Mistakes, Bad Officiating, and Penalties doom Dragons against Clinton Township Chippewa Valley.

Written Friday August 29th, at 12:30 PM.

The first game of the football season started on Thursday night. Things looked promising for the Dragons but the second half especially the third quarter hurt this team in Clinton Township.

Lake Orion fell 38-35 to the Big Reds in "The Valley" Thursday night.

The Dragons defense struggled all night and could not overcome wide receivers Stefan Claiborne and Sean Bunting. Bunting, a division one recruit scored two touchdowns and Claiborne also had two touchdowns as well.

Chippewa Valley scored first on a wildcat touchdown by running back Tony Taylor for a 7-0 Big Reds lead after a catch by Bunting who beat cornerback/running back Keith Fields on good coverage.

Chippewa Valley however could not stop Matt Krause. Krause was a monster, he had 410 yards and four touchdowns. He had runs of 94, 93, 77, and a one yard touchdown run as well.

Krause scored a 94 yard touchdown early tying the score 7-7. The Dragons defense would then get another stop and then Krause struck again from 93 yards out making the score 14-7. Lake Orion would then get another stop forcing a punt and then Krause ran one deep to the one yard line and cashed it in to make the score 21-7 Orion.

The Big Reds struck as Claiborne caught his first touchdown off good coverage from Fields making the score 21-14 Dragons.

Chippewa Valley would get a field goal with a minute left in the second quarter making the score 21-17 Dragons.

Lake Orion had a 28-17 lead at the half and their final touchdown of the half came when quarterback Cameron Kotsich found Jaylen Wiggins for a 28 yard touchdown to close the half.

The Dragons thought they had a 35-17 lead after Krause scored a touchdown of a kickoff return but a penalty from the Macomb Area Conference officiating crew called the penalty back and the Dragons were forced deep back into their own side of the field and were forced to punt.

Chippewa Valley would then strike again after an off sides penalty against defensive lineman Justin Cathers, Claiborne got his second touchdown of the night off a slant pass making the score 28-24 Lake Orion.

The play of the game was when the Dragons led 28-24, Krause could not get that push for a first down and Lake Orion turned the ball on downs and on the next play the Big Reds scored a touchdown on a reverse wide receiver pass to tight end Kyle Fuller for a wide open touchdown giving Chippewa Valley their first lead of the night at 31-28.

The Big Reds would score another touchdown late to Bunting in the fourth quarter on a fourth down play making the score 38-28 Chippewa Valley.

Krause would then strike again going 77 yards to pay dirt making the score 38-35 Chippewa Valley. The Dragons would get one more stop and one more shot with a minute left.

The final play of the game however resulted in Bunting picking off Kotisch closing the game out.

The officiating was questionable especially with the penalty calls against the Dragons, (Holding, Illegal block in the face, offsides etc.) Lake Orion had 18 penalties while Chippewa Valley only had two penalties.

These two teams will meet again next season in Lake Orion.

The Dragons fall to 0-1 on the season and will travel to Troy Athens (1-0) to take on the Red Hawks who beat Macomb L'Anse Creuse North 34-31 on Thursday night.

OAA Picks Week One

Written Thursday August 21st, at 9:00 PM

For picks this week, my Between Taorminas co host and History Now host Anthony Taormina will also be picking games this week for this first week of the football season. More on depth of these games tune in to my podcast OAA Now.

Pontiac vs. North Farmington: The Raiders under coach Kyle Schultz have experience returning and is led by a two year starting quarterback in Kyle Berry and have wide receiver Jerome Budda Rogers. The Phoenix under first year coach John Lloyd has some very good lineman and a strong corner in Henry Rowe. The key is skill positions and North Farmington has that. DD PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 42, PONTIAC 7. ANT PICK: NORTH FARMINGTON 49, PONTIAC 17.

Livonia Clarenceville vs. Ferndale: The Trojans were 11-1 and won the Wayne Western Red division last season. Ferndale fell 21-14 last season to Livonia Clarenceville. The Eagles have a new coach in Eric Royal who takes over for Ryan Dunlap. This will be a battle but the Trojans find a way and sneak one out. DD PICK: LIVONIA CLARENCEVILLE 28, FERNDALE 21. ANT PICK: LIVONIA CLARENCEVILLE 24, FERNDALE 21.

Warren Fitzgerald vs Hazel Park: The Spartans were 2-7 last season and they scored points in bunches. The defense was a disaster though for them in the MAC Silver. The Vikings have a new coach in Kyle Rowley and his pound the rock scheme but last season Hazel Park was 0-9 and has not won a game in 13 tries. The Vikings slow down offense should get them a win close for their first win since 2012.  DD PICK: HAZEL PARK 27, WARREN FITZGERALD 20. ANT PICK: HAZEL PARK 28, WARREN FITZGERALD 17.

Walled Lake Northern vs Bloomfield Hills: Defense will be optional in this game, expect both the Knights and Blackhawks to score a lot of points in this game. First one to 50 wins. For me it’s the team that plays in the OAA. Ant on the other hand doesn't think so. DD PICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 52, WALLED LAKE NORTHERN 45. ANT PICK: WALLED LAKE NORTHERN 30, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 20.

