Why 2019 is very important for both North Farmington and Farmington.

Written Saturday September 30th at 10:45 AM

The city of Farmington has really struggled with football.

Besides Harrison which has been rolling under legendary coach John Herrington winning State Championships and being the consistent football power in Farmington.

Back in 2016 the Farmington School District deemed that it would be Harrison that would close thanks to declining enrollment. The Hawks will no longer be a school in 2019-2020.

What does that do???

You have the other two Farmington schools that have been struggling putting together their own stamps on their programs.

The first school mentioned is North Farmington. The Raiders are 1-14 since 2016 but what is concerning to me is that North Farmington has not scored a point in three weeks. The Raiders have a new coach in Bob Chiesa, whom is putting together a program from scratch. “You can’t change the past, but you can learn from the past” said Chiesa during Media Day. North Farmington’s participation numbers are up from a year ago. I believe this is a program that has the right coach and system in place but it takes time to build a program and teams like the Raiders have to take their lumps during the season. The only issue I have is the uniforms which Chiesa said will change after the season.

The second school is Farmington. The Falcons are 2-14 (1-15 technically) since their 17-14 loss to Orion in 2015. Farmington also has a new coach in Kory Ciroch. Ciroch was the defensive coordinator under then coach John Bechtel. The Falcons moved from the White to the Blue this season but the problems have continued especially on the defensive side of the football where they are giving up a ton of points. Losing Donovan King to a knee injury has hurt this team no doubt but this program has some big issues it needs to address especially in the lower levels.

This season has been pretty rough for both teams as they are a combined 2-10 this season. The Raiders and Farmington will meet in two weeks at North Farmington for the Farmington Cup. The Falcons hold the trophy after winning 40-9 at home over North Farmington last season.

Both coaches know where they need to fix to get their programs into title contention in the future.

The 2019 season will be interesting for both teams because that is when Harrison will close. You got to wonder where the Harrison kids will go for the 2019 season??? will they go to Farmington or will they go to North Farmington. I think these next two seasons are pivotal for both programs to see where they are at heading into the future.

Ferndale Keeps on Rolling but can they sustain it???

Written Saturday September 30th at 10:00 AM
Updated Wednesday October 4th at 11:30 AM

The Ferndale Eagles have been a football doormat for years.

Ferndale since their last playoff appearance in 2008 was 22-41.

My oh my has things changed.

Since the 2016 season the Eagles have turned things around going 12-4 since, making the playoffs last season before losing in the first round to eventual State Champs Detroit Martin Luther King.

A lot of that has to be credited with the MHSAA Co-Op Program that was merged between Ferndale and Ferndale University. The program was a big reason why the Eagles were in Division Two and not Division Three for playoffs last season. The MHSAA took into account both Ferndale and Ferndale University's enrollment numbers when they determined where they put the Eagles at.

Even though most of the talent is from Ferndale there are some talent that have went to Ferndale University. Four starters on the team are enrolled at Ferndale University.

Also, what has helped the Eagles is they have three very good football players in KeShawn Smith, Zoser Little, and Anthony Merriman. Smith is the team’s quarterback and was very instrumental in their 42-21 comeback win over Royal Oak. He had 134 yards passing with three passing touchdowns along with six carries for 51 yards. Zoser Little is the team’s running back. He was too also huge against the Ravens with 30 carries for 302 yards and three scores. Merriman is the team’s top wide receiver and he had six receptions for 103 yards and one score.

Ferndale controls their own destiny in the Blue as they sit at 5-1 with their only loss being to Avondale. The Eagles have Hazel Park whom is leading the Blue and at 4-2 overall coming to Ferndale in two weeks.

How will Ferndale Do Against the White or Red???

Now the Eagles in the Blue division, I wonder how coach Erik Royal’s team would do against better competition and bigger enrolled schools???

Ferndale is the second smallest school in the OAA based on enrollment but I wonder how they would match up against teams in the White or even the Red.

It could be possible next season that the Eagles move up to the White which means possible future clashes with the likes of Harrison, Troy Athens, Groves, Seaholm, Rochester, Troy, and Stoney Creek.

I think Ferndale can hold their own in the White, that’s how much of a roll they are on but Royal knows his team would need to step their games up if they move up a division. The move up will also help with playoff points as well. I don’t think they would matchup well with the likes of Southfield Arts and Tech, Oak Park, Clarkston, West Bloomfield, Adams, Orion, or Oxford.

The Eagles are rolling right now but can they keep this momentum up for years to come???, that is the question but right now Ferndale is in a good spot.

Week Six Recap.

Written Friday September 29th at 11:00 PM

1. Oak Park

2. West Bloomfield

3. Adams

4. Clarkston

5. Groves

6. Ferndale

7. Harrison

8. Avondale

9. Southfield Arts and Tech

10. Bloomfield Hills

WEST BLOOMFIELD 57, OXFORD 27

BLOOMFIELD HILLS 27, ORION 21

STONEY CREEK 16, SEAHOLM 14

GROVES 21, TROY 3

AVONDALE 45, FARMINGTON 26

OAK PARK 62, BERKLEY 0

HARRISON 42, ROCHESTER 7

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 44, NORTH FARMINGTON 0

CLARKSTON 45, TROY ATHENS 13

ADAMS 38, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 14

HAZEL PARK 48, PONTIAC 0

FERNDALE 42, ROYAL OAK 31

BIG WIN: Adams: The Highlanders sent a message that they are for real when they beat Southfield Arts and Tech 38-14 setting up a big showdown with Clarkston next week. Adams used a strong second half to put the Warriors away. The Highlanders are proving right now that they are in good shape heading into postseason play.

TOUGH LOSS: Seaholm: The Maples have had two tough losses to both Rochester schools in the last two weeks, first it was to Rochester where they fell 28-27 and last week they lost 16-14 to Stoney Creek. Seaholm has been dealing with injuries but they have been in games where they could had won. The Maples have to go to Troy next week, that is another winnable game for Seaholm. It would help their confidence if they beat the Colts next week.

TEAM ON THE RISE: Groves: If only the Falcons can address their in-house issues after a 21-3 win over Troy on Thursday night. Groves has big wins over Harrison and Novi which is really helping their cause. The Falcons haven’t lost a beat and they host Rochester next week.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Farmington: The Falcons have no direction at all and is in deep trouble after a 45-26 loss to Avondale on Thursday. Farmington couldn’t stop anyone on defense, something that they have had problems in the last two seasons. I just don’t like the direction the program is going right now. The Falcons have lost 15 of their last 16 games (including the Walled Lake Western game where they got forfeit win) dating back to the 2015 season. Farmington is in deep trouble, a disaster in making right now.

WHAT HAPPENED: Royal Oak: The Ravens had a 24-0 lead and everyone thought an upset would happen, that was until the Eagles went on a 42-7 run to stun Royal Oak on the road 42-31 on Friday night. Ferndale battled back and never gave up putting up a strong second half performance when they trailed 31-14 at the half. This is a big win for coach Eric Royal. For coach Ray McMann, I don’t know what to say, this is demoralizing for the Ravens being at home and having the Eagles on the ropes but instead they let Ferndale off the hook. It wouldn’t surprise me next season that the Eagles move up to the White.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Orion: It’s been a long season for the Dragons and losing 27-21 to Bloomfield Hills hurts but I like the direction where this program is going. Orion has talent waiting in the wings but they have to address some things, particularly in the secondary but anyway coach John Blackstock has this team in the right direction, even though the record says 1-5, the schedule has been very brutal, so this might be the team to give a pass to this season.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Berkley: The Bears have lost five of six games but this put the icing to the cake when Berkley got destroyed 62-0 by Oak Park on Thursday night. I know the Knights are good and all that but what does this say for coach Billy Keenist’s team??? 62 points is the most points allowed since they allowed 61 to Owosso back in 1951. The Bears will be back at Hurley Field next week when they play Stoney Creek.

Groves in spotlight but not in good way.

Written Friday September 29th at 7:05 PM

It looks like an incident could be a major distraction for the Groves football team.

In wake of the Falcons 21-3 win over Troy on Thursday night, two Groves football players said they were assaulted in the school’s parking lot.

According to WDIV, they said that the attack was believed to be at random and unmotivated but both players admitted that they gave a false report to school officials after it became clear that the incident was caught on their security cameras.

Groves sent out two letters with the first letter alerting students, parents, and staff that the two players were safe and decided that two people attacked one football player while the other one stopped the attack.

The players then changed their story saying that it wasn’t a random attack but a fight which caused Groves officials to send another letter to students, parents, and staff saying that one of the players knew the attackers and that it was a fight.

Minor injuries did occur.

