Football predictions: Simeon Pincus and Andy Mendlowitz’s BCC picks for Week 9
Playoffs? PLAYOFFS?! Did somebody say PLAYOFFS?!?!
The postseason is upon us, with 27 Big Central Conference high school football teams having qualified, and the first round of action kicks off Friday night. We also have a full slate of consolation games and regular-season tilts in Week 9, with all but a small handful of our teams in action.
The Prophet’s Cup standings tightened in a big way, as Andy Mendlowitz posted a 26-5-1 Week 8, gaining two games on Simeon Pincus after his 24-7-1 weekend, and closing the gap to one contest headed into the postseason.
Pincus is 221-44-1 for the year, while Mendlowitz is 220-45-1. The postseason never goes as planned, so it’s anyone’s game.
Here are our picks for Week 9:
NJSIAA TOURNAMENT – first round
Friday, Oct. 27
NORTH 1 GROUP 5
5-UNION at 4-RIDGEWOOD, 6:30 P.M.
Both teams had super-tough schedules with some close defeats and wins. In other words, where is that hands up in the air, shoulders shrug emoji? Yeah, I’m literally shrugging my shoulders with palms up in between typing. If I’m tossing a coin, I’ll go with the familiar team as opposed to the home team. My main concern with the Farmers is they’re entering the postseason on an 0-4 slide, albeit all close games in the second half. Those early wins over Westfield, St. Joseph-Metuchen and Somerville are looking more impressive.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Union 18-14
I don’t need coins or emojis. But I have been writhing in pain all week and I could use a back-e-otamy (you get points if you get that reference). Anyway, my physical agony aside, this should be a very good game. Union is, indeed, coming in on a four-game slide, but they were all close and all to good teams, including three opponents who were ranked Top 20 in the state when they played. Ridgewood is in similar shape, playing a scheduled packed with powerhouses with varying success. I’m going Maroons, mostly because they’re the home team, but the Farmers are poised to pounce if Ridgewood doesn’t bring its A-game.
PINCUS’ PICK: Ridgewood 23-14
More: Football rankings: Big Central Conference Top 15, through Week 8
7-BRIDGEWATER-RARITAN at 2-WATCHUNG HILLS, 7 P.M.
You can always count on North Group 5 to produce juicy local-on-local matchups, and this year’s marquee event is slated for the freshly illuminated Tozier Stadium. Watchung Hills won a rain-soaked 14-7 decision from the Panthers in Week 4, but for the first time in about six weeks, there’s actually no rain in the forecast for this weekend, which should give this box score a different look. It’s also, pretty much, a coin flip, despite the Warriors carrying a 7-2 record and BR being 3-6.
Bridgewater-Raritan has been through the wars in the American Silver Division, taking on a cadre of powerhouses and going 0-4 in the division, but the Panthers are 3-1 in crossovers, including wins over Elizabeth and Old Bridge the past two weeks, giving quarterback Jack Bray and friends some momentum coming into this one. Watchung Hills has faced a challenging schedule in its own right, though nothing like BR’s, with one-score losses to Montgomery and St. Joseph the only blemish. Senior transfer Aleks Sitkowski has been a godsend on offense, while the Warriors have had many players step up, and it could be primed to do something that hasn’t happened in 45 years.
I’m going to pick Watchung Hills, partially because it’s the home team, partially because the Warriors, simply, are due, having not won a playoff game since 1978 – that’s before head coach Rich Seubert was born. This would be just the second playoff win in program history if they can get it. Harry Frezza has the live coverage on Twitter/X @TheFrez56.
PINCUS’ PICK: Watchung Hills 26-23
This is a game that deserves the spotlight. It’s not like B-R suddenly flipped a switch – they’ve been playing well all year – but the Panthers chewed on victory the last two weeks and that winning taste should do wonders after a six-game losing streak. Just about every coach is telling the underdog they’re now 0-0 and this is a new season. B-R is going to be fired up. But, I, too, am picking the Warriors. They’re a touchdown away in two games from being undefeated and found ways to win in five other close games. Two non-football thoughts before leaving: I saw no rain and Blind Melon’s early 1990s hit popped into my head. I’ll be humming that one for a while now. And wow, 1978. I won’t say by how much, but I’m actually older than the Warriors’ last playoff win. That has to change.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Watchung Hills 28-21
NORTH 2 GROUP 5
8-MORRISTOWN at 1-PHILLIPSBURG, 7 P.M.