Detroit Southeastern vs Southfield Lathrup: This is a trap game for the Chargers, going up against a Jungaleers team that has won four straight games. Southfield Lathrup is 6-30 since 2009 and soon will be 6-31. DD PICK: DETROIT SOUTHEASTERN 30, SOUTHFIELD-LATHRUP 14. ANT PICK: SOUTHFIELD LATHRUP 21, DETROIT SOUTHEASTERN 10.

Holly vs Berkley: Bears coach Chris Sikroia should have an advantage up front, coaching, and on defense against a Bronchos team that is loaded with skill players and depth. Offense and depth will decide this game and that favors Holly: DD PICK: HOLLY 17, BERKLEY 7. ANT PICK: HOLLY 28, BERKLEY 7.

Lapeer vs Rochester: Falcons will be young and inexperienced. Going up against a team that just merged and is now a new school called the Lightning is not a good feeling. Add to mention traffic going up to Lapeer will be bad. The Lightning will strike on a good note. DD PICK: LAPEER 35, ROCHESTER 0. ANT PICK: LAPEER 24, ROCHESTER 21.

Utica Ford II vs Royal Oak: The Ravens have a new coach in Tim Chapman and an offense that will have huge numbers against the Falcons. Usually going up against a MAC White team is tough but Royal Oak is in a lot better position then Utica Ford right now. Ravens start the Chapman era strong. DD PICK: ROYAL OAK 35, UTICA FORD II 0. ANT PICK: ROYAL OAK 20, UTICA FORD II 17.

Sterling Heights Stevenson vs Troy:  New Titans coach Kevin Frederick comes to Macomb County and will have a good team this season to work with in the MAC Red. The Colts will have issues in this game and it could be tough for coach Gary Griffith and his crew to score points. DD PICK: STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 56, TROY 0. ANT PICK: STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 49, TROY 0.

Macomb L’Anse Creuse North vs Troy Athens: Red Hawks coach Josh Heppner says this is his biggest team he has had at Troy Athens but problem is the Crusaders were a playoff team a season ago and you have been 4-14 since 2011. The Red Hawks will struggle here especially defensibly. Quarterback Alex Muscat must play perfect if Troy Athens has any chance of an upset. DD PICK: MACOMB L’ANSE CRUSE NORTH 41, TROY ATHENS 20. ANT PICK: MACOMB L’ANSE CRUSE NORTH 42, TROY ATHENS 7.

Groves vs Seaholm: Must win game for the Maples here in the battle of Birmingham/Beverly Hills because they compete in a much tougher division than the Falcons. Quarterback Tommy Sheppard must prove it now since Seaholm lost nine starters on defense from a team that upset Southfield in the playoffs last season. Groves no longer has Ross Williams but they still have a good quarterback in Zach Van Fossen and wide receiver/ cornerback Daveon Curry.  Last season’s 28-22 loss at Seaholm will be on the minds of the Falcons. Groves wins this one close however Ant likes Seaholm. DD PICK: GROVES 28, SEAHOLM 24. ANT PICK: SEAHOLM 21, GROVES 20.

10. Stoney Creek vs 4. Adams: Last season was the best season the Cougars had since 2007 but the season ended with a 17-6 loss to the Highlanders. Adams returns most of their team back and Stoney Creek will convert people to different positions. The Cougars want this one bad but the Highlanders have too much depth for Stoney Creek to overcome. DD PICK: ADAMS 21, STONEY CREEK 14. ANT PICK: ADAMS 34, STONEY CREEK 18.

Orchard Lake St Marys vs. 9. Southfield (Wayne State): The Blue Jays 3-3-5 defense was one of the best last season and with three division one recruits to go along with an already stocked secondary Southfield looks poise to win this game. The Eaglets have something to prove as well since last season they did not make the playoffs. I like the Blue Jays close in this one. DD PICK: SOUTHFIELD 17, OLSM 14. ANT PICK: SOUTHFIELD 35, OLSM 14.

Redford Union vs 8. Avondale: Josh Holloman is back and last season was 42-0 in Auburn Hills, get ready for another rout yet again. DD PICK: AVONDALE 70, REDFORD UNION 0. ANT PICK: AVONDALE 48, REDFORD UNION 3.

Dearborn vs 7. West Bloomfield (Wayne State): The first game of the season in the MHSAA is an interesting one. The Pioneers will be a good test for the Lakers but West Bloomfield has athletes on the field as well. Expect a low scoring game here but got to go with the show time team. DD PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 17, DEARBORN 7. ANT PICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD 28, DEARBORN 7.

Romeo vs 6. Oxford: This game will be a battle of quarterbacks as Paul Hurley of the Bulldogs take on Glacier Wallington and the Wildcats. Key is line play and depth and that would favor Romeo. Oxford needs this game more than Romeo. It’s a close call here. DD PICK: ROMEO 27, OXFORD 24. ANT PICK: OXFORD 28, ROMEO 27.

Chippewa Valley vs 5. Orion: Both teams are evenly matched here both teams have good running backs and good corners. Orion has the edge up front while Chippewa Valley has the edge at receiver. Key is quarterback and whoever has it wins this game. Both teams need this game bad to kick off the season on a high note. DD PICK: ORION 28, CHIPPEWA VALLEY 21. ANT PICK: ORION 21, CHIPPEWA VALLEY 17.

