Game preview: PC North at PC West

Putnam City North (0-2) at Putnam City West (0-2)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Where: Putnam City Stadium

Last week: PC North suffered its second straight loss, 27-14, at Mustang. PC West lost 44-0 to Putnam City.

Why PC North could win: The Panthers have plenty of talent, but mistakes — namely, nine turnovers in two games — have killed them the first two weeks. If they take better care of the ball, the results should be much better. And the Panther defense has been better than expected so far.

Why PC West could win: There’s no guarantee PC North will have its turnover issues solved, and that can be a big equalizer. PC West showed a lot of offensive firepower against Choctaw in Week 1, but struggled moving the ball last week, finishing with just 160 yards. If the offense from the opener can make a return appearance, the Pats should be able to produce some points.

Key matchup: PC West passing game vs. PC North secondary. The Patriots got two-thirds of their offensive yardage through the air last week, and Ray Young has some weapons at receiver. If he can hit a few plays on the young Panther DBs, it should keep them in the game. But if the Panthers are able to take away the big plays, or create turnovers in the passing game, the momentum swings hard in their favor.

The pick: PC North 28, PC West 14. The Panthers just have too much size and too many weapons, especially if RB Dre Holman is back from his knee injury this week.

– Scott Wright, swright@opubco.com