Southfield Arts and Tech Dealing With Tragedy Again.

Written Tuesday September 27th at 11:00 AM
Updated Wednesday September 28th at 3:25 PM

Southfield is dealing with tragedy once again.

First it was legendary Southfield-Lathrup coach Keith Stephens whom passed away two years ago then it was Darius Cooley who drowned in a pool before the start of football season last year.

Now it’s Kara Allen.

Allen along with her three siblings were murdered at their Dearborn home last week by her stepfather Gregory Green. The mother, Faith Green was stabbed and shot in the foot but is expected to survive. He is facing first degree murder charges for the four deaths this week.

Allen was a senior at Southfield Arts and Tech.

She was a manager for the football team, worked for the school newspaper, a member of the National Honor Society, and a cheerleader as well.

It has been a trying week for the Southfield Arts and Tech community and the football team but knowing coach Tim Conley and his team they are a resilient group. They have been through this before.

Last Friday, the Southfield Arts and Tech community honored Allen by having students and fans wearing pink on her behalf for their game against Orion. Pink was her favorite color. They had a halftime show dedicated to Allen raising pink balloons up to the heavens in her honor. The Orion cheerleaders wore pink ribbons and pink socks in honor of Allen and also gave the Southfield Arts and Tech cheerleaders flowers as well.

Over the weekend Southfield Arts and Tech assistant principal and defensive coordinator Vernon Burden's stepbrother former Michigan State standout Mylan Hicks was murdered in a nightclub shooting in Canada.

The viewing for Allen and her three siblings will be on Wednesday and Thursday from 3-8 PM at the Pye Funeral home in Detroit.

This Friday will be a very emotional day for the Warriors football players, students, teachers, and cheerleaders. They have the Allen funeral, which will take place at 10 AM at the Detroit First Church and Nazarene in Farmington Hills and then after that the Warriors have a football game at West Bloomfield that very same day.

Southfield Arts and Tech will have decals on their helmets dedicated to Allen like they did in 2015 for Cooley. The Warriors will wear the decals of Allen on their helmets for the rest of the season.

OAA Picks Week Six.

Written Tuesday September 27th at 12:05 AM

SAMMY 56-25

ANT 55-26

KEITH 56-25

SEAN 55-26

DAN 53-28

BURNEY 57-24

1. Groves @ 9. Harrison:

This one will be a playoff rematch that was won by the Falcons 10-0 last season in Beverly Hills but this game will be at Farmington Hills. Groves has been rolling in the league and hasn’t stopped since, last week they dominated their rivals from Seaholm 36-0. The Hawks lost 21-9 last week to Adams but they have been playing well as well. Harrison has a tough schedule with games against Oak Park, this game, and Oxford looming. This one will be an interesting one to keep an eye on.

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 17, GROVES 14.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 21, GROVES 20.

KEITH PICK: GROVES 21, HARRISON 7.

DAN PICK: GROVES 21, HARRISON 20.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 14, GROVES 7.

BURNEY PICK: GROVES 28, HARRISON 27.

Troy vs. 7. Rochester @ Stoney Creek (Thursday):

The Falcons are red hot after winning three straight games including a 41-27 upset at Hurley Field over Berkley. Rochester has turned it around with their offense scoring 108 points in their last three games (36.5 ppg.) The defense remains a concern for Big Blue in their three game winning streak though as they have allowed 87 points (29 ppg) in that stretch. The Colts have really struggled since beating Avondale 21-0 three weeks ago. Troy lost 36-14 to Birmingham Detroit Country Day last week after losing 28-21 to Royal Oak two weeks ago. This one looks to be a mismatch but it’s interesting that this game is being played on a Thursday.

SAMMY PICK: ROCHESTER 31, TROY 14.

ANT PICK: ROCHESTER 35, TROY 7.

KEITH PICK: ROCHESTER 24, TROY 17.

DAN PICK: ROCHESTER 35, TROY 14.

SEAN PICK: ROCHESTER 28, TROY 7.

BURNEY PICK: ROCHESTER 28, TROY 23.

Royal Oak @ 2. Bloomfield Hills:

The Blackhawks keep rolling along in the season but like I said October will be their toughest month when they play Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Berkley, and Orion. Even if Bloomfield Hills makes the playoffs in which they very well likely will do, they will at least be tested by then but in this game well, not so much. The Ravens were very disappointing on their homecoming game losing to Hazel Park 19-14. Royal Oak has not been consistent as people thought and that is the most disappointing part.

SAMMY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 42, ROYAL OAK 0.

ANT PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, ROYAL OAK 10.

KEITH PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 34, ROYAL OAK 17.

DAN PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, ROYAL OAK 14.

SEAN PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, ROYAL OAK 14.

BURNEY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 24, ROYAL OAK 23.

Farmington # 3. Adams:

The Highlanders sent a statement by snapping a six game losing streak against Harrison by beating the Hawks 21-9 in Farmington. Adams is one point away from having an undefeated season (lost 44-43 to Oak Park in overtime) but the Highlanders are rolling right now and it looks like no one could stop them until they get to Groves and they still have to go to Clarkston to close out the season. Adams will face a Falcons team that has had a ton of turmoil surrounding the program and embattled coach John Bechtal. Farmington lost 28-21 to Oxford last week sending them to 1-4 on the season. The Falcons were blown out by Walled Lake Western 41-14 in Ann Arbor but that was rescinded after the Warriors played an ineligible player in that game. Farmington was blown out by a combined 82-0 by Harrison and Oak Park this season. This one has total mismatch written all over it.

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 56, FARMINGTON 0.

ANT PICK: ADAMS 63, FARMINGTON 0.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 24, FARMINGTON 10.

DAN PICK: ADAMS 34, FARMINGTON 14.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 49, FARMINGTON 7.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 34, FARMINGTON 22.

Southfield Arts and Tech @ 6. West Bloomfield:

The Lakers rebounded last week with a 36-19 win over Stoney Creek getting their record to 3-2 on the season. West Bloomfield was shutout two weeks ago by Harrison 28-0 in which they were shutout for the first time since 2010 in that stretch but they need this game because they go to Clarkston next week. There is a story-line here as current Lakers quarterback Bryce Veasley and wide receiver Taj Mustapha will take on their former coach Jason Soloman and some of their former teammates from Lathrup who stayed on with the Southfield players at the merged Southfield Arts and Tech. The Warriors have been a disappointment when looking at their record at 2-3 along with their high expectations but tragedy has affected this team. The Warriors looked good against Troy Athens two weeks ago scoring 38 points in a 38-14 win over the Red Hawks but they took a step back last week losing at home to Orion 21-14. This team could be easily be at 1-4 hadn't they got that big 24-18 overtime win over Clarkston in week two. The schedule doesn’t get any easier for Southfield Arts and Tech as they have this game in the Swamp with the Lakers along with games at Oxford and at home with Oak Park. We don't know the mindset of the Warriors will be heading into this game because the funeral of Kara Allen is on Friday. Allen was the team's manager and a cheerleader so emotions could be riding high in this one in her honor. Expect a ton of speed and quickness in this game.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 21, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 14.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 21.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 21.

DAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 20.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 21, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 6.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 24, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 20.

10. Orion @ Troy Athens:

The Red Hawks enter their homecoming game really struggling as they have lost four of their last five games, including a 40-21 loss to Clarkston last week. Troy Athens will have to deal with an Orion team that should be angry and motivated after losing 21-14 at home last season. The Dragons got a huge 21-14 victory last week at Southfield Arts and Tech. This will be interesting to watch between these two teams as the Red Hawks have Joey Stark along with that big offensive line while Orion is starting to return to their normal roots.

SAMMY PICK: ORION 35, TROY ATHENS 14.

ANT PICK: ORION 49, TROY ATHENS 0.

KEITH PICK: ORION 28, TROY ATHENS 17.

DAN PICK: ORION 28, TROY ATHENS 21.

SEAN PICK: ORION 35, TROY ATHENS 7.

BURNEY PICK: ORION 32, TROY ATHENS 23.

4. Clarkston @ 5. Oak Park:

This one could be a donnybrook. The Knights are still in danger, especially with the schedule despite being 3-2. Oak Park has to play at home against Harrison and go to Southfield Arts and Tech at the end of the season. The Knights have been red hot as of late, scoring 107 points in their last three games (35.5 ppg.) The Wolves though is a much different defense than the last three opponents Oak Park has played and that includes Adams. It would be a huge boost if the Knights can get this win against Clarkston especially when it comes to the playoffs. The Wolves have been rolling lately after losing to Southfield Arts and Tech 24-18 in overtime four weeks ago. Clarkston won 40-21 on their homecoming last week over Troy Athens. This will be a good one in Knight Valley as both teams but especially Oak Park needs this one.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 31, CLARKSTON 28.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 28, OAK PARK 23.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 28, OAK PARK 24.

DAN PICK: CLARKSTON 31, OAK PARK 27.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 18, CLARKSTON 14.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 33, OAK PARK 25.

Oxford @ Stoney Creek:

The Wildcats got their second win of the season last week beating Farmington 28-21 on a winning touchdown by Ethan Williams with 19 seconds left. The Oxford defense still concerns me heading into this matchup with Stoney Creek and later in the season with home games against Troy Athens, Harrison, and Southfield Arts and Tech. The Cougars lost at the Swamp 36-19 to West Bloomfield last week and will look to rebound back in front of the Cougar faithful on their homecoming. Stoney Creek and Oxford have had their ups and downs this season. This one in Rochester could be a good one to keep an eye on.

SAMMY PICK: STONEY CREEK 28, OXFORD 24.

ANT PICK: OXFORD 21, STONEY CREEK 20.

KEITH PICK: OXFORD 21, STONEY CREEK 13.

DAN PICK: OXFORD 24, STONEY CREEK 21.

SEAN PICK: OXFORD 28, STONEY CREEK 14.

BURNEY PICK: OXFORD 35, STONEY CREEK 21.

Seaholm @ North Farmington:

Both the Maples and Raiders have struggled going a combined 1-9 this season. Seaholm whom sits at 1-4 lost 36-0 to their arch rival Groves last week while North Farmington sits at 0-5 was hammered by Oak Park 41-0. The Raiders have had four running clocks on them this season which is not good. The Maples are an interesting team but they do have a 29-28 win over Farmington in which North Farmington hasn’t played the Falcons yet. This one on North Farmington's homecoming could get ugly or it could be a low scoring game.

SAMMY PICK: SEAHOLM 21, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

ANT PICK: SEAHOLM 14, NORTH FARMINGTON 10.

KEITH PICK: SEAHOLM 17, NORTH FARMINGTON 13.

DAN PICK: SEAHOLM 21, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

SEAN PICK: SEAHOLM 28, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

BURNEY PICK: SEAHOLM 18, NORTH FARMINGTON 17.

Avondale @ Hazel Park:

The Vikings have had a rough season sitting at 2-3 but they found some hope and optimism as they pulled off a huge upset at Royal Oak winning 19-14 on the Ravens homecoming last week. That was Hazel Park’s first win against a team not name Pontiac. The Vikings ride a two game winning streak, which is their first since 2012. Hazel Park will face a Yellow Jackets team that has really struggled trying to find an identity. Avondale lost 35-14 to Bloomfield Hills last week and have lost six straight games dating back to last season. This could be a good homecoming game at Hazel Park.

SAMMY PICK: HAZEL PARK 18, AVONDALE 14.

ANT PICK: HAZEL PARK 28, AVONDALE 14.

KEITH PICK: AVONDALE 31, HAZEL PARK 14.

DAN PICK: AVONDALE 14, HAZEL PARK 13.

SEAN PICK: HAZEL PARK 26, AVONDALE 21.

BURNEY PICK: AVONDALE 26, HAZEL PARK 21.

Pontiac @ Berkley:

The Bears are in an unusual position heading into their matchup with the Phoenix, losing two straight games, which is the first time they have lost more than two straight games since 2014 when they lost three straight. Berkley has been outscored 67-30 in their two losses to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Rochester with both games being at Hurley Field. Pontiac lost 45-7 to Ferndale last week and have been struggling on both sides of the football going 2-34 since 2011. This could be a long game for the Phoenix at Hurley Field against the Bears.

SAMMY PICK: BERKLEY 48, PONTIAC 7.

ANT PICK: BERKLEY 56, PONTIAC 0.

KEITH PICK: BERKLEY 42, PONTIAC 0.

DAN PICK:  BERKLEY 33, PONTIAC 14.

SEAN PICK: BERKLEY 35, PONTIAC 6.

BURNEY PICK: BERKLEY 30, PONTIAC 15.

