Week Nine Picks.

Written Tuesday October 17th at 2:15 PM

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

SAMMY 60-42

ANT 74-28

SEAN 77-25

STICK 81-21

KEITH 81-21

BURNEY 75-27

7. Groves at 1. West Bloomfield

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

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, GROVES 7.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, GROVES 14.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 49, GROVES 28.

STICK PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 34, GROVES 28.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 24, GROVES 20.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 34, GROVES 24.

2. Adams at Stoney Creek

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

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 52, STONEY CREEK 7.

ANT PICK: ADAMS 49, STONEY CREEK 7.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 49, STONEY CREEK 14.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 35, STONEY CREEK 7.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 56, STONEY CREEK 14.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 31, STONEY CREEK 21.

3. Harrison at 6. Clarkston

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

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 28, CLARKSTON 7.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 24, HARRISON 21.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 17, CLARKSTON 14.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 28, HARRISON 27.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 24, HARRISON 13.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 27, CLARKSTON 20.

4. Oak Park at 8. Bloomfield Hills

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

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 49, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 38, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 14.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 35, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 34, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 13.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 28, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 20.

5. Ferndale at Dearborn Edsel Ford

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

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 28, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 24.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 24, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 14.

SEAN PICK: FERNDALE 34, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 28.

STICK PICK: FERNDALE 21, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 20.

KEITH PICK: FERNDALE 38, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 20.

BURNEY PICK: FERNDALE 25, DEARBORN EDSEL FORD 15.

Madison Heights Bishop Foley at 9. Hazel Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Avondale at Macomb Lutheran North

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

SAMMY PICK: AVONDALE 48, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 7.

ANT PICK: AVONDALE 42, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 7.

SEAN PICK: AVONDALE 49, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 12.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 35, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 14.

KEITH PICK: AVONDALE 43, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 20.

BURNEY PICK: AVONDALE 30, MACOMB LUTHERAN NORTH 24.

Royal Oak at Monroe Jefferson

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

SAMMY PICK: ROYAL OAK 14, MONROE JEFFERSON 0.

ANT PICK: ROYAL OAK 24, MONROE JEFFERSON 7.

SEAN PICK: ROYAL OAK 42, MONROE JEFFERSON 14.

STICK PICK: ROYAL OAK 21, MONROE JEFFERSON 7.

KEITH PICK: ROYAL OAK 31, MONROE JEFFERSON 24.

BURNEY PICK: ROYAL OAK 29, MONROE JEFFERSON 27.

Rochester at Southfield Arts and Tech

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seaholm at Orion

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

SAMMY PICK: ORION 35, SEAHOLM 7.

ANT PICK: ORION 35, SEAHOLM 14.

SEAN PICK: ORION 28, SEAHOLM 7.

STICK PICK: ORION 28, SEAHOLM 20.

KEITH PICK: ORION 21, SEAHOLM 17.

BURNEY PICK: ORION 32, SEAHOLM 30.

Berkley at Oxford

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

SAMMY PICK: OXFORD 21, BERKLEY 12.

ANT PICK: OXFORD 24, BERKLEY 3.

SEAN PICK: OXFORD 35, BERKLEY 12.

STICK PICK: OXFORD 24, BERKLEY 21.

KEITH PICK: OXFORD 28, BERKLEY 13.

BURNEY PICK: OXFORD 26, BERKLEY 16.

North Farmington at Garden City

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

SAMMY PICK: GARDEN CITY 24, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

ANT PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 14, GARDEN CITY 13.

SEAN PICK: GARDEN CITY 42, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

STICK PICK: GARDEN CITY 21, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

KEITH PICK:  GARDEN CITY 27, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

BURNEY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 23, GARDEN CITY 14.

Pontiac at Warren Michigan Collegiate

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

SAMMY PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 56, PONTIAC 6.

ANT PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 56, PONTIAC 6.

SEAN PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 63, PONTIAC 6.

STICK PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 21, PONTIAC 7.

KEITH PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 31, PONTIAC 6.

