Friday Night Victors

Final Post

2019-06-24T22:02:00.001-04:00

This will be our final post from the Huron League Football Blog.

In the future please go to www.fridaynightvictors.com

2019 MONROE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL ALL-STAR GAME

2019-05-30T08:15:00.001-04:00

2019 Monroe County High School Football All Star Game
Friday, June 14 2019
7:00pm kickoff
Dundee Football Stadium (420 Ypsilanti St., Dundee MI. 48131)
$5.00 admission

first time ever East vs. West format

East Team (Airport, SMCC, Monroe, Erie Mason, Jefferson, Huron, and Flat Rock
2 Ryan Szuper Airport
5 Zack Scsavnicki Monroe
9 Jace Clark Monroe
10 Christopher Rodriguez Monroe
11 Malik Linton Monroe
15 Hayes Brooks Monroe
20 Seth Kamin Flat Rock
22 Cole Sulfaro Monroe
24 Cody Scsavnicki Monroe
44 Caleb Tworek Airport
53 Briggs Hehl SMCC
53 Lance Theisen Monroe
54 Aaron Pitock Airport
55 Ian Adler SMCC
55 Lucas Gratz Airport
56 Anthony Wroblewski New Boston Huron
58 Hunter Russ Jefferson
59 Andrew Smith Airport
60 Shawn West Monroe
61 Hunter Boyless Airport
65 Joe Schnorber Monroe
66 Blayde Ball Mason
67 Ian Senio Monroe
68 Noah Boudrie Monroe
75 Brad Smith New Boston Huron
76 D'ron Huggins Monroe
78 Paul Brown Monroe
84 Bryce Iott SMCC

coached by Nick Notario and the Monroe High School coaching staff

West Team (Bedford, Dundee, Summerfield, Ida, Whiteford, Milan)
2 Cade Hall Summerfield
2 Clay Sampson Ida
2 Jacob White Dundee
3 Bradyn Clark Whiteford
4 Carter Scott Dundee
7 Hunter Lake Whiteford
9 Austin Malabanan Bedford
9 McCallister McAvoy Dundee
10 Ty Eitniear Whiteford
10 Zack Johnston Ida
11 Tommy Colpaert Ida
12 Dylan Jones Milan
13 Haydan Manger Bedford
14 Zach Stein Ida
14 Nathan Bauman Whiteford
20 Sam Brettschneider Ida
20 Logan Murphy Whiteford
21 Zach Bertz Whiteford
24 Trey Hess Whiteford
24 Anthony Pisanti Bedford
28 Cody Westfall Whiteford
30 Coby Mcmanaman Bedford
32 Jacob Heisler Summerfield
44 Evan Kerr Dundee
50 Nicholas Donnelly Whiteford
52 Paul Durocher Ida
52 Thomas Zonca Dundee
54 Cade Neison Bedford
75 Joe Wirick Ida
77 Alex Longenbarger Ida
78 Austin Schultz Dundee
78 DeShaun Williams Whiteford

coached by Rob DeYoung, Monroe native (Retired) and group of area retired coaches

Who ya got folks? Looks pretty even to me!

I plan to be there, looking forward to it.

Possible/Probable Playoff Division Switches for 2019

2019-04-02T08:50:00.002-04:00

With the enrollments out for the 2019 season it looks like some teams will change playoff divisions this year.

SMCC should go from D7 to D6 with their increased enrollment.

GI should drop down from D4 to D5 with the decreased enrollment.

Huron will be right on the bubble of D3 and D4, will have to wait on this one.

Whiteford should be near the top of D8.

Carlson will edge closer to D2 but should remain in D3.

Of course all of this wont be determined until after week 9 but going off historical data, this is how I see it.

2019-03-21T06:34:00.001-04:00

Top 10 Huron League Teams

We decided to put together a top 10 Huron League Champions over the last 20 years. This is certainly up for debate and mainly done just for fun.

1) 2014 SMCC

2) 1999 JEFFERSON

3) 2005 SMCC

4) 2004 RIVERVIEW

5) 2010 SMCC

6) 2003 AIRPORT

7) 2017 RIVERVIEW

8) 2009 SMCC

9) 2015 SMCC

10) 2012 Milan

Repost from last year. Should 2018 GI make the list?

Website Rebuild/Under Construction

2019-01-29T12:50:00.002-05:00

At the New Year, we said there would be some big changes coming to the blog. This will be in an attempt to be bigger and better than ever.

Construction will take some time and you most likely won't see any posts out of us for a least a month or so.

You may also notice that www.fridaynightvictors.com may take you somewhere else completely, that is because we will be switching from blogger to a wordpress application.

If you want to find the existing blog, you can simply type in, copy/paste or click on http://huronleaguefootball.blogspot.com

We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause, but we are hoping you will like what we come up with.

If you have any questions feel free to shoot us an email at fridaynightvictors@gmail.com or huronleaguefootball@gmail.com.

