Week 4 Games to Watch

Here are the games we're keeping a close eye on this weekend...

• #2 Everett vs. Barnstable - Quite possibly the toughest test of the year for Barnstable.  This Everett team is stacked on both sides of the ball.  This, as do many early season games, has no direct bearing on either teams' playoff picture, but if Barnstable can pull off the upset, I think it paces them to a state title.  By no means does a loss put them out of it, but a win sends a message to the team that is most important to them: their own. 
• #5 BC vs. Falmouth - This game is big for Falmouth because it gives their offense a chance to see where they stand against an elite defense.  To date, Falmouth has mostly relied on the strength of their defense, which has helped them hold three very talented opponents to 31 total points, including a shut-out of a speedy Somerville team.  But the Eagles have too many weapons on offense for them to expect to have another dominant showing, meaning their offense will have to kick it into gear, and fast.  Not an easy task against a defense I rank #2 in the state behind former Brockton. 
• Mansfield vs. Stoughton - Mansfield, again, is poised to play past Thaksgiving.  But Stoughton (2-1) intrigues me.  They've been down on their luck for quite some time, but have a strong nucleus of kids that plays hard and has proven they can win close games.  Call me crazy, but I don't see a blowout in this one.  I have this game as being one with plenty of surprises. 
• Lowell vs. #9 Methuen - Lowell has done a nice job thus far this season, showing their explosiveness as well as their ability to win close games.  But this is a whole new test.  Methuen is a solid, disciplined bunch, and for Lowell to keep their win streak alive, they'll have to limit the mistakes and find a way to get a push against a solid Methuen offensive line.  Not impossible, but definitely not easy.
• Weymouth vs. Needham - Someones gotta stop this Weymouth attack.  Problem is, then you have to score on them.  Needham may be the team that has the best shot.  They showed their resolve in their multiple OT win over Newton North, and have been able to handle their other two opponents fairly easily.  This is a dangerous Weymouth team, however, and it will take the Rockets putting their best foot forward to get the W.