Written Saturday October 29th at 9:27 PM
This whole entire season the Dragons could not get that one big stop and it was fatal Friday night.
Time possession and the fake punt, everyone in the stadium knew hurt and the Lake Orion Dragons were eliminated from the playoffs 20-17, on a field goal by Brian Maxwell with three tenth's of a second left in the game at a stunned Dragon Stadium.
Lake Orion lost a rare three straight games to close the season at 6-4 overall and shared the OAA Red Championship with Clarkston.
The Dragons could not stop the veer option offense that the Walled Lake Central Vikings provided and let Walled Lake Central senior quarterback Matt Liembach control tempo the whole game.
The Vikings got a field goal early from Maxwell that gave them a 3-0 lead then got a pick on Dragons quarterback Sean Charette extended the lead to 10-0 after a three yard touchdown from running back K.J. Schultz early in the second quarter.
The Dragons then started to rally behind Charette took the ball down the field and running back Jacob Miller scored from one yard out to get the Dragons on the scoreboard at 10-7. Orion then added a 25 yard field goal by Jeremy King to close out the half 10-10.
In the second half the Vikings got the ball and drove down the field using their veer option attack, leading to a 26 yard touchdown run by Leimbach giving the Vikings a 17-10 lead.
The Dragons answered the Vikings touchdown by going down the field, leading to a nine yard touchdown by Charette tying the game back up 17-17 in the third quarter.
Orion did have a chance, they recovered a fumble but did not convert thanks to two big penalties, forcing them back to midfield. They tried a fake punt by Zach Arnold on a fourth down and 30 but was tackled by Leimbach that cost them to turn the ball over on downs. That mistake led to Walled Lake Central's final drive.
The Vikings went down the field and on a fourth and seven the Vikings connected on a fake punt, taking it to the Dragons 29 yard line. The Vikings led by Leimbach and Schultz took the ball to the Dragons red zone. Orion tried icing Maxwell twice but got stronger every-time a timeout was called. Maxwell then hit a 20 yard field goal for a 20-17 lead.
The Dragons did have one last chance on a kickoff return but it wasn't meant to be. The Vikings celebrated their victory over the Dragons by singing their fight song while the Dragons looked on in sadness and tears. For Walled Lake Central it was a bit of revenge after the Vikings fell to the Dragons 35-28 in double overtime on a Roger Allison interception in 2002 at Dragon Stadium.
The Vikings (7-3: 4-1 KLAA North) will advance to the district finals in Clarkston, against the Wolves (7-3: 6-1 OAA Red) on Friday night.
This season was a very tough season for them, after coming off the State Championship season, the team was young with only four returning starters but that's no excuse. The Dragons fate was determined on stopping the big play that they failed to do on so many of their losses. In two of those losses, (Clarkston and Walled Lake Central) the Dragons allowed points on each of the final drives of the game. Orion has had chances but could not close the deal down.
Lets not forget that the Dragons have not seen a veer option attack like they saw in the Walled Lake Central game in the regular season. Lake Orion did not play Rochester Adams, a team that would have given the Dragons a strong look at what they were going to see. Adams runs the veer option offense very similar to Walled Lake Central and maybe it would have helped them prepare for Walled Lake Central's version of the veer but you couldn't control who you played but playing Adams probably would had helped a lot for this team.
The Dragons lose a lot of seniors, including quarterback Sean Charette, whom was the Dragons all time passing touchdowns leader. Charette's record playing in games was 35-11 when he started games and 37-11 in his career, if you count the two games he was out last season with the broken foot. This class has been through a lot, including the state championship crown that no one would forget.
Charette has won Orion some big games in his career. His first game against Rockford at Eastern Michigan and ever since he started almost every one of them. Charette lead the team to a 6-1 start then there was the five weeks of hell when the Dragons had to face and beat Rochester Adams, Clarkston, Utica Eisenhower, Romeo, and Stevenson. He became the first freshman to start at quarterback in a State Championship game when the Dragons faced the Rams yet again at Ford Field in the State Finals, sadly losing 26-14. Against the Titans, Charette led the drive when he threw a pass play to Charles Fleck, which set up the winning field goal from Jeff Heath, 38-36.
Charette in his junior season was lost to a leg injury in the Utica Eisenhower game but led the Dragons to a 8-1 record, only loss was to Farmington Hills Harrison and a 3-0 record in the postseason. Backup quarterback and wide receiver Cole Schaenzer along with Marques Stevenson, Dan Ney, and company led the Dragons to the 2010 State Championship while Charette cheered his team on, even though was in pain of not being in there for his team.
Next season the Dragons will have questions on offensive line and quarterback. The team has Jacob Miller, Jeremy King, and Chaz Miller and half of the secondary coming back along with a strong JV class who went 7-2 this season. The defense will still be a question mark heading into 2012 but this team is expected to be one of the state's top teams yet again. The Red next year will be tough with Troy Athens and Clarkston will also be very good.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Division 1-3 Preview/Projections
Written Monday October 24th, at 12:35 AM
Division 3:
Region 1 District 1
Cadillac (5-3) at Mount Pleseant (9-0): Mt Pleasent should be in good shape in this game, better not look ahead toward Petoskey. Pick: Mt Pleasent 35, Cadillac 14.
Bay City John Glenn (6-3) at Petoskey (8-1): Poor Bay City John Glenn having to travel north, could be a long ride home after this one. Pick: Petoskey 28, John Glenn 14.
Region 1 District 2
Haslett (5-4) at Dewitt (8-1): Haslett, it's been a good run but got to go with a hot Dewitt team. Pick: Dewitt 45, Haslett 7.
St. Johns (7-2) at East Lansing (7-2): Good matchup, East Lansing won the regular season game, this could be one of the best games in Ingham County. Pick: East Lansing 24, St. Johns 14.
Region 2 District 1
Kenowa Hills (6-3) at Christian (9-0): The Eagles should have no problem against the Knight, they should be looking forward to a possible matchup with the Pioneers next week. Pick: Christian 45, Kenowa Hills 0.
Fruitport (7-2) at East Grand Rapids (6-3): The Pioneers are down but don't count them out of anything. Pick: East Grand Rapids 27, Fruitport 14.
