OAA Recap Week Six

Written Saturday September 29th, at 2:00 AM

Dragons Den Top 10:

1. Lake Orion (6-0, 5-0 Red)            LW: 1

2. Oak Park (6-0, 5-0 White)            LW: 2

3. Seaholm (5-1, 5-0 Blue)                LW: 4

4. Farmington (5-1, 4-1 White)         LW: 5

5. Lahser (5-1, 5-0 Blue)                  LW: 8

6. Clarkston (6-0, 5-0 Red)             LW: 9

7. Southfield (4-2, 3-2 White)          LW: NR

8. Harrison (4-2, 3-2 White)            LW: NR

9. Avondale (5-1, 4-1 Blue)             LW: 3

10. Rochester (4-2, 3-2 Red)           LW: 7

Dropped Out from Poll:

6. Hazel Park

10. Oxford

BIGGEST WIN OF THE WEEK: Southfield 49, Oxford 7: The Blue Jays sent a loud and clear message on their homecoming that they are still going to be dangerous. Southfield took a 28-7 halftime lead and never looked back. The Blue Jays are now in real good shape to make the playoffs and do so this week against Adams. The Wildcats now are 3-3 and have three home games to make the playoffs, however one of those games is against Oak Park.

BAD LOSS: Farmington 41, Adams 29: For the first time in 15 years the Highlanders won’t be going to the postseason. Adams now sits a 1-5 and 1-4 in the White. The Falcons has won two in a row since the loss to Oak Park and is rolling heading into it's Farmington showdowns, starting with the team from the North and then it's Harrison.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Stoney Creek 35, Troy Athens 31: In a wild one on the Red Hawks homecoming, the Cougars hopes are still alive to make the playoffs. Stoney Creek is now 3-3 and plays West Bloomfield next week for their homecoming while Troy Athens travels to Rochester to battle the Falcons. The Red Hawks need a hug after their tough 0-4 start but there is no where to go but up from here if your Troy Athens

ARE YOU KIDDING ME: Royal Oak 18, Ferndale 13: The Eagles had the playoffs right in their grasp after getting the forfeit win with Andover and the 14-6 win over Groves last week but the inconsistencies continued especially on homecoming night to make it worst of all. This was the Ravens first OAA win since 2007 and second since then (SCS Lakeshore.) Ferndale had a chance to ice the game but couldn’t do it and then the next play Royal Oak (1-5, 1-4 Blue) went 81 yards and into the end zone. The Eagles now stands at 2-4 and is likely going to miss out on the postseason yet again.

Week Seven Big Games:

Troy (4-2, 3-2 Red) at 6. Clarkston (6-0, 5-0 Red): The Wolves better not be overlooking Lake Orion in week eight. Troy should be healthy heading into this showdown plus the Colts need to win either this game or the crossover just to make the playoffs. For Clarkston, this game is to keep pace with Lake Orion for its showdown next week.

8. Harrison (4-2, 3-2 White) at 2. Oak Park (6-0, 5-0 White): The Hawks can gain huge momentum if they win this game in Knight Valley. Oak Park can clinch a share of the White with a win over Harrison. The Knights also want revenge after losing at Farmington last season while the Hawks can keep riding the momentum to the playoffs.

3. Seaholm (5-1, 5-0 Blue) at 5. Lahser (5-1, 5-0 Blue): This match will go in a long way to decide the Blue as both teams are unbeaten in league play with their only losses against non conference opponents (Seaholm to Detroit Country Day, Lahser to Pontiac Notre Dame Prep.) Seaholm had one of its biggest wins last week against Avondale. Lahser rolled past Berkley at home. This race is clearly a four team race if you still include Avondale and Hazel Park in there.

7. Southfield (4-2, 3-2 White) at Adams (1-5, 1-4 White): The Highlanders are now forced to play spoilers after they will miss the playoffs for the first time in 15 seasons. Also its homecoming week, after losing three straight road games Adams entertains Southfield, who has won two in a row since the overtime loss to Oak Park.

West Bloomfield (1-5, 0-5 Red) at Stoney Creek (3-3, 2-3 Red): The Cougars know they still need to win out to make the playoffs and had to hold on to beat Troy Athens last week. The Lakers have played better in their last two games won’t lay down against Stoney Creek on homecoming.

Red:

1. Lake Orion               5-0       6-0

6. Clarkston                 5-0       6-0

10. Rochester               3-2       4-2

Troy                             3-2       4-2

Stoney Creek               2-3       3-3

Pontiac                         1-4       1-5

Troy Athens                 1-4       1-5

West Bloomfield           0-5       1-5

1. Lake Orion at Pontiac (Saturday)

Troy at 6. Clarkston

Troy Athens at 10. Rochester

West Bloomfield at Stoney Creek

White:

2. Oak Park                 5-0       6-0

4. Farmington               4-1       5-1

7. Southfield                 3-2       4-2

Oxford                         3-2       3-3

8. Harrison                   3-2       4-2

North Farmington         1-4       2-4

Adams                         1-4       1-5

Lathrup                        1-4       1-5

8. Harrison at 2. Oak Park

4. Farmington at North Farmington

7. Southfield at Adams

Lathrup at Oxford

Blue:

3. Seaholm                   5-0       5-1

5. Lahser                      5-0       5-1

9. Avondale                  4-1       5-1

Hazel Park                   4-1       4-2

Berkley                        2-3       2-4

Ferndale                       2-4       2-4

Royal Oak                    1-4       1-5

Groves                         1-5       1-5

Andover #                    0-6       0-6

3. Seaholm at 5. Lahser

Highland Park at 9. Avondale

Detroit Henry Ford CSA at Ferndale

Hazel Park at Berkley

Groves at Royal Oak
Andover=Forfeit

My biggest shock of the night was Lansing Holt going down to Lansing Sexton 21-7. The Rams (3-3, 2-2 Capital Area Conference Blue) last week gave East Lansing its first loss of the season suffered its third loss on the season and is in danger of missing the playoffs. Holt now needs to win out and especially win at Grand Ledge (5-1, 4-0 Capital Area Conference Blue) if the have any chance of making the postseason.

Another loss that wasn’t as surprising was Davison’s 42-28 loss to Flint Powers Catholic. Powers is a very good football team and is now 6-0 and 3-0 in the Saginaw Valley Conference South division but the Cardinals put up a fight until the very end. Davison (4-2, 3-1 SVC South) will make the playoffs but they do have to play Flint Carman Ainsworth (6-0. 3-0 SVC South) in the final game of the season on the road. Once the postseason starts for the Cardinals, if the draw see them going west then they would see Hartland, Grand Blanc, and Flint Carman Ainsworth but if they go south they could see Lake Orion or Clarkston. So it’s a tough draw if you’re Davison.

Grand Blanc is taking advantage of KLAA play in the West division. The Bobcats (4-2, 4-0 KLAA West) are now back in the conversation for a playoff spot but is still in danger of missing the postseason. The Bobcats have to travel to Hartland (6-0, 4-0 KLAA West) and Plymouth (5-1, 3-1 KLAA South) for games during the season. If they can win one of those games and the crossover then they will be postseason bound.

Romeo (3-3, 1-2 MAC Red) is fighting on for one more week. The Bulldogs went into St. Clair County and stunned the Big Reds of Port Huron 21-20 in a close game after the Big Reds quarterback made a mistake by taking a knee instead of spiking the ball. Romeo now needs to win at Dan Barnabo Field next week against Utica Eisenhower (4-2, 1-2 MAC Red) if they want any chance of making the postseason. I don’t think Romeo’s two big wins over Chippewa Valley and Macomb Lance Cruise North will help them get into the playoffs especially with the loss week one at Troy.

