If there was any doubt beforehand, I think Muskegon senior QB Ladarius Jefferson's (6-2, 220) performance against crosstown rival Muskegon Mona Shores last Friday proved that, pound for pound, he's the best all-around high school football player in the state of Michigan. Jefferson (Central Florida verbal) helped lead the No. 1-ranked Big Reds (8-0) to an exciting 35-24 victory over the host No. 10-ranked Sailors in front of an overflowing crowd of 11,500. Jefferson rushed for 290 yards on 33 carries, with four touchdowns, including the game-clincher with less than two minutes remaining. Jefferson scored on TD runs of 15, 16, 26 and 38 yards for Muskegon. Overall, the Big Reds finished with 468 total yards of offense, all on the ground. Senior slotback Clinton Jefferson (6-0, 175) also had a strong performance for Muskegon rushing for 110 yards on 11 attempts with one TD.
Mona Shores (7-1) battled to the end and left everything out on the field proving it was more than worthy of its No. 10 state ranking. The Sailors ended up with 403 total yards of offense, scoring more points in one game (24) against the Big Reds than Muskegon had given up throughout its entire season (21 points in seven games). Senior QB Tristan Robbins (5-11, 175) led Mona Shores finishing 15-of-22 passing for 186 yards, while rushing for 81 yards on 16 carries with one TD. Senior WR Keyshawn Summerville (6-0, 170) added nine receptions for 85 yards, while also throwing a wide receiver pass for a touchdown.
The Sailors led 17-14 entering the fourth quarter, but were outscored 21-7 in the final frame. Though falling to the Big Reds, Mona Shores is still one of the top teams in Michigan. The Sailors are loaded with Division I college football talent, including seniors OT Keontae Watson (6-5, 265), C-DT Chuckie Anthony (6-2, 295) and Summerville, while juniors WR Damari Roberson (6-2, 190, who missed the Muskegon game with an injury)), LB-TE Jacob Wahlberg (6-4, 215), RB-LB Sincere Dent (5-10, 210) and DT-OT Cole Stout (6-5, 255) are also D-I prospects.
This game, more than anything in my opinion, showed the importance of a powerful and talented offensive line. Muskegon might have the top O-line in the state of Michigan, if not the Midwest. Behind their massive and skilled offensive line, the Big Reds rushed for almost 500 yards. Despite not completing a single pass, Muskegon was still able to earn the win against a highly-ranked opponent. To me, that's pretty incredible. Opening the holes up front all night for the Big Reds (now that I think about it, that's an appropriate nickname for this group -- they're just flat out HUGE), were senior OT Antwan Reed (6-7, 320, Penn State verbal), junior OT Anthony Bradford (6-6, 325, Alabama, MSU, Ohio State offers among many) and junior OG Marquis Cooper (6-2, 290). Other top players for Muskegon (and D-I recruits, in my opinion) are seniors DT Eli Jackson (6-1, 300) and DB Willie Shanks (6-2, 185), along with junior LB Ali'vonta Wallace (6-1, 215) and sophomore DE Billie Roberts (6-4, 225).
Week 8 top games-
Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard (7-1) 16, U-D Jesuit (3-5) 14
Mendon (8-0) 34, Cassopolis (7-1) 24
*Farmington Hills Harrison (6-2) 39, Berkley (1-7) 0
-- Harrison coach John Herrington became the state's all-time wins leader with the victory.
Wyandotte (8-0) 24, Gibraltar Carlson (7-1) 20
Goodrich (7-1) 47, Montrose (6-2) 31
Lake City (8-0) 35, Lincoln-Alcona (6-2) 34
East Lansing (6-2) 9, Lansing Sexton (5-3) 7
DeWitt (7-1) 33, Linden (6-2) 3
Kingsford (6-1) 42, Menominee (5-3) 21
Marquette (4-4) 35, Negaunee (4-4) 19
Whitehall (6-2) 25, North Muskegon (5-3) 14
Saginaw Swan Valley (7-1) 36, Alma (6-2) 19
Harbor Beach (7-1) 26, Ubly (6-2) 14
Portland (7-1) 29, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep (6-2) 27
Watervliet (8-0) 36, Schoolcraft (5-3) 14
Ypsilanti Lincoln (6-2) 23, Temperance Bedford (6-2) 19
Olivet (8-0) 21, Berrien Springs (6-2) 17
Rivalry games-
Birmingham Groves (7-1) 35, Birmingham Seaholm (1-7) 33
Newaygo (6-2) 20, Grant (5-3) 6
Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central (5-3) 27, Monroe Jefferson (0-8) 0
Farmington (2-6) 47, North Farmington (1-7) 3
Novi (3-5) 21, Northville (3-5) 6
Taylor Truman (2-6) 68, Taylor Kennedy (0-8) 20
Detroit King (7-1) 17, Detroit Cass Tech (6-2) 7
Plainwell (6-2) 35, Paw Paw (4-4) 28
Interesting tidbits games-
Calumet (5-3) 30, Bessemer (3-5) 20
-- An Upper Peninsula game in the U.P.'s rugged, mountainous western side, pitted teams with two of the best, most unique nicknames in the entire state, if not the country. The Copper Kings of Calumet defeated the Speedboys of Bessemer -- how can you not love it? What awesome nicknames. I actually drove for two days (yes, that can happen in a state as expansive as Michigan) to visit Bessemer and buy an official Speedboy T-shirt. I know, you wish you had one! Now, if only I could get a Copper Kings T-shirt... A final interesting note/tidbit to the Calumet-Bessemer contest is the former players from these two schools. Former Copper Kings include Harley "Hunk" Anderson (one of the players included in my book, "Michigan's All-Time Top 50 Pro Football Players") and his best friend growing up, George Gipp (who would later achieve legendary fame as a Notre Dame football player) -- yes, THE George Gipp of "Win one for the Gipper" fame. Former Speedboy is Canadian Football Hall-of-Famer DE Bob Jurasin (NMU, CFL). Plus, I once dated a former Calumet Copper Kings cheerleader in college while at Michigan State. Soooo, anyhow... Just sayin'... Hi, Wendy!
Saginaw Nouvel Catholic (8-0) 49, New Buffalo (4-4) 14
-- What made this game interesting to me, was the distance Nouvel Catholic had to travel to play the Bison. The Panthers hopped onto their team bus and three and a half to four hours or so and 220 miles later reached the field at New Buffalo, a small Lake Michigan coastal town located in the farthest corner of southwest Michigan, a stone's throw from the Indiana border. High school football -- only in Michigan...
Updated state rankings-
1. Muskegon (8-0)
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (8-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (8-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (8-0)
5. Belleville (8-0)
6. Traverse City West (8-0)
7. Detroit East English Village (8-0)
8. Zeeland East (8-0)
9. Fenton (8-0)
10. Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (8-0)
Other top teams- Muskegon Catholic Central (7-0), Montague (8-0), Ithaca (8-0), Battle Creek Harper Creek (8-0), Frankenmuth (8-0), Olivet (8-0), Traverse City St. Francis (8-0), Wyoming Kelloggsville (8-0), Wyandotte (8-0).
Week 9 top games-
Montague (8-0) at Muskegon Catholic Central (7-0)
Traverse City St. Francis (8-0) at Boyne City (8-0)
Sunday, October 15, 2017
Friday, October 13, 2017
Week 7 was amazing for Michigan high school football
I know, I know, it's a bit late for Week 7 comments, but hey, a guy has to eat/work/play(?) and life as you well know happens. So better late than never, right? Here are some insights, observations and comments on Week 7 of the crazy, awesome 2017 high school football season in Michigan.
