Boys Soccer District Preview.

Written Sunday September 29th at 9:30 PM

Here is my predictions for the Boys Soccer Districts heading into the next week.

Bold are seeded teams.

District 9 at Grosse Pointe North

Grosse Pointe South vs Dearborn Fordson

Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit vs Detroit Western

OAK PARK vs Detroit Cass Tech

OAK PARK/Detroit Cass Tech vs Grosse Pointe North

PREDICTION: This district has the Grosse Pointe schools which seems to be the favorites heading into the district. I see this being a battle of the Grosse Pointe schools with South and North meeting each other and it will be South that moves on. PICK: GROSSE POINTE SOUTH.

District 11 at Stoney Creek

ROCHESTER vs ADAMS

Romeo vs Utica

Utica Eisenhower vs STONEY CREEK

Utica Eisenhower/STONEY CREEK vs LAKE ORION

PREDICTION: This is an even steel district when you look at the teams. I see the Eagles moving on in this district but it will not be an easy one as there are a ton of strong teams in this district. PICK: UTICA EISENHOWER.

District 12 at Berkley

TROY ATHENS vs ROYAL OAK

TROY vs Utica Ford II

Warren Mott vs Sterling Heights Stevenson

Warren Mott/Sterling Heights Stevenson vs BERKLEY

PREDICTION: This district is very interesting with a ton of solid teams at Hurley Field. I see this being a Troy Athens vs Berkley district final with the Red Hawks as the top team in the State. They will be as good as advertised and it will show why. PICK: TROY ATHENS.

District 13 at Northville

SEAHOLM vs SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

NORTH FARMINGTON vs Livonia Stevenson

GROVES vs FARMINGTON

Novi vs Northville

PREDICTION: This is a very interesting district but it’s a winnable district for a few teams. It wouldn’t surprise me if there were an upset but right now I would give an edge to Novi but not by much. PICK: NOVI.

District 15 at Waterford Kettering

BLOOMFIELD HILLS vs Lakeland

Waterford Mott vs Waterford Kettering

Walled Lake Central vs Walled Lake Northern

CLARKSTON vs WEST BLOOMFIELD

PREDICTION: This is an interesting district. I see a battle of Bloomfield district final between the Lakers and the Blackhawks with Bloomfield Hills moving on to the regional. PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS.

District 16 at Grand Blanc

Grand Blanc vs Davison

Flushing vs Lapeer

Swartz Creek vs Flint Carman Ainsworth

Swartz Creek/Flint Carman Ainsworth vs OXFORD

PREDICTION: This district looks to be a mismatch on paper but you never know. It’s on a grass field and there is a state ranked team here so give me the home team. PICK: GRAND BLANC.

District 24 at Dearborn Divine Child

FERNDALE vs Redford Thurston

FERNDALE/Redford Thurston vs Hamtramck

Detroit Renaissance vs Garden City

Detroit Renaissance/Garden City vs Dearborn Divine Child

PREDICTION: This sets up to be an interesting district in Dearborn. I could see Ferndale possibly get to the district finals but end of the day I see Dearborn Divine Child moving on. PICK: DEARBORN DIVINE CHILD.

District 26 @ Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood vs AVONDALE

Orchard Lake St. Marys vs PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep vs Birmingham Brother Rice

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep/Birmingham Brother Rice vs Birmingham Detroit Country Day

PREDICTION: This looks to be an interesting district setting up. The Catholic League teams are strong and Birmingham Detroit Country Day has home field. I’m tempted to pick the upset so give me the home team. PICK: BIRMINGHAM DETROIT COUNTRY DAY.

Football Thoughts After Week Five.

Written Sunday September 29th at 12:40 AM

The OAA Football Season is well underway and in full swing. Here are my thoughts before heading to the Podcast room on Monday to analyze what has happened around the league.

Adams: The Highlanders struggled against Seaholm despite winning 20-7 on Friday night putting themselves at 4-1 on the season. Adams needed a stingy defense to shut the Maples offense down on their home field. The Highlanders will be tested next week when they head to the Swamp to take on West Bloomfield.

Lake Orion: The Dragons are coming off a tough 59-52 loss in four overtimes to West Bloomfield on Saturday night putting their record at 4-1 on the season. Lake Orion’s schedule really lightens up with Bloomfield Hills, Rochester, and Monroe even though Clarkston looks tricky. The Dragons should be fine going forward and with the schedule ahead they could create some more depth going forward.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers are coming off a huge 59-52 four overtime victory at Lake Orion on Saturday night keeping their record at 4-1 on the season. West Bloomfield still has a tough schedule as they see Adams this week and a trip to likely Warren De LaSalle in a few weeks. The Lakers should be in a good spot moving forward.

Clarkston: The Wolves are coming off a huge win by knocking off Oxford 33-28 last week putting their record at 2-3. Clarkston had a freshman running back in Ethan Clark going off in his first varsity game for 102 yards and a touchdown against the Wildcats. Clark and Clarkston will have a tough task looming with Southfield Arts and Tech in a rematch this week. The Wolves also have to see Adams and Lake Orion as well in that stretch.

Oxford: The Wildcats playoff hopes took a hit after losing 33-28 to Clarkston on Friday night sending their record to 1-4. Oxford still has to play West Bloomfield, Southfield Arts and Tech, and Oak Park to conclude the season. They have Stoney Creek this week. It has been rough but things will get better soon for the Wildcats.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors have been on fire lately outscoring their two opponents 122-32 in two straight weeks. Southfield Arts and Tech sits at 3-2 and will go to Clarkston to take on a Wolves team that is also desperate not to mention having games against Adams, Oxford, and River Rouge looming as well. Should be a team to keep an eye on for sure.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks are struggling sitting at 0-5 after losing 60-12 to Southfield Arts and Tech on Saturday morning. Bloomfield Hills has Lake Orion next week at home and still have to play West Bloomfield in the process. It has been a long year for the Blackhawks but on the bright side, homecoming is this week.