Another game that stunned was up in northwest Michigan when Traverse City West took on their city rivals from Traverse City in Traverse City Central. The Trojans (5-1, 4-0 Big North) shocked the Titans 42-28 and is in division two for playoffs. TC West (4-2, 3-1 Big North) is in division one for playoffs. The schedule in the Big North doesn't get any easier for the Titans especially with tough games, at Petoskey and at home with Ogemaw Heights whom beat Cadillac tonight to get to 3-3. Ogemaw Heights was in the news recently as we all know with the bullying issues. Sophomore, Whitney Kropp made headlines about the homecoming court prank. The loss by TC West and also Holland West Ottawa’s loss to Rockford opens up the door for the Rams to sneak by and get home field advantage away from one or both teams.

The Walled Lake Northern (4-2, 4-0 KLAA North) scoring machine continues but will be put to the test when the Knights travel to White Lake to take on the Eagles. This game will decide the KLAA North and both teams are in prime position to make the playoffs. Lakeland (5-1, 3-1 KLAA North) is also riding high as well. The Eagles could go south and see KLAA rivals Northville, and the Plymouth schools or go west to see Hartland or go east to see Lake Orion or Clarkston. Walled Lake Northern could go south to see Northville or the Plymouth rivals or go west to see Hartland or could go east to see Lake Orion or Clarkston.

Canton (4-2, 3-1 KLAA South) is struggling despite winning over Livonia Franklin (2-4, 2-2 KLAA South) 35-34 tonight. The schedule is brutal for Canton. The Chiefs still has to play Plymouth (5-1, 3-1 KLAA South) and Salem (5-1, 3-1 KLAA Central) who are both a combined 10-2 and that’s not counting the crossover. Canton needs to win two of three games to make the playoffs, which do include Plymouth, Salem, or the crossover.

The fun begins for Sterling Heights Stevenson this week after a win over Utica. The Titans (5-1, 2-1 MAC Red) will have three tough games to close out the season. Stevenson will go to Chippewa Valley who is also rolling at 5-1, and 2-1 in the MAC Red with it's only loss to Romeo, who Stevenson won 22-18 at Dan Barnabo two weeks ago. The next week the Titans will go to Sweinhart to take on the Eagles of Utica Eisenhower (4-2, 1-2 MAC Red) and to closeout the season they host Warren Mott (6-0, 3-0 MAC White.) The Titans could very well not make the playoffs if they don't win one of these three games.

Dragons roll on Homecoming night.

Written Saturday September 29th, at 12:56 AM

The Dragons came out on all cylinders yet again on homecoming night.

Behind three turnovers the top ranked and second ranked team in the state Lake Orion Dragons handled the seventh ranked Rochester Falcons 42-7 on Friday night.

The Dragons came into the contest averaging 41.5 points per game and allowing 8.5 points per game. The Falcons meanwhile allowed 17.7 points per game and scored 18 points per game.

The last time Lake Orion lost on Homecoming was in 1997. The Dragons still trail the Wolves in the state rankings. They will get that opportunity on October 12th at Lake Orion.

The most points Rochester (4-2, 3-2 Red) allowed was 24 points in a loss to Clarkston, tonight it was 42 points.

Lake Orion (6-0, 5-0 Red) got things started quickly on the opening drive scoring on a 14 play 72 yard drive with slot receiver Chris Leigh’s nine yard touchdown run to make it 7-0 Dragons.

The Dragons would then get a fumble recovery in Falcons territory and three plays later slot back Cory Ester found the end zone to make it 13-0 Lake Orion.

The Falcons then went down the field and answered with two seconds in the first half as quarterback John Doroshewitz found star receiver Manny Mendoza on a 18 yard touchdown pass down the southeast corner of the Dragons end zone making it 13-7 Lake Orion.

Lake Orion would then answer quickly as running back Jacob Miller scored from one yard out and quarterback Derrick DeLaura found wide receiver Chaz Miller for a two yard two point conversion to make it 21-7 Dragons.

Oh wait it gets better.

Dragons cornerback Nick Booker then intercepted Doroschewitz and took the ball back to the house for 38 yards for a touchdown making the score 28-7 Lake Orion.

In the second half, Lake Orion then got a 50 yard touchdown run from Ester and a 42 yard run from Miller to wrap up the scoring.

Jacob Miller finished with 114 yards and one score while Ester had 62 yards and two scores for the Dragons rushing attack.

Lake Orion will move on to a Saturday afternoon showdown at Wisner Stadium against the Pontiac Phoenix (1-5, 1-4 Red) for a 2 PM kickoff. This is Pontiac’s homecoming so this will be a packed house against a powerhouse opponent, we’ll see what happens.

OAA Week Six Preview

Written Sunday September 23rd, at 7:00 PM

7. Rochester (4-1, 3-1 Red) at 1. Lake Orion (5-0, 4-0 Red): The Dragons homecoming is this week and that's bad news for the Falcons. Rochester did have their homecoming last week in a win over Pontiac. I think depth issues will be a huge factor in this game. Lake Orion should cruse onto the playoffs and gets another shutout during the process. PICK: LAKE ORION 48, ROCHESTER 0.

North Farmington (2-3, 1-3 White) at 2. Oak Park (5-0, 4-0 White): Welcome to the playoffs Knights and welcome back to the playoffs Coach Greg Carter. The Raiders will be no match in Knight Valley for a dangerous Oak Park football team but the next three weeks will be a challenge (Harrison, at Oxford, Crossover.) PICK: OAK PARK 40, NORTH FARMINGTON 0.

3. Avondale (5-0, 4-0 Blue) at 4. Seaholm (4-1, 4-0 Blue): The Yellow Jackets survived a home scare against Berkley last week while the Maples have had a week off. This will be a close game but got to give the edge to the home team. PICK: SEAHOLM 21, AVONDALE 20.

Adams (1-4, 1-3 White) at 5. Farmington (4-1, 3-1 White): This will make it official that the fifteen year playoff run for the Highlanders is over. The Falcons will be ready for this game after an emotional loss last week at Knight Valley. Adams has no chance in this game even though they did go into Farmington and won last year. PICK: FARMINGTON 28, ADAMS 7.

Detroit Country Day (4-1) at 6. Hazel Park (4-1, 4-1 Blue): The Vikings have been known for the high scoring games and the no defense but the Yellow Jackets of Detroit Country Day is a whole different animal. Hazel Park will keep giving up points but it doesn’t have the depth or fire power to compete with Detroit Country Day. PICK: DETROIT COUNTRY DAY 63, HAZEL PARK 8.

8. Lahser (4-1, 4-0 Blue) at Berkley (2-3, 2-2 Blue): The Bears almost pulled off the upset last week at Avondale. The Knights were blitzkrieg by the Fighting Irish last week. This game will be close but the edge will go to Lahser. PICK: LAHSER 24, BERKLEY 21.

Pontiac (1-4, 1-3 Red) at 9. Clarkston (5-0, 4-0 Red): The Wolves did not look good last week and had to score late to beat Stoney Creek. It is Clarkston’s homecoming and they should have no problems with Pontiac. The Phoenix has averaged 14 points in the last two games. Now the next three games will be tough for the Wolves (Troy, at Lake Orion, at Crossover.) PICK: CLARKSTON 42, PONTIAC 14.

