Douglas County at ThunderRidge
7 p.m., Thursday, Shea Stadium
A year ago, in their first-ever meeting, in the first game of the season, ThunderRidge upset the Huskies 41-35 in overtime on the way to a 10-0 record. Douglas County cruised to a 59-26 revenge victory in the second round of the playoffs. It was the start of something big.
Mullen at Cherry Creek
7 p.m., Oct. 17, Stutler Bowl
Count the ways: It’s the high end of the Centennial League; they usually meet during the regular season, then again in the playoffs, such as in last year’s 5A title game, when Mullen won 20-16; and it’s probably the best rivalry game in any Colorado sport. Anything else?
Arvada West at Bear Creek
4 p.m., Oct. 23, Jeffco Stadium
The annual matchup left of center from Denver turned particularly interesting in the 1990s, included the 1997 5A championship game and always has produced a slew of points. Pack more than a lunch — this one takes time.
Pomona at Columbine
7 p.m., Oct. 29, Jeffco Stadium
They tied for the Big 8 title a year ago as Pomona won the regular-season game, but the Rebels knocked the Panthers from the playoffs for the third consecutive season. And it’s always physical.
Rocky Mountain at Fort Collins
7 p.m., Oct. 30, French Field
Great stuff. It doesn’t matter who’s good or who’s not. The possibility of 6,000 fans showing up is real. Plus, northern area contributions in big schools have been quite noticeable this decade.
Compiled by Neil H. Devlin
