After another enthralling season of college football that saw everything from epic victories, shocking upsets, and disheartening scandals, fans of the game now have dozens of bowl games to view over the next few weeks. Whether or not you believe that college football should have a playoff system, no one can deny that the two best teams in the country are playing in the title game. LSU is 13-0, dominating teams in the nation’s toughest conference despite an early season suspension of their quarterback Jordan Jefferson. Alabama is 11-1, with their sole loss coming to LSU in overtime, 9-6. The SEC (Southeastern Conference) has produced the last 5 national champions, and is guaranteed to produce a sixth straight when the Tigers meet the Crimson Tide in an unprecedented rematch of two of the best defenses college football has ever seen. Here’s how they matchup:
LSU
Alabama
Edge
QB
Normally teams that have two quarterbacks split time aren’t successful, but that hasn’t stopped Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee, who have both stepped up when the other struggled. Jefferson should expect most of the snaps, but it he falters early, don’t be surprised to see the capable Lee step in.
Alabama football is not usually about the QB as much as the rushing and defense, but AJ McCarron has had a very efficient season, throwing 16 TDs and just 5 interceptions.
LSU: Jefferson is the better playmaker, especially with his feet, and has far more experience dealing with adversity than the younger McCarron.
RB
The Tigers have the deepest running back core in the nation, splitting time between 4 or 5 backs each game. Michael Ford, Spencer Ware, Alfred Blue, and Kenny Hilliard all have at least 7 TDs.
Heisman candidate Trent Richardson had another monster season, rushing for over 1500 yards and 20 TDs.
Bama: Richardson is a nearly unstoppable force who will want to avenge his scoreless effort against the Tigers earlier this year.
WR
Rueben Randle has been great this season, hauling in 8 TDs and over 900 receiving yards, including averaging 18 yards per catch.
Senior Marquis Maze hasn’t scored a TD since Game 1, but was a valuable contributor when the Tide won the national title in ’09, so don’t be surprised if he steps up.
LSU: The 6’4” Randle and the speedy Russell Shepard have combined for 12 TDs and can create huge matchup problems.
O-Line
The Big Uglies have given up only 14 sacks and created lots of holes for their rushers to fly through.
Led by All-American Barrett Jones, the Tide have only given up 15 sacks and have paved the way for Richardson’s stellar year.
Bama: Jones and company have size and experience, including a national title two years ago.
Front 7 (Defense)
The Tigers have two of the best defensive ends in the country in Sam Montgomery (9 sacks) and Barkevious Mingo (8 sacks)
Future early-round NFL draft choices Courtney Upshaw (8.5 sacks) and Dont’a Hightower have wreaked havoc all season long.
Tie: The matchup between the nation’s best Des and LBs should be awesome.
Defensive backs
Tyrann Mathieu, who won the Chuck Bednarik Award (given to the best defender in college), and Morris Claiborne, who won the Jim Thorpe Award (given to the best defensive back in the country) are the best it gets.
Mark Barron was a shut-down DB on the Tide’s legendary, title-clinching defense in ’09, and he picked off Jarrett Lee earlier this season.
LSU: Mathieu, who was a Heisman candidate, and Claiborne should be starting in the NFL this time next year.
Special Teams
Kicker Drew Alleman is 3 for 4 on field goals of 40 yards or more, and has hit 16 of 18 overall.
Kicker Jeremy Shelley is 16 for 20 on field goals, but is 0 for 2 from beyond 40 yards.
LSU: LSU has the better kicker, and while neither team has a big-time returner, a special teams’ touchdown could be the only way to get in the end zone in a game where points will be at a premium.
coaches
Les Miles won it all with the Tigers in ’07 despite losing 2 games earlier that season. This team is much better than the ’07 club, and he helped them beat the Tide in Alabama already this season.
Nick Saban, a former LSU head coach, won it all in ’09 with Alabama, but also won a title with LSU in ’03, and would love nothing more than to conquer his former employers.
Tie: Miles, known as the “Mad Hatter”, will have some tricks up his sleeve, but Saban never fails to learn from his mistakes, and he’s had his Crimson Tide ready for a rematch since the day they lost to LSU.
SOS (strength of schedule)
The Tigers defeated 8 ranked teams this season, including wins over #2 Alabama, then-#3 Oregon, and then-#3 Arkansas.
The Tide have beaten 4 ranked opponents, but Penn State and Florida turned out to be weaker teams than most people thought.
LSU: The Tigers haven’t just played tough teams all year long, they’ve crushed them, winning their games by an average of 4 TDs.
And the winner will be……………………………LSU!! The Tigers have the defensive discipline and depth on offense to hang with the physically-exhausting Crimson Tide all game long, and also have better playmakers on both sides of the ball to get it done in crunch time. Final Score: LSU 13, Alabama 10.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Big Year for College Basketball
The NBA lockout has left the world without one of its greatest professional sports. Basketball superstars in their prime, such as LeBron James, Derrick Rose and Dwayne Wade, are on the sidelines, or are playing elsewhere. While Kobe Bryant plays in Italy, fans of the game need high quality basketball closer to home. Most people don’t really pay attention to college basketball until March, but the sport might garner more focus now that the world’s most competitive league is on hiatus. Many stellar players skipped out on the NBA Draft this year and decided to return to their schools, making this season an intriguing one. Here are some of the favorites to win the NCAA Tournament when it’s all said and done:
North Carolina: The Tar Heels boast one of the best front courts in the nation with big men Tyler Zeller and John Henson. The 7-foot-tall Zeller is averaging 18 points per game and 7 rebounds per game so far this season, and the 6’10” Henson is averaging 9.5 rebounds and 5.5 blocks per game. And by the way, Coach Roy Williams also brings back one of the nation’s best players in sophomore small forward Harrison Barnes, who could have been the number 1 pick in the last NBA Draft. Classmate Kendall Marshall has continued to run the point with authority, averaging 10 assists per contest. The Tar Heels have started 3-0, including an impressive victory over Michigan State on the USS Carl Vinson, the first aircraft carrier to host a college basketball game. North Carolina will be well tested throughout the season, playing at #2 Kentucky and #24 Florida State, hosting #13 Wisconsin, and playing two must-see battles against archrival #6 Duke, another title contender. With more experience and depth than last season’s Elite 8 squad, anything short of the Final Four will be a bitter disappointment in Chapel Hill.
