Mars running back Nate Rosswog slips a tackle to pick up a first down for the Planets in a 21-0 win over Hollidaysburg last week. Mars' playoff hopes are muddled, but a road win over Hampton Friday would go a long way in clearing things up.

HAMPTON, TWP — The WPIAL Class AAA wildcard race is being run in quicksand, from which just one team will emerge.

The result of a number of games involving teams from the Greater Allegheny and Big Nine conferences will determine what team is able to extend its season via the wildcard.

The good news for Mars (5-3) is that it can avoid this mob of playoff-hungry teams by winning Friday night at Hampton. That would vault the Planets into the top five in the Greater Allegheny Conference standings and a guaranteed spot in the postseason.

The bad news is that Mars will be facing an undefeated Talbots squad that has outscored its eight opponents 273-78. A Planet loss would leave the team hanging on the outcome of as many as five other games.

“Hampton is a solid football team,” said Mars coach Scott Heinauer. “Jacque (DeMatteo) is a very good coach. They are probably the most physical team we will have played and they fly to the ball on defense. We have a lot of work to do and little time to do it.”

The Planets earned a crucial home victory last week, defeating Hollidaysburg 21-0.

Mars was without its leading rusher on the season, Ori Rinaman, for much of the game due to a lingering knee injury. His backup, Isaiah Johnson, did not play due to an illness. While Rinaman's status for Friday's game is still up in the air, Johnson is expected to play.

Johnson has rushed for 352 yards this season, a 7.5 yards-per-carry average and five touchdowns.

Injuries also forced senior Marshall Robinson, who normally plays only on defense, to fill in at offensive tackle.

“Just like basketball, you're only as good as your bench,” said Heinauer. “With the injuries, we have faced more adversity this year than in any season since I've been here (1992). I'm more than happy with the kids. They've done a great job.”

Hampton, which defeated Greensburg Salem last week 28-14, moved to a ground-oriented attack this year after the graduation of several key receivers.

The Talbots are paced in the backfield by junior halfback Matt Rech. He rushed for 114 yards and a score last week, though a number of other backs have gotten carries.

Senior quarterback Nick Grabowski, who threw for 1,368 yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior, still gives Hampton a threat in the passing game.

“Their quarterback can throw the ball and that concerns us,” said Heinauer.

DeMatteo could not be reached for comment.