Groves: The Falcons bounced back by beating Troy Athens 43-10 last week putting themselves at 4-1 on the season. Groves looks to be back to normal after losing 26-14 to Oak Park two weeks ago. They will host Troy this week.

Oak Park: The Knights had some trouble on Friday night with Stoney Creek trailing 7-6 at one point but they managed to win 20-7 over the Cougars on Friday night. Oak Park will have some laps on the season which has proven true since their win over Groves two weeks ago. The Knights need to find a way to keep themselves even keel going forward.

Seaholm: The Maples suffered a tough loss to Adams on Friday night 17-6 that puts them at 4-1 on the season. Seaholm still has to play Oak Park, Avondale, and Groves. The Maples will need to bounce back and beat one of these three teams if they want to get to the playoffs.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars are in an interesting spot sitting at 3-2. Stoney Creek lost 20-7 to Oak Park and still have to play Oxford this week along with Groves, Rochester, and Adams. The Cougars will need to win two of the three just to have a shot at the playoffs. Stoney Creek right now is better but there is always room for improvement.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks have really struggled since their 2-0 start and they lost 43-10 to Groves on Friday night sitting at 2-3 on the season. Troy Athens has a chance to turn things around as they have Rochester on the road this week however the road is tough as they have Oak Park, Seaholm, and Pontiac Notre Dame Prep to close the season.

Rochester: The Falcons picked up their first victory of the season by beating Troy 37-0 on Friday night putting themselves at 1-4. Rochester needs to use this win as a stepping stone to get ready for Troy Athens. They have Lake Orion and Stoney Creek looming so Friday’s win was huge for the Falcons.

Troy: The Colts still have not scored a point at all this season after a 37-0 loss to Rochester on Friday night putting them at 0-5. Troy has a brutal schedule in the next two weeks with Oak Park and Groves. Points could be hard to come by in the next few weeks for the Colts.

North Farmington: The Raiders sit at 5-0 for the first time since 1988 after beating Avondale 56-20 in Auburn Hills on Saturday morning. North Farmington has a ton of experience along with solid coaching for first year coach Jon Herstein. The Raiders will head to Royal Oak next week.

Farmington: The Falcons had a 1-0 forfeit win over Pontiac to go to 5-0 on the season with playoffs likely a lock. Farmington will be tested at Avondale next week. The Falcons beat the Yellow Jackets twice last season so this sets up to be very interesting. Farmington right now is in a good spot.

Avondale: I was shocked how the Yellow Jackets lost 56-20 to North Farmington on Saturday morning. Avondale who sits at 3-2 on the season will be tested again though with Farmington this week. They still have to play Seaholm and Ferndale but they are in must win mode right now.

Ferndale: The Eagles picked up a huge win to put themselves at 2-3 on the season after beating Berkley 22-0 last week. Ferndale has a big one this week at Allen Park. If the Eagles can get that one and head to 500 it will be a huge confidence booster. They still have Avondale and Birmingham Detroit Country Day on the schedule. It will be interesting to see where coach Eric Royal’s team is at.

Berkley: It has been a long season for the Bears after losing 22-0 to Ferndale on Friday night. Berkley will have a ton of questions this offseason to answer. The Bears sit at 0-5 on the season and will head to Wisner Stadium this week to take on a well-rested Pontiac team.

Royal Oak: The Ravens did not look good for three quarters on Friday night against Southgate Anderson but they did score 14 points however it was not enough as they fell 19-14 to the Titans. Royal Oak’s playoff hopes has likely been dashed at 1-4. They will host North Farmington on their homecoming this week.

Pontiac: It was a tough situation for the Phoenix with the recent events that caused the team to forfeit their game with Farmington last week falling to 0-5 on the season. Pontiac will move onto play Berkley next week.

My Podcast
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Week Five Recap.

Written Saturday September 28th at 10:00 PM

INSIDE THE OAA TOP 10.

1. West Bloomfield

2. Lake Orion

3. Oak Park

4. Adams

5. Groves

6. North Farmington

7. Seaholm

8. Farmington

9. Southfield Arts and Tech

10. Stoney Creek

Week Five Scores.

NORTH FARMINGTON 56, AVONDALE 20.

Southgate Anderson 19, ROYAL OAK 14.

FERNDALE 22, BERKLEY 0.

FARMINGTON 1, PONTIAC 0.

GROVES 43, TROY ATHENS 10

OAK PARK 20, STONEY CREEK 7.

ROCHESTER 37, TROY 0.

ADAMS 17, SEAHOLM 6.

CLARKSTON 33, OXFORD 28.

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 60, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 12.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 59, LAKE ORION 52 4 OT

BIG WIN: West Bloomfield: What a game between two green and white teams in Dragon Country on Saturday night. The Lakers overcame a 31-17 fourth quarter deficit to tie it at 31-31 and force overtime. West Bloomfield and Lake Orion went back and forth taking punch after punch in overtime but at the end of the day it was the Lakers that won in four overtimes 59-52. This game was tied for the ninth highest game in State history with 111 total points scored. Both of these teams played their tails off. Neither team deserved to lose. West Bloomfield plays Adams next week in the Swamp while the Dragons travel to Bloomfield Hills on the Blackhawks homecoming next week.

TOUGH LOSS: Seaholm: The Maples had a very tough matchup with Adams on Friday night but it was the Highlanders who earned a huge 17-6 victory on their homecoming. Seaholm made some mistakes early including a fumble against a very stout Adams defense. The Maples will need to get back to the drawing board next week as they host Oak Park. The Highlanders will be tested next week when they go to the Swamp to play West Bloomfield.