Farmington vs 3. Harrison: The Hawks have owned the Falcons in this rivalry lately and it hasn't been close. I'm disappointed that this game wasn't a week eight game but glad they kept the rivalry. Both teams have athletes but the key is discipline and that favors Harrison despite the fact the game is at Farmington but it won'r matter. DD PICK: HARRISON 41, FARMINGTON 14. ANT PICK: HARRISON 49, FARMINGTON 7.

Detroit Cass Tech vs 2. Oak Park (Wayne State): The Knights are loaded this season and so are the Technicians. The key in this game is the quarterback battle between Oak Park’s Chauncey Lowman and Detroit Cass Tech’s Rodney Hall. Both teams have star athletes especially at running back with Mike Weber of Detroit Cass Tech and Oak Park's John Kelly but there is one team at full strength right now and that is the team from Knight Valley. DD PICK: OAK PARK 35, DETROIT CASS TECH 21. ANT PICK: DETROIT CASS TECH 28, OAK PARK 15.

Macomb Dakota vs 1. Clarkston: This a top notch game right here but there is key flaw in this game and that is the Wolves defense. I think missing  David Bettle and Caine Wattington will hurt Clarkston in this game against the Cougars. Macomb Dakota is 0-4 all time against OAA teams away from Macomb County and two of those losses was to Clarkston (2000, and 2009) (Lake Orion (2012, and Adams 2001 were the other two losses.) Expect a slugfest to the very end. DD PICK: MACOMB DAKOTA 31, CLARKSTON 28. ANT PICK: CLARKSTON 31, MACOMB DAKOTA 17.

Dragons and Dallas Stars of the past have something in common and it's jersey related.

Written Thursday August 21st, at 2:20 PM

This article will be about the differences between the Lake Orion 2012 and 2013-2014 road football jerseys and why I think the 2012 jerseys were better than the current road jerseys this season.

When I played football we had the Russell Athletic jerseys with the opposite V neck on each jersey (Green- we had a white V neck and White-green V neck) with a big font size. The green jersey said DRAGONS and the white jersey said LAKE ORION. We also had last names on the back that recognized the players and I was one of them who played. Yes in 2006 there were some minor tweaking to the jerseys with the lines on the V neck but it made the jerseys unique. We wore green for the two State Semifinal games in 2008 and 2010 and wore white in the State Finals in 2008 and 2010. The Russell Athletic jerseys had an identity on them, it had pride and passion to wear that Dragons green or white uniform on Friday, Thursday, or Saturday night.

In 2012, the Dragons changed the jersey and brands, switching from Russell Athletic to Nike. Nike gave Lake Orion a new design to the jersey. The new white jersey had green lettering and numbering but the sleeves were green with the players numbers in white.

The nameplates were smaller but they fit into the new jerseys and the wording said DRAGONS with the Nike swoosh. The LAKE ORION name was gone but this jersey had an identity.

What made this jersey have an identity is the green sleeves, it reminded me of the Michigan State uniforms from 2010-2013. I wished they had the green shoulder yoke but it's all right.

Lake Orion did have issues with the green jerseys in 2012. I thought the greens looked sharp like Ohio University and Syracuse. Sadly there were issues with them and the Dragons ended up using it's green alternate uniforms from 2006-2012 for the rest of the season, including the playoffs but they still had those sharp white jerseys.

They went to the State Semifinals in 2012 with them as well.

In 2013, things changed.

The Dragons got a new white jersey from Nike. It had all white with green lettering and numbering but the green sleeves were eliminated. It ended up becoming a plain jersey.

The all white look reminded me of the Dallas Stars dark days in 2007-2013 when the Stars had all plain jerseys. Reebok made the Stars change their look from their classic Star template while the Dragons staff say they were the wrong order from Nike. The black and white jerseys had the word Dallas arched in the front, eliminating it's identity from itself. It wasn't the same team, I didn't like it because the jerseys had no connection to the city and the fans. It reminded me of Tom Hicks when he took the team into bankruptcy and $45 million dollar payroll. It wasn't right to see a team lose it's identity because of that.

Though Lake Orion and Dallas have had differences. The Stars went through a bankruptcy in 2009 and a ownership change. The Stars made the playoffs for the first time in five seasons last year and have a stable new ownership under Tom Gaglardi. Dallas has made changed to it's identity, even going back to it's own when they were in Minnesota. They changed their jerseys, belief, attitude, and have a new identity in victory green, silver, white, and black and are on the way up.

Lake Orion has made the playoffs 13 consecutive seasons and always have been a consistent state power no matter what they are wearing.

I was disappointed that the Dragons went to the plain white jerseys. Dragons coach Chris Bell said to me that the new white jerseys look sharp, I didn't think so. The plain white jersey just does not look good on camera. I thought the white jerseys of 2012 made them unique. It gave them an identity and looked good on camera.

The current Dragons home jersey has the same design as the 2012 jerseys with white sleeves and green numbers and on the green part itself white lettering and numbering.

Now I know there will be people who will disagree with me but it would had been interesting if Lake Orion kept the 2012 white jerseys but in the end the plain look was the best way to go, just wished it was different.

Football Preview

Written Friday August 8th, at 9:10 PM

I went to Media Day and enjoyed myself. Anyway here are the football previews for the upcoming football season.