Region 2 District 2
Holland (7-2) at Lakeshore (7-2): Good match-up but edge goes to the home team. Pick: Lakeshore 28, Holland 24.
St. Joseph (7-2) at Zeeland East (8-1): The Chix has played a tough schedule but edge once again goes to the home team. Pick: Zeeland East 28, St. Joseph 14.
Region 3 District 1
Hastings (7-2) at Battle Creek Harbor Creek (9-0): Hastings is good but Harbor Creek is a dangerous ball club. Pick: Harbor Creek 35, Hastings 14.
Strugis (7-2) at Mason (8-1): Mason is a good team, and should be a force after knocking off Crosswell-Lexington last week. Pick: Mason 31, Strugis 21.
Region 3 District 2
Adrian (5-4) at Carleton Airport (8-1): Airport is a good team, will give Adrian problems. Pick: Airport 24, Adrian 7.
Chelsea (7-2) at Riverview (8-1): Another good match-up but edge still to the home team. Pick: Riverview 24, Chelsea 21.
Region 4 District 1
Avondale (5-4) at Lapeer East (7-2): Dangerous match-up for the Eagles but which Yellow Jackets team will show up. Pick: Avondale 28, Lapeer East 21.
Linden (5-4) at Lapeer West (6-3): Rematch of two Metro teams but West is at home and the edge should go with the Panthers over the Eagles. Pick: Lapeer West 24, Linden 21.
Region 4 District 2
Lahser (6-3) at Thurston (8-1): Thurston should get ready for the Eaglets, the Knights are in trouble. Pick: Thurston 45, Lahser 7.
Pershing (7-2) at St. Marys (7-2): The Eaglets are mad, and should not have a problem with the Doughboys and the rest of the field. Pick: OLSM 49, Pershing 6.
Division 2:
Region 1 District 1
Marquette (7-2)at Fenton (7-2): The Redmen had a tough loss last week to Camulet but their reward for losing was going to be traveling all the way south into Genesee County and deal with the Tigers for the first round of the playoffs. It's going to be a long bus ride home for Marquette. Pick: Fenton 24, Marquette 7.
Okemos (6-3) at Bay City Western (7-2): The Chiefs had a great year and is rising but the Warriors are at home in this one. Pick: Bay City Western 31, Okemos 14.
Region 1 District 2
Forest Hills Central (6-3) at Lowell (8-1): The Red Arrows will advance in this one handily over the Rangers. Pick Lowell 49, Forest Hills Central 0.
Muskegon (7-2) vs Mattawan (8-1): The Big Reds play in a brutal division and should prepare for the Red Arrows next week. Pick: Muskegon 42, Mattawan 30.
Region 2 District 1
Milford (6-3) at Walled Lake Western (8-1): The suspensions and distractions from an alleged hazing incident could affect the Warriors playoff chances, this is a perfect opportunity for the Mavericks to get the upset. Pick: Milford 21, Western 14.
South Lyon (7-2) at Holly (7-2): Welcome to the playoffs Lions, too bad the run will end against a very good Bronchos team in a great game. Pick: Holly 24, South Lyon 20.
Region 2 District 2
Brandon (5-4) at Port Huron (8-1): The Big Reds are on a run since knocking off Eisenhower but they should not overlook a good Blackhawks squad. Pick: Port Huron 27, Brandon 14.
Adams (6-3) at Oxford (7-2): The Highlanders lost 22-16 in overtime on homecoming to the Wildcats but can the Highlanders stop Prescott Line on the blue turf???, nope. Pick: Oxford 35, Adams 14.
Region 3 District 1
Seaholm (6-3) at Harrison (9-0): The Maples are good but the Hawks are in another world right now to face the Warriors. Pick: Harrison 56, Seaholm 0.
Brother Rice (5-4) at North Farmington (7-2): The Raiders got a home game but they got to play a Catholic League power in the Warriors, ouch. Pick: Rice 31, North Farmington 7.
Region 3 District 2
Farmington (5-4) at Detroit Henry Ford (7-2): Don't put your pads away yet Falcons you earned another week and maybe another one. Pick: Farmington 35, Detroit Henry Ford 18.
Southfield (6-3) at Groves (6-3): Congrats Falcons for making the playoffs, too bad the Jays will cut it short. Pick: Southfield 42, Groves 12.
Region 4 District 1
Lincoln (6-3) at Roosevelt (8-1): Roosevelt should be fine in this one against a team that made it for the first time. Pick: Roosevelt 42, Lincoln 14.
Woodhaven (6-3) at Anderson (7-2): Anderson is at home for this one, should be a good one. Pick: Anderson 35, Woodhaven 28.
Region 4 District 2
Garden City (6-3) at Allen Park (7-2): Welcome back to the playoffs Jaguars. Pick: Allen Park 40, Garden City 24.
King (6-3) at Grosse Pointe South (6-3): King wants to take it's frustrations out on someone, that someone will be the Blue Devils. Pick: King 25, South 19.
Division 1:
Region 1 District 1
West Ottawa (6-3) at Rockford (8-1): The Rams are built Dodge tough, should handle the Panthers. Pick: Rockford 42, West Ottawa 21.
Grand Ledge (7-2) at Grand Haven (8-1): The Buccaneers will get their rematch with Rockford next week but this game with the Comets will be a battle of the Grand's. Pick: Grand Haven 35, Grand Ledge 28.
Region 1 District 2
Holt (5-4) at Grand Blanc (7-2): The Rams lost a good one last week to Grand Ledge but with the Bobcats anything can happen. Pick: Holt 27, Grand Blanc 24.
Carman Ainsworth (6-3) at Midland (8-1): The Chemics have a big offensive line and depth should give big problems for the Cavaliers. Pick: Midland 34, Carman Ainsworth 14.
Region 2 District 1
Bedford (6-3) at Brighton (8-1): The Bulldogs got the best part of the draw and Bedford has to pay the price. Pick: Brighton 28, Bedford 14.
Monroe (7-2) at Pioneer (7-2): The Pioneers beat the Trojans in the regular season, maybe not this time around. Pick: Monroe 27, Pioneer 20.
Region 2 District 2
Canton (7-2) at Plymouth (8-1): No home field advantage here but the Chiefs have something to prove and a win will do it over their rival Wildcats. Pick: Canton 28, Plymouth 27.
