Harrison will not have Girls Basketball this Winter.

Written Tuesday October 31st at 12:20 AM
Updated Friday November 3rd at 3:15 PM

It looks like the Farmington Hills Harrison Hawks will not have Girls Basketball this winter.

Citing a very accurate source and the MHSAA website confirms because Harrison's Girls Basketball schedules were taken off the website without any games.

Harrison officials met with the MHSAA on Thursday to discuss the status of the Hawks Girls Basketball program.

The Hawks will not have enough players to field a team due to their low enrollment. Harrison was thought to have a developing options program but it wasn’t meant to be.

Harrison will be closing its doors in two years because of low enrollment in the Farmington School District.

The meeting with the MHSAA confirmed according to the accurate source is that the Harrison players will be divided based where they live and play for either North Farmington or Farmington. The Raiders are in the Red while the Falcons are in the Blue. Both teams will be in a very tough district at Farmington Hills Mercy with the Marlins, Southfield Arts and Tech, and Groves.

Harrison returned two players, in Olivia Perkins and Nevada Hargraves from a team that struggled due to lack of numbers and turmoil issues. The Hawks went 4-15, and 2-10 in the White last season.

They were suppose to compete in the Blue this season.

With this move teams that were supposed to play the Hawks are going to have to find games and the Blue will now have seven teams instead of eight.

It is unknown if the Boys Basketball program at Harrison will have this same situation, although it is not likely.

Thoughts:

It's really sad to see Harrison go like this. I feel bad for the players whom were on the Hawks team and also the Harrison alums and former coaches that made that team what it was. This is going to cause some strain on Athletic Directors looking for games to replace Harrison especially in the Blue in which they will be looking for two games.

Stay tuned to OAA Now and Inside the OAA for the latest developments on this developing story. This blog article will be updated with the latest information on this story.

Week Eleven Picks.

Written Monday October 30th at 2:05 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 80-47

ANT 95-32

SEAN 100-27

STICK 104-23

KEITH 104-23

BURNEY 97-30

Games are Friday at 7 PM unless noted.

Division One

Clarkston at Davison (Saturday at 7 PM)

The Wolves are driving with confidence after what happened to them in the last two weeks. Clarkston bounced back with a strong ground game performance thanks to Josh Cantu and Michael Fleugel in the Wolves 37-7 win over Grand Blanc. Clarkston will go back to Davison for their second-round matchup in Genesee County and hold a 2-0 overall record heading into Saturday night's contest. The Cardinals come in at 10-1 with their only loss being at Midland, which they lost the Saginaw Valley League title in that game. Davison had to survive Lapeer with a 14-12 victory to get to this game but the Cardinals and coach Kyle Zimmerman's team will have three advantages heading into this game. This will be Clarkston’s first game on grass this season, they remember the feeling what happened last season when the they lost 31-14 in the district final to the Wolves in Davison, and the game is going to be played on a Saturday night but it's unknown how this will impact both teams. The Cardinals have some injury concerns as their star running back Tariq Reid is not 100 percent with an ankle injury. Davison though is better than they were last season behind their quarterback Cannon Hall. Clarkston has some concerns especially in the secondary and could be exposed if the matchup is right. The matchups just don’t favor Davison again like last season. The Wolves and Cardinals have played two similar opponents in Lapeer and Southfield Arts and Tech in which both teams won their games (Davison 56-54 over the Warriors at Wayne State, and 35-17 at Davison along with last week the Lightning, Clarkston 42-7 over the Lightning in Ann Arbor and 17-7 at home over the Warriors) I’m taking the Nike/Under Armor team over the Adidas team.

SAMMY PICK: CLARKSTON 24, DAVISON 20.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 38, DAVISON 14.

SEAN PICK: CLARKSTON 31, DAVISON 21.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 35, DAVISON 34.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 31, DAVISON 14.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 28, DAVISON 27.

Adams at Utica Eisenhower

This will be the first meeting between both of these teams that are separated by only five miles since 2001. The Highlanders picked up a big win over Romeo 26-17 at home last week and have won nine games for the first time since 2007. Adams will go on the road to Sweinhart Field to take on Utica Eisenhower, a team that went to the State Semifinals last season, losing a 32-28 heartbreaker to Detroit Cass Tech. The Eagles in their pre-district destroyed Utica 52-0 at Sweinhart Field but their quarterback Max Whitwer got hurt in the game with a knee injury and was replaced by Jack Morris. Morris played well in backup of Whitwer last week. It is unknown how Whitwer’s knee injury will impact him even though he has battled through it this season. He is expected to play this week against a stout Highlanders defense that is playing with a ton of confidence. Utica Eisenhower has not seen a team that runs a veer offense this season which could be a concern for coach Chris Smith and his team. The Eagles are 10-1 all-time against Adams with Utica Eisenhower winning 27-17 in 2001 but that was before coach Tony Patritto arrived on the scene. The Highlanders and Eagles share one common opponent in Romeo, Utica Eisenhower beat the Bulldogs 34-0 at Romeo while Adams won last week. This will be a fun game to watch but the Highlanders have nothing to lose while the Eagles have a ton to lose in this matchup.

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 21, UTICA EISENHOWER 20.

ANT PICK: UTICA EISENHOWER 27, ADAMS 24.

SEAN PICK: UTICA EISENHOWER 31, ADAMS 14.

STICK PICK: UTICA EISENHOWER 24, ADAMS 21.

KEITH PICK: UTICA EISENHOWER 24, ADAMS 20.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 24, UTICA EISENHOWER 23.

West Bloomfield at Waterford Mott

In what is expected to be a shootout in Waterford between two teams that won eight straight games both the Lakers and Corsairs feature two very good offenses with strong passing attacks led by their gun slinging quarterbacks. West Bloomfield has Bryce Veasley and Waterford Mott with David McCullum. The Lakers whom are averaging 38.8 points per game got some revenge last week over Bloomfield Hills 31-6 behind a solid running game. The Corsairs whom are averaging 39.8 points per game had no problem with Troy beating them 33-0 behind a balanced all-around effort from coach Chris Fahr's team. West Bloomfield is 4-1 all-time vs Waterford Mott, with their last meeting being in 1995 when the Corsairs beat the Lakers 21-7 but that was long before coaches Fahr and Ron Bellamy arrived at their respective schools. This is a Nike vs Adidas battle as well, both teams wear different apparels. Waterford Mott and West Bloomfield have played one common opponent this season in Walled Lake Western. The Lakers lost 19-14 to the Warriors at Wayne State while the Corsairs beat the Warriors 47-37 in Walled Lake. I think the team that wears Nike will pull through in this one.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 63, WATERFORD MOTT 42.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, WATERFORD MOTT 24.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, WATERFORD MOTT 42.

STICK PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 38, WATERFORD MOTT 35.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 38, WATERFORD MOTT 30.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 34, WATERFORD MOTT 33.

Division Two

Birmingham Brother Rice at Oak Park

This will be the first meeting between these two teams since the 2003 pre-district when Oak Park lost 20-13 to Birmingham Brother Rice. The Knights have had to deal with questions like are they for real or not and can they have a deep playoff run, which has bothered coach and Athletic Director Greg Carter. Oak Park had no problem with Royal Oak destroying the Ravens 34-13 last week in Knight Valley. The Warriors haven't had a deep run since then coach Al Fracassa's final season in 2013 are coming off an emotional win over arch rival Groves 24-21 in triple overtime in Beverly Hills last week. Birmingham Brother Rice is red hot winning five straight games after starting the season at 2-3 under first year coach Adam Korzeniewski. The Warriors are 2-0 all time coming in against the Knights. Korzeniewski should know Oak Park well from his days as the defensive coordinator at Seaholm. The Knights will need to play mistake free if they want to get to the regional for the second time in School history (2012). Oak Park and Birmingham Brother Rice have played Groves as their common opponent with the Knights winning 34-14 and the Warriors winning last week, both games in Beverly Hills.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 35, BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 20.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 34, BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 24.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 26, BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 21.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 35, BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 21.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 32, BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 17.

BURNEY PICK: BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 21, OAK PARK 20.

Division Three

Harrison at Warren Woods Tower

The Hawks are proving why they have held their own in the White and even won some games against teams that are one division ahead of them. This season, Harrison shared the White with Groves and Oak Park, both larger schools. The Hawks were dominant against Warren Fitzgerald when they put up 45 points in a 45-14 blowout of the Spartans last week. This week, coach John Herrington takes his team back to Warren to take on the Titans of Warren Woods Tower. It will be the second meeting all time between the two teams with Harrison winning 49-9 in a regional final in 2006. The Titans beat Hazel Park 31-0 last week but looked sluggish in the first half against the Vikings only up 6-0 at that point before pulling away late. This should be a matchup in which Harrison dominates a team that is not stout offensively but don't tell that to Warren Woods Tower. The Hawks and Titans have played one common opponent in Warren Fitzgerald with the Spartans losing 21-14 to Warren Woods Tower and to Harrison last week.

