Football predictions: Simeon Pincus and Andy Mendlowitz’s BCC picks for Week 6

Another soggy weekend and another round of fantastic games, as eight of the Big Central Conference’s 12 division titles were sewn up, with the other four set to be decided this weekend.

Simeon Pincus added two more games to his lead in the Prophet’s Cup standings, going 27-3, while Andy Mendlowitz went 25-5. Pincus now leads by four games with a 147-27 season mark, while his esteemed colleague is 143-31.

Here are our picks for Week 6:

THURSDAY, OCT. 5

HIGHLAND PARK (0-5) AT BREARLEY (2-3), 6 P.M.

Us journalists are neutral and don’t root for teams. Really! But I don’t think it’s unethical to pull for Highland Park. The Owls are in the midst of a 47-game losing streak and have struggled with a small roster as a low-enrollment school. Highland Park has shown improvements this season with two heartbreaker losses, 50-44 to Dunellen and last week’s 20-18 defeat to Roselle Park. Will they win this week? Well, they lost to Roselle Park 30-0 and Brearley beat the Panthers, 16-8, so on paper it doesn’t look good. Still, I’ll eagerly be checking the score. Which brings us to Brearley, and the Bears have positioned themselves for a playoff shot after starting 0-2.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Brearley 35-24

I will say, I’ve been impressed that Highland Park continues to fight hard. The Owls have been in a couple games, no more than last week’s wacky back-and-forth affair and two-point heartbreaker. Highland Park is on the brink, but I don’t see it happening this week. But maybe?

PINCUS’ PICK: Brearley 24-16

It’s a battle of undefeated teams in our Game of the Week for Week 6, this time for the Big Central Conference United Silver Division title, as Carteret visits Governor Livingston on Friday night.

Check out our take on that contest, including our pick:

Football Game of the Week: Carteret visits Governor Livingston for United Silver title

FRIDAY, OCT. 6

COLONIA (4-2) at PERTH AMBOY (2-4), 6 P.M.

Colonia caught a glimpse at the future and his name is Kyle Bell. The freshman rushed for 150 yards (15 ypc) and two touchdowns as the Patriots rallied for a 48-24 win over North Hunterdon in his breakout game. Interestingly, both teams lost to Woodbridge 42-7.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Colonia 21-12

As a diehard fan of Hall of Fame prog. rock band, Rush, I am always tickled when Andy picks a game 21-12. You fellow Rush fans out there know what I’m talking about. If anyone needs me, I’ll be otherwise engaged for the next 20:38. “….and the meek shall inherit the Earth….”

PINCUS’ PICK: Colonia 34-14

More: Football rankings: Big Central Conference Top 15, through Week 5

More: Football results: Big Central Conference and area roundup for Week 5

EAST BRUNSWICK (0-6) at PISCATAWAY (3-3), 6 P.M.

Night and day. That’s the difference, as Piscataway coach Dan Higgins noted, in the team’s development from the preseason to now with mostly varsity newcomers. The Chiefs showed their maturity by calmly pulling out the 28-7 win over Old Bridge last week after trailing in the first quarter. While the Bears have struggled, they’ve been in games losing twice by a combined three points. Senior QB Vito Tropeano has thrown for 1,052 yards (81-of-168) with 10 TD passes.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Piscataway 28-13

East Brunswick has been super competitive in a bunch of its games, which is great to see, and the once-proud program will surely be back on top at some point. It just won’t be this week.

PINCUS’ PICK: Piscataway 38-14

NORTH PLAINFIELD (0-6) at J.P. STEVENS (0-6), 6 P.M.

North Plainfield is one of those teams you go, “Really, they don’t have a win?” That’s just sports sometimes. The Canucks lost 2-0 to Governor Livingston (5-1) and led South Plainfield 19-0 before falling 20-19. For J.P. Stevens, it’s about progress and the Hawks scored 26 points the last two weeks.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: North Plainfield 31-14

The Hawks have some winnable games coming up, with Metuchen and Spotswood to follow after this one. Nice to see some life from JPS, instead of routinely getting blown out. I have to pick the Canucks here, but J.P. Stevens snapping its 29-game losing streak wouldn’t be a shocker.