Kentucky: Coach John Calipari has put together some of the greatest recruiting classes of all time over the past few seasons, and this year is no exception. Marquis Teague is the latest superstar freshman point guard for Calipari, following in the footsteps of Derrick Rose, Tyreke Evans, John Wall, and Brandon Knight. 6’10” classmate Anthony Davis has averaged over 13 points and 7 rebounds per game, and freshmen forwards Michael Kidd-Gilchrest and Kyle Wiltjer are expected to make big contributions. Just like the other title favorites, the Wildcats boast a national player of the year candidate in forward Terrence Jones, who was projected to be a top draft choice before he chose to return to school. Guard Doron Lamb is averaging nearly 20 points per game in Kentucky’s 4-0 start this season, which has included a huge win over #11 Kansas. Kentucky gets to face most of their tougher opponents at home, such as #1 UNC, #7 Louisville, #8 Florida, #15 Alabama, and #20 Vanderbilt. They do have to play Florida, Vanderbilt, and a talent-filled Mississippi State club on the road. Nevertheless, Calipari returns many key pieces from last season’s Final Four squad that lost to UConn by one point, and combined with another crop of incredible freshman, it could result in the Wildcats’ 8th national title.
Ohio State: The Buckeyes are another perennial power returning one of the nation’s best sophomores. 6’9”, 280lb Jared Sullinger is a legitimate candidate for the Naismith Award, which is given to the country’s best player, after averaging 17 points and 10 rebounds per game as a freshman last season. Coach Thad Matta lost key guards to graduation in Jon Diebler and David Lighty, but returns guards William Buford (15ppg this season) and Aaron Craft (4.7 assists per game). The Buckeyes will rely on youngsters like forward Deshaun Thomas and 6’11” Amir Williams to step up and play key roles this season. Ohio State has started the season 3-0, including a very impressive victory over #8 Florida. They have several other key games against the likes of #6 Duke, #11 Kansas, #17 Michigan, and #13 Wisconsin. With the exception of Duke, the Buckeyes have to play those ranked opponents on the road. Ohio State would love to bring a title back to Columbus, something they haven’t done since 1960, and with a beast like Sullinger leading the way, this would be the year to do it.
Connecticut: The defending national champs lost superstar point guard Kemba Walker, who was drafted by the Charlotte Bobcats, but return most of their title-winning squad. The Huskies are young but experienced thanks to their title run, and they too have superb sophomores leading the way. Jeremy Lamb has continued the hot streak he started at the end of last season, averaging 22 points per game so far this season. Fellow sophomore Shabazz Napier is averaging 17 points and 4 assists per game, and classmate Tyler Olander has been a rebounding machine. A huge factor for Huskies in their title defense may be the play of the big men down low, including 6’9”junior Alex Oriakhi and 6’10”, 275lb freshman Andre Drummond, who was a top-5 recruit in the nation. The Huskies have begun the year 4-0 in a easy non-conference schedule, but will be well tested in the rugged Big East, playing #20 Cincinnati, #19 Marquette, #9 Pittsburgh, and #7 Louisville once, and #5 Syracuse twice. Coach Jim Calhoun has led UConn to 3 national titles since 1999, which is more than any other team has won in that span. With the talent and unforgettable experience of last year’s run, this season’s team is prepared to prove to the nation that they can win it all again, without Kemba.
North Carolina: The Tar Heels boast one of the best front courts in the nation with big men Tyler Zeller and John Henson. The 7-foot-tall Zeller is averaging 18 points per game and 7 rebounds per game so far this season, and the 6’10” Henson is averaging 9.5 rebounds and 5.5 blocks per game. And by the way, Coach Roy Williams also brings back one of the nation’s best players in sophomore small forward Harrison Barnes, who could have been the number 1 pick in the last NBA Draft. Classmate Kendall Marshall has continued to run the point with authority, averaging 10 assists per contest. The Tar Heels have started 3-0, including an impressive victory over Michigan State on the USS Carl Vinson, the first aircraft carrier to host a college basketball game. North Carolina will be well tested throughout the season, playing at #2 Kentucky and #24 Florida State, hosting #13 Wisconsin, and playing two must-see battles against archrival #6 Duke, another title contender. With more experience and depth than last season’s Elite 8 squad, anything short of the Final Four will be a bitter disappointment in Chapel Hill.
Kentucky: Coach John Calipari has put together some of the greatest recruiting classes of all time over the past few seasons, and this year is no exception. Marquis Teague is the latest superstar freshman point guard for Calipari, following in the footsteps of Derrick Rose, Tyreke Evans, John Wall, and Brandon Knight. 6’10” classmate Anthony Davis has averaged over 13 points and 7 rebounds per game, and freshmen forwards Michael Kidd-Gilchrest and Kyle Wiltjer are expected to make big contributions. Just like the other title favorites, the Wildcats boast a national player of the year candidate in forward Terrence Jones, who was projected to be a top draft choice before he chose to return to school. Guard Doron Lamb is averaging nearly 20 points per game in Kentucky’s 4-0 start this season, which has included a huge win over #11 Kansas. Kentucky gets to face most of their tougher opponents at home, such as #1 UNC, #7 Louisville, #8 Florida, #15 Alabama, and #20 Vanderbilt. They do have to play Florida, Vanderbilt, and a talent-filled Mississippi State club on the road. Nevertheless, Calipari returns many key pieces from last season’s Final Four squad that lost to UConn by one point, and combined with another crop of incredible freshman, it could result in the Wildcats’ 8th national title.