BURNEY PICK: WARREN MICHIGAN COLLEGIATE 18, PONTIAC 8.

Troy at Troy Athens

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

SAMMY PICK: TROY 17, TROY ATHENS 14.

ANT PICK: TROY ATHENS 24, TROY 21.

SEAN PICK: TROY 27, TROY ATHENS 14.

STICK PICK: TROY 28, TROY ATHENS 14.

KEITH PICK: TROY 23, TROY ATHENS 13.

BURNEY PICK: TROY 25, TROY ATHENS 21.

Detroit Edison at Farmington (???)

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

SAMMY PICK: FARMINGTON 6, DETROIT EDISON 3.

ANT PICK: FARMINGTON 3, DETROIT EDISON 2.

SEAN PICK: FARMINGTON 28, DETROIT EDISON 20.

STICK PICK: FARMINGTON 14, DETROIT EDISON 7.

KEITH PICK: FARMINGTON 28, DETROIT EDISON 22.

BURNEY PICK: FARMINGTON 28, DETROIT EDISON 22.

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

Written Saturday October 14th at 9:40 AM

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

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

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

Harrison missed the playoffs last season.

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

The 13 State Championships are the most in State history.

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

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

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

Week Eight Recap.

Written Friday October 13th at 11:50 PM

1. West Bloomfield

2. Adams

3. Harrison

4. Oak Park

5. Ferndale

6. Clarkston

7. Groves

8. Bloomfield Hills

9. Hazel Park

10. Avondale

ROYAL OAK 42, Macomb Lutheran North 6.

AVONDALE 55, PONTIAC 6.

FARMINGTON 47, NORTH FARMINGTON 3.

FERNDALE 20, HAZEL PARK 17.

ROCHESTER 17, STONEY CREEK 16.

OAK PARK 41, TROY 0.

HARRISON 39, BERKLEY 0.

GROVES 35, SEAHOLM 33.

ADAMS 55, TROY ATHENS 13.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS 26, OXFORD 14.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 62, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 37.

CLARKSTON 17, ORION 9.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Week Eight Picks.

Written Wednesday October 11th at 9:45 PM

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

SAMMY 53-37

ANT 64-26

SEAN 66-24

STICK 69-21

KEITH 69-21

BURNEY 63-27

1. West Bloomfield at Southfield Arts and Tech

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Adams at Troy Athens

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

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 35, TROY ATHENS 20.

ANT PICK: ADAMS 48, TROY ATHENS 14.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 49, TROY ATHENS 7.

STICK PICK: ADAMS 31, TROY ATHENS 14.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 42, TROY ATHENS 7.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 30, TROY ATHENS 17.

Berkley at 3. Harrison

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

SAMMY PICK: HARRISON 35, BERKLEY 0.

ANT PICK: HARRISON 49, BERKLEY 7.

SEAN PICK: HARRISON 49, BERKLEY 0.

STICK PICK: HARRISON 35, BERKLEY 14.

KEITH PICK: HARRISON 35, BERKLEY 7.

BURNEY PICK: HARRISON 36, BERKLEY 16.

10. Troy at 4. Oak Park

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

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 70, TROY 7.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 62, TROY 17.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 42, TROY 3.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 35, TROY 20.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 34, TROY 16.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 35, TROY 18.

9. Hazel Park at 5. Ferndale

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

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 28, HAZEL PARK 21.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 35, HAZEL PARK 14.

SEAN PICK: FERNDALE 28, HAZEL PARK 26.

STICK PICK: FERNDALE 28, HAZEL PARK 27.

KEITH PICK: FERNDALE 28, HAZEL PARK 14.

BURNEY PICK: FERNDALE 30, HAZEL PARK 23.

6. Groves at Seaholm

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

SAMMY PICK: SEAHOLM 20, GROVES 17.

ANT PICK: GROVES 28, SEAHOLM 14.

SEAN PICK: GROVES 24, SEAHOLM 7.

STICK PICK:  GROVES 24, SEAHOLM 21.

KEITH PICK:  GROVES 28, SEAHOLM 10.

