Not many people, if anyone outside of the program saw this type of start to the season for the Troy basketball squad. After Kentucky bound star James Young left Troy to play at Rochester for his senior year, very few expected the Colts to make much noise this winter.
The Colts, who went through a confusing and unfortunate offseason were left in a bit of an awkward situation with the departure of Young, going from a team with high expectations to a spot where not many expected very much from them this season.
But now, things are looking up for head coach Gary Fralick and Co.
After starting off the season with a loss to Troy Athens, the Colts bounced back with a win over Southfield-Lathrup and then Ferndale. Then, Troy made its biggest statement just before the holiday break as the Colts upset Clarkston thanks to a late 3-pointer from Ben Horvath to pick up its second OAA Red win of the season.
On Thursday afternoon at the Motor City Roundball Classic held at Birmingham Detroit Country Day, Troy continued its hot start as it overcame a bit of a slow first quarter and ran away from Dearborn Divine Child to take a 66-39 win.
This season has been far different for Troy than what's been the case in recent years. While it's just six games into the season, it's easy to see that the Colts are far from a one-man show as they've found significant contributions from a number of different players so far this season.
This may be a new look to the season from what people are used to seeing at Troy, but it's been a new look that has worked so far. Hats off to Fralick and the Troy program for making the most out of a season where very few had high expectations for this season.
-- Other Roundball Classic Notes --
- Southfield Bradford might be in a minor rebuilding mode as of now, but shouldn't be a team to be taken lightly in Class C. With guards Juwan Hampton, Maurice Reed II and Roland Hayes III and forwards Antoine Jackson Dwayne Sortor, Bradford will be a team that could sneak up on teams in the future.
- Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes is once again in a great position to be in contention to capture another Class D state title. With seniors Ava Doetsch and Lexie Robak leading the way this winter, the Lakers will be a team that can hang with just about anyone, regardless of what Class, and they showed just that with a win over North Farmington on Thursday
- This isn't the typical Birmingham Detroit Country Day squad that we're all used to seeing, but the Yellowjackets still have some of the top players in the state this winter. With star guard Asia Doss and Brittany Washington and Tianna Glimpse, the Yellowjackets will have playmakers everywhere and that was showcased in Thursday's convincing win over Pontiac.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Oakland County Boys Basketball Rankings -- Holiday Edition
1. Birmingham Detroit Country Day
There really hasn't been anyone who has proven to be able to be as dangerous offensively, or as strong defensively so far this season as the Yellowjackets,
2. Rochester Adams
The Highlanders won't be the team from Rochester grabbing all of the attention this fall, but Adams might be the most complete team in Rochester.
3. Bloomfield Hills Lahser
The return of Yante Maten from injury will make Lahser one of the most dangerous interior teams along with Andrew Gikas, while Armand Cartwright and Khalil Gracey will continue their dominance on the outside.
4. Southfield
Can't argue with a perfect record heading into the holiday. The Jays just have too many players for most teams to handle with Earl Swift, Quintin Arnold and Darnell Butler as well as others.
5. Rochester
Arben Camaj, Mike Murri and Manny Mendoza are three of the best unknown players around, but should be well know names by the end of the season.
6.Lake Orion
The Dragons are once again flying under the radar for some reason, but look poised for another deep playoff run this winter thanks to Chaz Miller, John McCarty and Co.
7. Clarkston
With Jordan Dasuqi back from injury, and Nick Owens proving to be another stellar sharpshooter, the Clarkston back-court is once again looking like it will be nearly impossible to stop.
8. North Farmington
Might have the most underrated inside-outside duo around with guard Caleb Hogans and forward Jeron "Buddha" Rogers. Both have scored over 30 points already this year.
9. Southfield Christian
Everyone knows about star guards Bakari Evelyn and Lindsey Hunter IV, but forwards Marlo Brown and Damarco White look like they are in store for big seasons as well.
10. Walled Lake Western
Still early on, but has the looks of a team that was overlooked heading into the season after a tough year last season. Pretty similar to the Oak Park football team, which made a run to the Elite Eight this fall.
There really hasn't been anyone who has proven to be able to be as dangerous offensively, or as strong defensively so far this season as the Yellowjackets,
2. Rochester Adams
The Highlanders won't be the team from Rochester grabbing all of the attention this fall, but Adams might be the most complete team in Rochester.
3. Bloomfield Hills Lahser
The return of Yante Maten from injury will make Lahser one of the most dangerous interior teams along with Andrew Gikas, while Armand Cartwright and Khalil Gracey will continue their dominance on the outside.
4. Southfield
Can't argue with a perfect record heading into the holiday. The Jays just have too many players for most teams to handle with Earl Swift, Quintin Arnold and Darnell Butler as well as others.
5. Rochester
Arben Camaj, Mike Murri and Manny Mendoza are three of the best unknown players around, but should be well know names by the end of the season.
6.Lake Orion
The Dragons are once again flying under the radar for some reason, but look poised for another deep playoff run this winter thanks to Chaz Miller, John McCarty and Co.
7. Clarkston
With Jordan Dasuqi back from injury, and Nick Owens proving to be another stellar sharpshooter, the Clarkston back-court is once again looking like it will be nearly impossible to stop.
8. North Farmington
Might have the most underrated inside-outside duo around with guard Caleb Hogans and forward Jeron "Buddha" Rogers. Both have scored over 30 points already this year.
9. Southfield Christian
Everyone knows about star guards Bakari Evelyn and Lindsey Hunter IV, but forwards Marlo Brown and Damarco White look like they are in store for big seasons as well.
10. Walled Lake Western
Still early on, but has the looks of a team that was overlooked heading into the season after a tough year last season. Pretty similar to the Oak Park football team, which made a run to the Elite Eight this fall.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Oakland County Boys Basketball Preview - Top 25 Players
1. James Young - Rochester
No surprises here, the Kentucky-bound senior is the No. 1 player in Oakland County because he can do just about everything. Young, one of the top players in the entire nation showed last year he can do just as much damage from the outside as he can driving to the basket. As a junior at Troy last year, Young averaged a double-double, scoring 25 points, while grabbing 10 rebounds per game and could top those numbers in his first and last season at Rochester this winter.
2. Jon-Jon Williams - Southfield-Lathrup
Williams was arguably the most productive player in Oakland County last season with the Chargers, scoring just under 30 points and grabbing six rebounds, while dishing out five assists per contest as a junior. Headed to Toledo, Williams will be in for another big year on a number of different levels as he will be one of the few returning players from last year's Lathrup squad.
3. Yante Maten - Bloomfield Hills Lahser
Maten is arguably the best inside force not only in Oakland County, but possibly in the state. Averaging a double-double as a sophomore last year, scoring 15 points per contest and hauling in just under 12 rebounds, Maten also proved to be one of the premier shot-blockers around, tallying nearly five blocks per game. At 6-9, Maten could have yet another big year for Lahser who is one of the most complete teams in the area.
4. Paris Bass - Birmingham Seaholm
Arguably the best unknown player in the state, Bass is one of the best inside-outside forces you will find. As a junior, Bass averaged just under 20 points per game, while picking up about eight rebounds per contest for the Maples, and is in store for a breakout year this year. Look for Bass to continue his high-scoring ways, but at 6-7, he could become one of the area's best inside forces this winter.
5. Jordan Dasuqi - Clarkston
The latest player to be one of the great scorers for Clarkston in the past few years, Dasuqi will be one of the best guards that Oakland County will have to offer this year. Committed to Lake Superior State next winter, Dasuqi is yet another big time shooter from the outside for the Wolves, but is just as good when it comes to mid-ranged shots and driving to the basket.
6. Miroslav Jaksic - Walled Lake Western
The OC's Dirk Nowitzki, Jaksic is one of, if not the best inside-outside big man you will find. A 6-10 center who can knock down outside shots, but is also one of the better rebounders you will find, Jaksic gives opposing teams all kinds of match-up issues for obvious reasons. It took some time for him to adjust in his first year at Western last season, but look for a big season from the senior big man this winter.
7. Austin Price - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
One of the best combo guards you'll find, Price proved last year that he's just as good scoring the ball as he is passing and finding open shooters. Heading to Lehigh next season, Price is a deadly shooter from the outside, but can also create shots on the inside. Price averaged more than 10 points per game last season and is committed to Lehigh.
8. Armand Cartwright - Bloomfield Hills Lahser
Cartwright followed up a strong freshman season, with an impressive sophomore campaign where he averaged just under 20 points per game. Cartwright, who is as good of a backcourt scorer as you will find, with his ability to hit jump shots and being able to drive to the bastket, paired with Khalil Gracey could make up one of, if not the best backcourt in Oakland County this season.
9. Edmund Sumner - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
As good of a pure point guard as you will find, Sumner is as good as it gets when it comes to creating shots for others on the court. Averaging about five assists per game last season as a sophomore, Sumner showed he could be one of the better point guards in the area last season, but had a big summer and figures to have a big junior season with the Yellowjackets this winter.
10. Khalil Malone - Waterford Mott
After having a breakout season as a junior last season, scoring over just under 14 points per game, while grabbing five rebounds, Malone figures to be in for a monster senior season. Malone is a bit undersized, but is a deadly jump-shooter from just about anywhere on the court who can drive to the basket from time to time.
11. Caleb Hogans - North Farmington
Another very good combo guard in Oakland County, Hogans has proven he's a very capable scorer, while also proving to be one of the area's best passers. Hogans averaged 15 points per game and six assists as a junior last season.
12. Akhemji Williams - Rochester Adams
Williams in another one of the best pure point guards that Oakland County has to offer. After a strong sophomore campaign where Williams averaged over 15 points per game and over six assists per contest, Williams could be in for an even bigger season this winter
13. Mory Diane - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
The third of the Yellowjacket's back-court trio, Diane has proven that he is capable of scoring inside and out with his speed and ability to pull up and knock down the jumper. Diane adds yet another dimension to the Country Day scoring attack, which scored 100 points in the season opener.
14. Khalil Gracey - Bloomfield Hills Lahser
Gracey burst onto the scene last season as a sophomore and will give the Knights another dangerous scorer in the back-court playing next to Cartwright. Last season, Gracey also proved to be one of the top defensive guards around, averaging more than four steals per game to go along with 11 points and five assists as well.
15. Bakari Evelyn - Southfield Christian
Evelyn kicked off the season in impressive fashion, scoring 37 points, five 3-pointers, including the game-tying three at the buzzer to force overtime, which eventually led to the upset win over St. Mary's. Look for the star sophomore to continue his scoring ways this winter.
16. Sam McClendon - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
McClendon is as tough of a point guard as you will find in Oakland County, capable of scoring from anywhere on the court, but is also one of the strongest passers around and is more than capable of creating shots for himself or teammates.
17. Lindsey Hunter IV - Southfield Christian
Hunter is another one of Southfield Christian's dynamic scorer and played a key role in the Eagles' Class D state title last season. The junior is one of the best jump shooters you fill find in the area, and is also just as good when it comes to his ball-handling skills
18. John McCarty - Lake Orion
McCarty is one of the more underrated post players in Oakland County, as he proved to be one of the area's top rebounders. McCarty will also be one of the top scoring threats for the Dragons on the inside as well this winter.
19. Gage Throgmorton - Walled Lake Northern
About as pure of a shooter as there is, Throgmorton has been one of the best at knocking down shots from long distance over the course of the past couple of years. If he's able to find space just about anywhere on the court, the senior sniper will make teams pay this season.
20. Jarod Jones - Pontiac
Jones is one of the top scorers around when it comes to driving to the basket and getting some tough points in the paint for the Phoenix. Only 6-0 tall, Jones was one of the top rebounders for Pontiac last season, averaging about six boards per game to go along with over 12 points per contest.
21. Zack Littleson - Rochester Adams
While Akhemji Williams will take care of the outside game for the Highlanders this winter, Littleson will be one of the dominant forces for Adams in the post. Littleson averaged six rebounds and 12 points per game as a junior last season and is also a very good defender in the post as well.
22. Sterling Sharp - North Farmington
Sharp is as good as it gets when it comes to catch-and-shooting and has some serious range from beyond the arc and can create his own shots on the inside. Sharp will also give the Raiders an advantage defensively with his ability to block shots and haul in rebounds.
23. Jeron "Buddha" Rogers - North Farmington
One of the best sophomore big men in the entire state, Rogers is one of the top shot blockers and rebounders around. Rogers is also capable of scoring on the inside and will give the Raiders an inside threat along with Hogans and Sharp.
24. Stephon Williams - Oak Park
A solid, inside-outside player, Williams can score down low or from the outside, but does plenty of damage on defense as well. Averaging a double-double last season, Williams proved to be a legitimate scoring threat for Oak Park and one of the top rebounders in the OAA.
25. Matt Linehan - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
A lethal jump shooter from almost anywhere on the court, Linehan's range gives the Eaglets another dimension in the back-court playing next to McClendon. Linehan is also capable of creating opportunities for teammates with his passing ability and is one of the better defensive guards you'll find in Oakland County.
20 more to keep an eye on this winter (No Order)
Chaz Miller - Lake Orion
Arben Camaj - Rochester
Nathan Drews Rochester Hills Lutheran Northwest
Korey Wade - Walled Lake Western
Ken Lockhart - Oak Park
Garrett Ross - Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes
Quincy Norman - Waterford Mott
Luke Short - South Lyon
Vezzie Carthane - Pontiac
Quintin Cook - Ortonville Brandon
T.J. Warren - Walled Lake Central
Quinton Arnold - Southfield
Marquian Johnson - Clawson
Nick Troxell - Lakeland
Ben Temrowski - Stoney Creek
Anthony Freeman - Farmington Hills Harrison
Jermaih Johnson - Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
Tim Shayoka - Troy Athens
Nelson Cagle - Novi
John Van Hoef/Jeff Koch - Troy Athens
No surprises here, the Kentucky-bound senior is the No. 1 player in Oakland County because he can do just about everything. Young, one of the top players in the entire nation showed last year he can do just as much damage from the outside as he can driving to the basket. As a junior at Troy last year, Young averaged a double-double, scoring 25 points, while grabbing 10 rebounds per game and could top those numbers in his first and last season at Rochester this winter.
2. Jon-Jon Williams - Southfield-Lathrup
Williams was arguably the most productive player in Oakland County last season with the Chargers, scoring just under 30 points and grabbing six rebounds, while dishing out five assists per contest as a junior. Headed to Toledo, Williams will be in for another big year on a number of different levels as he will be one of the few returning players from last year's Lathrup squad.
3. Yante Maten - Bloomfield Hills Lahser
Maten is arguably the best inside force not only in Oakland County, but possibly in the state. Averaging a double-double as a sophomore last year, scoring 15 points per contest and hauling in just under 12 rebounds, Maten also proved to be one of the premier shot-blockers around, tallying nearly five blocks per game. At 6-9, Maten could have yet another big year for Lahser who is one of the most complete teams in the area.
4. Paris Bass - Birmingham Seaholm
Arguably the best unknown player in the state, Bass is one of the best inside-outside forces you will find. As a junior, Bass averaged just under 20 points per game, while picking up about eight rebounds per contest for the Maples, and is in store for a breakout year this year. Look for Bass to continue his high-scoring ways, but at 6-7, he could become one of the area's best inside forces this winter.
5. Jordan Dasuqi - Clarkston
The latest player to be one of the great scorers for Clarkston in the past few years, Dasuqi will be one of the best guards that Oakland County will have to offer this year. Committed to Lake Superior State next winter, Dasuqi is yet another big time shooter from the outside for the Wolves, but is just as good when it comes to mid-ranged shots and driving to the basket.
6. Miroslav Jaksic - Walled Lake Western
The OC's Dirk Nowitzki, Jaksic is one of, if not the best inside-outside big man you will find. A 6-10 center who can knock down outside shots, but is also one of the better rebounders you will find, Jaksic gives opposing teams all kinds of match-up issues for obvious reasons. It took some time for him to adjust in his first year at Western last season, but look for a big season from the senior big man this winter.
7. Austin Price - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
One of the best combo guards you'll find, Price proved last year that he's just as good scoring the ball as he is passing and finding open shooters. Heading to Lehigh next season, Price is a deadly shooter from the outside, but can also create shots on the inside. Price averaged more than 10 points per game last season and is committed to Lehigh.
8. Armand Cartwright - Bloomfield Hills Lahser
Cartwright followed up a strong freshman season, with an impressive sophomore campaign where he averaged just under 20 points per game. Cartwright, who is as good of a backcourt scorer as you will find, with his ability to hit jump shots and being able to drive to the bastket, paired with Khalil Gracey could make up one of, if not the best backcourt in Oakland County this season.
9. Edmund Sumner - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
As good of a pure point guard as you will find, Sumner is as good as it gets when it comes to creating shots for others on the court. Averaging about five assists per game last season as a sophomore, Sumner showed he could be one of the better point guards in the area last season, but had a big summer and figures to have a big junior season with the Yellowjackets this winter.
10. Khalil Malone - Waterford Mott
After having a breakout season as a junior last season, scoring over just under 14 points per game, while grabbing five rebounds, Malone figures to be in for a monster senior season. Malone is a bit undersized, but is a deadly jump-shooter from just about anywhere on the court who can drive to the basket from time to time.
11. Caleb Hogans - North Farmington
Another very good combo guard in Oakland County, Hogans has proven he's a very capable scorer, while also proving to be one of the area's best passers. Hogans averaged 15 points per game and six assists as a junior last season.
12. Akhemji Williams - Rochester Adams
Williams in another one of the best pure point guards that Oakland County has to offer. After a strong sophomore campaign where Williams averaged over 15 points per game and over six assists per contest, Williams could be in for an even bigger season this winter
13. Mory Diane - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
The third of the Yellowjacket's back-court trio, Diane has proven that he is capable of scoring inside and out with his speed and ability to pull up and knock down the jumper. Diane adds yet another dimension to the Country Day scoring attack, which scored 100 points in the season opener.
14. Khalil Gracey - Bloomfield Hills Lahser
Gracey burst onto the scene last season as a sophomore and will give the Knights another dangerous scorer in the back-court playing next to Cartwright. Last season, Gracey also proved to be one of the top defensive guards around, averaging more than four steals per game to go along with 11 points and five assists as well.
15. Bakari Evelyn - Southfield Christian
Evelyn kicked off the season in impressive fashion, scoring 37 points, five 3-pointers, including the game-tying three at the buzzer to force overtime, which eventually led to the upset win over St. Mary's. Look for the star sophomore to continue his scoring ways this winter.
16. Sam McClendon - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
McClendon is as tough of a point guard as you will find in Oakland County, capable of scoring from anywhere on the court, but is also one of the strongest passers around and is more than capable of creating shots for himself or teammates.