Ohio State: The Buckeyes are another perennial power returning one of the nation’s best sophomores. 6’9”, 280lb Jared Sullinger is a legitimate candidate for the Naismith Award, which is given to the country’s best player, after averaging 17 points and 10 rebounds per game as a freshman last season. Coach Thad Matta lost key guards to graduation in Jon Diebler and David Lighty, but returns guards William Buford (15ppg this season) and Aaron Craft (4.7 assists per game). The Buckeyes will rely on youngsters like forward Deshaun Thomas and 6’11” Amir Williams to step up and play key roles this season. Ohio State has started the season 3-0, including a very impressive victory over #8 Florida. They have several other key games against the likes of #6 Duke, #11 Kansas, #17 Michigan, and #13 Wisconsin. With the exception of Duke, the Buckeyes have to play those ranked opponents on the road. Ohio State would love to bring a title back to Columbus, something they haven’t done since 1960, and with a beast like Sullinger leading the way, this would be the year to do it.
Connecticut: The defending national champs lost superstar point guard Kemba Walker, who was drafted by the Charlotte Bobcats, but return most of their title-winning squad. The Huskies are young but experienced thanks to their title run, and they too have superb sophomores leading the way. Jeremy Lamb has continued the hot streak he started at the end of last season, averaging 22 points per game so far this season. Fellow sophomore Shabazz Napier is averaging 17 points and 4 assists per game, and classmate Tyler Olander has been a rebounding machine. A huge factor for Huskies in their title defense may be the play of the big men down low, including 6’9”junior Alex Oriakhi and 6’10”, 275lb freshman Andre Drummond, who was a top-5 recruit in the nation. The Huskies have begun the year 4-0 in a easy non-conference schedule, but will be well tested in the rugged Big East, playing #20 Cincinnati, #19 Marquette, #9 Pittsburgh, and #7 Louisville once, and #5 Syracuse twice. Coach Jim Calhoun has led UConn to 3 national titles since 1999, which is more than any other team has won in that span. With the talent and unforgettable experience of last year’s run, this season’s team is prepared to prove to the nation that they can win it all again, without Kemba.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Heisman Race
The Heisman Trophy, the award given to the top college football player in the nation, is the sport’s most coveted prize. The country’s elite battle all year long with two goals, to win a national title, and to hear their name called in Madison Square Garden for induction into the Heisman Trust. The last several Heisman races have been thrilling, with sophomores taking home the award in ’07, ‘08, and ’09, an Alabama player winning the Heisman for the first time in their rich history in ‘09, and the controversy behind Cam Newton’s stellar Heisman season last year. This season’s race should be just as intense. Here are some of the top contenders:
The Favorite: Andrew Luck, QB, junior, Stanford
There’s a reason that the fight for the 1st overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft is known as “The Luck Sweepstakes.” Luck has been amongst the top QB’s in the nation over the past few years. In fact, many experts believed that Luck would have been the number 1 pick in last season’s draft, instead of Newton. Long-time draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. called Luck the best QB prospect that he had seen since John Elway, another Stanford grad who was a number 1 overall pick and an NFL Hall of Famer. Critics have trouble finding weaknesses to counteract Luck’s many strengths, which include his size (he’s 6’4”), accuracy, arm strength, poise, athleticism, etc. Luck has the stats to support his case as well: a 20 to 3 TD to interception ratio, a 71.8 completion %, a QB rating of 180, and a team that is 7-0 and ranked 6th in the nation. Most of the recent Heisman winners have been on teams that have won the national championship, so leading a team into BCS title contention is an important Heisman factor. It will take a big collapse by Luck, or a huge outburst from another contender for the Stanford QB to be defeated. Luck was the Heisman runner-up to Newton last season, so he should expect nothing less than 1st this time around.
Contenders: Trent Richardson, RB, junior, Alabama
Alabama is the number 2 team in the nation for two main reasons, their defense, and Trent Richardson. Richardson combines excellent speed with brute strength to embarrass his adversaries en route to many scores and chain-moving gains. Richardson has gotten significant work all 3 years at Alabama, including as a freshman and sophomore behind 2009 Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram. With Ingram now playing in the NFL for the Saints, Richardson has exploded with 989 rushing yards and 17 TDs, marks that both currently rank 2nd in whole nation. The most impressive thing of all is that he’s done it playing in the SEC, which is widely known as the best defensive conference in the land. Richardson has already won a national title, but now he needs to step it up even more against brutal SEC opponents, such as number 1 LSU, in order to pass Luck.
Kellen Moore, QB, senior, Boise State
Despite playing in the less respected Mountain West Conference, Moore has put together a 4-year career that will go down as one of the best ever. With the Broncos win over Air Force, Moore tied Colt McCoy for the most wins by a FBS quarterback with 45, improving his career record to a ridiculous 45-2. Moore became Boise State’s 1st ever Heisman finalist last season, finishing in 4th place. He lost his two best receiving targets, Titus Young and Austin Pettis, to the NFL, but has done an excellent job using Tyler Shoemaker, his brother Kirby Moore, and other less experienced receivers. Despite his smaller stature (he is generously listed at 6’1”), Moore leads the nation with 24 passing TDs, is 2nd in the country with a 76.3 completion percentage, and ranks 4th in the land with a QB rating of 180.7. His team is undefeated once again, and Moore hopes to finally get his team to a national title game. He’ll need to be good to get them there. Heisman good.
The Darkhorse: Robert Griffin III, QB, junior, Baylor
RG3 is having one of the best statistical seasons a player can have. Through the 1st 3 games of the season, Griffin actually had more touchdown passes (13) then incomplete passes (12), and didn’t throw a single interception. He cooled down a little after that, but still threw for 430 yards against Texas A&M, and also ran for 107 yards against Iowa State. Griffin leads the nation in QB rating (205.7) and completion percentage (78%), ranks 2nd in yards per pass attempt (10.7 yards), and ranks 4th with 22 passing TDs. He’s also only thrown 2 interceptions this season. So why isn’t he the favorite? Griffin doesn’t have the same kinds of weapons around him that the other candidates do. Baylor doesn’t have a great defense or running game, so Griffin has to do most of the work himself. Griffin hasn’t been able to lead Baylor to national title contention like the other candidates, and even though he’s 4-2 this season, he wasn’t able to carry his to victory in tough road losses to Kansas State and Texas A&M. Griffin has plenty of chances to gain ground on the other contenders in 4 remaining games against ranked opponents: #3 Oklahoma State, #9 Oklahoma, #20 Texas Tech, and #24 Texas. He will need to continue to be unreal the rest of the way, and will have to seriously improve the Bears 1-2 conference record to find his way to the Garden at the end of the year.
