Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Valentine picks Grizzlies!



Lansing- Drew Valentine announced at his press conference, today at Lansing Sexton, that he would accept a scholarship to play basketball at Oakland University. Valentine had offers in both basketball and football and was still being evaluated by other D-1 programs but the 6-4 wing felt like it was time to make a choice.

Valentine is currently recovering from a torn ACL injury and everything is heading in the right direction towards becoming 100%. Valentine will give Oakland a versatile player that can do a number of things on the hardwood. Valentine can handle the ball as well as score in a variety of ways, but with that being said Valentine's biggest attributes are his defensive toughness and leadership skills.

Monday, September 29, 2008

WEEK 5: DeLaSalle vs. Detroit C.C.

**DLS's Chet Privett pounds in a TD**
**DLS's Ben Hayes makes a tackle**
**DLS's John Martinez**
**DCC's John Jakubik makes an INT**

Novi- Sunday marked the 64th annual Boys' Bowl as Detroit Catholic Central hosted Warren DeLaSalle. The Boys' Bowl is full of tradition and pride and Sunday just added to it as DCC and DeLaSalle battled for four hard fought quarters, but in the end DeLaSalle stood on top with a 12-7 victory, as the Pilots improved to 5-0. With the loss DCC drops to 2-2 and is easily the best 2-2 team in Michigan.

In the beginning neither team could move the ball with much success as the defenses stood tough. DeLaSalle made the game's first big play when John Matinez jumped a DCC pass lane and took an interception 42 yards down to the 6 yard line. Facing a 3rd-and-goal from the 2 yard line Chet Privett powered his way into the endzone. The extra point was no good leaving the Pilots with a 6-0 lead with 6:48 left in the first half.

DeLaSalle took the kickoff to start the third quarter but quarterback Josh Sinagoga lost control of the ball when he was reading the defense while running an option play. DCC fell on the ball and the Shamrocks were in business at the Pilot's 26 yard line. DCC managed to convert the fumble recovery into a touchdown on Sam Landry's 23 yard pass to Steve Harding to give DCC a 7-6 lead.

DeLaSalle answered back with the game winning drive that saw the Pilots just pound the ball down the throat of the DCC defense. The Pilots ate up most of the third quarter clock on the drive and capped it with another TD from fullback Privett. The 2-point conversion pass to Jim Martinez fell incomplete making the score 12-7 in favor of the Pilots.

DCC had 3 shots in the game's final six minutes but failed to convert a first down on any of the possessions.

BREAKDOWN

DeLaSalle- the Pilots are small in size but they rely on team speed, even from their O-line. The Pilots O-line does a great job with downfield blocking. DeLaSalle relies on the option to move the chains and use a handful of different backs, but Chet Privett's running up the belly was the difference in this game.

DCC- the Shamrocks defense played a great game but offensively they couldn't move the ball. When they fell back to pass they couldn't muster anything but that credit has to go to a speedy Pilot pass rush. DCC has to pull out a win next week against OLSM to stay in the playoff hunt.

GAME MVP: Ben Hayes, DeLaSalle Hayes was all over the field making plays. DeLaSalle lined him up at D-end, D-tackle, and outside linebacker to keep DCC guessing where he would be. Hayes batted passes down, made tackles, and put Landry on his back at least 5 times. He used his speed to fire off the ball and blow up run plays.

Martinez Brothers- these twins are gamers! They are all over the field, or maybe it just seems that way because there are two of them. They are both lock down corners and know how to get open as receivers.

Chet Privett, DeLaSalle-
the fullback/linebacker was a beast taking FB dives and moving the chains. He finished with 50 yards on just 11 touches, not bad for a basic FB dive run.

Nick Landry, DCC- a 6-4/270 pound left tackle. Landry has good foot speed and standsout at both pass and run blocking.

WEEK 5:Milford vs. Hartland

**Milford's Steve Buglione**
**Hartland's Matt Poches**
**Hartland's Vonn Jones**

Hartland- Hartland's dream season hit a speed bump Friday night when Milford came to town for the Eagle's homecoming. For the first four games Hartland's offense has averaged 44 points a game, with most of that coming in the first halves, but against a hard hitting Maverick defense Hartland looked completely out of sync as Milford built a 10-0 halftime lead.

Milford took the opening kick-off and marched 80 yards down field and capped the game's opening drive with a 10 yard touchdown run from quarterback Steve Buglione. Out of shotgun, Buglione faked a handoff to Duvionn Holland, the Hartland defense bit, and Buglione walked in untouched for the 7-0 lead with 9:39 on the clock in the first quarter.

Milford's ability to mix the pass and the run again found the Mavericks in the red zone. But with their backs against the wall Hartland managed to come up with touchdown saving tackles forcing Milford to settle for a 24 yard field goal and a 10-0 lead.

Vonn Jones took the ensuing kickoff 54 yards and gave his Eagles a short field to work with with six minutes till halftime. The Hartland passing game finally woke up but 5 penalties in the drive forced the Eagles to turn the ball over inside the 20 yard line on downs.

In the third quarter Hartland went to their option run game with Chris Cagle and Kyle Summerfield. The Eagles moved the chains and marched down field. The drive came to a near stall on the 33 yard line when the Eagles faced a 4th-and-4. Hartland gambled and ran a flea flicker play and Cagle hit sophomore Matt Poches for a touchdown.

The Eagle defense came up big and forced Milford into a 3-and-out. The Eagles tied the game up on Zach Minor's 26 yard field goal and the game's momentum had changed and now it seemed like it was Milford's offense that couldn't get in rhythm.

Hartland quickly moved the ball down field again thanks to a 15 yard run from Cagle and a 22 yard catch and run from Jones. But inside the red zone Milford toughened up and forced Hartland to settle for a 24 yard field goal, but a 13-10 lead with 5:29 to play.

Milford answered back with the game winning touchdown drive. The drive was keyed Joe Goodin who took a short pass and turned it into a 40 yard gain. Three plays later Buglione hit Carter Fox for the 7 yard TD. Hartland had once last chance with 3:50 to play but turned the ball over on downs near midfield.

BREAKDOWN

Milford- give the Mavericks credit because they were able to regroup late in the fourth quarter and regain the lead after they fell apart and lost it. Milford did a solid job defensively by taking away Hartland' s big play threats. The Mavericks are now 4-1 and climb back to the top shelf of the KLAA-west division. Milford is a 3 point overtime lost from being undefeated.

Hartland- the Eagles shot themselves in the foot with fumbles and penalties but still almost pulled out the win. Hartland played too conservative and played into Milford's hand by settling for too many plays underneath, they should of used their playmakers and stretched the field more. Hartland will get a chance to get back into first place of the conference race as they travel to 1st place Howell next week.

GAME MVP: Steve Buglione, Milford the quarterback played his best game of the year. He managed drives and made the big play when his team needed it. Buglione racked up 200 yards of offense, 100 with his arm and 100 with his feet.

Vonn Jones, Hartland- Jones has proven to me that he's a football player and not just a basketball play staying busy in the fall. The community calls him Mr. Excitement every time he touches the ball. He made big plays to keep his team a float in all three aspects of the game- offense, defense, special teams. Jones finished with 100 receiving yards, most of them being YAC (yards after catch).

Matt Poches, Hartland- the 6-4 sophomore has scored a touchdown in every game this season and major colleges like Louisville, Tennessee, Ohio State, Michigan, and UCLA are taking notice. Poches made a play on his TD catch by going up over two defenders and still managing to make the touch catch.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

WEEK 5: Top 10 Games

It was a tough week last week as I went 6-4 on my predictions, making me 29-11 on the season. Below are my picks for week 5's top 10 games. I'm banking on some big time performances from some quarterbacks to make this week's picks come true.

