of OV’s best stories this season.
#14
Meadowbrook (8-2)
Last Week: W, 49-20 at West Muskingum
This Week: vs. No. 11 McArthur
Previous Ranking: NR
Colts gallop into the postseason.
#15
Union Local (5-4)
Last Week: L, 26-21 vs. Barnesville
This Week: at No. 3 John Glenn
Previous Ranking: 12
The Jets have laid a foundation for the program.
Dropped out: Brooke, Cambridge.
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