Week 7 top games --
Carrollton (6-1) 26, Alma (6-1) 14
Bay City John Glenn (4-3) 28, Bay City Central (3-4) 24
Montague (7-0) 40, Muskegon Oakridge (5-2) 0
Davison (6-1) 35, Lapeer (5-2) 17
Dearborn Divine Child (6-1) 14, Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard (6-1) 13
Detroit King (6-1) 46, Detroit Central (5-2) 34
Escanaba (6-1) 35, Gladstone (6-1) 14
Farmington Hills Harrison (5-2) 17, Oak Park (5-2) 14
No. 9 Fenton (7-0) 52, Flushing (5-2) 35
No. 2 Grand Rapids Catholic Central (7-0) 57, Comstock Park (4-3) 50
Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (7-0) 35, Lowell (4-3) 6
DeWitt (6-1) 28, Haslett (5-2) 0
Holland West Ottawa (6-1) 35, Rockford (4-3) 30
Frankenmuth (7-0) 28, Millington (6-1) 22
Birmingham Brother Rice (4-3) 24, Stevensville-Lakeshore (6-1) 20
Rochester Adams (6-1) 21, Clarkston (5-2) 14
Rivalry games-
Dearborn Fordson (6-1) 31, Dearborn (2-5) 12
Reed City (6-1) 48, Big Rapids (3-4) 14
Kingsford (5-1) 42, Iron Mountain (1-6) 7
Clinton Township Chippewa Valley (6-1) 37, Macomb Dakota (5-2) 7
Portage Central (6-1) 28, Portage Northern (2-5) 3
Redford Thurston (5-2) 42, Redford Union (3-4) 40 (2OT)
Interesting tidbit game-
West Branch Ogemaw Heights (1-6) 27, Tawas (1-5) 14
-- Seemingly just a random "Up North" game between two small-to-mid-sized schools on Michigan's "Sun Rise" coast near the shore of Lake Huron. However, what made this contest interesting, at least to a guy like me, is the fact both programs currently have players suiting up in the NFL. Ogemaw Heights alum Anthony Zettel (Penn State) is a defensive end for his home state Detroit Lions, while Tawas grad Jeff Janis (Saginaw Valley State) is a wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers. Just one of those moments that make you go, "Hmmm... Who'd a thunk it?" It's just another example of the talent level of Michigan high school football, not only in the traditional hotbed-type programs/regions, but throughout the ENTIRE state. So cool to see,,,
Updated Top 10 state rankings-
1. Muskegon (7-0)
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (7-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (7-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (7-0)
5. Belleville (7-0)
6. Traverse City West (7-0)
7. Detroit East English (7-0)
8. Zeeland East (7-0)
9. Fenton (7-0)
10. Muskegon Mona Shores (7-0)
Other top teams: Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (7-0), Muskegon Catholic Central (6-0), Montague (7-0), Battle Creek Harper Creek (7-0), Ithaca (7-0), Wyoming Kelloggsville (7-0), Frankenmuth (7-0).
Week 8 top game-
No. 1 Muskegon (7-0) at No. 10 Muskegon Mona Shores (7-0)
-- I cannot wait to see the final score of this one. If I had any free time (ha, what's that?), I would drive over to the Lake Michigan coastline and check out this game between two Top 10 state-ranked heavyweights. The NFL Network currently has a program airing called "Football Town: Valdosta, Georgia." If the Great Lakes State had the same type of program, it would be titled, "Football Town: Muskegon, Michigan." I can only imagine what the scene will be like in football-crazy Muskegon tonight for the game between the host No. 10-ranked Sailors and the top-ranked Big Reds. I'm going to estimate a crowd of 8,000 to 10,000 in the stands and three-to-four deep behind the fence circling the field. Last week, Mona Shores defeated Grand Rapids Union 65-0, while Muskegon beat Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills 54-0. In the past three games, the Sailors have outscored their opponents 155-13, while the Big Reds, during that same time span, have outscored their foes 185-0. Can we please kick this game off...like...now.
Week 7 top games --
Carrollton (6-1) 26, Alma (6-1) 14
Bay City John Glenn (4-3) 28, Bay City Central (3-4) 24
Montague (7-0) 40, Muskegon Oakridge (5-2) 0
Davison (6-1) 35, Lapeer (5-2) 17
Dearborn Divine Child (6-1) 14, Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard (6-1) 13
Detroit King (6-1) 46, Detroit Central (5-2) 34
Escanaba (6-1) 35, Gladstone (6-1) 14
Farmington Hills Harrison (5-2) 17, Oak Park (5-2) 14
No. 9 Fenton (7-0) 52, Flushing (5-2) 35
No. 2 Grand Rapids Catholic Central (7-0) 57, Comstock Park (4-3) 50
Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (7-0) 35, Lowell (4-3) 6
DeWitt (6-1) 28, Haslett (5-2) 0
Holland West Ottawa (6-1) 35, Rockford (4-3) 30
Frankenmuth (7-0) 28, Millington (6-1) 22
Birmingham Brother Rice (4-3) 24, Stevensville-Lakeshore (6-1) 20
Rochester Adams (6-1) 21, Clarkston (5-2) 14
Rivalry games-
Dearborn Fordson (6-1) 31, Dearborn (2-5) 12
Reed City (6-1) 48, Big Rapids (3-4) 14
Kingsford (5-1) 42, Iron Mountain (1-6) 7
Clinton Township Chippewa Valley (6-1) 37, Macomb Dakota (5-2) 7
Portage Central (6-1) 28, Portage Northern (2-5) 3
Redford Thurston (5-2) 42, Redford Union (3-4) 40 (2OT)
Interesting tidbit game-
West Branch Ogemaw Heights (1-6) 27, Tawas (1-5) 14
-- Seemingly just a random "Up North" game between two small-to-mid-sized schools on Michigan's "Sun Rise" coast near the shore of Lake Huron. However, what made this contest interesting, at least to a guy like me, is the fact both programs currently have players suiting up in the NFL. Ogemaw Heights alum Anthony Zettel (Penn State) is a defensive end for his home state Detroit Lions, while Tawas grad Jeff Janis (Saginaw Valley State) is a wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers. Just one of those moments that make you go, "Hmmm... Who'd a thunk it?" It's just another example of the talent level of Michigan high school football, not only in the traditional hotbed-type programs/regions, but throughout the ENTIRE state. So cool to see,,,
Updated Top 10 state rankings-
1. Muskegon (7-0)
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (7-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (7-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (7-0)
5. Belleville (7-0)
6. Traverse City West (7-0)
7. Detroit East English (7-0)
8. Zeeland East (7-0)
9. Fenton (7-0)
10. Muskegon Mona Shores (7-0)
Other top teams: Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (7-0), Muskegon Catholic Central (6-0), Montague (7-0), Battle Creek Harper Creek (7-0), Ithaca (7-0), Wyoming Kelloggsville (7-0), Frankenmuth (7-0).
