Games of the Year

Transcription

Games of the Year

Photo by Gary Housteau
Bayle Wolf, RB, Clinton-Massie
jjhuddle.com
Eric Frantz
@jjhuddlenews
J JH u d d le .c o m
Eric Frantz’s JJHuddle.com Ohio HS Football Preview is published once a year in July. OHSFP strives to report information based on fact, but assumes no responsability for any inaccuracies that may appear. OHSFP is not authorized, sponsored or sanctioned by any athletic conference or athletic governing body. Copyright 2013, MVP2, LLC.
All rights reserved.
COVER PHOTOS: ScoutingOhio.com (ScoutingOhio.com) & Gary Housteau
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2013 JJHuddle Ohio HS Football Preview: Division I
QB: Eric Glover-Williams, 5-11, 165, jr., Canton McKinley
RB: CJ Hilliard, 5-11, 185, sr., Cincinnati St. Xavier (Iowa)
RB: Mikel Horton, 6-1, 225, sr., Lakota West (Kentucky)
WR: Derek Kief, 6-5, 190, sr., Cincinnati LaSalle (Alabama)
WR: Brandon Fritts, 6-4, 190, sr., Mentor (North Carolina)
TE: Daryl Long, 6-5, 220, sr., Westerville South (Kentucky)
OL: Jarrett LaRubbio, 6-5, 280, sr., Lakota East (Kentucky)
OL: Jimmy Byrne, 6-4, 285, sr., St. Ignatius (Notre Dame)
OL: Nick Richardson, 6-5, 291, sr., Westerville Central
OL: Daniel Burns, 6-7, 310, sr., Fairfield (Louisville)
OL: Kyle Trout, 6-6, 290, sr., Lancaster (Ohio State)
K: Matt Colella, 5-9, 155, sr., St. Ignatius
ATH: Greg Simpson, 5-9, 185, sr., Sycamore
DL: Kent Berger, 6-4, 240, sr., Mentor (Ohio)
DL: Nick Carovillano, 6-4, 240, sr., St. Xavier (Indiana)
DL: Joe Henderson, 6-4, 220, sr., Shaker Heights (Tennessee)
LB: Kyle Berger, 6-3, 208, sr., St. Ignatius (Ohio State)
LB: Airius Moore, 6-0, 215, sr., Beavercreek
LB: Sam Hubbard, 6-6, 215, sr., Moeller (Ohio State)
LB: Chris Frey Jr., 6-2, 214, sr., Upper Arlington (Michigan State)
DB: Marcus Elliott, 6-1, 183, sr., Toledo Whitmer
DB: Shaun Crawford, 5-9, 170, jr., St. Edward
DB: Luke Grandjean, 6-3, 170, sr., North Canton Hoover
DB: Tim Bates, 6-3, 190, sr., Westerville South
P: Nate Green, 6-3, 205, sr., Hilliard Darby
Kyle Berger, LB, St. Ignatius
Photo by ScoutingOhio.com
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JJH u d d le .c o m
By Eric Frantz
Teams To Watch
Teams To Beat
*St. Ignatius (11-2, Region 1 finalist): The Wildcats own
a record 11 state titles, all of which have come under
head coach Chuck Kyle (301-69-1). This year’s senior
headliners? LB Kyle Berger (6-3, 208) and OL Jimmy
Byrne (6-4, 300). JJHUddle Top 100 Prospects, Berger is
headed to Ohio State, while Byrne is headed to Notre
Dame. Senior LB Dameon Willis Jr. (6-1, 215) holds offers from Louisville, Indiana, Cincinnati and several MAC
schools. Senior WR Michael Siragusa (6-3, 198) has offers from Eastern Michigan and Buffalo.
*St. Edward (11-1, Region 1 semifinalist): The Eagles
have made the playoffs 11 times in 13 years and will
make it 12 in 14. As usual, St. Ed features a sizeable OL
led by seniors Jake Pruehs (6-3, 280/Ohio commit),
Danny McManamon (6-2, 245), Jackson Kirby (6-4, 290),
Ben Gaal (6-3, 278) and
Gage Blair (6-2, 260). That
group will open holes for
junior RB Andrew Dowell
(6-1, 197) who holds offers from Toledo and
Kent State. Junior WR
David Dowell (6-1, 185)
also has offers from
Toledo and Kent
State. On defense,
the Eagles feature
one of the state’s top
juniors in DB Shaun
Crawford (5-9, 170)
who has offers from
Tennessee, Arkansas,
Florida State, Penn
State, Miami, Michigan
State, Illinois, Cincinnati,
Iowa, Michigan, Northwestern and West Virginia. Senior
DL Tyler King (6-3, 260) has offers
from several MAC schools. In the
secondary, senior Jack Walz III (6-0,
195) has committed to Bowling Green
and Derrick Thomas (5-8, 165) holds offers from Youngstown State and Tiffin.
*Mentor (12-2, Region 1 Champion): The
Cardinals made the state semifinals for the
third time in seven years last season before
falling to Whitmer. The big task this season for
head coach Steve Trivisonno (134-53 in 16
years) is replacing Mr. Football winner and
North Carolina recruit Mitch Trubisky at QB. Although the task is steep, expect Mentor to be
just fine. The Cardinals return 15 starters, including senior Conner Krizancic (6-2, 200) who is
expected to shift from his WR position to under center.
Krizancic, a JJHuddle Top 100 prospect and Cincinnati
commit, was a QB in junior high and as a freshman. He’s
scored 32 TDs the last two years (22 receiving, 10 rushing). Senior WR Brandon Fritts (6-4, 190) is coming off a
season in which he caught 67 passes for 1,188 yards and
16 TDs. Fritts, a JJHuddle Top 100 prospect, has committed to North Carolina. Other key skill players include senior WR Corey Plavcin (5'10, 175/36 receptions, 598
yards, three TDs) and junior RB Eddie Daugherty (5-8,
150/57 carries, 362 yards, two TDs). Four of five starters
return on the OL. Senior K Mike Muzic (6-0, 180/61 PATs,
7-of-7 FGS) is also back. On defense, Mentor has another JJHuddle Top 100 player in senior DE Kent Berger
(6-4, 245) who has committed to Ohio. Berger had 86
tackles, nine sacks and seven TFL last season. Other key
defensive faces are senior LB Justin McMahon (6-0,
210), senior DE Delvon Maddox (6-3, 215) and senior DB
Kiyah Powell (5-9, 160). McMahon led Mentor in tackles
last year with 154. The schedule has a “great” home slate
according to Trivisonno that includes McDowell (Pa.), St.
Ignatius, Shaker Heights, Brunswick and Hudson. The
Cards play three straight road games in weeks 3-5.
“We’re looking forward to great things in 2013,” Trivisonno said. “We have a very deep football team.”
@jjh u d d le n e ws (Twitte r)
*Canton McKinley (8-3, Region 2 semifinalist): The
Bulldogs feature one of the state’s top junior prospects in
QB Eric Glover-Williams (5-11, 165) who holds offers
from Ohio State, Nebraska, Illinois, Michigan State, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas and West Virginia. Last season, Glover-Williams ran for 1,574 yards and 22 TDs and
threw for 1,114 yards and 12 TDs. The defense is led by
senior LB Jamal Davis II (6-2, 210) who holds offers from
Louisville, Indiana, Minnesota and several MAC schools.
A three-year starter, Davis has 134 career tackles, including 14 TFL and five sacks.
*Hudson (9-3, Region 2 semifinalist): The Explorers
have one of the state’s top junior prospects in QB Mitchell
Guadagni (6-2, 172) who threw for 2,060 yards and 26
TDs last season. He also ran for 391 yards and three
TDs. Senior DB John Zuccaro (5-10, 160) had eight INTs
and 95 tackles last season.
*Shaker Heights (8-2): The Raiders have an extremely
loaded roster that includes four JJHuddle Top 100
Prospects in DE Joe Henderson (6-4, 225/Tennessee
commit), WR Odell Spencer (6-0, 175/Akron, Buffalo,
Kent State and Bowling Green offers), LB Gregory Claytor Jr. (5-11, 185/Akron offer) and OL Jamerez Brown
(6-5, 270/Offers from UCLA, Nebraska, Georgia
Tech, Maryland, West Virginia, Pitt, NC State,
Kentucky, Illinois and Indiana). Additional talent
lies in senior RB Ramses Owens (6-1,
180/1,041 yards rushing) and senior WR
Nolan Jackson-Daniel (6-0, 173/Buffalo offer).
*Solon (5-5): The Comets missed the playoffs for just the second time in 14 years last
season and had a string of three straight
Northeast Ohio Conference championships snapped. Time to make
Conner Krizancic
QB, Mentor
Region 1 Playoff Teams
Who we think makes the postseason in 2013.
St. Ignatius
Mentor
St. Edward
Canton McKinley
Solon
Hudson
Shaker Heights
Whitmer
Warren Harding
Westerville C.
Elyria
Aust.-Fitch
GlenOak
Wadsworth
Liberty
amends. Offensively, Solon is
strong up front. The Comets return four of five OL starters in
seniors Ben Emery (6-1,
267), Desmond Holmes (62, 265) and Matt Meyer
(6-0, 240) and junior
Gage Golic (6-2,
225). Senior Nick
Spitaleri (6-0,
250), who
started at C
as a sophomore,
also returns
after missing last year with injury. Junior TE Tyree Seals
(6-0, 205) is back too. The quarterback position will feature juniors Ryan Gallagher (6-0, 177) and Matt Laubscher (5-11, 180). Gallagher started five games last year
(601 and eight TDs), while Laubscher started one (84
yards and a TD). Developing WRs is an immediate concern. On defense Solon returns six starters, including junior LB John Sensibaugh (5-11, 185) who had 129 tackles
and 17 TFL last year. Also returning are sophomore defensive tackle Ben Peterson (6-0, 260/23 tackles), senior
DE Brandon Reynolds (6-4, 215/35 tackles, 18 TFL) and
three of four defensive backs in seniors Brandon Boyd (510, 178/39 tackles), Kollyn Crenshaw (5-8, 150/32 tackles) and Antwain Hamilton (5-9, 165/435 tackles). Head
coach Jim McQuaide is 89-27 in 10 years at Solon and
165-89 overall. The schedule starts off with tests against
Kenston and Glenville.
*Toledo Whitmer (14-1, Division I State Runner-Up):
The Panthers are 39-4 the last three seasons, each of
which has produced a regional title. There are numerous
holes to fill, but talent remains. Senior DB Marcus Elliott
(6-1, 183) holds offers from Bowling Green, Akron, Kent
State and Ball State, while senior WR Chris Boykin (6-4,
190) has offers from Kent State and Bufalo. Senior K
Michael Baldwin (5-10, 160) is one of Ohio’s best.
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N. Royalton
*Regional Semifinalists:
St. Edward, Mentor,
St. Ignatius & Canton McKinley
*Regional Champ:
St. Edward
Dark Horses
These six teams could make a push.
Hayes
Lorain
Hoover
Cle. Heights
Euclid
Brunswick
Games of the Year
Glenville @ St. Edward, Aug. 31 (Week 1)
Aust.-Fitch @ Warren Harding, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
St. Ignatius @ Mentor, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Glenville @ Solon, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Massillon @ Warren Harding, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Whitmer @ Toledo CC, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Shaker Heights @ Mentor, Oct. 4 (Week 6)
Westerville Cent. @ Westerville S., Oct. 17 (Week 8)
Moeller @ St. Edward, Oct. 26 (Week 9)
St. Ignatius @ St. Edward, Nov. 2 (Week 10)
Massillon @ Canton McKinley, Nov 2 (Week 10)
Region 1
24 Players to Watch
These guys are good...remember the names
1. Kyle Berger, LB, sr., St. Ignatius
Ohio State commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
2. Conner Krizancic, QB, sr., Mentor
As WR has accounted for 32 TDs in two years
3. Eric Glover-Williams, QB, jr., McKinley
Ran for 1,547 yards & thre for 1,114 as so.; 34 total TDs
4. Shaun Crawford, DB, jr., St. Edward
Holds 12 offers inc. Florida State, Michigan & Iowa
5. Joe Henderson, DE, sr., Shaker Hts.
Tennessee commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
6. John Sensibaugh, LB, jr., Solon
Had 129 tackles, including 17 TFL, last year
7. Marcus Elliott, DB, sr., Whitmer
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; Multiple MAC offers
8. Nick Richardson, OL, sr., Westerville Cent.
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; Over 15 offers
9. Jimmy Byrne, OL, sr., St. Ignatius
Notre Dame commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
10. Jante Wright, WR/DB, sr., Hayes
50 receptions, nine TDs & five INTs last season
11. Mitchell Guadagni, QB, jr., Hudson
Threw for 2,060 yards & 26 TDs as so.; Three rush TDs
12. Lamar Carmichael, QB, sr., Harding
Picked UC over Tennessee, Ole Miss and WVU
13. Conner Kamczyc, LB, sr., Elyria
126 tackles, 10 sacks, two FF, FR, INT & safety as jr.
14. Darrin Hall Jr., RB, jr., Aust.-Fitch
950 rushing yards & 14 TDs as so; Over 10 offers
15. Brandon Fritts, WR, sr., Mentor
North Carolina commit; 67 rec., 1,188 yards & 16 TDs
16. Jason Simon, RB, jr., GlenOak
One of Ohio’s top junior prospects
17. Grant Russell, QB, sr., Newark
Four-year starter; 4,354 career yards & 28 TDs
18. Luke Grandjean, DB/WR, sr., Hoover
34 rec., 623 yards & six TDs; 85 tackles & six INTs
19. John Zuccaro, DB, sr., Hudson
Had 95 tackles and eight INTs last season
20. Daryian Davies, RB, sr., Ol. Liberty
Ran for 925 yards & 14 TDs as jr.
21. Jared Drake, QB, sr., Westerville Cent.
Accounted for over 2,500 yards and 28 TDs as jr.
22. Clay Caruso, LB, sr., Strongsville
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; MAC offers; 96 tackles
23. Dorian Baker, WR, sr., Cleveland Hts.
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; 10 offers (inc. Pitt & Vandy)
24. Austin Smith, RB, sr., N. Royalton
Ran for 534 yards & 14 TDs as jr.; ; Two TDs receiving
*Warren Harding (9-2, region 1 quarterfinalist): The
Raiders have a special talent in senior QB/DB Lamar
Carmichael (5-10, 170/986 yards passing & eight TDs).
Senior DE Ty Howard (6-2, 205/Eastern Michigan offer)
and senior DB Deonte Morgan (6-2, 173) lead the defense. The Raiders have an extremely talented junior
class that includes OL James Daniels (6-4, 278/ offers
from Bowling Green, Michigan State, Iowa, Akron, Penn
State) and OL JaVon Provitt (6-4, 285/offer from Toledo).
*Westerville Central (7-3): After making the program’s
first postseason appearance in 2011, the Warhawks narrowly missed out on a return trip – finishing ninth in Region 3. A 7-3 record, however, did net the program’s first
back-to-back winning seasons in its 10-year history. WC
should stretch that to three. Led by longtime head coach
John Magistro, who won his 200th career game last year,
the Warhawks have several reasons for optimism. “We
feel we have our program heading in the right direction
and our kids have bought into the work ethic that we demand,” Magistro said. “We are approaching this
season with the idea that we can win every
game with the right approach.” Headlining
the roster is senior OL/DL Nick Richardson, a JJHuddle 2014 Top 100 prospect.
Richardson (6-5, 291) holds offers from
over 15 schools, including Michigan
State, Maryland, Mississippi, Minnesota, Vanderbilt, West Virginia,
Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois. Senior Jared Drake (6-1, 205) returns at
QB where he accounted for 28 TDs
and over 2,500 yards last year.
Senior TE Jeremiah Shaw (6-3,
195) is a three-year starter and senior RB Alex Fisher (5-9, 212) is back
after gaining 734 yards. On defense,
senior LB Adam Lowe (5-8, 195) led the
team in tackles (84) and sacks (10) last
year. The wildcard? Senior FB/LB Jordan
Bratton (6-2, 245), a three-year starter
who was injured most of last year. The
schedule includes three newcomers in
DeSales, Independence and Canal Winchester. Said Magistro: “Our division in
the OCC is as good as it gets.”
Keep An Eye On
*Austintown-Fitch (9-2, Region 1 quarterfinalist): The Falcons feature one of
the state’s top junior prospects in RB Darrin Hall Jr. (6-0, 205) who holds offers from
Nebraska, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Toledo,
Cincinnati, Purdue, Michigan State, Florida Atlantic, Louisville and Arkansas. Hall ran for 950
yards and 14 TDs last season.
*Berea-Midpark (n/a): What can the Titans (created by the joining of Berea and Midpark highs)
do in their first year of existence?
*Brunswick (7-3): The Blue Devils are trying to snap a
three-year playoff drought. During that span, Brunswick
has gone 5-5, 6-4 and 7-3, respectively.
*Canton GlenOak (8-3, Region 2, quarterfinalist): The
Eagles, who have been to the playoffs five times in six
years, feature one of the state’s top junior prospects in
RB Jason Simon (6-1, 205).
*Cleveland Heights (8-2): The Tigers big hitter is senior
LB Dorian Baker (6-3, 200), a JJHuddle Top Prospect
with offers from Pittsburgh, Akron, Minnesota, Ohio, Buffalo, Indiana, Vanderbilt, Marshall, Toledo and Illinois.
Other key senior contributors are ATH Marcus Bagley (511, 178), DB Kory Pearson (6-3, 195/Akron offer) and Ol
DeAngelo Ware (6-5, 310).
*Delaware Hayes (3-7): The Pacers are poised to take
the next step. Head coach Zebb Schroeder (6-14 in two
years) returns 10 starters on defense and nine on offense. That group includes seven players that have
started since they were sophomores. “If we are going to
break through to the upper part of our division, we have
to defend the run better, run the football better and protect the ball,” Schroeder said. “We believe we have the
pieces in place to do just that and our kids have the mindset that they want to be great. ”One of those players is
senior WR/DB Jante Wright (6-1, 165). A two-year starter,
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Wright caught 50 passes (nine TDs) and had five INTs
last year. He was All-OCC. Also back at WR/DB is senior
Caleb Howell (5-11, 160) who caught 42 passes and two
TDs last season. On the OL, Hayes returns seniors Collin
Wittig (6-4, 280), Andrew Sieawski (6-0, 210), Shawn
Johnson (5-11, 205) and Gaige Linville (6-2, 225). Underclassmen who figure to loom large are junior DE Lamar
Ryhmes (6-3, 245/started 10 games as a soph.), junior
TB/LB Cody Wooten and sophomore LB/FB Ethan Tucky
(6-2, 215/started five games as a freshman, 64 tackles).
Hayes’ schedule shifts a little with the addition of Worthington Kilbourne to the OCC Capital slate (gone is
Watkins Memorial). The non-league slate includes Buckeye Valley, Canal Winchester and Dublin Jerome. “We
will look the part, but we talk about it all the time that it is
up to the players and coaches now to play the part,”
Schroeder said. “We are looking forward to the challenge
of putting our plan into action this fall.”
*Elyria (7-3): The Pioneers return two good ones in senior LB Conner Kamczyc (6-1, 215/126 tackles, 10
sacks) and senior RB Jordan Connell (5-9, 185/904
yards rushing, 19 total TDs).
*Findlay (8-2): The Trojans must replace 13 AllTRAC performers, including the school’s career rushing and tackling leaders.
Sophomore K Grant McKinnis (6-0,
170) returns after kicking 46 PATs and
hitting 3-of-4 FGs, including a 49yarder. Junior OL Sam Lliff (6-3, 257)
is one to watch.