10. Detroit Mumford (3-1) at #39 Detroit Cody (4-0) this is a match-up of two of the better quarterbacks in the PSL that don't get much pub in Dennis Martin (Mumford) and Brandon Hall (Cody). Mumford let a game slip away two weeks ago against Henry Ford so the Mustangs will be out to prove a point.
NGS PICK- Mumford 20-12

9. #47 Davison (2-2) at #46 Lansing Sexton (3-1)
this game could go either way so experience will play a huge factor and I give that edge to the fellas at Sexton. The Big Red defense has the playmakers to handle the run and pass while Carlous Kelley will find a way to keep those chains moving.
NGS PICK- Sexton 23-21

8. Merrill (4-0) at Carrollton (4-0)
this is a big time game in the Tri-Valley West and Mid-Michigan. Carrollton is off to their best start in nearly two decades behind star back Robert Essex. Merrill has their own star in quarterback Jason Pratt who has been putting up huge numbers on the ground as well as the air.
NGS PICK- Merrill 42-26


7. #45 Orchard Lake St. Mary’s (2-2) at #11 Brother Rice (3-1) we all know how good St. Mary's is but they need to start chalking up some W's or else they might miss the playoffs. This is just another week where the catholic teams will just beat up on each other. I like the match-ups in this game to favor St. Mary's and I think the Eaglets will start playing with some urgency. Brother Rice also got pretty banged up in last week's win so it is unclear how healthy the Warriors will be.
NGS PICK- OLSM 30-25

6. #5 DeLaSalle (4-0) at #27 Detroit Catholic Central (2-1)
the other catholic league battle and again I'm picking the upset with C.C. playing with some urgency. The DeLaSalle offense has been fantastic with Josh Sinagoga leading the way but they might come to a road block against linebacker Michael Kinville and a tough C.C. defensive front.
NGS PICK- Catholic Central 28-24

5. #13 Dearborn Fordson (4-0) at Allen Park (3-1)
Fordson has been on cruise control but they now enter the tough part of their schedule and we'll get a chance to see how good the Tractors really are. Allen Park fights week in and week out and are 3 points away from being undefeated themselves. I look for Fordson's Mr. Everything- Ali Alaboody to get the Tractors over the hump.
NGS PICK- Fordson 22-10

4. #30 Chippewa Valley (3-1) at #9 Romeo (4-0)
I'll tell you this- if Romeo is 8-0 in four weeks they'll be the best team in Michigan. We'll find out if the win over Dakota was a fluke or not because the schedule gets real tough starting with Chippewa Valley. Romeo will have to find a way to shut down QB Joe Smith and the Valley air attack.
NGS PICK- Romeo 35-24

3. Milford (3-1) at #17 Hartland (4-0)
Hartland's spread offense has looked flawless under QB Chris Cagle. The Eagles have yet to be challenged and this will be their biggest test of the season, so far. Milford will try to turn this game into an old fashioned slugfest but the Eagles have way too much speed for Milford to contain. I'm predicting a huge game from Cagle, who is on a mission.
NGS PICK- Hartland 31-21

2. #10 Sterling Heights Stevenson (4-0) at #23 Macomb Dakota (3-1)
Dakota showed the state that they really are human and Stevenson, like Romeo, will exploit their weaknesses. Stevenson has been routing teams and while flying under the radar, but that'll come to an end if they pull out this win. Look for QB Jason Fracassa to pick Dakota apart.
NGS PICK- Stevenson 38-30

1. #6 Rochester Adams (4-0) at #20 Southfield (4-0)
Will Adams finally get tested? They'll put up points like they normally do but for the Highlanders to stay undefeated they will need to contain QB Eddie Beal who is a pure playmaker. Southfield has been a pleasant surprise this season but they won't be able to match Adam's experience.
NGS PICK- Adams 35-32

NGS: BIG 50

1. Muskegon, 4-0, beat Grand Haven 43-6
2. East Grand Rapids, 4-0, beat Reeths-Puffer 41-3
3. Lowell, 4-0, beat G.R. Union 56-6
4. Rockford, 4-0, beat Hudsonville 15-12
5. De La Salle, 4-0, beat OLSM 34-28
6. Rochester Adams, 4-0, beat Birmingham Groves 52-14
7. Adrian, 4-0, beat Tecumseh 54-6
8. Midland, 4-0, beat Saginaw 36-12
9. Romeo, 4-0, beat Fraser 41-7
10. S.H. Stevenson, 4-0, beat Grosse Pointe South 41-15
11. Brother Rice, 3-1, beat Detroit CC 27-24
12. Arthur Hill, 4-0, beat Flint Northern 19-12
13. Dearborn Fordson, 4-0, beat Redford Union 42-6
14. Grand Ledge, 4-0, beat Everett 21-19
15. Detroit Cass Tech, 4-0, beat Denby 41-0
16. Inkster, 3-1, beat Edsel Ford 41-7
17. Hartland, 4-0, beat Brighton 38-17
18. Clarkston, 3-1, beat West Bloomfield 41-38
19. Bay City Western, 4-0, beat FSWA 21-0
20. Southfield, 4-0, beat Stoney Creek34-0
21. Lake Orion, 3-1, beat Southfield Lathrup 41-0
22. Hudsonville, 3-1, loss to Rockford 12-15
23. Macomb Dakota, 3-1 beat Port Huron 49-28
24. Grosse Pointe North, 4-0, beat Cousino 14-0
25. Southgate Anderson, 4-0, beat Belleville 44-6
26. Stevensville Lakeshore, 4-0, beat Portage North. 24-22
27. Detroit C.C., 2-1, loss to Brother Rice 24-27
28. Lansing Everett, 3-1, loss to Grand Ledge 19-21
29. Nouvel C.C., 4-0, beat Divine Child 20-7
30. Chippewa Valley, 3-1, beat Port Huron Northern 49-0
31. Muskegon C.C., 4-0, beat Hopkins 35-14
32. Portage Central, 4-0, beat Coldwater 42-6
33. Marine City, 4-0, beat Clawson 43-20
34. Muskegon Oakridge, 4-0, beat Whitehall 42-7
35. Milan, 4-0, beat Grosse Ile 48-8
36. St. Joseph, 4-0, beat Battle Creek Central 67-35
37. Mason, 3-1, beat St. John’s 50-22
38. Caledonia, 4-0, beat Forest Hills Eastern 40-7
39. Detroit Cody, 4-0, beat Henry Ford 26-25
40. T.C. St. Francis, 3-1, beat Charlevoix 47-8
41. Howell, 3-1, loss to A.A. Pioneer 14-17
42. Wyandotte Roosevelt, 4-0, beat Trenton 27-23
43. G.R. South Cristian, 4-0, beat GRCC 39-37
44. Troy, 3-1, beat Oak Park 55-12
45. OLSM, 2-2, loss to DeLaSalle 28-34
46. Lansing Sexton, 3-1, beat Jackson N.W. 36-15
47. Davison, 2-2, beat Grand Blanc 18-7
48. Dearborn, 3-1, beat Allen Park 38-35
49. Goodrich, 4-0, beat Montrose 48-7
50. Ann Arbor Pioneer, 4-0, beat Howell 17-14

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

WEEK 4: Inkster vs. Edsel Ford





Inkster- What's the best way to slow down a potent offense? Keep them off the field! And that is what Edsel Ford's game plan was against Inkster Saturday afternoon.

It worked in the first half as Edsel Ford held a 7-6 lead at the half and Inkster's offense only saw 10 snaps in the first two quarters. The Thunderbirds put together two drives that each ate up more than 7 minutes off the clock. The first drive was capped by Kevin King's 4 yard run. The second drive totaled 85 yards but was stalled on 4th-and-goal from less than a yard away but Inkster's Denzel Richmond made a tackle in the Edsel backfield. Inkster scored their lone first half touchdown off of a 24 yard TD pass from Devin Gardner to John Taylor.