I spent a lot of time in Morristown growing up. My parents had some close friends that lived there. I always got fired up when we passed the “George Washington Slept Here” sign. My parents’ friends still live in Mo-Town. Doubt they’ve ever been to Phillipsburg. If they’ve got any grandkids playing football for the Colonials, they’re probably going to wish they’d never been to P’burg, either. Or maybe not. Maloney Stadium is a great atmosphere, especially come playoff time. Plus, hands down, best pressbox in the league.
PINCUS’ PICK: Phillipsburg 29-16
I think maybe one day they’ll be “Simeon Pincus Slept Here” signs in Morristown the way his successful picks are going this season. Morristown did play state-ranked teams Mount Olive (13-7 loss) and Roxbury (36-14 loss) tough, but you gotta go with the top seed in that atmosphere.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Phillipsburg 30-14
6-WEST ORANGE at 3-PLAINFIELD, 7 P.M.
It’s playoff football, and it’s starring Plainfield! And if that isn’t wacky enough, there’s Friday-night football in Plainfield!! The newly installed lights make their debut at Hub Stine Field just in time for the Cardinals’ first playoff home game in 21 years, and their first playoff game of any kind in 13 seasons. Fresh off clinching its first winning season since 2005 with last weekend’s drubbing of Franklin, Plainfield is hoping to make more history and win a playoff game for the first time since 1998, and this club looks ready to rock. Coach James Williams has the Cardinals playing inspired, disciplined football, while a host of talent, including Ala-Meen Watkins, Josue and Joel Cordoba, Al-Khabir Bethune and others continue to show what happens when the talent stays home in Plainfield. Not a gimmie by any stretch, but I like the Cardinals, and I’ll be glued to the legendary voice of Plainfield football, Chedda, as he provides the PA at the game and the commentary on the YouTube stream.
PINCUS’ PICK: Plainfield 29-20
Chedda, lights, playoff football – how can one not wax romantic?! Yes, it should be a fine atmosphere at Hub Stine and who am I to pick against a talented team playing inspired, disciplined ball?
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Plainfield 20-14
CENTRAL GROUP 5
5-FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP at 4-NORTH BRUNSWICK, 7 P.M.
One wouldn’t find a much hotter team than North Brunswick (8-0) entering the playoffs. The Raiders are coming off an impressive 44-14 win over Cranford and outscored their last four opponents by a combined 172-21. So why are they a No. 4 seed as one of just two undefeated teams in Group 5? The other, Passaic Tech is No. 1 in North 1. Strength of schedule. North Brunswick played just three playoff teams, though, it’s not like they ducked anyone on their typical slate. I don’t think that always matters – if a team is good, they’re good.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: North Brunswick 28-14
North Brunswick’s relatively lighter schedule – at least compared to some of the other like-sized powers in the conference -- is something that has often given prognosticators pause in regard to the undefeated club. Still, the Raiders have done well in the playoffs, going 3-2 the past two season, which included a trip to the sectional final two years ago. Freehold should give North Brunswick a push, but expect the Raiders to prevail.
PINCUS’ PICK: North Brunswick 33-26
SOUTH GROUP 5
7-HOWELL at 2-HILLSBOROUGH, 7 P.M.
When we last saw Hillsborough in the playoffs, it was losing an opening-round home game to eventual champion Edison, 10-7 last season, Now, after a stunning 17-0 regular-season loss Westfield last weekend, I’m definitely not feeling as good about the Raiders as I did a week ago. Boro beat Howell 38-18 in the opening round of the 1996 playoffs, their lone playoff meeting, but the Rebels are coming in hot, winners of 3-of-4 after an 0-4 start that included four losses, all within 10 points, including, respective, one-point and two-point setbacks. Hillsborough has played a significantly tougher schedule, which should serve the Raiders well, but they’re going to need to snap out of whatever happened last weekend. Hillsborough is going to need a bigtime defensive performance here, I’m trepidatious, but I believe the Raiders get it done.
