Friday Football Roundup: The Stretch Run

Down to the final two weeks of the regular season, streaks are alive and playoff berths are at stake. With Quince Orchard and Wootton in action tonight, we preview both games:

Gaithersburg (4-4 overall, 2-2 Montgomery 4A West Division) at Quince Orchard (8-0 overall, 3-0 Montgomery 4A West Division)

Washington Post Rankings: Gaithersburg (unranked), No. 3 Quince Orchard

Recent streaks: After starting the season 4-0, Gaithersburg has dropped four consecutive games to fall to .500, potentially costing them a playoff berth. Quince Orchard's undefeated 8-0 streak nearly came to a halt last week at Clarksburg. The Cougars escaped with a 21-14 win in double overtime.

Playoff Implications: While Quince Orchard has already clinched one of four 4A playoff spots from Montgomery County, Gaithersburg in jumbled in a group of six other schools - Clarksburg (5-3) and six 4-4 schools - who are all fighting for the final two spots. Gaithersburg desperately needs to snap its losing streak at the expense of QO's unbeaten season to have a better chance to control it's own destiny in week 10.

Storylines: Tonight is senior night at Quince Orchard. Head coach Dave Mencarini tweeted yesterday: "25 seniors to be honored tomorrow night. Best part of this job is seeing young boys turn into young men."

Time and place: 6:30 p.m. at Quince Orchard High School

Winston Churchill (7-1 overall, 4-0 Montgomery 4A South Division) at Thomas S. Wootton (4-4 overall, 2-2 Montgomery 4A South Division)

Washington Post Rankings: No. 21 Winston Churchill, unranked Wootton

Recent Streaks: Since losing to Seneca Valley back on Sept. 23, the Churchill Bulldogs have reeled off four straight victories with the first three coming by a combined 10 points. Wootton snapped a two game losing streak last week with a 36-17 win over Watkins Mill.

Playoff Implications: Like QO, Churchill has already clinched its 4A playoff berth. Wootton needs a win to stay alive in the crowded middle pack.

Storylines: Wootton-Churchill is a classic Montgomery County rivalry and the game shouldn't be a let down given Wootton's need for a win. It's also senior night for the Patriots. Festivities begin at 5:45.

Time and place: 6:30 p.m. at Wootton High School.

Looking ahead: If Gaithersburg and Wootton both score upsets it will set-up a potential play-in game next week at Gaithersburg between the two schools.