Here is a look at the final:
Coaches. Before taking over at Northeast, Riley guided Cardinal Dougherty for two seasons (2006, 2007). Cohen is 224-61-2 in 25 seasons at Washington.
Rematch. In last year's final, the Eagles outlasted the Vikings, 41-34, in triple OT.
Rushing threats. Northeast's leading ballcarriers are halfbacks Tyleel Taylor and Eric Hines. For Washington, English Peay has emerged as to the go-to guy, with support from QB Aaron Wilmer and RBs Chea Sloh and Vernon Dupree.
Seeking redemption. Northeast QB Malik Stokes, who has scholarship offers from Central Michigan and Towson, completed 22 of 42 passes for a career-high 256 yards in last year's championship-game loss. But he was also intercepted three times.
Mammoth lineman. Washington's Sharrif Floyd, a 6-foot-3, 305-pound senior, is a force as a two-way tackle. He has scholarship offers from nearly 40 Division I-A schools, including USC, Florida and Ohio State.
Stalwart. Northeast's defensive leader is 6-1, 265-pound senior tackle Jerome Brown, also an offensive lineman.
Analysis. In their spread offense, the Vikings need Stokes to have success throwing to Eric Brundidge, Rashaun Sligh and Deion Barnes. That's because they'll find rushing yardage hard to come by. We expect a big game from Wilmer - and a Washington victory.
Pick: Washington, 28-13.
Contact staff writer Rick O'Brien at 610-313-8019 or robrien@phillynews.com.