PINCUS’ PICK: Hillsborough 16-13
It wasn’t just last week. Hillsborough has been living on the edge in the previous four weeks surviving with defense and close wins, a double-overtime victory over Hunterdon Central included. Granted, they were all tough opponents and our No. 2 team Phillipsburg. That’s enough for me to swing to Boro despite last week’s loss. Hillsborough committed two turnovers, so maybe it was just one of those games. I think the Raiders rise here.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Hillsborough 21-14
5-KINGSWAY at 4-HUNTERDON CENTRAL, 7 P.M.
There have been several great turnarounds this season, teams reaching heights they haven’t seen in a while, and Hunterdon Central’s rise has been at the top of the list. With an offense led by junior second-year quarterback RJ Hart and senior breakout back Jakob Saus, the Red Devils have their first winning season playoff home game in five years, and are a win away from their first seven-win season in a decade. The Dragons (5-4) haven’t beaten a team with a winning record, and just one with more than two wins, and with Central playing among the toughest schedules in the state, the Red Devils should be pretty comfortable, especially on its home field.
PINCUS’ PICK: Hunterdon Central 28-20
Hunterdon Central’s turnaround was kicked off in last year’s opening round of the playoffs in a 45-31 loss to North Brunswick, a game the seventh-seeded Red Devils were winning in the fourth quarter. They fell short, but that spirit had to carry over into the offseason. Not to be a party pooper, but the Red Devils have just one win against a team with a winning record (in OT against Piscataway) and are 1-3 against playoff teams. Kingsway also had a tough schedule with blowout losses to state-ranked Delsea and Cherokee. The difference: Central gave its state-ranked opponents fits. Kingsway vs. Hunterdon Central would typically be a great dual meet in wrestling and I’m looking forward to the football action.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Hunterdon Central 18-7
NORTH 1 GROUP 4
8-RAHWAY at 1-RAMAPO, 7 p.m.
So, the must-win wasn’t a must-win after all. Rahway lost to Colonia 35-7 last week in a meeting of bubble teams. Well, it turns out Rahway actually finished ahead of Colonia in the final UPR rankings in North Group 4 despite a five-game losing streak. Granted, they were all defeats against playoff teams and that strength of schedule got them in the big dance. There are several underclassmen starters, including freshman quarterback Jaquan Robinson and sophomore running back Andrew Avent. This experience will help them going forward.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Ramapo 28-10
Kudos to Rahway for getting into the playoffs, but when you sneak in, you often get a cad draw, and this is about as tough as they come.
PINCUS’ PICK: Ramapo 34-7
7-WOODBRIDGE at 2-RIDGE, 7 P.M.
Woodbridge (6-3) had another nice season, but came up short in its biggest games, losing 22-20 to Sayreville last weekend, with its other setbacks coming to Summit by 10 points and to Cranford 21-20 in overtime. But Ridge is on another level, making its seventh straight playoffs, including a four-year streak of going to the semifinals. Ridge won 38-0 when these teams met in this round two years ago.
PINCUS’ PICK: Ridge 34-13
I’ll upgrade that to Woodbridge had a super-nice season. The Barrons got back to a winning record and that was no sure thing on paper in August. Several new starters emerged like juniors Derek Anderson (1,544 passing yards), Bryan Anderson (435 receiving yards) and Jamir Beal (574 rushing) to go along with senior star AJ Bosch (1,100 yards of total offense, 16 TDs). Having said that, Ridge is eying a sectional title.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Ridge 28-14
NORTH 2 GROUP 4
8-COLONIA at 1-ROXBURY, 7 P.M.
If Colonia wants a motivational speech against state-ranked Roxbury, the coaches just need to remind their players of the 2021 playoffs. Then, the fifth-seeded Patriots nearly upset top-seeded and a loaded Irvington team in a 14-7 semifinal loss. Irvington went on to win the North Group 4 regional title and finish No. 10 in the state. So, it’s possible Colonia and Jaeden Jones will have a memorable night at the Roxbury. One can’t count out the electric quarterback. Whatever happens, Colonia came through big-time with that 35-7 win over Rahway last week that likely clinched the berth for them.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Roxbury 28-18
Andy has a good point about Colonia’s run two years ago. Inspired, to say the least. But this year’s team hasn’t quite had that vibe, with all its wins coming against clubs with losing records, and that includes some games that were close than they probably should have been. But as much as I enjoyed my esteemed colleague’s reference to the SNL skit-turned movie, I don’t expect the Patriots to find much love on their trip north. Nor do I expect the Gaels to ease up, even Colonia cries ‘Baby, don’t hurt me.’ (Sorry. That was pretty weak. I’m dealing with a back issue and am in a lot of pain). The honorable Todd R. Cohen’s got the live coverage and Twitter/X updates @TCohenHS.
