Here are our predictions for the fifth week of the KingCo football season. There are some solid games this week, including Bellevue at Mercer Island and Eastlake at Newport. Could this be the year Inglemoor recaptures the Spaghetti Bowl crown from Bothell?

Be sure to chime in with your thoughts and to vote on who you think will win. Results on the first four weeks of voting are at the bottom of the page.

BIG 5
Mercer Island vs. Bellevue
Kevin - Well, this will probably be the toughest KingCo 3A/2A matchup Bellevue has this year. That said, I really don’t see the outcome being much different. The Wolverines have earned their high national rankings with wins over out-of-state powerhouse Oaks Christian and in-state force Skyline. Mercer Island struggled to stop Seattle Prep’s run game, which doesn’t bode well for the Islanders this week. As most everyone knows, running attacks don’t get much more potent than the Bellevue’s.
Pick: Bellevue 38-10
Josh - Boy was I wrong about the Islanders. In our preseason chat, someone asked how I thought 3A KingCo would shape up. I’d rather not discuss my reply…After the season-opening loss to (still unbeaten) Seattle Prep, which came on a PAT that bounced off the crossbar, Mercer Island has rolled off three straight wins and had control throughout all three. The Wolverines, meanwhile, have been predictably taking care of business in league play but have yet to face a team that will finish in the top half of the conference. That will change on Friday. If any defense is built to handle the ariel attack the Islanders will launch, it’s Bellevue. Tyler Hasty anchors a secondary that stifled highly regarded quarterbacks Lucas Falk and Max Browne and will try to do the same against possibly the best signal-caller in the state in Jeff Lindquist. I’m actually anticipating Mercer Island trying to set up the run game first to open some windows for Lindquist, but if they decide to throw it 50 times, I can’t say I’d be shocked. The M-I defense had undoubtedly its best week of the season against Interlake, but will be hard-pressed to slow a Bellevue offense that has been operating at a high level in each of its four games.
Pick: Bellevue 42-17

Newport vs. Eastlake
Kevin - This is Eastlake’s biggest test since its week-one victory over Central Kitsap. The No. 2 ranked Wolves have beat their four opponents by an average of 40-12, but have gotten off to notoriously slow starts. They failed to score first-quarter points in two of their last three games, and the one they scored in, they trailed Roosevelt 12-7 at the half. With Newport’s explosive offense, Eastlake will have to be careful to not dig itself an early hole. That said, the Wolves are ranked as one of the top 4A teams for a reason. They boast one of largest lines in the league, have an explosive running back (Ryan Lewis), a crafty quarterback (Keegan Kemp), and a stingy defense. I think this one will come down to just too much firepower for the boys from Sammamish.
Pick: Eastlake 35-14
Josh - Aside from the loss to Mercer Island, things between the lines have gone according to plan for the Knights heading into their biggest test of the season thus far. A win over unbeaten Eastlake, ranked one or two by most polls around the state, would go a long way in making sure that trend continues. Newport will no doubt rely on Isaac Dotson to be Isaac Dotson and with Miles Fowler emerging as a threat at the tight end spot and a handful of backs including Neil Hones, Brian Setijono and Eric Rodan keeping the defense honest in run situations, the Knights have enough options to put points on the board.
Pick: Eastlake 35-28

Liberty vs. Juanita
Kevin - This one is hard to call. These are two teams who are still trying to find themselves. Liberty has suffered tough defeats to high-quality opponents. Juanita has also struggled against stronger teams. I think home-field advantage and an improving offense will help the Patriots this week.
Pick: Liberty 28-13
Josh - Juanita has clearly taken a step back from last season. The 47 points allowed to Mercer Island two weeks ago isn’t a complete indictment, considering the Islanders’ offense, but it isn’t exactly encouraging either. Liberty barely missed scraping out a win against Mount Si and has lost to all three teams it has played not named Sammamish, but I think they will find a way in this one.
Pick: Liberty 24-20

Inglemoor vs. Bothell
Kevin - This could be the year Inglemoor finally does it. Bothell, which has won 10 straight Spaghetti Bowls, has had its struggles this season — in particular at the quarterback position. Expect both teams to run, run and run some more. I can see this being a back-and-forth battle with the victory going to whoever has the ball last.
Pick: Bothell 28-26
Josh - The Vikes got back on the right path last week with the 35-14 win over Ballard, which they badly needed after getting thrashed by Lake Stevens in week three. I saw Bothell’s game against Newport and came away thinking the Cougars lack the necessary consistency to be a major contender this year. If Bothell plays with some more continuity and avoids costly penalties, they could get another win over their Northshore rivals. But I think this could be Inglemoor’s year to get over on Bainter’s bunch.
Pick: Inglemoor 24-20