8. Ferndale @ Madison Heights Madison (Saturday):

Both teams have a lot in common heading into Saturday's matchup besides being rivals. Both teams have yellow as a secondary color (Ferndale-Brown, Madison-Purple), both teams are named the Eagles, and both teams sit at 3-2 on the season, needing a win to increase their possible playoff hopes. Ferndale has been on the upward swing and has been very competitive in both their wins and losses. The Eagles hammered Pontiac 45-7 at Wisner Stadium last week behind their special teams and rushing attack. Madison lost a tough 37-29 game to Marine City last week but the Eagles have some big wins over Lakeview and Clawson. These two former league rivals are no stranger to each other but oddly this is the third meeting between both sets of Eagles with each team winning a game. Ferndale and Madison have good offenses but whomsoever defense shows up will win this game on Saturday afternoon in Madison Heights. This could be a game where one set of Eagles will make a statement and head to 4-2 on the season while the other one could have a tough time getting to the playoffs.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 27, MADISON HEIGHTS MADISON 21.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 27, MADISON HEIGHTS MADISON 26.

KEITH PICK: MADISON HEIGHTS MADISON 25, FERNDALE 22.

DAN PICK: MADISON HEIGHTS MADISON 27, FERNDALE 21.

SEAN PICK: MADISON HEIGHTS MADISON 35, FERNDALE 12.

BURNEY PICK: MADISON HEIGHTS MADISON 29, FERNDALE 19.

The Wolves just got stronger and it's not even funny.

Written Monday September 26th at 7:00 AM

The Clarkston Wolves might have just gotten even stronger before the start of Boys Basketball season as they added yet another transfer to their wings in 6.9 power forward Taylor Currie according to State Champs Sports Writer Jeff Dullack.

Currie has multiple Division One offers and he is only a sophomore.

He played last season in Worthington Ohio for Worthington Christian where he averaged 15 points per game.

Currie will likely be added into coach Dan Fife’s starting lineup this winter to go along with Foster Loyer (PG), CJ Robinson (SF), Dylan Alderson (SF), and Matt Nicholson (C) and a deep bench that features Tristan Mysen (PF) and Chase Wasilk (F/C.)

Clarkston is looking to get back to the Breslin Center after a disappointing loss in the regional semifinal to Macomb Dakota. Could Currie be that guy to get the Wolves frontcourt back into things???

We’ll see what happens, stay tuned to OAA Now for this developing story.

Here is the blog entry from Dullack regarding the Clarkston addition. 

http://www.statechampsnetwork.com/index.cfm/news-blog/dullacks-docket/ohio-basketball-standout-transfers-to-clarkston/

Top Five Storylines after Week Five.

Written Sunday September 25th at 8:50 PM

Southfield Arts and Tech is in deep trouble.

When looking at this Warriors team there were a ton of expectations with the merger of Southfield and Southfield Lathrup High Schools to form Southfield Arts and Tech and all the individual talent they have on their team such as Sam Johnson III, Lorenzo McCaskill, Brandon Gray, Erin McArn, Marquese Thorns, Eric Eldridge, Torey Barkley, John Darby, Matthew Gilbert, among others. The Warriors were the favorite to win the Red because of all the talent they had returning from a team that lost to Berkley last season. This was a team that had to cut players this past summer. Southfield Arts and Tech coach Tim Conley has to be on the hot seat because of the lack of discipline that has beleaguered the Warriors this season. Southfield Arts and Tech sits 2-3 and could be in danger of missing the playoffs. The Warriors have road trips to West Bloomfield and Oxford and a home games with Oak Park and Stoney Creek. Southfield Arts and Tech has to win out if they want to guarantee themselves a trip to the playoffs. One more loss and it would be a major disappointment for a team and program that had a ton of talent and a ton of expectations to make the playoffs.

Oak Park Needs to beat Clarkston.

The Knights sit at 3-2 and have scored over 40 points the last three weeks which equals a 3-0 mark but why is this week’s game very important with Clarkston??? Well look at the schedule, Oak Park sits at 3-2 as mentioned and they still have games at home with Harrison and at Southfield Arts and Tech. There is no guarantee that the Knights could get into the playoffs if they finish 5-4 like they did in 2013 so that’s why Oak Park needs to win this game at Knight Valley against the Wolves to at least give themselves a chance.

Royal Oak is Not Good Folks.

If there is one team that has fooled everyone it has been the Ravens. Royal Oak started the season at 0-2 with losses to Lakeview and Stockbridge but they pulled off two wins over Pontiac and Troy but a loss on homecoming to Hazel Park 19-14 was very disappointing for the Ravens. Royal Oak has a tough schedule to close out the season with games at Bloomfield Hills and at Rochester and home games against Berkley and Ferndale to close out the season.

Oxford is going to make a rally.

If there is one team that people don’t want to see it’s the Wildcats. Oxford has not been home in over a month. The Wildcats sit at 2-3 but they do have a favorable schedule to close out the season because Southfield Arts and Tech, Troy Athens, and Harrison all have to come up to the blue turf to play Oxford. The Wildcats are a much different team at home and they own a win over Romeo 27-26 so there is an opportunity here for Oxford if they want to make their move, now is the time to do it.

Ferndale Playoff Bound???

Could it happen for the Eagles, making the playoffs for the first time since 2008??? It could pending if Ferndale can get past Madison Heights Madison this Saturday on the road and two tough home games against Hazel Park and Dearborn Edsel Ford. The Eagles have relied on special teams, line play, and a solid rushing attack this season. Although not the most talented team coach Eric Royal has this team heading in the right direction.

Week Five Recap.

Written Friday September 23rd at 11:55 PM

INSIDE THE OAA TOP 10:

1. Groves

2. Bloomfield Hills

3. Adams

4. Clarkston

5. Oak Park

6. West Bloomfield

7. Rochester

8. Ferndale

9. Harrison

10. Orion

Scores:

GROVES 36, SEAHOLM 0.

ORION 21, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 14.

OXFORD 28, FARMINGTON 21.

OAK PARK 41, NORTH FARMINGTON 0.

CLARKSTON 40, TROY ATHENS 21.

ADAMS 21, HARRISON 9.

HAZEL PARK 19, ROYAL OAK 14.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, AVONDALE 14.

FERNDALE 45, PONTIAC 7.

Birmingham Detroit Country Day 36, TROY 14.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 36, STONEY CREEK 19.

ROCHESTER 41, BERKLEY 27.