BURNEY PICK: GROVES 25, SEAHOLM 15.

Orion at 7. Clarkston

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

SAMMY PICK: ORION 28, CLARKSTON 21.

ANT PICK: ORION 28, CLARKSTON 24.

SEAN PICK: CLARKSTON 38, ORION 21.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 28, ORION 14.

KEITH PICK: CLARKSTON 35, ORION 14.

BURNEY PICK: CLARKSTON 31, ORION 24.

8. Bloomfield Hills at Oxford

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

SAMMY PICK: OXFORD 21, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 17.

ANT PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 17, OXFORD 14.

SEAN PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 34, OXFORD 14.

STICK PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28, OXFORD 21.

KEITH PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28, OXFORD 17.

BURNEY PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 27, OXFORD 20.

Stoney Creek at Rochester

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

SAMMY PICK: STONEY CREEK 24, ROCHESTER 20.

ANT PICK: ROCHESTER 21, STONEY CREEK 20.

SEAN PICK: STONEY CREEK 14, ROCHESTER 13.

STICK PICK: ROCHESTER 21, STONEY CREEK 14.

KEITH PICK: ROCHESTER 17, STONEY CREEK 16.

BURNEY PICK: ROCHESTER 26, STONEY CREEK 24.

Farmington at North Farmington

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

SAMMY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 12, FARMINGTON 10.

ANT PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 17, FARMINGTON 10.

SEAN PICK: FARMINGTON 33, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

STICK PICK: FARMINGTON 21, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

KEITH PICK: FARMINGTON 31, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

BURNEY PICK: FARMINGTON 22, NORTH FARMINGTON 21.

Pontiac at Avondale

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

SAMMY PICK: AVONDALE 42, PONTIAC 6.

ANT PICK: AVONDALE 35, PONTIAC 7.

SEAN PICK: AVONDALE 49, PONTIAC 6.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 35, PONTIAC 14.

KEITH PICK: AVONDALE 42, PONTIAC 6.

BURNEY PICK: AVONDALE 33, PONTIAC 14.

Macomb Lutheran North at Royal Oak

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boys Soccer District Preview.

Written Tuesday October 10th at 12:15 PM

Here are my Boys Soccer Projections and Insights heading into the districts next week.

District 8 @ Livonia Stevenson

Livonia Stevenson vs SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Novi vs Northville

Novi Detroit Catholic Central vs NORTH FARMINGTON

Novi Detroit Catholic Central/NORTH FARMINGTON vs OAK PARK

INSIGHT: You have four State Powerhouses in this district in Novi, Livonia Stevenson, Novi Detroit Catholic Central, and Northville. Novi and Northville will meet in the pre-district round so one of them will be out. The best OAA school that could spoil things is North Farmington, whom won the White this season but they have to play the Shamrocks which will be a tough task. Southfield Arts and Tech could put up a fight in this district but they will have to run into Novi or Northville. Oak Park has no chance in this district.

PREDICTION: I like Northville to come out of this district. I think they will beat Novi and then they beat whoever comes out of the Southfield Arts and Tech and Livonia Stevenson matchup. I think Novi Detroit Catholic Central defeats North Farmington and Oak Park. I think the Mustangs move on to the regional at Novi.

District 9 @ Groves

SEAHOLM vs TROY

Birmingham Brother Rice vs TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY vs GROVES

ROYAL OAK vs BLOOMFIELD HILLS

INSIGHT: This district will be very competitive when you look at the teams that are here. The favorite has to be Troy Athens. The Red Hawks are a tough out for anyone and could pose a big time threat to get back to the State Finals. Troy could threaten along with Seaholm, Groves, Royal Oak, and Bloomfield Hills but the Red Hawks are the favorite.

PREDICTION: I like Troy Athens to win this district over Groves. I think the Falcons will have no problem with the Bears. Royal Oak beat Bloomfield Hills 2-0 in the regular season and could do so again. I think Seaholm beats Troy but loses to Troy Athens whom will beat Birmingham Brother Rice. The Red Hawks should move onto the regional final at Bloomfield Hills.