*Lorain (2-8): The Titans have a
new interim head coach in Tony
Shoulders who takes over for former mentor Mark Solis (now at
Nick Richardson
OL, Westerville Central
Olentangy). Lorain features a very talented
junior class that includes Qb Eddie Williamson
(5-8, 165), RB Sherman Saunders (5-10, 205),
WR/DE Rashod Berry (6-4, 215/offers from
Toledo, Bowling Green, Akron and Kent State/27
rec., 452 yards, five TDs) and DB Aaron Neal (6-0,
210/135 tackles, 8.5 TFL).
*Marysville (3-7): Senior DL Darius Walker (6-3,
270) returns after making 59 tackles last season
en route to All-OCC Central honors. Also back is
senior LB/RB Austin Pfarr (6-0, 220) who had 81
tackles and ran for 305 yards and three TDs last
season.
*Massillon Jackson (5-5): Senior QB Tyler Langenfeld (6-2, 180) returns after throwing for 1,593 yards
and nine TDs last season.
*Massillon Perry (4-6): Senior OL Stefano Millin (6-6,
240) has committed to Kent State.
*Newark (2-8): The Wildcats will lean on senior QB and
four-year starter Grant Russell (6-4, 212). Russell has
thrown for 4,354 career yards and 28 TDs. He’s also
rushed for six scores.
*North Canton Hoover (8-3, Region 2 quarterfinalist):
The Vikings will lean on senior WR/DB Luke Grandjean
(6-3, 170) who caught 34 passes for 623 yards and six
TDs last year. He also had 85 tackles and six INTs.
*North Royalton (10-2, Region 1 semifinalist): The
Bears will lean on senior RB Austin Smith (5-9, 170) who
ran for 534 yards and 14 TDs last season. He added 33
receptions for 301 yards and two TDs. NR must replace
its QB and top four WRs (23 TDs).
*Olentangy Liberty (7-3): Senior RB Daryian Davies (57, 150) returns after rushing for 925 yards and 14 TDs.
Also back is senior WR Dan Rhinehart (5-8, 150/34 receptions, 519 yards, three TDs). Junior OL Hunter Littlejohn (6-4, 268) has offers from Indiana, Illinois and Akron.
*Wadsworth (6-4): Greg Dennison (130-59 career
record) starts his 18th season as the Grizzlies head
coach with a team that possess a lot of experience. Last
year, Wadsworth returned just three starters. The only
concern is replacing four starters on the OL. Key returning seniors are RB Martice Jackson (5-9, 205/1,093 yards
JJH u d d le .c o m
rushing), LB Nick Winkler (5-10, 170/119 tackles, 11
TFL), DB Ryan Looser (6-1, 170/48 tackles, six INTs), DL
Jake Lamp (6-0, 198/60 tackles, nine TFL), FB/LB Greg
Young (5-8, 167/50 tackles/six rushing TDs), RB Scott
Campbell (5-10, 181/543 yards rushing and seven TDs)
and OL Chandler Martinex (6-0, 241). Keep an eye on
junior DB Austin White (6-3, 190/61 tackles, three INTs).
*Strongsville (2-8): The Mustangs have a JJHuddle Top
100 Prospect in senior LB Clay Caruso (6-3, 220/92 tackles, five TFL) who has offers from Buffalo, Bowling
Green, Toledo and Kent State. Another key contributor is
senior OL Brandon Bailey (6-6, 275/offers from Akron,
Kent State and Buffalo).
Also In This Region
Euclid (7-3), Youngstown East (3-7), Stow-Munroe Falls
(3-7), Cuyahoga Falls (3-7), Lakewood (4-6), Medina (28), Green (6-4)
Team To Beat
*Lakota West (8-2): The Firebirds won their first eight
games last season, but closed with a pair of 12-point losses
to Colerain and Lakota East that kept them out of the playoffs. A bad taste lingers, but so does a ton of talent. Senior
QB Malik Grove (5-11, 170) and senior RB Mikel Horton (61, 225) were both first team All-Greater Miami Conference
last year. Grove threw for 1,163 yards and 11 TDs and ran
for 555 yards and 11 TDs last year. Horton, a JJHuddle Top
100 prospect that ran for 1,003 yards and 13 TDs last season, has committed to Kentucky. He also had offers from
Florida State, Louisville, Minnesota, Indiana, Purdue and
Cincinnati. The senior WR corps of Tyler Jones (6-1,
175/18 receptions, 256 yards, two TDs) and Jarin Higginbotham (6-2, 180/17 receptions, 216 yards, two
TDs) is a lethal one. Senior OL Landon Johnson (511, 245) anchors the line. Senior K Justin Martin (6-4, 215) is an All-GWOC performer. He
hit nine-of-12 FGs last year. Watch out for
junior LB C.J. Stalker (6-2, 210).
*Moeller (12-3, Division I State Champions): The Crusaders celebrated “50 Years
of Moeller Football” last season by winning
the program’s eighth state title and first in
27 years. To repeat they’ll have to replace
13 All-GCL players. Ouch. The good news
is Moe has some horses coming back.
Senior LB Sam Hubbard (6-6, 215) had
75 tackles, two INTs and two fumble recoveries last season and has committed
to Ohio State. Senior DL Chalmer
Frueauf (6-4, 240/80 tackles) owns offers from Kent State, Ohio and Bowling Green, while junior DL Elijah
Taylor (6-3, 250) has offers from
Ohio and West Virginia. Senior
OL Stephen Langenkamp (6-3,
265) has an offer from Ohio.
Expect senior QB/WR Gus
Ragland (6-2, 200) to play a
large role in the offense. Last
year he caught 38 passes for
414 yards and five TDs and
ran for four TDs. The schedule includes four Ohio teams (St. Xavier,
Elder, LaSalle and St. Edward), three
Kentucky teams (Covington Catholic,
Louisville St. Xavier and Louisville Trinity),
two Indiana teams (Pike, Indianapolis Cathedral) and a Canadian squad (St. Michael’s College).
*St. Xavier (6-5, Region 4 quarterfinalist): The Bombers
had to replace nine All-GCL performers last year and entered the season with some unknowns. This year X has to
replace seven all-league players, but it brings back more
answers than questions. Senior QB Nick Tensing (6-4, 200)
was first team All-GCL last year and spearheads on offense
that also features all-league performers at RB (CJ Hilliard),
WR (Ryan Frey) and OL (Rick Kurz). Tensing threw for
1,908 yards and 17 TDs last year, while Hilliard (5-11, 185),
who has committed to Iowa, ran for 626 yards and nine
TDs. Frey (6-1, 185) caught 29 passes for 496 yards and
five TDs. Kurz (6-2, 260) anchors the line. On defense, the
Bombers return first team All-GCL senior DL Nick Carovillano (6-4, 230) who owns offers from Boston College, Miami
(Oh.), Akron and Buffalo. Also back is a pair of standout juniors in LB Justin Hilliard (6-2, 210) and DE Simeon Lane (62, 290). Hilliard owns over 20 offers including Ohio State,
Notre Dame, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Texas A&M.
Illinois has offered Lane. Junior LB Cole Jones (6-0, 210) is
the team’s top returning tackler (65). The schedule includes
five Ohio teams (Colerain, Moeller, Elder, LaSalle and St.
Ignatius) and five out-of-state schools.
Teams To Watch
*Beavercreek (7-3): The Beavers are coming off one of the
most successful seasons in school history. Creek won a
share of its first Greater Western Ohio Conference title and
first league title of any kind since 1985. The Beavers also
beat Centerville and Wayne in the same season for the first
time ever and notched the program’s first back-to-back winning seasons since 1968-69. Now what? How about the
playoffs. Creek head coach Scott Coldfelter (39-51 in 10
years) returns one of Ohio’s top players in JJHuddle Top
100 prospect Airius Moore. A senior LB, Moore (6-0, 215) is
the reigning GWOC Central Division Defensive Player of
the Year and holds offers from Indiana, Illinois, Cincinnati,
Marshall and several MAC schools. Moore doubles as a
pounding RB. Creek’s defense will be bolstered by the return of senior All-GWOC players in DL RJ Cowans (5-9,
200) and senior LB Taylor Reasoner (6-3, 230). On offense,
senior QB Mike Berry (6-3, 219) holds an offer from Toledo.
*Centerville (6-4): The Elks have developed more Division
I interior lineman than any other programin Ohio over the
last three years and the migration won’t slow down this
season. Senior DE Tito Idenigbo (6-4, 265)
is headed to Illinois, while senior OL Jared
Weyler (6-4, 275) and Patrick Osterhage
(6-4, 280) each hold offers from over
eight schools. At the skill positions,
Centerville has two talented seniors in RB Nick Bozzo (6-0,
185/Led GWOC in all-purpose
yards) and DB Cameron Langer
(6-0, 185/48 tackles, three fumble
recoveries). The schedule is brutal
and includes non-conference games
with Pickerington Central, Springboro
and Florida state champion Naples.
*Colerain (12-1, Region 4 finalist):
The Cardinals had an astonishing 21
Mikel Horton
RB, Lakota West
Lakota West
Moeller
St. Xavier
Colerain
Elder
Davidson
Lakota East
Northmont
Pick North
Springboro
Sycamore
Wayne
West. South
Centerville
Pick Central
*Regional Semifinalists:
Moeller, St. Xavier, Lakota West
& Colerain
*Regional
Champ:
Upper Arlington
St. Xavier
Dark Horses
These six teams could make a push.
players earn All-GMC honors last year. Of
those, nine return for head coach Tom
Bolden. Expectations are high again and
they should be with a defense that should be
one of southwest Ohio’s best. The Cardinals
return DL Aric Johnson (sr., 5-10, 215), LB
Tegray Scales (sr., 6-2, 215/Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Louisville, West Virginia, BC, Mineesota, Indiana and Illinois offers), DB Jalen Christan (sr., 5-10,
175/four INTs) and DB Ryan Williamson (sr., 6-0,
180/Buffalo offer, five INTs). On offense, senior RB DeTuan Smith (5-6, 177) returns after rushing for 808 yards and
eight TDs en route to first team All-GMC honors. Colerain’s
receiving corps is one of Ohio’s best and includes four returning All-GMC seniors in WR Kelvin Cook (5-11, 165/five
total TDs), WR Tre Hudson (6-4, 205), WR TJ Dula (5-8,
165/three total TDs) and TE Josh Boland (6-2, 225/two
TDs). Look for Cook to potentially play QB.
*Elder (8-4, Region 4 semifinalist): The Panthers
snapped a two-year playoff drought by rebounding from a 22 start to win five of six to close the regular season. An OT
loss to Colerain ended the run. Elder has high expectations
and for good reason. One of which is senior RB Chris
Schroer. A first team All-GCL selection, Schroer (6-0, 215)
ran for 1,491 yards and 25 TDs last year. Senior TE Devin
fa c e b o o k .c o m/ p a g e s/ J J H u d d le c o m
7
Beavercreek
Darby
Coffman
Fairmont
Miamisburg Reynoldsburg
Games of the Year
Pickerington Cent. @ Centerville, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
St. Xavier @ Colerain, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Upper Arlington @ Elder, Sept 6 (Week 2)
Westerville South @ Northmont, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Northmont @ Lakota East, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Hilliard Davidson @ Beavercreek, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Lakota West @ Wayne, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
St. Xavier @ Moeller, Sept, 27 (Week 5)
Sycamore @ Colerain, Oct. 11 (Week 7)
St. Xavier @ St. Ignatius, Oct. 26 (Week 9)
Moeller @ St. Edward, Oct. 26 (Week 9)
Region 2
24 Players to Watch
1. Mikel Horton, RB, sr., Lakota West
Kentucky commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; 13 TDs
2. Sam Hubbard, LB, sr., Moeller
Ohio State commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; 75 tackles
3. Nick Tensing, QB, sr., St. Xavier
All-GCL; Threw for 1,908 yards & 17 TDs
4. Patrick Osterhage, OL, sr., Centerville
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; Over 10 offers; All-GWOC
5. Airius Moore, LB, sr., Beavercreek
GWOC POY; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
6. Chris Schroer, RB, sr., Elder
All-GCL; Ran for 1,491 yards & 25 TDs as a junior
7. Alex Backenstoe, DL, sr., Davidson
Had 56 tackles, 14 TFL & eight sacks last season
8. Jarrett LaRubbio, OL, sr., Lakota East
Kentucky commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
9. C.J. Hilliard, RB, sr., St. Xavier
Iowa commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; nine TDs
10. Terry Ramsey, DE, sr., Northmont
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; Final 3 MSU, WVU & L’Ville
11. Jack Schaff, QB, sr., Springboro
Threw for 1,305 yards & ran for 776 as jr.; 32 total TDs
12. Greg Simpson, QB, sr., Sycamore
GMC POY; Threw for 1,914 yards & ran for 1,024; 41 TDs
13. Chris Frey, LB, sr., Upper Arlington
Michigan State commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
14. Tyree Kinnel, DB, jr., Wayne
Holds offers from Kentucky & Arkansas
15. Tim Bates, DB, sr., Westerville South
Logged 45 tackles & eight INTs last season
16. DeTuan Smith, RB,sr., Colerain
All-GMC; Ran for 808 yards & eight TDs last season
17. Danny Burns, OL, sr., Fairfield
Louisville commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
18. Cameron Meese, QB, sr., Grove City
Ran for 1,102 yards & 16 TDs as a junior
19. Luke Duncan, QB, sr., Central Crossing
Threw for 1,783 yards & ran for 407 last year; 18 total TDs
20. Kyle Trout, OL, sr., Lancaster
21. Chance Sorrell, TE, sr., Middletown
Vanderbilt commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
22. Demarco Ruffin, RB, sr., Oak Hills
Ran for 1,476 yards & 12TDs last season
23. Thaddeus Snodgrass, WR, sr., Springfield
Kentucky commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
24. Malik Grove, QB, sr., Lakota West
Pike (6-6, 225/28 receptions, 310 yards) holds offers from
Illinois, Boston College, Lousiville, Virginia, Minnesota and
several MAC schools. On defense, Edler features a pair of
returning All-GCL senior DBs in Tony Mazza (6-0, 180/55
tackles) and Tom Autenrieb (5-11, 170/29 tackles). First
team All-GCL DL Carl Lengerich (5-11, 230, sr./34 tackles,
4.5 sacks) is back too. The schedule includes Middletown,
Upper Arlington, St. Edward, St. Xavier, Moeller and Winton
Woods.
*Hilliard Davidson (10-3): The Wildcats have made the
playoffs 11 times in 13 years and own two state titles since
2006. Davidson has also played in five straight regional finals. The Wildcats welcome back several standouts, including senior OL/DL Jared Johns (5-11, 220), senior DE/TE
Alex Backenstoe (6-1, 230/56 tackles, 14 TFL, eight sacks),
senior RB Dametrius Clark (5-11, 186/seven TDs), senior
DB Parker Foard (All-OCC), senior TE/DE Cody Fravel (6-4,
245/injured for part of 2012) and Phillipie Motley (5-11,
175/offers from Pitt and several AMC schools). Junior DB
Markus Bailey (6-1, 205) has offers from Toledo, Bowling
Green and Akron. Head coach Brian White is 148-46 in 14
seasons.
*Lakota East (8-4, Region 4 semifinalist): Despite a twogame slide midseason, the Thunderhawks rebounded to
earn the program’s first ever playoff berth and win.
Gone from that squad are eight All-GMC players.
Senior OL Jarrett LaRubbio (6-5, 280) had
over 20 offers before committing to Kentucky. He’ll block for senior QB Eric Eichler
(6-2, 200) who ran for 644 yards and 12
TDs and threw for 703 yards and 10
TDs. Also back is senior WR Nate
Mays (5-11, 160) who had team highs
in receptions (12), yards (185) and receiving TDs (five) last year. Senior RB
Bobby Brown (6-0, 196) will assume
the bulk of the rushing attempts after
running for 435 yards and two TDs last
year. He also caught three TD passes
and owns an offer from Kent State.
*Northmont (7-3): After missing the playoffs three years in a row, T-Bolts Head
Coach Lance Schneider set out to change
the culture last year. It worked. Northmont
missed the playoffs again, but did capture a
share of the GWOC Central Division title
and made the program “relevant again in the
school and community” according to Schneider. Can they keep the momentum going?
The roster is loaded. Senior DE Terry Ramsey (6-5, 225) has offers from Indiana, Kentucky, Louisville, Michigan State, Minnesota,
Nebraska and West Virginia, while senior DB
Josh Blanton (5-11, 170) owns an offer from
Miami (Oh.). Additional key defenders are
senior DBs Isaiah Williams (6-4, 195/four
INTs, three fumble recoveries), D.J. Hickman (5-11, 160/five INTs) and Zach Weatherford (6-0, 175/18 tackles). Senior DE
Kenny Coleman Jr. (6-3, 240) is a transfer
from Dublin Scioto that’s expected to make an
impact. Another transfer of note is senior LB Dante Bland
(6-2, 270) who returns after a year at Jefferson Township
where he had 108 tackles, 14 TFL, six forced fumbles, three
fumble recoveries and 11 TDs. On offense, the WR corps
includes senior Cameron Taylor (6-1, 153) and Williams (54
repections, 719 yards and three TDs). Senior QB Graham
Oberer (6-4, 203) steps in at QB. Junior OL Josh Perry (6-3,
260) holds an offer from Toledo. Keep any eye on junior TE
Jonte Brski (6-2, 245) and sophomore OL Nick Moore (6-1,
240). The schedule opens with newcomer Dayton Thurgood
Marshall followed by Westerville South and Lakota East
(both losses last year).
*Pickerington Central (7-3, Region 3 quarterfinalist): The
Tigers had a rare down year for a program that is use to
playing for regional championships over the past decade,
but that down year still resulted in a trip to week 11. PC had
to replace a plethora of players on both sides of the ball
from their 2011 team, which finished state runner-up in Division I. In 2012, the Tigers found a way to win seven games,
which included two improbable victories over Reynoldsburg
and Gahanna Lincoln. However, PC did fall victim to city
8
rival Pickerington North for the first time in school history
and what made matters worse, they lost to the Panthers
twice by a combine score of 61-0. Though, Central did manage to earn a share of the OCC Ohio championship when
Pickerington North lost to Grove City in week 10. The Purple
and White return plenty from last year’s playoff team starting
with three offensive linemen. Brendan Dudziak (6’6/270/Sr.),
Josh Clouse (5’10/190/Sr.), and Tyler Boyd (5’11/270/Sr.) all
started up front for the Tigers a season ago. Senior quarterback Colby Simkins (5’10/190) returns for his second season under center, while running back Tawain Gordon
(6’0/190/Sr.) should have a breakout season after splitting
time as a junior. Central welcomes back two of the better receivers in Central Ohio in junior Eric Marshall (5’10/170) and
senior Andrew Meyer (6’1/190). Meyer was hampered by injuries throughout his junior season. Tight end Cris Reyes
(5’11/195/Sr.) returns as well. On defense, the Tigers will be
stout once again. Linebackers senior Isaiah Richmond
(6’0/220), junior linebacker Clay Burk (5’11/195), senior
Jae’Sean Tate (6’4/215), and junior Clayton Glasco
(6’2/215) should be a force. Tate is an Ohio State verbal for
basketball, but owns several D1 football offers as well. Keith
Roberts (5’10/200/Sr.) and DaVon Hamilton (6’3/285/So.)
will hold down the defensive line, which was very undersized a year ago. Seniors Vinnie Allen (5’9/170), Jordan Piecczynski (5’8/180), and Rudy Stefanitsis
(6’1/190) along with Marshall return in the secondary. In addition, keep an eye on sophomore
Seth Currens (6’3/185), who dressed varsity
as a freshman. Another solid weapon for
the Tigers will be sophomore kicker
Devon McMillin (6’1/175), who made
some key extra points as a freshman.