Unfortunately for Edsel Ford, Inkster's defense is just as potent with linebackers Richmond and Darnel Morris. In the second half Inkster made their adjustments and the defense took over and didn't allow Edsel Ford's wishbone offense to gain a yard. From there Gardner and company took over and exploded for 28 third quarter points.

Gardner again hooked up with Taylor, this time from 48 yards. Gardner rushed in another score from a few yards out and tailback Alan Freeman ran in from 12 yards out. By time the dust had cleared Inkster finished off Edsel Ford with a 41-7 victory.

BREAKDOWN
Inkster- At times there seems to be too many weapons to keep everyone happy but the staff does a solid job of moving the ball around. The offense gets all the pub but the defense is just as exciting to watch with all the speed they put on the field. As long as this team can stay together and not worry about who does what, they will be tough to beat in division 4.

Edsel Ford- the game plan was executed well in the first half but they were just under matched talent wise to keep it up for four quarters. Their wishbone offense worked well but when they got down they just couldn't throw out of it.

GAME MVP: Devin Gardner, Inkster he's the truth alright! If he has the right work ethic you'll see him playing on Sundays. He does a good job of scanning all his options and not locking in to one receiver. He has good pocket presence and doesn't take off to early.

Denzel Richmond and Darnel Morris, Inkster- this middle linebacker combination is a pair of freaks. They only stand about 5-11 but they have great instincts and don't waste time finding the ball, plus their physical appearance proves that they are no stranger to the weight room.

Alan Freeman, Inkster- as good as Gardner and the receivers are, Freeman might be the team's MVP. He forces team to respect the run game and he fights hard between the tackles. He has home run speed and knows how to read his blocks.

Cameron Gordon, Inkster- had a quiet day but was still efficient because he opened the field up for other receivers by drawing double coverage every play. He's so big and fast but I was most impressed by how hard he runs every possible route.

Jon Taylor, Inkster- makes a living by just running up and down the sideline. He's the whole package at 6-2 with burners. With Gordon on the other side he gets allot of single coverage and he'll make teams pay. He finished with 2 touchdowns and over 100 yards.

Monday, September 22, 2008

WEEK 4: Detroit CC vs. Brother Rice

**Michael Kinville**
**Kevonte Martin**
**C.C.'s Anthony Capatina**
**Frankie Popp tries to break a tackle**

Southfield- It was everything you expected...and more, when these two perennial powerhouses locked horns Saturday night.

Brother Rice got on the board first with Ryan Kelly's 42 yard field goal with 5:40 left in the first quarter. But then CC took control of the game and the score board with their aggressive play in trenches. On the Shamrocks next drive they gambled twice on fourth downs and were successful. The gambles paid off as Anthony Capatina hit the corner and was able to score from 16 yards out and give the Shamrocks a 7-3 lead.

Next the Shamrocks went to the air to build a 14-3 lead. First Sam Landry hooked up with Steve Harding for 37 yards then Capatina found John Jakubik on a half-back pass for a 36 yard touchdown.

Brother Rice was able find paydirt on their final drive of the first half when Frankie Popp's hit Nate Saldivar-Garcia for a 10 yard TD pass to make the halftime score 14-10.

Catholic Central stretched their lead to 21-10 on a 10 yard run from Justin Cherocci and to 24-10 on a 27 yard field goal with 6:08 left in the fourth quarter. Both scores came courtesy of turnovers.

With time running out it looked like CC had pulled out the "W" but then Brother Rice awakened. Rice calmly drove the ball down field and Popp hit Kevonte Martin on a 10 pass for a touchdown to make the score 24-17 with 4:35 to play. The Warrior defense then forced a 3-and-out, forcing CC to punt. Danny Henneghan returned the punt 45 yards and tacked on a late hit penalty to give the Warriors the ball inside the 10 yard line. Two plays late Popp found Mark Makoski on a slant route to tie the game at 24-24 with 2:45 to play.

The Shamrocks received the kick-off and seemed content to play for overtime but Brother Rice forced a punt with a minute to play. The Warriors smoothly drove down field using first downs and spiked balls to stop the clock. With 2 seconds left the Warriors sent out the field goal unit to attempt a 50 yard field goal by Kelly, Kelly hit the game winner with no problem.

BREAKDOWN

BR- give the Warriors credit because they never gave up and kept on fighting. What makes this win even more creditable is that they pulled it off without 2 key players, both Shaquille Marshall (FB) and Shamari Benton (S) were knocked out of the game in the first half.

CC- this is a tough one to swallow but CC proved that even though they are young, they are contenders for another state title. They did get a little conservative in the second half and should of stayed with the aggressive play calling that helped them build a 24-10 lead.

GAME MVP- Ryan Kelly, BR who else would it be? Kelly started the BR scoring and ended it with the 50 yard bomb. He walked on the field and went through his routine like there was no pressure on him.

Frankie Popp, BR- the senior QB did a good job keeping his composure on his final two drives. He sat in the pocket and calmly delivered the ball to a handful of different receivers.

Nate Saldivar-Garcia, BR- the junior receiver was left open as CC tried to contain Martin, but Saldivar made them pay. He finished with 5 catches and a TD grab.

Michael Kinville, CC- the 6-3/215 pound junior is tough as nails. He's a rock at middle linebacker but has some bounce to his game at tight end. He made big time plays on both sides of the ball.

Justin Cherocci, CC- another junior that is a tough nosed football player and goes 6-0/200 pounds. Cherocci is a reliable linebacker but stands out at fullback. He does a heck of a job paving the way for his tailbacks.

Friday, September 19, 2008

WEEK 4: Divine Child vs. Nouvel CC




Saginaw- It was a tougher opponent for Nouvel, as the Panthers played the first of three Detroit Catholic League teams on their schedule, but it was the same old results at Nouvel took care of business with a 20-7 victory at home to stay undefeated at 4-0.

Nouvel got on the score board first with a 20 yard touchdown pass from Ryan Henris to Sam Herbert on the game's opening drive. Divine Child was able to tie the game up on their second possession when Mike Childs broke loose from 45 yards out. Childs was hit at the line of scrimmage but was able to shake off four would be tacklers on his way to the endzone.

For the remainder of the second half it was the defenses that flexed their muscle as neither team was able to muster much out of their running games. The score stay tied at 7-7 heading in halftime.

The play of game came on a 4th-and-5 play midway through the third quarter when Nouvel went for it and a pass fell incomplete but a pass interference penalty was called on the Falcons giving the Panthers new life. Two plays later Ryan Miller ran a draw play up the gut for a 16 yard score giving Nouvel a 14-7 lead.

From there it was Nouvel's defense that took the game over. On the ensuing play Divine Child dropped back for a pass but the defensive line was able to tip the ball and linebacker Josh Fallon made a spectacular dive for the interception.

Nouvel's defense forced another key turnover in the third quarter when Fallon stripped Childs and teammate Garret Roe recovered the fumble. Nouvel used the second turnover to cash in on the game's final score with a 12 yard TD pass from Henris to Murphy Wilson. The extra point was blocked making the score 20-7.

In the fourth quarter Nouvel played keep away while the Falcons lost their cool. Nouvel used their run game to control possession while Divine Child collected a handful of unsportsmanlike conduct penalties to end any chance of a comeback.

BREAKDOWN
Nouvel- the Panthers got a little impatient in the first half when they couldn't move the ball like they are used to. Nouvel had trouble running the ball but their air attack bailed them out. Nouvel has a consistent receiving core with about four receivers that can make the tough grab. But in the end it was the Panther defense that took the game over. Nouvel's front 7 completely took away the Falcon run game in the second half and that was the difference in the game.

