Helmet images courtesy Texas High School Helmet Project (http://www.txhshelmetproject.com/)

This is one in a 20-part series of regional/divisional breakdowns. For the official UIL bracket, go here.

REGION IV-3A

Division I

Overview

One of the state's best regions, with four teams capable of winning it:

Best bidistrict matchup

• San Antonio Sam Houston (8-2) vs. Cuero (10-0), 7:30 p.m. Friday @Matador Stadium, Seguin

Best teams (not necessarily region finalists)

• Cuero: Tradition-rich Gobblers have been tough all season.
• Sealy (10-0): Another traditional power; went unbeaten in rugged 25-3A.

Dark horse

• Bandera (8-2): When its offense is clicking, look out. And (you guessed it) a bidistrict bye.

Projected regional final

• Cuero vs. Ingleside (9-1): The de facto title game could come in the second round between Cuero and Sealy, but Ingleside-Bandera won't be appreciably worse. The Gobblers' offense ultimately is the difference-maker, but don't be surprised if one of the other three teams listed moves on.
• CoachesAid.com pick: Cuero.

Division II

Overview

Another deep field with no clear-cut favorite among the 14 teams:

Best bidistrict matchup

• Mathis (7-3) vs. Lyford (10-0), 7:30 p.m. Friday @Pirate Stadium, Mathis

Best teams (not necessarily region finalists)

• Giddings (9-1): Buffaloes' only loss came to Sealy in 25-3A opener.
• Sinton (9-1): Scores (and tends to allow) points in bunches.

Dark horse

• La Grange (8-2): Pass-happy Leopards played Sealy and Giddings to the wire.

Projected regional final

• Giddings vs. Edna (7-2): The Buffaloes should cruise into the third round and figure to get past, presumably, the winner between Sinton and Pearsall (9-1). Edna, which has lost only to 2A power Refugio and IV-3A Division I favorite Cuero, is the bottom-half pick if it can get past La Grange in the second round.
• CoachesAid.com pick: Giddings.