Frankford vs. George Washington at Northeast, tonight at 6

Frankford (4-1, 2-0 Red Division) has been terrific on both sides of the ball. With a run-dominated offense, the Pioneers average about 245 rushing yards per game. Their defense has notched a pair of shutouts and yields just 6.4 points a game.

Washington (4-1, 2-0) focuses on running the ball, too, but nicely mixes in 10 to 12 passes a game. The Eagles twice have thrown for 100-plus yards.

Coaches. Mike Capriotti is 32-19 in four seasons at Frankford. In 24 seasons at Washington, Ron Cohen is 211-58-2.

History. Washington won by 24-8 last season. In the teams' last 10 meetings, including four playoff games, Frankford holds a 6-4 advantage.

Injury report. Pioneers fullback Akeem Whipple, who is averaging 5.0 yards per carry, is doubtful because of a sprained ankle suffered in Monday's practice.

Many weapons. Without Whipple, Frankford can turn to any one of four speedy running backs: Nate Johnson, Zaire Anderson, Hakeem Watson and Tyrell Martin.

One-two punch. The Eagles have an electrifying rushing duo in Omar Hunter and Kesson Christopher. The 5-foot-9, 170-pound Hunter has scored seven touchdowns, including a 62-yard run in last week's 28-20 win over Northeast.

Here's the beef. Frankford's defensive line includes two mammoth tackles: 6-5, 357-pound junior Tauheed Smith and 6-2, 267-pound senior Akeem Smith (no relation). Washington has 6-2, 295-pound junior offensive lineman Sharif Floyd.

Headliners. Washington's defense is keyed by end Waverly Harris, tackle Bryant Davis (6-0, 235), linebacker James Fowler, and cornerback Lorenzo Adams.

Analysis. There are few surprises here. Expect a rock-'em, sock-'em affair between two physical squads. The Eagles have to get the most out of Hunter and Christopher, since Frankford's secondary speed should limit the production of quarterback Aaron Wilmer. We think the Pioneers will find enough cracks in Washington's defense to eke out a win.

Pick. Frankford, 20-16.