Written Friday August 11th at 1:00 PM
Updated to Include the White and Blue Videos. Monday August 21st at 10:00 PM
The moment we are all waiting for is finally here. Here are my football previews and outlooks for the 2017 football season. The videos will be updated in one to two weeks, starting with the Blue, then White, then Red.
INSIDE THE OAA TOP
10.
1. Oak Park
2. West Bloomfield
3. Clarkston
4. Southfield Arts
and Tech
5. Harrison
6. Orion
7. Seaholm
8. Adams
9. Avondale
10. Groves
Red
DREAM SCHEDULE: Adams: The Highlanders may have been given a
gift when it comes to the schedule but they have to replace some key
playmakers from a team that made the playoffs for the first time in two
seasons. The schedule will be interesting,
despite having trips to Orion and Bloomfield Hills, the Highlanders have
Oxford, West Bloomfield, Southfield Arts and Tech, and Clarkston all coming to
Rochester. If Adams can win those four games they could be back in the playoffs
again for a second straight season.
NIGHTMARE SCHEDULE: Oxford: This was a tough one for me to
see whom had a nightmare schedule. The Red is a tough division and almost all
of these teams have tough schedules I thought long and hard on this one, I
thought about Troy Athens with whom they have to play but looking at the
schedule it’s looking very tough for the Wildcats and here is why. Oxford will
have a good team but the schedule is daunting. The Wildcats have Orion,
Bloomfield Hills, and Clarkston on the blue turf. The road won’t be easy for
Oxford starting off with a trip to Ann Arbor to play Romeo. The Bulldogs have
won nine of 12 games but last season they fell to the Wildcats 27-26 on the
blue turf. Oxford also has road games at West Bloomfield, Southfield Arts and
Tech, and Adams. It could be interesting for the Wildcats and coach Bud Rowley this
season.
TEAM THAT HAS TO PROVE: Orion: The Dragons have made some
changes this offseason. They have a new coach in John Blackstock who takes over
for coach Chris Bell. Blackstock takes over a team that barely made the
playoffs last season (5-4) and is 13-15 since 2014. Orion returns the balk of
their team from last season but the schedule is challenging as a lot of teams
are in this division. The Dragons have road games at Oxford, Chippewa Valley,
Bloomfield Hills, and Clarkston. They have West Bloomfield, Adams, and
Southfield Arts and Tech at home. The Lakers, Big Reds, and Wolves have had the
Dragons number. If there is a team that has a lot to prove, this is it.
TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks went
unbeaten in the regular season, which led them to the Blue crown last season.
Winning the league forced Bloomfield Hills to go back up two divisions for this
season. The Blackhawks have quarterback John Paddock and defensive end Jack
Sape back, along with other top players. The schedule though will be difficult for coach
Dan Loria’s team. Bloomfield Hills opens the season with three straight road games
starting with Seaholm in the Maple Forest, the next week they have the team
that eliminated them from the playoffs last season in West Bloomfield in the
Swamp, and then the following week they play Clarkston in the Wolves Den. The Blackhawks Orion and Adams at home and then they have to go back on the road to
Southfield Arts and Tech and Oxford. My god, talk about welcome to the Red.
Top Five Games:
West Bloomfield at Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors
beat the Lakers twice last season, once to save their season and the other was
in the district final of the playoffs. West Bloomfield has a ton of talent,
they will be tested here.
Southfield Arts and Tech at Clarkston: The Warriors got
their first ever win as a school over the Wolves 24-18 in overtime. Clarkston
opens up their new football turf with Southfield Arts and Tech. Wonder if they
remember that game from last season???
Clarkston at West Bloomfield: If the Lakers want to prove
that they belong in the top echelon of the league, then win this game in the
Swamp against one of your top rivals.
West Bloomfield at Orion: The Dragons have not fared well
against the Lakers in the last three seasons, getting outscored 102-7 since
West Bloomfield went to the transfer era. Could Orion with a new coach in John
Blackstock manage to turn the series back in the Dragons favor???
Orion at Bloomfield Hills: Dragons were humiliated last
season by the Blackhawks losing 21-0, wonder if Orion remembers what happened
here last season???
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH WARRIORS
Last Season: 8-4 (6-3), 5-1 Red. Lost 42-7 to Utica
Eisenhower in Regional Final.
Points Scored: 282 (23.5 ppg), 185 in Red (30.8 ppg)
Points Against: 231 (19.2 ppg), 94 in Red (15.6 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 1st at Clarkston
Rank: 4
Projected Strengths: Depth and
Experience.
Projected Weakness:
Defensive Line and Secondary.
Projection: 6-3,
4-3 Red.
The Warriors had to overcome so much in 2016, starting with
the shocking murder of classmate and team manager Kara Allen in the middle of
the season. They needed to win their final four games just to make the playoffs and they did that.
Southfield Arts and Tech won a district championship, first in school history
before falling to Utica Eisenhower in the Regional Final at Swinehart Field. Last
season was a success in the first season as a merged school for Southfield Arts
and Tech. “This year we are excited about being in year two of Southfield
A&T. We just want to build upon on what we started. Last year we got a
chance to share a league championship (With Clarkston) make it to the playoffs,
and win a district championship. Every year we want to keep improving” said
assistant principal and coach Vernon Burden. The Warriors would like to have
another playoff run this season and they could very well do that but they had
some defections this offseason. Gone are Sam Johnson III (QB-Walled Lake
Western), Lew Nichols (RB-Detroit Cass Tech), Andre Carter (DE-Detroit Cass Tech), and Brandon Gray (WR-Detroit
Cass Tech.) What helps a school like Southfield Arts and Tech is that they have
plenty of depth. With the merger of Southfield and Lathrup, the Warriors added
depth to coach Tim Conley’s team last season. Southfield Arts and Tech has a
bunch of returning players that will make an impact. John Darby will be the
starting quarterback and brings a duel threat element that Johnson didn’t have
last season. Darby was a wide receiver until Johnson got injured so he
converted from wide receiver to quarterback for the final five games and his
numbers proved the story. “The thing about John is that he is always a leader,
three sport athlete. He has been a Varsity Baseball player since he was
Freshman. He is always been very competitive and a hard worker, so when he
stepped in later in the season, it was a natural fit for him, the offense didn’t
lose a beat, and he’s so dynamic with his run/pass option also. Having him
back, he’s stepped up big time as a leader this offseason, communicating and
working hard for the team. I look forward to seeing him behind the center this
upcoming season” said Burden. Marcus Faqua returns at fullback while Erin McArn whom is a Central Michigan commit returned to Southfield Arts and Tech after spending a semester at Detroit Martin Luther King. McArn will be the team's top running back while David
Wilson and Anwar Jackson will get some carries as well. The Warriors will have
a very talented wide receiving group led by Cameron McEvans, Elijah Soloman,
and Matt Gilbert. Gilbert looks to be Darby’s top target this season. “One
thing we are looking forward is iron sharpen iron, we want to match up with a
team not only from our area but we wanted to expand ourselves so we can go play
different types of teams, different type of football” said Burden. Southfield Arts and Tech's offensive line should be one of the team's strength's this season, led by
Juan Walker, Ahmad Kabir, and Jelani Wells. The Warriors should be solid defensibly as well, led by three solid linebackers in
Christian Rush, Livonia Churchill transfer Javante Van Buren, and Jeremy Pippen. The Warriors biggest concerns on the defensive side of the football especially on the defensive line and in the secondary. It's possible that Walker, Kabir, and Wells could see time playing defensive line even though they added Virginia transfer D.J. Summerville while the secondary is led by Alante
Pickens, Waterford Mott transfer Devin Baldwin, and Justin Kennedy. Kennedy will also handle the kicking duties as well. “We want to make the playoffs and take it week by
week. Once we get there, we want to win those six games whether it’s week six
or week nine. We want to watch TV on a Sunday night to see who we will play
next week” Burden concluded. Southfield Arts and Tech will be right in there competing with the best the Red has to offer.
WHY 6-3: The Warriors have a tough schedule, they have talent but they have Clarkston, Orion, and Adams on the road but they have Bloomfield Hills, Oxford, and West Bloomfield at home. They have a very talented team but I think the schedule is the reason why they are here.
WEST BLOOMFIELD LAKERS
Last Season: 6-5 (5-4), 4-2 Red.
Lost 41-6 to Southfield Arts and Tech in District Final.
Points Scored: 308
(28 ppg), 184 in Red (30.6 ppg)
Points Against: 267
(24.2 ppg), 143 in Red (23.8 ppg)
Game Of the Year:
September 15th Clarkston
Rank: 2
Projected
Strengths: Offensive firepower, Transfers, and Experience.
Projected Weakness:
Both Lines.
Projection: 9-0,
7-0 Red.
The Lakers have been rolling as of late, they made the playoffs
three straight seasons. Previously, West Bloomfield had only made the playoffs
twice since 2000. The Lakers felt they had a disappointing season last season
and hope to make amends for it this season “We looked at last year and we did
some things well and some things not so well. There were three things we have
been really preaching to our kids. We got to be better at running the football,
we got to be better at stopping the run, and we got to be a much tougher
football team” said assistant coach Zach Hilbers. One of the reasons why West
Bloomfield has made the playoffs three straight years is that they have taken
advantage of the transfer rule, getting kids with college offers to improve
their college stocks. The Lakers brought in quarterback Bryce Veasley (Bowling
Green State commit) and wide receiver Taj Mustapha (Wisconsin commit) from
Lathrup, which the closed when they merged with Southfield High to become
Southfield Arts and Tech. Veasley and Mustapha led them to the district final
in 2016. West Bloomfield added more transfers in the offseason in Jhordan Rush
(RB-Grosse Pointe South), AJ Abbott (Wisconsin Commit-WR-Northville), Desmond
Simpson (LB/WR-Orchard Lake St. Marys), Dwayne Thompson (WR-Birmingham Brother
Rice), Richard Sanders (DB-Texas), and Collin Heard (Buffalo Commit-DB/WR-Groves.) “We got a
lot of kids that come in and worked really hard. They kind of bought in to what
we want to do. They’ve been dedicated. We just hope they can help get us where
we want to go” said Hilbers of the transfers. The Lakers besides the transfers will
have plenty of pass catchers in tight end James Faulkner, wide receivers Aaron
Spears, Christian Fitzpatrick, Chase Swoope, Dell Sheppard, Lance Dixon, and
Tre Mosley. West Bloomfield will have a very good defense led by their
defensive captain in defensive back Nick Seidel. Seidel will lead a very talented
secondary alongside Sanders and Heard. Sharmeer Dennis, Niko Mosley, and
Simpson will lead the linebacking core. The question for the Lakers will be up
front despite having three linemen in Maxwell Green, Blake Barnes, and Central
Michigan bound Javon Foster. “They’ve been working hard, lifting hard all
summer, they’ve bought into being that underdog mentality. No one knows who
they are, they are the question marks of the whole offense. They embrace it as
a challenge” Hilbers added. Nick O’Shea whom is getting Division One College
looks will be handling the kicking duties. West Bloomfield got new field turf
this offseason which will make the Swamp that more daunting of a place to play
for opponents. There has been chatter that the Lakers could be a dark horse State
Championship team this season because of their offense and athletes but there
are questions especially on the right side of the offensive line. The defensive
line is also a concern, even though Foster also plays on the defensive line.
