Okay, that was pretty incredible. What an opening kickoff weekend for Michigan high school football. I cannot remember an opening weekend as exciting, crazy and filled with rivalry games, out-state match-ups and "I can't believe that just happened" moments. Here are just a few of the top games this past weekend in Week 1 -- in what looks to be another fantastic year -- in Michigan high school football.
1. "You-Simply-Had-To-Be-There" games
-- Davison 56, Southfield A & T 54 (3OT) -- In the Prep Kickoff Classic at Wayne State University, Southfield led 26-12 in fourth quarter, before Davison rallied. The Cardinals scored with 1:30 left in the game to send the contest into overtime. Senior Tariq Reid (Michigan's No. 1-ranked RB) scored the game-winning 2-point conversion run in the third OT. Reid finished with 132 yards rushing with four touchdowns. Eric McArn (Michigan's No. 3-ranked RB, CMU verbal) ended up with 176 yards rushing with four TDs for the Warriors.
-- Belleville 34, Brighton 31 (OT) -- In the Battle at the Big House at U-M Stadium, Brighton led 28-16 in the fourth quarter. After a Belleville TD cut the Bulldogs' lead to 28-22, Tigers' senior DB Kmare Carey (WMU verbal) scooped up a fumble and returned the ball 70 yards for a TD with 27 seconds left in the game. Brighton blocked the ensuing PAT sending the contest into OT tied at 28-28. After a Bulldog field goal gave Brighton a 31-28 advantage, Belleville scored a touchdown on its first play from scrimmage in the extra session, running behind junior OT Devontae Dobbs (6-4, 295, Michigan's No. 3-ranked player overall for the class of 2019).
-- Grand Blanc 51, Flint Carman-Ainsworth 46 -- In a wild shoot-out, Grand Blanc rallied from a 15-point second half deficit to defeat Carman-Ainsworth. Despite an appearance from former Cavalier and current Michigan State tailback Gerald Holmes, Carman-Ainsworth was unable to hold off the explosive Bobcats in an incredible Flint area season-opener.
2. "Battle-Of-State-Champions" games
-- Jackson Lumen Christi 27, Grand Rapids West Catholic 24 -- In a battle between the defending Division 5 state champion (West Catholic) and the defending Division 6 state title-holder (Lumen Christi), the Titans came out on top. The Titans have won nine football state championships in their history, while the Falcons have captured five state titles in their history, including four straight.
-- No. 7 Grand Rapids Catholic Central 20, Detroit Country Day 7 -- In a rematch of last season's Division 4 state title game, Catholic Central defeated Country Day for the second straight time. In last year's D-4 final, the Cougars topped the Yellowjackets 10-7 for the title. The Catholic Central-Country Day tussle was one of many games pitting powerhouse programs from Michigan's West side versus top teams from the state's East side.
-- East Grand Rapids 33, Farmington Hills Harrison 8 -- In another West side vs. East side contest, two legendary programs squared off with the Pioneers defeating the Hawks 33-8. East Grand Rapids has won 11 football state titles (third most all-time in Michigan), while Harrison has captured 13 football state championships (first all-time in Michigan).
3. "Michigan vs. Everybody" games
-- No. 1 Detroit King 38, Indianapolis (IN) Cathedral 35
-- Colon 20, Fremont (IN) 7
-- Pickerington (OH) Central 24, No. 4 Detroit Cass Tech 21
-- Temperance Bedford 35, Toledo (OH) St. John's Jesuit 28
-- Millington 29, Sylvania (OH) Southview 26
-- Menominee 26, Marinette (WI) 6 -- * See below
-- Norway 34, Niagara (WI) Northern Elite 7
-- Menasha (WI) 21, Kingsford 14
-- Hurley (WI) 44, Bessemer 20
-- Calumet 14, Eagle River (WI) Northland Pines 6
Michigan finished 7-3 versus out-state competition this past weekend.
4. "Significant Rivalry" games
-- Clinton 32, Manchester 14 -- The "Battle of M-52" (signifying the 7-mile stretch of highway separating the two towns in southern Michigan) is one of Michigan's oldest rivalry games. The Redskins and Flying Dutchmen first played in 1898. The state's oldest rivalry contest is Kalamazoo Central vs. Battle Creek Central (first played in 1893), while other long-standing football rivalries in Michigan include Saginaw vs. Saginaw Arthur Hill (began in 1894), Plainwell vs. Otsego (1896), Adrian vs. Monroe (1896) and Menominee vs. Escanaba (1897).
-- Rochester Adams 38, Rochester 6 -- In the annual battle of Madonna's hometown, the "Fighting Matt Sokols" (former Adams standout and current Michigan State starting TE) defeated the "Ragin' L.J. Sheltons" (former Rochester and EMU OT and No. 1 NFL draft pick of the Arizona Cardinals in 1999).
-- Menominee 26, Marinette (WI) 6 -- In one of my favorite rivalries, known as the "M & M Game," the Maroons defeated the Mighty Marines 26-6. The Menominee vs. Marinette football contest is the longest running interstate rivalry game in the nation. The two towns, separated by the Menominee River (which drains into Green Bay -- yes, THAT Green Bay), is the border between Michigan's Upper Peninsula and Wisconsin. The two squads have been squaring off on the football field since 1894. Sidenote -- If you've never been to Menominee, take the trip, it's an interesting U.P. town on the shores of Green Bay, with one of the coolest "throw-back-in-time" high school football stadiums you will ever see (Walton Blesch Field, Google it). Trust me... Surrounded by stone walls on all four sides, grandstands that run the length of the field (from end zone to end zone) and shoe-horned smack-dab in the middle of a local neighborhood, it is truly an experience for any high school football stadium fanatic (like me) to see. I once drove the seven hours just to check out the place (yes, I have no life, don't judge me --ha!).
5. "Other Really Good/Interesting" games
-- No. 6 Walled Lake Western 19, No. 5 West Bloomfield 14
-- Trenton 20, Allen Park 14
-- Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central 28, Pewamo-Westphalia 21
-- Traverse City St. Francis 21, Marquette 7
-- Dearborn Divine Child 42, Benton Harbor 12
-- Detroit East English Village 38, No. 10 River Rouge 29
-- Lowell 36, Warren DeLaSalle 6
-- Grand Rapids Christian 38, DeWitt 30
-- Macomb Dakota 31, Orchard Lake St. Mary's 24
Updated Top 10 State Rankings --
1. Detroit King (1-0)
2. Detroit Catholic Central (1-0)
3. Muskegon (1-0)
4. Walled Lake Western (1-0)
5. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (1-0)
6. Utica Eisenhower (1-0)
7. Lowell (1-0)
8. East Grand Rapids (1-0)
9. Detroit East English Village (1-0)
10. Davison (1-0)
Sunday, August 27, 2017
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
Michigan's Top Teams for 2017: No. 1 Detroit King
With the opening kickoff to the 2017 season only a few days away, I conclude my preseason list of Michigan's Top 10 squads. Today's installment takes a glance at the Great Lakes State's No. 1-ranked team heading into the 2017 campaign -- Detroit King.
1. Detroit King- Last season's record (13-1, Division 2 state champion, defeated Walled Lake Western 18-0 for the title).
Top players- Jaeveyon Morton-5-10, 175-Sr.-DB-WR (Iowa State verbal), Tyrece Woods-6-2, 245-Jr.-LB-DE, Marvin Grant-6-2, 195-Jr.-DB-RB, Erik Gibson-6-2, 195-Sr.-WR-DB-LB (Minnesota verbal), DeQuan Finn-6-2-185-Jr.-QB, Josh Mayberry-6-2, 295-Sr.-OG-C, Maurice White-6-5, 250-Sr.-DE (Toledo verbal), Jeremiah Hardge-6-3, 265-Sr.-OT, Arric Thomas-6-3, 315-Sr.-OG, James Davis-6-0, 305-Sr.-OG-C-DT, Marcel Wilson-6-4, 315-Sr.-OT-NG, Qaadir Ali-6-2, 215-Sr.-LB-RB, Aaron Pitts-6-1, 190-Sr.-DB, Jalen Bell-5-11, 275-Jr.-DT, Darrell Wyatt-6-3, 185-Jr.-WR, Jalen McGaughy-6-2, 200-Jr.-WR, Rashawn Williams-6-1, 190-Soph.-DB-WR, Deondre Buford-6-4, 215-Soph.-DE.
Season opener- vs. Indianapolis (IN) Cathedral in the Prep Kickoff Classic at Wayne State University, Aug. 26.