Bold Predictions for 2019

2019-01-13T13:27:00.001-05:00

Bedford will hire veteran coach and win the SEC.

Flat Rock’s Ravion Davis rushes for 1,800 yards and throws for 1,800 yards.

Erie Mason will flip the script and finish their last season in the LCAA atop the standings.

Separated at birth, twins Johnny Blanzy (GI) and Sam Cousino (SMCC) reunite as they both sign LOI’s to play at BGSU.

New Boston Huron wins their first ever Huron League Football Championship.

Carlson advances to the Division 3 State Championship at Ford Field against Muskegon.

Milan’s Tristen Hines makes it a trifecta as he commits to BGSU to join Blanzy and Cousino.

Someone other than Whiteford wins the TCC.

Monroe’s Jared Banks rushes for 2000 yards.

SMCC alum Gary Hauf hired to be the OC at North Farmington and installs the Straight T.

Ida alum and current Dundee Social Media Director Frank Vacjner hired by State Champs Network to be their on the field correspondent.

Flat Rock alum Chris Schultz retires a rich man after selling the rights to Friday Night Victors to ESPN.

Happy New Year

2019-01-01T15:11:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year Friday Night Victor's readers! Look for bigger and better things in 2019.

Merry Christmas!

2018-12-25T08:58:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from Friday Night Victors. Let’s take a look at our school’s Christmas wish list for the upcoming season.

Airport would really like a playoff birth.

Bedford wants healing and peace.

Carlson would like another year of unparalleled success.

Dundee is hoping to win the close games.

Erie Mason would like two more years of Noah Beaudrie.

Flat Rock is just thankful for Coach Buck Reaume and his staff.

Grosse Ile is looking for another great year from Johnny Blanzy and friends.

Huron is hopeful that a Head Coach will stay.

Ida is hoping for a 7th straight playoff birth.

Jefferson would like a win to go with their effort.

Milan is hoping for a 2019 league title.

Monroe would like another senior class like last year.

Riverview would like another 2 year run like the last two.

SMCC would like to avoid the injury bug and play a game with their full lineup.

Summerfield would like some experience for their young coach.

Whiteford is just thankful for the best 4 year run in Monroe County history.

Chris would like Gary and Frank to continue sharing their expertise and passion with fans of the blog.

All Blog 2018

2018-11-26T06:18:00.001-05:00

This is the first time ever we have done an All Blog team. It was tough with 16 teams and us picking an offense and a defense. There will be 12 players on each side of the ball plus a kicker and a punter. We also included our Overall Player of the Year, as well as, Defensive Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year.

Overall Player of the Year
E/RB/DB/KR Jalen Johnson Sr, Monroe

Chris's Comment: I saw Johnson play three times this season. He was one of the best football players I have seen all year. People came to their feet every time he touched the ball. Johnson was one of the many reasons you saw a resurgence in Monroe High football this season.

Offensive Player of the Year
E/RB Tristen Hines Jr, Milan

Gary's Comment: A threat to take it to the house every time he touched the ball. His versatility is what makes him so valuable. Run it, catch it, he can do it all.

Defensive Player of the Year
LB Johnny Blanzy Jr, Grosse Ile

Chris's Comment: Blanzy was a man among boys in every game this year. The physical junior was virtually unblockable and when he tackled you, you knew it.

Coach of the Year
Jon Bodner, Grosse Ile 9-1

Bodner led the Grosse Ile to their first 9-0 regular season since 1965. The Red Devils fell in the playoffs 28-21 to Chelsea, which finished runner-up in Division 4 this season.

Offense
OL Joe Schnorberger Sr, Monroe
OL Maverick LeMothe Sr, Grosse Ile
OL Chris Beck Sr, Milan
OL Cade Nelson Sr, Bedford
OL Chris Janice Sr, Carlson
QB Maleik Linton Sr, Monroe
RB Logan Murphy Sr, Whiteford
RB Luke Harwood Sr, Grosse Ile
RB Christian Brown Jr, Bedford
E Bryce Smith Jr, Summerfield
E Karar Al-rekabi Sr, Grosse Ile
E Bryce Iott Sr, SMCC
K Joe Pizzo So, Grosse Ile

Defense
DL DeShaun Williams Sr, Whiteford
DL Alex Longenbarger Sr, Ida
DL Blake Wingate Sr, Bedford
DL Gus Flint, Jr, SMCC
LB Sam Cousino Jr, SMCC
LB Kyle Naif Sr, Riverview
LB Hayes Brooks Sr, Monroe
LB McCallister McAvoy Sr, Dundee
DB Walter Turner Jr, Carlson
DB Evan Furtney Jr, Milan
DB Hunter Lake Sr, Whiteford
DB Brendan Dafoe Jr, Summerfield
P Luke Williams Jr, Dundee

All Huron League 2018

2018-11-19T17:41:00.001-05:00

Because the blog started with the Huron League and we cover all eight Huron League teams we will be picking our All League Teams and Players of the Year again.