Issaquah vs. Kamiak
Kevin - With some of the yelling I heard coming out of the Issaquah locker room after last week’s 41-14 loss to Skyline, I can guarantee one thing this Friday — the Eagles will be ready to play against Kamiak. This should be a good rebound game for Issaquah as they face a Knights team that has had its offensive struggles. I expect the Eagles to get back on track.
Pick: Issaquah 38-7
Josh - The Eagles admittedly didn’t play with the fire needed to take down Skyline last week. Luckily for them, Kamiak isn’t Skyline. The Knights’ senior quarterback Anthony Berg has the physical tools to make plays, the question is whether or not his teammates will do enough to help him out. That seems doubtful against an Issaquah team that allowed 28 points in three games before the Skyline game.
Pick: Issaquah 35-12

OTHER GAMES
Roosevelt vs. Garfield
Kevin - Roosevelt 35-14
Josh - Roosevelt 28-24

Interlake vs. Mount Si
Kevin - Mount Si 28-21
Josh - Mount Si 33-14

Lake Washington vs. Sammamish
Kevin - Lake Washington 24-7
Josh - Lake Washington 28-25

Skyline vs. Redmond
Kevin - Skyline 45-0
Josh - Skyline 50-0

Bellevue Christian vs. Orcas Island
Kevin - Orcas Island 24-20
Josh - Bellevue Christian 28-20

Chief Sealth vs. Eastside Catholic
Kevin - Eastside Catholic 35-7
Josh - Eastside Catholic 40-0

Week 4 results
Kevin: 11-1
Josh: 10-2
Readers: 10-2

Year to date
Kevin: 38-14
Josh: 37-15
Readers: 36-16

Here are the week five Reporter Newspaper football polls for 4A, 3A and 2A as voted on by a group of sports writers on the Eastside.

Despite a dominant victory over Redmond, Eastlake dropped from No. 1 in 4A to No. 2 this week (don’t blame me). Issaquah’s loss to Skyline dropped the Eagles out of the top 10 for now, but I have a feeling they’ll return. Skyline holds strong at No. 5.

4A
1. Ferris (4-0)
2. Eastlake (4-0)
3. Chiawana (4-0)
4. Bellarmine Prep (4-0)
5. Skyline (2-2)
6. Kentlake (4-0)
7. Olympia (4-0)
8. Federal Way (4-0)
9. Central Valley (4-0)
10. Woodinville (4-0)
Others receiving votes: Lake Stevens, Bethel

3A
1. Bellevue (4-0)
2. Lakes (4-0)
3. O’Dea (4-0)
4. Kamiakin (4-0)
5. Peninsula (4-0)
6. Meadowdale (4-0)
7. Mount Si (3-1)
8. Oak Harbor (4-0)
9. Camas (3-1)
10. Seattle Prep (4-0)
Others receiving votes: Bonney Lake, Kennedy

2A
1. Lynden (4-0)
2. Archbishop Murphy (4-0)
3. Tumwater (3-1)
4. Prosser (3-1)
5. Sequim (4-0)
6. North Thurston (3-1)
7. West Valley Spokane (3-1)
8. Lakewood (4-0)
9. W.F. West (3-1)
10. Othello (2-2)
Others receiving votes: Franklin-Pierce, Cheney, Port Angeles, Mount Baker

Here are our week four predictions. Three weeks into the season and Bellevue Reporter sportswriter Josh Suman and myself are tied at 27-13 overall. The readers are 26-14 in their picks. Last week’s results are listed at the bottom of the page.

Be sure to vote for this week’s games and chime in if you have any opinions.

BIG 5
Issaquah vs. Skyline
Kevin - This is always an interesting rivalry game, but is even more intriguing this season. Skyline comes in losing two consecutive games for the first time since 1998 – falling to Bellevue and Lake Oswego, Ore. Issaquah enters the game at 3-0. Spartans’ quarterback Max Browne is averaging 313 yards through the air, while the Eagles have outscored opponents 126-28. Motivation won’t be difficult for either of these squads to muster. The question remains, who will be able to stop the other’s offense? Skyline surrendered 428 yards and seven touchdowns from one running back in its 56-46 loss. Issaquah likes to run the ball behind talented sophomore Jack Gellatly. On the other hand, the Eagles haven’t seen a pass attack anywhere near Skyline’s in its first three games. Skyline holds a six-game win streak over Issaquah, dating back to 2006. Having not witnessed an Issaquah victory over Skyline in my four years covering these two teams it makes it difficult to pick against the Spartans. Regardless, I think this will be one of the closest matchups I’ve seen between these two teams.
Pick: Skyline 34-32
Josh - Current Skyline players were in elementary school (some were actually probably in preschool) the last time the Spartans dropped two straight and have to be hungrier than ever this week, especially considering the opponent. Issaquah has looked good in going 3-0, but has yet to face an opponent that wasn’t severely overmatched. There’s a lot to like about the Eagles and I don’t think there is any doubt they are a round of 16 team (or better) come playoff time, but my gut says Skyline is going to get back on track.
Pick: Skyline 33-28