10. Oxford (3-2, 3-1 White) at Southfield (3-2, 2-2 White): The Wildcats had a big win last week over Adams but the Blue Jays were more impressive in coming back from a 17-0 deficit and knocking off Harrison on the road last week. Last season, Oxford pounded Southfield on the blue turf. The Blue Jays are also banged up and Oxford is physical. The Wildcats are a different team than the Hawks but the Blue Jays need to keep winning to make the playoffs and this will be the week Southfield returns to the Dragons Den top 10. PICK: SOUTHFIELD 24, OXFORD 20.

Stoney Creek (2-3, 1-3 Red) at Troy Athens (1-4, 1-3 Red): The Cougars still has a shot at making the playoffs after going through the toughest three weeks of the season (Troy, Lake Orion, and Clarkston. Stoney Creek almost knocked off Clarkston at home last week, so they have confidence they can win, if they can win out (includes the crossover and Rochester game.) The Red Hawks can spoil the Cougars shot at the playoffs but Stoney Creek will ruin Troy Athens homecoming with this win. PICK: STONEY CREEK 35, TROY ATHENS 20.

West Bloomfield (1-4, 0-4 Red) at Troy (3-2, 2-2 Red): The Colts did lose two of their best players last week to a knee and shoulder injury respectably but the good news is their starting two quarterbacks are back even though it wasn't the best of weeks for their returns against Lake Orion of all teams. After West Bloomfield for the Colts, the schedule is tough especially with next week when Troy goes to Clarkston to take on the Wolves. The Lakers have no chance on the Colts homecoming. PICK: TROY 42, WEST BLOOMFIELD 7.

Lathrup (1-4, 0-4 White) at Harrison (3-2, 2-2 White): After a difficult loss last week at home to the Blue Jays, the Hawks should have no problem on it’s homecoming with the other Southfield team. The Chargers have no chance in this game. Harrison shouldn’t be looking ahead to next week’s trip to Knight Valley or the rivalry game in two weeks with Farmington. PICK: HARRISON 31, LATHRUP 0.

Ferndale (2-3, 2-3 Blue) at Royal Oak (0-5, 0-4 Blue): The Ravens had some offense last week in a 58-47 loss to Hazel Park but Royal Oak likely won’t score a lot against the Eagles. Ferndale will be at 500 after this week. The game that could decide the playoff fate of Ferndale will be the trip to Auburn Hills in week nine. PICK: FERNDALE 35, ROYAL OAK 12.

OAA Recap Week 5

Written Saturday September 22nd, at 12:25 AM

 Dragons Den Top 10:

1. Lake Orion (5-0, 4-0 Red)        LW: 1

2. Oak Park (5-0, 4-0 White)        LW: 3

3. Avondale (5-0, 4-0 Blue)           LW: 4

4. Seaholm (4-1, 4-0 Blue)            LW: 7

5. Farmington (4-1, 3-1 White)      LW: 2

6. Hazel Park (4-1, 4-1 Blue)        LW: 10

7. Rochester (4-1, 3-1 Red)          LW: 9

8. Lahser (4-1, 4-0 Blue)               LW: 5

9. Clarkston (5-0, 4-0 Red)           LW: 6

10. Oxford (3-2, 3-1 White)          LW: NR

Dropped Out of Poll: 8. Harrison

BIGGEST WIN OF THE WEEK:  Oak Park 20, Farmington 15: The Knights overcame the adversity that was in the Falcons and now have sole possession of first place in the White. Oak Park had to have a late rally to beat Farmington and is one win away from making the playoffs for the first time since 2005. In the Knights five wins, three of them went down to the wire. The schedule is still tough for Oak Park as they have to travel to Oxford and host Harrison. After those two games it's the crossover that could very well be either Lake Orion or Clarkston.

BIGGEST SHOCK OF THE WEEK: Southfield 27, Harrison 20: Last season the Blue Jays lost to the Hawks at Southfield by two touchdowns 28-14. Now you can call Southfield the cardiac birds. The Blue Jays trailed 20-0 at one point and came back to stun the Hawks in Farmington. Harrison had three leads during the game and blew each of them. This was a tough loss for the Hawks tonight.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Stoney Creek: This is the second time the Cougars are on this list. Stoney Creek had Clarkston on the ropes at 21-14 but the Wolves found a way to escape with a 28-21 win in Rochester. This was a tough loss once again for the Cougars.

TEAM THAT IS IN TROUBLE: Troy: The Colts needed this win over Lake Orion but instead got shut out 38-0 by the Dragons. Troy needs to win the Clarkston game or the crossover game to get into the playoffs. What didn’t help Troy was that Romeo lost tonight to Sterling Heights Stevenson, they would have had needed the playoff points there to help its cause.

OH MY GOD MOMENT: Hazel Park 58, Royal Oak 47: In what was a wild one, we know that Hazel Park does not play defense but they can score. In what was a basketball score on turf, both teams combined for 105 points and over 1000 yards of total offense. The Vikings will have the tough task of playing Detroit Country Day next week while Royal Oak hosts Ferndale.

15 YEARS DONE: The Rochester Adams Highlanders saw their playoff streak come to an end at the hands of the Oxford Wildcats 28-16. The Wildcats gained revenge for the playoff defeat on the blue turf last season by ending the Highlanders playoff streak. Adams move on to play Farmington on the road next week while the Wildcats travel to Southfield for a huge showdown with the Blue Jays.

Top Games for Week Six:

7. Rochester (4-1, 3-1 Red) at 1. Lake Orion (5-0, 4-0 Red): The Falcons have been hot recently but going into Lake Orion on homecoming is going to be a tough challenge especially for anyone. Lake Orion is hot right now after beating Troy 38-0 last week while the Falcons beat Pontiac 30-13 last week at Rochester. This will be a good one to watch as both teams have different styles of play they feature.

Detroit Country Day (4-1) at 6. Hazel Park (4-1, 4-1 Blue): The Vikings have been riding high since the 42-6 beat down to Avondale in week one. Hazel Park is back to its old tricks again, outscoring opponents in wild games. Last week Hazel Park won 58-47 in a wild one over Royal Oak. This week it will be very difficult for the Vikings as Detroit Country Day comes into Hazel Park. The Yellow Jackets beat Seaholm 35-21 a few weeks ago should this should be interesting if you’re a Viking fan. Hazel Park better play defense in this game if they stand a chance to pull off the upset

3. Avondale (5-0, 4-0 Blue) at 4. Seaholm (4-1, 4-0 Blue): This game will decide who keeps pace in the Blue. The Blue is now a four team race with Avondale, Seaholm, Hazel Park, and Lahser. Hazel Park steps out of league play while Lahser travels to Berkley. The Winner of this one will be in great shape while the loser must adjust and get help elsewhere.

10. Oxford (3-2, 3-1 White) at Southfield (3-2, 2-2 White): This is a big game for both teams not only for positioning and playoff dreams but Oxford still has a chance to get the White crown (hosts Oak Park in week eight). The Wildcats came off one of its biggest wins of the season last week knocking off Adams 28-16 while the Blue Jays went into Farmington and shocked Harrison 27-20. This should be a good game to watch on Friday afternoon.