Dragons Den Top 10:

1. Clarkston Wolves

2. Oak Park Knights

3. Farmington Hills Harrison Hawks

4. Rochester Adams Highlanders

5. Lake Orion Dragons

6. Oxford Wildcats

7. West Bloomfield Lakers

8. Avondale Yellow Jackets

9. Southfield Blue Jays

10. Stoney Creek Cougars

Rest of the teams:

11. Seaholm Maples
12. Southfield Lathrup Chargers
13. Farmington Falcons
14. Hazel Park Vikings
15. Royal Oak Ravens
16. Troy Athens Red Hawks
17. Bloomfield Hills Blackhawks
18. Groves Falcons
19. Berkley Bears
20. Ferndale Eagles
21. Troy Colts
22. Rochester Falcons
23. North Farmington Raiders
24. Pontiac Phoenix

Blue Preview:

Avondale

Southfield Lathrup

Farmington

Hazel Park

Groves

Berkley

Pontiac

Ferndale

When looking at the Blue, you see that three new teams are in this division. Pontiac drops down from the Red to the Blue after a disastrous last season. Southfield Lathrup moves down to the White but made progress for second year coach Keith Stephens. Farmington out of the whole thing moved down admit controversy despite the fact in 2012 they made the playoffs. The Blue will be an interesting one to watch this season.

Avondale Yellow Jackets:

Last season 5-4, 3-4 Blue (Did not make postseason)

Game of Year: September 12^th at Farmington

The Yellow Jackets was a hit or miss team despite winning three in a row last season but it wasn’t enough to make the playoffs at 5-4. Avondale under coach Steve Deutch has done well in past seasons and look poise to make the playoffs this season. “We just have all our skill kids are back and hopefully we can get our line in play and we’ll see where we are at” said Deutch. The Yellow Jackets will rely on running back and Cincinnati recruit Joshua Holloman whom ran a 4.2 at Alabama’s team camp in the summer. “Looking forward to having a successful senior season with my football team” said Holloman. The Yellow Jackets will also have two year starter Travis Janes returning at quarterback as well as he looks to improve on a team that scored 297 points (33 ppg.) Avondale was not very good on defense last season, especially in losses to Berkley, Groves, and North Farmington. They allowed 223 points (24.7 ppg) last season but returns defensive end and offensive lineman Tricola Battle, lineman Chase Lalla, and safety James Prince. “Travis and Chase will carry the load” Deutch also added. If there was one game on the schedule that will motivate Avondale it was the loss in Beverly Hills to Groves 49-22 a season ago. “The Groves game will motivate us this year” said Janes. If the Yellow Jackets can lower the points allowed then they could return to the playoffs.

Southfield Lathrup Chargers:

Last Season: 1-8, 0-7 White (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: September 5^th at Farmington

The Chargers last season was tough for first year coach Keith Stephens but Southfield Lathrup will return quarterback Reggie Harris on a team that scored 88 points (9.7 ppg) but they did almost beat Farmington (6-25) and Bloomfield Hills (14-21) and beat Pontiac (25-23.) Lathrup must improve on it’s defense and what will help will be the competition, gone will be the likes of Oak Park, Adams, Harrison, and Southfield. The Chargers allowed 281 points (31.2 ppg) last season. This is a number that Lathrup must bring down if they have a chance to do well this season. The schedule is interesting with the Chargers kicking off the season against Detroit Southeastern and closing out the season with a tough match up against Westland John Glenn.

Farmington Falcons:

Last season 2-7, 1-6 White (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: August 29^th Harrison

The Falcons return seven starters on defense and nine on offense on a team that had chemistry issues and could very well have them again. Farmington wasn’t good last season, they were 2-7, 1-6 in the White. The Falcons scored 192 points (21.3 ppg) but does return quarterback Kyle Collins and wide receiver Desmond Kirkpatrick but will have questions at whom will run the ball this season. Farmington will also have a star studded defense led by lineman Justin Banks, linebacker David Reese, and cornerback Kyle Brunson whom will lead an experienced defense that allowed a shocking 284 points (31.5 ppg.) Farmington is in a lower division and if they can’t make the playoffs with this group then it could be a long winter yet again. “Our coaches worked hard, looking forward to the challenge, the future is bright” said coach John Bechtel.

Hazel Park Vikings:

Last Season 0-9, 0-7 Blue (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: September 5^th at Avondale

The Vikings were a disaster last season and in came a coaching change, out was Scott Gutherie and in is Kyle Rowley. Rowley was an assistant coach at Oxford and is ready to take the reigns at Hazel Park. Rowley will likely implement the same offense and theme that his dad currently runs at Oxford which is pound the rock. He takes over an offense that scored 134 points (14.9 ppg) but will have some talent and experience on the offensive side of the ball in Jalen Adams and Tyrone Ball, whom is expected to carry the load a lot and also have quarterback/safety Jared Schultz. Michael Booker and Marquise Hill return at wide receiver. Schultz besides quarterback will lead a defense that was not good last season allowing 410 points (45.5 ppg), which was the most in the Blue. Antonio Russi will anchor the defense as well for Hazel Park. If Rowley wants to take this team to the playoffs he must make sure to keep his defense off the field. “Goal is to rebuild” Rowley said of his Vikings this season.

