Picks: Red-hot Basic gets nod to defeat Valley

Spencer Patterson

Thursday, Nov. 2, 2000 | 9:37 a.m.

Last week's 8-2 performance (come on, who out there had Bonanza and Green Valley winning?) provides a measure of momentum heading into the playoffs, where anything can happen for players, coaches and yes, even for prognosticators.

REGIONALS, FIRST ROUND

Friday's Games

VALLEY (4-5) at BASIC (5-4), 7 p.m.

Though their records differ by just one game, there's no question about which team is hotter as the playoffs open. The Wolves have reeled off five straight wins and their passing game has wreaked havoc on defenses designed to stop the area's power running attacks. Viking corner James Sims may be the best in town, but he can't get it done alone.

Pick- Basic 28, Valley 19

SILVERADO (4-5) at LAS VEGAS (5-4), 7 p.m.

The toughest call in round one, with both teams playing inspired football at times this year and struggling at others. The Wildcats seem to have found a more consistent groove, particularly defensively, so they get the nod.

Pick- Las Vegas 20, Silverado 14

DESERT PINES (7-2) at FOOTHILL (5-3), 7 p.m.

The Jaguars beat the Falcons 26-21 in week three, but both teams have come a long way since. Expect another close contest, with bruising back Cornell Johnson the difference here.

Pick- Desert Pines 26, Foothill 14

GREEN VALLEY (2-7) at ELDORADO (7-2), 7 p.m.

After coming up huge against Chaparral last week, can the Gators pull off another major upset? Don't count on it.

Pick- Eldorado 33, Green Valley 7

CENTENNIAL (2-7) at BISHOP GORMAN (6-3), 7 p.m.

With memories of a 17-7 week seven loss to the Bulldogs still fresh, the Gaels are back at full strength and eager for revenge.

Pick- B. Gorman 34, Centennial 13

PALO VERDE (6-3) at WESTERN (4-5), 7 p.m.

An intriguing matchup between the Warriors' blink-or-you'll-miss-us offense and the Panthers' stingy defense. Look for Palo Verde to advance and force a round two matchup with Gorman.

Pick- Palo Verde 20, Western 14

CHEYENNE (6-3) at DURANGO (4-5), 7 p.m.

This one could be close, but last week's Blazer loss to then-winless Bonanza certainly doesn't inspire confidence. The Shields' ball-hawking defense should make life difficult for Durango back Jamar Thomas.

Pick- Cheyenne 28, Durango 14

CLARK (2-7) at CIMARRON-MEMORIAL (9-0), 7 p.m.

The Spartans won last week's matchup 48-12, and there's no reason to think things will be any different this time.

Pick- Cimarron 48, Clark 10

Last week: 8-2 Season: 66-29 (.695)

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