PINCUS’ PICK: North Plainfield 26-21

SPOTSWOOD (6-0) at DAYTON (1-4), 6 P.M.

Spotswood simply finds ways to win. And that’s more important than any eye-popping box scores or individual stat lines. If anything, the Chargers defense – which has three-straight shutouts – makes them a dangerous squad as the weather gets colder. Dayton is coming off a nice win over Highland Park.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Spotswood 14-0

The Chargers have some blowout victories and some nail-biters where they’ve come out on top, but the one constant has been Spotswood just wins. And, at the end of the day, isn’t that the point? Dayton got its first win last weekend, scoring a wild 20-18 victory over Highland Park in a back-and-forth affair. I had higher hopes for the Bulldogs… and the Jets… and the Mets… and the Powerball.

PINCUS’ PICK: Spotswood 33-7

No. 1 ST. THOMAS AQUINAS (6-0) at RAHWAY (3-3), 6 P.M.

Challenge accepted. Challenge passed. St. Thomas Aquinas met its toughest opponent last week, and while it wasn’t easy, topped Hillside 17-0 fueled by its defense. Shawn Young had a pair of interceptions and Zacai Manigo added a pick and Josiah Zayas recovered a fumble. Rahway has a playoff berth as of now and gets NJSIAA Non-Public Multiplier points just for playing the private school (36 for a win and 24 for a loss), which will certainly help.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: St. Thomas 24-15

St. Thomas’ rise has been anything but the product of an easy schedule. There have been plenty of top-level opponents on the Trojans schedule, and they’ve conquered every task. This game will also be anything but a gimmie. Rahway is always a dangerous ballclub and should give STA a game. Also, I’m not happy that Andy just broke the seal on the playoff math. Now, that’s all I’ll be doing for the next three weeks.

PINCUS’ PICK: St. Thomas 27-16

No. 10 UNION (4-2) at ELIZABETH (0-6), 6 P.M.

My heart really goes out to Elizabeth. Not only am I always impressed with a team that is struggling in the win-loss column, yet comes out every week and plays their heart out, but the frustration of having six losses, all by seven or fewer points, and with the last three coming by three or fewer points, including 17-14 to Somerville last weekend, is enough to send some people over the edge. Yet, the Minutemen continue to work, and this is another winnable game. Sure, Union has shown it’s well on its way back to re-assuming the form that made the Farmers one of the elite clubs in the state in recent season -- last weekend’s 15-7 loss to Hillsborough notwithstanding. And, yes, Union is the clear favorite on paper. But one of these days Elizabeth’s luck is going to change, and this is the kind of game it could happen.

PINCUS’ PICK: Union 23-19

My heart also goes to Elizabeth. It’s certainly easy for high school kids to pack it in when things aren’t going right, quit, and hang out with friends or get a job after school. So it’s great to see Elizabeth fighting hard, and that spirit will pay off down the line and when sports are long gone for the players. Right now, it may be a matter of learning how to win. Take Union, which finished 2-7 last season with four losses by 10 points or less. The Farmers continued to improve in the offseason and have pulled out key wins this campaign.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Union 18-7

WOODBRIDGE (4-2) at J.F. KENNEDY (0-5), 6 P.M.

Mr. Simeon is good with numbers and odds. So, what are the chances that Woodbridge would win two straight games by 42-7 scores? That’s what the Barrons just did in victories over Colonia and Perth Amboy. Can it happen a third straight? Beyond the actual line, Woodbridge is playing great ball and, really, can be 5-0 with two winnable losses. J.F. Kennedy has had a tough go, but the future is getting established. I do want to say it’s going to be 42-7 again.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Woodbridge 28-7

Here’s a better question with a clearer answer: What are the odds Woodbridge doesn’t grab its fifth win here?

PINCUS’ PICK: Woodbridge 42-7

BOUND BROOK (1-4) at No. 7 BERNARDS (6-0), 7 P.M.