It is unknown that if the players will face charges of filing a false police report but Groves officials said that there will be discipline for the players.

Thoughts

This could be a distraction for the Falcons football team after getting a win. Groves is 5-1 right now. The incident is the talk of the town.

It’s important for coach Brendan Flaherty to keep his team together and not let this incident be a distraction.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Here is the article from WDIV right here.

https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/oakland-county-high-school-football-players-say-they-were-attacked-in-parking-lot-after-game

Currie De-Commits from Michigan instead Commits to Wisconsin.

Written Friday September 29th at 6:00 PM
Updated Tuesday October 31st at 10:00 PM

Clarkston center Taylor Currie will not be at Michigan after all.

According to his Twitter feed, Currie officially de-committed from Michigan and will now head to Madison to play for the Wisconsin Badgers next season.

Currie said on Twitter after de-commiting from Michigan. “After careful consideration and discussing it with my family, I have decided to de-commit from the University of Michigan and open my recruitment for both the classes of 2018 and 2019. In June, I committed to the University of Michigan because I grew up with a love for the school. However, since my commitment, I have learned more about the recruiting process and what factors should play into a decision. I want to thank Coach (John) Beilein for giving me the opportunity to play at Michigan and for the support throughout this process.”

Currie responded on Twitter about coming to Wisconsin "I'm grateful to announce that I'm a Wisconsin Badger. Thank you Coach Gard (Greg Gard) and Coach Oliver for the opportunity. #OnWisconsin."

Currie was reclassified as a Senior for this season in the summer.

Currie came to Clarkston from Ohio and won a State Championship last season with the Wolves. He will be part of a Clarkston team that is loaded this season with Michigan State bound players Foster Loyer and Thomas Kithier, along with CJ Robinson, Tristen Mysen, and Nick Wells for coach Dan Fife.

Thoughts

This is an interesting decision that Currie de-committed from Michigan but he decided to stay in the Big Ten and go to Wisconsin. The Badgers will be solid next season and for years to come.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Week Six Picks.

Written Tuesday September 26th at 8:40 AM

Welcome to the 2017 OAA Football Season, this season we will pick games that include OAA Teams. This year we have Anthony Taormina from History Now and Between Taorminas on Orion Neighborhood Television, Scott Burnstein from MIPrepZone and State Champs, Dan Stickradt from North Oakland Sports, Keith Dunlap a free-lance writer at the Detroit Free Press, and Sean Cotter Ford worker and Farmington loyalist.

SAMMY 35-31

ANT 45-21

SEAN 45-21

STICK 49-17

KEITH 51-15

BURNEY 45-21

Berkley at 1. Oak Park

The Knights are rolling, destroying opponents lately outscoring their league opponents 158-14, including a 48-0 beatdown of Stoney Creek on the road. This week the blowouts should continue when the Bears come into Knight Valley. Berkley has lost four of five, including a 24-9 setback to Troy last week. This could be a long week for the Bears against Oak Park.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 42, BERKLEY 0.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 56, BERKLEY 0.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 56, BERKLEY 0.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 48, BERKLEY 7.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 45, BERKLEY 0.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 35, BERKLEY 22.

Oxford at 2. West Bloomfield

The Lakers are riding on all cylinders beating Adams 17-16 last week. The Wildcats have been struggling including allowing 48 points to Clarkston in a 48-0 beatdown last week at home. Oxford has lost six of seven games since the end of the 2016 season. It could get ugly again for the Wildcats in the Swamp against a West Bloomfield team ready to dominate.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, OXFORD 7.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 42, OXFORD 7.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 42, OXFORD 17.

STICK PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, OXFORD 14.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 45, OXFORD 14.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 31, OXFORD 20.

5. Southfield Arts and Tech at 3. Adams

This might be the best matchup around the league this week. The Highlanders came off a difficult loss to West Bloomfield 17-16 at home. The Warriors survived Orion 24-16 last week. Adams and Southfield Arts and Tech do not like each other. Looking at this matchup this one could go down to the wire again but difference could be discipline and that favors the Highlanders.

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 28, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 20.

ANT PICK: ADAMS 27, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 24.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 35, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 20.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 28, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 24.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 28, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 24.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 33, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 30.

4. Clarkston at Troy Athens

This could get ugly for the Red Hawks, last week they were shutout 48-0 by Bloomfield Hills. This week they have Clarkston coming to town. The Wolves destroyed Oxford on the road by the same score as the Bloomfield Hills/Troy Athens score 48-0. Clarkston is 58-9 since 2011 while Troy Athens is 13-37 since 2011. Notice a trend here.

SAMMY PICK: CLARKSTON 63, TROY ATHENS 0.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 49, TROY ATHENS 0.

SEAN PICK: CLARKSTON 49, TROY ATHENS 0.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 35, TROY ATHENS 14.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 42, TROY ATHENS 0.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 40, TROY ATHENS 25.

10. Troy at 6. Groves

This could be an interesting matchup. The Colts are a mystery team, sometimes they play well like they did against Avondale when they put up 48 points or when they play bad when they put up seven points against Stoney Creek. Last week Troy won 24-9 over Berkley to send their record to 4-1 on the season. This week, the Colts takes on a Groves team that is coming off an emotional triple overtime win over Harrison 32-31 last week. It seems the Falcons are back and they very well could be.

SAMMY PICK: GROVES 28, TROY 7.

ANT PICK: GROVES 35, TROY 17.

SEAN PICK: GROVES 28, TROY 10.

STICK PICK: GROVES 21, TROY 20.

KEITH PICK: GROVES 28, TROY 10.

BURNEY PICK: GROVES 29, TROY 23.

7. Ferndale at Royal Oak

The Eagles are rolling right now, they are 11-4 since 2016. Ferndale has fared very well as of late, which included a 36-0 beatdown of North Farmington. This week they are taking on a Ravens team that can’t score as of late. With teams not name Pontiac, Royal Oak has scored 14 points, which both resulted in losses. The Ravens need to score points and fast. It could be an interesting test down at Royal Oak this week.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 28, ROYAL OAK 7.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 35, ROYAL OAK 14.

SEAN PICK: FERNDALE 21, ROYAL OAK 14.

STICK PICK: FERNDALE 34, ROYAL OAK 21.

KEITH PICK: FERNDALE 24, ROYAL OAK 17.

BURNEY PICK: FERNDALE 28, ROYAL OAK 18.

8. Harrison at Rochester

All is well for the Falcons, picking up a big win over Seaholm 28-27 last week in the Maple Forest. This week they could face a dose of reality when they have to play Harrison. The Hawks lost 32-31 in triple overtime last week and they look to get back in the win column. It could be a long week for the school song that sounds like a prince.

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 35, ROCHESTER 14.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 42, ROCHESTER 7.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 48, ROCHESTER 7.

STICK PICK: HARRISON 28, ROCHESTER 21.

KEITH PICK:  HARRISON 35, ROCHESTER 14.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 38, ROCHESTER 18.

9. Avondale at Farmington

The Falcons grabbed a bounce back win beating Pontiac 46-6 giving coach Kory Ciroch his first win as a head coach. This week his team hosts a red hot Yellow Jackets team that has won three straight games since an 0-2 start. Avondale beat Royal Oak 21-7 last week. The Yellow Jackets are rolling, I’m not sure if there will be any let up.

SAMMY PICK: AVONDALE 35, FARMINGTON 7.

ANT PICK: AVONDALE 42, FARMINGTON 7.

SEAN PICK: AVONDALE 28, FARMINGTON 7.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 34, FARMINGTON 14.

KEITH PICK: AVONDALE 31, FARMINGTON 10.

BURNEY PICK: AVONDALE 26, FARMINGTON 25.

Orion at Bloomfield Hills

The Blackhawks have been playing much better since allowing 54 points to Adams two weeks ago. They destroyed Troy Athens 48-0 last week. Bloomfield Hills will face an Orion team that they shutout 21-0 last season. The Dragons have played a brutal schedule this season but they are better than their record indicates. Barring two horrible penalties last week in their 24-16 loss to Southfield Arts and Tech, Orion has seemed to find an identity on the offensive side of the football. The Dragons defense will face a deep test this week.

SAMMY PICK: ORION 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28.

ANT PICK: ORION 28, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 27.

SEAN PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, ORION 21.

STICK PICK: ORION 24, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

KEITH PICK: ORION 17, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 16.

BURNEY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 27, ORION 21.

Seaholm at Stoney Creek

The Cougars had a rough time with Oak Park last week losing 48-0. Stoney Creek has not been able to score as of late with their big problem being their lines up front. The Maples picked up a really bad 28-27 loss in the Maple Forest to Rochester last week. This one could be interesting to watch, I think there could be an upset here in the making.