Seattle Prep vs. Eastside Catholic
Kevin - Eastside Catholic coach Jeremy Thielbahr admitted after last Friday’s 34-0 win over Centennial his team has yet to put together what he considers a perfect game. The Crusaders certainly need to get closer to that this week if they want to find success against a hot Seattle Prep squad. Quarterback Jackson Clough, along with running back Tere Calloway have helped the Panthers put up 125 points in three games — an average of close to 42 points per game. The Crusaders will need big plays from their big-play makers, running back Chevy Walker and quarterback Trey Reynolds.
Pick: Seattle Prep 35-28
Josh - No analysis needed here. I went to Eastside Catholic, needless to say I’m not exactly a Seattle Prep ambassador. Simply put: I would rather be wrong than pick the Panthers.
Pick: Eastside Catholic 34-33

Mount Si vs. Liberty
Kevin - Mount Si has really found its groove since loosing to Woodinville in week one. The Wildcats have bounced back with wins over Bothell and Lake Washington. A multifaceted running attack, efficient quarterback and accurate kicker helped get Mount Si back on track. Liberty finally found its way into the win column last week, hammering Sammamish. The Patriots graduated “their big three,” but quarterback Jordan West and running back Hamilton Noel have returned some of the mojo that departed. This could be a close one.
Pick: Mount Si 28-21
Josh - Maybe Woodinville is just really good. The Wildcats’ loss to open the season was somewhat of a surprise at the time, but looks better with each Falcons’ win. Mount Si has rebounded nicely as well by beating Bothell and then handling Lake Washington 42-0 last week. The Patriots dominated Sammamish for their first win of the year and running back Hamilton Noel went in for three scores on the ground, which is a good sign going forward for Liberty. That being said, Mount Si has a better resume right now and should take care of business in this one.
Pick: Mount Si 34-21

La Conner vs. Bellevue Christian
Kevin - Bellevue Christian looks to continue its streak of consecutive program wins this week, going for three in a row at La Conner. Quarterback Kemper McQuaid has Viking offense off to a hot start, throwing for six TDs in his first two games. If BC can handle the long drive to the Skagit Valley, look for the Vikings to keep things rolling against the winless Braves.
Pick: Bellevue Christian 32-20
Josh - Before the season, one BCS player told me, “I expect us to win. We’re going to go hard and destroy (opponents).”At the time, it seemed like a lot of hot air. After two lopsided wins, it’s starting to seem like the truth. The Vikings will face 2B opponents the rest of the regular season and should have the physical advantage every time out. La Conner has scored only 20 points in three games, including a close-call with Friday Harbor and a lashing from both Nooksack Valley and Adna. That doesn’t exactly inspire confidence. Look for Kemper McQuaid to make some big plays in the passing game and the BCS defense to continue to stand up against the run in a big win.
Pick: Bellevue Christian 45-10

Redmond vs. Eastlake
Kevin - On paper this game shouldn’t be close. Then again, it was just two years ago undefeated Eastlake went into Redmond and was stunned by the winless Mustangs. Strange things can happen in rivalry games. That said, I don’t think there will be a repeat of the 2009 upset. For one, the wound is still fresh for coach Gene Dales and his staff. The top-ranked Wolves have yet to put a completely efficient team victory under their belts. I’m sure they couldn’t think of a better week to get things rolling. Look for quarterback Keegan Kemp along with running back Ryan Lewis to have big games for Eastlake.
Pick: Eastlake 42-14
Josh - Redmond has spent the first three weeks of the season getting decimated by 3A and 4A foes alike. The closest they have come thus far is a 39-17 loss to a Lake Washington team that was dismantled 42-0 by Mount Si a week later. Eastlake, meanwhile, has ascended to the top of our 4A state rankings after continuing to drub overmatched opponents combined with the two defeats for their Sammamish counterparts from Skyline. I smell a mismatch.
Pick: Eastlake 48-3

OTHER GAMES
Ballard vs. Inglemoor
Kevin - Inglemoor 32-13
Josh - Inglemoor 42-10

Bellevue vs. Lake Washington
Kevin - Bellevue 42-7
Josh - Bellevue 50-0

Interlake vs. Mercer Island
Kevin - Mercer Island 35-14
Josh - Mercer Island 35-30

Juanita vs. Sammamish
Kevin - Juanita 35-10
Josh - Juanita 42-0

Woodinville vs. Garfield
Kevin - Woodinville 42-14
Josh - Woodinville 45-10

Roosevelt vs. Bothell
Kevin - Bothell 35-7
Josh - Bothell 28-20

Cascade vs. Newport
Kevin - Newport 35-14
Josh - Newport 44-6

Week 3 results
Kevin: 11-2
Josh: 10-3
Readers: 10-3

Year to date
Kevin: 27-13
Josh: 27-13
Readers: 26-14

Here are the week four Reporter Newspaper football polls for 4A, 3A and 2A as voted on by a group of sports writers on the Eastside.

