Hello everybody and welcome to the 2019 football season around the OAA. After completing my preview shows which will be updated along with the podcast with Coach Corless, Ian Locke, and myself. Here is my 2019 football previews. Also catch the preview shows when they are updated.
Also this is the first season that I'm introducing the SPI which is the Sammy Percentage Index which looks at the team's returning talent, schedule, and expectations.
This blog article will be updated periodically so enjoy.
INSIDE THE OAA TOP TEN.
1. West Bloomfield
2. Oak Park
3. Clarkston
4. Groves
5. Oxford
6. Lake Orion
7. Ferndale
8. North Farmington
9. Farmington
10. Avondale
Red
EARLY OUTLOOK: The Red is always
interesting and it will be once again. Clarkston and West Bloomfield shared the
Red last season and both teams should be loaded again in 2019. Clarkston, West
Bloomfield, Oxford, Adams, and Lake Orion were playoff teams last season. The
Red is loaded again in 2019 with numerous powerhouse programs. West Bloomfield
has plenty of proven Division One talent on both sides of the football. Clarkston
has the offensive and defensive lines to compete with anyone in the State. Lake
Orion has nearly everyone back on the offensive side of the football but
questions at wide receiver and offensive line looms. Oxford lost a ton
of talent from last season but their top playmaker returns. Adams has
their quarterback and most versatile athlete back but experience is a question.
Southfield Arts and Tech has a lot of questions they’ll need to answer
despite having 14 seniors back. Bloomfield Hills has a ton of questions
they need to answer this season. The Red is tough as mentioned, we shall see
what happens.
EASY SCHEDULE: Adams: The
Highlanders are going to be an interesting team in 2019. Adams should be good
again for coach Tony Patrino. They have Rochester, Oxford, Seaholm, Bloomfield
Hills, and Clarkston visiting Adams but they have road games at Lake Orion,
Stoney Creek, West Bloomfield, and Southfield Arts and Tech. There should be no
reason why Adams shouldn’t win at least five games, if not then it’s a
disappointment.
NIGHTMARE SCHEDULE: West
Bloomfield: The Lakers have a tough schedule looming. West
Bloomfield has to open up with Oak Park and then Groves the following week
thankfully both games are in the Swamp. The Lakers have Clarkston and Adams
also coming to the Swamp as well but they have to go to Oxford, Lake Orion,
Southfield Arts and Tech, and the Catholic League fourth place team. With the
talent that coach Ron Bellamy has they should navigate this schedule but the
scheduling gods didn’t give West Bloomfield any breaks.
TEAM THAT HAS MOST TO PROVE: Lake
Orion: The Dragons have struggled going 21-26 since 2014 but this team has a
ton of experience back. Lake Orion has a very tough schedule which includes road trips to
Lapeer, Bloomfield Hills, Clarkston, and Oxford. They have West Bloomfield,
Adams, Monroe, and Southfield Arts and Tech coming to Lake Orion. Coach John
Blackstock’s team is more than capable to win seven games or maybe more but the
defense will need to come through and quick and if they do then look out.
TEAM THAT COULD HAVE IT TOUGH:
Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors have had some struggles which resulted
in two disappointing seasons (7-11 in that span.) Southfield Arts and Tech
hasn’t made the playoffs since their first season merging schools in 2016 which
adds more pressure on coach Tim Conley. The Warriors have a very difficult
schedule in 2019. They have Clarkston TWICE which includes week one at West
Bloomfield in the OAA Classic. Southfield Arts and Tech also has Lake Orion, Oxford, West
Bloomfield, and Adams along with closing the season against River Rouge. The
Warriors have a ton to prove if they want to get back to the postseason.
TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Bloomfield
Hills: The Blackhawks really took a step back finishing at 2-7 and not winning
a game in the Red last season. Bloomfield Hills had went 15-5 in the previous
two seasons which resulted in playoff appearances. This rough stretch might
continue especially with the schedule they have this season. Bloomfield Hills
has Lake Orion, Oxford, and Southfield Arts and Tech coming to Bloomfield
Hills. The schedule away from Andover Road is brutal with
road games West Bloomfield, Clarkston, Adams, and Rochester. They open up with
a trip to Sweinhart against an improved Utica squad to open up week one. I
think the Blackhawks could be in some trouble with the schedule this
season.
TOP TEN MUST WATCH GAMES:
Clarkston at West Bloomfield: This
has been a rivalry that has went back and forth with the home team winning each
meeting since 2015. The Wolves survived 28-25 at Clarkston last season. The
Lakers won in the Swamp 37-16 however Clarkston beat West Bloomfield in the
Division One State Final 3-2 in 2017 at Ford Field. This one shall be
interesting as always. The Wolves are 30-21-1 all-time against the Lakers.
Clarkston at Oxford: This should be
an interesting matchup in Oxford. The Wildcats went into Clarkston and stunned
the Wolves on a last second touchdown 20-17 last season. Prior to that upset
the Wolves had won five straight meetings against Oxford. Clarkston is 23-11-2
against the Wildcats.
Southfield Arts and Tech at Lake
Orion: Each meeting has been tight between these two teams. The Dragons beat
the Warriors 20-12 last season. The last time Southfield Arts and Tech went into
Lake Orion was in 2017 when the Warriors won 24-16. Both of the Dragons wins
were in Southfield. This season’s meeting will be very interesting between the
two with Lake Orion holding a 2-1 series edge.
Lake Orion at Oxford: Think Dragon
fans are sick and tired of hearing Wildcats fans letting them have it after Oxford
stunned Lake Orion 28-7 last season on their home field. The Dragons hold a
29-9-4 season series edge against the Wildcats. Lake Orion won at Oxford 31-14
in 2017. Also the Double O Trophy is on the line in this game.
Adams at Lake Orion: This was
Carter Farris breakout game in 2017 when he threw for two touchdowns in the
Highlanders 39-8 blowout of the Dragons. Lake Orion returned the favor last
season beating Adams 28-24 in Rochester. This will be an interesting
matchup this season at Lake Orion with the Dragons holding a 20-14 edge in this
series.
Oak Park at Clarkston: This will be
an interesting matchup between the Knights and Wolves. Oak Park has won the last two meetings against Clarkston including a 21-14 victory on the road last
season. The Knights will look to make it three straight against the Wolves. Clarkston has a 5-2 series edge over
Oak Park. This one should be interesting.
Lake Orion at Lapeer: This will be
the second meeting between the Dragons and Lightning. Lapeer won in Ann Arbor
17-7 last season. The Lightning have made the playoffs in every season since
they merged schools (Lapeer East and Lapeer West.) They are one of the
favorites in Saginaw Valley League Blue this season. Both teams have tough
schedules so this matchup is huge for both teams.
Oxford at Romeo: The Bulldogs and
Wildcats have went back and forth which has earned mixed results for both sides
in the last five years. Oxford has won the last three meetings on the blue turf
with Romeo which included a 24-21 victory last season, 27-26 in 2016, and 28-20
in 2014. The Bulldogs won 30-17 at Michigan Stadium in 2017 and 47-0 in 2015 at
Dan Barnabo Field. The Wildcats are 7-23 against Romeo. This sets up to be a great matchup at Dan Barnabo Field.
Rochester at Adams: This sets up to
be an interesting matchup between these two city rivals. Adams holds a 34-14
season series edge against their rivals from Livernois and Walton Blvd.
The Falcons haven’t beaten the Highlanders since 1996 but they came really
close forcing overtime and going for two however they didn't get it which resulted in 28-27 escape for Adams at Rochester last season. Could this be
the year for the Falcons to do it??? Only time will tell.
West Bloomfield at Oxford: The Wildcats had a tough loss last season in the Swamp falling 31-24 to the Lakers. This season’s meeting is in
Oxford which makes things interesting on the blue turf. The Wildcats play a “Pound the Rock”
style that can slow West Bloomfield down. The Lakers hold a 5-1 series edge
heading to this matchup.
LAKE ORION DRAGONS
(5-5 (5-4), 3-3 Red- Lost 30-7 to Clarkston in District
Semifinals)
PS 219, 132
PA 229, 144
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 7
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 8
ARCH RIVAL: Oxford, Clarkston, Adams.
STRENGTHS: Quarterback, Running Game, Linebackers,
Secondary.
WEAKNESS: Depth, Offensive Line, and Wide Receivers.
GAME OF THE YEAR: August 30th at Lapeer
PROJECTED RECORD 7-2, 4-2 Red.
PRESEASON RANK: 6
SPI Rank: 2
TEAM COLORS: Dark Green, White.
The Dragons are in an interesting spot heading into 2019
under third year coach John Blackstock. Lake Orion has really struggled with finding
consistency in the last six seasons along with a ton of changeover. The Dragons
are 21-26 since 2014. They have made the playoffs twice (2016, 2018- both years they were 5-4) since 2014. There was a stretch from 1998 until 2013
when they made the postseason 15 of the last 16 years. It included four
Division One State Semifinal appearances (1998, 2008, 2010, 2012), two Division
One State Final appearances (2008, 2010), and a State championship (2010.)
“Hard work, fundamental skills. We feel we’re on a good path” said Blackstock.
The Dragons offense will need to score more if they want to get past the five
win plateau for the first time since 2013 this season. Lake Orion scored 219
points which was their highest point total since 2014 last season (132 came
against Red competition.) The Dragons have not scored over 220 points since
2014. They have a ton of offensive playmakers returning for second year
offensive coordinator Brad Fisher. Lake Orion has their three year duel threat
starting quarterback Blaze Lauer returning. The running game should be the
strength of the Dragons in the form of Kobe Manzo, Marlon Robinson, and Drew
Van Heck. This is the area of the offense where Lake Orion has really struggled
to find since the 2012 season. This team has not had a proven pass catcher at
wide receiver in a long while. The Dragons have Sam Staruch, Sanai Pillot, and
Mitchell Howell returning. The offensive line is a huge concern for Lake Orion with
one starter returning in Mason Slocum however in talking with Blackstock. He said
that the offensive line has made progress and is excited to see what this group
can do. “Throughout the summer we’ve been encouraged with this group. We’re
excited about this group” Blackstock mentioned. Blackstock has a new defensive
coordinator in Rick Powell who comes from New Baltimore Anchor Bay where he was
their defensive coordinator last season. Powell will be tasked to fix a defense
that has had their fair share of moments of greatness and disaster in 2018. The
Dragons allowed 229 points last season (144 came against Red competition) which
wasn’t good. Lake Orion has Ari Curtis, Joe Cady, James McCoy, Jesus Cruz, and
Slocum on the defensive line. The linebackers should be the strength of the
defense with Van Heck, Manzo, and Isaac Kinnie playing there. The secondary
should also be another strength in the form of Pillot, Kaiden Beck, Howell, AJ
Mouzon, and Kade Manzo. Connor Ross handles the kicking duties. The Dragons have
a very tough schedule in 2019. They have Lapeer, Rochester, and Monroe for
their non-league. “We have the same expectations as always, win our first game,
win against the two blue and gold teams (Oxford and Clarkston), and be in
position to hoist a trophy” Blackstock concluded. Lake Orion should be a team
to keep an eye on this season but they have to fix that 21-26 record to get
back to where they need to be at.
WHY 7-2: The Dragons have a very interesting team coming
into 2019. The offense should be solid while the defense has some questions. The
schedule looks very tricky on paper. They have Lapeer, Clarkston, and Oxford on
the road but Southfield Arts and Tech, Rochester, West Bloomfield, Adams, and
Monroe come to Lake Orion. The Dragons need to take advantage of the home
schedule. I can see them winning seven games this season but that’s if the
offensive line can mature and the defense grows under a new system.
CLARKSTON WOLVES
(11-3 (7-2), 5-1 Red- Lost 31-30 to Chippewa Valley in
Division One State Finals)
PS 377, 184
PA 178, 95
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 5
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 5
ARCH RIVAL: West Bloomfield, Lake Orion.
STRENGTHS: Both Lines and Coaching Staff.
WEAKNESS: Playmakers especially Running Back and Secondary.
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 13th vs Oak Park
PROJECTED RECORD: 6-2, 5-1 Red.
PRESEASON RANK: 3
SPI Rank: 9
TEAM COLORS: Dark Blue, Yellow, White.