SAMMY PICK: STONEY CREEK 17, SEAHOLM 14.

ANT PICK: SEAHOLM 17, STONEY CREEK 14.

SEAN PICK: STONEY CREEK 19, SEAHOLM 14.

STICK PICK: SEAHOLM 27, STONEY CREEK 21.

KEITH PICK: SEAHOLM 17, STONEY CREEK 14.

BURNEY PICK: SEAHOLM 27, STONEY CREEK 17.

Hazel Park at Pontiac

This could be an interesting matchup between the Vikings and the Phoenix at Wisner Stadium. Hazel Park beat Pontiac 38-25 last season. The Phoenix are coming off a terrible 46-6 loss to Farmington last week while the Vikings lost 32-12 to Clinton Township Clintondale last week. Someone will be on the right end of a bounce back victory this week.

SAMMY PICK: HAZEL PARK 31, PONTIAC 12.

ANT PICK: HAZEL PARK 42, PONTIAC 14.

SEAN PICK: HAZEL PARK 38, PONTIAC 6.

STICK PICK: HAZEL PARK 35, PONTIAC 13.

KEITH PICK: HAZEL PARK 31, PONTIAC 6.

BURNEY PICK: HAZEL PARK 34, PONTIAC 26.

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep at North Farmington

The Raiders lost 36-0 to Ferndale last week and is 1-13 since 2016. This week North Farmington hosts Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, a team that is red hot with a 4-1 record outscoring their opponents 198-26, with the Irish’s only loss being a 26-21 decision to Warren Michigan Collegiate. This could be a long day for the Raiders this week.

SAMMY PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 42, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

ANT PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 35, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

SEAN PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 42, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

STICK PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 28, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

KEITH PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 41, NORTH FARMINGTON 10.

BURNEY PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 24, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

Week Five Recap.

Written Saturday September 23rd at 12:50 AM

1. Oak Park

2. West Bloomfield

3. Adams

4. Clarkston

5. Southfield Arts and Tech

6. Groves

7. Ferndale

8. Harrison

9. Avondale

10. Troy

WEST BLOOMFIELD 17, ADAMS 16

GROVES 32, HARRISON 31

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 24, ORION 16

FERNDALE 36, NORTH FARMINGTON 0

CLARKSTON 48, OXFORD 0

TROY 24, BERKLEY 9

FARMINGTON 46, PONTIAC 6

ROCHESTER 28, SEAHOLM 27

OAK PARK 48, STONEY CREEK 0

AVONDALE 21, ROYAL OAK 7

BLOOMFIELD HILLS 48, TROY ATHENS 0

Clinton Township Clintondale 30, HAZEL PARK 14

BIG WIN: West Bloomfield. The Lakers had to overcome a solid Adams squad on the road 17-16 on Friday night. West Bloomfield scored on two big passing plays and got a field goal to secure a big win. The West Bloomfield win creates a four-way tie on top of the Red with the Lakers, the Highlanders, Clarkston, and Southfield Arts and Tech. This will be interesting to close out the final four weeks of the regular season.

TOUGH LOSS: Seaholm. The Maples lost a heartbreaker at home to Rochester 28-27. Seaholm’s playoff hopes are all but dashed after this tough loss. The Maples will go to Stoney Creek next week to play the Cougars.

TEAM ON THE RISE: Avondale. The Yellow Jackets are finally putting things together following a 21-7 win over Royal Oak on the road behind their starting quarterback Adam Mathier. Mathier accounted for 200 yards in total offense. He had one passing and rushing score on the night. Avondale will host Farmington next week.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Troy. Yes, the Colts sit at 4-1 after a 24-9 win over Berkley but look at who Troy plays to close out the season. They have to go to Groves next week, then they host Seaholm, and then in two weeks travel to Oak Park before closing out the season with Troy Athens. The Colts right now are riding high but looking at the schedule, it looks bleak.

WHAT HAPPENED: Oxford. The Wildcats were no match at home against Clarkston on Friday night as the Wolves won 48-0 in front of a shocked Oxford crowd. Clarkston used the big plays against the Wildcats. Oxford has another tough one next week as they travel to West Bloomfield to play the Lakers.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Harrison. For the second straight season Groves beats the Hawks again, this time in triple overtime at 32-31. The Falcons played a strong first half while Harrison played a strong second half. This has been tough luck lately for the Hawks against Groves and at home too that makes matters worse. Last season it was 14-7 in favor of the Falcons, this might be more painful losing a game like this. Harrison goes to Rochester next week.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Hazel Park. What happened to former Troy coach Gary Griffith’s defense against Clintondale??? Now I know the Dragons have a good offense and came in at 3-1 but for Hazel Park whom is bigger in enrollment than Clintondale to allow 30 points and fall 30-14 at home is not a good feeling. The schedule will ease up a little bit for the Vikings as they have Pontiac next week. Hazel Park still controls their own destiny in the Blue but they have to address things and quick.

Updated Volleyball Top Ten Right Now.

Written Thursday September 21st at 12:35 AM

Here is the updated top ten surrounding Volleyball right now as we speak.

1. Clarkston: Some things never change with the Wolves, they struggle early and then get better in the middle to late in the season. That’s what’s going on with Clarkston. If it isn’t broke don’t fix the trend.

2. Orion: Dragons have been injury prone as of late. When healthy this team can be very dangerous going forward.

3. Stoney Creek: The Cougars lost to Clarkston on Tuesday but coach Ross Talbott’s team will not be counted out.

4. Troy: The Colts are rolling along, winning the Tribune Invitational last weekend and beating Oxford in four hard games on Tuesday. Troy will be a team to watch later in the season for coach Tom Vigilant.

5. Adams: Highlanders are rolling right now behind their veteran crew for coach Bridgette Harding. There is a reason why Adams is the favorite in the White this season.

6. Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks are surprising struggling getting swept by Stoney Creek and Orion. That’s not a good sign for coach Bob Hurdle’s team and that’s not even playing Clarkston or Seaholm yet.

7. Seaholm: Maples starting to put things together for coach Heather Lippert’s crew. I’ll be curious once the schedule toughens up to see where they stack up against the rest of the Red.

8. Harrison: Hawks are the queens of Farmington winning the City Crown over North Farmington and Farmington. I wonder if they can keep the momentum going, especially in the always tough White.

9. Oxford: Wildcats are being very competitive, including a tough loss to a very good Troy team. Coach Brian Kim has Oxford heading in the right direction in a very tough Red.

10. Rochester: Falcons had a bounce back week since losing to Harrison. Rochester beat Berkley in three to get back in the win column.

Week Five Picks.

Written Wednesday September 20th at 12:10 PM

Welcome to the 2017 OAA Football Season, this season we will pick games that include OAA Teams. This year we have Anthony Taormina from History Now and Between Taorminas on Orion Neighborhood Television, Scott Burnstein from MIPrepZone and State Champs, Dan Stickradt from North Oakland Sports, Keith Dunlap a free-lance writer at the Detroit Free Press, and Sean Cotter Ford worker and Farmington loyalist.

SAMMY 28-26

ANT 37-17

SEAN 37-17

STICK 41-13

KEITH 43-11

BURNEY 36-18

4. West Bloomfield at 1. Adams

This will be one of the biggest games in the State this weekend in Rochester. The Lakers have had two bounce back games where they outscored both Orion and Clarkston 86-36 in that span which included a 37-15 victory over the Wolves. The Highlanders have been rolling this season, including putting 39 on Orion, and 54 against Bloomfield Hills in a 54-14 beatdown last week. Adams has dominated their opponents this season 164-41. West Bloomfield could be defensive prone at times. The points against will be put to the test against the Lakers and their pass happy college recruit attack. This will be the biggest test the Highlanders have faced at home this season.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, ADAMS 14.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, ADAMS 14.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 34, WEST BLOOMFIELD 28.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 35, WEST BLOOMFIELD 34.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 27, ADAMS 24.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, ADAMS 27.

2. Oak Park at Stoney Creek

The Knights made a statement going into Beverly Hills and beating Groves 34-14 last week. Since the 24-7 loss to Utica Eisenhower, Oak Park has only allowed 14 points and have put up 110 points so far in the season. The points should continue against a Cougars team that lost a ugly 7-3 game to Troy. Stoney Creek has not been good offensively scoring only 33 points this season. The Cougars are in big trouble in this game.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 49, STONEY CREEK 7.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 56, STONEY CREEK 7.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 49, STONEY CREEK 0

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 47, STONEY CREEK 7.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 31, STONEY CREEK 13.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 40, STONEY CREEK 18.