17. Lindsey Hunter IV - Southfield Christian
Hunter is another one of Southfield Christian's dynamic scorer and played a key role in the Eagles' Class D state title last season. The junior is one of the best jump shooters you fill find in the area, and is also just as good when it comes to his ball-handling skills
18. John McCarty - Lake Orion
McCarty is one of the more underrated post players in Oakland County, as he proved to be one of the area's top rebounders. McCarty will also be one of the top scoring threats for the Dragons on the inside as well this winter.
19. Gage Throgmorton - Walled Lake Northern
About as pure of a shooter as there is, Throgmorton has been one of the best at knocking down shots from long distance over the course of the past couple of years. If he's able to find space just about anywhere on the court, the senior sniper will make teams pay this season.
20. Jarod Jones - Pontiac
Jones is one of the top scorers around when it comes to driving to the basket and getting some tough points in the paint for the Phoenix. Only 6-0 tall, Jones was one of the top rebounders for Pontiac last season, averaging about six boards per game to go along with over 12 points per contest.
21. Zack Littleson - Rochester Adams
While Akhemji Williams will take care of the outside game for the Highlanders this winter, Littleson will be one of the dominant forces for Adams in the post. Littleson averaged six rebounds and 12 points per game as a junior last season and is also a very good defender in the post as well.
22. Sterling Sharp - North Farmington
Sharp is as good as it gets when it comes to catch-and-shooting and has some serious range from beyond the arc and can create his own shots on the inside. Sharp will also give the Raiders an advantage defensively with his ability to block shots and haul in rebounds.
23. Jeron "Buddha" Rogers - North Farmington
One of the best sophomore big men in the entire state, Rogers is one of the top shot blockers and rebounders around. Rogers is also capable of scoring on the inside and will give the Raiders an inside threat along with Hogans and Sharp.
24. Stephon Williams - Oak Park
A solid, inside-outside player, Williams can score down low or from the outside, but does plenty of damage on defense as well. Averaging a double-double last season, Williams proved to be a legitimate scoring threat for Oak Park and one of the top rebounders in the OAA.
25. Matt Linehan - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
A lethal jump shooter from almost anywhere on the court, Linehan's range gives the Eaglets another dimension in the back-court playing next to McClendon. Linehan is also capable of creating opportunities for teammates with his passing ability and is one of the better defensive guards you'll find in Oakland County.
20 more to keep an eye on this winter (No Order)
Chaz Miller - Lake Orion
Arben Camaj - Rochester
Nathan Drews Rochester Hills Lutheran Northwest
Korey Wade - Walled Lake Western
Ken Lockhart - Oak Park
Garrett Ross - Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes
Quincy Norman - Waterford Mott
Luke Short - South Lyon
Vezzie Carthane - Pontiac
Quintin Cook - Ortonville Brandon
T.J. Warren - Walled Lake Central
Quinton Arnold - Southfield
Marquian Johnson - Clawson
Nick Troxell - Lakeland
Ben Temrowski - Stoney Creek
Anthony Freeman - Farmington Hills Harrison
Jermaih Johnson - Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
Tim Shayoka - Troy Athens
Nelson Cagle - Novi
John Van Hoef/Jeff Koch - Troy Athens
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Oakland County Boys Basketball Preview -- Top 10 Teams
1. Birmingham Detroit Country Day
The Yellowjackets will be one of the highest scoring squads around this winter as they will have scorers from just about everywhere. With guards Austin Price and Mory Diane capable of scoring from just about everywhere along with one of the best pure point guards you'll find in Edmund Sumner, Country Day will be one tough team to slow down this season.
2. Clarkston
Injuries will be an issue for the Wolves early on, but Clarkston will be once again be one of the top defensive teams around, while also being one of the best shooting teams in the county. The Wolves will have strong guard play from seniors Jordan Dasuqi, and Chance Huth, while junior sharpshooter Nick Owens and junior transfer Press Kampe will add another dimension on the court for Clarkston.
3. Bloomfield Hills Lahser
The Knights will be one of the top forces in Oakland County for at least the next two years, thanks in large part to one of, if not the best junior class in the state. With 6-9 center Yante Maten, considered one of the best big men in the state, along with dynamic guards Armand Cartwright and Khalil Gracey helping lead the way this year, Lahser will be one of the most dangerous inside-outside teams that you will find this winter.
4. Rochester
Let the James Young show begin. While Young, one of the best high school players in the country will undoubtedly give Rochester an advantage over most teams this fall, don't sleep on several other players for Rochester this winter. With senior center Arben Camaj along with guards Manny Mendoza, Mike Murri and Jason Lee, the Falcons will give teams trouble all season long.
5. Rochester Adams
While Rochester is getting all of the attention early on, Adams is not a team that should be overlooked. With point guard Akhemji Williams and forwards Zach Littleson and Andrew McBride, the Highlanders will be able to compete with just about anybody in Oakland County. Look for Adams to be a serious contender to unseat Rochester in the OAA White this winter.
6. Southfield-Lathrup
Senior guard Jon-Jon Williams is about as good of a guard as you will find, proving to be dangerous both inside and out and will give teams fits all season long, while opening things up for teammates along the way. Look for juniors Marlon Tate and Daniel King to be key factors as well for the Chargers this fall as they should have plenty of opportunities this season.
7. Waterford Mott
The Corsairs could have one of the area's best inside-outside tandems this winter with guard Khalil Malone and transfer Quincy Norman, who combined for 34 points in the season opener. Malone can flat out score the ball, whether it's from behind the arc, or driving to the hoop and Norman will give Mott another inside force, filling in for Davonte Daniel who was the team's go-to post player last season.
8. North Farmington
The Raiders will have one of, if not the best backcourt duo this year with seniors Caleb Hogans and Sterling Sharp leading the way. Hogans, one of the best point guards around averaged over 15 points and six assists per contest last season, while Sharp did a little bit of everything last season on both ends of the court. North Farmington will also have sophomore forward Jeron "Buddha" Rogers who was one of the top shot blockers around as a freshman last season.
9. Orchard Lake St. Mary's
The Eaglets, much like North Farmington, will have outstanding guard play this winter with seniors Sam McClendon and Matt Linehan helping lead the way. Both are capable of scoring inside or outside, while McClendon has proven to be one of the area's best point guards over the course of the past few years. St. Mary's will also have an athletic playmaker in Jalen Watts-Jackson, who can do a little bit of everything inside or outside for the Eaglets.
10. Southfield Christian
While the Eagles did lose several players from last year's state title squad, Southfield Christian will once again be a force this winter. With sophomore guard Bakari Evelyn and junior Lindsey Hunter IV, Southfield Christian will once again be nearly unstoppable at the guard position. Look for junior transfer Damarco White, a 6-7 forward, to be a force down low all season long as the Eagles look to repeat as Class D state champs.
The Yellowjackets will be one of the highest scoring squads around this winter as they will have scorers from just about everywhere. With guards Austin Price and Mory Diane capable of scoring from just about everywhere along with one of the best pure point guards you'll find in Edmund Sumner, Country Day will be one tough team to slow down this season.
2. Clarkston
Injuries will be an issue for the Wolves early on, but Clarkston will be once again be one of the top defensive teams around, while also being one of the best shooting teams in the county. The Wolves will have strong guard play from seniors Jordan Dasuqi, and Chance Huth, while junior sharpshooter Nick Owens and junior transfer Press Kampe will add another dimension on the court for Clarkston.
3. Bloomfield Hills Lahser
The Knights will be one of the top forces in Oakland County for at least the next two years, thanks in large part to one of, if not the best junior class in the state. With 6-9 center Yante Maten, considered one of the best big men in the state, along with dynamic guards Armand Cartwright and Khalil Gracey helping lead the way this year, Lahser will be one of the most dangerous inside-outside teams that you will find this winter.
4. Rochester
Let the James Young show begin. While Young, one of the best high school players in the country will undoubtedly give Rochester an advantage over most teams this fall, don't sleep on several other players for Rochester this winter. With senior center Arben Camaj along with guards Manny Mendoza, Mike Murri and Jason Lee, the Falcons will give teams trouble all season long.
5. Rochester Adams
While Rochester is getting all of the attention early on, Adams is not a team that should be overlooked. With point guard Akhemji Williams and forwards Zach Littleson and Andrew McBride, the Highlanders will be able to compete with just about anybody in Oakland County. Look for Adams to be a serious contender to unseat Rochester in the OAA White this winter.
6. Southfield-Lathrup
Senior guard Jon-Jon Williams is about as good of a guard as you will find, proving to be dangerous both inside and out and will give teams fits all season long, while opening things up for teammates along the way. Look for juniors Marlon Tate and Daniel King to be key factors as well for the Chargers this fall as they should have plenty of opportunities this season.
7. Waterford Mott
The Corsairs could have one of the area's best inside-outside tandems this winter with guard Khalil Malone and transfer Quincy Norman, who combined for 34 points in the season opener. Malone can flat out score the ball, whether it's from behind the arc, or driving to the hoop and Norman will give Mott another inside force, filling in for Davonte Daniel who was the team's go-to post player last season.
8. North Farmington
The Raiders will have one of, if not the best backcourt duo this year with seniors Caleb Hogans and Sterling Sharp leading the way. Hogans, one of the best point guards around averaged over 15 points and six assists per contest last season, while Sharp did a little bit of everything last season on both ends of the court. North Farmington will also have sophomore forward Jeron "Buddha" Rogers who was one of the top shot blockers around as a freshman last season.
9. Orchard Lake St. Mary's
The Eaglets, much like North Farmington, will have outstanding guard play this winter with seniors Sam McClendon and Matt Linehan helping lead the way. Both are capable of scoring inside or outside, while McClendon has proven to be one of the area's best point guards over the course of the past few years. St. Mary's will also have an athletic playmaker in Jalen Watts-Jackson, who can do a little bit of everything inside or outside for the Eaglets.
10. Southfield Christian
While the Eagles did lose several players from last year's state title squad, Southfield Christian will once again be a force this winter. With sophomore guard Bakari Evelyn and junior Lindsey Hunter IV, Southfield Christian will once again be nearly unstoppable at the guard position. Look for junior transfer Damarco White, a 6-7 forward, to be a force down low all season long as the Eagles look to repeat as Class D state champs.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Elite Eight - Oakland County Football MVP
8. Brian Walker - Birmingham Brother Rice
Walker was the definition of a workhorse in his junior season as the Brother Rice running back carried the ball over 250 times on the season for just under 1,500 yards rushing. Walker also broke the school record for touchdowns in a season with 21, breaking Devin Church's record of 20 set last year, to lead the Warriors to the D-2 state title.
7. Jon Reschke - Birmingham Brother Rice
Reschke was nothing short of dominant this season, showing just why he was one of the country's most coveted linebacking prospects. The soon-to-be Michigan State linebacker finished the 2012 season with over 130 tackles and eight sacks, while helping Brother Rice win its second straight state title.
6. Jake Slobin - Farmington Hills Harrison
Slobin flew under the radar all season long, but was one of the state's biggest force on the defensive line in 2012. Slobin tallied just under 100 tackles, including an 18 tackle effort early in the season, and six sacks from his defensive tackle position as he helped lead the Hawks to the playoffs once again.
5. Matt Kosmalski - Walled Lake Northern
Kosmalski, did a little bit of everything for the Knights in 2012, as he did damage at running back as well as wide receiver and was one of the area's top defensive backs all season long. The senior rushed for over 1,000 yards and received for over 600, while recording 92 tackles and seven interceptions.
4. Anthony Darkangelo - Novi Detroit Catholic Central
Darkangelo was one of the state's best two-way players all season long as he started at running back as well as linebacker for the Shamrocks. The senior rushed for over 1,100 yards and 14 touchdowns offensively, and tallied 124 tackles on defense to help lead the Shamrocks back to Ford Field in the D-1 state final.
3. Richie Wilson - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Wilson rushed for over 1,300 yards and 200 yards receiving in his junior campaign for the Yellowjackets to help lead them to Ford Field and the D-4 state finals. Wilson also tallied over 30 total touchdowns on the season and was one of the areas best defensive backs in the Country Day secondary.
2. Ian Eriksen - Clarkston
Eriksen, much like Wilson, was all over the place out of the Clarkston backfield this season. Finishing with over 2,000 yards rushing on the season to go along with 30 touchdowns on the season, Eriksen helped keep the Wolves unbeaten into the playoffs and ranked No. 1 in the state for much of the season.
1. Grant Niemiec - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
Niemiec did a little bit of everything for the Eaglets in 2012, rushing for a school record of 1,910 yards and almost 30 touchdowns on the season, while also tallying 128 tackles in his first year starting at linebacker. The Miami (OH.) commit was also named the Division 3-4 player of the year and helped lead St. Mary's to its fourth consecutive D-3 state title appearance.
Honorable Mention (No Order): Josh Jones (WL Western); Cam Thomas (South Lyon East); Kyle Bambard (WL Western); Collin O'Donnell (WL Northern); Jason Alessi (Birmingham Brother Rice); Justice Bolling (Waterford Mott); Austin Johnson (OL St. Mary's); Matt Linehan (OL St. Mary's); Parker McInnis (OL St. Mary's); Lawrence Marshall (Southfield); Nick Matich (Clarkston); Tyler Wiegers (Country Day); Garrett Moores (Catholic Central); Connor Mohr (Farmington); Brian Williams (Oak Park); Spencer McCourt (BH Lahser); Ross Williams (Birmingham Groves); Jesse Chadwell (Clarkston); Derric Williams (Lake Orion); Nick Booker (Lake Orion); Dylan Roney (Catholic Central)
Walker was the definition of a workhorse in his junior season as the Brother Rice running back carried the ball over 250 times on the season for just under 1,500 yards rushing. Walker also broke the school record for touchdowns in a season with 21, breaking Devin Church's record of 20 set last year, to lead the Warriors to the D-2 state title.
7. Jon Reschke - Birmingham Brother Rice
Reschke was nothing short of dominant this season, showing just why he was one of the country's most coveted linebacking prospects. The soon-to-be Michigan State linebacker finished the 2012 season with over 130 tackles and eight sacks, while helping Brother Rice win its second straight state title.
6. Jake Slobin - Farmington Hills Harrison
Slobin flew under the radar all season long, but was one of the state's biggest force on the defensive line in 2012. Slobin tallied just under 100 tackles, including an 18 tackle effort early in the season, and six sacks from his defensive tackle position as he helped lead the Hawks to the playoffs once again.
5. Matt Kosmalski - Walled Lake Northern
Kosmalski, did a little bit of everything for the Knights in 2012, as he did damage at running back as well as wide receiver and was one of the area's top defensive backs all season long. The senior rushed for over 1,000 yards and received for over 600, while recording 92 tackles and seven interceptions.
4. Anthony Darkangelo - Novi Detroit Catholic Central
Darkangelo was one of the state's best two-way players all season long as he started at running back as well as linebacker for the Shamrocks. The senior rushed for over 1,100 yards and 14 touchdowns offensively, and tallied 124 tackles on defense to help lead the Shamrocks back to Ford Field in the D-1 state final.
3. Richie Wilson - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Wilson rushed for over 1,300 yards and 200 yards receiving in his junior campaign for the Yellowjackets to help lead them to Ford Field and the D-4 state finals. Wilson also tallied over 30 total touchdowns on the season and was one of the areas best defensive backs in the Country Day secondary.
2. Ian Eriksen - Clarkston
Eriksen, much like Wilson, was all over the place out of the Clarkston backfield this season. Finishing with over 2,000 yards rushing on the season to go along with 30 touchdowns on the season, Eriksen helped keep the Wolves unbeaten into the playoffs and ranked No. 1 in the state for much of the season.
1. Grant Niemiec - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
Niemiec did a little bit of everything for the Eaglets in 2012, rushing for a school record of 1,910 yards and almost 30 touchdowns on the season, while also tallying 128 tackles in his first year starting at linebacker. The Miami (OH.) commit was also named the Division 3-4 player of the year and helped lead St. Mary's to its fourth consecutive D-3 state title appearance.
Honorable Mention (No Order): Josh Jones (WL Western); Cam Thomas (South Lyon East); Kyle Bambard (WL Western); Collin O'Donnell (WL Northern); Jason Alessi (Birmingham Brother Rice); Justice Bolling (Waterford Mott); Austin Johnson (OL St. Mary's); Matt Linehan (OL St. Mary's); Parker McInnis (OL St. Mary's); Lawrence Marshall (Southfield); Nick Matich (Clarkston); Tyler Wiegers (Country Day); Garrett Moores (Catholic Central); Connor Mohr (Farmington); Brian Williams (Oak Park); Spencer McCourt (BH Lahser); Ross Williams (Birmingham Groves); Jesse Chadwell (Clarkston); Derric Williams (Lake Orion); Nick Booker (Lake Orion); Dylan Roney (Catholic Central)
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Oakland County Girls Basketball Preview -- Top 25 Players
1. Sydni Davis - Southfield-Lathrup
Arguably the most complete player that Oakland County has to offer, the transfer from West Bloomfield will give the Chargers yet another weapon to use this winter. Davis averaged nearly 20 points per game last season as a junior, making her one of the most dangerous guards in the state and is also one of the top defensive players in the area.
2. Sami Stormont - Royal Oak
Stormont can flat out score the basketball. Plain and simple. Averaging over 22 points per game and over nine rebounds per contest as a junior last season, Stormont earned first team all-state honors in Class A. Having already scored over 1,000 points in her high school career in just three years and tallying over 40 double-doubles, Stormont will once again be one of the state's most prolific scorers this winter.
3. Shannon Wilson - Bloomfield Hills Andover
One of Oakland County's best inside-outside players, Wilson is dangerous from anywhere on the court. Averaging 17 points per game last season, Wilson was one of the biggest scoring threats around at the guard position with her ability to shoot and drive to the basket, but can also be just as effective inside.
4. Lexie Robak - Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes
Named to the first team all-state Class D squad as a junior last year, Robak finished off the 2011-12 season averaging over 10 points and five rebounds per game, while helping the Lakers take home their third consecutive state title. Look for Robak to be one of the top scorers and defenders in Class D once again this winter, as Lakes will look to make it four straight state titles.
5. Delaney Kenny - Clarkston
Kenny has been a starter for the Wolves dating back to her freshman season and will once again be one of the top guards in the area this winter. Last season, Kenny averaged over 10 points per contest on her way to being named honorable mention on the Class A all-state squad as a junior.
6. Candace Leatherwood - Farmington Hills Mercy
Yet another versatile guard, Leatherwood showed last year that she can be one of the best around when it comes to scoring the ball, or passing. With a team filled with shooters, Leatherwood will have plenty of options to pass, but will have just as many opportunities to score as well.
7. Asia Doss - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Doss flew under the radar for much of the year last season, because of the star power the Yellowjackets had, but now the junior will be right at the center for Country Day. Doss, already considered as one of the top college prospects in the class of 2014 after pouring in 10 points per game in her sophomore campaign.