WHAT HAPPENED: Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors had only scored 15 points in two weeks since beating Clarkston 28-14 in week one but things have changed. They have exploded in the last two weeks outscoring their respective opponents 120-38 which included a 660-12 blowout last week over Bloomfield Hills. Southfield Arts and Tech whom still has to play River Rouge and Adams will have a rematch with Clarkston next week on the Wolves homecoming.

TEAM THAT NEED A HUG: Stoney Creek: The Cougars were in it with the Knights on their homecoming on Friday night even taking a 7-6 lead into the fourth quarter but Oak Park scored two touchdowns giving them a huge 20-7 victory over Stoney Creek. The Cougars will need to win out as the schedule gets tough starting with Oxford next week followed by games against Groves, Rochester, and Adams. The Knights will head to the Maple Forest to play Seaholm next week.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Royal Oak: The Ravens saw their playoff hopes falter in a tough 19-14 loss to Southgate Anderson on Friday night. The Titans started off fast taking a 19-0 lead but Royal Oak rallied scoring 14 points in the fourth quarter but it wasn’t enough as Southgate Anderson survived on their home field. The Ravens will have North Farmington coming to Royal Oak for homecoming next week.

TEAM THAT ME SHAKE MY HEAD: Troy: The Colts have had issues scoring points. Many experts thought that this would be the game that Troy would score against Rochester but that wasn’t the case as the Falcons blew out the Colts 37-0 on Friday night leaving them still scoreless on the season. The Colts have a really tough stretch looming in the next two weeks with Groves and Oak Park. Rochester will host Troy Athens next week.

My Podcast
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Week Five Picks.

Written Wednesday September 25th at 10:50 AM

Welcome to the 2019 football season. This season will feature picks throughout the season. This season will be different, each win will be worth 10 points however if you get the exact score it would be an extra five points.

Most are familiar with doing picks. Here are the pickers.

Sammy Taormina-host of OAA Now, writer of Inside the OAA, and one of the hosts of Between Taorminas on Orion Neighborhood Television.

Keith Dunlap-Freelance writer at the Detroit Free Press.

Scott Burnstein-Writer at the Oakland Press and State Champs.

Dan Stickradt-Writer for North Oakland Sports.

Sean Cotter-Former Farmington Scouter.

Matt Mowery-State Champs Writer.

Tim English-Website designer.

Jeff Corrin-D-Zone blogger and recruit insider.

We’ll get Matt and Tim’s picks ASAP.

SANDY DUNES: 42-7        420

DUNLAP: 38-11                  385

BURNEY: 40-9                     400

STICK: 39-10                        390

COTTER: 43-6                     430

FULL COURT: 22-27          220

TIM: 37-12                           370

D-ZONE: 38-11                   380

1. Oak Park at 9. Stoney Creek: The Knights are riding high with a ton of confidence after beating Groves 26-14 at home last week. If Oak Park wants to put a stranglehold on the White then they must go into Rochester and beat a Cougars team that is riding a ton of confidence. Stoney Creek beat Troy 49-0 on the road last week. The Knights blew out the Cougars last year at Knight Valley but Stoney Creek is a much different team than the team last season. If Oak Park is not careful an upset could loom.

SANDY DUNES PICK: OAK PARK 35, STONEY CREEK 21.

DUNLAP PICK: OAK PARK 40, STONEY CREEK 17.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 44, STONEY CREEK 14.

STICK PICK:  OAK PARK 35, STONEY CREEK 28.

COTTER PICK: OAK PARK 32, STONEY CREEK 14.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: OAK PARK 35, STONEY CREEK 14.

D-ZONE PICK: OAK PARK 35, STONEY CREEK 28.

2. West Bloomfield at 3. Lake Orion: This has the makings of a classic between these two green and white teams in Dragon Country. Both teams also play different styles of football. The Lakers sit at 3-1 after shutting out Clarkston 24-0 last week. The Dragons are 4-0 after shutting out Oxford 35-0 last week. Both teams have played very tough schedules. West Bloomfield has won five straight over Lake Orion including last season’s 42-21 victory in the Swamp. This one should be very interesting this week.

SANDY DUNES PICK: LAKE ORION 10, WEST BLOOMFIELD 7.

DUNLAP PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 17, LAKE ORION 10.

BURNEY PICK: LAKE ORION 28, WEST BLOOMFIELD 27.

STICK PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 17, LAKE ORION 10.

COTTER PICK: LAKE ORION 17, WEST BLOOMFIELD 10.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, LAKE ORION 21.

D-ZONE PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 10, LAKE ORION 0.

6. Seaholm at 4. Adams: The battle of the veer along with the battle of the student sections. The Maples sit at 4-0 with their best victory coming at Stoney Creek 20-13 two weeks ago. Seaholm heads back to Rochester to play a Highlanders team that has played a tougher schedule. Adams won 27-7 win over Bloomfield Hills last week at home. This is Adams homecoming so that brings some motivation there for the home team. It looks like to be a battle of the student sections with “The Maple Forest” and “The Gold Rush” in this game.

SANDY DUNES PICK: ADAMS 35, SEAHOLM 14.

DUNLAP PICK: ADAMS 24, SEAHOLM 21.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 27, SEAHOLM 25.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 24, SEAHOLM 20.

COTTER PICK: ADAMS 31, SEAHOLM 14.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: ADAMS 42, SEAHOLM 14.

D-ZONE PICK: ADAMS 32, SEAHOLM 20.

Troy Athens at 5. Groves: This is the Falcons homecoming game this week in Beverly Hills. Groves is coming off a disappointing 26-14 loss to Oak Park last week in Knight Valley. The Red Hawks have lost two straight games in which they were outscored 104-27. Troy Athens fell 62-20 on their homecoming to Southfield Arts and Tech last week. This is a matchup to where someone will bounce back after suffering a tough loss.

