Division One, District Projections

Written Tuesday October 30th, at 10:20 PM

REGION 1 DISTRICT 1:

HOLLAND WEST OTTAWA AT ROCKFORD: This is a rematch of a 24-14 Rams victory over the Panthers in Rockford. Rockford blew out Traverse City West 38-7. Holland West Ottawa survived Grand Ledge 21-14 at home. This will be a good match up once again in a battle of Ottawa-Kent Conference Red rivals. Rockford will win this game being at home. PICK: ROCKFORD 31, HOLLAND WEST OTTAWA 21.

REGION 1, DISTRICT 2:

GRAND BLANC AT CLARKSTON: Dear Grand Blanc, we know you won a wild game over Flint Carman Ainsworth 30-26 in Flint but we knocked off Davison 41-0 last week. Two seasons ago you went into our place and crushed us 38-14. We haven't forgotten that. We the Wolves will end your season this week. Now we know you blew out Plymouth 34-6 on the road but then again we have a big line and running game and that clearly outplays an underachieving team all season. Sincerely, Clarkston. PICK: CLARKSTON 28, GRAND BLANC 24.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 1:

NOVI DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL AT WALLED LAKE NORTHERN: The Knights won their first ever playoff game last week over Howell 41-27 but this is a whole different animal in the Shamrocks who beat Hartland 21-15 in Hartland last week. The Knights can score but the Shamrocks can play defense and will advance to the regional finals. PICK: NOVI DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL 28, WALLED LAKE NORTHERN 21.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 2:

PLYMOUTH AT LIVONIA CHURCHILL: This is a rematch of a game won by the Chargers 35-31 over the Wildcats. Plymouth rebounded by winning last week over arch rival Canton 40-28. Livonia Churchill beat arch rival Livonia Stevenson 49-35. This will be a very good game in the Kensington Lakes Athletic Association Central Division. I have a feeling that Plymouth will get this win and shut down the Chargers star running game. PICK: PLYMOUTH 35, LIVONIA CHURCHILL 32.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 1:

ANN ARBOR PIONEER AT SALINE: This is another rematch of a low scoring game won by the Pioneers 7-6 in Saline. The Hornets have not forgiven that loss and want to avenge it in this Southeastern Conference rematch. I think Saline will win in this match up of Washtenaw County rivals. PICK: SALINE 10, ANN ARBOR PIONEER 7.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 2:

DEARBORN AT DETROIT CASS TECH: (Saturday 1 PM): The Technicians blew out the Blue Devils of Grosse Pointe South in Grosse Pointe 49-3. The Pioneers upset Dearborn Fordson 24-14 at Fordson no less. Too much balance will get the Detroit Public School League West division Champions, Detroit Cass Tech through the regional finals likely on the road to either Ann Arbor or Saline. PICK: DETROIT CASS TECH 35, DEARBORN 14.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 1:

UTICA EISENHOWER AT LAKE ORION: This game is a tossup. Both teams had shutouts over their respective opponents last week. The Eagles over Warren Mott 28-0 while the Dragons over Sterling Heights Stevenson 35-0. Time possession will be key in this match up as both teams like to run the ball and have good defenses. I think Lake Orion has a bit too much speed for Utica Eisenhower to handle but this game will come down to the final play. PICK: LAKE ORION 20, UTICA EISENHOWER 13.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 2:

MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH AT MACOMB DAKOTA: The Crusaders finished third in the MAC White stunned Romeo 35-21 last week. The Bulldogs are in the MAC Red while fellow MAC Red member Cougars beat Chippewa Valley 17-7. Macomb Dakota has the experience in the playoffs but L’Anse Creuse North has nothing to lose being a huge underdog. I have a strange feeling that this game has upset in the making with the Crusaders shocking the Cougars. PICK: L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 17, MACOMB DAKOTA 14.

Division Two, District Projections

Written Tuesday October 30th, at 10:10 PM

REGION 1, DISTRICT 1

TRAVERSE CITY CENTRAL AT MIDLAND: The Trojans stunned Bay City Western 48-47 in overtime last week in Traverse City but the travel to US-10 and Midland won’t be easy. It will be a long game for the Trojans against the Chemics. Midland has too much size for Traverse City Central to handle. PICK: MIDLAND 42, TRAVERSE CITY CENTRAL 14.

REGION 1, DISTRICT 2:

LOWELL AT MUSKEGON: Probably the best match up on the west side of the state. The Red Arrows and the Big Reds are long time rivals in the Ottawa-Kent Conference. They will meet yet again since week three when Muskegon won 36-21 over Lowell. This will be a rematch of two powerhouses. The edge in this one goes to the Big Reds being at home and beating them early in the season. PICK: MUSKEGON 40, LOWELL 30.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 1:

EAST LANSING AT CALEDONIA: The Trojans upset Lansing Everett 10-6 last week in Lansing while the Fighting Scotts beat Swartz Creek 53-27. The will be the first meeting between the two schools but the edge will go to the home team. Caledonia has played a tougher schedule than East Lansing and also that East Lansing has to travel west to Caledonia. PICK: CALEDONIA 17, EAST LANSING 6.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 2:

PORTAGE CENTRAL AT MATTAWAN: This is a rematch of a classic 35-34 game that was won by Mattawan in Portage over Portage Central. The two Southwestern Michigan Athletic Conference rivals will meet once again in the postseason. The Mustangs shocked the town of Portage when they beat arch rival Portage Northern 21-17 after losing in week eight to the Huskies. The Wildcats blew out Battle Creek Lakeview 66-28 last week. This will be a close game, wouldn’t surprise me if this one goes to the wire. I like the Mustangs to pull it out. PICK: PORTAGE CENTRAL 38, MATTAWAN 35.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 1:

WALLED LAKE WESTERN AT FENTON: The Warriors scored a touchdown on a fourth down and 25 to stun Farmington 31-28 last week. The Tigers pulled off an even bigger shocker when they beat Harrison 22-19 last week at home. Now Walled Lake Western travels to Genesee County to take on Fenton. The Tigers should roll in this match up but close. PICK: FENTON 28, WALLED LAKE WESTERN 21.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 2:

OXFORD AT BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE: (Saturday 1 PM at Berkley): The Wildcats rolled past Seaholm 32-8 last week. The Warriors went to Port Huron and won 47-26 last week. Oxford it’s been a good season but this is the worst match up you can think of for them but this will be close but the edge goes to Birmingham Brother Rice being at well, their home field (Hurley Field-Berkley) until they move close to home next season (ala Lahser is a real possibility with Lahser and Andover merging next year.) PICK: BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 35, OXFORD 28.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 1:

SOUTHFIELD AT OAK PARK: This is an interesting rematch between the Knights and Blue Jays. Oak Park won 24-18 at Southfield in overtime a few weeks ago. Southfield came from behind and beat Detroit Martin Luther King 22-19 while Oak Park beat Detroit Cody 37-20. I think the Blue Jays have more experience in this match up but the Knights have the wildcard and that is Coach Greg Carter, I like the Knights in this one. PICK: OAK PARK 32, SOUTHFIELD 30 IN TRIPLE OVERTIME.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 2:

WYANDOTTE ROOSEVELT AT TAYLOR TRUMAN: This is a rematch of two Downriver League rivals that were tied in playoff points, determined by a coin flip. Roosevelt beat Truman 24-20 a few weeks ago in Taylor. The Bears blew out Brownstown Woodhaven 31-14 last week while the Cougars beat Allen Park 29-7. The winner will get a regional home game. Next week the game will be in Taylor. PICK: TAYLOR TRUMAN 31, WYANDOTTE ROOSEVELT 24.