Pickerington Central will replace opening week games with Cincinnati Colerain
and Columbus Marion-Franklin with
heavyweights Centerville and Middletown. The Tigers will have a bye week (2)
between the two Southwest Ohio oppo-
Jarrett LaRubbio
OL, Lakota East
nents. “Our two non-league games have
even a bigger impact on our season with the
modification to the Division I regional assignments,” head coach Jay Sharrett believes.
“Level two points are more critical due to splitting
level two points once a team enters conference
play.” Sharrett, who is (101-21) in his 10 years as
the Tigers’ boss, believes he has close to 12 potential Division 1 prospects on his team. Meyer
owns an offer from Ohio University.
*Pickerington North (12-2, Region 3 Champion): The Panthers had a historical run last
year. Pick North beat Pick Central for the first
time ever (during the regular season_ and then
did it again (in the playoffs) en route to the
school’s first regional title. Graduation took its toll,
but talent lingers. Senior LB Dylan Weigel (6-0, 205) returns
after leading the team in tackles last season (74 tackles, 12
TFL). The offense will be led by senior QB Zephaniah Miller
(6-0, 180) who accounted for 10 TDs last season.
*Springboro (10-1, Region 4 quarterfinalist): The Panthers accomplished a program first last season by earning
the school’s first D-I playoff berth. This year the goal is to get
the second. Senior QB Jack Schaaf (6-2, 195) is back after
throwing for 1,305 yards and 16 TDs and rushing for 776
yards and 16 TDs en route to first team All-GWOC honors.
Senior TE Jordan Rigg (6-5, 245) holds offers from Ohio
and Ball State. Look for versatile junior DL Knock (5-8, 185)
to make an impact in the running (103 yards, three TDs)
and passing (28 receptions, 403 yards, seven TDs) game.
Senior Billy Palcic anchors the OL. Senior LB Austin Tarantino (5-11, 200) was the team’s second leading tackler last
year (81) and forced four fumbles. Watch out for senior TE
John Luke Arrington (6-6, 205) a transfer from Fenwick who
caught four TDs last year.
*Sycamore (9-2, Region 4 quarterfinalist): The Aviators
JJH u d d le .c o m
made a second straight trip to the postseason and should
challenge this year to run that to a school-record three
straight. Sycamore needs to replace nine All-GMC performers, but last year they had to replace eight. The parts coming
back are big. Senior QB Greg Simpson (5-9, 185), the reigning GMC Offensive Player of the Year, returns after running
for 1,915 yards and 28 TDs and throwing for 1,024 yards and
13 TDs. Simpson also punts (35.2 yard average). Three AllGMC offensive lineman return in seniors Jake Barnhorst (6-4,
230) and Max Engelhart (6-1, 285) and junior Mat Severence
(6-0, 260). On defense, senior LB Tinashe Bere (6-2, 230) is
a first team All-GMC player that’s committed to Duke. He
headlines a unit that also features DL Cayden Richter (sr., 65, 240), DL Todd Lewis (sr., 6-1, 230/All-GMC) and DB Jamar
Hunter (sr., 5-10, 160).
*Upper Arlington (6-4): The Golden Bears have long been
one of the premier programs in Central Ohio under head
coach Mike Golden, who is just two wins shy of 200. “Daily
success is our milestone,” Golden said. The Golden Bears return 15 starters from a six-win team led by Michigan State
commit LB/RB/KR Chris Frey (6’2/200/Sr.). Frey had 13 D1
offers, which included Syracuse, Boston College, Kentucky,
and Purdue. UA, who is looking for its third playoff appearance in the last six years, returns WR/DB Jackson Finfrock
(6’2/165/Sr.), WR/DB Nick Blazek (6’2/170/Sr.), QB/DB Kyle
Kaparos (6’1/185/Jr.), WR/CB Sam Wheeler (5’11/170/Sr.),
WR/LB Graham Devine (6’1/180/Sr.), WR/DB Lewis Hughes
(6’0/180/Sr.), RB/LB Chase Greenlee (6’3/222/Sr.), and
TE/DE Nathaniel Jones (6’1/184/Sr.) at the skill positions.
Greenlee is another Division 1 prospect on UA roster. The
line will welcome back OL/DL Blake Reid (6’0/180/Sr.), OL/LB
Bo Brunton (6’2/220/Sr.), OL/DL Noah Spielman (6’2/251/Sr.),
OL/DL Ben White (6’1/170/Sr.), OL/DL Hakkon Borstad
(6’4/240/Sr.), and OL/DL Andrew Reed (6’3/205/Sr.). Spielman, who is drawing D1 interest, is the son of former Ohio
State and NFL great Chris Spielman. The schedule’s only
change will be the opener, as Columbus Marion-Franklin will
replace Columbus Walnut Ridge. The Golden Bears will try to
get some revenge on out-of-conference opponents Cincinnati
Elder and Gahanna Lincoln after losing 45-7 to each a season ago. “We have a very tough Marion-Franklin, Cincinnati
Elder, and Gahanna (Lincoln) teams in our non-league, and
(Hilliard) Davidson, (Dublin) Coffman, and (Olentangy) Liberty
in our league,” Golden mentioned.
*Wayne (7-4, Region 4 quarterfinalist): The Warriors
made the playoffs for the 10th time in 14 years and
look primed to reach Week 11 again. Head
coach Jay Minton (178-70 career record) welcomes back eight starters on defense including Kentucky commit Dorian Hendrix (6-1,
220) at LB. Also back are a pair of standout DBs in senior Jordan Whitfield (6-1,
182) and junior Tyree Kinnel (6-1,
185/Kentucky and Arkansas offers). Junior DL Robert Landers (6-0, 260) is one to
watch. On offense, junior D’Metrik Trice
(6-0, 165) takes over at QB after throwing for 379 yards and three TDs in a
back-up role last season. Senior RB
Trey McFadden (5-9, 200) returns after
rushing for 617 yards and seven TDs,
as does senior WR Tristan Davis (511, 175) who caught 37 passes for 425
yards and three TDs. Junior athlete
Devin Reed (6-1, 178) is a threat anywhere on the field (15 receptions, 275
yards, three TDs). The Warriors have their
first home opener in 12 years when they host
Gahanna Lincoln in Week 1. After that Wayne
plays at Trotwood-Madison before hosting Lakota
West in Week 3. In GWOC Central Division play,
the Warriors host Centerville and Northmont in
weeks 8 and 10, respectively.
*Westerville South (8-3, Region 3 quarterfinalist): The Wildcats made the program’s 10th postseason appearance last season and would like to
add No. 11. South features two JJHuddle 2014
Top 100 prospects in senior WR Torrodd Carter (62, 180/Offers from Ohio, Miami, Akron and Marshall) and senior TE Darryl Long (6-5, 220/Kentucky
commit). Also back is DB Tim Bates (6-3, 190) who
had 45 tackles and eight INTs last year. Bates also expects to fill in at QB for Nick Renzetti (the Ohio National
QB: Nick Tensing, 6-4, 200, sr., Cincinnati St. Xavier;
Jared Drake, 6-1, 205, sr., Westerville Central; Malik
Grove, 5-11, 170, sr., West Chester Lakota West; Eric
Eichler, 6-2, 200, sr., Liberty Twp. Lakota East; Conner
Krizancic, 6-2, 200, sr., Mentor (Cincinnati); Jack
Schaaf, 6-2, 195, sr., Springboro; Lamar Carmichael, 510, 170, sr., Warren Harding; Mitchell Guadagni, 6-2,
172, jr., Hudson
RB: Darrin Hall Jr., 6-0, 205, jr., Austintown-Fitch; Chris
Schroer, 6-0, 215, sr., Elder; Gregory Claytor Jr., 5-11,
185, sr., Shaker Heights; Demarco Ruffin, 5-8, 175, sr.,
Oak Hills
WR: Thaddeus Snodgrass, 6-1, 170, sr., Springfield
(Kentucky); Odell Spencer, 6-0, 175, sr., Shaker Heights
(Bowling Green)
TE: Devin Pike, 6-6, 225, sr., Elder (Louisville); Connor
Brown, 6-6, 220, sr., Miamisburg (Ohio)
OL: Rob Dowdy, 6-7, 240, jr., Westerville South; Jared
Weyler, 6-4, 275, sr., Centerville (Bowling Green);
Patrick Osterhage, 6-4, 280, sr., Centerville; Jake Grant,
6-4, 285, sr., Reynoldsburg; Jamerez Brown, 6-5, 270,
sr., Shaker Heights; Jared Johns, 5-11, 220, sr., Hilliard
Davidson; Robert Behanan, 6-4, 265, sr., Fairfield; Luke
Callahan, 6-4, 277, sr., Olentangy Liberty; Jake Pruehs,
6-3, 280, sr., St. Edward; Stefano Millin, 6-6, 240, sr.,
Massillon Perry (Kent State); Brandon Bailey, 6-6, 275,
Guard Ohio Player of the Year). Junior OL Rob Dowdy (6-7,
240) is among the state’s top 2015 prospects. He has offers
from Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, West Virginia, Georgia Tech
and Arkansas.
Keep An Eye On
*Central Crossing (2-8): Senior QB Luke Duncan (6-2, 175/1,783 yards passing. 12 TDs, 407
yards rushing, 6 TDs) returns to lead the
Comets. Also back are senior OL Dwight
Diggs (6-2, 235) and senior DB Gino Siravo (5-10, 150/57 tackles, three INTs).
*Dublin Coffman (9-2, Region 3 quarterfinalist): The Rocks feature one of
Ohio’s best juniors in DL Sam McCollum.
*Fairfield (2-8): The Indians will build
around two standout offensive lineman in
seniors Danny Burns (6-7, 310) and
Robert Behanan (6-4, 265). Burns has
Chris Frey
LB, Upper Arlington
committed to Lousiville, while Behanan is
headed to Middle Tennessee State. Senior
DL Tony Stephens (6-4, 24) and junior DL
Richard Rhodes (6-4, 322) are ones to
watch. Senior Ryan Nuss (5-10, 175) returns
at QB after splitting time last year (threw for
459 yards and five TDs). Senior WR Herman
Brunis (6-0, 175) led the team in receptions
(27), receiving yards (493) and receiving TDs
(four) last year.
*Fairmont (2-8): The Firebirds return eight threeyear starters and four All-GWOC performers in
junior DB Alec Fontaine, senior OL/DL Jean
Nsanzimana, senior RB/LB Chris Rhoades (107
tackles) and senior WR Aron Sutton (42 receptions, 665
yards receiving, two TDs). Fairmont’s OL will be a strength.
*Gahanna Lincoln (7-3): The Lions return a talented senior
sr., Strongsville
K: Mike Muzic, 6-0, 180, sr., Mentor; Pierce Royster, sr.,
Hudson; Grant McKinnis, 6-0, 170, so., Findlay;
Michael Baldwin, 5-10, 160, sr., Toledo Whitmer; Justin
Martin, 6-4, 215, sr., Lakota West
DL: Jamal Davis II, 6-2, 210, sr., Canton McKinley;
Chalmer Frueauf, 6-4, 240, sr., Cincinnati Moeller; Hjalte
Froholdt, 6-4, 240, jr. Warren Harding; Terry Ramsey, 65, 223, sr., Northmont; Tito Odenigbo, 6-4, 256, sr., Centerville (Illinois); Alex Backenstoe, sr., Hilliard Davidson
LB: Griff Saunders, 6-2, 215, sr., Columbus DeSales
(Bowling Green); Tegray Scales, 6-2, 215, sr., Colerain;
Dorian Baker, 6-3, 200, sr., Cleveland Heights; Tinashe
Bere, 6-1, 225, sr., Sycamore (Duke); Dorian Hendrix,
6-1, 220, sr., Huber Heights Wayne (Kentucky);
Davonte James, 6-2, 220, sr., Springfield; Conner Kramczyk, sr., Elyria; John Sensibaugh, 5-11, 185, jr., Solon;
Justin McMahon, 6-0, 210, sr., Mentor; Dylan Weigel, 61, 190, sr., Pickerington North; Jamal Davis II, 6-2, 210,
sr., Canton McKinley; Clay Caruso, 6-3, 220, sr.,
Strongsville
DB: Ryan Williamson, 6-0, 180, sr., Colerain; Jack Walz
III, 6-0, 195., sr., St. Edward (Bowling Green); John Zuccaro, 5-10, 160, sr., Hudson; Aaron Neal, 6-0, 210, jr.,
Lorain; Tyree Kinnel, 6-0, 190, jr. Wayne; Phillipie Motley, 5-11, 175, sr., Hilliard Davidson (Pitt)
trio in WR Valquez “Tank” Davis (5-9, 150/35 rec., 468 yards,
six total TDs), WR Kevin Randolph (5-11, 187/38 rec., 374
yards, three TDs) and DB Emile Camm (5-10, 160/37 tackles,
seven INTs).
*Galloway Westland (1-9): The Cougars are trying to get the
ship turned around under third year head coach Steve White.
Westland hasn’t enjoyed a winning season since finishing (73) in 2006 when it made the Division 1, Region 3 playoffs.
Since 2006, Westland is (4-46) never winning more than a
single game in any season. The Cougars were without football in 2009. “The Westland Cougars in 2013 have worked
hard in the off-season to get ready for our schedule,” White
said. “We need to be more competitive and turn the corner
and get some wins. Our team speed will be one of our
strengths for this upcoming season.” The Cougars welcome
back quarterback Myles Fowler (6’1/185/Sr.). Fowler also
doubles at defensive back and special teams return man.
Fowler is a potential Division 1 prospect. “Myles Fowler at
quarterback gives us a chance to have big plays on offense
and special teams,” White believes. Senior RB/LB Nick
Green (6’0/205), classmate RB/LB Alex Pridemore (6’0/200),
WR/DB Reggie Gilliam (6’0/180/Jr.), and RB/LB Rafael Garcia (6’2/190/So.) return as the skill positions. Junior Tevon
Drake (6’2/250) is back on the offensive line. White believes
Gilliam and Garcia have a chance to play Division 1. Westland has added Columbus Eastmoor to week one and
Columbus East to week 3, which replaces games with the
Columbus Crusaders and Hilliard Bradley. Columbus Mifflin
remains at week two and the always-difficult Ohio Capital
Conference-Central lurks in week’s four through ten. “The
OCC-Central division is always a highly competitive conference every Friday night,” White stated.
*Grove City (5-5): The Greyhounds last winning season was
2008, and last year they finished .500. The campaign definitely ended on a high note, though. GC’s 13-10 win over
state-ranked and eventual state semifinalist Pickerington
North could propel the Greyhounds into a successful year.
“We are excited about this group of upper classmen,” Grove
City’s head coach Matt Jordan explained. “This group finished
on a strong note last year winning the last two games. We
had a very memorable week ten victory over Pickerington
North, which helped catapult us into the off-season. I am very
enthused about the amount of experience coming back on
9
this team.” The Greyhounds have nine starters back on defense and seven returning on offense. Senior Cameron
Meece (5’11/195) is back at quarterback after rushing for
1,102 yards and 16 TDs as a junior. Classmate Corey
Williams (5’10/205) toted the rock for over 500 infantry stripes
and junior Peyton Bowyer (6’1/190) should get plenty of carries as well. Senior Matt Brown (6’4/285) returns to the offensive line along with junior Brandon Skeen (6’5/290) and
senior Joe Johnson (5’11/285). Defensively, Grove City welcomes back linebackers Vennie Sapp (5’10/210/Jr.) and Jake
Norbut (6’0/210/Sr.). The defensive line has Ryan Serafini
(5’11/245/Sr.) and Will Zentz (6’3/230/Sr.) returning and the
secondary will be in good hands with seniors Tyler Cowles
(6’0/185) and Ben Meyers (5’10/165). “I believe we have
learned to ignore the doubters and the negative people
around us and focus on the positives and believe in our teammates and coaches,” Jordan believes. “We need to just play
with great effort and enthusiasm with a sincere degree of
nasty toughness and good things can happen. It’s time to
make the people in Grove City proud. No more excuses!” Jordan believes Skeen, Brown, junior line backer/defensive end
Ryan Grooms (6’2/230) and sophomore tight end/defensive
end Brandon Chapman (6’5/235) all have Division 1 potential.
Another added bonus for GC is the fact that this senior class
had freshman football. In 2009, the Southwest City Schools
didn’t have fall sports. “We have gone through a full cycle
since not having football in 2009,” Jordan stressed. The Greyhounds certainly aren’t dodging anyone as far as the schedule goes. GC opens up with state-power Hilliard Davidson
before facing recently added Findlay and Westerville South
followed by the brutal OCC Ohio action. “We have a very difficult schedule,” Jordan stated. “Opening game versus Hilliard
Davidson always gets your attention. We picked up Findlay in
week two and still have Westerville South for week three before we get into conference play.”
*Hamilton (3-7): Big Blue fans have reason to be optimistic.
Hamilton returns its leading passer, top two receivers and
second best rusher. Junior QB Zach Keene (6-1, 170) is back
after throwing for 698 yards and five TDs. His top two targets
– senior WRs Tyler Denton (6-0, 180) and Preston McIntosh
(6-3, 180) – return as well. Denton (first team All-GMC)
caught 35 passes for 634 yards and four TDs, while McIntosh
caught 10 passes for 141 yards and two TDs. Senior RB
Quintin Bailey (5-10, 170) led the team in carries (95) last
year en route to 497 yards and a TD.
*Hilliard Darby (11-1, Region 3 semifinalist): The Panthers
return six All-OCC Cardinal Division seniors, including LB
Trevor Parker (6-1, 190/76 tackles), OL/DL Josh Humbert (63, 240), OL/DL Tony Hajjar (6-3, 265), OL/DL David Still (5-8,
270), LB/P Nate Green 6-3, 205/49 tackles, 36.7 punt average) and DB Jacob Stacy (5-10, 180/34 tackles).
Thaddeus Snodgrass
WR, Springfield
*Lancaster (3-7): The Golden Gales are coming off a rare
losing season and looking for their first playoff berth since
2009. Lancaster owns one of the state’s top offensive line
prospects in Ohio State commit and JJHuddle 2014 Top 100
player Kyle Trout (6-6, 290). New to the schedule is Canal
Winchester in Week 3.
*Lebanon (6-4): The Warriors must replace nine All-GWOC
players. Senior RB Alex McCarty is the team’s top returning
rusher (31 carries, 289 yards, one TD) and receiver (15 receptions, 275 yards, two TDs). Junior LB Ryan Perkins led
the team in tackles (with 83) last year.
*Mason (6-4): The Comets must replace 13 All-GMC players.
The lone returning all-league performer is senior DL Matt
Algor (6-2, 221). Senior LB Matt Stewart (6-1, 220) is a
JJHuddle Top 100 prospect that’s committed to Navy. Senior
OL Andrew Lucke (6-4, 285) anchors the line. Keep an eye
on the QB position where senior Jenson Harris (6-4, 235) and
junior Rodney Hutchinson (6-4, 225) return. Both started five
games last year. Senior TE Joey Thomas (6-1, 190) caught
19 passes for 345 yards and two TDs last year.
*Miamisburg (7-3): Under veteran head coach Steve Channell, the Vikings were one of Ohio’s best stories last season.
The Burg, which had won just four games from 2011-2008,
finished ninth in Region 4 computer points and was 4-1 in the
GWOC South. The Vikings last GWOC win prior was in 2007.
Entering Year 2 under Channell, the longtime Trenton Edgewood coach, Burg has its sites set on another winning campaign. Senior QB Lance Brockman returns after throwing for
777 yards and four TDs. One of his targets will be senior TE
Connor Brown who has committed to Ohio. Also back is junior WR Adam Giles who led the team in receptions (24), receiving yards (286) and receiving TDs (two). Senior RB Chris
Yerkins is the top returning rusher (369 yards, TD). On the OL
All-GWOC seniors Logan Bliss and Zac Whittamore return.
On defense, the Burg returns a pair of standout DBs in senior
Robert Young (56 tackles) and Yerkins (41 tackles).