Interesting program tidbits- While my No. 2-ranked team Detroit Catholic Central might have the most difficult schedule Week 1 through 9 this upcoming season, King, without question, at least in my opinion, has the most demanding and physically-daunting first two games of the 2017 year. The Crusaders open the season taking on Indiana traditional power Indianapolis Cathedral, while in Week 2, King travels to Ohio to square off against one of the Buckeye State's top programs in Toledo Central Catholic. The Crusaders will definitely be "Fighting Irish" to begin the season, as both opponents share the same team nickname. Cathedral (7-5 last season) yearly plays one of the country's toughest schedules. The Irish already have a game under their belt in 2017, dropping a hard-fought 35-28 contest to host Louisville (KY) St. Xavier (No. 2-ranked in Kentucky), Aug. 18. Despite the loss, Cathedral is ranked No. 1 in Indiana's 5-A Division heading into the 2017 campaign. The Irish this year are led by seniors OG Emil Ekiyor (6-3, 325, U-M verbal), RB Markese Stepp (6-0, 225, Notre Dame verbal) and LB Hugh Davis (6-1, 215, Boston College verbal). Stepp ran for 203 yards and three TDs in Cathedral's season-opening loss last week. In Week 2, King will face Toledo Central Catholic (13-1 last year, lost in Division III state semifinals). The Irish are a combined 38-6 the past three seasons, winning a state championship in 2014, while finishing as state runner-up in 2015. Last season, Central Catholic's James Hudson (6-5, 295, DT) signed with Michigan.
Season preview- The two-time defending Division 2 state champion Crusaders, led by coach Tyrone Spencer, look to have yet another top team in 2017. King gets the nod as Michigan's No. 1-ranked squad because of its offensive line. I believe the key to any successful football team starts upfront, on both sides of the line of scrimmage, and the Crusaders have one of the Midwest's best O-Lines (along with a top-flight D-Line, as well). But it's the offensive line, at least on that side of the ball, that will set the tone this season for King. Leading the charge upfront for the Crusaders will be seniors C-OG Josh Mayberry (6-2, 295), OT Jeremiah Hardge (6-3, 265), OG-C James Davis (6-0, 305), OG Arric Thomas (6-3, 315) and OT Marcel Wilson (6-4, 315). At quarterback, the Crusaders return junior DeQuan Finn (6-2, 185, Arkansas State offer), while senior Qaadir Ali (6-2, 215) and junior Marvin Grant (6-2, 195) will get carries at RB. At receiver, Minnesota-commit senior Erik Gibson (6-2, 195), Iowa State-commit senior Jaeveyon Morton (5-10, 175), juniors Darrell Wyatt (6-2, 185) and Jalen McGaughy (6-2, 200, Northern Illinois offer), and sophomore Rashawn Williams (6-1, 190, Ohio State, Kentucky offers) round out a deep and talented pass-catching corps. Upfront, defensively, King will be strong with Toledo-commit senior DE Maurice White (6-5, 250), junior DT Jalen Bell (5-11, 275), sophomore DE Deondre Buford (6-4, 215) and Davis. At linebacker, junior Tyrece Woods (6-2, 245, my No. 1-ranked player overall for the class of 2019 in Michigan) will make plays all over the field, along with Ali. Woods will also line up at DE this season, moving around throughout each and every game. In the secondary, the Crusaders will be led by senior Aaron Pitts (6-1, 190), Grant (my No. 6-ranked player overall for the class of 2019 in Michigan, Notre Dame, U-M, Indiana, Iowa offers), Morton, Gibson and Williams.
1. Detroit King- Last season's record (13-1, Division 2 state champion, defeated Walled Lake Western 18-0 for the title).
Top players- Jaeveyon Morton-5-10, 175-Sr.-DB-WR (Iowa State verbal), Tyrece Woods-6-2, 245-Jr.-LB-DE, Marvin Grant-6-2, 195-Jr.-DB-RB, Erik Gibson-6-2, 195-Sr.-WR-DB-LB (Minnesota verbal), DeQuan Finn-6-2-185-Jr.-QB, Josh Mayberry-6-2, 295-Sr.-OG-C, Maurice White-6-5, 250-Sr.-DE (Toledo verbal), Jeremiah Hardge-6-3, 265-Sr.-OT, Arric Thomas-6-3, 315-Sr.-OG, James Davis-6-0, 305-Sr.-OG-C-DT, Marcel Wilson-6-4, 315-Sr.-OT-NG, Qaadir Ali-6-2, 215-Sr.-LB-RB, Aaron Pitts-6-1, 190-Sr.-DB, Jalen Bell-5-11, 275-Jr.-DT, Darrell Wyatt-6-3, 185-Jr.-WR, Jalen McGaughy-6-2, 200-Jr.-WR, Rashawn Williams-6-1, 190-Soph.-DB-WR, Deondre Buford-6-4, 215-Soph.-DE.
Season opener- vs. Indianapolis (IN) Cathedral in the Prep Kickoff Classic at Wayne State University, Aug. 26.
Interesting program tidbits- While my No. 2-ranked team Detroit Catholic Central might have the most difficult schedule Week 1 through 9 this upcoming season, King, without question, at least in my opinion, has the most demanding and physically-daunting first two games of the 2017 year. The Crusaders open the season taking on Indiana traditional power Indianapolis Cathedral, while in Week 2, King travels to Ohio to square off against one of the Buckeye State's top programs in Toledo Central Catholic. The Crusaders will definitely be "Fighting Irish" to begin the season, as both opponents share the same team nickname. Cathedral (7-5 last season) yearly plays one of the country's toughest schedules. The Irish already have a game under their belt in 2017, dropping a hard-fought 35-28 contest to host Louisville (KY) St. Xavier (No. 2-ranked in Kentucky), Aug. 18. Despite the loss, Cathedral is ranked No. 1 in Indiana's 5-A Division heading into the 2017 campaign. The Irish this year are led by seniors OG Emil Ekiyor (6-3, 325, U-M verbal), RB Markese Stepp (6-0, 225, Notre Dame verbal) and LB Hugh Davis (6-1, 215, Boston College verbal). Stepp ran for 203 yards and three TDs in Cathedral's season-opening loss last week. In Week 2, King will face Toledo Central Catholic (13-1 last year, lost in Division III state semifinals). The Irish are a combined 38-6 the past three seasons, winning a state championship in 2014, while finishing as state runner-up in 2015. Last season, Central Catholic's James Hudson (6-5, 295, DT) signed with Michigan.
Season preview- The two-time defending Division 2 state champion Crusaders, led by coach Tyrone Spencer, look to have yet another top team in 2017. King gets the nod as Michigan's No. 1-ranked squad because of its offensive line. I believe the key to any successful football team starts upfront, on both sides of the line of scrimmage, and the Crusaders have one of the Midwest's best O-Lines (along with a top-flight D-Line, as well). But it's the offensive line, at least on that side of the ball, that will set the tone this season for King. Leading the charge upfront for the Crusaders will be seniors C-OG Josh Mayberry (6-2, 295), OT Jeremiah Hardge (6-3, 265), OG-C James Davis (6-0, 305), OG Arric Thomas (6-3, 315) and OT Marcel Wilson (6-4, 315). At quarterback, the Crusaders return junior DeQuan Finn (6-2, 185, Arkansas State offer), while senior Qaadir Ali (6-2, 215) and junior Marvin Grant (6-2, 195) will get carries at RB. At receiver, Minnesota-commit senior Erik Gibson (6-2, 195), Iowa State-commit senior Jaeveyon Morton (5-10, 175), juniors Darrell Wyatt (6-2, 185) and Jalen McGaughy (6-2, 200, Northern Illinois offer), and sophomore Rashawn Williams (6-1, 190, Ohio State, Kentucky offers) round out a deep and talented pass-catching corps. Upfront, defensively, King will be strong with Toledo-commit senior DE Maurice White (6-5, 250), junior DT Jalen Bell (5-11, 275), sophomore DE Deondre Buford (6-4, 215) and Davis. At linebacker, junior Tyrece Woods (6-2, 245, my No. 1-ranked player overall for the class of 2019 in Michigan) will make plays all over the field, along with Ali. Woods will also line up at DE this season, moving around throughout each and every game. In the secondary, the Crusaders will be led by senior Aaron Pitts (6-1, 190), Grant (my No. 6-ranked player overall for the class of 2019 in Michigan, Notre Dame, U-M, Indiana, Iowa offers), Morton, Gibson and Williams.
