The Division VI State Semifinal matchup between Bluffton (13-1) and Coldwater (13-1) has been selected as Lima’s Sports Radio 93.1 The Fan Game of the Week. Set for Friday, November 29, 2024, at 7 PM at Mercy Health – Wapak Ford Field in Wapakoneta, this game will feature two elite programs battling for a spot in the state championship at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

Bluffton comes into the semifinal as the Region 22 champions and is currently ranked third in Division VI. The Pirates secured their spot in the Final Four with a convincing 24-7 victory over Patrick Henry in the regional championship. A game-changing moment came late when Bluffton’s defense delivered an 80-yard interception return for a touchdown to seal the win. This marks Bluffton’s first trip to the state semifinals since 1991, the year they finished as state runner-up. Bluffton’s only loss this season came to undefeated Columbus Grove in the regular-season Northwest Conference (NWC) championship, and they’ve been on a tear ever since.

Coldwater, the Region 24 champions and top-ranked team in Division VI, brings a storied playoff history into this matchup. The Cavaliers defeated Anna 45-21 in the regional championship, returning to the Final Four for the first time since 2021 when they finished as state runner-up. Coldwater last claimed a state title in 2020. Their only loss this season was to undefeated Marion Local, a fellow Midwest Athletic Conference (MAC) giant. After falling short in the regional finals last year, Coldwater appears determined to return to the state championship game.

These two programs have never faced each other in the playoffs, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this already compelling matchup. Both teams boast championship-caliber resumes, with Bluffton’s rise adding an element of unpredictability and Coldwater’s experience providing a sense of stability. The stakes are enormous, as the winner will face either Kirtland or Galion Northmor for the state championship.

Kickoff is set for 7 PM on Friday night, and fans can expect an intense and competitive game. With Bluffton’s recent surge and Coldwater’s established pedigree, this semifinal is shaping up to be one of the most exciting matchups of the season. Tune in to Lima’s Sports Radio 93.1 The Fan for coverage of what promises to be a clash of two exceptional teams fighting for a chance at glory.

-David Mansell