2019 Football Preview.

Written Saturday August 17th at 1:30 PM

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 30^th 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 13^th 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 30^th 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 6^th 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 13^th 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 30^th 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 20^th 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 30^th 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 20^th 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 30^th 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 11^th 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 13^th 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 30^th 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 13^th 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 4^th 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 30^th 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 6^th 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 13^th 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 20^th 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 30^th 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 30^th 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

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-tti1SPYPU&t=1514s

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