8. Ava Doetsch - Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes
One of the top point guards in the area this winter, Doetsch will be racking up the assists all season long, but is just as dangerous of a scorer and defender for the Lakers. Doetsch and Robak will make for one of, if not the best back court duo in Oakland County this year.
9. Alyssa Copley - Holly
One of the best inside forces there are, Copley was one of the top rebounders and shot blockers in Oakland County as a sophomore last season. Look for more of the same on that end and Copley could emerge as one of the top inside scorers as well this winter.
10. Natalie Voss/Lauren Voss - Stoney Creek
One of the best 1-2 punches you will find, as both have proved to be legit inside forces, averaging just under 10 points and 10 rebounds per game last year as sophomores. Natalie also proved to be one of the more dangerous shot blockers in Oakland, while Lauren showed last year and early this year that she can be the latest sharpshooter to play for the Cougars.
11. Kerri McMahan - Novi
McMahan will be one of the top distributors in the area entering this season, but will do her fair share of scoring as she will be one of just a few returning players for the Wildcats this winter.
12. Amber Jamison - Rochester Adams
Jamison might have had her "breakout game" on Friday night with a 19 point, 16 rebound and five block effort. The sophomore will likely be one of the top inside players in the county for the next three years.
13. Christina Green - Southfield-Lathrup
Another dominant inside force, Green will give the Chargers a strong post player to go along with Davis on the outside. Green will be one of the area's best rebounders and shot blockers this winter.
14. Shelby Watts - Waterford Kettering
Keeping with the trend of post players, Watts will be the leader of what will be a young and inexperienced Kettering squad. Look for Watts to be one of the top shot blockers and rebounders in the KLAA next season as Kettering will look to win another North division title.
15. Lauren Hung - Waterford Mott
Hung can flat out shoot the ball. One of the best pure jump shooters in the area, Hung averaged nearly 20 points per game last year and has over 1,000 points in her high school career already.
16. Kristin Massey - Novi Franklin Road Christian
Massey is one of the unknown stars in Oakland County as she averaged nearly 30 points per contest last season as a sophomore. It will be interesting to see how many more points she will score in the next two seasons.
17. Raiven Owusu - Rochester Adams
The second half of the sophomore twin towers for the Highlanders, Owusu also had a bit of a breakout in the first week of the season, scoring 37 points in two games and is also a good distributor at guard and is a good rebounder as well.
18. Caitlin Crowley - Walled Lake Northern
Crowley is another Oakland County guard who can score in a number of ways. Crowley averaged 15 points per game last season as a junior and is a very good shooter, but can also score inside as well.
19. Aaron Howell - Farmington
Howell is one of the top all-around players in Oakland Count because of her ability to both score the ball and defend. Look for Howell to have a big year in a number of ways for the Falcons.
20. Allie Gorcyca - Farmington Hills Mercy
Gorcyca might be the best shooter in Oakland County, and possibly the state. Regardless of where she is on the court, she can knock down shots from just about anywhere, giving the Marlins a dangerous 1-2 punch between Gorcyca and Leatherwood.
21. Charity Godbold - Southfield Christian
Another multi-dimensional player who can flat-out score, Godbold averaged over 20 points per game as a sophomore last season and could be well on her way to matching that this year after tallying a triple-double in the season opener.
22. Marissa Cotton - Farmington Hills Harrison
Cotton will be one of the constant contributors for the Hawks for a third straight season. Having not missed a game in the past two seasons, Cotton averaged more than 10 points per game last year and should be ready for a big year this winter.
23. Shelby Davis - Oxford
Davis will be one of the better inside-outside players around this winter, with her ability to both rebound and shoot. Last year, Davis nearly averaged a double-double as a junior, and you can expect more of the same this year.
24. Sarah LewAllen - Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
LewAllen did a little bit of everything for the Irish last year, averaging nine points per game, while also picking up her fair share of rebounds, assists and steals. This year could be a breakout year for the junior who is the top returning scorer for Notre Dame Prep.
25. Erika Davenport/Erin Davenport - Clarkston
One of the best inside-outside sister combinations that there is in the state. Erika is one of the best post players that Oakland County has to offer with her rebounding, shot blocking and scoring ability, while Erin is one of the top point guards around with her ability to pass and score.
15 More to keep an eye on this winter (No Order)
Tierra Binder - Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood
Zhana Randolph - Rochester
Jayla Nichols - Walled Lake Western
Sydney Heath - Troy
Courtney Williams - Southfield
Dominique Zigo - Lakeland
Becky VanSloten - Auburn Hills Oakland Christian
Sabria Cotton - Southfield Lathrup
Quinnence Garrison - Auburn Hills Avondale
Anne Tucker - Rochester
Emilie Kipp - Lake Orion
Micaela Ellis - Ferndale
Brittany Washington - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Taylor Steinhelper - Waterford Kettering
Kaitlyn Kendall - North Farmington
Arguably the most complete player that Oakland County has to offer, the transfer from West Bloomfield will give the Chargers yet another weapon to use this winter. Davis averaged nearly 20 points per game last season as a junior, making her one of the most dangerous guards in the state and is also one of the top defensive players in the area.
2. Sami Stormont - Royal Oak
Stormont can flat out score the basketball. Plain and simple. Averaging over 22 points per game and over nine rebounds per contest as a junior last season, Stormont earned first team all-state honors in Class A. Having already scored over 1,000 points in her high school career in just three years and tallying over 40 double-doubles, Stormont will once again be one of the state's most prolific scorers this winter.
3. Shannon Wilson - Bloomfield Hills Andover
One of Oakland County's best inside-outside players, Wilson is dangerous from anywhere on the court. Averaging 17 points per game last season, Wilson was one of the biggest scoring threats around at the guard position with her ability to shoot and drive to the basket, but can also be just as effective inside.
4. Lexie Robak - Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes
Named to the first team all-state Class D squad as a junior last year, Robak finished off the 2011-12 season averaging over 10 points and five rebounds per game, while helping the Lakers take home their third consecutive state title. Look for Robak to be one of the top scorers and defenders in Class D once again this winter, as Lakes will look to make it four straight state titles.
5. Delaney Kenny - Clarkston
Kenny has been a starter for the Wolves dating back to her freshman season and will once again be one of the top guards in the area this winter. Last season, Kenny averaged over 10 points per contest on her way to being named honorable mention on the Class A all-state squad as a junior.
6. Candace Leatherwood - Farmington Hills Mercy
Yet another versatile guard, Leatherwood showed last year that she can be one of the best around when it comes to scoring the ball, or passing. With a team filled with shooters, Leatherwood will have plenty of options to pass, but will have just as many opportunities to score as well.
7. Asia Doss - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Doss flew under the radar for much of the year last season, because of the star power the Yellowjackets had, but now the junior will be right at the center for Country Day. Doss, already considered as one of the top college prospects in the class of 2014 after pouring in 10 points per game in her sophomore campaign.
8. Ava Doetsch - Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes
One of the top point guards in the area this winter, Doetsch will be racking up the assists all season long, but is just as dangerous of a scorer and defender for the Lakers. Doetsch and Robak will make for one of, if not the best back court duo in Oakland County this year.
9. Alyssa Copley - Holly
One of the best inside forces there are, Copley was one of the top rebounders and shot blockers in Oakland County as a sophomore last season. Look for more of the same on that end and Copley could emerge as one of the top inside scorers as well this winter.
10. Natalie Voss/Lauren Voss - Stoney Creek
One of the best 1-2 punches you will find, as both have proved to be legit inside forces, averaging just under 10 points and 10 rebounds per game last year as sophomores. Natalie also proved to be one of the more dangerous shot blockers in Oakland, while Lauren showed last year and early this year that she can be the latest sharpshooter to play for the Cougars.
11. Kerri McMahan - Novi
McMahan will be one of the top distributors in the area entering this season, but will do her fair share of scoring as she will be one of just a few returning players for the Wildcats this winter.
12. Amber Jamison - Rochester Adams
Jamison might have had her "breakout game" on Friday night with a 19 point, 16 rebound and five block effort. The sophomore will likely be one of the top inside players in the county for the next three years.
13. Christina Green - Southfield-Lathrup
Another dominant inside force, Green will give the Chargers a strong post player to go along with Davis on the outside. Green will be one of the area's best rebounders and shot blockers this winter.
14. Shelby Watts - Waterford Kettering
Keeping with the trend of post players, Watts will be the leader of what will be a young and inexperienced Kettering squad. Look for Watts to be one of the top shot blockers and rebounders in the KLAA next season as Kettering will look to win another North division title.
15. Lauren Hung - Waterford Mott
Hung can flat out shoot the ball. One of the best pure jump shooters in the area, Hung averaged nearly 20 points per game last year and has over 1,000 points in her high school career already.
16. Kristin Massey - Novi Franklin Road Christian
Massey is one of the unknown stars in Oakland County as she averaged nearly 30 points per contest last season as a sophomore. It will be interesting to see how many more points she will score in the next two seasons.
17. Raiven Owusu - Rochester Adams
The second half of the sophomore twin towers for the Highlanders, Owusu also had a bit of a breakout in the first week of the season, scoring 37 points in two games and is also a good distributor at guard and is a good rebounder as well.
18. Caitlin Crowley - Walled Lake Northern
Crowley is another Oakland County guard who can score in a number of ways. Crowley averaged 15 points per game last season as a junior and is a very good shooter, but can also score inside as well.
19. Aaron Howell - Farmington
Howell is one of the top all-around players in Oakland Count because of her ability to both score the ball and defend. Look for Howell to have a big year in a number of ways for the Falcons.
20. Allie Gorcyca - Farmington Hills Mercy
Gorcyca might be the best shooter in Oakland County, and possibly the state. Regardless of where she is on the court, she can knock down shots from just about anywhere, giving the Marlins a dangerous 1-2 punch between Gorcyca and Leatherwood.
21. Charity Godbold - Southfield Christian
Another multi-dimensional player who can flat-out score, Godbold averaged over 20 points per game as a sophomore last season and could be well on her way to matching that this year after tallying a triple-double in the season opener.
22. Marissa Cotton - Farmington Hills Harrison
Cotton will be one of the constant contributors for the Hawks for a third straight season. Having not missed a game in the past two seasons, Cotton averaged more than 10 points per game last year and should be ready for a big year this winter.
23. Shelby Davis - Oxford
Davis will be one of the better inside-outside players around this winter, with her ability to both rebound and shoot. Last year, Davis nearly averaged a double-double as a junior, and you can expect more of the same this year.
24. Sarah LewAllen - Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
LewAllen did a little bit of everything for the Irish last year, averaging nine points per game, while also picking up her fair share of rebounds, assists and steals. This year could be a breakout year for the junior who is the top returning scorer for Notre Dame Prep.
25. Erika Davenport/Erin Davenport - Clarkston
One of the best inside-outside sister combinations that there is in the state. Erika is one of the best post players that Oakland County has to offer with her rebounding, shot blocking and scoring ability, while Erin is one of the top point guards around with her ability to pass and score.
15 More to keep an eye on this winter (No Order)
Tierra Binder - Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood
Zhana Randolph - Rochester
Jayla Nichols - Walled Lake Western
Sydney Heath - Troy
Courtney Williams - Southfield
Dominique Zigo - Lakeland
Becky VanSloten - Auburn Hills Oakland Christian
Sabria Cotton - Southfield Lathrup
Quinnence Garrison - Auburn Hills Avondale
Anne Tucker - Rochester
Emilie Kipp - Lake Orion
Micaela Ellis - Ferndale
Brittany Washington - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Taylor Steinhelper - Waterford Kettering
Kaitlyn Kendall - North Farmington
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Oakland County Girls Basketball Preview -- Top 10 Teams
1. Southfield-Lathrup
The Chargers enter the 2012-2013 season as the best team in Oakland County thanks in large part to three high-profile transfers into Lathrup for the upcoming season, including Sydni Davis (West Bloomfield), Sabria Cotton (Troy), and Asia King (Pontiac). But don't forget about some of the players that are back with the Chargers from last season's squad, including Erica Longmire as well as one of the best inside players in the county Christina Green.
2. Birmingham Detroit Country Day
This season's Yellowjacket's squad is going to have a much different look to it than in year's past as Country Day won't have Aerial Powers or Amber Deane leading the way. But the Yellowjackets will have other "stars in the making" running things this season with Asia Doss, Brittany Washington and Tiana Glimpse hoping to lead the Yellowjackets to yet another regional title this fall.
3. Rochester Adams
The Highlanders will be a team that will be more than difficult to score against as Adams will have three players who are either at, or close to six feet tall, including sophomores Raiven Owusu, who poured in 20 points in the season opener and 17 more against Groves on Friday, and Amber Jamison who registered 19 points and 16 rebounds in the win over Groves. With seniors Brittany Boyle and Katie Milke and junior Jenny Rosonke Adams is built for both short team and long term success and could be a sleeper team come playoff time.
4. Farmington Hills Mercy
Much like Adams, Mercy is built for both short and long term success. The Marlins will have a group that is built from almost all juniors this season, which includes one of the area's top point guards in Candice Leatherwood and sharp-shooter Allie Gorcyca as well as one of the best defenders in Oakland County in Sam Bauer. Look for a number of other underclassmen to help lead the Marlins this year, with Sierra LeGrande and sophomore transfer Sierra Wangler (Royal Oak Shrine).
5. Clarkston
The Wolves will feature one of the best backcourts that Oakland County will have to offer this winter, with four year starter Delaney Kenny and Erin Davenport, who should be able to handle the majority of the scoring for Clarkston this fall. But don't sleep on the Clarkston frontcourt, which will have one of the area's top young post players in Erika Davenport along with a strong junior rotation helping with some defense and rebounding.
6. Stoney Creek
It will be a challenge for the Cougars to make-up for the loss of Gabby Yurik, but Stoney Creek has some sharpshooters on the roster once again. In the season opener against Utica, the Cougars buried 11 3-pointers on the night, four coming from Maria Zandi and Lauren Voss and two more coming from Natalie Voss. It will be a work in progress for Stoney Creek at times this winter, but with three sharpshooters on board, the Cougars are capable of beating just about anyone at anytime.
7. Royal Oak
With star guard Sami Stormont back for her senior year, the Ravens will be another team that is capable of beating just about any team on its schedule this season. Stormont was already in midseason form in the season opener as she scored 34 points to lead Royal Oak to a win over Walled Lake Northern. But there will be a strong supporting cast along with Stormont, including Ashley Krenzer, who poured in 12 points in the opener, and Bella Leone who scored nine in the second game of the year on Friday.
8. Rochester
It wasn't an ideal start to the season for the Falcons after falling to Oxford to start the season, but Rochester will be one of the area's top defensive squads, and has proven just that in the opening week. The Falcons limited Oxford to just 35 points on Tuesday and then held Lake Orion to 27 points on Friday. Rochester will have a few go-to scorers, including Aubrey Konal, who poured in 13 points to lead the Falcons to their first win, but the defense will win plenty of games for them this season.
9. Waterford Out Lady of the Lakes
It'd be hard not to include the defending Class D state champions, who will be in search of a fourth straight state title this winter. The Lakers will have a trio of players who will be shooting for a fourth state title ring in Lexie Robak, Ava Doetsch and Jessica Parry along with junior Anna Robb, which will account for four of one of the most experienced starting fives in the state. It's definitely not out of the question to think that Lakes could win its fourth straight state title for just the second time in state history.
10. Waterford Kettering
The Captains lost plenty of key senior contributors off of last year's squad, but should once again be the favorite to win the KLAA North division this winter. Senior forward Shelby Watts should help lead the way for Kettering, who should once again be one of the top defensive team's in Oakland County. Look for senior guard Taylor Steinhelper to help pace the offense along with a handful of other new starters this year for the Captains.
10 More to keep an eye out for (No Order)
Oxford
Auburn Hills Avondale
Birmingham Seaholm
Southfield
South Lyon East
Bloomfield Hills Andover
Pontiac
Waterford Mott
Walled Lake Western
Novi
Twitter.com/JDeuceDullack
The Chargers enter the 2012-2013 season as the best team in Oakland County thanks in large part to three high-profile transfers into Lathrup for the upcoming season, including Sydni Davis (West Bloomfield), Sabria Cotton (Troy), and Asia King (Pontiac). But don't forget about some of the players that are back with the Chargers from last season's squad, including Erica Longmire as well as one of the best inside players in the county Christina Green.
2. Birmingham Detroit Country Day
This season's Yellowjacket's squad is going to have a much different look to it than in year's past as Country Day won't have Aerial Powers or Amber Deane leading the way. But the Yellowjackets will have other "stars in the making" running things this season with Asia Doss, Brittany Washington and Tiana Glimpse hoping to lead the Yellowjackets to yet another regional title this fall.
3. Rochester Adams
The Highlanders will be a team that will be more than difficult to score against as Adams will have three players who are either at, or close to six feet tall, including sophomores Raiven Owusu, who poured in 20 points in the season opener and 17 more against Groves on Friday, and Amber Jamison who registered 19 points and 16 rebounds in the win over Groves. With seniors Brittany Boyle and Katie Milke and junior Jenny Rosonke Adams is built for both short team and long term success and could be a sleeper team come playoff time.
4. Farmington Hills Mercy
Much like Adams, Mercy is built for both short and long term success. The Marlins will have a group that is built from almost all juniors this season, which includes one of the area's top point guards in Candice Leatherwood and sharp-shooter Allie Gorcyca as well as one of the best defenders in Oakland County in Sam Bauer. Look for a number of other underclassmen to help lead the Marlins this year, with Sierra LeGrande and sophomore transfer Sierra Wangler (Royal Oak Shrine).
5. Clarkston
The Wolves will feature one of the best backcourts that Oakland County will have to offer this winter, with four year starter Delaney Kenny and Erin Davenport, who should be able to handle the majority of the scoring for Clarkston this fall. But don't sleep on the Clarkston frontcourt, which will have one of the area's top young post players in Erika Davenport along with a strong junior rotation helping with some defense and rebounding.
6. Stoney Creek
It will be a challenge for the Cougars to make-up for the loss of Gabby Yurik, but Stoney Creek has some sharpshooters on the roster once again. In the season opener against Utica, the Cougars buried 11 3-pointers on the night, four coming from Maria Zandi and Lauren Voss and two more coming from Natalie Voss. It will be a work in progress for Stoney Creek at times this winter, but with three sharpshooters on board, the Cougars are capable of beating just about anyone at anytime.
7. Royal Oak
With star guard Sami Stormont back for her senior year, the Ravens will be another team that is capable of beating just about any team on its schedule this season. Stormont was already in midseason form in the season opener as she scored 34 points to lead Royal Oak to a win over Walled Lake Northern. But there will be a strong supporting cast along with Stormont, including Ashley Krenzer, who poured in 12 points in the opener, and Bella Leone who scored nine in the second game of the year on Friday.