The Favorite: Andrew Luck, QB, junior, Stanford
There’s a reason that the fight for the 1st overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft is known as “The Luck Sweepstakes.” Luck has been amongst the top QB’s in the nation over the past few years. In fact, many experts believed that Luck would have been the number 1 pick in last season’s draft, instead of Newton. Long-time draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. called Luck the best QB prospect that he had seen since John Elway, another Stanford grad who was a number 1 overall pick and an NFL Hall of Famer. Critics have trouble finding weaknesses to counteract Luck’s many strengths, which include his size (he’s 6’4”), accuracy, arm strength, poise, athleticism, etc. Luck has the stats to support his case as well: a 20 to 3 TD to interception ratio, a 71.8 completion %, a QB rating of 180, and a team that is 7-0 and ranked 6th in the nation. Most of the recent Heisman winners have been on teams that have won the national championship, so leading a team into BCS title contention is an important Heisman factor. It will take a big collapse by Luck, or a huge outburst from another contender for the Stanford QB to be defeated. Luck was the Heisman runner-up to Newton last season, so he should expect nothing less than 1st this time around.
Contenders: Trent Richardson, RB, junior, Alabama
Alabama is the number 2 team in the nation for two main reasons, their defense, and Trent Richardson. Richardson combines excellent speed with brute strength to embarrass his adversaries en route to many scores and chain-moving gains. Richardson has gotten significant work all 3 years at Alabama, including as a freshman and sophomore behind 2009 Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram. With Ingram now playing in the NFL for the Saints, Richardson has exploded with 989 rushing yards and 17 TDs, marks that both currently rank 2nd in whole nation. The most impressive thing of all is that he’s done it playing in the SEC, which is widely known as the best defensive conference in the land. Richardson has already won a national title, but now he needs to step it up even more against brutal SEC opponents, such as number 1 LSU, in order to pass Luck.
Kellen Moore, QB, senior, Boise State
Despite playing in the less respected Mountain West Conference, Moore has put together a 4-year career that will go down as one of the best ever. With the Broncos win over Air Force, Moore tied Colt McCoy for the most wins by a FBS quarterback with 45, improving his career record to a ridiculous 45-2. Moore became Boise State’s 1st ever Heisman finalist last season, finishing in 4th place. He lost his two best receiving targets, Titus Young and Austin Pettis, to the NFL, but has done an excellent job using Tyler Shoemaker, his brother Kirby Moore, and other less experienced receivers. Despite his smaller stature (he is generously listed at 6’1”), Moore leads the nation with 24 passing TDs, is 2nd in the country with a 76.3 completion percentage, and ranks 4th in the land with a QB rating of 180.7. His team is undefeated once again, and Moore hopes to finally get his team to a national title game. He’ll need to be good to get them there. Heisman good.
The Darkhorse: Robert Griffin III, QB, junior, Baylor
RG3 is having one of the best statistical seasons a player can have. Through the 1st 3 games of the season, Griffin actually had more touchdown passes (13) then incomplete passes (12), and didn’t throw a single interception. He cooled down a little after that, but still threw for 430 yards against Texas A&M, and also ran for 107 yards against Iowa State. Griffin leads the nation in QB rating (205.7) and completion percentage (78%), ranks 2nd in yards per pass attempt (10.7 yards), and ranks 4th with 22 passing TDs. He’s also only thrown 2 interceptions this season. So why isn’t he the favorite? Griffin doesn’t have the same kinds of weapons around him that the other candidates do. Baylor doesn’t have a great defense or running game, so Griffin has to do most of the work himself. Griffin hasn’t been able to lead Baylor to national title contention like the other candidates, and even though he’s 4-2 this season, he wasn’t able to carry his to victory in tough road losses to Kansas State and Texas A&M. Griffin has plenty of chances to gain ground on the other contenders in 4 remaining games against ranked opponents: #3 Oklahoma State, #9 Oklahoma, #20 Texas Tech, and #24 Texas. He will need to continue to be unreal the rest of the way, and will have to seriously improve the Bears 1-2 conference record to find his way to the Garden at the end of the year.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Nyack Helps Lead Rockland Football Charge
When Rockland football is mentioned in Westchester, it’s usually the butt end of a joke. Aside from Nyack, North Rockland, and Nanuet, Westchester high schools have dominated Section 1 football over the past few decades. Since 1993, Rockland schools have won just 15 out of the 82 total Section 1 titles across each class size, and have just 3 state titles compared to Westchester’s 19. Rockland teams are usually embarrassed by their counterparts across the river, and many thought that this trend would continue when Nyack, Nanuet, and North Rockland all lost their legendary coaches. However, things have changed in 2011, and Rockland football is showing what it’s made of.
Class AA has always been dominated by New Rochelle and other Westchester powers, like White Plains. North Rockland has had many great seasons, but they are usually the only relevant Rockland team in AA. This season, Clarkstown North, Clarkstown South, and Ramapo have all stepped up as rare dark horses in the title race. North beat North Rockland, which had owned them for decades, to start the season. North then proceeded to blow out Lincoln, and knock off White Plains, which had been one of the section favorites. South had an impressive start as well, beating Mamaroneck, Carmel, and Scarsdale. Carmel had been favored to win, but the Vikings thrashed them by 4 touchdowns. Ramapo has started the year 2-1, including a 21-14 victory at Yorktown in Yorktown’s homecoming game. North Rockland bounced back after losing to North with a victory over White Plains, keeping them alive in the playoff hunt. The classic rivalry game between Clarkstown North and Clarkstown South could be the biggest it has ever been when they meet in the last game of the regular season.
