South Pointe Travels to Lancaster as Bruins Seek Signature Win; York Off; City Rivals Clash in Week 8

The high school football season enters a pivotal Week 8, headlined locally by a major Class AAAA Region 3 matchup as the Lancaster Bruins (2-5) host the highly-ranked South Pointe Stallions (6-1).

The Stallions, fresh off a dominant 41-0 shutout against York, are heavily favored, bringing a balanced offense and strong defense that has them consistently ranked high in the state. Lancaster, however, earned a morale-boosting 20-13 victory over Dreher last week, snapping a three-game skid. For the Bruins, playing against the Class AAAA powerhouse represents an opportunity for a signature win and a chance to demonstrate the progress made in the program’s recent victory.

City Championship and Unbeaten Test

The week also features two key Class 5A contests that will shape the regional playoff picture.

The marquee game this Friday night pits the Northwestern Trojans (7-1) against the host Rock Hill Bearcats (6-3) in their annual “City Championship” rivalry game. Northwestern is riding high after a 56-40 win over Fort Mill, but the Bearcats are coming off an emotional region win over Nation Ford and are eager to defend their home field. A win for the Trojans keeps them firmly in control of the Region 3 title race, while a Rock Hill upset would drastically tighten the standings.

The undefeated Indian Land Warriors (7-0), ranked among the state’s best, return home for a critical region battle against the Clover Blue Eagles (4-3). The Warriors’ defense has been stellar, allowing just 28 total points on the season, and will face a physical challenge from Clover as they strive to maintain their perfect record.

Fort Mill Schools Face Must-Win Game

The battle for playoff positioning in 5A Region 3 also features the Nation Ford Falcons (3-4) hosting the Catawba Ridge Copperheads (4-3). Both teams suffered tough losses last week and are desperate for a win. The Falcons are currently winless in region play and need a victory to climb out of the bottom of the standings, while the Copperheads must rebound to stay relevant in the top half of the region.

Week 8 Area Schedule (All Games 7:30 PM Friday unless noted)

In a pivotal “City Rivalry” game, Rock Hill (6-3) will face Northwestern (7-1) with significant implications for the 5A Region 3 title.
The “Unbeaten Challenge” pits Indian Land (7-0) against Clover (4-3) where Indian Land aims to maintain its undefeated record.
Finally, a “Region Contest” features Lancaster (2-5) taking on South Pointe (6-1) in an 4A-R3 matchup, offering Lancaster an opportunity to improve its standing.
Nation Ford (3-4) hosts Catawba Ridge (4-3) in a critical 5A-R3 battle where the winless-in-region Falcons need a victory to start their playoff climb, and the Copperheads look to rebound from last week’s loss to stay relevant in the top half of the standings.

Teams on Bye Weeks