This bird is riding, rather flying, high after another perfect effort. I was 10-0 with my high school football picks last week, making me 21-0 over the last two slates.

I promise, though, that I have not become over-confident. My dreadful performance earlier this season is still fresh in my memory and I’m mindful that I could easily stoop to that level again.

My goal is to shine in Week 9 and here are my predictions.

Butler at McDowell — Back-to-back treks to Erie for the Golden Tornado. Cathedral Prep handled Butler last week and I see more of the same from the Trojans.

Score: McDowell 40-13

Seneca Valley at Central Catholic — The Raiders have momentum after three consecutive wins, but the Vikings provide too stiff of a test.

Score: Central Catholic 37-10

Mars at Hampton — Can anyone slow down the Planets right now? The Talbots’ best shot will keep this one relatively close, but Mars wins its fourth straight.

Score: Mars 33-19

Indiana at North Catholic — At one time this season, the Little Indians were 2-1, but have not won since ... a trend that will continue.

Score: North Catholic 39-12

East Allegheny at Knoch — Both teams have more-than-capable offenses, but the Knights have more muscle up front and it will be the difference come Friday.

Score: Knoch 27-14

Valley at Freeport — Five straight losses have the Yellowjackets an angry bunch. Frustration will lead to a win that keeps the team’s playoff hopes alive.

Score: Freeport 30-15

Bradford at Karns City — With a hampered passing attack, the Gremlins just may stay exclusively on the ground in this contest ... good enough to beat the Owls.

Score: Karns City 23-16

Moniteau at DuBois Area — A once-promising season has turned against the Beavers, but they’ll meet with a brief reprieve this week.

Score: DuBois Area 24-14

Ridgway at Union/A-C Valley — The Falcon Knights will move to above .500 for the first time since they were 3-2.

Score: Union/A-C Valley 42-20

Farrell at Slippery Rock — The Steelers travel to Troy-Alan Stadium for this Saturday night affair and will leave still undefeated.

Score: Farrell 42-14

Summit Academy at Laurel — With just two wins on the season, the Spartans have struggled and I see this being a very close game.

Score: Laurel 22-20

Scoop’s record for the season is 65-20