In Class A, Nyack, Pearl River, and Tappan Zee have all had impressive moments. Nyack started 2-0, hammering Brewster and Spring Valley, before losing a close, non-league game to Horace Greeley. Pearl River is 3-0, outscoring their opponents 81 to 6. Tappan Zee is 1-2, but very nearly upset 3-0 Somers, losing 19-18 in the final seconds to the title contender. Pearl River’s biggest obstacles to an unbeaten campaign are Bronxville, the defending Class C state champs, and Nyack.
Each team has had stellar individuals stand out and lead their clubs. North’s Travis Samuels returned an interception for a touchdown late against White Plains. South’s Frank Tucek ran for 3 TDs against Scarsdale. Nyack’s Paul Mitchell had touchdown runs of 55 yards and 73 yards in a win over Brewster. Pearl River’s Connor O’Sullivan kicked a 52-yard field goal against Panas, and TZ’s Joe Letizia ran for 192 yards and 3 TDs against Panas. Of course, excellent teamwork and defense have been huge factors in Rockland’s success as well. If these teams can keep it up, Rockland will have many contenders come playoff time, and the rest of Section 1 will have to stop laughing.
Class AA has always been dominated by New Rochelle and other Westchester powers, like White Plains. North Rockland has had many great seasons, but they are usually the only relevant Rockland team in AA. This season, Clarkstown North, Clarkstown South, and Ramapo have all stepped up as rare dark horses in the title race. North beat North Rockland, which had owned them for decades, to start the season. North then proceeded to blow out Lincoln, and knock off White Plains, which had been one of the section favorites. South had an impressive start as well, beating Mamaroneck, Carmel, and Scarsdale. Carmel had been favored to win, but the Vikings thrashed them by 4 touchdowns. Ramapo has started the year 2-1, including a 21-14 victory at Yorktown in Yorktown’s homecoming game. North Rockland bounced back after losing to North with a victory over White Plains, keeping them alive in the playoff hunt. The classic rivalry game between Clarkstown North and Clarkstown South could be the biggest it has ever been when they meet in the last game of the regular season.
In Class A, Nyack, Pearl River, and Tappan Zee have all had impressive moments. Nyack started 2-0, hammering Brewster and Spring Valley, before losing a close, non-league game to Horace Greeley. Pearl River is 3-0, outscoring their opponents 81 to 6. Tappan Zee is 1-2, but very nearly upset 3-0 Somers, losing 19-18 in the final seconds to the title contender. Pearl River’s biggest obstacles to an unbeaten campaign are Bronxville, the defending Class C state champs, and Nyack.
Each team has had stellar individuals stand out and lead their clubs. North’s Travis Samuels returned an interception for a touchdown late against White Plains. South’s Frank Tucek ran for 3 TDs against Scarsdale. Nyack’s Paul Mitchell had touchdown runs of 55 yards and 73 yards in a win over Brewster. Pearl River’s Connor O’Sullivan kicked a 52-yard field goal against Panas, and TZ’s Joe Letizia ran for 192 yards and 3 TDs against Panas. Of course, excellent teamwork and defense have been huge factors in Rockland’s success as well. If these teams can keep it up, Rockland will have many contenders come playoff time, and the rest of Section 1 will have to stop laughing.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Key NY HS Football Matchups: 9/23-9/25
There are several key matchups throughout the state this weekend in Class A. First, we’ll take a look at the biggest matchups in Section 1, and then we’ll look at major matchups around the state.
Section 1
4. Lakeland (1-1) @ John Jay (1-1): Both teams are dark horses in Class A who will be in dogfight at the end of the season for the last few playoff seeds. John Jay is definitely favored, but they haven’t come out as strong this season as people predicted. The winner will be in decent shape for the postseason, while the loser will have a tough climb. John Jay has two very tough games down the road with Harrison and Greeley, while Lakeland has a very easy road the rest of the way. This is definitely the time for John Jay to prove that they are a contender, and not a pretender. Prediction: John Jay 33-Lakeland 14
3. Nyack (2-0) @ Horace Greeley (2-0): This matchup between unbeaten rivals at SUNY Purchase would have been the game of the week, barring the fact that it is a non-league game, meaning that it is meaningless for playoff purposes. Greeley knocked Nyack out of the 1st round of the playoffs last year, and star QB Justin Ciero would love to torch Nyack once again. Greeley beat Sleepy Hollow by two touchdowns last week, but gave up 266 passing yards and 173 kick returning yards. Nyack QB Raydell Williams had some success passing against a porous Spring Valley defense, including a gorgeous touchdown pass to 6’3” Quincy Vasser, but Nyack will mainly stick with their powerful rushing attack. Paul Mitchell and Khalid Shabazz could do a lot of damage in the return game for Nyack after having big games last week. Nevertheless, Nyack’s passing defense was very poor, which is something Ciero should exploit. The key factor is that Greeley plans to rest their starters early, while Nyack claims that they will do whatever it takes to win. Greeley is the better team, but can their backups win in the 4th quarter? Prediction: Nyack 26-Greeley 21
2. Poughkeepsie (2-0) @ Eastchester (1-1, 1-0 in league): Eastchester, led by star running back Rob Carinci, performed well in a 35-20 win over Brewster, but Poughkeepsie is something really special. The best Section 1 program to never win a section title is clearly the favorite so far, knocking off defending champs Harrison last week to earn the number 2 ranking in the state. Eastchester has a good shot at the playoffs, but they will really need to catch the Pioneers off guard in this one. The Pioneers are on a mission, and their win over Harrison prepared them for Eastchester’s triple-option. Prediction: Poughkeepsie 35-Eastchester 17
1. Game of the Week: Rye (0-2) @ Ossining (1-1): Their records may not show it, but these teams have a lot of potential. The loser of this game will be nearly knocked out of the playoff picture, making it a must win for both. Rye has only gone 0-3 twice before in their legendary history, and will do anything to avoid going their again. Ossining can’t afford to fall to 1-2 with games against Sleepy, Harrison, and Greeley coming up. Ossining has an explosive offense, but their defense was horrendous in a 44-41 loss to Pelham last week. Rye needs to get it together, and it’s now or never time for Coach Dino Garr. Prediction: Rye 31-Ossining 21