Groves Falcons:

Last Season: 7-3, 6-1 Blue (lost to Birmingham Brother Rice 42-0, First Round)

Game of the Year: October 3^rd Avondale

The Falcons will miss Ross Williams and 26 other seniors a lot from a 7-3 team last season. Groves will have to rely a lot on quarterback Zach Van Fassen to carry the load for a team that scored 364 points (36.4 ppg) last season but all hope is not lost for the Falcons. “We have balance, we have good seniors, and young guys will step up for us” said coach Brandon Flaherty. Groves returns cornerback Devin Curry on a team that allowed 189 points (19 ppg,) which was the best defense in the Blue last season counting this season’s teams. The Falcons might not be in trouble yet but a playoff berth could be difficult to come by this season.

Berkley Bears:

Last Season: 3-6, 3-4 Blue (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: September 26^th at Avondale

The Bears in Chris Sikoria’s second season in Berkley and questions do remain. The Bears missed the playoffs last season and lost a lot of seniors. “We underperformed last year, depth was a problem” said Sikoria. The cupboard is not bare though for Berkley, a team that finished 3-6 last season and shocked Avondale 34-31 on their homecoming last season. Depth will still be a problem this season, Berkley returns eight defensive starters that struggled but was oddly second in the Blue last season (allowed 196 points (21.3 ppg.) The Bears will be led by Dakota Drabek who plays on both lines this season along with Jake Bills, Mike Budurowich who was a linebacker and fullback, and defensive end Austen Wood. “This is the strongest we have been as a program said Sikoria, referring to the commitment of the program. The Bears must replace some key players on offense who scored 191 points (21.2 ppg) last season. If Berkley can score enough points then this team could be a playoff team. The Bears however will have some inexperience to deal with especially with replacing a quarterback and running game as well.

Pontiac Phoenix:

Last Season: 0-9, 0-7 Red (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: August 29^th North Farmington

The Phoenix had a tough season in the Red and hope it could reclaim it’s glory from 2009 when they made the playoffs in the first season at Pontiac. With the financial issues surrounding the school and things out of their control, Pontiac could be in line for another tough season yet again. The Phoenix moved down from the Red to the Blue and it could be a good thing for them. Pontiac will have a new coach in first year coach John Lloyd who takes over for Damien Redmond. “We worked really hard in the off season” Lloyd said. Lloyd’s Phoenix will return four offensive linemen, which will be their strength. Pontiac must improve on it’s defense, they allowed 308 points last season (38.6 ppg) last season and only scored 108 points (12 ppg) and will relay heavily on wide receiver and cornerback Henry Rowe to carry them this season.

Ferndale Eagles:

Last Season: 2-7, 1-6 Blue (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: August 28^th Livonia Clarenceville

The Eagles had a tough season last season and have changed coaches and mentality at Ferndale, out is Ryan Dunlap and in is Eric Royal. Royal brings some much needed optimism to Ferndale after a tough start a season go. “We have tons of optimism returning, and the kids are buying into the system to earn a victory” said Royal. Ferndale has a tough week one match up with Livonia Clarenceville and knows what it will take for his Eagles to win not only that game but also the rest of the season “It’s about executing. If we can improve on our execution then we will go places” he added. Royal must address a defense that was terrible a season ago allowing 267 points (30 ppg) last season but will return quarterback/playmaker Darius Sinclair on a offense that scored 134 points (14.9 ppg) last season. Ferndale also returns lineman Javon Weiz and running back Ronald Goehagen for Royal’s new pro style offense. “I’m looking forward to competing for a league title.”

White Preview:

Oak Park

Adams

Harrison

Southfield

Seaholm

Rochester

Royal Oak

North Farmington

The White will once again be tough to see, and fun to watch. It looks like it will be a four team race between Harrison, Adams, and Oak Park, and Southfield. Seaholm is the dark horse. Rochester, Royal Oak, and North Farmington could have tough season’s ahead.

Oak Park Knights:

Last Season 6-5, 4-3 White (lost to U-D Jesuit 14-8 District Finals)

Game of the Year: September 12^th at Harrison

The Knights made the playoffs on a brutal schedule last season (5-4) and could very well return back to the playoffs for the third time in four seasons. Oak Park will return a very talented team for coach and athletic director Greg Carter. “Every game is a barn burner. You can’t be declining during the season. Playing in the OAA has prepared us” said Carter. Oak Park returns it’s star running back John Kelly, quarterback Chauncey Lowman, and wide receiver Juan Hernandez on a team that scored 304 points (27.6 ppg) last season. “I think our team is going to be amp up for the season” said Kelly. The Knights will have a tough week one match up with Detroit Cass Tech at Wayne State but is ready for the challenge “It’s just another game to us. We’ll go in as any team against them” said Hernandez. Oak Park has always enjoyed playing the role of the underdog as of late, especially in the last two week one games they were underdogs and won both those games. “We have something to prove, especially the first game” said wide receiver and defensive back Marvin White. “It’s going to be a great match up” said lineman Shahid Bellamy. Oak Park will have better home schedule despite having three home games last season. The Knights defense led by defensive end Richardo Smith and Bellamy on a team that only allowed 236 points (21.5 ppg.) “We talk with our pads” Bellamy added. Oak Park could have a special season yet again this season, “always attempt to win every game, we are not going to do anything special” said Carter on the game with Detroit Cass Tech and the rest of the season.