Northville (8-1) at Detroit Catholic Central (8-1): This has street fight written all over it and wild shootout is near with the Mustangs winning in double overtime over the Shamrocks. Pick: Northville 35, Catholic Central 28, two overtimes.
Region 3 District 1
Pontiac (6-3) at Clarkston (6-3): The Phoenix are back in the playoffs, too bad it will be an early exit by the Wolves but it will be a wild one. Pick: Clarkston 42, Pontiac 35.
Walled Lake Central (6-3)at Lake Orion (6-3): Even new Walled Lake superintendent Ken Gutman, who came over from Lake Orion can't save the Vikings this week. Also add to the fact that the Dragons want the Wolves in the worst way in a district final. Pick: Lake Orion 35, Central 14.
Region 3 District 2
Macomb Dakota (6-3) at Utica Eisenhower (8-1): Best match-up of the weekend but Storm Hudson will play a huge roll on the sidelines for the Eagles in a wild one with the Cougars. Pick: Eisenhower 21, Dakota 14.
Romeo (7-2) at Troy Athens (7-2): The Bulldogs and Red Hawks have a defense but the Red Hawks have an offense are at home, despite the fact the Bulldogs have been improving lately on offense. Pick: Troy Athens 27, Romeo 13.
Region 4 District 1
Fordson (5-4) at Dearborn (7-2): The Tractors upset the Pioneers in Dearborn but this time the tide will switch. Pick: Dearborn 27, Fordson 20.
Detroit Cass Tech (6-3) at Livonia Churchill (6-3): The Techinians have had a dissapointing season but the postseason is always a new season. Pick: Detroit Cass Tech 24, Churchill 14
Region 4 District 2
Roseville (6-3) at Warren De La Salle (7-2): Welcome to D1, Pilots. Warren De La Salle should win handily over Roseville. Pick: De La Salle 35, Roseville 14.
Warren Cousino (6-3) at Warren Mott (6-3): The Marauders has played in a tougher division in the MAC Red and that experence should get them into round two over the Patriots. Pick: Mott 28, Cousino 20.
Division 3:
Region 1 District 1
Cadillac (5-3) at Mount Pleseant (9-0): Mt Pleasent should be in good shape in this game, better not look ahead toward Petoskey. Pick: Mt Pleasent 35, Cadillac 14.
Bay City John Glenn (6-3) at Petoskey (8-1): Poor Bay City John Glenn having to travel north, could be a long ride home after this one. Pick: Petoskey 28, John Glenn 14.
Region 1 District 2
Haslett (5-4) at Dewitt (8-1): Haslett, it's been a good run but got to go with a hot Dewitt team. Pick: Dewitt 45, Haslett 7.
St. Johns (7-2) at East Lansing (7-2): Good matchup, East Lansing won the regular season game, this could be one of the best games in Ingham County. Pick: East Lansing 24, St. Johns 14.
Region 2 District 1
Kenowa Hills (6-3) at Christian (9-0): The Eagles should have no problem against the Knight, they should be looking forward to a possible matchup with the Pioneers next week. Pick: Christian 45, Kenowa Hills 0.
Fruitport (7-2) at East Grand Rapids (6-3): The Pioneers are down but don't count them out of anything. Pick: East Grand Rapids 27, Fruitport 14.
Region 2 District 2
Holland (7-2) at Lakeshore (7-2): Good match-up but edge goes to the home team. Pick: Lakeshore 28, Holland 24.
St. Joseph (7-2) at Zeeland East (8-1): The Chix has played a tough schedule but edge once again goes to the home team. Pick: Zeeland East 28, St. Joseph 14.
Region 3 District 1
Hastings (7-2) at Battle Creek Harbor Creek (9-0): Hastings is good but Harbor Creek is a dangerous ball club. Pick: Harbor Creek 35, Hastings 14.
Strugis (7-2) at Mason (8-1): Mason is a good team, and should be a force after knocking off Crosswell-Lexington last week. Pick: Mason 31, Strugis 21.
Region 3 District 2
Adrian (5-4) at Carleton Airport (8-1): Airport is a good team, will give Adrian problems. Pick: Airport 24, Adrian 7.
Chelsea (7-2) at Riverview (8-1): Another good match-up but edge still to the home team. Pick: Riverview 24, Chelsea 21.
Region 4 District 1
Avondale (5-4) at Lapeer East (7-2): Dangerous match-up for the Eagles but which Yellow Jackets team will show up. Pick: Avondale 28, Lapeer East 21.
Linden (5-4) at Lapeer West (6-3): Rematch of two Metro teams but West is at home and the edge should go with the Panthers over the Eagles. Pick: Lapeer West 24, Linden 21.
Region 4 District 2
Lahser (6-3) at Thurston (8-1): Thurston should get ready for the Eaglets, the Knights are in trouble. Pick: Thurston 45, Lahser 7.
Pershing (7-2) at St. Marys (7-2): The Eaglets are mad, and should not have a problem with the Doughboys and the rest of the field. Pick: OLSM 49, Pershing 6.
Division 2:
Region 1 District 1
Marquette (7-2)at Fenton (7-2): The Redmen had a tough loss last week to Camulet but their reward for losing was going to be traveling all the way south into Genesee County and deal with the Tigers for the first round of the playoffs. It's going to be a long bus ride home for Marquette. Pick: Fenton 24, Marquette 7.
Okemos (6-3) at Bay City Western (7-2): The Chiefs had a great year and is rising but the Warriors are at home in this one. Pick: Bay City Western 31, Okemos 14.
Region 1 District 2
Forest Hills Central (6-3) at Lowell (8-1): The Red Arrows will advance in this one handily over the Rangers. Pick Lowell 49, Forest Hills Central 0.
Muskegon (7-2) vs Mattawan (8-1): The Big Reds play in a brutal division and should prepare for the Red Arrows next week. Pick: Muskegon 42, Mattawan 30.
Region 2 District 1
Milford (6-3) at Walled Lake Western (8-1): The suspensions and distractions from an alleged hazing incident could affect the Warriors playoff chances, this is a perfect opportunity for the Mavericks to get the upset. Pick: Milford 21, Western 14.
