The fear of the unknown can make your blood pressure rise. There’s a reason Swami does a lot of research for his column every week. This week, Swami had to do extra research, not just for his column but also because of some refrigerator issues. It involved research, research and more research to find the root of the problem, going down a list of possibilities, tearing into and hopefully finding the defective parts.

Here’s hoping with the extra work, both the fridge and his picks this week will turn out perfect.

TRAVERSE CITY CENTRAL (5-1) at ALPENA (3-3)–Friday–The Wildcats have accomplished a lot already this season and a win tonight could put them in a in tie for first place in the Big North Conference.

The Wildcats were not deferred in a dog fight win over Marquette last week and a win tonight gets them closer to the playoffs.

An eight yard run by Eli Winter was enough to propel the Wildcats to a 28-25 win over the pass-happy Redmen. Quarterback Ryan Voltz has come into his own over the last two weeks and threw the Redmen defense off, enabling the ground game of Winter, Jordan Schultz and Charlie Williams to cross the goal line four times.

The Trojans ran by Petoskey in a 38-6 win. The Northmen could not contend with an uptempo offense that included big plays and quick strikes that did Petoskey in. Central quarterback Peyton Smith had another big night, passing for 224 yards and four touchdowns. Smith’s favorite target made it impossible for Petoskey to cover as Trey Searles finished with eight catches for 140 yards and two touchdowns. Central’s defense wasn’t a slouch either.

Homecoming should give the Wildcats plenty of adrenaline, but Central will still be a tough team to beat.

Swami Sez: Traverse City Central 35, Alpena 21.

PELLSTON (6-0) at HILLMAN (5-1)–Friday–This is a battle for first place in the Midwest 8-Man Central Conference’s East Division and Hillman could clinch a playoff berth with a win.

The Tigers did not look ahead while playing Bellaire last Saturday, earning a runaway win over Bellaire. The Hornets beat Bellaire too, but Swami things Hillman might have the advantage on offense. Both Hillman and Bellaire have played four common opponents, but both teams have had some very easy wins

Hillman made short work of the Bellaire’s defense from the opening whistle. Sean Henigan picked 183 yards to go with four touchdowns on only 10 carries, Nick Zimmer added a pair of TDs for 101 rushing yards, while Nash Steinke closed out the scoring with 172 yards on only seven carries. The Tigers racked up 542 yards on 45 carries to lead to a double digit average.

Pellston has played with a small roster, but seems to be getting better week after week. The Hornets could be resting on their laurels with a playoff spot in hand, but Swami thinks they’re aiming for perfection. Hale’s plan was to slow down the running game and quarterback Glenn Bonter, but they did not plan on David Jamroz stepping up with 200 plus yards and two touchdowns.

Swami Sez: Hillman 42, Pellston 40.

ALCONA (2-4) at EAST JORDAN (1-5)–Friday–Both Alcona and East Jordan haven’t found much consistency. Alcona still has a chance for a winning season, but it’s going to be tough to get there.

East Jordan played St. Ignace on even terms for a half last week, but it was an 18-0 first half that doomed the Red Devils.

Jackson Raymond attempted to ignite the Red Devils in the opening moments of the third with a 78 yard kickoff return. A punt return of 37 yards by Levi Pepin, was the only other offense East Jordan could mount. East Jordan had several defensive standouts, but the defense spent more time on the offense.

Alcona looked like it was going to get back the .500 mark for three quarters against Rogers City as Michael Basner raced 51 yards early in the third quarter and Zach Stephenson scored just before half. But Rogers City finally responded to the coaches plan and pulled out a win. Basner led Alcona’s ground game with 77 yards on seven carries.

Whoever gains momentum early and scores will have the advantage in this game. Ball control and controlling the line of scrimmage will come at a premium.

Swami Sez: Alcona 18, East Jordan 16

ROGERS CITY (1-5) at SAULT STE. MARIE (4-2)–Friday–The joy of the Hurons’ first win may be short livedas they’ll take on a Sault Ste. Marie team that is stinging from Gladstone’s homecoming win 20-8. The Hurons are hoping to upset the Braves on their homecoming night. There would be nothing better to build the Hurons confidence than another win.

Last week, late touchdowns by J.D. Ellenberger and Clayton Henry gave the Hurons their first win. Quarterback Isaac Hein had a solid game and Rogers City’s ground game was able to gain big chunks of yardage.

Junior Jack Swan set up the only score for the Blue Devils with a 68 yard dash, then followed it up with a one yard touchdown last week. The Blue Devils sealed their fate with numerous turnovers, something they’re not accustomed to.

Sault did more damage on the ground than through the air and the Blue Devils seem like they’re poised to get back on track behind a strong game from Swan and from quarterback Jakob Davie.

Swami Sez: Sault Ste. Marie 28, Rogers City 12.