Sunday, August 20, 2017
Michigan's Top Teams for 2017: No. 2 Detroit Catholic Central
Today, I continue my preview of Michigan's Top 10 teams for the upcoming 2017 season. Today's post looks at my No. 2-ranked squad -- Detroit Catholic Central.
2. Detroit Catholic Central- Last season's record (13-1, Division 1 state runner-up, lost to Detroit Cass Tech 49-20 in D-1 championship game).
Top players- Isaac Darkangelo-6-1, 230-Sr.-LB-RB, Nick Carey-6-7, 295-Sr.-OT, Matt Young-6-1, 225-Sr.-LB-FB, Cam Ryan-6-0, 220-Sr.-RB-LB, Andrew Paxton-6-4, 285-Sr.-OT-DT, Carson Kovath-6-1, 215-Sr.-LB, Jake Hinshaw-6-1, 180-Sr.-QB, Mike Harding-6-5, 225-Jr.-TE, Marco Genrich-5-10, 180-Jr.-QB, Parker Bohland-5-8, 160-Jr.-RB, Keegan Koehler-5-11, 170-Jr.-RB.
Season opener- vs. Sterling Heights Stevenson (1-9 last season) at Catholic Central, Aug. 25. Last year, the Shamrocks defeated the Titans 42-0.
Interesting program tidbit- The schedule. Catholic Central's schedule just might be the most difficult in the state this year. Besides a full slate of always hard, physical and highly competitive Catholic League opponents in perennial powers Birmingham Brother Rice, Orchard Lake St. Mary's, U-D Jesuit and Warren DeLaSalle, the Shamrocks will square off against top Ohio programs Cleveland St. Ignatius, Toledo Whitmer and Dayton Dunbar this year. Dunbar (7-3 last season) is led by senior WR Joseph Scates (6-4, 180, Alabama, Oklahoma, Michigan State, LSU offers). Whitmer (8-3 last year) has slowly built quite a rivalry with Catholic Central. The Panthers and Shamrocks have played each other every season since 2012, with Whitmer holding a 3-2 lead in the series. Last year, Catholic Central defeated the Panthers 29-7. St. Ignatius (13-2 last season) finished as Ohio's "Big School" state runner-up losing to Cincinnati St. Xavier 27-20 (OT) a year ago. The Wildcats' only other loss last season was to Catholic Central 28-21 (OT). It's interesting both states' "Big School" state runners-up played each other last year, with the Shamrocks coming out on top. Look for this season's game to be hotly contested. St. Ignatius will host Catholic Central in Week 4 this year, with the Shamrocks taking on rival and fellow traditional national power, Birmingham Brother Rice the following week. The Shamrocks, though I'm sure they won't, cannot look past the Wildcats (5-4 in 2015, 7-5 in 2014), one of Ohio's legendary programs, in anticipation of their annual rivalry grudge match with the Warriors.
Overview- It'll be a new era for Catholic Central football in 2017, as longtime head coach Tom Mach hung up his whistle after an incredible 41 years with the Shamrocks. Replacing Mach will be former Shamrock assistant coach/defensive coordinator Dan Anderson. Anderson spent the past 18 years coaching alongside Mach. Mach closed out his Hall-of-Fame career third all-time in wins (370) in Michigan high school football history, with 10 state championships and seven state runner-up finishes. Under Anderson, I get the feeling Catholic Central will continue to be a state and national juggernaut, focusing on power football, execution, sure tackling and a winning mentality on and off the field. Leading this season's squad will be a quartet of powerful, intense and strong running backs-linebackers in seniors Isaac Darkangelo (6-1, 230), Cam Ryan (6-0, 220), Matt Young (6-1, 225) and Carson Kovath (6-1, 215, 4.6 40). While the aforementioned quartet bring the thunder, the lightning will come from junior TBs Parker Bohland (5-8, 155) and Keegan Koehler (5-11, 170). Upfront, long a Shamrock strength, seniors OT Nick Carey (6-7, 295, Virginia, Iowa State offers), OT-DT Andrew Paxton (6-4, 285) and OG-DT Joe Natoci (6-1, 250) will open the running lanes. At quarterback, senior Jake Hinshaw (6-1, 180) and junior Marco Genrich (5-10, 180) will compete for the top job under center this season for Catholic Central. Tight end Mike Harding (6-5, 225) will provide a nice, big and athletic target for either QB this year for the Shamrocks. Defensively, Darkangelo, Kovath, Ryan and Young will make plays all over the field for Catholic Central at linebacker, while Harding should be a stalwart at defensive end for the Shamrocks.
Up next- No. 1-ranked Detroit King.
2. Detroit Catholic Central- Last season's record (13-1, Division 1 state runner-up, lost to Detroit Cass Tech 49-20 in D-1 championship game).
Top players- Isaac Darkangelo-6-1, 230-Sr.-LB-RB, Nick Carey-6-7, 295-Sr.-OT, Matt Young-6-1, 225-Sr.-LB-FB, Cam Ryan-6-0, 220-Sr.-RB-LB, Andrew Paxton-6-4, 285-Sr.-OT-DT, Carson Kovath-6-1, 215-Sr.-LB, Jake Hinshaw-6-1, 180-Sr.-QB, Mike Harding-6-5, 225-Jr.-TE, Marco Genrich-5-10, 180-Jr.-QB, Parker Bohland-5-8, 160-Jr.-RB, Keegan Koehler-5-11, 170-Jr.-RB.
Season opener- vs. Sterling Heights Stevenson (1-9 last season) at Catholic Central, Aug. 25. Last year, the Shamrocks defeated the Titans 42-0.
Interesting program tidbit- The schedule. Catholic Central's schedule just might be the most difficult in the state this year. Besides a full slate of always hard, physical and highly competitive Catholic League opponents in perennial powers Birmingham Brother Rice, Orchard Lake St. Mary's, U-D Jesuit and Warren DeLaSalle, the Shamrocks will square off against top Ohio programs Cleveland St. Ignatius, Toledo Whitmer and Dayton Dunbar this year. Dunbar (7-3 last season) is led by senior WR Joseph Scates (6-4, 180, Alabama, Oklahoma, Michigan State, LSU offers). Whitmer (8-3 last year) has slowly built quite a rivalry with Catholic Central. The Panthers and Shamrocks have played each other every season since 2012, with Whitmer holding a 3-2 lead in the series. Last year, Catholic Central defeated the Panthers 29-7. St. Ignatius (13-2 last season) finished as Ohio's "Big School" state runner-up losing to Cincinnati St. Xavier 27-20 (OT) a year ago. The Wildcats' only other loss last season was to Catholic Central 28-21 (OT). It's interesting both states' "Big School" state runners-up played each other last year, with the Shamrocks coming out on top. Look for this season's game to be hotly contested. St. Ignatius will host Catholic Central in Week 4 this year, with the Shamrocks taking on rival and fellow traditional national power, Birmingham Brother Rice the following week. The Shamrocks, though I'm sure they won't, cannot look past the Wildcats (5-4 in 2015, 7-5 in 2014), one of Ohio's legendary programs, in anticipation of their annual rivalry grudge match with the Warriors.
Overview- It'll be a new era for Catholic Central football in 2017, as longtime head coach Tom Mach hung up his whistle after an incredible 41 years with the Shamrocks. Replacing Mach will be former Shamrock assistant coach/defensive coordinator Dan Anderson. Anderson spent the past 18 years coaching alongside Mach. Mach closed out his Hall-of-Fame career third all-time in wins (370) in Michigan high school football history, with 10 state championships and seven state runner-up finishes. Under Anderson, I get the feeling Catholic Central will continue to be a state and national juggernaut, focusing on power football, execution, sure tackling and a winning mentality on and off the field. Leading this season's squad will be a quartet of powerful, intense and strong running backs-linebackers in seniors Isaac Darkangelo (6-1, 230), Cam Ryan (6-0, 220), Matt Young (6-1, 225) and Carson Kovath (6-1, 215, 4.6 40). While the aforementioned quartet bring the thunder, the lightning will come from junior TBs Parker Bohland (5-8, 155) and Keegan Koehler (5-11, 170). Upfront, long a Shamrock strength, seniors OT Nick Carey (6-7, 295, Virginia, Iowa State offers), OT-DT Andrew Paxton (6-4, 285) and OG-DT Joe Natoci (6-1, 250) will open the running lanes. At quarterback, senior Jake Hinshaw (6-1, 180) and junior Marco Genrich (5-10, 180) will compete for the top job under center this season for Catholic Central. Tight end Mike Harding (6-5, 225) will provide a nice, big and athletic target for either QB this year for the Shamrocks. Defensively, Darkangelo, Kovath, Ryan and Young will make plays all over the field for Catholic Central at linebacker, while Harding should be a stalwart at defensive end for the Shamrocks.