7. Groves at 3. Harrison

If there is one team that needs a bounce back week it’s the Falcons. Groves lost 34-14 to Oak Park last week with the Knights wearing them down in the second half. This week they play a Hawks team that remembers what happened to them last season when Groves went into Farmington and beat Harrison 14-7. The Hawks destroyed Seaholm 49-7 last week and have been rolling since, getting closer to the all-time win total for their coach John Herrington. This one could be an interesting matchup to keep an eye on.

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 28, GROVES 14.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 24, GROVES 21.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 31, GROVES 6.

STICK PICK: HARRISON 28, GROVES 21.

KEITH PICK: HARRISON 17, GROVES 14.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 20, GROVES 17.

5. Clarkston at Oxford

The Wolves saw a three-game win streak snapped at the hands of West Bloomfield last week losing 37-15. The Wildcats have struggled this season especially on the defensive side of the football in which they have allowed 102 points, including a 32-12 loss to Southfield Arts and Tech. Clarkston has a ton of depth in this matchup which is a problem for Oxford in this game

SAMMY PICK: CLARKSTON 35, OXFORD 7.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 35, OXFORD 14.

SEAN PICK: CLARKSTON 28, OXFORD 10.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 28, OXFORD 14.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 21, OXFORD 14.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 31, OXFORD 21.

6. Southfield Arts and Tech at Orion

The Warriors have been red hot since losing to Clarkston 17-7 two weeks ago. They have outscored their last two opponents in Troy Athens and Oxford 82-32 in that span, including a 32-12 victory last week over the Wildcats. Southfield Arts and Tech will face a Dragons team that beat them last season in Southfield 21-14 and seems to be turning the corner a bit after winning their first game of the season 26-6 last week over Troy Athens. Orion will be wearing special jerseys for their Mothers Wish game in which they are 1-1 in those games.

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

ANT PICK: ORION 17, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 14.

SEAN PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 39, ORION 14.

STICK PICK: ORION 21, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 20.

KEITH PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 35, ORION 17.

BURNEY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 34, ORION 20.

8. Ferndale at North Farmington

This matchup fits two teams that wear gold and brown as their colors. The Eagles took back the yard last week shocking Birmingham Detroit Country Day 17-7 on the road. This week Ferndale take on a Raiders team that struggled last week losing 47-0 to Avondale. North Farmington has allowed 148 points this season, which is tied with Pontiac. The Eagles are scoring a ton of points, this one could get ugly in Farmington Hills.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 48, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 35, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

SEAN PICK: FERNDALE 42, NORTH FARMINGTON 0.

STICK PICK: FERNDALE 34, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

KEITH PICK: FERNDALE 34, NORTH FARMINGTON 10.

BURNEY PICK:  FERNDALE 26, NORTH FARMINGTON 16.

Clinton Township Clintondale at 9. Hazel Park

This will be a big test for the Vikings as the Dragons come in at 4-0 and have scored over 50 points in three of their four games including last week 50-14 beatdown of Warren Lincoln. Hazel Park whom won 18-7 last week over Farmington has really improved on their defense since Gary Griffith has come over from Troy. This will be a challenging game for coach Kyle Rowley’s team with Clintondale. They are solid.

SAMMY PICK: HAZEL PARK 19, CLINTON TOWNSHIP CLINTONDALE 12.

ANT PICK: HAZEL PARK 14, CLINTON TOWNSHIP CLINTONDALE 13.

SEAN PICK: HAZEL PARK 26, CLINTON TOWNSHIP CLINTONDALE 6.

STICK PICK: HAZEL PARK 28, CLINTON TOWNSHIP CLINTONDALE 27.

KEITH PICK: HAZEL PARK 17, CLINTON TOWNSHIP CLINTONDALE 13.

BURNEY PICK: CLINTON TOWNSHIP CLINTONDALE 34, HAZEL PARK 28.

Berkley at 10. Troy

The Colts have won their last two games by a combined 11 points including a 7-3 win over Stoney Creek last week. Troy still has to play Oak Park, Seaholm, Groves, and Troy Athens in the regular season and their only loss was when they allowed 30 points to Harrison in week two. They need this game against a Bears team that has not been the same since beating Farmington 28-23 in week one. Berkley has given up 132 points this season and has only scored 18 points since putting the 28 points on the Falcons since. The Bears lost 32-16 to Rochester last week. This will be a trap game for the Colts knowing what awaits them, also Troy lost 28-23 to Berkley last season.

SAMMY PICK: BERKLEY 21, TROY 17.

ANT PICK: TROY 24, BERKLEY 7.

SEAN PICK: TROY 35, BERKLEY 6.

STICK PICK: TROY 14, BERKLEY 7.

KEITH PICK: TROY 24, BERKLEY 10.

BURNEY PICK: TROY 24, BERKLEY 23.

Avondale at Royal Oak

The Yellow Jackets have picked it up lately since losing 24-21 to Hazel Park two weeks ago. Avondale won 47-0 last week over North Farmington. The Ravens have had a strong start to their season winning more than three games for the first time since 2015. Royal Oak destroyed Pontiac 42-6 last week. This one could be interesting but I think the Yellow Jackets athleticism will be too much for the Ravens.

SAMMY PICK: AVONDALE 27, ROYAL OAK 17.

ANT PICK: AVONDALE 28, ROYAL OAK 17.

SEAN PICK: AVONDALE 28, ROYAL OAK 14.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 28, ROYAL OAK 21.

KEITH PICK: ROYAL OAK 24, AVONDALE 21.

BURNEY PICK: ROYAL OAK 30, AVONDALE 22.

Troy Athens at Bloomfield Hills

The Blackhawks defense was exposed last week allowing 54 points to Adams in a 54-14 blowout loss at home. This week Bloomfield Hills takes on a Red Hawks team that has really struggled this season with lack of numbers. Troy Athens lost 26-6 last week to Orion on their Homecoming. The Red Hawks pass defense is not the greatest which should open up doors for the Blackhawks to get a much-needed win at home this week.

SAMMY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, TROY ATHENS 14.

ANT PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, TROY ATHENS 14.

SEAN PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, TROY ATHENS 14.

STICK PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, TROY ATHENS 21.

KEITH PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 35, TROY ATHENS 14.

BURNEY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 25, TROY ATHENS 16.

Rochester at Seaholm

This will be a matchup of two Senior heavy led teams that have been very disappointing this season. The Maples with their Senior experience I thought would have turned the corner but they have lost two straight where they were outscored 77-7 in that span. Seaholm should give them a pass because they played Oak Park and Harrison in which they lost both games. This week they play a Falcons team that really got a much-needed win beating Berkley 32-16 on Friday night at home. Rochester will be playing a different type of animal in the Maples. Whomever wins this game will be in good shape for another day.

SAMMY PICK: SEAHOLM 35, ROCHESTER 21.

ANT PICK: SEAHOLM 49, ROCHESTER 7.

SEAN PICK: SEAHOLM 28, ROCHESTER 14.

STICK PICK: ROCHESTER 24, SEAHOLM 21.

KEITH PICK: SEAHOLM 21, ROCHESTER 20.

BURNEY PICK: SEAHOLM 23, ROCHESTER 20.

Farmington at Pontiac

These are two 0-4 teams that one was expected to be here while the other not so much. The Phoenix were blown out by Royal Oak 42-6. The Falcons weren’t expected to be where they are at and they have no one to blame but themselves for what has gone on with them. Both sides of the football have been the big problem for Farmington in which they haven’t scored much and are giving up a ton of points. The Falcons have scored 58 points this season but only had seven last week in a 18-7 loss to Hazel Park. One of these two teams will get a win this week at Wisner Stadium.

SAMMY PICK: FARMINGTON 6, PONTIAC 3.

ANT PICK: FARMINGTON 7, PONTIAC 3.

SEAN PICK: FARMINGTON 35, PONTIAC 12.

STICK PICK: FARMINGTON 21, PONTIAC 7.

KEITH PICK: FARMINGTON 31, PONTIAC 6.

BURNEY PICK: FARMINGTON 28, PONTIAC 18.

Week Four Recap.