*Middletown (4-6): The Middies feature senior TE Chance
Sorrell (6-6, 225) who committed to Vanderbilt over offers
from Bowling Green, Indiana, West Virginia and Louisville.
*Oak Hills (5-5): The Highlanders will rely heavily on senior
RB Demarco Ruffin (5-8, 180) who ran for 1,476 yards and
12 TDs last year.
*Reynoldsburg (7-3): The Raiders are showing steady improvement in the Buddy White era going (6-4) in 2011 followed by a (7-3) a season ago narrowly missing the playoffs.
Reynoldsburg lost to two playoff teams and a team that finished (8-2) and finished 9th in its region. The Raiders have a
nice collection of talent returning on offense in OL Jake Grant
(6’4/285/Sr.), OL Anthony Hines (6’0/250/Sr.), TE Elijah Camara (6’4/235/Sr.), RB Zack Mehan (5’11/195/Sr.), and FB
Tyreke Pugh (5’10/190/Sr.). Grant currently holds an offer
from Akron. On defense, LB Solomon Grace (6’1/240/Sr.) will
lead the way. LB Montreal Green (5’11/225/Sr.) and DE
Corey Beal (6’1/210/Sr.) along with Hines, Camara, and Pugh
will be top support. Grace, Grant, Camara, and Beal are all
drawing Division 1 interest. “This could be the deepest team
that we have had in the past three years,” White mentioned.
“These players saw what held us back last year and are determined not to let things hold them back this season. Last
year, we were led by talented athletes. This year, we will be
led by talented football players.” The only change to the
schedule will have Hilliard Bradley replacing a week 2 contest
with Findlay. The Raiders open up with perennial playoff contender, New Albany.
*Springfield (1-9): Head coach Eric Gillespie enters Year 2
by welcoming back five All-GWOC players and two JJHuddle
Top 100 prospects in seniors Thaddeus Snodgrass (WR) and
Davonte James (LB). Snodgrass (6-1, 170) has committed to
Kentucky, while James (6-2, 220) has offers from Purdue,
Cincinnati, Georgia Tech and Illinois. Senior Dorian Hunter
(All-GWOC) and junior Guy Victoria (All-GWOC) give the
Wildcats one of the region’s best LB corps. “We feel we have
a lot of room and potential for improvement in 2013,” Gillespie
said. “All of which will be the bi-product of our belief and consistent execution of the intangibles, details and little things
that do not take talent.”
*Westerville North (0-10): The Warriors are riding a 45game losing streak. WN’s last win was a 21-17 victory over
Westerville Central on Sept. 9, 2008. Second-year head
coach Roger Elander believes this season will be different.
“After more than four years of consecutive losses, WN is rebuilding with several skilled seniors, a wealth of excellent juniors and many sophomores who have demonstrated a
commitment to renewed strength, speed and specialty training,” Elander said. “This year will be newsworthy.” Key contributors will be seniors Andy Struttman (LB/RB, 6'2", 225)
and John Taylor (RB/OLB 6'1, 210) and juniors Jake Downs
(QB/DB/ATH, 6'2", 195), Jake Hinz (RB/LB, 5'10, 170) and
Brandon Fenton (DB/WR, 6'0", 180). Struttmann was the
team’s leading scorer last year (five TDs) and ran for 401
yards on 130 carries en route to second-team All-OCC honors. Taylor (445 yards and three TDs on 125 carries) and
Hinz were All-OCC as well. WN averaged just 10.5 points last
year and didn’t score more than 15 points in a game. The
Warriors, however, were only shutout once. The schedule,
which included three playoff teams last year (and five with
seven wins or more), has new faces in Newark (Week 2) and
Canal Winchester (Week 9). The opener is again with
Franklin Heights.
Also In This Region
Groveport-Madison (1-9), Milford (1-9) — EF
Darryl Long
TE, Westerville South
Airius Moore
LB/RB, Beavercreek
Andrew Meyer
WR, Pickerington Central
10
Photos by ScoutingOhio.com
JJH u d d le .c o m
2013 JJHuddle Ohio HS Football Preview: Division II
QB: Cody Callaway, 6-3, 196, sr., Grafton Midview (Bowling Green)
RB: Tyree Elliott, 6-1, 165, sr., Mt. Healthy
RB: L.J. Scott, 5-10, 210, Marion Harding (Louisville)
WR: J.T. McFarland, 6-0, 180, sr., Zanesville
WR: Marshon Lattimore, 6-0, 175, sr., Glenville
TE: Kyle Kuhar, 6-5, 270, sr., Avon Lake (Ohio)
OL: Nathaniel Devers, 6-5, 275, sr., Massillon Washington (Cincinnati)
OL: Alex Dalton, 6-4, 280, sr., Troy (Oklahoma)
OL: Marcelys Jones, 6-5, 325, sr., Glenville (Ohio State)
OL: Ryan Stout, 6-6, 250, sr., Sylvania Southview
OL: Ben Oxley, 6-6, 275, sr., Avon Lake (Northwestern)
K: Brandon Matchum, 5-10, 160, sr., Grafton Midview
ATH: Turel Thompson, 5-9, 150, sr., Boardman
DL: Daniel Cage, 6-3, 245, sr., Winton Woods
DL: Robert Bowers, 6-5, 207, sr., Walnut Ridge
DL: Mickey Crum, 6-4, 220, sr., Hamilton Township (Louisville)
LB: Anthony McKee, 6-2, 190, jr. Walnut Ridge
LB: Matt Sommers, 6-2, 225, Kent Roosevelt (Kent State)
LB: Jaleel Taylor, 6-0, 205, sr., Mansfield Senior
LB: Bryan DiCillo, 6-2, 208, sr., Walsh Jesuit
DB: Nilijah Ballew, 6-1, 180, sr., Walnut Hills (Duke)
DB: JJ Pinckney, 6-3, 180, sr., Sylvania Southview
DB: Mike Edwards, 6-0, 184, sr., Winton Woods (Kentucky)
DB: Erick Smith, 6-0, 185, sr., Glenville
P: Jake Hartbarger, 6-4, 195, sr., Whitehouse Anthony Wayne
Marshon Lattimore, WR/DB, Glenville
12
JJH u d d le .c o m
By Eric Frantz
Team To Beat
*Glenville (8-2): The Tarblooders are one of the favorites
for the D-II state title and own four JJHuddle Top 100 senior prospects in OL Marcelys Jones (6-5, 325), DB Erik
Simpson (6-0, 185), DB Erick Smith (6-0, 178) and
WR/DB Marshon Lattimore (6-0, 175). Jones is committed to Ohio State, while Lattimore has offers from Ohio
State, Alabama, Oregon, Michigan, USC and Tennessee
among others. Smith also owns an Ohio State offer
(along with Alabama) and Simpson owns several MAC offers. Senior QB Quan Robinson (6-2, 167) holds an offer
from Kent State. A wildcard is Mineral Ridge transfer and
senior RB Devine Redding (5-10, 190) who ran for over
1,100 yards last year. A couple juniors to watch are
LB Matt Draper (6-2, 195) and ATH Trevon Story
(5-10, 160).
Teams To Watch
*Bedford (5-5): The Bearcats feature
two JJHudle Top 100 Prospects in DL
Jonathan Cunningham (6-1, 220/Kent
State commit) and LB Antoine Stone
(5-10, 185/Western Michigan commit). Junior DE Marquise
Copeland (6-2, 220) is one of
Ohio’s top 2015 prospects.
*Boardman (4-6): The Spartans have an offensive weapon
in senior slot Turel Thompson
(5-9, 150) who had 1,226 allpurpose yards and scored 25
TDs, including 19 on the ground,
last season. He also had 30 tackles and two INTs as a DB en route to
earning first team All-Federal League
honors.
*Kent Roosevelt (10-2, Region 5 semifinalist): The Rough Riders seniors have
the chance to be the first class in school
history to play in four postseasons. Veteran head coach John Nemec (222-101-3
career record) has things rolling as he enters is 29th season at Roosevelt. The concern on offense is replacing D-I recruits at QB
and WR, but this team’s strength will be defense where nine starters, including seven
with a 3.5 gpa or higher, return. The leader of
the unit is senior LB Matt Sommers (6-2, 225)
who has committed to Kent State. Other key
returners are seniors Kardell Jackson (DB/WR,
5-10, 175), Stan Zalewski (OL/DL, 6-2, 260),
Coery Spicer (DE/TE, 6-1, 220) and Michael Bush
(LB, 6-0, 205). All four were All-Portage Trail Conference
Metro Division selections. Jackson is just the third fouryear starter Nemec’s had in 32 years. Junior WR/DB
Luther Fortson (5-10, 180) will contribute heavily. “Our
players work hard and expect to win,” Nemec said. “They
are a good group of kids.” Four of the first five games are
on the road, including non-league tilts at Akron Hoban
and Cuyahoga Falls. Week 2 against Stow-Munroe Falls
is home. Conversely, the Rough Riders close with four of
five at home.
*Lyndhurst Brush (7-3): The Arcs, under second-year
head coach Josh Wells, are looking for the program’s first
ever run of three straight Northeast Ohio Conference
Lake Division titles. There’s reason for optimism. “We
have the potential to have one of the best offensive lines
that Brush has had in recent history,” Wells said. “Our
team speed at the skill positions has increased, which we
will look to take advantage of on both sides of the ball.
Returning an experienced offensive line, and skilled position is something the football program has not had in a
long time.” Key contributors are numerous and include:
Stephen Shorts (Sr., QB/FS, 5'9" 185), Davari Gill (Sr.,
FB, 5'11", 220), Jonah Harper (Sr., OT/DT, 6'3" 265), Alfonso Onunwar (Sr. WR, 6'2", 190, St. Francis), Larry McClough (Sr., OT, 6'3" 315), Devon Hood (Sr. DT, 6'2" 225),
Marcus Swede (Sr., DT/G, 5'11", 230), Laquan White (Jr.
S/HB, 5'9", 180), Moses Marshall (Jr., TE/DE, 6'4", 215),
Jermaine Drake (Sr., DE/HB, 6'1", 205), Jordan Alford
(Sr., G, 6'2", 250), David Dickson (Sr., G, 6'1", 22), Dan
Santoiemmo (Sr., C, 6'3", 290) and Greg Alexander (sr.,
CB/WR, 5'9", 175). In addition to its rivalry game with
Mayfield (Week 4), Brush welcomes for new faces to the
schedule in 2013: Padua Franciscan (Week 1), Ashtabula
Lakeside (Week 2), Mentor (Week 5) and Cuyahoga Falls
(Week 9). Brush will debut a new helmet design this year
as well.
Glenville
Bedford
Boardman
Roosevelt
Brush
Westlake
Keep An Eye On
*Brecksville-Broadview Heights (5-5): Senior WR
Timmy Tupa (6-1, 185) is one of the state’s best and
holds offers from Penn, Colgate and Notre Dame of Ohio.
Tupa caught 69 passes for 1,071 yards and 11 TDs as a
junior. The defense is led by senior LBs Colton Czack (62, 210/119 tackles) and Troy Lang (5-11, 190/96 tackles,
eight TFL).
*Madison (6-4): Senior DB Bo Ransom (5-9,
175) returns after recording 97 tackles, three
INTs and two fumble recoveries.
*Maple Heights (4-6): The Mustangs will
rely on the senior trio of WR Cliff Garner
(6-4, 180), OL Antonio Weatherspoon
(6-2, 265) and LB Ronald Smith (6-0,
215).
*Mayfield (6-5, Region 1 quarterfinalist): The Wildcats have holes to fill
but senior OL David Khanin (6-2, 280)
is a good piece to build around.
*North Olmsted (7-3): The Eagles return some standout lineman in seniors
Matt Sommers
LB, Kent Roosevelt
Jeff Rotheram (6-6, 290/Tiffin and
Lake Erie offers), Beau Bilinsky (6-3,
27) and Andrew Bukala (6-3, 270).
Senior DB Luke Janik (6-1, 187) returns after leading the team in tackles a year ago (108.5).
*Painesville Riverside (7-3): The
Beavers will lean on senior QB Maxx
Brubaker (6-4, 180) who threw for over
1,500 yards last year.
*Westlake (9-2, Region 6 quarterfinalist): The Demons earned the program’s
first playoff berth since 1989 last season. Head coach Mark Campo (22-19
in four years) welcomes back seniors
QB Kent Axcell (6-2, 190), DE/TE
Adam Sandor (6'1, 215), OL/DL Alex
Busser (6'0, 240), OL/DL Quinn Bari (6'1, 260), OL/DL
James Bailey (6'0, 240) and WR/CB Emmette Rogers
(6'0, 175) and junior RB/LB Mason Makulinski Jr. (6'0,
210). Said Campo: “We must play physical. It's a street
fight mentality. Win your individual battle each play.”
*Willoughby South (10-1, Region 1 quarterfinalist):
The Rebels are coming off back-to-back playoff berths
but have a ton of holes to fill, including the big one at RB
that Kareem Hunt (Toledo) left.
Also In This Region
Shaw (5-5); Cleveland Rhodes (6-4); Cleveland JFK (55); Valley Forge (3-7); Eastlake North (1-9); Olmsted Falls
(2-8); Cleveland East Tech (2-8); Cleveland John Adams
(4-6); Ashtabula Lakeside (1-9); Parma (3-7); Cleveland
Lincoln West (0-9); Cleveland John Marshall (3-7); Normandy (2-8); Garfield Heights (2-8)
Team To Beat
*Massillon Washington (11-2, Region 2 finalist): The
Tigers had a remarkable season in 2012. They beat D-IV
state champion Akron SVSM, Steubenville and rival Canton McKinley twice, knocking the Bulldogs out of the
13
N. Olmsted
Dark Horses
These three teams could make a push.
Will. South
Maple Heights
Regional
Final
Glenville over
Bedford
Broad.-Hts.
Madison
10 Players to Watch
1. Marshon Lattimore, WR/DB, sr., Glenville
JJHuddle Top 10 prospect; Offers inc. OSU & Alabama
2. Matt Sommers, LB, sr., Roosevelt
Kent State commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
3. Antoine Stone, LB, sr., Bedford
Western Michigan commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
4. Truel Thompson, ATH, sr., Boardman
1,226 all-purpose yards & 25 TDs (19 rush) as a jr.
5. Timmy Tupa, WR, sr., Broadview Hts.
69 rececptions for 1,071 yards & 11 TDs last season
6. Erick Smith, DB, sr., Glenville
JJHuddle Top 10 prospect; Offers inc. OSU & Alabama
7. Devine Reading, RB, sr., Glenville
Transfer from Mineral Ridge; 1,500 yards rush as jr.
8. Bo Ransom, DB, sr., Madison
97 tackles, three INTs & two fumble recoveries as jr.
9. Marcelys Jones, OL, sr., Glenville
10. Jon Cunningham, DL, sr., Bedford
Kent State commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
Games of the Year
Roosevelt @ Akron Hoban, Aug. 29 (Week 1)
Glenville @ St. Edward, Aug. 31 (Week 1)
Mooney @ Boardman, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Broadview Hts @ North Olmsted, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Mentor @ Brush, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Bedford @ Maple Heights, Nov. 1 (Week 10)
Massillon
Midview
Avon
Avon Lake
Highland
Southview
Perrysburg
Walsh Jesuit
Dark Horses
Regional
Final
Massillon
over Midview
Ellet
Nordonia
A. Wayne
10 Players to Watch
1. Nathaniel Devers, OL, sr., Massillon
Cincinnati commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
2. Ben Oxley, OL/DE, sr., Avon Lake
JJHuddle Top 100 prospect is committed to Northwestern
3. Cody Callaway, QB, sr. Midview
BGSU commit; 4,215 pass yds & 55 Total TDs last two years
4. Bruce Kinsey, QB, sr., Highland
School-records for season passing yds (1,689) & TDs (17)
5. Nathan Hall, WR/DB, sr., Southview
Northwestern commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
6. Sam Bruno, RB, sr., Anthony Wayne
Ran for 1,113 yards & 18 TDs last season
7. Mark Delas, RB/LB, sr., Perrysburg
883 rushing yards & 18 TDs as a jr.; 56 tackles
8. Matt Blasiole, RB, sr., Lake
9. Bryan DiCillo, LB, sr., Walsh Jesuit
126 tackles, seven TFL; Offers from Ohio, Miami & Kent
10. J.J. Pinckney, WR/DB, sr., Southview
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; MSU, Louisville & UK offers
Games of the Year
Avon Lake @ Avon, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Whitmer @ Perrysburg, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Toledo CC @ Southview, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Akron SVSM @ Walsh Jesuit, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Midview @ Avon, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Massillon @ Canton McKinley, Nov. 2 (Week 10)
playoffs in Week 12. Massillon fell to Whitmer in the
regional final. There are holes to fill, but the
Tigers have a solid nucleus intact. Expectations
are high and they should be. The Tigers possess three JJHuddle 2014 Top 100
prospects in WR/DB Marcus Whitfield
(No. 71), OL Nathaniel Devers (No.
85) and TE Beau Huffman (No. 99).
Whitfield (6-0, 170) is a dynamic
player who caught 32 passes
for 642 yards and five TDs and
returned 10 punts for 146
yards and a TD last year.
Huffman (6-3, 212) caught 11
passes for 170 yards and
three TDs last year. Devers (65, 275) committed to Cincinnati
over offers from from Toledo, Akron,
Bowling Green, Ohio, Buffalo, Indiana,
Connecticut and Marshall. Other key
returners are: OL/DL Devin Williams
(6'2", 255, jr.), DL/TE Leslie Dudley
(6', 225, sr.), LB Danny Robinson
(5'11", 215, jr.), P/K Andrew David
(5'9", 170, jr./Michigan commit),
RB/DL JD Crabtree (5'10", 205,
jr.), OL Chase Lash (6'5", 298,
jr.), RB/DB Mike Smith (5'9",
175, jr.) and LB Devon Ingram
(5'10", 205, sr.). Keep an eye
on junior DB Reggie Rogers
(6-1, 175), a transfer from
Akron Firetsone. Head
coach Jason Hall is two wins
shy of reaching 50 at Massillon. “Our offseason has been
one of the best since I have been here,” Hall said. “Our
team speed will be an asset to us again this season. We
return a veteran offensive line and skill position players.”
The schedule includes Akron SVSM, Steubenville, Warren Harding, Mentor Lake Catholic, Fitch and as always –
McKinley (in Week 10).
Teams To Watch
*Avon (11-2, Region 6 finalist): The Eagles must replace five all district players on offense. Ouch. The good
news? The defense returns two key seniors in DL
Domonic Bodnar (5-11, 220) and LB Kevin Maloney (6-2,
185). Junior K Eric Sumislawski (6-2, 165) returns on
special teams.
*Avon Lake (8-3, Region 2 quarterfinalist): The Shoreman have two JJHuddle Top 10 Prospects in senior
DL/TE Kyle Kuhar (6-4, 245/Ohio commit) and senior
DE/OL Ben Oxley (6-6, 275/Northwestern commit). Senior LB Collin Lucas (6-1, 225) has a Kent State offer. Senior DB Max Seipel (6-1, 200) is an exceptional athlete.
*Grafton Midview (9-2, Region 6 quarterfinalist): The
Middies will lean on standout senior QB Cody Calloway
(6-3, 196) who has committed to Bowling Green. Calloway owns multiple school records and has thrown for
over 2,000 yards in each of the last two seasons (4,215
total). He’s also thrown 41 TDs and rushed for 14 more
over that span. Senior K Brandon Matchum (5-10, 170) is
a good one. Junior DB Dante Redwood (5-10, 165) leads
the defense.
