It’s a contest that pits a team that’s hitting its stride, versus a team looking to turn the corner.

On one side is Northern Lehigh, who after dropping its first two games of the season, has won three straight and done so in decisive fashion, winning those games by an average of 22 points.

Then there’s Palmerton, who started off the season with a 56-point effort and a win over Catasauqua, but since has battled throughout the year and has come close to getting over the hump in recent weeks, having lost narrowly to Saucon Valley (42-41) and Palisades (30-20).

Two rivals looking to head into the postseason with momentum make this matchup between the Bulldogs (3-2) and the Bombers (1-4) the Game of the Week.

The big play always seems to have a huge impact in games like this, and both teams have players capable of making them.

The Bulldogs have a trio of running backs - all with different skill sets - that can take it the distance at any given time.

Power back Matt Frame leads the way with 534 yards and nine scores, followed by speedsters Mike Repsher (372 yards. 5TDs) and Joe Abidelli (252 yards, 4 TDs). All three are averaging over eight yards per carry.

Northern Lehigh’s size and speed at the running back position - paired with the improvement of its offensive line - have been key to its three-game winning streak.

“For a couple-year stretch a few seasons ago when we really struggled, we just didn’t have the speed. We could execute and block something perfectly, but we would get caught from behind. That has not been the case with this group. We have some great speed and game-breaking ability in the backfield,” said Northern Lehigh head coach Joe Tout. “Also, our offensive line has made some huge strides. That group is playing with a lot of confidence right now, and it has shown.”

The Bombers offense has the ability to create big plays as well thanks to its quarterback duo of Cole Serfass (605 yards rushing, eight TDs) and Matt Machalik (343 yards passing four TDs, 240 yards rushing, TD). Palmerton is averaging an impressive 30-plus points per game to go along with 330 yards of total offense per game.

However, turnovers have clearly held the Bombers back, as they currently hold a minus-seven turnover differential. Couple that with a defense that has forced just four total turnovers on the season and has been susceptible to the big play.

“Last week, we lost the turnover battle 4-0 and we were still in the ballgame. But you’re not going to win many games by losing the turnover battle, and that’s something we’ve got to improve on,” said Palmerton head coach Chris Walkowiak. “I thought defensively we improved last week, holding a good Palisades offense to field goals a lot of the time and making them work for it. This week, we have to win third down and not allow them to control the clock, but we also have to be disciplined and fundamental, and not give up the big play.”

This one will also have an impact on playoff seeding as well in the District 11 2A tournament. The Bulldogs looked to be locked into the No. 2 seed, but the Bombers, who are currently ranked No. 4, would most likely jump Minersville with a win over the Bulldogs and a Miners loss to Schuylkill Haven.

“This a big game for both teams; with it being a rivalry game and with playoffs right around the corner, a win this week could really give you momentum heading into the postseason,” said Tout. “We know they’re going to be up for us, and we’re excited for the opportunity as well.”