Written Saturday September 16th at 1:35 AM

1. Adams

2. Oak Park

3. Harrison

4. West Bloomfield

5. Clarkston

6. Southfield Arts and Tech

7. Groves

8. Ferndale

9. Hazel Park

10. Troy

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 32, OXFORD 12

FERNDALE 17, Birmingham Detroit Country Day 7

HAZEL PARK 18, FARMINGTON 7

TROY 7, STONEY CREEK 3

AVONDALE 47, NORTH FARMINGTON 0

ROYAL OAK 42, PONTIAC 6

WEST BLOOMFIELD 37, CLARKSTON 15

ADAMS 54, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14

ROCHESTER 32, BERKLEY 16

ORION 26, TROY ATHENS 6

HARRISON 49, SEAHOLM 7

OAK PARK 34, GROVES 14

BIG WIN: West Bloomfield: The Lakers did indeed make a statement in their military uniforms behind Bryce Veasley’s 23 for 35 for 325 yard passing performance with four touchdowns, three of them went to Tre Mosley and one went to Taj Mustapha. Veasley had 505 yards last week against Orion with four touchdowns to AJ Abbott but this performance against a stout defense in Clarkston says a lot. The Lakers picked off Nate Uballe four times on route to a 37-15 beatdown of the Wolves. The performance wasn’t all bad as Josh Cantu finished with 105 yards on the night. Clarkston will head to Oxford while West Bloomfield travels to Adams next week.

TOUGH LOSS: Groves: The Falcons were down 14-7 to Oak Park late in the first half and it seemed to be that way but the Knights answered with a 80 yard touchdown to go up 20-7 at the half. The touchdown resulted in Oak Park going on a 14-7 run in the second half on route to a 34-14 win over Groves in Beverly Hills. The Knights used a strong rushing performance to control the clock to get the victory for coach Greg Carter. Oak Park will go to Stoney Creek while the Falcons go to Harrison to play the surging Hawks.

TEAM ON THE RISE: Ferndale: The Eagles got a big bounce back from last week's shocking loss in Birmingham shocking the Yellow Jackets of Birmingham Detroit Country Day 17-7 on Friday night. Ferndale lost 21-13 to Avondale last week but they made sure that wouldn't happen again this week. DeShawn Smith and Zoser Little were huge in getting the Eagles a big time victory not only for the Eagles themselves but the OAA as well. Ferndale will be back in Blue play next week when they go to North Farmington to play the Raiders whom have been struggling as of late.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Troy: The Colts though sit at 3-1 but looking at the wins Troy’s best win was over Avondale 48-25 in week one. In their last two games the Colts have won by a combined 11 points. Troy got crushed by Harrison 30-3 three weeks ago and the Colts still have to play Groves, Seaholm, and Oak Park. Those will not be easy games. Coach Chris Frasier will have his work cut out for him but he should sleep easy next week when they host Berkley.

WHAT HAPPENED: Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks defense was exposed on Friday night at home against Adams. The Highlanders put up 54 points on route to a shocking 54-14 win over Bloomfield Hills. The Blackhawks duo of John Paddock and Ty Slaziniski was shut down by an aggressive Adams defense on rout to the victory. The Highlanders shut down Bloomfield Hills passing game and they took a pick back for a touchdown as well. The Blackhawks will host Troy Athens while Adams hosts West Bloomfield next week.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Stoney Creek: This is a team that has had a ton of heartbreaks in the last few weeks. Two weeks ago, it was Groves in which the Cougars lost 14-3 in Beverly Hills. This week it was to Troy in which Stoney Creek allowed a touchdown with 1:02 left in the game which gave the Colts a 7-3 escape in Rochester. The Cougars right now are struggling but they have been in a ton of football games which has made coach Bob Lantzy happy that they are competing in these close games. Stoney Creek right now seems to be heading in the right direction even though they host Oak Park next week.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Farmington: The Falcons have had all the hype surrounding this team, believing they can win the Blue and do well being in a lower division. However that has not been the case so far and it showed its ugly head again at  Hazel Park on Friday night. The big play got to them again all night which resulted in a 18-7 loss for Farmington to the Vikings. The Falcons have really struggled on all sides of the football which is not good for first year coach Kory Ciroch. Hazel Park added former Troy coach Gary Griffith to be their defensive coordinator for coach Kyle Rowley. Since the 24-21 win over Avondale, Hazel Park allowed 14 points since and this team has a favorable schedule going forward starting with next week when they play Clintondale. Things are looking very good right now for the Vikings with a favorable schedule coming up.

Stroud Out at Hazel Park.

Written Wednesday September 13th at 1:15 PM

The Vikings will be looking for a new Girls Basketball coach this late into the game.

Hazel Park coach Chris Stroud resigned from being the coach of the Vikings a few weeks ago citing an accurate source.

Hazel Park improved last season going 13-7 but lost in the district final to Detroit Mumford. This season the Vikings moved up from Class B to Class A because of their enrollment size. Hazel Park will be in a district with Detroit Renaissance, Warren Fitzgerald, Oak Park, and Berkley which will take place in Detroit. Both the Bears and Knights will be in the Blue with the Vikings.

Thoughts

The talent pool is far from bare as the Vikings return Liz Sternor and Trinity Benton. The new coach will have to put a program in place and bring stability to a program that needs it in the worst way.

This will be the third coach in three years at Hazel Park, two seasons ago it was Jessica Wiesler that coached this team then she left and is back in the OAA coaching at Groves, last season it was Stroud and then he left, this season we don't know who it will be.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest developments on this developing story.

Week Four Picks.

Written Tuesday September 12th at 11:00 PM

Welcome to the 2017 Football Season, this season we will pick games that include OAA Teams. This year we have Anthony Taormina from History Now and Between Taorminas on Orion Neighborhood Television, Scott Burnstein from MIPrepZone and State Champs, Dan Stickradt from North Oakland Sports, Keith Dunlap a free-lance writer at the Detroit Free Press, and Sean Cotter Ford worker and Farmington loyalist.

SAMMY 19-23

ANT 27-15

SEAN 28-14

STICK 31-11

KEITH 33-9

BURNEY 27-15

1. CLARKSTON at 7. WEST BLOOMFIELD

The Wolves may have the best offensive line in football and they showed who they were in beating Bloomfield Hills 34-20 last week. Clarkston trailed 20-13 late in the game before scoring 21 straight points. The Lakers which may have the best passing attack in the State used it to full capacity, scoring five touchdowns with it in a 49-21 win over Orion last week. This will be a fun game in the Swamp.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 42, CLARKSTON 35.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 24, WEST BLOOMFIELD 21.

SEAN PICK: CLARKSTON 28, WEST BLOOMFIELD 21.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 35, WEST BLOOMFIELD 34.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, CLARKSTON 21.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 28, WEST BLOOMFIELD 24.

4. OAK PARK at 2. GROVES

This matchup could possibly decide the White. The Falcons beat the Knights 13-12 in Knight Valley last season. This season’s matchup in Beverly Hills looks like it could live up to the hype again but Oak Park is veteran heavy and is motivated after what happened last season. Groves is also undefeated as well but the Knights haven’t allowed a point in the league as of yet.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 35, GROVES 14.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 35, GROVES 17.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 28, GROVES 7.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 35, GROVES 14.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 22, GROVES 20.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 25, GROVES 21.

3. ADAMS at 5. BLOOMFIELD HILLS

This will be a matchup based on two different styles of attacks. The Blackhawks like to use their passing duo of John Paddock and Ty Slazinski to do the balk of Bloomfield Hills damage. The Highlanders will like to slow things down with their veer attack and have two quarterbacks that can-do damage whether it’s Carter Farris with what he did against Orion in the air or with Zach Solodan with what he did against Oxford last week. Whoever’s style of play works will win this game in Bloomfield Hills.

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 31, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

ANT PICK: ADAMS 38, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 17.

SEAN PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28, ADAMS 24.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 31, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 31, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 27, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 26.

OXFORD at 6. SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

The Warriors bounced back last week getting a big 50-20 win over Troy Athens. Southfield Arts and Tech will use that athleticism and talent once again this week against a Wildcats team that loves to Pound the Rock. Oxford lost to Adams 33-13 last week. I’m worried for the Wildcats in this matchup against the Warriors with the game being a 5:30 PM start.

SAMMY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 42, OXFORD 14.

ANT PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 35, OXFORD 14.

SEAN PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 35, OXFORD 17.

STICK PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 21, OXFORD 14.

KEITH PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28, OXFORD 14.

BURNEY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 41, OXFORD 22.

8. HARRISON at SEAHOLM

This is a must win game for the Maples in the Maple Forest. Seaholm lost 28-0 last week to Oak Park and is a veteran heavy team. The Hawks won 47-8 against Stoney Creek last week. It seems that Harrison is getting things back on the right track. Harrison is a team that is under the radar. This will be an interesting game in the Maple Forest.

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 35, SEAHOLM 14.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 35, SEAHOLM 21.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 21, SEAHOLM 7.

STICK PICK: HARRISON 28, SEAHOLM 21.

KEITH PICK: HARRISON 21, SEAHOLM 10.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 34, SEAHOLM 24.

