MCS Game of the Week breakdown

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Jacobs at Johnsburg, 7:15 p.m. Friday, video webcast at McHenryCountySports.com

Jacobs (1-0)

On offense: After the Golden Eagles saw the film of the Skyhawks giving up 456 rushing yards to Grayslake Central in Week 1, they have to want to run the ball early and often. The Eagles ran the ball for 322 yards on 61 carries in a Week 1 win against Joliet West, proving they can pound it out and control the clock. Jacobs won the time of possession battle in Week 1, 36:38 to West’s 11:22. The offensive line was solid and controlled the line of scrimmage. FB Kyle Wright and RB Caz Zyks should get most of the carries, and QB Jason Judson can throw if needed.

On defense: It’s always a big advantage for the defense when their team’s offense is able to control the game and eat up the clock. That is exactly what the Eagles did in Week 1, and that will be the goal again against Johnsburg. The Eagles’ defense limited Joliet West to 143 total yards with only 55 of that coming on the ground. They will have to prepare for a balanced attack from the Skyhawks, who ran for 214 yards and threw for 161. If they pressure Skyhawks QB George Bielis, good things will happen.

Johnsburg (0-1)

On offense: The Skyhawks had 214 yards rushing and 161 yards passing in Week 1 against Grayslake Central but still lost. They need to be more efficient in getting into the end zone and putting points on the scoreboard. The Skyhawks averaged more than 7 yards a carry in the first half in Week 1 but scored only seven points. They can help out the defense by trying to control the clock. QB George Bielis had a good second half, going 6 for 8 passing for 130 yards and a touchdown. The offense should be able to build off that against the Eagles.

On defense: Coach Barry Creviston was not happy with the tackling in Week 1 against the Rams, and that poor tackling allowed Grayslake Central to run for 456 yards and six touchdowns. This unit obviously needs to be more physical to stop the Eagles in Week 2. The Skyhawks will need to stop the run, but they cannot forget about the pass because the Eagles want to stay somewhat balanced. The defense needs to make a stand early to get momentum on their side.

Lester Johnson's pick

Some of Johnsburg’s big men are a bit banged up, and that will not help a team that needs great play in the trenches to have a chance. Jacobs looked good in Week 1 behind its new coach and should only get better. The wind could be a factor when teams try to pass.

Jacobs 31, Johnsburg 17

Lester Johnson’s other picks

• Marengo 21, Aurora Central Catholic 14

• Richmond-Burton 41, Mendota 7

• Marian Central 28, Benet Academy 17

• Alden-Hebron 35, Kirkland Hiawatha 7

• Lake Zurich 31, Cary-Grove 14

• Kaneland 28, Huntley 21

• CL Central 21, Prairie Ridge 17

• Grayslake North 24, Woodstock 14

• Grayslake Central 31, Woodstock North 13

• CL South 37, Bartlett 14

• Dundee-Crown 28, Streamwood 21

• St. Charles North 30, McHenry 23

• DeKalb 21, Hampshire 13

• Harvard 21, Lakes 14