Division Three: District Projections

Written Tuesday October 30th, at 10:06 PM

REGION 1, DISTRICT 1:

OWOSSO AT ST. JOHNS: This will be a rematch of the Capital Area Red Division contest between Owosso and St. Johns. The last time they met the Red Wings beat the Trojans 14-13. Owosso had to go northwest and beat Cadillac 27-14 to get to this match while St. Johns survived Sault Sainte Marie 21-20 to get here. This will be a close game but strangely I like the Trojans to win here and big. PICK: OWOSSO 31, ST. JOHNS 20.

REGION 1, DISTRICT 2:

DEWITT AT LINDEN: The Panthers had to survive Lapeer West in overtime 34-28 to get to this match while the Eagles beat Lansing Waverly 55-13 to get here. DeWitt has to travel to Genesee County to meet Linden. I think home field is key and the Flint Metro League Champions will get a district crown. PICK: LINDEN 35, DEWITT 21.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 1:

ZEELAND WEST AT GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN: The honeymoon is over for the Dux. Last week the Ottawa-Kent Conference Green division champions shocked the state and especially the city of Zeeland to get here. The Dux beat the Ottawa-Kent Conference Black division champions Zeeland East Chix 46-0 to get to this match up. The Eagles destroyed Fruitport 45-6 to get here. Zeeland West will have its hands full with the Ottawa-Kent Conference Champions but also Grand Rapids Christian will have its hands full with Zeeland West but going with the home team in an offensive slugfest. PICK: GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN 61, ZEELAND WEST 54.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 2:

HAMILTON AT STEVENSVILLE LAKESHORE: The Southwest Athletic Conference West champion, Lancers has been destroying its last two opponents by a combine score of 107-47. Lakeshore beat Holland Christian 48-28 last week to get to this point while the Hawkeyes went into Edwardsburg and blew them out 42-14. Hamilton does have a win over Zeeland West, whom shocked Zeeland East last week and would love to get another crack at the Dux but it won’t happen though. Lakeshore will be too much for Hamilton. PICK: STEVENSVILLE LAKESHORE 35, HAMILTON 21.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 1:

PLAINWELL AT BATTLE CREEK HARPER CREEK: The Southwestern Athletic Conference East champion, Beavers come into this match beating Charlotte 35-21 while the Trojans went to Hastings and beat the Saxons 35-16. This match will be a good one but the edge like I say will go to the home team in a close one, shootout style. PICK: BATTLE CREEK HARPER CREEK 45, PLAINWELL 38.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 2:

TECUMSEH AT MILAN: The Indians got their revenge on Chelsea last week by beating the Bulldogs 27-20. Chelsea beat Tecumseh 31-28 to win the Southeastern Conference White division championship. Milan is a very dangerous team but the Big Reds had problems with Carleton Airport. The Huron League champions survived 14-7 and now are in this match with Tecumseh. This will be an interesting match-up, Milan better be careful or this will be an upset. PICK: MILAN 27, TECUMSEH 23.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 1:

AVONDALE AT ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS: (SATURDAY 1 PM): Don’t know why this match is being played on Saturday when Orchard Lake St. Mary’s has lights and red turf. Anyway this is a rematch of last season’s 71-44 beat down by the Eaglets over the Yellow Jackets. Orchard Lake St. Mary’s blew out South Lyon East 59-7. Avondale survived Lahser 21-19 to earn this match up on the red turf. This will be interesting but the Yellow Jackets won’t have enough to win this match up but it will be a shootout probably in the high 50’s. PICK: ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS 77, AVONDALE 56.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 2:

DETROIT EAST ENGLISH VILLAGE PREP AT ST. CLAIR: The Saints beat Detroit Central 32-26 last week while the Bulldogs destroyed Marysville 63-25. The defending Detroit Public School League East Champions have been a scoring machine scoring 435 points and averaging 44 points per game. However Detroit East English Village Prep’s defense has been a huge concern lately, allowing 108 points in their last three games, average is 38 points per game. That has to change if Detroit East English Village Prep wants a shot at Orchard Lake St. Mary’s. This game will be a wild one with the Bulldogs escaping St. Clair County with a win. PICK: DETROIT EAST ENGLISH VILLAGE PREP 70, ST. CLAIR 56.

Utica Eisenhower Preview

Written Tuesday October 30th, at 4:30 PM

The Utica Eisenhower Eagles come in as one of the best teams in Macomb County and also in the state. Their record doesn’t indicate it though but this is a very dangerous team and a very dangerous match up for the Dragons on Friday night.

You can throw all the records away in this match up of two traditional powerhouses.

The Eagles come in at 8-2, with a playoff win over Warren Mott 28-0 at Swienhart Field. Eisenhower went 3-2 in the MAC Red with road losses to Macomb Dakota (24-6) and Chippewa Valley (21-7.)

Eisenhower features a very big and good offensive line. The only team I can think off with that comparison is Clarkston. The Wolves beat the Dragons 21-14 a few weeks ago. The difference with Clarkston and Eisenhower is that Eagles has a passing threat and a good quarterback-wide receiver combo.

 It all starts with four year starting quarterback Joe Zerafa.

Zerafa had a touchdown pass in his only meeting against Lake Orion in 2010 but the Eagles lost 17-10 to the Dragons in the regional finals.

Zerafa can throw the ball very well and also can run with his speed. Zerafa was six for eight for 101 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for a two yard touchdown last week against Warren Mott.

The Eagles have scored 275 points this season, which is 27.5 points per game, rounded up to 28 points per game. Eisenhower’s defense has only allowed 106 points, which is 10.6 points per game. The Dragons have scored 380 points this season, which is 38 points per game. Lake Orion’s defense has only allowed 103 points, which is 10.3 points per game.

Eisenhower features a four man senior laden rushing attack. All of them have balance, speed, power, and versatility.

The Eagles have star running back Shane King. King dislocated his elbow earlier in the season and thought that he wasn’t going to return at all this season. King did return though against Sterling Heights Stevenson in a 23-16 victory at Swienhart Field and has done well since. King had 20 carries for 118 yards against Warren Mott and hasn’t been stopped since he returned.

Eisenhower also has a trio of senior running backs who filled in nicely when King was out. Jay Miron had seven carries for 71 yards, Idode Kerobo had 44 yards and a touchdown, and Grant Davis had 17 yards on eight carries against the Marauders.

Zerafa’s top weapon is junior wide receiver Joe Chmielewski. Chemielewski had a 22 yard, one hand touchdown catch into the end zone for an Eagles touchdown. He also had a 13 yard touchdown to open up the scoring against the Marauders. He had 70 yards and two scores last week.

Time possession has been key in this series and will be key in this game. Both teams have very good defenses, a lot of team speed on both sides of the ball along with playmakers.

Eisenhower's line like I said is also big, very similar to Clarkston in height and in size. The Eagles are led by a division one college football recruit David Curlie and always have had a good defense as mentioned.

Eisenhower has been good at Swienhart Field but somewhat suspect on the road. The Eagles lost at Chippewa Valley 21-7 and to Macomb Dakota 24-6 but they did get wins earlier in the season at Dan Barnabo Field 20-10 and 23-16 over Sterling Heights Stevenson at Swienhart Field.

Eisenhower has been battled tested. The Eagles played seven playoff teams (Port Huron, Grosse Pointe South, Chippewa Valley, Macomb Dakota, Romeo, Sterling Heights Stevenson, and Warren Mott.) Lake Orion has also been battled tested. The Dragons played four playoff teams (Oxford, Clarkston, Farmington, and Sterling Heights Stevenson.)