9. TROY at STONEY CREEK

The Colts have been putting things together early in the season but they will be tested when they travel to Rochester to play the Cougars. Stoney Creek’s problems have been up front in which the Cougars have been dominated in that stretch despite having a 1-2 start. Troy will try to keep the momentum going after winning 27-20 against Rochester last week. This will be an interesting game to keep an eye on.

SAMMY PICK: STONEY CREEK 17, TROY 14.

ANT PICK: TROY 17, STONEY CREEK 14.

SEAN PICK: TROY 26, STONEY CREEK 17.

STICK PICK: STONEY CREEK 24, TROY 21.

KEITH PICK: TROY 24, STONEY CREEK 21.

BURNEY PICK:  TROY 30, STONEY CREEK 20.

10. FERNDALE at Birmingham Detroit Country Day

The Eagles came off a bad 21-13 home loss to Avondale last week still control their own destiny in the Blue. This week Ferndale will travel to Birmingham to take on a Division Four State power in the Yellow Jackets. Birmingham Detroit Country Day has had their fair share of struggles this season at 1-2. The Yellow Jackets lost 26-19 in overtime to Flushing last week. This will be a tough matchup for the Eagles.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 28, BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 21.

ANT PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 42, FERNDALE 14.

SEAN PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 28, FERNDALE 7.

STICK PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 28, FERNDALE 14.

KEITH PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 34, FERNDALE 20.

BURNEY PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 25, FERNDALE 18.

ORION at TROY ATHENS

These are two 0-3 teams that are oddly mirror images of each other heading into Friday night. This was oddly supposed to be a home game for Orion but the game was moved to Troy to celebrate Homecoming for Troy Athens. The Dragons lost 49-21 to West Bloomfield but showed signs of coming out of their recent struggles. The Red Hawks lost 50-20 to Southfield Arts and Tech but looking at this matchup, one of these teams will get their first win of the season on Friday night.

SAMMY PICK: ORION 31, TROY ATHENS 14.

ANT PICK: ORION 42, TROY ATHENS 7.

SEAN PICK: ORION 21, TROY ATHENS 14.

STICK PICK: ORION 24, TROY ATHENS 21.

KEITH PICK: ORION 17, TROY ATHENS 7.

BURNEY PICK: ORION 21, TROY ATHENS 20.

BERKLEY at ROCHESTER

These are two teams that are struggling this season with both teams being a combined 1-5. The Bears were expected to struggle after moving up a division, having a new coach, and new system to adjust too. Berkley lost to Groves 24-0 last week. The Falcons have a ton of Senior experience especially from the offensive side of the football but they really haven’t put things together especially on the defensive side of the football. Rochester lost 27-20 to Troy last week. This will be an interesting game to keep an eye on over at Rochester.

SAMMY PICK: ROCHESTER 24, BERKLEY 21

ANT PICK: ROCHESTER 35, BERKLEY 28.

SEAN PICK: ROCHESTER 35, BERKLEY 6.

STICK PICK: ROCHESTER 21, BERKLEY 14.

KEITH PICK: BERKLEY 21, ROCHESTER 18.

BURNEY PICK: BERKLEY 28, ROCHESTER 26.

ROYAL OAK at PONTIAC

The Ravens were a disappointment from an offensive standpoint only scoring seven points against Hazel Park last week in a 13-7 loss now Royal Oak heads to Pontiac to take on a Phoenix team that had a solid first half against North Farmington but couldn’t put things together and fell 26-16 to the Raiders. This one looks to be an interesting matchup at Wisner Stadium.

SAMMY PICK: ROYAL OAK 14, PONTIAC 6.

ANT PICK: ROYAL OAK 24, PONTIAC 7.

SEAN PICK: ROYAL OAK 42, PONTIAC 6.

STICK PICK: ROYAL OAK 28, PONTIAC 19.

KEITH PICK: ROYAL OAK 35, PONTIAC 0.

BURNEY PICK: ROYAL OAK 30, PONTIAC 20.

FARMINGTON at HAZEL PARK

The Falcons have been a big disappointment heading into the season, allowing 107 points in the last three games. The Vikings have been a big surprise and a lot of that has to do with Gary Griffith coming from Troy to be the defensive coordinator. Hazel Park has pulled off two big wins so far and looks to be the leader in the clubhouse in the Blue race.

SAMMY PICK: HAZEL PARK 14, FARMINGTON 7.

ANT PICK: HAZEL PARK 24, FARMINGTON 14.

SEAN PICK: HAZEL PARK 32, FARMINGTON 21.

STICK PICK: HAZEL PARK 28, FARMINGTON 21.

KEITH PICK: HAZEL PARK 14, FARMINGTON 10.

BURNEY PICK: HAZEL PARK 23, FARMINGTON 21.

AVONDALE at NORTH FARMINGTON

The Raiders were fresh off getting their first win since 2015 and the first under coach Bob Chiesa when they beat Pontiac 26-16 on Friday night. North Farmington will host a Yellow Jackets team that got a big time win at Ferndale 21-13 last week. This is a big game for both teams to see where they are at in the middle of the season.

SAMMY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 26, AVONDALE 21.

ANT PICK: AVONDALE 42, NORTH FARMINGTON 17.

SEAN PICK: AVONDALE 35, NORTH FARMINGTON 6.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 21, NORTH FARMINGTON 20.

KEITH PICK: AVONDALE 23, NORTH FARMINGTON 16.

BURNEY PICK: AVONDALE 33, NORTH FARMINGTON 23.

Way too Early Boys Basketball Top Ten.

Written Saturday September 9th at 10:00 PM

Here are my way too early Boys Basketball rankings. These aren't the official rankings but there is an idea.

1. Clarkston: Wolves really have no true weaknesses, a senior heavy team, four Division One prospects. It looks like Clarkston doesn’t want to give up their State Championship.

2. West Bloomfield: Lakers still very talented, could make some noise this season with their athleticism and talent for coach Jeremy Dehna.

3. Troy: Colts still have talent led by Jason Dietz. Troy could be a team that can do some damage for coach Gary Fralick in the always tough Red.

4. Oak Park: The Knights will be very athletic and talented this season for coach Bobby Thompson. Oak Park will be favored in the White.

5. Stoney Creek: Mike Melgarani, Jericho Barr-Redmond, and Nate Davis will be the key to lead coach Steve Norgrove’s Cougars this season.

6. Hazel Park: The Vikings have a ton of experience back led by Carl Bow for coach Brendan Barrett. I’m curious how Hazel Park will do in the Red this season.

7. Troy Athens: Red Hawks have a ton of experience back led by Taylor McCaskill. They will be a team to be a recon with in the White this season for coach Dave Scott.

8. Orion: Dragons have a ton of experience back for coach Jim Manzo. Orion could be a very dangerous team after winning only four games last season in a league that had a ton of experience with them. The Dragons will be a team to watch in the Blue.

9. Oxford: Never count out a coach Steve Laidlaw team especially when they have Michael Raisch and Nolan Harding. The Wildcats should be fine this season especially in the tough White.

10. Rochester: Falcons have a new coach in Vance Kirkwood and they have a ton of talent back led by Hunter Schlater, Corey Gullridge, and LaMarko Gullridge. It could be interesting in the Blue this season.

Teams to keep an eye on: Farmington, Pontiac, Berkley, Seaholm, Ferndale, Groves, Southfield Arts and Tech, North Farmington.

Way too Early Girls Basketball Top Ten.

Written Saturday September 9th at 10:00 PM

Here is my way too early Girls Basketball rankings. These aren't the official rankings but it's a start.

1. Southfield Arts and Tech: Warriors have Cheyenne McEvans and Alexis Johnson back. They have a solid team back for coach Michelle Marshall. Wonder how they will replace the production left behind by Deja Church.

2. Clarkston: Wolves have the best interior in the league behind Kayla Luchenbach, Molly Nicholson, and Maddie Beck. Watch for Taylor Heaten and Kiana Aynotte whom and this team could have one of the best starting lineups in the league for coach Christine Rogers.

3. Royal Oak: Ravens have Jessica Adams and Samantha Potter back for coach Brian Sopota. Also, the White looks very winnable for Royal Oak this season.

4. Orion: Dragons have a new coach in Mike Griffin and an experienced team. If the players and Griffin are on the same page then this team could be dangerous.

5. North Farmington: Raiders have Samantha Cherney back in the interior but the key will be Molly Simpson and Patti Tzkcokian. Simpson and Tzkcokian will have to do a lot more production now that Kierra Crockett has graduated for coach Jeff Simpson.

6. Stoney Creek: Cougars might want to call Joey Styles when it comes to scheduling their non-conference. They have a young team led by Emily Echout but any team that is coached by Kellen James is always going to be solid.

7. Groves: Falcons have a new coach in Jessica Wiesler and an experienced team coming back, just like Orion if the players and Wiesler get on the same page then they could be dangerous.