Standings:

Red:

West Bloomfield: 3-0, 3-2

Clarkston: 3-1, 4-1

Orion: 3-1, 3-2

Southfield Arts and Tech: 2-1, 2-3

Stoney Creek: 1-3, 1-4

Oxford: 0-3, 2-3

Troy Athens: 0-3, 1-4

White:

Groves: 3-0, 5-0

Harrison: 2-1, 3-2

Adams: 3-1, 4-1

Oak Park: 3-1, 3-2

Seaholm: 1-3, 1-4

Farmington: 0-3, 1-4

North Farmington: 0-3, 0-5

Blue:

Bloomfield Hills: 4-0, 5-0

Rochester: 2-1, 3-2

Berkley: 2-1, 3-2

Hazel Park: 2-1, 2-3

Royal Oak: 2-1, 2-3

Ferndale: 2-2, 3-2

Troy: 1-2, 1-4

Ferndale: 2-2, 3-2

Pontiac: 0-3, 0-5

Avondale: 0-4, 0-5

BIG WIN: Orion. The Dragons were motivated after seeing a tweet from Southfield Arts and Tech quarterback Sam Johnson III on Thursday night that stated that “They don’t know sorry in advance Lake Orion.” Orion made Johnson III eat his words in a 21-14 victory at Southfield Arts and Tech over the Warriors. The Dragons was the better and more disciplined team. They were also the more physical team and it showed against a good Southfield Arts and Tech team. The Dragons now sit at 3-2 while the Warriors sit at 2-3 with games against West Bloomfield, Oxford, and Oak Park coming up. One thing we all know is don’t use Twitter to motivate the other team, sometimes the karma comes back to get you.

TOUGH LOSS: Farmington. The Falcons were about to go to overtime but they let a turnover cost them their game against Oxford. The Wildcats would use the turnover to their advantage as Ethan Williams scored the winning touchdown with 19 seconds left to give Oxford win number two in a 28-21 victory in Farmington. This was another bad loss for the Falcons and coach John Bechtel as he is clearly in the hot seat now. This was also a huge win for the Wildcats as they look to have turned the corner a bit after giving up 52 points to Orion last week. Farmington plays at Adams next week and still have tough games with West Bloomfield and Groves. Oxford goes to Stoney Creek to play the Cougars and have home dates with Troy Athens, Southfield Arts and Tech, and Harrison going forward.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Harrison. The Hawks saw their six year winning streak snap against Adams on Friday night in Farmington. The Highlanders beat Harrison 21-9 and look to be on track to make a return to the playoffs for the first time since 2013. This was the first time the Hawks lost to the Highlanders since 2009 and to make matters worse it was also Harrison's homecoming as well. The Hawks have to play Oak Park, Oxford, and Groves coming up so these next three games will tell a lot about Harrison going forward.

WHAT HAPPENED: Berkley. The Bears were looking to get back on track against Rochester on Friday night but it did not happen as the Falcons went into Hurley Field and beat Berkley 41-27. Rochester has won three straight games since an 0-2 start. They have a great chance to make the playoffs for the first time since 2010. The Bears will have to get back to the drawing board as they have lost two straight games. This does not look good for Berkley right now, especially defensibly where they have allowed 67 points in the last two games (33.5 ppg), not good.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Royal Oak? Ravens coach Ray McMann has to be sick on his stomach losing to Hazel Park 19-14. To make matters worse this game was their homecoming game. The Ravens looked good beating Troy 28-21 last week and was going up but the Vikings had nothing to lose. This is a huge upset considering that Hazel Park was 2-30 coming into the game and both of their wins came against Pontiac. The Vikings still have tough games coming up if they want to make the playoffs with Ferndale and Rochester on the schedule. Royal Oak we thought seemed to turned the corner, well guess not and it likely cost them a trip to the playoffs.

Falcons awarded forfeit win over Walled Lake Western because of ineligable player.

Written Friday September 23rd at 10:30 AM

Well the Farmington Falcons have had a miserable season so far getting blown out by Harrison, Oak Park, and losing a heartbreaker to Seaholm last week.

Well the Falcons got something they needed before even stepping on to the football field on Friday night against Oxford.

A Win.

Farmington was awarded a 1-0 forfeit win over State power Walled Lake Western because the Warriors used an ineligible player in the game. The MHSAA website listed coach John Bechtel's Falcons as the winners of the game. Walled Lake Western won 41-14 over Farmington at Michigan Stadium earlier in the season.

The Falcons Athletic Department got an email from the MHSAA informing them that they got credit for the win over the Warriors. Farmington players started going to social media discussing the matter.

It is Walled Lake Western's first regular season loss since 2014.

This is the second time an OAA team was given a win via forfeit due to ineligibility. Groves was given their week one win over West Bloomfield after the Lakers beat them 31-28 in overtime at West Bloomfield but the Lakers played an ineligible player which gave the Falcons the win.

The Farmington Falcons now sit at 1-3 heading into their match with the Wildcats who is also 1-3.

Here is the podcast this week with the first segment involving Farmington and football.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQyswLJITp4

Whiteside resigns from Avondale.

Written Wednesday September 21st at 7:35 PM

The Avondale Yellow Jackets will be looking for a new Girls Basketball coach this upcoming winter as Darius Whiteside has stepped down from the program.

It is unknown whom will be the next head coach of the Yellow Jackets but there is a opening now late into the process.

Avondale returns two starters in Toya Golden and Brooke Blanchitite from a team that went 4-17 last season. The Yellow Jackets lost Addie Saltarelli and Alissa Smith to graduation and will be very young this season.

Avondale will be in the Blue division with Seaholm, Troy Athens, Troy, Oak Park, and Rochester. They will be in a tough district though at Troy with Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham Marian, Groves, Seaholm, and Troy.

The Yellow Jackets will open up the season on November 29th when they host Pontiac so they better get going on the coaching search as quick as possible.

Stay tuned to OAA Now on this developing story.

Volleyball Top Five and Also Teams to Watch.

Written Wednesday September 21st at 1:45 PM

1. Clarkston: The Wolves weren’t themselves last season as they didn’t win the league or a district crown losing both to Orion that season. Clarkston is expected to be a top contender not only in the Red but also in the State as they currently sit third in the State. Wolves coach Kelly Averall-Pinner will have a ton of experience back led by Abby Malinowski and Sarah Austin. Clarkston also has Kayla Luchenbach and Molly Nicholson as well. The Wolves are back.

2. Orion: The Dragons look like they have not missed a beat since losing a ton of talent from last season league and district championship team. Orion had a strong showing at Portage Central last weekend and has risen up to eighth in the State. The Dragons will be a dangerous threat to anyone it sees going forward led by Leah Kalugar, Mallorie Berriman, Andrea Findley, Wren McCalualy, Sarah Kelly, and Danielle Sargent.

3. Stoney Creek: The Cougars look like a totally different team under coach Ross Talbott despite the fact they lost a ton of talent from last season's team that made the district finals. Stoney Creek is poised to get its first district title in school history. Kate Stration looks to be a star in the making under Talbott to go along with Erika Ward. Also the Cougars have played a tough schedule in tournament play which should get them ready for districts.

4. Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks are riding the momentum of last season’s district championship run with a strong team back this season. Bloomfield Hills and former Oakland University coach Bob Hurdle will rely on a blend of youth and experience in Bloomfield Hills. The Blackhawks will be led by Julia Caravias, Olivia Smith, Meredith Wenson, Julia Charlik and have an emerging freshman in Alexa Rousseau coming up and contributing right away. This will be a good volleyball team this season but once they get into district play they will have to deal with Seaholm and Birmingham Marian.

5. Troy Athens: The Red Hawks are looking really strong in the White division so far and they also got a win over Troy in three games in which equals a odd picture celebration for coach Christine Stanichuk's team. Troy Athens also has an interesting district coming up in a few weeks in Macomb County with Warren Cousino, Warren Mott, Royal Oak, Warren Regina, and Sterling Heights. The Red Hawks led by Alexa Van Hoef, Nicole Borkish, Elise Levernez, and Nya Rodriguez can do some significant damage not only in the White but also heading into districts this season.

Other Teams to Keep an Eye On This Season:

Adams: The Highlanders have a ton of experience back for coach Bridgette Harding. Her daughter Jen is on the team along with Madison Tuscany, Paige Stabaucker, and Paige Hedlund. Adams could be a team to keep an eye on in the White.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets bring back a ton of experience and could be a sleeper in the White race this season. Avondale returns Brooke Blanchitte, Kierra Robinson, and Fran Aiello for coach Rosemary Motademi. The Yellow Jackets will be solid but the district could be a tough task though.

Seaholm: The Maples were decimated with graduation losses but coach Heather Lippert has her team with a strong start in league play. Seaholm is led by their only returnee in Amele Cekauskas back. The Maples will have some growing pains this season but with Lippert at the helm expect Seaholm to reload quickly.

Oxford: The Wildcats were considered to be one of the top teams I have had my eye on but some tough losses and injuries have hurt coach LaToria Thomas’s team. Oxford has Paige Briggs and Nicole Elzerman back. The Wildcats are a sleeper team that could surprise some folks this season.

Troy: The Colts are very young and have a new coach in Tom Vigilant but he has Jessica Robinson back along with Kelsey Moeller, and an emerging freshman in Fran McBride. Troy is a young team but when they get enough experience they could be dangerous.

Rochester: The Falcons are an overwhelming favorite in the Blue this season. Rochester coach Lauren Duquette will have Maddie Halsey back and some key returning players. The Falcons should have no problem in league play but district, tournament, and city play could be a different story.

North Farmington: Raiders coach Kat Hill’s team won the Blue last season and look to make some strides in the White this season. North Farmington will have some experience back in Hailey Qasawa, Mykaela Ross, Summer Farris, Bethany Wood, and Kiera McRae. The Raiders are expected to be a contender in the White and could be the league’s top threat to Farmington Hills Mercy once district play starts.

Farmington: The Falcons have a ton of experience back for coach Katie Drews as ten players are back from a team that was young last season. Farmington returns Talon Bialik-Cheng, Lauren Mayley, Kayley Chandra, Danielle Petras, Peyton Fowler, Zoe Guthrie, Caroline Lowenfield, Courtney Szymkowski, and Emily Moilanen. The Falcons if things fall together could have something this upcoming season.

Harrison: The Hawks have Stefanie Jankiewicz back along with Elizabeth Lenard, Kristen Hankins, and Julia Trautman for coach Michael Love’s team. Harrison moved up from the White to the Red and will experience some growing pains this season.

Ferndale: The Eagles have a new coach in Rachel Burnham whom will try to build a program in Ferndale. Burnham led the Eagles to their last district title as an interim coach in 2014 and their last district crown as player a few years back. Ferndale is experienced and talented this season in Caitlyn Goedert, Ahlexis Cole, Catherine Tobert-Wilson, Skylar Bartley, Katie Keener, and Ayanna Brown. The Eagles an early favorite to get another district crown under Burnham but Detroit Mumford and Hazel Park will be big threats.

Hazel Park: The Vikings are very experienced and talented after an up and down 2015 last season. Hazel Park returns Trinity Benton, Emme Redmond, Raena Travis, and Emily Blajewski for coach Lisa McClellan this season. The Vikings have shocking struggled early but expect them to get better fast. I don’t think a division title is in the cards for Hazel Park but a district title might be a possibility but Detroit Mumford and Ferndale loom large.

Berkley: The Bears could be a serious threat to the Blue this season and could make a district run in the playoffs as well but Warren Fitzgerald and Detroit Renaissance stand in their way. Berkley returns a ton of talent for coach Chantelle Corson in Dana McDowell, Madison Kendrick, Grace Mulchay, Natalie Tolvarez, Paige Allen, Madeline Koster, and Cara Hill. The Bears look to contend in the Blue with Rochester and could very well be a team to keep an eye on this season.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers came off a White crown last season but they are expected to have some growing pains this season. West Bloomfield coach Dana Gray only has three starters back from a team that lost a tough one to Harrison at home in the district semifinals last season. The Lakers will have to rely on Vanessa Vigier, Aubrey Kohl, and Nyla Greer to carry them in the tough Red this season. The district is not easy either as Farmington Hills Mercy, North Farmington, Harrison, and Farmington will be solid teams.

State of the OAA Football- After the First Five Weeks.

Written Tuesday September 20th at 2:30 PM

AVONDALE:

The transition to Ed Couturier has not fared well for the Yellow Jackets so far this season but you kind of want to give them a pass with the tough offseason they have had. Avondale has had two heartbreaking losses to New Boston Huron and Rochester. The Yellow Jackets is 14-17 since 2012 but after the Bloomfield Hills game this week the schedule will ease a bit until they get to Almont at the end of the season but this is a make or break game this week for Avondale.

BERKLEY:

The Bears have been cruising as of late until a 26-3 loss to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep last week. The loss to the Irish may be a blessing in disguise for coach Chris Sikoria’s team. The Blue is still in play for Berkley as they still have to play Bloomfield Hills in October. The Bears are fine right now but they have a big one with Rochester this week.

FERNDALE:

The Eagles are the most improved team in the league but a lot of that has been with the MHSAA’s CoOP program in which they can get players from another high school in their district. Coach Eric Royal got 10-12 players and they have benefited from the program. Ferndale has been very competitive losing its closest game by 14 points to Berkley. The Eagles have two tough games coming up against Madison and Dearborn Edsel Ford to close the season. If Ferndale can win both those games than they could be in line for a playoff appearance for the first time since 2008.