This is the second time in four seasons that these two teams have met. The Dragons won both times against Eisenhower. In 2008 it was 7-0 Lake Orion after Branden Oakes ran the winning touchdown down the right sideline to the end zone in the district semifinal. The Dragons in 2010 scored two rushing touchdowns, one by Marques Stevenson and one by Dan Ney and also had to overcome a field goal miss to win 17-10 in the regional final.

This meeting will be back at Lake Orion for a third time.

This season the Eagles have a first year coach in Chris Smith. Smith took over for Bob Lantzy, who retired after last season. He should be confident with this group because they have a lot of experience under their belt. Smith was Lantzy’s defensive coordinator so he has a lot of experience on that side of the ball. This is a very good coaching staff that Eisenhower has.

Eisenhower is playoff tested, as well as Lake Orion. Last season the Eagles went to the state semifinals before losing 10-7 to Detroit Cass Tech at Troy Athens.

The Eagles changed uniforms for the season. Their helmets are gray and have an E on it instead of the Seahawks logo. They changed jerseys from blue to black. They changed pants as well from the silver pants to the black pants but have a white-white combination they wear on the road.

This game is anybody’s guess but we’ll see what happens.

Volleyball District Preview and Projections at Romeo

Written Sunday October 28th, at 7:25 PM

This is the 2012 Girls Volleyball districts start on Monday. Lake Orion is in a district where it will be hailed at Romeo High School. The Dragons are paired with Clarkston, Rochester Adams, Oxford, and Romeo. The fun starts on Tuesday as the second ranked Clarkston Wolves take on the Rochester Adams Highlanders. The district semifinals will feature the eighth ranked Lake Orion Dragons taking on the Oxford Wildcats and also the winner of the Clarkston/Adams match will go against the home team the Romeo Bulldogs on Thursday. The district finals will be on Saturday morning at 11 AM in Romeo. Here are the picks for the district.

CLARKSTON VS ADAMS: Tuesday at 6 PM: The Wolves and Highlanders met at Adams with Clarkston winning in three games. Adams is much improved then they were early in the season. Clarkston is well Clarkston. The Wolves will move on easily over the Highlanders and focus on Romeo. PICK: CLARKSTON IN THREE GAMES

LAKE ORION VS OXFORD: Thursday at 5:30 PM: The Dragons and Wildcats met at Ian Smith Gym with Lake Orion winning in three games. It wouldn’t surprise me if this match up goes three games but it likely won’t and the focus will shift to either the Clarkston or Romeo winner. PICK: LAKE ORION IN THREE GAMES.

CLARKSTON VS ROMEO: Thursday at 7:00 PM: The Bulldogs will likely have a hostile crowd for the Wolves in this match. I think the crowd will get to Clarkston early and give energy to Romeo but it won’t be enough to beat Clarkston. I think the Bulldogs will take a game because of the hostile Bulldogs crowd but not the match. PICK: CLARKSTON IN FOUR GAMES.

LAKE ORION VS CLARKSTON: Saturday at 11:00 AM: This will be a rematch of the state semifinals last season and a hard fought five game thriller at Clarkston. Lake Orion and Clarkston are ranked in the state (Clarkston: two, Lake Orion: eighth.) I have a strange feeling that this will be very similar to last season when the Wolves beat the Dragons in the regular season but the Dragons eliminated the Wolves in the state semifinals. The key is injuries and pure adrenaline. Both teams will be at full strength and motivated for this one. The difference will be is that Lake Orion will be healthy enough to get this one in another wild and crazy match. PICK: LAKE ORION IN FIVE GAMES.

OAA Recap Week Ten

Written Saturday October 27th, at 2:30 AM

Ah yes playoffs are well underway now as teas thrive to take the crown in their respective divisions. Lake Orion, Clarkston, Oak Park, Avondale, Oxford, and Southfield all came through the district semifinals with big wins. Farmington, Harrison, Seaholm, and Lahser all fell tonight and had very good seasons.

BIGGEST WIN OF THE NIGHT: Southfield 22, Detroit Martin Luther King 19: The Blue Jays proved that their 21-20 win over the Crusaders was no joke. Southfield came from behind eliminated the Detroit Public School League Champions from the playoffs. The Blue Jays trailed 19-14 but then got a touchdown and then a two point conversion along with a defensive stand. Southfield will now move onto the district finals with a trip to Knight Valley to meet fellow White rival, Oak Park. The Knights beat the Blue Jays 24-18 in overtime the last time they met in Southfield.

TOUGHEST LOSS OF THE NIGHT: Walled Lake Western 31, Farmington 28: In a seesaw game that went back and fourth, the Falcons scored a huge pick six with four minutes late in the game to take a 28-23 lead but on a fourth down Farmington saw Walled Lake Western take a 31-28 lead on a 25 yard touchdown pass with two minutes left to play in the game. The Falcons tried to move the ball into field goal range but a turnover ended all hopes for Farmington.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Fenton 22, Harrison 19: The Hawks came into Fenton with confidence after blowing out West Bloomfield last week but it was the Tigers who got the last laugh in Genesee County. The Hawks led early 8-0 but the Tigers answered and took a 13-8 lead and then Harrison answered and took a 16-13 lead. The Hawks got a field goal to take a 19-13 lead. The Tigers then answered Harrison’s drive by scoring a touchdown of its own and took the lead for good into the half at 20-19. Fenton would then get a safety in the second half and a defensive stand to complete the upset of the Hawks. Harrison is going home early in the first round and Fenton will take on Walled Lake Western in the district finals.

This Week’s Games:

Utica Eisenhower (8-2) at Lake Orion (9-1): It what will be a battle of the defenses and running backs. The key is this game will be won up front. Eisenhower has a big line, a four year quarterback, and great wide receiver. Lake Orion has balance as well on both sides of the ball. The Eagles and the Dragons are coming off shutout wins. Both of these teams are clearly even. This will for sure be one of the best games in the state.

Grand Blanc (6-4) at Clarkston (10-0): This will be a dangerous test for the Wolves against a dangerous Bobcats team. The last time Grand Blanc went into Clarkston, they destroyed Clarkston 38-14 in 2010. I don’t think the Wolves have forgotten that result. For Grand Blanc is can they stop the Wolves rushing attack, if they can’t it’s bye-bye Bobcats.

Oxford (7-3) at Birmingham Brother Rice (8-2): This is a bad match up for the Wildcats against the defending division two state champion Warriors. Brother Rice has a very offense, a good defense, and good special teams. The key will be if Oxford can get its passing game going, it has a chance to do the unthinkable.

Southfield (7-3) at Oak Park (8-2): The Knights beat the Blue Jays 24-18 in overtime at Southfield. This has the makings of yet another classic between the two teams in Knight Valley.

Avondale (9-1) at Orchard Lake St. Mary’s (9-1): This rematch could get very ugly for the Yellow Jackets on the red turf. No matter how bad Avondale wants Orchard Lake St. Mary’s, the Eaglets are on another planet right now after it’s blowout over South Lyon East. It won’t be easy for Coach Steve Deutch’s crew.

There were four big shocks so far in the playoffs so far, three from Division One, one from Division Six, and one from Division Three.

I thought that Dearborn Fordson had a chance to go far into the playoffs and possibly be the team to knock off Detroit Cass Tech but were handed yet another loss to arch city rival Dearborn. The Tractors lost 24-14 to the Pioneers and now Dearborn gets to go to Detroit to play Detroit Cass Tech next weekend. Fordson has not been the same team since losing to Lake Orion 38-0 in the state semifinals in 2008.

Another team that almost lost was Macomb Dakota against the Big Reds. The Cougars only led 4-0 at halftime against Chippewa Valley but Macomb Dakota managed to survive 17-7 and move on to play another shocking team in Macomb L’Anse Creuse North, who took Romeo out of the playoffs by two touchdowns 35-21 after the Bulldogs won the regular season meeting 28-21. Macomb Dakota and Macomb L'Anse Creuse North will play each other next week in the district finals.