PINCUS’ PICK: Roxbury 38-20
6-SAYREVILLE at 3-MONTGOMERY, 7 P.M.
This game popped out when the brackets were released as a must-cover. Two ranked MyCentralJersey.com teams. Middlesex vs. Somerset. Home News Tribune vs. Courier News. It has everything for our readers. Not the least, two good football squads going at it. Montgomery is 4-0-1 against playoff teams and Sayreville is 2-2. Give the Bombers credit for scheduling up against Phillipsburg in a non-division game. Certainly, Zaimer Wright (1,139 rushing yards on 112 carries in seven games) is one of the BCC’s best players and the Bombers have their typical bruising line. So, I’m sure Simeon will think I’m picking Sayreville as the perceived Middlesex homer as the county’s beatwriter. And I do think Sayreville can win. But I’m breaking the narrative and going with Montgomery. It’s just been a magical season in Skillman and I’ve learned through the years not to mess with gridiron karma. I’ll be on hand and will provide updates on X/Twitter at @andy_mendlowitz.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Montgomery 28-21
Uh oh. The football prognostication universe is out of whack. Andy picking against his beloved Middlesex County in a game as close as this one? Forsaking the county of his birth? One that bore and bred him into the upstanding man he is today? Inconceivable! Well, I don’t like to be outdone, so I’m going Sayreville. Bet you didn’t see that one coming, Mr. Middlesex County guy! Montgomery is coming off the first-ever tie in program history, 42-42 with Linden. The first draw in the area since 2014. Linden is a very good team, but not one that should have been able to stay with Montgomery in a slugfest. That gives me pause. I know there have been some injuries – everyone has them this time of year – but perhaps the ailments have been enough to seep some of the magic out of the Cougars’ best-ever season. Or maybe not. Maybe I’m just trying to use the Pincus Jinx to the advantage of the green and gold and give them a little push.
PINCUS’ PICK: Sayreville 31-27
NORTH 2 GROUP 3
5-CRANFORD at 4-WEST ESSEX, 6:30 P.M.
Round 2. West Essex nipped Cranford 14-7 in last year’s second round. So, it’s familiar schemes, but different personnel as each team has several new starters, including at quarterback. I’m sensing another toss-up. Cranford is 2-4 against playoff-bound teams. That includes an impressive 21-20 win over Woodbridge and a painful 16-13 last-second loss to Linden. Maybe if Cranford wins that game, then the Cougars would be hosting. West Essex has two loses against a pair of state-ranked Group 2 team in Westwood (21-0) and Caldwell (21-14). The Knights don’t have that one superstar as four seniors each has more than 50 carries. I’ll go Cranford with the mild upset.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Cranford 21-15
Cranford is a very good program that has enjoyed a lot of success in recent seasons, but the cougars have definitely taken a step back this year, losing games they’ve won lately and lacking that extra something something. Not ruling out Cranford finding a way here, but I’m going home club.
PINCUS’ PICK: West Essex 26-20
NORTH 2 GROUP 2
7-RAMSEY at 2-BERNARDS, 7 P.M.
Undefeated Bernards (9-0) has now won eight or more games six straight seasons, posting its first undefeated regular season since 1996. The Mountaineers lost to Ramsey 35-21 on the road in this game last year, but this year’s Bernards club has taken a decided step forward this year. Hopefully it’s enough.
PINCUS’ PICK: Bernards 27-19
Ramsey featured a senior-led team last season. The newcomers did a good job getting back to the postseason, but this seems like Bernards’ turn with veteran QB Connor Laverty leading the way.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Bernards 31-18
CENTRAL GROUP 2
6-A.L. JOHNSON AT 3-PLEASANTVILLE, 7 P.M.