Up next- No. 1-ranked Detroit King.
Thursday, August 17, 2017
Michigan's Top Teams for 2017: No. 3 Muskegon
Today's installment of Michigan's Top 10 high school football teams for the 2017 season looks at my No. 3-ranked club -- Muskegon.
3. Muskegon- Last year's record (12-2, lost to Orchard Lake St. Mary's 29-28 on a last-second TD pass in the Division 3 state championship game).
Top players- Ladarius Jefferson-6-2, 215-Sr.-QB-LB (Central Florida verbal), Antwan Reed-6-7, 295-Sr.-OT (Penn State verbal), Anthony Bradford-6-6, 330-Jr.-OT, Eli Jackson-6-1, 285-Sr.-DT, Ali'Vonta Wallace-6-1, 210-Jr.-LB-RB, Willie Shanks-6-1, 170-Sr.-CB-RB, C.J. Jefferson-6-0, 175-Sr.-SB-S, Davion McCall-5-9, 155-Sr.-WR, Marquis Cooper-6-2, 280-Jr.-OG, Billie Roberts-6-4, 225-Soph.-DE-TE.
Season opener- vs. Ann Arbor Pioneer at Muskegon, Aug. 25. In Week 2, the Big Reds travel to Lincolnshire Stevenson (Ill.), a Chicago suburban powerhouse. Last season, Muskegon lost to visiting Stevenson (8-2 last year) 38-35, missing on a last-second field goal attempt to tie the game and send it into overtime.
Interesting Muskegon tidbit- There might not be another city in Michigan more high school football crazy than Muskegon. I think I can pretty much say with confidence there's not another city with a population just under 40,000 in the United States that produces more Division I-level college football and NFL talent or more state championship/runner-up teams than Muskegon. This hard-scrabble, blue-collar town just off the shores of Lake Michigan, year-in-year-out, produces some of the finest individual talent and top-ranked squads the Great Lakes State has to offer. With Michigan's winningest program (Top 10 nationally in wins, as well) in Muskegon and, in my humble opinion, one of the country's best small-school football programs in Muskegon Catholic Central, the city that raised one of my favorite actors, Harry Morgan (Colonel Sherman T. Potter of "M*A*S*H" fame, 1933 graduate of Muskegon High) is, indeed, "high school football central" every fall in Michigan. Since 2000, five different Muskegon football programs have either won a state championship or finished runner-up, including Muskegon (D-2 state champions-2008, 2006, 2004, D-2 runner-up- 2013, 2012, D-3 runner-up- 2016, 2014); Muskegon Mona Shores (D-2 runner-up-2014); Muskegon Orchard View (D-4 state champions-2004); Muskegon Oakridge (D-5 state champions-2008, 2005, D-5 runner-up-2003) and Muskegon Catholic Central (D-8 state champions- 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2008, 2000, D-7 runner-up-2006, 2001).
Overview- Just four points... When Muskegon harkens back on its 2016 season, the Big Reds can look at only four measly points separating them from an undefeated and state championship-winning year. Muskegon's two losses last season came by a combined four points and, to twist the proverbial knife even further, both defeats came in the last minute of the fourth quarter. It's one of the reasons I have the Big Reds ranked this high. Yes, Muskegon has eight or so Division I-level (high, mid, low) prospects on its team, but what makes the Big Reds so dangerous this year are two words -- four points. I believe Muskegon will be hungry to atone for those two setbacks this upcoming season. Leading the Big Reds this year will be senior QB Ladarius Jefferson (6-2, 215, No. 3-ranked player in Michigan). Jefferson is similar to Ohio State QB J.T. Barrett in build, arm strength and leadership abilities, I believe. At running back, junior Ali'Vonta Wallace (6-1, 210) and senior Willie Shanks (6-1, 170) will get plenty of carries, while senior C.J. Jefferson (6-0, 175) and senior Davion McCall (5-9, 155) will be the top receivers for Muskegon. More than anything, it's upfront where the Big Reds will punish opponents, with senior OT Antwan Reed (6-7, 295) and juniors OT Anthony Bradford (6-6, 330, Alabama, Michigan State, Ohio State, Georgia offers) and OG Marquis Cooper (6-2, 280) dominating in the trenches. Defensively, senior DT Eli Jackson (6-1, 285) and sophomore DE Billie Roberts (6-4, 225) will cause havoc all season long at the line of scrimmage and in the opponent's backfield, while at linebacker, Jefferson (No. 1-ranked LB in Michigan) and Wallace (No. 2-ranked junior LB in Michigan) will be all over the field for Muskegon. In the secondary, Shanks and Jefferson will be key contributors as the Big Reds' last line of defense.
Up next- No. 2-ranked Detroit Catholic Central.
3. Muskegon- Last year's record (12-2, lost to Orchard Lake St. Mary's 29-28 on a last-second TD pass in the Division 3 state championship game).
Top players- Ladarius Jefferson-6-2, 215-Sr.-QB-LB (Central Florida verbal), Antwan Reed-6-7, 295-Sr.-OT (Penn State verbal), Anthony Bradford-6-6, 330-Jr.-OT, Eli Jackson-6-1, 285-Sr.-DT, Ali'Vonta Wallace-6-1, 210-Jr.-LB-RB, Willie Shanks-6-1, 170-Sr.-CB-RB, C.J. Jefferson-6-0, 175-Sr.-SB-S, Davion McCall-5-9, 155-Sr.-WR, Marquis Cooper-6-2, 280-Jr.-OG, Billie Roberts-6-4, 225-Soph.-DE-TE.
Season opener- vs. Ann Arbor Pioneer at Muskegon, Aug. 25. In Week 2, the Big Reds travel to Lincolnshire Stevenson (Ill.), a Chicago suburban powerhouse. Last season, Muskegon lost to visiting Stevenson (8-2 last year) 38-35, missing on a last-second field goal attempt to tie the game and send it into overtime.
Interesting Muskegon tidbit- There might not be another city in Michigan more high school football crazy than Muskegon. I think I can pretty much say with confidence there's not another city with a population just under 40,000 in the United States that produces more Division I-level college football and NFL talent or more state championship/runner-up teams than Muskegon. This hard-scrabble, blue-collar town just off the shores of Lake Michigan, year-in-year-out, produces some of the finest individual talent and top-ranked squads the Great Lakes State has to offer. With Michigan's winningest program (Top 10 nationally in wins, as well) in Muskegon and, in my humble opinion, one of the country's best small-school football programs in Muskegon Catholic Central, the city that raised one of my favorite actors, Harry Morgan (Colonel Sherman T. Potter of "M*A*S*H" fame, 1933 graduate of Muskegon High) is, indeed, "high school football central" every fall in Michigan. Since 2000, five different Muskegon football programs have either won a state championship or finished runner-up, including Muskegon (D-2 state champions-2008, 2006, 2004, D-2 runner-up- 2013, 2012, D-3 runner-up- 2016, 2014); Muskegon Mona Shores (D-2 runner-up-2014); Muskegon Orchard View (D-4 state champions-2004); Muskegon Oakridge (D-5 state champions-2008, 2005, D-5 runner-up-2003) and Muskegon Catholic Central (D-8 state champions- 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2008, 2000, D-7 runner-up-2006, 2001).
Overview- Just four points... When Muskegon harkens back on its 2016 season, the Big Reds can look at only four measly points separating them from an undefeated and state championship-winning year. Muskegon's two losses last season came by a combined four points and, to twist the proverbial knife even further, both defeats came in the last minute of the fourth quarter. It's one of the reasons I have the Big Reds ranked this high. Yes, Muskegon has eight or so Division I-level (high, mid, low) prospects on its team, but what makes the Big Reds so dangerous this year are two words -- four points. I believe Muskegon will be hungry to atone for those two setbacks this upcoming season. Leading the Big Reds this year will be senior QB Ladarius Jefferson (6-2, 215, No. 3-ranked player in Michigan). Jefferson is similar to Ohio State QB J.T. Barrett in build, arm strength and leadership abilities, I believe. At running back, junior Ali'Vonta Wallace (6-1, 210) and senior Willie Shanks (6-1, 170) will get plenty of carries, while senior C.J. Jefferson (6-0, 175) and senior Davion McCall (5-9, 155) will be the top receivers for Muskegon. More than anything, it's upfront where the Big Reds will punish opponents, with senior OT Antwan Reed (6-7, 295) and juniors OT Anthony Bradford (6-6, 330, Alabama, Michigan State, Ohio State, Georgia offers) and OG Marquis Cooper (6-2, 280) dominating in the trenches. Defensively, senior DT Eli Jackson (6-1, 285) and sophomore DE Billie Roberts (6-4, 225) will cause havoc all season long at the line of scrimmage and in the opponent's backfield, while at linebacker, Jefferson (No. 1-ranked LB in Michigan) and Wallace (No. 2-ranked junior LB in Michigan) will be all over the field for Muskegon. In the secondary, Shanks and Jefferson will be key contributors as the Big Reds' last line of defense.