*Medina Highland (7-3): The Hornets finished ninth in
Region 6 last year and just missed out on the program’s
fourth playoff appearance in five years. The dynamic senior pass-catch duo of QB Bruce Kinsey (6-1, 170) and
WR Cory Moncol (6-0, 173) return to an offense that set
school records for scoring average (36.5 points), yards
(390.9 per game) and first downs (21.7 per game). Kinsey set school records for single-season passing yards
(1,689) and TDs (17) and single-game passing yards
(318), total yards (395) and TDs (five).
*Sylvania Southview (6-4): The Cougars have a trio of
JJHuddle Top 100 senior prospects in WR/DB Nathan
Hall (6-3, 205/Northwestern commit), WR/DB JJ Pinckney
(6-4, 182/Michigan State, Kentucky, Louisville, Indiana offers) and OL/DL Ryan Stout (6-6, 255/MAC offers).
Keep An Eye On
*Akron Ellet (8-3, Region 5 quarterfinalist): Senior LBs
Matt Geer (5-8, 170) and Dakota King (5-11, 170) lead
14
the Orangmen defense, while junior RB Jacob
Ivery (5-7, 155) returns on O.
*Anthony Wayne (5-5): The Generals will
lean on senior RB Sam Bruno (6-2, 185) who
holds a Toledo offer. Bruno ran for 1,113
yards and 18 TDs last season. Other key
returners are senior K Jake Hartbarger
and senior LB Blake Alberts.
*Nordonia (7-4, Region 2 quarterfinalist): The Knights return a solid nucleus in senior RB Jordan Nobles
(5-11, 185), junior WR Alex Alders (6-2,
195), junior OL Cameron Bell (6-7, 330)
and senior LB Alex Woicehovich (6-2,
220).
Cody Callaway
QB, Grafton Midview
*Perrysburg (8-3, Region 6 quarterfinalist): Senior RB/LB Mark
Delas (6-2, 212) returns for the Yellow Jackets after rushing for 883
yards and 18 TDs last year. He
also had 56 tackles.
*Toledo St. John’s (4-6):
Senior RB Collin Korte
rushed for 576 yards and
11 TDs last year, while
junior Craig Mays caught
34 passes for 458 yards
and seven TDs. Sophomore OL Sean Rattay (6-2, 280)
was All-TRAC as a freshman. Senior DE/TE Trevor
Walsh (6-4, 205) adds depth on both lines. Look out for
senior DL Genaro DeMarco (6-3, 232/60 tackles).
*Toledo Bowsher (6-4): The Rebels return a solid nucleus in senior RB Khane Collins (6-0, 190), junior LB
Phoenix Reid (5-8, 150) and senior LB Mark Washington
(6-2, 250).
*Twinsburg (6-4): Senior DL Cameron Dial (6-3, 230)
one of the region’s top defenders.
*Uniontown Lake (3-7): The Blue Streaks will lean on
senior RB Matt Blasiole (5-10, 184) who ran for 1,656
yards and 17 TDs last season. Blasiole also blocked two
FGs and returned one for a TD.
*Walsh Jesuit (3-6): The Warriors have two of Ohio’s top
OL prospects in seniors Alex Conley (6-4, 290/Buffalo
offer) and John Conner (6-5, 300/Lake Erie and Tiffin offers). Senior LB Bryan DiCillo (6-2, 208/126 tackles,
seven TFL) holds offers from Ohio, Miami and Kent State.
Junior QB Pat Ford (6-5, 205) is a prospect of note.
Also In This Region
Akron Firestone (5-5); Toledo Start (5-5); Oregon Clay (55), North Ridgeville (1-9); Amherst Steele (2-8); Holland
Springfield (1-9); Barberton (2-8); Canton Timken (1-9);
Toledo St. Francis (3-7); Sylvania Northview (3-7); Fremont Ross (3-7), Copley (6-4)
Team To Beat
*Zanesville (9-2, Region 7 quarterfinalist): The Blue
Devils are poised for a big season. The goal? To make
the playoffs in back-to-back seasons for the first time in
program history. No lie. Zanesville owns just five postseason appearances in school history and is 1-5 in the postseason. Time to write some history. Senior QB Thomas
Wibbeler (6-0, 179) returns after throwing for a school
record 2,954 yards and 36 TDs last year. His favorite target – senior WR JT McFarland (5-11, 181) – is also back.
McFarland posted school records in receptions (60) and
receiving yards (1,163) last season in addition to catching
18 TDs. On the OL, senior Austin Kimble (6-4, 258) is the
anchor. Defensively, the Blue Devils are just as stacked
with the senior quartet of LB Tristan Rock (6-0, 210/AllECOL), DL David Johnson (5-9, 175), DB Jamal Gladden
5-10, 182) and DB Dar Stanford (5-11, 174/All-ECOL).
The schedule is loaded with Columbus South, Sheridan,
Tri-Valley, Dover and New Philly.
JJH u d d le .c o m
Teams To Watch
*Columbus St. Charles (5-4): A pair of 21-17 losses to
Kings and Watterson in weeks 8 and 9 doomed the Cardinals playoff chances last year. This year Week 11 is
within reach again. St. Charles has three legit D-I
prospects in the senior trio of OL Nathan Puthoff (6-5,
280/Marshall and Middle Tennessee offers), OL David
Heil (6-6, 330) and DB Ben Hale (6-2, 190/Bowling Green
and Toledo offers). The schedule opens with Pickerington
North and includes Big Walnut, Hartley, DeSales, Ironton
and Watterson.
*Hamilton Township (7-3): The Rangers opened 4-0 for
the first time since 1975 last season but a 3-3 finish over
the final six games kept them out of the playoffs. Head
coach Nathan Hillerich (20-10 in three years) expects this year’s club to contend for the program’s first postseason berth since 2002.
“Expectations will be high,” Hillerich said. “We
return seven all-league players and 13 starters
from 2012. Filling the quarterback position will
be the toughest task.” Junior Dante White
looks like the frontrunner to take over
QB duties. His learning curve will be
cushioned by the return of junior
Slot/DB Aaron Hall-Williams (5-8,
168), the reigning Mid-State League
Offensive Back of the Year. HallWilliams ran for 659 yards and nine
TDs on 59 carries, caught 37 passes
for 693 yards and six TDs and returned two of his three INTs for
TDs. Another key returnee is senior DE/TE Micky Crum (6-4, 240)
who has committed to Louisville.
Crum ran for two TDs, caught
two TD passes and had 29 tackles last year. Additional players
of note are senior Lorenzio
Bridges (5-11, 186/529 yards
rushing, five TDs, 34 tackles),
senior DB Dylan Napier (5-10,
155/62 tackles) and junior DB Dashawn
Nelms (5-8, 150/43 tackles). On the OL/DL the
Rangers return Kedtrick West, Logan Jones,
Michael Wellman, Alonzo Jewell and Ben
Swauger. New to the schedule are nonleague
opponents Licking Heights (Week2) and
Worthington Kilbourne (Week 3).
*Mansfield Senior (8-3, Region 6 quarterfinalist): The TYgers are thinking
playoffs with a standout cast returning.
Defensively, Mansfield returns a strong
senior trio in DL Antonio Sanderfer (6-0,
190), LB Jaleel Taylor (6-0, 200/129
tackles, seven sacks, two INTs) and DB Chek
Washington (6-0, 190/89 tackles, five INTs, three defensive TDs). On offense, senior QB Jalen Reese (6-3, 180)
returns for his third year as a starter. Reese owns school
records for passing yards in a game and seaosn. Washington is a standout WR (49 rec., 678 yards and nine
TDs).
*New Albany (11-3, Region 7 Champion): The Eagles
have a new head coach Pat Samanich whose served as
the program’s offensive coordinator since 2005. New Albany returns six starters on defense, including senior DB
Victor Chamberlin (5-10, 205) who had 64 tackles, four
sacks and an INT last season. The offense returns five
starters, led by senior RB Leslie Anoyke (5-9, 190) who
rushed for 883 yards and nine TDs as a junior.
*Walnut Ridge (7-3): The Scots lost two games by one
point last year and finished ninth in computer points in
Region 7. Ouch. Senior DE Robert Bowers (6-5, 207) is a
JJHuddle Top 100 prospect who holds offers from Cincinnati, West Virginia, Louisville, Michigan State and Pittsburgh. Last year he had 49 tackles, 10 TFL and 7.5
sacks. At LB, the Scots feature one of Ohio’s top junior
prospects in Anthony McKee (6-2, 190) who has offers
from Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky, West Virginia and
Illinois. He made 116 tackles last year.
Keep An Eye On
*Ashland (6-4): Senior DE Heath Reinke (6-3, 220) has
committed to Toledo. Senior OL/DL Ty Green (6-4, 295) is
one to watch.
*Ashville Teays Valley (5-5): Head coach Steve Evans
is 23-17 in four years at TV where the Vikings are looking
for their first playoff berth since 1999. Key returners are
seniors Tyler Primmer (WR/P, 6'4, 190), Clayton Seymour
(OL/DL, 6'3, 230) and Thad Smith (OL/DL, 6'1, 240), junior Anthony Jones (RB/DB, 5'10, 170) and sophomore
Neal Davis (OL/DL, 5'10, 240). Primmer caught 38
passes for 489 yards and seven TDs last year. Seymour
made 54 tackles, including 13 TFL. New to the schedule
are Logan and Chillicothe.
*Canal Winchester (9-3, Region 7 semifinalist): The Indians join the OCC Cardinal Division this year after being
a member of the Mid-State League since 1966. Only two
teams (Delaware Hayes and Dublin Scioto) remain
from last year’s schedule. Senior DB Khari
Golden (5-9, 170) returns after making 100
tackles and eight INTs as a junior. Also back is
junior WR Skyler Scott (6-2, 215) who caught
25 passes for 545 yards and six TDs.
*Columbus Northland (5-5): The
Vikings return a potent offensive skill
set in juniors Glen Smith (QB), Nateshawn Hargrove (RB) and Abu Turay
(RB). Smith threw for 753 yards and
six TDs and ran for 363 yards and
seven TDs last season. Hargrove ran
for 516 yards and six TDs, while
Turay ran for 577 yards and four
Walnut Ridge Mansfield Sr.
Zanesville
New Albany
Canal Win. Hamilton Twp.
Northland
Regional Final
Zanesville
over
Walnut Ridge
Dub. Scioto
Dark Horses
Robert Bowers
DE, Walnut Ridge
TDs. Senior LB Jhustus Cornley (61 tackles, six sacks, two INTs) leads the defense.
*Columbus West (5-5): Senior WR Charles
Holland (6-2, 180/17 rec., 305 yards, TD) returns.
*Columbus Whetstone (4-6): The Braves
have never been to the playoffs but will try to
ride the momentum of a 3-1 finish last year and
the arm of senior QB Ramroth Finnegan (6-3,
210) to Week 11. Finnegan, who owns an offer
from Buffalo, threw for 2,458 yards and 20 TDs
last year. He also ran for two TDs and three 2point conversions. Whetstone returns three
of its top five WRs in seniors Trent Harper
(6-1, 185/32 receptions, 449 yards, three
TDs) and Chris North (5-8, 180/39 receptions, 333 yards, four TDs) and
sophomore Aiden Tuttle (6-1, 180/24 receptions, 279 yards, two TDs).
*Dublin Jerome (4-6): The Celtics finished 2012 under .500, but there wasn’t a better four-win
team in the state, if there was such an honor. The Celtics,
however, will need to replace Dononvan Wilson, who left
Jerome holding every rushing record in school history.
The Georgia Tech frosh ran for 2,068 yards and 26 touchdowns as a senior, which helped earn him nearly 5,000
career-rushing yards and 59 TDs. Senior quarterback
Jake King (6’0/170) will be welcomed back along with
seniors WR Connor Kerns (6’1/175) and RB Mikey Bano
(5’9/160). Senior Erik Harlock (5’9/165) also returns as
receiver. Up front, senior Nate Fairland (5’9/250) will anchor the offensive line. On defense, linebackers Louis
Torchio (6’0/210/Sr.), James Hanson (5’11/203/Sr.), and
Steve Kidwell (6’0/175/Sr.) return. Another weapon for
Jerome will be senior punter Tommy Keller (6’1/175). The
only change to the schedule is the addition of Canal Winchester. The Celtics lost to four playoff teams a year ago,
and the other two setbacks came from teams that were a
combined 15-5. Jerome dropped its final two decisions of
the year by a combined four points playing a total of four
overtimes. “We want to compete against the two other
Dublin schools, Coffman and Scioto,” Jerome boss Mark
Hundley mentioned.
*Dublin Scioto (8-3, Region 3 quarterfinalist): The Irish
will be dropping to Division II after making week 11 a season ago in D-I. Scioto dropped regular season decisions
to playoff participants Dublin Coffman and Hilliard Darby
15
St. Charles
Hilliard Bradley Whetstone
10 Players to Watch
1. Thomas Wibbeler, QB, sr., Zanesville
School-record 2,954 yards pass & 36 TDs last year
2. Aaron Hall-Williams, ATH, jr., Ham. Twp.
MSL Off. Back of the Year; 17 total TDs, two on INT returns
3. Leslie Anoyke, RB, sr., New Albany
Will be featured back after running for 883 yds & nine TDs
4. J.T. McFarland, WR., sr., Zanesville
School-record 60 rec., 1,163 yards & 18 Tds as a jr.
5. Robert Bowers, DE, sr., Walnut Ridge
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; MSU, Pitt, Louisville offers
6. Micky Crum, DL/TE, sr., Ham. Twp.
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; Louisville commit
7. Jaleel Taylor, LB,sr., Mansfield Senior
129 tackles, seven sacks & two INTs last season
8. Ramroth Finnegan, QB, sr., Whetstone
Threw for 2,458 yards & 20 TDs last season
9. L.J. Scott, RB/LB, sr, Marion Harding
Louisville commit; 1,478 rush yards & 18 TDs; 97 tackles
10. Khari Golden, DB, sr., Canal Winch.
100 tackles & eight INTs last season; All-MSL
Games of the Year
New Albany @ Westerville Central, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Licking Heights @ Hamilton Twp., Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Walnut Ridge @ Marion-Franklin, Sept. 26 (Week 5)
West Holmes @ Mansfield Sr., Oct. 11 (Week 7)
Zanesville @ New Philadelphia, Oct. 11 (Week 7)
Canal Winchester @ Dub. Scioto, Nov. 1 (Week 10)
QB: Ramroth Finnegan, 6-3, 210, sr., Columbus
Whetstone; Thomas Wibbeler, 5-11, 170, sr.,
Zanesville; Cory Roberson, 6-3, 195, sr., Cincinnati
Northwest; Kimani Murray, 6-0, 185, sr., Western
Hills; Bruce Kinsey, 6-1, 170, sr., Medina Highland;
Cameron Daugherty, 6-5, 200, jr. Wooster
RB: Matt Blasiole, 5-10, 184, sr., Uniontown Lake;
Miles Hibbler, 5-11, 185, sr., Troy (Kent State); Mark
Delas, 6-2, 212, sr., Perrysburg; Sam Bruno, 6-2, 185,
sr., Anthony Wayne; Christian Evans, 5-11, 185, sr.,
Tecumseh; Jarred Brumfield, 6-2, 215, sr., Stebbins
(Ohio); J.D. Orr, 5-9, 180, jr., Mount Vernon
WR: Aaron Hall-Williams, 5-8, 168, jr., Hamilton Township; Marcus Whitfield, 6-0, 170, sr., Massillon Washington; Timmy Tupa, Brecksville-Broadview Hts., 6-1,
185, sr.; Andrew Bonfiglio, 6-1, 170, sr., Toledo St.
Francis; Alex Alders, 6-2, 195, jr., Nordonia
TE: Beau Huffman, 6-3, 212, sr., Massillon Washington
OL: Cameron Bell, 6-7, 330, jr., Nordonia; David
Khanin, 6-2, 280, sr., Mayfield; Jeff Rotheram, 6-6,
290, sr., North Olmsted
K: Tyler Burdick, sr., Glen Este; Eric Sumislawski, 6before losing to Olentangy in the playoffs. “We graduate a
talented senior class that took us back to the playoffs and
had us in the hunt for a league championship,” stated head
coach Karl Johnson. “Our success in 2013 will be dependent upon our ability to fill those positions lost by graduation
and our juniors ability to step into leadership roles and to
lead by example” Scioto welcome backs a pair of offensive
lineman in Jacob Schafer (5’11/240/Sr.) and Brennen Sawicki (6’2/260/Jr.). The latter is drawing Division I interest
and earned 1st Team all-league as a sophomore. Versatile
senior Darius McDonald, who owns a Kentucky offer, returns after hauling in 45 receptions as a junior. Senior Cody
Steffy (5’8/160) snatched 24 balls for 160 yards a year ago.
Troy Zimmerman (6’0/250) returns on defense after making
131 stops last year earning him 2nd Team all-league. Jack
Flood (5’11/180/Sr.) recorded 101 tackles from his safety
spot. Spencer Talentino (5’9/175/Sr.) also returns following
a 78-tackle campaign and Division 1 prospect Elijah Berry
(6’0/250/Sr.) is welcomed back on the defensive line after
making 68 stops as a junior. Junior linebacker (6’3/205) is
another name to watch along with Sawicki, who was 2nd
Team all-district. A big weapon Scioto will have in its arsenal will be junior kicker Sam Crosa (5’7/130). Crosa was
2nd Team all-league and Special Mention all-district as a
sophomore. He converted 46-of-47 PATs and 11-of-13 field
goals. Canal Winchester enters Scioto’s division of the
OCC and moves from week 1 to 10 and Worthington Kilbourne will be leaving its division and move from week 10
to 1. “We play a very schedule, including what I think is the
toughest division of the OCC from top to bottom,” said
Johnson.
*Franklin Heights (2-8): The Falcons started last year winning their first two games before losing eight-straight. However FH has shown steady improvement since going
winless in 2010 despite its last winning season coming in
2002. “We have daily goals of making a commitment, being
disciplined, developing work ethic, understanding team
unity, developing mental toughness, and striving for perfection,” Owens said. “We expect and demand our players
and coaches to give effort and have a great attitude in our
program.” Head coach Mike Owens welcomes back RB/S
Matt German (5’10/180/Sr.), QB/LB Ray Spangler
(6’2/210/Jr.), WR/RB/FS Mitch Kittinger (5’9/165/Jr.), WR/S
Day Summerall (6’0/185/Jr.), WR/DB Seth Dawkins
(6’2/180/So.), and TE/LB Alonzo Longshore (5’11/200/Jr.).
OL/DE Justin Harris (6’2/250/Jr.), OL/DL Baylee Kibbey
(6’0/230/Sr.), OL/DL Joe Nunnery (6’2/250/Jr.), and OL/DE
16
2, 165, jr., Avon
DL: Jonathan Cunningham, 6-1, 220, sr., Bedford
(Kent State); Gavin Elifritz, 6-1, 220, sr., Worthington
Kilbourne; Antonio Sanderfer, 5-11, 185, sr., Mansfield
Senior; Dominic Bodnar, 5-11, 220, sr., Avon; Charlie
Lawler, jr., Loveland; Cameron Dial, 6-3, 230, sr.,
Twinsburg; Heath Reinke, 6-3, 220, srt., Ashland
(Toledo); Antonio Weatherspoon, 6-2, 265, sr., Maple
Heights
LB: Antoine Stone, 5-01, 185, sr., Bedford (Western
Michigan); Bryan DiCillo, 6-2, 198, sr., Walsh Jesuit;
Jacob Lewis, 6-3, 225, sr., Olentangy Orange; Reggie
Howard, 6-4, 220, sr., Cincinnati Withrow; Collin
Lucas, 6-1, 230, sr., Avon Lake
DB: Erik Simpson, 6-0, 185, sr., Glenville; Ronald
Carruthers-Kimball, 5-11, 182, sr., Licking Heights;
Jamal Gladden, 5-11, 175,sr., Zanesville; Khari
Golden, 5-9, 170, sr., Canal Winchester; Bo Ransom,
5-9, 180, sr., Madison; Chek Washington, 6-0, 190,
sr., Mansfield Senior
P: Taylor Wilson, 6-0, 202, sr., Worthington Kilbourne;
Anthony Yates, jr., Sidney; Jeremy Bridges, sr., Fairborn
Davon Moore (6’3/215/So.) also return. The Falcons will
have a couple changes in the schedule as Columbus Centennial and Columbus West replaced Columbus Briggs and
Central Crossing in week’s two and three. Franklin Heights
opens up with Westerville North. “We are focusing all of our
attention on the first game with Westerville North,”
Owens mentioned. “We will not look beyond
week one. Overall, we are in a very good
league where we must understand how to
compete at a very high level week in
and week out.”