Nice to see Bound Brook get quarterback Jeremiah Norwood back last week against Delaware Valley. The Crusaders didn’t win, but at least they rediscovered the end zone. Anyway, that’s not going to make a difference here, as Bernards continues what should be an inevitable run to an undefeated regular season.

PINCUS’ PICK: Bernards 44-7

It’s good to see Norwood was able to return as Bound Brook has what should be competitive games against Roselle and Manville to end the regular season. Bernards, though, is just on another level this season.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Bernards 35-13

No. 4 PHILLIPSBURG (4-1) at BRIDGEWATER-RARITAN (1-5), 7 P.M.

Like Elizabeth, Bridgewater-Raritan is way better than its record indicates, having played an elite schedule and proving to be competitive every time out. After a 44-12 drubbing of Edison on opening day, the Panthers have dropped five games, one by 10 points, the others all by a TD or less, including a well-played 30-23 setback to second-ranked Ridge last weekend. Phillipsburg played without star QB Jett Genovese in its 21-7 win over Hunterdon Central last weekend, with Nick Stettner doing a fine job under center for the Stateliners, and P’burg should be the favorite here, no matter who they have calling signals. But don’t sleep on Bridgewater-Raritan. Phillipsburg can lock up at least a share of the BCC American Silver Division title with a win here. The Stateliners, who hold the tiebreaker against Ridge, would win the outright crown if they win and Hillsborough loses to Hunterdon Central. If Boro wins, there would be a three-way tie for the crown.

PINCUS’ PICK: Phillipsburg 20-13

Bridgewater-Raritan against Elizabeth should be a great game next week. For this one, I sense probably more of the same. The Panthers challenge, keep it close, maybe even take a lead, but P’burg finishes strong. A good, spirited contest. The question is whether Genovese plays or not.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Phillipsburg 21-16

CRANFORD (3-2) at SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD (1-5), 7 P.M.

Cranford has alternated wins and losses all season, so this is a game that pattern says the Cougars will win. Well, I say otherwise, because this isn’t baccarat. And I only bring that up because I love driving Andy to Google to look up gambling terms and practices.

PINCUS’ PICK: Cranford 34-14

I remember an old-time composer, I think named Burt Baccarat. Or maybe, it’s a type of cat breed from overseas? (29 minutes later) Hmm, I think I will go for the Martingale System. But if the croupier does yell "égalité” I will happily accept that. Baccarat seems like good, clean fun! What? Oh, I guess I should finish the picks. Yeah, the pattern says Cranford wins.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Cranford 28-15

No. 3 HILLSBOROUGH (5-1) at No. 14 HUNTERDON CENTRAL (4-2), 7 P.M.

Hunterdon Central’s 4-0 start was a breath of fresh air for a program coming off four straight losing seasons. But we also knew this three-game gauntlet would likely not go well, and after hard-fought losses to Ridge and Phillipsburg, this is the last elite opponent Central will play during the regular season, with Franklin and Perth Amboy to go before playoffs. So, a winning season is nearly guaranteed – barring something insane the next two weeks. Hillsborough has been rolling, with its only loss to Ridge, and a Raiders win here – plus a Phillipsburg victory over Bridgewater-Raritan – would give Boro part of a three-way share of the American Silver title. Expect another good game from Central – and an upset wouldn’t be an absolute stunner – but the smart money is on the maroon and gold.

PINCUS’ PICK: Hillsborough 27-17

The Fibonacci strategy isn’t all that bad either. Oh, sorry, still thinking about baccarat. Hunterdon Central wouldn’t be a bad bet here at all. Heck, few picked Hillsborough over Phillipsburg two weeks ago. But defense-led Hillsborough is just making it so hard on opponents. P’burg and Union scored a combined 20 points the last two weeks.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Hillsborough 18-12

More: Jackson Jankowicz's dazzling plays bookend Hillsborough football victory at Union

MANVILLE (2-4) at BELVIDERE (1-5), 7 P.M.