Up next- No. 2-ranked Detroit Catholic Central.
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Michigan's Top Teams for 2017: No. 4 Detroit Cass Tech
Here's the latest preview for Michigan's Top 10 teams for the 2017 season. Today's post looks at my No. 4-ranked squad -- Detroit Cass Tech.
4. Detroit Cass Tech- Last year's record (14-0, Division 1 state champion defeating Detroit Catholic Central 49-20).
Top players- Kalon Gervin-5-10, 185-Sr.-CB-WR, DeAndre Square-6-1, 215-Sr.-LB (Kentucky verbal), Andre Carter-6-4, 255-Sr.-DE (WMU verbal), Brandon Gray-6-5, 195-Sr.-WR (Washington State verbal), Eric Smith-6-1, 285-Sr.-DT, Dyontae Johnson-6-2, 210-Sr.-LB (Toledo verbal), Aaron Jackson-6-2, 210-Sr.-QB (EMU verbal), Ramani Williams-5-11, 215-Sr.-LB, Jaren Mangham-6-1, 215-Jr.-RB-LB, Lew Nichols-6-0, 195-Jr.-RB, Xavier Goldsmith-5-9, 160-Jr.-CB-WR, Jalen Graham-6-3, 195-Jr.-WR-S, Allen Jones-6-5, 315-Jr.-OT, Christian Dudley-6-2, 280-Jr.-C, Ormondell Dingle-6-1, 190-Jr.-S, Tremayne Oliver-6-3, 235-Soph.-DE.
Season opener- vs. Pickerington Central (Ohio) at Toledo, Aug. 24. This will be such a fantastic opener for both squads. Pickerington is one of the top programs in the Buckeye State. Last year, the Tigers finished 13-2 losing in the "Big School" state semifinals to eventual champion Cincinnati St. Xavier 29-27. Pickerington is 32-6 over the last three seasons. The Tigers, big, strong, athletic and fast, are led by seniors CB-WR Xavier Henderson (6-1, 190) and DE-TE Trenton Gillison (6-5, 240), both verbally committed to Michigan State.
Interesting program tidbits- Many casual high school football fans might think Detroit Cass Tech is only a recent dominant program. On the contrary, the Technicians have been churning out big-time D-I college football and NFL talent for decades. Former Cass Tech players include Aaron Kyle (Wyoming), a first round draft pick (1976, 27th overall) of the Dallas Cowboys who started at CB in Super Bowls XII and XIII; Harlan Huckleby (U-M), a Wolverine legend at RB and NFL player in the 1980s; Curtis Greer (U-M, All-American DE), a first round pick (1980, sixth overall) of the St. Louis Cardinals (before move to Arizona); Darris McCord (Tennessee), a Pro Bowl DE with the Detroit Lions and an original member of the "Fearsome Foursome" defensive line in the early 1960s; Vernon Gholston (Ohio State), a first round draft pick (2008, sixth overall) of the New York Jets as a DE; Guy Frazier (Wyoming), a six-year NFL LB, played in Super Bowl XVI with the Cincinnati Bengals at the Pontiac Silverdome and Joe Barksdale (LSU), current starting OT for the Los Angeles Chargers.
Overview- Normally, Cass Tech would be higher up the rankings, but, at least early, the Technicians need to fill a few spots, including the considerably large and game-breaking shoes of Donovan Peoples-Jones (the No. 1-ranked WR in the nation last season now at U-M) and three-year starting QB Rodney Hall (Northern Illinois signee). Coach Thomas Wilcher, of course, will plug the holes with multiple future D-I college football players. Cass Tech, truly one of the 10 best high school football programs in the nation, will, as the saying goes, reload, not rebuild this upcoming season. Leading the Technicians in 2017 will be senior QB Aaron Jackson (6-2, 210), an incredible talent who has played well throughout his career when Hall was out, while in the backfield, juniors Lew Nichols (6-0, 195, Kentucky, Missouri, West Virginia offers) and Jaren Mangham (6-1, 215, Oregon, Michigan State, Purdue, Arizona, UCLA offers) will carry the load. At receiver, senior Brandon Gray (6-5, 195) and junior Jalen Graham (6-3, 195, Syracuse, Kentucky, Pitt offers) look to be main targets, along with slot receivers senior Kalon Gervin (5-10, 185) and junior Xavier Goldsmith (5-9, 165). Upfront, juniors C Christian Dudley (6-2, 280) and OT Allen Jones (6-5, 315) will help provide protection and open holes for the running game. Defensively, seniors Andre Carter (6-4, 255) and Eric Smith (6-1, 285) will dominate in the trenches, while sophomore DE Tremayne Oliver (6-3, 235) could be a young player to keep an eye on in 2017. At linebacker, the Technicians have, arguably, one of the best groups in the country with seniors DeAndre Square (6-1, 210, 4.5 40), Dyontae Johnson (6-2, 210) and Ramani Williams (5-11, 215), along with Mangham. In the secondary, long a strong suit for Cass Tech, Gervin (4.3 40, Alabama, Va. Tech, Oregon, Notre Dame, LSU, U-M, MSU, Nebraska, Oklahoma offers), one of the best in the nation, will lock down one side at CB, while Goldsmith (Mississippi State, Colorado offers) will be on the other side, with junior Ormondell Dingle (6-1, 190, Syracuse, Washington State offers) and Graham likely at the safeties.
Up next- No. 3-ranked Muskegon.
4. Detroit Cass Tech- Last year's record (14-0, Division 1 state champion defeating Detroit Catholic Central 49-20).
Top players- Kalon Gervin-5-10, 185-Sr.-CB-WR, DeAndre Square-6-1, 215-Sr.-LB (Kentucky verbal), Andre Carter-6-4, 255-Sr.-DE (WMU verbal), Brandon Gray-6-5, 195-Sr.-WR (Washington State verbal), Eric Smith-6-1, 285-Sr.-DT, Dyontae Johnson-6-2, 210-Sr.-LB (Toledo verbal), Aaron Jackson-6-2, 210-Sr.-QB (EMU verbal), Ramani Williams-5-11, 215-Sr.-LB, Jaren Mangham-6-1, 215-Jr.-RB-LB, Lew Nichols-6-0, 195-Jr.-RB, Xavier Goldsmith-5-9, 160-Jr.-CB-WR, Jalen Graham-6-3, 195-Jr.-WR-S, Allen Jones-6-5, 315-Jr.-OT, Christian Dudley-6-2, 280-Jr.-C, Ormondell Dingle-6-1, 190-Jr.-S, Tremayne Oliver-6-3, 235-Soph.-DE.
Season opener- vs. Pickerington Central (Ohio) at Toledo, Aug. 24. This will be such a fantastic opener for both squads. Pickerington is one of the top programs in the Buckeye State. Last year, the Tigers finished 13-2 losing in the "Big School" state semifinals to eventual champion Cincinnati St. Xavier 29-27. Pickerington is 32-6 over the last three seasons. The Tigers, big, strong, athletic and fast, are led by seniors CB-WR Xavier Henderson (6-1, 190) and DE-TE Trenton Gillison (6-5, 240), both verbally committed to Michigan State.
Interesting program tidbits- Many casual high school football fans might think Detroit Cass Tech is only a recent dominant program. On the contrary, the Technicians have been churning out big-time D-I college football and NFL talent for decades. Former Cass Tech players include Aaron Kyle (Wyoming), a first round draft pick (1976, 27th overall) of the Dallas Cowboys who started at CB in Super Bowls XII and XIII; Harlan Huckleby (U-M), a Wolverine legend at RB and NFL player in the 1980s; Curtis Greer (U-M, All-American DE), a first round pick (1980, sixth overall) of the St. Louis Cardinals (before move to Arizona); Darris McCord (Tennessee), a Pro Bowl DE with the Detroit Lions and an original member of the "Fearsome Foursome" defensive line in the early 1960s; Vernon Gholston (Ohio State), a first round draft pick (2008, sixth overall) of the New York Jets as a DE; Guy Frazier (Wyoming), a six-year NFL LB, played in Super Bowl XVI with the Cincinnati Bengals at the Pontiac Silverdome and Joe Barksdale (LSU), current starting OT for the Los Angeles Chargers.