We will pick an Offensive Player of the Year, a Defensive Player of the Year and an Overall Player of the Year. We will then pick 12 offensive players, 12 defensive players, a kicker and a punter for our All-League teams. Our Players of the Year will not be included in these All League teams.

1st Team Offense
OL Maverick LaMothe Sr, Grosse Ile
OL Briggs Hehl Sr, SMCC
OL Chris Beck Sr, Milan
OL Garrett Vineski Jr, Riverview
OL Conner Bogdanski, Jr SMCC
QB Zak Thompson Sr, Grosse Ile
RB Hunter Aeschbacker Sr, Milan
RB Bryce Bondy Sr, Airport
RB Alex Morgan Jr, SMCC
E Karar Al-rekabi Sr, Grosse Ile
E Steffan Dyl Sr, Airport
E Bryce Iott Sr, SMCC
K Joe Pizzo So, Grosse Ile

1st Team Defense
DL Matt Dishon Sr, Grosse Ile
DL Gus Flint Jr, SMCC
DL Antonio Alongi Sr, Grosse Ile
DL Bruce Bennett Sr, Huron
LB Josh Zemmin Jr, Grosse Ile
LB Sam Cousino Jr, SMCC
LB Justin Chambliss Jr, Airport
LB Mike Simons Sr, Flat Rock
DB Steven Rice Sr, Riverview
DB Evan Furtney Jr, Milan
DB Seth Kamin Sr, Flat Rock
DB John Ritchie Sr, SMCC
P D.J. Jones Sr, Milan

Huron League Player of the Year

2018-11-15T13:15:00.001-05:00

Because the blog started with the Huron League and we cover all eight Huron League teams we will be picking our All League Teams and Players of the Year again.

We will pick an Offensive Player of the Year, a Defensive Player of the Year and an Overall Player of the Year. We will then pick 12 offensive players, 12 defensive players, a kicker and a punter for our All-League teams. Our Players of the Year will not be included in these All League teams.

This was once again a great year for high school football in the Huron League. There were so many good and great players. The Huron League Player of the Year is a title given to who we at the blog feel is the best All-Around football player in the Huron League. They don't just excel on one side of the ball, but both sides of the ball. Their teams win and they have a profound effect on why their teams win. This year was the hardest since we started doing this on the blog. With that said, we have and must go with Co-Players of the Year because both of these kids are deserving.

Grosse Ile junior Johnny Blanzy and Milan junior Tristen Hines have been chosen as the Co-Players of the Year in the Huron League.

Blanzy is a 6-1, 210 LB/OL that recorded 148 tackles on the season for the Huron League Champion Red Devils. Blanzy literally dominated from his defensive position every game as he averaged more than 14 tackles per game. For his varsity career, Blanzy has 279 tackles in 19 games. Blanzy was a force on the offensive line for a team that produced over 4,000 yards of total offense.

Click Here ---> Johnny Blanzy Highlights

Hines burst onto the Huron League scene as a freshman and has a stellar career thus far on both sides of the ball. The 5-11, 170 lb player rushed for 702 yards and 10 TD's and also caught 54 passes for 974 yards and 11 TD's. On defense, Hines recorded 88 tackles which led the Big Reds and also added 3 interceptions giving him 11 for his career.

Click Here ---> Tristen Hines Highlights

Others Considered for the award were: Bryce Bondy (Airport), Sam Cousino (SMCC) and Kyle Naif (Riverview)

Huron League Defensive Player of the Year

2018-11-15T10:06:00.000-05:00

Riverview was 20-12 in Naif's three seasons on varsity. The Pirates won the Huron League his junior year and had arguably one of the best defenses in the league this season.

Click Here---> Kyle Naif Highlights

Others considered for the award were: Johnny Blanzy (Grosse Ile), Tristen Hines (Milan) and Sam Cousino(SMCC)

Huron League Offensive Player of the Year

2018-11-14T11:39:00.001-05:00

Grosse Ile was 19-10 overall in Harwood's 3 years on varsity, which included two Huron League Championships.

Click Here ---> Luke Harwood Highlights

Others considered for the award were: Hunter Aeschbacker (Milan), Bryce Bondy (Airport), Tristen Hines (Milan) and Zak Thompson (Grosse Ile).

All-Blog and All-Huron League

2018-11-13T13:05:00.003-05:00

We will be doing both of these this year. Just takes a little time to put together. We will also have players of the year.

Saturday Playoff Score

2018-11-10T12:16:00.005-05:00

SMCC 22 Cassopolis 23 Final

SMCC @ Ross Beatty Saturday 1:00p

2018-11-07T08:32:00.002-05:00

By Gary Hauf

SMCC(9-2) invades the village of Cassopolis to take on Beatty High(11-0). Cassopolis, population 1,725, resides in Cass County, 174 miles due west of Monroe.

We last saw the Falcons at Navarre Field, who handled business with a 38-28 victory over the Clinton Redskins. Beatty also used a workman's like performance to dismantle the Bulldogs of Centreville 35-0.