Section 3
1. Whitesboro (3-0) @ Jamesville-DeWitt (3-0): Whitesboro, the defending section champs, are 3-0 and hungry to repeat, while J-D wants to establish themselves amongst a crowded elite at the top of the section. Whitesboro, who has averaged 46 points per game, actually crushed J-D 62-7 in the playoffs last year, so the Red Rams should be out for revenge. Whitesboro’s star running back Steve Almond has rushed for nearly 200 yards per game and 10 touchdowns. Prediction: Whitesboro 50, Jamesville-DeWitt 21
Section 5
1. Aquinas (3-0) @ McQuaid Jesuit (2-1): Aquinas, the defending state champs and winners of 16 straight games, look as loaded as ever. 6’6”, 290-pound, Notre Dame-bound lineman Jarron Jones has been a huge force, and QB Cory Benedetto has really come on strong, throwing for 643 yards and 10 TDs with a .784 completion % in the 1st 3 games. The 5-time state champs, and 5-time defending section champs have loaded their schedule with excellent regional talent. Nevertheless, there is a reason that McQuaid is the only Section 5 school on their schedule. McQuaid has been one of the only Section 5 teams to compete against Aquinas, losing to the Little Irish by an average of just 8 points per game from 2003-2009 before losing by 39 last year. McQuaid has never won a section title, and would certainly have to get through Aquinas later on in order to pull off a title. Prediction: Aquinas 49-McQuaid Jesuit 24
Section 9
1. Wallkill (2-1) @ Cornwall (3-0): These fierce archrivals should produce more fireworks after two epic meeting last season. Wallkill swept the series, winning 7-6 on a last-second extra-point in the regular season, and 24-22 in the section title game. The two have combined to win every section title since 2003, with Wallkill winning in only 2004 and 2010. Neither has won a state title, but each had a finals appearance. The Dragons from Cornwall lost QB Tyler Lawlor and RB Tyree Smallwood from last season, but returned RB Rashard Wroten. Wallkill lost RB Dominick Calvanico, but returned QB Eric Wellmon. The Panthers were upset 28-15 in their opener by Washingtonville, but have recovered well. Dragon’s QB Mike White has done well, while receiver Joe O’Rourke has excelled. Cornwall’s defense has been great, allowing under 7 points per game, while intercepting 9 passes in 3 games. Prediction: Cornwall 35-Wallkill 14S
Section 1
4. Lakeland (1-1) @ John Jay (1-1): Both teams are dark horses in Class A who will be in dogfight at the end of the season for the last few playoff seeds. John Jay is definitely favored, but they haven’t come out as strong this season as people predicted. The winner will be in decent shape for the postseason, while the loser will have a tough climb. John Jay has two very tough games down the road with Harrison and Greeley, while Lakeland has a very easy road the rest of the way. This is definitely the time for John Jay to prove that they are a contender, and not a pretender. Prediction: John Jay 33-Lakeland 14
3. Nyack (2-0) @ Horace Greeley (2-0): This matchup between unbeaten rivals at SUNY Purchase would have been the game of the week, barring the fact that it is a non-league game, meaning that it is meaningless for playoff purposes. Greeley knocked Nyack out of the 1st round of the playoffs last year, and star QB Justin Ciero would love to torch Nyack once again. Greeley beat Sleepy Hollow by two touchdowns last week, but gave up 266 passing yards and 173 kick returning yards. Nyack QB Raydell Williams had some success passing against a porous Spring Valley defense, including a gorgeous touchdown pass to 6’3” Quincy Vasser, but Nyack will mainly stick with their powerful rushing attack. Paul Mitchell and Khalid Shabazz could do a lot of damage in the return game for Nyack after having big games last week. Nevertheless, Nyack’s passing defense was very poor, which is something Ciero should exploit. The key factor is that Greeley plans to rest their starters early, while Nyack claims that they will do whatever it takes to win. Greeley is the better team, but can their backups win in the 4th quarter? Prediction: Nyack 26-Greeley 21
2. Poughkeepsie (2-0) @ Eastchester (1-1, 1-0 in league): Eastchester, led by star running back Rob Carinci, performed well in a 35-20 win over Brewster, but Poughkeepsie is something really special. The best Section 1 program to never win a section title is clearly the favorite so far, knocking off defending champs Harrison last week to earn the number 2 ranking in the state. Eastchester has a good shot at the playoffs, but they will really need to catch the Pioneers off guard in this one. The Pioneers are on a mission, and their win over Harrison prepared them for Eastchester’s triple-option. Prediction: Poughkeepsie 35-Eastchester 17
1. Game of the Week: Rye (0-2) @ Ossining (1-1): Their records may not show it, but these teams have a lot of potential. The loser of this game will be nearly knocked out of the playoff picture, making it a must win for both. Rye has only gone 0-3 twice before in their legendary history, and will do anything to avoid going their again. Ossining can’t afford to fall to 1-2 with games against Sleepy, Harrison, and Greeley coming up. Ossining has an explosive offense, but their defense was horrendous in a 44-41 loss to Pelham last week. Rye needs to get it together, and it’s now or never time for Coach Dino Garr. Prediction: Rye 31-Ossining 21
Section 3
1. Whitesboro (3-0) @ Jamesville-DeWitt (3-0): Whitesboro, the defending section champs, are 3-0 and hungry to repeat, while J-D wants to establish themselves amongst a crowded elite at the top of the section. Whitesboro, who has averaged 46 points per game, actually crushed J-D 62-7 in the playoffs last year, so the Red Rams should be out for revenge. Whitesboro’s star running back Steve Almond has rushed for nearly 200 yards per game and 10 touchdowns. Prediction: Whitesboro 50, Jamesville-DeWitt 21
Section 5