Rockford came in down 7-0 to the Titans of Traverse City West but the Rams managed to get things back together and managed to hold off the Titans 17-7. The Rams will now take on Ottawa-Kent Conference rival Holland West Ottawa next weekend at Rockford.

I was just flabbergasted tonight by Zeeland East losing 46-0 to arch city rival Zeeland West. Last week the Chix beat one of the top teams in the Ottawa-Kent conference Muskegon 40-39 and ended up being ranked number one in state for division three. No one in the the state except the west side of Zeeland saw this coming especially the outcome. The Dux went nuts with over 500 yards of total offense, 484 on the ground. The Dux led the Chix 32-0 at halftime shocking the eastern part of Zeeland while the western part was very happy. Zeeland West will take on Grand Rapids West Catholic, who beat undefeated Hopkins in Grand Rapids next week.

I was discouraged by the Eagles of Madison Heights Madison tonight against Detroit Consortium 8-3. Madison had a 3-0 lead until the third quarter when Detroit Consortium converted on a touchdown and a two point conversion. This was the biggest win for Detroit Consortium as they stormed the field in celebration in Madison Heights.

Dragons Hammer Titans, await Eagles next

Written Saturday October 27th, at 1:42 AM

Friday night would prove to be no repeat of the 2008 Regional Finals at Runkel Field.

Lake Orion won that game 38-36.

Tonight wasn’t even close.

The Dragons defense dominated the Titans in rout to a 35-0 win at Lake Orion in the district semifinals, setting up the stage for a huge district final showdown with Utica Eisenhower on Friday night at Lake Orion.

The Dragons defense held Stevenson to just 139 total yards throughout the night.

Running back Dominick Giovinnazzo started the Dragons scoring early on it’s second drive from scrimmage. Lake Orion converted on two fourth down conversions on a 18 play 72 yard drive with Giovinnazzo scoring from six yards out making the score 7-0 Dragons.

Lake Orion struggled on offense early but then started to click. Derrick DeLaura connected with Chaz Miller on a 65 yard touchdown pass to make it 14-0 Orion.

Then Zach Arnold connected on a 50 yard touchdown down the middle of the field making the score 21-0.

DeLaura wasn’t done yet, he found Miller for a 22 yard pitch and catch making the score 28-0 Orion late in the second quarter.

To wrap up the scoring DeLaura found Chris Leigh on a seven yard swing pass making the score 35-0 Dragons and the running clock went into effect.

DeLaura was six for seven passing for 224 yards and three touchdowns. Miller had two touchdowns on 82 receiving yards. Leigh had a touchdown and 10 yards. Arnold had 70 yards and a touchdown. Jacob Miller had 12 carries and 46 yards. Cory Ester had eight carries for 59 yards for the Dragons.

Lake Orion is now 9-1 on the year and will take on a familiar foe in the Utica Eisenhower Eagles (8-2) on Friday night at 7:00 PM. Two seasons ago the Dragons defeated the Eagles 17-10 in the regional finals. Lake Orion beat Utica Eisenhower 7-0 in the district semifinals four seasons ago. We’ll see what happens on Friday night in Orion.

OAA Picks Playoffs: Week 10.

Written Friday October 26th, at 3:00 PM

STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON AT LAKE ORION: The Dragons and Titans are going at it for the second time in four seasons. Stevenson has lost two tough games by 10 points (Eisenhower and Warren Mott.) Lake Orion lost a tough one at home two weeks ago to Clarkston. The Dragons and Titans will be close but the travel to Oakland County could get to Stevenson especially during rush hour on M-24. PICK: LAKE ORION 34, STEVENSON 24.

DAVISON AT CLARKSTON: The Cardinals are a good team but this is not the right match up for them a trip down M-15 to see Clarkston. The Wolves should cruse in this game and focus on either Grand Blanc or Flint Carman Ainsworth. PICK: CLARKSTON 49, DAVISON 7.

FARMINGTON AT WALLED LAKE WESTERN: The Falcons were outscored in their final two games 91-31. That’s not a good combination especially going to Walled Lake to play the Warriors. Farmington is injury prone, just ask Lake Orion that last week on it's Homecoming. This does not look good for the Falcons. PICK: WALLED LAKE WESTERN 31, FARMINGTON 21.

HARRISON AT FENTON: Poor Tigers this is the worst match up they can get especially with someone as smart as John Herrington is. The only good news for Fenton is that the Harrison has to travel up to Genesee County. The Hawks will move on to the next round. PICK: HARRISON 56, FENTON 7.

OXFORD AT SEAHOLM: The Wildcats and Maples are both excited to play this match up. Oxford has played Lake Orion, Southfield, Farmington, Harrison, Adams, and Oak Park. Seaholm has played its fair share of teams, including the likes of Detroit Country Day, Avondale, and Lahser. I’m going with the Wildcats in this game because of the tougher competition than the Maples. PICK: OXFORD 28, SEAHOLM 14.

DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING AT SOUTHFIELD: The Crusaders and the Jays battled in week one at Wayne State. Southfield won 21-20 in double overtime. Detroit Martin Luther King won the Detroit Public School League Championship but the Blue Jays are clicking at the right time. This game will be close but the Blue Jays are at home and will pull this out. PICK: SOUTHFIELD 28, DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING 27.

DETROIT CODY AT OAK PARK: The Knights have lost two in a row (Oxford and Clarkston) but this is a nice match up for Oak Park especially being at home. Detroit Cody is in big trouble here. PICK: OAK PARK 45, DETROIT CODY 6.

LAHSER AT AVONDALE: The Knights had to win at Hazel Park just to get into the playoffs. The Jackets were already in the postseason. Avondale won 37-20 two weeks ago over Lahser but this match will be much closer than two weeks ago. The Yellow Jackets will win though. PICK: AVONDALE 30, LAHSER 27.

Division Two Playoff Predictions

Written Monday October 22nd, at 7:40 PM

REGION 1, DISTRICT 1:

MARQUETTE AT MIDLAND: Poor Marquette, having to travel from the U.P. down the Mackinac Bridge and into Mid-Michigan on US-10 to meet the Chemics. It will be a long bus ride home for the Redman. PICK: MIDLAND 42, MARQUETTE 0.

BAY CITY WESTERN AT TRAVERSE CITY CENTRAL: Think the Warriors want another shot at Midland after losing bad two weeks ago. The Trojans at Thirly Field is going to be tough but Bay City Western has played much tougher competition than Traverse City Central but this will be a good game. PICK: BAY CITY WESTERN 24, TRAVERSE CITY CENTRAL 21.

REGION 1, DISTRICT 2:

GRAND RAPIDS KENOWA HILLS AT MUSKEGON: The Big Reds are going to be in a foul mood after last week’s 40-39 loss to Zeeland East. Poor Knights, they don’t stand a chance. PICK: MUSKEGON 56, GRAND RAPIDS KENOWA HILLS 0.

GRAND RAPIDS NORTHVIEW AT LOWELL: Gabe Dean graduated but the Red Arrows will be fine and a rematch with Muskegon is highly likely. The Wildcats have a chance but it won’t be enough. PICK: LOWELL 31, GRAND RAPIDS NORTHVIEW 14.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 1:

EAST LANSING AT LANSING EVERETT: The Vikings and Trojans meet again since the 6-0 win by Everett. The Trojans have lost three of its final four games and soon it will be four of five in a close one. PICK: LANSING EVERETT 13, EAST LANSING 7.