SANDY DUNES PICK: GROVES 38, TROY ATHENS 7.

DUNLAP PICK: GROVES 32, TROY ATHENS 0.

BURNEY PICK: GROVES 43, TROY ATHENS 23.

STICK PICK: GROVES 35, TROY ATHENS 14.

COTTER PICK: GROVES 49, TROY ATHENS 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: GROVES 49, TROY ATHENS 7.

D-ZONE PICK: GROVES 28, TROY ATHENS 10.

7. North Farmington at 10. Avondale: This will be the Raiders first major test since week one when they survived 35-30 against Waterford Kettering at home. North Farmington beat Pontiac 68-0 last week at Wisner Stadium. The Yellow Jackets have won two straight since losing 20-14 to Detroit Renaissance in Auburn Hills two weeks ago by outscoring their respective opponents 79-10 in two weeks including a 27-10 win over Royal Oak last week. It will be one game that could decide the Blue between three teams on Avondale's homecoming. The winner will be in contention while the loser will be a game back.

SANDY DUNES PICK: AVONDALE 27, NORTH FARMINGTON 20.

DUNLAP PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 21, AVONDALE 17.

BURNEY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 24, AVONDALE 22.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 28, NORTH FARMINGTON 21.

COTTER PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 28, AVONDALE 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 24, AVONDALE 17.

D-ZONE PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 24, AVONDALE 20.

Pontiac at 8. Farmington: These are two teams that are heading on opposite directions heading into Farmington’s homecoming. The Falcons beat Ferndale 53-14 last week and have been improving each week. The Phoenix were embarrassed 68-0 by North Farmington last week at Wisner Stadium. We will see where both teams will be at after this game.

SANDY DUNES PICK: FARMINGTON 49, PONTIAC 0.

DUNLAP PICK: FARMINGTON 48, PONTIAC 6.

BURNEY PICK: FARMINGTON 40, PONTIAC 10.

STICK PICK: FARMINGTON 35, PONTIAC 7.

COTTER PICK: FARMINGTON 63, PONTIAC 0.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: FARMINGTON 63, PONTIAC 0.

D-ZONE PICK: FARMINGTON 42, PONTIAC 0.

Troy at Rochester: This matchup looks to be very interesting and for the wrong reasons. One of these teams will be seeking their first win of the season. The Falcons defense has been a complete disaster allowing 197 points in four games including last week’s 42-7 loss to Seaholm. The Colts have also been a disaster. They have not scored a point this season and have allowed 157 points in four games. Troy lost 49-0 to Stoney Creek last week. Something has to give this week.

SANDY DUNES PICK: ROCHESTER 14, TROY 0.

DUNLAP PICK: ROCHESTER 24, TROY 10.

BURNEY PICK: ROCHESTER 18, TROY 16.

STICK PICK: ROCHESTER 35, TROY 7.

COTTER PICK: ROCHESTER 35, TROY 0.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: ROCHESTER 28, TROY 0.

D-ZONE PICK: ROCHESTER 7, TROY 0.

Clarkston at Oxford: Who would have thought that both of these blue and yellow teams sit at 1-3 and desperately needing a win to stay alive in the playoff hunt. The Wolves have had their fair share of struggles and issues. They are coming off a 24-0 loss to West Bloomfield last week in the Swamp. The Wildcats have played a brutal schedule and have had their fair share of struggles and issues lately. They are coming off a 35-0 loss to Lake Orion last week at home. It has been very rocky for both of these teams but someone will be 2-3 after this game.

SANDY DUNES PICK: CLARKSTON 21, OXFORD 17.

DUNLAP PICK: CLARKSTON 27, OXFORD 10.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 29, OXFORD 19.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 31, OXFORD 21.

COTTER PICK: CLARKSTON 21, OXFORD 14.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: CLARKSTON 42, OXFORD 7.

D-ZONE PICK: CLARKSTON 21, OXFORD 7.

Southfield Arts and Tech at Bloomfield Hills: These are two teams that are in desperate need of a win this week. The Warriors snapped a two game losing streak by beating Troy Athens 62-20 last week at Troy. The Blackhawks fell 27-7 to Adams last week. Southfield Arts and Tech beat Bloomfield Hills 44-6 last season at home. Both teams still have tough schedules looming but a win here would be nice for the winner.

SANDY DUNES PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 56, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

DUNLAP PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 27, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 7.

BURNEY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 33, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 18.

STICK PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

COTTER PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 49, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 7.

D-ZONE PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 0.

Berkley at Ferndale: These are two desperate teams needing anything to get their seasons back on track. The Eagles sit at 1-3 really needs this one after losing 53-14 to Farmington last week. The Bears lost 50-7 to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep sending them to 0-4 on the season. This rivalry game should be very interesting considering where both teams are at.

SANDY DUNES PICK: FERNDALE 28, BERKLEY 7.

DUNLAP PICK: FERNDALE 32, BERKLEY 13.

BURNEY PICK: BERKLEY 20, FERNDALE 17.

STICK PICK: FERNDALE 27, BERKLEY 21.

COTTER PICK: FERNDALE 30, BERKLEY 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: FERNDALE 28, BERKLEY 7.

D-ZONE PICK: FERNDALE 21, BERKLEY 3.

Royal Oak at Southgate Anderson: This is the first ever meeting between the Ravens and the Titans and the second against an OAA school for Southgate Anderson (Troy). The Titans are coming off a 27-21 loss to Dearborn Edsel Ford last week sits at 2-2. Royal Oak lost 27-10 at home to Avondale last week and sit at 1-3. This is a big game for both teams as they look to get back on track.

SANDY DUNES PICK: SOUTHGATE ANDERSON 35, ROYAL OAK 21.