Divine Child- the Falcons could never get in any kind of rhythm. They made some solid plays on both sides of the ball but would follow that up with a penalty and Nouvel is too good of a football team for that.

GAME MVP- Josh Fallon the senior captain took the game over in the second half from his middle linebacker position. Fallon forced a fumble and made a heck of a play on his interception but more importantly he was all over the Falcon running backs, giving them nowhere to run.

Ryan Henris, Nouvel- the 5-9 and 145 pound QB is small but he's a football player. Divine Child kept him against the ropes but he never panicked and just moved around to by himself enough time to make a play.

Jon Ludka, Nouvel- Ludka has some nice bounce in his step and did a solid job fielding punts and kick offs. He was even better at his safety position and did a nice job taking away the Falcon's 6-4 receiver.

Sean Frank, Divine Child- a 6-4 tight end that can get down field. He is Divine Child's biggest offensive threat and the Falcons should of found a way to get him more touches.

WEEK 4: Parkway Christian vs. Southfield Christian

**Parkway's Zurlon Tipton**
**Southfield's Devon Bailey**
**Parkway's Brandon Gennette**
**Southfield's Connor Myles**

Fraser- Thursday night's are a rare night for high school games, so I took advantage of it and used it as an opportunity to watch Central Michigan commit Zurlon Tipton play. During football season it gets tough to watch some of the smaller schools play but trust me they know how to put on a show.

Parkway Christian has an enrollment of 191 while Southfield Christian has 330 students. So you can figure that neither team had a ton of bodies, which forces players to play both ways. This is the part of football that I miss because it shows just how tough some kids are. Tipton for instance not only carries the offensive load for Parkway but he also lines up at middle linebacker. The 6-1/ 200 pound linebacker didn't disappoint and it won't take him long to find the field at Central Michigan.

However Tipton wasn't the only player I came away impressed with, matter of fact both teams have a handful of students that have an opportunity to play at the next level. Southfield had their own feature back to lead the way in junior Devon Bailey. Bailey matched Tipton highlight for highlight, but it was Tipton's Parkway team that came away with a 52-41 win in a high scoring shootout.

Parkway's Mitch Michalski caught a 6 yard pass in the endzone on the final play of the first quarter to give Parkway a 14-13 lead heading into the second quarter. Just minutes into the second quarter Tipton broke a tackle in the backfield and raced 18 yards for a 21-13 lead.

Southfield answered right back with Bailey who picked up 8 yards every time he touched the ball. Fullback Connor Myles capped the drive with a 2 yard run to make the score 21-19. Both Tipton and Bailey reach paydirt one more time before halftime to give Parkway a 28-27 lead at intermission.

I thought the defenses would take over in the second half but I was wrong as the fireworks continued. Southfield tried to stack the box but it just allowed Parkway to throw the ball. Brandon Gennette hit Matt Cooper for a TD pass to go up 35-27. A 39 yard field goal by Aaron Mick gave Parkway a 38-27 lead early in the fourth quarter but again Southfield refused to throw in the towel.

Southfield cut into the lead with a 65 yard TD pass from Geoff VanGorder to Aaron Myles. Tipton kept Parkway at a distance with a 70 yard scamper and a 45-35 lead.

With 4:40 left in the game Southfield trailed 45-41 and got their first stop of the game forcing Parkway to punt the ball. Tipton's punt rolled down to the 1 yard line forcing Southfield to travel 99 yards for the win. The drive started soundly as Southfield advanced the ball towards midfield with plenty of time left but an interception by freshman Ricky Paoletti secured the win for Parkway. Christian tacked on one more TD in the final minute to make the final score 52-41.

BREAKDOWN

Parkway- they don't have much size and that worries me about how long of a run they will make in the playoffs. They start a handful of lineman that weigh 160 pounds. Tipton is the man but they also have other playmakers that can score from anywhere. Offensively they can score as was evident last night, but their run defense will need to toughen up.

Southfield-
like Parkway I predict Southfield will be a playoff team even though they are 2-2 right now. They have a very talented junior class which will make them good for at least two years, the junior backfield of Bailey and Myles is good...real good! But again like Southfield their defense needs to get more stops.

GAME MVP: Zurlon Tipton, Parkway Tipton does it all for his team, feature tailback, middle linebacker, punter, heck he even filled the water jugs! Central Michigan got a steal with Tipton, he's just a pure football player. He rushed for 200+ yards to go with 4 touchdowns and a kick off return for a TD.

Anthony Johnson, Parkway- Johnson is Tipton's sophomore brother and he is already 6-4 while playing receiver. He didn't get many touches but he does stretch the field with his size and speed. He also has the skills to play D-1 football.

Brandon Gennette, Parkway- Gennette is a solid high school quarterback that can make plays with both his arm and feet. He's a tough kid and he wasn't afraid to take a hit. He doubled up as a safety for Parkway.

Aaron Mick, Parkway- Mick is a sophomore kicker and has a chance to be real special. He cleared a 39 yard kick with ease. Chain game told me he can knock them down from 45 with ease and they way he cleared the 39-yarder, I believe them.

Devon Bailey, Southfield- the junior back has a special blend of speed and power. He has great patience that allows his blockers to open up wholes for him. Once he sees the whole he hits it hard. Bailey also ran for 150+ yards and a pair of TDs.

Connor Myles, Southfield- the junior fullback can play either tailback or fullback but he seems to like the contact of lead blocking. He did a solid job of staying with his block 10 yards down field. Myles also had his share of rushes and also found the endzone.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

WEEK 4: TOP 10 GAMES

10. #50 Davison (1-2) at Grand Blanc (1-2) even with the loosing records this game is huge, whoever falls to 1-3 can kiss the playoffs good bye, and both of these teams have way too much talent to miss the playoffs. Expect to see sophomore QB's Ryan Morley (Grand Blanc) and Jake Thompson (Davison) put up huge numbers.
NGS PICK- Davison 48-35

9. Detroit Cody (3-0) at. #42 Detroit Henry Ford (3-0) the winner will be in sole control of first place in the PSL Division 2. Henry Ford has an experienced tough minded team and was everyone's pick to win their division of the PSL while Cody has had a huge turnaround from last year.
NGS PICK- Henry Ford 28-14

8. Flint Powers (1-2) at #49 Country Day (2-1) I look for Country Day to bounce back from last week's lost and take their frustration out on Powers. The Yellowjackets have too much team speed for Powers to handle. Patrick Lucas-Perry and Patrick O'Brien has been good for Powers but the Chargers need to find more weapons to put points on the scoreboard.
NGS PICK- Country Day 35- 17

7. #45 Dearborn Edsel Ford (3-0) at #18 Inkster (2-1) this will be Inkster's game to prove that they are an legitimate elite team. We all know the talent they possess at the skill positions but Inkster hasn't had the start that everyone predicted. The tough win over Zeeland West was suppose to be a statement but West has started 0-3. Edsel Ford will try to use ball control to steal the win.
NGS PICK- Inkster 32-21

6. Divine Child (2-1) at #29 Nouvel CC (3-0) this is the first time in a long time to see how Nouvel stacks up against the Detroit Catholic League. Nouvel has won two consecutive State Championships, and is on their way to a third, and still lacks state wide respect. Nouvel is loaded on both sides of the ball and a balanced offensive attack will overwhelm Divine Child.
NGS PICK- Nouvel 31-13

5. #20 Detroit CC (2-0) at #10 Brother Rice (2-1) the young Shamrocks will have to grow up fast if they want to compete with Brother Rice. Rice not only has the experience factor but they have D-1 talent scattered all over the field. The backfield of Shaquille Marshall and Danny Henneghan will be too much for CC to handle.
NGS PICK- Brother Rice 27-17

