Howard County Week 5 Football Preview: Predictions for All Five Schools
The season rolls into week five, and the stakes keep climbing. Across Indiana, Friday night lights will shine on teams looking to turn the corner, keep their momentum, or make a statement as the year unfolds.
This week brings no shortage of storylines. Some squads are searching for their first win, others are riding hot streaks, and plenty of players are stepping into the spotlight as difference-makers. With rivalries brewing and conference races heating up, every snap matters.
Each week, we’ll break down the matchups, predict winners, and track our record throughout the 2025-26 season. Feel free to make your own picks and see if you can beat mine.
Now, let’s dive into this week’s games.
Kokomo (0-4) vs Anderson (1-3)
Kokomo is still hunting for its first win of the season after a 24-14 loss to Jeffersonville. The thought of starting 0-5 isn’t one the players or coaches are willing to accept, and they’ll look to turn that frustration into fuel for Friday’s North Central Conference matchup against Anderson.
The Indians have struggled this year as well. Despite a slightly better record, Anderson has been shut out twice and scored just six points in their other loss, all while giving up 43.5 points per game.
With Kokomo getting healthier, the Wildkats are in a strong position to pick up their first win — and there’s no better time than during the program’s 1,000th game.
Winner: Kokomo
Hamilton Heights (1-3) vs #3A No. 13 Western (3-1)
Western is riding its first three-game winning streak since 2022, and the momentum kept rolling with a huge homecoming win last week. Now, the Panthers look to stay hot as Hamilton Heights comes to Russiaville.
The Huskies’ record might not tell the full story. Their three losses have come against teams with only two combined defeats, meaning Hamilton Heights has been battle-tested and ready for another tough matchup.
Western’s offense has been rolling, putting up 37 or more points in each win, but it’s the defense that has stolen the spotlight. During the streak, the Panthers are giving up just nine points per game, and they’ll look to lean on that strength as they open Hoosier Conference play.
Winner: Western
Northwestern (2-2) vs Whitko (1-3)
Northwestern fans are starting to see the Tigers hit their stride after back-to-back wins. Last week’s game was their highest-scoring of the season, and the offense is clicking at just the right time heading into Friday’s road matchup with Whitko.
The Wildcats are looking to turn things around after a rough stretch. Whitko has lost three straight games, including back-to-back shutouts, leaving the team searching for answers.
Last year’s matchup saw Colin Cook throw for 435 yards and 7 touchdowns, but this year’s team features plenty of new starters. Still, the Tigers are finding their rhythm, and if they carry the momentum from recent games, they’re poised to pick up their third straight road win.
Winner: Northwestern
1A No. 9 Carroll (Flora) vs 2A No. 12 Eastern (Greentown) (3-1)
Eastern is coming off a heartbreaking homecoming loss to Taylor, where a blocked extra point and a recovered onside kick sealed the Comets’ fate. That sour finish only fuels their drive to bounce back with a conference win against Carroll (Flora).
The Cougars are among the top teams in Class 1A, scoring 41 or more points in every win. Their explosive offense can overwhelm opponents, and their defense has been just as strong.
Eastern has shown it can put up points in bunches, but Carroll’s balance on both sides of the ball gives the Cougars the edge heading into Friday night.
Winner: Carroll
Clinton Central (2-2) vs 1A No. 13 Taylor (3-1)
Last week’s win over county rival Eastern was a huge win for Taylor. The Titans proved they can beat a strong team — and they did it by fighting until the final buzzer. That same fight will be needed Friday night as they take on Clinton Central.
The Bulldogs are in the middle of a tough slump, being shut out in back-to-back weeks and dropping two straight conference games. Now, they’ll have to rebound against a Taylor team that’s playing with momentum.
Javionne Harris has continued to dominate this season, but it’s been the all-around contributions that make Taylor so dangerous. If that winning formula shows up again, the Titans could be celebrating another big win — this time, under the lights on homecoming night.
Winner: Taylor
Week five in Howard County sets the stage for another thrilling night of high school football. With every game carrying more weight, teams are fighting to shape the story of their seasons. Fans can expect intensity, big-time performances, and plenty of action under the lights. The Kokomo Post Sports team will be at the Clinton Central vs. Taylor matchup to bring you live coverage, updates, and highlights. Don’t miss a moment as the 2025 season continues to deliver on Friday nights.
Jay’s Stats:
Last week: 2-2
2025-2026 sports season: 11-6 (64.7%)