“We had glimpse of it last year, also when those moments were waning, it led to
a few defeats” Hilbers concluded. If coach Ron Bellamy doesn’t shore that up
then they could be trouble once they get into postseason play.
WHY 9-0: The talent on this team is sick when you look at the Lakers. West Bloomfield has five Division One wide receivers and a Division One quarterback along with a Division One lineman. This is a talented Lakers team, now if they can have a deep playoff run the means justify what is going on with West Bloomfield.
CLARKSTON WOLVES
Last Season: 9-3 (7-2), 5-1 Red. Lost 41-7 to Romeo in
Regional Final.
Points Scored: 362 (30.1 ppg), 213 in Red (35.5 ppg)
Points Against: 200 (16.6 ppg), 89 in Red (14.8 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 1st vs Southfield
Arts and Tech.
Rank: 3
Projected Strengths: Offensive Line, Linebackers, Wide
Receivers, and Running Game.
Projected Weakness: Quarterback and Secondary.
Projection: 8-1, 6-1 Red.
The Wolves have made the playoffs 12 straight seasons and
should be expected to have a 13th straight playoff appearance if
things go right. Clarkston had a disappointing 41-7 Regional Final loss to
Romeo last season giving them their first loss at home since they fell to
Rockford in the 2012 Regional Final 26-14. The Wolves should be solid again
offensively this season as they scored 362 points last season. They have
running backs Josh Cantu, Michael Fleugel, lineman Noah Nicklin, and Stewart
Newblatt returning. Fleugel, Nicklin, and Newblatt are the backbone of coach
Kurt Richardson’s team. Clarkston does have a solid wide receiving core
returning for whomever the quarterback will be, led by Spencer Lenardson,
Connor Heaton, and Connor Donahue. The Wolves linebackers should be the
strength of the defense this season. Clarkston allowed 159 points until the
Romeo game in which they allowed 41 points in that shocking blowout loss. “I
can’t explain it, I’m still having nightmares about it. I watched the film a
million times, talking it up to lesson learned, trying to make sure it doesn’t
happen again” said Richardson. The Wolves will be led by Roman Santos, Brendan
Barker, Zach Scott, Gino Paese, and Max Nicklin. There could be a Quarterback
battle brewing with JT King graduating after one season behind center. Clarkston
will have three guys battling for the spot in Nate Uballe, Jacob Berman, and Jake
Jenson. “Nate Uballe is the leader in the clubhouse, Jake is right there. Those
two are battling it out” Richardson added. Clarkston
will have some changes, they renovated their stadium, installing new turf. The
Wolves should be talented and deep with line play and running back being the
strength but quarterback and defensive secondary play is a concern despite
having Fluegel playing defensive back along with Matt Miller. “We’re going to
be pretty good, I think the league is better everywhere so we’re going to have
to be better than we were last year” Richardson concluded. Clarkston should be
a playoff team once again this season.
WHY 8-1: The Wolves will try to keep things simple with Fleugel running the ball and their solid offensive line controlling things until their quarterback situation is resolved. The linebacking core is solid but they have questions in the secondary. Clarkston has a favorable schedule with Southfield Arts and Tech, Bloomfield Hills, and Orion coming to Clarkston. They have to go to West Bloomfield, Oxford, and Adams. The Wolves should be a playoff team again because of their simple formula of getting things done.
ORION DRAGONS
Last Season: 5-5 (5-4), 4-2 Red. Lost 14-3 to Romeo in
Pre-District.
Points Scored: 204 (20.4 ppg), 173 in Red (28.8 ppg)
Points Against: 231 (23.1 ppg), 155 in Red (25.8 ppg)
Game Of the Year: August 25th at Chippewa Valley
Rank: 6
Projected Strengths: Experience and Running Game.
Projected Weakness: Depth, Offensive Efficiency, and Secondary.
Projection: 6-3, 5-2 Red.
The Dragons have not been the same powerhouse football team
since 2014 and have been 13-15 since that season. Orion barely made the
playoffs for the first time since 2013 finishing at 5-4 before falling in the
first round to Romeo last season. This offseason there was a coaching change as
John Blackstock was named head coach. Blackstock takes over the team for Chris
Bell. Bell became the Athletic Director last September. Blackstock will inherit
a team that is very experienced on both sides of the football. The Dragons will
have to step up offensively if they want to make a return trip to the playoffs.
Scoring points was an issue, especially late in the season as Orion scored 19
points in their final three games (0-3 in those games.) “I don’t think anything
has happened to Lake Orion. I think it’s the league, our league has improved
top to bottom. I used to look at the schedule, kind of pick out a couple of
teams, three or four teams that you say you know what those are wins. You still
have to play well but you knew those were wins and now when you look down that
nine-game schedule, now there isn’t one week that any game is a win because the
coaching and the athletes have improved” said coach John Blackstock. The
Dragons haven’t scored over 220 points since 2014. They scored 219 points in
2014, 184 points in 2015, and 204 points last season. Orion has some playmakers
on the offensive side of the football, led by quarterback John Marshall,
running back Dylan Frank, lineman Austin Findlay, and wide receivers Johnny
Haggitt and Pierce Burke. The Dragons defense will be a big concern, they haven’t
been very good since the 2013 season. They allowed 222 points that season, 246
points in 2014, 156 points in 2015, and 231 points last season. Orion has a ton
of talent from the defensive side of the football returning in lineman Jordan
Lewis, Sebastian Marcu, Dustin Sokolowski, and Hunter Lagerquist. The strength
of the defense should be the linebackers, led by Tyler Vesterand and Chris
Cade. The Dragons added Isaac and Sam Kinnie to the fold this season. Both
Kinne’s transferred to Orion from Lapeer and could make an impact right away
for this team. The Dragons have some depth concerns especially in the secondary
even though Haggitt and Chad Dolland are there along with Marcus Brown. “We got
two guys returning, Chad Dolland, and Johnny Haggitt, and the other two guys
will be new guys. We got four or five guys we are still working through the
summer. Seven on Seven stuff, that will work itself out as we get to the
scrimmage. We’re really excited about some of the guys that are in that battle
as well” Blackstock concluded. It’s important for Orion to stay healthy once
the season starts.
WHY 6-3: No one is talking about the Dragons, they are thinking about how this program has been 13-15 since 2014 and the schedule is very difficult which it is. Orion opens at Chippewa Valley and then has tough home games with Adams, West Bloomfield, and Southfield Arts and Tech. They have Bloomfield Hills, Oxford, and Clarkston on the road. The Dragons have the talent that could contend in the Red but the schedule is the reason why they are here.
ADAMS HIGHLANDERS
Last Season: 6-4 (6-3), 4-2 White. Lost 28-21 to Waterford
Mott in Pre-District.
Points Scored: 297 (29.7 ppg), 205 in White (34.1 ppg)
Points Against: 160 (16 ppg), 81 in White (13.5 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 1st at Orion
Rank: 8
Projected Strengths: Running Game.
Projected Weakness: Offensive Line and Defense.
Projection: 5-4, 3-4 Red.
The Highlanders had a bounce back year last season making
the playoffs for the first time in two years despite coach Tony Patrino called last
season a disappointment and will try to bring Adams back where they used to be
at. “Last year, we were 6-4, it was disappointing. We’re trying to work hard to
get it back to where we want to be.” The Highlanders come up to the Red from
the White after spending nine years in that league. “For years we’ve always had
this conversation, it’s nice to play our old buddies again. We’ve been playing
Clarkston but it’s nice to play Lake Orion and Oxford again. I have great
respect for the teams in the White. The White was every as good as the Red but
we know the challenge ahead of us is pretty significant, there is no easy
games” said Patrino. Adams whom is 5-5 in the last two seasons prior to 2016, lost a lot of experience from an offense that scored
297 points last season. Patrino will have some playmakers and experience back,
led by the Missouri bound wide receiver Vincent Gray, running backs Chase
Karletta, Cole Mitchell, and his son wide receiver Cole Patrino. The
Highlanders will have a new quarterback as four-year starter Kyle Wood
graduated. Zach Soldan will be the starting quarterback taking over this season.
Soldan was the backup to Wood and brings Varsity experience, playing in some
blowout games last season. “He worked his butt off being behind Kyle. He’s
ready for the challenge. We have a good sophomore name Carter Farris who is
competing for the job as well. We’re not naming a successor to Kyle Wood yet
but I feel comfortable with both of these guys” Patrino added. Offensive line
will be a concern because they lost a ton of talent from their line last
season. Just like any team that runs the veer offense, you need good line play
to be successful despite having Justin Leonard back. Adams will be young on the
defensive side of the football this season. They weren’t bad, allowing 160 points but it will be interesting how they do against the Red. The
Highlanders will be led by linebacker Steve Roncelli and Gray, who plays
defensive back to go along with playing at wide receiver. Patrino had some high
praise for Roncelli this offseason “The sky is the limit, he is worked as hard
as any player as I’ve ever had in my 30 years. He benched 225 19 times, he’s a
4.5 guy, great tackler. We’re going to use him a bit in the run game, you’ll
see him all over the field, that’s for sure.” Defensive line will be a big
question for Adams. It will be interesting to see what Patrino has lined up
this season.