These teams met last season in the first round, and it wasn’t such a pleasant result for ALJ in a 25-7 loss. The Greyhounds return sophomore QB Ahmad Jones and a three-prong senior running attack in Rashad Floyd, Yusuf Golden and Kwalil Shepperson. ALJ is playing good ball, only losing to playoff-bound teams in Hillside and Governor Livingston. I’d certainly give them a chance for the upset, but must go with the home team here.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Pleasantville 18-12
I like words. Not surprising in this line of work. I really love names, too. I love discovering cool-sounding names every year. Cranford’s Fire Anderson, for example, was among this year’s highlights. Just a great name. Johnson’s got a Lucas Spearknock on the roster, but I don’t think he’s played. That’s a great name, too. Today I discovered another great name I hadn’t come across before. It belongs to Pleasantville coach Malachi Timberlake. Now, Malachi is a fantastic name in its own right. Like ‘Arlo.’ Or ‘Horrace.’ But when you pair it with a name like Timberlake, that just makes the word geek inside me sing. As for the game, the Crusaders are making another long trip south to Atlantic County, hoping to return with a different result than a year ago. Both teams look like they’ve taken a step up, so maybe things will be different, but I’m also going with the home club.
PINCUS’ PICK: Pleasantville 27--22
5-CINNAMINSON AT 4-NEW PROVIDENCE, 7 P.M.
New Providence limped to the finish, dropping 4-of-5 down the stretch of the regular season, including a heartbreaking 9-7 decision to Middlesex last weekend, marking the first time since 1984 the Pioneers had fallen to the Blue Jays, snapping an 18-game slide in the series. Somehow, despite its late-season troubles, New Prov still managed to earn a home game here, which is good, because Cinnaminson ain’t exactly next door. The bad news is, the Pirates are 8-1 and have won all their games by at least three touchdowns – often way more. At least the Pioneers will be happy I didn’t pick them.
PINCUS’ PICK: Cinnaminson 33-7
First off, I gotta say I’m getting hungry looking at the schedule with Cinnaminson and one of its opponents Maple Shade. Note to self: must visit a pancake house this week. You know, Cinnaminson played just two playoff teams and they’re 1-1 with a win over Burlington City and a loss against Seneca. That’s why the eight wins only got them a No. 5 seed and a long road game. New Providence has been limping, but playing way tougher teams and are 2-5 against playoff teams (including our No. 1 St. Thomas Aquinas). Maybe this is a case where a tough slate makes a difference.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: New Providence 28-20
8-SPOTSWOOD AT 1-POINT PLEASANT BORO, 7 P.M.
Spotswood achieved two goals it missed last season – Freedom Gold Division champs (sixth division crown in program history) and it qualified for the playoffs (the first time since 2015). The eight wins are the most victories in a season since the 2003 team went 9-2. In other words, it’s been a hugely successful season. In fact, Spotswood has gone 15-4 the last two years after a 1-8 campaign in 2021. Chris Meagher has done a good job building the program with senior mainstays like James Curnal, Quin Esser and Trey Lazar, as well as with underclassmen like sophomore Sebastian Saracino. Can they win on the road? They’ll need to stop run-first Point Boro quarterback Matt Oliphant (1,287 rushing yards, 20 TDs and 19-of-26 for 400 passing yards). How about I’ll pick against Spotswood to fire them up with bulletin board material.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Point Boro 18-12
Look at my esteemed colleague trying to use one of the tools to inspire one of the teams he covers. There’s a reason they call it the Pincus Jinx and not the Mendlowitz Jinx. I’m going to pick Point Boro, too. Now, if the Chargers pull the upset, we’ll never know who gets the credit.
PINCUS’ PICK: Point Boro 30-6
SOUTH GROUP 2
8-DELAWARE VALLEY at 1-RUMSON-FAIR HAVEN, 7 P.M.
Good job by Delaware Valley overcoming heavy graduation losses and putting up a 5-3 campaign, locking up a conference best 19th straight season without a losing record. Tough opening-round draw here.
PINCUS’ PICK: Rumson-Fair Haven 28-7
This is the spot where we say one team fights hard. Fair play to Del Val for keeping that impressive streak going as Luke Brogan emerged at quarterback with 1,300 passing yards and 450 rushing yards.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Rumson-Fair Haven 24-7
CENTRAL GROUP 1
7-SALEM at 2-SOUTH HUNTERDON, 7 P.M.