DUNLAP PICK: SOUTHGATE ANDERSON 24, ROYAL OAK 14.

BURNEY PICK: ROYAL OAK 23, SOUTHGATE ANDERSON 13.

STICK PICK: SOUTHGATE ANDERSON 21, ROYAL OAK 14.

COTTER PICK: ROYAL OAK 24, SOUTHGATE ANDERSON 14.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: SOUTHGATE ANDERSON 35, ROYAL OAK 7.

D-ZONE PICK: ROYAL OAK 14, SOUTHGATE ANDERSON 10.

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Football Thoughts After Week Four.

Written Saturday September 21st at 10:15 AM

The OAA Football Season is well underway and in full swing. Here are my thoughts before heading to the Podcast room on Monday to analyze what has happened in four weeks around the league.

Adams: The Highlanders sit at a really nice spot at 3-1 after picking up a 27-7 home victory over Bloomfield Hills. Oddly this was the lowest that Adams has scored all season. The Highlanders still have a tough schedule looming with Seaholm this week but road trips to Southfield Arts and Tech, West Bloomfield, and Stoney Creek and a home game with Clarkston. Adams offense has been the huge catalyst scoring 149 points in four weeks. This is a red hot football team to keep an eye on which should make the “Gold Rush” very happy.

Lake Orion: The Dragons are off to a 4-0 start and a ton of credit goes to the players and coaches. Lake Orion still has to play West Bloomfield this week and Clarkston in a few weeks but they have been battle tested already which includes wins over Lapeer, Southfield Arts and Tech, Adams, and Oxford. The Dragons right now are clicking on all cylinders which should make coach John Blackstock ecstatic.

West Bloomfield: The Lakers have appeared to have gotten things on the right track since the tough 24-17 loss to Groves three weeks ago. West Bloomfield shut out Clarkston 24-0 last week behind a stout defense. The Lakers go to Lake Orion this week which should be a huge game but they still have Adams, Oxford, and the Catholic League fourth place team on the slate. West Bloomfield though has gotten things back on track which should have coach Ron Bellamy pleased.

Clarkston: The Wolves sit in a tough spot at 1-3 after falling 24-0 to West Bloomfield last week. Clarkston has some issues on both sides of the football. They have allowed 123 points in four games which is not good. The Wolves still have to play Oxford this week followed by Southfield Arts and Tech, Adams, and Lake Orion. It won’t be an easy stretch by any means for coach Kurt Richardson’s team.

Oxford: The Wildcats have a tough schedule looming after losing 35-0 to Lake Orion last week and Adams and Romeo prior to that putting them at 1-3. Oxford still has to play Oak Park, Southfield Arts and Tech, West Bloomfield, and Clarkston who they have this week. I have huge concerns for the Wildcats, they are going to need to open things up if they want to make some noise.

Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors sit at an interesting spot after last week’s 62-20 blowout of Troy Athens. Southfield Arts and Tech has Bloomfield Hills this week at home. They still have to play Oxford, Adams, Clarkston, and River Rouge in the last four weeks of the season. The Warriors will need to be in win out mode if they want to make a return to the playoffs.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks are struggling sitting at 0-4 after falling 27-7 to Adams last week on the road. Bloomfield Hills have allowed 157 points in four games which is not good. The Blackhawks will look to get back on track with a trip to Southfield Arts and Tech next week.

Groves: The Falcons suffered a tough loss to Oak Park 26-14 last week in Knight Valley. Groves will look to get on the right track this week with Troy Athens coming to Beverly Hills. The Falcons should be fine despite having their league hopes dashed for the moment. Groves has to play Seaholm, Stoney Creek, and Wyandotte so it won’t be an easy ride for the Falcons but they should be fine moving forward.

Oak Park: The Knights have bounced back in a big way since losing 20-14 to West Bloomfield in week one. Oak Park has played well lately which is why they sit at 3-1 with included last week’s 26-14 victory over Groves. The Knights schedule does lighten up a bit but they have games with Stoney Creek this week and games with Oxford and Seaholm still looming. Right now Oak Park is in the driver’s seat in the White.

Seaholm: The Maples have been rolling going 4-0 in the process which included a huge 20-13 win two weeks ago at Stoney Creek. The schedule toughens up starting this week with a trip to Adams. The Highlanders and Seaholm are mere images of each other running the veer. The Maples still have to play Groves and Oak Park. We’re going to see what coach Jim DeWald’s team is really made of in the next few weeks.

Stoney Creek: The Cougars sit at 3-1 and have appeared to be riding on all cylinders after last week’s 49-0 blowout of Troy. Stoney Creek will be tested in the next three weeks with games against Oak Park, Oxford, and Groves looming. The Cougars will need to win two of the three games that are looming if they want to make the playoffs. Coach Nick Merlo has this team in the right direction.

Troy Athens: The Red Hawks have taken a step back after a 2-0 start. Troy Athens fell to Stoney Creek 42-7 and 62-20 to Southfield Arts and Tech. They have been outscored 104-27 in those losses. The Red Hawks have already passed their win total this season. It won’t be easy with a trip to Groves this week but right now coach Billy Keenest’s team is leap years better than they were last season.

Rochester: The Falcons defense has given up a ton of points lately. They have played a brutal schedule which included the likes of Oak Park, Groves, Seaholm, and Adams. Rochester has been outscored 197-31 in that stretch which included a 42-7loss to Seaholm last week on the road. The schedule should lighten up for the Falcons with Troy this week but they have to go to Lake Orion and have Stoney Creek at home which are tricky games. The defense is the issue for coach Eric Vernon’s team right now.

Troy: The Colts have not scored a point at all this season which is a huge reason why they sit at 0-4. Troy lost 49-0 to Stoney Creek last week and have gotten outscored 157-0. The Colts still have to play Oak Park and Groves which won’t be easy games but they have an interesting game with Rochester this week. It’s hard to find any positives with Troy right now.