CALEDONIA AT SWARTZ CREEK: Welcome to the playoffs Swartz Creek. The Dragons will be excited for this game but the Fighting Scots have more experience and played a tougher schedule. Caledonia will come into Genesee County and get a W. PICK: CALEDONIA 27, SWARTZ CREEK 20.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 2:

BATTLE CREEK LAKEVIEW AT MATTAWAN: The Spartans five of six wins this season came against teams with losing records. The Wildcats meanwhile are 8-1. There will be another loss for Lakeview to a team with a winning record. PICK: MATTAWAN 31, BATTLE CREEK LAKEVIEW 14.

PORTAGE CENTRAL AT PORTAGE NORTHERN: The battle of Portage is on once again. The Huskies blew out the Mustangs 42-13 two weeks ago. Sadly for Portage Central this will be a repeat of two weeks ago at Portage Northern. PICK: PORTAGE NORTHERN 48, PORTAGE CENTRAL 13.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 1:

FARMINGTON HILLS HARRISON AT FENTON: Bad draw for the Tigers here against the Hawks. Fenton this is not the Flint Metro League, this is an Oakland Activities Association White division team coming in, name Farmington Hills Harrison. Looks like Fenton is going home early. PICK: FARMINGTON HILLS HARRISON 40, FENTON 12.

FARMINGTON AT WALLED LAKE WESTERN: The Warriors are a solid team in the Kensington Lakes Athletic Association and has a lot of experience under its belt. The Falcons have lost two in a row and is in danger of making it three in a row, it will happen. PICK: WALLED LAKE WESTERN 45, FARMINGTON 24.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 2:

OXFORD AT BIRMINGHAM SEAHOLM: The Maples won the Oakland Activities Association Blue this season but they haven’t seen the likes of the Oxford Wildcats and the Oakland Activities Association White Division. Oxford has played teams like Lake Orion, Harrison, Farmington, Oak Park, Adams, and Southfield. While Birmingham Seaholm played Avondale, Detroit Country Day, and Lahser in the Blue. Sorry Maples, the Wildcats will roll on. PICK: OXFORD 28, BIRMINGHAM SEAHOLM 13.

BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE AT PORT HURON: The Big Reds host a playoff game up at Memorial Stadium. Hope the Gales of November go wild on Lake Huron because the Warriors are coming to town and will walk out of St. Clair County with a W over the Macomb Area Conference White Division Champions. PICK: BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE 31, PORT HURON 20.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 1:

DETROIT CODY AT OAK PARK: Poor Comets, this won’t even be a game in Knight Valley. The Knights will snap its two game losing streak and roll on past the Comets to either play the Crusaders or the Blue Jays. PICK: OAK PARK 56, DETROIT CODY 6.

DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING AT SOUTHFIELD: This will be the game of the day. At Wayne State the Blue Jays beat the Crusaders 21-20 on a missed extra point. Ever since that game, Southfield struggled to make the playoffs while Detroit Martin Luther King won the Detroit Public School League Championship by beating Detroit East English Village Prep and Detroit Cass Tech in the process. The Crusaders are red hot right now and no stopping them now in a close one. PICK: DETROIT MARTIN LUTHER KING 28, SOUTHFIELD 27.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 2:

ALLEN PARK AT TAYLOR TRUMAN: It’s a lose-lose situation for the Jaguars especially against the Cougars. Truman rolls and moves on. PICK: TAYLOR TRUMAN 48, ALLEN PARK 0.

WYANDOTTE ROOSEVELT AT BROWNSTOWN WOODHAVEN: Sad that this match up was determined by a coin toss. The Warriors and Bears have the same points and same records but I’m going with Roosevelt in an upset in Brownstown Township. PICK: WYANDOTTE ROOSEVELT 27,  BROWNSTOWN WOODHAVEN 24.

Sterling Heights Stevenson History and Team

Written, Monday October 22nd, at 5:45 PM

In a stunning and interesting match-up, no one saw this one coming. Not even the Titans or the Dragons.

Yes it will be on Friday night the Sterling Heights Stevenson Titans takes the long journey into Oakland County and into Lake Orion and take on the Dragons.

This will be the second time these teams have met in the playoffs. The first time they met was wild.

It was in the 2008 Regional Finals at Runkel Field in Sterling Heights, in which the Dragons who were 10-1 at the time had a 35-7 lead early in the fourth quarter only to see quarterback Jason Fracassa lead the Titans to score 29 unanswered points to take a 36-35 lead late in the fourth quarter but only to see Lake Orion kicker Jeff Heath kicked the game winning 49 yard field goal to send the Dragons to the State Semifinals 38-36 over Sterling Heights Stevenson.

The next season the Titans went to the state finals before falling to Novi Detroit Catholic Central (lost 31-21.) Legendary long time coach Rick Bye retired after that game and former assistant Steve Goralski took over. Goralski was a former player under Bye at Stevenson and knows the program inside out in his third season as head coach and 23 years overall.

Sterling Heights Stevenson went 1-8 and 0-5 in the Macomb Area Conference Red Division in 2011 but in 2012 the Titans are 6-3 and 3-2 in the league, a five win improvement from 2011. Stevenson’s big wins of the season were at Chippewa Valley (24-7: Week Seven), at Dan Barnabo over Romeo (22-18: Week Five), and at Howell (34-14: Week One.)

The Titans have also been competitive in losses, they lost at Runkel Field to Macomb Dakota in week two 34-14 then the final two weeks of the season, Stevenson lost tough games, first at Swienhart Field to Utica Eisenhower 23-16 in week eight and then last week to Warren Mott in overtime 26-23 at Runkel Field.

The strength of the Titans has been its kicking game. This season Stevenson has two very good kickers. The Titans brought in a transfer from Utica Eisenhower in Salvatore Ciraulo. Ciraulo is the kickoff specialist and is also place kicker. Stevenson has yet another kicker in Nick Mearnic, who is the punter and the field goal kicker. Mearnic can punt a ball 60 yards and can kick long field goals if needed.

The Titans have yet another very good offense, not like the frantic pace that Fraccassa did but this team does have the weapons. Stevenson is led by junior quarterback Kyle Maxson. Maxson has grown to the position during the season and has improved each week.

Maxson has a good arm and also has a deep threat in wide receiver Tyler Sykes. That combo has done damage against MAC Red foes this season.

Sykes has caught touchdown passes in the last three games and has became the deep threat down field for Sterling Heights Stevenson.

Maxson has on the other side of Sykes is wide receiver Greg McDade. McDade had two touchdowns against the Big Reds and he has yet another weapon in tight end Karl Robertson, who had a 39 yard touchdown catch against Chippewa Valley. Also the Titans do have yet another wide receiver in the slot in Robert Thompson. Thompson has had some crucial third down plays to keep drives alive for Stevenson in that stretch.

The Titans have senior running back Trevon Bauch. Bauch has power and is quick and talented. He was huge last week in scoring a touchdown against Warren Mott in scoring a three yard touchdown with power and speed. Bauch also has had big games against Chippewa Valley and Romeo. He had 17 carries for 147 yards in their week seven win over the Big Reds and also ran the winning touchdown against the Bulldogs in a 22-18 win at Dan Barnabo Field. Stevenson also has John Griffin as well who gets his fair share of the carries.

The Titans like to run the ball and is a very good running team but they do have a very good passing game in that process. Stevenson this season averaged 28.7 points per game (259 points) while allowing 17.1 points per game (154 points.)

The Titans are also good on defense, allowing only 17 points per game, which is third in the MAC Red. They are a 3-4 defense. Stevenson is anchored by a big defensive lineman in 6.1, 290 pounds, Curtis Gee and also has a good line up front. Stevenson also has five very good linebackers and secondary players to help with it's 3-4 defense in Austin Kirk, Lance Gross, and Cody Ciaramitaro, Sultan Farobni, and John Carlin.