Overview- Normally, Cass Tech would be higher up the rankings, but, at least early, the Technicians need to fill a few spots, including the considerably large and game-breaking shoes of Donovan Peoples-Jones (the No. 1-ranked WR in the nation last season now at U-M) and three-year starting QB Rodney Hall (Northern Illinois signee). Coach Thomas Wilcher, of course, will plug the holes with multiple future D-I college football players. Cass Tech, truly one of the 10 best high school football programs in the nation, will, as the saying goes, reload, not rebuild this upcoming season. Leading the Technicians in 2017 will be senior QB Aaron Jackson (6-2, 210), an incredible talent who has played well throughout his career when Hall was out, while in the backfield, juniors Lew Nichols (6-0, 195, Kentucky, Missouri, West Virginia offers) and Jaren Mangham (6-1, 215, Oregon, Michigan State, Purdue, Arizona, UCLA offers) will carry the load. At receiver, senior Brandon Gray (6-5, 195) and junior Jalen Graham (6-3, 195, Syracuse, Kentucky, Pitt offers) look to be main targets, along with slot receivers senior Kalon Gervin (5-10, 185) and junior Xavier Goldsmith (5-9, 165). Upfront, juniors C Christian Dudley (6-2, 280) and OT Allen Jones (6-5, 315) will help provide protection and open holes for the running game. Defensively, seniors Andre Carter (6-4, 255) and Eric Smith (6-1, 285) will dominate in the trenches, while sophomore DE Tremayne Oliver (6-3, 235) could be a young player to keep an eye on in 2017. At linebacker, the Technicians have, arguably, one of the best groups in the country with seniors DeAndre Square (6-1, 210, 4.5 40), Dyontae Johnson (6-2, 210) and Ramani Williams (5-11, 215), along with Mangham. In the secondary, long a strong suit for Cass Tech, Gervin (4.3 40, Alabama, Va. Tech, Oregon, Notre Dame, LSU, U-M, MSU, Nebraska, Oklahoma offers), one of the best in the nation, will lock down one side at CB, while Goldsmith (Mississippi State, Colorado offers) will be on the other side, with junior Ormondell Dingle (6-1, 190, Syracuse, Washington State offers) and Graham likely at the safeties.
Up next- No. 3-ranked Muskegon.
Monday, August 14, 2017
Michigan's Top Teams for 2017: No. 5 West Bloomfield
Here's the latest in my listing of the state of Michigan's Top 10 teams for the 2017 season. Today's installment looks at my No. 5-ranked squad -- West Bloomfield.
5. West Bloomfield- Last season's record (6-5, the Lakers won an opening round playoff game before falling in the next contest).
Top players- Bryce Veasley-6-4, 240-Sr.-QB (Bowling Green State verbal), A.J. Abbott-6-2, 190-Sr.-WR (Wisconsin verbal), Taj Mustapha-6-2, 185-Sr.-WR (Wisconsin verbal), Collin Heard-5-10, 180-Sr.-RB-SB-CB (Howard verbal), Lance Dixon-6-3, 210-Jr.-S-LB, James Faulkner-6-4, 215-Sr.-TE, Javon Foster-6-6, 300-Sr.-OT (CMU verbal), Maxwell Green-6-3, 270-Sr.-DL-OG, Nick Seidel-5-11, 185-Sr.-DB, Blake Barnes-6-1, 230-Sr.-DE-LB, Limani Laster-6-0, 200-Sr.-LB, Matthew Gu-6-0, 215-Sr.-LB, Chase Swoope-5-11, 175-Sr.-DB, Tre Mosley-6-1, 170-Jr.-WR, Niko Mosley-6-2, 205-Sr.-S-LB, Christian Fitzpatrick-6-2, 175-Soph.-WR-DB, Nick O'Shea-5-9, 150-Sr.-PK-P, Ty Broden-6-2, 165-Jr.-WR.
Season opener- vs. Walled Lake Western in the 2017 Prep Kickoff Classic at Wayne State University, Aug. 24. West Bloomfield's game against the Warriors will arguably be the best season opener in Michigan, in a Week 1 full of outstanding, can't-miss-type match-ups. Walled Lake Western is my No. 6-ranked team in the state and has a line-up full of Division I college football talent.
Interesting program tidbits- The Lakers have yet to take that leap into the upper echelon of high school football in Michigan, though, make no mistake about it, they are banging (loudly) on the proverbial front door. West Bloomfield was 9-1 in 2015 and appeared ready to take the next step, program-wise, before finishing 6-5 a year ago. Despite being a bit up and down team-wise recently, the individual talent in the Laker program is absolutely upper echelon when it comes to high school football in the Great Lakes State. Former West Bloomfield standouts currently starting in the Big Ten include WR Trishton Jackson at Michigan State and DT Eddy Wilson and S Navon Mosley at Purdue. In the NFL, former Lakers making their mark include second-year pro Matt Judon (Grand Valley State), who's expected to start at LB for the Baltimore Ravens (coached by Ann Arbor Pioneer graduate John Harbaugh) opposite All-Pro Terrell Suggs, while first-year player OL Chauncey Briggs (SMU) is looking to make the Oakland Raiders as an UDFA this season.
Overview- Don't let last year's 6-5 overall record fool you, West Bloomfield has the talent and, I believe, the "want to" to win a state championship this season. Coach Ron Bellamy, a former U-M and NFL wide receiver, has built one of suburban Detroit's top programs. The Lakers, in my opinion, have the best skill position players, pound-for-pound, in the Midwest, if not the nation. I also think West Bloomfield could have one of the best back seven in Michigan. Offensively, the Lakers are led by senior QB and Bowling Green State commit Bryce Veasley (6-4, 240), a returning starter, with one of the strongest arms in the state. Veasley will have one of the top receiver groups in the country to throw the ball to, starting with Big Ten commits seniors A.J. Abbott (6-2, 190) and Taj Mustapha (6-2, 185), both heading to Wisconsin next fall, along with sophomore WR Christian Fitzpatrick (6-2, 175, Louisville, Illinois, Indiana offers), junior WR Tre Mosley (6-1, 170) and junior WR Ty Broden (6-2, 165). At TE will be senior James Faulkner (6-4, 215, Indiana State, Illinois State, Howard offers). At running back/slot back will be senior Collin Heard (5-10, 180), a Howard commit, while holding down the fort upfront will be senior OT Javon Foster (6-6, 300), a CMU commit and senior OG Maxwell Green (6-3, 270). Defensively, Green will dominate at DE-DT, while seniors Blake Barnes (6-1, 230, who also can play DE), Limani Laster (6-0, 200) and Matthew Gu (6-0, 215) will man the LB spots, while senior Niko Mosley (6-2, 205) and junior Lance Dixon (6-3, 210, Purdue, Iowa State, Kentucky, North Carolina State offers, 4.5 40) will play near the line of scrimmage and in the back end for the Lakers. In the secondary, senior Nick Seidel (5-11, 185), senior Chase Swoope (5-11, 175) and Heard (4.5 40) will lead the way for West Bloomfield. Special teams will, also, be strong for the Lakers, with senior PK-P Nick O'Shea (5-9, 155) returning.
Up next- No. 4-ranked Detroit Cass Tech.
5. West Bloomfield- Last season's record (6-5, the Lakers won an opening round playoff game before falling in the next contest).
Top players- Bryce Veasley-6-4, 240-Sr.-QB (Bowling Green State verbal), A.J. Abbott-6-2, 190-Sr.-WR (Wisconsin verbal), Taj Mustapha-6-2, 185-Sr.-WR (Wisconsin verbal), Collin Heard-5-10, 180-Sr.-RB-SB-CB (Howard verbal), Lance Dixon-6-3, 210-Jr.-S-LB, James Faulkner-6-4, 215-Sr.-TE, Javon Foster-6-6, 300-Sr.-OT (CMU verbal), Maxwell Green-6-3, 270-Sr.-DL-OG, Nick Seidel-5-11, 185-Sr.-DB, Blake Barnes-6-1, 230-Sr.-DE-LB, Limani Laster-6-0, 200-Sr.-LB, Matthew Gu-6-0, 215-Sr.-LB, Chase Swoope-5-11, 175-Sr.-DB, Tre Mosley-6-1, 170-Jr.-WR, Niko Mosley-6-2, 205-Sr.-S-LB, Christian Fitzpatrick-6-2, 175-Soph.-WR-DB, Nick O'Shea-5-9, 150-Sr.-PK-P, Ty Broden-6-2, 165-Jr.-WR.
