​The D Zone's predictions and breakdown of Division 8 - Round 4

Division 8 Round 4 Overview: With Muskegon Catholic Central out of the picture, all but West Iron's incredible home upset over Frankfort was expected. Alcona and Nouvel could have been a tossup, but Nouvel hammered Alcona.

Last weeks predictions: 2-2 (9-3 Overall)

Semi-Final #1:

West Iron County weathered the storm both literally and figuratively vs. a heavily favored Frankfort squad who was expected to run the table with MCC gone. Instead, the Wykons offense was kinds of fired up in their 35-20 win. Nouvel and Alcona went into a shootout that favored a more balanced offense, Nouvel.

Prediction: West Iron County 28-24

Explanation: Nouvel drives less than 2 hours to Marquette and Nouvel about 5.5 hours, but the Yooper Dome is the only viable site with turf remotely in between the two schools. The 5-hour drive will not have a huge effect, West Iron County will still pull it off.

Semi-Final #2:

Mendon and Ottawa Lake Whiteford should be a great game. The two teams are extremely physical and love running the football. Mendon's toughness is clear as day as they were not expected to beat Muskegon Catholic Central, a previous 4 time - back-to-back D8 champion, but they did anyway. Whiteford can mix up their offense with players who fit their system well and execute it to perfection.

Prediction: Whiteford 21-17

Explanation: Whiteford has played some good teams, but hasn't been tested really. Mendon is a bit more tested but has to be feeling the effects of two previous physically and mentally imposing games. This should be a great game!