WHY 5-4: The Highlanders will be young based from an experience standpoint but they have some players that can replace them. Yes they have Vincent Gray back but it will all depend with how the offense stands out. Adams has the talent to do well in this division and a schedule that is favorable with Clarkston, West Bloomfield, Southfield Arts and Tech, and Oxford coming to Adams but they have to go to Orion and Bloomfield Hills. As mentioned the schedule could be the reason why the Highlanders could be sweating come selection Sunday.
OXFORD WILDCATS
Last Season: 4-5, 2-4 Red. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 212 (23.5 ppg), 150 in Red (25 ppg)
Points Against: 261 (29 ppg), 165 in Red (27.5 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 8th at Adams
Rank: 13
Projected Strengths: Quarterback and Running Game.
Projected Weakness: Defense and Wide Receivers.
Projection: 3-6, 2-5 Red.
The Wildcats have had some tough luck as of late with not only the
division but the schedule as well. Oxford is looking forward to see what they have this
upcoming season. “We play the greatest game in the world, it is the greatest
game in the world, take advantage of it, enjoy it” said coach Bud Rowley. The
Wildcats have added a new scoreboard to their stadium this season on the Blue
Turf. On the football side of things, there is a big reason why Oxford has been
7-11 since 2015, they have had trouble stopping people on the defensive side of
the football. The Wildcats have allowed more than 200 points in each season
since they have entered the OAA from the Flint Metro League in 2010. Oxford
allowed 233 points in 2010, 234 points in 2011, 244 points in 2012, 227 points
in 2013, 218 points in 2014, 298 points in 2015, and 261 points last season.
“We’re just not stopping the big play, you can not give up the big play, you
can not do that. We got to pick that up or we’re going to find ourselves right
behind the eight-ball again. Defense Wins Championships” said Rowley. The
Wildcats should be solid under Rowley’s “Pound the Rock” offense that will be
led by quarterback Parker Fleming, wide receivers Ryan Miller, Trent Myre, and
running back Ben Krause. Oxford has really struggled on the offensive side of
the football in the last three seasons. The Wildcats have scored 225 points in
2014, 192 points in 2015, and 212 points last season. Oxford is looking to get
back to the playoffs for the first time in two seasons. They open up with Romeo
in Ann Arbor to start the season. “We’re excited for it, we’re looking forward to
Romeo. Romeo is a great program and we get to go play them in the Big House.
It’s very exciting for Oxford football” Rowley concluded. The Wildcats problem
has been defense as mentioned but their secondary should be better led by Ben
Nuss, Sergio Bourge, and Myre. Oxford needs to overcome a lot of things just to
get better in the short term.
WHY 3-6: The defense and schedule are major concerns for the Wildcats. Oxford is 7-11 since 2015 and they will have a tough schedule in 2017. The Wildcats have Orion, Clarkston, and Bloomfield Hills coming to Oxford but they have to play Southfield Arts and Tech and West Bloomfield on the road and that's not counting Romeo whom they play in Ann Arbor. It could be interesting for the Wildcats this season.
TROY ATHENS RED HAWKS
Last Season: 2-7, 0-6 Red. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 149 (16.5 ppg), 90 in Red (15 ppg)
Points Against: 291 (32.3 ppg), 250 in Red (41.6 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 1st vs Oxford
Rank: 18
Projected Strengths: Running Game, Athleticism, and Wide
Receivers.
Projected Weakness: Both Lines, Quarterback, and Defense.
Projection: 1-8, 0-7 Red.
The Red Hawks took a bit of a step back in the 2016 season but they have not been the same program since losing to
Romeo 34-31 in the first round of the 2011 State playoffs. There was hope in
2015 when Troy Athens upset Orion and Oxford on the road but they didn’t
get into the playoffs finishing at 5-4. The 2015 season brought high
expectations for the Red Hawks to make that next step and to possibly make the playoffs for
the first time since 2011. However, things didn’t go as planned for them with injuries,
inexperience, depth, attrition, and bad losses derailed Troy Athens season. “We
fought in every single game last year. It was tough, it was a tough year, we
were very young but we’re bringing everyone back. We got a lot of Juniors
coming back with a lot of speed. I’m hoping those games we fought hard for
three and a half quarters, I’m hoping we finish those bad boys off in the
fourth quarter and take care of business” said coach Josh Heppner. The Red
Hawks defense that Heppner personally took over two seasons ago struggled last
season, injuries played a huge factor in their recent struggles. Troy Athens allowed
121 points in 2015 and 291 points last season. The Red Hawks have eight
returning starters on their 4-3 defense, led by linebackers Patrick Graham and
Andrew Yan, defensive back Brody Fitzpatrick, and lineman Josh Eckerle. Troy
Athens offensively wasn’t good either with again injuries being the reason why
they struggled in 2016. The Red Hawks scored 165 points in 2015 but scored 149
points last season. Troy Athens has six starters back led by running backs Jake
Cavazos and Nick Grabke, lineman David Deman, and wide receivers Nathan Oprinka,
Christian Aurand, and Ben Riffle. It is possible that Cavazos could convert from running back to quarterback this season The Red Hawks are 13-33, including 8-25 in
the Red since 2011. To make matters worse, they are in the Red this season. It
could be a long year for Troy Athens.
WHY 1-8: Program strength is a concern as they will not field a Junior Varsity team this season. I'm also wondering if the Red Hawks are in the right division. Troy Athens should be better this season talent wise, if they also stay healthy but the schedule and quarterback situation has me concerned. The schedule has Clarkston, Orion, Oxford, and Adams all coming to Troy Athens but they have to go to Bloomfield Hills, Southfield Arts and Tech, and West Bloomfield. They have Warren Mott and Troy at home as well. That's a tough schedule to look at it for the Red Hawks and it could be a long season again for coach Josh Heppner's team.
BLOOMFIELD HILLS BLACKHAWKS
Last Season: 9-1 (9-0), 6-0 Blue. Lost 31-14 to West
Bloomfield in Pre-District.
Points Scored 303 (30.3 ppg), 198 in Blue (28.2 ppg)
Points Against 165 (16.5 ppg), 87 in Blue (12.4 ppg)
Game Of the Year: August 24th at Seaholm
Rank: 14
Projected Strengths: Quarterback, Defensive End, and Wide
Receivers.
Projected Weakness: Both Lines.
Projection: 2-7, 1-6 Red.
The Blackhawks had their best season in school history,
going 9-0, and winning their first ever league championship last season but
that could change this season. “We had a good year last year we’re looking
forward to the challenge this upcoming year and we’re taking it one week at a
time, we’ve had a great offseason” said coach Dan Loria. Bloomfield Hills lost
a ton of talent from last season’s team but have gained a lot of Senior
experience along the way. “These guys have been my best Senior leadership, I’ve
been around” said Loria. The Blackhawks have two Ball State bound players in
quarterback John Paddock and defensive end Jack Sape. Paddock threw for 3,000
yards last season and Sape played well to earn scholarships to Ball State. The
Blackhawks have wide receivers Jackson Irschmer, Jiovanni Harris, Alec Ward,
Diego Badallo, Ty Slazinski, and Jordan Bailey for Paddock to throw too.
Bloomfield Hills will have Cooper Lynch at running back, he will also play
defensive back on defense. The Blackhawks defense will be led by Sape, Lynch, linebackers
Mike Jarrells, Eli McCourt, and Bailey. Kip Martin will led the defensive back group along with Birmingham Brother Rice transfer Darren Mack. Loria is high on Sape’s output
this season. “He’s added 35-40 pounds. What Jack brings to the table, he’s big
and extremely athletic. He makes big plays in big situations last year. Certain
people have a knack for that, he’s one of those kids” The Red will be a
challenge for Loria’s team with the teams they have to play in Clarkston, West
Bloomfield, Oxford, Adams, Southfield Arts and Tech, and Orion, whom they beat
last season. “It’s a great challenge, competitors accept challenges like that,
you can sit there and complain about it and have all these other thoughts about
it or you can step up and be a better football team and they have done that. I
said to the guys that your good enough to compete in this league, you got to
take it one game at a time” added Loria. Bloomfield Hills will need to rely on
players like Paddock and Sape to carry them in the Red this season but they
feel they have enough to compete in this league. “It starts with the
quarterback, we got the quarterback back. I’ve always said no matter what
offense we run, you bring that leadership back, the experience of handling the
ball the entire game. We got linebackers back on defense which gives us
leadership and experience there. Great Senior leadership can carry through an
entire season” Loria concluded.
WHY 2-7: The SCHEDULE is the reason why the Blackhawks are here. Bloomfield Hills does have the talent to compete in the Red with Paddock, Sape, among others but the schedule could be a make or break for the Blackhawks especially early. Bloomfield Hills opens up with Seaholm, then West Bloomfield, and then Clarkston all on the road, yikes. The Blackhawks have Orion and Adams at home and then go to Southfield Arts and Tech and Oxford. Also line play is a major concern for Bloomfield Hills. Talent and competing won't be an issue but the combination of moving up to the Red and the schedule could spell trouble for the Blackhawks.
OAA Red
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPyE9sCa9jQ
White
DREAM SCHEDULE: Seaholm: The Maples have a lot of things
working in their favor this season. Seaholm has a ton of talent and
experience back from a team that was very young last season. The schedule looks
very favorable. The Maples are trying to make the playoffs for the first time
since 2013. Seaholm opens up the season with Bloomfield Hills before having to
go on the road for two games. They have to go to Oak Park, Berkley, and Stoney
Creek but they have Bloomfield Hills, Groves, Rochester, and Harrison coming to
the Maple Forest. The Maples could be in line for a special season.
