Game preview: Centennial at Capitol Hill

Centennial vs. Capitol Hill
When: 7:30 p.m. tonight
Where: CB Speegle Stadium

Why Centennial can win: The backfield looks to be a strength for the Bison. Coach Mark Ryan has some options back there, starting with Nico Durham. Coming off a playoff appearance last season and moving up to Class 3A this season, it’s an interesting season for the Bison.

Why Capitol Hill can win: The Redskins are much farther along in their understanding of Montana Lyons’ plans and expectations in the coach’s second season, and a strong group of seniors led by quarterback Derrick Jefferson. They’re building depth, and that could be a difference maker.

Key matchup: Centennial RBs vs. Capitol Hill LBs. Linebacker is one of the strengths for the ‘Skins, with Junior Zavala and Fred Taylor leading the charge in a unit with a good combination of size and speed. If those guys play well and contain the Bison backs, it should be good news for Capitol Hill. If Centennial can establish the run, it will go a long way toward knocking off its Class 5A opponent.

The pick: Capitol Hill 21, Centennial 20. This shouldn’t suggest that Centennial won’t be a good team. I just think Lyons is making some significant progress at Capitol Hill. The senior class seems to have a strong motivation to avoid another 0-10 season.

– Scott Wright, swright@opubco.com