The Falcons, as always, will rely on their tremendous ground game and fantastic offensive line. The big uglies are led by Connor Bogdanski, Briggs Hehl, Brendan Sloan, James Hawkins and Bryce Iott. For me, if I had to pick a difference maker on this team, a kid who doesnt get much publicity(and maybe that is our fault) is QB Josh Blanchett. His number doesn't get called much, maybe 5 carries a game and a few passes thrown in for good measure. But his impact is felt with the toughness he has shown throughout the season. Blanchett is a kid who never runs out of bounds, gets up after every big hit, hurt or nor not. He has shown an extra gear this year on the edge, picking up timely first downs and and the occasional scamper to the end zone. His leadership is felt throughout the ranks and makes this T go for the Falcons.

The Rangers are built on a stingy, and I mean stingy, defense. Giving up 30 points on the season(yes you read that right 30 points), with 7 shutouts. My math tells me that's under 3 points a game given up. Hard to lose with defensive performances like that, week in and week out. The defense is led by Gage Collins, Tashawn Morris and Tyrese Hunt-Thomson. Offensively the Rangers operate out of the Full House T, however they will go shotgun and spread you out if the game dictates. QB Dylan Green and RB Hunt-Thompson are the catalysts for the high-powered Ranger attack, averaging 48.3 points per game. With the average score of 48-3, you can clearly see why Cassopolis enters the game unblemished.

Cassopolis Highlights

This is an interesting match-up. One that pits a program who is knocking on the door to be a regional power(41-7 overall, 7 playoff wins) last 4 seasons, versus one that is a regional power(36 playoff victories since 2003). The T has taken over small ball across the state of Michigan. Whose version of the T will be better? Whose offensive line will control the line of scrimmage? Can SMCC score more than 3 points? Can the Falcons drag the game into the deep end, holding a lead in the 2nd half? Something Cassopolis hasn't dealt with all season. How will the Rangers deal with a challenge?

The Falcons can rely on a very tough schedule up to this point. Nearly every game was close. For the Rangers, no game was close. Will the tougher schedule hold water or is Beatty High just that good? We will find out the answers to all these questions soon enough.

Due to the distance, this game was agreed upon to kick off on Saturday at 1:00p. You don't often see a 3-4 hour bus ride for a pre-semi-final matchup. This, in my opinion, will have an affect on the game. How will SMCC deal with the early morning wake-up, the long bus ride, the hostile environment of Cassopolis? The staff at SMCC has reached out, as to how to deal with such a task, and has a great plan in place.
If you can't make the long drive, you can stream the game live on 983nashicon.com. The Voice of Monroe, Jeff Grodi, will be doing play by play and your's truly will be joining him.

Chris' Pick: SMCC 58 Cassopolis 57 Triple OT
Gary's Pick: SMCC 28 Cassopolis 27
Frank's Pick: Cassopolis 31 SMCC 22

Friday Night Scores

2018-11-02T14:54:00.003-04:00

Monroe 33 Belleville 49 final

SMCC 38 Clinton 28 final

Milan 14 Chelsea 35 final

Ida 22 Denby 28 final

Bedford 25 Franklin 27 final

Whiteford 6 Reading 28 final

Monroe @ Belleville

2018-11-02T07:39:00.001-04:00

Monroe enters this game against highly ranked Belleville on the heels of a 62-28 thrashing of Woodhaven in the week 1 playoffs while the Tigers disposed of Dearborn 28-6. These two teams haven't played since the old Mega-Red days. Monroe holds a 19-15 advantage, but that record has little to do with Friday's match up.

Monroe: 7-3 (4-1, SEC Red)

Coach: Nick Notario

Players to Watch:

QB, Maleik Linton
RB, Jared Banks
RB, Jalen Johnson
LB, Hayes Brooks
LB, Anthony Harris
G, P.J. Brown
G, Joe Schnorberger
S, Cole Sulfaro
LB, Jace Clark

Monroe has an explosive offense that looked extremely fast on the turf at Woodhaven last week. The defense has been good enough this season, but will need to slow-down the high powered Belleville offense in order to stay in the game.

Belleville: 10-0 (7-0, KLAA-East)

Coach: Jermain Crowell

Players to Watch:

QB, Christian Dhue-Reid
RB, Deon Selma
OT, Devontae Dobbs
LB, Marvin Ham
DB, Julian Barnett
DE Tyrece Woods
DB, Andre Seldon
DE, Jalen Hunt

Belleville won 6 games against playoff competition this season and boast D 1 talent all over the field. The Tigers have been one of the top ranked teams in the state all season and have shown a nice knack for coming back and winning games after trailing.

This is a game where Monroe is a heavy underdog against the home team Belleville, but the Trojans have enough fire power on offense to score on the Tigers. Defensively, Monroe must prevent the big play from the Tiger's offense and force them to put together long drives.