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 35, WARREN WOODS TOWER 14.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 35, WARREN WOODS TOWER 17.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 38, WARREN WOODS TOWER 21.

STICK PICK: HARRISON 28, WARREN WOODS TOWER 20.

KEITH PICK: HARRISON 42, WARREN WOODS TOWER 14.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 30, WARREN WOODS TOWER 22.

Soccer Update.

Written Saturday October 28th at 2:45 PM
Updated Saturday October 28th at 10:21 PM

The city of Troy has been spoiled with their soccer lately. Troy Athens made it to the Division One State Finals last season, this season it’s their city rivals the Troy Colts that are making a deep run. The Colts beat Sterling Heights Stevenson 4-2 in the Regional Final at Bloomfield Hills and will host Walled Lake Central whom beat Grand Blanc 2-1 at Flint's Atwood Stadium in the State Semifinal on Wednesday. If Troy wins over the Vikings on Wednesday then they will be in the State Final on Saturday against either Novi Detroit Catholic Central or East Kentwood whom will be playing on Wednesday at Lansing Holt.

Harrison is in the midst of a special season after they took home their first regional championship since 1987 with a 1-0 win over Gibraltar Carlson at Farmington on Thursday night. The Hawks will head to Fenton to compete in the Division Two State Semifinal on Wednesday and play East Lansing whom beat Petoskey 2-0 at home on Saturday. If Harrison were to beat East Lansing then they would play either Holland or Coldwater in the State Final on Saturday. Holland and Coldwater are playing on Wednesday at Portage Northern.

Week Ten Recap.

Written Friday October 27th at 11:20 PM

OAK PARK 34, ROYAL OAK 13

The Knights played sloppy after having a 12-7 halftime but outscored the Ravens 22-6 in the second half to make the score a blowout. Royal Oak ends the season at 6-4. Oak Park will meet Birmingham Brother Rice in the next round in Knight Valley.

HARRISON 45, Warren Fitzgerald 14

The Hawks dominated this contest and over-matched the Spartans in all phases of the game, whether it was on offense, defense, or special teams. Playing in the White also helped Harrison as well. The Hawks will move onto the next round and play Warren Woods Tower back in Warren next week.

CLARKSTON 37, Grand Blanc 7

The Wolves used a solid ground attack behind Michael Fluegel and Josh Cantu to dominate the Bobcats. Grand Blanc struggled to move the ball as well against Clarkston. The Wolves will play  Davison in the next round in Genesse County. Last season Clarkston beat the Cardinals 31-14 in Davison.

Warren De LaSalle 46, FERNDALE 0

The Eagles were just dominated by the bigger and deeper Pilots. Ferndale had no answer for any of the Warren De LaSalle attack resulting in their second straight first round exit. The Eagles finish the season at 8-2.

Waterford Mott 33, TROY 0

The Colts were simply no match for the high-octane Corsairs in Waterford on Friday night. Waterford Mott used all phases of the game dominating Troy. The Colts finished the season at 6-4.

ADAMS 26, Romeo 17

The Highlanders picked up a well-earned win over the Bulldogs on Friday night, it was the team’s first playoff win since 2013. Adams and Romeo went neck and neck but a big touchdown late put the game away for the Highlanders. Adams will have a big challenge ahead of them next week when they go to Sweinhart Field and take on Utica Eisenhower.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 31, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 6

Five turnovers won’t win you a lot of games and that’s what happened to the Blackhawks against the Lakers. West Bloomfield still upset after losing 28-24 in week two bounced back and won their eighth straight game. Bloomfield Hills finishes the season at 6-4. The Lakers will head to Waterford Mott next week in a high-octane showdown.

Warren Woods Tower 31, HAZEL PARK 0

The Vikings hung tough for a half with the Titans before faltering late. Hazel Park’s defense couldn’t keep up with Warren Woods Tower but also give credit to the defense of the Titans for shutting down the Vikings offense. Hazel Park finishes the season at 6-4.

Brandon 45, AVONDALE 44

The heavy rains didn’t make the Yellow Jackets and Blackhawks game in Auburn Hills into a low scoring affair instead this one went high scoring and insane. Avondale had a 41-21 lead at one point only to see Brandon answer with 21 unanswered points to take a 42-41 lead. The Yellow Jackets responded with a field goal to take a two-point lead only to see the Blackhawks kick a 25-yard winning field goal with no time remaining breaking Avondale’s hearts. The Yellow Jackets finish the season at 6-4.

Birmingham Brother Rice 24, GROVES 21 3 OT.

The Falcons defense was huge in their game with the Warriors on Friday night in Beverly Hills getting three stops in the second half but couldn’t keep Birmingham Brother Rice from scoring a touchdown late. The game would go to overtime and Groves missed a field goal setting up the Warriors to have their own opportunity but it was blocked. The Falcons were stopped on a fourth and goal in the third overtime setting up a field goal by Birmingham Brother Rice giving them the game. Groves finishes the season at 7-3.

Basketball Pre-Season Top Ten.

Written Thursday October 26th at 9:00 PM

Here is the early pre-season top ten teams heading into the season.

Girls:

1. Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors should be talented heading into this upcoming season led by Cheyenne McEvans, D'Layna Holloman, Tyler Washington, and Alexis Johnson. Southfield Arts and Tech coach Michelle Marshall should have a solid team yet again this season after having a Final Four run last season.

2. Clarkston: The Wolves may have the best interior in the league in Kayla Luchenbach, Maddie Beck, and Molly Nicholson. Watch for Taylor Heaten and Kiayna Aynotte for coach Christine Rogers. The bench will be a question mark for Clarkston.

3. Royal Oak: The Ravens are the favorite in the White because of whom they have back in Samantha Potter and Jessica Adams. Guard play will be a question for coach Brian Sopota. Royal Oak has toughed up their non conference schedule which is very important. The Ravens could be something to keep an eye on this season.

4. Orion: The Dragons will have their third coach in three seasons as Mike Griffin takes over the team. Orion has a ton of experience back led by Sophie Wyborski, Sydney Strenger, Sophie Canine, Cameron Coltrin, Shannon Falter, and Lauryn VanLoon. If the players and Griffin get on the same page, then there may be some hope here despite the non-conference schedule is brutal for this team.

5. North Farmington: The Raiders have Sam Cherney back in the interior for coach Jeff Simpson but they have some questions on whom will replace Kierra Crockett. North Farmington will rely on Molly Simpson and Patti Tzchokian on the guard front. The non-conference is OK for the Raiders so a good start is very important.

6. Stoney Creek: The Cougars have a solid player returning in Emily Echout and a solid Junior Varsity coming up to Varsity. The question for Stoney Creek will be is how quickly will the players coming up from Junior Varsity adapt to the speed and quickness of the game. I’m not sure why Cougars coach Kellen James took a page from Oak Park football coach and athletic director Greg Carter’s playbook when it comes to non-conference scheduling. James should seek Joey Styles out when it comes to scheduling non-conference games.

7. Groves: The Falcons have a new coach in Jessica Wiesler but comes some questions regarding Shea Carter’s status if she went to North Carolina or not. Kayla Nelson and Lauren Palmer will be relied upon a lot for Groves. The Falcons if they can get on the same page with Wiesler than they could very well be a team to keep an eye on in the White.

8. Avondale: The Yellow Jackets under second year coach Phil Dawson turned the team around winning 14 games last season. Avondale’s problem has been health, Olivia Russell had two ACL injuries that cost both of her seasons. Toya Golden is also back for the Yellow Jackets and there is talent waiting in the wings. Avondale is the favorite in the Blue this season.

9. West Bloomfield: The Lakers hit a home run when they hired Bert Mosley to replace Zach Hilbers. West Bloomfield though may not have a lot of size but they have a lot of speed and returners back in Mya Bobo, Ellie Soverinsky, and Destiny Monroe. Also, not forget they had a solid Junior Varsity team that Mosley coached. The Lakers will be a factor in the White this season.

10. Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks return guards Immani Wright, Maryiam Hashim, and Becca Hancock but they have questions heading into the season with whom will be in the interior with Amanda Sape and Victorie Franklin graduated. Bloomfield Hills coach Jeff Rubin has a tough non-conference schedule. It will be interesting to see where the Blackhawks stand heading into the season.

TEAMS TO KEEP AN EYE ON: Oxford, Adams, Harrison, Berkley, Troy, Troy Athens, Hazel Park.

Boys:

1. Clarkston: The defending State Champions return the balk of their team led by three future Big Ten players in Foster Loyer, Thomas Kithner, and Taylor Currie. Clarkston coach Dan Fife will have CJ Robinson, Hank Schimmel, Nick Wells, and Tristen Mysen and they will have big roles this season as well. It could be another special season again for the Wolves.

