5 games to watch

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Snider (7-0, 5-0) at Bishop Dwenger (3-4, 3-2): It's not unusual for this matchup to help decide the SAC champion. Snider is in control of its own fate, while Dwenger would need some help. If the Panthers win, they can clinch their first SAC championship in seven years. The Saints, who won the SAC title from 2006-2010, have an outside chance at the title under difference scenarios. The Panthers won the matchup last year 42-41 in overtime, and the Saints won two years ago 46-45 in double overtime.

East Noble (5-2, 3-2) at New Haven (7-0, 5-0): It's the game before the game for New Haven. Wins by New Haven and Homestead (over Norwell) would set up a winner-take-all NHC title matchup in the regular-season finale Oct. 12. But East Noble will be no pushover, especially after beating Columbia City 79-7 last week. New Haven won last year's game 55-44.

Leo (6-0, 4-0) at Garrett (6-1, 4-0): Leo appears to be vulnerable after back-to-back close wins over Heritage (13-10 in overtime) and Woodlan (25-20). But the Lions can stay on pace for their fourth straight ACAC championship by beating the Railroaders. Garrett has won five straight games.. Leo has beaten Garrett four straight times, including last year's 42-14 decision.

Churubusco (6-1, 6-0) at Fairfield (6-1, 6-1): Churubusco's 16-game winning streak was broken last week in a non-conference loss to Culver Academy. The Eagles now turn their focus to another conference championship and a win against the Falcons would help set up a title matchup the following week against Lakeland (7-0 NECC). After four straight shutouts, the Eagles gave up 35 points to a pretty good Culver Academy team. Fairfield comes into the matchup after suffering its first loss of the year last week to Lakeland, 48-29. Churubusco beat Fairfield in 2011, 40-13.

Huntington North (4-3, 4-1 NCC) at Richmond (5-2, 5-0 NCC): Huntington North has turned its season around with three straight wins and is in the North Central Conference title race. Richmond will be looking for some revenge against Huntington North after a 56-28 loss last season.

gjones@jg.net