North Farmington: The Raiders are 4-0 for the first time since 1988 after a 68-0 blowout of Pontiac last week. North Farmington is improved everywhere and they are showing why. The Raiders have a tough task this week with Avondale. The Raiders are athletic, experienced, and talented. This has been the year thus far for North Farmington.

Farmington: The Falcons are sitting nicely at 4-0 after getting a big 35-21 victory over Ypsilanti Lincoln two weeks ago. Farmington should be getting more attention in the media. The Falcons should have no problem with Pontiac this week but they travel to Auburn Hills in two weeks. Farmington is clicking on all cylinders right now.

Avondale: The Yellow Jackets have gotten back on track winning two straight since the loss to Detroit Renaissance two weeks ago sitting at 3-1. Avondale has allowed 10 points in two weeks and have scored 79 points since that game. The Yellow Jackets have the teeth of the schedule looming in the next two weeks with the Farmington schools visiting Auburn Hills. They have North Farmington this week and then Farmington the following week. This is a team that I don’t want to see right now, they are starting to peak at the right time.

Ferndale: It looks like playoffs are out of the question for the Eagles especially with the schedule that is looming. Ferndale fell to Farmington 53-14 last week putting their record at 1-3. The Eagles still have to play Avondale, Allen Park, and Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Ferndale has allowed 122 points in four games which is not good. They will look to get back on track this week as they host Berkley.

Berkley: I have been very disappointed with the Bears now sitting at 0-4. I thought they would be improved but I was wrong. Berkley lost 50-7 to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep last week and they still have a tough schedule looming. The Bears defense has allowed 141 points in four games, that can’t happen if you want to improve. Berkley continues their three game road swing with a trip to Ferndale next week.

Royal Oak: The Ravens sit at 1-3 but suffered a tough 27-10 loss to Avondale last week. Royal Oak has a ton of injuries at the skill positions. The Ravens schedule doesn’t get any easier especially in the next two weeks with Southgate Anderson and North Farmington coming to Royal Oak. Playoffs look like it’s out of the question right now but they have to look forward to the future and keep battling.

Pontiac: It’s been a tough road for the Phoenix sitting at 0-4. Pontiac has been outscored 120-0 in the last two weeks. The schedule doesn’t get any easier this week with a trip to Farmington. The Phoenix can’t put their heads down. They must keep battling and battling no matter what the results hold.

My Podcast from this week.
https://soundcloud.com/user-539915961/oaa-now-092319

Week Four Recap.

Written Friday September 20th at 11:40 PM

INSIDE THE OAA TOP 10.

1. Oak Park

2. West Bloomfield

3. Lake Orion

4. Adams

5. Groves

6. Seaholm

7. North Farmington

8. Farmington

9. Stoney Creek

10. Avondale

WEEK FOUR SCORES.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 24, CLARKSTON 0.

LAKE ORION 35, OXFORD 0.

OAK PARK 26, GROVES 14.

SEAHOLM 42, ROCHESTER 7.

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 50, BERKLEY 7.

STONEY CREEK 49, TROY 0.

FARMINGTON 53, FERNDALE 14.

NORTH FARMINGTON 68, PONTIAC 0.

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 62, TROY ATHENS 20.

ADAMS 27, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 7.

AVONDALE 27, ROYAL OAK 10.

BIG WIN: Oak Park: The Knights overcame the Falcons in a hard fought game with a 26-14 victory on Friday night. Oak Park now takes control of the White but will face a tough test at Stoney Creek next week. Groves will take on Troy Athens next week.

TOUGH LOSS: Clarkston: The Wolves are in a real bad spot after losing 24-0 to West Bloomfield on Friday night. Clarkston heads to Oxford next week while the Lakers head to Lake Orion to take on the Dragons next week.

WHAT HAPPENED: Pontiac: Talk about having it rough but man the Phoenix gave up 68 at home to North Farmington in a 68-0 blowout. The road does not get any easier for Pontiac as they have to go to Farmington next week.

TEAM THAT NEED A HUG: Royal Oak: The Ravens lost a tough one at home to Avondale 27-10 on Friday night. Royal Oak has Southgate Anderson next week at home. The Yellow Jackets will host North Farmington next week.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Troy: This is the fourth straight week that the Colts have not scored a point which included a 49-0 loss to Stoney Creek on Friday night. Troy heads to Rochester next week while the Cougars host Oak Park next week.

TEAM THAT ME SHAKE MY HEAD: Berkley: The Bears falling 50-7 to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep on Friday night has me thinking what is going on with this program??? Berkley now sits at 0-4 and has a tough game looming with a desperate Ferndale squad next week.

Week Four Picks.

Written Wednesday September 18th at 9:00 AM

Welcome to the 2019 football season. This season will feature picks throughout the season. This season will be different, each win will be worth 10 points however if you get the exact score it would be an extra five points.

Most are familiar with doing picks. Here are the pickers.

Sammy Taormina-host of OAA Now, writer of Inside the OAA, and one of the hosts of Between Taorminas on Orion Neighborhood Television.

Keith Dunlap-Freelance writer at the Detroit Free Press.

Scott Burnstein-Writer at the Oakland Press and State Champs.

Dan Stickradt-Writer for North Oakland Sports.

Sean Cotter-Former Farmington Scouter.

Matt Mowery-State Champs Writer.

Tim English-Website designer.

Jeff Corriun-D-Zone blogger and recruit insider.

We’ll get Matt's picks ASAP.

