Portage and Morton - Have heard Morton was without a few D-lineman, however, not sure HOW MUCH that would've helped given how Portage played in the 2nd half. Heard a KOR before the half for the Indians helped turn the tide as well. All 3 phases matter and Roy has Portage headed in the right direction in all phases on the field. Time will tell for the Govs but this was not a good start to what was supposed to be a promising season in Hessville.
Griffith and Highland - Heard all summer that Griffith was MUCH improved and going to have a solid year, and it appears they will. Highland has its work cut out for them but they are a young, inexperienced group (4-5 returning players with ANY varsity experience), and obviously coach Geffert will need to continue to improve the weight room culture there as well.
Penn and Valpo - Really wish I could've seen this one. Surprised that even with a really young defense that Valpo gave up this many points. But if you were doubting their offense I think they proved they'll be able to score points (unless Penn is gonna be really bad on defense? doubt that).
LC and Munster - Munster and Highland will be an interesting battle for the bridge to put it mildly. LC is going to have a hard time scoring points and controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball in the DAC.
Andrean and Merrillville - Was "shocked"
that Andrean and Merrillville were so closely matched given that someone (or 4 different someone's) on here have Merrillville penciled in as the 5A State Champs already. Heard Merrillville didn't play well and that Andrean made it difficult on them. Sounds to me like Andrean will be much improved from a year ago and Merrillville will be Merrillville, time will tell..CP and Lowell - CP is really good. We'll learn a little more about Lowell this Friday...
Hobart and Chesterton - Hobart is going to struggle this year. They have a few winnable games on the schedule but they're lacking some talent in some key spots. Chesterton can find a way to win some games if they continue to run the ball like they did on Friday. Curious to see how Morton handles them and their size this Friday.
Hanover Central - They're going to have another nice regular season. I'm not sure I'm ready to deem them ready to make a postseason run. Beating New Prairie will not be an easy task. IF they can climb that hurdle, not sure how they'll be able to stack up in the Regional and Semi-State but... they'll need to beat the Cougars first.