Week 8 top game-
No. 1 Muskegon (7-0) at No. 10 Muskegon Mona Shores (7-0)
-- I cannot wait to see the final score of this one. If I had any free time (ha, what's that?), I would drive over to the Lake Michigan coastline and check out this game between two Top 10 state-ranked heavyweights. The NFL Network currently has a program airing called "Football Town: Valdosta, Georgia." If the Great Lakes State had the same type of program, it would be titled, "Football Town: Muskegon, Michigan." I can only imagine what the scene will be like in football-crazy Muskegon tonight for the game between the host No. 10-ranked Sailors and the top-ranked Big Reds. I'm going to estimate a crowd of 8,000 to 10,000 in the stands and three-to-four deep behind the fence circling the field. Last week, Mona Shores defeated Grand Rapids Union 65-0, while Muskegon beat Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills 54-0. In the past three games, the Sailors have outscored their opponents 155-13, while the Big Reds, during that same time span, have outscored their foes 185-0. Can we please kick this game off...like...now.
Sunday, October 1, 2017
No. 4 East Grand Rapids continues to dominate foes, especially on defense
East Grand Rapids, one of Michigan's most successful and legendary high school football programs, looks to have another bonafide state championship-level team in 2017. The No. 4-ranked Pioneers (6-0) defeated host Grand Rapids Christian (5-1) 28-7 last Friday. East Grand Rapids seems to be playing some of its best football of the season at the moment, outscoring its last three opponents 108-7. For the year, the Pioneers have only allowed 49 points, yielding a stingy eight points per game on average. Offensively, EGR has scored 195 points this season.
Pacing the Pioneers this year is senior QB Mike Malewitz (5-11, 170), a gritty, natural leader and three-sport standout (football, hockey and baseball). A punishing run game spearheads the EGR offense, as senior RB Connor Davis (5-10, 165), who had a game-high 160 yards rushing on 30 carries, with three TDs, including a 93-yard opening kickoff return for a score against Christian, and sophomore John Shelton (5-10, 190) lead the squad. As usual, with any strong football team, it's upfront, in the trenches, where it counts most. Leading the Pioneers along the offensive and defensive lines are senior OT Matt Eerdmans (6-4, 260), senior TE-DE Max Lundeen (6-4, 225) and junior OT Stuart Kettler (6-5, 265). Kettler is currently being recruited by multiple D-I schools, including Michigan State.
East Grand Rapids has appeared in 12 state championship games in its illustrious history (tied for sixth best all-time in Michigan, with Detroit Catholic Central on top with 17 finals appearances). The Pioneers have won 11 state titles (tied for third best all-time, with Farmington Hills Harrison first with 13 state championships), while its five straight state titles from 2006 through 2010 is only matched in state finals history by Harrison's five consecutive state crowns from 1997 through 2001. Since 2000, East Grand Rapids has won seven state championships.
A couple famous Pioneer alums include current Detroit Red Wing Luke Glendening and Hollywood screenwriter/producer Adam Herz. Herz is most commonly known for writing the movie "American Pie" and its subsequent sequels. In "American Pie," the high school the main characters attend is called East Great Falls, an apparent homage to Herz's alma mater.
Week 6 top games --
Alma (6-0) 21, Freeland (4-2) 7
Howell (1-5) 16, Brighton (3-3) 15 * rivalry game
No. 6 Belleville (6-0) 35, Dearborn Fordson (5-1) 7
Chelsea (5-1) 34, Dexter (0-6) 14 *rivalry game
Negaunee (3-3) 21 Ishpeming (2-4) 14
Maple City Glen Lake (3-2) 48, Frankfort (4-2) 34
Escanaba (5-1) 42, Menominee (4-2) 21
Midland (5-1) 39, No. 5 Davison (5-1) 25
DeWitt (5-1) 38, St. Johns (3-3) 12 *rivalry game
Stevensville-Lakeshore (6-0) 30, Portage Northern (2-4) 27
No. 7 Traverse City West (6-0) 30, Benton Harbor (2-4) 13
Michigan vs. Everybody --
Hancock (5-1) 56, Hurley (WI) (4-3) 20
Houghton (1-5) 32, Eagle River (WI) Northland Pines (1-6) 0
Winning streaks --
Two of the best small-school football programs, not only in Michigan, but in the nation, continue to show how dominant they really are with impressive winning streaks. Ithaca (6-0) is currently riding a 70-game regular season win streak. The Yellowjackets defeated St. Charles (1-5) 56-8 last Friday. Ithaca hasn't lost a regular season contest since 2009. During that same time span, the Yellowjackets have only suffered three losses, all coming in the state playoffs, while winning five state championships. Equally as impressive is Muskegon Catholic Central's 25-game winning streak, including the state playoffs. The Crusaders (5-0) defeated Muskegon Heights (3-3) 32-0 last Friday. Muskegon Catholic Central has won four consecutive state championships (2013 through 2016).
Updated Top 10 state rankings --
1. Muskegon (6-0) - Big Reds defeated Grand Rapids Union 70-0.
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (6-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (6-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (6-0)
5. Belleville (6-0)
6. Traverse City West (6-0)
7. Detroit East English Village (6-0)
8. Zeeland East (6-0)
9. Fenton (6-0)
10. Muskegon Mona Shores (6-0)
Other top teams -- Muskegon Catholic Central (5-0), Ithaca (6-0), Montague (6-0), Traverse City St. Francis (6-0), Edwardsburg (6-0), Alma (6-0), Frankenmuth (6-0), Gladstone (6-0), Wyoming Kelloggsville (6-0), Battle Creek Harper Creek (6-0), Stevensville-Lakeshore (6-0), Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (6-0).
Week 7 top games --
No. 9 Fenton (6-0) at Flushing (5-1)
Top players- Fenton- Josh Czarnota-6-2, 210-QB-Sr.; Flushing- Cal Endicott-6-5, 195-QB-Sr., Bradley Novess-6-5, 310-DT-Sr., William Racely-6-4, 295-OT-Jr.
DeWitt (5-1) at Haslett (5-1)
Lowell (4-2) at Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (6-0)
Top players- Lowell- Addison Buckius-6-3, 200-WR-Sr., David Kruse-6-2, 200-QB-Sr., Mitchell O'Gorman-6-5, 245-OT-DE-Sr.; GRFHC- Bryce Clay-5-10, 190-WR-DB-Sr., Tate Hallock-6-3, 185-WR-DB-Jr., Elijah Gruley-6-3, 240-DT-Sr., Christian Balanda-6-6, 265-OT-Sr.
Clarkston (5-1) at Rochester Adams (5-1)
Montague (6-0) at Muskegon Oakridge (5-1)
Pacing the Pioneers this year is senior QB Mike Malewitz (5-11, 170), a gritty, natural leader and three-sport standout (football, hockey and baseball). A punishing run game spearheads the EGR offense, as senior RB Connor Davis (5-10, 165), who had a game-high 160 yards rushing on 30 carries, with three TDs, including a 93-yard opening kickoff return for a score against Christian, and sophomore John Shelton (5-10, 190) lead the squad. As usual, with any strong football team, it's upfront, in the trenches, where it counts most. Leading the Pioneers along the offensive and defensive lines are senior OT Matt Eerdmans (6-4, 260), senior TE-DE Max Lundeen (6-4, 225) and junior OT Stuart Kettler (6-5, 265). Kettler is currently being recruited by multiple D-I schools, including Michigan State.
East Grand Rapids has appeared in 12 state championship games in its illustrious history (tied for sixth best all-time in Michigan, with Detroit Catholic Central on top with 17 finals appearances). The Pioneers have won 11 state titles (tied for third best all-time, with Farmington Hills Harrison first with 13 state championships), while its five straight state titles from 2006 through 2010 is only matched in state finals history by Harrison's five consecutive state crowns from 1997 through 2001. Since 2000, East Grand Rapids has won seven state championships.