8. Avondale: Yellow Jackets when healthy could be very dangerous to keep an eye on this season for coach Phil Dawson.

9. West Bloomfield: Could be the biggest threat to the Ravens this season along with Groves, really like the Bert Mosley hire.

10. Berkley: Bears have a new coach but they have a star player in Olivia DiCarlo back. Berkley could make some noise this season.

Teams to keep an eye on: Hazel Park, Bloomfield Hills, Oxford, Adams, Harrison, Troy, and Seaholm.

Volleyball Top Ten Right now.

Written Saturday September 9th at 10:00 PM

Here is my Volleyball Top Ten as we head into League Play so far.

1. Orion: Anytime you beat Novi whom is the two-time defending Class A State Champs on the road and won three invitationals so far this season says a lot to describe the Dragons.

2. Clarkston: Wolves have had strong showings in tournaments but has struggled so far against Orion in which they have lost three times this season.

3. Bloomfield Hills: Blackhawks have a solid program but they had a rough outing at Novi against Ann Arbor Huron. Bloomfield Hills should be ready to go once league play starts.

4. Troy: The Colts have lost four games this season, all to State ranked teams. Troy took the Allen Park Tournament in August and was third in the Gold division of the Program Cup. The Colts are getting better each day and could surprise some folks.

5. Adams: Strong showing by the Highlanders at the Stoney Creek Invitational when they went to the Final has coach Bridgette Harding’s team here. Adams is the overwhelming favorite to win the White this season.

6. Stoney Creek: Cougars bounced back winning the Croswell Lexington tournament. They had an interesting showing at Novi this weekend.

7. Seaholm: Maples had an interesting outing at Novi. Seaholm should be all right this season for coach Heather Lippert.

8. Oxford: Wildcats having a tough transition to coach Brian Kim’s system but the sub varsity programs getting better each day which gives Oxford a strong chance in the future.

9. Rochester: Falcons have a new coach and a new program but had a rough loss to Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the Copper final of the Program Cup.

10. Farmington: The Falcons should be solid going down from the White to the Blue. Farmington should be in contention this season.

Week Three Recap.

Written Saturday September 9th at 12:30 AM

1. Clarkston

2. Groves

3. Adams

4. Oak Park

5. Bloomfield Hills

6. Southfield Arts and Tech

7. West Bloomfield

8. Harrison

9. Troy

10. Ferndale

WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, ORION 21.

CLARKSTON 34, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 20

Highland Park Chandler Park Academy 42, FARMINGTON 21

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 50, TROY ATHENS 20

TROY 27, ROCHESTER 20

AVONDALE 21, FERNDALE 13

HARRISON 47, STONEY CREEK 8

HAZEL PARK 13, ROYAL OAK 7

GROVES 24, BERKLEY 0

ADAMS 33, OXFORD 13

OAK PARK 28, SEAHOLM 0

NORTH FARMINGTON 26, PONTIAC 16

BIG WIN: Avondale: The Yellow Jackets pulled off the biggest win of the coach Ed Couturier era stunning Ferndale on the road 21-13. This win by Avondale opens up the Blue race a bit with Hazel Park and Royal Oak also in contention. This one is a tough one for coach Erik Royal’s team as they have to play Birmingham Detroit Country Day next week. The Yellow Jackets go to North Farmington next week.

TOUGH LOSS: Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks almost pulled out another upset like they did when they beat West Bloomfield 28-24 but Clarkston answered scoring 21 straight points in route to a 34-20 win for the Wolves in their Pink Wish Game. Bloomfield Hills should be fine going forward because the West Bloomfield win was absolutely huge for them. They have Adams next week at home.

TEAM ON THE RISE: Hazel Park: Gary Griffith coming over to Hazel Park from Troy might have been the best thing to happen to the Vikings. Griffith became the defensive coordinator this season for coach Kyle Rowley. Hazel Park won a hard-fought defensive game over Royal Oak 13-7 on Friday night. This is a bad loss for coach Ray McMann’s team after getting two good wins. The Vikings host Farmington next week.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Farmington: The Falcons have been a disaster in the making losing to Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy 42-21 on Friday night. Farmington gave up too many big plays which is the big reason why they sit at 0-3. They play Hazel Park next.

WHAT HAPPENED: Pontiac: The Phoenix had a 16-7 lead at halftime against North Farmington but the Raiders led by Taj Cheathem got coach Bob Chiesa his first victory as a head coach in North Farmington’s 26-16 win over Pontiac. The Phoenix are struggling but they made some progress, especially in the first half however they couldn’t sustain it in the second half. This is a big win for Chiesa’s team. North Farmington will play Avondale next while Pontiac plays Royal Oak next.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Rochester: The Falcons had a ton of expectations heading into the season with their senior experience however they are struggling to meet expectations and now sit at 0-3. Rochester lost 27-20 to Troy which hurts them down the stretch. The Falcons have some issues right now especially on the defensive side of the football but they host Berkley next.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Stoney Creek: The Cougars defense was destroyed against Harrison allowing 47 points in a shocking 47-8 loss to the Hawks. Stoney Creek's offense has been a problem lately. The Cougars kept the game close with Groves last week until the third quarter when they allowed 14 points but Stoney Creek wasn't even in the game with Harrison. The Cougars have Troy next at home.

Week Three Picks.

Written Wednesday September 6th at 12:00 PM

Welcome to the 2017 OAA Football Season, this season we will pick games that include OAA Teams. This year we have Anthony Taormina from History Now and Between Taorminas on Orion Neighborhood Television, Scott Burnstein from MIPrepZone and State Champs, Dan Stickradt from North Oakland Sports, Keith Dunlap a free-lance writer at the Detroit Free Press, and Sean Cotter Ford worker and Farmington loyalist.

SAMMY 13-16

ANT 19-11

SEAN 19-11

STICK 21-9

KEITH 23-7

BURNEY 18-12

3. BLOOMFIELD HILLS at 1. CLARKSTON

The Blackhawks come in with the biggest upset of league play thus far upsetting West Bloomfield 28-24 last week in the Swamp. If they go into Clarkston and stun the Wolves then there will be no doubt that Bloomfield Hills will be the frontrunners in this early part of the season. Clarkston beat Southfield Arts and Tech 17-7 last week. This one will be interesting at Clarkston.

SAMMY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28, CLARKSTON 24.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 42, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

SEAN PICK: CLARKSTON 31, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 24, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 20.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 31, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 24.

2. GROVES at BERKLEY

The Falcons had a trap game last week winning 14-3 over Stoney Creek. The Bears lost 49-6 at Hurley Field to Seaholm. Groves looks like things are getting back on track for the Falcons thus far. It could be a long night again for Berkley.

SAMMY PICK: GROVES 28, BERKLEY 7.

ANT PICK: GROVES 49, BERKLEY 7.

SEAN PICK: GROVES 42, BERKLEY 0.

STICK PICK: GROVES 21, BERKLEY 14.

KEITH PICK: GROVES 24, BERKLEY 10.

BURNEY PICK: GROVES 28, BERKLEY 21.

OXFORD at 4. ADAMS

The Highlanders looked really impressive on Thursday night destroying Orion 39-8 on the road. They will face a Wildcats team whom bounced back beating Troy Athens 17-7 on Thursday night. Adams looks like they are ready to roll.

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 49, OXFORD 8.

ANT PICK: ADAMS 38, OXFORD 7.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 42, OXFORD 17.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 35, OXFORD 21.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 20, OXFORD 17.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 20, OXFORD 14.

SEAHOLM at 5. OAK PARK

This is the biggest game in the Maples season with the Knights. Oak Park bounced back by destroying Rochester 48-0 last week while Seaholm bounced back and beat Berkley 49-6 at Hurley Field. This will be a tough matchup for the Maples in Knight Valley but they have the Senior experience and the veer in their corner but Oak Park has the edge in talent and athleticism.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 28, SEAHOLM 21.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 28, SEAHOLM 24.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 40, SEAHOLM 14.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 35, SEAHOLM 14.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 25, SEAHOLM 14.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 30, SEAHOLM 20.

AVONDALE at 6. FERNDALE

The Eagles have been rolling, they steamrolled Farmington 37-7 last week and have outscored both of their opponents 87-7 in the last two weeks. The Yellow Jackets have been disappointing, including last week’s 24-21 loss to Hazel Park. Avondale goes on the road and hopes to pull off a big upset over Ferndale. It will be a challenge though.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 28, AVONDALE 7.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 35, AVONDALE 14.

SEAN PICK: FERNDALE 49, AVONDALE 7.

STICK PICK: FERNDALE 27, AVONDALE 21.