8. Rochester
It wasn't an ideal start to the season for the Falcons after falling to Oxford to start the season, but Rochester will be one of the area's top defensive squads, and has proven just that in the opening week. The Falcons limited Oxford to just 35 points on Tuesday and then held Lake Orion to 27 points on Friday. Rochester will have a few go-to scorers, including Aubrey Konal, who poured in 13 points to lead the Falcons to their first win, but the defense will win plenty of games for them this season.
9. Waterford Out Lady of the Lakes
It'd be hard not to include the defending Class D state champions, who will be in search of a fourth straight state title this winter. The Lakers will have a trio of players who will be shooting for a fourth state title ring in Lexie Robak, Ava Doetsch and Jessica Parry along with junior Anna Robb, which will account for four of one of the most experienced starting fives in the state. It's definitely not out of the question to think that Lakes could win its fourth straight state title for just the second time in state history.
10. Waterford Kettering
The Captains lost plenty of key senior contributors off of last year's squad, but should once again be the favorite to win the KLAA North division this winter. Senior forward Shelby Watts should help lead the way for Kettering, who should once again be one of the top defensive team's in Oakland County. Look for senior guard Taylor Steinhelper to help pace the offense along with a handful of other new starters this year for the Captains.
10 More to keep an eye out for (No Order)
Oxford
Auburn Hills Avondale
Birmingham Seaholm
Southfield
South Lyon East
Bloomfield Hills Andover
Pontiac
Waterford Mott
Walled Lake Western
Novi
Twitter.com/JDeuceDullack
Monday, November 26, 2012
State Finals Reaction -- Offensive and Defensive MVP's
BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 35, MUSKEGON 28
Offensive MVP: Shon Powell, Brother Rice Running Back
Powell capped off an impressive and relatively unexpected postseason run with a strong performance on Friday afternoon as the junior running back rushed for just under 100 yards on just seven carries for the game, while finding the end zone in the second half as well. In five playoff games, Powell rushed for over 550 yards and seven touchdowns after rushing for less than 400 yards in nine regular season games to help lead the playoff push for the Warriors as they captured their second straight state title for the first time in history.
Defensive/Special Teams MVP: Jason Alessi, Brother Rice DB/KR
This MVP for Alessi goes with an assist from Delano Madison, who received the kickoff after Muskegon tied the game up at 28-28, took a few steps and threw a near perfect pass back across the field to Alessi and the rest was history as Alessi returned the ball 91 yards for the game-winning score. But Alessi also had a big game on defense as he finished with a game-high 12 tackles, including two tackles which might have prevented a long touchdown run by Muskegon quarterback Jalen Smith
Final Word: The true MVP of this game is without a doubt the Brother Rice play-callers. To dial up not one, but two gutsy trick plays late in the fourth quarter was the difference maker for the Warriors as Muskegon just could not stop the Brother Rice trickery. Don't forget about the defense's performance either as the Warriors held Muskegon's star back John King to just 23 yards rushing for the game, something that very few teams have been able to do this year.
A 3-peat is not out of the question for the Warriors next year as Brother Rice will return quite a few players on offense and defense in 2013. Offensively, Brother Rice will return Powell and Brian Walker, who was the lead back all season long, along with sophomore gunslinger Alex Malzone and receivers Josh Flye, Corey Lacanaria and Grant Perry, which should make for one of the most balanced offenses that the state will have to offer. Defensively, the Warriors will be strong once again, especially in the secondary with defensive back Chris Carter joining Alessi in the defensive backfield once again. Defensive lineman Alberto Sandoval and linebacker Shaun Jones, who came up with a key pass breakup and a fumble recovery deep in Muskegon's end to set up the go-ahead touchdown by Powell, will also be key contributors for the Warrior's defense in 2013 as well.
It's also hard to believe that this is the first time in Brother Rice history where the Warriors have won back-to-back state titles, considering all of the success they've had in the past few decades. But if this was in fact the final game for legendary head coach Al Fracassa, there couldn't be a better way to go out after yet another state title.
GRAND RAPIDS SOUTH CHRISTIAN 40, BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 7
Offensive MVP: Derek Woltjer, South Christian Quarterback
It's hard to believe that Woltjer was only a backup quarterback. The South Christian signal caller made it look easy on Friday night as he picked apart the Country Day defense in more ways than one. Woltjer finished the D-4 state final game with a game-high 153 yards rushing on just 15 carries, while finding the end zone twice on the ground. Through the air, Woltjer was just as good as he finished with a perfect 8-for-8 passing for 88 yards and two more touchdowns. I don't think it gets much better than that for a quarterback.
Defensive MVP: Derrick Coleman, Country Day Defensive Lineman
Coleman was one of the few Country Day players that were able to disrupt the South Christian offensive rhythm on Friday night as he finished with two sacks, three tackles for loss as well as a forced fumble. There weren't many bright spots to see for the Yellowjackets on Friday night, but Coleman was definitely one of them.
Final Word: It just wasn't meant to be for Country Day. The Yellowjackets had no answer for the South Christian read option on Friday night and whenever it seemed like they found a way to slow down the run, South Christian burned Country Day with a pass. This ugly loss came at the hands of an inexperienced, but very athletic back-up quarterback, who was filling in for Jon Wassink, South Christian's starting quarterback who was hurt near the end of the semifinal win for the Sailors. But Country Day should have been well aware of what Woltjer was capable of, considering he was one of Wassinks top receivers during the season.
This isn't going to be a case for Country Day where they will have to rebuild and shoot for a return to the state finals down the road, because the Yellowjackets will have a number of starters returning for the 2013 season. With quarterback Tyler Wiegers and running back Richie Wilson, who are both considered big time Division 1 college recruits, returning next year, along with receivers Maurice Ways (another D-1 recruit) and Tristin Wiegers coming back next season, the Yellowjackets will have one of the most explosive offenses in the state once again next season.
CASS TECH 36, NOVI DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL 21
Offensive MVP: Mike Weber, Cass Tech Running Back
Weber averaged nearly eight yards per carry for the Technicians against a very stout Catholic Central defense and the Shamrocks really didn't have an answer for him from the start. What was the biggest play of the game for Weber was his 57 yard run on 3rd and long deep in Cass Tech's own end, which set up a 30 yard touchdown run by Deon Drake on the very next play to put the Technicians ahead 22-7. And from there, Cass Tech never looked back as the held at least two score lead for the rest of the game.
Defensive MVP: David Widzinski, Catholic Central Linebacker
One of the bright spots for Catholic Central on Saturday was the sophomore linebacker, who was a tackling machine from start to finish for the Shamrocks on Saturday afternoon. Widzinski finished with a game-high 15 tackles on the day, which was nine more than anyone else on the Catholic Central defense and four more than any player on the Cass Tech defense. Widzinski will be a key returning player for the Shamrock defense in 2013.
Final Word: This game belonged to Cass Tech from the start. The first play from scrimmage for the Technicians was an 89 yard strike from Jayru Campbell to Jourdan Lewis and the game had an immediate feel that was similar to last year's contest. To make matters worse for the Shamrocks, they fumbled just inside the 50 yard line and Kenton Gibbs scooped the ball up and headed 58 yards to give Cass Tech a 12-0 edge early on. Give credit to Catholic Central for battling back and making it a game late in the first half with a score on an 18 yard pass by Garrett Moores to Zach Bock, but the Shamrocks just couldn't match the speed or athleticism of Cass Tech.
There will be plenty to look forward to next season as Catholic Central will try to make it three straight appearances in the state title game, but if that's the case and the Shamrocks do make it back to Ford Field, they should expect Cass Tech to be there as well once again. Look for Widzinski as well as one of the state's top defensive ends in Dylan Roney along with a couple of other players to help lead the Catholic Central defense in 2013. Offensively, Bock will be one of a few players returning for the Shamrocks next season as they will look to fill the void of a number of seniors who helped set the table for Catholic Central over the course of the past two years.
GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN 40, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARY'S 37
**Considering this game saw a state finals records of 1,033 total yards between the two teams, 579 total yards by St. Mary's for another state record as well as one or two more state records, I felt it would be neccessary to add in another offensive MVP category, rather than have a defensive MVP.**
Offensive MVP: Drake Harris, Grand Rapids Christian Wide Receiver
What is there to say about the performance from Harris? This was a performance for the ages by the Michigan State-bound junior who hauled in eight catches for 243 yards which is a state finals record. Harris did haul in a touchdown pass, but his biggest influence in the game came on the final drive of regulation for Grand Rapids Christian as he came up with a huge catch on fourth down and hung onto a 15 yard catch after getting drilled and upended by St. Mary's defensive back Tyson Smith. There were too many spectacular catches to sum up Harris' performance on Saturday, but anything thrown in his direction, he caught, which proved to be the difference.
Offensive MVP(s) (Part Two): Grant Niemiec and Parker McInnis, St. Mary's Running backs
If it weren't for Harris, the two headed monster out of the OLSM backfield would have been the ones who stole the show as the dynamic duo combined for over 400 yards rushing on Saturday night. McInnis rushed for over 10 yards per carry on his way to a 269 yard effort on the night, while Niemiec averaged six yards per attempt as he finished with 168 yards to go along with three touchdowns. Give the big assist to the Eaglet's offensive line for their dominant performance for the second straight state finals as they helped pave the way for the OLSM rushing attack finished with 459 total yards rushing and four touchdowns and four touchdowns.
Final Word: There were a countless amount of contributions to this outcome on Saturday, from the performance by Harris, to the St. Mary's rushing attack, to the clutch field goals from Joel Schipper, who kicked the game tying field goal with less four seconds left in regulation and then the game-winner in overtime. But game came down to the decision to go for it on fourth down on the Grand Rapids Christian three yard line, rather than to kick the field goal and hope for a defensive stand.
However, OLSM head coach George Porritt noted after the game that he wasn't sure if three points would have been enough considering just how effective the GRC aerial attack had been behind quarterback Alex VanDeVusse. But we will never know if three points would have been enough to at least send the game to a second overtime, and you can't blame Porritt and the coaching staff for making the decision to go for the touchdown over the field goal.
While this is a big senior class that has accomplished a ton for the St. Mary's program, the Eaglets have been dominant for the past 13 years and there's no sign of them slowing down even with all of the seniors they will lose to graduation. With receivers Jalen Watts-Jackson, Van Jefferson and Tyson Smith all returning next year it should make the transition for the next quarterback fairly easy and it could leave the door open for a pretty explosive offense in 2013. All three also play defensive back, and will be joining junior defensive lineman Julian Jones on what could make for another dominant St. Mary's defense next fall.
Offensive MVP: Shon Powell, Brother Rice Running Back
Powell capped off an impressive and relatively unexpected postseason run with a strong performance on Friday afternoon as the junior running back rushed for just under 100 yards on just seven carries for the game, while finding the end zone in the second half as well. In five playoff games, Powell rushed for over 550 yards and seven touchdowns after rushing for less than 400 yards in nine regular season games to help lead the playoff push for the Warriors as they captured their second straight state title for the first time in history.
Defensive/Special Teams MVP: Jason Alessi, Brother Rice DB/KR
This MVP for Alessi goes with an assist from Delano Madison, who received the kickoff after Muskegon tied the game up at 28-28, took a few steps and threw a near perfect pass back across the field to Alessi and the rest was history as Alessi returned the ball 91 yards for the game-winning score. But Alessi also had a big game on defense as he finished with a game-high 12 tackles, including two tackles which might have prevented a long touchdown run by Muskegon quarterback Jalen Smith
Final Word: The true MVP of this game is without a doubt the Brother Rice play-callers. To dial up not one, but two gutsy trick plays late in the fourth quarter was the difference maker for the Warriors as Muskegon just could not stop the Brother Rice trickery. Don't forget about the defense's performance either as the Warriors held Muskegon's star back John King to just 23 yards rushing for the game, something that very few teams have been able to do this year.
A 3-peat is not out of the question for the Warriors next year as Brother Rice will return quite a few players on offense and defense in 2013. Offensively, Brother Rice will return Powell and Brian Walker, who was the lead back all season long, along with sophomore gunslinger Alex Malzone and receivers Josh Flye, Corey Lacanaria and Grant Perry, which should make for one of the most balanced offenses that the state will have to offer. Defensively, the Warriors will be strong once again, especially in the secondary with defensive back Chris Carter joining Alessi in the defensive backfield once again. Defensive lineman Alberto Sandoval and linebacker Shaun Jones, who came up with a key pass breakup and a fumble recovery deep in Muskegon's end to set up the go-ahead touchdown by Powell, will also be key contributors for the Warrior's defense in 2013 as well.
It's also hard to believe that this is the first time in Brother Rice history where the Warriors have won back-to-back state titles, considering all of the success they've had in the past few decades. But if this was in fact the final game for legendary head coach Al Fracassa, there couldn't be a better way to go out after yet another state title.
GRAND RAPIDS SOUTH CHRISTIAN 40, BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 7
Offensive MVP: Derek Woltjer, South Christian Quarterback
It's hard to believe that Woltjer was only a backup quarterback. The South Christian signal caller made it look easy on Friday night as he picked apart the Country Day defense in more ways than one. Woltjer finished the D-4 state final game with a game-high 153 yards rushing on just 15 carries, while finding the end zone twice on the ground. Through the air, Woltjer was just as good as he finished with a perfect 8-for-8 passing for 88 yards and two more touchdowns. I don't think it gets much better than that for a quarterback.
Defensive MVP: Derrick Coleman, Country Day Defensive Lineman
Coleman was one of the few Country Day players that were able to disrupt the South Christian offensive rhythm on Friday night as he finished with two sacks, three tackles for loss as well as a forced fumble. There weren't many bright spots to see for the Yellowjackets on Friday night, but Coleman was definitely one of them.
Final Word: It just wasn't meant to be for Country Day. The Yellowjackets had no answer for the South Christian read option on Friday night and whenever it seemed like they found a way to slow down the run, South Christian burned Country Day with a pass. This ugly loss came at the hands of an inexperienced, but very athletic back-up quarterback, who was filling in for Jon Wassink, South Christian's starting quarterback who was hurt near the end of the semifinal win for the Sailors. But Country Day should have been well aware of what Woltjer was capable of, considering he was one of Wassinks top receivers during the season.
This isn't going to be a case for Country Day where they will have to rebuild and shoot for a return to the state finals down the road, because the Yellowjackets will have a number of starters returning for the 2013 season. With quarterback Tyler Wiegers and running back Richie Wilson, who are both considered big time Division 1 college recruits, returning next year, along with receivers Maurice Ways (another D-1 recruit) and Tristin Wiegers coming back next season, the Yellowjackets will have one of the most explosive offenses in the state once again next season.
CASS TECH 36, NOVI DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL 21
Offensive MVP: Mike Weber, Cass Tech Running Back
Weber averaged nearly eight yards per carry for the Technicians against a very stout Catholic Central defense and the Shamrocks really didn't have an answer for him from the start. What was the biggest play of the game for Weber was his 57 yard run on 3rd and long deep in Cass Tech's own end, which set up a 30 yard touchdown run by Deon Drake on the very next play to put the Technicians ahead 22-7. And from there, Cass Tech never looked back as the held at least two score lead for the rest of the game.
Defensive MVP: David Widzinski, Catholic Central Linebacker
One of the bright spots for Catholic Central on Saturday was the sophomore linebacker, who was a tackling machine from start to finish for the Shamrocks on Saturday afternoon. Widzinski finished with a game-high 15 tackles on the day, which was nine more than anyone else on the Catholic Central defense and four more than any player on the Cass Tech defense. Widzinski will be a key returning player for the Shamrock defense in 2013.
Final Word: This game belonged to Cass Tech from the start. The first play from scrimmage for the Technicians was an 89 yard strike from Jayru Campbell to Jourdan Lewis and the game had an immediate feel that was similar to last year's contest. To make matters worse for the Shamrocks, they fumbled just inside the 50 yard line and Kenton Gibbs scooped the ball up and headed 58 yards to give Cass Tech a 12-0 edge early on. Give credit to Catholic Central for battling back and making it a game late in the first half with a score on an 18 yard pass by Garrett Moores to Zach Bock, but the Shamrocks just couldn't match the speed or athleticism of Cass Tech.
There will be plenty to look forward to next season as Catholic Central will try to make it three straight appearances in the state title game, but if that's the case and the Shamrocks do make it back to Ford Field, they should expect Cass Tech to be there as well once again. Look for Widzinski as well as one of the state's top defensive ends in Dylan Roney along with a couple of other players to help lead the Catholic Central defense in 2013. Offensively, Bock will be one of a few players returning for the Shamrocks next season as they will look to fill the void of a number of seniors who helped set the table for Catholic Central over the course of the past two years.
GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN 40, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARY'S 37
**Considering this game saw a state finals records of 1,033 total yards between the two teams, 579 total yards by St. Mary's for another state record as well as one or two more state records, I felt it would be neccessary to add in another offensive MVP category, rather than have a defensive MVP.**
Offensive MVP: Drake Harris, Grand Rapids Christian Wide Receiver
What is there to say about the performance from Harris? This was a performance for the ages by the Michigan State-bound junior who hauled in eight catches for 243 yards which is a state finals record. Harris did haul in a touchdown pass, but his biggest influence in the game came on the final drive of regulation for Grand Rapids Christian as he came up with a huge catch on fourth down and hung onto a 15 yard catch after getting drilled and upended by St. Mary's defensive back Tyson Smith. There were too many spectacular catches to sum up Harris' performance on Saturday, but anything thrown in his direction, he caught, which proved to be the difference.
Offensive MVP(s) (Part Two): Grant Niemiec and Parker McInnis, St. Mary's Running backs
If it weren't for Harris, the two headed monster out of the OLSM backfield would have been the ones who stole the show as the dynamic duo combined for over 400 yards rushing on Saturday night. McInnis rushed for over 10 yards per carry on his way to a 269 yard effort on the night, while Niemiec averaged six yards per attempt as he finished with 168 yards to go along with three touchdowns. Give the big assist to the Eaglet's offensive line for their dominant performance for the second straight state finals as they helped pave the way for the OLSM rushing attack finished with 459 total yards rushing and four touchdowns and four touchdowns.
Final Word: There were a countless amount of contributions to this outcome on Saturday, from the performance by Harris, to the St. Mary's rushing attack, to the clutch field goals from Joel Schipper, who kicked the game tying field goal with less four seconds left in regulation and then the game-winner in overtime. But game came down to the decision to go for it on fourth down on the Grand Rapids Christian three yard line, rather than to kick the field goal and hope for a defensive stand.
However, OLSM head coach George Porritt noted after the game that he wasn't sure if three points would have been enough considering just how effective the GRC aerial attack had been behind quarterback Alex VanDeVusse. But we will never know if three points would have been enough to at least send the game to a second overtime, and you can't blame Porritt and the coaching staff for making the decision to go for the touchdown over the field goal.