4A
1. Eastlake (3-0)
2. Chiawana (3-0)
3. Bellarmine Prep (3-0)
4. Skyline (1-2)
5T. Kentlake (3-0)
5T. Ferris (3-0)
7. Olympia (3-0)
8. Federal Way (3-0)
9. Issaquah (3-0)
10. Central Valley (3-0)
Others receiving votes: Arlington, Bethel

3A
1. Bellevue (3-0)
2. Lakes (3-0)
3. O’Dea (3-0)
4. Kamiakin (3-0)
5. Camas (3-0)
6. Peninsula (3-0)
7. Mount Si (2-1)
8. Meadowdale (3-0)
9. Kennedy Catholic (2-1)
10T. Seattle Prep (3-0)
10T. Oak Harbor (3-0)
Others receiving votes: Bonney Lake

2A
1. Lynden (3-0)
2. Archibishop Murphy (3-0)
3. Tumwater (2-1)
4. North Thurston (3-0)
5. Prosser (2-1)
6. Sequim (3-0)
7. Spokane-West Valley (3-0)
8. Burlington-Edison (2-1)
9. W.F. West (2-1)
10. Cheney (3-0)
Others receiving votes: Othello, Lakewood

Paul Johns, Chevy Walker, Jeremy Thielbahr

Eastside Catholic’s senior running back Chevy Walker was named Seattle Seahawks’ High School Player of the Week on Sept. 14.

Former Seahawks wide receiver Paul Johns came to the Crusaders’ practice and presented Walker with a football, Seahawks’ tickets and a sideline pass.

Walker earned the award on the back of his week one performance against Cleveland. He scored five touchdowns, accounting for over 300 yards of offense.

Walker has nine TDs and 830 all-purpose yards in three games.

Wow, a 6-6 finish makes it one of the roughest weeks I’ve had in my three years of making picks. Fortunately, most of you were on the same page as me. Bellevue sportswriter Josh Suman finished the week 7-5, moving him into a one game overall lead (17-10).

This week is toned down a bit in terms of big-time matchups, but there are some interesting ones out there, including Skyline at Lake Oswego, Ore., Juanita at Mercer Island and Bothell at Newport.

Without further ado, here are the picks for the third week.

BIG 5
Newport vs. Bothell
Kevin - Here’s an interesting matchup between to 1-1 teams many figured to be 2-0 after week two. Newport lost by 15 at home to Mercer Island, while Bothell lost by 12 at home to Mount Si. Who will be able to bounce back after a tough week? Mount Si was able to move the ball on the ground against the Cougars, which bodes well for Newport quarterback Isaac Dotson and the Knights’ explosive running attack. Newport was bit by the turnover bug last week, however, and will need to hold onto the ball against a traditionally efficient Bothell squad.
Pick: Newport 32-28
Josh - The Knights fumbled away an opportunity to make a statement against Jeff Lindquist and Mercer Island last week, falling by a pair of scores after a pair of critical turnovers. Bothell is a bit of a mystery after handling Union and then getting handled themselves by Mount Si, at home no less, last week. I like the Knights’ potential, I’m just not sure of where they are in terms of development after last week’s performance. This game wasn’t close last year (42-14 Bothell) and while there is no way it gets that out of hand again, I’m going with the Cougars.
Pick: Bothell 30-27

Skyline vs. Lake Oswego, Ore.
Kevin - Skyline head coach Mat Taylor referred to Lake Oswego as one of the top two or three teams in the state of Oregon. The Lakers enter their home game against the Spartans, 2-0, after outscoring their first two opponents 84-31. Skyline is no doubt looking to bounce back after a tough loss to in-state rival Bellevue. These same two teams played to a close first half last year in Sammamish before the Spartans pulled away for a 38-14 victory. This will be a tough test for Skyline, but the Spartans should have enough fire power to get back on a winning track.
Pick: Skyline 32-20
Josh - The Spartans looked unstoppable at times in last week’s lost to Bellevue. And then they would stop themselves. Obviously, the level of their opponent played a huge role in that. Here’s what won’t happen this week in Oregon: Skyline won’t turn the ball over five times. They won’t get stopped at the goal line twice. Max Browne won’t get intercepted multiple times. The defense won’t have to deal with a Wing-T offense. Here’s what will happen: a dominating bounce-back win for Taylor and Co.
Pick: Skyline 42-10

Mercer Island vs. Juanita
Kevin - Here’s an interesting matchp between two KingCo 3A schools with 1-1 records. Mercer Island is coming off an impressive victory over Newport, while Juanita suffered a shutout loss to Inglemoor. The Rebels are a hard team to figure out after putting up 48 against Redmond in the first week. Can they get their offense moving again behind quarterback Landyn Milburn and running back Travis Marshall? Mercer Island is rolling behind University of Washington recruit Jeff Lindquist. The quarterback rushed for three TDs last week and threw for another.
Pick: Mercer Island 28-22
Josh - The Islanders were at the bottom of the conference in my view before the season began and again after week one. But the dominating win over Newport can’t be ignored and a win over Juanita in the conference opener would be another huge step in the right direction.
Pick: Mercer Island 28-20