The Wolves have enjoyed a ton of success from 2010 and
beyond. They made the Division One State Finals four of the last six years, winning
three State titles (2013, 2014, and 2017.) Clarkston lost in the Division One
State Finals to Chippewa Valley 31-30 after a questionable two point play call late
in that game last season. They have made the playoffs 16 straight seasons and is expected to be there for a 17th straight year. The strength of
the Wolves as a team should be the offensive and defensive lines with Rocco
Splinter, Garrett Dellinger, Ben Haas, Carter Partee, and Kevarr Ellis returning
up front for coach Kurt Richardson. Dellinger didn’t play in the postseason due
to an injury he suffered against Oak Park in the team’s 21-14 loss to the
Knights but he’s back this season. Playmakers are a huge question mark for
Clarkston with a ton of players taking on much bigger roles. The Wolves will
have a new quarterback in 2019 in Mike DePillo. DePillo was the junior varsity
starting quarterback last season but he will make the jump to varsity this
season “Mike is getting better everyday” coach Kurt Richardson said. The
running game should be a question for Clarkston. Richardson said that he has five guys in
the running to see who the top running back is even though Kidus Johnson and
Darnell Bobo return. It shall be very interesting to see what Richardson does
at running back. “Running back is wide open with about five guys battling it
out” said Richardson. DePillo has wide receivers Dylan Erskine, Datruis McKinney, and Matt Miller
along with tight end Blake Kosin as his top targets in 2019. The Wolves offense had a very
good 2018 with their time control offense. They scored 377 points (184 came against
Red competition) even though it was three points less than they scored in 2017
when they scored 380 points but that year they won a State title. The team’s defense
should be very interesting to watch all year long with the strength of the team
being up front and at linebacker. They allowed 178 points (95 came against Red
competition) which was more than when they allowed 164 points in 2017. Clarkston
will have the line which should be the strength of the defensive unit with Splinter,
Ellis, Devin Parkinson, and Dellinger. The Wolves linebackers could be
another strength with Kosin, Ayden Brooks, Hayden Temple, and Jordan Iwanski. The secondary is the biggest question mark as they could
be tested even though Erskine, McKinney, Miller, and Alec Boan are playing
there. Stephen Rusnak handles the kicking duties. The schedule is very unusual for Clarkston as they will play eight games
in 2019 (don’t have a week nine.) Only playing eight games means that the
Wolves will need to win five games instead of six wins to make the postseason
but it could hurt them in playoff points. “Playing eight games suck” Richardson
concluded about only playing eight games in 2019. Clarkston has Southfield Arts
and Tech twice (play in league as well) along with Oak Park in their non-league. Expect
the Wolves to ride Splinter, Dellinger, Ellis, and Haas on the lines this
season. If they stay healthy then there is no reason why Clarkston should be
back in the mix again.
WHY 6-2: The Wolves will only play eight games which is not
right in my opinion. I can also tell in talking to Richardson on email about
his unhappiness about the situation. Clarkston is very talented especially up
front. The Wolves season will be depended on how their young playmakers grow
and develop and if they develop quickly then Clarkston could be in line for
another successful season. The schedule is tough as they have Southfield Arts
and Tech twice along with Oak Park, Oxford, West Bloomfield, Adams, and Lake
Orion. I see Clarkston winning six games which they will be a playoff team (only need to
win five in an eight game schedule.) I
wish someone in the OAA, State, or in the Country would step up to the plate
and play the Wolves in week nine. The coaching staff and kids deserve that.
WEST BLOOMFIELD LAKERS
(9-3 (7-2), 4-2 Red- Lost 13-10 to Belleville in Regional
Finals)
PS 365, 207
PA 240, 137
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 5
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 8
ARCH RIVAL: Clarkston, Southfield Arts and Tech, Bloomfield
Hills.
STRENGTHS: Talent and Proven Playmakers.
WEAKNESS: Kicking Game.
GAME OF THE YEAR: August 30th vs Oak Park
PROJECTED RECORD: 9-0, 6-0 Red.
PRESEASON RANK: 1
SPI Ranking: 1
TEAM COLORS: Green, White.
This could be the Lakers best team that they have had in a while
this season with the talent and Division One prospects that are back. They
should be hungry in 2019 hoping to avenge what happened losing to Belleville 13-10
in the regional final after blowing a 10-0 lead last season. West Bloomfield
will look to make a return to the Division One State Finals (2017) after not
being there in 2018. Lakers coach Ron Bellamy has developed a winning mentality
and culture to a program not only in the varsity level but in the sub varsity
and middle school levels as well. They will have new uniforms this season
according to assistant coach Zach Hilbers. West Bloomfield is loaded with a ton
of proven talent on both sides of the football. The Lakers were a scoring
machine in 2018. They scored 365 points with 207 coming against Red competition
last season. West Bloomfield has scored over 300 points in each season since
2014 (394 in 2014, 368 in 2015, 308 in 2016, and 468 in 2017.) The Lakers will have
duel threat quarterback CJ Harris returning for Hilbers (quarterback’s coach.)
The rushing attack should be the strength in West Bloomfield’s zone-read
offense. They will have a key player returning in running back Donovan Edwards.
Edwards suffered a gruesome knee injury which required him to have surgery late
in the season causing him to miss the playoffs and all of basketball season. Mekhil
Elam and Anthony May are expected to get some carries but Edwards
should get the majority of the carries. “We had to slow him down a while. After
Christmas break he was trying to run and play basketball (Edwards also plays basketball
for basketball coach Jeremy Dehna.) He’s ready to go” said Hilbers on Edwards. Harris
should have a very talented wide receiving group in Jake Lansaw, Immanuel
Mitchell, and Ryan Bowens, and Chase Glover-Rogers. The offensive and defensive
lines should be another strength in the form of Jaden Green, Cole Hall, Christopher
Johnson, Sterling Miles, Beau Davis, and Brett Bradley. The Lakers defense have
had some struggles in 2018. They allowed 240 points (137 came against Red
competition.) It was better than what they allowed in 2017 when they allowed
256 points and 267 in 2016. West Bloomfield should have the speed, talent,
athleticism, and experience returning. The strength of the defensive unit should
be in the secondary and linebacking positions. The linebackers should have Ethan
Bunch, Michael Williams, Terrell Thurman, Jordan Hoskins, Travis Reece, Brien
Becks, and Cornell Wheeler while Makari Paige (plays the team’s Viper
position,) along with Chandler Swoope, Dillon Tatum, Gavin Hardenman, Byron
McCormick, Zach Reid, and Maxwell Hairston in the secondary. The kicking game could be a
question mark for the Lakers despite having Jake Ward and Sammy Lafata handling
the kicking duties. “Work hard and go from there” Hilbers mentioned. West
Bloomfield has arguably one of the toughest schedules in the State in 2019. They will
have non-league games against Oak Park, Groves, and the Catholic League Central
fourth place team (Novi Detroit Catholic Central, Birmingham Brother Rice,
Warren De LaSalle, or Orchard Lake St. Marys) to close the season. “Getting
through the schedule you have Oak Park, Groves, Southfield, Clarkston, and
Orion as the first five games” Hilbers concluded. West Bloomfield has the
makings of a State championship team in 2019. The future looks bright with the
middle school and youth programs under Bellamy’s watch.
WHY 9-0: This could be the Lakers best team they have had
EVER and that says a lot especially with the team they had in 2017. West Bloomfield is loaded with a ton of talented players on
both sides of the football. The schedule is brutal with Oak Park, Groves,
Clarkston, The Catholic League fourth place team, and Adams coming to the Swamp and trips to Lake Orion, Oxford, and Southfield Arts and Tech. The Lakers have the talent to
make a serious run at the Division One State title. Anything less will be a
disappointment.
ADAMS HIGHLANDERS
(6-4 (6-3), 3-3 Red- Lost 23-20 in Overtime to Lakeland in
District Semifinals)
PS 215, 126
PA 195, 125
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 5
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
ARCH RIVAL: Rochester, Stoney Creek, Lake Orion.
STRENGTHS: Quarterback and Playmaking Ability.
WEAKNESS: Experience and Program Strength.
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 6th vs Oxford
PROJECTED RECORD: 5-4, 2-4 Red.
PRESEASON RANK: 11
SPI RANK: 11
TEAM COLORS: Brown, Yellow, White.
The Highlanders are in a very interesting position being the
hunters and not the hunted as they’ve been in recent years. Adams lost a ton of
talent from a team that made the playoffs three straight years for coach Tony
Patrino. The Highlanders were in a ton of close football games in 2018 with six
of their 10 games were decided by a touchdown or less. Adams went 3-3 in that
stretch but they upset Oxford 17-8 on the blue turf. They have had a
stranglehold on the Rochester city championship going 32-1 against their city
rivals since 1996. The road victory over the Wildcats was a huge reason why the
Highlanders got six wins in 2018, making the playoffs for the third straight
season. “We won three straight to get into the playoffs” said Patrino. Adams
has quarterback Carter Farris and all everything player Mark Patrino returning.
Farris suffered an ACL injury during their 23-20 overtime loss to Lakeland in
the postseason last season. “He has had a long winter, missed basketball. He has
worked really hard, he’s really close to being back at full strength” Patrino
added about Farris. He should be back to full health which should huge for this
program going forward. Patrino does a little bit of everything on the offensive
side of the football from playing running back and playing wide receiver. Patrino
also plays defensive side of the football. He is in the secondary but he could
play linebacker if asked too. Bob and Tim Anderson should lead the offensive
and defensive lines. Maurice Swain should be the lead back for the veer option
attack. Adams will need Farris and Patrino to be at their best on Friday nights
if they want to make a return to the postseason for a fourth straight season
especially with the youth and inexperience on this team. The Highlanders veer
(triple option) offense had their fair share of moments and struggles in 2018
with a lot of it being inexperience. Adams scored 215 points (126 came against
Red competition) which was their lowest point total since 2015 when they scored
201 points. The Highlanders scored over 30 points once last season. Prior to
last season, the offense scored 371 points in 2017 and 297 in 2016. The defense
had their fair share of bright and disastrous moments in 2018. Adams allowed
195 points last season which was below their standards. They allowed 133 points
in 2017 and 160 in 2016. They will have Logan Sayre back at linebacker but they
have questions everywhere else. The Highlanders will have a lot of youth and a
ton of unproven talent this season. They had only 12 players on their junior varsity
last season but hung tough in each game despite their record. The freshman team
went 8-1 last season which is great for the future. Expect a lot of sophomores
to be on varsity in 2019. The key for Adams will be is how the young guys
adjust to playing varsity football and if they can stay healthy. If the young
guys can adjust and they stay healthy then there is no reason that fourth
straight playoff appearance would be in the cards with this team. “We want to
get better every week and win those close games” Patrino concluded. The Red
will be tough for the Highlanders but non-league schedule is very manageable with
Rochester, Stoney Creek, and Seaholm. There could be a ton of growing pains
with this group.
WHY 5-4: The Highlanders are in an interesting position if
they finish with this record. I think Adams will be a playoff team at 5-4
because of the schedule they play. The Highlanders play in a very tough division and have
Rochester, Oxford, Clarkston, and Seaholm coming to Adams. They have Stoney
Creek, Southfield Arts and Tech, Lake Orion, and West Bloomfield all on the
road. If there young playmakers can develop and aid Carter Farris and Mark
Patrino then Adams could do some damage. It shall be very interesting to see
what the Highlanders do this season.
BLOOMFIELD HILLS BLACKHAWKS
(2-7, 0-6 Red- Didn’t make postseason)
PS 139, 72
PA 349, 271
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
ARCH RIVAL: West Bloomfield.
STRENGTHS: Wide Receivers.
WEAKNESS: Defense, Both Lines, Linebackers, and Depth.
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 13th vs Oxford
PROJECTED RECORD: 2-7, 0-6 Red.
PRESEASON RANK: 15
SPI RANK: 16
TEAM COLORS: Purple, Black, White.
The Blackhawks went through a tailspin in 2018 and
especially in the division. This was a program that went 15-5 in the last two
seasons but went 2-7 and was blown out in six games last season. Bloomfield
Hills should be an interesting team to watch this season as coach Dan Loria has
saw no quit in his players or his team “I like more of what the players have
done. They haven’t quit, they like being around each other and together” said
Loria. They fared well against non-league competition but they have had issues
against the Red. The offense had it rough in 2018 especially with points
scored. The Blackhawks spread attack scored 139 points (72 came against Red
competition.) Bloomfield Hills scored 252 points in 2017 and 303 in 2016 (John
Paddock quarterbacked both years.) The strength for Loria’s offense should be the
wide receiving core in the form of Alec Ward, Radiz Zerki, Christian Farris, and
Diego Badallo. These four could see time in the secondary. Tanner Slazinski is
expected to be the starting quarterback this season. Slazinski will have the
four wide receivers mentioned above along with tight end Owen Winter. The offensive
and defensive lines should be areas of concern despite Antonio Mitchell, Devin
Holmes, and Cooper Carleton return. The Blackhawks defense had a ton of issues
in 2018. They were historically bad allowing 349 points which was the most in
school history (271 came against Red competition.) The defense historically has
allowed over 300 points in four of the last six years. Bloomfield Hills has a
ton of questions on this side of the football. The secondary should be the
strength of the defense in 2019 with Brett Almany returning along with the
team’s the top four wide receivers mentioned should be in the secondary.
