Game Night: Round Two CIF Playoffs

Mid-Valley Division

El Monte (8-2) at Paraclete (10-1)

Should we be intellectually honest, or rah-rah-go-home team? The Spirits should win this game, they have the athletes to replicate what South El Monte did to the Lions a few weeks ago. It hurts to pick against EMHS, not because they are “our” local team, but because we’re sick of being proven wrong. Our prediction: PAIN.

Prediction: Paraclete 49 El Monte 30

Sierra Canyon (10-1) at Arroyo (7-4)

Wait a minute. Nortview held the Trailblazers to 20 points. The Knights are capable of this, but can they generate any points against the defending state champs? That’s tough. Peter Aholoka is a lot, but he might not be enough against SC.

Prediction: Sierra Canyon 28 Arroyo 14

South El Monte (7-4) at Monrovia (9-2)

Is Levi Wells healthy? The Eagles held their own against a San Marino team that gave the Wildcats fits. Then again is Levi Wells healthy? If Ibis Aguilar has a passing game to diversify his offense then it could be close. The Southmen won’t be afraid, but will they have enough artillery?

Prediction: Monrovia 35 South El Monte 21

Northeast Division

Rio Hondo Prep (9-1) at Desert (7-4)

The Scorpions have had a nice season, but it ends this Friday night against the Kares. RHP can melt, it can blast, they can rise above. At this stage, in this game, at this moment, they are invincible.

Prediction: Rio Hondo Prep 46 Desert 23