Inglemoor vs. Lake Stevens
Kevin - Is the Inglemoor defense for real? We will find out this week as the Vikings host Lake Stevens in a battle of undefeated 4A teams. In its first two games Inglemoor has shut out opponents, winning 10-0 at Snohomish and 19-0 against Juanita. Led by quarterback Jake Nelson, Lake Stevens put up 70 points on Cascade in the first week. Inglemoor has had its struggles with offense, scoring just two offensive TDs this season. They have a kickoff return for a score and three field goals.
Pick: Inglemoor 21-20
Josh - Lake Stevens pounded Cascade 70-6 and then squeaked out a win over Kamiak on a missed field goal. Dual-threat quarterback Jake Nelson ran for two scores after throwing for four the first week of the season. But Inglemoor’s defense hasn’t been the problem. Frank Naish’s squad hasn’t allowed a single point thus far in 2011 after shutting out both Snohomish and Juanita. They likely won’t blank Nelson and their WesCo visitors this week, but they should be able to do enough to get the win.
Pick: Inglemoor 21-17

Eastlake vs. Roosevelt
Kevin - Both of these teams are 2-0, but don’t expect a shootout. No. 2 ranked Eastlake is on a roll behind quarterback Keegan Kemp. The senior has thrown for 489 yards and five touchdowns, and rushed for two more. Running back Ryan Lewis has rushed for 288 yards and four TDs in the Wolves’ first two games. Roosevelt will have a tough time slowing the Eastlake attack.
Pick: Eastlake 42-7
Josh - The Roughriders took care of business against Interlake and sit at 2-0 for the second straight season. The only problem with that? After beating Franklin and Interlake to begin 2010, Roosevelt was humbled in a 42-7 to Eastlake that ended up being the first of four straight defeats. The Wolves are deeper, bigger and more sturdily built to maintain their early season momentum. Some people (me) ranked them at the top of 4A at the start of this week after Skyline’s loss to Bellevue (I was obviously outvoted). Keegan Kemp tossed three scores last week and won’t hold anything back as his team rolls.
Pick: Eastlake 44-9

OTHER GAMES
Issaquah vs. Ballard
Kevin - Issaquah 42-7
Josh - Issaquah 35-19

Woodinville vs. Redmond
Kevin - Woodinville 35-13
Josh - Woodinville 38-14

Garfield vs. Seattle Prep
Kevin - Seattle Prep 35-7
Josh - Seattle Prep 28-20

Bellevue vs. Interlake
Kevin - Bellevue 45-7
Josh - Bellevue 49-8

Mount Si vs. Lake Washington
Kevin - Mount Si 28-6
Josh - Mount Si 28-19

Liberty vs. Sammamish
Kevin - Liberty 38-7
Josh - Liberty 50-10

Eastside Catholic vs. Centennial, B.C.
Kevin - Eastside Catholic 48-28
Josh - Eastside Catholic 45-0

Bellevue Christian vs. Evergreen
Kevin - Bellevue Christian 35-14
Josh - Bellevue Christian 45-7

Week 2 results
Kevin: 6-6
Josh: 7-5
Readers: 6-6

Year to date
Kevin: 16-11
Josh: 17-10
Readers: 16-11

Here are the week two Reporter Newspaper football polls for 4A, 3A and 2A as voted on by a group of sports writers on the Eastside.

4A
1. Skyline (1-1)
2. Eastlake (2-0)
3. Chiawana (2-0)
4. Bellarmine Prep (2-0)
5. Ferris (2-0)
6. Kentlake (2-0)
7. Olympia (2-0)
8. Federal Way (2-0)
9. Issaquah (2-0)
10. Central Valley (2-0)
Others receiving votes: Bethel, Auburn, Curtis

3A
1. Bellevue (2-0)
2. Lakes (2-0)
3. O’Dea (2-0)
4. Kamiakin (2-0)
5. Camas (2-0)
6. Peninsula (2-0)
7. Ferndale (1-1)
8. Meadowdale (2-0)
9. Mount Si (1-1)
10. Oak Harbor (2-0)
Others receiving votes: Bonney Lake, Mount Spokane, Kennedy Catholic

2A
1. Lynden (2-0)
2. Archbishop Murphy (2-0)
3. Tumwater (1-1)
4. W.F. West (2-0)
5. Prosser (1-1)
6. Sequim (2-0)
7. Burlington-Edison (1-1)
8. North Thurston (2-0)
9. Othello (1-1)
10. West Valley – Spokane (1-1)
Others receiving votes: East Valley – Spokane, Lakewood, Lindbergh, Mark Morris, River Ridge

Well, after our first week of predictions it’s the readers who pulled ahead getting 11 of 15 games correct. Bellevue sportswriter Josh Suman and myself both finished with 10-5 records.