South Lyon (7-2) at Holly (7-2): Welcome to the playoffs Lions, too bad the run will end against a very good Bronchos team in a great game. Pick: Holly 24, South Lyon 20.
Region 2 District 2
Brandon (5-4) at Port Huron (8-1): The Big Reds are on a run since knocking off Eisenhower but they should not overlook a good Blackhawks squad. Pick: Port Huron 27, Brandon 14.
Adams (6-3) at Oxford (7-2): The Highlanders lost 22-16 in overtime on homecoming to the Wildcats but can the Highlanders stop Prescott Line on the blue turf???, nope. Pick: Oxford 35, Adams 14.
Region 3 District 1
Seaholm (6-3) at Harrison (9-0): The Maples are good but the Hawks are in another world right now to face the Warriors. Pick: Harrison 56, Seaholm 0.
Brother Rice (5-4) at North Farmington (7-2): The Raiders got a home game but they got to play a Catholic League power in the Warriors, ouch. Pick: Rice 31, North Farmington 7.
Region 3 District 2
Farmington (5-4) at Detroit Henry Ford (7-2): Don't put your pads away yet Falcons you earned another week and maybe another one. Pick: Farmington 35, Detroit Henry Ford 18.
Southfield (6-3) at Groves (6-3): Congrats Falcons for making the playoffs, too bad the Jays will cut it short. Pick: Southfield 42, Groves 12.
Region 4 District 1
Lincoln (6-3) at Roosevelt (8-1): Roosevelt should be fine in this one against a team that made it for the first time. Pick: Roosevelt 42, Lincoln 14.
Woodhaven (6-3) at Anderson (7-2): Anderson is at home for this one, should be a good one. Pick: Anderson 35, Woodhaven 28.
Region 4 District 2
Garden City (6-3) at Allen Park (7-2): Welcome back to the playoffs Jaguars. Pick: Allen Park 40, Garden City 24.
King (6-3) at Grosse Pointe South (6-3): King wants to take it's frustrations out on someone, that someone will be the Blue Devils. Pick: King 25, South 19.
Division 1:
Region 1 District 1
West Ottawa (6-3) at Rockford (8-1): The Rams are built Dodge tough, should handle the Panthers. Pick: Rockford 42, West Ottawa 21.
Grand Ledge (7-2) at Grand Haven (8-1): The Buccaneers will get their rematch with Rockford next week but this game with the Comets will be a battle of the Grand's. Pick: Grand Haven 35, Grand Ledge 28.
Region 1 District 2
Holt (5-4) at Grand Blanc (7-2): The Rams lost a good one last week to Grand Ledge but with the Bobcats anything can happen. Pick: Holt 27, Grand Blanc 24.
Carman Ainsworth (6-3) at Midland (8-1): The Chemics have a big offensive line and depth should give big problems for the Cavaliers. Pick: Midland 34, Carman Ainsworth 14.
Region 2 District 1
Bedford (6-3) at Brighton (8-1): The Bulldogs got the best part of the draw and Bedford has to pay the price. Pick: Brighton 28, Bedford 14.
Monroe (7-2) at Pioneer (7-2): The Pioneers beat the Trojans in the regular season, maybe not this time around. Pick: Monroe 27, Pioneer 20.
Region 2 District 2
Canton (7-2) at Plymouth (8-1): No home field advantage here but the Chiefs have something to prove and a win will do it over their rival Wildcats. Pick: Canton 28, Plymouth 27.
Northville (8-1) at Detroit Catholic Central (8-1): This has street fight written all over it and wild shootout is near with the Mustangs winning in double overtime over the Shamrocks. Pick: Northville 35, Catholic Central 28, two overtimes.
Region 3 District 1
Pontiac (6-3) at Clarkston (6-3): The Phoenix are back in the playoffs, too bad it will be an early exit by the Wolves but it will be a wild one. Pick: Clarkston 42, Pontiac 35.
Walled Lake Central (6-3)at Lake Orion (6-3): Even new Walled Lake superintendent Ken Gutman, who came over from Lake Orion can't save the Vikings this week. Also add to the fact that the Dragons want the Wolves in the worst way in a district final. Pick: Lake Orion 35, Central 14.
Region 3 District 2
Macomb Dakota (6-3) at Utica Eisenhower (8-1): Best match-up of the weekend but Storm Hudson will play a huge roll on the sidelines for the Eagles in a wild one with the Cougars. Pick: Eisenhower 21, Dakota 14.
Romeo (7-2) at Troy Athens (7-2): The Bulldogs and Red Hawks have a defense but the Red Hawks have an offense are at home, despite the fact the Bulldogs have been improving lately on offense. Pick: Troy Athens 27, Romeo 13.
Region 4 District 1
Fordson (5-4) at Dearborn (7-2): The Tractors upset the Pioneers in Dearborn but this time the tide will switch. Pick: Dearborn 27, Fordson 20.
Detroit Cass Tech (6-3) at Livonia Churchill (6-3): The Techinians have had a dissapointing season but the postseason is always a new season. Pick: Detroit Cass Tech 24, Churchill 14
Region 4 District 2
Roseville (6-3) at Warren De La Salle (7-2): Welcome to D1, Pilots. Warren De La Salle should win handily over Roseville. Pick: De La Salle 35, Roseville 14.
Warren Cousino (6-3) at Warren Mott (6-3): The Marauders has played in a tougher division in the MAC Red and that experence should get them into round two over the Patriots. Pick: Mott 28, Cousino 20.
Dragons fall to Wolves in a thriller, draw Walled Lake Central in the playoffs
Written Sunday October 23rd, at 10:28 PM
What a wild one that took place on Friday night in Clarkston, however for the Dragons it was a sad one.
Already up 31-21 with 11 minutes left in the fourth quarter, the Dragons saw their lead blow away as the Wolves came back with a late touchdown by quarterback Mitch Benagier with 59.1 seconds remaining in the game and stunned the Dragons 38-31 and saw Clarkston not only share the OAA Red championship with the Dragons but get into the playoffs and were rewarded with a home game with Pontiac.