I took a shot with Manville last weekend, it was risky, yet I was hopeful, but I clearly underestimated Dunellen with its massive front line and two standout backs, as the Destroyers, well, destroyed the Mustangs 28-0. Belvidere snapped a 13-game losing streak two weeks ago with a win over Metuchen, and despite getting blown out 45-0 by Middlesex last weekend, the County Seaters are hungry for more. I’m going Manville again, and I feel a lot better about it this time.

PINCUS’ PICK: Manville 21-16

I’m all for taking risky shots. This should be a good one. Remember, Belvidere did lose 44-25 to Dunellen, while Manville got shut out. The County Seaters can score. Still, something brings me back to Manville which can still get a winning season.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Manville 21-18

METUCHEN (1-4) at NEW PROVIDENCE (3-3), 7 P.M.

The only real surprise last weekend was New Providence losing to A.L. Johnson, 24-19. I then was politely asked to stop picking the Pioneers by someone who very much cares about that team’s fortunes. I get it. And I promise I will oblige next weekend when they meet Bernards, but if New Prov loses to Metuchen, Andy will shave his head.

PINCUS’ PICK: New Providence 35-7

I wouldn’t mind going for a Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan or REM’s Michael Stipe look. (Kids, Google them. 1990s-era singers. I feel old.) As it is, my dome is getting a little shiny in the middle. This would be a big step. I’m not quite getting my Gillette ready if Metuchen wins, all I’m saying is I’ll think about it. Sorry New Prov fans, but for the sake of my hair I’m picking you guys.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: New Providence 28-13

No. 6 MONTGOMERY (6-0) at NORTH HUNTERDON (0-6), 7 P.M.

Montgomery is coming off its best win of the year, a Liberty Silver Division-clinching 28-21 win over Watchung Hills, as the Cougars continue to build on the best start in program history. North is rebuilding, and while facing standout teams every time out can be frustrating – all six losses have come to teams that have been ranked in the BCC Top 15 at some point this season, with four still there – the Lions are getting battle hardened. I look forward to seeing the fruits of those growing pains next year. For now, unfortunately, I expect a running clock.

PINCUS’ PICK: Montgomery 35-0

It’s not that we ever doubted Montgomery, but that big-time win over Watchung Hills proved they’re for real as the playoff approaches. If North Hunterdon wins, I’ll also consider shaving my head.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Montgomery 28-10

NEW BRUNSWICK (0-6) at No. 5 NORTH BRUNSWICK (5-0), 7 P.M.

Sure, North Brunswick had talent, but it wasn’t a super team coming back with chock full of returners. So, to be 5-0 for the second season in a row is certainly an achievement. The Raiders looked especially good in a 50-0 win over an improving Franklin squad last week. Samaad Hicks continued his sparkplug-like season by rushing for 120 yards (12 ypc) with two touchdowns and three 2-point conversions. Someone will make fun of me for this, but New Brunswick fights hard.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: North Brunswick 31-7

I would never poke fun at anyone for an honest take on a team. New Brunswick does, indeed, fight hard. I just hope they’re doing it in a different division next fall after the conference realigns.

PINCUS’ PICK: North Brunswick 39-6

OLD BRIDGE (1-5) at MONROE (2-4), 7 P.M.

Old Bridge is another team that just seems better than its record. Take last week’s 28-7 loss to Piscataway, which was 14-7 at halftime. The Knights also dropped a close one to South Brunswick earlier in the season. Players like sophomore QB Brody Nugent (828 passing yards, team-high 358 rushing yards) and senior receiver Pietro Gambino (19-279) can deliver. Old Bridge is the favorite here based on common opponents.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Old Bridge 28-21

I agree. Old Bridge is better than its record. And the hard work is going to pay off, I think, rather decisively Friday night.

PINCUS’ PICK: Old Bridge 37-19

ROSELLE (1-4) at RIDGEFIELD PARK (2-3), 7 P.M.

I feel like Roselle should be playing Ridgefield, while Roselle Park faces Ridgefield Park. But, as it turns out, Ridgefield hasn’t fielded a varsity football team since 2020, and, prior to that, 2016. And it currently co-ops with Cliffside Park. I have a good friend who went to Cliffside Park. But she didn’t play football. Roselle beat the Scarlets 41-35 last season. Should be another good game.