2. West Bloomfield: The Lakers added three transfers to go alongside Tre Harvey this season in the the form of Donovan Moore, Jalen Kelso, and Robert Johnson. Moore comes from Illinois and has family ties to the West Bloomfield program, Johnson comes from Northville, and Kelso comes back into the OAA from Walled Lake Northern after spending two seasons at Pontiac. All three of them are guards. Moore has the biggest upside of the bunch for coach Jeremy Dehna. The question will be in the post and if they can get any production there but West Bloomfield will be a team to keep an eye on.

3. Troy: The Colts will have a big three this season to rely on in Jason Dietz, Danny Sully, and Leon Ayers. These three will be counted on to lead an experienced group this season for coach Gary Fralick.

4. Oak Park: Knights coach Bobby Thompson should have a very strong team this season led by Dwan Mathis, Jeremiah Pettiway, Maliq Carr, and Jalen Knight. Oak Park is ready to break out this season.

5. Hazel Park: Vikings coach Brendan Barrett’s team will be Senior heavy led by Carl Bow. Depth will be a major question as Hazel Park makes the move up to the Red this season.

6. Stoney Creek: Cougars have Nate Davis, Mike Melagarni, and Jericho Barr-Redmond leading the charge. Stoney Creek coach Steve Norgrove’s team could challenge Oak Park in the White this season.

7. Orion: Dragons will have a ton of experience back for coach Jim Manzo in Pierce Burke, Drew Crane, Jamie Lewis, and Casey Strionek. Orion should be one of those teams that could make some noise this season in the Blue.

8. Troy Athens: The Red Hawks under coach Dave Scott return a ton of experience led by Taylor McCaskill and he’ll have plenty of talent to work with this season. Could be a player in the White.

9. Rochester: The Falcons will have a ton of experience back for new coach Vance Kirkwood in Hunter Schlater, LaMarko and Corey Gulledge but there will be a ton of questions this season and how will the players adjust to Kirkwood and his system???

10. Oxford: The Wildcats lost three great players in Jordan Jaden, Ray LaVine, and Jiem Linarus but they have Michael Raisch and Nolan Harding back for coach Steve Laidlaw. Oxford will be a tough team to play against.

TEAMS TO KEEP AN EYE ON: Farmington, Pontiac, Adams, Ferndale, Seaholm, Groves, Southfield Arts and Tech, North Farmington, Avondale, Royal Oak.

2017 Girls Volleyball District Preview.

Written Tuesday October 24th at 7:40 PM

These are my official 2017 MHSAA projections for the Girls Volleyball districts affecting OAA teams. Pre-District games will start on Monday with Semifinals on Wednesday and Finals on Thursday or Friday. Here are my previews surrounding the districts.

District 49 @ Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Birmingham Detroit Country Day vs Center Line

FERNDALE vs Clawson

Birmingham Detroit Country Day/Center Line vs Ferndale University

FERNDALE/Clawson vs Madison Heights Lamphere

INSIGHT: When you look at favorites in this district you got to look at Clawson. The Trojans are solid and well coached. Madison Heights Lamphere is also solid as well and will contend in this district. Ferndale is a darkhorse team but depth will be a major concern for the Eagles. Birmingham Detroit Country Day got a nice draw and should get to the district final over Center Line and Ferndale University.

PREDICTION: I like Clawson to win this district over Birmingham Detroit Country Day. I think too much experience will overcome the lack of size to get the Trojans through the next round. PICK: CLAWSON.

District 50 @ Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Macomb Lutheran North vs Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Macomb Lutheran North/Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood vs PONTIAC

Algonac vs Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

INSIGHT: When I look at this district, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is clearly the favorite in this district after winning 40 straight matches. I think Pontiac got a nice draw despite having a rough season but Macomb Lutheran North should get past them and make the district final. Algonac will have trouble as well here in this district.

PREDICTION: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep will win this district easily over Macomb Lutheran North. The Irish will have a tough road though in the Regional. PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP.

District 22 @ Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Renaissance vs BERKLEY

Detroit Renaissance/BERKLEY vs HAZEL PARK

Warren Fitzgerald vs OAK PARK

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district because there is no clear-cut favorite in this district. The hosts the Phoenix should be the favorite because of home court but keep an eye on Berkley, Hazel Park, and Warren Fitzgerald. Those three teams could give big problems to Detroit Renaissance and could possibly win this district. The Spartans got a real nice draw and could so some damage.

PREDICTION: I think home court will be important here and I think Detroit Renaissance will win this district over Warren Fitzgerald. Berkley and Hazel Park will give the Phoenix games but home court will be the difference. PICK: DETROIT RENAISSANCE.

District 21 @ Southfield Arts and Tech

Farmington Hills Mercy vs HARRISON

Farmington Hills Mercy/HARRISON vs SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

NORTH FARMINGTON vs GROVES

NORTH FARMINGTON/GROVES vs FARMINGTON

INSIGHT: This will be an interesting district to keep an eye on. The favorite has to be Farmington Hills Mercy and for several reasons. The Marlins are State ranked, talented, and won the Catholic League championship, not to mention have won 15 straight district championships coming into the district. They also have one of the best coaches in the game in Loretta Vogel. Harrison is a wildcard with the talent they have and they are well coached under Michael Love. Southfield Arts and Tech is the great unknown. North Farmington has the talent to compete in this district but they have not been consistent under coach Kat Hall. Groves has had an up and down season but they could surprise someone. Farmington won the Blue this season and have experience under coach Katie Drews.

PREDICTION: This district as mentioned is Farmington Hills Mercy’s to lose but Harrison will give them a game in the pre-district but end of the day it will be the Marlins that will win their 16th straight district championship over North Farmington. PICK: FARMINGTON HILLS MERCY.

District 16 @ Troy Athens

ROYAL OAK vs SEAHOLM

TROY vs TROY ATHENS

INSIGHT: This is a four-team district when you look at the teams in this district it feels like everyone has a shot to win this district but in all reality, this should be an all Red final. Troy is the favorite based on talent and is well coached by Tom Vigilant. Seaholm always has a solid program under coaches Heather (Lippert) and Jason Gambone. Royal Oak hasn't played the schedule as the other three teams have had this season. Troy Athens has a new coach but the same system in place but it will take time for their system to be put in place.

PREDICTION: As mentioned this should be a Seaholm/Troy district final. The Colts have more top notched talent than the Maples to move on here. I have Troy moving on. PICK: TROY.

District 15 @ West Bloomfield

Waterford Mott vs Birmingham Marian

Waterford Mott/Birmingham Marian vs BLOOMFIELD HILLS

ADAMS vs WEST BLOOMFIELD

ADAMS/WEST BLOOMFIELD vs AVONDALE

INSIGHT: This district will be interesting with two State powers and a couple of up and rising teams. I love Adams draw a lot and coach Bridgette Harding's team brings a ton of experience to the fold. The Highlanders won’t have to deal with Birmingham Marian or Bloomfield Hills until the district final. Adams won the White this season. The Blackhawks had a strong season but I’m very concerned about their non league schedule. The Mustangs have had a solid first year under coach Lauren Duquette, making the Catholic League final before losing to Farmington Hills Mercy and they have experience as well. West Bloomfield has improved recently and has started to play better. Avondale is a veteran team that could spoil someone's season. I think there are three teams that have a shot at this district.

PREDICTION: I’m not in the mood for upsets but I can see one happening here. Birmingham Marian is the favorite in this district and should have no problem with Waterford Mott in the pre-district. I can see a five-game match for the Mustangs against Bloomfield Hills in the semifinals. Adams should have no problem with West Bloomfield and Avondale in the two rounds. I see an upset looming in the district final as the Highlanders pull off the unthinkable over Birmingham Marian. PICK: ADAMS.

District 14 @ Stoney Creek

Waterford Kettering vs Romeo

Waterford Kettering/Romeo vs ROCHESTER

Utica Eisenhower vs STONEY CREEK

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district when you look at three teams possibly having great chances to win this district. Utica Eisenhower is the favorite because of experience but Romeo whom had a great draw should be able to get the district final. Stoney Creek is a darkhorse team and could very well be a major factor in this district. Waterford Kettering is young and Rochester is in a transition period and neither team will pose a threat to the top three teams in this district.

PREDICTION: This is anyone’s district with Romeo, Stoney Creek, and Utica Eisenhower, all three are very quality teams. The Bulldogs got a great draw and won’t see the Eagles or Cougars until the district final. I think Stoney Creek bounces back from last year’s district final loss to Utica Eisenhower and wins this district over a very good Romeo team. PICK: STONEY CREEK.