Adams Highlanders:

Last Season: 8-4, 4-3 White (lost to Clarkston 56-28 in Regional Final)

Game of the Year: September 5^th Southfield

The Highlanders will be talented again especially in running the veer option this season for coach Tony Patrino. Patrino has been in a lot of big games and is looking forward to the season “It comes down to how we execute the veer” he said. Adams offense scored 308 points (25.6 ppg) last season and is led by quarterback Kyle Wood who comes back for his sophomore season. “We hope he throws the ball well and we are excited for him” said Patrino. Wood will have some targets this season in Clarence Broadnax and Jacob McOarski. Adams also has a good sophomore class that went undefeated last season and will also have lineman Paul Morceli returning to fill the roll as top lineman this season and really didn’t notice a difference from former quarterback Matt Sokol, now at Michigan State and Wood “They were both good quarterbacks. They were both well rounded quarterbacks” Morceli said. The Highlanders defense wasn’t bad either in returning to the playoffs last season. The Highlanders allowed 255 points (21.5 ppg.) That was a huge reason why Adams did not make the playoffs in 2012, “Two years ago we were really bad” Patrino added. Adams plays a really good Stoney Creek team week one and isn’t taking the Cougars nor anyone in the league lightly “Biggest thing is we always work hard. The way you approach the game, it depends. Against Stoney Creek they will think they will think they will be the underdog and we can’t take them lightly” said McOarski. The Highlanders will be dangerous again this season, “We love the challenge, you can beat any team. Division One Scholarships don’t win you football games” Patrino concluded.

Harrison Hawks:

Last Season:  10-2, 6-1 White (lost to Portage Central 42-21 in Regional Final)

Game of the Year: September 12^th Oak Park

The Hawks return 10 starters from a team that lost to Portage Central in the Regional Finals last season will return a strong defense and also a star quarterback in Javon Shaw, who will lead a John Herrington offense that scored 439 points (36.5 ppg) last season and returns a defense that was just nasty in allowing 213 points (18 ppg.) Harrison will return cornerback Devon Cook, lineman Mike Ojemuda, linebacker Iwani Smith, and added West Bloomfield transfer Khalid Kareem to the fold. This Hawks team could have a strong say in the White this season and opens up with Farmington. “We have a lot of talent and a fast defense. Our weakness is running back but we have candidates who can fill that role” said Herrington.

Southfield Blue Jays:

Last Season 7-3, 7-0 White (lost to Seaholm 17-16 First Round)

Game of the Year: Setember 5^th at Adams

Coach Gary Teasley will have his hands full this season with the Blue Jays after a disapointing 7-3 last season and a 17-16 playoff loss to Seaholm should motivate them to well this season. Southfield will be talented again and its theme is “Unfinished Business.” The Blue Jays will have some offense this season with their traditional pistol offense that scored 218 points (22 ppg) a season ago and will be led by quarterback Kayne Harris and have running backs Matt Falcon and Adrian Carter. The Blue Jays will have a deep and talented secondary to rely on this season. Southfield will have three cornerbacks who will be going to Division One Schools and will be likely tough to throw on for a 3-3-5 defense. The top guy back is three year starter cornerback Ray Buford (going to Minnesota next season), along with Davonte Ginright, who will be going to Western Michigan next season, incoming Pontiac transfer and Central Michigan recruit Jamal Antione and upcoming cornerback Dior Johnson to go with linebacker Keith Dubur on a defense that allowed 106 points (10.6 ppg) last season. The Blue Jays will be very good as well and could get back to the playoffs yet again this season. The schedule is tricky with Orchard Lake St Mary’s at Wayne State and games against Harrison (Home), Oak Park (Home), Adams (Home.)

Seaholm Maples:

Last Season: 8-1, 7-0 Blue (lost to Birmingham Brother Rice 34-7 in District Finals)

Game of the Year: September 12^th at Adams

The Maples make the move up from the Blue to the White will feel right at home though. Seaholm returns quarterback Tommy Sheppard to a team that scored 342 points (31 ppg) last season but the Maples and it's beloved Maples Forest were mostly known for their defense. Seaholm did lose a lot of talent last season on defense but will have cornerback Austin Paritee and lineman Jack Payne back on a defense that allowed 170 points (15.5 ppg.) The Maples are a quiet giant nobody is talking about this season. Depth will be a big problem for coach Jim DeWald this season after losing nine starters on both sides of the football.

Rochester Falcons:

Last Season: 4-5, 3-4 Red (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: August 28^th at Lapeer

The Falcons lost a lot of talent from a season ago and could struggle this season moving down from the Red to the White. Rochester must replace quite a bit of starters and will be led by running back Chris Ross and wide receiver DeAnthony Skiola. The Falcons have three starters coming back and their strength will be up front and have depth and corners. Mentality is a huge concern this season. Rochester allowed 220 points (24.4 ppg) and scored 210 points (23.3 ppg.) Schedule is not friendly as well for Rochester as they travel to Lapeer to kick off the season and conclude with a game against Stoney Creek. The Falcons still have to play Oak Park, Harrison, Southfield, Seaholm, and a team that they have not beaten since 1996 in arch rival Adams. It could be a long season for coach Eric Vernon and Rochester.

Royal Oak Ravens:

Last Season: 4-5, 4-3 Blue (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: September 5^th at Oak Park

The Ravens finished 4-5 last season and changed coaches. Out is Ryan Irish and in is Tim Chapman who takes over the reigns in Royal Oak. “We want to rebuild the tradition and passion of Royal Oak football. You have to have confidence especially in life” said Chapman. The Ravens do return some talent especially on offense in which Royal Oak scored 193 points (21.4 ppg) in quarterback Brendan Beerer along with running back/cornerback Noah Kochanski. The Ravens defense was an issue that Chapman must address though this season, they allowed 252 points (28 ppg) last season and will relay on lineman Cullen Conway to anchor the Royal Oak defense. “We want to move forward, respect victory, it’s a mindset” Chapman concluded.