Chris's Pick: Monroe 28 Belleville 27
Gary's Pick: Belleville 35 Monroe 27
Frank's Pick: Belleville 48 Monroe 28

Clinton @ SMCC Friday 7:00p

2018-11-01T11:42:00.000-04:00

Clinton and SMCC have met 7 times previously with the Falcons winning 6 of them. These 2 teams last met in the 2015 pre-districts with Clinton taking that one 14-10. Clinton would go on to Ford Field, falling to Ithaca in the Finals. Clinton has made the playoffs 11 out of the last 13 seasons and hold a playoff record of 17-18. SMCC has made the playoffs 16 of the last 19 seasons and hold a playoff record of 45-20.

Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central Falcons(8-2 Huron, 7-2 overall)

SMCC gets things done through the ground in their Full House T offense, averaging 31.4 PPG while giving up 21.5. Offensively the Falcons are led by:

Junior FB Alex Morgan(6'0" 180 lbs) 978 yards on 116 carries, 10 TD.
Junior RB Sam Cousino(6'2" 220 lbs) 706 yards on 97 carries, 10 TD.
Senior RB John Ritchie(6'0" 185 lbs) 604 yards on 109 carries, 7 TD.

Clearing the path are:
Junior T, Connor Bogdanski(6'3" 260lbs)
Senior G, Briggs Hehl(6'0" 205 lbs)
Senior TE Bryce Iott(6'4" 260 lbs)
Junior T James Hawkins(5'8" 230 lbs)
Junior C Brendan Sloan

Defensively leading the Falcons are:
Junior DE, Gus Flint(6'0" 200 lbs) 49 tackles, 12 for loss.
Junior MLB, Sam Cousino(6'2: 220 lbs) 68 tackles.
Junior DT, Mason Gullen(6'3" 240 lbs)
Senior LB Toby Huber(6'0" 195lbs

The Falcons hold a 2-2 record vs playoff teams and is fronted by Head Coach Adam Kipf.

Clinton Redskins(6-1 Tri-County, 8-2 overall)

Clinton boasts a high powered offense primarily out of the Full House T, averaging 41.5 PPG.

Offensively the Redskins are led by:

Junior QB Dylan Settles(6'0" 170lbs) 741 yards on 89 carries 12 TD. 23-49 402yds 2 TD.

RB Jack Voll 687 yards on 83 carries 12 TD.

RB Christian Minard 519 yards on 76 carries 10 TD

Up front for Clinton:

Senior T Conner Brodie(6'0" 270lbs)

Senior T Brandt Brown

Senior G William Baker(5'9" 274lbs)

Defensively ,giving up 23.9 PPG, the Redskins are led by:

Senior MLB Christian Korte(5'10" 170 lbs) 44 tackles, 4 for loss.

Senior S Clay Langer(5'7" 150 lbs) 43 tackles 1 INT

Jeffrey Konz 39 tackles, 7 for loss, 1 sack.

The Redskins hold a 2-2 record vs playoff teams and led by Head Coach Jeremy Fielder.

This will be the 4th playoff meeting between Clinton and SMCC since 2007. A nice little rivalry has built up over the years between these two. Rain may be on the slate for Friday, ball security will be paramount. T vs T, who does it better?

Chris' Pick: SMCC 40 Clinton 28

Gary's Pick: SMCC 40 Clinton 28

Frank's Pick: SMCC 32 Clinton 28

Chelsea @ Milan

2018-11-01T08:09:00.001-04:00

Chelsea pulled off the 28-21 upset of Huron League Champion Grosse Ile while Milan was busy pounding Detroit Cody 38-0 in week 1 of the playoffs. Chelsea and Milan have a rivalry that goes back to the days when Milan was part of the SEC. The Bulldogs lead the all-time series 31-25-1 which includes last season's 23-14 victory in week 1 of the playoffs and 8 straight dating back to 1999 over the Big Reds.

Milan: 8-2 (5-2, Huron)

Coach: Jesse Hoskins

Players to Watch:

QB, Dyllan Jones
RB, Hunter Aeschbacker
RB/WR/DB Tristen Hines
DE, Cray Pennington
WR/DB, Evan Furtney
LB, Darren Markowski
OL/DL, Chris Beck
LB, Michael Morris

Milan has a high powered offense that is averaging nearly 35 ppg. The offense is centered around Aueschbacker and Hines. The defense has been good enough this season and is led by Beck, Pennington and Markowski.

Chelsea: 7-3 (4-2, SEC White)

Coach: Josh Lucas

Players to Watch:

QB, Quinn Starkey
RB, Aaron McDaniel
WR, Hunter Neff
OT, Holden Monica
DB, Joe Taylor
LB, Parker Murphy

Chelsea's Neff is one of the best receiver's in the state with nearly 50 catches and over 700 yards receiving. The defense only gives up 16 ppg and is anchored by Taylor, Murphy, Dion Murphy, Doug Zarinnia and Dion Mite

This should be a fun game to watch and should have some offensive fireworks between the two teams. Chelsea got the better of Milan last season and the Big Reds are looking for some payback while playing at home.