Red Standings:

1. Lake Orion               4-0       5-0

9. Clarkston                 4-0       5-0

7. Rochester                 3-1       4-1

Troy                             2-2       3-2

Stoney Creek               1-3       2-3

Pontiac                         1-3       1-4

Troy Athens                 1-3       1-4

West Bloomfield           0-4       1-4

7. Rochester at 1. Lake Orion

Pontiac at 9. Clarkston

West Bloomfield at Troy

Stoney Creek at Troy Athens

White Standings:

2. Oak Park                 4-0       5-0

5. Farmington               3-1       4-1

10. Oxford                   3-1       3-2

Southfield                     2-2       3-2

Harrison                       2-2       3-2

North Farmington         1-3       2-3

Adams                         1-3       1-4

Lathrup                        1-3       1-4

North Farmington at 2. Oak Park

Adams at 5. Farmington

10. Oxford at Southfield

Harrison at Lathrup

Blue Standings:

3. Avondale                  4-0       5-0

4. Seaholm                   4-0       4-1

8. Lahser                      4-0       4-1

6. Hazel Park               4-1       4-1

Berkley                        2-3       2-3

Ferndale                       2-3       2-3

Royal Oak                    0-4       0-5

Groves                         0-5       0-5

Andover                       0-5       0-5

3. Avondale at 4. Seaholm

Detroit Country Day at 6. Hazel Park

8. Lahser at Berkley

Groves=Bye

Ferndale at Royal Oak

In other games around the state especially in the MAC Red and also in Orchard Lake tonight, the Eaglets of Orchard Lake St. Mary’s took down the eighth ranked team in the country in Detroit Cass Tech 13-6. This proves that the Eaglets can compete with anyone in the state and also that the Technicians are beatable.

In the MAC Red, Romeo is on playoff life support after losing at home to Sterling Heights Stevenson 22-18. This is the first home loss of the season on Dan Barnabo Field for Romeo. The Bulldogs have a tough schedule down the stretch. They need to beat Eisenhower to make the playoffs. Speaking of Eisenhower, the Eagles offense has not shown up on the road lately, Eisenhower was beat 24-6 by the Macomb Dakota Cougars tonight. Dakota now has sole possession of first place in the MAC Red and is in good shape to make the postseason once again.

Walled Lake Northern is the kings of Walled Lake. Last week the Knights beat the Warriors of Walled Lake Western and now they steamrolled Walled Lake Central 49-7 capturing its first city title and now they have a shot at making the postseason. Tonight the Knights wore the pink jerseys in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness. For the Vikings this loss deals them a huge blow to their postseason chances.

Dragons run all over the Colts, await the Falcons next

Written Saturday September 22nd, at 12:20 AM

In a game of pick your poison what do you stop if your Troy??? The power running game, the passing game, or the jet sweep running game, the answer for Troy was that they could not stop any of it.

The top ranked in the Dragons Den poll and third in the AP Poll, Lake Orion Dragons just simply ran over the Colts 38-0 at Lake Orion on Friday night.

Troy could not stop Zack Arnold, Cory Ester, or Jacob Miller. All three had at least one touchdown on the night.

The second play of the game saw Arnold ran a jet sweep to the left for a 79 yard touchdown to make it 7-0 Lake Orion.

Jeremy King added a 19 yard field goal to make 10-0 Dragons. Then the big play happened again.

After a 68 yard run by Miller, Arnold took one to the house from eight yards out to make it 17-0 Dragons.

Oh wait it’s not done.

Ester than ran the ball for a 75 yard touchdown to make it 24-0 Lake Orion.

Miller than got his touchdown from 23 yards out to make it 31-0 Dragons. Then to wrap it up Senior Quarterback Derrick DeLaura found fellow Senior Chaz Miller for a eight yard touchdown to make it 38-0 Lake Orion to close out the scoring.

Lake Orion has been dominant since the Oxford game in the first half on offense, scoring 207 points in the last five games.

The Dragons defense was on all night, shutting down the Cherry twins (Terrance and Torrance and the returning Jay Darish (shoulder-Romeo) and Justin Losey (shoulder-Rochester) who came back from injuries.

The top ranked Dragons are now 5-0 on the season and 4-0 in the Red now host the seventh ranked Rochester Falcons on Friday night for Homecoming at Lake Orion. Rochester is a very good football team, especially defensibly so this could be an interesting game to see.

OAA Red Girls Volleyball and the Big 12 Conference in Football are more in common than different in 2012

Written Friday September 21st, at 1:40 PM

This 2012 Red Girls Volleyball season is more like the Big 12 Conference this season in college football with each team in comparison to a certain college football team in the Big 12. Here is the list and the reason why these teams are so similar to those in the Big 12 Conference. With apologies to Texas Christian University, here is the list of teams in the Red and it’s Big 12 counterparts.

Lake Orion Dragons:

Big 12 Team that they remind me of: Texas

The Dragons year in and year out gets plenty of talent to come out and play for its volleyball program. Lake Orion reminds me of Texas when it comes to influence. The Longhorns get a lot of attention on the field and the use of its college football network, the Longhorn Network. The Dragons have not had a long term coach compared to Mac Brown. Lake Orion has been consistent under first year coach Ross Talbott and also under Bob Howey. The Dragons may have no Bevo on the sidelines like Texas does they do have a strong fan base and have proven that last season’s trip to Battle Creek was no fluke, this team is in for the long run.

Clarkston Wolves:

Big 12 Team that they remind me of: Oklahoma

The Clarkston Wolves like the Lake Orion Dragons are rivals, Texas and Oklahoma are rivals. They are also a good program. Clarkston like Lake Orion gets plenty of talent to come out and play for its program. The Sooners and the Wolves are very similar in many ways. Both teams have had success and also long time coaches in Bob Stoops for the Sooners and Kelly Averall for the Wolves. Clarkston may have no Boomer-Sooner but will be good in the long run as well.

Troy Colts:

Big 12 Team that they remind me of: West Virginia

The Colts entered the Red from the White like West Virginia did from the Big East to the Big 12. They did get a new coach. The Colts in Tony Muscatt while the Mountaineers went with Dana Holgerson but the difference was West Virginia’s coaching situation was not stable as Holgerson was suppose to be the offensive coordinator while the late Bill Stewart was the head coach. Stewart resigned and Holgerson became the head coach. At Troy, the coaching situation was a much smoother transition and the Colts have benefited since.

North Farmington Raiders:

Big 12 Team that they remind me of: Oklahoma State

The Raiders this season have star players all around but they are very familiar with the style of play the run. The Raiders come to play like the Cowboys do for big games but then for some reason struggle in the middle games then have to survive in the very end. Oklahoma State last season almost made the BCS National Championship game but an upset loss to Iowa State ended those dreams. Not saying that North Farmington will do that but Coach Jennifer Condeni should be wary not to take anyone lightly like what happened to the Cowboys in Ames. The Raiders should be fine heading into the postseason and could give Mercy all they could handle.

Birmingham Seaholm Maples:

Big 12 Team they remind me of: Baylor

The Maples this season are a three headed monster but not like when Paige Neudenfelt graduated. Neudenfelt was Birmingham Seaholm’s Robert Griffin III but Seaholm has some capable players that can get it done and do some damage this season like the Bears were last season when they took down TCU and Oklahoma in the same season. Baylor like Seaholm could be in a lot of close and wild games this season for Coach Heather Lippert.

Oxford Wildcats:

Big 12 Team they remind me of: Kansas State

The blue and yellow Wildcats may have to look at another pair of Wildcats, its in purple and sliver comparison to its team. OK Oxford doesn’t get all the JU-CO Transfers that Kansas State has but they do have a Colin Klein at quarterback while Oxford does have its own star player in Darien Bandell who is pretty close to that of the Wildcats and influences everything they do on the volleyball court.

