It’s a top 10 showdown in East Texas in the 4A ranks as Gilmer, ranked second in Division II, travels south into Tyler to take on Chapel Hill, ranked third in Division I.

Gilmer has played for two straight state titles and the Buckeyes have eyes on finishing the job in 2022 as two-way playmaker Rohan Fluellen returns at WR/DB, while RB/LB Ashton Haynes is another two-way dynamo.

Chapel Hill had an up and down regular season, but found their footing at the right time down the stretch and came within a whisker of playing for a state title a year ago. The Bulldogs offense expects to sensational with sophomore QB Demetrius Brisbon and sophomore RB Rickey Stewart leading the way. WR/DB Deuce McGregor and San Diego State WR/DB Tyson Berry are big-time playmakers on the outside. TCU commit OL/DL Keviyan Huddleston is a force in the trenches as well for the Bulldogs.

Chapel Hill’s defense has some question marks, but the offense is going to be too dynamic early on for a Gilmer offense that will be working out some kinks early on.

Stepp’s Pick: Tyler Chapel Hill by 9