While this is a big senior class that has accomplished a ton for the St. Mary's program, the Eaglets have been dominant for the past 13 years and there's no sign of them slowing down even with all of the seniors they will lose to graduation. With receivers Jalen Watts-Jackson, Van Jefferson and Tyson Smith all returning next year it should make the transition for the next quarterback fairly easy and it could leave the door open for a pretty explosive offense in 2013. All three also play defensive back, and will be joining junior defensive lineman Julian Jones on what could make for another dominant St. Mary's defense next fall.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Thoughts from the OLSM-Grand Rapids Christian D-3 Title Game
If I would have been told last night that there was going to be a game that had just as much excitement and was just as good as the Brother Rice-Muskegon game, I wouldn't have believed it. But that's exactly how good this game was and once again, I'll try to break it down.
- Drake Harris, Drake Harris, Drake Harris. The junior receiver put together one of the best individual performances in state finals history on Saturday. It was tremendous catch after tremendous catch, including two big grabs in the final drive of the game. There was just nothing thrown in his direction that he didn't catch. A simply sensational performance by the Michigan State bound star.
- Harris set the single season record for receiving yards in a season as he cleared the 2,000 yard mark on Saturday and finished the season with 91 catches and 25 touchdowns, just one shy of the state record for receiving touchdowns.
- Harris also broke the state finals record for receiving yards in a state finals game with 243 yards, smashing the previous record of 204.
- Putting together a performance that nearly matched Harris' performance on Saturday was that of Parker McInnis and Grant Niemiec, who rushed for over 400 yards combined and gashed the Grand Rapids Christian defense over and over and over.
- One thing that will be overlooked going forward is the fact that the St. Mary's offensive line was once again dominant for the second straight state finals. The Eaglet front line, with senior road-grader Austin Johnson had its way with the Grand Rapids Christian defense and helped lead the OLSM offense to a state finals record 579 yards of offense.
- Offense anyone? This game shattered the offensive record book as the two teams combined for over 1,000 total yards for the first time in state finals history (1,033 to be exact).
- Don't overlook the play from quarterback Matt Linehan in the first half to help the Eaglets climb back into the game after facing a 20-7 deficit. Linehan made some big throws to sophomore receiver Van Jefferson, including a 33 yard strike to cut the GRC lead to 20-14 late in the first half.
- The decision of the game came in overtime when the Eaglets passed up the opportunity to kick a chip shot field goal and went for it on fourth down on the three yard line. The pass fell incomplete and the Grand Rapids Christian kicked the field goal for the win on the very first play of its offensive possession.
- You can't blame George Porritt and the Eaglet coaching staff to go for it on fourth down, because there was no sure thing that three points would have been enough to hold off GRC until the next overtime. With no answer for Drake Harris, GRC would have had three opportunities to win the game with a pass to Harris in the end zone.
- The flip side of the argument would have been to kick the field goal and hope that the defense can hold off GRC for four plays and give the offense another opportunity to punch it into the end zone. But ultimately I agree with the decision to go for the touchdown on fourth down and put the pressure back on Grand Rapids Christian.
- Don't overlook what the OLSM senior class was able to accomplish, leading a team to the state title game for four consecutive seasons is no easy task, regardless of what division a team is from.
- While the Eaglets will graduate a large senior class, there is no doubt that the Eaglets will be back to Ford Field in the very near future. Making it to the state title game nine times out of the past 13 years is no fluke, and Porritt will have his team ready for a push for another appearance next season.
- It's strange, but maybe it's not an East Grand Rapids curse for the Eaglets, but rather a Grand Rapids curse. It is a strange trend, but I'm not one to believe in curses, and one thing is for sure: Grand Rapids based teams have had OLSM's number dating back to 2007. St. Mary's did win a state title game over a Grand Rapids team back in 1999 with a D-4 title coming over Grand Rapids South Christian.
- Drake Harris, Drake Harris, Drake Harris. The junior receiver put together one of the best individual performances in state finals history on Saturday. It was tremendous catch after tremendous catch, including two big grabs in the final drive of the game. There was just nothing thrown in his direction that he didn't catch. A simply sensational performance by the Michigan State bound star.
- Harris set the single season record for receiving yards in a season as he cleared the 2,000 yard mark on Saturday and finished the season with 91 catches and 25 touchdowns, just one shy of the state record for receiving touchdowns.
- Harris also broke the state finals record for receiving yards in a state finals game with 243 yards, smashing the previous record of 204.
- Putting together a performance that nearly matched Harris' performance on Saturday was that of Parker McInnis and Grant Niemiec, who rushed for over 400 yards combined and gashed the Grand Rapids Christian defense over and over and over.
- One thing that will be overlooked going forward is the fact that the St. Mary's offensive line was once again dominant for the second straight state finals. The Eaglet front line, with senior road-grader Austin Johnson had its way with the Grand Rapids Christian defense and helped lead the OLSM offense to a state finals record 579 yards of offense.
- Offense anyone? This game shattered the offensive record book as the two teams combined for over 1,000 total yards for the first time in state finals history (1,033 to be exact).
- Don't overlook the play from quarterback Matt Linehan in the first half to help the Eaglets climb back into the game after facing a 20-7 deficit. Linehan made some big throws to sophomore receiver Van Jefferson, including a 33 yard strike to cut the GRC lead to 20-14 late in the first half.
- The decision of the game came in overtime when the Eaglets passed up the opportunity to kick a chip shot field goal and went for it on fourth down on the three yard line. The pass fell incomplete and the Grand Rapids Christian kicked the field goal for the win on the very first play of its offensive possession.
- You can't blame George Porritt and the Eaglet coaching staff to go for it on fourth down, because there was no sure thing that three points would have been enough to hold off GRC until the next overtime. With no answer for Drake Harris, GRC would have had three opportunities to win the game with a pass to Harris in the end zone.
- The flip side of the argument would have been to kick the field goal and hope that the defense can hold off GRC for four plays and give the offense another opportunity to punch it into the end zone. But ultimately I agree with the decision to go for the touchdown on fourth down and put the pressure back on Grand Rapids Christian.
- Don't overlook what the OLSM senior class was able to accomplish, leading a team to the state title game for four consecutive seasons is no easy task, regardless of what division a team is from.
- While the Eaglets will graduate a large senior class, there is no doubt that the Eaglets will be back to Ford Field in the very near future. Making it to the state title game nine times out of the past 13 years is no fluke, and Porritt will have his team ready for a push for another appearance next season.
- It's strange, but maybe it's not an East Grand Rapids curse for the Eaglets, but rather a Grand Rapids curse. It is a strange trend, but I'm not one to believe in curses, and one thing is for sure: Grand Rapids based teams have had OLSM's number dating back to 2007. St. Mary's did win a state title game over a Grand Rapids team back in 1999 with a D-4 title coming over Grand Rapids South Christian.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Halftime Thoughts From OLSM-GR Christian
- The Eaglets are sticking with what they do best, and that's running behind the two-headed monster of Grant Niemiec and Parker McInnis on offense. Both players have rushed for over 100 yards in the first half alone.
- Drake Harris has truly set himself apart from the rest of the field as one of the best receivers in state history. Harris set the single season record for receiving yards and now is just one touchdown catch away from the single season record in that category.
- Everyone knows about the prolific Grand Rapids Christian offense, but the Eaglets need to find a way to somehow slow down the passing attack. Whether it's putting pressure on GRC quarterback Alex VanDeVusse or double covering Harris.
- VanDeVusse hurting OLSM in more ways than one, especially after his 47 yard touchdown run to put GRC ahead 20-7.
- Senior quarterback Matt Linehan came up with two very impressive throws in the second scoring drive of the game for the Eaglets. The first to Niemiec for a first down and then a 33 yard catch and run to Van Jefferson to bring the Eaglets back into the game.
- If Linehan can continue to find success through the air for the Eaglets, it would open up the rushing attack even more for Niemiec and McInnis, which might be too much to handle.
- The blocked field goal at the end of the first half could turn out to be a killer for OLSM. Had a chance to cut it down to a three point game, but luckily it's still a one possession game for the Eaglets.
- The Eaglets need to take advantage of the fact that they're getting the ball to start the second half. A score would really change the outlook of this game going forward.
- Drake Harris has truly set himself apart from the rest of the field as one of the best receivers in state history. Harris set the single season record for receiving yards and now is just one touchdown catch away from the single season record in that category.
- Everyone knows about the prolific Grand Rapids Christian offense, but the Eaglets need to find a way to somehow slow down the passing attack. Whether it's putting pressure on GRC quarterback Alex VanDeVusse or double covering Harris.
- VanDeVusse hurting OLSM in more ways than one, especially after his 47 yard touchdown run to put GRC ahead 20-7.
- Senior quarterback Matt Linehan came up with two very impressive throws in the second scoring drive of the game for the Eaglets. The first to Niemiec for a first down and then a 33 yard catch and run to Van Jefferson to bring the Eaglets back into the game.
- If Linehan can continue to find success through the air for the Eaglets, it would open up the rushing attack even more for Niemiec and McInnis, which might be too much to handle.
- The blocked field goal at the end of the first half could turn out to be a killer for OLSM. Had a chance to cut it down to a three point game, but luckily it's still a one possession game for the Eaglets.
- The Eaglets need to take advantage of the fact that they're getting the ball to start the second half. A score would really change the outlook of this game going forward.
Thoughts From Catholic Central's D-1 state final loss
- Is Cass Tech to Catholic Central becoming what East Grand Rapids was to Orchard Lake St. Mary's from a couple of years ago? I believe that is the case for these two teams. There are quite a few similarities to take between the two, even considering that there are different circumstances.
- The second half started almost exactly like it did in the first half as Cass Tech came up with a big play on its first drive, while Catholic Central started its first drive with a turnover.
- Mike Weber tortured the Catholic Central defense all game long as he broke off big run after big run to seal the win for the Technicians.
- Arguable the biggest play of the second half was the third play of the half when Weber carried the ball for over 50 yards on a 3rd down and 10 from deep inside Cass Tech's own end, which turned into a touchdown on the very next play for the Technicians.
- One of the bright spots on the afternoon for Catholic Central was sophomore linebacker David Widzinski, who led the way on defense for the Shamrocks with 15 tackles on the day.
- Junior receiver Zach Bock made a pair of touchdown grabs on the day for Catholic Central, including one to cut the Cass Tech lead down to just 12-7.
- The first quarter really seemed to take the wind out of Catholic Central. After all of the waiting and wanting revenge on Cass Tech, the Shamrocks started out in a 12-0 hole before the blink of an eye.
- If you're looking for the next team to "dominate" the state of Michigan, look no further than Cass Tech. With sophomore quarterback Jayru Campbell already having two state titles under his belt in two tries, it's not outlandish to think he could lead the Technicians to four straight state titles.
- You really can't help but marvel at all of the speed and athleticism that Cass Tech has, with a grand total of 19 Division 1 college players on the roster, it's not a surprise that people are calling the Technicians a potential dynasty in the PSL as well as D-1 as a whole.
- Don't forget about the type of legacy that the Catholic Central seniors will leave behind. Many of them were with the program for the state championship win in 2009 and helped lead the Shamrocks to three state finals appearances in four years.
- The second half started almost exactly like it did in the first half as Cass Tech came up with a big play on its first drive, while Catholic Central started its first drive with a turnover.
- Mike Weber tortured the Catholic Central defense all game long as he broke off big run after big run to seal the win for the Technicians.
- Arguable the biggest play of the second half was the third play of the half when Weber carried the ball for over 50 yards on a 3rd down and 10 from deep inside Cass Tech's own end, which turned into a touchdown on the very next play for the Technicians.
- One of the bright spots on the afternoon for Catholic Central was sophomore linebacker David Widzinski, who led the way on defense for the Shamrocks with 15 tackles on the day.
- Junior receiver Zach Bock made a pair of touchdown grabs on the day for Catholic Central, including one to cut the Cass Tech lead down to just 12-7.
- The first quarter really seemed to take the wind out of Catholic Central. After all of the waiting and wanting revenge on Cass Tech, the Shamrocks started out in a 12-0 hole before the blink of an eye.
- If you're looking for the next team to "dominate" the state of Michigan, look no further than Cass Tech. With sophomore quarterback Jayru Campbell already having two state titles under his belt in two tries, it's not outlandish to think he could lead the Technicians to four straight state titles.
- You really can't help but marvel at all of the speed and athleticism that Cass Tech has, with a grand total of 19 Division 1 college players on the roster, it's not a surprise that people are calling the Technicians a potential dynasty in the PSL as well as D-1 as a whole.
- Don't forget about the type of legacy that the Catholic Central seniors will leave behind. Many of them were with the program for the state championship win in 2009 and helped lead the Shamrocks to three state finals appearances in four years.
Halftime Thoughts from Catholic Central-Cass Tech
My halftime thoughts from the Catholic Central-Cass Tech game. Cass Tech leads Catholic Central 15-7
- Turnovers are already killing the Shamrocks. Two fumbles in the first quarter, one returned 55 yards for a touchdown and another, which stalled out a Catholic Central drive inside the Cass Tech 40. Then a fourth down interception.
- Some big plays be the Catholic Central defense has kept the Shamrocks in the game, but the offense hasn't been able to take advantage so far.
- After a Cass Tech fumble, Catholic Central finally cashed in late after a phenomenal throw from Garrett Moores with three defenders in his face and perfectly laid the ball into Zack Bock's hands for the 18 yard score.
- The big key to the Catholic Central scoring drive was its ability to convert two 3rd and longs. A draw play to Bock for a 20 yard gain picked up a first down on a 3rd and 16 and then Moore's TD pass was on 3rd down.
- That was a big stand by the CC defense to keep Cass Tech out of the end zone after a long pass down inside the CC 20. To hold the Technicians to just three points kept it a one possession game. Big stand right there.
- The offense has been able to move the ball at times against the Cass Tech defense, but the Technicians have been a lot like Brother Rice's defense yesterday, with a bend-but-don't-break mentality.
- David Houle has been picking up big chunks of yards with some consistency today, doing a great job on some third and short runs to keep the CC drives alive.
- Cass Tech will start the second half with the ball and that will be critical for Catholic Central. If the Shamrocks can keep the Technicians out of the end zone, Catholic Central will have every opportunity to tie the game up.
- Turnovers are already killing the Shamrocks. Two fumbles in the first quarter, one returned 55 yards for a touchdown and another, which stalled out a Catholic Central drive inside the Cass Tech 40. Then a fourth down interception.
- Some big plays be the Catholic Central defense has kept the Shamrocks in the game, but the offense hasn't been able to take advantage so far.
- After a Cass Tech fumble, Catholic Central finally cashed in late after a phenomenal throw from Garrett Moores with three defenders in his face and perfectly laid the ball into Zack Bock's hands for the 18 yard score.
- The big key to the Catholic Central scoring drive was its ability to convert two 3rd and longs. A draw play to Bock for a 20 yard gain picked up a first down on a 3rd and 16 and then Moore's TD pass was on 3rd down.
- That was a big stand by the CC defense to keep Cass Tech out of the end zone after a long pass down inside the CC 20. To hold the Technicians to just three points kept it a one possession game. Big stand right there.
- The offense has been able to move the ball at times against the Cass Tech defense, but the Technicians have been a lot like Brother Rice's defense yesterday, with a bend-but-don't-break mentality.
- David Houle has been picking up big chunks of yards with some consistency today, doing a great job on some third and short runs to keep the CC drives alive.
- Cass Tech will start the second half with the ball and that will be critical for Catholic Central. If the Shamrocks can keep the Technicians out of the end zone, Catholic Central will have every opportunity to tie the game up.
Thoughts on Country Day's D-4 state final loss
- The difference in the game in my opinion seemed to be the second half adjustments by the South Christian coaching staff, finding ways to keep the Yellowjackets out of rhythm for the majority of the second half after finding some success late in the first half.
- The game got out of hand in a hurry as South Christian turned its first drive of the second half into a touchdown that looked relatively easy. Then the defense forced a three and out for the Country Day offense and on the ensuing punt, South Christian returned it for another score. In the blink of an eye, the score went from a manageable 14-7 deficit to far tougher task to overcome at 28-7
- By no means is the cupboard bare for Country Day looking forward to next year as it will return all four starting skill position players on offense with running back Richie Willson, quarterback Tyler Wiegers, as well as receivers Maurice Ways, and Tristin Wiegers.
- Give credit to the Country Day senior class, which was filled with unsung heroes, but in a season where not much was expected, they led the Yellowjackets to a memorable season and might have set the table for a big 2013 and possibly beyond next year.
- Junior defensive lineman Derrick Coleman quietly had a strong game for the Yellowjackets, tallying two sacks, three tackles for loss and a forced fumble for the game and proved to be one of the few disrupting forces against the South Christian offense.
- South Christian quarterback Derek Woltjer was outstanding all game long. The guy looked like anything but a backup, as he was filling in for starting signal caller Jon Wassink, who was hurt in the semifinal win.
- Woltjer, directing the South Christian read option offense simply picked apart the Country Day defense, whether he was running, throwing or handing the ball off on his reads. They Yellowjackets just didn't have an answer all game long.
- I'm not making any excuses for Country Day, but it is possible that the fact that there isn't much tape on Woltjer as a quarterback left Country Day unsure of what to expect from the South Christian offense. However, Country Day had to be aware of his play making ability as he is one of the starting receivers for South Christian.
- On the flip side, would the game have been even more out of hand if Wassink had been healthy and ready to play on Friday? Wassink was widely regarded as one of the state's most productive signal callers and is a very accomplished passer as well.
- The game got out of hand in a hurry as South Christian turned its first drive of the second half into a touchdown that looked relatively easy. Then the defense forced a three and out for the Country Day offense and on the ensuing punt, South Christian returned it for another score. In the blink of an eye, the score went from a manageable 14-7 deficit to far tougher task to overcome at 28-7
- By no means is the cupboard bare for Country Day looking forward to next year as it will return all four starting skill position players on offense with running back Richie Willson, quarterback Tyler Wiegers, as well as receivers Maurice Ways, and Tristin Wiegers.
- Give credit to the Country Day senior class, which was filled with unsung heroes, but in a season where not much was expected, they led the Yellowjackets to a memorable season and might have set the table for a big 2013 and possibly beyond next year.
- Junior defensive lineman Derrick Coleman quietly had a strong game for the Yellowjackets, tallying two sacks, three tackles for loss and a forced fumble for the game and proved to be one of the few disrupting forces against the South Christian offense.
- South Christian quarterback Derek Woltjer was outstanding all game long. The guy looked like anything but a backup, as he was filling in for starting signal caller Jon Wassink, who was hurt in the semifinal win.
- Woltjer, directing the South Christian read option offense simply picked apart the Country Day defense, whether he was running, throwing or handing the ball off on his reads. They Yellowjackets just didn't have an answer all game long.