PINCUS’ PICK: Ridgefield Park 27-19

There seem to be too many parks to keep track of and follow. Roselle certainly could make it a fun game, but I’ll also go with the home team here.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Ridgefield Park 42-40

ROSELLE PARK (2-3) at MIDDLESEX (4-1), 7 P.M.

Middlesex can snatch a share of the Freedom Silver title if Dunellen beats South Hunterdon. Regardless, the Blue Jays have already matched last season’s win total and are looking good for a postseason berth. Roselle Park won’t be easy. The Panthers are coming off a 7-0 loss to undefeated Spotswood and nearly beat Brearley.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Middlesex 18-7

Great effort by Roselle Park last weekend against Spotswood, giving the Panthers a puncher’s chance here, but punching people on the football field is a no-no, so….

PINCUS’ PICK: Middlesex 30-12

No. 11 SAYREVILLE (4-2) at FRANKLIN (2-4), 7 P.M.

Was pretty surprised to see Franklin lose a lopsided game to North Brunswick last week, 50-0. I expected the Raiders to win, but not via blow out. I’m hoping the Warriors got it out of their system.

PINCUS’ PICK: Sayreville 29-14

Sayreville rebounded from the 21-20 loss to North Brunswick to top East Brunswick 41-9 last week. I’m not saying the Bombers blow out Franklin, but this might be a game they need for playoff purposes with Piscataway and Woodbridge looming to end the regular season.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Sayreville 31-14

SOUTH BRUNSWICK (4-2) at No. 2 RIDGE (4-1), 7 P.M.

While Ridge could have its hands full with the Vikings in this one, the happenings at Bridgewater and Hunterdon Central will have a more immediate impact on the Red Devils’ quest for a conference title. Ridge, which finished 3-1 in the American Silver, can win the division outright if BR beats Phillipsburg. More likely, Ridge would share the crown with P’Burg and Hillsborough if the Liners handle BR and the Raiders beat Central. If P’Burg wins and Hillsborough loses, Phillipsburg would be the outright champ on the strength of the head-to-head tiebreaker with the Red Devils.

PINCUS’ PICK: Ridge 34-12

South Brunswick is streaking. The Vikings have won four straight and clinched the National Gold title last week with a 21-0 win over Monroe. Quarterback Brandon Paulmenn rushed for 158 yards and three touchdowns. Can they challenge Ridge? Definitely. They’re much improved from August. However, Hillsborough beat South Brunswick 29-8 in Week Zero, and Ridge beat Hillsborough 28-7 on Sept. 14.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Ridge 29-15

SOUTH HUNTERDON (5-1) at DUNELLEN (4-1), 7 P.M.

In the preseason, the Freedom Silver Division seemed wide open with plenty of questions. South Hunterdon emerged with a mix of returners and newcomers such as senior QB Anthony Venettone (766 passing yards, 557 rushing yards). Dunellen (3-1) has taken the next step with players like Chiekezie Ogbuewu and Aidan Sangiray. Now, it comes down to this game. If South Hunterdon (3-0 in division) wins, the Eagles claim the crown outright. A Dunellen (3-1) win will create a three-way tie with Middlesex (3-1) and produce tri-champs. Middlesex beat Dunellen 14-8 and South Hunterdon topped Middlesex 12-7. This could go either way. Tough call. Harry Frezza will be on hand with updates on Twitter/X @thefrez56.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: South Hunterdon 18-16

I thoroughly underestimated Dunellen last weekend leading up to its 28-0 blanking of Manville. I will do my best to remain focused on making sure that won’t happen again.

Look! Squirrel!

PINCUS’ PICK: South Hunterdon 28-24

ST. JOSEPH-METUCHEN (3-2) at EDISON (3-3), 7 P.M.