1. Aquinas (3-0) @ McQuaid Jesuit (2-1): Aquinas, the defending state champs and winners of 16 straight games, look as loaded as ever. 6’6”, 290-pound, Notre Dame-bound lineman Jarron Jones has been a huge force, and QB Cory Benedetto has really come on strong, throwing for 643 yards and 10 TDs with a .784 completion % in the 1st 3 games. The 5-time state champs, and 5-time defending section champs have loaded their schedule with excellent regional talent. Nevertheless, there is a reason that McQuaid is the only Section 5 school on their schedule. McQuaid has been one of the only Section 5 teams to compete against Aquinas, losing to the Little Irish by an average of just 8 points per game from 2003-2009 before losing by 39 last year. McQuaid has never won a section title, and would certainly have to get through Aquinas later on in order to pull off a title. Prediction: Aquinas 49-McQuaid Jesuit 24
Section 9
1. Wallkill (2-1) @ Cornwall (3-0): These fierce archrivals should produce more fireworks after two epic meeting last season. Wallkill swept the series, winning 7-6 on a last-second extra-point in the regular season, and 24-22 in the section title game. The two have combined to win every section title since 2003, with Wallkill winning in only 2004 and 2010. Neither has won a state title, but each had a finals appearance. The Dragons from Cornwall lost QB Tyler Lawlor and RB Tyree Smallwood from last season, but returned RB Rashard Wroten. Wallkill lost RB Dominick Calvanico, but returned QB Eric Wellmon. The Panthers were upset 28-15 in their opener by Washingtonville, but have recovered well. Dragon’s QB Mike White has done well, while receiver Joe O’Rourke has excelled. Cornwall’s defense has been great, allowing under 7 points per game, while intercepting 9 passes in 3 games. Prediction: Cornwall 35-Wallkill 14S
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Key Section 1 Class A Games: Week 2
3. Horace Greeley (1-0) at Sleepy Hollow (1-0):
Sleepy Hollow looked good in a 21-20 victory over Pelham in Week 1, but QB Nick Vallo and star LJ Garrant will have to be huge in order to knock off last season’s sectional runner-up. The Quakers dismantled Roosevelt 56-14 behind star QB Justin Ciero, who has become one of the most feared players in the section. Nevertheless, Roosevelt is not nearly the same team they were when they won sections in 2009, graduating most of their good players and failing to field a JV team last year. The Quakers will look to stop Garrant, who had 178 all-purpose yards and a touchdown against Pelham, but that is certainly easier said than done. The Horseman will certainly have to mix it up on offense, and contain Ciero on defense to have a shot. This game is huge for Sleepy, who’s only remaining tough opponent after Greeley is Ossining, who they play at home in October. Sleepy is a darkhorse contender this season, and the Quakers better not sleep on them. Prediction: Horace Greeley 24- Sleepy Hollow 14
2. John Jay-Cross River (0-1) at Rye (0-1):
Both teams came into the season with high expectations, but both fell to worthy opponents in the first week. John Jay fell victim to a late Ossining comeback, which resulted in a 28-21 defeat in which one of the players was hospitalized. Rye was dropped 28-20 by Somers, the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last season. Rye may have injury issues as well with QB/DB Jake Meyerson, who had to be replaced by freshman Andrew Livingston late against Somers. The winner of this game will still have a decent shot in the playoffs, but the loser will fall to 0-2. With Harrison and Greeley on both teams schedules, the loser will have a tall mountain to climb the rest of the way to make the playoffs. Prediction: Rye 28- John Jay 21
1. Game of the Week: Harrison (1-0) at Poughkeepsie (1-0):
This highly anticipated rematch of last season’s sectional semifinals should live up to the hype. The Huskies of Harrison won 42-27 at Poughkeepsie in that game en route to a section title and an appearance in the state championship game. The Pioneers, who have never won a section title, will be hungry for revenge, especially on their own field. They looked stellar in the 53-0 thrashing of Spring Valley on the road in Week 1. QB Josh Oliver threw 2 TD passes to Siddique Haddad, and had a 70 yard TD run of his own. The Pioneers’ defense had two TDs of their own and held Spring Valley to just 1 first down in the 1st half. Harrison was also impressive in a 28-7 victory over Lakeland, led by junior QB Vin Nicita, who was huge in the Huskies’ state playoff run last season. Both teams graduated several stars from last season, such as Tanner Knox, Alex Acompora, and Duke Alvora from Harrison, and Jarrid Williams, Brandon Graham, and Tyree Coleman from Poughkeepsie. Nevertheless, both teams return excellent players, like Harrison’s Charlie Credendino, a 6’4” lineman who was out with an injury when they met last season. Harrison has to prevent Poughkeepsie from making the homerun plays that buried Spring Valley, while the Pioneers must cut down on penalties and clean up their kicking game. They’ll need to be disciplined to enact their revenge. Poughkeepsie’s not-so-secret weapon in 6’4” freshman receiver Davonte Hamilton could play a huge role in the outcome of this battle. Prediction: Poughkeepsie 34- Harrison 28
Sleepy Hollow looked good in a 21-20 victory over Pelham in Week 1, but QB Nick Vallo and star LJ Garrant will have to be huge in order to knock off last season’s sectional runner-up. The Quakers dismantled Roosevelt 56-14 behind star QB Justin Ciero, who has become one of the most feared players in the section. Nevertheless, Roosevelt is not nearly the same team they were when they won sections in 2009, graduating most of their good players and failing to field a JV team last year. The Quakers will look to stop Garrant, who had 178 all-purpose yards and a touchdown against Pelham, but that is certainly easier said than done. The Horseman will certainly have to mix it up on offense, and contain Ciero on defense to have a shot. This game is huge for Sleepy, who’s only remaining tough opponent after Greeley is Ossining, who they play at home in October. Sleepy is a darkhorse contender this season, and the Quakers better not sleep on them. Prediction: Horace Greeley 24- Sleepy Hollow 14
2. John Jay-Cross River (0-1) at Rye (0-1):