District 13 @ Rochester

ROCHESTER vs Waterford Mott

STONEY CREEK vs ORION

OXFORD vs Waterford Kettering

CLARKSTON vs ADAMS

INSIGHT: This is a district in which there are two powerhouse teams in Adams and Rochester but Stoney Creek, Orion, and Clarkston will have strong says whom comes out of this district. I think this district will be highly competitive with some quality teams in this district.

PREDICTION: I like Adams to come out of this district. I think Rochester, Stoney Creek, and Orion are evenly matched teams. Clarkston and Adams will be a battle but I think the Highlanders survive the Wolves and should get by Oxford with ease. This could be an all Rochester final with Adams advancing to the regional at Atwood Stadium.

District 14 @ Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Western vs WEST BLOOMFIELD

Hartland vs White Lake Lakeland

Milford vs Walled Lake Central

Milford/Walled Lake Central vs Walled Lake Northern

INSIGHT: This will be a tough district for West Bloomfield but a winnable district. Walled Lake Central is very good along with Walled Lake Northern and Milford. This will be a tough chore for the Lakers after a tough season in the White.

PREDICTION: I think Walled Lake Northern moves on in this district but West Bloomfield will do wonders in this district and make the district final but the Knights will be too much for the Lakers. Walled Lake Northern will go to Atwood Stadium.

District 23 @ Hazel Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake vs Center Line

Hamtramck vs HAZEL PARK

Warren Woods Tower vs Warren Fitzgerald

Warren Woods Tower/Warren Fitzgerald vs Eastpointe

INSIGHT: This district isn’t the strongest but if you have to look at a favorite there is Warren Fitzgerald or Hamtramck. Hazel Park does host the district but they have not had a great season in the Blue. Warren Woods Tower is a darkhorse.

PREDICTION: I like the Spartans to beat Hamtramck and move on to the regional at Farmington. I don’t think Hazel Park has a chance in this district.

District 24 @ Harrison

HARRISON vs FARMINGTON

Madison Heights Lamphere vs AVONDALE

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood vs FERNDALE

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood/FERNDALE vs Orchard Lake St. Marys

INSIGHT: This is an interesting district with two State ranked teams possibly meeting in the district semifinals between Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood meeting Orchard Lake St. Marys. Avondale has had a rough year in the Red while Farmington whom won the Blue has a shot at getting to the district final. Harrison has also been solid even though this sets up to be a rematch of a 2-0 Falcons win. This will be a fun district to keep an eye on.

PREDICTION: I think whomever wins the Harrison/Farmington matchup will get to the district final but they will run into Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood and at the end of the day it will be the Cranes that move onto the regional at Farmington.

District 31 @ Brandon

Marysville vs North Branch

Croswell-Lexington vs St. Clair

PONTIAC vs Armada

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep vs Brandon

INSIGHT: This district has one state ranked team in Brandon but there are several teams that could be strong darkhorses when you look at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Marysville. It will be interesting to see if anyone but Brandon doesn’t come out of this district.

PREDICITION: I like Brandon to come out of this district. I don’t think Pontiac will contend in this district. I think it will be Marysville taking on Brandon in this final with the Blackhawks moving on to East Lansing.

Week Seven Recap.

Written Saturday October 7th at 1:30 AM

1. West Bloomfield

2. Adams

3. Harrison

4. Oak Park

5. Ferndale

6. Groves

7. Clarkston

8. Bloomfield Hills

9. Hazel Park

10. Troy

ADAMS 21, CLARKSTON 14.

Ypsilanti Lincoln 35, AVONDALE 14.

ROYAL OAK 44, FARMINGTON 23

HAZEL PARK 48, NORTH FARMINGTON 7.

WEST BLOOMFIELD 48, TROY ATHENS 20.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS 23, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 22.

HARRISON 17, OAK PARK 14.

FERNDALE 42, PONTIAC 6.

TROY 13, SEAHOLM 2.

