Source: Gwinnett Prep Sports

Mountain View Bears (8-AAAAAAA)

Coach: John Poitevint

Record: 1-7, 0-2 region

Last week: Lost to Collins Hill 42-7

Peachtree Ridge Lions (8-AAAAAAA)

Coach: Reggie Stancil

Record: 3-3, 0-2 region

Last week: Lost to North Gwinnett 27-0

Though both football teams are winless in region play, either Mountain View or Peachtree Ridge will be headed to the playoffs this year as part of five-team, Region 8-AAAAAAA. The winner of Friday night’s game takes a big step toward that goal, while the loser faces long odds of reaching the postseason. Both have challenging regular-season finales next week — the Bears against North Gwinnett and the Lions against Mill Creek.

Peachtree Ridge got off to a 3-0 start before an opponent’s issues with COVID-19 forced a delay in the season. Since that quarantine hiatus, the Lions have lost three straight. They battled favored North Gwinnett close last Friday, staying within 14-0 at halftime, but couldn’t muster enough offense against the Bulldogs’ stout defense.

Mountain View has lost seven straight since a season-opening win over Shiloh — a product of one of the state’s most difficult schedules. Justin Greene was a bright spot for the Bears in last week’s loss to Collins Hill with eight tackles (three for losses), one sack and two quarterback hurries.

When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.

Last meeting: Mountain View won 28-6 last year

Location: Peachtree Ridge High School