Week 6 football preview: Mark Morris vs. Hockinson

When, where: 7 p.m. Friday at Nautilus Field, Hockinson HS (2A Greater St. Helens League game)

Last meeting: Mark Morris won 28-10 on Oct. 8, 2010 at Hockinson

Last week: Mark Morris lost to Woodland 21-14; Hockinson beat Lakeside of Seattle 49-14.

Mark Morris (2-3, 0-1): After winning the league title last year and making a strong playoff run, the season has been uneven for the Monarchs. … After last week’s loss to Woodland, this week’s game becomes a must-win for the Monarchs if they want to stay in the league title hunt. … Last week’s loss was the Monarchs’ first 2A GSHL loss since 2008 … The Monarchs have been hit hard by injuries. They played without two starting lineman last week.

Hockinson (3-2, 0-0): Since a lopsided loss to Prairie in Week 2, the Hawks have been playing well with wins over Tacoma Baptist and Lakeside of Seattle and a solid showing against Columbia River. … QB Jess Krahn returned from injury last week to pass for 191 yards, completing seven passes to six different receivers. … Hockinson also spreads the running load, too. Last week, it was Torey Dunn leading the way with 89 yards.

Bottom line: The young Hockinson team has taken some big strides so far this season. A win over Mark Morris would be another leap forward.

Columbian’s pick: Hockinson.

Fans’ pick: N/A