ORION 31, OXFORD 14.

STONEY CREEK 21, BERKLEY 7.

GROVES 31, ROCHESTER 13.

BIG WIN: Harrison: Hawks coach John Herrington tied former Birmingham Brother Rice coach Al Fracassa by pulling off a huge 17-14 upset of Oak Park on Friday night. Herrington whom has 430 wins in his coaching career will have an opportunity to break the record next week against Berkley. This was a huge win for Harrison because this keeps them in the White race. This was a bad loss for the Knights and coach Greg Carter in this game. They struggled against a solid Hawks defense. Oak Park hosts Troy next week.

TOUGH LOSS: Clarkston: The Wolves had a tough one with Adams and lost 21-14 but they were down 21-0 at one point. Clarkston did battle back and made it a close game but was dominated by Steve Roncelli. The Highlanders though lost Cole Patrino to injury in the game so it will be interesting for Adams going forward. The Wolves will host Orion next week.

TEAM ON THE RISE: Stoney Creek: The Cougars have won two straight games since getting destroyed by Oak Park 48-0. Stoney Creek went into Hurley Field and picked up a big win over Berkley 21-7 at Hurley Field. The Cougars have a favorable matchup with Rochester next week and a tough one with Adams in two weeks but coach Bob Lantzy has Stoney Creek heading in the right direction.

TEAM THAT’S IN TROUBLE: Farmington: If there is one team that needs to clean house in the worst way, it’s the Falcons and here is why. Farmington lost 44-23 to Royal Oak and have not gotten better since moving down to the Blue. The Falcons have allowed 28 to Berkley, 37 to Ferndale, 42 to Highland Park Chandler Park Academy, and 45 to Avondale. Farmington coach Kory Cioroch has some problems with his program right now. The Falcons go to North Farmington next week for the Farmington Jug, imagine if they lose to the Raiders, then that would be really bad.

WHAT HAPPENED: Southfield Arts and Tech: The Warriors were at home and up 22-10 after three quarters but John Paddock and the Blackhawks came from behind scoring 13 unanswered points to pull off a big upset against Southfield Arts and Tech on their home field 23-22. Bloomfield Hills has big wins over Southfield Arts and Tech and West Bloomfield. The Warriors are in deep trouble and they host West Bloomfield next week.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Seaholm: It has been a long season for the Maples and it might not get any better in the next two weeks for Seaholm. The Maples lost 13-2 to Troy on the Colts Homecoming on Friday night. Seaholm has issues offensively with their veer offense but their defense has been solid even though this team has been decimated with injuries. The Maples have Groves next week in the Maple Forest.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Oxford: The Wildcats believed coming into their game with Orion that they matched well with the Dragons well it didn't turn out well as Orion kept the Double O Trophy for the third straight season and their fifth in seven years beating the Wildcats 31-14. The third quarter was the difference as the Dragons outscored Oxford 21-0. The Wildcats are struggling right now. Look for questions heading into the offseason for Oxford.

Week Seven Picks.

Written Tuesday October 3rd at 10:05 PM

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

SAMMY 46-32

ANT 55-23

SEAN 57-21

STICK 59-19

KEITH 61-17

BURNEY 56-22

1. Oak Park at 7. Harrison

This is eventually the White division title game at Harrison between the Knights and Hawks. Oak Park has been rolling since their opening week loss to Utica Eisenhower. Harrison bounced back on the road winning 42-7 over Rochester. If this game becomes a game of attrition, its advantage Knights. The Hawks need to slow this game down if they have any shot at pulling off the upset.

SAMMY PICK: OAK PARK 31, HARRISON 7.

ANT PICK: OAK PARK 42, HARRISON 28.

SEAN PICK: OAK PARK 33, HARRISON 7.

STICK PICK: OAK PARK 42, HARRISON 35.

KEITH PICK: OAK PARK 24, HARRISON 10.

BURNEY PICK: OAK PARK 28, HARRISON 27.

