No. 10 Arundel at No. 5 Linganore

Playoff history: Arundel is making its fifth consecutive postseason appearance. The Wildcats lost in last season's title game to Quince Orchard, 36-30, and are seeking their first state championship since 1975. The last Anne Arundel County team to win a state title was North County in 1994, when it was coached by current Arundel Coach Chuck Markiewicz. Linganore had lost its playoff opener the past three seasons; the last time it advanced past the first round was in 2003, when it won the school's fourth state title.

What to watch from Arundel: The Wildcats play an exciting, up-tempo brand of football, often using four or five wide receivers, going without a huddle and throwing the ball all over the field. QB Billy Cosh has thrown 51 touchdown passes (a single-season state record), with 21 going to WR Alec Lemon. Lemon, who also plays safety, has had a star-studded postseason so far, with six touchdowns, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries. Defensively, the Wildcats are sound.

What to watch from Linganore: The Lancers are a physical team, relying on a multitalented rushing attack. Junior Zack Zwinak (6-2, 240) is a bruiser, having rushed for 1,270 yards and 17 touchdowns, averaging 11.1 yards per carry. Senior Pat Balderson (5-8, 175) is a nice complement, with 964 yards rushing and 11 TDs. If Linganore needs to air it out, keep an eye on WR Ryan Dixon (41 catches for 809 yards and 13 TDs).

It could come down to: Which team can impose its will on the other. Will Linganore be able to stop Arundel's high-powered passing game? Will Arundel be able to handle Linganore's tough-nosed running game?

-- Josh Barr

When: Tonight, 7 Records: Wildcats 11-1, Lancers 12-0