Pascack Valley vs. Hackensack

When: September 5th 1pm

Location: Hackensack High School

2015 Records:

PV: 10-2

Hack: 9-2

PV Perspective: Coming off its second state title in as many years, Pascack Valley (No. 3 in the Bergen Record’s Public Top 20, No. 18 in Star Ledger ‘s state rankings) starts its campaign for a third straight state title. Returning three offensive linemen from last year’s team, quarterback Colin Dedrick should get the same protection that he got last season. It will be interesting to see if the Indians rely on the ground game as much as they did last season, with a formidable passing attack.

Hackensack Lowdown: Hackensack (No. 2 in Bergen Record’s Top 20), who lost in the North 1, Group 5 semifinals last year to Montclair, returns four starting offensive lineman to help senior running back Justin Marin. Marin rushed for over 1,000 yards last season and will add to that this season. Senior WR/CB Tommy Smith, should look to play a key factor after missing four games last season with a fractured ankle. The defense returns seven starters, including Smith. Senior Winston Solomon was named an All-County defensive end after recording 65 tackles and 14 sacks.

Key Matchups:

PV Offensive Line vs. Hackensack Defensive Line: With both sides very experienced this will be an interesting matchup. The Indians strength last season was the offensive line often playing its best against some of the best defensive lines in the state, it will be interesting to see if the offensive line will keep up its exceptional play.

Justin Marin vs. PV Defense: In the past we have seen the Indians shut down star player (Jordan Fuller in 2014 N1G4 semifinals for example). Marin is the Comets star player, rushing for over 1,000 yards in 2014. If they can do it again to start 2015 it will answer the great question mark to start 2015.

Predictions: Each week, our sports writers will make their weekly predictions for each week’s football game. They will receive points based on how close they are to the score and the difference in the score between the two teams.

Calvin Ralph: PV 28- Hackensack 21

(Sports Editor) Claudia Ralph: PV 21- Hackensack 17

Jake “The Snake” Aferiat: PV 30-Hackensack 21

Evan Jones: PV 35- Hackesack 28

Mike Zocco: PV 28-Hackensack 14

Robert “Bobberino” Saul: PV 28-Hackensack 21

Jaimie Smith: PV 24-Hackensack 14

Kyle Comito: PV 26- Hackensack 20

CELEBRITY GUEST: Each week 2 teachers will make their predictions. The closer prediction will stay for the next week. Teacher with the longest streak wins.

Al Coleman PV 24- Hackensack 10

Jeff Jasper: PV 28-Hackensack 14