NIGHTMARE SCHEDULE: Groves: The Falcons made it to the State
Semifinals last season losing a tough one to Detroit Martin Luther King. Groves
has gone 21-3 the last two seasons but they lost a ton of talent and Collin
Heard transferred to West Bloomfield. The Falcons don’t have as tough of a
schedule like they had last season when they played West Bloomfield, Southfield
Arts and Tech, and Saline to close out the regular season but it’s still a
tough schedule. Groves opens up with Novi and then has Stoney Creek the following
week, both of them at home. The Falcons also hosts Oak Park, Rochester, and
Troy. The road will be a test as they have trips to Seaholm and Harrison. It could
be a different season then fans are used to having.
TEAM THAT HAS TO PROVE: Rochester: Do the Falcons belong in
the White division? Rochester will have a new stadium opening up this season
after their field was renovated. I talked to Keith Dunlap and Dan Stickradt
about this team, both are high on the Falcons because of the experience they
have returning and the addition of David Karwaski from Berkley. Rochester has Oak
Park, Berkley, and Harrison on their new field. The Falcons have Adams, Stoney
Creek, Seaholm, and Groves on the road. Rochester could do some damage this
season but they have to beat one of the four teams mentioned just to have a
shot at the playoffs, somewhere they haven’t been since 2010.
TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Berkley: The Bears are in the midst
of a transition, they have a new coach in Billy Keenest, and they are in a new
division. Berkley has enjoyed some success in the last three seasons going
24-17 in the process but 2017 could be different. The schedule is going to have a significiant upgrade then in the past few seasons. The Bears have Farmington,
Seaholm, and Groves come to Hurley Field in the first three weeks of the
season. Stoney Creek also comes to Hurley Field later in the season. Berkley will
have tough trips to Rochester, Troy, Harrison, and Oak Park. It could be a long
season for the Bears.
Top Six Games:
Seaholm at Oak Park: The Knights are 3-0 in their last three
meetings against the Maples but Seaholm has a ton of experience back and could
give Oak Park everything they can handle. The Maples won’t be afraid when they
go into Knight Valley, they will embrace the moment.
Groves at Seaholm: The Falcons humiliated the Maples 36-0 in
the Battle of Birmingham last season in Beverly Hills and have gotten outscored
102-27 by Groves in the last three seasons. Now things have changed, the Falcons were hit with
graduation and one player transferred to West Bloomfield. Seaholm has a ton of
Senior experience and a ton of motivation. The Maple Forest will be going nuts
in this game.
Harrison at Seaholm: If the Maples want to prove they belong
in the White conversation then they must make a statement by beating the Hawks.
Seaholm is 0-9 all-time against Harrison and gotten outscored 282-72 since
2007. The Maple Forest will try to make it a hostile atmosphere for the Hawks
but the pressure will be on Seaholm if they want to belong.
Oak Park at Rochester: Fresh off a tough game with Adams, we
will see how the mindset of the Falcons are. Rochester will open up their new field
against a very good Knights football team. The last time the Falcons played Oak
Park, it was 53-0 Knights back in 2014.
Oak Park at Groves: The Falcons pulled out a 13-12 road win
over the Knights last season. Groves is a much different team now than they
were last season. The Falcons took a hit with graduation losses and one of
their players transferred out this offseason. Oak Park has a ton of veterans
back. Could revenge be in the mind of the Knights???
Oak Park at Harrison: This has been a strong rivalry in the
past and it will continue to be this season.
OAK PARK KNIGHTS
Last Season: 7-4 (6-3), 5-1 White. Lost to Detroit Martin
Luther King 34-7 in District Final.
Points Scored: 275 (25 ppg), 187 in White (31.1 ppg)
Points Against: 211 (19.1 ppg), 80 in White (13.3 ppg)
Game Of the Year: August 24th vs Utica Eisenhower
at Wayne State.
Rank: 1
Projected Strengths: Experience.
Projected Weakness: Linebacker.
Projection: 8-1, 7-0 White.
In the last six seasons, the Knights have made the playoffs four
times in their history but that was before coach and Athletic Director Greg
Carter arrived to Knight Valley. Carter has led Oak Park to five straight
playoff appearances and what is expected to be their sixth straight playoff
appearance. Since 2012, the Knights are 36-20 and have put numerous players to
Division One Schools. Oak Park will have that luxury again as lineman Marquan
McCail, who is arguably the State of Michigan’s top player will be heading to
Kentucky after the season. McCail will be partnered up with Justin Rogers,
Jakidas Wilson, Jermaine Keys, and Deon Harper to form one of the best
offensive and defensive line combinations in the State. “We’re recovering some
offensive lineman, whom got hurt with injuries, our offensive line should be
our strengths as well” said coach Greg Carter. The Knights have a bit of a
quarterback controversy as Dwan Mathis and Cory Graham battle for that spot.
“It’s always a competition, you got to hold your spot, you got to win your job.
Cory is pressing him, it will be a tough decision, both of them are going to
play, there’s no way we couldn’t have both of them at the same time.” Carter
has mentioned that it’s possible that Mathis could see time at other offensive
positions if Graham is in the game. “Dwan is capable of playing other
positions, it’s a great problem to have (quarterback situation) but it’s a
problem if you have two fine athletes. Both deserve playing time, we’re going
to see what we can do” Carter added. Cashual Goldsmith is expected to be Oak
Park’s top running back along with Torriano Richardson and Travis Boston. The
Knights will be strong in the wide receivers’ department in the form of Gary
Gayle, Robert Daniel, Greg Lassiter, Maliq Carr, and Kevin Bradley. Oak Park will
be solid defensibly as well led by lineman Don Price and defensive backs
Richardson, Enzo Jennings, and Jalen Robinson. The Knights will need to address
the linebacker position but knowing Carter whom is a defensive guru, that will
be no problem at all. “We have some young linebackers, we’re looking to fill
that position, it’s going to be a tough one to fill.” He will be looking at Danny Phillips to address the linebacking core. Oak Park’s strength will
be in the secondary this season “We have a lot of secondary guys returning,
which was one of our sore spots last year” Carter added. The Knights will be
dangerous again despite always playing a tough schedule and opening up the
season with Utica Eisenhower. “They do a great job” Carter said of Utica
Eisenhower coach Chris Smith and his Eagles “The quarterback (Max Wittmir) is a
phenomenal player, may be one of the most exciting quarterback to watch last
year so we’re going to have our hands full defensibly. They are a well-rounded
team with their offense, special teams, and defense. They are really good and
will pose a challenge for us” Carter concluded.
WHY 8-1: The Knights have the talent, the experience, and the desire to make a deep run in the playoffs. I'm very concerned at linebacker and if they can settle on one quarterback. The schedule is interesting for Oak Park as they have more road games then at home games but from a program strength this team is capable of winning eight games, maybe nine pending if they get the right matchup in the crossover. It could be a successful season for the Knights.
HARRISON HAWKS
Last Season: 5-4, 3-3 White. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 213 (23.6 ppg), 112 in White (18.6 ppg)
Points Against: 94 (10.4 ppg), 56 in White (9.3 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 15th at Seaholm
Rank: 5
Projected Strengths: Skill Positions, Offensive Line, and
Experience.
Projected Weakness: Depth.
Projection: 6-3, 5-2 White.
Inches described the Hawks season in 2016. They missed the
playoffs for the first time since the 2008 season last season despite allowing
94 points, which was one of the lowest points allowed in the OAA. Harrison
couldn’t close the deal, they lost four games by a combined 31 points. “We had
a good team but we couldn’t get over the hump against some really good teams.
It got down to the end, lost in overtime, lost in the last minute. It’s the way
it goes. This year we’re going to turn it around and win the close games” said
coach John Herrington. One of the reasons why the Hawks lost those close games
was that their offense couldn’t come through when they needed too. Harrison scored
213 points, which is not good enough for Herrington coached team. Herrington will
have several key offensive players returning in quarterback Noah Hendricks
along with wide receivers Jahill Funchess, Eddie Linton, and Joe Stevens. The
Hawks added three transfers in Moet Andrews, Stevens, and Nick Cotton this
offseason. Andrews is a running back who transferred from Farmington, he is
expected be the team’s top back. Stevens also transferred from Farmington, he
will play defensive back to go along with his wide receiving spot. Cotton
transferred from Troy Athens and could make an impact not only on the football
field but also on the basketball court. He will likely play wide receiver,
special teams, and in the secondary. “They transferred in and learning the
system, they’ve been real good” Herrington said. The Hawks defense will be very
strong led by Cotton but they have other very talented players in defensive end
and Notre Dame commit Ovie Oghoufo, linebackers Jerrin Harvey, John O’Connor,
along with defensive end Roedrick Hurd, and linemen Devine Filemu, Chris
Rexroth, Caleb Sparks, and Maverick Hansen. Depth will be a concern with the
lack of numbers that are in the program and with Harrison closing in two years,
the Hawks will not field a freshman team this season. “We got some good kids
but we are thin in numbers but we’ll be fine” Herrington added. Herrington who
is the Hawks only football coach has 425 wins, all at Harrison is six wins away
from breaking the all-time State record for coaching wins that was set by
former Birmingham Brother Rice coach Al Fracassa (430 wins) but he isn’t
thinking much about the record “I don’t even like to think about that, it’s the
old cliché, its one game at a time. It will be nice to get six wins because it
means we’ll be in the playoffs” Herrington concluded. Harrison should be back
in the playoffs thanks to their athleticism and experience at the skill
positions.
WHY 6-3: Depth is a major concern, and also the schedule. The Hawks are talented but they have a tough schedule which includes road games at Seaholm, Rochester, and East Grand Rapids. They have Oak Park coming to Harrison. The Hawks should be motivated to get back to the postseason but the schedule and depth is very concerning.
SEAHOLM MAPLES
Last Season: 3-6, 2-4 White. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 144 (16 ppg), 92 in White (15.3 ppg)
Points Against: 266 (29.5 ppg), 184 in White (30.6 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 8th at Oak Park
Rank: 7
Projected Strengths: Experience.
Projected Weakness: Both Lines.
Projection: 6-3, 5-2 White.