District 13 @ Clarkston

Brandon vs OXFORD

Brandon/OXFORD vs Holly

ORION vs CLARKSTON

INSIGHT: It was interesting that after the Brandon/Holly regular season matchup that Blackhawks coach Rick Wootten Smith said that his team could be the surprise team in the postseason. I don’t think Brandon matches up any of the three OAA teams at all. Oxford has had a tough season under first year coach Brian Kim as he tries to transition the Wildcats program under his image. Oxford opens up with the Blackhawks in which they matchup well with them.The winner will meet Holly. The Bronchos are a very young team that starts six freshman. Meanwhile on the other side of the bracket is the two State Powers with Orion and Clarkston there, both teams are loaded with talent.

PREDICTION: I think the Dragons will be fully healthy for the Wolves this time around. I don’t think it will be a three game match like it was at Lake Orion when the Dragons won that matchup. I see this one going five games but Orion won at Clarkston in the regular season last season. I see Oxford beating Brandon and Holly getting to the district final but a healthy Dragons team will be waiting. PICK: ORION.

Week Ten Picks.

Written Tuesday October 24th at 7:20 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 73-44

ANT 87-30

SEAN 91-26

STICK 96-21

KEITH 96-21

BURNEY 88-29

Division One

Grand Blanc at Clarkston

The Wolves are coming into the playoffs limping after two tough weeks but both of them resulted in wins over Harrison and Orion. They will play a Bobcats team that needed a two point stop to beat Brighton 27-26. Grand Blanc has a new coach in Cedrick Alexander and rumor has it he’s had to study film late into the night on how to stop Clarkston. I don’t know if the Bobcats have enough to beat the Wolves. Expect Clarkston to roll to Davison next week.

SAMMY PICK: CLARKSTON 35, GRAND BLANC 14.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 27, GRAND BLANC 24.

SEAN PICK: CLARKSTON 42, GRAND BLANC 13.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 28, GRAND BLANC 14.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 24, GRAND BLANC 20.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 28, GRAND BLANC 22.

Romeo at Adams

This will be very competitive in Rochester on Friday night. The Highlanders have had a successful season and will look to continue to ride that momentum against a Bulldogs team that has had a ton of success lately with the State title in 2015 and a State Semifinal appearance last season. Romeo is not the same team they have been in the past two seasons. We don’t know the status of Cole Patrino and that could be a difference maker heading into the game. The winner of this game will see Utica Eisenhower at Sweinhart Field next week.

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 24, ROMEO 17.

ANT PICK: ROMEO 14, ADAMS 10.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 21, ROMEO 17.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 35, ROMEO 14.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 24, ROMEO 7.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 27, ROMEO 23.

Troy at Waterford Mott

The Colts are in the playoffs for the first time since 2009 but the MHSAA punished Troy by giving them a trip to Waterford to play the Corsairs. The Colts won an emotional 20-19 game over Troy Athens last week. They will have their hands full with Waterford Mott and their athleticism along with quarterback David McGlown. The question will be being what Colts team shows up, the one that won six games to get to the playoffs or the one that got blown out by Oak Park, Groves, and Harrison??? This one will get ugly in Waterford.

SAMMY PICK: WATERFORD MOTT 56, TROY 0.

ANT PICK: WATERFORD MOTT 42, TROY 3.

SEAN PICK: WATERFORD MOTT 42, TROY 10.

STICK PICK: WATERFORD 28, TROY 21.

KEITH PICK: WATERFORD MOTT 42, TROY 7.

BURNEY PICK: WATERFORD MOTT 28, TROY 14.

Bloomfield Hills at West Bloomfield

I wonder how many times the Lakers coaching staff will be thinking about what happened in week two when West Bloomfield had a 24-7 lead only to see John Paddock and Ty Slazinski go nuts and stun the Lakers 28-24 in the Swamp. West Bloomfield will be clearly remembering that game because that was the last time they lost, they have won seven straight since then. The winner of this game will likely be heading to Waterford next week. The Lakers will show no mercy this week.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 56, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 52, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28.

STICK PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 42, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 31.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 24, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

Division Two

Royal Oak at Oak Park

The Ravens are in the playoffs for the first time since 2006 but the MHSAA rewarded Royal Oak with a trip to Oak Park to take on a Knights team that is making their fifth straight playoff appearance. The Ravens won 17-0 at Monroe Jefferson last week. Oak Park won a wild 58-39 game with Bloomfield Hills last week. This matchup is a mismatch on paper and expect this one to be over by 8 PM.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 70, ROYAL OAK 0.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 64, ROYAL OAK 0.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 54, ROYAL OAK 0.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 35, ROYAL OAK 7.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 48, ROYAL OAK 10.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 33, ROYAL OAK 16.

Birmingham Brother Rice at Groves

This will be an interesting matchup in Beverly Hills as the Falcons and Warriors meet again in the district playoffs. Groves beat Birmingham Brother Rice 24-0 in the district final last season on route to their first ever State Semifinal now they will meet in the first round. I think both these rivals are different, the Warriors have a new coaching staff while the Falcons are a younger team based on experience. Groves is 28-5 since 2015, this one could go down to the wire yet again.

SAMMY PICK: GROVES 24, BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 21.

ANT PICK: BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 17, GROVES 14.

SEAN PICK: BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 35, GROVES 14.

STICK PICK: GROVES 21, BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 20.

KEITH PICK: GROVES 17, BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 10.

BURNEY PICK: BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 24, GROVES 20.

Warren DeLaSalle at Ferndale

The Eagles are back in the playoffs for the second straight season but the MHSAA didn’t give Ferndale any benefits. Instead the MHSAA gave the Eagles a home game against Warren DeLaSalle, the Catholic League Champions. The Pilots are very athletic, experienced, and well coached in former Macomb Dakota coach Mike Gionnone. Warren DeLaSalle also beat Novi Detroit Catholic Central twice in two straight weeks and was mentioned as the darkhorse in Division Two. Ferndale beat Dearborn Edsel Ford 28-24 last week and shared the Blue title with Avondale and Hazel Park which was their first title since 1996. Everything looks to be against the Eagles even though they are at home and have depth concerns heading into this game but they have nothing to lose.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 21, WARREN DELASALLE 18.

ANT PICK: WARREN DELASALLE 42, FERNDALE 0.

SEAN PICK: WARREN DELASALLE 49, FERNDALE 0.

STICK PICK: WARREN DELASALLE 21, FERNDALE 14.

KEITH PICK: WARREN DELASALLE 31, FERNDALE 14.

BURNEY PICK: WARREN DELASALLE 31, FERNDALE 23.

Division Three

Brandon at Avondale

Brandon coach Brad Zube returns to the OAA and he brings his Blackhawks with him to Auburn Hills to take on the Yellow Jackets. Avondale shared the Blue with Hazel Park and Ferndale, made the playoffs for the first time since 2012 will be riding a lot of momentum after beating Macomb Lutheran North 41-20 last week. Brandon beat Swartz Creek to punch their ticket to the playoffs. This will be an interesting matchup, Zube knows the OAA from his coaching days at Pontiac and Stoney Creek. This will be a huge test for coach Ed Coutrier on how he gets his team ready for this matchup. The winner of this one will likely go to Linden next week to take on the Eagles.

SAMMY PICK: BRANDON 28, AVONDALE 25.

ANT PICK: BRANDON 24, AVONDALE 21.

SEAN PICK: BRANDON 28, AVONDALE 21.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 34, BRANDON 28.

KEITH PICK: BRANDON 21, AVONDALE 20.

BURNEY PICK: BRANDON 21, AVONDALE 19.

Hazel Park at Warren Woods Tower

The Vikings are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2010 after beating Madison Heights Bishop Foley 47-7 to earn a berth into the playoffs and clinched a share of the Blue with Avondale and Ferndale, their first league title since 2005. Warren Woods Tower finished 7-2 and was second in the MAC Gold. The Titans hammered Sterling Heights 63-14 last week after having two subpar weeks in which they were outscored 41-20 in those two weeks, which resulted in losses. Hazel Park’s defense will be there, they have been solid all season along and the league that the Vikings play in will help as well. This one has upset trap written all over it.

SAMMY PICK: HAZEL PARK 21, WARREN WOODS TOWER 14.

ANT PICK: HAZEL PARK 21, WARREN WOODS TOWER 20.

SEAN PICK: WARREN WOODS TOWER 28, HAZEL PARK 12.

STICK PICK: HAZEL PARK 27, WARREN WOODS TOWER 21.

KEITH PICK: HAZEL PARK 24, WARREN WOODS TOWER 17.

BURNEY PICK: HAZEL PARK 20, WARREN WOODS TOWER 19.

Harrison at Warren Fitzgerald

The Spartans have had a successful season going 7-2 but the matchup they got with the Hawks might not be to Warren Fitzgerald’s liking even though it’s at home. Harrison played in a tougher league (White) than the Spartans (MAC Silver.) The Hawks played well for a half last week against Clarkston before falling 23-12 last week. Harrison would want to get some revenge in Warren against a solid Warren Fitzgerald team and the players are going to go all out for coach John Herrington.