Both teams came into the season with high expectations, but both fell to worthy opponents in the first week. John Jay fell victim to a late Ossining comeback, which resulted in a 28-21 defeat in which one of the players was hospitalized. Rye was dropped 28-20 by Somers, the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last season. Rye may have injury issues as well with QB/DB Jake Meyerson, who had to be replaced by freshman Andrew Livingston late against Somers. The winner of this game will still have a decent shot in the playoffs, but the loser will fall to 0-2. With Harrison and Greeley on both teams schedules, the loser will have a tall mountain to climb the rest of the way to make the playoffs. Prediction: Rye 28- John Jay 21
1. Game of the Week: Harrison (1-0) at Poughkeepsie (1-0):
This highly anticipated rematch of last season’s sectional semifinals should live up to the hype. The Huskies of Harrison won 42-27 at Poughkeepsie in that game en route to a section title and an appearance in the state championship game. The Pioneers, who have never won a section title, will be hungry for revenge, especially on their own field. They looked stellar in the 53-0 thrashing of Spring Valley on the road in Week 1. QB Josh Oliver threw 2 TD passes to Siddique Haddad, and had a 70 yard TD run of his own. The Pioneers’ defense had two TDs of their own and held Spring Valley to just 1 first down in the 1st half. Harrison was also impressive in a 28-7 victory over Lakeland, led by junior QB Vin Nicita, who was huge in the Huskies’ state playoff run last season. Both teams graduated several stars from last season, such as Tanner Knox, Alex Acompora, and Duke Alvora from Harrison, and Jarrid Williams, Brandon Graham, and Tyree Coleman from Poughkeepsie. Nevertheless, both teams return excellent players, like Harrison’s Charlie Credendino, a 6’4” lineman who was out with an injury when they met last season. Harrison has to prevent Poughkeepsie from making the homerun plays that buried Spring Valley, while the Pioneers must cut down on penalties and clean up their kicking game. They’ll need to be disciplined to enact their revenge. Poughkeepsie’s not-so-secret weapon in 6’4” freshman receiver Davonte Hamilton could play a huge role in the outcome of this battle. Prediction: Poughkeepsie 34- Harrison 28
Sunday, August 7, 2011
A Farewell to Coach Cas
After 23 amazing years as the head football coach at Nyack, John Castellano has finally decided it was time to move on. Castellano will always be remembered as one of the most successful coaches in the school’s long history of athletics. He compiled a record of 180-48-1, winning two state titles to go along with countless section and league titles. Castellano will now be coaching the defensive line at Don Bosco Prep in New Jersey, a football powerhouse that is ranked number 1 in the nation this season by most of the major polls. The football fans and members of the Nyack community will always remember and appreciate the success and joy that Coach Cas brought to MacCalman Field every fall. He will be replaced by former assistant coach Mike Ramponi, who spent the last few seasons as the varsity basketball coach. One senior on the team said that, “Cas was a legend that will be hard to replace,” but also thought that Ramponi’s experience with the team the last few years should help him.
Two of the traditions that Castellano established at Nyack besides winning were a powerful rushing attack and a lockdown defense. Cas helped develop numerous unstoppable fullbacks, from the record-setting Jermaine Harris during his early years, to Eddie Evans and Neil Anderson in the ‘90s, to Judin Pierre-Louis, Alonzo Powell, and Anthony Davis in the 2000s. Several of Castellano’s players went on to play big-time college football, including Nigel Morris at the University of Toledo and Terrence Baltimore at UConn. Cas helped make Nyack into a premier football power in Rockland and in Section 1. Nyack didn’t lose a regular season game from October 4th, 1997 to October 11th, 2003, and went 72-6 from 1998 through 2004. Night games at MacCalman became a major event for the community and a popular attraction for students. The success of Coach Castellano and the football team even convinced fans to follow them to the freezing climates of playoff games at Mahopac and Kingston.
Castellano and his teams did exceptionally well under the pressure of high expectations, but one of his most impressive teams was when the expectations weren’t as high. In 2008, after a tough regular season loss to Ossining, Nyack was able to defeat unbeaten Somers and Ossining on the road in the playoffs to become the improbable section champs. They proceeded to knock off Cornwall and their record-setting quarterback before finally bowing out in the state semifinals. The team may not have won it all, but they were a great representation of Castellano’s undying spirit and persistence. The whole Nyack community wishes him the best of luck in his coaching future.
Two of the traditions that Castellano established at Nyack besides winning were a powerful rushing attack and a lockdown defense. Cas helped develop numerous unstoppable fullbacks, from the record-setting Jermaine Harris during his early years, to Eddie Evans and Neil Anderson in the ‘90s, to Judin Pierre-Louis, Alonzo Powell, and Anthony Davis in the 2000s. Several of Castellano’s players went on to play big-time college football, including Nigel Morris at the University of Toledo and Terrence Baltimore at UConn. Cas helped make Nyack into a premier football power in Rockland and in Section 1. Nyack didn’t lose a regular season game from October 4th, 1997 to October 11th, 2003, and went 72-6 from 1998 through 2004. Night games at MacCalman became a major event for the community and a popular attraction for students. The success of Coach Castellano and the football team even convinced fans to follow them to the freezing climates of playoff games at Mahopac and Kingston.
Castellano and his teams did exceptionally well under the pressure of high expectations, but one of his most impressive teams was when the expectations weren’t as high. In 2008, after a tough regular season loss to Ossining, Nyack was able to defeat unbeaten Somers and Ossining on the road in the playoffs to become the improbable section champs. They proceeded to knock off Cornwall and their record-setting quarterback before finally bowing out in the state semifinals. The team may not have won it all, but they were a great representation of Castellano’s undying spirit and persistence. The whole Nyack community wishes him the best of luck in his coaching future.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)