HAZEL PARK:

The Vikings have really struggled since 2012 going 2-30 with both their wins coming against Pontiac. Hazel Park was blown out in each of their three losses until the Phoenix game, it's something that has made coach Kyle Rowley nuts. The Vikings have a tough schedule with games against Royal Oak, Ferndale, and Rochester. Hazel Park better start winning games against teams not name Pontiac or they won’t improve at all.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS:

The Blackhawks have been off to a nice start which is pleasing to coach Dan Loria. Some of those victories were over Stoney Creek, Troy, and Rochester. They were tested against Ferndale but survived 23-20 last week. Bloomfield Hills has really improved up front and have a ton of athletes. The month of October is where they will be tested though with games against Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, Berkley, and Orion.

PONTIAC:

The Phoenix have been struggling going 2-37 since 2011. Pontiac and coach John Thompson needs to keep improving, it may not be this year though that the Phoenix break through but something must be done if Pontiac has any chance of competing this season. The schedule is not easy to close the season with games against Ferndale, Berkley, Avondale, Troy, and Harper Woods to close the season.

TROY:

The Colts took a bit of a step back last week in losing to Royal Oak 28-21. The Colts are 5-26 since 2013, something in which coach Gary Griffith needs to turn around and quick. Troy doesn’t have a freshman team which is alarming for a big school. The Colts have a tough schedule with Troy Athens and Detroit Country Day and not to mention league games against Berkley and Rochester during that stretch. It could be a long season for Troy.

ROCHESTER:

It’s been a tale of two seasons for the Falcons and I will be owing coach Eric Vernon and his players an apology for my season projection on the Rochester Falcons. The first two weeks Rochester did not look good against Adams and Bloomfield Hills getting outscored 73-26 in those two games. The Falcons have turned their season around in Pontiac by beating Pontiac Notre Dame Prep in overtime 38-32 and they followed that up with a 29-28 win over Avondale. Rochester’s defense is still a major problem as they are allowing 133 points (33.2 points per game) but the offense has improved. The Falcons must fix their defense if they have any chance of making the playoffs.

ROYAL OAK:

The Ravens had two disappointing games against Lakeview and Stockbridge getting outscored 69-36 in those two games but they have allowed 21 points in the last two weeks. Royal Oak has a tough schedule ahead of them with games against Berkley, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester, and Ferndale to close out the season. If the Ravens want to make the playoffs, then they must win at least three of these games if you don’t include Hazel Park. Expect a tough road for coach Ray McMann and Royal Oak.

OAK PARK:

The Knights have had a tough schedule going up against Detroit Cass Tech and Groves but coach Greg Carter’s offense has improved lately averaging 43 points per game in the last two weeks. Oak Park won a huge game over Adams 44-43 in overtime last week. The Knights still have to play Harrison, Clarkston, and Southfield Arts and Tech so by far means they need to win at least one of those games if they have any chance to make the playoffs.

ADAMS:

The Highlanders are a different team than the last two seasons. Adams lost a heartbreaker to Oak Park 44-43 last week. They have Harrison, Clarkston, Stoney Creek, and Groves coming up. The Highlanders though look different but they still run the same veer offense under coach Tony Patrino. Adams needs to win one or two of these games if they want to be a playoff team this season.

HARRISON:

The Hawks have managed to bounce back since their opening season loss to East Kentwood. Harrison shutout West Bloomfield 28-0 last week and still has Adams, Oak Park, Groves, and Oxford on the schedule. The Hawks and coach John Herrington's team look to be in great shape for another playoff appearance.

FARMINGTON:

The Falcons have really been struggling losing five of their last six games and there have been rumblings and calls to fire coach John Bechtel whom has been there for 37 years. Parents have not been happy with Bechtel and the direction where the program has been going. Probably the tipping point was a 29-28 home loss to Seaholm in which the Falcons had two 21 point leads in that game. The turmoil there is very real. I don’t know if I see Farmington winning "truly" a game this season after getting a forfeit win over Walled Lake Western this week.

NORTH FARMINGTON:

The Raiders whom does not have a freshman or junior varsity program has really been struggling. North Farmington has had three running clocks against them this season, something that has bothered coach Todd Schultz. The Raiders are 17-23 since 2011 something that they need to fix. North Farmington must both sides of the football in which they have only scored 10 points (2.5 points per game) and have allowed 165 points (41.5 points per game) both stats are the worst in the league this season. It could get even uglier with Harrison still on the schedule. It won’t be pretty.

GROVES:

The Falcons are the best team in the league so far. Groves has wins over Southfield Arts and Tech and Oak Park. The West Bloomfield win was won via forfeit but the Falcons are in great shape not only to make the playoffs but to make a deep run into the playoffs despite a tough schedule and games against Harrison, Adams, and Saline that loom.

SEAHOLM:

The Maples might have found their chance to turn its season around with a 29-28 win over Farmington last week. Seaholm still has problems defensibly where it has allowed 139 points (34.7 points per game.) Offensively coach Jim DeWald’s team scored 29 points against Farmington into which against the teams they lost too they only scored ten points. The Maples play Groves next and still have tough games against Orion, Oak Park, and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. We’ll see where Seaholm stands this week against their arch rivals from Beverly Hills.

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH:

The Warriors are an interesting team, they have games where they looked good against Troy Athens and Clarkston and games where they didn’t look good against Detroit Martin Luther King and Groves. The offense has been a bit of a struggle as of late as Southfield Arts and Tech has only scored 69 points so far (17.2 points per game) but the defense has only allowed 84 points (21 points per game) but 39 of those allowed were to Detroit Martin Luther King so in part the Warriors have allowed 45 points (15 points per game) in their last three games. Southfield Arts and Tech has been improving but coach Tim Conley’s team have some questions surrounding them. They have a lot of Division One players and a ton of talent that have been getting a ton of attention. The schedule isn’t easy either with games against Orion, Oak Park, Oxford, and West Bloomfield loom.

OXFORD:

The Wildcats since their 27-26 win over Romeo have struggled especially defensibly and it has shown in their three losses all be to very good teams in their defense. Oxford has allowed 143 points in the last four games (35.7 points per game), including 52 points to arch rival Orion last week. The Wildcats defense is the reason why they have been struggling, not their offense or their special teams in which they have been playing very well in that standpoint. Oxford’s pound the rock offense led by running back Ethan Williams works in which they have scored 90 points (22.5 points per game.) What is killing coach Bud Rowley’s team is the defense. That is something the Wildcats must address and quickly. They still have games coming up against Harrison, Southfield Arts and Tech, Troy Athens, and Stoney Creek.