If you want to know anything in fashion about the Titans the jerseys and pants are the same as in 2008 but the helmets have changed though from the dark blue to the white with the S on them. They have player last names on the back of the jerseys.

Sterling Heights Stevenson reminds me a lot of the former formations that NFL teams use, in 2008 the Titans ran a spread offense but with Fracassa gone, Stevenson has gone to more of a traditional look and do run a package of power football not only under center but in the spread formation as well. The Titans will still use the spread look but run the same stuff under former coach Rick Bye. They can throw, run, and use the tight end a lot.

The Titans and Dragons are very similar teams when it comes to team speed (Lake Orion was the 2011-2012 State Champions in Track: Stevenson is a MAC power in Track.) Both teams uses their team speed to their strength, they both have good running backs, good lines, good defenses, and have good quarterbacks who just controls the game well.

But like I said we'll see what happens Friday night.

Division One Predictions (District Semifinals)

Written Sunday October 21st, at 10:25 PM

REGION 1: DISTRICT 1:

TRAVERSE CITY WEST AT ROCKFORD: The Rams have been a team, in search of an identity. They had two losses to Lowell and Muskegon earlier in the season but the Rams had a nice win over Holland West Ottawa. It should be an interesting match up for the Titans, especially with the younger Bullouch brother playing in this game. Got to go with Rockford, the travel down US-131 could be tough going for Traverse City West. PICK: ROCKFORD 38, TRAVERSE CITY WEST 17.

GRAND LEDGE AT HOLLAND WEST OTTAWA: The Panthers since losing to Rockford have been on a row since. The Comets eliminated Lansing Holt from the playoffs but going west to Holland will not be an easy one for Grand Ledge. PICK: HOLLAND WEST OTTAWA 24, GRAND LEGDE 14.

REGION 1, DISTRICT 2:

DAVISON AT CLARKSTON: This was probably the biggest shocker as Clarkston and Lake Orion were separated from each other and could meet in the state finals if both get there. The Wolves are rolling right now winning at Lake Orion and Oak Park. Clarkston probability got the best draw it could get with the Genesee County schools in this district. The Cardinals traveling to Clarkston means Davison is going home. PICK: CLARKSTON 49, DAVISON 7.

GRAND BLANC AT FLINT CARMAN AINSWORTH: This is a week one rematch where the Cavaliers went on the road and beat the Bobcats 27-12. Grand Blanc won at Plymouth 34-6 last week to get into the playoffs. Flint Carman Ainsworth features a good running back but I can see upset here and revenge for Grand Blanc in a shootout. PICK: GRAND BLANC 41, FLINT CARMAN AINSWORTH 28.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 1:

NOVI DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL AT HARTLAND: This is a horrible match up for the Eagles even though they have home field but this is the Shamrocks and they feature a power running game. This game is Novi Detroit Catholic Central’s game to lose against a good Hartland team. PICK: NOVI DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL 21, HARTLAND 17.

HOWELL AT WALLED LAKE NORTHERN: Congrats Knights on making the playoffs for the first time in school history. The Highlanders had to beat Jackson Lutheran Christian on a late field goal but there will be too much offense in favor of Walled Lake Northern. PICK: WALLED LAKE NORTHERN 49, HOWELL 35.

REGION 2, DISTRICT 2:

LIVONIA STEVENSON AT LIVONIA CHURCHILL: This is a rematch of last week's 49-10 blowout by the Chargers over the Spartans. This game is going to get ugly once again in a rout for Churchill. PICK: LIVONIA CHURCHILL 42, LIVONIA STEVENSON 7.

PLYMOUTH CANTON AT PLYMOUTH: The battle of Plymouth is interesting yet again. The last time these two met Plymouth beat Canton 28-21 two weeks ago. I can see the Chiefs moving on to the next round. I’m not sure where the mindset of the Wildcats is after getting destroyed last week at home by Grand Blanc. PICK: PLYMOUTH CANTON 31, PLYMOUTH 26.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 1:

TEMPERANCE BEDFORD AT SALINE: The Hornets are in the playoffs yet again under a first year coach. The Mules are also back in the postseason after a hiatus but the edge is with the folks from Washtenaw County. PICK: SALINE 34, TEMPERANCE BEDFORD 7.

ANN ARBOR PIONEER AT MONROE: The Pioneers got their head coach back for this game and it’s suspended player as well after the fight at Ann Arbor Huron two weeks ago. The Trojans won over Dearborn Fordson last week 8-6 . The edge goes with Monroe because of the home field advantage but it will be close. PICK: MONROE 24, ANN ARBOR PIONEER 21.

REGION 3, DISTRICT 2:

DEARBORN AT DEARBORN FORDSON: The battle of Dearborn resumes in this heated rivalry. The Tractors blew out the Pioneers earlier in the season in Dearborn and could do so again but this will be much closer but Fordson will pull this one out in the battle of Dearborn. PICK: DEARBORN FORDSON 35, DEARBORN 21.

DETROIT CASS TECH AT GROSSE POINTE SOUTH: The Technicians were blown out by Martin Luther King in the Detroit Public School League Semifinals two weeks ago. They did win last week but they get a trip to Grosse Pointe to meet the Blue Devils. Detroit Cass Tech will roll on to the district finals. PICK: DETROIT CASS TECH 34, GROSSE POINTE SOUTH 10.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 1:

STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON AT LAKE ORION: The Titans are 2-2 (Wins over Romeo, and Chippewa Valley. Losses to Eisenhower and Warren Mott) since beating Romeo to make the playoffs. The Dragons bounced back since losing to Clarkston with a win at Farmington. This is the second time these two teams have seen each other in the playoffs. The last time they met it was the 49 yard field goal by Jeff Heath in the regional final at Runkel Field. This will be a shootout in my opinion but the Dragons will pull through in a tight one over the Titans. PICK: LAKE ORION 34, STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 24.

WARREN MOTT AT UTICA EISENHOWER: This will be a battle of big lines and good running backs. The Marauders beat Sterling Heights Stevenson at Runkel Field in overtime last week. The Eagles are also battle tested and the game is at Sweinhart Field. The edge in this game goes to Eisenhower but it close with a late field goal. PICK: UTICA EISENHOWER 23, WARREN MOTT 21.

REGION 4, DISTRICT 2:

CHIPPEWA VALLEY AT MACOMB DAKOTA: Two weeks ago the Cougars and Big Reds met with Dakota winning 18-13 at Chippewa Valley. This will yet again be a low scoring game and the same result will occur in Macomb. PICK: MACOMB DAKOTA 21, CHIPPEWA VALLEY 16.

ROMEO AT MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH: The Bulldogs somehow got in at 5-4 with a win over New Baltimore Anchor Bay but one of those wins came against the Crusaders (28-21). For L'Anse Creuse North this is the first time in the playoffs. They guaranteed seven wins and a home game, they got it. Romeo has played a tougher schedule and will move on to the district finals and it will be by the same score. PICK: ROMEO 28, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 21.

Playoff Thoughts: Division 1-3

Written Sunday October 21st, at 10:21 PM

Division One: 

I was surprised that Clarkston and Lake Orion were split up into two different regions. Lake Orion going east while Clarkston going north and then west. Both teams should have three home games but I feel that both teams will have tough paths if they want to meet at Ford Field. The Dragons might have to deal with Sterling Heights Stevenson, Utica Eisenhower, Macomb Dakota, and Detroit Cass Tech as possible threats. The Wolves might have to deal with Grand Blanc, Novi Detroit Catholic Central, Rockford, and Livonia Churchill that threaten them.