*Hilliard Bradley (4-6): The
Jaguars changed divisions
within the Ohio Capital
Conference from
2011 to 2012,
and this year will
be relocating
once again. However, this time, it will be state divisions.
Bradley bumps down to Division II with the
new realignments. The Jaguars return
starting quarterback Tommy Horn
(6’0/180/Sr.) along with WR/FS Ryan Reffitt
(6’5/210/Sr.) and WR/LB Zack Popovec
(6’3/190/Sr.). Reffitt and Popovec are two
kids Bradley boss Mike LoParo believes
have Division I potential. The offensive line
will be anchored by C/NT Skylar Hartley
(6’2/315/Sr.), who has committed to Buffalo.
G/DT Ryan Beveridge (6’0/260/Sr.), G/DT
Austin Miller (6’2/255/Sr.), G/DT Josias Cruceta (6’2/275/Sr.), and T/DE Zac Davis
(6’4/250/Sr.) are also back in the mix up front.
Bradley will also welcome back LB/TE Cam Hart
(6’0/195/Sr.), RB/DE TJ Martin (6’2/215/Sr.),
RB/OLB Walker Hamilton (5’9/180/Sr.), TE/DE
Jake Stratton (6’3/195/Sr.), RB/SS Jacob Pugh
(5’10/175/Sr.), RB/DB Daniel Tepe (5’11/180/Sr.),
TE/DE Tyler Harris (6’3/220/Sr.), and WR/K Andrew
Bradley (5’9/170/Sr.). LoParo believe Tyler Harris is
another potential DI kid along with Trey Anderson.
The schedule will change a little bit with Teays Valley
and Westland being replaced by Reynoldsburg and
Olentangy Orange in week’s two and three. Another replacement will be Canal Winchesterin week seven for Worthington Kilbourne. “The OCC-Cardinal division is very
challenging,” LoParo said. “Westerville South, Dublin
Scioto, and Hilliard Darby are returning playoff experience
with Westerville Central just missing the cut. The division
adds Canal Winchester, which has had a very strong program. Our non-league schedule of Marysville, Reynoldsburg, and Orange will also prove to be a tough road.”
Bradley won its first three games a season ago before
dropping six of its next seven games. Two losses came by
a combine three points.
*Lewis Center Olentangy (10-2, Region 3 semifinalist):
The Braves are coming off a playoff appearance where
they made the regional semifinals following an opening
round win over Dublin Scioto before being knocked out by
two-time state champion, Hilliard Davidson. With the new
seven-division insertion, Olentangy will be heading to Division II. Not only that, but the Braves will have a new head
coach in Mark Solis, the former boss at Twinsburg. The
backbone for this season’s team could be the return of four
starting offensive linemen. Andy Simms (6’3/265), Case
Troyer (6’3/265), Curtis Conrad, and Quinton Gallion make
up the quartet. Simms, who anchors the offense at center,
has offers from Akron, Buffalo, Toledo, and Yale. Another
strong position will be at wide receiver where the Braves
return three pass catchers from last year’s team in Anthony
Allocco, Victor Elmurr, and JT Grega. Tailbacks Hayden
Hunter and Maleke Mitchell should be a nice combination
in the backfield. Quarterback Noah Durst sat behind Air
Force signee Andrew Horstman a year ago but is primed
for a breakout season. On defense, Olentangy doesn’t return as much, but senior linebacker Kevin Sherry is a good
place to start. Classmates Tim Feasel (OLB) and Jonah
Gutentag along with sophomore Chris Crumb (DL) will join
him. Canal Winchester will replace Watkins Memorial on
the schedule. Big games include rivalry contests with Olentangy Liberty, Olentangy Orange, and Big Walnut along
with good Worthington Kilbourne and New Albany teams.
*Logan (2-8): The Chieftains have a new head coach in
Billy Burke who previously spent four seasons (2008-2011)
as the head coach at Medina Buckeye.
*Marion Harding (2-7): The Presidents will lean heavily on
senior RB L.J. Scott (5-10, 210) who is ranked the No. 2
fullback prospect in the country by 247sports.com. Scott
ran for 1,478 yards and 18 TDs last season and
also had a school-record 357 yards in one game.
As a returner, Scott added 586 yards and a TD.
Defensively he made 97 tackles, including 13 FL.
Scott committed to Louisville over Michigan
State, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Indiana in
July.
*Mt. Vernon (5-5): The Yellow Jackets return a good one in junior RB J.D. Orr ((5-9,
190) who rushed for 1,244 yards and 12
TDs as a sophomore. Senior LB Matt Lyberger (5-10, 200/95 tackles_ leads the
defense.
*Olentangy Orange (6-4): The Pioneers have made the playoffs the last
two odd numbered seasons (2011 and
2009) under head coach Brian Cross
L.J. Scott
RB, Marion Harding
so they should make Week 11 this year
right? Experience is in short supply. “We
will be a very young team that has a chance
to be competitive if we learn fast and play
physical,” Cross said. “We believe we
have had a good off season and that it will
pay big dividends.” Key contributors will
be senior OL/DE Cole Cunningham (6-0,
220), senior RB,/LB Justin Gels (6-0, 210),
OL/DE Lens Kamba (6-1, 210), senior
TE/LB Jacob Lewis (6-3, 225/82 tackles as
a junior, 109 tackles as a sophomore) and
QB/DB C.J. Stablein (5-10, 170). Gels and
Lewis were All-OCC Capital Division. Three of the
first four games are on the road (at Olentangy Liberty, New
Philadelphia and New Albany).
JJH u d d le .c o m
*Pataskala Licking Heights (10-1, region 7 quarterfinalist): The Hornets made the playoffs for the first time in
five years last season. LH owns one of Ohio’s most versatile players in senior ATH Ronald Carruthers-Kimball (511, 182).
*Thomas Worthington (2-8): The Cardinals will lean on
senior RB Tony Harvard (5-10, 180) who returns after
rushing for 1,172 yards and 11 TDs.
*Watkins Memorial (2-8): The Warriors are coming off a
two-win season, but several things will change in 2013.
Watkins will join the newly formed Licking County League
ending its run in the Ohio Capital Conference- Capital Division. Licking Heights will remain on the schedule, but
will move from week 1 to week 9 and Athens and Columbus Mifflin will be out-of-conference foes once again.
Columbus Briggs is a new addition to the schedule and
will be an out-of-conference contest. The league games
will feature Utica, Newark Catholic, Granville, Licking Valley, Heath, Lakewood, and the aforementioned Licking
Heights. “Our second game is at Athens who were in the
playoffs last year,” sixth year boss Jeff Severino mentioned. “We will rekindle the rivalries between Newark
Catholic, Licking Valley, and Granville from the
old LCL back in the 1980s. We will play
against three Division 1 quarterback
prospects (Newark Catholic, Granville,
and Athens). Severino knows the
size of the schools will be a step
down, but the competitive nature
may be a step up. “The schedule
will be competitive, even though
schools are smaller, great football
traditions, great head coaches,
kids know each other from living in
the same county, and our middle
schools will now play from the 7th
grade up which will develop even
rivals within the county.” Watkins
Memorial, who last finished with a
winning record in 2010 and faced
four playoff teams a year ago, returns a nice group of kids from last
year’s squad. Kyle Hickin
(6’6/290/Sr.), a returning offensive lineman, and senior WR/DB Hunter Holton
are Division 1 prospects. “Hunter
Holton is looking to add to yardage as
top receiver,” Severino stated. “He broke
the record last year for receptions and
yards for Watkins Memorial High
School.” Other top returnees include
FB/LB Corbin Evans (5’10/225/Sr.),
WR/DL Preston Jenkins
(6’4/190/Sr.), OL/DL Josh
Lyday (6’2/215/Sr.), FB/LB
Isaac O’Brien (6’2/215/Sr.),
QB Ben Shroyer
(6’0/170/Sr.), OL/DL Clay
Sammons (5’11/225/Sr.),
RB/DB Mike Ford
(5’10/170/Jr.), OL/DL
Nathan Miller (6’0/250/Jr.),
WR/DB Rex Miles
(6’2/170/So.), WR/DL Alex Miles
(6’2/170/So.), and LB Corey Hare
(5’8/So.). Another added weapon will be senior kicker Jarrod Lyon (6’0/170). Severino says he has a very strong
leg. “We have a nice team coming back,” the Watkins
coach believes. “Our kids have been working hard in the
off-season and are looking forward to the new league. We
will field one of the bigger teams we have had in a while,
not only size-wise, but also in numbers. We will need to
replace are whole backfield from last year except for
quarterback, but we have kids that are ready to step up
and accept the challenge.”
*Wooster (3-7): The Generals will ride top prospect and
junior QB Cameron Daugherty (6-5, 200) who threw for
2,241 yards and 23 TDs last year.
*Worthington Kilbourne (3-7): The Wolves lost to four
playoff teams and lost four games by seven points or less
last year. Senior DL Gavin Elifritz (6-1, 220/63 tackles, 7.5
sacks) returns after earning first team All-OCC honors.
Also back are senior DB Set Hill (5-9, 170/47 tackles, two
INTs, four TDs), senior DE D.J. Freer (6-3, 210/49 tackles, five TFL) and senior LB/P Taylor Wilson (6-0, 202/87
tackles, 39.2 punting average).
Also In This Region
Columbus Briggs (1-9)
Winton Woods
Troy
Northwest
Loveland
LaSalle
Team To Beat
*Winton Woods (8-4, Region 8 semifinalist): The Warriors have been to the playoffs seven of the last eight years
and won the D-II state title in 2009. Might be time to add another trophy to the case. The Warriors have a brutal schedule, but they also have one of Ohio’s best defenses on
paper. Senior DL Daniel Cage is a JJHuddle Top 100 player
who holds offers from Florida, Michigan State, Nebraska, Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky and others. Last year Cage (6-3, 245) had 54 tackles.
Senior DB Mike Edwards (6-0, 189) is another
JJHuddle Top 10 player who has committed
to Kentucky. Edwards has 154 career tackles
Derek Kief
WR, Cincinnati LaSalle
Regional Final
Winton
Woods over
Troy
Walnut Hills
Dark Horses
to go with six INTs and three fumble recoveries. Other standouts include seniors DB Jerrell Foster (31 tackles, Kent State offer), DE
Adrian Rankin (60 tackles, 7.5 sacks, Western
Michigan offer), DB Demetrius Suesberry (offer from
Akron), LB Aaron Smith (47 tackles, six sacks) and
LB Torrez Curtis and junior LB David Long (81 tackles, offer from Illinois). Keep an eye on Colerain transfer and junior DL George Brown (6-6, 249) who has
over over 30 offers, including Florida, Michigan State,
UCLA, Clemson and others. The schedule opens
against Lakota West and also includes Hamilton,
Mason, Watterson, Thurgood Marshall and Elder.
Teams To Watch
*Cincinnati Northwest (8-3, Region 8 quarterfinalist): The Knights started 8-0 last year, before
losing their last three. Regardless, Northwest made
the playoffs for the first time since 1990 and for just
the second time in history. Led by a senior class that
could become the winningest in school history, Northwest has high expectations and for good reason. It features one of southwest Ohio’s top quarterbacks in senior
Cory Roberson (6-3, 195) who threw for 1,955 yards and
16 TDs and ran for 663 yards and nine TDs last year. A first
team All-Southwest Ohio Conference selection, Roberson
could end his career as Northwest’s all-time leading passer.
Senior WR Darius Johnson (6-0, 180/First team All-SWOC),
senior RB/LB Keshun Horton (6-0, 210) and senior OL Sterling Clark (6-5, 315) are also back.
*LaSalle (4-6): New head coach Nate Moore moves from
one of Ohio’s top small school conferences (Midwest Athletic) to one of its best big ones. He also inherits one of
Ohio’s top prospects in senior WR Derek Kief (6-6, 190)
who has verballed to Alabama. A JJHuddle Top 100 player,
Keif caught 65 passes for 907 yards and nine TDs last year.
Also back are All-GCL performers Jeff Larkin (sr., DB) and
Jordan Thompson (jr., DL). Look for sophomore Nick Watson (6-2, 180) to take over at QB. Watson threw for 510
yards and three TDs in relief last year. LaSalle also returns
its leading rusher in senior RB Morgan Wilcox (5-11, 225)
who went for 404 yards and five TDs last year. Senior DB
Cam Bouldin (6-3, 175) holds offers from Kent State and
Akron.
*Loveland (6-4): The Tigers haven’t been to the playoffs
since 2002 but by dropping down to D-II and with a talented
cast back, that drought might end soon. Loveland returns
eight starters from a defense that pitched five shutouts last
year. The headliner is junior DL Charlie Lawler who was first
team All-ECC last year after recording 60 tackles and 7.5
sacks. Also back is a pair of All-ECC LBs in seniors Brian
Tecumseh
Mt. Healthy
17
Withrow
Anderson
Turpin
10 Players to Watch
1. Derek Kief, WR, sr., LaSalle
Alabama commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
2. Daniel Cage, DL, sr., Winton Woods
JJHuddle Top 100; Offers inc. Florida, MSU & Nebraska
3. Cory Roberson, QB, sr., Northwest
4. Tyree Elliott, RB, sr., Mount Healthy
SWOC POY; 1,145 yards & 17 TDs in eight games
5. Christian Evans, RB, sr., Tecumseh
CBC POY; Ran for 1,352 yards & 21 TDs as a jr.
6. Alex Dalton, OL, sr., Troy
Oklahoma commit; JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
7. Jared Brumfield, RB/LB, sr., Stebbins
Ohio commit; Ran for 689 yards & nine TDs; 89 tackles
8. Mike Edwards, DB, sr., Winton Woods
Kentucky commit; JJHuddle Top 100; 154 career tackles
9. Kevin Blount, QB, jr., Walnut Hills
Threw for 948 yards & ran for 702; 14 total TDs
10. Kevin Rogers, QB, sr., Anderson
All-ECC; Threw for 1,142 yards & ran for 799; 19 total TDs
Games of the Year
Winton Woods vs Lakota West, Aug 30 (Week1)
Winton Woods @ T. Marshall, Sept. 28 (Week 5)
LaSalle @ St. Xavier, Oct. 11 (Week 7)
Troy @ Trotwwod-Madison, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
Tippecanoe @ Tecumseh, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
Mt. Healthy @ Northwest, Nov. 1 (Week 10)
Popp (58 tackles) and Michael Weber (72 tackles, seven
sacks). Junior DB Max Mather had five INTs. Offensively,
seasoned senior OLs Andrew Alten and Camden Bauke will
open holes for new QB Giovanni Ricci, a junior who ran for
400 yards and five TDs last year.
*Mount Healthy (9-2, Region 8 quarterfinalist): The Owls
have been to the playoffs eight times in 11 years and have
the talent to make it nine in 12. MH Head Coach Arvie
Crouch (33-11 in four years) welcomes back a cast that includes seven All-Southwest Ohio Conference players and
the SWOC Player of the Year in senior Tyree Elliott (6-1,
165). Elliott ran for 1,145 yards and 17 TDs last season before an injury sidelined him in Week 8. Junior RB Havier Pitts
(three TDs) and sophomore RB David Montgomery (six
TDs) add depth. Senior RB Jalen Davis is also in the mix
after transferring from Winton Woods (five TDs last year). On
defense, the brother tandem of senior DL Justin Lackey (65
tackles) and senior LB Jordan Lackey (125 tackles) leads
the way.
*New Carlisle Tecumseh (8-3, Region 7 quarterfinalist):
The Arrows have made the playoffs five years in a row and
six of the last seven. To make it six straight Tecumseh must
replace nine All-Central Buckeye Conference players, including six first teamers. Key returners for the Arrows are senior
DL/OL Jake Nicewaner and senior RB Christian Evans (6-0,
185) who rushed for 1,352 yards and 21 TDs last year. Junior LB Cameron Moore (6-2, 200) is the team’s top leading
returning tackler (60).
*Troy (4-6): The Trojans could have a big season. Scott
Brewer returns for his second season as head coach and
has an offense rich with talent. The Trojans also find themselves competing in D-II now instead of D-I. Senior OL Alex
Dalton (6-4, 280) has committed to Oklahoma, while senior
RB Miles Hibbler (5-11, 185) has verballed to Kent State.
Senior QB Matt Bahr (6-4, 195) continues to impress after
throwing for 752 yards and nine TDs as a junior. Junior K
Zach Thompson (62 points) returns as well. On defense,
senior DE Seth Overal (6-4, 220) and junior DL Marco Anverse (6-0, 215) anchor the unit. Overla had 58 tackles last
year, while Anverse had 70, including 8.5 sacks.
Keep An Eye On
*Amelia (4-6): The Barons have two special defenders in
junior DB Carter Hounshell (70 tackles, first team All-SWOC)
and senior DL Cohen Canter (86 career tackles, first team
All-SWOC).
*Anderson (3-7): The Redskins suffered through their worst
season of the Jeff Giesting-era (52-21 in six years) last year.
Expect a rebound. Senior QB Kevin Rogers was first team
All-ECC last season after throwing for 1,142 yards and 13
TDs and rushing for 799 yards and six TDs. Rogers has accounted for 29 career TDs. Defensively, the Redskins return
senior DB Josh Correll (55 tackles) and senior LB Evan
Lackner. The OL is anchored by senior veterans Alex Pfeiffer
and Evan Spangler. Anderson’s schedule features seven
teams that had winning records last season.
*Fairborn (1-9): Senior DB Lawrence Inman (6-1, 170) was
first team All-GWOC South last year after catching 13
passes for 256 yards and two TDs. He also had 36 tackles,
three fumble recoveries and an INT. Senior P Jeremy
Bridges (38.4 average) was also first team All-GWOC. Senior RB Tomaris Conley ran for 363 yards and two TDs last
season.
*Glen Este (4-6): The Trojans started 1-4 last year but rallied to go 3-2 in the final five games. Senior LB Tyler Burdick
is a two-time first team all-league performer and teams with
junior DB Peyton Burdick and senior LB Tyler Flanigan to
lead the defense. Senior RB Jordan Harris is back after
rushing for 846 yards and four TDs.
*Harrison (4-6): The Wildcats return junior QB Jake Weber
who threw for 932 yards and ran for 752 last year en route to
accounting for 17 TDs. Senior Justin Conners will get plenty
of touches after amassing 821 all-purpose yards and six TDs
as a junior.
*Kings (6-4): The Knights finished ninth in Region 8 computer points and missed the playoffs for the third time in four
years. Only three starters return on offense. Senior DB Ray
Brewster had four INTs last year.
*Lima Senior (0-10): Veteran head coach Mike Fell inherits
the program after a highly successful stint at D-VI Ada.
*Little Miami (1-9): The Panthers feature two standout athletes in seniors Matt McDonald (1,883 all-purpose yards,
12TDs) and Dustn Vice (1,161 all-purpose yards, nine TDs).