North Farmington Raiders:

Last Season: 5-4, 4-3 Blue (lost to Harrison 49-7 in First Round)

Game of the Year: September 5^th at Seaholm

The Raiders come back up to the White after a successful season last year in the Blue but lost Chauncey Bridges to graduation and that will hurt. North Farmington will return a good defense allowing 233 points (23.3 ppg) last season and have lineman Matt Blair, defensive end Marvin Yaldo, and cornerback John Smith to rely on this season. The Raiders must replace Bridges from an offense that scored 247 points (24.8 ppg) last season and must do so fast.

Red preview:

Clarkston

Orion

Oxford

West Bloomfield

Stoney Creek

Troy Athens

Bloomfield Hills

Troy

The Red is deep this season, Orion and Clarkston look to be in the race all season long and also include Oxford, West Bloomfield, and Stoney Creek. Troy Athens could surprise people along with Bloomfield Hills and Troy could have some trouble this season.

Clarkston Wolves:

Last Season 13-1, 7-0 Red (Division One State Champions)

Game of the Year: August 28^th Macomb Dakota

The Wolves won the Division One State Championship last season and is one of the favorites to repeat this season. Clarkston returns about 60 percent of it’s offense from last season that scored 548 points (39.1 ppg) and will be led by quarterback DJ Zezula and have running backs Nolan Ericksen and Centris Williams. The Wolves return tight end Cole Chewins and also have receivers Joe Popp and Austin Egler for Kurt Richardson’s offense. Clarkston will have some issues on defense this season but does return some talent on a team that allowed 207 points (14.8 ppg) and will be led by lineman Adam Matich, linebacker Christopher Millsop, and cornerback Merrick Canada. The Wolves will be very good again but the question will be is this team ready to be the hunted and not the hunters, we’ll find out.

Orion Dragons:

Last Season: 7-3, 5-2 Red (lost to Romeo 24-21 First Round)

Game of the Year: September 19^th at Oxford

The Dragons enter this season on a transition after a disappointing 7-3 year last season. The line will be bigger this season for coach Chris Bell for the first time in years. “We will be transitioning to a throwback Orion team” said Bell. There is a question, who will be quarterbacking the green and white? The Chris Bell led offense scored 354 points (35.4 ppg) and will be led by running backs Matt Krause and Keith Fields along with receiver Zach Serzo. “I’m looking forward to the year, having fun, and enjoying it with my team” said Krause. “We will watch film and work hard in the weight room” said Serzo. The problem was the defense, this team allowed 222 points (22.2 ppg) which was unusual for a Orion defense last season. The defense will be anchored by lineman Justin Cathers, defensive end Jack Luby, linebacker Logan Shadia, and have cornerback’s Jaylen Wiggins and Drew Casey to rely on this season. “Glad to work with a core group of guys” said Shadia. The schedule is brutal with only three home games this season (Troy, West Bloomfield, and Clarkston) and a week one trip to Clinton Township Chippewa Valley but if there is one team that can navigate it, it’s Orion. “I’m excited to play somewhere we have never been before” said Luby. The Dragons will be transiting this season and is looking forward to the season. “I love my team, they get better every single week” Bell concluded.

Oxford Wildcats:

Last Season 5-5, 4-3 White (lost to Clarkston 30-27 First Round)

Game of the Year: September 19^th Lake Orion

The Wildcats will rely a lot on quarterback Glacier Wallington for a team that scored 307 points (30.7 ppg) with its pound the rock scheme for coach Bud Rowley however the problem for Oxford will be is that Ben Line is gone and they rely on running the football. It wouldn’t surprise anyone if the Wildcats do go to the air a bit more because they do have a wide receiver threat in Dallas Truitt whom was a long jumper in Track and also will have Will Horne as well. Oxford has been able to rely on time possession football a lot, one reason why was because the Wildcats have had defensive issues, last season Oxford allowed 227 points (22.7 ppg.) It could be an interesting season, especially if Wallington gets hurt also he does play safety as well on defense. We’ll see what happens but expect Oxford to be a playoff team yet again this season.

West Bloomfield Lakers:

Last Season: 5-4, 4-3 Red (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: September 12^th at Clarkston

This could be the Lakers best team under coach Ronald Belmany. West Bloomfield won two huge games over Troy and Stoney Creek but lost to Oxford to finish 5-4 last season The Lakers will be motivated on improving a team that scored 254 points (28.2 ppg) last season and making the playoffs for the first time since 2008. “We were fortunate to have a dynamic offense” said West Bloomfield assistant and current Girls Basketball coach Matt Hilbers. The Lakers returns wide receiver/quarterback Tristian Jackson and quarterback Michael King. “Tristian is a good athlete, still a receiver, he has taken snaps at quarterback, he is a game changer”  Hilbers added. Jackson did not play the Lake Orion or Clarkston games last season which opened up the door for Michael King. “Michael is fun to watch, give him space and he’ll make anyone pay” Hilbers added. The Lakers will also have lineman Evan Boyer controlling the lines this season as well. The problem for West Bloomfield was it’s defense and they allowed a lot of points last season 248 points (27.5 ppg) but the Lakers will have transfer Justice Hollins who comes over from Birmingham Brother Rice, defensive end Eddy Wilson who is going to Bowling Green next season, and defensive back Obbie Jackson who likes to be around the ball. The schedule is a nightmare this season with trips to Clarkston, Orion, Oxford, and Stoney Creek and they will open up at Wayne State with Dearborn. “No matter how you shake it up, you’re playing great football teams, no matter what” Hilbers concluded. This season will be interesting for West Bloomfield hoping to end a six year playoff drought.