Chris's Pick: Chelsea 31 Milan 30
Gary's Pick: Milan 33 Chelsea 30
Frank's Pick: Milan 26 Chelsea 21

Ida @ Denby

2018-10-31T08:53:00.003-04:00

By Frank Vajcner

It’s a rematch of the opening round from last year’s playoffs, as Ida heads to Detroit to battle Denby. The Blue Streaks squeaked out a 22-20 win back on October 27, 2017. Ida comes in with a playoff record of 9-9 in ten appearances, while Denby is 7-15 in 16 appearances.

Ida (8-2, 5-2 LCAA) 2-2 vs Playoff Teams

This is the fifth consecutive season the Blue Streaks have advanced to the District Championship round, and second consecutive under Jeff Potter after throttling Dearborn Heights Robichaud 62-20. Ida averages just under 35 points per game out of the Full House T offense. Senior RBs Jake Weilnau (1183 rushing yards, 15 TDs) and Sam Brettschneider (900 rushing yards, 9 TDs) have carried most of the load. That has taken a lot of the pressure off of senior QB Clay Sampson, but Sampson (374 rushing yards, six TDs, 389 passing yards, five TDs) has been effective when called upon. Sampson’s favorite target has been senior TE Tommy Colpaert (151 yards, 3 TDs).

On defense, Ida is allowing 17.5 points per game. The Streaks are strong in their front seven, headlined by senior DT Alex Longenbarger (99 tackles, six sacks), and a trio of senior linebackers; Zach Johnston (64 tackles, two sacks), Weilnau (67 tackles, six sacks, forced fumble, fumble recovery) and Zach Stein (62 tackles, three sacks, two forced fumbles). Sophomore LB Michael Rosengarten (66 tackles, eight sacks) has also made an impact as well. In the secondary, the Streaks have a solid cornerback tandem in Coelpart (54 tackles, forced fumble, fumble recovery) and junior Jaxson Gianino (38 tackles, four interceptions). Gianino also had a pick-six in the win over Robichaud. As a team, Ida has recorded 35 sacks this season.

Detroit Denby (8-2, 3-2, DPSL-Black) 5-1 vs Playoff Teams

The Tars are back in the playoffs for a sixth consecutive season under Tony Blankenship, but are making their first appearance in the District Championship round since November 6, 2015 where they fell 67-44 to Milan. They reached this point after shutting out Detroit Osborn 44-0. The Tars are averaging 31.9 points per game out of a spread offense, led by senior QB Taivyon Buck. Buck has gotten plenty of attention from colleges with his dual threat ability. Senior T’Shawn Wilkes has stepped in at running back, replacing graduated Armani White, while senior WRs Jamari Griffin and Kamari Griffin are Buck’s favorite targets.

Defensively, the Tars are allowing 13.4 points per game, led by two monsters up front in junior DTs Jermaine Trammell (6-1, 280) and Mark Haygood (6-0, 325). Senior Adrian Brown is also a force at DE, along with senior LBs Jonathan Moreland, Kenneth Carney, and Ty’Metrius Patterson. Sophomore Marquez Bridges along with both Griffins are strong at cornerback.

The last time Denby advanced to the Regional round was 2006, when they beat Cass Tech for the District Championship. While Ida has continued to defy expectations, they are running into a Denby team with revenge on their mind.

Chris's Pick: Ida 28 Denby 27

Gary's Pick: Denby 22 Ida 20

Frank's pick: Denby 32 Ida 22

Whiteford @ Reading

2018-10-30T15:08:00.000-04:00

By Frank Vacjner

It’s a showdown of 10-0 teams as Whiteford heads deep into Hillsdale County to battle Reading. The last time the Bobcats and Rangers met was October 30, 2009, where it was the Rangers who knocked the Bobcats out of the playoffs with a 20-8 defeat. Things have changed since then. This is only one of two District Championship games in the state that features two unbeaten teams (the other is Calumet at Traverse City St. Francis in Division 6). Whiteford comes in with a playoff record of 21-17 in 20 appearances, while Reading has a playoff record of 11-23 in 24 appearances.

Whiteford 10-0 (7-0 Tri-County Conference)

The Bobcats roll into this showdown after dispatching Lenawee Christian 51-14. Jason Mensing’s team is averaging 53.8 points per contest, headlined by RBs Logan Murphy (1104 rushing yards, 15 TDs), Zack Bertz (570 rushing yards, 15 TDs), and Hunter Lake (462 rushing yards, nine TDs). Murphy is also Whiteford’s all-time leader in rushing yards. Quarterback Ty Eitniear can burn defenses with his arm (874 passing yards, 15 TDs) and his feet (281 rushing yards, four TDs), and WR Bradyn Clark-Gilmore (482 receiving yards, nine TDs) is the go-to option when the Bobcats go to the air. Clark-Gilmore is also the Bobcats’ all-time leader in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. Making the Double Wing go are the outstanding offensive line, lead by: Noah Bauman 6-2, 260 Fr, Ian Slick 5-8 200 Sr, Nick Donnelly 5-8 170 Sr, Bryce Wing 5-11 180 Sr, Josh Hagan 5-10 235 Jr.