- I'm not making any excuses for Country Day, but it is possible that the fact that there isn't much tape on Woltjer as a quarterback left Country Day unsure of what to expect from the South Christian offense. However, Country Day had to be aware of his play making ability as he is one of the starting receivers for South Christian.
- On the flip side, would the game have been even more out of hand if Wassink had been healthy and ready to play on Friday? Wassink was widely regarded as one of the state's most productive signal callers and is a very accomplished passer as well.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Halftime Thoughts From Country Day-South Christian
Halftime thoughts from Country Day-South Christian in the D-4 state final. South Christian leads 14-7.
- Country Day needs to find a way to stop the South Christian read-option, which is consistently picking up 5-7 yards per play.
- Country Day quarterback Tyler Wiegers has come out to play today and is showing off his arm, especially on the 54 yard touchdown pass to Maurice Ways to cut the South Christian lead down to 14-7.
- It wouldn't hurt to keep allowing Wiegers to air it out, aside from a couple of drops, he's been nearly perfect in the first half
- The Yellowjackets have to find a way to open up some holes in the run game for Richie Wilson and Co. aside from a couple of runs, the South Christian defense has done a good job stopping the rushing attack.
- South Christian backup quarterback Derek Woltjer, filling in for injured quarterback Jon Wassink, is playing like anything but a backup tonight, picking up big chunks of yardage on the ground and has a long touchdown pass to Jason Miller to take a 14-0 lead.
- The Country Day defense did improve in the second quarter, but South Christian came dangerously close to breaking the game wide open with potential long runs.
- The Yellowjackets are very much in this game, but needs to come up with a stop on defense to start the second half and have a chance to tie the game up.
- Country Day needs to find a way to stop the South Christian read-option, which is consistently picking up 5-7 yards per play.
- Country Day quarterback Tyler Wiegers has come out to play today and is showing off his arm, especially on the 54 yard touchdown pass to Maurice Ways to cut the South Christian lead down to 14-7.
- It wouldn't hurt to keep allowing Wiegers to air it out, aside from a couple of drops, he's been nearly perfect in the first half
- The Yellowjackets have to find a way to open up some holes in the run game for Richie Wilson and Co. aside from a couple of runs, the South Christian defense has done a good job stopping the rushing attack.
- South Christian backup quarterback Derek Woltjer, filling in for injured quarterback Jon Wassink, is playing like anything but a backup tonight, picking up big chunks of yardage on the ground and has a long touchdown pass to Jason Miller to take a 14-0 lead.
- The Country Day defense did improve in the second quarter, but South Christian came dangerously close to breaking the game wide open with potential long runs.
- The Yellowjackets are very much in this game, but needs to come up with a stop on defense to start the second half and have a chance to tie the game up.
Thoughts on Brother Rice's second straight D-2 State Title
This is a game that is extremely hard to explain in a short amount of time, but I will try my best to do so here:
- This was easily the best game that I've had the chance to see, regardless of what level.
- Without a doubt, this year's D-2 state final game will go down as one of the best MHSAA state title games of all time. Five touchdowns were scored in the fourth quarter, but none were more exciting than the two trick plays pulled off by Brother Rice.
- Brilliant play-calling by Brother Rice simply proved to be the difference. After Muskegon tied the game at 21-21, Brother Rice made the gutsy call to run a flea-flicker on its second play of the ensuing drive, which resulted in a 77 yard touchdown strike from Alex Malzone. Then after a 51 yard score for Muskegon tied the game, the Warrior's coaching staff decided to raise the stakes once again as they called for a play reminiscent of the "Music City Miracle" as sophomore Delano Madison caught the kickoff and threw it back across the field to Jason Alessi, who returned it 91 yards for what turned out to be the winning score.
- The Brother Rice defense wasn't exactly perfect on Friday night, but the Warrior's turned back several Muskegon drives that went inside the Brother Rice 40, almost perfectly summing up the"bend but don't break" theory.
- Junior linebacker Shaun Jones came up big when it mattered most. After Muskegon picked up a first down deep in its own end because of a penalty against Brother Rice, Jones forced the Muskegon rusher to the outside on the next play and recovered the fumble on the Muskegon 12 yard line, which set up a touchdown run by Shon Powell.
- While Muskegon may have been able to limit Brother Rice's Brian Walker, Shon Powell once again came up big in another playoff game for the Warriors as he finished with 97 yards and a rushing score which put Brother Rice ahead 21-14.
- The cupboard will not be bare for the Warriors in 2013 as they will return both Walker and Powell, along with Malzone, Madison (who is considered to be the fastest player in the Brother Rice program) and receivers Josh Flye, Corey Lacanaria and Grant Perry.
- Also, you can't help but wonder if this was the last game legendary head coach Al Fracassa will coach. Fracassa sidestepped some questions afterwards, but there were rumblings throughout the playoffs that this could in fact be his last game.
- Regardless of whether he comes back or not, Fracassa has already achieved legendary status as quite possibly the best coach in Michigan high school history.
- This was easily the best game that I've had the chance to see, regardless of what level.
- Without a doubt, this year's D-2 state final game will go down as one of the best MHSAA state title games of all time. Five touchdowns were scored in the fourth quarter, but none were more exciting than the two trick plays pulled off by Brother Rice.
- Brilliant play-calling by Brother Rice simply proved to be the difference. After Muskegon tied the game at 21-21, Brother Rice made the gutsy call to run a flea-flicker on its second play of the ensuing drive, which resulted in a 77 yard touchdown strike from Alex Malzone. Then after a 51 yard score for Muskegon tied the game, the Warrior's coaching staff decided to raise the stakes once again as they called for a play reminiscent of the "Music City Miracle" as sophomore Delano Madison caught the kickoff and threw it back across the field to Jason Alessi, who returned it 91 yards for what turned out to be the winning score.
- The Brother Rice defense wasn't exactly perfect on Friday night, but the Warrior's turned back several Muskegon drives that went inside the Brother Rice 40, almost perfectly summing up the"bend but don't break" theory.
- Junior linebacker Shaun Jones came up big when it mattered most. After Muskegon picked up a first down deep in its own end because of a penalty against Brother Rice, Jones forced the Muskegon rusher to the outside on the next play and recovered the fumble on the Muskegon 12 yard line, which set up a touchdown run by Shon Powell.
- While Muskegon may have been able to limit Brother Rice's Brian Walker, Shon Powell once again came up big in another playoff game for the Warriors as he finished with 97 yards and a rushing score which put Brother Rice ahead 21-14.
- The cupboard will not be bare for the Warriors in 2013 as they will return both Walker and Powell, along with Malzone, Madison (who is considered to be the fastest player in the Brother Rice program) and receivers Josh Flye, Corey Lacanaria and Grant Perry.
- Also, you can't help but wonder if this was the last game legendary head coach Al Fracassa will coach. Fracassa sidestepped some questions afterwards, but there were rumblings throughout the playoffs that this could in fact be his last game.
- Regardless of whether he comes back or not, Fracassa has already achieved legendary status as quite possibly the best coach in Michigan high school history.
Halftime Thoughts from Brother Rice-Muskegon
Halftime thoughts from Brother Rice-Muskegon Division 2 state title game. Brother Rice leads 14-7.
- After the first two plays of the first Muskegon drive, the Warriors have shut down the Muskegon option attack in the first quarter. On those first two plays, the Big Reds totaled over 40 yards, but were limited to less than 30 for the rest of the quarter.
- Muskegon has done a very good job of bottling up Brother Rice junior running back Brian Walker so far, limiting the Warriors star to just 12 yards in the first half.
- On the flip side, junior Shon Powell has once again been a spark plug for the Warriors, rushing for over 80 yards on just a couple of carries so far. Brother Rice should continue to give him the ball until Muskegon can find a way to stop him.
- The Brother Rice defense has been outstanding at limiting Muskegon fullback John King (Over 1,500 yards this season) to minimal yardage, just 13 yards on three carries so far.
- The decision to rotate quarterbacks with senior Cheyne Lacanaria and Alex Malzone seemed to pay off on the first two drives of the game for the Warriors as each had a touchdown pass in the first action they saw in the game. Will be interesting to see if they continue to use the two QB system.
- After the first two scoring drives for Brother Rice, it seems like Muskegon has found a way to slow down the Brother Rice offense, forcing a three-and-out, while also using up plenty of the clock with a nine and a ten play drive to end the half.
- After the first two plays of the first Muskegon drive, the Warriors have shut down the Muskegon option attack in the first quarter. On those first two plays, the Big Reds totaled over 40 yards, but were limited to less than 30 for the rest of the quarter.
- Muskegon has done a very good job of bottling up Brother Rice junior running back Brian Walker so far, limiting the Warriors star to just 12 yards in the first half.
- On the flip side, junior Shon Powell has once again been a spark plug for the Warriors, rushing for over 80 yards on just a couple of carries so far. Brother Rice should continue to give him the ball until Muskegon can find a way to stop him.
- The Brother Rice defense has been outstanding at limiting Muskegon fullback John King (Over 1,500 yards this season) to minimal yardage, just 13 yards on three carries so far.
- The decision to rotate quarterbacks with senior Cheyne Lacanaria and Alex Malzone seemed to pay off on the first two drives of the game for the Warriors as each had a touchdown pass in the first action they saw in the game. Will be interesting to see if they continue to use the two QB system.
- After the first two scoring drives for Brother Rice, it seems like Muskegon has found a way to slow down the Brother Rice offense, forcing a three-and-out, while also using up plenty of the clock with a nine and a ten play drive to end the half.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Oakland County Football Picks -- State Finals
Last Week's Record: 4-1 Season Record: 113-43
Division 1
Detroit Catholic Central vs. Detroit Cass Tech
There is no question that Catholic Central will be out for some revenge after suffering one of the worst losses in team history to the Technicians in last years state title game. But these two teams are both different from what they were last season, so there is a chance that you can expect a very different outcome. The Shamrocks have thrown records out the window since the playoffs started as they entered with a record of 5-4, but have beaten four teams with a combined record of 35-7. In those four playoff games, the Shamrocks have outscored opponents by a combined 128-45, behind its old school brand of offense and some smash mouth defense.
X-Factor: Catholic Central defensive back Jon Malone. Malone had one of, if not the best postseason performance in the state last week with big plays on defense, offense and the return game. But the senior defensive back will be tested quite a bit on Saturday afternoon, facing quarterback Jayru Campbell and a very high-powered Cass Tech offense.
Catholic Central Will Win If: The Shamrocks will win the Division 1 state title if they are able to play their brand of offense and use several time consuming scoring drives to keep the ball away from the Cass Tech offense, while the defense can keep frustrating quarterbacks, like it has throughout the playoffs.
PREDICTION: Catholic Central 21, Cass Tech 17
Division 2
Birmingham Brother Rice vs. Muskegon
This was the match-up that just about everybody expected to see when the playoffs started as both teams cruised through the regular season aside from a minor bump along the way. The Warriors have slowly become one of the most diverse offensive teams around with the two-headed rushing attack of Brian Walker and Shon Powell along with quarterback Cheyne Lacanaria, who has given Brother Rice a legitimate threat through the air. Defensively, Brother Rice has been dominant in every way possible since the playoffs began, allowing just 19 points in the past three games, but will face what might be the best offense they will have seen all year long.
X-Factor(s): Brother Rice quarterback Cheyne Lacanaria and wide receiver Corey Lacanaria. If Muskegon can find a way to slow down the rushing attack, it could come down to the brotherly QB-WR connection to help the offense find a way to keep moving the ball down the field.
Brother Rice Will Win If: The Warriors will win its second straight Division 2 state championship if they are able to slow down a very dangerous Muskegon rushing attack, which features fullback John King, who has rushed for over 1,500 yards on the year to go along with 20 touchdowns. If they can slow him down, then there is a good chance for a repeat on Friday.
PREDICTION: Brother Rice 24, Muskegon 14
Division3
Orchard Lake St. Mary's vs. Grand Rapids Christian
There really haven't been many teams that have been able to keep St. Mary's out of the state game over the course of the past 13 years, the Eaglets have simply been dominant in the four games prior to Ford Field and that was the case once again in 2012. The Eaglets will look to slow down a Grand Rapids Christian team that has scored over 50 points three times this season, including a 68 point effort in a win over Zeeland West in the district finals. Look for the St. Mary's run game, behind Grant Niemiec and Parker McInnis to help set up a very underrated passing game to find holes in the Grand Rapids Christian defense.
X-Factor(s): St. Mary's quarterback Matt Linehan and wide receiver Jalen Watts-Jackson. Just like with Brother Rice, if the running game gets shut down, then the offense will look to find another way to move the ball, and could turn to Linehan and the Eaglet passing attack. With receivers like Watts-Jackson along with Van Jefferson, Tyson Smith and Co. it's unlikely that any team would be able to stop both the rushing attack and the passing game.
St. Mary's Will Win If: The Eaglets will win their second consecutive D-3 title if the defense can continue its dominant ways, as St. Mary's has held eight of its opponents this season to 10 points or less. The key to slowing down the Grand Rapids Christian will be to slow down quarterback Alex Van De Vusse, who has thrown for over 3,000 yards this year, nearly half of which has gone to receiver Drake Harris. If the Eaglets can stop that duo, they'll be hoisting another D-3 trophy.
PREDICTION: St. Mary's 35, Grand Rapids Christian 28
Division 4
Birmingham Detroit Country Day vs. Grand Rapids South Christian
This will be a match-up of two of the most potent offenses that Division 4 had to offer in 2012 as both teams have scored 30 or more points seven times this season, including blowout wins on their way to Ford Field in the postseason. Country Day's offense has proven to be too much to handle for most of the team's it's played during its postseason run, with running back Richie Wilson, who has rushed for over 1,200 yards and 30 touchdowns on the season along with quarterback Tyler Wiegers, who is another top college prospect (along with Wilson) for the class of 2014. Look for the defensive line, anchored by coveted lineman Poet Thomas to put plenty of pressure on the high-powered South Christian passing attack.
X-Factor: Country Day wide receiver Maurice Ways. While the Country Day rushing attack behind Wilson and fullback Gianmarco Rea has been dominant all season long, the Yellowjacket offense has used the run game to set up big plays in the passing game with Wiegers and Ways throughout the season, and you should expect to see more of that at Ford Field on Friday night.
Country Day Will Win If: The Yellowjackets will be holding a state title for the first time since 1999, if they are able to continue to pick up big chunks of yard in the run game behind Wilson and Rea, while putting pressure on the South Christian passing attack behind sophomore quarterback John Wassink, who has totaled over 3,000 yards on the second this year.
PREDICTION: Country Day 42, South Christian 28
Four More Non-Oakland County Predictions:
Division 5
Grand Rapids West Catholic vs. Portland
The Portland offense has been as good as it gets since the playoffs started, averaging over 40 points per game in the postseason, while West Catholic has found a way to sneak out wins since entering the postseason with a 6-3 record. But the Portland rushing attack should prove to be too much for West Catholic on Saturday.
PREDICTION: Portland 31, West Catholic 21
Ithaca vs. Constantine
Ithaca will look to make it two straight state wins over Constantine, while also staying perfect on the season and should do just that behind quarterback Travis Smith, who has thrown for over 2,000 yards, while rushing for just under 1,000 on the season as well.
PREDICTION: Ithaca 49, Constantine 28
Ishpeming vs. Detroit Loyola
Loyola's season has been as close to perfect as you will find this season, as the Bull Dogs have outscored their opponents 571-88. Loyola has rushed for nearly 5,000 yards as a team this season and really hasn't had much of a challenge presented to them so far, and I don't think that will change on Saturday.
PREDICTION: Loyola 49, Ishpeming 21
Beal City vs. Harbor Beach
Both teams have two of the best offenses that you will find in Division 8, as both have scored over 50 points multiple times this season, but it will be Harbor Beach who will win its first ever state championship on Friday.
PREDICTION: Harbor Beach 38, Beal City 35
Division 1
Detroit Catholic Central vs. Detroit Cass Tech
There is no question that Catholic Central will be out for some revenge after suffering one of the worst losses in team history to the Technicians in last years state title game. But these two teams are both different from what they were last season, so there is a chance that you can expect a very different outcome. The Shamrocks have thrown records out the window since the playoffs started as they entered with a record of 5-4, but have beaten four teams with a combined record of 35-7. In those four playoff games, the Shamrocks have outscored opponents by a combined 128-45, behind its old school brand of offense and some smash mouth defense.
X-Factor: Catholic Central defensive back Jon Malone. Malone had one of, if not the best postseason performance in the state last week with big plays on defense, offense and the return game. But the senior defensive back will be tested quite a bit on Saturday afternoon, facing quarterback Jayru Campbell and a very high-powered Cass Tech offense.
Catholic Central Will Win If: The Shamrocks will win the Division 1 state title if they are able to play their brand of offense and use several time consuming scoring drives to keep the ball away from the Cass Tech offense, while the defense can keep frustrating quarterbacks, like it has throughout the playoffs.
PREDICTION: Catholic Central 21, Cass Tech 17
Division 2
Birmingham Brother Rice vs. Muskegon
This was the match-up that just about everybody expected to see when the playoffs started as both teams cruised through the regular season aside from a minor bump along the way. The Warriors have slowly become one of the most diverse offensive teams around with the two-headed rushing attack of Brian Walker and Shon Powell along with quarterback Cheyne Lacanaria, who has given Brother Rice a legitimate threat through the air. Defensively, Brother Rice has been dominant in every way possible since the playoffs began, allowing just 19 points in the past three games, but will face what might be the best offense they will have seen all year long.
X-Factor(s): Brother Rice quarterback Cheyne Lacanaria and wide receiver Corey Lacanaria. If Muskegon can find a way to slow down the rushing attack, it could come down to the brotherly QB-WR connection to help the offense find a way to keep moving the ball down the field.
Brother Rice Will Win If: The Warriors will win its second straight Division 2 state championship if they are able to slow down a very dangerous Muskegon rushing attack, which features fullback John King, who has rushed for over 1,500 yards on the year to go along with 20 touchdowns. If they can slow him down, then there is a good chance for a repeat on Friday.
PREDICTION: Brother Rice 24, Muskegon 14
Division3
Orchard Lake St. Mary's vs. Grand Rapids Christian
There really haven't been many teams that have been able to keep St. Mary's out of the state game over the course of the past 13 years, the Eaglets have simply been dominant in the four games prior to Ford Field and that was the case once again in 2012. The Eaglets will look to slow down a Grand Rapids Christian team that has scored over 50 points three times this season, including a 68 point effort in a win over Zeeland West in the district finals. Look for the St. Mary's run game, behind Grant Niemiec and Parker McInnis to help set up a very underrated passing game to find holes in the Grand Rapids Christian defense.
X-Factor(s): St. Mary's quarterback Matt Linehan and wide receiver Jalen Watts-Jackson. Just like with Brother Rice, if the running game gets shut down, then the offense will look to find another way to move the ball, and could turn to Linehan and the Eaglet passing attack. With receivers like Watts-Jackson along with Van Jefferson, Tyson Smith and Co. it's unlikely that any team would be able to stop both the rushing attack and the passing game.