4. #36 Grosse Pointe North (3-0) at #32 Warren Cousino (2-1) and a freshman will lead them! Cousino has gotten it together since their week 1 beating from Stevenson and allot of that credit has to be given to QB Brian Blackburn, the freshman has taken control of the Patriot offense and will need to come up big this week. The winner will be in cruise control of the MAC-White.
NGS PICK- Cousino 27-24

3. #30 OLSM (2-1) at #7 De La Salle (3-0) the individual match-ups in this game are great- John and Jim Martinez against Suave Lavallis and company. Whoever can establish their run game first will get the upper hand in the passing game. De La Salle will also have to find a way to contain Robert Bolden, however the Pilots do have the speed to match up with Orchard Lake. This game will show how much St. Mary's misses Dion Sims.
NGS PICK- De La Salle 31-24

2. #26 Grand Ledge (3-0) at #9 Lansing Everett (3-0) both teams feature headline names with James Jackson of Grand Ledge and Reggie Williams of Everett. GL will have a tougher time trying to slow down Williams, while Everett's D-back Lavelle Walker has the tools to stay with Jackson.
NGS PICK- Everett 34- 20

1. #6 Rockford (3-0) at #5 Hudsonville (3-0) trainers will need to have the ice ready after this game because both teams will be bringing the lumber. Hudsonville is determined to run the ball, so the deciding factor will be if Jordan Jonker can find running room against that tough Rockford linebacker core.
NGS PICK- Rockford 23-21

NGS: BIG 50

1. Muskegon, 3-0, beat West Ottawa 49-14
2. East Grand Rapids, 3-0, beat Kenowa Hills 21-7
3. Lowell, 3-0, beat Holland 49-0
4. Rochester Adams, 3-0, beat Farmington 63-0
5. Hudsonville, 3-0, beat Jenison 38-12
6. Rockford, 3-0, beat Grandville 42-14
7. De La Salle, 3-0, beat Windsor Sandwich 35-0
8. Midland, 3-0, beat Heritage 49-7
9. Lansing Everett, 3-0, beat Lansing Eastern 31-0
10. Brother Rice, 2-1, beat Mishawaka Penn (IN) 30-20
11. Arthur Hill, 3-0, beat Bay City Central 14-7
12. Adrian, 3-0, beat Temperance Bedford 42-26
13. Dearborn Fordson, 3-0, beat Belleville 26-6
14. S.H. Stevenson, 3-0, beat Utica Ford 39-17
15. Clarkston, 2-1, beat Troy 35-21
16. Romeo, 3-0, beat Macomb Dakota 35-7
17. Detroit Cass Tech, 3-0, beat Crockett 26-6
18. Inkster, 2-1, beat Redford Thurston 38-0
19. Hartland, 3-0, beat Hazel Park 40-8
20. Detroit C.C., 2-0, beat London St. Thomas (CN) 51-0
21. Macomb Dakota, 2-1 loss to Romeo 7-35
22. Lake Orion, 2-1, beat Oak Park 34-14
23. Howell, 3-0, beat Milford 13-10
24. Canton, 3-0, beat Plymouth 26-16
25. Bay City Western, 3-0, beat Saginaw 40-18
26. Grand Ledge, 3-0, beat Mason 14-10
27. Southfield, 3-0, beat F.H. Harrison 27-7
28. Stevensville Lakeshore, 3-0, beat B.C. Lakeview 20-6
29. Nouvel C.C., 3-0, beat London Saunders (CN) 55-7
30. OLSM, 2-1, beat Flint SWA 35-0
31. Allen Park, 3-0, beat Taylor Truman 21-14
32. Warren Cousino, 2-1, beat L’Anse Creuse North 35-0
33. Portage Central, 3-0, beat Lumen Christi 28-21
34. Marine City, 3-0, L’Anse Creuse 55-23
35. Chippewa Valley, 2-1, beat Eisenhower 34-24
36. Grosse Pointe North, 3-0, beat Utica 26-7
37. Muskegon Oakridge, 3-0, beat Ravenna 39-7
38. Milan, 3-0, beat Carleton Airport 26-14
39. St. Joseph, 3-0, beat Portage Northern 20-7
40. Southgate Anderson, 3-0, beat Dearborn 25-22
41. St. John’s, 3-0, beat Lansing Sexton 17-14
42. Detroit Henry Ford, 3-0, beat Mumford 18-13
43. Caledonia, 3-0, beat Thornapple Kellogg 42-0
44. Muskegon Catholic Central, 3-0, beat Country Day 35-6
45. Dearborn Edsel Ford, 3-0, beat Melvindale 28-12
46. Lansing Sexton, 2-1, loss to St. John’s 14-17
47. Grand Rapids C.C., 3-0, F.H. Eastern beat 41-7
48. T.C. St. Francis, 2-1, beat East Jordan 33-6
49. Country Day, 2-1, loss to Muskegon CC 6-35
50. Davison, 1-2, beat Flushing 29-10

Monday, September 15, 2008

WEEK 3: Muskegon CC vs. Country Day





Birmingham- This is one of those games that I would like to see get replayed in dry weather, will the outcome be different? Who knows? But with the wet turf, and it being impossible to keep any ball dry, Muskegon Catholic Central was able to take a 35-6 win. The score is misleading as Country Day had Muskegon on their heals till the fourth quarter came around and the Yellowjackets were unable to take care of the ball.

Muskegon scored first on a 55 yard punt return by Major Metcalf. Country Day followed that up with a 27 yard touchdown run from Bennie Fowler. Fowler showed off his speed by racing in nearly untouched. Country Day was unable to get the extra point kick off giving Muskegon a 7-6 lead going into the half.

Rodney Anderson chalked up two 50+ yard touchdowns in the second half to break the game open. His first gave Muskegon a 14-6 late in the third quarter, when he ran up the gut.
Country Day fell apart on the first play of the fourth quarter when Fowler took a pitch but lost the handle allowing Steve Mitchell to recover the fumble and run in 7 yards for another Muskegon touchdown and a 22-6 lead.

Just minutes later Country Day fumbled the ball again and Anderson raced in for his second 50 yard touchdown. Metcalf capped the scoring with a 15 yard touchdown run late in the game.
Muskegon CC- the Crusaders are tough, big and very physical but they also have some speedsters at the skill positions in Metcalf and Anderson. They should go untouched in division 8 and are now my pick to win the Div. 8 State Championship.

Country Day- turnovers were the killer but CD also played into Muskegon's hand by trying to play smash mouth football. I know it was tough to run but CD had success running the ball out of the spread and they should of stuck with that. I look for CD to bounce back next week against Powers.

Game MVP- Rodney Anderson, MCC- any 50 yard TD will kill you but both of his came at the worst time for CD. Anderson finished with 120 yards on just 9 rush attempts.

Week 3: FSWA vs. OLSM

**Suave Lavallis returns a punt**
**Cameron Stover avoids a tackle**
**Justin Semmes knows how to lead block**
**Tayler Peruski looks for running room**


Orchard Lake- Saturday was a tough day for any football fan who decided to sit in the pouring rain, but it was even tougher for those who tried to play football in the wet weather, as was evident in Orchard Lake St. Mary's 35-0 thumping over Flint Southwestern. Neither team could get a good grip of the pigskin which led to an absurd amount of fumbles.

While both teams had their share of fumbles, it was the Eaglets that cashed in. Orchard Lake scooped up Southwestern's first fumble and raced 25 yards for the early lead. During the extra point, the holder lost control of the ball but was able to run it in for a St. Mary's 8-0 lead. With less than 2 minutes to play in the first quarter, Southwestern again fumbled the ball away on a bad snap giving Orchard Lake the ball on the 10 yard line. Two plays later, fullback Justin Semmes powered his way into the endzone. Again the Eaglets couldn't control the extra point snap keeping the score at 14-0 headed int the second quarter.