A couple famous Pioneer alums include current Detroit Red Wing Luke Glendening and Hollywood screenwriter/producer Adam Herz. Herz is most commonly known for writing the movie "American Pie" and its subsequent sequels. In "American Pie," the high school the main characters attend is called East Great Falls, an apparent homage to Herz's alma mater.
Week 6 top games --
Alma (6-0) 21, Freeland (4-2) 7
Howell (1-5) 16, Brighton (3-3) 15 * rivalry game
No. 6 Belleville (6-0) 35, Dearborn Fordson (5-1) 7
Chelsea (5-1) 34, Dexter (0-6) 14 *rivalry game
Negaunee (3-3) 21 Ishpeming (2-4) 14
Maple City Glen Lake (3-2) 48, Frankfort (4-2) 34
Escanaba (5-1) 42, Menominee (4-2) 21
Midland (5-1) 39, No. 5 Davison (5-1) 25
DeWitt (5-1) 38, St. Johns (3-3) 12 *rivalry game
Stevensville-Lakeshore (6-0) 30, Portage Northern (2-4) 27
No. 7 Traverse City West (6-0) 30, Benton Harbor (2-4) 13
Michigan vs. Everybody --
Hancock (5-1) 56, Hurley (WI) (4-3) 20
Houghton (1-5) 32, Eagle River (WI) Northland Pines (1-6) 0
Winning streaks --
Two of the best small-school football programs, not only in Michigan, but in the nation, continue to show how dominant they really are with impressive winning streaks. Ithaca (6-0) is currently riding a 70-game regular season win streak. The Yellowjackets defeated St. Charles (1-5) 56-8 last Friday. Ithaca hasn't lost a regular season contest since 2009. During that same time span, the Yellowjackets have only suffered three losses, all coming in the state playoffs, while winning five state championships. Equally as impressive is Muskegon Catholic Central's 25-game winning streak, including the state playoffs. The Crusaders (5-0) defeated Muskegon Heights (3-3) 32-0 last Friday. Muskegon Catholic Central has won four consecutive state championships (2013 through 2016).
Updated Top 10 state rankings --
1. Muskegon (6-0) - Big Reds defeated Grand Rapids Union 70-0.
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (6-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (6-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (6-0)
5. Belleville (6-0)
6. Traverse City West (6-0)
7. Detroit East English Village (6-0)
8. Zeeland East (6-0)
9. Fenton (6-0)
10. Muskegon Mona Shores (6-0)
Other top teams -- Muskegon Catholic Central (5-0), Ithaca (6-0), Montague (6-0), Traverse City St. Francis (6-0), Edwardsburg (6-0), Alma (6-0), Frankenmuth (6-0), Gladstone (6-0), Wyoming Kelloggsville (6-0), Battle Creek Harper Creek (6-0), Stevensville-Lakeshore (6-0), Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (6-0).
Week 7 top games --
No. 9 Fenton (6-0) at Flushing (5-1)
Top players- Fenton- Josh Czarnota-6-2, 210-QB-Sr.; Flushing- Cal Endicott-6-5, 195-QB-Sr., Bradley Novess-6-5, 310-DT-Sr., William Racely-6-4, 295-OT-Jr.
DeWitt (5-1) at Haslett (5-1)
Lowell (4-2) at Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central (6-0)
Top players- Lowell- Addison Buckius-6-3, 200-WR-Sr., David Kruse-6-2, 200-QB-Sr., Mitchell O'Gorman-6-5, 245-OT-DE-Sr.; GRFHC- Bryce Clay-5-10, 190-WR-DB-Sr., Tate Hallock-6-3, 185-WR-DB-Jr., Elijah Gruley-6-3, 240-DT-Sr., Christian Balanda-6-6, 265-OT-Sr.
Clarkston (5-1) at Rochester Adams (5-1)
Montague (6-0) at Muskegon Oakridge (5-1)
Saturday, September 23, 2017
Talented Belleville hitting stride after tough opener, ranked No. 6 in Michigan
After late-game heroics propelled Belleville (5-0) to a 34-31 overtime Week 1 victory over Brighton (3-2), the Tigers, since then, seem to have hit their stride both offensively and defensively defeating Dearborn (2-3) 58-0 Friday. Since its opening game win, Belleville has outscored its last four opponents 228-6, including 173-0 in its last three contests. The Tigers, led by a cadre of high-level Division I college football talent, will face their stiffest challenge to date when they visit unbeaten and traditional powerhouse Dearborn Fordson (5-0) next Friday. The game will be, arguably, the top match-up in Michigan next weekend. Belleville is paced by seniors DBs Davion Williams (6-2, 195, Michigan State verbal) and Kmare Carey (6-2, 170, WMU verbal) and DB-RB Patrick Lupre (5-10, 185, Bowling Green State verbal), along with junior standouts OT-DT Devontae Dobbs (6-4, 295), WR-DB Julian Barnett (6-2, 195) and DE Jalen Hunt (6-3, 235). Dobbs is considered by some as the top junior OL recruit in the nation and has offers from all the major college powers, while Barnett and Hunt also are highly thought of nationally and have offers from Big Ten and other high-profile programs. I believe everyone will know a lot more about the Tigers after next week's game against the Tractors. I can't wait...
Week 5 top games --
Midland (4-1) 42, Bay City Central (3-2) 35
Dearborn Divine Child (5-0) 29, U-D Jesuit (1-4) 24
*Frankenmuth (5-0) 47, Bridgeport (3-2) 42 - Two of the best players in Michigan no one is talking about stood out in this big-time Saginaw-area contest Friday. Frankenmuth senior QB-DE Zach Jacobs (6-2, 220), who I see as a 6-2, 255 H-Back or DE at the next level, was a do-it-all player for the Eagles, while senior QB Charles Garrett (6-3, 195), a four-year starter for Bridgeport, threw six touchdown passes. Garrett, a D-I college basketball prospect, is also one heck of a football player. I envision Garrett bulking up to 6-3, 210 at the D-I level and developing into an explosive stud athlete at the WR position, if he so chooses to go that route.
Montague (5-0) 46, Whitehall (3-2) 44
Grand Ledge (4-1) 28, Okemos (4-1) 20
West Bloomfield (3-2) 17, No. 7 Rochester Adams (4-1) 16
Rivalry Games --
Grosse Pointe North (2-2) 26, Grosse Pointe South (3-2) 23 (2OT)
L'Anse Creuse North (1-4) 35, L'Anse Creuse (0-5) 6
Michigan vs. Everybody games --
Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard (5-0) 41, Toledo (OH) Scott (0-5) 6
Tecumseh (3-2) 20, Toledo (OH) Waite (0-5) 0
Menominee (4-1) 62, Brussels (WI) Southern Door (4-2) 28
Eagle River (WI) Northland Pines (1-5) 20, Bessemer (1-4) 14
L'Anse (4-1) 20, Hurley (WI) (4-2) 18
Kingsford (3-1) 54, Wausau (WI) East (1-5) 21
Updated Top 10 state rankings --
1. Muskegon (5-0) -- Big Reds have outscored their foes 276-21 this season.
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (5-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (5-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (5-0)
5. Davison (5-0)
6. Belleville (5-0)
7. Traverse City West (5-0)
8. Detroit East English Village (5-0)
9. Zeeland East (5-0)
10. Muskegon Mona Shores (5-0)
Other top teams -- Muskegon Catholic Central (4-0), Stevensville-Lakeshore (5-0), Ithaca (5-0), Grand Rapids Christian (5-0), Montague (5-0), Traverse City St. Francis (5-0), Dearborn Fordson (5-0), Fenton (5-0), Battle Creek Harper Creek (5-0), Gladstone (5-0), Alma (5-0), Wyoming Kelloggsville (5-0), Edwardsburg (5-0), Dearborn Divine Child (5-0), Frankenmuth (5-0).