Senior quarterback Sean Charette had three passing touchdowns, Junior wide reciever Chaz Miller had two touchdown passes from Charette. Junior running back Jacob Miller did add a touchdown against a good Wolves defense in the loss.
Add to that the Wolves (6-3, 6-1 OAA Red) get to host the entire district round, if they get past the Phoenix.
The Dragons finished the year at 6-3 overall and 6-1 in the OAA Red division drew the Walled Lake Central Vikings in the playoffs. The match-up is set for Friday night at 7 PM at Dragon Stadium. The last time these two teams met in the playoffs was 2002 when the Dragons defeated the Vikings 35-28 at Lake Orion. The Vikings come into the playoffs at 6-3 and 4-1 in the Kensington Lakes Athletic Association North Division, which was good for second place behind arch rival Walled Lake Western.
The Vikings are a running team with a Wing T offense along with a veer offense as well, something the Dragons have not seen all year. The Vikings feature quarterback Zac Leimbach, Leimbach is a senior and is Walled Lake Central's best player and their leader. Leimbach is a three sport athlete (football, basketball, and baseball,) he does have a strong arm, good speed, and he's tough. Leimbach did have to deal with some adversity in his life. His father Mark Leimbach passed away after a ten year battle with cancer last spring before the regional in Baseball.
Walled Lake Central does feature other good players and they do have a good defense. Central has lost some tough games. They lost two weeks ago to Brighton 28-24 and in week six lost to arch rival Walled Lake Western 18-11 for the KLAA North and in week one, got crushed by Plymouth Canton 42-14. So Friday Night with Orion and Walled Lake Central should be a good one to watch at Lake Orion.
What a wild one that took place on Friday night in Clarkston, however for the Dragons it was a sad one.
Already up 31-21 with 11 minutes left in the fourth quarter, the Dragons saw their lead blow away as the Wolves came back with a late touchdown by quarterback Mitch Benagier with 59.1 seconds remaining in the game and stunned the Dragons 38-31 and saw Clarkston not only share the OAA Red championship with the Dragons but get into the playoffs and were rewarded with a home game with Pontiac.
Senior quarterback Sean Charette had three passing touchdowns, Junior wide reciever Chaz Miller had two touchdown passes from Charette. Junior running back Jacob Miller did add a touchdown against a good Wolves defense in the loss.
Add to that the Wolves (6-3, 6-1 OAA Red) get to host the entire district round, if they get past the Phoenix.
The Dragons finished the year at 6-3 overall and 6-1 in the OAA Red division drew the Walled Lake Central Vikings in the playoffs. The match-up is set for Friday night at 7 PM at Dragon Stadium. The last time these two teams met in the playoffs was 2002 when the Dragons defeated the Vikings 35-28 at Lake Orion. The Vikings come into the playoffs at 6-3 and 4-1 in the Kensington Lakes Athletic Association North Division, which was good for second place behind arch rival Walled Lake Western.
The Vikings are a running team with a Wing T offense along with a veer offense as well, something the Dragons have not seen all year. The Vikings feature quarterback Zac Leimbach, Leimbach is a senior and is Walled Lake Central's best player and their leader. Leimbach is a three sport athlete (football, basketball, and baseball,) he does have a strong arm, good speed, and he's tough. Leimbach did have to deal with some adversity in his life. His father Mark Leimbach passed away after a ten year battle with cancer last spring before the regional in Baseball.
Walled Lake Central does feature other good players and they do have a good defense. Central has lost some tough games. They lost two weeks ago to Brighton 28-24 and in week six lost to arch rival Walled Lake Western 18-11 for the KLAA North and in week one, got crushed by Plymouth Canton 42-14. So Friday Night with Orion and Walled Lake Central should be a good one to watch at Lake Orion.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Dragons fall to Wolves for the Red but playoffs are another story.
Written Tuesday October 18th, at 11:40 PM.
There were tears of sadness in the Dragon players and fans, tears of joy in the Wolves players and fans, and excitement as the OAA Red Championship was on the line in front of two spirited fan bases on Tuesday Night at Lake Orion High School. Tuesday Night proved to be better than advertised.
In a wild one the fourth ranked Clarkston Wolves survived the fifth ranked Dragons 26-24, 25-23, 21-25, 18-25, and 15-10, claiming the OAA Red Division championship for the sixth time in nine seasons and fifth straight in a playoff like setting as part of Dragons-Wolves week. They do meet in football on Friday in Clarkston and possibly in the boys soccer playoffs as well in Grand Blanc. This playoff atmosphere is something that both these teams should get used too.
"This one aged me, I kind of expected this game, this match could have gone either way." said Clarkston coach Kelly Avenall, referring to the five game match.
Dragons coach Bob Howey expressed disappointment for the Dragons seniors in their final regular season game. "This should had been our year, what are you going to do" Howey said to reporters after the loss.
The Dragons however do have one more guaranteed home game though, the district at Rochester has a play in game, and the Dragons are home for that one, on Monday November 5th against the Oxford Wildcats.
Orion was led by senior Shannon Murdock's 21 kills, senior Liz Kalugar had 15 kills, senior Maddie Hutchinson added 41 digs and senior Gwen Motley had a season high 51 assists and 11 digs. "I don’t think she (Shannon Murdock) was at her very best in the first two (games), but she’s probably the main reason we were in the match," Howey added.
The Dragons fall to 38-11-5 overall and 6-1 in OAA Red play with a game to play against North Farmington on Thursday Night in Farmington Hills then are in the North Branch tournament before districts start in a few weeks.
This was a devastating loss for the Dragons, but is this playoffs???, no not yet even though both the Dragons and Wolves are in different parts of the draw, Clarkston (48-4-1, 8-0 OAA Red) goes north while Lake Orion goes south. It hurts now and it's something the Dragon ladies never want to feel again.
There were tears of sadness in the Dragon players and fans, tears of joy in the Wolves players and fans, and excitement as the OAA Red Championship was on the line in front of two spirited fan bases on Tuesday Night at Lake Orion High School. Tuesday Night proved to be better than advertised.
In a wild one the fourth ranked Clarkston Wolves survived the fifth ranked Dragons 26-24, 25-23, 21-25, 18-25, and 15-10, claiming the OAA Red Division championship for the sixth time in nine seasons and fifth straight in a playoff like setting as part of Dragons-Wolves week. They do meet in football on Friday in Clarkston and possibly in the boys soccer playoffs as well in Grand Blanc. This playoff atmosphere is something that both these teams should get used too.