Linebackers are a question mark on this side of the football. Depth is a major
concern for the Blackhawks because this is where they lack. “We’ll be right
around a playoff spot, barring any injuries, we’ll be right in it” Loria added.
The schedule looks manageable for Bloomfield Hills especially the non-league
portion. They will have Utica, Troy, and Rochester but when they get into the
Red that’s where it could get very tough. “It’s extremely important. Got to
take it one at a time, we don’t want to go 0-1” Loria concluded.
WHY 2-7: The Blackhawks play in the wrong division when you
look at it. There are a lot of questions with this team heading into the season.
The schedule is brutal as well for Bloomfield Hills. They have Oxford,
Southfield Arts and Tech, and Lake Orion coming to Bloomfield Hills but they have
to go to Rochester, Utica, Clarkston, West Bloomfield, and Adams. The Red is
very difficult when the teams mentioned here. It could be a long season for the
Blackhawks.
SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH WARRIORS
(3-6, 2-4 Red-Didn’t make postseason)
PS 202, 156
PA 245, 165
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 8
ARCH RIVAL: Oak Park, West Bloomfield.
STRENGTHS: Offensive Playmakers.
WEAKNESS: Defense and Both Lines.
GAME OF THE YEAR: August 30th vs Clarkston at
West Bloomfield
PROJECTED RECORD: 2-7, 2-4 Red.
PRESEAON RANK: 12
SPI RANK: 3
TEAM COLORS: Dark Blue, Red, White.
The Warriors have been an odd team to figure out. They haven’t
been the same since making the playoffs in their first season as a merged school
(Southfield and Southfield-Lathrup) in 2016. Southfield Arts and Tech is known
for producing Division One talent. They have gotten a ton of hype from various social
media and media sites. What should make coach Tim Conley nuts is that they are
7-11 in the last two years (didn’t make the playoffs.) The Warriors have a very
tough schedule in 2019. They will see seven teams that made the playoffs last
season. They will see Clarkston twice including week one at West Bloomfield and a rematch with River Rouge at home to close out the season.
River Rouge humiliated Southfield Arts and Tech 45-0 last season on the road. They’ll
see a Troy Athens team in the middle of the season that should be improved also
at home. The theme of the Warriors in 2019 is “All In” which this season’s
group has talked about being committed and making a return to the playoffs
according to MLive’s Jared Purcell who caught up with Southfield Arts and Tech
at Metro Detroit’s M-Live Media Day. The numbers tell the story of the Warriors.
They have had their struggles on defense which has been a big problem in the
last two years. Southfield Arts and Tech allowed 245 points last season and 251
in 2017. The Warriors have eight returning starters including Solomon Bell, Joe
Weaver, and Cardiea Harris at linebacker while Jeff Bowens, Jeremiah Piper, and
Damon Hardwick are in the secondary. The Southfield Arts and Tech offense took
a huge step back in 2018 when they scored 202 points. The 202 points they scored was the lowest in
the school history. The Warriors will have six starters returning on the
offensive side of the football. They brought in two highly rated transfers in the offseason in wide receivers
Christian Fitzpatrick (Waterford Mott) and Robert Army (Detroit Renaissance.) Fitzpatrick
and Army should help in the passing game for returning duel threat quarterback
Anthony Romphf. Romphf had a good season in 2018 and was very instrumental in
their 37-35 upset win at West Bloomfield last season. Running back will be a
very interesting question for Southfield Arts and Tech in 2019. The Warriors
have three running backs that could make some noise for the team’s rushing
attack in Harris, Weaver, and Kaelon Green. Romphf should have plenty of pass
catchers for the team’s zone read offense in Aaron Foulkes, Bowens, Donovan
McCary, Piper, Army, and Fitzpatrick at wide receiver along with tight end
Jaden Littlefield. The offensive and defensive lines are question marks despite
having Abujul Jabbar, Raymen McDonald, Jaden Littlefield, Jamar Harmon, Caleb
Banks, Thomas McGee, and Bryce Austin likely playing on both sides of the
football. There is a lot of pressure on this team and rightfully so. The
numbers prove it.
WHY 2-7: The Warriors have been hyped all over social media
with multiple players getting Division One Scholarship offers etc. They have
two impactful transfers that should make an impact this season along with a ton
of Division One caliber talent. They were ranked third according to the coaches
to start the season. When I look at Southfield Arts and Tech, I look at their
track record. Their record in the last two years really tells me something. The
Warriors are 7-11 in the last two seasons, (missed the playoffs both years.)
Southfield Arts and Tech has a very brutal schedule in 2019. They have Oxford,
Adams, West Bloomfield, and River Rouge coming to Southfield along with
Clarkston at West Bloomfield. Their two toughest road games will be at Lake
Orion and Clarkston. I don’t know why social media hypes the Warriors but the
numbers and stats don’t lie. It will be interesting to see what Southfield Arts
and Tech has this season.
OXFORD WILDCATS
(8-3, (7-2), 4-2 Red- Lost 35-10 to Lapeer in District
Finals)
PS 326, 177
PA 192, 117
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
ARCH RIVAL: Lake Orion.
STRENGTHS: Quarterback and Running Back.
WEAKNESS: Ton of Unproven Talent.
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 20th vs Lake Orion
PROJECTED RECORD 5-4, 3-3 Red.
PRESEASON RANK: 5
SPI RANK: 5
TEAM COLORS: Dark Blue, Yellow, White.
The Wildcats had a resurgence in 2018 which saw a ton of success. That resurgence
included going toe to toe with West Bloomfield in the Swamp and beating Lake
Orion, Southfield Arts and Tech, and Clarkston. They made some noise in the
playoffs which included beating Davison 38-13 in the district semifinals
however they fell to Lapeer 35-10 in the district finals. The Oxford defense
had a huge bounce back leading the resurgence of the blue and yellow. They
allowed 192 points last season which was the first time that the Wildcats
allowed less than 200 points since 2010 (the year they entered the OAA.) What
also helped was that Oxford had a big time resurgence on the offensive side of
the football as well. They brought back the option game to aid with the “Pound
the Rock” offense. The Wildcats scored 326 points in 2018 which was the most points
scored since they scored 307 points in 2013. Oxford changed some things involving
their multi-sport athlete Drew Carpenter. Carpenter returns after switching
from running back to quarterback in 2018. The move made huge dividends for
Carpenter and the team. It also resulted in the team winning eight games and making
the postseason for the first time since 2014. The 2019 version of the Wildcats haven’t
gotten the respect that they deserve. They have made a ton of changes according to my source. Oxford will move Drew Carpenter back to running back and his younger brother Brady takes over at quarterback this season. Brady played on freshman last season for the Wildcats and had a great year in that level. Oxford has a lot of question marks beside the Carpenter's. If they can answer these questions then there is no reason why they can't do some damage this season. Brendan Mielnicki,
Austin Penizen, and Dylan Rebtoy should lead the offensive and defensive lines. Drew is expected to be the team's top running back while Matt Fullman is also
expected to see some carries. Melvin Eckles should lead the linebacking core along with Ty Myre. The wide receivers and secondary are question marks for the Wildcats despite
having Nathan Kull playing at wide receiver and in the
secondary. They have Drew and Fullman playing in the secondary. If
you can “Pound the Rock” on teams and do it effectively then good things happen.
The schedule is brutal for the Wildcats which includes non-league games against
Romeo, Stoney Creek, and Oak Park. Oxford should be a team to watch as
mentioned this season.
WHY 5-4: As long as Drew Carpenter stays healthy then this
is a playoff team no matter what the record says. The Wildcats got no respect
from the coaches in the coaches poll projected them second to last. They are
better than what people think. Oxford has Clarkston, Lake Orion, West
Bloomfield, and Stoney Creek coming to the blue turf but they go to Romeo, Adams,
Southfield Arts and Tech, and Oak Park. The schedule shall they finish 5-4 will
get them in the playoffs in my opinion. There is a lot to like about the
Wildcats.
White
EARLY OUTLOOK: The White has proven year in and year out to
be one of the toughest divisions in the State. The White should be different in
2019. There have been several major changes that occurred this offseason. Oak
Park won the White, Seaholm moved up from the Blue, and Harrison closed their
doors in June. Oak Park, Groves, Seaholm, and Harrison were playoff teams last
season. When looking into this division deeper, Oak Park is loaded with
multiple Division One College bound playmakers especially up front however they
have questions at quarterback. Groves fresh off a trip to the Division
Two State Semifinals for the second time in three years should be different however
they are loaded again this season especially on the offensive side of the
football. Rochester could surprise some folks as well with the
playmakers they have back. Troy Athens should be better after having a
rough season. Stoney Creek has the defense but can their offense gel and
quickly. Seaholm has a ton of unproven talent returning after a
successful year in 2018. Troy should struggle in this division. The
White this season looks to be a two team race but that’s why they play the
game.
EASY SCHEDULE: Troy Athens: The Red
Hawks will have somewhat of an easier non-league schedule. I’m not sure how it
will help coach Billy Keenest’s team in the long hall especially with next
season when the MHSAA will look at strength of schedule when it comes to
playoff points and not the six win component. Troy Athens has Detroit Old
Redford Academy, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, and Troy at home and tricky road
games against Oak Park, Groves, Rochester, Stoney Creek, and Southfield Arts
and Tech. If the Red Hawks can win all their home games and three games on the
road. Troy Athens could be a sleeper to watch with this set up on the schedule.
NIGHTMARE SCHEDULE: Groves: The
Falcons have the talent to make a deep run to the playoffs but the schedule is
daunting especially opening up at Wayne State against Grosse Pointe South. The
Blue Devils are talented and have made the playoffs nine of the last ten years.
Groves has to go to West Bloomfield, Oak Park, Seaholm, and
Brownstown Woodhaven. The Falcons have Troy Athens and
Rochester coming to Beverly Hills. This will be a challenge for Groves but
they should be up to the task.
TEAM THAT HAS A LOT TO PROVE: Rochester:
I had a nice conversation about the Falcons and people are high on this team
but they have a ton to prove. Rochester hasn’t beaten Adams since 1996 and has
to play Oak Park and Groves in a span of three weeks not to mention of having
to go to Lake Orion and have the return of former assistant Nick Merlo to
Rochester when they play Stoney Creek. There has to be caution here for coach
Eric Vernon and his team and to take things one at a time.
TEAM THAT COULD HAVE IT TOUGH:
Seaholm: The Maples lost a ton of talent from the team that made the playoffs for
the first time since 2013. Now Seaholm is in the White which means they will
see better competition. Program strength could be a big concern for coach Jim
DeWald’s team. The Maples have to play against Ferndale, Oak Park, Groves,
Stoney Creek, Troy Athens, Rochester, and Adams. They could be in some trouble
heading into the season.
TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Troy: The
Colts have a ton of issues including a lack of depth and program strength. Troy
has to go to Avondale, Troy Athens, Rochester, Oak Park, and Bloomfield Hills
along with hosting Groves and Stoney Creek. The Colts direction is really
concerning for me looking at coach Chris Frasier’s team and with the new
playoff system coming in next year, which most likely hurts them even further.
TOP TEN MUST WATCH GAMES:
Groves at Oak Park: This matchup
sets up to be very interesting between the Knights and Falcons. Oak Park has
won the last two meetings in the rivalry which included winning 13-7 last season
in Beverly Hills and 34-14 in 2017 at Knight Valley. Groves is 7-6 against Oak
Park in the season series. The White could be decided after this game.
Oak Park at West Bloomfield: This
one should be interesting between the Knights and Lakers in the Swamp. Oak Park
beat West Bloomfield 27-21 last season in Knight Valley. This will be the
second meeting between the schools since 2011. The Lakers are 5-1 against the
Knights. Expect a lot of star power in this matchup.
Oak Park at Rochester: The Knights
have owned the season series against the Falcons going 4-0 against them. Rochester looks to be improved this season and they took Oak Park to the limit in Knight Valley. The Knights survived 41-33 last season and the game is at Rochester. Prior to last season’s game the Knights had outscored the Falcons
in three meetings by a combined 134-0. This game will either be competitive or it’s
going to get ugly real fast.