The Maples will have a ton of experience back from a team
that won three games last season but with that experience back brings a ton of
expectations to not only compete for a league championship but also a playoff
spot as well. “We’re very excited about this season from what I’ve seem so far,
this is a high energy group” said assistant coach Ben Thayer. Seaholm will have
plenty of skill players for coach Jim DeWald’s veer offense that wasn’t good
last season in which they scored 144 points. The Maples have quarterback Gray
Kinnie back. Kinnie could pushed for time with fellow junior Joel Mitchell. It
will be interesting what DeWald does with the quarterback position but odds are
that it will be Mitchell that starts week one when they play Bloomfield Hills
with Kinnie possibly changing positions. Seaholm should have a solid rushing
attack in Chase Powers, Max Shumaker, and Matt O’Connor. The most underrated
part of their team is their wide receiving group led by Vashnav Siddapureddy
and Nick Lang returning and gives whomever the quarterback will be a pass
catching threat even though they are saying that Mitchell is likely going to be
the starter. It is possible that Mitchell, Kinnie, or any of the three running
backs will play wide receiver as well. The Maples will have to address their defense.
The Seaholm defense struggled keeping teams out of the end zone, allowing 266
points last season. The strength of the defense should be their linebackers,
led by Paul Jokish, Ben Barton, Tre Hairston, and Danny Hartwood. Lang and Powers
will play defensive back to go with their offensive positions while Eastern
Michigan bound Carter Stagner will play defensive end. Both lines will be a
concern for the Maples this season even though Thayer thinks that both lines
shouldn’t be much of a concern and could be one of their strengths. “I think we
got some big boys up front. Our big guys did very well at Veer Camp. Looking
forward to taking that momentum into camp” Thayer concluded. If DeWald can
address both of these areas then Seaholm could get to their goals. There is a
lot of optimism and veteran experience that they could be playoff bound for the
first time since 2013 but they have to prove that they belong.
WHY 6-3: The Maples have a ton of experience and talent. I'm not trustworthy of both of their lines. Seaholm has experience and the talent to compete. The defense has me concerned a bit despite the experience back. The schedule is favorable with Bloomfield Hills, Harrison, Rochester, and Groves coming to the Maple Forest but they have to go Oak Park and Stoney Creek. Coach Jim DeWald's team could win six games, maybe more with this schedule.
GROVES FALCONS
Last Season: 11-2 (8-1), 6-0 White. Lost to Detroit Martin
Luther King 14-7 in State Semifinals.
Points Scored: 347 (26.6 ppg), 172 in White (28.6 ppg)
Points Against: 142 (10.9 ppg), 27 in White (4.5 ppg)
Game Of the Year: August 24th vs Novi
Rank: 10
Projected Strengths: Defensive firepower.
Projected Weakness: Offensive firepower and Experience.
Projection: 6-3, 5-2 White.
The Falcons have been on a roll, going 21-3 in the past two
seasons including a State Semifinal trip last season. Groves will look to
extend their magical run but it could be a tough road for them. Most of the
players that made the magical runs graduated and they had Collin Heard transfer
to West Bloomfield. Coach Brandon Flaherty’s team will be very young with 16 Seniors back however there
have been rumblings that the Falcons have done well this offseason despite the
Heard departure. The schedule will be a challenge this season for Groves but
not like last season in which they closed out the season on the road at Saline,
in which they lost that game. “It’s going to be a challenge for us replacing a
ton of guys in the past two years but we’re up for it. We have had a lot of
success in the lower levels. The key for us is starting off well. If we start
off well then we have a good chance to return to the playoffs and make a run
here in the league” said Flathery. The Falcons defensibly will be solid this season,
despite allowing 142 points last season. Groves will be led by defensive ends Charlie
Ruddle, Jacob Edleman, along with lineman Griffin Best, linebackers Zac Abdulawasi, Maurice
Kelly, and defensive backs Khali Dawsey, Chaise Ford, and Josh Slater. Slater
will also see time at running back. Offensively will be Groves weakness despite
scoring 347 points last season. They have to bring in some new talent with the
recent graduation losses and transfer hit. The Falcons will have a new
quarterback for Beau Kewley whom graduated in Colton Tinsley. Tinsley will
have three very good options to throw too in wide receivers Dawsey, Isiah Davis,
and tight end Antulio Erickson-Suzuki. The Falcons will have offensive linemen Don Llope and Christan Zeitvogel. Groves open the season
against Novi, it will be an interesting matchup “I think it’s a
great matchup. I know coach (Jeff) Burnside does a great job, he’s a good guy.
I think we are similar, two similar teams, he’s replacing a bunch of guys, we
are as well. That first game will be interesting and competitive” Flathery
added. The Falcons will be very young on both lines. If Groves can address both
lines, get off to a strong start, and their young talent grows up in a hurry then the two magical seasons
could become the norm for the Falcons. “It depends how well we jell together.
The whole key for us is starting off fast and starting off hot” Flathery
concluded.
WHY 6-3: I think the Falcons have just enough to win six games but it all depends if the offense can do very well. Groves has the defensive tools to get things done and they have a favorable schedule with Novi, Oak Park, Stoney Creek, and Rochester coming to Beverly Hills but they have to go to Harrison and Seaholm. The Falcons if they want to keep this magical era alive has to win some games this season.
TROY COLTS
Last Season: 3-6, 3-3 Blue. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 162 (18 ppg), 131 in Blue (18.7 ppg)
Points Allowed: 193 (21.4 ppg), 113 in Blue (16.1 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 1st at Harrison
Rank: 19
Projected Strengths: Line Play, Experience.
Projected Weakness: Depth, Unproven Talent, and Strength of Entire
Program.
Projection: 1-8, 1-6 White.
The Colts are heading into a different direction as coach Gary
Griffith stepped down after spending 42 years at Troy. The Colts named Chris Frasier
to succeed Griffith. Frasier was an assistant for nine seasons under Griffith
but now it’s his team to run. He has a ton to fix not only in the Varsity level
but also in the program as well. Troy did not have a Freshman team, despite
being one of the biggest enrolled schools in Oakland County last season and
will be one of the biggest enrolled schools this season. It is unknown if they
will have one this season, even though it’s likely that they will. “We’re
trying to breed some life in the program, we’re doing some things to change it
up. We have a lot of athletes in the school, we need to convince them that
football is the right avenue for them” said Frasier. The Colts will certainly
have a challenge, moving up from the Blue to the White. Troy is 20-39 since
2009. They will have to address both sides of the football but they will have
some players that can address their needs. “The goal for the Seniors is to go
out and be with their teammates and get some life back in the program” Frasier
added. The Colts will have three very good linemen in Alex Sampson, Mathis
Johansson, Jon LaFave, and Max Guiltar. All four of them could also play both
sides of the football to make up for the team’s lack of depth. “We have five
guys back with experience on the offensive line with four of them being
starters, one of them rotated in last year” Frasier said. Troy will have a new
quarterback this season, it will be either Drew Pijanowski or Noah Wagberg that
will get the job. Whomever the new quarterback is will have wide receivers
Corey Pischel and Givon Cinque to throw too this season. They will be expected to help fix a
Colts offense that scored 162 points last season. Terron Kinard is expected to
be the Colts top running back and should make a impact in the ground game. Pischel and Cinque are expected to also play
defensive back along with their wide receiving positions. Troy will be led by
linebackers Johnathan Douglas, Alex Vecchioni, Mike Abitheira and Cinque. They
will try to fix a defense that struggled, allowing 193 points last season. The
Colts have not made the playoffs since 2009 and have beaten their city rivals
since 2012. Troy Athens has dominated Troy in the last four meetings outscoring
them 181-37 in that span. “It’s a good rivalry, I’ve got to give it to coach
Heppner for everything he has done the last couple of years. He has made
football kind of fun for Troy Athens and the records show that against us, so
it’s our job to turn it around” Frasier concluded. If Frasier wants to change
the culture at Troy, he must address the program which has won 20 games since
as 2009.The numbers have to be strong, there is no reason why a school with
that much size have three teams. There will be a lot of work to do for the
Colts this season.
WHY 1-8: The Colts are an unproven team, a new system, new staff, just a ton of changes. Troy has program strength issues which is very odd for a big school like Troy is. The Colts will not field a freshman football team this season for a second straight season. The schedule is daunting as well. Troy could be in line for a long season.
ROCHESTER FALCONS
Last Season: 5-4, 4-2 Blue. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 253 (28.1 ppg), 187 in Blue (26.7 ppg)
Points Allowed: 267 (29.6 ppg), 162 in Blue (23.1 ppg)
Game Of the Year: August 24th at Adams
Rank: 12
Projected Strengths: Skill Positions
Projected Weakness: Defense and Both Lines.
Projection: 3-6, 3-4 White.
The Falcons despite their fashion uniform disasters are
trying to get to the playoffs for the first time since 2010 will have their
hands full this season. Rochester is 19-34 since 2010, which has not made
fellow sportswriters and alums Dan Stickradt and Keith Dunlap happy. What makes
matters worse is that the Falcons moved up from the Blue to the White this
season. “Top to bottom the OAA is one of the toughest leagues to find, I know
we were in the Blue last year but we played a lot of tough teams, we’re excited
for the challenge. We got guys that understands what it takes to win in the
Varsity level and hopefully stay healthy and compete” said coach Eric Vernon. Scoring
points won’t be an issue for Vernon’s team. Rochester has three year starting
quarterback Brent Burtaw coming back. Burtraw played very well for the Falcons
last season and will be relied upon to get Rochester back in the playoffs for
the first time since 2010. Burtraw will have three wide receivers in Junior three-year
starter Drake Reid, Ryan Noble, and incoming Berkley transfer David Karwaski
this season. Gabe Szafran will be the top running back, keeping opposing teams
honest. Offensive line will be a concern even though Lucas Vander Meulen and
David Robinson return on that unit. If Burtraw has time and protection he can
pick a secondary apart. The Rochester defense could have some issues, going up
a division and seeing teams that will be solid offensively this season. The
Falcons allowed 267 points last season, which is not good. “We gave up a lot of
points, we switched it around a little bit this year. We got some good players
coming up from the Junior Varsity, hopefully the defense takes advantage of the
skill set they have. We’ll switch it up and score as many points and give up a
lot less, that’s the key” said Vernon. They will be led by linebacker Tanner
Bobbitt along with linemen Vander Mullen, Robinson, Noble at linebacker, and
Reid and Szafran playing in the secondary. Rochester has not beaten their city
rivals since 1996 and have only beaten Adams three times since 1988. There are
some folks that believe that the 21-year drought could end this season
especially with the Falcons Senior Class that has done well against the
Highlanders in the lower levels. “We’re excited for it, we know they have great
coaches, great players but we’re excited for the opportunity to go into their
stadium this year. It’s on top of our thought process to beat Adams and work
hard for it” Vernon concluded. There is some optimism for Rochester that they
could make the playoffs for the first time since 2010. They had their stadium
redone this offseason so they will now play their games at Rochester High
School. The competition, defense, and both lines are major question marks for
the Falcons, if they address these three issues then they could be a playoff
team this season.