There are a lot of really good games on the list this week, led by the headliner, Skyline vs. Bellevue. Here are our picks for week two.

BIG 5

Skyline vs. Bellevue
Kevin - These two teams have quite a history. In 11 matchups, Bellevue has a 6-5 edge over Skyline, with the Spartans taking the last two games in 2010 (28-21) and 2007 (6-0). The Wolverines enter Friday’s game with a No. 15 ranking by US Today, but don’t count Skyline out. The Spartans and quarterback Max Browne found their groove after a slow start against Liberty last week. The junior connected on 16 of 18 passes for 190 yards and four TDs. Can Skyline stay disciplined on defense against Bellevue’s vaunted Wing-T? Will the Wolverines be able to control the clock and stop the Spartans’ quick and efficient passing attack? Something has to break.
Pick: Skyline 24-20
Josh - No rest for the weary in week two as the Wolverines try and follow-up last week’s win over Oaks Christian with another against the Spartans. Skyline is far more accustomed to seeing the Wing-T than were the Lions, but that doesn’t mean they are more likely to stop or even slow it. You have to be impressed with the 62 points Skyline put on Liberty last week, but this Bellevue defense is probably a little better suited to matchup with Browne and his crew of receivers than were the Patriots. Too much Bellevue run game, too little time with the ball for Skyline in this one.
Pick: Bellevue 34-22

Issaquah vs. Liberty
Kevin - These two teams enter week two on opposite ends of the spectrum. Issaquah thumped Heritage 48-0 last week, while Liberty got routed by Skyline, 62-27. The Patriots looked good for nearly the first two quarters, leading Skyline 21-14 in the second quarter. Can they find that mojo and hold onto it? The Eagles also looked impressive for two quarters before pulling all their starters in the second half. Did the starters get enough reps to carry over momentum into this week? It will be a test of wills between these Issaquah School District and former KingCo 3A rivals.
Pick: Issaquah 34-21
Josh - As expected, Issaquah trampled Heritage in the opener behind a huge night from freshman Jack Gellatly and a shutout from the Eagles’ defense. Until the Patriots prove they are ready for life without Bainton, Jenkins and Wheeler, I’m going to keep questioning whether they are ready for life without Bainton, Jenkins and Wheeler. This isn’t that week.
Pick: Issaquah 40-28

Bothell vs. Mount Si
Kevin - This matchup doesn’t bode well for Mount Si, which struggled last week stopping Woodinville’s rushing attack, eventually falling 31-10. Bothell earned 231 yards on the ground against a solid Union team on its way to a 27-10 win. Unless Mount Si has made some serious adjustments this week, things could get ugly.
Pick: Bothell 42-14
Josh - Mount Si made me look bad last week by getting crushed by Woodinville after I picked them to win on this blog. I don’t like looking bad. I think when all is said and done, the Wildcats are going to be the second or third place team in 3A KingCo and earn a spot in the round of 32. But that doesn’t mean they are going to beat the Cougars. Trent Sewell welcomes himself to the party in a big way as his team rolls.
Pick: Bothell 35-21

Newport vs. Mercer Island
Kevin - This should be an exciting battle between two athletic quarterbacks. Newport’s Isaac Dotson rushed 19 times for 228 yards and three touchdowns and threw for another. University of Washington-bound Jeff Lindquist completed 31 of 47 passes for 334 yards and a touchdown and rushed 24 times for 106 yards. Which defense will be able to step up and slow the other offense?
Pick: Newport 35-28
Josh - I saw the Knights last week so I’ll start with them. Isaac Dotson is the real deal. When he has the ball with even the slightest amount of space in the open field, it’s usually going for six. Arm tackles aren’t going to get it done and there is no doubt he loves to lower the shoulder and invite contact. The Islanders gave up big plays both on the ground and through the air (70 yard run and a 66 yard pass plus a 76 yard run that was called back) in last week’s loss to Seattle Prep. If that happens again, and it will, it’s going to be a long night for M-I.
Pick: Newport 45-20

Peninsula vs. Eastside Catholic
Kevin - This is a great chance for Eastside Catholic to prove its a contender in 3A. It will be no easy task, however, as the Crusaders face No. 9 ranked Peninsula on the road. The Seahawks dominated 4A opponent Gig Harbor, 48-9, last week, while Eastside rolled over Cleveland, 63-20. The Crusaders will have to slow senior running back Danny Welstad, who rushed for over 200 yards and six touchdowns last week. Chevy Walker will also be a concern for Peninsula. The senior scored five TDs, including an 83-yard for a TD. Having not seen either team this season, this isn’t an easy pick. I’ll give the Seahawks the slight edge with the home-field advantage.
Pick: Peninsula 32-28
Josh - This one will be a huge test for new coach Jeremy Thielbahr after the soft landing against hapless Cleveland in week one. Peninsula is no Cleveland and Danny Welstad is going to be a name the Crusaders get to know well on Friday night. Walker will get his on offense, but his team won’t get a win.
Pick: Peninsula 35-31