Troy Athens at 2. West Bloomfield

Poor Red Hawks this week, struggling and going to the Swamp to play a Lakers team that is oozing with confidence right now. West Bloomfield has everything going on the right track. It could be yet another long night for Troy Athens and a happy Homecoming for the Lakers this week.

SAMMY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 56, TROY ATHENS 10.

ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, TROY ATHENS 14.

SEAN PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 56, TROY ATHENS 7.

STICK PICK:  WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, TROY ATHENS 14.

KEITH PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 45, TROY ATHENS 7.

BURNEY PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 35, TROY ATHENS 20.

4. Clarkston at 3. Adams

This one could be the biggest game in the area this week. The Wolves and Highlanders are solid teams and they have been playing well beyond to anyone’s expectations. Adams won 38-14 over Southfield Arts and Tech while Clarkston destroyed Troy Athens. This matchup will be a battle of wills and whomever will show themselves will win this week.

SAMMY PICK: ADAMS 24, CLARKSTON 14.

ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 28, ADAMS 27.

SEAN PICK: ADAMS 35, CLARKSTON 14.

STICK PICK: CLARKSTON 28, ADAMS 21.

KEITH PICK: ADAMS 21, CLARKSTON 14.

BURNEY PICK: ADAMS 24, CLARKSTON 23.

Rochester at 5. Groves

In what will be a battle of Falcons, the green Falcons have had a strong season so far but the distractions could play a factor in their game with Rochester this week. The blue Falcons were crushed at home by Harrison 42-7 last week and have lost their starter Brent Burtraw for the season with an injury. This is a matchup where Groves is favored heavily on paper but if they can’t get by the distractions then a possible upset might loom.

SAMMY PICK: GROVES 35, ROCHESTER 7.

ANT PICK: GROVES 35, ROCHESTER 14.

SEAN PICK: GROVES 35, ROCHESTER 7.

STICK PICK: GROVES 28, ROCHESTER 14.

KEITH PICK: GROVES 28, ROCHESTER 13.

BURNEY PICK:  GROVES 31, ROCHESTER 17.

Pontiac at 6. Ferndale

In what is going to be a mismatch between two teams that are going in different directions, one going up and one struggling to find an identity. The Phoenix have really struggled with numbers and depth. This is a team that has scored 34 points total this season. This week they will be taking on a red-hot Eagles squad that came back from 31-7 to stun Royal Oak 42-31 on the road. This should be an easy one for Ferndale before their big test with Hazel Park looms next week.

SAMMY PICK: FERNDALE 63, PONTIAC 0.

ANT PICK: FERNDALE 49, PONTIAC 0.

SEAN PICK: FERNDALE 49, PONTIAC 0.

STICK PICK: FERNDALE 28, PONTIAC 0.

KEITH PICK: FERNDALE 56, PONTIAC 0.

BURNEY PICK: FERNDALE 40, PONTIAC 15.

Ypsilanti Lincoln at 8. Avondale

This will be a battle of two 4-2 teams going at it. Both teams started 0-2 before winning four straight games. The Railsplitters have really been scoring a ton of points and allowing in their four-game winning streak 49 points. Ypsilanti Lincoln’s losses were by a combined ten points. The Yellow Jackets have been rolling as well, only allowing 33 points in their four-game winning streak. This could be a fun one to watch.

SAMMY PICK: AVONDALE 24, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 20.

ANT PICK: AVONDALE 24, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 21.

SEAN PICK: AVONDALE 28, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 25.

STICK PICK: AVONDALE 38, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 31.

KEITH PICK:  AVONDALE 17, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 10.

BURNEY PICK: AVONDALE 29, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 10.

10. Bloomfield Hills at 9. Southfield Arts and Tech

This is a matchup that could have shootout written all over it on 10 Mile and Lahser Road. The Warriors lost 38-14 to Adams last week but they have a quarterback in John Darby that can put up points. The Blackhawks escaped Orion 27-21 behind their quarterback John Paddock. It’s which quarterback shows up in this game and whomever he is will get them a big win this week.

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

ANT PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 27, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 22.