"This one aged me, I kind of expected this game, this match could have gone either way." said Clarkston coach Kelly Avenall, referring to the five game match.
Dragons coach Bob Howey expressed disappointment for the Dragons seniors in their final regular season game. "This should had been our year, what are you going to do" Howey said to reporters after the loss.
The Dragons however do have one more guaranteed home game though, the district at Rochester has a play in game, and the Dragons are home for that one, on Monday November 5th against the Oxford Wildcats.
Orion was led by senior Shannon Murdock's 21 kills, senior Liz Kalugar had 15 kills, senior Maddie Hutchinson added 41 digs and senior Gwen Motley had a season high 51 assists and 11 digs. "I don’t think she (Shannon Murdock) was at her very best in the first two (games), but she’s probably the main reason we were in the match," Howey added.
The Dragons fall to 38-11-5 overall and 6-1 in OAA Red play with a game to play against North Farmington on Thursday Night in Farmington Hills then are in the North Branch tournament before districts start in a few weeks.
This was a devastating loss for the Dragons, but is this playoffs???, no not yet even though both the Dragons and Wolves are in different parts of the draw, Clarkston (48-4-1, 8-0 OAA Red) goes north while Lake Orion goes south. It hurts now and it's something the Dragon ladies never want to feel again.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Dragons fall to Harrison but hope is still not lost.
Written Friday October 14th, at 11:48 PM
Usually losing is not a good thing, but this loss came at a price Friday night at Lake Orion against the Farmington Hills Harrison Hawks. The Dragons fell in a tight 28-7 game to the Hawks, which the game was much closer than the score. People ask what was the difference, it's plain and simple.
The Dragons didn't take advantage of their opportunities. The Hawks had ten penalties including some personal foul calls during the game.
Lake Orion had five trips inside the red zone, and yet didn't come away from any points. Also involved in the game was a touchdown by junior Chaz Miller that was taken back thanks to a horrible holding penalty by the referees. If that touchdown stood it would had been 21-14, Hawks but instead Farmington Hills Harrison stopped the Dragons on four downs and eventually scored a touchdown to put the game out of reach.
Farmington Hills Harrison took a 21-0 lead into the half but the Dragons continued to fight back. Senior quarterback Sean Charette found senior wide receiver Robert Aiello from four yards out for a Dragons touchdown to cut the gap to 21-7 but the opportunities didn't come through during the night.
Let's look at the bright side for the Dragons, the Dragons are in the playoffs and have a chance to win the OAA Red Championship outright but the Dragons need to get better and back to the drawing board as soon as possible and we all know Dragons coach Chris Bell and the rest of the coaches on the staff real well. If the Dragons (6-2, 6-0 OAA Red) can beat the Clarkston Wolves in Clarkston on Friday night, they would not only win the OAA Red outright but they could knock out the Wolves from the playoffs, even though there is a possibility that the Wolves will get into the playoffs at 5-4. Clarkston comes into the showdown with the Dragons at 5-3 overall and 5-1 in OAA Red play, after they lost to Oxford 42-35 on Friday Night.
Usually losing is not a good thing, but this loss came at a price Friday night at Lake Orion against the Farmington Hills Harrison Hawks. The Dragons fell in a tight 28-7 game to the Hawks, which the game was much closer than the score. People ask what was the difference, it's plain and simple.
The Dragons didn't take advantage of their opportunities. The Hawks had ten penalties including some personal foul calls during the game.
Lake Orion had five trips inside the red zone, and yet didn't come away from any points. Also involved in the game was a touchdown by junior Chaz Miller that was taken back thanks to a horrible holding penalty by the referees. If that touchdown stood it would had been 21-14, Hawks but instead Farmington Hills Harrison stopped the Dragons on four downs and eventually scored a touchdown to put the game out of reach.
Farmington Hills Harrison took a 21-0 lead into the half but the Dragons continued to fight back. Senior quarterback Sean Charette found senior wide receiver Robert Aiello from four yards out for a Dragons touchdown to cut the gap to 21-7 but the opportunities didn't come through during the night.
Let's look at the bright side for the Dragons, the Dragons are in the playoffs and have a chance to win the OAA Red Championship outright but the Dragons need to get better and back to the drawing board as soon as possible and we all know Dragons coach Chris Bell and the rest of the coaches on the staff real well. If the Dragons (6-2, 6-0 OAA Red) can beat the Clarkston Wolves in Clarkston on Friday night, they would not only win the OAA Red outright but they could knock out the Wolves from the playoffs, even though there is a possibility that the Wolves will get into the playoffs at 5-4. Clarkston comes into the showdown with the Dragons at 5-3 overall and 5-1 in OAA Red play, after they lost to Oxford 42-35 on Friday Night.
Dragons sweep Wildcats, await Wolves next.
Written October 14th, at 10:14 AM
The Lake Orion Dragons girls volleyball team felt the pain of losing four in a row last season that cost them a spot for the OAA Red title and they did not want to feel that pace.
Setting up with a league showdown with Clarkston on Senior Night I might add on Tuesday night, the Dragons took care of some business Thursday night by sweeping the Oxford Wildcats 25-18, 25-17, and 25-16 to force the showdown of two unbeaten powers.
The Dragons were balanced all night with kills, assists, and digs. They were led by senior Shannon Murdock's ten kills. Senior Taylor Hargraves added six kills along with sophomore Sophie Murdock who also added six kills. Senior Maddie Hutchinson added 14 digs and a 2.6 serve rating with her 14 service points. Senior Liz Kalugar added six kills, five service points, and six digs while seniors Gwen Motley and Dana Schrauben combined for 36 assists in the contest.
The Dragons depth has been a benefit to coach Bob Howey and they will need that when the Wolves come to town Tuesday Night. "We do have a lot of depth, which I think has helped us all season" Howey said to reporters after the game.
Orion (37-8-2, 6-0 in the OAA Red) now sets the stage with Clarkston, also unbeaten in the OAA Red. If the Dragons can get past the Wolves and the Raiders next Thursday Night, the Dragons could have their first OAA Red title ever.