KEITH PICK: FERNDALE 27, AVONDALE 10.

BURNEY PICK: FERNDALE 23, AVONDALE 21.

TROY ATHENS AT 7. SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Both the Red Hawks and Warriors lost 17-7 decisions last week to Oxford and Clarkston respectably. Southfield Arts and Tech has the talent and has lost two tough games while Troy Athens played better last week against Oxford unlike what happened against Warren Mott. Someone will be 0-3 after this game.

SAMMY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 42, TROY ATHENS 7.

ANT PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 49, TROY ATHENS 7.

SEAN PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 35, TROY ATHENS 7.

STICK PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28, TROY ATHENS 14.

KEITH PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 31, TROY ATHENS 3.

BURNEY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 34, TROY ATHENS 24.

8. WEST BLOOMFIELD at ORION

Who would had ever thought the Lakers would start the season at 0-2 but West Bloomfield is 0-2 after losing 28-24 to Bloomfield Hills. The Dragons were disappointing last week losing 39-8 to Adams. Orion needs to find an offensive identity and quick this week or it would be the same as last week. Someone’s going to be 0-3 after this game.

SAMMY PICK: ORION 24, WEST BLOOMFIELD 21.

ANT PICK: ORION 28, WEST BLOOMFIELD 27.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 38, ORION 14.

STICK PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 24, ORION 21.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 31, ORION 14.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 27, ORION 17.

STONEY CREEK at 9. HARRISON

This game could be a trap game for the Hawks in Farmington Hills. The Cougars almost upset Groves last week, they were up 3-0 at the half but lost 14-3. Harrison bounced back beating Troy 30-3 last week. The Hawks are the talented team here but the Cougars have some talent as well, if this game becomes a depth game advantage Stoney Creek, athletic game advantage Harrison.

SAMMY PICK: STONEY CREEK 17, HARRISON 10.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 35, STONEY CREEK 14.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 28, STONEY CREEK 0.

STICK PICK: STONEY CREEK 21, HARRISON 14.

KEITH PICK: HARRISON 28, STONEY CREEK 10.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 25, STONEY CREEK 16.

10. ROYAL OAK at HAZEL PARK

The Ravens have been a surprising 2-0 to start the year, including a 38-6 win over North Farmington. The Vikings shocked Avondale 24-21 in Auburn Hills. Hazel Park created four turnovers last week against Avondale. Royal Oak is a different animal behind a renewed defense. Could 3-0 be in the cards??? if it is, it would be the first time in school history the Ravens would be at 3-0.

SAMMY PICK: HAZEL PARK 32, ROYAL OAK 26.

ANT PICK: ROYAL OAK 7, HAZEL PARK 3.

SEAN PICK: ROYAL OAK 17, HAZEL PARK 12.

STICK PICK: HAZEL PARK 27, ROYAL OAK 21.

KEITH PICK: ROYAL OAK 28, HAZEL PARK 10.

BURNEY PICK: ROYAL OAK 35, HAZEL PARK 25.

ROCHESTER at TROY

The Falcons lost to the Colts last season which cost them a trip to the playoffs. Rochester was destroyed 48-0 by Oak Park in their home opener. Troy lost 30-3 to Harrison on their home field. This is a big game for the Falcons, they need this game. If they lose to the Colts then they are in trouble.

SAMMY PICK: ROCHESTER 28, TROY 21.

ANT PICK: ROCHESTER 24, TROY 21.

SEAN PICK: TROY 31, ROCHESTER 6.

STICK PICK:  ROCHESTER 21, TROY 20.

KEITH PICK: TROY 17, ROCHESTER 10.

BURNEY PICK: TROY 26, ROCHESTER 17.

NORTH FARMINGTON at PONTIAC

These are two teams trying to search for an identity. The Raiders were crushed 38-6 by Royal Oak last week while the Phoenix were embarrassed 60-6 by Hamtramck last week. It could be a long one for Pontiac at Wisner Stadium this week.

SAMMY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 42. PONTIAC 6.

ANT PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 24, PONTIAC 3.

SEAN PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 35, PONTIAC 12.

STICK PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 14, PONTIAC 7.

KEITH PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 24, PONTIAC 0.

BURNEY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 22, PONTIAC 18.

Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy at FARMINGTON

This matchup puts two 0-2 teams going up against each other. The Falcons lost to Ferndale 37-7 last week at home and lost a tough one to Berkley in week one. The Eagles lost 20-8 to Detroit Denby Tech and 36-32 to Detroit Mumford. I think this maybe a game that Farmington gets their first win of the season.

SAMMY PICK: FARMINGTON 20, HARPER WOODS CHANDLER PARK ACADEMY 16.

ANT PICK: HARPER WOODS CHANDLER PARK ACADEMY 14, FARMINGTON 13.

SEAN PICK: FARMINGTON 21, HARPER WOODS CHANDLER PARK ACADEMY 16.

STICK PICK:  HARPER WOODS CHANDLER PARK ACADEMY 21, FARMINGTON 14.

KEITH PICK: HARPER WOODS CHANDLER PARK ACADEMY 21, FARMINGTON 7.

BURNEY PICK: FARMINGTON 23, HARPER WOODS CHANDLER PARK ACADEMY 21.

Week Two Recap.

Written September 1st 2017, 10:06 PM

1. Clarkston

2. Groves

3. Bloomfield Hills

4. Adams

5. Oak Park

6. Ferndale

7. Southfield Arts and Tech

8. West Bloomfield

9. Harrison

10. Royal Oak

ADAMS 39, ORION 8.

OXFORD 17, TROY ATHENS 7.

FERNDALE 37, FARMINGTON 7.

GROVES 14, STONEY CREEK 3.

OAK PARK 48, ROCHESTER 0.

SEAHOLM 49, BERKLEY 6.

HARRISON 30, TROY 3.

ROYAL OAK 38, NORTH FARMINGTON 6.

HAZEL PARK 24, AVONDALE 21.

Hamtramck 60, PONTIAC 6.

CLARKSTON 17, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 7.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28, WEST BLOOMFIELD 24.

BIG WIN: Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks came back from down 24-7 to stun West Bloomfield 28-24. Like Adams, Bloomfield Hills is proving that they can compete in the Red. Led by John Paddock and Ty Slazinski, their passing game is proving to be one of the best duos in the county. Bloomfield Hills is 2-0 and they have a big test next week at Clarkston. West Bloomfield falls to 0-2 and goes on the road to play Orion who is also 0-2.

TOUGH LOSS: Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors had four turnovers in their loss to Clarkston. Also the Wolves were motivated following last year’s game at Southfield. While the Warriors fall to 0-2, they will be at home for two as they host Troy Athens and Oxford respectively before again travelling north to play Orion.

TEAM ON THE RISE: Royal Oak: It’s odd to say this where I had the Ravens at early in the season but hey Royal Oak is 2-0 for the first time in their school’s history with a 38-6 blowout of North Farmington on Thursday night. The Ravens used a balanced attack on both sides to shut down the Raiders. Royal Oak hope to continue the momentum with a trip to Hazel Park next week.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Orion: This team has problems, big time problems when you look at it. The Dragons were pounded 39-8 by Adams on Thursday night at home. Orion did not have an offensive identity, the defense was on the field for way too long. The Dragons have to play West Bloomfield, Southfield Arts and Tech, and Clarkston are on the schedule. It is not an easy schedule, but if they don't do something, they are in big time trouble.

WHAT HAPPENED: Farmington: The Falcons were in the game with Ferndale, down 13-7 but the Eagles got a defensive stop which led to 24 unanswered points for Ferndale. The defensive stop resulted in a 37-7 blowout at Farmington on Thursday night. The Eagles were led by quarterback KeShawn Smith passing for three touchdowns, two were to wide receiver John Thompson. Running back, Zoser Little also played well for coach Eric Royal’s team. Ferndale right now is rolling while coach Kory Cioroch’s team needs to address the defense which is a big-time issue for the Falcons right now.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Stoney Creek: The Cougars led the Falcons 3-0 at the end of the first half on the road however, in the second half, especially in the third quarter, they gave up 14 points. The Falcons won the game 14-3. The Cougars had a great chance to steal a game on the road but were not able to get it done. They again travel next week to Harrison to take on the 1-1 Hawks.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Avondale: It’s odd for a second straight week that the Yellow Jackets are here. A mistake prone football game against Hazel Park resulted in a 24-21 loss for Avondale. The Vikings got a big win over a team not name Pontiac, which is a start. Hazel Park plays Royal Oak next week at home. The Yellow Jackets are in big time trouble now especially when they have to go to Ferndale next week. Avondale has to clean up their mistakes if they want to do something this season.