South Hunterdon is in the playoffs for the third straight season, but this time the Eagles have a home game as they seek their first postseason win since going to the sectional final in 2014. Being the No. 2 seed comes with perks, as Salem (2-7) makes the trip to Lambertville. I’m no expert on South Jersey football, but I feel pretty safe with this pick.
PINCUS’ PICK: South Hunterdon 25-8
I’m also no expert on South Jersey football, but I’ve always been intrigued with the witch trials like back in the 1600s. …. Um, a Google search later, and it’s the wrong Salem. Still, I’ll go with the higher seed here.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: South Hunterdon 28-13
SOUTH GROUP 1
7-BURLINGTON CITY at 2-MIDDLESEX, 7 P.M.
I’m still focused on the fact the Middlesex defensive unit definitely deserves a nickname. The Big Blue Post Modern 2.0 Wreckers? OK, how about I just call them this: pretty darn good. Middlesex is coming off a 9-7 win over New Providence. The Big Blue (Jays) have allowed single-digit points in six games with two shutouts. The most points they allowed in a game was 14 on two occasions. What’s that about defense winning championships? Burlington City has been sporting an explosive offense. Look at these scores over the last five victories – 51-0, 38-8, 46-7, 60-0 and 46-0. However, those opponents have a combined nine wins. I’ll stick with the defense at home.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Middlesex 18-12
I shudder at the thought of what my esteemed colleague might have named his fantasy team.
PINCUS’ PICK: Middlesex 20-16
8-DUNELLEN at 1-WOODSTOWN, 7 P.M.
I’d love to come back in next week’s picks and write, “Wow, after Dunellen made its first playoffs since 2014, the Destroyers shocked the state with the first-round upset. Chiekezie Ogbuewu did it again, this time going for 390 rushing yards with six touchdowns. The senior should surpass the 2,000-yard mark in this week’s semifinals.” Could it happen? Sure. The Destroyers are talented with a big line, opponents have trouble adjusting to the double-wing and upsets seem to happen more in Group 1. Again, I’d love to come back next week with Dunellen still in play.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Woodstown 35-28
At this point, I’d love to just come back next week. Did I mention my back was killing me?
PINCUS’ PICK: Woodstown 44-26
Saturday, Oct. 28
NORTH 2 GROUP 5
5-CLIFTON at 4-WESTFIELD, 1 P.M.
Westfield pulled off one of the season’s biggest upsets last week, blanking Hillsborough into just its second loss of the year, 17-0, as the Blue Devils sacked Boro quarterback Alex Reidling six times. Westfield, which parlayed that win into a home game here, comes into the playoffs looking like the Blue Devils defensive juggernauts of 7-8 years ago when they posted three straight perfect seasons. Quarterback Max Cho and friends are going to need every bit of last weekend’s magic to tame the Mustangs, were considerably better than the 3-7 record forged against a schedule stacked with state powers. Should be a great game. I’ll take the Blue Devils and the momentum. Harry Frezza has the coverage and live updates @TheFrez56.
PINCUS’ PICK: Westfield 22-14
How about Westfield’s offense putting up 17 against defense-led Hillsborough, the second-highest point total the Raiders allowed all season? Both sides are coming together for the Blue Devils. Clifton just had a brutal, brutal stretch with three losses against state-ranked teams. I do think there is something to be said for celebrating a victory and taking the feeling with you into practice and the school hallways.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Westfield 17-14
SOUTH GROUP 5
6-SOUTH BRUNSWICK at 3-MARLBORO, 12 p.m.
Straight-up, going by the numbers, South Brunswick is the big underdog. The Vikings are 0-4 against playoff teams in not so-close contests. Going by the eye test, I like them. Braden Paulmenn is a poised senior QB who coolly led South Brunswick to a 30-27 win over Edison, and I saw the defense and Jeylon Billups (So., RB) step up in a 20-7 win over Piscataway. They have the belief and Joe Goerge and staff will have them ready. Marlboro is 4-2 against playoff squads and at home. I’ll be eager to see how it unfolds. Kindly check in for updates at X/Twitter @andy_mendlowitz.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Marlboro 28-20
The one silver lining for South Brunswick is the fact Marlboro has come limping into the playoffs with a two-game losing streak. Maybe that means something. Maybe it doesn’t. In any case, the Vikings are going to have to turn in the performance of the year to pull off the upset.