SEAN PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 26, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

STICK PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 24, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 21.

KEITH PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 27, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 20.

BURNEY PICK: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 32, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 30.

North Farmington at Hazel Park

The Vikings control its destiny in the Blue knowing that Ferndale is lurking next week on the road. Hazel Park better be careful of a North Farmington team that has nothing to lose. The last three weeks the Raiders have not scored a point, which is not good. The Vikings have been rolling as of late but this is a trap game for Hazel Park.

SAMMY PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 24, HAZEL PARK 21.

ANT PICK: HAZEL PARK 35, NORTH FARMINGTON 0.

SEAN PICK: HAZEL PARK 38, NORTH FARMINGTON 0.

STICK PICK: HAZEL PARK 35, NORTH FARMINGTON 14.

KEITH PICK: HAZEL PARK 34, NORTH FARMINGTON 17.

BURNEY PICK: HAZEL PARK 26, NORTH FARMINGTON 22.

Seaholm at Troy

This is an interesting matchup for the Colts knowing they need this game if they want to sneak in and make the playoffs. Troy lost 21-3 to Groves last week and they know they are going to need a better effort if they want to beat an injury riddled Seaholm team. The Maples have lost two tough games to Stoney Creek 16-14 and Rochester 28-27 in a two-week span. Seaholm will be a dangerous game for the Colts in this matchup.

SAMMY PICK: SEAHOLM 21, TROY 17.

ANT PICK: TROY 24, SEAHOLM 21.

SEAN PICK: TROY 24, SEAHOLM 14.

STICK PICK: TROY 28, SEAHOLM 21.

KEITH PICK: TROY 21, SEAHOLM 16.

BURNEY PICK: TROY 27, SEAHOLM 23.

Royal Oak at Farmington

The Ravens were up 31-7 against Ferndale only to see the Eagles put up 35 points and stun Royal Oak 42-31 last week. This week, the Ravens will see a Farmington team that has really struggled especially defensibly. The Falcons allowed 45 points in it’s 45-26 loss to Avondale last week. This one could be interesting, Royal Oak scored points and Farmington gives them up in bunches.

SAMMY PICK: ROYAL OAK 45, FARMINGTON 7.

ANT PICK: ROYAL OAK 56, FARMINGTON 3.

SEAN PICK: ROYAL OAK 35, FARMINGTON 28.

STICK PICK: ROYAL OAK 21, FARMINGTON 20.

KEITH PICK: ROYAL OAK 38, FARMINGTON 15.

BURNEY PICK: ROYAL OAK 25, FARMINGTON 21.

Stoney Creek at Berkley

The Cougars and Bears have had tough seasons thus far. Stoney Creek has had trouble scoring points while being in the White has gotten to Berkley. The Bears were destroyed 62-0 by Oak Park last week while the Cougars won a 16-14 game with Seaholm. Looking at this matchup, everything favors Stoney Creek at Hurley Field.

SAMMY PICK: STONEY CREEK 31, BERKLEY 14.

ANT PICK: STONEY CREEK 24, BERKLEY 14.

SEAN PICK: STONEY CREEK 24, BERKLEY 6.

STICK PICK: STONEY CREEK 10, BERKLEY 7.

KEITH PICK: STONEY CREEK 24, BERKLEY 7.

BURNEY PICK: BERKLEY 33, STONEY CREEK 20.

Orion at Oxford

These are two 1-5 teams that have really struggled battling it out for the Double O Trophy this week. The Dragons have had a rough schedule but they have lost their last two games by a combined 14 points and have started to find their way offensively. The Wildcats have not had a great year defensibly but this is a big game for coach Bud Rowley. This game on the Blue turf is always close and it could very well be this year.

SAMMY PICK: ORION 24, OXFORD 14.

ANT PICK: ORION 28, OXFORD 14.

SEAN PICK: ORION 28, OXFORD 21.

STICK PICK: ORION 28, OXFORD 21.

KEITH PICK: ORION 24, OXFORD 21.

BURNEY PICK: OXFORD 28, ORION 25.