Next week's top game --
No. 6 Belleville (5-0) at Dearborn Fordson (5-0)
Just wondering... --
Why can't one of our Big Ten-playing football programs recruit an offensive line like this --
RT-Devontae Dobbs-6-4, 325-Jr.- Belleville (projected weight and class)
RG-Anthony Bradford-6-6, 340-Jr.-Muskegon
C-Tyrone Sampson-6-4, 315-Sr.-Detroit East English Village
LG-Antwan Reed-6-7, 330-Sr.-Muskegon
LT-Ryan Hayes-6-7, 310-Sr.-Traverse City West
Just for kicks, the rest of the line-up --
QB-Ladarius Jefferson-6-2, 225-Sr.-Muskegon
RB-Jaren Mangham-6-1, 235-Jr.-Detroit Cass Tech
WR-Brandon Gray-6-5, 210-Sr.-Detroit Cass Tech
Slot-Jerrod Vines-6-0, 190-Sr.-Detroit Central
WR-Julian Barnett-6-2, 205-Jr.-Belleville
TE-Caden Prieskorn-6-6, 255-Sr.-Orchard Lake St. Mary's
Here's the other in-state Big Ten squad's starting O-Line --
RT-Spencer Brown-6-6, 325-Jr.-Walled Lake Western (projected weight and class)
RG-Marquan McCall-6-4, 335-Sr.-Oak Park
C-Cody Carone-6-4, 325-Sr.-Rockford
LG-Michael Furtney-6-5, 315-Sr.-Milan
LT-Logan Brown-6-6, 320-Jr.-East Kentwood
The rest of the line-up --
QB-Theo Day-6-5, 220-Sr.-Dearborn Divine Child or Dwan Mathis-6-4, 215-Jr. Oak Park
RB-Tariq Reid-6-0, 225-Sr.-Davison
WR-Matt Harmon-6-5, 225-Sr.-Ypsilanti
Slot-A.J. Abbott-6-2, 195-Sr.-West Bloomfield
WR-Damari Roberson-6-2, 200-Jr.-Muskegon Mona Shores
TE-Jaylan Franklin-6-4, 245-Sr.-Gibraltar Carlson
Week 5 top games --
Midland (4-1) 42, Bay City Central (3-2) 35
Dearborn Divine Child (5-0) 29, U-D Jesuit (1-4) 24
*Frankenmuth (5-0) 47, Bridgeport (3-2) 42 - Two of the best players in Michigan no one is talking about stood out in this big-time Saginaw-area contest Friday. Frankenmuth senior QB-DE Zach Jacobs (6-2, 220), who I see as a 6-2, 255 H-Back or DE at the next level, was a do-it-all player for the Eagles, while senior QB Charles Garrett (6-3, 195), a four-year starter for Bridgeport, threw six touchdown passes. Garrett, a D-I college basketball prospect, is also one heck of a football player. I envision Garrett bulking up to 6-3, 210 at the D-I level and developing into an explosive stud athlete at the WR position, if he so chooses to go that route.
Montague (5-0) 46, Whitehall (3-2) 44
Grand Ledge (4-1) 28, Okemos (4-1) 20
West Bloomfield (3-2) 17, No. 7 Rochester Adams (4-1) 16
Rivalry Games --
Grosse Pointe North (2-2) 26, Grosse Pointe South (3-2) 23 (2OT)
L'Anse Creuse North (1-4) 35, L'Anse Creuse (0-5) 6
Michigan vs. Everybody games --
Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard (5-0) 41, Toledo (OH) Scott (0-5) 6
Tecumseh (3-2) 20, Toledo (OH) Waite (0-5) 0
Menominee (4-1) 62, Brussels (WI) Southern Door (4-2) 28
Eagle River (WI) Northland Pines (1-5) 20, Bessemer (1-4) 14
L'Anse (4-1) 20, Hurley (WI) (4-2) 18
Kingsford (3-1) 54, Wausau (WI) East (1-5) 21
Updated Top 10 state rankings --
1. Muskegon (5-0) -- Big Reds have outscored their foes 276-21 this season.
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (5-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (5-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (5-0)
5. Davison (5-0)
6. Belleville (5-0)
7. Traverse City West (5-0)
8. Detroit East English Village (5-0)
9. Zeeland East (5-0)
10. Muskegon Mona Shores (5-0)
Other top teams -- Muskegon Catholic Central (4-0), Stevensville-Lakeshore (5-0), Ithaca (5-0), Grand Rapids Christian (5-0), Montague (5-0), Traverse City St. Francis (5-0), Dearborn Fordson (5-0), Fenton (5-0), Battle Creek Harper Creek (5-0), Gladstone (5-0), Alma (5-0), Wyoming Kelloggsville (5-0), Edwardsburg (5-0), Dearborn Divine Child (5-0), Frankenmuth (5-0).
Next week's top game --
No. 6 Belleville (5-0) at Dearborn Fordson (5-0)
Just wondering... --
Why can't one of our Big Ten-playing football programs recruit an offensive line like this --
RT-Devontae Dobbs-6-4, 325-Jr.- Belleville (projected weight and class)
RG-Anthony Bradford-6-6, 340-Jr.-Muskegon
C-Tyrone Sampson-6-4, 315-Sr.-Detroit East English Village
LG-Antwan Reed-6-7, 330-Sr.-Muskegon
LT-Ryan Hayes-6-7, 310-Sr.-Traverse City West
Just for kicks, the rest of the line-up --
QB-Ladarius Jefferson-6-2, 225-Sr.-Muskegon
RB-Jaren Mangham-6-1, 235-Jr.-Detroit Cass Tech
WR-Brandon Gray-6-5, 210-Sr.-Detroit Cass Tech
Slot-Jerrod Vines-6-0, 190-Sr.-Detroit Central
WR-Julian Barnett-6-2, 205-Jr.-Belleville
TE-Caden Prieskorn-6-6, 255-Sr.-Orchard Lake St. Mary's
Here's the other in-state Big Ten squad's starting O-Line --
RT-Spencer Brown-6-6, 325-Jr.-Walled Lake Western (projected weight and class)
RG-Marquan McCall-6-4, 335-Sr.-Oak Park
C-Cody Carone-6-4, 325-Sr.-Rockford
LG-Michael Furtney-6-5, 315-Sr.-Milan
LT-Logan Brown-6-6, 320-Jr.-East Kentwood
The rest of the line-up --
QB-Theo Day-6-5, 220-Sr.-Dearborn Divine Child or Dwan Mathis-6-4, 215-Jr. Oak Park
RB-Tariq Reid-6-0, 225-Sr.-Davison
WR-Matt Harmon-6-5, 225-Sr.-Ypsilanti
Slot-A.J. Abbott-6-2, 195-Sr.-West Bloomfield
WR-Damari Roberson-6-2, 200-Jr.-Muskegon Mona Shores
TE-Jaylan Franklin-6-4, 245-Sr.-Gibraltar Carlson
Thursday, September 21, 2017
Detroit Central's Antonio Gates sets NFL record, Ferris State ranked No. 2, Saline's Josh Jackson stars for Va. Tech
Sorry I've been away for a bit, but, of course, life happens. Anyhow, last weekend I witnessed another dazzling array of big-time performances from former Michigan high school football standouts at the NFL and collegiate levels. Here are a few snippets from last weekend regarding former Michigan prep gridiron stars.