*Piqua (5-5): The Indians haven’t been to the playoffs since
2007 and are just 16-14 the last three years. Piqua did however beat archrival Troy in Week 10 last year and hopes to
have that momentum carry over. Junior WR Taylor Honeycutt (27 receptions, 502 yards, four TDs) will be featured on
offense. Senior All-GWOC selections Devin Magoteaux (DL)
and Dom Stone (LB) headline the defense. Head coach Bills
Nees is 163-71 in 20 years at the school.
*Princeton (1-9): The Vikings will feature senior QB/DB
Tyrell Gilbert (6-0, 198) who has committred to Cincinnati.
*Sidney (4-6): The Yellow Jackets snapped a 20-game losing streak in Week 1 last year and almost finished .500. Senior OL/DL Noah Straman and junior P Anthony Yates are
two-time All-GWOC selections. Seniors Kyle Dembski
(RB/LB) and Jordan Fox (QB) and junior Jalen Herd (WR)
will contribute heavily.
*Stebbins (3-7): The Indians will lean heavily on senior
RB/LB Jarred Brumfield (6-2, 215) who holds offers from
Ohio, Western Michigan and Youngstown State. Brumfield
ran for 689 yards and nine TDs and had 89 tackles last year.
*Trenton Edgewood (8-3, Region 8 quarterfinalist): The
Cougars made the playoffs in head coach Scott Clemmons’
first season. The task now is replacing 11 All-Southwest
Alex Dalton
OL, Troy
Mike Edwards
DB, Winton Woods
Daniel Cage
DL, Winton Woods
18
Ohio Conference selections, including seven first teamers.
*Turpin (12-1, Region 8 finalist): The Spartans are looking
for an eighth straight playoff berth but it may be tricky. Head
coach Rob Stoll (92-33 in 11 years) must replace 16 AllEastern Cincinnati Conference selections, including nine first
teamers. Look for senior RB Spencer Singh (896 all-purpose
yards) to play a large role.
*Vandalia Butler (6-4): The Aviators must replace 11 AllGWOC North selections, including six first teamers. Look for
sophomore RB Nic Martin (6-2, 215) to get a load of carries
after earning All-GWOC honors and running for 417 yards
and three TDs as a freshman. Butler must replace its top six
tacklers. Senior LB Layton Flatt (6-0, 190) is the top returning tackler (32).
*Walnut Hills (5-5): The Eagles went just 3-47 from 200307, but are 25-26 under head coach George Kontsis the last
five years. The ascent should continue as WH competes for
the program’s second-ever playoff berth. The offense returns
several key standouts at the skill positions, including senior
WR Kendal Fitzgerald (33 receptions, 418 yards, four TDs)
and senior RB Tierin Williams (548 yards rushing and eight
TDs). Junior QB Kevin Blount (948 passing yards, 702 rushing yards, 14 combined TDs) and senior TE Randall Mincy
(16 receptions, 175 yards receiving) also return. Senior DB
Nilijah Ballew is a JJHuddle Top 100 prospect and has committed to Louisville.
*Withrow (7-3): The Tigers feature senior LB Reggie
Howard (6-4, 220) who holds an offer from Kent State. Keep
an eye on senior QB Malik Bland (6-4, 185).
*West Carrollton (3-7): The Pirates return a good one in
senior QB Chad Vannest who threw for 1,387 yards and 10
TDs last year. He ran for three TDs. Junior RB Cameron
Snow (332 yards rushing, 421 yards receiving, three TDs),
senior RB Emil Suriel (201 yards, four TDs) and senior WR
Lawrence Yahle (308 yards receiving, three TDs) give WC
some solid options. Three of the top five tacklers return in
senior DB Anthony Sandhu (61), senior LB Casar Dillard (46
tackles) and senior DL Manuel Ricardo (36 tackles).
*Western Hills (5-5): Senior Kimani Murray (6-0, 185) is one
of southwest Ohio’s most versatile players. Last year he
threw for 169 yards and a TD, rushed for 422 yards and six
TDs, returned kicks and punts, snagged four INTs, made 49
tackles and punted 17 times for an average of 32.3 yards.
*Xenia (6-4): The Buccs enter Year 5 under head coach Bob
DeLong and the veteran mentor likes what he sees. “In year
4 we were able to return to winning,” DeLong said. “We are
bigger, faster and stronger than we have been and even
though we will be relying on some young players – they are
very talented.” Xenia has a pair of standout senior DLs in
Tyler Campbell (60 tackles) and Tyler Steward (45 tackles).
On offense, Xenia returns a pair of All-GWOC RBs in seniors
Dre Jackson and Ty Burden. Keep an eye on sophomore
QB Danny Naylor (6-3, 170). — EF
Kevin Rogers
QB, Anderson
Photos by ScoutingOhio.com
JJH u d d le .c o m
2013 JJHuddle Ohio HS Football Preview: Division III
QB: DeShone Kizer, 6-5, 216, sr., Toledo Central Catholic (Notre Dame)
RB: Larry Scott, 6-0, 205, jr., Hubbard
RB: Vayante Copeland, 6-0, 183, sr., Dayton Thurgood Marshall (Michigan State)
WR: Dale Irby, 6-2, 180, sr., Sandusky Perkins
WR: Darnell Tate, 6-0, 170, sr., Hubbard
TE: Andrew Gray, 6-4, 215, sr., Chardon (Maryland)
OL: Zach Harmon, 6-4, 280, sr., Toledo Central Catholic (Duke)
OL: Josh Krok, 6-7, 300, sr., Niles McKinley (West Virginia)
OL: Martesse Patterson, 6-5, 290, sr., Marion-Franklin
OL: Joe Lowery, 6-6, 280, sr., Tallmadge
OL: Isiah Moore, 6-5, 305, sr., Tiffin Columbian
K: Dillon Young, 6-1, 175, sr., Circleville Logan Elm
ATH: Parris Campbell Jr., 6-0, 182, sr., Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary (Ohio State)
DL: Anthony Clark, 6-4, 255, sr., Akron Buchtel
DL: Chance Weitz, 6-3, 250, sr., Elida (Bowling Green)
DL: Verdontae Wilkinson, 6-3, 235, sr., Trotwood-Madison
LB: T.K. Fortson, 6-0, 170, sr., Warren Howland
LB: Layne Perone, 6-1, 210, sr., Millersburg W. Holmes
LB: Paul Moses, 5-11, 220, sr., Toledo Central Catholic
LB: Dante Booker Jr., 6-3, 215, sr., Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary (Ohio State)
DB: Derich Weiland, 6-0, 180, sr., Toledo Central Catholic
DB: Sayyid Kanu, 5-10, 180, sr., Columbus DeSales
DB: Devin Cunningham, 6-0, 205, sr., Lodi Cloverleaf
DB: Chris Parry, 5-10, 170, sr., Niles McKinley
P: Quincy Colvin, 5-10, 210, jr., Eastmoor Academy
Parris Campbell, RB, Akron SVSM
20
JJH u d d le .c o m
By Eric Frantz
Team To Beat
*Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary (13-2, D-III State Champion): The Irish improved to 5-1 in state finals and won
their first title since 1988 last season with a 42-21 win
over Bellevue in the D-III championship. Defending that
title is a realisitic goal. SVSM owns two Ohio State commits in senior RB Parris Campbell (5-11, 175) and senior
LB Dante Booker (6-4, 215). Campbell ran for 1,353
yards and 28 TDs last season and added TDs via reception (one), kickoff return (one) and punt return (two).
Booker had 81 tackles, nine sacks and two INTs. As a
sophomore he had 157 tackles and 14 sacks. Other key
senior returnees for the Irish are LB/RB Newman
Williams (6-0, 240/117 tackles, four INTs, two fumble recoveries, Toledo & Florida Atlantic offers), DE/TE
Travonte Junius (6-3, 190/67 tackles, 15 TFL, eight
forced fumbles and two INTs, Toledo offer), DL/RB Aaron
Adkins (5-11, 205), DL Tony Adkins (6-0, 225) and
DB/WR Nathan Bischof (6-3, 190/55 tackles, five INTs).
Junior RB/LB Vince Lockett (5-11, 195) will make an impact. “Players understand that this is a new year with new
challenges,” Head Coach Dan Boarman (170-90 career
record, entering eighth season at SVSM) said. “We must
work even harder to accomplish our goals, as the
bar has been set very high for (this team). We
cannot look at the end result, but rather work
daily to become the best football players
and team that we can be.” The schedule,
which also includes Walsh, Mooney and
archrival Akron Archbishop Hoban,
ends with three of four games on the
road. Those trips? Massillon
Washington, Youngstown Ursuline
and Dayton Thurgood Marshall.
Teams To Watch
*Aurora (12-2, Region 5 Champion): The Greenmen drop back
down to D-III where they won a
state title in 2008. Aurora’s brief
D-II stint (four years) was a successful one that’s resulted in
back-to-back regional titles. All
told the Greenmen have been in
the postseason eight straight times
and are 84-18 over that span. Expect the excellence to continue. Head
Coach Bob Mihalik won his 100th
game last year and is 102-40 in 12
seasons. “We expect to compete for a
(Chagrin Valley Conference) title and a
playoff berth once again,” Mihalik said.
“We lost a talented senior class, but our
JV team was undefeated and we return
a good nucleus, which should allow us to
be competitive in 2013.” Among the key
returners is senior QB George Bollas (64, 215) who threw for 1,355 yards and
14 TDs and ran for 1,071 yards and 16
TDs last year. He’s committed to Kent
State. Expect the senior trio of OL/DL
Justin Wazbinski (6-3.275/91% grade as
OL, 46 tackles, eight sacks, 5.5 FL),
DB/WR/RB Kirk janoch (6-0, 175) and
DL/LB/RB Romell Pollard (6-2, 200). Key
juniors are LB/SS Alex Smierciak (5-10,
160) and OL/DL Brandon Zamary (6-2,
245). The schedule includes six home
games including the opening back-to-back
gauntlet of Twinsburg and Ravenna. Chagrin
Falls,
*Canton South (7-3): The Wildcats will build
around a talented senior backfield that includes QB Josh
Lyon (6-3, 195) and RB Deonte Settles (5-9, 175). Lyon
threw for 1,913 yards and 20 TDs and ran for two scores
last year. Settles returns after rushing for 922 yards and
five TDs. He also caught a TD and threw for one.
*Chardon (10-3, Region 5 finalist): The Hilltoppers have
a solid returning senior cast that includes DB Anthony
Cantanzariti (5-8, 145), QB Matt Bolden (6-1, 195), TE
Andrew Gray (6-4, 215/Maryland), DL Joey Fodor (6-6,
200) and DB Joe Connick (5-7, 160).
*Hubbard (8-4, Region 9 semifinalist): The Eagles return one of Ohio’s top junior prospects in RB Larry Scott
(6-0, 205) who owns offers from Tennessee, Michigan
State, Kentucky, West Virginia and Cincinnati. Last year
Scott ran for 1,614 yards and 23 TDs. In two years he’s
accounted for 2,790 yards and 39 TDs. Also back is senior WR Darnell Tate (6-0, 170) and junior OL Matt Jones
(6-4, 315). Tate, a three-year starter, has combined for 52
receptions, 1,004 yards and 17 TDs the last two years.
Jones has offers from West Virginia, Kentucky and
Toledo. The wildcard is senior QB transfer Brennan Wassil (6-5, 195) who threw for 1,518 yards and 11 TDs last
season at Kennedy Catholic in Hermitage, Pa. Junior LB
Isaiah Scott (6-3, 188) is another top prospect.
*Kenston (7-5, Region 5 semifinals): Former Mentor
assistant coach Jeff Grubich’s first season in charge of
the kenston program was a success as the Bombers won
their first playoff game in 18 years despite starting 0-2.
There are holes to fill, but Grubich is excited by what he
sees. “We are young but athletic,” Grubich said. “The
young men here have bought in.” Key contributors will be
seniors DB Drew Weninger (6-0, 180), DB Pedro Velasco
(5-10, 175), OL Nick Lewis (6-0, 225), OL Chris Ross (61, 255), OL James Gruver (6-1, 250) and WR Jake
Silberman (5-10) and juniors DE Mike Kruger (63, 220), RB Jeremy Weirs (6-0, 175) and DB
Andrew Silberman (5-10, 215).
*Marlington (8-3, Region 11 quarterfinalist):
The Dukes must replace RB/DB Dymonte
Thomas (Michigan), but senior QB/DB
Shawn Kirk (5-11, 190) looks to be the
next in line. Kirk ran for 751 yards and
four TDs and threw for 833 yards and
six TDs last year. The past two years
he’s combined for 61 tackles and six
INTs.
*Poland (8-4, Region 11 semifinalist): The Bulldogs, who have made the
playoffs six years in a row, have their
sights set high. “We return the most
skill players since I've been at
Poland,” head coach Mark Brun-
Larry Scott,
RB, Hubbard
gard (58-38 in eight years) said.
“We have to replace holes on the O
and D line and replace Conner McFadden, a 3-year starter at kicker
who signed with Youngstown State,
but the coaching staff is all coming
back and it’s a blessing to have a returning quarterback. The kids are
hungry for a regional championship.”
That returning QB is senior Jacob
Wolfe (6-3, 200) who threw for 1,020
yards passing and 10 TDs last year.
Also back is the senior trio of RB Ross
Gould (5-8, 180/1,100 yards rushing, 12
TDs), ATH Tyler Evan (6-2, 200) and TE
John Markota (6-2,225). Key returners on
the OL are senior Nick Rizzo (5-10, 280)
and Liborio Ricottilli (6-3, 280). The defense will be anchored by senior DL
Zach Bader (6-0, 250), junior LB Adam
Wollett (6-0, 200) and junior DB Austin
Wilson (6-1, 200).
Keep An Eye On
*Akron Buchtel (4-6): The Griffs return one of the state’s
best DL prospects in senior Anthony Clark (6-4, 255) who
holds offers from Ohio and Toledo. He had 35 tackles and
12 sacks last year.
*Akron Garfield (4-6): Junior RB Darrion Powers (5-11,
175) returns after rushing for 875 yards and eight TDs.
*Alliance (4-6): The Aviators return a good one in senior
21
Akron SVSM
Hubbard
Aurora
Canton South
Chardon
Kenston
Louisville
Regional
Final
SVSM over
Hubbard
Poland
Dark Horses
Marlington
Ravenna
McKinley
10 Players to Watch
1. Dante Booker, LB, sr., Akron SVSM
Ohio State commit; Has 238 tackles the last two years
2. Parris Campbell, RB, sr., Akron SVSM
Ohio State commit; Ran for 1,353 yards as jr.; 32 TDs
3. George Bollas, QB, sr., Aurora
Kent State commit; Threw for 1,355 yds & ran for 1,071
4. Josh Lyon, QB, sr., Canton South
5. Andrew Gray, TE, sr., Chardon
Maryland commit & JJHUddle Top 100 Prospect
6. Larry Scott, RB, jr., Hubbard
Has rushed for 2,790 yards & 39 TDs in two years
7. T.K. Fortson, LB, sr., Howland
Trumball County DPOY; 122 tackles, 22 TFL, 19 sacks
8. Joey Duckworth, QB, sr., Louisville
Ohio commit; 13 total TDs in five starts last year
9. Josh Krok, OL, sr., Niles McKinley
West Virginia commit & JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
10. Darnel Tate, WR, sr., Hubbard
52 rec., 1,004 yards & 17 TDs the last two years
Games of the Year
Ravenna @ Tallmadge, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Kenston @ Chardon, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Chagrin Falls @ Aurora, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Akron SVSM @ Thur. Marshall, Oct. 12 (Week 7)
Poland @ Hubbard, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
Akron SVSM @ Massillon, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
Toledo CC
Columbian
Perkins
Lake Catholic
Napoleon
Elida
Maumee
Regional Final
Toledo CC
over
Columbian
Norwalk
Dark Horses
Cloverleaf
Clyde
Madison
10 Players to Watch
1. DeShone Kizer, QB, sr., Toledo CC
Notre Dame commit & JJHuddle Top100 Prospect
2. Isaiah Moore, OL/DL, sr., Columbian
Holds offers from Bowling Green, Toledo & Kent State
3. Breck Turner, RB, jr., Norwalk
Ran for 977 yards & 14 TDs as a soph.
4. Anthony Christopher, DB, sr., Lake Catholic
Had four INTs & four fumble recoveries last season
5. Devin Cunningham, WR, Sr., Cloverleaf
School-record 23 total TDs last year (rec., rush & ret.)
6. Chance Weitz, DL, sr., Elida
Bolwing Green commit & JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
7. Dale Irby, WR/DB, sr., Perkins
Caught 40 passes for 640 yards & 11 TDs; 42 tackles
8. Zach Harmon, OL, sr., Toledo CC
Duke commit & JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
9. Derich Weiland, WR/DB, sr., Toledo CC
All-TRAC on offense, defense & special teams as jr.
10. Trey Guilliam, WR/DB, sr., Defiance
Caught 77 passes for 1,106 yards & 10 TDs; Four INTs
Games of the Year
Bellevue @ Perkins, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Delphos SJ @ Elida, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Ursuline @ Lake Catholic, Sept. 7 (Week 2)
Lake Catholic @ Massillon, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Columbian @ Norwalk, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Whitmer @ Toledo CC, Sept., 20 (Week 4)
RB/DB Parrish Martin (5-11, 175) who ran for 796 yards
and eight TDs on 124 carries and caught 36 passes for
534 yards and six TDs. He also made 39 tackles.
*Canfield (2-8): The Cardinals will lean on
senior QB Kimu Kim (ran for 596 yards and
threw for 495 yards last year).
*Howland (8-3, Region 5 quarterfinalist): The Tigers will build around senior LB T.K. Fortson (6-0, 170) who
had 112 tackles, 22 TFL and 19
sacks last year en route to being
named the Trumball County Defensive Player of the Year. ON
offense, senior WR Tom Bailey
returns after catching 10 passes
for 195 yards.
*Louisville (5-5): Senior QB Joey
Duckworth (6-3, 215) returns
after missing the final five
games last year with injury. The
Ohio University recruit threw for
1,161 yards and 11 TDs and ran
for 320 yards and two TDs in the
five starts he made.
*Niles McKinley (8-3, Region 9 quarterfinalist): The Dragons hosted the
school’s first playoff game last year
and return nine starters from that
squad, including six on defense.
Senior DB Chris Parry had eight
INTs last year, while senior LB
Nick Sanchez (105 tackles, 15
TFL) is the team’s top returning
tackler. Offensively, Niles lone returning starter on the OL is senior
Josh Krok (6-7, 300) who has committed to West Virginia. Senior WR
Marcus Hill caught 34 passes for
478 yards and five TDs last year.
*Norton (5-5): The Panthers will
lean on junior RB/LB Jon
Cheatham (6-0, 170) who
ran for 881 yards and 10
TDs last season.
*Ravenna (7-5, Region 9
semifinalist): Senior OL Brandon
Craig (6-3, 275) returns to open holes for senior RB
Demetrius Fear (6-0, 210/748 yards, nine TDs) and junior RB Warren Bradley (6-0, 180/634 yards, nine TDs).
Ravenna must replace its top five tacklers.
*Tallmadge (8-3, Region 5 quarterfinalist): The Blue
Devils are looking to match the school’s 2004-07 run
and win a fourth straight Suburban League title. The loss
of 17 starters hurts those odds, but head coach Joe Vassalotti (89-40 in 11 years) is counting on a strong junior
class to mature quickly. Senior OL Joe Lowery (6-6, 290)
holds offers from Cincinnati and Toledo and will open
holes for senior RB Bobby Clark (5-11, 190/five TDs).
Senior WR Jim Aumont (5-7, 155/14 receptions, 302
yards, three TDs) leads the receiving crops. On defense,
senior LB Davis Moore (5-11, 190/33 tackles) returns.