Rochester Falcons:

Big 12 Team they remind me of: Texas Tech

Ever since Mike Leech left Lubbock the Red Raiders have not been the same since then. Ever since the loss to Lake Orion in 2010 in the district finals the Falcons have not been the same team since that game, having to go through a coaching change and of course losing to teams that they should beat. Stephanie Sikorski is a senior this year and that could spell trouble in the next coming years. Rochester could be going down the same path that Texas Tech is going through right now.

Farmington Falcons:

Big 12 Team they remind me of: Kansas

The Falcons were placed in a tough situation in the Red in dealing with its city rivals Harrison, North Farmington, and Mercy. They are young and inexperienced like the Kansas Jayhawks. Last season the Jayhawks only won two games overall and one game in the Big 12. Farmington has a similar situation but they can upset someone in the process and they are a year away.

Rochester Adams Highlanders:

Big 12 Team that they remind me of: Iowa State

The Highlanders have proven that they can be a pain in the rear especially against its city rivals, Rochester and Stoney Creek but they can upset teams. Even though they are young it doesn’t mean Adams can make some noise like Iowa State has done to its Big Ten in-state rival Iowa. The last two seasons the Cyclones have kept the Cy-Hawk Trophy in Ames.

Well we'll see what happens this season.

Dragons Win a Wild One over the Colts

Written Thursday September 20th, at 11:13 PM

Tonight the volleyball atmosphere was more like a college football atmosphere. More of the former Big 12 variety  Especially a former Big 12 Rivalry, Nebraska vs Texas.

Troy played the role as the Huskers while Lake Orion played the role of the Longhorns. Tonight did not disappoint.

Experts this season at Troy thought that the transition from the White to the Red would be dangerous especially with a senior laden team, that's what Troy has in 2012. The Colts were projected to finish third in the Dragons Den preseason volleyball poll and was the dark-horse along with having a new coach in Tony Muscatt. The Dragons were projected to win the Red this season despite being ranked in the state poll behind Clarkston.

Tonight they lived up to expectations.

Even though the Colts fell 25-19, 25-17, 20-25, 18-25, 20-22 to the sixth ranked team in the state in Lake Orion, Troy dominated the first two games with shocking victories in the Dragons Den.

In the long run, this game will help both teams get better.

I thought tonight the senior laden Colts came ready to play, led by Nicole Hahn, Lindsey Moeller, Hope Keating, and Olivia Parks. They all did well tonight but the one that really played well for Troy was Lexie Pullen. Pullen I thought played well. She got kills at the right time and at times kept the Dragons off balance for Coach Tony Muscatt’s crew.

The sixth ranked Dragons coming off a state championship appearance had stars made tonight as well. Sophomore, Hannah Murdock is following the footsteps where her older sister Shannon left off especially with kills (15 kills). Also another star emerged in senior Tess Marshall. Marshall got hurt and missed the season last year but a fresh start and now being in the front row will help her get better.

The Dragons fortune turned after coach Ross Talbott made a move to bring in junior Olivia Hale in the third game. Hale made an immediate impact especially on the right side where the Dragons were just getting hammered all night by the Colts front line.

The match that made the night was Game five. Troy took the first two games while Lake Orion answered by taking the next two games.

Game five ended up becoming a battle of wills.

Lake Orion took a 14-6 lead early thanks in part to both Murdock's and crew. The Dragons tried to close out the game but an ankle injury to Hannah Murdock took her out of the game. That gave Troy the spark they desperately needed. Also what didn’t help was Coach Ross Talbott received a yellow card by the referees and Lake Orion appeared to be falling apart at the scene of the crime.

Kills by Parks, Moeller, Hahn, and Pullen gave Troy a 9-0 run and a 15-14 lead but Lake Orion answered to tie it then it became a back and fourth see-saw with Troy getting the lead three times in that span while Lake Orion had it three times. It came down to yet another emerging star.

Kaitlyn Rockey.

Rockey has already made an impact for this Dragon team this season. She played well against Adams but had two crucial blocks to help seal the win over Troy. Dragons star, Sophie Murdock struggled at times tonight but came through in the clutch when her team needed her the most, (15 kills, five blocks) Gabby Kalugar had 21 digs while Sabrina Cottrell had 31 assists. Marshall had eight kills for Lake Orion.

Moeller had 41 assists while Parks had 16 kills. Pullen had 12 kills for the Colts in the loss. Hahn added 10 kills for Troy.

The Dragons are now 21-6, 2-0 in the Red while Troy falls to 14-9-1, and 1-1 in the Red. Troy still has to play Clarkston at home on October 4th while Lake Orion travels to Clarkston on October 18^th.

The second ranked Wolves better look out because the Colts can play with them. They will have confidence to get done against Kelly Avernall’s team.

The Dragons will go to Portage (near Kalamazoo) for the Portage Central Invitational all day on Saturday and then return home on Tuesday October 2^nd against Rochester and Thursday October 4^th against Birmingham Seaholm. The Colts return home to play Oxford on Thursday September 27^th.

Tonight both teams played their hearts out. It’s sad that one team had to lose this game. Both teams are good teams that will be heard from this November once the postseason arrives.

OAA Picks Week 5

Written Tuesday September 18th, at 8:56 PM

Troy (3-1, 2-1 Red) at 1. Lake Orion (4-0, 3-0 Red): One of the most interesting games around the Red. Troy might return two key players to its roster and give them yet two weapons that they had when they played Romeo in week one. If they don't get them back then it could be ugly for the Colts but Troy is ready for this game, their class has not beaten Lake Orion in football in the four years as a class. Lake Orion has only allowed 14 points in the last two games but has scored 84 points during that stretch. The Colts and Dragons will be close but the advantage will go to the home team, too much speed. PICK: LAKE ORION 35, TROY 21.

2. Farmington (4-0, 3-0 White) at 3. Oak Park (4-0, 3-0 White): This is the best game in Oakland County and the OAA this week. The Knights and Falcons will be a battle for sole possession of first place in the White. Oak Park had a 24-18 win last week over Southfield while Farmington beat Oxford 19-13, both games went to overtime. The winner would have a good chance to see either Lake Orion or Clarkston in week nine. This game will be interesting but going to go with the Knights in this one. PICK: OAK PARK 30, FARMINGTON 27.

                                         

Berkley (2-2, 2-1 Blue) at 4. Avondale (4-0, 3-0 Blue): After a blowout win last week over Inkster the Yellow Jackets return to it’s home field to play the Bears. Berkley meanwhile fell to Birmingham Seaholm 27-9 at home last week. This could get very ugly for the Bears. PICK: AVONDALE 27, BERKLEY 8.

5. Lahser (4-0, 4-0 Blue) at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep (4-0, 2-0 CHSL): This is an awful match up for the Knights, traveling to Pontiac to play a red hot Fighting Irish team. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep did beat Almont in week one. Expect a battle between two good teams but this game will go to the home team. PICK: PONTIAC NOTRE DAME PREP 35, LAHSER 28.

6. Clarkston (4-0, 3-0 Red) at Stoney Creek (2-2, 1-2 Red): The Wolves have had first half issues but have continued to blow out their opponents like Lake Orion but they have not been tested yet. The Cougars won’t have their starting quarterback for another week and they were just blown out by the Dragons last week. This won’t be close. PICK: CLARKSTON 35, STONEY CREEK 14.

7. Seaholm (4-1, 4-0 Blue): Bye

Southfield (2-2, 1-2 White) at 8. Harrison (3-1, 2-1 White): This match up will be a battle of speed and skill. The Blue Jays need this win in the worst way if they want to have a shot of returning to the playoffs. The Hawks are in good shape to do some damage after destroying North Farmington last week. Last year the Hawks went into Southfield and won by two touchdowns, this year it will be quite the opposite in a minor upset. PICK: SOUTHFIELD 28, HARRISON 14.