St. Mary's quarterback Robert Bolden had a quiet day and rarely threw the ball. In the second quarter he did make his presence known on an option keeper, Bolden broke loose from 3 tacklers and raced 40 yards down to the five yard line. Sam Fioroni took it from there as the senior back ran in his first of the game's next three touchdowns. Bolden rolled right and hit Rodney Woodland in the back of the endzone for the 2-point conversion and a 22-0 lead with 9:22 left in the second quarter.

After a quick 3-and-out forced by the Eaglets, their offense was back in business. Two big runs between the tackles from Semmes and Tayler Peruski set up Fioroni for a 5 yard touchdown run.
Fioroni struck again in the first play of the third quarter with a 42 yard touchdown run. Fioroni's third TD enforced the mercy rule and a running clock.

OLSM- The Eaglets are reproving to the state that they are an elite team but it's just so hard to forget that week 1 beat down they took. Yes, they miss Dion Sims but players like Fioroni are stepping up. We'll see how good the Eaglets are after their next three games with perennial powers and conference foes- De La Salle, Brother Rice, and Detroit CC.

FSWA- the Knights disappointed me because I was hoping for a better effort. Standing on the sidelines you hear everything and the Knights fell apart and did nothing but bicker and argue with each other in the second quarter when there was still plenty of football to be played. Too much talent for a 1-2 team but now they need to regroup and fight to get into the playoffs.

GAME MVP- Justin Semmes, OLSM led the way on both sides of the field. Semmes had one rushing TD but his lead blocking at fullback was text book. His backs follow his lead and he provides daylight. Defensively he was all over the field, registering 2 sacks and 10 tackles.

Robert Bolden, OLSM- didn't have to show much in this game but now the pressure will be on the junior QB to lead his team through league play with games against De La Salle, Brother Rice, and Detroit CC all lined up next. This will be Bolden's opportunity to show everyone how good he really is.

Sam Fioroni, OLSM- his speed is very deceiving, once he gets outside he doesn't waste any time to turn on that extra gear. He is another weapon in the Orchard Lake backfield that teams have to game plan for and respect.

Cameron Stover, FSWA- Cam had a tough day and just got physically beat up. Southwestern failed to pick up blitz and it was Stover who paid for it. Give the young QB credit because he continued to get up.

Kortez Ross, FSWA- the safety/WR was one of the few Knights that never threw in the towel, he fought till the final horn sounded. I beleive Ross can play at the next level, he has solid speed but is a freak of an athlete with a motor that never ends.

Saturday, September 13, 2008

WEEK 3: Carman-Ainsworth vs. Powers

**C-A's Nick Hill**
**Powers' Patrick Lucas Perry**
**C-A's Sean Bradley**
**C-A's Shane Barron tries to haul in a pass over Powers' Greg Skubick**


FLINT- Last night's down pour of rain couldn't stop prep teams from taking the field but that doesn't mean the rain had no affect on the game. Neither Powers or Carman could get anything going in the wet grass forcing both teams to focus more on their power running game.

Advantage Carman.

Carman's game plan was simple and that was to let their mammoth offensive line do the work as the visiting Cavaliers controlled the ball for a majority of the game.

Midway through the first quarter the rain really started to come down and that was when the Cavaliers struck first. Carman used the rain to their advantage as they plowed right over Powers for the game's first score, giving the Cavs an early 7-0 lead.

Field position played a huge factor though out the remaining first half and third quarter as both teams seemed content to play the field position game knowing that it would be tough to sustain drives.

Midway through the fourth quarter Patrick Lucas-Perry gave Powers their best field position of the night with a 40 yard punt return to set up a 1st-and-10 inside C-A's 40 yard line. The big punt return fired up Powers and the Chargers were in business. Powers backs Lawrence Zietz and Matt Burnor took turns pounding the ball between the tackles, Zietz 8 yard run off of a fullback dive set Powers up for a 1st-and-goal on the 1 yard line. On 2nd-and-goal Powers tried a backwards lateral pass that fell incomplete and Carman was able to jump on the ball for the fumble recovery.

The fumble sucked the life out of Powers but not for long as Carman fumbled the ball right back on the very next play. Three plays later QB Mark Metz dove into the endzone to set up the extra point opportunity. The only problem was the snap sailed high and Powers wasn't able to get the kick off keeping Carman in the lead 7-6.

The Cavs tacked on another score with a minute left to play on Sean Bradley's 5 yard run. The extra point made the score 14-6 giving Powers one last chance. Metz quickly moved the ball down field by connecting on 5 completions to receivers Lucas-Perry, Pat O'Brien, and Kevin Pickens. Powers was able to get down inside the 25 yard line but with 1.5 seconds to go the Chargers were forced to just heave the ball into the endzone. Two Cav defenders were able to knock the ball down and secure Carman their first BIG 9 win of the season and a 2-1 record going into next week's game against Flushing. Powers falls to 1-2 and has to quickly regroup as they travel to Country day next week.

GAME MVP- Sean Bradley, Cavs in the second half the junior tailback became Carman's work horse. Bradley only stands 5-9 and 165 pounds but he was able to pound the ball out every down and to keep the ball in the Cav's possession. He's a tough runner he has great cut back ability.

Nick Hill, Cavs- the sophomore QB is still learning and had trouble with downfield passes but he did a heck of a job managing the game, especially in the fourth quarter when Carman was playing keep a way. He has above average speed and can make things happen on the run.

Lance Simmons, Cavs- the LB was all over the field. Powers had no answer for him when he blitzed as Simmons racked up three sacks to go with plenty of tackles.

Pat O'Brien, Powers- the tight end was forced to stay in and block hoping to slow down the C-A pass rush. On the game's final drive he finally went out for passes and hauled in two. O'Brien was solid defensively from his outside LB position.

Patrick Lucas-Perry, Powers- only a sophomore but Powers relies on PLP to lead the way. He plays safety, receiver, and handles all the special team duties. PLP was a block away from breaking open two punt returns.

Kevin Beer, Powers- I didn't get a final count of his tackles but I am sure it was in the teens. Beer is tough between the tackles and was able to keep Carman's huge O-line off of him.

Friday, September 12, 2008

Country Day's Super Six Sophomores

**Lee Bailey**
**Urbane Bingham**
**Josh Harris**


Country Day has a legitimate shot to return to Ford Field and finish up what they fell just short of last year and make no mistake about it, if the Yellowjackets end up hoisting that Division 4 State Trophy, it'll be on the coat tail of their upperclassmen.

But, boy does the future look bright in Yellowjacket Country!

Country Day has six sophomores on their varsity roster and all six see valuable snaps and contribute on the field early in their young careers. What makes this class so special is that all six players are spread out at key positions giving Country Day their base for the next couple years.

Josh Harris gets half of the snaps at quarterback and is a duel threat with his arm and feet. As young as Harris is he seems to always make the right decision on the field. He knows when and where to throw the ball and he knows when it is time to scramble.

While Harris gets most of the attention of the "super 6", Lee Bailey is the most consistent. Bailey has turned into the Yellowjackets best man-on-man defender from his corner position. He has great technique and athleticism to just overwhelm opposing receivers. But Bailey isn't just limited to defense, in week 1 when senior tailback O'Neil Swanson went out with a injury it was Bailey who carried the load with 80 rushing yards and a TD in the second half. Bailey has rushed for a TD in each of the Yellowjacket's first two games.

Kenny Knight and Troy Woodland line up at receivers. Woodland is a 5-9 speedster while Knight is a 6-3 stud whose game is very resembling to teammate Bennie Fowler. Knight also sees time at defensive back and outside linebacker. Knight has the toughness and athleticism to be a "special" player.