Last season, Edison had that magic, the karma, the intangibles in its run to a sectional title. Can St. Joseph’s have that mojo this fall? The Falcons topped Elizabeth 21-19 two weeks ago, then scored 10 points in the fourth quarter in last Saturday’s 17-14 win over Westfield via a last-second 25-yard field goal by Tyler Huseth. Edison is on the bubble for the playoffs. A win here would go a long way. I’d love to have covered this one, but alas, must stay in for roundup duty. So, I’ll eagerly be checking in for updates.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: St. Joseph 31-22

I much appreciate my esteemed colleague covering for me Friday night, handling all the office work required to keep you, our cherished readers, updated on all the happenings around Central Jersey. I’ll be glued to Twitter/X as I attend to other responsibilities and will be checking in as much as I can. Anyway, wow. This is quite a game. Both have played tough schedules, lost to some great teams, and won nail-biters to stay in the mix for the playoffs. I’m very torn here. When in doubt, go home team.

PINCUS’ PICK: Edison 21-20

VOORHEES (3-3) at SOUTH PLAINFIELD (3-2), 7 P.M.

This seems to be a competitive, division crossover game. The playoffs might be tough for either team, but a winning season is very much in reach and that’s always a big achievement. I tabbed South Plainfield to beat Governor Livingston (5-1) last week. While the Tigers lost 25-6, it was 10-6 heading into the fourth quarter, and I sense this to be another close game.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Voorhees 22-21

I was excited about reading my esteemed colleague’s pick of this game. I was sure he was going to pick South Plainfield. We don’t pick many games opposite. If it’s five in a week that’s a lot. We don’t have many this week, either, and I was fired up thinking we’d get that here. Oh well. I do have a four-game lead in the Prophet’s Cup standings, so he’s the one that needs to make up ground. And so will the Tigers for much of Saturday. Voorhees seems to be on its way back to the level that took the club to the sectional finals in 2017, and while the Vikings haven’t been able to get over the hump against established powers like Bernards, Delaware Valley and Somerville, Isaac Levitan, Brandon Kurzeja and friends have had no trouble with the rest of their schedule. South Plainfield is certainly capable of a win here, but I think this goes to the visitors,

PINCUS’ PICK: Voorhees 27-23

SATURDAY, OCT. 7

No. 8 WATCHUNG HILLS (5-1) at No. 15 PLAINFIELD (4-1), 1 P.M.

Sportswriters are supposed to be neutral. And I take that very seriously. So, the only rooting I ever do on game day is root for the story. And I admit I was kind of rooting for Watchung Hills to beat Montgomery last weekend for the sole purpose of making this game one that would have decided the Liberty Silver Division crown. Alas, it was not to be – though Montgomery’s 6-0 start is also a phenomenal tale – but that doesn’t make this one any less of a great game. And speaking of great stories, Plainfield has been at the top of the list this year, as the Cardinals continue to soar toward their first winning season in nearly two decades, with a 33-0 blanking of North Bergen last weekend the latest in impressive wins. These teams have made a habit of playing close, exciting games against one another in recent seasons, including a 31-22 Watchung Hills win last year. This should be another great game. Harry Frezza has the live coverage and updates. He’s on Twitter/X @TheFrez56. I’ll be checking in on the livestream.

PINCUS’ PICK: Watchung Hills 32-27

Can’t knock Watchung Hills for last week’s 28-21 loss to Montgomery. Two great teams going at it. Could have been a touchdown difference either way. The Warriors will be a tough out in the postseason. Looking at things from afar, Plainfield seems driven after that controversial 23-14 loss to Montgomery on Sept. 8. The Cardinals also have the talent and its home stands should be rocking Saturday.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Plainfield 32-27

A.L. JOHNSON (4-1) at No. 13 HILLSIDE (3-2), 2 P.M.

Johnson’s 24-19 win over New Providence last Friday night was the shocker of the weekend, with the possible exception of Zach Wilson not playing like a trainwreck for the Jets on Sunday night. The good news for the Crusaders is their big win set this one up as a winner-take-all game for the Patriot Silver title. The bad news is they’re playing a Hillside team that just got blanked 17-0 by St. Thomas Aquinas, so the season finale at Conant Street Park is unlikely to be a lot of fun for our friends from Clark. Then again, I picked New Providence by two touchdowns last week, so feel free to ignore me, ALJ fans.