WHY 3-6: The schedule is the reason why the Falcons are here. Just like Bloomfield Hills, Rochester has the talent to compete in the White but it's the schedule that could keep them out of the postseason. The Falcons open up the season at Adams, a place they haven't won in 21 years. They have Oak Park, Harrison, and Berkley coming to Rochester but they go to Stoney Creek, Seaholm, and Groves. The Falcons have talent to compete but the schedule could be Rochester's downfall if they want to get back to the playoffs.
STONEY CREEK COUGARS
Last Season: 2-7, 1-5 Red. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 133 (14.7 ppg), 71 in Red (11.8 ppg)
Points Against: 243 (27 ppg), 170 in Red (28.3 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 15th vs Troy
Rank: 15
Projected Strengths: Quarterback.
Projected Weakness: Secondary, Playmakers, and Both Lines.
Projection: 3-6, 2-5 White.
The Cougars had a rough first season under coach Bob Lantzy,
who took over for Brad Zube whom is now at Ortonville Brandon. Zube took the Blackhawks to
the playoffs in his first season in Ortonville last season. Lantzy came back to
coaching football at Stoney Creek after spending 29 years at Utica Eisenhower
admitted last season was his rough coaching season in his legendary career. “I
was proud of the Stoney Creek players we had, they did a tremendous job they
went through three years in the Red. It was a tremendous challenge for Stoney
Creek High School. It was very physical and brutal. I hope we learned from that
experience last year and we’ll be a much more competitive team last season”
said Lantzy. Lantzy took responsibility for what happened to his team last
season. “We were tough and physical the whole game. What we needed was better
systems offensively, defensibly, and special teams and that’s my job so I take
all the blame for the losses last year, my players played hard physically and
tough” Lanzy added. The Cougars moved down from the Red to the White hoping the
move would change their fortunes especially from an offensive standpoint in
which they scored 133 points last season. “I think this year we’ll be better
because we have more balance in running and passing.” Stoney Creek will be led
by three year starting quarterback Frank Potenza. He will need to do more this
season if the Cougars are ready to take the next step and make the playoffs for
the first time since 2013. “He has physically matured. He has gained almost 30
pounds. He developed at what he wants to be and what quarterback he wants to
become. As your developing your changing things and I think he’s settling in to
what he wants to do and that’s important” Lantzy added. Potenza will have wide
receiver and basketball star Nate Davis to throw too and also Jericho
Barr-Redmond will play wide receiver as well adding to his secondary position. Stoney
Creek should be improved defensibly with the move down to the White while adjusting
to Lantzy’s 4-3 scheme despite allowing 243 points last season. The Cougars will
be led defensive end Athletic Jones and linebacker Griffin Green. They have
secondary and line concerns on both sides of the football despite having Barr-Redmond
and Adam Hilton in the secondary. Cole LaFave who was a secondary player last
season will play more up front to fix both lines. Lantzy will have Hilton
leading the rushing attack. The schedule is tough for Stoney Creek but they
could be competitive again this season now that they are in the White. “It
takes a little of the physicalness and equals the numbers a little bit. It will
help us a lot, you get worn out with the numbers and size” Lantzy mentioned.
The Cougars open up the season at Runkel Field against a former Lantzy foe
Utica Ford II, Lantzy we know was at Utica Eisenhower for a long time, it’s
going to be odd for him returning to his former arch rivals’ field (Sterling
Heights Stevenson.) “You may want me as your coach, you’re going to get hit
harder than you’ll ever be hit before” Lantzy concluded.
WHY 3-6: The schedule will be a big reason why I see the Cougars winning three games. The move down will certainly help things but they have Oak Park, Seaholm, Rochester, and Adams coming to Stoney Creek and they have travel to Harrison, Groves, and Berkley is no easy trip either. The Cougars will have the talent but they need to address both lines and make sure Potenza is healthy. Looking at Stoney Creek, the schedule will be a challenge.
BERKLEY BEARS
Last Season: 6-4 (6-3), 4-2 Blue. Lost 56-15 to Groves in
Pre-District.
Points Scored: 265 (26.5 ppg), 197 (28.1 ppg)
Points Against: 261 (26.1 ppg), 139 (19.8 ppg)
Game Of the Year: August 24th vs Farmington
Rank: 17
Projected Strengths: Line Play and Quarterback.
Projected Weakness: Going to New System, Defense, and Wide
Receivers.
Projection: 0-9, 0-7 White.
The Bears have had a solid two seasons going 24-17 under
then coach Chris Sikora but there are a lot of changes that happened this
offseason. Berkley went up from the Blue to the White and they will have a new
coach on the sidelines this season. Sikora resigned after three seasons at
Berkley in early April. The Bears named Billy Keenest head coach on June 9th.
Berkley officials hope that Keenest will continue the winning ways that has
been going on at Hurley Field lately. The transition to his new school is going
very smoothly according to Keenest. “These kids have done a great job adjusting
to a new staff, a new coach, a new program. They have done a great job so far”
he said. Keenest was the offensive coordinator at Troy Athens for two seasons
and played quarterback at Oxford when he was a player. Keenest will have to
rely on his Seniors and experience to carry them this year. “They will be
Senior led, you’re going to go as far as your Seniors take you. Everyone has to
make plays, it’s going to be a challenge going to the White but our kids are
looking forward to it, we’re not going to shy away from it, we’re going to play
whom is on our schedule, we’re looking forward to the challenge” said Keenest.
Berkley is going to more of a veer attack this season but the offense wasn’t
the problem in 2016. The Bears scored 265 points last season and was even
higher scoring 339 points in that special season when they went to the Regional
Final in 2015. Berkley will be led by quarterback David Long, along with
running back Kedar Browning, and wide receivers Evan Payne, Riko Cunningham, and
Marquel Dalton. The Bears were not good defensibly last
season giving up 261 points and 229 points in 2015. The Bears defense will be a
major concern despite having lineman Babacar Diop on the defensive line because
of the new division they are in and the offenses they will see. Berkley has to
address issues at linebacker and secondary. It could be a long season for the
Bears but their mission is getting better every day “Our goal is to get better
each day” Keenest concluded.
WHY 0-9: The schedule will be daunting for the Bears and going through a new coaching system will also be a challenge as well. Berkley will be very challenging to see how this team does. They could win one game this season, pending if things go right. The Bears will have to ride their Seniors but going up a division and a coaching change, it could be an interesting challenge for Berkley.
OAA White
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jO5OMlElN9o
Blue
DREAM SCHEDULE: North Farmington: The Raiders were in need
of a reboot. They have a new coach in Bob Chiesa. He’ll have a challenge this
season fixing a team that went 0-9 and had a ton of turmoil last season. Chiesa
has started the process in fixing the North Farmington football program. Chiesa
has addressed the numbers. He has 100 kids in the football program to field three
teams. What will help the Raiders is the schedule, North Farmington opens up
the season with a trip to Allendale (Grand Valley State) to play Greenville, a
team that made the playoffs that went 5-5 last season. They close the season
with a trip to Garden City to close the season, the Cougars are 7-20 since 2014.
Both games could have major importance especially if they are in playoff
contention. The Raiders have Farmington, Avondale, and Ferndale all coming to
North Farmington. If the Raiders can get off to a strong start and keep this
momentum going, maybe this team could be a playoff team.
NIGHTMARE SCHEDULE: Ferndale: The Eagles were on cloud nine
last season making the playoffs for the first time since 2008. The schedule is
going to be a challenge for coach Eric Royal’s team even though they have the talent to make a run in the Blue this season. Ferndale opens up with
Madison Heights Lamphere at home but four of their next five games are on the
road with trips to Royal Oak, Birmingham Detroit Country Day, Farmington, and
North Farmington with Avondale being the only home game in that stretch. Royal
will have a tough stretch but if they can win three of those five games then
they have a shot of getting back to the playoffs again.
TEAM THAT HAS TO PROVE: Avondale: The Yellow Jackets have a
ton to prove this season under second year coach Ed Couturier. Avondale won three
straight games, outscoring opponents 99-12 in that stretch before losing a 40-34
shootout to Almont last season. The Yellow Jackets will be very talented
especially at the quarterback and wide receiver spots but line play and
philosophy will be a concern heading into the season. The schedule is daunting
for Avondale. The Yellow Jackets have road trips to Troy, Ferndale, Royal Oak,
and North Farmington. They have Farmington at Dick Bye Field. Avondale looks to
get back to the playoffs this upcoming season.
TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Hazel Park: The Vikings have had a
tough six seasons, it doesn’t look to get any better despite having
90 percent of the team being Seniors. Hazel Park has not made the playoffs
since 2010 and is 3-33 since 2012. The Vikings open up with their neighborhood
rival to the east in Warren Fitzgerald, the Spartans destroyed Hazel Park 65-6 last
season on the Vikings home field. These two teams will play again but it’s on
the east side of Dequindre and not the west side. Hazel Park has to go to Avondale
and Ferndale. They host Farmington, Royal Oak, Clinton Township Clintondale,
Madison Heights Bishop Foley, and North Farmington. It will be interesting for
coach Kyle Rowley and his team this season.
Top Five Games:
Farmington at Avondale: This may be the matchup for the Blue
crown.
Avondale at Ferndale: This has been a good rivalry in the
past, both teams could be playoff teams this season.
Ferndale at Farmington: This will be an interesting test for
the Eagles, at Farmington, interesting matchup.
Avondale at North Farmington: We will know a lot about the
Raiders heading into this matchup against the Yellow Jackets.