-- Antonio Gates -- The former Detroit Central two-sport All-Stater (football, basketball) set a new NFL record for tight ends catching his 112th touchdown pass against the Miami Dolphins last Sunday. Gates (6-4, 255) passed Tony Gonzalez, who finished his Hall-of-Fame career with 111 TD receptions. Gates, who never played college football, is not only the best-ever at the TE position when it comes to TD catches, but he ranks sixth all-time, regardless of position, in touchdown receptions behind only WRs Jerry Rice (197 TD catches), Randy Moss (156), Terrell Owens (153), Cris Carter (130) and Marvin Harrison (128). Michigander WR Andre Rison (Flint Northwestern, Michigan State, NFL) is tied for 18th all-time with 84 TD receptions. Currently, New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (69 TD catches) and Dallas Cowboys TE Jason Witten (64 TDs) are the only other players even remotely close to breaking Gates' NFL record for tight end TD receptions, which, it appears, could stand for a very long time. Gates originally signed with MSU to play football and basketball, but later transferred to Kent State where he concentrated on hoops. In 2002, he lead KSU to the Elite Eight where it fell to eventual champion Indiana. For his efforts on the hard court, Gates' jersey has been retired and now hangs in the rafters at Kent State. Soon, his Chargers' jersey might be retired, as well. Next stop for Gates will be the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
-- Western Michigan -- The Broncos (1-2) earned win No. 1 of the Tim Lester coaching era last Saturday coming back to defeat visiting Idaho (1-2) 37-28. Redshirt sophomore QB Jon Wassink (6-2, 205, Grand Rapids South Christian) led WMU finishing 21-of-31 passing for 212 yards and one TD, while rushing for 45 yards on seven carries with two TDs. Defensively, sophomore DB Stefan Claiborne (6-2, 190, Clinton Twp. Chippewa Valley) led the Broncos with eight tackles, while senior LB Asantay Brown (6-0, 215, Muskegon Mona Shores) had seven tackles and senior DB Darius Phillips (5-10, 190, Dearborn Hts. Robichaud) six tackles and one TFL for Western. For Idaho, senior QB Matt Linehan (6-3, 240, Orchard Lake St. Mary's) had a fine game ending up 16-of-26 passing for 229 yards and three TDs with one interception, while rushing for 36 yards on seven attempts and one TD. Linehan, the son of current Dallas Cowboys assistant coach Scott Linehan (former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator), is a four-year starter for the Vandals. Last season, he was named All-Sun Belt Conference second-team. I believe he's an NFL prospect and will get a serious look at the next level.
-- Josh Jackson -- The Va. Tech starting quarterback continues to "shock and awe" opponents this season. Last weekend against East Carolina, the redshirt freshman signal-caller finished 24-of-31 passing for 372 yards and five TDs in the Hokies (3-0) 64-17 victory. For the year, Jackson (6-1, 215, Saline) is 55-of-86 passing for 829 yards and eight TDs with zero interceptions.
-- Tennessee vs. Florida -- What a game, huh? The Gators (1-1) beat the Vols (2-1) 26-20 on a last-second touchdown pass. Standing out for Florida on defense was sophomore LB David Reese (6-1, 240, Farmington) who recorded a team-high seven tackles and had an interception. For Tennessee, junior RB John Kelly (5-9, 205, Oak Park) led the Vols rushing for 145 yards on 19 carries with one TD, while catching six passes for 96 yards. Both Kelly's rushing total and pass receptions were team highs.
-- Michigan -- Michiganders accounted for 23 of the Wolverines' 29 points in last Saturday's 29-13 win over visiting Air Force (1-1). Freshman WR-KR Donovan Peoples-Jones (6-2, 200, Detroit Cass Tech) sparked U-M (3-0) scoring on a 79-yard punt return for a touchdown in the third quarter. Sophomore PK Quinn Nordin (6-1, 195, Rockford) had another outstanding game for the Wolverines kicking five field goals (26, 29, 35, 36, 49 yards) and making two PATs.
-- Ferris State -- The No. 2-ranked Bulldogs are having another terrific season in Big Rapids. Last year, FSU (2-0) reached the Division II national semifinals before falling. The Bulldogs ended last season 12-3 overall, with the 12 wins tying a school record. In the past three years, FSU has an overall record of 36-5 with two GLIAC championships. Last weekend, the Bulldogs defeated Northern Michigan 42-10. Leading FSU (with a roster filled from top to bottom with Michigan high school football talent) offensively was senior RB Jaheen Brown (6-1, 215, East Grand Rapids) who finished with a team-high 84 yards rushing on 12 carries, while junior WR Malik Taylor (6-3, 220, Montrose) had a team-high six receptions for 86 yards for the Bulldogs. Defensively for FSU, senior LB Terrell Porter (6-3, 225, Berkley) paced the squad with eight tackles, while senior DB Jaleel Canty (5-10, 205, Lansing Everett) and senior LB Devonte McGregor (6-4, 215, Taylor Truman) each added five tackles and junior DE Zach Sieler (6-6, 290, Pinckney) had four tackles for the Bulldogs. Senior PK Wyatt Ford (5-9, 165, Montague) had a strong game for FSU going 6-for-6 on PATs. Returning Division II All-Americans for the Bulldogs include senior C Jake Daugherty (6-2, 305, Big Rapids), senior DB Tavierre Thomas (6-0, 205, Detroit Allen) and Sieler. Ferris State's game at Ashland (2-1) this Saturday, 7 p.m., will be televised live online by ESPN3. I believe Sieler, Daugherty, Thomas and Taylor all have NFL potential, with Porter, McGregor, Canty, Ford and Brown all getting NFL tryouts, at least, with the opportunity to make an NFL roster.
-- Antonio Gates -- The former Detroit Central two-sport All-Stater (football, basketball) set a new NFL record for tight ends catching his 112th touchdown pass against the Miami Dolphins last Sunday. Gates (6-4, 255) passed Tony Gonzalez, who finished his Hall-of-Fame career with 111 TD receptions. Gates, who never played college football, is not only the best-ever at the TE position when it comes to TD catches, but he ranks sixth all-time, regardless of position, in touchdown receptions behind only WRs Jerry Rice (197 TD catches), Randy Moss (156), Terrell Owens (153), Cris Carter (130) and Marvin Harrison (128). Michigander WR Andre Rison (Flint Northwestern, Michigan State, NFL) is tied for 18th all-time with 84 TD receptions. Currently, New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (69 TD catches) and Dallas Cowboys TE Jason Witten (64 TDs) are the only other players even remotely close to breaking Gates' NFL record for tight end TD receptions, which, it appears, could stand for a very long time. Gates originally signed with MSU to play football and basketball, but later transferred to Kent State where he concentrated on hoops. In 2002, he lead KSU to the Elite Eight where it fell to eventual champion Indiana. For his efforts on the hard court, Gates' jersey has been retired and now hangs in the rafters at Kent State. Soon, his Chargers' jersey might be retired, as well. Next stop for Gates will be the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
-- Western Michigan -- The Broncos (1-2) earned win No. 1 of the Tim Lester coaching era last Saturday coming back to defeat visiting Idaho (1-2) 37-28. Redshirt sophomore QB Jon Wassink (6-2, 205, Grand Rapids South Christian) led WMU finishing 21-of-31 passing for 212 yards and one TD, while rushing for 45 yards on seven carries with two TDs. Defensively, sophomore DB Stefan Claiborne (6-2, 190, Clinton Twp. Chippewa Valley) led the Broncos with eight tackles, while senior LB Asantay Brown (6-0, 215, Muskegon Mona Shores) had seven tackles and senior DB Darius Phillips (5-10, 190, Dearborn Hts. Robichaud) six tackles and one TFL for Western. For Idaho, senior QB Matt Linehan (6-3, 240, Orchard Lake St. Mary's) had a fine game ending up 16-of-26 passing for 229 yards and three TDs with one interception, while rushing for 36 yards on seven attempts and one TD. Linehan, the son of current Dallas Cowboys assistant coach Scott Linehan (former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator), is a four-year starter for the Vandals. Last season, he was named All-Sun Belt Conference second-team. I believe he's an NFL prospect and will get a serious look at the next level.