PINCUS’ PICK: Marlboro 28-7
NORTH 1 GROUP 4
5-LINDEN at 4-MORRIS KNOLLS, 1 P.M.
A tie?!? I can just imagine the scramble an already busy Simeon had on deadline last Friday night trying to confirm the NJSIAA rules. Heck, I’m sure papers and pens were flying off desks statewide with power points at stake. Linden had a rare “T” after a wild 42-42 draw with Montgomery. The guidelines state a regular season game counts as a tie after each team had three possessions in overtime. Maybe lost in that headline was how well Linden’s offense played against unbeaten Montgomery and its stingy defense. Granted, Linden gave up a season-high 42 points, but Tigers fans have to like the momentum. Linden likely won’t get frazzled at anything Morris Knolls throws at it having gone 3-2-1 against playoff teams. Morris Knolls is certainly tough having lost to Watching Hills and state-ranked Roxbury by a TD in each game. I’m calling another overtime contest. Todd Cohen is covering this game and will have updates on X/Twitter @TCohenHS.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Linden 29-28
Montgomery’s got the best stat keeper in the league, Ms. Sophie Orvos, the lone school that still has a student call in games by phone (some of the coaches still call – most text or email). So, I was able to get all the gory details of something that hasn’t happened in the area in nine years. And I wasn’t even sure it was still possible and I needed to refresh my memory on the rules. I must have asked Sophie if she was sure it was a tie about 10 times. Anyway, as my esteemed colleague mentioned, impressive job by Linden hanging with the undefeated Cougars, but the Tigers won’t be taking Morris Knolls by surprise, a program making its eighth straight playoff appearance. Linden’s got a shot, but I’ll stick with the home club.
PINCUS’ PICK: Morris Knolls 30-24
NORTH 1 GROUP 3
7-SPARTA at 2-HILLSIDE, 1 P.M.
Hillside is Hillside, i.e., a power program. Still, the Comets had several new starters and maybe it’s just taken them awhile to fully click. Hillside is now coming off three impressive wins over playoff-bound teams in A.L. Johnson (42-15), Delaware Valley (38-7) and last week over Carteret (20-12). I say, make it four in a row. Sparta, though, is well-tested with losses to state-ranked Ramapo and Mount Olive.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Hillside 35-20
Hillside was beaten by the only two ranked teams it played, so the Comets have yet to prove they’re able to roll in the postseason. This would be a good start. The Spartans, on the other hand, have been pretty battle tested by their schedule, which could serve them quite well here. I’m going to go upset.
PINCUS’ PICK: Sparta 26-20
NORTH 2 GROUP 3
8-GOVERNOR LIVINGSTON at 1-SUMMIT, 1 P.M.
Governor Livingston, which finished the regular season 6-3, is one of those teams that emerged this season, and the future is looking bright for the program. This is an unfortunate draw for the Highlanders. Summit (6-2) might be coming off a 42-14 loss to St. Joseph that snapped a four-game winning streak, but that just means the Hilltoppers will be extra ornery come Saturday.
PINCUS’ PICK: Summit 37-7
A winning season was no guarantee for GL, and the Highlanders prevailed in good wins over Johnson and South Plainfield. Kudos to the Highlanders. But this is a 1 vs. 8 matchup for a reason.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Summit 35-15
CENTRAL GROUP 3
6-CARTERET at 3-CAMDEN, noon
I keep going back to this pick as a possible upset. I know Camden is ranked No. 6 in the state, but the Panthers earned just a No. 3 seed hurt by their strength of schedule. Now, I said that didn’t matter with North Brunswick, and Camden just might be that good. Its only loss was against a Virginia team on Aug. 26, and the wins have mostly been blowouts. Camden’s closest game was a 20-7 win to hand Haddonfield (7-1) its only loss. So, I’m not saying it’s going to be easy or I’m picking Carteret, I think it may be possible. Either way, the Ramblers had a stellar season in winning the United Silver and making the playoffs for the time since 2017.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Camden 28-17
Fortunately for me, I feel no conflict here, whatsoever. My only conflict is whether or not to pick a running clock. Carteret had a great season. Don’t get me wrong. One of the great stories of the year for a school that didn’t field a football program during the pandemic year, but have certainly gotten things ramped up since. But Camden is ranked No. 6 in the state. Carteret is not. There are reasons for that.
