Baylor (3-2, 1-2) vs. McCallie (2-2, 1-1) at Finley Stadium
Storyline: Baylor has a three-game winning streak in the series that dates back to 1908. The Red Raiders are ranked eighth in the latest Division II-AA poll but also are in a two-game funk, having lost to Montgomery Bell Academy and Ensworth. Conversely, McCallie has won consecutive games over Tyner and Father Ryan. The two streaks have given reason for debate among their respective followings. While Baylor is running the ball close to 66 percent of the time, nearly 75 percent of McCallie’s offensive yardage and eight of its TDs have come via the run, thanks mostly to Chad Toliver. He has six rushing scores. Baylor continues to play two quarterbacks, and Michael O’Connor will be tonight’s starter ahead of Nick Tiano.
Signal Mountain (2-3) at South Pittsburg (4-0)
Storyline: Both defenses have struggled this season, with South Pittsburg allowing 20 points per game and the Eagles giving up an average of 31. Given that, both offenses are loaded with talented and big-play potential, so this could be another back-and-forth highlight-reel game. The Pirates average 500 yards of total offense and 56.3 points, while the Eagles average 340 yards and 26 points. Eagles quarterback Reese Phillips, a Kentucky commitment, has thrown for more than 700 yards, almost exclusively to Madison Byrd and Chris Abernathy. A collection of runners is averaging 196 rushing yards. But Signal Mountain has been its own worst enemy on offense at times, losing six fumbles and throwing two interceptions. The Eagles are averaging seven penalties per game. South Pittsburg’s biggest concern could be depth. Unlike in previous seasons, most of the Pirates starters play both ways. The Pirates have thrown just 16 passes all season but have three backs – Demetric Johnson, Jajuan Lankford and Corbin Hale – who each is averaging more than 100 rushing yards per game.
Donelson Christian (2-2) at Boyd-Buchanan (5-0)