Football: Hernando County Friday night forecast — Sept. 9

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Nature Coast (1-0) at Springstead (2-0), 7:30

This is the most anticipated matchup in the county between unbeaten rivals that have been dominant so far this season. The visiting Sharks routed another rival, Hernando, 45-3 in last week’s season opener. The host Eagles have won their first two games by a combined 95-7. With the weather likely being a factor, expect a heavy dose of the run game. That could benefit Nature Coast, which can rely on Christian Cromer, who ran for more than 1,900 yards last season and finished with 121 yards and three touchdowns in last week’s opener. Springstead’s ground game is a group effort. Six players have at least one carry so far this season. Connor McCazzio leads the way with 74 yards on 13 carries. 

Putnam’s pick: Nature Coast 23-21

Best of the rest

Hernando Christian at Cornerstone Academy, 7

Putnam’s pick: Hernando Christian 24-20

Tenoroc at Weeki Wachee, 7:30

Putnam’s pick: Tenoroc 21-6

Citrus at Hernando, 7:30

Putnam’s pick: Hernando 14-12

Central at Bronson, 7:30

Putnam’s pick: Central 28-7