SANDY DUNES: 31-7        310

DUNLAP: 27-11                  275

BURNEY: 29-9                     290

STICK: 29-9                          290

COTTER: 33-5                     330

FULL COURT: 22-16          220

TIM: 27-11                           270

D-ZONE: 28-10                   280

1. Groves at 2. Oak Park: The Falcons and Knights will have a huge battle for the White crown in Knight Valley. Groves is coming off a 42-0 blowout of Rochester last week at home. Oak Park exploded for 27 unanswered points to beat Clarkston 64-41 on the road last week. The Knights have won the last two meetings against the Falcons including last season’s 13-7 win at Beverly Hills. This will be interesting because not only is this game a 6 PM kickoff but Groves has played better on the road.

SANDY DUNES PICK: OAK PARK 20, GROVES 14.

DUNLAP PICK: OAK PARK 24, GROVES 21.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 26, GROVES 24.

STICK PICK:  OAK PARK 28, GROVES 21.

COTTER PICK: GROVES 21, OAK PARK 20

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: GROVES 24, OAK PARK 21.

D-ZONE PICK: GROVES 14, OAK PARK 12.

Clarkston at 3. West Bloomfield: This will be an interesting matchup between the Wolves and Lakers in a quickly developing rivarly. West Bloomfield picked up a huge victory last week at Southfield beating Southfield Arts and Tech 17-8. Clarkston has some issues defensively. They have allowed 99 points in three games including 64 last week in a 64-41 loss to Oak Park. The last time the Wolves went into the Swamp they lost 37-16 two years ago. They have won the last two meetings against West Bloomfield by a combined four points which included last season’s 28-25 victory at Clarkston. This game is basically the Wolves season right here.

SANDY DUNES PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, CLARKSTON 14.

DUNLAP PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, CLARKSTON 17.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 24, CLARKSTON 23.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 24, WEST BLOOMFIELD 21.

COTTER PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, CLARKSTON 14.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 21, CLARKSTON 17.

D-ZONE PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 32, CLARKSTON 17.

4. Lake Orion at Oxford: This is the battle of the “Double O” Trophy which Dragon fans and players want back real bad after suffering last season’s 28-7 loss to Oxford at home. Lake Orion beat Oxford 31-14 in 2017 at the Blue turf. The Dragons earned a 36-31 win over Adams last week. The Wildcats won 42-21 over Bloomfield Hills last week. It’s Oxford’s home opener as well so there will be a ton of emotion and hype heading into this game.

SANDY DUNES PICK: LAKE ORION 42, OXFORD 14.

DUNLAP PICK: LAKE ORION 24, OXFORD 14.

BURNEY PICK: LAKE ORION 32, OXFORD 20.

STICK PICK: LAKE ORION 28, OXFORD 21.

COTTER PICK: LAKE ORION 28, OXFORD 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: LAKE ORION 28, OXFORD 14.

D-ZONE PICK: LAKE ORION 38, OXFORD 21.

Bloomfield Hills at 5. Adams: The Highlanders are coming off a very tough loss to Lake Orion 36-31 last week. The Blackhawks lost 42-21 to Oxford last week at home. Adams will be back at home for the third time this season (both games they won) The Highlanders won 24-21 at Bloomfield Hills last season and 54-14 two years ago. It should be an interesting matchup.

SANDY DUNES PICK: ADAMS 49, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 7.

DUNLAP PICK: ADAMS 42, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 7.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 31, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 20.

COTTER PICK: ADAMS 42, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: ADAMS 42, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 7.

D-ZONE PICK: ADAMS 28, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

Rochester at 6. Seaholm: The Maples are rolling right now. They are 10-3 in the last two weeks. Seaholm blew out Troy 44-0 last week. The Maples takes on a Falcons team that had played three tough games and have allowed 155 points in three games including last week’s 42-0 loss to Groves. This looks to be very interesting in the Maple Forest.

SANDY DUNES PICK: SEAHOLM 49, ROCHESTER 0.

DUNLAP PICK: SEAHOLM 35, ROCHESTER 7.

BURNEY PICK: SEAHOLM 21, ROCHESTER 18.

STICK PICK: SEAHOLM 21, ROCHESTER 17.

COTTER PICK: SEAHOLM 35, ROCHESTER 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: SEAHOLM 49, ROCHESTER 7.

D-ZONE PICK: SEAHOLM 42, ROCHESTER 0.

7. North Farmington at Pontiac: The Raiders are red hot right now. They are 3-0 for the first time since 2003. North Farmington heads to Wisner Stadium and take on a Phoenix team that really has struggled. Pontiac lost 52-0 last week to Avondale. The Raiders won the last two meetings against the Phoenix including last season’s 34-14 victory. This should be an interesting matchup between the two teams.

SANDY DUNES PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 42, PONTIAC 6.

DUNLAP PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 42, PONTIAC 0.

BURNEY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 40, PONTIAC 14.

STICK PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 25, PONTIAC 14.

COTTER PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 49, PONTIAC 6.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 49, PONTIAC 6.

D-ZONE PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 56, PONTIAC 0.

Ferndale at 8. Farmington: The Falcons have been rolling after surviving a tough matchup on the road last week. Farmington beat Ypsilanti Lincoln 35-14 on the team’s new gray turf. The Falcons takes on an Eagles team that is struggling. Ferndale lost 22-0 to North Farmington last week. This is a big one for the Eagles if they want to think playoffs especially with the schedule that looms.

SANDY DUNES PICK: FARMINGTON 35, FERNDALE 12.

DUNLAP PICK: FARMINGTON 27, FERNDALE 20.

BURNEY PICK: FARMINGTON 33, FERNDALE 23.

STICK PICK: FARMINGTON 35, FERNDALE 21.

COTTER PICK: FARMINGTON 35, FERNDALE 6.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: FARMINGTON 28, FERNDALE 21.

D-ZONE PICK: FARMINGTON 35, FERNDALE 10.