So there are the skilled position players of the future, so what's next? Lineman of course!

David Brown is one of those lineman at 6-1/230 pounds. Brown is also a linebacker making his versatility a key part in the Yellowjacket future. The sixth and final member of the "super 6" and possibly the one with the most potential is Urbane Bingham. Bingham is a 6-5/240 pound lineman/ D-end. Bingham has the skill set to play either D-end or D-tackle. He has a great first step off the ball and his size and speed is hard to match up against.

The "super 6" is a special group with plenty of talent but it doesn't stop their. These kids get it done in the classroom and understand the hard work it takes to be successful on the field. So opposing teams better understand that Country Day won't be having any let downs any time soon, at least not under the super 6's watch!

Thursday, September 11, 2008

WEEK 3: TOP 10 GAMES

I ended up going 7-3 last week with my picks which gives me a 15-5 record on the season. This week's picks don't get any easier with conference rivalries in full swing.

10. #38 Southfield (2-0) vs. #36 Farmington Hills Harrison (2-0)
The Hawks are off to their usual 2-0 start but it hasn't came as easily. Southfield will give the Hawks all they can handle and more this week as both teams need the win to keep pace with Rochester Adams in the conference race. Southfield's QB Eddie Beal has been torching defenses while Travonn Johnson makes sure the Blue Jay's defense doesn't give up much.
NGS PICK- Southfield 34- 31

9. #16 Detroit Cass Tech (2-0) at Detroit Crockett (1-1)
With King struggling the PSL title is up for grabs and it looks like it will come down to Cass and Crockett. Don't expect to see many points in this game because both defenses are way ahead of the offenses. Thomas Gordon will be the difference maker with his playmaking ability.
NGS PICK- Cass Tech 20-7


8. Davison (0-2) at #37 Flushing (2-0)
I know, I know...Davison is 0-2 but the improvement they made in week 2 by almost knocking off Rockford has to be taken in consideration. While Davison was battling it out with a perennial power last week, Flushing was beating up on a school a third of its size. That preparation will once again have Davison a step ahead of their BIG 9 foes.
NGS PICK- Davison 35-20


7. #25 Clarkston (1-1) at #21 Troy (2-0)
The OAA-Red is up for grabs between Lake Orion and these two teams, so this is a must win game. Both are playoff teams but everyone wants that conference title. Central Michigan commit Will Schwarz (OLB) and company will give Clarkston's offense their toughest test of the early season. Field position and field goals will play a big role in this game so I'm going with Troy kicker Kevin Muma to save the day for the Colts.
NGS PICK- Troy 31-24


6. Holland (2-0) vs. #4 Lowell (2-0)
Holland will come out with the OK-Black title but they won't have the fire power to keep pace with Lowell in this conference crossover. Lowell is on a mission and they are rolling through everyone right now. Holland won't have an answer for Kyle Nichol (QB)and Torsten Boss (WR) so this game might get lopsided in front of the sold out crowd of pink supporting women's breast cancer.
NGS PICK- Lowell 48-14



5. #42 Flint Southwestern (1-1) at #39 Orchard Lake St. Mary's (1-1)
These two teams haven't come out the gates as expected and the injury to Dion Sims (TE/DE) really hurts the Eaglets. But there will still be plenty of star power on the field. Southwestern has the athletes to run step with step with St. Mary's but the key to this game will be if St. Mary's can get stop Southwestern's physical O-line.
NGS PICK- OLSM 24-21


4. Carman-Ainsworth (1-1) at Flint Powers (1-1)
Both teams are coming off tough losses- Powers feels like they let one slip away against St. John's while C-A was embarrassed at home by De La Salle. Both teams are in crucial need of a conference win especially with aspirations of making the playoffs. I'm not really sure if Powers will be able to put up points against C-A's defense. Freshman Shane Barron has been spectacular for Carman and I am expecting another big play out of him.
NGS PICK- Carman-Ainsworth 26- 18


3. #31 Howell (2-0) vs. #27 Milford (2-0)
The old KVC is showing their new conference buddies what hard hitting football is all about. Both teams are coming off impressive wins that drew state wide notice- Milford beat up on South Lyon and Howell took it to Livonia Stevenson. Don't expect to see much passing in this game as both teams are determined to run the the ball. Both teams have big time playmakers in Robin Wijtes (Howell) and Kyle Podvin (Milford), and these guys know how to provide fireworks.
NGS PICK- Milford 36-28


2. Holland West Ottawa (2-0) vs. #1 Muskegon (2-0)
For the third straight week Muskegon has the spotlight on them and all they have done is dominate. Muskegon's defense will have to slow down gunslinger Tyler Van Tubbergen, who is headed to Western Michigan, but T.V.T. might have the most pressure on him as he will have to find a way to keep pace on the scoreboard while throwing against a defense that will be flying all over the field.
NGS PICK- 42-14


1. #3 Macomb Dakota (2-0) vs. #33 Romeo (2-0)
Plenty of people picked Dakota to fall last week against Chippewa Valley. I think people are just tired of seeing Dakota on top but I know better! Dakota might not be the most talented team but nobody is better prepared week in and week out then Coach Giannone's troops. I expect Dakota to find another way to squeak out a win this week against Romeo. Dakota QB Mike Romanchik is learning each week how to lead his offense.
NGS PICK- Dakota 20-13

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

NGS: BIG 50

1. Muskegon, 2-0, beat Brother Rice 47-21
2. East Grand Rapids, 2-0, beat Forest Hills Central 49-21
3. Macomb Dakota, 2-0, beat Chippewa Valley 24-14
4. Lowell, 2-0, beat Muskegon Mona Shores 65-21
5. Rochester Adams, 2-0, beat Stoney Creek 56-21
6. Rockford, 2-0, beat Davison 20-19
7. Hudsonville, 2-0, beat Bradley-Bourbonnais (IL) 46-14
8. DeLaSalle, 2-0, beat Carman-Ainsworth 35-14
9. Midland, 2-0, beat Bay City Central 38-13
10. Lansing Everett, 2-0, beat East Lansing 29-7
11. Arthur Hill, 2-0, beat Flint Northwestern 28-20
12. Lansing Sexton, 2-0, beat Lansing Eastern 32-14
13. Adrian, 2-0, beat Pioneer 21-3
14. Dearborn Fordson, 2-0, beat Taylor Truman 44-26
15. Country Day, 2-0, beat Ottawa Hills 44-12
16. Detroit Cass Tech, 2-0, beat Detroit Pershing 21-7
17. Brother Rice, 1-1, loss to Muskegon 21-47
18. S.H. Stevenson, 2-0, beat Eisenhower 42-7
19. Chelsea, 2-0, beat Northville 27-20
20. Hartland, 2-0, beat South Lyon East 50-0
21. Troy, 2-0, beat Royal Oak 45-0
22. Inkster, 1-1, loss to Highland Park 22-24
23. Lake Orion, 1-1, beat West Bloomfield
24. Detroit C.C., 1-0, no game in week 2
25. Clarkston, 1-1, beat Athens 56-26
26. Highland Park, 1-1, beat Inkster 24-22
27. Milford, 2-0, beat South Lyon 40-14
28. Dearborn, 2-0, beat Belleville 44-26
29. Grand Ledge, 2-0, beat Okemos 27-7
30. Allen Park, 2-0, beat Gibraltar Carlson 34-14
31. Howell, 2-0, beat Stevenson 35-21
32. Nouvel C.C., 2-0, beat St. Francis 17-14
33. Romeo, 2-0, beat Ford 36-0
34. Stevensville Lakeshore, 2-0, beat Lumen Christi 17-0
35. Bay City Western, 2-0, beat Dow 28-0
36. F.H. Harrison, 2-0, beat Rochester 17-14
37. Flushing, 2-0, beat Beecher 46-0
38. Southfield, 2-0, beat Seaholm 46-7
39. OLSM, 1-1, beat U of D Jesuit 42-0
40. Chippewa Valley, 1-1, loss to Dakota 14-24
41. Marine City, 2-0, beat Marysville 42-7
42. Flint Southwestern, 1-1, loss to Flint Central 19-20
43. Canton, 2-0, beat Lakeland 24-14
44. Portage Northern, 2-0, beat Mattawan 49-6
45. St. Joseph, 2-0, beat Marshall 35-12
46. Carleton Airport, 2-0, beat New boston Huron 35-6
47. Muskegon Oakridge, 2-0, beat North Muskegon 56-6
48. Milan, 2-0, beat Flat Rock 26-0
49. East Lansing, 1-1, loss to Everett 7-29
50. T.C. St. Francis, 1-1, loss to Nouvel 14-17