CLARKSTON:

The Wolves have managed to get back on track since their 24-18 overtime loss to Southfield Arts and Tech. Clarkston has managed to win the games they are suppose too and will have their homecoming this week against Troy Athens. The Wolves still have games against West Bloomfield, Oak Park, Adams, and Orion coming up so they will be tested down the stretch.

TROY ATHENS:

The Red Hawks have been a disappointing team in the eyes of the media with their start to the season. The only win that Troy Athens have was against North Farmington in which they won 14-7 in that game. The problem for the Red Hawks have been their offense in which they scored 49 points (12.5 points per game) so far this season with the big and experienced offensive line they have and that’s not mentioning the schedule they still have to face. Troy Athens still has Clarkston, Orion, Oxford, and West Bloomfield to play, not to mention Troy. This could get ugly for coach Josh Heppner if he doesn’t get this turned around.

STONEY CREEK:

The Cougars have struggled under first year coach Bob Lantzy trying to change the culture over there. Stoney Creek still has to play Rochester, Adams, Southfield Arts and Tech, Oxford, and West Bloomfield. The Cougars though have plenty of problems defensibly as they allowed 102 points (25.5 points per game) and offensively they have struggled scoring 61 points (15.2 points per game.) Stoney Creek though is in better position for the future to build its program around, probably going down a division will help the Cougars going forward.

WEST BLOOMFIELD:

The Lakers have no margin for error now as they did not look good last week against Harrison in a 28-0 loss, the first time they were shutout since they lost 17-0 to Rochester in 2010. West Bloomfield has three winnable games coming up in Stoney Creek, Farmington, and Troy Athens but they have tough games with Southfield Arts and Tech and Clarkston. Lakers coach Ronald Bellamy knows that his team needs to win the three winnable games and either the Wolves or Warriors game if they have any shot of returning to the playoffs this season.

ORION:

The Dragons may have finally found an offense in last week’s 52-35 win over Oxford but injuries have plagued Orion coach Chris Bell’s team the last two and a half seasons. The Dragons must address their defense that has allowed 109 points (27.2 points per game) but the offense has managed to make some progress a bit scoring 96 points (24 points per game.) Orion has a tough schedule to close out the season with Clarkston, Southfield Arts and Tech, Troy Athens, and Bloomfield Hills on the schedule. If Orion wants to make a run toward the playoffs they must get healthy first.

OAA Picks Week Five.

Written Tuesday September 20th at 12:10 PM

 

SAMMY 47-22

ANT 45-24

KEITH 47-22

SEAN 47-22

DAN 44-25

BURNEY 49-20

Seaholm @ 1. Groves:

In the battle of Birmingham pits the Maples and Falcons meeting up for the 57^th time between Ernest W Seaholm and Wylie E Groves. Seaholm owns a 40-16 edge in the series even though technically Groves is in Beverly Hills and the Maples are in Birmingham. The Falcons despite having played a difficult schedule has been getting better. Groves destroyed North Farmington 45-0 last week. Seaholm came back from 21-0 and 28-7 deficits to stun Farmington 29-28 on the road last week. Expect the Maples to show up for this game but the Falcons are a little bit better than Seaholm right now.

SAMMY PICK: GROVES 35, SEAHOLM 20.

ANT PICK: GROVES 34, SEAHOLM 7.

KEITH PICK GROVES 42, SEAHOLM 0.

DAN PICK: GROVES 28, SEAHOLM 14.

SEAN PICK: GROVES 35, SEAHOLM 7.

BURNEY PICK: GROVES 34, SEAHOLM 24.

T-10. Rochester @ 8. Berkley:

The Bears have been rolling, never really having to face any kind of adversity in which included a win over Holly four weeks ago. Now that has changed after last week in which Bears was pounded 26-3 at Hurley Field by Pontiac Notre Dame Prep. Speaking of the Irish, they lost at home in overtime to the Falcons 38-32 two weeks ago. Rochester has won two straight games since an 0-2 start and continued their upward trend with a 29-28 victory in Auburn Hills last week. This will be a very interesting game at Hurley Field this week.

SAMMY PICK: BERKLEY 21, ROCHESTER 14.

ANT PICK: ROCHESTER 21, BERKLEY 20.

KEITH PICK: ROCHESTER 24, BERKLEY 14.

DAN PICK: BERKLEY 21, ROCHESTER 20.

SEAN PICK: BERKLEY 28, ROCHESTER 21.

BURNEY PICK: BERKLEY 21, ROCHESTER 19.

2. Bloomfield Hills @ Avondale:

The Blackhawks had to survive a tough one with Ferndale last week 23-20. Bloomfield Hills has had a strong season with a 4-0 start but October is looming fast in which that will test the Blackhawks. The Yellow Jackets has had a ton of bad luck lately which included two heartbreaking losses to New Boston Huron 22-18 in the first week of the season and last week they lost to Rochester 29-28. If Avondale can pull off this upset than maybe it could jump start them this season.

SAMMY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 23, AVONDALE 20.

ANT PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, AVONDALE 14.

KEITH PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, AVONDALE 7.

DAN PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, AVONDALE 14.

SEAN PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, AVONDALE 14.

BURNEY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 27, ROCHESTER 18.

4. Adams @ 3. Harrison:

This will likely be the best game in the league this week with these two longtime rivals going at it. Adams comes in 7-8 all-time against Harrison. The Highlanders lost a heart breaker 44-43 to Oak Park last week. The Hawks shut out West Bloomfield 28-0 last week shutting the Lakers down to -12 yards rushing and 205 yards’ total offense. This will be a fun game to watch especially with coach John Herrington’s team trying to defend the veer offense of coach Tony Patrino.

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 28, ADAMS 21.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 35, ADAMS 14.

KEITH PICK: HARRISON 24, ADAMS 21.

DAN PICK: HARRISON 28, ADAMS 21.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 21, ADAMS 14.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 28, ADAMS 26.

Stoney Creek @ 9. West Bloomfield:

The Lakers were shutout for the first time since 2010 when they lost 17-0 to Rochester. West Bloomfield fell 28-0 to Harrison last week. The Lakers were held to -12 yards rushing by a solid Hawks defense and 204 yards of total offense. West Bloomfield still have athletes in Bryce Veasley, Davion Johnson, Garrett Wynn, and Taj Mustapha and they will all be looking for a bounce back game against a Stoney Creek team that was shut out 30-0 last week by Clarkston. The Lakers are 2-2, they need this game especially with games against Southfield Arts and Tech and Oak Park looming.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 37, STONEY CREEK 7.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, STONEY CREEK 3.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 39, STONEY CREEK 7.

DAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, STONEY CREEK 20.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 38. STONEY CREEK 10.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 31, STONEY CREEK 17.

Orion @ 5. Southfield A&T:

The Warriors are probably the best 2-2 team in the State but they have been up and down this season with losses to Detroit Martin Luther King (39-0) and Groves (13-7) but they beat Clarkston (24-18 in overtime) and Troy Athens 38-14 last week and have turned their season around. Southfield Arts and Tech will face a Dragons team that is not healthy but has nothing to lose. Orion beat Oxford 52-35 last week and might have found a bit of an offense but defense is concerning. The Warriors have athletes and it’s a 5:30 start but if this game comes down to coaching and discipline then advantage Chris Bell.

SAMMY PICK: ORION 52, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 44.

ANT PICK: ORION 27, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 21.

KEITH PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 31, ORION 14.

DAN PICK: ORION 24, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 21.

SEAN PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28, ORION 7.

BURNEY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 30, ORION 20.

Troy Athens @ 6. Clarkston:

The Red Hawks had a lot of expectations heading into the season after a strong 5-4 season last year but losses to Warren Mott (28-7), Stoney Creek (35-7), and Southfield Arts and Tech (38-14) might have hurt Troy Athens playoff hopes. They haven’t played Orion, West Bloomfield, or Oxford yet. Their only win was against North Farmington in which they won 14-7 in that game. This week the Red Hawks go to Clarkston to take on the Wolves on their homecoming. The Wolves destroyed Stoney Creek 30-0 last week after the Cougars destroyed Troy Athens 35-7 two weeks ago. It could be a long game for the Red Hawks.

SAMMY PICK: CLARKSTON 35, TROY ATHENS 0.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 42, TROY ATHENS 14.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 35, TROY ATHENS 0.

DAN PICK: CLARKSTON 28, TROY ATHENS 7.

SEAN PICK: CLARKSTON 56, TROY ATHENS 0.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 32, TROY ATHENS 16.

Oxford @ Farmington:

Well it’s North vs South this week with North Traveling South. The Wildcats have a solid running back in Ethan Williams to go along with a good passing attack in Parker Fleming. Williams had 155 yards and two touchdowns against Orion but the Oxford defense allowed 52 points last week in a 52-35 loss to the Dragons. There is a ton of turmoil surrounding the Farmington Falcons football program with many parents are not happy with coach John Bechtel and the direction where the football team is going. The Falcons had two 21 point leads (21-0, 28-7 leads) against Seaholm but Farmington blew that game and lost 29-28 and to make matters worse for the Falcons is their starting quarterback is suspended for this game. This could get ugly really fast, expect another big game from Williams and Wildcats coach Bud Rowley will get win number two.

SAMMY PICK: OXFORD 56, FARMINGTON 0.

ANT PICK: OXFORD 49, FARMINGTON 0.

KEITH PICK: OXFORD 21, FARMINGTON 10.

DAN PICK: OXFORD 31, FARMINGTON 21.

SEAN PICK: OXFORD 42, FARMINGTON 14.

BURNEY PICK: OXFORD 33, FARMINGTON 23.

North Farmington @ 7. Oak Park:

The Knights have played a vicious schedule so far this season losing the first two games of the season to Detroit Cass Tech and Groves but they have managed to turn things around especially offensively where they have averaged 43.5 points per game the last two weeks against Farmington and Adams (both wins.) Oak Park survived the Highlanders in a wild 44-43 game in overtime last week. The Knights should have no problem with a Raiders team that has been giving up a ton of points and have had three running clocks against them this season. North Farmington has no chance in this game and expect a fourth running clock in this one in Knight Valley.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 51, NORTH FARMINGTON 0.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 49, NORTH FARMINGTON 3.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 38, NORTH FARMINGTON 3.

DAN PICK: OAK PARK 35, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 48, NORTH FARMINGTON 0.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 35, NORTH FARMINGTON 22.

Hazel Park @ Royal Oak:

The Vikings picked up their second win in 32 tries with a 38-25 victory over Pontiac but Hazel Park is 0-30 against teams not named the Phoenix. The Ravens meanwhile have managed to turn their season around since losing two non-league games to Lakeview (21-0) and Stockbridge (48-36.) Royal Oak won 28-21 over Troy last week. If the Ravens not only win this game but win their final four games against Bloomfield Hills, Rochester, Berkley, and Ferndale then they could be a playoff team for the first time since 2006.

SAMMY PICK: ROYAL OAK 22, HAZEL PARK 6.

ANT PICK: ROYAL OAK 24, HAZEL PARK 17.

KEITH PICK: ROYAL OAK 34, HAZEL PARK 0.

DAN PICK: ROYAL OAK 28, HAZEL PARK 21.

SEAN PICK: ROYAL OAK 42, HAZEL PARK 13.

BURNEY PICK: ROYAL OAK 26, HAZEL PARK 16.

Troy @ Birmingham Detroit Country Day:

This will be the first ever meeting between the Yellow Jackets and the Colts in which this will take place in Birmingham. Detroit Country Day comes into this game 4-0 while Troy is 1-3 coming into the game. The Yellow Jackets played Pontiac earlier in the season and destroyed the Phoenix 56-6 two weeks ago. They are 1-0 vs the Blue and also the OAA this season. The Colts lost a tough 28-21 decision to Royal Oak last week and is 2-20 since 2013 but if there is one thing for Troy is that they have been competitive. I’m not sure if the Colts will be competitive in this game.

SAMMY PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 35, TROY 14.

ANT PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 56, TROY 0.

KEITH PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 45, TROY 7.

DAN PICK:  BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 21, TROY 14.

SEAN PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 42, TROY 10.

BURNEY PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 39, TROY 29.

T-10 Ferndale @ Pontiac:

The Eagles have tied their win record from last season when they went 2-7 last season. A lot of that has to go to the MHSAA’s decision to merge Ferndale with Ferndale University to form a CoOp team this season. Ferndale has benefited from the CoOp program and have been competitive in each of their games so far this season. The Eagles lost a tough one 23-20 to Bloomfield Hills last week. The Phoenix scored 25 points last week at Hazel Park but lost 38-25. Pontiac is 2-36 since 2011 so this one could be a tough matchup at Wisner Stadium this week.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 34, PONTIAC 22.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 35, PONTIAC 0.

KEITH PICK: FERNDALE 34, PONTIAC 6.

DAN PICK: FERNDALE 21, PONTIAC 14.

SEAN PICK: FERNDALE 42, PONTIAC 6.

BURNEY PICK: FERNDALE 25, PONTIAC 13.