Ferndale at Seaholm: This will be an interesting matchup in front of the Maple Forest. The Maples
shockingly blew out the Eagles 53-8 at Ferndale on route to winning the Blue last season and moving up to the White. There should be
some motivation for the Eagles after that game. Seaholm has won the
last two meetings and has a 31-21-1 edge against Ferndale. This one sets up to
be very interesting.
Groves vs Grosse Pointe South at
Wayne State: This is the second meeting between the Falcons and the Blue Devils
with Groves blowing out Grosse Pointe South 44-10 in the Division Two regional
final back in 2016 in Beverly Hills. The Blue Devils have made the playoffs
four straight years and will look to make it five straight years while the
Falcons have made the playoffs in seven of the last eight years. This should be
interesting in the Prep Kickoff Classic at Wayne State.
Stoney Creek at Rochester: There
are plenty of story lines heading into this city matchup. It is also a
homecoming of sorts for Cougars coach Nick Merlo. Merlo was an assistant at
Rochester under coach Eric Vernon before taking the job at Stoney Creek in 2018. Merlo's father Mark Merlo coached the Falcons for 24 years. The Cougars started the season 1-5 before turning things around late in the year under Merlo's watch. Stoney Creek is 6-6 and 5-3 since 2011
against Rochester which included a shocking 25-0 victory last season. It seems
like the Cougars have the Falcons number and the numbers don’t lie.
Groves at Seaholm: The Falcons have
won six straight meetings over the Maples in the “Battle of Birmingham” including last season
where they won twice over their city rivals (26-9 in Beverly Hills and 35-14 in
the playoffs in the Maple Forest.) Seaholm came really close in 2017 to knocking
off Groves but fell 35-33 in the Maple Forest. The Maples last win over the
Falcons came in 2012 when they went into Beverly Hills and won 22-15. Seaholm
is 40-20 against Groves in their rivalry series. This season’s meeting will be
interesting because anything can happen in a rivalry game.
Troy Athens at Stoney Creek: The
Cougars turned their season around by winning over the Red Hawks 34-14 last
season. Stoney Creek has a 6-2 season series edge against Troy Athens including
winning five of the last six meetings. These are two teams to watch all season
long.
Rochester at Lake Orion: This is
the first meeting between these two since 2013 when Rochester lost 41-20
to Lake Orion at home. The Falcons have lost 11 straight meetings to the
Dragons. The last time Rochester won over Lake Orion was in 1996. The Dragons
are 18-14 against Rochester however there is a lot of optimism on the Falcons
side coming into this matchup. It should be interesting to see what happens in
this one.
Troy Athens at Rochester: This
should be an interesting matchup between the Falcons and Red Hawks. Drake Reid
sealed it with an interception for a 23-20 overtime victory for Rochester at
Troy Athens. The season series is 18-18 which is interesting because the winner
of this game will take the season series lead. Both of these teams are on
playoff watch lists this season.
OAK PARK KNIGHTS
(9-2, (8-1), 6-0 White- Lost 35-7 to Warren De LaSalle in
District Finals)
PS 297, 177
PA 201, 92
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
ARCH RIVAL: Southfield Arts and Tech.
STRENGTHS: Proven Pass Catchers, Secondary, and Both Lines.
WEAKNESS: Quarterback and Linebacker.
GAME OF THE YEAR: August 30th at West Bloomfield
PROJECTED RECORD: 8-1, 6-0 White
PRESEASON RANK: 2
SPI RANK: 4
TEAM COLORS: Red, Black, White.
The Knights have been a perineal State power since Greg
Carter became coach and Athletic Director at Oak Park in 2011 but when they get
to the playoffs it has been a different story. The Knights have went to the
regional final twice (2012, 2017) but things did not go to plan for them, after
beating Ferndale in the pre-district they were humiliated at home by playoff
nemesis Warren De LaSalle 35-7 in the district finals last season. “Not only
that game but playing West Bloomfield and Clarkston but it’s motivated us” said
Carter. Oak Park in the last three years lost to the eventual Division Two
State Champions at some point in the playoffs (Warren De LaSalle twice and
Detroit Martin Luther King.) The Knights have made the playoffs seven straight
years. They are 53-25 since 2012. Oak Park is expected to be a State title contender
in Division Two this season. Carter has a ton of talent back especially on the
offensive and defensive lines with some of them committed to Division One
schools in Justin Rogers, Deon Harper, Jermaine Keys, Rayshawn Benny, Ossian
Harris, TeJuan Spencer, and Don Price. The Knights offense scored 297 points which
was unusual by their standards last season. They normally score around 300
points. Oak Park has some talented playmakers returning but they will have a
new quarterback in 2019. Wide receiver should be the strength of the team with
Enzo Jennings, Greg Lassiter, Charles Gillespie, Amari Harris, and Maliq Carr.
Carr should be to be the team’s top receiver. William Daniels is another
passing option at tight end. Travis Boston and DaVion Primm should handle the
running back duties. Carter will have a new quarterback in 2019 with Frank Black taking over for Dwan Mathis who has graduated and now is at
Georgia. Black played in the secondary last season but according to Carter, he
has played quarterback in junior varsity before playing in the secondary on varsity
last season. It should be very interesting to see how Black transitions from
playing defense to offense. “He’s going to be a great player for us. He played
quarterback two years ago in junior varsity. He moved to defense and did a
great job. He is excited to be back on offense but he will spend some time on
defense. He’s a great kid and a hard worker” Carter added. The Oak Park defense
had a rough year in 2018. They allowed 201 points which isn’t bad for most
teams but it wasn’t to their standards. The defensive line should be very
talented but linebacker is a question for this team. The secondary are very talented with Jennings,
Lassiter, Black, Giovanni Larkins, Calwan Fair, and Emanuel Hall. Rani Moussa
should handle the kicking duties. The Knights have an interesting non-league
schedule with tough non-league matchups against West Bloomfield, Clarkston, and
Oxford. Oak Park has had a ton of bad luck in the postseason but Clark needs
gets settled into the position and they need address the linebackers on defense.
If they can do that then the Knights could make some noise. “We want to compete
for championships, win league championships, and do better in the State
playoffs. We have our work cut out for us” Carter concluded.
WHY 8-1: The Knights have the talent to make a deep run in
the Division Two State playoffs but they will need everyone to be on the same
page. Oak Park will need Black to be a playmaker, if he does then they will be
fine. The Knights have Oxford, Troy Athens and Groves coming to Knight Valley. They play their games at 6 PM so whoever goes to Knight Valley will have to prepare for that sinereo. Oak Park will have to go to West Bloomfield, Rochester, Clarkston, Stoney Creek, and
Seaholm. The Knights are a proven team but their issues come in the postseason,
that’s where they will get tested.
GROVES FALCONS
(10-3, (7-2), 5-1 White- Lost 28-0 to Warren De LaSalle in Division
Two State Semifinals)
PS 404, 175
PA 209, 59
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
ARCH RIVAL: Seaholm.
STRENGTHS: Experienced Offense and Both Lines.
WEAKNESS: Very Young on Defense and Secondary.
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 20th at Oak Park
PROJECTED RECORD: 7-2, 5-1 White.
PRESEASON RANK: 4
SPI RANK: 8
TEAM COLORS: Green, Gold, Black.
The Falcons have been quietly building into a State power in
the last eight years and the numbers prove that theory true. Groves has made the
playoffs seven of the last eight years (six straight seasons) which included
two trips to the Division Two State semifinals (2016, 2018.) They are 52-16
since 2013 which also includes a stretch where the team went 38-9 since 2015. The
Falcons should be a team to keep an eye on especially early with a
tough schedule against some quality competition starting with Grosse Pointe
South. “Grosse Pointe South is a great team, a great program. They run some I
formation just like us and they have a tight end. It’s like playing a version
of ourselves. It gives us a nice advantage” said coach Brendan Flaherty. Groves
have some talent returning especially on the offensive side of the football for
Flaherty. They scored 404 points last season. The 404 points scored was the
most points they scored in school history. They have scored over 300 points
five of the last six years (scored 260 in 2017.) The Falcons will have duel
threat quarterback Marcus Alexander returning this season. Alexander had a huge postseason
where he was instrumental in wins over Seaholm, Birmingham Brother Rice, and
Livonia Franklin last season. Groves rushing attack should be solid with Colby
Taylor returning. He also had a big postseason in 2018 which included a couple of long
touchdown runs against Livonia Franklin. Taylor should get the majority of the
carries at running back. Alexander should have plenty of pass catchers in the
form of Jaden Mangham, Eli Turner, Teray Rayford, and Clayton Fox at wide
receiver. The Falcons offensive and defensive lines should be another strength
as they have some experience back. The offensive line should be capable to
protect Alexander while the defensive line should get to opposing quarterbacks.
The linemen should be talented in the form of Curtis Rogers, JJ Ferguson, Ben
Simmons, Jordan Broomfield, Sam Grasl, Miguel Byrd, and Jimmy Holcomb. The
Groves defense was very good and talented in 2018. They gave up 209 points (59
came against White competition) last season. The Falcons historically have been
very good on the defensive side of the football. They have allowed over 240
points once since 2013. Groves allowed 211 points in 2017, 142 in 2016, and 92
in 2015. They will have to replace a ton of proven experience on the defensive
side of the football. The linebackers should be the strength of the defense in
the form of Ralph Donaldson, Kaleb Coleman, and Mortus Preuss. The secondary
should be tested despite having Kyle Curran and Joel Mitchell playing there. Preuss
should handle the kicking duties along with playing linebacker. The Falcons will
have new field turf this season. The schedule is going to be very challenging
as mentioned. Groves will play Grosse Pointe South at Wayne State, West
Bloomfield, and Brownstown Woodhaven but the Falcons want to win the league
this year “We want to win the league and make a run” Flaherty concluded. It
will be interesting to see what happens in Beverly Hills.
WHY 7-2: The Falcons should be an interesting team to keep
an eye on in 2019. Groves will have to go to Wayne State against Grosse Pointe
South and have road trips to Oak Park, West Bloomfield, Seaholm, and Brownstown
Woodhaven but they have Stoney Creek, Rochester, and Troy Athens coming to
Beverly Hills. The Falcons should be a playoff team this year but they have
some talented players especially on defense to replace.
SEAHOLM MAPLES
(7-3, (7-2), 6-0 Blue- Lost 35-14 to Groves in District
Semifinals)
PS 351, 259
PA 155, 56
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
ARCH RIVAL: Groves.
STRENGTHS: Both Lines and Running Game
WEAKNESS: Quarterback and Wide Receivers.
GAME OF THE YEAR: August 30th vs Ferndale
PROJECTED RECORD: 1-8, 1-5 White.
PRESEAON RANK: 17
SPI RANK: 6
TEAM COLORS: Maroon, White.
This could be a season of transitions for Seaholm football
especially with the move to go back up to the White and the inexperience they will have to
deal with. The Maples had a very successful 2018. They won the Blue and made the playoffs for the first time since 2013. With the move to the White means
better competition something which Seaholm has not always fared well in their
new division. The Maples were in the White from 2014-2017 but they went 11-25
in those prior three seasons however coach Jim DeWald looks at going back up to the
White as an opportunity this season. “We look forward to the challenge of being
in the White this year. The White is a very challenging league that has great
players, teams and coaches” said DeWald. Another issue that has bothered the
Maple Forest and DeWald has been the team’s inability to beat their city rivals
from 13 Mile. Seaholm has lost six straight games to the Falcons including twice
in back to back weeks were they were outscored 61-23 against Groves last season.
“Groves is a great team that we have to figure out how to beat. No motivation
needed for this rivalry” DeWald mentioned. The Maples veer (triple option) offense
scored 351 points which was the most since 2013. Seaholm should be strong up
front in the form of Caden DeWald, Charles Anton, Sathya Siddapureddy, Nick
Thorn, Jacob Labarre, Cole Hitch, Charlie Bokos, Adham Elsharnody, among others
playing both the offensive and defensive lines. The rushing attack is expected
to be the strength of the offense in 2019. In a veer (triple option) offense
you’ll need great line play and a strong running attack. That’s what the Maples
have in James DeWald but expect Jackson Vance, Will McBride, Chase Metang, and Will
Bournas to get some carries as well. Sidaharty Siddapureddy and Alex Lonze are the team's top wide recievers.
