On the Sidelines

Football season around the state will be over after this weekend. The state championships in each division - AAA, AA, and A - will be decided.

The championship games are (with ranking in parentheses) AAA, South Charleston (1) v. George Washington (2); AA, Magnolia (8) v. Grafton (2); and A, Williamstown (1) v. Madonna (7).

Viewing all games this weekend will be WELC sports commentator Pat Keys. He gave this thoughts on each division's games.

In the AAA division, Keys said that this will be a great game.

"George Washington and South Charleston played this year, I think, with G.W. losing its only game of the year," Keys said.

Keys sees the game being very high-scoring.

"You've got two powerful offenses, so I think this will be a very high scoring game and probably the best match up out of all the final games," Keys said.

In the AA division, Keys points out that nobody expected Magnolia to be in the finals.

"They upset number one-ranked Keyser and kept good momentum throughout the playoffs," Keys said.

Keys said he believes Grafton is ready for the challenge.

"Grafton's got a lot of support up there and that may they are excited and ready for the challenge," Keys said. "They never doubted they could make it."

Keys notes the all-around effectiveness of Grafton's game.

"They're tough on offense, they can put a lot of points up on you quickly and their defense is one of the best in the state," Keys said.

In the A division, Keys had predicted Williamstown to win the championship at the beginning of the season.

"They have faced some tough challenges throughout the year and have done a great job getting to the final game," Keys said.

Keys praises the Williamstown quarterback and notes their high-scoring offense.

"Madonna, though, has a defense that does not bend or break," Keys said. "They defend the run well and their pass defense is amazing."

Keys sums up the game as a speedy offense against a tough defense.

Keys gives his picks for each game:

AAA - George Washington

AA - Grafton