Pontiac (1-3, 1-2 Red) at 9. Rochester (3-1, 2-1 Red): The Falcons are quietly moving up in the Red standings. Rochester better not be looking ahead to Lake Orion next week and focus on the Phoenix. Pontiac lost 24-13 last week to Troy. The Phoenix could give them a game but it won’t be enough to beat the Falcons. PICK: ROCHESTER 27, PONTIAC 14.

Royal Oak (0-4, 0-3 Blue) at 10. Hazel Park (3-1, 3-1 Blue): The Vikings have won three in a row since the loss to Avondale in the first week of the season. Hazel Park should be confident heading into a match up against a struggling Ravens squad. Next week will be tough when Birmingham Detroit Country Day comes for a visit but the Vikings will enjoy this one. PICK: HAZEL PARK 40, ROYAL OAK 7.

Adams (1-3, 1-2 White) at Oxford (2-2, 2-1 White): This is a big game for both teams. The Highlanders are still facing elimination this week after a win over Southfield Lathrup. The Wildcats return back to the blue turf after suffering a tough loss at Farmington. The last time Adams played at Oxford they eliminated the Wildcats from the playoffs now Oxford has that opportunity to return the favor and end Adams playoff streak that has last 15 years. PICK: OXFORD 31, ADAMS 27.

Troy Athens (0-4, 0-3 Red) at West Bloomfield (1-3, 0-3 Red): This battle is interesting but the Lakers only win was at home while the Red Hawks just could not catch a break but this week could be their opportunity in a low scoring game. PICK: TROY ATHENS 20, WEST BLOOMFIELD 17.

North Farmington (1-3, 0-3 White) at Southfield Lathrup (1-3, 0-3 White) At least someone has to win this game. The home team will. PICK: LATHRUP 24, NORTH FARMINGTON 20.

Groves (0-4, 0-4 Blue) at Ferndale (1-3, 1-3 Blue): The week to clear their minds is exactly what the Eagles needed after an 0-3 start. Ferndale did get a forfeit win last week against Andover, who hasn’t played in two weeks. The Falcons put up 33 points against the Vikings and still lost. I think the Eagles will be ready and win by three scores. PICK: FERNDALE 40, GROVES 20.

OAA Recap Week Four.

Written Saturday September 15th, at 12:00 AM

Dragons Den Top 10:

1. Lake Orion (4-0, 3-0 Red)

2. Farmington (4-0, 3-0 White)

3. Oak Park (4-0, 3-0 White)

4. Avondale (4-0, 3-0 Blue)

5. Lahser (4-0, 4-0 Blue)

6. Clarkston (4-0, 3-0 Red)

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

8. Harrison (3-1, 2-1 White)

9. Rochester (3-1, 2-1 Red)

10. Hazel Park (3-1, 3-1 Blue)

Teams that dropped out:

7. Oxford (2-2, 1-2 White)

9. Southfield (2-2, 1-2 White)

BIGGEST WIN OF THE WEEK: Oak Park 24, Southfield 18 O/T: The Knights needed overtime to beat the Blue Jays. During the overtime, Oak Park stopped Southfield on downs and the Knights converted on their chance to get the win over the Blue Jays. Southfield now has to beat Adams, Oxford or Harrison to have a shot at the playoffs while Oak Park is thinking league championship.

BIGGEST SHOCKER OF THE WEEK:  Birmingham Seaholm 30, Berkley 9: OK we all know that the Maples were deep but to go into Hurley Field and beat down the Bears was unheard of. Seaholm is now in good shape to make the postseason while as for Berkley they need to beat Avondale on the road to get back to playoff contention in the Blue

PLAY THIS AGAIN: Farmington 19, Oxford 13 O/T: This game was neck and neck until the very end. The Falcons scored a touchdown on its first possession of the overtime session. The Wildcats had one more chance to score but could not convert a pass into the end zone. Both of these teams will be playoff bound, Oxford returns home to play Adams next week while Farmington plays Oak Park.

DON’T PLAY THIS AGAIN: Lake Orion 42, Stoney Creek 7: The Dragons executed everything to perfection on Friday night. The Stoney Creek Cougars were just out matched by the Dragons and to make matters worse the starting quarterback did not play for Stoney Creek and it won’t get better next week when the Cougars host Clarkston.

TEAM'S THAT NEEDS A HUG: Oxford and Southfield: Both teams need a hug after some tough and emotional losses to Oak Park and Farmington respectably. Both teams are now 2-2 and have some interesting games, Southfield plays at Farmington Hills Harrison while Oxford hosts Adams.

Top Games for Week 5:

Troy at 1. Lake Orion: The Colts struggled for four quarters last week against a decent Pontiac Phoenix team in a 24-13 win but they will be challenged when they travel to Lake Orion and face the Dragons who have outscored opponents 169-44 this season.

3. Oak Park at 2. Farmington: The two winners get to face each other this week when the Knights travel to Farmington to take on the Falcons. Both teams should be confident with the winner getting sole position of first place in the White.

5. Lahser at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep: This will be a dangerous game for the Knights as they travel to Pontiac to face an undefeated Fighting Irish team. Notre Dame Prep is riding high and could pose a serious challenge to Lahser.

Southfield at 8. Harrison: The Hawks won a blowout 56-6 last week over North Farmington. Now they get a desperate Southfield team who also wants revenge after beating them by two touchdowns last season.

Adams at Oxford: The Highlanders won last week 28-7 over Lathrup but if they lose one more game then they are eliminated from the playoffs. Oxford lost a tough one to Farmington in overtime, could this game help cure the Wildcats and eliminate Adams once and for all.

OAA Red Standings:

1. Lake Orion               3-0       4-0

6. Clarkston                 3-0       4-0

9. Rochester                 2-1       3-1

Troy                             2-1       3-1

Stoney Creek               1-2       2-2

West Bloomfield           1-2       2-2

Pontiac                         1-2       1-3

Athens                          0-3       0-4

Troy at 1. Lake Orion

6. Clarkston at Stoney Creek

Pontiac at 9. Rochester

Troy Athens at West Bloomfield

OAA White Standings

2. Farmington               3-0       4-0

3. Oak Park                 3-0       4-0

8. Harrison                   2-1       3-1

Oxford                         1-2       2-2

Southfield                     1-2       2-2

Adams                         1-2       1-3

Lathrup                        0-3       1-3

North Farmington         0-3       1-3

3. Oak Park at 2. Farmington

Southfield at 8. Harrison

Adams at Oxford

North Farmington at Lathrup

OAA Blue Standings: # forfeited

4. Avondale                  3-0       4-0

5. Lahser                      4-0       4-0

7. Seaholm                   3-0       3-1

10. Hazel Park             3-1       3-1

Berkley                        2-2       2-2

Royal Oak                    1-2       1-3

Ferndale                       1-3       1-3

Groves                         0-4       0-4

Andover                       0-4       0-4 #

Berkley at 4. Avondale

5. Lahser at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

7. Seaholm=Bye

Royal Oak at 10. Hazel Park

Groves at Ferndale

Dragons put the hammer on the Cougars

Written Friday September 14th, at 11:59 PM

 For what is put during the season, the word spread Friday night at Lake Orion was domination.

It was a clinic as Lake Orion hammered Stoney Creek 42-7 to improve it’s record to 4-0, and 3-0 in the Red. Stoney Creek falls to 2-2, and 1-2 in the Red.