The toughest district has to be Region 4, District 1. The Dragons meet the Titans in one semifinal while the Eagles and Marauders meet in the other semifinal. Sterling Heights Stevenson has lost two in a row to two good teams Utica Eisenhower and Warren Mott while Warren Mott beat Sterling Heights Stevenson at Runnel Field. This will be an interesting district to see.

Team's that could be upset alert: Clarkston and Lake Orion. The Wolves have a big offensive line and a good running back but they could see Grand Blanc and if they win that Rockford in the regional finals and then Novi Detroit Catholic Central. The other side the Dragons if they win over Sterling Heights Stevenson could see Utica Eisenhower, Macomb Dakota, and Detroit Cass Tech. Thankfully until the state semifinals, all of those teams go to both Lake Orion and Clarkston respectably.

This is a wide open division, I can see either Clarkston, Rockford, Novi Detroit Catholic Central, Livonia Churchill, Lake Orion, Utica Eisenhower, Macomb Dakota, Sterling Heights Stevenson, or Detroit Cass Tech winning this thing this season.

Division Two:

The toughest district here is Region 1, District 2. Muskegon plays a dangerous Grand Rapids Kenona Hills team and Lowell plays Grand Rapids Northview. Lowell and Muskegon could play each other in the district finals and the winner will play Midland on the road.

Team on upset alert: Detroit Martin Luther King: The Crusaders do play Southfield this week and could be in for a battle in the district finals if they win. They would likely play Greg Carter and Oak Park and if they win that then they will play either Taylor Truman, Brownstown Woodhaven, or Wyandotte Roosevelt in the regional and then Brother Rice but beware of the Blue Jays, they beat you at Wayne State and they very well could do it again.

This is an interesting division to say the least. Brother Rice and Muskegon appear to be the favorite in this division and could meet in the District Finals but don't count out Farmington Hills Harrison or Detroit Martin Luther King, they are dark-horses.

Division Three:

I was surprised on what the matchups were given out, some where not geographically located right especially with Sault Sainte Marie going to St. Johns and Owosso going to Cadillac  Also sending Lansing Waverly to Linden doesn't add up or Caledonia going east to Swartz Creek. It doesn't make sense.

I didn't think Hamilton deserved to get in at 5-4 and where was teams like Goodrich and Byron Center??? I thought they had better chances getting into the playoffs then Hamilton did. Edwardsburg doesn't deserve a home game in my opinion because their playoff points are so low that if you put them north to Zeeland then they would be in trouble.

Team on upset alert: Dewitt  Dewitt should be very careful of Lapeer West. The Panthers played in the Flint Metro League and could give Dewitt everything they can handle. If Dewitt looks ahead to Linden then they are an trouble. The danger is very real for them.

I think there are two matches to watch once regional play comes into effect. The first region is region two there is a possible match-up between Zeeland East and Battle Creek Lakeshore, both teams are undefeated and that could be a great match-up to see. Another match-up would be in the state semifinals could be Orchard Lake St. Marys and Milan, that is a dangerous match-up for Milan and they very well lose that game. I think Division Three is the Eaglets to lose.

Dragons Den Playoff Projections for OAA teams from Division's 1-3.

Written Saturday October 20th, at 11:50 PM

These are the Dragons Den Playoff Projections for Division One, Two and Three. Although these are not the official playoff projections these are the closest with the playoff points in hand. The official listings will be on Fox Sports Detroit, Sunday night at 6:00 PM. Anyway here they are.

Numbers are in the thousands.

DIVISION ONE:

Region 1, District 1:

Traverse City West 6-3 (67) at Rockford 7-2 (85)

Grand Ledge 7-2 (83) at Holland West Ottawa 8-1 (84)

Region 1, District 2:

Grand Blanc 5-4 (68) at Hartland 8-1 (99)

Howell 6-3 (77) at Flint Carman Ainsworth 7-2 (89)

Region 2, District 1:

Novi Detroit Catholic Central 5-4 (61) at Livonia Churchill 9-0 (116)

Plymouth Canton 6-3 (71) at Plymouth 7-2 (84)

Region 2, District 2:

Temperance Bedford 6-3 (66) at Saline 8-1 (93)

Ann Arbor Pioneer 6-3 (72) at Monroe 7-2 (82)

Region 3, District 1:

Davison 6-3 (63) at Clarkston 9-0 (114)

Walled Lake Northern 7-2 (91) at Lake Orion 8-1 (100)

Region 3, District 2:

Romeo 5-4 (65) at Macomb Dakota 8-1 (95)

Macomb L’Anse Creuse North 7-2 (81) at Utica Eisenhower 7-2 (89)

Region 4, District 1:

Clinton Township Chippewa Valley 5-4 (64) at Grosse Pointe South 8-1 (92)

Sterling Heights Stevenson 6-3 (76) at Warren Mott 8-1 (86)

Region 4, District 2:

Livonia Stevenson 6-3 (71) at Dearborn Fordson 7-2 (95)

Dearborn 6-3 (75) at Detroit Cass Tech 7-2 (84)

DIVISION TWO:

Region 1, District 1:

Marquette 5-3 (67) at Midland 9-0 (114)

Bay City Western 8-1 (85) at Traverse City Central 8-1 (92)

Region 1, District 2:

East Lansing 6-3 (65) at Lansing Everett 9-0 (112)

Battle Creek Lakeview 6-3 (67) at Swartz Creek 7-2 (80)

Region 2, District 1:

Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills 5-4 (63) at Muskegon 8-1 (106)

Grand Rapids Northview 7-2 (75) at Lowell 7-2 (86)

Region 2, District 2:

Caledonia 6-3 (67) at Mattawan 8-1 (95)

Portage Central 6-3 (69) at Portage Northern 7-2 (80)

Region 3, District 1:

Oxford 6-3 (78) at Fenton 8-1 (95)

Port Huron 7-2 (82) at Birmingham Seaholm 8-1 (94)

Region 3, District 2:

Farmington Hills Harrison 6-3 (72) at Walled Lake Western 7-2 (85)

Farmington 6-3 (75) at Birmingham Brother Rice 7-2 (83)

Region 4, District 1:

Detroit Cody 6-3 (66) at Oak Park 7-2 (93)

Detroit Martin Luther King 6-3 (78.3) at Southfield 6-3 (78.8)

Region 4, District 2:

Allen Park 6-3 (65) at Woodhaven 8-1 (94)

Taylor Truman 8-1 (94) at Wyandotte Roosevelt 8-1 (94)

DIVISON THREE:

Region 1 District 1:

Sault Sainte Marie 6-3 (59) at Grand Rapids Christian 8-1 (101)

Cadillac 6-3 (61) at Fruitport 8-1 (80)

Region 1, District 2:

Byron Center 5-4 (58) at Zeeland East 9-0 (111)

Hastings 6-3 (62) Zeeland West 6-3 (66)

Region 2, District 1:

Edwardsburg 6-3 (59) at Benton Harbor Lakeshore 9-0 (116)
Plainwell 6-3 (62.4) at Battle Creek Harper Creek 7-2 (81)

Region 2, District 2:

Charlotte 6-3 (61.6) at DeWitt 7-2 (88)
Lansing Waverly 6-3 (61.7) at St. Johns 6-3 (66)

Region 3, District 1:

Owosso 6-3 (60) at Linden 8-1 (96)

Goodrich 7-2 (66) at Lapeer West 6-3 (74)

Region 3, District 2:

Bloomfield Hills Lahser (65.4) at St. Clair 8-1 (90)

