Jackson (2-2) at Central (4-1)

Last week: Central 27, Dexter 14; Jackson 32, Fort Zumwalt West 3

Last year: Central 34, Jackson 7

Notes: Jackson's quarterback decision is up in the air with Tyler Profilet recovering from the flu and Marc Lumsden coming off a big game at home against Fort Zumwalt West. No matter who starts, Jackson coach Carl Gross will have no problem shaking things up if one or the other is struggling. After a sluggish performance against Dexter, the Tigers hope to be sharp from the start this week. In the last two games, Central opponents threw the ball a combined 57 times. Central's defensive front seven have stepped up in that time with eight sacks and likely will give the Indians' smaller line problems. Jackson's defense has been steady throughout the year, holding opponents to less than 21 points in three of four games. The Tigers come into the game averaging nearly 25 points per game. Jackson's secondary will have to be ready with Mitch Craft averaging nearly 180 yards a game despite missing the second half of the NMCC game. Craft's favorite target, Mark Dunaway, will play despite dislocating a finger in the first half Thursday. The teams have met every year since 1935. This rivalry hasn't had many close games lately: In 2000 it was decided by 10 points, but since 1995 only two meetings have been decided by 10 points or less.

-- Jeremy Joffray