Monday, September 8, 2008

WEEK 2: GRIDIRON GREATS

MVP- JERRELL WILSON, ARTHUR HILL
The senior tailback led the way in a 28-20 win over Flint Northwestern by rushing the ball 33 times for 327 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

TOP RUSHERS
1. Hassan Amen, Dearborn Fordson- 25 carries for a whopping 314 yards and 4 TDs in a 44-26 win over Taylor Truman.

2. Carlous Kelley, Lansing Sexton- carried the load with 35 rushes for 254 yards and 4 TDs in a 32-14 rally over Lansing Eastern.

3. Dakota Bender, Clarkston- racked up 6 TDs (5 rushing) to go with 245 yards (100 receiving) in a 56-26 win over Troy Athens.

4. Kyle Reed, Birmingham Groves- ran 35 times an produced 253 yards and a pair of TDs in a 21-13 win over Farmington.

5. Joe Glendening, East G.R.- led East with 211 yards on 20 carries and 4 TDs in a 49-21 win over Forest Hills Central.

6. Andrew Aho, Essexville Garber- 30 touches for 278 yards and a TD in a 14-13 win over Birch Run.

7. Thomas Soisson, Allendale- the Fullback replaced the injured Hersey Jackson and didn't miss a beat with 219 yards and 2 TDs in a 34-27 win over GR West Catholic.

8. Twan Crowe, Dearborn Heights Annapolis- 28 carries for 224 yds and 2 TDs in a 36-28 win over Robichaud.

9. Ricardo Matthews Jr., Detroit Crockett- the junior back up ran 15 times for 180 yards and 2 TDs in a 28-0 win over Detroit Central.

10. Ricky Chapin, Merrill- 20 touches for 184 yards and 4 TDs in a 34-6 win over St. Louis.


TOP SIGNAL CALLERS
1. Jason Fracassa, S.H. Stevenson- completed 14 of 24 for 307 yards and 3 TDs in a 42-7 win over Utica Eisenhower.

2. Ryan Morely, Grand Blanc- the sophomore threw for 320 yards and 5 TDs (1 rush) but came up short in a 35-42 loss to East Kentwood.

3. Kyle Nichol, Lowell- connected on 9 of 16 passes for 254 yards and 3 TDs in a 65-25 win over Muskegon Mona Shores.

4. Joe Devota, Chesaning- went 29 of 42 for 299 yards and 4 TDs in a 28-7 win over Midland Bullock Creek.

5. Nick Kissane, Grand Ledge- 22 of 32 passes for 239 yards and 3 TDs and ran for another in a 27-7 win over Okemos.

6. Jake Thompson, Davison- completed 16 of 22 passes for 327 yards and 2 TDs in a 19-20 loss to Rockford.

7. Reggie Williams, Lansing Everett- was 10 of 16 passing for 252 yards and 2 TDs in a 29-7 win over East Lansing.

8. Andy Waszak, Rochester Adams- 11 of 18 for 238 yards and 4 TDs in a 56-21 win over Stoney Creek.

9. Greg Santo, St. Clair Shores Lake Shore- completed 18 of 22 passes for 291 yards and 2 TDs in a 49-28 win over Roseville.

10. Joe Boisture, Goodrich- 12 of 19 for 230 yards and 2 TDs in a 34-19 win over Comstock.

GO LONG
1. Jacob Hatchett, Bloomfield Hills Lahser- 4 catches for 224 yards and 4 TDs in a 44-0 win over Berkley.

2. DJ Mershman, S.H. Stevenson- hauled in 9 passes for 198 yards and a pair of TDs in a 42-7 win over Utica Eisenhower.

3. Torsten Boss, Lowell- 6 receptions for 178 and 3 TDs in a 65-25 win over Mona SHores.

4. Tony Jones, Grand Blanc- 10 catches for 179 and 2 TDs in a 35-42 loss to East Kentwood.

5. Matt Greer, Davison-
5 for 187 and 2 TDs in a 19-20 loss to Rockford.

6. Jeff Hill, Detroit Mumford-
5 catches for 150 yards and 2 TDs in a 43-6 win over Detroit Kettering.

7. Mike Green, Saginaw High-
had 9 receptions for 142 yards and a TD in a 34-21 loss to Mt. Pleasant.

8. Darryl Pitts, Det. Southeastern-
9 catches for 121 yards and 3 TDs in a 43-0 win over Detroit Cooley.

9. Jeff Hines, Auburn Hills Avondale-
hauled in 5 passes for 168 yards and a pair of TDs in a 33-22 win over Pontiac Central.

10. Cody Wilson, Rochester Adams-
7 receptions for 139 yards and 2 TDs in a 56-21 wn over Stoney Creek.


HEAD HUNTERS

1. Ervin Allen, Flint Central- made 9 atckles and 5 sacks ina 21-20 upset over Flint Southwestern.

2. Kurtis Hawkins, Detroit Cody-
13 tackles and 5 sacks in a 21-0 win over Detroit Chadsey.

3. Mario Hinojosa, Allen Park-
15 tackles, a sack, and a fumble recovery in a 34-14 win over Gibraltar Carlson.

4. Ben Dudley, Holt-
17 tackles in a 21-14 win over Jackson.

5. Kevin Beer, Flint Powers-
14 tackles and 2 sacks in a 13-15 loss to St. John's.


BALL HAWKS

1. Jason Ray, Country Day- took back 2 INTs for TDs in a 44-12 win over Ottawa Hills.

2
. Lavelle Walker, Lansing Everett- returned an INT and a fumble for 2 TDs in a 29-7 win over East Lansing.

3. Travon Johnson, Southfield-
made 2 picks to go with 7 tackles in a 46-7 win over Birmingham Seaholm.

4. Ashton Gaines, Detroit Crockett-
collected 2 INTs in a 28-0 win over Detroit Central.

5. Greg Fettes, Madison Heights Lamphere-
2 fumble recoveries to go with 11 tackles in a 26-7 win over New Haven.

DOUBLE DUTY

1. Thomas Gordon, Detroit Cass Tech- the QB complied 310 all purpose yards and 3 TDs to go with 9 tackles on deffense in a 21-7 win over Det. Pershing.

2. Josh Tabit, Mt. Morris-
threw for 180 and 2 TDs and made a sack and fumble return for a TD in a 28-32 loss to Millington.

3. Jonathon McCann, Mt. Pleasant-
ran for 120 yards and 3 TDs to go with 2 INTs and a sack in a 34-21 win over Saginaw.

4. Brandon Green, Linden-
6 catches for 91 yards and 3 TDs and took back an INT 90 yards for a TD in a 40-0 win over Swartz Creek.

5. Steven Beauregard, Rochester Hills Lutheran Northwest-
13 tackles, 2 INTs, and a fumble recovery to go with a rushing TD in a 27-0 win over Macomb Lutheran North.