The Dragons took the opening kickoff, then scored on four running plays then added a passing touchdown for it’s scoring.

The Cougars played without their starting quarterback who injured his knee last week in a 19-14 loss to Troy. Stoney Creek scored their only touchdown on a 20 yard touchdown pass.

The Cougars will play Clarkston at home next week while the Dragons have a big showdown with Troy next week at home.

Fourth Ranked Dragons Volleyball completes phase one of Operation League Championship. Also my thoughts and projections on the season.

Written Friday September 14th, at 1:21 AM

Goals are usually set in stone and a league championship is in the mind of many. The opportunity for more is still there for the taking. For the Lake Orion Girls Volleyball team, phase one was compete.

After a State Championship appearance, a coaching change, and new players the result was the same Thursday night as the Dragons handed the Rochester Adams Highlanders (8-13-1) a three set loss, 25-13, 25-15, and 25-22 in Rochester.

This match was the first league opponent for new coach Ross Talbott.

Lake Orion is now 20-6 on the season with a 1-0 record in the Red and is ranked fourth in the state. The Dragons were led by deep talent pool of players, 17 deep???.  "I really like our depth. We're 17 deep. We play everybody and we don't have much of a drop off."

The Dragons were led by Gabby Kalugar’s 28 digs and Rachel Giwa’s 18 assists. Sophie Murdock (22 kills) and Hannah Murdock (six kills) also played well for the Dragons along with a few others in Ross Talbott’s league debut as varsity coach. "We don't have a dominant player but we have a lot of very good players in the back row that play solid defense and a lot of hitters that are getting the job done" added Talbott.

The Dragons next match will be a big test when they play a senior-laden Troy team next Thursday night in the home opener. The Colts handled the Farmington Falcons in three sets 25-23, 25-18, and 25-17.  This match could be a five game classic.

Troy features a senior laden team that last season went to the regional finals before falling to the Dragons at Lake Orion. The Colts are led by three very talented players along with others but they do have a first year coach also in Vince Muscat but the experience and leadership is making the transition process much easier at Troy.  

Now for the Colts top guns. The first is senior setter, Lindsey Moeller. Moeller is a very dangerous hitter and setter, if she’s on, then it could be trouble. She had six aces for the Colts against Farmington on Thursday night. The next player is Senior outside hitter, Nicole Hahn. Hahn had seven kills against Farmington in their blowout win over the Falcons. The next player is junior hitter Olivia Parks who is probably Troy’s best hitter on the outside. Parks had 16 kills in the blowout win over the Falcons last week.

If Lake Orion wants to win that match it must use it’s depth to its advantage along with the home court against the senior experience that Troy will feature and shut down or limit the three players above performances in the match. If they do that then they will win and move on to the next one. If they don't then the league championship could very well be in serious jeopardy.

My projection for this season’s 2012 lady Dragons is that the Red is very interesting and tight as always. I think there are four very good teams in the league, in Lake Orion, Clarkston, North Farmington, and Troy. Oxford and Rochester feature star players as well that can carry them. Seaholm lost Paige Neudenfelt to graduation but did hang tough against Clarkston in a four set loss at the Wolves Den. Farmington and Adams are programs that are young and on the rise.

If the Dragons want to get to the promise land they have to beat not only everyone on the schedule but also win tournaments. Lake Orion so far has won two tournaments (Macomb Dakota, and not sure what the other one was yet). The league schedule is absolutely brutal with matches against Troy, Rochester, North Farmington, those matches will be at home but the road slate could decide the Dragons fate. Lake Orion travels to Seaholm, Lahser, and Farmington in the middle of the season and have two big matches at Oxford and at Clarkston to close the league season.

The road in the playoffs is going to be difficult as well for the Dragons, starting with districts when they will go to Romeo and either will play Oxford, Romeo, Adams, or Clarkston. Hopefully the Dragons don't get the bad luck of the draw and not play in the play-in game. Lake Orion and Clarkston last season were split up in the district (Lake Orion went east while Clarkston went west) where they met in the state semifinals in Battle Creek now they are together and one will enjoy the spoils of moving on. That winner will likely will see Birmingham Marian, a team the Dragons took down at home last season in a four game classic and if they get that far then they would deal with Troy or Waterford Kettering then a clash with Macomb Dakota in the state quarterfinals and a potential clash with Farmington Hills Mercy in the semifinals and Rockford in the finals.

In my opinion this team can't be thinking about league championships, even though they do want one but the Lady Dragons should be thinking long term especially with them being a state power, being ranked fourth in the state. The Red is a tough league and it won't be an easy path however coach Ross Talbott has liked the way his team has been playing. "I like the way we have been playing overall. We graduated eight players but we have a lot of kids just waiting in the wings and our JV team is undefeated (26-0, 1-0 Red) right now.

If that is the case then it could be a special season in Lake Orion and for years to come.

The Andover Barons cease football operations

Written Tuesday September 11th, at 10:30 PM

It’s hard to believe that this football team is now gone forever after finishing 10-2 in 2004.

Now the Bloomfield Hills Andover Barons are disbanded.

On Tuesday, the Bloomfield Hills School District pulled the plug on the Barons season after only 11 players showed up to practice for it’s game on Friday against Ferndale.

Next season the Barons will merge with Bloomfield Hills Lahser to become the Bloomfield Hills Blackhawks.

The Knights are currently ranked number five in the Dragons Den poll play at Groves on Friday.

Andover started the season 0-3 and 0-3 in the Blue will finish 0-9 and 0-8 in the Blue after forfeiting its final six games. Now teams, especially in the Blue (Ferndale, Avondale, Seaholm, Royal Oak, Goodrich, and Groves) that were suppose to play the Barons are now trying to find teams to play for the rest of the season.

The final game ever for Andover football was a 62-13 loss to Berkley.

It’s unfortunate and sad that these players, especially the seniors won’t be able to play its final football game for Andover and what happens to the players on the team this season??? Will they play at Lahser???

That’s the answer nobody but the Bloomfield Hills School District knows.

OAA Recap Week Three. Week Four should be interesting

Written Saturday August 8th, at 1:40 AM

This week was the expected and the unexpected games however some games were just baffled especially out of the OAA. Rochester Adams is 0-3 and could be eliminated from playoff contention if they lose to Lathrup next week. The schedule is brutal for the Highlanders though they have to play Oxford and Farmington on the road and Southfield at home. It will not be an easy road for the Highlanders. Southfield, Lake Orion, Lahser, Avondale, Berkley all won their contests by blowouts. Clarkston overcame a sluggish first half to beat Rochester and Oxford, Oak Park, Troy, Hazel Park, and Pontiac all won their games close.

Dragons Den Top 10:

1. Lake Orion   3-0, 2-0 Red

2. Farmington   3-0, 2-0 White

3. Oak Park     3-0, 2-0 White

4. Avondale      3-0, 3-0 Blue

5. Lahser          3-0, 3-0 Blue

6. Clarkston     3-0, 2-0 Red

7. Oxford         2-1, 2-0 White

8. Seaholm       2-1, 2-0 Blue

9. Southfield     2-1, 1-1 White

10. Harrison     2-1, 1-1 White

BIGGEST WIN OF THE WEEK: Oak Park 34, Adams 22: The Knights came into the game wanting revenge after a last season loss to the Highlanders in Knight Valley. With this win now Oak Park has not only tied its win total from a year ago but they could make the postseason for the first time since 2002. For the Highlanders they must win out to have any shot of making the playoffs for a 16^th consecutive season and the schedule is not pretty for Adams. The Highlanders have to travel to Oxford and Farmington but do get Southfield at home.

