The NCHSAA football playoffs’ regional final round has arrived , and three area teams remain alive in their pursuit of a state title.

Following an emotional victory at rival South Point, No. 4 Crest travels to third-ranked Hickory in the NCHSAA 5A West final. The winner gets Northside-Jacksonville or Hunt in next week’s NCHSAA 5A state title game.

Four quarters and an overtime period weren’t enough for Shelby and Lincolnton, the Southern Piedmont 2A/3A/4A rivals meeting in the NCHSAA 3A West final with a berth in next week’s state title game hanging in the balance. Kinston or James Kenan awaits the winner in the NCHSAA 3A state final.

Here’s a preview of each matchup, in addition to a prediction for both by reporter Joe L. Hughes II.

5A West

(4) Crest at (3) Hickory

Records: Crest is

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