Seaholm will have a new quarterback in 2019 after Gray Kinnie graduated. DeWald
will go with junior Caleb Kroner this season. “We graduated a great quarterback
in Gray Kinnie, it looks like Caleb Kroner is stepping up to lead the way at
quarterback” DeWald added. The Maples defense which should be interesting to
watch in 2019. They allowed 155 points in 2018 (56 came against Blue
competition.) The strength of the defense should be the linebackers in the form of Cameron Rifkin, McBride,
Siddapuredy, and DeWald. The secondary should be another strength for the Seaholm
defense with Metang, Vance, and Bournas. Justin Klotz should handle the kicking duties. The
schedule is going to be very brutal for the Maples in 2019. They open with Ferndale
in front of the Maple Forest. They will have Adams in the middle of the season,
and Avondale to close out the season for their non-league. Seaholm should be
competitive despite being in a tougher division “We understand the White is a
great league but we hope to be in the mix at the top of the league and make the
playoffs” DeWald concluded. It will be interesting to see what happens in the
Maple Forest.
WHY 1-8: The move up to the Blue is a huge reason why I see
the Maples finishing at 1-8 and not talent. Seaholm is 11-25 in the three years in the
White. It will be interesting how the Maples adjust to life in the White. They have Ferndale, Oak Park, Rochester, and Groves coming to the Maple
Forest. They go to Stoney Creek, Adams, Avondale, and Troy Athens. Seaholm will
certainly be a team to watch. They have the talent but the move up is a huge
adjustment.
ROCHESTER FALCONS
(2-7, 2-4 White- Didn’t make postseason)
PS 192, 143
PA 256, 168
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 3
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
ARCH RIVAL: Adams, Stoney Creek.
STRENGTHS: Quarterback and
Secondary.
WEAKNESS: Both Lines,
Wide Receivers, Defense, and Depth.
GAME OF THE YEAR: October 11th at Lake Orion
PROJECTED RECORD: 4-5, 3-3 White
PRESEASON RANK: 14
SPI RANK: 12
TEAM COLORS: Blue, White.
There is plenty of optimism surrounding the Rochester
football program even though they are 25-49 since 2011. The Falcons sub varsities had
a great year last season but sometimes it doesn’t always translate to the
varsity level. There are questions especially with depth concerns and a lot of
them not seeing varsity game experience for coach Eric Vernon. Rochester has
improved on the offensive side of the football in the last three seasons
scoring over 130 points (253 in 2016, 134 in 2017, and 192 points last season.)
The Falcons have Peyton Youngblood as the team’s starter this season. He
has played quarterback when he was at Stoney Creek during his freshman and
sophomore seasons (transferred to Rochester in 2017.) Youngblood has played
linebacker while at Rochester and now will play on both sides of the football. “He’s a competitor, hard-nosed kid, he’s tough. He is grasping
the offense” said Vernon. Noah Stout should be the lead running back while
Kellen Burke is their top pass catcher at tight end. Wide receivers should be a
question mark heading into the season even though Jordan Meacham and Bobby
Kronner play there. If there is an area of concern for the Falcons it is their
defense and for huge reasons. Rochester allowed 256 points last season however
there have been times historically that the defense had been worse. The
Falcons have allowed over 220 points in the last six years which is mind boggling. They allowed 312 in 2014,
323 in 2015, 267 in 2016, and 283 in 2017. They have several players that go
both ways with Youngblood and Burke alongside Njenga Kamau at linebacker. The
secondary should be the strength in the form of Paul Miller, Ian Carroll, and
Jeremy Hessian in the back end of the defense. The offensive and defensive lines
are huge question marks in 2019 even though Magd Boutany returns to anchor both
lines. Rochester has a very interesting non-league schedule with two teams they
haven’t beaten since 1996 on the schedule. The Falcons open the season with
their arch rival Adams on the road. The Falcons haven’t beaten the Highlanders
since 1996 however they came close at home last season falling 28-27 in
overtime to their bitter city rivals. Rochester also has to play Lake Orion,
another team that they haven’t beaten since 1996. They will close the season
hosting Bloomfield Hills. “Tough teams, tough schedule. The numbers are high.
Hoping to get some breaks our way” Vernon mentioned. The Falcons have an
opportunity to break three droughts this season along with beating Adams and Lake Orion for
the first time since 1996, and make the playoffs for the first time since 2010. “If we compete, play hard, stay healthy and do the
little things right, we’ll be fine” Vernon concluded.
WHY 4-5: The Falcons have a ton of optimism but I have
concerns with this team up front. Rochester has Oak Park, Stoney Creek, Troy
Athens, and Bloomfield Hills coming to Rochester but they have to go to Lake
Orion, Adams, Groves, and Seaholm. The Falcons are more than capable to win six
games but they will need to win some key games especially on the road. I’m very
concerned about this defense though. Rochester will be a team to keep an eye
on.
STONEY CREEK COUGARS
(3-6, 2-4 White- Didn’t make postseason)
PS 140, 107
PA 213, 149
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 8
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 5
ARCH RIVAL: Rochester, Adams.
STRENGTHS: Defense, Running Game
WEAKNESS: Unproven Offense, Depth, and Lines
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 13th vs Troy Athens
PROJECTED RECORD: 5-4, 4-2 White.
PRESEASON RANK: 13
SPI RANK: 13
TEAM COLORS: Navy Blue, Gold, White.
The Cougars could be a darkhorse in coach Nick Merlo’s
second season. Stoney Creek took some lumps going 1-5 but really turned it
around at the end of last season by winning two of their last three games which
included a shocking 25-0 victory over Rochester while they held their own against
Adams where they fell 17-3. The Cougars are 16-29 since 2014, which is
something they need to get fixed. Stability has also been a problem with this
program. Stoney Creek has had three different head coaches since 2013 (Brad
Zube, Bob Lantzy, and Merlo.) 2013 was the last time this program made the
playoffs. What has plagued the Cougars has been the offense. They haven’t been
able to put points on the scoreboard and the numbers prove it. Stoney Creek
scored 133 in 2016, 93 in 2017, and 140 points last season. Merlo will have a
new quarterback in 2019 however according to Merlo it will be a quarterback
competition in either Zach Denha or Ryan Echout. “We got a lot of options at
quarterback” said Merlo. Whoever the new quarterback is will have huge shoes to
fill as he takes over for four year starter Frank Potezma who has graduated and
is at Wayne State. The Cougars have running back Cam Burford returning. Burford
should help ease the pressure on the new quarterback but Josh Cagibao should
get some carries as well. The offensive and defensive lines are very unproven despite
Merlo calling both lines a strength of the team this season. They will have
Austin Jordan, Davon Morris, and Owen Torres playing on both sides of the line.
The new quarterback should have plenty of targets in 2019 in wide receivers Jacob
Joseph, Jake Anglim, Jack Warner, Max Bruchez, along with tight end Grant
Lowery. The Cougars defense should be the strength heading into 2019. They have
some proven playmakers on this side of the football for defensive coordinator and former Troy and Hazel Park
coach Gary Griffith. Stoney Creek has allowed over 240 points only once since
2012 (243-2016.) They allowed 213 points last season which was only two points
more than they allowed in 2017 (211) however the team allowed 31 total points
in the final three games (went 2-1 in that stretch.) The Cougars have always been
strong defensibly even with the changeover of coaches since the 2012 season. They
allowed 200 in 2015, 212 in 2014, 185 in 2013, and 194 in 2012. Stoney Creek should
have Nick Potezma and Cole Luhmann returning at the linebacker while Warner,
Denha, Bruchez, and Donte Lanier are in the secondary. Lance Fogelberg will handle
the kicking duties. The school has bought into the “Armor Up” culture that
Merlo has installed into the program. “The kids have did a nice job buying into
the culture. Our senior leadership is stronger. Looking forward to the fall”
Merlo concluded. The school got new field turf this offseason which looks nice.
The Cougars have a favorable schedule early which should get them off to a
strong start. They open the season with an interesting trip to Runkel Field to
play Utica Ford II. Stoney Creek has a tough back loaded schedule with non-league
games against Oxford and Adams. This is a program that is more than capable to
get to six wins which would mean a return to the playoffs for the first time
since 2013. The numbers are a huge concern with this group as depth could be an
issue. The Cougars will need to earn everything especially with is the culture
that Merlo is building on Tienken and Sheldon Roads. There are bigger and
brighter days ahead with this program.
WHY 5-4: The Cougars have a ton of upside heading into the
2019 season. Year two is always the most important to a transition and that’s
where Merlo and his team is at. They have questions at quarterback but they
have a stout defense. I’ll be curious who starts at quarterback in week one
against Utica Ford II. Stoney Creek will have to start off fast if they want to
make some noise. It is possible that the Cougars could be 4-0 heading into the
Oak Park game. I don’t know if Stoney Creek is a playoff team with the schedule
they have but the program is heading in the right direction right now.
TROY COLTS
(2-7, 1-5 White- Didn’t make postseason)
PS 106, 66
PA 277, 190
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 5
ARCH RIVAL: Troy Athens.
STRENGTHS: Running Game.
WEAKNESS: Both Lines, Depth, Quarterback, Program Strength.
GAME OF THE YEAR: August 30th at Avondale
PROJECTED RECORD: 0-9, 0-6 White.
PRESEASON RANK: 20
SPI RANK: 18
TEAM COLORS: Black, Gray, Silver, Red, White.
It has not been the pleasantest of times for Troy football. The
Colts were a State power in the 1990’s however times had changed for the
program. Troy is 16-39 since 2013 and 30-53 since 2010.They had made the
playoffs three straight years prior from 2007-2009 however since then they have
made the postseason only once since 2009 (2017.) There are plenty of issues surrounding
this program. The Colts defense has struggled recently and historically which has
bothered defensive coordinator Tom Calnen. They have allowed over 200 points in
seven of the last nine years going back to 2011. The most they have allowed was
in 2015 when they gave up 357 points (they went 0-9.) Troy allowed 277 points in
2018 (190 came against the White.) The Colts will have Corey Pischel and Javier
Banks returning in the secondary for coach Chris Frasier. The linebackers are
huge question mark even though Brendan Worton returns at that position. “As
always Troy High will rely on our seniors and captains (Pischel and Worton) for
leadership and help pointing our ship in the right direction. We expect to
compete to our abilities and everything will take care of itself” said Frasier.
They have a ton of questions on the offensive and defensive lines however several
players returning in the form of Nicholas Bennett, Haasar Ali, Worton, Kyrollus
Awad, Jaylen Riley, and Kevin Burnazi are on both the offensive and defensive
lines. “We graduated so many starters on the offensive and defensive lines in
the last couple of years so we need a couple of new faces to step up and fill
those roles. Those groups (the offensive and defensive lines) have done a great
job so far listening to their coaches and trying to improve on their
techniques” Frasier mentioned. The offense has been the other problem for the
Colts and Frasier who is also the team’s offensive coordinator. Troy has seen
their scoring output drop since 2010. They have not scored over 210 points
since 2010 (scored 276 in 2009, 284 in 2008, and 398 in 2007.) The Colts scored
106 points in 2018 (66 came against the White.) The fewest points Troy has
scored came in 2015 when they scored 51 points (went 0-9.) The Colts in 2019
should have some playmakers returning but they will have a new quarterback this
season as either Jake Wiesman, Brendan Taylor, or Max Stromberg are battling
for the job. “I have been lucky to have two great kids as our quarterback in
the last two years (Noah Wagberg and Matt Lenihan-both graduated.) This year we
have a couple of new kids competing for the job. They are all great kids, who
listen well, and work hard. By the start of our first game (at Avondale) we are
expecting someone to jump up and take the job” Frasier concluded. The Colts
will have Ryan Peluso and Zahn McClure back at running back along with Pischel
and Tyler Manev at wide receiver. Peluso should handle the kicking duties.
Program strength is a big time concern for Troy. The numbers are down within
the program. The Colts program is going with two teams instead of three (no
freshman) despite Troy having one of the biggest schools in the State. The
schedule is very interesting for the Colts despite their tough league schedule
they have tough non-league games against Avondale, Berkley, and Bloomfield
Hills. Troy could be in line for a long season.
WHY: 0-9: The Colts have a ton of questions everywhere. Troy
has Berkley, Seaholm, Stoney Creek and Groves coming to Troy but they go to
Avondale, Troy Athens, Rochester, Seaholm, and Oak Park. I don’t know if the
Colts will win a game this season with the schedule and talent level that is in
the program right now. It doesn’t look promising for me right now for coach
Chris Frasier’s team.