Season opener- vs. Walled Lake Western in the 2017 Prep Kickoff Classic at Wayne State University, Aug. 24. West Bloomfield's game against the Warriors will arguably be the best season opener in Michigan, in a Week 1 full of outstanding, can't-miss-type match-ups. Walled Lake Western is my No. 6-ranked team in the state and has a line-up full of Division I college football talent.
Interesting program tidbits- The Lakers have yet to take that leap into the upper echelon of high school football in Michigan, though, make no mistake about it, they are banging (loudly) on the proverbial front door. West Bloomfield was 9-1 in 2015 and appeared ready to take the next step, program-wise, before finishing 6-5 a year ago. Despite being a bit up and down team-wise recently, the individual talent in the Laker program is absolutely upper echelon when it comes to high school football in the Great Lakes State. Former West Bloomfield standouts currently starting in the Big Ten include WR Trishton Jackson at Michigan State and DT Eddy Wilson and S Navon Mosley at Purdue. In the NFL, former Lakers making their mark include second-year pro Matt Judon (Grand Valley State), who's expected to start at LB for the Baltimore Ravens (coached by Ann Arbor Pioneer graduate John Harbaugh) opposite All-Pro Terrell Suggs, while first-year player OL Chauncey Briggs (SMU) is looking to make the Oakland Raiders as an UDFA this season.
Overview- Don't let last year's 6-5 overall record fool you, West Bloomfield has the talent and, I believe, the "want to" to win a state championship this season. Coach Ron Bellamy, a former U-M and NFL wide receiver, has built one of suburban Detroit's top programs. The Lakers, in my opinion, have the best skill position players, pound-for-pound, in the Midwest, if not the nation. I also think West Bloomfield could have one of the best back seven in Michigan. Offensively, the Lakers are led by senior QB and Bowling Green State commit Bryce Veasley (6-4, 240), a returning starter, with one of the strongest arms in the state. Veasley will have one of the top receiver groups in the country to throw the ball to, starting with Big Ten commits seniors A.J. Abbott (6-2, 190) and Taj Mustapha (6-2, 185), both heading to Wisconsin next fall, along with sophomore WR Christian Fitzpatrick (6-2, 175, Louisville, Illinois, Indiana offers), junior WR Tre Mosley (6-1, 170) and junior WR Ty Broden (6-2, 165). At TE will be senior James Faulkner (6-4, 215, Indiana State, Illinois State, Howard offers). At running back/slot back will be senior Collin Heard (5-10, 180), a Howard commit, while holding down the fort upfront will be senior OT Javon Foster (6-6, 300), a CMU commit and senior OG Maxwell Green (6-3, 270). Defensively, Green will dominate at DE-DT, while seniors Blake Barnes (6-1, 230, who also can play DE), Limani Laster (6-0, 200) and Matthew Gu (6-0, 215) will man the LB spots, while senior Niko Mosley (6-2, 205) and junior Lance Dixon (6-3, 210, Purdue, Iowa State, Kentucky, North Carolina State offers, 4.5 40) will play near the line of scrimmage and in the back end for the Lakers. In the secondary, senior Nick Seidel (5-11, 185), senior Chase Swoope (5-11, 175) and Heard (4.5 40) will lead the way for West Bloomfield. Special teams will, also, be strong for the Lakers, with senior PK-P Nick O'Shea (5-9, 155) returning.
Up next- No. 4-ranked Detroit Cass Tech.
Sunday, August 13, 2017
Michigan's Top Teams for 2017: No. 6 Walled Lake Western
Today I continue my look at Michigan's preseason Top 10 high school football teams for the upcoming 2017 season. Today's installment includes the No. 6-ranked squad -- Walled Lake Western.
6. Walled Lake Western- Last year's overall record (12-2, reached the Division 2 state championship game, losing to Detroit King 18-0).
Top players- Justin Thomas-6-1, 185-Sr.-WR-FS, Jonathon Moffett-6-0, 235-Sr.-LB-RB (Indiana State verbal), Spencer Brown-6-6, 295-Jr.-OT-DT (Michigan State verbal), Sam Johnson-6-3, 185-Jr.-QB, Matt Ginter-6-3, 220-Sr.-TE-DE, Joey George-6-0, 275-Sr.-C, Jacob Dean-6-8, 310-Jr.-OT, Abdur-Rahmaan Yaseen-6-1, 175-Soph.-WR, Kobe Myers-6-1, 190-Jr.-S-RB, Zak Kempster-5-9, 190-K-LB.
Season opener- vs. West Bloomfield, Aug. 24 in the Prep Kickoff Classic at Wayne State University. Arguably the top Week 1 opener in Michigan, in a Week 1 kickoff slate of titanic match-ups to remember. I can't recall a Week 1 filled with so many HUGE, INTERESTING and "MUST-SEE-TV"-type of contests in the Great Lakes State.
Interesting rivalry game/opener- My head is spinning thinking about all of the star-power in Walled Lake Western's season opener versus West Bloomfield. Not only are the two schools located near each other in northwest suburban Detroit (so I'm sure many of the players know each other), but both squads are listed in my preseason Top 10 -- with the Warriors No. 6-ranked and the Lakers No. 5-ranked overall. There will be multiple D-I college football prospects on both sides. It's the only Week 1 match-up between two Top 10 teams. Despite the magnitude of the season opener for both clubs, a loss will not ruin either squad's year. Both teams are so ridiculously talented, each could run the table during the regular season and reach their individual state championship games (Western is in Division 2, while West Bloomfield is in Division 1).
Overview- Coach Mike Zdebski has built a state power at Walled Lake Western. The Warriors routinely seem to send multiple players to the D-I college football ranks each year (including WR-DB Cody White to Michigan State and OT Rob Hudson to Iowa State last season), while striving for a state championship as a program. Western has a combined 33-5 overall record the past three seasons, reaching the D-2 state title contest last year (losing to Detroit King 18-0) and falling in the D-2 state semifinals in 2015 to Lowell 49-34. This season, the Warriors will be a balanced squad on offense, led by junior quarterback Sam Johnson (6-3, 185, Illinois, Indiana, Syracuse offers), wide receivers senior Justin Thomas (6-1, 185), who doesn't receive the publicity/recruiting buzz I believe he deserves and sophomore Abdur-Rahmaan Yaseen (6-1, 175, Toledo offer), along with tight end senior Matt Ginter (6-3, 220, 4.8 40). At running back, senior Jonathon Moffett (6-0, 235) and junior Kobe Myers (6-1, 190, Syracuse offer) will get plenty of carries. Opening the holes up front for the Warriors will be junior Big Ten recruit OT Spencer Brown (6-6, 295), junior OT Jacob Dean (6-8, 310, Iowa State offer) and senior center Joey George (6-0, 275). Brown and Dean could be the best underclassman bookend tackle duo in the country. On defense, Brown and Ginter will man the trenches, while senior Zak Kempster (5-9, 190) and Moffett will clean things up at LB with Thomas and Myers roaming the secondary for Western.
Up next- No. 5-ranked West Bloomfield.
6. Walled Lake Western- Last year's overall record (12-2, reached the Division 2 state championship game, losing to Detroit King 18-0).
Top players- Justin Thomas-6-1, 185-Sr.-WR-FS, Jonathon Moffett-6-0, 235-Sr.-LB-RB (Indiana State verbal), Spencer Brown-6-6, 295-Jr.-OT-DT (Michigan State verbal), Sam Johnson-6-3, 185-Jr.-QB, Matt Ginter-6-3, 220-Sr.-TE-DE, Joey George-6-0, 275-Sr.-C, Jacob Dean-6-8, 310-Jr.-OT, Abdur-Rahmaan Yaseen-6-1, 175-Soph.-WR, Kobe Myers-6-1, 190-Jr.-S-RB, Zak Kempster-5-9, 190-K-LB.
Season opener- vs. West Bloomfield, Aug. 24 in the Prep Kickoff Classic at Wayne State University. Arguably the top Week 1 opener in Michigan, in a Week 1 kickoff slate of titanic match-ups to remember. I can't recall a Week 1 filled with so many HUGE, INTERESTING and "MUST-SEE-TV"-type of contests in the Great Lakes State.