OTHER GAMES
Eastlake vs. Snohomish
Kevin - Eastlake 42-7
Josh - Eastlake 50-0

Redmond vs. Lake Washington
Kevin - Redmond 24-14
Josh - Lake Washington 28-14

Ballard vs. Franklin
Kevin - Ballard 35-14
Josh - Ballard 24-12

Garfield vs. Sammamish
Kevin - Garfield 24-20
Josh - Sammamish 24-13

Inglemoor vs. Juanita
Kevin - Juanita 35-20
Josh - Juanita 35-14

Roosevelt vs. Interlake
Kevin - Interlake 32-20
Josh - Interlake 28-24

Woodinville vs. Monroe
Kevin - Woodinville 42-21
Josh - Woodinville 42-10

Season record
Kevin: 10-5
Josh: 10-5
Readers: 11-4

Here are the week two Reporter Newspaper football polls for 4A, 3A and 2A as voted on by a group of sports writers on the Eastside.

CLASS 4A
1. Skyline (1-0)
2. Eastlake (1-0)
T-3. Bellarmine Prep (1-0)
T-3. Chiawana (1-0)
5. Ferris (1-0)
6. Kentlake (1-0)
7. Olympia (1-0)
8. Bothell (1-0)
9. Federal Way (1-0)
10. Mead (1-0)
Others receiving votes: Bethel, Skyview, Issaquah, Kentwood, Curtis

CLASS 3A
1. Bellevue (1-0)
2. Lakes (1-0)
3. O’Dea (1-0)
4. Kamiakin (1-0)
5. Camas (1-0)
6. Ferndale (1-0)
7. Juanita (1-0)
8. Kennedy (1-0)
9. Peninsula (1-0)
10. Mountain View (1-0)
Others receiving votes: Mount Spokane, Capital, Central Valley

CLASS 2A
1. Lynden (1-0)
2. Archbishop Murphy (1-0)
3. Tumwater (0-1)
4. Prosser (0-1)
T-5. Burlington-Edison (0-1)
T-5. East Valley-Spokane (1-0)
T-7. W.F. West (1-0)
T-7. Mark Morris (1-0)
9. Cheney (1-0)
10. Lindbergh (1-0)
Others receiving votes: North Thurston, Sequim, Interlake, Othello

Here we go with another season of prognosticating outcomes of KingCo 2A/3A/4A high-school football games.

We’re keeping the same format we had last season, but welcome new Bellevue sportswriter Josh Suman to the mix. Glad to see some fresh meat, because I was getting tired of whooping up on former Bellevue sportswriter Joel Willits (OK, complete lie).

We will also include Eastside Catholic and Bellevue Christian games week to week because they fall in our coverage area.

Polls are open, so you the reader can vote. We’ll keep track of the correct picks throughout the season for a friendly competition.

Without further ado, here are the picks for the first week.

BIG 5
Issaquah vs. Heritage
Kevin - This is a rematch of last year’s season-opener, a game in which Issaquah dominated Heritage 42-13 in Vancouver. The Eagles hold home-field advantage over the Timberwolves this season. Other than that, there are a handful of unknowns. Heritage has a new coach and a new starting quarterback. The Timberwolves are supposedly fast, but small. Eagles’ starter Ethan Kalin opened the season passing for 286 yards and two touchdowns while Issaquah also tallied 210 yards on the ground. Unless Heritage has made drastic improvements on the defensive side of the ball, don’t be surprised if there is a similar outcome.
Pick – Issaquah 38-10

Josh - Issaquah rolled 41-13 in the playoffs last season and has enough weapons back in 2011 to control the T-Wolves again, especially in their own house. As long as Gellatly, Thomas and the rest of the Eagles’ backfield can generate any productivity in the running game, Issaquah will have little trouble.
Pick – Issaquah 38-17

Skyline vs. Liberty
Kevin - Expect revenge to be on the minds of Skyline, which lost its only regular-season game 39-34 to Liberty in last season’s season opener. The Spartans get the Patriots at home on Friday. Both teams lost key names from last year’s squads, but perhaps none more paramount to their team than Liberty. The Patriots graduated Trey Wheeler, Chandler Jenkins and Jake Bainton — their leading passer, rusher and receiver. Skyline junior quarterback Max Browne passed for 415 yards and five TDs against Liberty in his first ever varsity game. One big question for the Spartans comes at receiver where they graduated their two top performers, Kasen Williams and Jordan Simone. New names seem to arise at the position year after year, however. Spartan Stadium will be loud Friday night, and a true test for Liberty’s first-year starting quarterback Jordan West. Experience at key positions will be the difference in this one.
Pick – Skyline 35-14