SHOCKER OF THE WEEK: Oxford 34, Harrison 31 Double O/T: The Wildcats used a potent ground attack and came back from a 21-7 halftime deficit to force overtime, tied 21-21. In the first overtime both teams traded touchdowns then in double overtime the Hawks kicked a field goal while the Wildcats scored a touchdown to win it. Oxford now moves on its revenge tour next week to Farmington to play the Falcons. The Hawks must regroup and play North Farmington next week.

STRUGGLE OF THE WEEK: Clarkston 24, Rochester 0: Both teams made mistakes time and time again but Clarkston as the favorite wore the Falcons down with their depth. The Wolves led 6-0 at halftime before a 53 yard field goal helped Clarkston pull the game away. Clarkston moves onto play Troy Athens next week while Rochester hosts West Bloomfield.

TEAM THAT NEEDS A HUG: Stoney Creek: After two good wins over Royal Oak and Pontiac many felt that this was a big game for the Cougars against a depleted Colts team who had lost to Rochester last week however the Cougars couldn't capitalize on the opportunity at hand. Troy went on to beat Stoney Creek 19-14 in Rochester behind a daunting rushing attack. Stoney Creek now has the daunting task of traveling to Lake Orion next week and host Clarkston in two weeks. If Stoney Creek can win out and beat either Lake Orion or Clarkston then they could return to the playoffs.

DISSAPOINTMENT OF THE WEEK: Ferndale: The Eagles started the season with high expectations with a strong defense however the defense has not shown up to par and Ferndale suffered yet another defeat, this time to Hazel Park 26-20 in overtime.The Vikings were suppose to be the bottom feeders of the Blue this season. Ferndale still has to play Berkley and Detroit Henry Ford Creative Studies Academy at home and Avondale on the road to closeout it’s season With this much talent it’s disappointing for Eagles fans that if they don’t win out then they will miss the playoffs yet again.

Top 5 Games of the Week for Week Four:

# 7 Oxford at # 2 Farmington: Bud Riley and Oxford should be riding an emotional high after a huge win last week over Harrison in double overtime but to those who were on the team remember real well the last time Oxford and Farmington played. Last season on the blue turf at Oxford, the Wildcats overcame a 24-7 deficit and took a 31-24 lead with a minute left in the game however the Falcons scored a touchdown with eight seconds left and went for two to win 32-31 and stun the Wildcats nation. Oxford wants revenge for this game and is confident they can get this one in Farmington.

# 3 Oak Park at # 9 Southfield: The Jays took down the Knights last season in blowout fashion in Knight Valley however now Oak Park is improved and is a very dangerous team with a very good core group of players. There will be plenty of speed for this game and who ever wins in the battle of the trenches will win this game. Also this game has huge implications in the White thus Southfield already lost to Farmington while Oak Park still has to travel to Farmington to play the Falcons in week five.

Stoney Creek at # 1 Lake Orion: The Cougars did suffer a tough setback to Troy and lost their starting quarterback during the game. Now Stoney Creek has to travel to Lake Orion to play the Dragons in week four and then they host Clarkston in week five. This will be a very difficult two weeks for Stoney Creek having to face the two top teams in the Red. If the Cougars want to make the playoffs they have to beat either Lake Orion or Clarkston and win out the rest of their games to get to the promise land.

# 8 Seaholm at Berkley: The Maples return to Blue play after falling to Detroit Country Day 35-21 at home last week. The Bears come in at 2-1 and have scored 122 points against Blue opponents while 14 against Saginaw. This will be an interesting test for both teams if they want to make the playoffs and also that this will be Seaholm's first road game of the season and it will be at Hurley Field. Berkley and Seaholm both come into this game at 2-0 in the Blue and 2-1 overall with both teams losing their respective non league games. (Berkley: Saginaw. Seaholm: Birmingham Detroit Country Day.)

Inkster at # 4 Avondale: This is not the same Inkster team that has been powerhouses of the past since Greg Carter left Inkster to go to Oak Park. The Yellow Jackets are red hot on offense, averaging 45.3 points per game and is coming in at 3-0 and 3-0 in the Blue. This could be interesting for both teams and especially for Avondale.

OAA Red Standings:

1. Lake Orion   3-0, 2-0

6. Clarkston     3-0, 2-0

Troy                 2-1, 1-1

Stoney Creek   2-1, 1-1

Rochester         2-1, 1-1

Pontiac             1-2, 1-1

W.B.                1-2, 0-2

Athens              0-3, 0-2

Stoney Creek at 1. Lake Orion

6. Clarkston at Athens

Pontiac at Troy

West Bloomfield at Rochester

OAA White Standings:

2. Farmington   3-0, 2-0

3. Oak Park     3-0, 2-0

7. Oxford         2-1, 2-0

9. Southfield     2-1, 1-1

10. Harrison     2-1, 1-1

N.F.                 1-2, 0-2

Lathrup            1-2, 0-2

Adams             0-3, 0-2

7. Oxford at 2. Farmington

3. Oak Park at 9. Southfield

North Farmington at 10. Harrison

Lathrup at Adams

OAA Blue Standings:

4. Avondale      3-0, 3-0

5. Lahser          3-0, 3-0

8. Seaholm       2-1, 2-0

Berkley            2-1, 2-0

Hazel Park       1-2, 1-2

Royal Oak        0-3, 0-2

Ferndale           0-3, 0-3

Groves             0-3, 0-3

Andover           0-3, 0-3

Inkster at 4. Avondale

5. Lahser at Royal Oak

8. Seaholm at Berkley

Ferndale at Andover

Hazel Park at Groves

Other Upsets around the State:

The biggest shock around the state came from Macomb County and in the MAC Red when Chippewa Valley shocked Utica Eisenhower 21-7 at Chippewa Valley. The Big Reds honored one of their fallen classmates who passed away from cancer. A lot of experts expected that the Eagles to do well under their new coach and their experience. Eisenhower was projected to run away with the MAC Red championship but now it could be a race between Eisenhower, Macomb Dakota, and Chippewa Valley. It is possible that this match up could be a district preview as now the Big Reds are in play along with Macomb Dakota, Romeo, and the Eagles will make the postseason for the MAC Red.

Hard to believe that both Grand Blanc and Rockford are 1-2 this season. Rockford was going to be young and lost a lot of talent from teams that went to the state semifinals the last four of five seasons. Grand Blanc is a different story, though. The Bobcats have a lot of Division One talent but haven't been able to pull it together. If they lose two more games they won't be able to make the playoffs.

The Bobcats just got a huge win at Milford on Friday night 35-13 over the Mavericks That win sent Grand Blanc’s record to 1-2 and 1-0 in the Kensington Lakes West Division. The Bobcats still have games against Brighton, Howell, Pickeny, and Hartland during the season.

On the west side of the state, the Rockford Rams fell to the Muskegon Big Reds 27-9 in Rockford on Friday night. The Rams did lose their starting quarterback with an injury and his status for the Jenison game is unknown. Rockford still has to play Hudsonville, Grand Haven, and Holland West Ottawa during the season.

Both teams should make the playoffs and probably expect Grand Blanc to either be paired in a district with  Flint Carman Ainsworth and deal with the west side of the state or put them in a district that involves Lake Orion, Clarkston, and Davison. Rockford will be with Greenville, Lansing Holt, and Traverse City West in a district.

The OAA has some interesting match-ups next week for week four. We'll see what happens next week. Take care everyone.