Stoney Creek Cougars:

Last Season 6-4, 5-2 Red (lost 17-6 to Adams First Round)

Game of the Year: September 5^th at Oxford

Last season may have been the best season for coach Brad Zube and his Cougars, you beat Lake Orion 36-7, make the playoffs for the first time since 2007 but now the tough part. Stoney Creek lost a lot from that team (15 starters) that may have been the best ever at Stoney Creek and could be rebuilding a little bit but don’t say that to Zube “I like them a lot, a lot of unanswered questions, still working on depth and we are looking forward to compete” Zune said. The Cougars recently changed coordinators on an offense that scored 301 points (30.1 ppg) off their triple option offense a season ago. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Zube added. Stoney Creek will have some players returning in linebackers Joe Platz, and Jack Price on a defense where they allowed 185 points (19 ppg), which was the least amount of points in the Red last season. “Senior year, just excited to play with brothers” said Price. The Cougars will move cornerback Jack Allen to quarterback and he is looking forward to the challenge of being the signal caller in Rochester “I played quarterback freshman and sophomore years. Jack Allor (last season’s quarterback) kind of taught me some things as well” Allen said. Running back Scott Reader also returns for the Cougars, both Allen and Reader are basketball players as well for coach Steve Norgrove “A lot more game planning for football. Making changes on the fly though in basketball” Reader said. Coach, Brad Zube has this program going up but it could be an interesting season in Rochester especially having to play Rochester Adams week one and Rochester week nine, “I thought all three Rochester schools would be in the same league. We got Adams week one and now we got Rochester week nine.” The Adams game has Platz motivated for that one since it was the Highlanders that eliminated the Cougars from the playoffs last year “Adams since the day we lost to them” said Platz. The schedule is interesting besides Adams and their recent rivalry with West Bloomfield is not what people think it is, considering that both teams got into a brawl in 2012. "Coach Bellamy and I are very good friends and the media took it another direction. I don’t predict any nastiness on the roster this year” Zube concluded. Stoney Creek plays Lake Orion and Clarkston at home but goes to Oxford this season. Things will be interesting in Rochester.

Troy Athens Red Hawks:

Last Season: 2-7, 2-5 Red (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: September 5^th Lake Orion

Three seasons ago the Red Hawks made the playoffs however things have changed since then. They are 4-14 since the Romeo playoff game in 2011. “We want to get back to the 7-3 season of 2011, we have size up front, speed, and a relentless defense” said coach Josh Heppner. One thing that has made Heppner lose sleep at night is his defense. The defense was a complete disaster in allowing 301 points (33.4 ppg) but Troy Athens will have an offense to rely upon and a good Junior Varsity team from last season as well. The Red Hawks offense scored 148 points (16.4 ppg) returns quarterback Alex Muscat, running back Devin Terry and wide receiver Brennan McHugh. It could be different in Troy this season but we will see what happens. “Win everything, everything matters” Heppner concluded.

Bloomfield Hills Blackhawks:

Last Season: 3-6, 2-5 White (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: September 12^th Stoney Creek

In its first season as a combined school the Blackhawks were a disaster going 3-6 last season and now with 12 starters gone, they find out moving up from the White to the Red. One big reason why it was bad for coach Jeff Loria was the defense, they allowed 308 points (34.2 ppg) and it looks not to get any better in year two but they have linebackers John Mitchem and Andrew Rabich and free safety Nate Emery returning as well. Emery transferred back to Bloomfield Hills after spending one season at Utica Eisenhower, he played two seasons at Bloomfield Hills Lahser before going to Utica Eisenhower. Loria has said that Emery will be his starting quarterback week one but he can also play running back as well despite the fact they have Cameron Dalton at quarterback on a offense that scored 170 points (18.8 ppg) last season. Bloomfield Hills returns four offensive lineman led by Jeff Ross, and Bryan Gutowski. “The leadership my seniors bring, it starts with them” said Loria.

Troy Colts:

Last Season: 3-6, 2-5 Red (Did not make postseason)

Game of the Year: August 28th at Sterling Heights Stevenson

The Colts are 1-4 since the fourth quarter of the Lake Orion game at Ford Field last season. Troy will be young and inexperienced this season for coach Gary Griffith for a team that finished 3-6 last season. The Colts will rely on lineman Chris Koumousopolus to carry both lines and running back Eric Papanderea to carry the spread offense the Colts will bring this season. Troy’s 52 defense was a disaster on defense allowing 251 points (27.8 ppg) and offensively the Colts struggled as well scoring 134 points (16.8 ppg.) “We won’t have a lot of size this season and we have a young skill set” said Griffith In terms of Troy Boys Basketball Coach Gary Fralick, this could be a long season in Troy.