Farmington at North Farmington: Could this be the season the
Raiders take back the Farmington Cup from the Falcons???
AVONDALE YELLOW JACKETS
Last Season: 3-6, 2-4 Blue. Didn’t make the Postseason.
Points Scored 208 (23.1 ppg), 116 in Blue (16.5 ppg)
Points Against 192 (21.3 ppg), 130 in Blue (18.5 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 8th at Ferndale
Rank: 9
Projected Strengths: Wide Receivers and Quarterback.
Projected Weakness: Philosophy, Defense, and Both Lines.
Projection: 9-0, 6-0 Blue.
The Yellow Jackets lost two heartbreaking games to New
Boston Huron (22-18) and Rochester (29-28) which derailed them last season.
Avondale managed to win three of four to close out the season for coach Ed
Couturier but this team had a full offseason of stability to get things going
along. “We were on a crash course probably around mid-season (started 0-5), we
kind of understood where we were going and what we were doing and we played
very well four of the last five weeks of the season. We’re farther ahead now
than we were more than two weeks ahead. The Yellow Jackets run a veer offense,
which involves running the football but oddly enough the strength of this team
will be the quarterback and wide receivers, you got to wonder how Couturier
will balance this attack out. Avondale has quarterback Adam Mather along with wide
receivers David Hinton, Nick Whiteside, Derrick Hinton, Zeke Ringstaff, and
Kyle Strong back. Anthony Moran will be the team’s top running back. Line play will
be a major concern, especially when it’s a team like the Yellow Jackets that
runs the veer offense, line play is always important in that type of offense.
Avondale will rely on Josh Moshier, Joey Hawkins, Chris Sawyers, and Gatlin
Coleman to carry the offensive line. Philosophy could be a major issue as they have
the athletes to play a modified spread offense with the athletes they have at
wide receiver and quarterback. “The key will be getting the ball to our skill
kids. Our skill kids are quick, elusive, and getting them the ball in open
space and letting them do their thing but we’re still going to run the option.
We got kids that can play those positions and get better from experience. It
opens up a lot of avenues if we can distribute the ball running or throwing”
said Couturier. The Yellow Jackets defense
will be key if they want to get back into the playoffs for the first time since
2012. Avondale allowed 52 points in their final three games. Early in the year,
they allowed 140 points which led to the 0-5 start last season. The Yellow
Jackets gave up 192 points last season and with them having stability,
expectations should be sky high for Couturier’s team. “I think we have high
expectations. I think our kids are focused. Instead of having two weeks to
prepare, we had an entire offseason, so I think as a coaching staff the kids
feel more comfortable with what we are doing and where we are going and it took
us four games to know what we were doing, so our last four games we played very
well with three of those losses by a combined nine points, it would had made a
difference from being in the playoffs. We’re hoping the experience pays off
this year” Couturier concluded. If Avondale wants to improve and get to the
next level they have to address their offensive identity and mindset in the
process.
WHY 9-0: The Yellow Jackets have had a full offseason under coach Ed Couturier, to learn the option offense unlike last season when Couturier came in two weeks before camp started. They have the athletes to play those positions. The schedule is favorable for Avondale to do some damage. The Yellow Jackets have the talent but mindset and pholosphy is a question but if everyone is on the same page, then look out.
NORTH FARMINGTON RAIDERS
Last Season: 0-9, 0-6 White. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 32 (3.5 ppg), 26 in White (4.3 ppg)
Points Against: 334 (37.1 ppg), 219 in White (36.5 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 15th vs Avondale
Rank: 16
Projected Strengths: Skill Positions.
Projected Weakness: Defense and Both Lines.
Projection: 7-2, 4-2 Blue.
If there was one football program that needed a reboot, it’s
the Raiders. North Farmington made a coaching change in May hiring Bob Chiesa
from Waterford Mott. Chiesa takes over for Todd Schultz whom stepped down to
focus on Athletic Director duties. He has had successful stints at Waterford
Mott and Hartland as the defensive coordinator. The Raiders were not good going
0-9 last season but Chiesa wants his new team to look ahead but use the past as
a resource. “We’re going to learn from the past, we’re very excited about the
future. Our numbers are up, we’ll take each game by a game by game basis” said
Chiesa. North Farmington’s defense was just atrocious last season allowing 334
points. This offseason before Chiesa arrived to North Farmington, starting running
back Qu’ran Rosier transferred to Macomb Dakota. The Raiders offense wasn’t
good, scoring 32 total points last season. What should help North Farmington is
that they moved down from the White to the Blue. Historically, the Raiders have
had success when they were in the Blue. North Farmington will have a ton of
competition, especially from the offensive side of the football in training
camp.
Chiesa has named Dylan Gordon his starter for their game on August 26th
against Greenville. Whomever the quarterback will be will have wide receivers
Myles Gresham and Jaylen Ferguson to throw too. The running game will be key
for the Raiders, they will have running back Taj Cheathem to carry the load there. It would not be surprising if they all see time on defense as well. The
Raiders will have linemen Justin Freeman and Justin Mayes leading the trenches on
both sides of the football. North Farmington’s defense will need to improve if
they want to get back to where they want to be. They allowed the third worst in
points allowed last season in the OAA at 334 points. The Raiders will have
Lamar Pope back to stabilize the linebacking position, several guys will have
to go two ways this season. Chiesa needs to stabilize the football program and
it looks like he has been starting to do that. North Farmington had nearly 100
players signed up to play football, 60 of them are on
Varsity. They had 45 players signed up and had to forfeit the Harrison game
last season because of the lack of numbers. The Raiders didn’t field a Junior
Varsity team because of numbers and will not do so for a second straight season. North Farmington will
open up at Grand Valley State against Greenville to kick off the Chiesa era
“Heck of an opportunity, we’re excited to represent the OAA, North Farmington,
and our community by playing in that game, heck of an opponent. Greenville is a
powerhouse, new head coach (David Moore) took over last year, I believe he was
at East Grand Rapids before. He’s done a heck of a job, they are a force to be
a recon with, they are a perennial power in wrestling too but you know what
they have to strap it up just like we do and we’re hoping to be competitive and
see how the ball flies” Chiesa concluded. Chiesa has a ton of things he needs
to address, can settle on a quarterback, address both lines, can he fix the
defense, and get his team on the same page. If he addresses all of them maybe the
Raiders could make an impact this season.
WHY 7-2: Coaching makes a huge difference here, Bob Chiesa coming to North Farmington was a huge addition. Chiesa has had defensive coaching stints at Hartland and Waterford Mott and I think with a young team will make a huge difference for the Raiders. Chiesa will change the culture for the Raiders. Winning seven games is pushing it but it's possible with this group, it wouldn't surprise me if North Farmington is a playoff team.
FARMINGTON FALCONS
Last Season: # 1-8 (2-7), 1-5 White. Didn’t make Postseason
Points Scored: 123 (13.6 ppg), 75 in White (12.5 ppg)
Points Against: 347 (38.5 ppg), 222 in White (37 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 29th vs Avondale
Rank: 20
Projected Strengths: Skill Positions.
Projected Weakness: Both Lines and Wide Receivers.
Projection: 7-2, 4-2 Blue.
The Falcons have made the playoffs eight of the last 11
seasons made some changes this offseason after having a rough year in 2016.
Farmington went down from the White to the Blue and changed coaches from a team
that won two games officially or one if you don’t technically include the
forfeit against Walled Lake Western in which they lost that game 41-14 in Ann
Arbor. Kory Cioroch takes over the Falcons as head coach. He replaces John Bechtel
who coached for 20 seasons before retiring this offseason. Farmington needs to
address some things on both sides of the football. The Falcons defense were
atrocious when Cioroch was the defensive coordinator allowing 347 points last
season. The 347 points allowed was the second worst in the entire OAA (only
Hazel Park was worse in that category.) “We struggled on all sides of the ball.
We were very young. We had a lot of Sophomores up. We played one of the hardest
schedules in the area. We struggled defensibly, we struggled to move the ball,
we struggled on Special Teams. A combination of that is why we saw lopsided
scores but we have a lot of young kids that gained a lot of valuable
experience. We hope to be a lot better this year” said Cioroch. Farmington took
a huge hit this offseason top defensive player returning in defensive end
Donovan King is out for the season with a very bad knee injury he suffered
wrestling in the offseason. “Donovan was at a wrestling competition last month
and unfortunately he suffered a bad leg injury. Right now, he won’t be playing
for us this season. The good thing for us is he is a Junior and he will be back
next year for us” Cioroch added. The Falcons will have a two solid defensive
backs in Aaron Watson and Joe Phillips going up against team’s top wide
receivers. Farmington offensively has to improve on its scoring output from
last season. The Falcons scored 123 points last season, which was not good but
to their credit, they played against some pretty good competition in the White
and had to play a very good Walled Lake Western team in 2016. The move to the
Blue should increase the scoring and offensive efficiency greatly. Farmington has
Chandler Coultrip at quarterback along with a solid running game in running backs
Oscar Glenn, Kendall Williams, and Nathaniel Shaw. Farmington does have some
questions at wide receiver. They will have Ty Jackson-Davis and Cameron Johnson
for Coultrip to throw too this season. Farmington also has to address both
lines despite having lineman Calvin Witlow and Allan Shamoon. The Falcons should
be better this season but the jury is still out on Farmington.
WHY 7-2: The Falcons loss of King really hurts the defense. Farmington has a new coach in Kory Cioroch and some talent but the injury to King hurts. The Falcons should be a team to keep an eye on especially on the defensive side of the football. I think there are some tough games on the schedule that could seriously challenge Farmington but seeing this team, winning seven games sounds good enough.
FERNDALE EAGLES
Last Season: 7-3 (7-2), 4-2 Blue. Lost to Detroit Martin
Luther King 38-14 in Pre-District.
Points Scored: 299 (29.9 ppg), 198 in Blue (28.2 ppg)
Points Against: 197 (19.7 ppg), 127 in Blue (18.1 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 1st at Farmington
Rank: 11
Projected Strengths: Offensive firepower.
Projected Weakness: Both Lines, Depth, and Defense.
Projection: 5-4, 3-3 Blue.
