Southern Indiana – The heartland of intense high school football rivalries and unforgettable Friday night lights. As the autumn leaves start to fall, Week 6 of the IHSAA football season beckons, promising matchups that could very well define the rest of the season for many teams.
With squads from the SISN Top 25 gearing up to solidify their positions and others vying for a crucial mid-season boost, fans across Southern Indiana are in for a treat. This week’s games aren’t just about touchdowns and tackles; they’re about honor, legacy, and the sheer passion for the game. Dive in as we preview some of SISN’s most anticipated games of the week.
Batesville (4-1) vs. Lawrenceburg (4-1)
In a clash of titans at Neary Field, Batesville and Lawrenceburg are set to face off. Coaches Evan Ulery and Ryan Knigga bring their respective teams, both with impressive records this season. Lawrenceburg’s historical advantage and last year’s dominant 33-7 victory may give them an edge, but Batesville, currently ranked 20th in our SISN Top 25, is expected to put up a fierce challenge. Prediction: Lawrenceburg 24, Batesville 23.
Brownstown Central (5-0) vs. Seymour (2-3)
A much-anticipated showdown awaits fans at Bulleit Stadium. Undefeated Brownstown Central, ranked 8th in our SISN Top 25 and led by Coach Reed May, takes on Seymour, a team that has shown glimpses of brilliance under Coach Tyson Moore. With Seymour narrowly taking the win last year, can Brownstown exact revenge and continue their undefeated streak? Prediction: Brownstown Central 42, Seymour 31.
Eastern Greene (3-2) vs. Paoli (4-1)
Eastern Greene travels to Cook Field, looking to upset the Paoli juggernaut. Though Paoli has historically been dominant in this matchup, Coach Travis Wray’s Eastern Greene team, fresh off a win against Clarksville, will be hungry for a win. However, 22nd-ranked Paoli under Coach Neil Dittmer’s guidance looks strong and would want to keep their momentum. Prediction: Paoli 40, Eastern Greene 14.
Evansville North (3-2) vs. Evansville Mater Dei (1-4)
An age-old rivalry reignites at Boots-Baumann Field. Historically, Mater Dei has enjoyed dominance, but 15th-ranked Evansville North, under Coach Joey Paridaen, seems rejuvenated this season. Mater Dei’s slow start, despite Coach Mike Goebel’s expertise, might make them the underdogs this time around. Prediction: North 28, Mater Dei 17.
Floyd Central (4-1) vs. Columbus East (2-3)
Stafford Field is all set for a classic encounter. Ninth-ranked Floyd Central, displaying solid form under Coach James Bragg, is all set to challenge Columbus East, which, despite a rocky start, has showcased their potential in recent games. The teams’ history leans towards Columbus East, but this year might offer a different script. Prediction: Floyd Central 42, Columbus East 31.
Heritage Hills (5-0) vs. Gibson Southern (3-2)
Two top-tier teams from our SISN Top 25 clash at Jewell Field. Fifth-ranked Heritage Hills, undefeated under Coach Todd Wilkerson, faces a rejuvenated Gibson Southern, sitting at 11th, who recently enjoyed a significant win over Southridge. With the memories of last year’s Gibson Southern victory fresh, Heritage Hills will be eager to turn the tide. Prediction: Gibson Southern 28, Heritage Hills 27.
Jennings County (3-2) vs. Bedford North Lawrence (3-2)
Bedford is all set to witness another classic as two evenly-matched teams collide. Under the leadership of Coach T.J. Newton, Jennings County looks to upend 25th-ranked Bedford NL, steered by Coach Derrick Barker. Last year, Bedford NL took home the victory with a 21-7 scoreline. Can Jennings County break the mold and score an upset? Prediction: Bedford NL 45, Jennings County 24.
North Daviess (4-1) vs. West Washington (3-2)
Sanders Field will see the clash of the titans. North Daviess, under Coach Trent Fine, comes in strong after their victory against Edinburgh. West Washington, however, hasn’t been far behind. The team, coached by Jeremy Lowery, may have faced a setback against Paoli, but they’ll be keen to show their mettle. Historically, West Washington has had the upper hand, but North Daviess seems set on rewriting the narrative. Prediction: North Daviess 31, West Washington 28.
Tell City (3-2) vs. Southridge (3-2)
Raider Field is the battlefield for a crucial encounter. Tell City, under Coach Malin Webb, aims to break the historical jinx against Southridge, who’ve won 27 out of the 27 clashes in the past 35 years. Southridge, ranked 16th in our SISN Top 25 and helmed by the seasoned Coach Scott Buening, is not one to rest on past laurels and will look to extend their dominance. Prediction: Southridge 35, Tell City 24.
As the weekend approaches, every game in Week 6 promises to be a spectacle, challenging teams to bring out their best. With rankings on the line and pride at stake, Southern Indiana football is the hot ticket. Make sure to get out and watch some football tonight.
