Trotwood had to beat Vandalia Butler in the regular-season finale just to secure a spot in the postseason. Now the Rams have won nine straight, are finally healthy throughout their formidable lineup and are getting consistent play from freshman quarterback Messiah DeWeaver. Trotwood also is looking to defend its D-II state title and has played in the last two state championships.
Division III, Region 12
1 Thurgood Marshall (11-1) vs. 3 The Plains Athens (11-1) at Reynoldsburg Raider Stadium. Saturday 7 p.m.
Thurgood has done what no other previous great Dayton City League team has, won two playoff games. Another win and the Cougars are in the state semifinals.
Division IV, Region 16
1 Clinton-Massie (12-0) vs. 7 Milton-Union (10-2) at Centerville Stadium, Friday 7:30 p.m.
Milton is the lowest seed remaining in the region, grinding out more than 400 yards rushing in its first two playoff games. Clinton-Massie has its own impressive ground attack, led by Bayle Wolfe.
Division V, Region 20
1 Coldwater (12-0) vs. 3 Covington (12-0) at Welcome Stadium, Saturday 7 p.m.
The top-seeded Cavaliers ended the Buccs season in 2011 with a 31-7 win in the first round of the playoffs. They’ve put up more than 50 points in each game but will need the defense to slow down the run-and-shoot Cavs. Covington scored in its first nine possessions last week as A.J. Ouellette rushed for 134 yards and three touchdowns.
Division VI, Region 24
4 St. Henry (9-3) vs. 3 Marion Local (10-2) at Wapakoneta Harmon Field, Friday 7:30 p.m.
For the Midwest Athletic Conference it just doesn’t get much better than this. Marion Local won the regular-season meeting 38-22 in Week 7.