The Eagles had one of their best seasons in 2016, winning
seven games, and making the playoffs for the first time since 2008. What has
helped Ferndale was last season the Eagles asked the MHSAA to develop a Co-OP
program with Ferndale University to make sure that have enough players to field
a team and to give them depth. Ferndale offensively should be solid with plenty
of skill players returning for coach Erik Royal. The Eagles were a scoring
machine, scoring nearly 300 points (299 points) last season. Ferndale will have
the balk of that firepower returning in quarterback Keshawn Smith, running back
Zoser Little, and wide receiver Anthony Merriman. The concern for Ferndale will
be the offensive line up front. Price Ayoola should lead the defense as a
defensive back but they have questions up front and at linebacker. The Eagles
weren’t the greatest defensibly in 2016, allowing 197 points but they managed
to win the close games. If Ferndale can address their both their lines and
defense then it’s possible that the Eagles could be right back where they were at
last season, which was in the playoffs. What doesn’t help Ferndale is the
schedule, it is tougher than last season especially in the middle of the season
with a tough game against Birmingham Detroit Country Day. A trip back to the
playoffs for the second straight season will have to be earned for Ferndale
this season.
WHY 5-4: The SCHEDULE is a big reason why I see Ferndale possibly winning five games. The Eagles have the talent to compete and make a playoff run but I don't know if this team could win the division this season. Ferndale opens up the season with Madison Heights Lamphere and Avondale also comes to Ferndale. The road will be a tough task for the Eagles, they have to go to Birmingham Detroit Country Day, Farmington, North Farmington, and Dearborn Edsel Ford. The talent won't be the reason why Ferndale sweats on Selection Sunday, the schedule will be.
HAZEL PARK VIKINGS
Last Season: 2-7, 2-4 Blue. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 172 (19.1 ppg), 114 in Blue (16.2 ppg)
Points Against: 378 (42 ppg), 221 in Blue (31.5 ppg)
Game Of the Year: August 24th at Warren Fitzgerald
Rank: 22
Projected Strengths: Offensive efficiency
Projected Weakness: Defense, Mindset, Both Lines, and Depth.
Projection: 1-8, 1-5 Blue.
The Vikings missed the playoffs for the sixth straight
season. Hazel Park had high expectations but failed to meet them only winning
two games last season. The Vikings are 3-33 since 2012. The big reason why
Hazel Park has been 3-33 since 2012 has been their defense. The Vikings have
allowed the most points in the entire OAA in five of the last six seasons, they
allowed over 300 points in each season of that span, including 366 points in
2011, 304 points in 2012, 410 points in 2013, 416 points in 2014, 324 points in
2015, and 378 points last season, which was the worst in the OAA. Coach Kyle
Rowley has a lot of issues to address besides their defense. Depth is another
major concern as they are one of the lowest enrolled schools in the OAA. Hazel
Park should be solid offensively. There is a positive, they have 90 percent of
their team returning are Seniors. “I had four Seniors my first year, the next
year I had eight Seniors, last year I had 12 Seniors. This year 90 percent of
my team is Seniors. It’s kind of interesting, it’s going to be fun. I have
numbers to use, we have guys who know what they are doing and I think it’s
going to be a fun year” said coach Kyle Rowley. The Vikings are going to need
to keep improving on their scoring output. Hazel Park scored 172 points last
season, 170 points in 2015, and only 20 points in 2014. The Vikings have quarterback
Damien Eward, fullback Austin Bethner, lineman Noah Halleck, running back
Dacorious Cooper, and wide receivers Cam Harris and Logan Hamilton. Hazel Park
has to address their rivalry with their rival to the east in Warren Fitzgerald.
The Vikings have not done well against the Spartans, they have been dominated
157-18 in the last three meetings, including a 65-6 beat down at Hazel Park
last season. The Vikings and Warren Fitzgerald play on the east side of
Dequindre on August 24th. If Hazel Park can’t address their Spartan problem
then it could be a long season yet again for the Vikings.
WHY 2-7: The Vikings have experience but there is something with 3-33 since 2012. Hazel Park has a ton of issues especially on the defensive side of the football. In their last four games Hazel Park was outscored 188-72 and they open up with Warren Fitzgerald on the road in which they were dominated by them 157-18. I think the Vikings are in some serious trouble this season despite having 90 percent of their team being Seniors. They really need to step their game up if they want to do something this season.
PONTIAC PHOENIX
Last Season: 0-9, 0-6 Blue. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 76 (8.4 ppg), 47 in Blue (6.7 ppg)
Points Against: 316 (35.1 ppg), 214 in Blue (30.5 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 8th vs North
Farmington
Rank: 23
Projected Strengths: Hard Workers.
Projected Weakness: Culture, Talent, and Depth.
Projection: 3-6, 0-6 Blue.
If there has been one team that has things rough, it’s been
the Phoenix. Pontiac has gone through a lot going on their sixth coach in seven
seasons since coach Brad Zube left the program. The Phoenix are 2-43 since
2011, including three 0-9 seasons, 2011 was the last time they made the
playoffs. Pontiac has not won a game since 2014 when they beat Hazel Park 17-0.
There is some optimism with the Phoenix with the hard work and dedication the
players have put into the program. “It’s been a struggle. A lot of kids have
moved out and going to other schools and you can’t get mad at them for wanting
to get a better education or go to a better football team. We have a good group
of kids who came back and stuck with the program, it’s been good all summer”
said new Pontiac coach Charles Talley. Talley is the Phoenix’s sixth coach in
seven years, he will need to bring stability to this program that’s needs it in
the worst way. Pontiac does not have a lot of numbers when it comes to depth
throughout the program, it’s like starting over. “I had four kids in the weight
room in the end of the school year. We ended up getting 16 kids and we’re
trying to introduce the program to the Junior High School (Pontiac) and the
other programs as well” said Talley. They have made some progress on the
defensive side of the football, lowering their points allowed from 340 points
back in 2015 to 316 points last season. The next step for Pontiac will be to
fix their offense. The Phoenix have not scored over 100 points in three
straight years. The Phoenix scored a season low 61 total points in 2014 but they
have improved since then. They scored 70 total points in 2015 and 76 total
points last season. Pontiac will have some athletes returning in quarterback Dominique Stovall, running back
Dutch Blake, wide receiver Moses DeJesus, running back Romell Chambers, and linebacker Mike King. Stovall, DeJesus, King,
Blake, and Chambers will likely will play both ways. The Phoenix are improving
every day “They have been working really hard in the weight room and
conditioning and getting ready for the upcoming season” Talley concluded. It
will take hard work and dedication and Talley has this team heading in the
right direction, the wins will come for Pontiac.
WHY 3-6: I have some optimism for the Phoenix, now if only this team create some stability in the coaching ranks, then Pontiac can start growing again. The Phoenix have talent to compete, I don't if they are ready for league play yet but I can see this team win three games, they were right there with some of them last season. Pontiac will be better than people think and coach Charles Talley will get them there and win games.
ROYAL OAK RAVENS
Last Season: 2-7, 2-4 Blue. Didn’t make Postseason.
Points Scored: 190 (21.1 ppg), 140 in Blue (20 ppg)
Points Against: 225 (25 ppg), 135 in Blue (19.2 ppg)
Game Of the Year: September 1st vs North
Farmington
Rank: 21
Projected Strengths: ????
Projected Weakness: Everything.
Projection: 2-7, 2-4 Blue.
The Ravens failed to reach expectations with many believing
that they would had taken the next step to building their program like they did
in 2015 when they went 4-5 but they did not. People would say that coach Ray
McMann’s team took a step back when you look at the stats and the stats back it
up. Royal Oak has not made the playoffs since 2006, the first season Royal Oak
merged Kimball and Dondero and is 6-21 since 2014. The Ravens lost some talent from a team that lost
four games by a combined 19 points. Royal Oak was not a consistent team last
season, they had a big 28-21 win over Troy but they had some bad losses, including
a 19-14 setback to Hazel Park on their Homecoming. The Ravens have to address
their offense which has not been consistent. In the last four seasons, Royal
Oak has not scored over 200 points, including their lowest being 55 points they
scored in 2013. The Ravens scored 190 points last season and 185 points in
2015. “Offensely I didn’t think we held onto the ball enough so our defense was
on the field more” said McMann. Royal Oak’s defense took a hit last season
allowing 225 points, compared to 193 points in 2015. “We played a couple of
pass happy teams (Stockbridge and Bloomfield Hills), our secondary let guys get
behind them and once that happens, you’re playing catch up, going back and
forth” said McMann. The Ravens will be a great unknown this season but have
some talent coming back. Royal Oak will be led by quarterback Carter Ellis,
wide receiver Joe Binkowski, fullback Will Stevens, and defensive backs Dane
Collins and Pat Tesho. The Ravens will have a ton of guys going two ways but
they have a lot of goals this season. “I think our goal will be hold on to the
ball a little bit more, try to be a little bit more explosive, to have those
big plays. We need to finish games” McMann added. Royal Oak had a really bad
loss last season to Lakeview 21-0. They have been thinking about that game and
they open up with the Huskies on August 24th. “St. Clair Shores
Lakeview is a very good team. I think some of our kids took them for granted,
playing strictly a run team (St. Clair Shores Lakeview runs a Wing T Offense.)
We were down 14-0, three minutes into the game. Mentally our kids could had
never come back. They (The Huskies) averaged 38 points per game and we held
them to 21. Defensibly we did a job but offensively we couldn’t score. Being at
home helps but that game left a bad taste on our mouths, we showed them the
film of that game over and over so that doesn’t happen again” McMann concluded.
The Ravens have a ton of questions, they have to address everything on this
lineup and have to step their game up to be competitive.
WHY 2-7: I have some big concerns surrounding the Ravens. Royal Oak is 6-21 since 2014 which is not good as well. The Ravens are a mess especially on the offensive side of the football. The schedule is interesting with North Farmington, Avondale, Ferndale, St. Clair Shores Lakeview, and Macomb Lutheran North coming to Royal Oak but they have to go to Farmington. The Ravens are a football team has me concerned and for the wrong reasons. It could very well be a long season for Royal Oak again this season.
OAA Blue
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiRsqfEnghA
