The Downingtown East Cougars, playing without suspended junior running back Drew Harris, bowed to Allentown Central Catholic, 30-21; the Coatesville Red Raiders fell short against Central League juggernaut Ridley, 27-20.
Downingtown East, co-National Division champ in each of the last two seasons, has won the last two meetings.
In addition to Harris, who returned in a 49-10 romp over Norristown in Week 2 and has carried 50 times for 322 yards and six touchdowns, Downingtown East's offensive catalysts are strong-armed quarterback Trey Lauletta, tight end Tyler Kroft, and fullback Mike DiStefano.
Coatesville has won two in a row after its opening loss. The Red Raiders' option attack, averaging 27 points a game, is ignited by QB Manny Stocker, fullback Dom Wilson, halfbacks Kevin Berry and Dae-hon Cheung, and wideouts Kyle Kerrick and Rasheed Baker.
"If [Wilson] hits the seam, he's going to find the end zone," Downingtown East coach Mike Matta said.
Look for the Red Raiders, with more interior muscle than last year, to keep it close for two quarters. East, with a sturdy defense led by middle guard Jeff Kiely and free safety Brandon Robles, slams the door after intermission.
Pick: East, 26-14.
Last week: 10-5.
Overall: 33-12 (.733 win percentage).
Upper Moreland (3-0) at Interboro (2-1), 7:30 p.m., Friday. The Bucs look to get back on track after losing to eighth-grade QB David Sills and Red Lion Christian Academy (Del.). Pick: Interboro, 20-16.
Upper Dublin (2-1) at Cheltenham (3-0), 7 p.m., Friday. The new-look Panthers are throwing like never before. Pick: Cheltenham: 28-27.