Howey knows this team needs to improve quickly with Clarkston coming in but they did just enough to get this one in the win column. We didn’t play great. We just did what we had to do to win," said Howey to reporters. "We’re going to have to play better (against Clarkston). I think the girls know that. We have been going hard at it since August. We’ll fix some things this Saturday at a tournament."
The Wildcats (22-16-1) did not do bad themselves either, even though they knew they had to play the perfect game to beat the Dragons saw the future bright in sophomore Darien Bandel. Bandel had eight kills and 14 digs to lead the Oxford attack. "I’m not unhappy with the first part of the games. We just need to learn how to stick it out. We were always chasing," said Oxford coach Kristi McDevitt to reporters.
Both the Dragons and the Wildcats will play each other in the first round of districts in a few weeks (Monday November 7th) at Lake Orion with the winner facing Rochester Adams at Rochester on Wednesday November 9th at 5:30 PM. "I just told the girls to store this feeling. This is the team that we’re seeing the first round of districts," McDevitt concluded to reporters.
The Lake Orion Dragons girls volleyball team felt the pain of losing four in a row last season that cost them a spot for the OAA Red title and they did not want to feel that pace.
Setting up with a league showdown with Clarkston on Senior Night I might add on Tuesday night, the Dragons took care of some business Thursday night by sweeping the Oxford Wildcats 25-18, 25-17, and 25-16 to force the showdown of two unbeaten powers.
The Dragons were balanced all night with kills, assists, and digs. They were led by senior Shannon Murdock's ten kills. Senior Taylor Hargraves added six kills along with sophomore Sophie Murdock who also added six kills. Senior Maddie Hutchinson added 14 digs and a 2.6 serve rating with her 14 service points. Senior Liz Kalugar added six kills, five service points, and six digs while seniors Gwen Motley and Dana Schrauben combined for 36 assists in the contest.
The Dragons depth has been a benefit to coach Bob Howey and they will need that when the Wolves come to town Tuesday Night. "We do have a lot of depth, which I think has helped us all season" Howey said to reporters after the game.
Orion (37-8-2, 6-0 in the OAA Red) now sets the stage with Clarkston, also unbeaten in the OAA Red. If the Dragons can get past the Wolves and the Raiders next Thursday Night, the Dragons could have their first OAA Red title ever.
Howey knows this team needs to improve quickly with Clarkston coming in but they did just enough to get this one in the win column. We didn’t play great. We just did what we had to do to win," said Howey to reporters. "We’re going to have to play better (against Clarkston). I think the girls know that. We have been going hard at it since August. We’ll fix some things this Saturday at a tournament."
The Wildcats (22-16-1) did not do bad themselves either, even though they knew they had to play the perfect game to beat the Dragons saw the future bright in sophomore Darien Bandel. Bandel had eight kills and 14 digs to lead the Oxford attack. "I’m not unhappy with the first part of the games. We just need to learn how to stick it out. We were always chasing," said Oxford coach Kristi McDevitt to reporters.
Both the Dragons and the Wildcats will play each other in the first round of districts in a few weeks (Monday November 7th) at Lake Orion with the winner facing Rochester Adams at Rochester on Wednesday November 9th at 5:30 PM. "I just told the girls to store this feeling. This is the team that we’re seeing the first round of districts," McDevitt concluded to reporters.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Dragons win Homecoming, bring on top ranked Hawks.
Written Friday October 7th, at 11:55 PM
Homecoming has it's advantages, the alumni come back to watch the young generation continue the tradition that is Lake Orion Football.
However this wasn't your typical homecoming game.
The Dragons used a ground assault on the Red Hawks in rout to a 28-14 victory in Lake Orion on Friday Night.
The star of the game was junior running back Jacob Miller. Miller had the game of his life, had 33 carries for 285 yards and three touchdowns. "Jacob’s a workhorse," Bell said of Miller to reporters. "He’s been waiting for this game for his whole life. We came out in the second half knowing that we wanted to run the ball. We stayed with it because it was working."
Besides Miller who came to play, so did the Dragons bend, don't break defense. The defense shut down the Red Hawks offense most of the night. The only two mistakes the defense made was a 77 yard touchdown run with two minutes left in the game by running back Sam Haskell and a six yard touchdown from running back Lonnie Bolden with 20 seconds left in the second quarter.
Troy Athens tied the game 7-7 at the half but on the first series Miller carried the team on his back, and eventually scoring on a three yard touchdown to give the Dragons the lead for good at 14-7.
Miller would then strike again, following a Red Hawks punt, Miller ran the ball for 66 yards deep into Red Hawks territory, then once in the red zone he added a four yard touchdown which would be the winning score up 21-7.
The defending MHSAA division one state champion, Dragons move to 6-1 overall and 6-0 in the OAA Red. The team clinched a share of the OAA Red Championship and a playoff spot with this win tonight over Troy Athens.
The next game for the Dragons is Friday Night against the unbeaten, 24th ranked team in the Country according to Rivals.com, defending state champions for division two, and top ranked team in the state in Farmington Hills Harrison (7-0, 6-0 OAA White.) The Hawks feature a core of star players going to division one schools and this may be the best Farmington Hills Harrison team under Hawks coach John Herrington in his 41 years coaching in Farmington Hills based on skill, speed, and talent.
Last season in the 40th year reunion of Hawks Football, Farmington Hills Harrison beat Lake Orion in a battle of unbeaten's 28-6 on Saturday Afternoon, that would be the last time in that year the Dragons had lost a game.
Homecoming has it's advantages, the alumni come back to watch the young generation continue the tradition that is Lake Orion Football.
However this wasn't your typical homecoming game.
The Dragons used a ground assault on the Red Hawks in rout to a 28-14 victory in Lake Orion on Friday Night.
The star of the game was junior running back Jacob Miller. Miller had the game of his life, had 33 carries for 285 yards and three touchdowns. "Jacob’s a workhorse," Bell said of Miller to reporters. "He’s been waiting for this game for his whole life. We came out in the second half knowing that we wanted to run the ball. We stayed with it because it was working."