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 21, WARREN FITZGERALD 7.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 28, WARREN FITZGERALD 7.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 49, WARREN FITZGERALD 7.

STICK PICK: HARRISON 28, WARREN FITZGERALD 20.

KEITH PICK: HARRISON 35, WARREN FITZGERALD 13.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 25, WARREN FITZGERALD 17.

Boys Soccer Regional Preview.

Written Monday October 23rd at 8:10 PM
Updated to Included Hamtramck forfeit, Tuesday October 24th at 12:00 AM

Region Four @ Atwood Stadium

Rochester vs Walled Lake Central

This is an interesting matchup for the Falcons as they head into Genesee County and legendary Flint Atwood Stadium take on the Vikings of Walled Lake Central. Rochester is rolling but a difficult matchup with the Vikings loom. If the Falcons win this game then they will have to see either Grand Blanc or Midland Dow. Both of those teams are solid teams. It won’t be an easy regional in Flint.

Region Three @ Bloomfield Hills

Troy vs Grosse Pointe South

The Colts won a really tough district at Groves and is riding a ton of momentum right now. Troy will take on a Grosse Pointe South team that won an interesting district. The Blue Devils are improving so this will be a dangerous matchup for the Colts. The winner of this game will take on either Sterling Heights Stevenson or Utica Eisenhower. This regional is made for Troy to go far and deep into the playoffs.

Region Six @ Farmington

Harrison vs Gibraltar Carlson/Dearborn Divine Child

The Hawks shocked the soccer world by winning the district final at home 1-0 over Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood. They were supposed to play Hamtramck but the Cosmos violated MHSAA rules that stated in Section Seven regarding academic conduct was violated because they used an ineligible player. It was determined that there was academic misconduct that occurred in the soccer program along with their football program which was 7-2 at the time. As a result the Cosmos were forced to forfeit not only their whole football season but also a chance to play soccer in the regional. Harrison will not play on Tuesday and will move on to the regional final on Thursday to play either Dearborn Divine Child or Gibraltar Carlson.

OAA Playoff Thoughts.

Written Sunday October 22nd at 9:30 PM
Updated Monday October 23rd at 1:00 AM

Here are my OAA Playoff thoughts. Stay tuned to OAA Now and Inside the OAA for the latest picks and previews surrounding the 12 OAA schools who are in the playoffs.

Division One.

I look at Clarkston being in Region One in District Two and see that they will host Grand Blanc. What’s interesting about the Wolves path would be if they get past the Bobcats this week and Davison, whom should beat Lapeer again in Genesee County next week then it’s possible that Clarkston takes a trip to Holland West Ottawa in the regional final on a Saturday.

The other OAA schools are in Region Four in District One, Troy has absolutely no chance with Waterford Mott. The Corsairs are led by David McGlown and a strong passing attack which will be too much for the Colts. West Bloomfield should be motivated to play Bloomfield Hills again after seeing a 24-7 lead in the Swamp go by the wayside only to lose 28-24. I think the Lakers will be ready for that matchup with the Blackhawks in the Swamp.

The other side of Region Four in District Two has Adams in there. They will have a tough first round matchup with Romeo. The Highlanders have some questions regarding Cole Patrino’s injury status but they will have a home game with a very good Bulldogs team that has made the State Semifinals in the last two seasons, including one State title. The winner of this game will see Utica Eisenhower at Sweinhart Field in the district final. It will be a tough district final for one of these teams to say the least.

Division Two.

There are four OAA teams in Region Four but there is one in District One Ferndale got an awful draw even though they are at home but it will be against State power Warren DeLaSalle. The Pilots are coming off a big high beating Novi Detroit Catholic Central twice and winning the Catholic League championship. Warren DeLaSalle is coached by former Macomb Dakota coach Mike Gionninne. I’m very concerned about their depth heading into this matchup.

The other side of Region Four, District Two pits three OAA teams in one district as Royal Oak whom made the playoffs for the first time since 2006 faces Oak Park. The Knights should handle the Ravens based on the competition that both teams have played this season with no common opponents. The other side of the district pits Groves against their city rivals Birmingham Brother Rice, this one could be a barn burner once again in Beverly Hills. The Falcons beat the Warriors 24-0 in the pre-district last season but these two teams are different than they were from a year ago. Groves is a young team that has developed this season. Birmingham Brother Rice has a new coaching staff and wants revenge for last season. The Falcons will have their work cut out for them.

Division Three.

I thought Harrison got a great draw in Region Four, District Two. I don’t think there is anyone out east that threaten the Hawks even though if they get to the State Semifinals would have to deal with Dearborn Divine Child and if they win that matchup then Harrison could possibly have a rematch with East Grand Rapids, a team that beat them 33-8 in week one, or Muskegon, whom is deemed the favorite in Division Three, DeWitt, or Zeeland East. The Hawks have an interesting first round matchup with Warren Fitzgerald. The Spartans and Harrison did not share a common opponent this season. Hazel Park lost to Warren Fitzgerald 32-20 in the first week of the season is in the playoffs for the first time since 2010. The Vikings will take on Warren Woods Tower. Hazel Park matches up well with the Titans but oddly enough both teams played the Spartans with the Vikings as mention losing to Warren Fitzgerald but Warren Woods Tower beat the Spartans 21-14 in week five. This will be an interesting district to keep an eye on.

Avondale is on the other side of Region Four, District One. The Yellow Jackets made the playoffs for the first time since 2012 will play Ortonville Brandon in Auburn Hills. The Blackhawks are coached by former Pontiac and Stoney Creek coach Brad Zube. Zube knows the OAA really well and has plenty of experience going up against the OAA. This could be a test for coach Ed Coutrier and his team. Brandon has been playing better as well. Avondale if they beat the Blackhawks would have to go to Genesee County and play Linden, whom should have no problem handling Bay City Central. I’m not sure how the Yellow Jackets match up with the Eagles if they play them.

Thoughts.

The MHSAA did no favors to the Blue or Troy. They all have tough first round matchups. Ferndale hosts Warren DeLaSalle, Troy is at Waterford Mott, Royal Oak is at Oak Park, and Avondale hosts Brandon.

I think Harrison has a great chance of getting to the State Finals in Division Three even though Dearborn Divine Child is a team they could see in the State Semifinals. If the Hawks get to Ford Field they will run into either Muskegon, Zeeland East, DeWitt, or East Grand Rapids.The Hawks lost 33-8 to East Grand Rapids in week one and Muskegon is the favorite in Division Three.

I thought Hazel Park got a favorable matchup with Warren Woods Tower and could very well pull it out over there over the Titans. The Vikings whom made the playoffs for the first time since 2010 has experience but they have not gotten this far but they have a defensive coordinator who has gotten to the playoffs in Gary Griffith and a head coach in Kyle Rowley whom has had the feeling of being in the postseason.

Ferndale, Troy, and Royal Oak got no favors by the MHSAA with their first-round matchups. I think the MHSAA recognized that the Blue was not exactly a great conference and that Troy was not playing the big Red opponents and all of the Colts wins outside of Avondale are not in the playoffs.

I thought West Bloomfield got a bad draw by the MHSAA and that they deserved a better seed and multiple home games. Instead they are likely going to get one home game out of this with Bloomfield Hills and then likely they will have to go to Waterford Mott and if they win that one then they go to Sweinhart Field to play Utica Eisenhower. It's unfortunate and sad but I really thought the Lakers got a bad draw here.

Adams if they get by Romeo will  have to see Utica Eisenhower in the District Final at Sweinhart Field. Groves whom plays Birmingham Brother Rice might have to deal with Oak Park in the next round. Clarkston will have to see Davison in the District Final if they get past Grand Blanc and if they win that then they would have to go west and play a Saturday afternoon game.

The MHSAA with the exception of Harrison and Oak Park did the OAA no favors.

Week Nine Recap.

Written Saturday October 21st at 1:00 AM

FINAL INSIDE THE OAA POLL FOR 2017

1. West Bloomfield

2. Adams

3. Oak Park

4. Ferndale

5. Clarkston

6. Harrison

7. Hazel Park

8. Avondale

9. Royal Oak

10. Troy

CLARKSTON 23, HARRISON 12

ADAMS 45, STONEY CREEK 7

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 42, ROCHESTER 7

WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, GROVES 26

TROY 20, TROY ATHENS 19

ORION 45, SEAHOLM 7

FARMINGTON 47, Detroit Edison 0

Garden City 19, NORTH FARMINGTON 9

Warren Michigan Collegiate 56, PONTIAC 6

FERNDALE 28, Dearborn Edsel Ford 24

ROYAL OAK 17, Monroe Jefferson 0

AVONDALE 41, Macomb Lutheran North 20

HAZEL PARK 47, Madison Heights Bishop Foley 7

OAK PARK 58, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 39

OXFORD 43, BERKLEY 7

BIG WIN: Ferndale: The Eagles had to score a touchdown with 30 seconds left to win in Dearborn over the Thunderbirds 28-24 on Friday night. Ferndale is now 15-3 in the last two seasons. Eagles coach Eric Royal has done a great job turning around the program and getting it to where they need to be. Ferndale will likely be back in Division Two likely seeing Oak Park, Port Huron Northern, or Detroit Martin Luther King again.

