THURSDAY’S PICK: COALFIELD AT GREENBACK

Coalfield (7-0, 3-0 Region 2-1A) at Greenback (6-0, 2-0), MyVLT: It's an undervalued rivalry in the PrepXtra coverage area, but one vitally important to the Class 1A state championship race. No. 3-ranked Greenback and No. 7 Coalfield represent the past two state runners-up, the Cherokees last season and the Yellow Jackets in 2014. Both have high-powered offenses capable of taking over a game. Both have a chance to meet again in the postseason. Coalfield's past four victories over Greenback have come during the state playoffs. Greenback, meanwhile, has won four consecutive regular-season matchups, last losing one in the series in 2007. Something will give on Thursday. Coalfield, after a thrilling win over previously unbeaten Harriman in Week 7, moves squarely into the driver's seat in Region 2-1A with a victory. Junior quarterback Parker McKinney has passed for 1,456 yards and 22 TDs, numbers worthy of Mr. Football semifinalist consideration. Greenback's answer on defense is standout lineman Josh Silvey, who has six sacks and five tackles for loss this season. Kayne Roberts, though, might be the difference for the Cherokees. He has accumulated 720 total yards and 14 TDs in just five games. Advantage Greenback.

PrepXtra Pick: Greenback 28, Coalfield 24