On defense, the Bobcats are allowing a paltry 8 points per game, with three shutouts. Up front, NG DeShaun Williams (48 tackles, 16.5 TFLs, 3 fumble recoveries), and Ends Treylan Hess (63 tackles, 19.5 TFLs, 6 sacks, 3 forced fumbles) and Brodi Tesznar (32 tackles, 4 TFLs, 3 sacks) are a chore for any offensive line to deal with. LBs Nate Bauman (54 tackles, 12 TFLs), Cody Westfall (38 tackles, 10.5 TFLs), and Bertz (42 tackles, 10 TFLs) make up a strong unit. In the secondary, CB Lake (39 tackles, 21 passes defended, 4 INTs) has become a “no fly zone.” The Bobcats also have 31 takeaways on the season.

Reading 10-0 (7-0 Big 8)

Under the guidance of Rick Bailey, the Rangers are coming off of a wild 65-48 win over Pittsford in the opening round. Much like their counterparts, Reading has an explosive offense that averages 51.9 points per game. At QB, senior Alex Price is a dual threat. RBs Ethan Lopresto, Anthony Willoughby, and Elijah Strine are all dangerous out of the backfield. The Rangers have an experienced offensive line with Damon Black at center, Nick Affholter and Bryce Pagel at the guards, and Josh Johnson and Izac Reynolds at the tackles. The Rangers are only 26 points away from setting the school record for most points in a season (535 set in 2008).

Before the win over Pittsford, Reading had only allowed a minuscule 4.4 points per game with five shutouts. Top players on the unit include Black at DE, Ben Affholter at MLB, Lopresto at OLB, and Cole Boyd at CB.

Has Whiteford finally met their match? This is the first time the Bobcats will play in a true road game in the playoffs since November 13, 2015; a 48-14 win at Climax-Scotts. Reading has five wins over playoff teams, but none of the teams they beat are left standing. Of Whiteford’s four wins over playoff teams, two are still playing. In a game like this, I look for experience to prevail, as the Bobcats have been in these types of games before. But it may not be as comfortable as their fans are used to.

Chris's Pick: Whiteford 46 Reading 35

Gary's Pick: Whiteford 38 Reading 20

Frank's Pick: Whiteford 48 Reading 32

Bedford @ Franklin Friday 7:00p

2018-10-30T11:29:00.001-04:00

By Gary Hauf

This is the second ever meeting between Bedford and Franklin on the football field. Bedford, coming off a 55-21 thumping of Crestwood, holds an overall playoff record of 8-8 and have made the playoffs 7 of the last 10 seasons. Franklin, fresh off a victory over Wyandotte, have made the playoffs the past 4 seasons and hold an overall playoff record of 14-8.

Temperance Bedford Kicking Mules(3-2 SEC RED, 6-4 overall)

Bedford, under the tutelage of Jeff Wood, have built an excellent program behind a strong running game. The Mules average 35.8 PPG, almost all on the ground.

Bedford on offense will rely on:

Junior RB, Christian Brown(5'10" 165) 1,439 yards on 205 carries 20 TD

Senior QB Austin Malabanan(5'10" 160 lbs) 868 yards on 120 carries 12TD

Senior RB Anthony Pasanti 505 yards on 70 carries 10 TD

Up front for the Mules:

Junior G Zachary Davis(6'0" 240lbs)

Senior T Alex Salzmann

Junior G Jake Martin(5'11" 240lbs)

Senior C Cade Nelson(6'1" 225lbs)

Senior T Griffin Geiger

Defensively, giving up 26.1 PPG, leading the Mules are:

Senior LB Wade Johnson(5'11" 170lbs) 83 tackles

Senior Hayden Mangar 67 tackles

Sophomore Luke Carver(5'10" 160lbs) 27 tackles, 6 pass break ups

Bedford is 1-2 vs 1-3 vs playoff teams and is fronted by Head Coach Jeff Wood.

Livonia Franklin Patriots(4-3 KLAA, 6-4 overall)

Franklin, has built a nice program under Head Coach Christopher Kelbert. Mixing both run and pass effectively, the Patriots average 31.8 PPG and give up 24 per contest.

leaders on offense:

Junior QB Jake Kelbert(5'11" 183lbs) 92-164, 1440 yards passing 19TD 4 INT. 732 yards on 104 carries 8 TD.