PINCUS’ PICK: Hillside 34-14

Don’t get me started on Daniel Jones. It’s great to see A.L. Johnson follow up last year’s 6-3 season with another strong campaign that has them in playoff contention. Hillside committed four turnovers last week and will likely hold on to the ball better this week.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Hillside 28-14

DELAWARE VALLEY (3-2) at SOUTH RIVER (0-5), 2 P.M.

I look forward to the Big Central realigning its divisions next year and getting Bernards and Delaware Valley away from Bound Brook and South River. I’m sure all parties would agree.

PINCUS’ PICK: Delaware Valley 40-0

I agree. Hey, South River has a historically good program and went 7-3 in 2019. This is just one of those seasons. They’ll be back.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Delaware Valley 34-14

No. 12 SOMERVILLE (4-2) at WESTFIELD (2-3), 2 P.M.

Ah, 1940. Simpler times. The New York Rangers won the Stanley Cup. World War 2 raged. And coach Al Dittman and the Somerville High School football team were in the midst of a 7-1 campaign that included a 19-0 victory over Westfield. That is the last time the Pioneers have beaten the Blue Devils, a streak that reached 15 games when Westfield topped The Ville 37-0 last season. But a lot has changed since 1940 – and since last season. The Pioneers have a new coach and a new confidence, and despite losing two straight after a 3-0 start, coach Matt Bloom and his charges got back in the win column last weekend with a 17-14 win over Elizabeth. Westfield has kind of played to its schedule, beating a couple of struggling teams in Elizabeth and Scotch Plains-Fanwood, but losing to Watchung Hills, Union and St. Joseph, all of which are enjoying solid-to-elite seasons. Somerville is in the latter group, and I’m expecting the Pioneers to finally snap the losing streak. If anyone was at the 1940 game, hot dogs on me. Don’t think Andy was there, but I could be wrong. He’s way older than me. Anyway, he’s got the coverage and the live Twitter updates @Andy_Mendlowitz.

PINCUS’ PICK: Somerville 27-19

That’s true, I am way older than Cub Reporter Simeon. While I missed the 1940 game, I think I was there for either the 1947 or ’48 game right after the war. Me and my chaps went online – as in standing on a line – to see The Three Stooges movie. They were so edgy! I think the 50 cents admission included popcorn. Plus, I was able to get free air conditioning in the theatre. Good times from what I recall. Getting back to in living color, Westfield impressed me in its 17-14 loss to St. Joseph, which simply made great plays down the stretch. Maxwell Cho (QB), Enzo Ferrero (WR) and Josh Caramagno (RB) deftly moved the ball at times. All the common opponents are in a similar range save for Union, which beat Westfield by 30 points and got Somerville by three. But styles make fights, and Westfield passed the eye test for me last week.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Westfield 22-21

LINDEN (5-1) at No. 9 SUMMIT (4-1), 2:30 P.M.

This has the feel of a pre-playoff game and was certainly a Game of the Week candidate. Both teams are hitting their strides and have put up points the past two weeks. Now, this isn’t Round 1 as Linden is in North Group 4 and Summit is in North Group 3. It’s still a good test with power points on the line. Josh Rosenfeld is covering it and will have updates at Twitter/X @joshprosenfeld.

MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Linden 21-20

This is definitely a fantastic game and one that really can go either way. I feel like Summit has been a little more decisive in its wins, plus the Hilltoppers are the home team, so I’ll politely disagree with my friend on the other side of the prophetic aisle.

PINCUS’ PICK: Summit 26-21

Simeon Pincus has covered NJ sports since 1997. He can be reached at SPincus@GannettNJ.com. Follow him on Twitter @SimeonPincus

Andy Mendlowitz can be reached at AMendlowitz@NJPressMedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @Andy_Mendlowitz

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: NJ Football predictions: Pincus and Mendlowitz’s BCC picks for Week 6