Interesting rivalry game/opener- My head is spinning thinking about all of the star-power in Walled Lake Western's season opener versus West Bloomfield. Not only are the two schools located near each other in northwest suburban Detroit (so I'm sure many of the players know each other), but both squads are listed in my preseason Top 10 -- with the Warriors No. 6-ranked and the Lakers No. 5-ranked overall. There will be multiple D-I college football prospects on both sides. It's the only Week 1 match-up between two Top 10 teams. Despite the magnitude of the season opener for both clubs, a loss will not ruin either squad's year. Both teams are so ridiculously talented, each could run the table during the regular season and reach their individual state championship games (Western is in Division 2, while West Bloomfield is in Division 1).
Overview- Coach Mike Zdebski has built a state power at Walled Lake Western. The Warriors routinely seem to send multiple players to the D-I college football ranks each year (including WR-DB Cody White to Michigan State and OT Rob Hudson to Iowa State last season), while striving for a state championship as a program. Western has a combined 33-5 overall record the past three seasons, reaching the D-2 state title contest last year (losing to Detroit King 18-0) and falling in the D-2 state semifinals in 2015 to Lowell 49-34. This season, the Warriors will be a balanced squad on offense, led by junior quarterback Sam Johnson (6-3, 185, Illinois, Indiana, Syracuse offers), wide receivers senior Justin Thomas (6-1, 185), who doesn't receive the publicity/recruiting buzz I believe he deserves and sophomore Abdur-Rahmaan Yaseen (6-1, 175, Toledo offer), along with tight end senior Matt Ginter (6-3, 220, 4.8 40). At running back, senior Jonathon Moffett (6-0, 235) and junior Kobe Myers (6-1, 190, Syracuse offer) will get plenty of carries. Opening the holes up front for the Warriors will be junior Big Ten recruit OT Spencer Brown (6-6, 295), junior OT Jacob Dean (6-8, 310, Iowa State offer) and senior center Joey George (6-0, 275). Brown and Dean could be the best underclassman bookend tackle duo in the country. On defense, Brown and Ginter will man the trenches, while senior Zak Kempster (5-9, 190) and Moffett will clean things up at LB with Thomas and Myers roaming the secondary for Western.
Up next- No. 5-ranked West Bloomfield.
Saturday, August 12, 2017
Michigan's Top Teams for 2017: No. 7 Grand Rapids Catholic Central
Sorry it's been so long between posts, but, as usual, life happens. Here is the latest installment in my 2017 preseason Top 10 teams for the state of Michigan -- Grand Rapids Catholic Central.
7. Grand Rapids Catholic Central- (13-1 last season, Division 4 state champion, defeated Detroit Country Day 10-7 to win the title).
Top Players- Jalen Mayfield-6-5, 255-Sr-DE-OT (Michigan verbal), Nolan Fugate-6-1, 210-Sr.-LB-RB, Aidan Burns-6-3, 215-Sr.-DE-TE, Jack Bowen-6-1, 180-Sr.-QB, Henry Sommerdyke-6-3, 280-Sr.-OG-NG, Grant Bearss-6-1, 245-Sr.-DE-OG, Luke Harmon-6-5, 245-Jr.-OT-DT.
Season opener- In a re-match of last season's D-4 state championship game, the Cougars kickoff the 2017 year hosting the Yellowjackets of Detroit Country Day, Aug. 25. The Yellowjackets (13-1 last season) are loaded once again this year, returning one of the nation's top linebackers in senior Kolin Demens (6-2, 215, 4.5 40) and disruptive senior defensive tackle Christian Love (6-1, 285). The Catholic Central-Country Day opener will be one of the state's best Week 1 contests.
Interesting program tidbits- A perennial powerhouse on Michigan's west side, Catholic Central has been a dominant Grand Rapids area program for decades. Former Cougars include George Andrie (6-6, 260), one of "Michigan's All-Time Top 50 Pro Football Players" (my book -- sorry, shameless plug), who was an All-Pro defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys (1960s-70s), an original member of the legendary "Doomsday Defense" and a Super Bowl champion (1971 season); Mike Kadish, a former Notre Dame All-American defensive tackle, an NFL first round draft pick of the Miami Dolphins and a Super Bowl champion (1972 season); Mike Keller, an All-Big Ten player at Michigan and an NFL linebacker with the Dallas Cowboys (1970s) and current Minnesota Vikings running back Bronson Hill (EMU).
Overview- The Cougars look to make it two straight D-4 state championships in 2017. With a strong offensive and defensive line, a returning senior quarterback, a punishing run game and the state of Michigan's No. 2-ranked overall player in senior DE-OT Jalen Mayfield (6-5, 255), Catholic Central will be a load for any team to handle this upcoming season. Mayfield is dominant on both sides of the football, but look for senior RB-LB Nolan Fugate (6-1, 210, 4.5 40) to wreck havoc all over the field this year. Whether it's running the football or making tackles from sideline to sideline on defense, Fugate is a big-time D-I-level talent. Other top players for the Cougars will be senior DE-TE Aidan Burns (6-3, 215), senior OG-NG Henry Sommerdyke (6-3, 280), senior DE-OG Grant Bearss (6-1, 245) and junior OT-DT Luke Harmon (6-5, 245). Harmon, like Mayfield, is a bonafide Big Ten-level talent. Also returning for his second season as a starter will be senior quarterback Jack Bowen (6-1, 180). Bowen connected with then senior WR Michael Brown (now playing at Miami, OH) for a 44-yard, fourth quarter, state championship-winning TD pass last season. With skill and experience on both sides of the football, Catholic Central will, once again, be one of Michigan's top teams in 2017.
Up next- No. 6-ranked Walled Lake Western.
7. Grand Rapids Catholic Central- (13-1 last season, Division 4 state champion, defeated Detroit Country Day 10-7 to win the title).
Top Players- Jalen Mayfield-6-5, 255-Sr-DE-OT (Michigan verbal), Nolan Fugate-6-1, 210-Sr.-LB-RB, Aidan Burns-6-3, 215-Sr.-DE-TE, Jack Bowen-6-1, 180-Sr.-QB, Henry Sommerdyke-6-3, 280-Sr.-OG-NG, Grant Bearss-6-1, 245-Sr.-DE-OG, Luke Harmon-6-5, 245-Jr.-OT-DT.
Season opener- In a re-match of last season's D-4 state championship game, the Cougars kickoff the 2017 year hosting the Yellowjackets of Detroit Country Day, Aug. 25. The Yellowjackets (13-1 last season) are loaded once again this year, returning one of the nation's top linebackers in senior Kolin Demens (6-2, 215, 4.5 40) and disruptive senior defensive tackle Christian Love (6-1, 285). The Catholic Central-Country Day opener will be one of the state's best Week 1 contests.
Interesting program tidbits- A perennial powerhouse on Michigan's west side, Catholic Central has been a dominant Grand Rapids area program for decades. Former Cougars include George Andrie (6-6, 260), one of "Michigan's All-Time Top 50 Pro Football Players" (my book -- sorry, shameless plug), who was an All-Pro defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys (1960s-70s), an original member of the legendary "Doomsday Defense" and a Super Bowl champion (1971 season); Mike Kadish, a former Notre Dame All-American defensive tackle, an NFL first round draft pick of the Miami Dolphins and a Super Bowl champion (1972 season); Mike Keller, an All-Big Ten player at Michigan and an NFL linebacker with the Dallas Cowboys (1970s) and current Minnesota Vikings running back Bronson Hill (EMU).
Overview- The Cougars look to make it two straight D-4 state championships in 2017. With a strong offensive and defensive line, a returning senior quarterback, a punishing run game and the state of Michigan's No. 2-ranked overall player in senior DE-OT Jalen Mayfield (6-5, 255), Catholic Central will be a load for any team to handle this upcoming season. Mayfield is dominant on both sides of the football, but look for senior RB-LB Nolan Fugate (6-1, 210, 4.5 40) to wreck havoc all over the field this year. Whether it's running the football or making tackles from sideline to sideline on defense, Fugate is a big-time D-I-level talent. Other top players for the Cougars will be senior DE-TE Aidan Burns (6-3, 215), senior OG-NG Henry Sommerdyke (6-3, 280), senior DE-OG Grant Bearss (6-1, 245) and junior OT-DT Luke Harmon (6-5, 245). Harmon, like Mayfield, is a bonafide Big Ten-level talent. Also returning for his second season as a starter will be senior quarterback Jack Bowen (6-1, 180). Bowen connected with then senior WR Michael Brown (now playing at Miami, OH) for a 44-yard, fourth quarter, state championship-winning TD pass last season. With skill and experience on both sides of the football, Catholic Central will, once again, be one of Michigan's top teams in 2017.
Up next- No. 6-ranked Walled Lake Western.
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