In Lincoln, excitement is building among high school football fans as several teams gear up for critical matchups this Friday night. With the playoffs on the line, every game counts, and we’ve got a rundown of the key scenarios for the area teams.

First off, Lincoln Southeast has secured a playoff spot and stands at a record of 6-2 after winning three straight games. They will clash with Lincoln East, who is looking to maintain their playoff streak, needing a win to push their record to 6-3. The Spartans face the pressure of a must-win situation to reach the playoffs for the seventh consecutive year.

Lincoln North Star is likely headed to the playoffs but isn’t guaranteed a spot just yet. The Gators (5-3) need a victory against Bellevue East, while hoping Millard West defeats Omaha Westview to solidify their playoff chances. An upset in either game could leave them in a tough spot.

Meanwhile, Lincoln Southwest’s path to the postseason is a bit tougher. The Silver Hawks (0-4 start but now at 4-4) must defeat the 6-2 Omaha North team and rely on friends from Northeast to win against 5-3 Bellevue West. If everything aligns perfectly, Southwest could make a surprising playoff entry.

Other teams already guaranteed a spot include Norris, Seward, Waverly, and York, with Waverly and Seward both looking to assert themselves as district champions. For the Bolts of Lincoln Pius X, the situation is crystal clear: beat Waverly on Friday, and they’re in the playoffs at 5-4.

In Class C, the competition is also heating up. Ashland-Greenwood and Wahoo are vying for the top seed, while Lincoln Christian hopes to improve their playoff positioning with a victory over Platteview. Milford also fights to stay alive, needing a win over Adams Central.

Additionally, the matchup between Bishop Neumann and Raymond Central will determine playoff standings, as both teams seek to secure their berths, with Raymond Central positioned seventh in points.

The atmosphere at Friday night’s games is sure to be electric as local teams aim to lock down their playoff spots and potentially create some upsets in the process. Make sure to catch the action!