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.
Monday, November 26, 2012
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
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