EDGARD — West St. John High has not lost since Sept. 22, and only one game remains between the Rams (7-2, 3-0) and a perfect record in District 8-1A.

Standing in the way of District perfection is St. Martin’s Episcopal School (3-6, 0-3).

The Rams are favored on paper, expected by many to come out on top Friday night when they travel to Tony Porter Field in Metairie.

The Saints were shutout 30-0 last week at the hands of Covenant Christian, a school West St. John topped 53-7 in October.

WSJH coach Brandon Walters acknowledges his players see the prize at the end of the postseason, but adds his team has steadfastly approached each opponent one week at a time.

The Rams can point to their five-game win streak as proof of their determination.

“We have goals,” Walters said. “One of them was to accomplish winning the District. The next one is to win the state championship.

“I think everyone is staying grounded. The kids expect to win, but they also expect the work that comes along with it. They are buying in as long as they go.”

The Rams’ return to 1A this season and new home in District 8-1A has proven a perfect match for a West Bank team seemingly molded for such a moment.

Walters said his players are “a tight bunch” who “hang together like brothers.”

“Sometimes, they have their good days, where they are all getting along,” he joked recently.

“Then, they have the other days when no one wants to talk to each other. They are definitely a family. It’s been a good ride. I appreciate everything they have all done. Now, (the seniors) have an opportunity to do something really special their last year.”

St. Charles Catholic vs. St. James

The Comets (7-2, 3-1) are coming off a tough loss, having surrendered their most points in a single game (28) this season to De La Salle.

It doesn’t get any easier this week.

After giving up three touchdown runs last week to Cavaliers quarterback Julian Gums, SCC welcomes St. James High (7-2, 3-1) for a District battle in LaPlace.

St. James comes to St. John Parish on a little bit of a high, having defeated Lusher Charter last week, 24-6.

On the other hand, the Comets will be looking to get their offense going after last week’s shutout.

SCC holds an advantage in scoring margin this season when compared to St. James against each team’s similar opponents (Donaldsonville, Haynes, De La Salle and Lusher).

With each team’s sights clearly set on playoff positioning and success, this week’s matchup marks a perfect regular season finale for a couple of squads eyeing deep November playoff runs.

East St. John vs. South Lafourche

East St. John High has one game left this regular season and after two tough losses in a row, coach Alden Foster is not sugarcoating the importance of Friday night’s game.

“It’s win or go home, and I think we will respond well,” Foster said.

“It’s at our place and that’s what I expect.”

The Wildcats (4-5, 3-3) lost a hard-fought road game 28-18 last week at Thibodaux, falling victim to too many self-inflicted wounds.

“We have to play a complete game,” Foster said.

ESJH held leads at two different junctures during the game and was well positioned for victory.

Unfortunately, Tigers quarterback DaMarcus Mitchell rushed for 274 yards, while throwing for a score and running in another touchdown.

Mitchell helped Thibodaux outgain East St. John 407-281.

Leading the Wildcats were Javon Antonio (three catches for 46 yards and one touchdown) and Shelvin Keller (five catches for 61 yards and one touchdown).

Those efforts will need to be repeated this week when East St. John hosts South Lafourche (6-3, 5-1).

“Their strength is pounding people,” Foster said.

“This Friday night is a good test of our character and ability. There is a sense of urgency we have to play with.”