-- Josh Jackson -- The Va. Tech starting quarterback continues to "shock and awe" opponents this season. Last weekend against East Carolina, the redshirt freshman signal-caller finished 24-of-31 passing for 372 yards and five TDs in the Hokies (3-0) 64-17 victory. For the year, Jackson (6-1, 215, Saline) is 55-of-86 passing for 829 yards and eight TDs with zero interceptions.
-- Tennessee vs. Florida -- What a game, huh? The Gators (1-1) beat the Vols (2-1) 26-20 on a last-second touchdown pass. Standing out for Florida on defense was sophomore LB David Reese (6-1, 240, Farmington) who recorded a team-high seven tackles and had an interception. For Tennessee, junior RB John Kelly (5-9, 205, Oak Park) led the Vols rushing for 145 yards on 19 carries with one TD, while catching six passes for 96 yards. Both Kelly's rushing total and pass receptions were team highs.
-- Michigan -- Michiganders accounted for 23 of the Wolverines' 29 points in last Saturday's 29-13 win over visiting Air Force (1-1). Freshman WR-KR Donovan Peoples-Jones (6-2, 200, Detroit Cass Tech) sparked U-M (3-0) scoring on a 79-yard punt return for a touchdown in the third quarter. Sophomore PK Quinn Nordin (6-1, 195, Rockford) had another outstanding game for the Wolverines kicking five field goals (26, 29, 35, 36, 49 yards) and making two PATs.
-- Ferris State -- The No. 2-ranked Bulldogs are having another terrific season in Big Rapids. Last year, FSU (2-0) reached the Division II national semifinals before falling. The Bulldogs ended last season 12-3 overall, with the 12 wins tying a school record. In the past three years, FSU has an overall record of 36-5 with two GLIAC championships. Last weekend, the Bulldogs defeated Northern Michigan 42-10. Leading FSU (with a roster filled from top to bottom with Michigan high school football talent) offensively was senior RB Jaheen Brown (6-1, 215, East Grand Rapids) who finished with a team-high 84 yards rushing on 12 carries, while junior WR Malik Taylor (6-3, 220, Montrose) had a team-high six receptions for 86 yards for the Bulldogs. Defensively for FSU, senior LB Terrell Porter (6-3, 225, Berkley) paced the squad with eight tackles, while senior DB Jaleel Canty (5-10, 205, Lansing Everett) and senior LB Devonte McGregor (6-4, 215, Taylor Truman) each added five tackles and junior DE Zach Sieler (6-6, 290, Pinckney) had four tackles for the Bulldogs. Senior PK Wyatt Ford (5-9, 165, Montague) had a strong game for FSU going 6-for-6 on PATs. Returning Division II All-Americans for the Bulldogs include senior C Jake Daugherty (6-2, 305, Big Rapids), senior DB Tavierre Thomas (6-0, 205, Detroit Allen) and Sieler. Ferris State's game at Ashland (2-1) this Saturday, 7 p.m., will be televised live online by ESPN3. I believe Sieler, Daugherty, Thomas and Taylor all have NFL potential, with Porter, McGregor, Canty, Ford and Brown all getting NFL tryouts, at least, with the opportunity to make an NFL roster.
Saturday, September 16, 2017
Utica Eisenhower passes big test, moves up in state rankings
So far, Utica Eisenhower has successfully met all challenges this football season. The Eagles (4-0) overcame a huge hurdle, on the road, defeating Macomb Area Conference Red Division foe Clinton Township Chippewa Valley (3-1) 49-42 last Friday night. Senior QB Max Wittwer continues to show why he's a high-level Division I college football prospect, leading Eisenhower individually finishing 11-of-12 passing for 249 yards and two touchdowns, while rushing for 48 yards on 11 attempts. The Eagles have now defeated Macomb Dakota (3-1) 42-16 in Week 2 -- the Cougars, since their loss to Ike, have outscored their last two opponents 94-14 -- and Chippewa Valley, two of the best teams in the MAC Red. Next Friday, the Eagles visit MAC Red rival Romeo (3-1) for another huge challenge. Eisenhower has won the last two meetings against the Bulldogs (Division 1 state champions in 2015) on late game scores. Friday's match-up should be one of the top contests in the state in Week 5 (is it really Week 5 already?). Leading the Big Reds against the state-ranked Eagles last Friday was junior QB Tommy Schuster (6-1, 190), the closest thing metro Detroit has to a Drew Brees-like signal-caller. Schuster ended up 18-of-27 passing for 220 yards and two TDs, while rushing for 45 yards on 13 carries. Defensively for Chippewa Valley, junior LB Marcel Lewis (6-1, 205) was all over the field against Eisenhower. Lewis is a high-level D-I recruit who's being looked at by the Big Ten and MAC schools. *WARNING -- Completely random "Fun Fact" -- Whenever I see or hear about Chippewa Valley High School, I can't help but think of the TV show "Freaks and Geeks" (ran 1999-2000, which now is somewhat of a cult classic), since the creator of the series, Paul Feig, attended Chippewa Valley (late 1970s, early 1980s era) and based the show on his experiences at the school. Feig has gone on to direct movies such as "Bridesmaids," "Ghostbusters (the most recent version)," "The Heat" and "Spy." Anyhow, just a bit of useless trivia. Carry on...
Other Week 4 top games --
*Kalamazoo Central (1-3) 35, Battle Creek Central (1-3) 14 -- This is the state's oldest rivalry (first played in 1893).
No. 1 Muskegon (4-0) 63, Byron Center (3-1) 14
Flint Carman-Ainsworth (2-2) 41, Flint Powers Catholic (2-2) 0
Zeeland East (4-0) 41, Holland (3-1) 12
Grand Ledge (3-1) 27, Lansing Sexton (3-1) 14
Stevensville-Lakeshore (4-0) 14, St. Joseph (3-1) 6
Waterford Mott (3-1) 47, No. 2 Walled Lake Western (3-1) 37
Grand Rapids Christian (4-0) 33, Grand Rapids South Christian (3-1) 12
Michigan vs. Everybody games --
Cleveland (OH) St. Ignatius (4-0) 38, Detroit Catholic Central (2-2) 7
Menominee (3-1) 55, Medford (WI) (1-4) 7
Updated state rankings --
1. Muskegon (4-0)
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (4-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (4-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (4-0)
5. Davison (4-0)
6. Belleville (4-0)
7. Rochester Adams (4-0)
8. Detroit East English Village (4-0)
9. Traverse City West (4-0)
10. East Kentwood (4-0)
Other top teams- Stevensville-Lakeshore (4-0), Grand Rapids Christian (4-0), Zeeland East (4-0), Muskegon Catholic Central (3-0), Ithaca (4-0), Muskegon Mona Shores (4-0), Livonia Stevenson (4-0), Battle Creek Harper Creek (4-0), Traverse City St. Francis (4-0), Dearborn Fordson (4-0), Fenton (4-0), Okemos (4-0), Gladstone (4-0), Montague (4-0), Alma (4-0).
