Greater Cincinnati High School Football Postseason: Week 13 Preview
The Greater Cincinnati high school football scene is buzzing as the postseason enters Week 13, featuring 19 exciting games across both sides of the river. In Ohio, the playoffs have transitioned to neutral sites for the regional semifinals, while in Kentucky, matches take place at the home field of the higher district seed. On the Indiana side, East Central will be playing on the road due to tournament rules.
This week, the city is reflecting on the notable passing of Gerry Faust as one of its most historic rivalries returns, with the No. 1 seed Crusaders (11-1) going up against the fourth-seeded Vikings (10-2). This rematch is the first playoff meeting since 2021 when Moeller triumphed with a score of 28-21. Following a tough loss to Moeller at the season’s start, Princeton recently bounced back with a commanding victory over Hamilton, winning 37-7 in the second round.
Moeller quarterback Matt Ponatoski has been lighting up the field, boasting 415 passing yards and four touchdowns last game. Moeller has been on a scoring spree lately, averaging 57 points over their last three matches. Predictions favor Moeller to win this week 34-17.
In another key matchup, the No. 2 seed Firebirds (11-1) will meet the No. 6 Bombers (9-3) for the seventh face-off of recent years. This rematch echoes their season opener, with Lakota West narrowly edging St. Xavier 17-13. Both squads focus on offensive momentum, with Lakota West scoring 40 or more points in several of their last games, leading them to a predicted 21-17 victory.
The top seed, the Raptors (12-0), will clash with the fifth-seeded Fighting Owls (10-2). This exciting game, featuring standout quarterbacks, promises a high-scoring affair, as Anderson’s average score is 51 points, enough to forecast a commanding win of 44-20.
As the playoffs continue, upsets are in the air, just like the one last week with top seeds tumbling in Region 16. The No. 5 seed Senators (10-2) are set to take on the No. 9 Braves (9-3). Indian Hill’s standout running back, Devlan Daniel, in pursuit of another stellar performance, is expected to lead his team past Taft this week, with a tight projected score of 21-14.
As more thrilling matchups unfold across the field, fans are bound to enjoy an exhilarating weekend of high school playoff football. Each team is pushing for victory, demonstrating skills, tenacity, and community pride on this grand stage.