PINCUS’ PICK: Camden 36-14
SOUTH GROUP 3
5-SOMERVILLE at 4-MANASQUAN, 1 P.M.
The Pioneers get a friendlier playoff draw than the past couple years, but they still have to go on the road to open the playoffs, coming off a much-needed 42-14 win over South Brunswick. The Ville is dangerous for anyone, and Manasquan has been solid, but certainly nothing Somerville hasn’t seen playing in the American Gold Division with a bunch of Group 5s. Should be a tight one, but I’m going to go Pioneers to prevail.
PINCUS’ PICK: Somerville 26-19
What’s interesting is that Manasquan’s Shore Conference division has two Group 1 schools in Shore (5-3) and Asbury Park (0-7), while Somerville’s BCC division, as Simeon said, has three Group 5 teams and St. Joseph-Metuchen. That competition seems to have the Pioneers better prepared for the playoffs. Plus, Somerville met the eye test for me when I saw them lose to Westfield 31-29 in a thriller.
MENDLOWITZ’S PICK: Somerville 28-21
REGIONAL INVITATION TOURNAMENT
Thursday, Oct. 26
NORTH 5 FINAL
ELIZABETH at PATERSON EASTSIDE, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Elizabeth 21-14
Pincus’ Pick: Elizabeth 27-7
SEMIFINALS:
NORTH 3
VOORHEES at MENDHAM, 7 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Mendham 24-21
Pincus’ Pick: Voorhees 32-14
NORTH 1
BREARLEY at BOONTON, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Boonton 27-21
Pincus’ Pick: Boonton 34-23
SOUTH 1
KEANSBURG at MANVILLE, 7 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Manville 28-24
Pincus’ Pick: Keansburg 20-12
Saturday, Oct. 28
SOUTH 2
LOWER CAPE MAY at ROSELLE, NOON
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Roselle 35-32
Pincus’ Pick: Roselle 23-21
REGULAR SEASON
Wednesday, Oct. 25
NORTH PLAINFIELD at NUTLEY, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Nutley 14-7
Pincus’ Pick: Nutley 27-21
Thursday, Oct. 26
SOUTH RIVER at POINT PLEASANT BEACH, 5 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Point Beach 22-21
Pincus’ Pick: Point Beach 18-14
FRANKLIN at TRENTON CENTRAL, 5:30 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Franklin 18-12
Pincus’ Pick: Franklin 27-20
BOUND BROOK at BELVIDERE, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Bound Brook 20-13
Pincus’ Pick: Bound Brook 22-16
EAST BRUNSWICK at JACKSON LIBERTY, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: East Brunswick 35-24
Pincus’ Pick: East Brunswick 32-26
J.F. KENNEDY at J.P. STEVENS, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: J.P. Stevens 21-14
Pincus’ Pick: J.P. Stevens 26-20
MONROE at PERTH AMBOY, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Monroe 23-21
Pincus’ Pick: Monroe 35-18
PISCATAWAY at EDISON, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Piscataway 29-28
Pincus’ Pick: Piscataway 30-20
SECAUCUS at ROSELLE PARK, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Roselle Park 28-14
Pincus’ Pick: Roselle Park 28-17
SOUTH PLAINFIELD at SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD, 6 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Scotch Plains-Fanwood 18-16
Pincus’ Pick: South Plainfield 35-26
OLD BRIDGE at LIVINGSTON, 6:30 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Old Bridge 28-18
Pincus’ Pick: Old Bridge 38-13
METUCHEN at HIGHLAND PARK, 7 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Metuchen 42-32
Pincus’ Pick: Metuchen 20-16
WALLINGTON at DAYTON, 7 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: Dayton 14-0
Pincus’ Pick: Dayton 28-14
Saturday, Oct. 28
ST. JOSEPH-METUCHEN at POPE JOHN XXIII, 2 P.M.
Mendlowitz’s Pick: St. Joseph 28-26
Pincus’ Pick: Pope John 29-22
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 9