9. Stoney Creek at Troy: The Cougars are clicking on all cylinders including last week’s 42-7 victory over Troy Athens. Stoney Creek heads to Troy to take on a Colts team that hasn’t scored a point this season. Troy has allowed 108 points in three games including last week’s 44-0 loss to Seaholm on their homecoming. It could be a long day for the Colts as mentioned the Cougars are rolling heading into this game.

SANDY DUNES PICK: STONEY CREEK 56, TROY 0.

DUNLAP PICK: STONEY CREEK 42, TROY 0.

BURNEY PICK: STONEY CREEK 17, TROY 14.

STICK PICK: STONEY CREEK 35, TROY 14.

COTTER PICK: STONEY CREEK 42, TROY 0.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: STONEY CREEK 42, TROY 0.

D-ZONE PICK: STONEY CREEK 35, TROY 0.

10. Avondale at Royal Oak: This will be the Yellow Jackets first road game under new coach Corey Bell. They head to Royal Oak to take on a Ravens team that got a big 17-7 victory last week at Hurley Field over Berkley. Avondale blew Pontiac out 52-0 last week. This should be an interesting matchup.

SANDY DUNES PICK: AVONDALE 49, ROYAL OAK 0.

DUNLAP PICK: AVONDALE 28, ROYAL OAK 14.

BURNEY PICK: AVONDALE 25, ROYAL OAK 22.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 28, ROYAL OAK 14.

COTTER PICK: AVONDALE 28, ROYAL OAK 10.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: AVONDALE 35, ROYAL OAK 7.

D-ZONE PICK: AVONDALE 24, ROYAL OAK 7.

Southfield Arts and Tech at Troy Athens: These are two teams that are coming off tough losses. The Red Hawks had everything go wrong in last week’s 42-7 loss to Stoney Creek. The Warriors have scored 15 points in two weeks after scoring 28 points against Clarkston in week one. Southfield Arts and Tech lost 17-8 to West Bloomfield last week. This is a big game for both teams if they want to right the ship. Also this game is Troy Athens homecoming.

SANDY DUNES PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28, TROY ATHENS 7.

DUNLAP PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 36, TROY ATHENS 10.

BURNEY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 31, TROY ATHENS 27.

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

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

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 42, TROY ATHENS 0.

D-ZONE PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 44, TROY ATHENS 3.

Berkley at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep: The Bears are coming off a very disappointing loss to Royal Oak falling 17-7 last week at Hurley Field. Berkley has only scored 13 points in two weeks which is not very good. The Bears will head to Pontiac to take on a Fighting Irish team that is basically on their revenge tour from last season’s 4-5 disappointing year. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep destroyed Dearborn Divine Child 38-0 last week. It could be a tough task for the Bears this week.

SANDY DUNES PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 24, BERKLEY 14.

DUNLAP PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 31, BERKLEY 3.

BURNEY PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 34, BERKLEY 30.

STICK PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 21, BERKLEY 14.

COTTER PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 42, BERKLEY 7.

FULL COURT PICK:

TIM PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 42, BERKLEY 7.

D-ZONE PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 35, BERKLEY 10.

My Podcast this week
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_V6q0kVCWU

Week Three Recap.

Written Saturday September 14th at 11:05 PM

INSIDE THE OAA TOP 10.

1. Groves

2. Oak Park

3. West Bloomfield

4. Lake Orion

5. Adams

6. Seaholm

7. North Farmington

8. Farmington

9. Stoney Creek

10. Avondale

Week Three Scores.

GROVES 42, ROCHESTER 0.

AVONDALE 52, PONTIAC 0.

OAK PARK 64, CLARKSTON 41.

STONEY CREEK 42, TROY ATHENS 7.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 17, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 8.

OXFORD 42, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

SEAHOLM 44, TROY 0.

LAKE ORION 36, ADAMS 31

ROYAL OAK 17, BERKLEY 7.

FARMINGTON 35, Ypsilanti Lincoln 14.

NORTH FARMINGTON 22, FERNDALE 0.

BIG WIN: Stoney Creek: The Cougars made a statement on Friday night against Troy Athens in a shocking 42-7. Stoney Creek is light years ahead of schedule under second year coach Nick Merlo. The Cougars will look to continue their winning ways next week when they head to Troy to take on the Colts.

TOUGH LOSS: Ferndale: It looks like playoffs could be a tough chore for the Eagles after the team’s 22-0 loss to North Farmington on Friday night. The schedule doesn’t get any easier especially with Avondale, Farmington, Allen Park, and Birmingham Detroit Country Day. Ferndale has Farmington this week.

WHAT HAPPENED: Clarkston: The Wolves scored 41 points which normally wins game but the Clarkston defense allowed 64 points in a shocking 64-41 blowout to Oak Park. The Wolves have been burned by the big play in both their losses to Southfield Arts and Tech and the Knights. Clarkston has to go to the Swamp next week to play West Bloomfield.

TEAM THAT NEED A HUG: Adams: The Highlanders lost a tough one to Lake Orion 36-31 on Saturday night. Adams had Anthony Patritto back after suffering an injury last week in a 31-7 victory against Oxford. I wouldn’t press the panic button on the Highlanders, I think they are fine moving forward.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Berkley: It’s time to press the panic button on the Bears after Berkley lost 17-7 to Royal Oak at Hurley Field last week. I thought that the Bears were ready to take that next step but right now they are not and they could be in some serious trouble if things don’t turn around and quick.

TEAM THAT ME SHAKE MY HEAD: Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors sit at 1-2 despite playing a tough schedule but personal mistakes have hurt them. Southfield Arts and Tech took way too many penalties and had a ton of costly personal fouls. The penalties have hurt them in their losses including this week’s 17-8 loss to West Bloomfield. The Warriors have Troy Athens next week.