Josh - Post-Big Three life begins with a daunting task for Steve Valich and the Patriots. No more Jenkins, Wheeler or Bainton and that is going to spell trouble against Peyton Pelleur and a physical Skyline defense, even with three All-KingCo lineman returning in Anthony Olobia, Jalen Robinson and Kevin Ahrens. Max Browne will make the losses of Simone and Williams out wide bearable and the Spartans never seem to have trouble finding capable skill-position guys.
Pick – Skyline 40-14

Central Kitsap vs. Eastlake
Kevin - Central Kitsap caught Eastlake off guard during the first week last season in Sammamish. Now, the Wolves hope to do the same in Silverdale. The Cougars methodically earned a 13-10 victory over the Wolves behind a veteran quarterback, running back and a strong defense. With most of the components gone, the Cougars are rebuilding in 2011. Still, third-year coach Mark Keel has his program believing it can win. The Cougars were just two points away from knocking off Skyline in last year’s state tournament. Eastlake’s expectations are extremely high this season. With a giant offensive line guiding running back Ryan Lewis and quarterback Keegan Kemp the Wolves should put up big numbers this season. A fast start will be crucial on the long road trip.
Pick – Eastlake 21-7

Josh - Some say the Wolves have the potential to shake things up at the top of the Crest this year with senior quarterback Keegan Kemp and a massive offensive line anchored by 2010 all-conference selection Gino Breslin and Canadian transfer James Bradley, who tips the scales at 310 pounds. That run to the league title game may or may not materialize, but a win in the opener is a no-doubter.
Pick – Eastlake 42-21

Oaks Christian vs. Bellevue
Kevin - I saw Oaks Christian first hand two years ago when they made the trip to Skyline and was impressed by the way coach Bill Reddell his program. The Lions like spreading the ball around the field and apparently have a transfer quarterback from Utah, Lucas Falk, who can sling the ball with the best of them. Bellevue comes with no surprises. They will run the ball, and run it some more behind their sharpened Wing-T offense. Can quarterback Tyler Hasty and his slew of talented running backs move the ball and control the clock? Will Bellevue be able to stop the Oaks Christian passing attack? The outcome will weigh heavy on both of these factors.
Pick – Oaks Christian 28-24

Josh - I’ve gone back and forth on this one several times since the game was finalized. On the one hand, Bellevue dropped its last two games to high-caliber out of state competition back in 2009. On the other hand, that was back in 2009. This group of Wolverines is deep, experienced and still possesses pinpoint precision in its offensive attack that is impossible to duplicate, especially with a scout team. Oaks Christian will win the game if they get into the end zone early and often (say, 20 first quarter points) and don’t allow Bellevue to build the morale-crushing momentum of those 12 play, nine minute drives they are known for (see: goal line stand by Katy that loomed large throughout in 09). But I don’t think they will be able to do either of those things consistently enough and it will be Tyler Hasty, not Ishmael Adams or Jordan Payton, who has the biggest impact on this one.
Pick – Bellevue 24-22

Interlake vs. Newport
Kevin - This is a rematch of last year’s game in which Newport crushed Interlake 70-14. The Saints are no doubt more comfortable under second-year coach Jason Rimkus’ offense and with a weapon like Jordan Todd, can strike at any time. According to Knights’ coach Mike Miller, his team is even bigger and stronger than last season. That doesn’t bode well for 2A Interlake, which will need to find a way to stop talented quarterback Isaac Dotson and the potent Newport offense.
Pick – Newport 42-20

Josh - Coaches at both programs have said repeatedly this game will be closer than the 70-14 result in favor of Newport last season, which was the first game as a head coach for Interlake’s Jason Rimkus. Who am I to disagree with those in the know? That being said, Dotson will still be too much and the Interlake offense is going to have some growing pains with a quarterback who hasn’t been under center since middle school.
Pick – Newport 31-17

OTHER GAMES
Juanita vs. Redmond
Kevin - Juanita 24-14
Josh - Juanita 42-13

Ballard vs. Sammamish
Kevin - Ballard 35-14
Josh - Sammamish 17-16

Bothell vs. Union
Kevin - Bothell 24-20
Josh - Bothell 30-21

Lake Washington vs. Garfield
Kevin - Lake Washington 21-20
Josh - Lake Washington 24-6

Snohomish vs. Inglemoor
Kevin - Inglemoor 35-14
Josh - Inglemoor 20-19

Franklin vs. Roosevelt
Kevin - Franklin 28-20
Josh - Franklin 17-10

Mount Si vs. Woodinville
Kevin - Mount Si 28-14
Josh - Mount Si 28-20

Mercer Island vs. Seattle Prep
Kevin - Mercer Island 35-32
Josh - Mercer Island 35-14

Eastside Catholic vs. Cleveland
Kevin - Eastside Catholic 48-7
Josh - Eastside Catholic 42-0

Bellevue Christian vs. Northwest Christian
Kevin - Northwest Christian 28-7
Josh - Northwest Christian 11-6