Marysville 6-3 (65) at Auburn Hills Avondale 8-1 (87)

Region 4, District 1:

South Lyon East 5-4 (58) at Orchard Lake St. Marys 7-2 (93)
Detroit Central 6-3 (64) at Detroit East English Village Prep 7-2 (85)

Region 4, District 2:

Carlton Airport 6-3 (65) at Milan 9-0 (101)

Chelsea 6-3 (68) at Tecumseh 7-2 (72)   

OAA Recap Week Nine

Written Saturday October 20th, at 2:20 AM

Dragons Den Top 10 Final Poll:

1. Clarkston (9-0, 7-0 Red)

2. Lake Orion (8-1, 6-1 Red)

3. Seaholm (8-1, 8-0 Blue)

4. Avondale (8-1, 7-1 Blue)

5. Oxford (6-3, 5-2 White)

6. Oak Park (7-2, 6-1 White)

7. Southfield (6-3, 4-3 White)

8. Harrison (6-3, 4-3 White)

9. Lahser (6-3, 6-2 Blue)

10. Farmington (6-3, 5-2 White)

BIGGEST WIN OF THE NIGHT: Oxford 34, Troy 20: The Wildcats and Colts both entered at 5-3. Oxford was healthy while Troy missed its two best running backs. The Wildcats won tonight and clinched a playoff spot in the process. The Colts will likely miss the playoffs for a third straight season.

TOUGHEST LOSS: Southfield 25, Stoney Creek 15: It’s rough that one of these two teams will make the playoffs and one will miss out. The Blue Jays are in the postseason yet again and could be dangerous in the postseason. For Stoney Creek, next season they are going to be very good and they will be motivated to get to the postseason.

MOST DISSAPOINTING TEAM: Rochester: The Falcons were 5-2 heading into its city rivals Stoney Creek and Adams. They lost to both of these teams with its playoff spot on the line. Rochester was outscored 66-21 in the final two games. The point total so low, it’s going to be very difficult for Rochester to make a case why they should be in the playoffs.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Oak Park: The Knights were unbeaten until Oxford beat them last week and then this week Clarkston destroyed Oak Park by three touchdowns. That’s not a good way to enter the playoffs like that especially in a district where you could see Brother Rice, Harrison, or Southfield in.

Red Standings:

1. Clarkston                 7-0       9-0

2. Lake Orion               6-1       8-1

Troy                             4-3       5-4

Stoney Creek               4-3       5-4

Rochester                     4-3       5-4

West Bloomfield           1-6       2-7

Troy Athens                 0-7       2-7

Pontiac                         1-6       1-8

White Standings:

6. Oak Park                 6-1       7-2

5. Oxford                     5-2       6-3

10. Farmington             5-2       6-3

7. Southfield                 4-3       6-3

8. Harrison                   4-3       6-3

Adams                         3-5       4-5

North Farmington         1-6       3-6

Lathrup                        0-7       1-8

Blue Standings:

3. Seaholm                   8-0       8-1

4. Avondale                  7-1       8-1

9. Lahser                      6-2       6-3

Berkley                        5-3       5-4

Hazel Park                   4-4       4-5

Ferndale                       2-6       3-6

Groves                         2-6       2-7

Royal Oak                    1-7       1-8

Andover                       0-9       0-9

White Lake Lakeland’s 35-32 loss to Milford opens the door for Walled Lake Western and Temperance Bedford to creep into Division One. The Running Mules will likely be with arch rival Monroe in the playoffs. The Warriors join fellow Walled Lake school Walled Lake Northern. The Warriors could meet Clarkston in the playoffs if they go into Division One. If Walled Lake Western stays in Division Two then they could meet either Harrison or Farmington in the playoffs.

The team I think is very dangerous if they get in is Grand Blanc. The Bobcats went into Plymouth and blew out the Wildcats 34-6. Grand Blanc is now 5-4 and has 68 points. Throughout the season, they have been a mystery team especially with the talent and expectations the Bobcats have had in recent seasons. They were blown out by both Livonia Churchill and lost week one to Flint Carman Ainsworth the first two weeks of the season. The win tonight over Plymouth is huge, especially with it on the road. Grand Blanc’s four losses were to playoff teams this season (Flint Carman Ainsworth, Livonia Churchill, Hartland, and Walled Lake Western.) The Bobcats will be the first 5-4 team in the playoffs and could rematch Flint Carman Ainsworth in Flint in the first round of the playoffs.

I can see four 5-4 teams getting into the playoffs for Division One, (Romeo (65), Grand Blanc (68), Chippewa Valley (64), and Novi Detroit Catholic Central if they lose.) Howell has to play Jackson Lutheran Christi, and that won’t be a pretty game for the Highlanders. If Howell wins then they are in the playoffs but the bad news is Jackson Lutheran Christi is 8-0. If Novi Detroit Catholic Central wins against Orchard Lake St. Mary’s in the Prep Bowl at Ford Field again (beat them last week at Orchard Lake) then they are in the playoffs.

Sleepless in Farmington. Dragons wake up with a second half vengeance on the Falcons

Written Saturday October 20th, at 2:00 AM

The Dragons came into Farmington on a rainy Friday night with a chip on its shoulder after the emotional loss to Clarkston but it was the aurora of Homecoming night in Farmington that gave nightmares from the start.

The Dragons missed tackles, missed assignments, gave up a fumble for a touchdown on the first snap of the game, a blocked punt, and let Jordan Degreffenreed and Connor Mohr run all over them, each got a touchdown.

And that was most of the first half.

The Falcons (6-3, 5-2 White) led 18-0. There were a lot of shocked faces on the Dragons sidelines and even in the media. However Farmington suffered a tough loss when Degreffenreed twisted his ankle a bit and sat out most of the second quarter. 

The Dragons then struck like vultures.

With a minute to go in the half, Dragons quarterback Derrick DeLaura found Chaz Miller on an 80 yard touchdown pass and a two point conversion later, Lake Orion trailed 18-8 at halftime.

After the 20 minute wait from the Farmington homecoming festivities. The Dragons realized they had a defense and the much needed spark from an unusual source. That was the beginning of a 35-0 second half beat down that was coming at hand.

Farmington had the first shot on offense but the Dragons stopped them. However a bigger concern came when Mohr was knocked out of the game with a knee injury. His status for the playoffs is uncertain at this time.

Jacob Miller and the offensive line took over.

Miller ran the ball 27 yards for a touchdown and the Dragons were right back in business down 18-15 to the Falcons.

Lake Orion then got another stop on defense and then Cory Ester ran one from 41 yards out, giving the Dragons their first lead of the game, 22-18 and that was the score after three quarters.

The Dragons then got another stop on defense and then Miller answered again from it’s own eight yard line, going 92 yards for a touchdown making the score 29-18 Lake Orion.

The defense was riding high, even if Degreffenreed returned back to the game from injury. Farmington did not have the weapons for an all out air attack and were forced to the run the ball all night. Jacob Miller then added his third touchdown of the night when he went 40 yards for a touchdown making the score 36-18 Lake Orion.

The defense and special teams then started to get turnovers and then afterwards newly called up sophomore Matt Krause found the end zone going 40 yards, making it 43-18 Lake Orion, in front of the cheerleaders, the Ladies LO student section, and Michael Loskenzy.

The Dragons are now 3-0 on Homecoming games (Own, Pontiac, and Farmington.) Lake Orion will go to the playoffs at 8-1 and currently have 100 points. The Dragons will get a home game in the playoffs. Farmington is now 6-3, and has injury concerns to Mohr and Degreffenreed heading into the playoffs.

We’ll see what happens on the High School Playoff selection show on Sunday night at 6 PM on Fox Sports Detroit.