St. Mary's Will Win If: The Eaglets will win their second consecutive D-3 title if the defense can continue its dominant ways, as St. Mary's has held eight of its opponents this season to 10 points or less. The key to slowing down the Grand Rapids Christian will be to slow down quarterback Alex Van De Vusse, who has thrown for over 3,000 yards this year, nearly half of which has gone to receiver Drake Harris. If the Eaglets can stop that duo, they'll be hoisting another D-3 trophy.
PREDICTION: St. Mary's 35, Grand Rapids Christian 28
Division 4
Birmingham Detroit Country Day vs. Grand Rapids South Christian
This will be a match-up of two of the most potent offenses that Division 4 had to offer in 2012 as both teams have scored 30 or more points seven times this season, including blowout wins on their way to Ford Field in the postseason. Country Day's offense has proven to be too much to handle for most of the team's it's played during its postseason run, with running back Richie Wilson, who has rushed for over 1,200 yards and 30 touchdowns on the season along with quarterback Tyler Wiegers, who is another top college prospect (along with Wilson) for the class of 2014. Look for the defensive line, anchored by coveted lineman Poet Thomas to put plenty of pressure on the high-powered South Christian passing attack.
X-Factor: Country Day wide receiver Maurice Ways. While the Country Day rushing attack behind Wilson and fullback Gianmarco Rea has been dominant all season long, the Yellowjacket offense has used the run game to set up big plays in the passing game with Wiegers and Ways throughout the season, and you should expect to see more of that at Ford Field on Friday night.
Country Day Will Win If: The Yellowjackets will be holding a state title for the first time since 1999, if they are able to continue to pick up big chunks of yard in the run game behind Wilson and Rea, while putting pressure on the South Christian passing attack behind sophomore quarterback John Wassink, who has totaled over 3,000 yards on the second this year.
PREDICTION: Country Day 42, South Christian 28
Four More Non-Oakland County Predictions:
Division 5
Grand Rapids West Catholic vs. Portland
The Portland offense has been as good as it gets since the playoffs started, averaging over 40 points per game in the postseason, while West Catholic has found a way to sneak out wins since entering the postseason with a 6-3 record. But the Portland rushing attack should prove to be too much for West Catholic on Saturday.
PREDICTION: Portland 31, West Catholic 21
Ithaca vs. Constantine
Ithaca will look to make it two straight state wins over Constantine, while also staying perfect on the season and should do just that behind quarterback Travis Smith, who has thrown for over 2,000 yards, while rushing for just under 1,000 on the season as well.
PREDICTION: Ithaca 49, Constantine 28
Ishpeming vs. Detroit Loyola
Loyola's season has been as close to perfect as you will find this season, as the Bull Dogs have outscored their opponents 571-88. Loyola has rushed for nearly 5,000 yards as a team this season and really hasn't had much of a challenge presented to them so far, and I don't think that will change on Saturday.
PREDICTION: Loyola 49, Ishpeming 21
Beal City vs. Harbor Beach
Both teams have two of the best offenses that you will find in Division 8, as both have scored over 50 points multiple times this season, but it will be Harbor Beach who will win its first ever state championship on Friday.
PREDICTION: Harbor Beach 38, Beal City 35
Monday, November 19, 2012
Unsung Heroes leading the way to Ford Field
Garrett Moores - Novi Detroit Catholic Central QB
Most are well aware of the 1-2 combo of Anthony Darkangelo and David Houle in the Shamrock backfield, but Moores has had just as much success in the Catholic Central backfield as anyone. Moores had a long touchdown run in the district and regional final wins for the Shamrocks and has been one of the better passers in the state since the playoffs started.
The Catholic Central Offensive Line
The Shamrocks have been arguably the hottest team in the state since the playoffs got underway and a big reason for that has been because of their massive offensive line. With the powerful run game of Houle and Darkangelo finding plenty of holes to run through and the line keeping Moores upright, the Shamrocks have gone back to their old school style, which is a big reason as to why they are back at Ford Field for the second straight year.
Grant Niemiec - Orchard Lake St. Mary's LB
Everyone knows just how good of a running back Niemiec has been in 2012, but very few know just how good he's been from his linebacker position this year. The Miami (OH) University bound senior has picked up right where the Eaglet linebacking trio from 2011 left off and is a big reason as to why St. Mary's is one win from back-to-back state titles.
The OLSM Offensive Line
This might sound like a recording from what I just said about the Shamrock's offensive line, but the same holds true for the road graters for the Eaglets. With the St. Mary's rushing attack going over 300 yards in a game on several occasions this year, a lot of credit goes to the offensive line for busting open holes for Niemiec and Parker McInnis.
Tyler Wiegers - Birmingham Detroit Country Day QB
While junior running back Richie Wilson has had a sensational season, totaling over 30 touchdowns and well over 1,200 yards rushing on the season, Wiegers has kept defenses honest all year with his arm. The junior signal caller tossed three touchdown passes in the regional final for the Yellowjackets and threw for just under 200 yards in last week's blowout win over Saginaw Swan Valley.
Gianmarco Rea - Birmingham Detroit Country Day LB/FB
If you're looking for someone who can take care of the dirty work, Rea does just that on both sides of the ball for the Yellowjackets. One of the best fullbacks in the area when it comes to busting open holes for Wilson, while also proving to be one of the most consistent producers on the defensive side of the ball. What he does might not be pretty, but it gets the job done on both sides for Country Day.
Lucas Cherocci - Birmingham Brother Rice LB
Playing next to Michigan State-bound Jon Reschke has taken some of the spotlight away from Cherocci, but the senior linebacker has been another key impact player on the Warrior's defense all season long. Cherocci finished the regular season with 81 tackles and has been just as good in the playoffs for a Brother Rice defense that has allowed just 10 points in its last two playoff games.
Sergio Perkovic/Kevin Henry/Alberto Sandoval/Peter DePorre - Birmingham Brother Rice DL
This might be the best defensive line in the state, most teams have one or two dominant forces on the defensive line, but the Warriors have four who can dominate at any time. With Perkovic, Henry and DePorre able to get to the quarterback at will, and Sandoval proving to be one of the state's best run-stoppers, the Brother Rice defensive line has been key in shutting down opposing offenses.
Most are well aware of the 1-2 combo of Anthony Darkangelo and David Houle in the Shamrock backfield, but Moores has had just as much success in the Catholic Central backfield as anyone. Moores had a long touchdown run in the district and regional final wins for the Shamrocks and has been one of the better passers in the state since the playoffs started.
The Catholic Central Offensive Line
The Shamrocks have been arguably the hottest team in the state since the playoffs got underway and a big reason for that has been because of their massive offensive line. With the powerful run game of Houle and Darkangelo finding plenty of holes to run through and the line keeping Moores upright, the Shamrocks have gone back to their old school style, which is a big reason as to why they are back at Ford Field for the second straight year.
Grant Niemiec - Orchard Lake St. Mary's LB
Everyone knows just how good of a running back Niemiec has been in 2012, but very few know just how good he's been from his linebacker position this year. The Miami (OH) University bound senior has picked up right where the Eaglet linebacking trio from 2011 left off and is a big reason as to why St. Mary's is one win from back-to-back state titles.
The OLSM Offensive Line
This might sound like a recording from what I just said about the Shamrock's offensive line, but the same holds true for the road graters for the Eaglets. With the St. Mary's rushing attack going over 300 yards in a game on several occasions this year, a lot of credit goes to the offensive line for busting open holes for Niemiec and Parker McInnis.
Tyler Wiegers - Birmingham Detroit Country Day QB
While junior running back Richie Wilson has had a sensational season, totaling over 30 touchdowns and well over 1,200 yards rushing on the season, Wiegers has kept defenses honest all year with his arm. The junior signal caller tossed three touchdown passes in the regional final for the Yellowjackets and threw for just under 200 yards in last week's blowout win over Saginaw Swan Valley.
Gianmarco Rea - Birmingham Detroit Country Day LB/FB
If you're looking for someone who can take care of the dirty work, Rea does just that on both sides of the ball for the Yellowjackets. One of the best fullbacks in the area when it comes to busting open holes for Wilson, while also proving to be one of the most consistent producers on the defensive side of the ball. What he does might not be pretty, but it gets the job done on both sides for Country Day.
Lucas Cherocci - Birmingham Brother Rice LB
Playing next to Michigan State-bound Jon Reschke has taken some of the spotlight away from Cherocci, but the senior linebacker has been another key impact player on the Warrior's defense all season long. Cherocci finished the regular season with 81 tackles and has been just as good in the playoffs for a Brother Rice defense that has allowed just 10 points in its last two playoff games.
Sergio Perkovic/Kevin Henry/Alberto Sandoval/Peter DePorre - Birmingham Brother Rice DL
This might be the best defensive line in the state, most teams have one or two dominant forces on the defensive line, but the Warriors have four who can dominate at any time. With Perkovic, Henry and DePorre able to get to the quarterback at will, and Sandoval proving to be one of the state's best run-stoppers, the Brother Rice defensive line has been key in shutting down opposing offenses.
Elite Eight - Ford Field Bound
8. The Birmingham Detroit Country Day Defense
The Country Day defense put together as impressive of a performance as you will find, shutting out a Swan Valley offense, which had scored 30 points or more nine different times this season. The shutout performance followed strong efforts in the district and regional finals, where the Yellowjackets limited opponents to just 26 points in the two games. The Country Day defense seems to be playing its best football at the right time.
7. Brian Walker/Shon Powell - Birmingham Brother Rice
The two-headed backfield monster was at it again for the second straight week as the two backs combined for nearly 250 yards as Walker rushed for over 130 yards, while Powell rushed for over 100 yards as well in the semifinal win over Wyandotte Roosevelt. Both scored a touchdown each, as Powell helped increase the Brother Rice lead to 14-0, while Walker's score iced the game away in the fourth quarter.
6. The Novi Detroit Catholic Central Defense
Led by defensive back Jon Malone (See Below), the Shamrock's defense was dominant in every way imaginable as they held Rockford to just six points in the Division 1 semifinal on Saturday. On top of allowing just six point to Rockford, Catholic Central limited the Ram's offense to less than 80 yards rushing on the afternoon to advance to Ford Field for the second straight year.
5. Chris Carter - Birmingham Brother Rice
Carter was a one man wrecking crew for the Brother Rice defense in Saturday's blowout win over Wyandotte Roosevelt as the junior defensive back tallied 13 tackles from his safety position to help lead the Warriors back to Ford Field. Carter also picked up a sack in the Division 2 semifinal as well to help keep Brother Rice's repeat hopes alive.
4. Parker McInnis - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
McInnis did a little bit of everything on offense for the Eaglets as he picked up a touchdown on the ground and through the air as he totaled nearly 180 yards rushing and receiving as he paired with Grant Niemiec (See Below) to account for over 350 yards of total offense. McInnis first got St. Mary's on the scoreboard with a one yard run at the end of the first quarter and later scored on a 19 yard pass from Matt Linehan in the second half to increase the OLSM lead to 21-0.
3. Richie Wilson - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Wilson found the end zone on four separate occasions on Saturday afternoon as he helped lead Country Day to a convincing 38-0 win over Saginaw Swan Valley in the Division 4 semifinals. Wilson also made the most out of the few touches he had on the day as he rushed for 80 yards and his four scores on just eight carries to lead the Yellowjackets to the state title game on Friday.
2. Grant Niemiec - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
Niemiec was a force on the ground on Saturday as the senior running back and recent Miami (OH) commit rushed for over 180 yards and a pair of touchdowns, including a 56 yard score late in St. Mary's win over Battle Creek Haper Creek to seal the win. Niemiec also had a first half interception on defense to set up the Eaglet offense inside the Harper Creek 45 to help St. Mary's to return to Ford Field for the fourth straight year.
1. Jon Malone - Novi Detroit Catholic Central
What didn't Malone do on Saturday? Touchdown catch? Check. Interception return for touchdown? Check. Kickoff return for touchdown? Check. Malone literally did it all for the Shamrocks as Catholic Central hammered Rockford in the Division 1 state semifnals and advanced to the finals where it will face Cass Tech for the state title for the second straight year.
The Country Day defense put together as impressive of a performance as you will find, shutting out a Swan Valley offense, which had scored 30 points or more nine different times this season. The shutout performance followed strong efforts in the district and regional finals, where the Yellowjackets limited opponents to just 26 points in the two games. The Country Day defense seems to be playing its best football at the right time.
7. Brian Walker/Shon Powell - Birmingham Brother Rice
The two-headed backfield monster was at it again for the second straight week as the two backs combined for nearly 250 yards as Walker rushed for over 130 yards, while Powell rushed for over 100 yards as well in the semifinal win over Wyandotte Roosevelt. Both scored a touchdown each, as Powell helped increase the Brother Rice lead to 14-0, while Walker's score iced the game away in the fourth quarter.
6. The Novi Detroit Catholic Central Defense
Led by defensive back Jon Malone (See Below), the Shamrock's defense was dominant in every way imaginable as they held Rockford to just six points in the Division 1 semifinal on Saturday. On top of allowing just six point to Rockford, Catholic Central limited the Ram's offense to less than 80 yards rushing on the afternoon to advance to Ford Field for the second straight year.
5. Chris Carter - Birmingham Brother Rice
Carter was a one man wrecking crew for the Brother Rice defense in Saturday's blowout win over Wyandotte Roosevelt as the junior defensive back tallied 13 tackles from his safety position to help lead the Warriors back to Ford Field. Carter also picked up a sack in the Division 2 semifinal as well to help keep Brother Rice's repeat hopes alive.
4. Parker McInnis - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
McInnis did a little bit of everything on offense for the Eaglets as he picked up a touchdown on the ground and through the air as he totaled nearly 180 yards rushing and receiving as he paired with Grant Niemiec (See Below) to account for over 350 yards of total offense. McInnis first got St. Mary's on the scoreboard with a one yard run at the end of the first quarter and later scored on a 19 yard pass from Matt Linehan in the second half to increase the OLSM lead to 21-0.
3. Richie Wilson - Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Wilson found the end zone on four separate occasions on Saturday afternoon as he helped lead Country Day to a convincing 38-0 win over Saginaw Swan Valley in the Division 4 semifinals. Wilson also made the most out of the few touches he had on the day as he rushed for 80 yards and his four scores on just eight carries to lead the Yellowjackets to the state title game on Friday.
2. Grant Niemiec - Orchard Lake St. Mary's
Niemiec was a force on the ground on Saturday as the senior running back and recent Miami (OH) commit rushed for over 180 yards and a pair of touchdowns, including a 56 yard score late in St. Mary's win over Battle Creek Haper Creek to seal the win. Niemiec also had a first half interception on defense to set up the Eaglet offense inside the Harper Creek 45 to help St. Mary's to return to Ford Field for the fourth straight year.
1. Jon Malone - Novi Detroit Catholic Central
What didn't Malone do on Saturday? Touchdown catch? Check. Interception return for touchdown? Check. Kickoff return for touchdown? Check. Malone literally did it all for the Shamrocks as Catholic Central hammered Rockford in the Division 1 state semifnals and advanced to the finals where it will face Cass Tech for the state title for the second straight year.
Friday, November 16, 2012
State Semifinals Oakland County Football Picks
Novi Detroit Catholic Central vs. Rockford
The Shamrocks have been arguably the hottest team in the state since the start of the playoffs, and don't expect that to change after this week. The Catholic Central defense, behind ends Wyatt Shallman and Dylan Roney and linebacker Brandon Malinowski has been punishing, while holding teams to just over 10 points per game in the postseason. Look for the defense to continue its dominating ways and the offense, behind running backs Anthony Darkangelo and David Houle, to drain the clock and keep the ball away from the Rams.
Catholic Central 17, Rockford 10
Lake Orion vs. Cass Tech
I've been saying throughout the playoffs that the Dragons have more speed than most can handle, but if anyone can keep up with the high powered Lake Orion offense, it's Cass Tech. The game plan for the Dragons will be simple, slow down quarterback Jayru Campbell and a name that should help get the job done will be defensive back Nick Booker, who has helped shut down several aerial attacks this year. The Lake Orion offense should do its fair share of scoring on Saturday with Jacob Miller, Zak Arnold and Co., but can the defense, behind Derric Williams and Booker slow down the Technicians just enough?
Lake Orion 38, Cass Tech 35
Birmingham Brother Rice vs. Wyandotte Roosevelt
This might be the most lopsided semifinal in the state, plain and simple. If Roosevelt can only score 10 points this week, like they did against Oak Park, there's a chance that Brother Rice wins by 40. There's a good chance that the Brother Rice defense holds Roosevelt to 10 points or less behind the dominating defense and the simply punishing run game behind Brian Walker and Shon Powell should continue to wear down the Roosevelt defense as the game goes on.
Brother Rice 31, Roosevelt 10
Orchard Lake St. Mary's vs. Battle Creek Harper Creek
Another rematch from a thrilling semifinal game from 2011 where the Eaglets barely topped Harper Creek last season en route to winning a state title. This year, the game may not be as close, but Harper Creek could be the best challenge for St. Mary's in its search for a back-to-back state titles. Look for the dominating defense, and the offense, behind the two-headed monster of Grant Niemiec and Parker McInnis as well as the punishing offensive line to send the Eaglets back to Ford Field.
OLSM 35, Harper Creek 28
Birmingham Detroit Country Day vs. Saginaw Swan Valley
The Yellowjackets will look to slow down a high-powered offense for the second straight week. Last week Country Day limited a Grosse Ile team, which scored 70 points in a district final to just 14 and now will try to slow down Swan Valley, who has averaged 40 points per contest so far in the playoffs. Look for another strong showing from the Country Day defense and defensive tackle Poet Thomas as Richie Wilson and Tyler Weigers and the Yellowjacket offense looks to continue to score at will for the second straight week.
Country Day 42, Swan Valley 28
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Round 3 Oakland County Football Playoff Picks
Last Week's Record: 6-3 Season Record: 103-39
Birmingham Brother Rice at Walled Lake Western
This could have been the state title game in Division 2 last year if Western had topped Lowell in the semifinals, but these two teams will face a year later in a battle to see who advances to the state semis. Western's Josh Jones had a sensational performance last week in a win over Fenton, but the Western offense won't have as much luck against the stiff Brother Rice defense.
Brother Rice 28, Western 21
Novi Detroit Catholic Central at Plymouth
The Shamrocks are turning it on at the right time this year, specifically, their defense. Catholic Central has shut down a pair of offenses in Hartland and Walled Lake Northern, who can score 50 points in just about any game, holding them to 32 points total. Plymouth just happens to be playing the Shamrocks at the wrong time.