Besides Miller who came to play, so did the Dragons bend, don't break defense. The defense shut down the Red Hawks offense most of the night. The only two mistakes the defense made was a 77 yard touchdown run with two minutes left in the game by running back Sam Haskell and a six yard touchdown from running back Lonnie Bolden with 20 seconds left in the second quarter.
Troy Athens tied the game 7-7 at the half but on the first series Miller carried the team on his back, and eventually scoring on a three yard touchdown to give the Dragons the lead for good at 14-7.
Miller would then strike again, following a Red Hawks punt, Miller ran the ball for 66 yards deep into Red Hawks territory, then once in the red zone he added a four yard touchdown which would be the winning score up 21-7.
The defending MHSAA division one state champion, Dragons move to 6-1 overall and 6-0 in the OAA Red. The team clinched a share of the OAA Red Championship and a playoff spot with this win tonight over Troy Athens.
The next game for the Dragons is Friday Night against the unbeaten, 24th ranked team in the Country according to Rivals.com, defending state champions for division two, and top ranked team in the state in Farmington Hills Harrison (7-0, 6-0 OAA White.) The Hawks feature a core of star players going to division one schools and this may be the best Farmington Hills Harrison team under Hawks coach John Herrington in his 41 years coaching in Farmington Hills based on skill, speed, and talent.
Last season in the 40th year reunion of Hawks Football, Farmington Hills Harrison beat Lake Orion in a battle of unbeaten's 28-6 on Saturday Afternoon, that would be the last time in that year the Dragons had lost a game.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Dragons survive hostile environment and beat Maples
Written Tuesday October 4th, at 11:25 PM
It has been an interesting few days for the Lake Orion Girls Volleyball team.
On Saturday the third ranked Dragons competed in the Birmingham Marian Invitational. Orion fared well knocking off Seaholm, West Bloomfield, and seventh ranked Clarkston to make it to the finals. The Dragons suffered a tough loss to Birmingham Marian in the championship game.
Lake Orion in pool play split with the Maples but knew that they would play Seaholm on Tuesday night with the Maples that featured Miss Michigan Volleyball candidate Paige Neuenfeldt with the chance for the Dragons to stay unbeaten in the OAA Red.
The Dragons went on and did just that, they beat the Maples in a four game set, 25-18, 25-21, 20-25, and 25-20 to stay unbeaten in OAA Red play in front of a rocky jammed pack gym in Birmingham. Lake Orion struggled with serving, a problem that has haunted Dragon coach Bob Howey all season long and made close games with the Maples. "Our servicing could have been better tonight," Howey said to reporters.
Lake Orion did a good job on Neuenfeldt, not letting her take over the game and only limiting her to 14 kills. Her teammate senior Kathy Quigley had 12 kills in defeat for Seaholm.
Birmingham Seaholm coach knew that this match was going to be tough for her team but credited her players for competing tonight. "We know that we can play with anyone.We came out with some confidence in the third game. We took a step back and said we need to win now or it’s going to be over.I really give our girls credit for not giving up tonight," Lippert said to reporters after the match-up.
The Dragons were led by senior Shannon Murdock and senior Liz Kaulgar with 13 kills each while senior Gwen Motley added 28 assists and senior Maddie Hutchinson had 23 digs against the Maples. Howey credited his eight seniors for his team's success and messing together as a unit. "I've got eight seniors this year. A lot of them played a good amount last year, and they’ve gotten more mature and have really developed their talents." Howey said to reporters.
The third ranked Dragons is now 35-8-1 overall and 4-0 in OAA Red play. Tied with seventh ranked Clarkston who is 6-0 in OAA Red play and 31-4 overall. The next matches for the Dragons is on Thursday when the team returns home to play the Farmington Falcons. Lake Orion travels to Farmington Hills and plays the North Farmington Raiders on Tuesday and host the Oxford Wildcats next week on Thursday. Then Lake Orion wraps up the league with state ranked Clarkston at home on October 18th. So stay tuned everyone.
It has been an interesting few days for the Lake Orion Girls Volleyball team.
On Saturday the third ranked Dragons competed in the Birmingham Marian Invitational. Orion fared well knocking off Seaholm, West Bloomfield, and seventh ranked Clarkston to make it to the finals. The Dragons suffered a tough loss to Birmingham Marian in the championship game.
Lake Orion in pool play split with the Maples but knew that they would play Seaholm on Tuesday night with the Maples that featured Miss Michigan Volleyball candidate Paige Neuenfeldt with the chance for the Dragons to stay unbeaten in the OAA Red.
The Dragons went on and did just that, they beat the Maples in a four game set, 25-18, 25-21, 20-25, and 25-20 to stay unbeaten in OAA Red play in front of a rocky jammed pack gym in Birmingham. Lake Orion struggled with serving, a problem that has haunted Dragon coach Bob Howey all season long and made close games with the Maples. "Our servicing could have been better tonight," Howey said to reporters.
Lake Orion did a good job on Neuenfeldt, not letting her take over the game and only limiting her to 14 kills. Her teammate senior Kathy Quigley had 12 kills in defeat for Seaholm.
Birmingham Seaholm coach knew that this match was going to be tough for her team but credited her players for competing tonight. "We know that we can play with anyone.We came out with some confidence in the third game. We took a step back and said we need to win now or it’s going to be over.I really give our girls credit for not giving up tonight," Lippert said to reporters after the match-up.
The Dragons were led by senior Shannon Murdock and senior Liz Kaulgar with 13 kills each while senior Gwen Motley added 28 assists and senior Maddie Hutchinson had 23 digs against the Maples. Howey credited his eight seniors for his team's success and messing together as a unit. "I've got eight seniors this year. A lot of them played a good amount last year, and they’ve gotten more mature and have really developed their talents." Howey said to reporters.
The third ranked Dragons is now 35-8-1 overall and 4-0 in OAA Red play. Tied with seventh ranked Clarkston who is 6-0 in OAA Red play and 31-4 overall. The next matches for the Dragons is on Thursday when the team returns home to play the Farmington Falcons. Lake Orion travels to Farmington Hills and plays the North Farmington Raiders on Tuesday and host the Oxford Wildcats next week on Thursday. Then Lake Orion wraps up the league with state ranked Clarkston at home on October 18th. So stay tuned everyone.
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