Virginia 6A North football semifinals preview: Robinson-South County, Westfield-Lake Braddock

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VIRGINIA 6A NORTH REGION SEMIFINALS

No. 20 Robinson at No. 2 South County

Saturday, 1:30 p.m.

At stake: A berth in the Virginia 6A North region final on Dec. 5.

Watch for: The game’s tempo. A stark contrast in style will surface when Robinson’s deliberate, run-heavy offense faces South County’s no-huddle, triple-option attack. Though the Rams used a last-minute touchdown pass to beat Chantilly in the quarterfinals, they unabashedly depend on the rushing of Sean Foncha, Dajon Lee and Roman Lowery to chew up yards and time off the clock. Their success will be vital in Robinson’s efforts to limit the opportunities for South County’s high-powered offense, which is averaging 43.7 points and 492 yards per game. Still, the Stallions have not needed much time to reach the end zone. With 14 of their touchdowns coming on plays of 40 yards or more, South County has been effective in thwarting the various defensive schemes thrown its way this season.

Skinny: Robinson (9-3) and South County (12-0) have met just three times, the most recent of which came last season when the Stallions won 50-23 at home. South County’s 12 wins are a school record, while Robinson’s nine victories mark its best season since 2010.

No. 7 Westfield at No. 5 Lake Braddock

Saturday, 1:30 p.m.

At stake: A berth in the Virginia 6A North region final on Dec. 5.

Watch for: Lake Braddock’s offense. In each of the last two seasons, the Bruins have had their playoff run halted by Westfield in the region semifinal round, leading them to trade in their spread attack for a hybrid scheme better suited for producing yards both on the ground and through the air. With senior quarterback Kyle Edwards under center and versatile playmakers like Lamont Atkins, Ibrahim Mansaray and Peyton Scott at their disposal, the Bruins have racked up an average of 370 yards and nearly 33 points per game. But that proficiency will be tested against a strong Westfield defense that’s allowed 11 points per game and forced three turnovers in last week’s win against South Lakes.

Skinny: The two teams have split their last four matchips, with Lake Braddock (11-1) winning their regular-season meetings and Westfield (11-1) triumphing during the postseason. The Bulldogs are vying for their fifth straight region final appearance. Both teams’ lone loss of the season came against No. 2 South County.