Catholic Central 21, Plymouth 14
Rockford at Clarkston
Many are skeptical of the Wolves because of their postseason struggles and the fact that they've struggled to take that last step to get to Ford Field. But I think that all changes this year and Clarkston will make it to the state finals behind what has been an underrated defense that should be able to bottle up Rockford on Clarkston.
Clarkston 24, Rockford 21
Macomb Dakota at Lake Orion
It'll be great to see a playoff rivalry finally be renewed, and this time it will be at Lake Orion. Much like last week, I think the number of playmakers that the Dragons have will be able to show through late in the game and expect Lake Orion to take another step towards Ford Field.
Lake Orion 28, Dakota 21
Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes at Harbor Beach
This will be the Laker's toughest test to get to Ford Field, facing a Harbor Beach team that scores points early and often and has several shutouts on the year defensively. But I picked Lakes to make it to the state finals at the start and I wont be changing my mind any time soon. Look for Laker defense, which has forced seven turnovers in two playoff games to once again be opportunistic and lead the way to the semifinals.
WOLL 27, Harbor Beach 24 in OT
Grosse Ile at Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Grosse Ile can flat out score, the Red Devils put up 70 points in a win last week, but they haven't played a defense quite like Country Day's. Look for the Yellowjacket defense to shut down the Grosse Ile offense, while still putting up some good offensive numbers in the quarterfinals.
Country Day 35, Grosse Ile 21
Oak Park at Wyandotte Roosevelt
Both teams have had big seasons that they won't soon forget, but Oak Park has without question played the tougher schedule this season. Oak Park's defense has been as good as it gets in the playoffs, while the offense has been one of the best at picking up yards on the ground and simply draining the clock with is something lethal to have in the postseason.
Oak Park 31, Roosevelt 17
Detroit East English at Orchard Lake St. Mary's
It's pretty simple in my opinion, teams are just in St. Mary's way in the division 3 playoffs. With one of the more diverse offenses and physical defenses that you will find, the Eaglets shouldn't have much trouble advancing to the semifinals on Saturday.
OLSM 42, East English 21
Birmingham Brother Rice at Walled Lake Western
This could have been the state title game in Division 2 last year if Western had topped Lowell in the semifinals, but these two teams will face a year later in a battle to see who advances to the state semis. Western's Josh Jones had a sensational performance last week in a win over Fenton, but the Western offense won't have as much luck against the stiff Brother Rice defense.
Brother Rice 28, Western 21
Novi Detroit Catholic Central at Plymouth
The Shamrocks are turning it on at the right time this year, specifically, their defense. Catholic Central has shut down a pair of offenses in Hartland and Walled Lake Northern, who can score 50 points in just about any game, holding them to 32 points total. Plymouth just happens to be playing the Shamrocks at the wrong time.
Catholic Central 21, Plymouth 14
Rockford at Clarkston
Many are skeptical of the Wolves because of their postseason struggles and the fact that they've struggled to take that last step to get to Ford Field. But I think that all changes this year and Clarkston will make it to the state finals behind what has been an underrated defense that should be able to bottle up Rockford on Clarkston.
Clarkston 24, Rockford 21
Macomb Dakota at Lake Orion
It'll be great to see a playoff rivalry finally be renewed, and this time it will be at Lake Orion. Much like last week, I think the number of playmakers that the Dragons have will be able to show through late in the game and expect Lake Orion to take another step towards Ford Field.
Lake Orion 28, Dakota 21
Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes at Harbor Beach
This will be the Laker's toughest test to get to Ford Field, facing a Harbor Beach team that scores points early and often and has several shutouts on the year defensively. But I picked Lakes to make it to the state finals at the start and I wont be changing my mind any time soon. Look for Laker defense, which has forced seven turnovers in two playoff games to once again be opportunistic and lead the way to the semifinals.
WOLL 27, Harbor Beach 24 in OT
Grosse Ile at Birmingham Detroit Country Day
Grosse Ile can flat out score, the Red Devils put up 70 points in a win last week, but they haven't played a defense quite like Country Day's. Look for the Yellowjacket defense to shut down the Grosse Ile offense, while still putting up some good offensive numbers in the quarterfinals.
Country Day 35, Grosse Ile 21
Oak Park at Wyandotte Roosevelt
Both teams have had big seasons that they won't soon forget, but Oak Park has without question played the tougher schedule this season. Oak Park's defense has been as good as it gets in the playoffs, while the offense has been one of the best at picking up yards on the ground and simply draining the clock with is something lethal to have in the postseason.
Oak Park 31, Roosevelt 17
Detroit East English at Orchard Lake St. Mary's
It's pretty simple in my opinion, teams are just in St. Mary's way in the division 3 playoffs. With one of the more diverse offenses and physical defenses that you will find, the Eaglets shouldn't have much trouble advancing to the semifinals on Saturday.
OLSM 42, East English 21
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
They'll Be Back
Quite a few teams from Oakland County saw their seasons end in the second round of the playoffs, but there's no doubt that these team's will be back in contention in 2013.
Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
While it may be way too early to tell, the Fighting Irish just might be the favorite to win the state title in division 4 in 2013. With juniors Jermaih Johnson and Brenden Newvine leading the way next year while receivers like Anthony Gunn and defensive tackle Alex Stuart, the Irish will have one of the most complete teams in the state next year.
Oxford
Many (Myself included) believed that this would be a bit of a down year for the Wildcats after losing several key seniors from last year's team, but behind sophomore quarterback Glacier Wallington, Oxford was once again a strong team in 2012. Expect that to once again be the case in 2013 with Wallington and junior running back Ben Line leading the way for Bud Rowley's squad.
Southfield
It seems like it really doesn't matter who the Blue Jays lose each year or how many, but they're always going to be just as strong each year. Look for names like Jordan Cry and Lawrence Marshall to help lead what should be a dominant Southfield defense in 2013 that could lead the Blue Jays to a long playoff run.
Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
While it may be way too early to tell, the Fighting Irish just might be the favorite to win the state title in division 4 in 2013. With juniors Jermaih Johnson and Brenden Newvine leading the way next year while receivers like Anthony Gunn and defensive tackle Alex Stuart, the Irish will have one of the most complete teams in the state next year.
Oxford
Many (Myself included) believed that this would be a bit of a down year for the Wildcats after losing several key seniors from last year's team, but behind sophomore quarterback Glacier Wallington, Oxford was once again a strong team in 2012. Expect that to once again be the case in 2013 with Wallington and junior running back Ben Line leading the way for Bud Rowley's squad.
Southfield
It seems like it really doesn't matter who the Blue Jays lose each year or how many, but they're always going to be just as strong each year. Look for names like Jordan Cry and Lawrence Marshall to help lead what should be a dominant Southfield defense in 2013 that could lead the Blue Jays to a long playoff run.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Round 2 Oakland County Football Playoff Picks
Last Week's Record: 8-4 Season Record: 97-36
Novi Detroit Catholic Central at Walled Lake Northern
Without a doubt the best matchup of round two, and there may not be a more intriguing game as the playoffs go on. It's power vs. speed. It's a traditional power vs. a team in the playoffs for the first time ever. There are so many intriguing match-ups in this game that there just isn't enough room to mention them all. This is a game that I have changed my mind on several occasions already (and might do so a few more times) but speed kills and the Knights have plenty of it.
WL Northern 34, ND Catholic Central 31 in OT
Melvindale ABT at Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes
While it was a win, last week's first round game against Pittsford wasn't exactly pretty. While the defense played a near perfect game aside from the first drive of the second half, the offense never really got going. Expect that to change against ABT this weekend as quarterback Sal Mastromatteo should have plenty of success through the air.
WOLL 31, ABT 14
Birmingham Detroit Country Day at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep
This is easily the most interesting game of the week. Both teams have electric running backs (Richie Wilson, DCD/ Jermaih Johnson, NDP). Both have playmakers everywhere on a dominant defense. In terms of college prospects, the edge would go to Country Day, but something tells me that the Irish will find a way to pull out a win at home under the lights in a classic.
NDP 41, BDCD 35 in 3 OT
Walled Lake Western at Fenton
This probably isn't the type of reward Fenton was expecting for finishing the season with a nearly perfect 8-1 record. First Fenton topped perennial state power Farmington Hills Harrison and now Western, who was incredibly close to playing for the D-2 state title last year. It was a great round one win for the Tigers, but you have to wonder if they'll have enough left in the tank to pull of another upset. Too much firepower on offense for the Warriors for Fenton to overcome.
WL Western 35, Fenton 24
Utica Eisenhower at Lake Orion
Like I said before, speed kills and Lake Orion has it just about everywhere on the field. From Jacob Miller to Corey Ester to Chaz Miller to Zach Arnold, the Dragons have more playmakers than most teams in the state can handle. Look for Eisenhower to keep the game close for the first half, but the speed and athleticism will start to wear down the power game of Eisenhower.
Lake Orion 42, Eisenhower 28
Grand Blanc at Clarkston
This game has all of the looks of a trap game for Clarkston. The No. 1 ranked Wolves have been dominant all season long, while Grand Blanc has just as much firepower, but has slipped up a time or two this season. But look for the Clarkston defense, behind cornerback Tim Cason and linebacker Chris Calvano, as well as two of the more underrated pass rushers around in Adam Johns and David Beedle to slow down a very capable Grand Blanc offense just enough to pull out the narrow win to move on.
Clarkston 24, Grand Blanc 21
Oxford at Birmingham Brother Rice
With a convincing win over Birmingham Seaholm in the playoff opener, Oxford sent a bit of a message, that they are for real. Unfortunately for the Wildcats, they have to face arguably the most complete team in the state in Brother Rice. Expect a close, low scoring defense behind a strong defensive battle in the first half, but with running back Brian Walker and quarterback Cheyne Lacanaria, the Warriors should pull away in the second half.
Brother Rice 42, Oxford 24
Southfield at Oak Park
Earlier in the season, Oak Park edged out the Blue Jays with an overtime win. This time around, Southfield may return the favor, with the Blue Jays finally back to full strength after dealing with injury problems throughout the season. Look for quarterback Tre Walton and receiver Brandon Bean to once again find the rhythm that they had working early on in the season to help lead Southfield to a district title and keep an eye on Gerald Gates who had a breakout performance in the playoff opener.
Southfield 33, Oak Park 27 in OT
Auburn Hills Avondale at Orchard Lake St Mary's
Avondale's high powered offense should keep the Yellow Jackets in the game in the early stages, but the Eaglets will have too much balance and power for Avondale to handle. With the St. Mary's offense starting to open things up in the passing game with quarterback Matt Linehan to pair with one of the most dominant rushing attacks in the state, St. Mary's should handle an early push from Avondale and then turn to its balanced offense and overpowering defense to lead the way to round three.
OLSM 42, Avondale 24
Monday, October 29, 2012
Unusual sights to round one of the state playoffs
There were several strange sights on Friday night, some had to do with what happened on the football field and others were what happened before the football season.
For starters, not seeing Rochester Adams in the state playoffs was one of the great absences that I can remember in recent years. This was the first time since the late 1990's where we did not see a playoff game from the Highlanders. The streak had to come to an end eventually, but it was a very strange sight to see Adams and head coach Tony Patrito missing from the sidelines last week.
Another team that had gotten used to playing after the regular season was finished, but was unfortunately absent in the first round of the playoffs was Walled Lake Central. Head coach Bob Meyer and the Vikings had made several consecutive playoff appearances over the past few years, but unfortunately missed out this season. It was going to be an uphill battle for what was an extremely young Vikings squad, but much like Adams, it was odd not seeing Central playing in week 10.
One strange happening that took place on Friday night was something we haven't seen in a while was Farmington Hills Harrison being sent home after the first round. The Hawks, who won the state title in 2010 and lost at the hands of Brother Rice, the eventual state champion in the third round of last year's state tournament.
All three of these have one thing in common: they're all young. The Highlanders have a number of playmakers returning next year, including quarterback Matt Sokol and running back Clarence Broadnax. The Vikings will have sophomore quarterback Nick Krumm and running back Zach Goor returning next year, while the Hawks will have star junior running back Lorenzo Collins, as well as sophomore quarterback Ryan Brand. While it was a bit of a step back this season for these teams in 2012, expect a big bounceback year for all three squads in 2013.
For starters, not seeing Rochester Adams in the state playoffs was one of the great absences that I can remember in recent years. This was the first time since the late 1990's where we did not see a playoff game from the Highlanders. The streak had to come to an end eventually, but it was a very strange sight to see Adams and head coach Tony Patrito missing from the sidelines last week.
Another team that had gotten used to playing after the regular season was finished, but was unfortunately absent in the first round of the playoffs was Walled Lake Central. Head coach Bob Meyer and the Vikings had made several consecutive playoff appearances over the past few years, but unfortunately missed out this season. It was going to be an uphill battle for what was an extremely young Vikings squad, but much like Adams, it was odd not seeing Central playing in week 10.
One strange happening that took place on Friday night was something we haven't seen in a while was Farmington Hills Harrison being sent home after the first round. The Hawks, who won the state title in 2010 and lost at the hands of Brother Rice, the eventual state champion in the third round of last year's state tournament.
All three of these have one thing in common: they're all young. The Highlanders have a number of playmakers returning next year, including quarterback Matt Sokol and running back Clarence Broadnax. The Vikings will have sophomore quarterback Nick Krumm and running back Zach Goor returning next year, while the Hawks will have star junior running back Lorenzo Collins, as well as sophomore quarterback Ryan Brand. While it was a bit of a step back this season for these teams in 2012, expect a big bounceback year for all three squads in 2013.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Elite Eight - First Round Finishers
8. Matt Kosmalski - Walled Lake Northern WR/RB
Kosmalski did a little bit of everything on Friday night as he finished with five catches for over 180 yards and three touchdowns. The Northern senior also rushed for 133 yards on 11 carries to help lead the Knights to their first ever playoff win and into a district final showdown against Catholic Central.
7. Jon Malone - Novi Detroit Catholic Central DB/KR
Malone wasn't only the starter for the Shamrocks on Friday night, he was the finisher as well. After starting the game with a 97 yard kickoff return to help Catholic Central take an early 7-0 lead. Malone then sealed the 21-15 win for the Shamrocks as he picked off a Hartland pass late in the fourth quarter to allow Catholic Central to run out the clock.
6. Ben Line - Oxford RB
Line carried the ball 26 times on Friday night for almost 150 yards as Oxford came up with a first round blowout win over 8-1 Seaholm. Line also tallied four touchdowns on Friday night as he helped lead Oxford into a district final match-up against Brother Rice.
5. Michael Johnson - Auburn Hills Avondale
The Yellowjackets running back helped Avondale get out to a 14-7 halftime lead behind a pair of rushing touchdowns on Friday night. Johnson finished the game with over 170 yards rushing on just 22 carries to lead Avondale past Lahser and into the district finals against Orchard Lake St. Mary's.
4. Brian Walker - Birmingham Brother Rice RB
Walker was his usual overpowering self on Friday night as the junior running back rushed for over 200 yards and three touchdowns as he helped lead the Warriors past a dangerous Port Huron team. Walker's 200 yard night helped the Warriors go over the 350 rushing yards on the night. Big assist from the Brother Rice O-Line.
3. Gerald Gates - Southfield RB
Gates was a one-man wrecking crew on Friday as he rushed for over 200 yards on 32 carries to help lead Southfield past Detroit MLK for the second time this season. Gates also ran for two touchdowns on the afternoon, including the go-ahead score in the fourth quarter to give the Blue Jays a 22-19 lead.
2. Jermaih Johnson/Brandon Newvine - Pontiac Notre Dame Prep RB/QB
The dynamic duo did everything for the Fighting Irish on Saturday night as the Notre Dame Prep juniors combined for nearly 500 yards of offense to help lead the Irish into the district finals. Johnson was his usual dominant self on Saturday as he rushed for over 220 yards and found the end zone on four different occasions, while Newvine totaled over 250 yards of offense and tossed a pair of touchdowns on the day.
1. Rich Cross - Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes DB/WR
Cross did it all on Saturday afternoon on offense and defense, but he did the vast majority of his damage in the defensive secondary for the Lakers. Cross had not one, not two, but three interceptions to help lead a dominant performance from the WOLL defense. Cross also finished with over 100 yards of total offense and a touchdown which clinched the win for Lakes.
Kosmalski did a little bit of everything on Friday night as he finished with five catches for over 180 yards and three touchdowns. The Northern senior also rushed for 133 yards on 11 carries to help lead the Knights to their first ever playoff win and into a district final showdown against Catholic Central.
7. Jon Malone - Novi Detroit Catholic Central DB/KR
Malone wasn't only the starter for the Shamrocks on Friday night, he was the finisher as well. After starting the game with a 97 yard kickoff return to help Catholic Central take an early 7-0 lead. Malone then sealed the 21-15 win for the Shamrocks as he picked off a Hartland pass late in the fourth quarter to allow Catholic Central to run out the clock.
6. Ben Line - Oxford RB
Line carried the ball 26 times on Friday night for almost 150 yards as Oxford came up with a first round blowout win over 8-1 Seaholm. Line also tallied four touchdowns on Friday night as he helped lead Oxford into a district final match-up against Brother Rice.
5. Michael Johnson - Auburn Hills Avondale
The Yellowjackets running back helped Avondale get out to a 14-7 halftime lead behind a pair of rushing touchdowns on Friday night. Johnson finished the game with over 170 yards rushing on just 22 carries to lead Avondale past Lahser and into the district finals against Orchard Lake St. Mary's.
4. Brian Walker - Birmingham Brother Rice RB
Walker was his usual overpowering self on Friday night as the junior running back rushed for over 200 yards and three touchdowns as he helped lead the Warriors past a dangerous Port Huron team. Walker's 200 yard night helped the Warriors go over the 350 rushing yards on the night. Big assist from the Brother Rice O-Line.
3. Gerald Gates - Southfield RB
Gates was a one-man wrecking crew on Friday as he rushed for over 200 yards on 32 carries to help lead Southfield past Detroit MLK for the second time this season. Gates also ran for two touchdowns on the afternoon, including the go-ahead score in the fourth quarter to give the Blue Jays a 22-19 lead.
2. Jermaih Johnson/Brandon Newvine - Pontiac Notre Dame Prep RB/QB
The dynamic duo did everything for the Fighting Irish on Saturday night as the Notre Dame Prep juniors combined for nearly 500 yards of offense to help lead the Irish into the district finals. Johnson was his usual dominant self on Saturday as he rushed for over 220 yards and found the end zone on four different occasions, while Newvine totaled over 250 yards of offense and tossed a pair of touchdowns on the day.
1. Rich Cross - Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes DB/WR
Cross did it all on Saturday afternoon on offense and defense, but he did the vast majority of his damage in the defensive secondary for the Lakers. Cross had not one, not two, but three interceptions to help lead a dominant performance from the WOLL defense. Cross also finished with over 100 yards of total offense and a touchdown which clinched the win for Lakes.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)