TOUGH LOSS: Harrison: The Hawks fresh off a big win for coach John Herrington took a step back after losing 23-12 to Clarkston on Friday night. Harrison got off to a strong start but the Wolves picked up their game and wore down the Hawks. Both Harrison and Clarkston will await their playoff opponents with the Hawks being in Division Three while the Wolves being in Division One.

TEAM ON THE RISE: Royal Oak: Welcome to the playoffs coach Ray McMann and the Ravens after winning 17-0 over Monroe Jefferson to get into the playoffs for the first time since 2006. Royal Oak will likely be in Division Two for the playoffs and could very well get a tough matchup but for McMann it’s a good feeling to not put away the pads this week.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Groves: The Falcons defense has been a subject of major concern heading into the playoffs in the last two weeks. Groves allowed 33 points against their arch rivals Seaholm but allowed 49 points to West Bloomfield this previous week. Falcons coach Brendan Flaherty needs to get things addressed especially if they have to play either Walled Lake Western or Pinckney in the playoffs.

WHAT HAPPENED: Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks defense was nonexistent on Friday night at home against Oak Park. The Knights overcame John Paddock and destroyed Bloomfield Hills in a shootout 58-39. The 58 points allowed is the most points allowed in school history. Both teams will await their future playoffs matchups coming up on Sunday.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: North Farmington: It’s been a rough season in the first year for coach Bob Chiesa but patience is needed for the Raiders. North Farmington needs to change everything including the uniforms. The Raiders lost 19-9 to Garden City sending their record to 1-8 and 1-17 since 2015. North Farmington has a lot of work to do but they have right coach in place to get this program back on track.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Troy Athens: How a failed extra point decided the fate of two teams. It decided the battle of Troy in which the Colts scored on an extra point late in the game to get into the playoffs for the first time since 2009 with a 20-19 win over the Red Hawks at Troy Athens. It was a back and forth affair with both teams wearing special jerseys to honor cancer research. Troy is looking at going to West Bloomfield or going to Sweinhart Field next week.

Projected Football Playoff Matchups.

Written Wednesday October 18th at 10:10 PM
Updated Saturday October 21st at 6:31 PM

Here are my projected football playoff matchups. Now it's not the most accurate but if things go right and hopefully they do, these should be your matchups. OAA teams are in CAPS while the Italics are 5-4 teams getting in. Here they are even though they are subject to future debate.

Division One.

Region 1, District 1

Grandville at Holland West Ottawa
Rockford at Grand Ledge

Region 1, District 2

Lapeer at Davison

Grand Blanc at CLARKSTON

Region 2, District 1

Walled Lake Central at Waterford Mott

Detroit Catholic Central at Lakeland

Region 2, District 2

TROY at ADAMS
BLOOMFIELD HILLS at WEST BLOOMFIELD

Region 3, District 1

Grosse Pointe South at Chippewa Valley
New Baltimore Anchor Bay at Macomb Dakota

Region 3, District 2

Utica at Utica Eisenhower
Warren Mott at Romeo

Region 4, District 1

Salem at Belleville
Saline at Canton

Region 4, District 2

Detroit Western at Dearborn Fordson

Livonia Stevenson at Detroit Cass Tech

Division Two.

Region 1, District 1

Traverse City Central at Traverse City West
Midland Dow at Muskegon Mona Shores

Region 1, District 2

Lowell at Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central
Mattawan at Portage Central

Region 2, District 1

Flint Carman Ainsworth at Fenton
Flushing at Midland

Region 2, District 2

Birmingham Brother Rice at Walled Lake Western
Pinckney at GROVES

Region 3, District 1

ROYAL OAK at Warren DeLaSalle
OAK PARK at FERNDALE

Region 3, District 2

Grosse Pointe North at Detroit East English Village Prep

Roseville at Port Huron Northern

Region 4, District 1

Dearborn Edsel Ford at Livonia Churchill
Detroit Martin Luther King at Livonia Stevenson

Region 4, District 2

Temperance Bedford at Wyandotte
Brownstown Woodhaven at Ypsilanti Lincoln

Division Three.

Region 1, District 1

Holland at Muskegon
Zeeland West at Zeeland East

Region 1, District 2

Parma Western at Battle Creek Harper Creek
St. Joesph at Stevensville Lakeshore

Region 2, District 1

Cedar Springs at East Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids Christian at DeWitt

Region 2, District 2

Bay City Central at Linden
Haslett at East Lansing

Region 3, District 1

HAZEL PARK at HARRISON
AVONDALE at Brandon

Region 3, District 2

Detroit Cody at Dearborn Divine Child
Warren Fitzgerald at Warren Woods Tower 

Region 4, District 1

Tecumseh at Chelsea
Allen Park at Romulus

Region 4, District 2

Trenton at Gibraltar Carlson
River Rouge at Riverview

 

Week Nine Picks.

Written Tuesday October 17th at 2:15 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 60-42

ANT 74-28

SEAN 77-25

STICK 81-21

KEITH 81-21

BURNEY 75-27

7. Groves at 1. West Bloomfield

The Lakers are looking like they will get a very good seed heading into the playoffs. West Bloomfield has won six straight since starting 0-2. The Lakers are looking like the team that everyone expected them to be. The Falcons are very young but they have had a successful season in what was supposed to be a down year but Groves has big wins over Oak Park, Harrison, and Seaholm this season. It could be an interesting game in the Swamp.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, GROVES 7.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, GROVES 14.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, GROVES 28.

STICK PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 34, GROVES 28.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 24, GROVES 20.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 34, GROVES 24.

2. Adams at Stoney Creek

The Highlanders have had a great season by getting big wins over Bloomfield Hills, Southfield Arts and Tech, Orion, and Clarkston this season and could very well be City Champs once again. Adams will play a Stoney Creek team that lost 17-16 to Rochester last week. The Cougars have improved this season but they still have some work to do this offseason.

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 52, STONEY CREEK 7.

ANT PICK: ADAMS 49, STONEY CREEK 7.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 49, STONEY CREEK 14.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 35, STONEY CREEK 7.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 56, STONEY CREEK 14.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 31, STONEY CREEK 21.

3. Harrison at 6. Clarkston

This will be an interesting game at Clarkston and the pressure is now off Hawks coach John Herrington. Herrington broke Al Fracassa’s record with his 431^st win last week over Berkley which resulted in a share for the White with Groves and Oak Park. The Wolves wasn’t impressive in their 17-9 win over Orion last week. Clarkston looks vulnerable but Harrison’s depth is a concern coming into the game.

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 28, CLARKSTON 7.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 24, HARRISON 21.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 17, CLARKSTON 14.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 28, HARRISON 27.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 24, HARRISON 13.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 27, CLARKSTON 20.

4. Oak Park at 8. Bloomfield Hills

The Knights have had an interesting season, sharing the White with Harrison and Groves. Oak Park will be in the playoffs for the fifth straight season. The Blackhawks will be in the playoffs for the second straight season after having a very surprising successful season in the Red. If the game comes down to talent, advantage Knights, all air attack favors Bloomfield Hills. It will be interesting between Oak Park and the Blackhawks in Bloomfield Hills.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 49, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 38, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 34, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 13.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 28, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 20.

5. Ferndale at Dearborn Edsel Ford

The Eagles have had a special season which resulted in their first league championship since 1996 when they won the then OAA Division Three crown. This will be an interesting matchup for Ferndale as they play Dearborn Edsel Ford in Dearborn. Ferndale beat the Thunderbirds 24-19 last season at home. The win by the Eagles got them into the playoffs for the first time since 2008. This matchup will be a good one but the key will be if Zoser Little plays or not, he got hurt last week in their 20-17 double overtime win over Hazel Park, that will be the key.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 28, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 24.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 24, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 14.

SEAN PICK: FERNDALE 34, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 28.

STICK PICK: FERNDALE 21, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 20.

KEITH PICK: FERNDALE 38, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 20.

BURNEY PICK: FERNDALE 25, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 15.

Madison Heights Bishop Foley at 9. Hazel Park

The Vikings had a chance to win the Blue outright but Hazel Park lost a tough double overtime loss to Ferndale 20-17 which led to a share of the Blue title with the Eagles and Avondale. Hazel Park needs a win against a Madison Heights Bishop Foley team that has struggled this season. The Ventures could spoil Hazel Park’s season while the Vikings are trying to make the playoffs for the first time since 2012.

SAMMY PICK: HAZEL PARK 28, MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 14.