TROY ATHENS RED HAWKS
(1-8, 1-5 White- Didn’t make postseason)
PS 106, 85
PA 291, 173
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
ARCH RIVAL: Troy.
STRENGTHS: Experience.
WEAKNESS: Winning Culture.
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 13th at Stoney Creek
PROJECTED RECORD: 3-6, 2-4 White.
PRESEASON RANK: 16
SPI RANK: 15
TEAM COLORS: Red, Gold.
The Red Hawks have had a long history of struggling to find
consistency and disappointments. This is something that second year coach Billy
Keenest is trying to fix at the school. Troy Athens is 13-50 since 2012 (2-25
since 2016.) Keenest had a tough 2018 going 1-8 in his first year coaching the
red and gold (coached at Berkley in 2017.) There is optimism with this program in
2019. "We got to win early, we haven't had a lot of success so getting wins early is huge for us" said Keenest. The program suffered the recent loss of their late former coach John
Walker last month. The Red Hawks will honor Walker with decals on the back of
the helmet this season. Keenest was the offensive coordinator under then coach
Josh Heppner for a long while before leaving for Berkley. The Troy Athens
offense really struggled with injuries and chemistry in the last two seasons.
They have six starters back from a unit that scored 106 points last season. It
was a step back from the 149 points that was scored in 2017. The Red Hawks will
have a new quarterback in Mason Teeter this season. Teeter should have playmakers
to work with in tight end Will Graham along with wide receivers Derrick Boots,
Nate Woodley, and Davis Digiovanni. Waides Ashmon should get the majority of
the carries at running back but Carson Eads should get some carries as well. The
offensive and defensive lines should be solid in the form of AJ Rasa, Shawn
Dell, Jeff Westberry, Josh Kinsman, Metos Saelim, Brad Mallory, Jake Glinski,
Kyle Spence, and Gjon Gjelaj. The defense has been a huge problem since 2005.
Troy Athens has allowed over 200 points in 18 of the last 21 seasons (they have
allowed less than 200 points three times (121 in 2015, 169 in 2004, and 185 in
2011.) The Red Hawks allowed 291 points in 2018 which wasn’t good however it
was an improvement from the 351 points they allowed in 2017. The defensive
strength should be the linebackers in the form of Ashmon, Graham, Rasa, Dell,
Lucca Da Silva, and Grant Vande. The secondary should be interesting for Troy
Athens with Digiovanni, Shawn Stefut, Andrew Sassine, and Trey Vincent.
Digiovanni should handle the kicking duties. The Red Hawks have an interesting non-league
schedule with the three teams they face went a combined 8-19 record in 2018.
They open up against Detroit Old Redford Academy and then play their arch rival
Troy the following week (both at home) then the Red Hawks will have to play
five of their seven games on the road which includes a trip to Southfield Arts
and Tech in the middle of the season. They will have Pontiac Notre Dame Prep to
close out the season at home. The challenge for Keenest is turning around a culture
that has been used to losing. “We have to start fast, if we can get off to a
good start then it will ensure confidence into this group” Keenest added. It
wouldn’t surprise anyone if the Red Hawks get to six wins and make the
postseason because of the experience but things have to go right in doing so. "We got to win" Keenest concluded. THEY
HAVE TO START FAST if they want to make noise. It’s trusting the process and
right now they are very close.
WHY 3-6: The Red Hawks have a ton to prove especially with
their history. They should be improved if they start fast. Troy Athens has
Detroit Old Redford Academy, Troy, Seaholm, and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep coming
to Troy but they have to go to Stoney Creek, Southfield Arts and Tech, Groves,
Rochester, and Oak Park. To change a culture you need to go on the road and
steal some games. I think there are some games that the Red Hawks could steal.
I do like Keenest’s team and if they get confidence early then they could make
some noise.
Blue
EARLY OUTLOOK: The Blue should be an interesting division to
keep an eye on in 2019. Seaholm took the division last season and has moved up
to the White. Farmington, Seaholm, Avondale, and Ferndale were playoff teams in
2018. There are three new coaches in this division (Corey Bell at Avondale, Jon
Herstein at North Farmington, and an interim coach in Charles White at Pontiac.)
North Farmington has went through a complete renaissance with the
addition of Herstein from Harrison. Herstein brought the entire coaching staff
at Harrison including John Herrington whom is the quarterbacks coach. Expect
the Raiders to be in the early favorite for the Blue title in 2019. Farmington
has a lot of talent returning along with a very favorable schedule. Avondale
has a ton of athletes at the playmaking spots. It will be interesting how adjust
to Bell’s system which is the question. Ferndale always has talent and
are well coached but they have a very tough schedule looming. Royal Oak
has had two winning seasons (11-8) and has a ton of experience returning but
they will be tested against a solid Lakeview program week one. Berkley
should be better under second year coach Sean Shields. Pontiac should be
an interesting team to keep an eye on with everything that has gone on there.
This will be an interesting division as mentioned to keep an eye on.
EASY SCHEDULE: Farmington: When I
saw the schedules and especially looked at this one more closely than others. I
thought to myself with my hands up at arms, are you kidding me the Falcons have
one of the easiest non-league schedules that I have seen in a long while. Farmington
has Detroit Henry Ford, Ypsilanti Lincoln, and Detroit Old Redford Academy. All
three non-league opponents had a combined 9-18 record last season. The Falcons
have Berkley and Ferndale coming to Farmington but they have road trips to
Avondale and North Farmington. If Farmington doesn’t win at least seven games
with this schedule then coach Kory Cicroch should be disappointed.
NIGHTMARE SCHEDULE: Ferndale: When
I looked at the schedule, this is the anti-Farmington when it comes to
schedules. The Eagles have a very brutal schedule that the team’s three year
playoff streak could be in severe jeopardy this season. Ferndale has to go to
Seaholm, Allen Park, North Farmington, Farmington, and Birmingham Detroit
Country Day and that’s not mentioning that Avondale comes to Ferndale where the
road team has won the last two meetings. Coach Eric Royal’s team is going to
have to earn it with this brutal schedule if the Eagles want to get into the
playoffs for a fourth straight season.
TEAM THAT HAS A TON TO PROVE: North
Farmington: We heard how new coach Jon Herstein has talked about how North
Farmington is going to become the new Harrison but he and his new team are
going to have to prove it. The non-league looks interesting with manageable
games against Waterford Kettering, Okemos, and Ypsilanti Lincoln. Okemos looks
to be very tricky for the Raiders. North Farmington has a very friendly home
schedule as Waterford Kettering, Ferndale, Okemos, and Farmington come to North
Farmington and has a trip to Avondale on the docket. The Raiders should win at
least six games with this schedule, anything less will be a disappointment.
TEAM THAT COULD HAVE IT TOUGH:
Royal Oak: The Ravens had a tough setback last season missing out on the playoffs
after going 5-4, a lot of that had to be the team’s final two opponents in
2018. The schedule for coach Ray McMann’s team will be interesting with St.
Clair Shores Lakeview coming to the Ravens Nest to play the Ravens for a fourth
straight year. Royal Oak also has North Farmington, Southgate Anderson, and
Ferndale coming as well. The Ravens will have Farmington and Avondale
on the road which should be daunting tasks. Royal Oak has experience returning which always
helps. This will be a team that I’ll be watching very carefully.
TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Berkley:
The Bears haven’t been the same program since Chris Sikora left the program in
2016. 2016 was the last time Berkley made the postseason when they went the
Division Two regional finals. The schedule looks daunting in 2019 for coach
Sean Shields and his team. The Bears have to go to North Farmington, Pontiac
Notre Dame Prep, and Ferndale. Berkley has Brandon, Avondale, and Farmington
coming to Hurley Field. If there is a team that could be in trouble then it’s the
Bears.
TOP TEN MUST WATCH GAMES:
Farmington at North Farmington: The
Farmington Cup is one of the most interesting trophies in Oakland County. The
Falcons have won the last three meetings against the Raiders which included last
season’s 27-7 home victory. This season’s meeting is very interesting as the
kids from Harrison have integrated into both schools along with the former
Harrison coaching staff at North Farmington. Farmington was a playoff team last
season. The Raiders should be in the mix along with the Falcons. I’m wondering
if the Blue could be on the line in this matchup.
North Farmington at Avondale: This matchup
on paper looks to be very interesting between the Raiders and the Yellow
Jackets. Avondale has owned North Farmington going 4-1 in the series and
winning 44-3 last season and 47-0 two years ago. Both teams have new coaching
staffs but they have the same goals in mind which is to win the division and
make the playoffs.
Ferndale at Birmingham Detroit
Country Day: This will be the third straight meeting that the Eagles and Yellow
Jackets will face off against one another. Ferndale has won the last two
meetings and holds a 2-0 series edge over Birmingham Detroit Country Day
including a 27-14 win at home last season and a 17-7 win two years ago in
Birmingham.
Avondale at Ferndale: This has been
a great rivalry with the road team winning the last two meetings. Ferndale went
into Auburn Hills and blew out the Yellow Jackets 39-12 last season. Avondale
went into Ferndale and beat the Eagles 21-13 in 2017. The Yellow Jackets have a
10-9 edge in the season series against Ferndale. This matchup looks to be tight
and close this season.
St. Clair Shores Lakeview at Royal
Oak: This will be the fourth meeting between the Ravens and Huskies with St.
Clair Shores Lakeview having a 2-1 series edge over Royal Oak with both wins
coming in St. Clair Shores. The Huskies won 27-9 last season and 21-0 in 2016.
St. Clair Shores Lakeview would get to the postseason in both years they beat
the Ravens. Royal Oak got a measure of revenge when they shut down the Wing T
offense on route to 21-0 victory at the Raven Nest in 2017. That victory over
St. Clair Shores Lakeview would eventually get them into the playoffs. It seems
whoever wins this game has a great shot to make the playoffs.
Ferndale at North Farmington: This will
be a huge game for both teams. The Eagles won two years ago over the Raiders
36-0 but this North Farmington team is vastly different with the addition of
coach John Herstein and the former Harrison staff. This series is even at 4-4. Whoever
wins this game will have the edge in the season series. It’s a big game for
both teams especially with where these teams want to go.
Farmington at Avondale: The Falcons
and Yellow Jackets have built a rivalry as of late. Farmington beat
Avondale twice last season 28-14 and 42-9 in the playoffs. Both teams are
vastly different since the district semifinal game last season with the Yellow
Jackets getting a new coaching staff while the Falcons got an influx of
athletes from Harrison. Farmington holds a 3-1 series edge heading into this
game so this one should have plenty of emotion from the start.
Ferndale at Allen Park: This is the
first ever meeting between the Eagles and Jaguars. Allen Park has made the playoffs
eight of the last nine years including last season. The Jaguars are 70-26 since
2014. Ferndale is 22-8 since 2015 which includes three playoff appearances. It
will be a big game for both teams when these two teams meet in Wayne County.
Ferndale at Farmington: This should
be an interesting matchup between the Eagles and Falcons. This game could have
possible league and playoff indications written all over it. Farmington earned
a hard fought 10-7 victory at Ferndale last season behind their stout defense.
The Eagles blew out the Falcons 37-7 in 2017 at Farmington. Farmington and
Ferndale have stout defenses, expect this one to be a low scoring game like
last season. The Falcons are 4-1 against Ferndale in the season series. A lot
of things could be decided in the division race during this game.
Berkley at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep:
This is the first meeting since 2016 between the Bears and Fighting Irish.
Pontiac Notre Dame Prep beat Berkley 26-3 that season at Hurley Field. The
Fighting Irish hold a 1-0 series edge. This matchup sets up to be very
interesting because it doesn’t always happen all the time.
FERNDALE EAGLES
(7-3 (7-2), 4-2 Blue- Lost 40-20 to Oak Park in District
Semifinals)
PS 314, 175
PA 122, 88
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 5
ARCH RIVAL: Berkley, Royal Oak, Avondale.
STRENGTHS: Quarterback, Rushing attack, Linebackers, and
Secondary.
WEAKNESS: Both Lines,
Kicking Game, and Wide Receivers.
GAME OF THE YEAR: October 4th at Allen Park
PROJECTED RECORD: 6-3, 4-2 Blue.
PRESEASON RANK: 7
SPI RANK: 7
TEAM COLORS: Brown, Yellow, White.