Top games for Week 5 --
No. 3 Utica Eisenhower (4-0) at Romeo (3-1)
West Bloomfield (2-2) at No. 7 Rochester Adams (4-0)
Other Week 4 top games --
*Kalamazoo Central (1-3) 35, Battle Creek Central (1-3) 14 -- This is the state's oldest rivalry (first played in 1893).
No. 1 Muskegon (4-0) 63, Byron Center (3-1) 14
Flint Carman-Ainsworth (2-2) 41, Flint Powers Catholic (2-2) 0
Zeeland East (4-0) 41, Holland (3-1) 12
Grand Ledge (3-1) 27, Lansing Sexton (3-1) 14
Stevensville-Lakeshore (4-0) 14, St. Joseph (3-1) 6
Waterford Mott (3-1) 47, No. 2 Walled Lake Western (3-1) 37
Grand Rapids Christian (4-0) 33, Grand Rapids South Christian (3-1) 12
Michigan vs. Everybody games --
Cleveland (OH) St. Ignatius (4-0) 38, Detroit Catholic Central (2-2) 7
Menominee (3-1) 55, Medford (WI) (1-4) 7
Updated state rankings --
1. Muskegon (4-0)
2. Grand Rapids Catholic Central (4-0)
3. Utica Eisenhower (4-0)
4. East Grand Rapids (4-0)
5. Davison (4-0)
6. Belleville (4-0)
7. Rochester Adams (4-0)
8. Detroit East English Village (4-0)
9. Traverse City West (4-0)
10. East Kentwood (4-0)
Other top teams- Stevensville-Lakeshore (4-0), Grand Rapids Christian (4-0), Zeeland East (4-0), Muskegon Catholic Central (3-0), Ithaca (4-0), Muskegon Mona Shores (4-0), Livonia Stevenson (4-0), Battle Creek Harper Creek (4-0), Traverse City St. Francis (4-0), Dearborn Fordson (4-0), Fenton (4-0), Okemos (4-0), Gladstone (4-0), Montague (4-0), Alma (4-0).
Top games for Week 5 --
No. 3 Utica Eisenhower (4-0) at Romeo (3-1)
West Bloomfield (2-2) at No. 7 Rochester Adams (4-0)
Monday, September 11, 2017
Michiganders stand out in CMU win over Kansas
I've always said if CMU wanted to be a consistent "Top 25-ranked going to a bowl game every year"-type program (which I feel it should be) it had to beat non-conference mid- to high-level Division I teams regularly. Last Saturday, the Chippewas (2-0) soundly defeated host Kansas (1-1) 45-27, displaying a high-powered offense and stingy, hard-hitting defense that showcased a roster filled from top to bottom with former Michigan high school football standouts. CMU needs to play with the same discipline, execution, passion and poise this weekend against another mid- to high-level D-I program in Syracuse. These are the games (Syracuse, Kansas type) the Chippewas need to consistently win to take that next step up to a consistent Top 25 program nationally. I know they can do it.
Here are some CMU individual highlights from last Saturday's win over Kansas --
Offensively, grad transfer QB Shane Morris (Warren DeLaSalle) had a phenomenal game, finishing 28-of-37 passing for 467 yards and five TDs, while rushing for 38 yards on eight attempts. For his efforts, Morris was named MAC West Offensive Player of the Week. Senior WR Mark Chapman (6-0, 180, Port Huron) ended up with eight receptions for 168 yards and three touchdowns, while fellow classmate senior WR Corey Willis (5-10, 175, Holland) also had eight catches for 140 yards and one TD and junior TE Logan Hessbrook (6-3, 240, Ithaca) four receptions for 61 yards and one TD for the Chippewas. Defensively, junior LB Alex Briones (6-2, 240, Ishpeming) led CMU with 10 tackles, while senior CB Amari Coleman (5-11, 190, New Lothrop) added five tackles and one TFL.
Also, it was pretty interesting to see former Saline stars CMU sophomore WR Cameron Cole (6-0, 185) and Kansas junior DB Tyrone Miller (6-1, 185) going against each other multiple times during last Saturday's match-up.
One really cool thing about CMU is how the Chippewas recruit the small towns in Michigan. There is so much Division I college football talent playing high school football in Michigan's small towns it's incredible. Starting for CMU from smaller towns in the Great Lakes State against Kansas were sophomore OG Logan Slaughter (6-3, 290, Mendon), senior DE Joe Ostman (6-3, 260, St. Ignance), Hessbrook, Briones and Coleman. Plus, there are many more Chippewas from small towns and rural cities contributing and part of the playing rotation every week -- it's a fact, at least to me, that bodes very well for the future success of the CMU program. Heck, Chippewa head coach John Bonamego is from Paw Paw, a small southwest Michigan town itself. I love it.
Look for more Michigan college football standouts and NFL stars in my next blog installment.
Here are some CMU individual highlights from last Saturday's win over Kansas --
Offensively, grad transfer QB Shane Morris (Warren DeLaSalle) had a phenomenal game, finishing 28-of-37 passing for 467 yards and five TDs, while rushing for 38 yards on eight attempts. For his efforts, Morris was named MAC West Offensive Player of the Week. Senior WR Mark Chapman (6-0, 180, Port Huron) ended up with eight receptions for 168 yards and three touchdowns, while fellow classmate senior WR Corey Willis (5-10, 175, Holland) also had eight catches for 140 yards and one TD and junior TE Logan Hessbrook (6-3, 240, Ithaca) four receptions for 61 yards and one TD for the Chippewas. Defensively, junior LB Alex Briones (6-2, 240, Ishpeming) led CMU with 10 tackles, while senior CB Amari Coleman (5-11, 190, New Lothrop) added five tackles and one TFL.
Also, it was pretty interesting to see former Saline stars CMU sophomore WR Cameron Cole (6-0, 185) and Kansas junior DB Tyrone Miller (6-1, 185) going against each other multiple times during last Saturday's match-up.
One really cool thing about CMU is how the Chippewas recruit the small towns in Michigan. There is so much Division I college football talent playing high school football in Michigan's small towns it's incredible. Starting for CMU from smaller towns in the Great Lakes State against Kansas were sophomore OG Logan Slaughter (6-3, 290, Mendon), senior DE Joe Ostman (6-3, 260, St. Ignance), Hessbrook, Briones and Coleman. Plus, there are many more Chippewas from small towns and rural cities contributing and part of the playing rotation every week -- it's a fact, at least to me, that bodes very well for the future success of the CMU program. Heck, Chippewa head coach John Bonamego is from Paw Paw, a small southwest Michigan town itself. I love it.
Look for more Michigan college football standouts and NFL stars in my next blog installment.
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