Senior RB Julius Simmons(6'0" 190lbs) 513 yards on 100 carries 5 TD

Senior Fredrick Byles(5'11" 170lbs) 458 yards on 23 receptions 6 TD

Up front for the Patriots:

Sophomore T Kyle Fugedi(6'6" 240lbs)

Sophomore G Aaron Mass

Senior C Brendan Churgin(5'10" 205lbs)

Juniior G Jake Swriple(6'1" 270lbs)

Senior T Mike Pesavento(6'6" 265lbs)

Defensive standouts include:

Evan Pettinger LB 61 tackles 1 FR

Senior DE Arsell Weary(6'1" 210lbs) 41 tackles 14 TFL

Senior DE Ethan Cooper(6'1" 190lbs) 47 tackles 5 TFL

Franklin is 1-3 vs playoff teams and is lead by Head Coach Christopher kelbert.

Both teams made it in the playoffs as an at large at 5-4 but are currently playing good ball. Franklin made it to Ford Field last year taking a runner-up finish in D2. Bedford has reeled off 4 in a row, make it 5 in a row, in a nail biter.

Chris' Pick: Franklin 34 Bedford 24

Gary's pick: Bedford 30 Franklin 28

Frank's Pick: Franklin 28 Bedford 24

Varsity Athletic Players of the Week

2018-10-30T08:57:00.002-04:00

Jake Weilnau and Sam Brettschneider, RBs, Ida: The Bluestreaks’ two-headed monster at running back terrorized Dearborn Heights Robichaud, as Weilnau (15 carries, 187 yards, touchdown) and Brettschneider (16 carries, 122 yards, two touchdowns) combined for 309 of Ida’s 410 rushing yards, as well as three scores in a 62-20 rout of Robichaud. The 62 points is the most Ida has ever scored in a playoff game. The win also marked the fifth consecutive season the Blue Streaks have won a playoff game. Up next for Ida is a rematch with Detroit Denby for a District Championship.

Alex Morgan, RB, SMCC: Morgan continued his strong late season play into the playoffs. He rushed for 177 yards and three touchdowns as the Falcons outlasted Sand Creek 52-34. The win was the Falcons’ first playoff win at Navarre Field since 2014 when they defeated Clinton 50-15 in the District Championship game. Oddly enough, both teams will meet at Navarre for the District Championship this Friday.

Tristen Hines, RB/WR, Milan: Hines did everything for Milan, as he rang up 179 yards from scrimmage (130 rushing, 49 receiving), caught two touchdown passes, and also threw a pass for a two-point conversion in Milan’s 36-0 shutout of Detroit Cody.

Hunter Aeschbacker, RB, Milan: Despite sustaining a shoulder injury, Aeschbacker still had another day at the office for the Big Reds. The senior rushed for 101 yards and three scores in the win over Cody. Milan will host Chelsea, who eliminated the Reds last season, on Friday.

Jared Banks and Jalen Johnson, RBs, Monroe: Banks (183 rush yards, two scores) and Johnson (131 rush yards, two scores) combined for 314 rushing yards and four touchdowns in Monroe’s 62-28 thrashing of Woodhaven. It was the Trojans’ first playoff win since 2014 when they defeated Dearborn 47-15 in the opening round. Banks only needs eight rushing yards to surpass 2,500 for his career.

Maleik Linton, QB, Monroe: Linton also carved up Woodhaven on Friday night, as he rushed for 109 yards and three scores, and passed for 72 yards and a score. The Trojans travel to Belleville for the District Championship.

Christian Brown, RB, Bedford: It was business as usual for Brown, as he rushed for 167 yards and four scores in Bedford’s 55-21 win over Dearborn Heights Crestwood. The Mules got their first playoff win since 2016, when they defeated Livonia Franklin 39-22 in the District Championship. Both teams will meet again this Friday for a District Title again.

Logan Murphy and Zack Bertz, RBs, Whiteford: It was another day at the office for Murphy (146 yards, touchdown) and Bertz (128 yards, three scores), as they combined for 274 rushing yards and four touchdowns in Whiteford’s 51-14 win over Lenawee Christian. The Bobcats will put their 24-game winning streak on the line when they travel to Reading for the District Championship on Friday.

Thoughts and Questions

2018-10-28T21:49:00.000-04:00

Ground and pound.

Did you like Carlson's decision to go for 2 and the win?

Great season for the Red Devils.

How many fans did Robichaud bring to Ida?

I'm not surprised that Cody didn't have many fans on Friday.

Trojans opened a can on Woodhaven. I left with 10 minutes to go in the 3rd quarter.

I bet Riverview would like to have that game back.

Was Muck faster than O'Brien?

Whiteford getting bored yet?

Bedford will have their hands full with Livonia Franklin.

Where is the Ida @ Denby game being played?

Looking forward to an old SEC match up between Chelsea and Milan.

Monroe seems much better on field turf. I predict an upset.

Bad memories of Clinton?

I plan on traveling to Ottawa Lake this Friday after I carb load at the St. John's Waltz potato pancake supper.

Always nice to be recognized by fans of the blog at a game.

Did Woodhaven fans realize their was a playoff game Friday?

Michigan fans were refreshingly quiet this weekend.

State may have salvaged their season.

SOL?