The Eagles have had a ton of success which has caused the
rise of Ferndale football. The Eagles are 22-8 in the last three years which
included trips to the playoffs in each season. They haven’t made it out of the
first round because they had tough matchups in the pre-districts (2016-Detroit
Martin Luther King, 2017-Warren De LaSalle, 2018-Oak Park.) The MHSAA didn’t do
them any favors with the enrollment. They placed them in Division Two because
Ferndale has a CoOP team merging with Ferndale University because of lack of
numbers. The MHSAA combined Ferndale and Ferndale University which puts them in
Division Two instead of Division Three (Ferndale has 717 students but if you
include Ferndale University they have 1,280 students.) If the Eagles want to
make it four straight postseason appearances which has never been done before
then they would have to earn everything especially with the schedule they have
ahead of them. Ferndale not counting the league schedule has Allen Park,
Birmingham Detroit Country Day, and Seaholm for their non-league. “It’s one of
the toughest, we’re up for the challenge” said coach Eric Royal. The Eagles
offense has been very good in the last three seasons. Ferndale scored 314
points last season which was the most they scored since scoring 301 points in
1968. They scored 285 points in 2017, and 299 in 2016. The Eagles will have
quarterback Joe Lewis-Estell returning. He had a big year last season as a duel
threat for Ferndale leading them to the postseason. The strength for the Eagles
should be their rushing attack in 2019. Ferndale has three solid running backs
that can carry the load in Tre’Jon Pickett along with JayShawn Adams and
Tremaine Lee. They some major concerns at wide receiver even though Daryl
Durham is back. Adams and Lee could also see time at wide receiver as they have
been proven pass catchers. The offensive and defensive lines were experienced
last season but this season they could be young. The Eagles will have Angel
Deray, Enrico Wetherington, Kavone Sanders, and Kyle Ellis returning. The
Ferndale defense in the last three seasons have been outstanding and have
gotten better each season. They allowed 142 points last season which was the
lowest since 2004 when they allowed 96 points. The Eagles allowed 159 in 2017
and 197 in 2016. Ferndale’s strength on the defensive side of the football
should be in the secondary with Adams, Deshawn Parkman, Durham, Kalvin
Littleton, and Antione Brown. The Eagles linebacking core should be solid in
the form of Dylan Martin, Pickett, and Lee. The kicking game is a question for
them. Ferndale will need to earn everything if they want to make history and
make the playoffs for the fourth straight season. “We want to compete for a
league title and make history at Ferndale. It.
WHY 6-3: The Eagles have a tough schedule looming. Ferndale has
Allen Park, Detroit Country Day, Seaholm, Royal Oak, North Farmington, and
Farmington on the road. They have Avondale coming to Ferndale however the
road team has won in the last two years. I can see the Eagles winning six
games which would be a huge accomplishment. If Ferndale wants to make a return to the playoffs this is the path they
must take to get there.
BERKLEY BEARS
(2-7, 1-5 Blue-Didn’t make postseason)
PS 125, 243
PA 243, 174
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 7
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 7
ARCH RIVAL: Royal Oak, Ferndale.
STRENGTHS: Both Lines.
WEAKNESS: Skill Players and Depth.
GAME OF THE YEAR: August 30th vs Brandon
PROJECTED RECORD: 3-6, 2-4 Blue.
PRESEASON RANK: 18
SPI RANK: 14
TEAM COLORS: Maroon, Dark Blue, White.
The Bears are trying to return to the playoffs for the first
time since 2016 when they got to the regional final under then coach Chris
Sikora. It has been a hassle in the last two seasons for Berkley as they have
struggled to find an identity. The Bears are 3-15 since 2017 however they are
starting to turn the corner under second year coach Sean Shields. Berkley will
have new uniforms this season and have had a full offseason to get adjusted into
Shields system. The Bears offense have really struggled scoring points in the
last two seasons. They scored 125 points last season which was not good but it
was an improvement compare to where they were at (scored 69 points in 2017.)
Berkley will have a new quarterback in 2019 in the form of Hunter Kiesling.
Kiesling takes over for Drake Monroe who has graduated and has spent time in
the secondary last season. He is expected to be there again this season. Kiesling
is a duel threat quarterback. He led the team in rushing and passing last
season and brings some experience to the position. “He’s our biggest leader of
our program. Really good athlete, quick release. The work that not only he but
the work they put in is tremendous” said Shields. Running backs and wide
receivers are question marks despite Liam Sarris returns at wide receiver. The
offensive and defensive lines will be interesting with Zach Gebhardt, Cody
Rigley, Jalen Spratt, and Justin Anagonye leading this group. “Our offensive
and defensive line will be our strength. Our team and senior leadership is
strong and hungry to win” Shields added. The Berkley defense have had their struggles
historically. The Bears allowed over 240 points in each of the last four
seasons. Berkley allowed 243 points in 2018, which wasn’t good but it was an
improvement from the 321 points they allowed in 2017 and 261 points in 2016. The
Bears have seven starters returning on the defensive side of the football with
linebacker and secondary being the strength of the defense. Berkley has Rigley,
Jalen Spratt, and Sean Symk at linebacker along with Kiesling and Ian Domzalski
in the secondary. Symk is expected handle the kicking duties. Depth and program
strength are major concerns for Shields despite the improving numbers. They
have a tough non-league schedule which includes Brandon, Troy, and Pontiac
Notre Dame Prep. “We want to improve on our record, if we stay healthy then I
don’t see why not we can be a playoff team” Shields concluded. If the Bears wants
to turn things around they will need to step their game up and trust the
process.
WHY 3-6: The Bears should be improved with Hunter Kiesling
taking the controls at quarterback but the schedule scares me. It will be tough
chores against Farmington, North Farmington, Ferndale, Avondale, Pontiac Notre
Dame Prep, and Brandon. Berkley should be better in 2019. If the Bears can pull
off three wins against this group then they could make a return to the
playoffs. If Berkley wants to make some noise then winning these games will get
them noticed.
AVONDALE YELLOW JACKETS
(7-3 (7-2), 4-2 Blue-Lost 42-9 to Farmington in District
Semifinals)
PS 360, 225
PA 171, 85
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 5
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
ARCH RIVAL: Troy, Pontiac, Ferndale.
STRENGTHS: Experience.
WEAKNESS: Adjusting to a New System and, Both Lines,
Quarterback.
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 6th vs Detroit
Renaissance
PROJECTED RECORD: 8-1, 5-1 Blue.
PRESEASON RANK: 10
SPI RANK: 10
TEAM COLORS: Purple, Yellow, White.
Avondale will have an interesting transition heading into
the 2019 season. They have had some success lately which will make this
transition very interesting as mentioned. There was a stretch that the Yellow
Jackets have missed the playoffs from 2013-2016. Avondale has went 13-7 which
included two playoff appearances however they haven’t made it past the first
round since 2012. The Yellow Jackets will have a new coach in Corey Bell taking
over the program. Bell is the nephew of former Lake Orion football coach and
current Athletic Director Chris Bell. He takes over for Ed Couturier who spent
three seasons coaching the program. Bell will have a very experienced team that
is loaded with talent on both sides of the football in 2019. “The transition to
Avondale has been great. The entire community, coaches, and players have all
welcomed me in with open arms” said Bell. Avondale was very good under
Couturier’s triple option attack (veer option) scoring 360 points last season
prior to scoring 334 in 2017. The offense could be different under Bell which
is something to watch. “Our expectations is to compete every single day. Both
our senior and junior class know what it takes to be successful and we are
looking to build off of that success.” Bell mentioned. The Yellow Jackets will have
a quarterback competition between three guys in Reece Betts, Garrett Weeks, and
Jake Herzog. Bell mentioned that the competition could go well into preseason
camp “All three of these young men have worked hard all summer and are excited
for the upcoming season. We will see how they progress through the rest of the
preseason and we’ll make a decision on our starter as we get closer to game one
(Troy-week one.) We feel that all three of them are great leaders and great
quarterbacks and we know we will have success with whoever emerges as out
starter” Bell mentioned. The running backs should be the strength of the
offense in 2019 with David Holloman as the lead back although Jamason Jodway
could get some carries as well. The wide receivers are very talented for the
new quarterback with Elijah Wheeler, Torey Coleman, Jordyn Stuckey, Peyton
Voeffray, Andrew Miller, and Miguel Garcia. The offensive and defensive lines should
be very interesting for Avondale but they are very talented with Brian
Keturakis, Jason Cory, Shane Gubariu, Shiloh Johnson, and Joey Secord. The
defense had a strong 2018 campaign and will look to improve on those numbers in
2019. They allowed 171 points which was the lowest they allowed since 2009 (182.)
The linebackers and secondary should be the strength of the defense in 2019
with Jodway, Coleman, D’Angelo Harris, and Jayden Allen at linebacker while
Corban Small, Andrew Miller, Maliaci Lyons, and Wheeler are in the secondary.
Josh Grow is expected to handle the kicking duties. The schedule looks
manageable for the Yellow Jackets with non-league games against Troy, Detroit
Renaissance, and Seaholm to go along with the league schedule. “We play in a
very competitive league (Blue) so in order to be successful we are focused on
improving one game at a time. The players and the coaching staff feel that we
can have a very successful season and have been working hard day in and day out
to achieve our goals” Bell added. Bell is looking forward to seeing what the
Avondale football program has right now and into the future. “It’s great to be
able to be back in Oakland County and I’m thankful to be a part of such a great
district as Avondale” Bell concluded.
WHY 8-1: If the Yellow Jackets can buy into Bell’s system
with all the talent and experience Avondale has then they could make a serious
run. The Yellow Jackets have the athletes to get it done. The league slate is
interesting but looking at Avondale there is no reason that this team won’t win
seven or eight football games. The Yellow Jackets should be a playoff team for
a third straight year.
NORTH FARMINGTON RAIDERS
(3-6, 3-3 Blue-Didn’t make postseason)
PS 105, 85
PA 230, 122
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 8
ARCH RIVAL: Farmington.
STRENGTHS: New Coaching Staff and Experience.
WEAKNESS: Both Lines and Adjusting to a New System.
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 13th vs Ferndale
PROJECTED RECORD: 7-2, 5-1 Blue.
PRESEASON RANK: 8
SPI RANK: 19
TEAM COLORS: Brown, Yellow, White.
There has been a lot of change over at North Farmington with
the football program undergoing a huge transition. The Raiders have a new coach
in Jon Herstein. He comes from Harrison which closed in June. Herstein is the
team’s third coach in four seasons before that was coach Todd Schultz. He takes
over for Bob Chiesa who is now the defensive coordinator at Walled Lake
Northern. The transition has been very good according to Herstein. “It’s been
very good” said Herstein about the transition from Harrison to North
Farmington. Herstein brings the majority of the former Hawks staff to North
Farmington including the State of Michigan’s winniest head coach John
Herrington. Herrington will coach quarterbacks and running backs this season
for the Raiders. “It’s been really good, we work closely together. We want to
do well” Herstein added. North Farmington is 22-41 since 2012 and have seven
playoff appearances in school history with 2013 being the most recent but they
have fallen on hard times as a program. “The past is the past, it’s a new day”
Herstein added. The offense has really struggled as of late. The Raiders scored
90 total points (32 in 2016 and 58 in 2017) however they have improved significantly
by scoring 105 points last season which was a 47 point improvement. Expect the
point total to increase in 2019 with the new coaching staff and the returning
experience they have returning. North Farmington has a quarterback battle going
on between two quarterbacks whom transferred into the school in the spring. The
two battling for the starting quarterback job is Jacob Bousama (transferred
from Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood,) and Aaron Rice (transferred from
Walled Lake Western.) Herstein said to the Detroit News in late June that
Bousama was ahead of Rice in the quarterback competition but that could change
during preseason camp “We feel really good with both of them, feel confident in
both guys. Both have a big upside, they can also play multiple positions as
well” Herstein mentioned. Myles Gresham and Taj Cheathem are the top running
backs while Jon Brunette is the fullback. The wide receiving core should be
very strong in the form Eddie Linton, Jasper Beeler, Jamal Hayes, Deon Hayes,
and Oldel Hines along with Klarc Crockett at tight end. There is a possibility
that Rice could see time at wide receiver if he doesn’t get the starting
quarterback job along with Sylvon Brown at tight end. The Raiders offensive and
defensive lines could be very concerning despite having Blake Morris, Malik
Hardy, and Shale Totin. All three will likely play on both sides of the
football. North Farmington will need to address a defense that has struggled
historically. The Raiders have allowed under 200 points only twice since 2011.
