As the IHSAA high school football playoffs progress, teams in the Lafayette area gear up for intense sectional semifinal matchups. The semifinals will take place on Friday, October 31, featuring a range of competitive games across various classifications. The games showcase both seasoned programs and emerging talent, setting the stage for exciting playoff action.
Lafayette Area IHSAA Sectional Semifinal Predictions
5A Showdown: Lafayette Jeff vs. McCutcheon
The standout matchup features Lafayette Jeff (8-1) hosting McCutcheon (2-7). This clash marks the second meeting of the season between these rivals. Lafayette Jeff previously secured a decisive 42-0 victory over McCutcheon on September 5.
McCutcheon aims to disrupt Lafayette Jeff’s impressive season. McCutcheon junior quarterback Karson Smith has developed his skills, complemented by a strong running game led by senior ATH Keegun Rice and junior Tyler Brigham. Lafayette Jeff boasts a wealth of talent, including senior defensive lineman Aaden Aytch and junior passing leader Trysten Barrett.
Prediction: Lafayette Jeff wins, forecast score 49-21.
6A Clash: Harrison vs. Carmel
Harrison (4-5) faces a formidable challenge against Carmel (8-1). This matchup is significant as Harrison seeks its first 6A playoff victory, a feat it hasn’t accomplished in its history. Key players for Harrison include senior Navy commit Jack Gonzalez and junior quarterback Lannon Nicoloff.
Carmel comes into the game with high expectations, led by senior quarterback Anthony Coellner and a robust running game from Andrew Pemberton.
Prediction: Carmel wins, forecast score 56-7.
3A Battle: Peru vs. Twin Lakes
Twin Lakes (8-2) looks to continue its momentum against Peru (3-7). After an impressive performance in the last round, Twin Lakes aims for its first sectional final appearance since 2016. Peru counters with a strong offensive effort led by senior running back Isaiah Korba.
Prediction: Twin Lakes wins, forecast score 35-10.
2A Tiffs: Multiple Matchups
In the 2A division, Rensselaer Central (8-2) is set to compete against Bremen (6-4), following a commanding 56-0 victory in the previous round. Additionally, Southmont (9-1) will challenge Western Boone (6-4), looking for another shot at a sectional championship.
- Rensselaer Central vs. Bremen: Prediction: Rensselaer wins 28-20.
- Southmont vs. Western Boone: Prediction: Southmont wins 28-22.
1A Showdowns: Frontier vs. Pioneer
In another notable matchup, Frontier (10-0) takes on Pioneer (9-1). Frontier’s junior quarterback Ayden Justice leads a potent offense, while Pioneer relies on its physical gameplay.
Prediction: Pioneer wins, forecast score 34-17.
Other Predicted Outcomes
- 4A: Frankfort (0-9) at Lebanon (8-2): Lebanon wins 63-7.
- 3A: Crawfordsville (5-5) at Guerin Catholic (6-4): Guerin Catholic wins 38-10.
- 1A: South Putnam (8-2) vs. Fountain Central (6-4): Fountain Central wins 21-14.
With playoff aspirations on the line, expect thrilling performances and pivotal plays as teams battle for advancement in the IHSAA sectional semifinals.