ANT PICK: HAZEL PARK 24, MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 14.

SEAN PICK: HAZEL PARK 26, MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 14.

STICK PICK: HAZEL PARK 35, MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 14.

KEITH PICK:  HAZEL PARK 31, MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 16.

BURNEY PICK: HAZEL PARK 24, MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 10.

10. Avondale at Macomb Lutheran North

The Mustangs will be taking on their second Blue opponent in two weeks, their first matchup didn’t fare well against Royal Oak in which they lost 42-6 to the Ravens last week. This week they will play a Yellow Jackets team that is one win away from getting to the playoffs. Avondale is trying to get to the playoffs for the first time since 2012. It won’t be an easy game for the Yellow Jackets but they should be in the postseason.

SAMMY PICK: AVONDALE 48, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 7.

ANT PICK: AVONDALE 42, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 7.

SEAN PICK: AVONDALE 49, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 12.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 35, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 14.

KEITH PICK: AVONDALE 43, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 20.

BURNEY PICK: AVONDALE 30, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 24.

Royal Oak at Monroe Jefferson

This could be the perfect opportunity for the Ravens to make the playoffs for the first time since 2006 when they travel to Monroe to face a winless Bears team. Monroe Jefferson was shutout by Monroe St. Marys Catholic Central 27-0 last week while Royal Oak beat Macomb L’Anse Creuse North 42-6. If the Ravens lose this game then it’s shame on them but if they win, hello playoffs.

SAMMY PICK: ROYAL OAK 14, MONROE JEFFERSON 0.

ANT PICK: ROYAL OAK 24, MONROE JEFFERSON 7.

SEAN PICK: ROYAL OAK 42, MONROE JEFFERSON 14.

STICK PICK: ROYAL OAK 21, MONROE JEFFERSON 7.

KEITH PICK: ROYAL OAK 31, MONROE JEFFERSON 24.

BURNEY PICK: ROYAL OAK 29, MONROE JEFFERSON 27.

Rochester at Southfield Arts and Tech

The Warriors have not fared well in the close games which costed them a trip to the playoffs at 3-5 but they can get a win this week against Rochester, a team that is injury riddled but the Falcons beat Stoney Creek 17-16 last week. We don’t know the mindset of Southfield Arts and Tech after losing two straight games. The Warriors will be faced with some questions heading into the offseason. Rochester will be playing with nothing to lose even though they have to make that trip to Southfield for a 5:30 PM kickoff.

SAMMY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28, ROCHESTER 7.

ANT PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 35, ROCHESTER 7.

SEAN PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 38, ROCHESTER 14.

STICK PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28, ROCHESTER 21.

KEITH PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 42, ROCHESTER 13.

BURNEY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 34, ROCHESTER 23.

Seaholm at Orion

This will be a rematch of last season’s 21-14 overtime victory for the Dragons over the Maples on their Homecoming in the Maple Forest. This time it will be Orion’s Homecoming and Seaholm will look to ruin the Dragons Homecoming. This will be an interesting matchup, both teams are veteran heavy and have some young guys that are primed for the future. The offseason will be key for both teams as 2018 could be a big year for both teams.

SAMMY PICK: ORION 35, SEAHOLM 7.

ANT PICK: ORION 35, SEAHOLM 14.

SEAN PICK: ORION 28, SEAHOLM 7.

STICK PICK: ORION 28, SEAHOLM 20.

KEITH PICK: ORION 21, SEAHOLM 17.

BURNEY PICK: ORION 32, SEAHOLM 30.

Berkley at Oxford

The Bears and Wildcats have had struggling seasons thus far but it will be a homecoming for Berkley coach Billy Kennest. Kennest was a quarterback under coach Bud Rowley at Oxford back in the early 2000’s but he will be coaching against Rowley. The Wildcats face some questions next season but the Bears remain on track to get better as we head into next season.

SAMMY PICK: OXFORD 21, BERKLEY 12.

ANT PICK: OXFORD 24, BERKLEY 3.

SEAN PICK: OXFORD 35, BERKLEY 12.

STICK PICK: OXFORD 24, BERKLEY 21.

KEITH PICK: OXFORD 28, BERKLEY 13.

BURNEY PICK: OXFORD 26, BERKLEY 16.

North Farmington at Garden City

This is an interesting matchup when you look at both of these teams. Both North Farmington and Garden City come in with a combined record of 3-13 and have two female kickers. The Cougars have Alex Sherlock while the Raiders have Lynn Lerner. Garden City picked up a huge win last week over Livonia Claranceville 44-24. This will be a tough matchup for North Farmington but coach Bob Chiesa is changing the culture ever so slowly.

SAMMY PICK: GARDEN CITY 24, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

ANT PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 14, GARDEN CITY 13.

SEAN PICK: GARDEN CITY 42, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

STICK PICK: GARDEN CITY 21, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

KEITH PICK:  GARDEN CITY 27, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

BURNEY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 23, GARDEN CITY 14.

Pontiac at Warren Michigan Collegiate

This is going to be a tough game for the Phoenix heading into their season finale. Pontiac has struggled again at 0-8 and 2-51 since 2011. Warren Michigan Collegiate comes in undefeated and has scored 335 points this season. This one could get real ugly for the Phoenix and coach Charles Talley.

SAMMY PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 56, PONTIAC 6.

ANT PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 56, PONTIAC 6.

SEAN PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 63, PONTIAC 6.

STICK PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 21, PONTIAC 7.

KEITH PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 31, PONTIAC 6.

BURNEY PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 18, PONTIAC 8.

Troy at Troy Athens

The Colts have a chance to get to the playoffs for the first time since 2009 but in order to that they have to go on the road and beat a Red Hawks team that has won five of the last eight meetings against them. Troy Athens is playing with nothing to lose and what would be nice for them is to knock their city rival out of the playoffs.

SAMMY PICK: TROY 17, TROY ATHENS 14.

ANT PICK: TROY ATHENS 24, TROY 21.

SEAN PICK: TROY 27, TROY ATHENS 14.

STICK PICK: TROY 28, TROY ATHENS 14.

KEITH PICK: TROY 23, TROY ATHENS 13.

BURNEY PICK: TROY 25, TROY ATHENS 21.

Detroit Edison at Farmington (???)

Now I’m not sure if this game will happen heading into the final week of the season but the Falcons bounced back by beating North Farmington 47-6 last week but coach Kory Cioroch will have to address some major things heading into the offseason on both sides of the football.

SAMMY PICK: FARMINGTON 6, DETROIT EDISON 3.

ANT PICK: FARMINGTON 3, DETROIT EDISON 2.

SEAN PICK: FARMINGTON 28, DETROIT EDISON 20.

STICK PICK: FARMINGTON 14, DETROIT EDISON 7.

KEITH PICK: FARMINGTON 28, DETROIT EDISON 22.

BURNEY PICK: FARMINGTON 28, DETROIT EDISON 22.

Herrington becomes the State's All Time Winniest Head Coach.

Written Saturday October 14th at 9:40 AM

It was a historic night in Farmington Hills on Friday night.

Harrison coach John Herrington won his 431^st game, which broke former Birmingham Brother Rice Al Fracassa’s record after the Hawks won 39-0 over the Berkley Bears on Homecoming night.

The win was special for Herrington but the most important for his team was that the Hawks got their sixth win of the season which means they will be in the playoffs.

Harrison missed the playoffs last season.

Herrington in his 48 years as a head coach has won 13 State Championships in his career as a head coach.

The 13 State Championships are the most in State history.

Multiple alumni and coaches congratulated Herrington for being the State’s all-time winniest coach.

Herrington is happy to put this aside and focus on next week’s trip to Clarkston which the Hawks have a great chance to get their seventh win and get possibly a home playoff game.

It is likely Herrington will add on to his win total but in two years Harrison will close their doors because of budget cuts that are affecting the Farmington School District.

Week Eight Recap.

Written Friday October 13th at 11:50 PM

1. West Bloomfield

2. Adams

3. Harrison

4. Oak Park

5. Ferndale

6. Clarkston

7. Groves

8. Bloomfield Hills

9. Hazel Park

10. Avondale

ROYAL OAK 42, Macomb Lutheran North 6.

AVONDALE 55, PONTIAC 6.

FARMINGTON 47, NORTH FARMINGTON 3.

FERNDALE 20, HAZEL PARK 17.

ROCHESTER 17, STONEY CREEK 16.

OAK PARK 41, TROY 0.

HARRISON 39, BERKLEY 0.

GROVES 35, SEAHOLM 33.

ADAMS 55, TROY ATHENS 13.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS 26, OXFORD 14.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 62, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 37.

CLARKSTON 17, ORION 9.