He brought in longtime Harrison defensive coordinator Dave Thorne to run the
defense. Thorne will be tasked to bring the points against total down from what
they were in the past. They allowed 230 points in 2018 which was manageable but
it was a far cry when they allowed 334 points in 2016 (they went 0-9) and 342
points in 2017. He has several players that could make some noise especially at
linebacker and in the secondary. The linebackers and secondary should be the
strengths of the North Farmington defense in 2019 with Brunette, Andrew Dooley,
Brown, Chase Reed, Kevin Prabhaker, and Linton at linebacker while Beeler,
Bousama, Cheathem, and Herman Kern in the secondary. Massimo Sgambati is
expected to handle the kicking duties. The non-league schedule looks very
manageable. The Raiders open up the season at home against Waterford Kettering,
they have Okemos in the middle of the season, and close out against Ypsilanti
Lincoln on the road. “It’s good, Waterford Kettering has improved some. I’m good
friends with their head coach (Ken Schmidt,) we played together in college. Okemos
stunned Jackson, I’m anxious to see them, I don’t know anything about the lower
levels. On Lincoln we know they have the basketball athletes, I don’t know if
they have the athletes in football” Herstein mentioned. North Farmington should
be a player. A third ever postseason appearance is not too far in the works.
“We want to win right now, compete and get better right now.” Herstein
concluded.
WHY 7-2: There is a reason why the coaches put the Raiders
as the top spot in the Blue. They have the experience, talent, and coaching.
North Farmington has an interesting schedule. I like this Raiders team a lot.
It comes down to who will be the quarterback and how he produces. If he
produces then there is no reason why the Raiders should win seven games and
make the playoffs. If they do make the playoffs they would be in Division Two
thanks to the enrollment increase.
FARMINGTON FALCONS
(8-4 (6-3), 5-1 Blue- Lost 42-7 to DeWitt in Regional Final)
PS 288, 155
PA 222, 71
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 6
ARCH RIVAL: North Farmington.
STRENGTHS: Experience.
WEAKNESS: Wide Receivers.
GAME OF THE YEAR: September 20th vs Ferndale
PROJECTED RECORD: 7-2, 4-2 Blue.
PRESEASON RANK: 9
SPI RANK: 20
TEAM COLORS: Dark Blue, Silver, Black, White.
The Falcons took huge strides in 2018 and will look to continue
that role heading into the 2019. Farmington returned to the postseason for the first time in two years and won a district title for the first time since 2002 (third overall) after
beating South Lyon East 34-3 last season. The Falcons should have a nice blend
of talent returning from a team that won eight games in 2018 (they were 5-13 in
the prior two seasons.) The Farmington offense was a huge reason why they made
a return back to the postseason. They scored 288 points in 2018 prior to
scoring 247 in 2017 with five of those games they scored over 30 points. The
Falcons will look to improve on those stats this season and make some noise. “We
got to play a lot of juniors and sophomores who played a lot. (2017) taught our
kids what we do want and what we don’t want to happen. We wanted to change”
said Cicroch. They added about 16-17 kids from Harrison that came into the
program including Max Martin for coach Kory Cicroch. Martin could be in a
quarterback competition with Anthony Reaves who also returns as well. Reaves
had a big season last year leading Farmington to the postseason. Martin has
played other positions such as wide receiver and tight end. He caught the
winning touchdown from former Harrison standout Roderick Heard on a fake field
goal in the Hawks 13-10 overtime victory at Birmingham Detroit Country Day in
the Division Four district finals last season. The Falcons strength on offense should
be the running backs. They have Keion Shaw along with Demetrian Moore at running
back. Jacody Sikora returns at wide receiver which should be the question mark
heading into the season. The offensive and defensive lines should be solid in
the form of the former Harrison kids Ejri Ofhoufo, Myles Hunt, and David
Palvshaj along with returning Farmington players Sam Zervos, and Jeremiah Smith. It
could take some time for the new players especially the Harrison kids to adjust
to the new system. The defense has been a huge problem in recent seasons whether
it’s been missed assignments or tough injuries. The Falcons have allowed a
combined 445 points in the last two years (222 points last season and 223 in
2017.) Farmington had two games where they allowed over 40 points in 2018 (42
against DeWitt and 48 against Harrison, both losses. The Falcons have allowed
over 200 points in each season since 2011 (lowest 201 in 2014, the most 347 in
2016) but it hasn’t bothered Cicroch and his team. “It was the polar opposite
compared to two years ago and last year. We are continuing to prove people
wrong and working to getting better everyday” Cicroch added about his defense. The
linebackers should be the strength of the defense in 2019 with Jordan Turner,
Englebert Villa, Jirah Alexander, Andrew Ojemudia, Shaw, and Moore. The
secondary will be interesting with Aaron Watson, Alan Robertson, and Sikora
playing there. The non-league schedule is not strong with Detroit Henry Ford, Ypsilanti
Lincoln, and Detroit Old Redford Academy. The league schedule should make up
for their not strong non-league schedule. Farmington is expected to be one of the
top teams in the Blue as the coaches predicted them to finish second behind
arch rival North Farmington. The Falcons could have another deep playoff run again
even though if they make the playoffs they would be in Division Two.
WHY 7-2: The Falcons have the talent and the experience to
be a factor along with the soft non-league schedule. Farmington will need
everyone to be on the same page especially with the Harrison kids they have but
according to Cicroch everyone is seeming to fit into the program. I see seven
wins easily with this schedule along with a postseason appearance. If they make
the playoffs they will be in Division Two which will be a tougher road.
ROYAL OAK RAVENS
(5-4, 3-3 Blue-Didn’t make postseason)
PS 199, 116
PA 165, 136
OFFENSIVE STARTERS: 3
DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 4
ARCH RIVAL: Berkley, Ferndale.
STRENGTHS: Running Game and Defense.
WEAKNESS: Depth and Mental Mindset.
GAME OF THE YEAR: August 30th vs St. Clair Shores
Lakeview
PROJECTED RECORD: 5-4, 2-4 Blue.
PRESEASON RANK: 19
SPI RANK: 21
TEAM COLORS: Black, Blue, White.
The Ravens have made significant progress on the field in
the last two seasons than in the previous eight seasons. Royal Oak has went
11-8 in the last two years which is one more victory than they had won in a
span of eight years. It wasn’t that long ago that this program went 10-69 from
2008-2016. The Ravens took a step back missing the playoffs last year after
making the playoffs in 2017. Many experts felt that the schedule as the reason
that the Ravens missed out on the postseason. Royal Oak took a step back in the
offensive side of the football. The Ravens scored 199 points last season prior
to the 262 points they scored when they made the playoffs in 2017. Royal Oak
has been an improved defensive team in the last two seasons despite that they allowed
165 points last season which was a little more prior to the 151 points they
allowed in 2017. If the Ravens want to return to the playoffs they’ll have get
back to what got them to the playoffs last season and that starts with winning
week one. Royal Oak has had their fair share of issues against St. Clair Shores
Lakeview. The Huskies are the team’s week one opponent for the fourth straight
season. St. Clair Shores Lakeview runs a Wing T offense that usually gives
teams including Royal Oak fits. Whoever wins that matchup usually goes onto
have a good season. The Ravens fell 21-9 last season and 21-0 in 2016 (both
meetings were in St. Clair Shores and both years the Huskies made the
playoffs.) They would get some payback winning 21-0 in 2017 in the Ravens Nest
(that victory was huge in getting to the postseason.) “Lakeview is a great
program, they have tough kids. It’s
definitely in our preparation. It’s a mindset game” said assistant coach Ryan
Werenka. Royal Oak has a very interesting non-league schedule in 2019. It
should be tougher than last season when they played Monroe Jefferson and
Detroit Edison. They outscored both programs by a combined 74-8 in those final
two weeks. Besides playing St. Clair Shores Lakeview. The Ravens have Southgate
Anderson in the middle of the season and Flint Kersley to close out the season.
Royal Oak has a lot of experience back on both sides of the football in 2019
even though there are some guys that haven’t played football that are on the
team. “We played a lot of juniors and sophomores and they have that experience
back, everything starting to click during the summer” Werenka mentioned. The
Ravens do have questions on the offensive side of the football however the
rushing attack should be the offensive strength for Royal Oak for coach Ray
McMann. They have a returning quarterback in Hunter Gibson. Gibson had a good
year in 2018 and the team will look to get more out of him this season. Gibson
should have some pass catchers to throw in wide receivers Elijah Kidder, Alex
Bader, Stephen Mercalfe, and tight end Max Ardwin. The rushing attack is loaded
in Zach Land and Earle Weaver. Land should get the majority of the carries
however Weaver could get some touches as well. The Ravens offensive and
defensive lines should be a strength as well in 2019 in the form of James Haser,
Charles Osborn, Ian Russell, Matt Walters, Dylan Landry, Daniel Bem, Alex
Britt, and Lukas Morgan lead that group. They could be in line for a big season
if they all stay healthy. Royal Oak should have some experience returning on
the defensive side of the football that was decent last season. The strength of
the team should be the linebackers and the secondary. The Ravens have Dylan
Knode, Hayden Constanzo, Jordan Hilgendorf, Dustin Moser, and Quincy Mendez at
linebacker along with Kidder, Bader, Jayden Hakkady, and Metcalfe in the
secondary. Hakkany should handle the kicking duties. Depth is a major question
for this team. Royal Oak could surprise some folks but week one will be very
important. If the Ravens win that game then they could be a playoff team but
only time will tell. “We want to make the playoffs and win a league
championship” Werenka concluded.
WHY 5-4: The Ravens schedule is the reason why I have them
here. Are they a playoff team??? I would say borderline because of the
schedule. Royal Oak MUST beat Lakeview and someone else. If not then this
season could go south real quick. They have the talent to be competitive but it
shall be interesting what the Ravens have this season.
PONTIAC PHOENIX
(1-8, 0-6 Blue-Didn’t make postseason)
PS 62, 28
PA 393, 295
OFFENSIVE RETURNERS: 4
DEFENSIVE RETURNERS: 4
ARCH RIVAL: Avondale.
STRENGTHS: Both Lines and Athleticism.
WEAKNESS: Depth and a ton of unproven talent.
GAME OF THE YEAR: August 30th vs Bloomfield Hills
Cranbrook-Kingswood
PROJECTED RECORD: 1-8, 0-6 Blue.
PRESEASON RANK: 21
SPI RANK: 17
TEAM COLORS: Purple, Silver, Black.
Pontiac will have their third coach in six months after a
rocky offseason with so much things out of the control of the players. The
Phoenix originally named Ken Wade as the team’s new head coach in April however
Wade had a probation violation and was sent to jail for 14 days in May. Wade is
currently no longer at Pontiac. Phoenix assistant coach Charles White has been
handling the program on an interim basis. It hasn’t been confirmed if he will
be the team’s new head coach. If White is confirmed to be the new coach, he
will take over a program that has went 5-48 since 2012 and hasn’t made the
playoffs since 2011. Pontiac has went through a lot since then, as a school
district, and a football program. The Pontiac School District did make some
upgrades especially at Wisner Stadium. Pontiac recently got new helmets
courtesy of the Detroit Lions “Touchdown in Your Town Program” last month and a
donation from the Lions of $10,000. The Phoenix have a ton of issues on both
sides of the football. The Pontiac offense has not scored over 100 points in
five seasons. They have scored a combined 114 points in the last two years (62
last season and 52 in 2017) and 338 points since 2013. The Phoenix defense has
given up a ton of points historically and recently. Pontiac has allowed over
300 points five of the last seven years (296 in 2012 and 299 in 2016.) The
Phoenix has allowed 787 points in the last two seasons (393 last season, 394 in
2017.) Depth will be a major concern with Pontiac. They have 26 players on the
varsity team. Tarah Hazard returns for the Phoenix and should have a huge season in 2019. Hazard can play on the line
or can play tight end if need be. They have Calvin Yang as well to help with
Hazard. Yang plays on both the offensive and defensive lines. The Phoenix have to
replace a ton of experience that had graduated. Pontiac was senior heavy (14
seniors) for under then coach Charles Talley last season. The schedule is
brutal for the Phoenix. They’ll have to play Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood,
Detroit Community, and Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard and that’s not even
counting the league schedule. It’s going to be a long and trying process in
Pontiac.
WHY 1-8: The Phoenix are not a deep team and the schedule is
brutal along with the likelihood of the team starting 0-5 is very real. It will
be interesting what White does with this team but right now they have a lot of
work to do. The schedule doesn’t give me any reason on the record side but they
need to make progress if they want to turn this around.
My Podcast with Coach Corless and Ian Locke from 8/12/19
Blue
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckFVGHnZB3M
White
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2Dn275xSOc
Red
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-gkqOHAVRE
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