BIG WIN: Ferndale: The Eagles picked up a huge double overtime win on Friday night at home over the Hazel Park Vikings 20-17 but the win might have come at a price as running back Zoser Little got hurt with an injury, it is unclear how serious the injury is. Ferndale shares the Blue title with Hazel Park and Avondale whom picked up a 55-6 win over Pontiac. The Eagles will go to Dearborn Edsel Ford next week.

TOUGH LOSS: Seaholm: The Maples have had a rough season with injuries but they had their arch rival Groves on the ropes but the Falcons escaped with a 35-33 victory in the Maple Forest over Seaholm. The Falcons clinched the White division title for a second straight season and shared the crown with Harrison and Oak Park. Groves has to go to West Bloomfield next week.

TEAM ON THE RISE: Royal Oak: The Ravens could be a playoff team for the first time since 2006 after beating Macomb Lutheran North 42-6 on Friday night. Royal Oak has a great opportunity that awaits them as they travel to Monroe Jefferson to take on a Bears team that is winless.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Troy: I knew the Colts would get destroyed by Oak Park 41-0 on Friday night in Knight Valley but next week Troy has to play a Troy Athens team that has nothing to lose. The Colts have beaten the teams that they are supposed to beat but lost to the teams that were better than them. That is a dangerous recipe when it comes to playoff points, it’s either beat the Red Hawks or your out.

WHAT HAPPENED: Stoney Creek: The Cougars had a three-game winning streak coming into Rochester but it was the Falcons that took advantage of a blocked extra point on their Homecoming stunned Stoney Creek 17-16 which will keep them out of the playoffs. This win could be a turning point for coach Eric Vernon and his Rochester program and a tough setback for coach Bob Lantzy’s team. It does not get any better for the Cougars as they conclude their season with a road game at Rochester Adams next week.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Orion: The Dragons lost yet another heart-breaker to Clarkston 17-9 on Friday night resulting in their seventh straight loss to the Wolves. Mental mistakes were the difference in this game. Orion has had a rough season at 2-6 under first year coach John Blackstock but brighter days are ahead for this program, just got to go through a transition period, which is never the easiest.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Southfield Arts and Tech: It looked like defense was optional in the Warriors game with West Bloomfield on Friday afternoon when they got beat 62-37 by a very good Lakers team. West Bloomfield shares the Red division title with Adams whom themselves had a bounce back season. Southfield Arts and Tech has athletes but to see them allow 62 at home is mind boggling. The Warriors will miss the playoffs and for a program with high expectations it was a disappointing season.

Week Eight Picks.

Written Wednesday October 11th at 9:45 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 53-37

ANT 64-26

SEAN 66-24

STICK 69-21

KEITH 69-21

BURNEY 63-27

1. West Bloomfield at Southfield Arts and Tech

If there is any game that is bigger for the Warriors than this game, then this is it after their shocking 23-22 loss to Bloomfield Hills. Southfield Arts and Tech has to win this game if they have any shot at making the playoffs. The Lakers are starting to peak at the right time, which is huge for their confidence.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 21.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 42, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 38, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 22.

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

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 30.

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

2. Adams at Troy Athens

The Highlanders lost Cole Patrino to injury last week in their 21-14 win over Clarkston. Adams should have no problem with a Red Hawks team that has been taking a ton of beatings in the Red this season. It could be another tough go yet again for Troy Athens.

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 35, TROY ATHENS 20.

ANT PICK: ADAMS 48, TROY ATHENS 14.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 49, TROY ATHENS 7.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 31, TROY ATHENS 14.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 42, TROY ATHENS 7.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 30, TROY ATHENS 17.

Berkley at 3. Harrison

Hawks coach John Herrington is tied with former Birmingham Brother Rice coach Al Frascassa with 430 wins. He should be able to get the record this week against the Bears. Berkley has really struggled this season and playing Harrison will be a tough chore for the Bears.

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 35, BERKLEY 0.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 49, BERKLEY 7.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 49, BERKLEY 0.

STICK PICK: HARRISON 35, BERKLEY 14.

KEITH PICK: HARRISON 35, BERKLEY 7.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 36, BERKLEY 16.

10. Troy at 4. Oak Park

The Knights are in a foul mood after losing 17-14 last week to Harrison. The Colts have been playing well against the teams they are supposed to beat, not so much against the teams they aren’t supposed to beat. They will probably wait until next week to have a chance at the playoffs.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 70, TROY 7.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 62, TROY 17.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 42, TROY 3.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 35, TROY 20.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 34, TROY 16.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 35, TROY 18.

9. Hazel Park at 5. Ferndale

This will be the game that decides the Blue. If the Eagles win then the title will likely be shared between Ferndale, Hazel Park, and Avondale. If the Vikings win it they win the crown outright. The big matchup will be the Eagles offense vs the Vikings defense. This one will be a fun one to watch.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 28, HAZEL PARK 21.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 35, HAZEL PARK 14.

SEAN PICK: FERNDALE 28, HAZEL PARK 26.

STICK PICK: FERNDALE 28, HAZEL PARK 27.

KEITH PICK: FERNDALE 28, HAZEL PARK 14.

BURNEY PICK: FERNDALE 30, HAZEL PARK 23.

6. Groves at Seaholm

The Falcons have been a big surprise this season keeping up their momentum from their 21-3 magical run. The Maples have struggled with injuries but if they pull off the upset then it will make up for some lost time.

SAMMY PICK: SEAHOLM 20, GROVES 17.

ANT PICK: GROVES 28, SEAHOLM 14.

SEAN PICK: GROVES 24, SEAHOLM 7.

STICK PICK:  GROVES 24, SEAHOLM 21.

KEITH PICK:  GROVES 28, SEAHOLM 10.

BURNEY PICK: GROVES 25, SEAHOLM 15.

Orion at 7. Clarkston

Wolves have owned the Dragons in six straight meetings. It’s Clarkston’s homecoming and the Wolves haven’t always fared the greatest on Homecomings. Orion playing with nothing to lose.

SAMMY PICK: ORION 28, CLARKSTON 21.

ANT PICK: ORION 28, CLARKSTON 24.

SEAN PICK: CLARKSTON 38, ORION 21.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 28, ORION 14.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 35, ORION 14.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 31, ORION 24.

8. Bloomfield Hills at Oxford

The Wildcats are playing with nothing to lose and could very well do some damage to Bloomfield Hills. The Blackhawks will have to ride the arm of John Paddock and be very careful of a letdown after last week’s 23-22 win over Southfield Arts and Tech.

SAMMY PICK: OXFORD 21, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 17.

ANT PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 17, OXFORD 14.

SEAN PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 34, OXFORD 14.

STICK PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28, OXFORD 21.

KEITH PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28, OXFORD 17.

BURNEY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 27, OXFORD 20.

Stoney Creek at Rochester

The Cougars took the Falcons out of the playoffs last season. Stoney Creek is red hot right now winning three straight games. Rochester could play spoiler this week.

SAMMY PICK: STONEY CREEK 24, ROCHESTER 20.

ANT PICK: ROCHESTER 21, STONEY CREEK 20.

SEAN PICK: STONEY CREEK 14, ROCHESTER 13.

STICK PICK: ROCHESTER 21, STONEY CREEK 14.

KEITH PICK: ROCHESTER 17, STONEY CREEK 16.

BURNEY PICK: ROCHESTER 26, STONEY CREEK 24.

Farmington at North Farmington

The Falcons and Raiders have had battles historically in the Farmington Cup. Talent favors Farmington but coaching favors North Farmington. This one could be interesting.

SAMMY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 12, FARMINGTON 10.

ANT PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 17, FARMINGTON 10.

SEAN PICK: FARMINGTON 33, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

STICK PICK: FARMINGTON 21, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

KEITH PICK: FARMINGTON 31, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

BURNEY PICK: FARMINGTON 22, NORTH FARMINGTON 21.

Pontiac at Avondale

This rivalry has been one sided as of late with the Yellow Jackets getting the better of the Phoenix. It will be a tough matchup for Pontiac, not only playing Avondale but also in Auburn Hills as well.

SAMMY PICK: AVONDALE 42, PONTIAC 6.

ANT PICK: AVONDALE 35, PONTIAC 7.

SEAN PICK: AVONDALE 49, PONTIAC 6.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 35, PONTIAC 14.

KEITH PICK: AVONDALE 42, PONTIAC 6.

BURNEY PICK: AVONDALE 33, PONTIAC 14.

Macomb Lutheran North at Royal Oak

The Ravens have improved their scoring output in the last two weeks. They should be in a battle with Macomb Lutheran North. It will be an interesting game this week between the Lancers and the Ravens.

SAMMY PICK: ROYAL OAK 35, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 21.

ANT PICK: ROYAL OAK 24, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 21.

SEAN PICK: ROYAL OAK 28, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 26.

STICK PICK: ROYAL OAK 21, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 20.

KEITH PICK: ROYAL OAK 24, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 21.

BURNEY PICK: ROYAL OAK 27, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 23.