Also In This Region
Geneva (3-7), West Geauga (4-6), Richfield Revere (19), Akron Kenmore (5-5), Akron North (1-9), Coventry (46), Akron East (0-10), Akron Springfield (3-7),
Archbishop Hoban (2-8)
Team To Beat
*Toledo Central Catholic (14-1, D-II State Champions):
The defending D-II state champions have dropped down
a division, but they didn’t drop much talent from last
year’s team. Senior QB DeShone Kizer (6-5, 216) has
committed to Notre Dame and is one of the country’s top
prospects. One of his protectors is senior OL Zach Harmon (6-4, 280) has committed to Duke. Senior
WR/DB/KR Derich Weiland (5-10,180) is one of the
state’s most versatile players and earned All-Three Rivers
22
Athletic Conference honors last year on offense, defense
and special teams. He holds an offer from Kent State. Another key cog is senior LB/RB Paul Moses (5-11, 220)
who holds offers from Nebraska and several MAC
schools. Junior LB Chris Green (6-1, 235),
senior LB Marwan Marsenbeurg (6-0, 250)
and senior DB TeJuan James (5-11, 175)
add depth on D. Green holds offers from
Toledo and Bowling Green. Junior Ramone Miles (6-5, 260) and senior
Jonathan Mitchell (5-9, 245) return to
the OL.
Teams To Watch
*Elida (8-3, Region 10 quarterfinalist): The Bulldogs fell
19-14 to eventual state runner-up Bellevue in the first
round of the playoffs. Elida
features one of Ohio’s top
DL prospects in senior
Chance Weitz (6-3, 250)
who has committed to Bowling Green. Weitz had 72
tackles, 20 TFL, seven
sacks, two forced fumbles
DeShone Kizer,
QB, Toledo Central Catholic
and an INT return for
a TD last year.
*Mentor Lake
Catholic (6-4): The
Cougars missed the
playoffs for just the
second time in 14 years
last season. Senior QB
Dylan Bell (6-1, 180) returns after throwing for
273 yards and two TDs in
five appearances under center last year. Bell also ran for
a TD and caught a TD pass. Senior Brett Zimmerman (59, 165/580 yards rushing, three TDs) is the team’s leading returning rusher. Lake Catholic does return its top two
WRs in seniors Anthony Christopher (5-10, 185/12 receptions, 123 yards) and Pat Fitzgerald (6-3, 160/six receptions, 137 yards, two TDs). On defense, Christopher (four
INTs, four fumble recoveries) doubles as an outstanding
DB.
*Napoleon (11-1-1, Region 10 finalist): The Wildcats
will build around a pair of standout senior DLs in Bryant
Schlade, Napoleon (6-0, 191) and Sam Walker (5-10,
176). Schlade doubles as a reliable RB. Also back are
seniors Zach Fielder (TE) and Anson Lankeneau (LB).
*Norwalk (7-3): Securing their first winning season since
1977 in 2011, the Truckers are 14-6 the last two years.
Graduation took its toll, but talent remains. Look for senior QB/DB Jordan Johnson to take over under center after
catching 20 passes for 607 yards and six TDs last year.
Johnson also completed all three of his pass attempts for
TDs and ran for two TDs. Junior RB Breck Turner (6-1,
185) is coming off a season in which he ran for 977 yards
and 14 TDs. Junior DB Jared Cook (6-1, 185) returns
after making 79 tackles (seven TFL) last season.
*Tiffin Columbian (11-1, Region 6 semifinalist): The
Tornadoes have been to the playoffs 10 of the last 13
years. Expect them to make it 11 in 14. “We return a
great nucleus from a 10-0 team,” Head Coach Brian Colatruglio (32-6 in three years at TC/116-34 overall) said.
“We are very big and athletic on the offensive and defensive lines and have good depth at running back and defensive back. The concern will be with the passing game
(new QB and all new WRs).” Upfront, senior OL Isiah
Moore (6-5, 305) owns offers from Toledo, Kent State and
Bowling Green. He anchors a unit that will open holes for
senior RB Ryan Lynch (5-11, 190). Look for senior WR
Donovan Walker (5-9, 147) to contribute heavily. On defense, senior DL Codey Chance (5-10, 270) returns. New
games with Maumee and Anthony Wayne loom.
JJH u d d le .c o m
Keep An Eye On
*Cleveland Collinwod (0-10): Second-year
head coach Greg Wheeler Jr. says the Railroaders are in the midst of a “massive rebuilding effort.” Collinwood played several
young players last season and will be juniorladen this year. Numbers are up (40 players
last year after just 21 in 2011) and so are
expectations. “Morale is up. Participation is up,” Wheeler said. “The 2013
season should yield positive results and
progress. Our 2012 team was a team
that was filled with very young and inexperienced players. Most of our players
should have been playing JV due to their
age and class, but they got a year of varsity football under their belt and they will
be much more improved this upcoming
season. Our weakness should become
our strength this season.” Keep an eye
on seniors QB/DB Jo'Vaughn Scott (60, 170), RB/LB Jeff Flach (6-0, 180)
and OL/DL D'Angelo Williams (6-1,
240), junior OL/DL Cameron Jinnings
(6-3, 312) and sophomore OL/DL
Coreyaun Robinson (6-2, 315).
*Clyde (6-4): The Fliers have a new
head coach in alumnus Ryan Carter who
is also the school’s head varsity basketball coach.
*Lodi Cloverleaf (3-7): The Colts return
one of the sate’s most versatile players
in senior RB/DB/KR/P Devin Cunningham (6-0, 205). Cunningham ran for
1,227 yards and 14 TDs last year. He
also caught seven TD passes, had five
INTs, averaged 39 yards on 28 punts
and returned two kicks for TDs. Cunningham’s 23 total TDs and four receiving TDs in a game were
school records.
*Mansfield Madison (10-2, Region 6 semifinalist): The Rams
lost to eventual state champ
Toledo Central Catholic and must replace school singlegame and single-season rushing record-holder Kale
Huss. Four additional all-district players graduated.
*Maumee (6-4): The Panthers have a new head coach n
Marc Gibson who went 70-22 in eight years at Clyde.
*Sandusky Perkins (10-2, Region 10 semifinalist): The
Pirates and head coach Jason Zeigler have to replace
their QB (22 TD passes) and top two rushers (29 TDs),
but they do bring back an outstanding senior WR/DB in
Dale Irby (6-2, 180) who caught 40 passes for 640 yards
and 11 TDs last year. He also had 42 tackles and 17 pass
break-ups. Look for the Perkins ground game to feature
senior RBs Tony Didion (5-11, 190/306 yards, six TDs)
and David Doster (6-2, 190/245 yards, five TDs). On defense, Didion anchors the unit at LB (88 tackles). Senior
DL Chase Green (6-5, 210/69 tackles) is a good one.
Also In This Region
Lima Shawnee (2-8), Rocky River (6-4), Brooklyn (0-10),
University School (5-5), Parma Padua Franciscan (3-7),
Defiance (4-6), Sandusky (3-7), Painesville Harvey (010), Toledo Waite (2-8), Toledo Rogers (6-4), Toledo
Woodward (0-10), Medina Buckeye (3-7), Lexington (5-5),
Bowling Green (3-7)
Team To Beat
*Athens (11-2, Region 12 finalist): The Bulldogs made
history last year by making the program’s first regional
final. This season – and next – could see them go farther. Junior QB Joe Burrow (6-4, 190) is back after accounting for 60 TDs and 4,075 total yards last season en
route to Tri-Valley Conference Ohio Division Offensive
Player of the Year honors. Burrows threw for 3,239 yards
and 47 TDs (and just eight INTs) and ran for 836 yards
and 13 TDs. Two of Burrows’ top targets return in junior
WRs Ryan Luehrman (6-4, 185/726 yards, 11
TDs) and Adam Luehrman (6-4, 185/348
yards, eight TDs). Also back? Junior RB Trae
Williams (5-10, 180) who earned All-TVC
honors last season after rushing for 1,436
yards and 21 TDs. On defense, the Bulldogs must replace their top seven
tacklers. Williams is the top returning
tackler (36 stops). Keep an eye on
sophomore ATH Heath Wiseman (511, 170) who had five rushing TDs,
two 2-point conversions and 35 PATs
last year. Head coach Ryan Adams,
the reigning TVC Ohio Coach of the
Year, is 40-24 in seven seasons.
Proctorville Fairland replaces Waverly on the schedule in Week 5.
Week 1 at Gallia Academy is a
big game.
Athens
M-Franklin
DeSales
Dover
Teams To Watch
*Cambridge (6-4): The Bobcats
are poised for a breakout and looking to earn their first playoff berth
since 2006. Junior QB Caleb Tingle
(5-10, 175) returns after throwing for
Joe Burrow,
QB, Athens
West Holmes
Carrollton
Dark Horses
Granville
New Philly
Regional
Final
Athens over
M-Franklin
1,180 yards and 11 TDs and
rushing for 405 yards and
seven TDs. Other key
senior offensive returners include WR/DB Ivan
Gadson (5-7, 145) and
K Eric Fox (5-11, 170).
Defense – especially the
front seven – will be a
strength with the return of
senior DLs Ayden Howell (61, 210) and Logan Helmick (6-4, 220 and LBs Trevor
Hardesty (5-11, 200) and Clifford Clark (6-3, 215).
*Chillicothe (4-6): Led by veteran head coach Ron Hinton (multiple state titles at Amanda-Clearcreek), the Cavaliers are looking for a resurgence. This could be the
year. Chillicothe returns four first team All-Southeast Ohio
Athletic League performers in seniors OL/LB Cayleb Holt
(6-0, 168), OL/LB Tyler Kelley (6-0 200), RB/DB Julius
Lee (6-0, 186) and QB/DB Ryan Mathis (6-1, 169). Keep
an eye on juniors Tyler Howard (6-0, 279) and Ryan Milliken (5-11, 183).
*Columbus DeSales (5-5): The Stallions had the state’s
then-best state playoff streak snapped at 18 years with a
ninth place finish in the Region 10 rankings. Senior LB
Griff Saunders (6-2, 215/Bowling Green) and senior DB
Sayyid Kanu (5-10, 180/five INTs) lead the defense.
*Dover (11-3, Region 11 Champion): The Tornadoes advanced to their fifth straight regional final and finally broke
through for their first regional title last year. Dover has
been to the playoffs 13 of the last 15 years. Junior WR
Cory Contini (6-0, 160) returns after catching 69 passes
for 995 yards and eight TDs.
*Logan Elm (6-5, Region 12 quarterfinalist): The
Braves made the playoffs for the third time in five years
and are looking to make it four in six. Key senior returners are QB Casey Tyler (6-1, 150), RB Cory Heeter (6-0,
170) and K Dillon Young (6-1, 175).
*Marion-Franklin (11-2, Region 7 finalist): The Red
Devils have several holes to fill, but one isn’t at tackle
where senior OL Martesse Patterson (6-5, 290) returns.
He holds offers from Purdue, Kentucky, Cincinnati and
several MAC schools. Senior OL Devante Collins (5-10,
300) is another anchor. LB Alijahwon Tarvin (6-0, 250) is
one of Ohio’s top junior prospects. He had 80 tackles and
six forced fumbles last year. Senior DB Jhulyis Monroe
(6-0, 190/64 tackles) bolsters the secondary.
*New Philadelphia (8-3, Region 5 quarterfinalist): The
Quakers made the playoffs for the second time in a row
and sixth time in school history last year but failed to win
the program’s first postseason game. New Philly is 0-6 in
23
Logan Elm
Tri-Valley
Cambridge
10 Players to Watch
1. Joe Burrow, QB, jr., Athens
TVC Off POY; 4,075 total yards & 60 TDs as a soph.
2. Cory Contini, WR, jr., Dover
69 catches for 995 yards & eight TDs last season
3. Jamal Johnson, RB, sr., New Philadelphia
Career totals: 4,925 yards rushing & 51 TDs
4. Caleb Tingle, QB, jr., Cambridge
Threw for 1,180 yards & ran for 405 yards; 18 total TDs
5. Adonis Davis, LB, sr., Beechroft
90 tackles, 15 TFL, four sacks, two INTs, two FF as jr.
6. Trae Williams, RB, jr., Athens
Ran for 1,436 yards & 21 TDs as a soph.
7. Martesse Patterson, OL, sr., M-Franklin
Offers include Purdue, Kentucky & Cincinnati
8. Ajay Alderman, WR, sr., Granville
Caught 43 passes for 846 yards & seven TDs last year
9. Alijahwon Tarvin, LB, jr., M-Franklin
had 80 tackles and six forced fumbles as a soph.
10. B.J. Upchurch, RB/DB, sr., Whitehall
16 total TDs (rush, rec, kick ret, INT ret); 73 tackles, six INTs
Games of the Year
Marion-Franklin @ U. Arlington, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Athens @ Gallia Academy, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Marion-Franklin @ Hartley, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Clinton-Massie at Col. DeSales, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Granville @ Cambridge, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
New Philadelphia @ Dover, Nov.1 (Week 10)
Trotwood
Ross
West. Brown
T. Marshall
Franklin
Kenton Ridge Tippecanoe
Wilmington
Dark Horses
Regional Final
Trotwood
over
T. Marshall
Shawnee
Greenville
Wapak
10 Players to Watch
1. Vayante Copeland, RB/DB, sr., T. Marshall
Michigan State commit; 17 career INTs; 25 TDs as jr.
2. Ashton Jackson, RB, sr., Trotwood
Back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons; 37 career TDs
3. Luke Kennard, QB, sr., Franklin
SWBL QB of the Year; Hoop offers from Duke & UK
4. Jacob Hall, RB, sr., Tippecanoe
Career totals: 3,087 rushing yards & 40 TDs; Brown commit
5. Simon Stepaniak, OL, jr., Ross
Top junior prospect; Offers from Indiana & MAC schools
6. Verdontae Wilkinson, DE, sr., Trotwood
Offers include Kentucky & Illinois; JJHudle Top 100
7. Deyvn Wood, QB, sr., Western Brown
SBAAC POY; 2,700 yds pass, 304 yds rush & 30 total TDs
8. Maurice Thomas, RB, jr., Talawanda
Ran for 1.303 yards and 15 TDs as a soph.
9. Zach Day, RB, sr., Wilmington
Ran for 1,222 yards and 19 TDs last season
10. Jared Nelson, RB/LB, sr., Shawnee
All-CBC ran for 483 yards & eight TDs; 84 tackles
Games of the Year
T. Marshall @ Alter, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Ross @ Western Brown, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Miamisburg @ Franklin, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Wayne @ Trotwood-Madison, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Akron SVSM @ T. Marshall, Oct. 12 (Week 7)
Tippecanoe @ Kenton Ridge, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
Week 11. That should change this season. The Quakers
return a potent offense that incudes two of the state’s
best seniors in RB Jamal Johnson (5-6, 165) and QB
Caleb Beans (6-4, 205). Johnson has rushed for 4,925
yards and 51 TDs in three years, while Beans has thrown
for 2,569 yards and 22 TDs the last two years. Senior
Sam Shook (6-3, 240/All-ECOL) anchors the OL.
*West Holmes (11-2, Region 11 finalist): The Knights
will ride senior workhorse RB/LB Layne Perone (6-1, 210)
whose coming off a record-setting 2012 season. A year
ago, Perone set WH records for TDs (35) and rushing
yards (2,090) in a season. He also had 71 tackles, four
fumble recoveries, four forced fumbles and an INT. Senior
DB Brady Arnold (5-10, 160) leads the defense.
Keep An Eye On
*Beechcroft (8-2, Region 7 quarterfinalist): The
Cougars have one of central Ohio’s top LBs in senior
Adonis Davis (6-3, 240). He had 90 tackles, 15 TFL, four
sacks, two INTs and two forced fumbles last year.
*Big Walnut (6-4): The Eagles missed the playoffs for
just the second time in seven years last season. Senior
LB Austin Crow (6-2, 215) returns after making a teamhigh 102 tackles (seven TFL).
*Brookhaven (7-3): The Bearcats must replace their
leading passer, top rusher and top three WRs. The good
news? A pair of talented juniors return in RB/QB David
Peoples (5-11, 170/415 yards rushing, two TDs) and OL
Steffan Banks (6-2, 280). Brookhaven returns five other
players that scored a TD last year. Senior Ne’Tronne
Backus (5-8, 190/63 tackles, 14.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks) anchors the DL.
*Buckeye Valley (7-3): The Barons return senior RB
Brad Edmonds (6-1, 190) who ran for 577 yards and six
TDs last year. Look for senior RB/LB Cloin Schwartz (510, 170/two TDs) to log touches too.
*Carrollton (7-3): The Warriors are an intriguing team.
They return a pair of talented juniors in RB/LB Tyler Dodd
(6-0, 220) and QB/DB Zade Deitz (6-1, 170). Dodd ran for
942 yards and 12 TDs last year, while Deitz
threw for 789 yards and nine TDs
and ran for 444 yards and
seven TDs.
Ryan Reese
OL, Trotwood-Madison
*Columbus Independence (6-4):
The 76ers return
one of Columbus’
best senior OL in
Akeem Mitchell (6-0,
255). They also
have one of the region’s best senior
LBs in Iman Lowery
(6-1, 175) who had 68
tackles, 13 TFL, four
sacks and three INTs
last year.
*Dresden Tri-Valley
(11-1, Region 7
semifinalist): The
Scotties will lean on
senior OL/DL Collin
Prouty (6-5, 280).
*Eastmoor (6-4): The
Warriors return senior LB
Cameron Jackson (5-11
188/61 tackles, 10 sacks,
nine TFL) and junior P
Quincy Colvin (5-10,
210/42 yard average
on 30 punts).
*Granville (9-2, Region 11 quarterfinalist): The Blue
Aces made the
playoffs for the
24
fifth time but failed to win the program’s first postseason
victory, falling 27-24 in OT to Dover (which made the
state semifinals). Replacing QB David Fraley is key, but
the next signal caller will have a trio of stellar WRs to
throw to in seniors Ajay Alderman (5-11, 165/43 rec., 846
yards, seven TDs), Brock Hill (6-1, 160/27 rec., 534
yards, nine TDs) and Hunter Orth (6-1, 155/47 rec., 521
yards, five TDs). Alderman has led the team in receiving
three years in a row. Senior K/P Bradley Burkholder (5-8,
135) returns.
*Jackson (5-5): The Ironmen return a solid pair of junior
receivers in WR/DB Gabe Griffiths (5-11, 191) and TE/LB
Reagan Williams (6-3, 230). Williams holds offers from
Ohio and Kent State.
*Washington Court House (5-5): The Lions will lean on
junior RB Tye Smith (5-10, 165) who was first team AllSCOL last year.
*Whitehall-Yearling (3-7): The Rams have one of Ohio’s
most versatile players in senior RB/DB B.J. Upchurch (57, 180). Upchurch had 73 tackles, six INTs (returned two
for TDs), eight TFL and three sacks as a DB. ON offense
he rushed for 556 yards and 10 TDs, had 321 yards and
two TDs receiving, and returned two kickoffs for TDs.
*Vinton County (1-9): The Vikings return two All-TVC
Ohio players in senior OL Dylan Bartoe and sophomore
LB Tim Ousley.
Also In This Region
Mifflin (7-3), Centennial (1-9), Hebron Lakewood (1-9),
Thornville Sheridan (4-6), Marietta (1-9)
Team To Beat
*Trotwood-Madison (12-3, Division II State RunnerUp): The Rams have played in three straight state finals
and have their sights set on four. It’s an attainable goal.
Senior RB Ashton Jackson (5-11, 180) assumes the No. 1 role from Isreal
Green and is ready to showcase
the talents that have earned
him offers from Purdue, Illinois and several MAC
schools. Jackson is coming off back-to-back
1,000-yard seasons and
has rushed for 37 career TDs. Senior RB
Mark Raye-Redmond
Ashton Jackson
RB, Trotwood-Madison
(5-9, 170/263 yards, four TDs)
owns offers from Davidson and
Brown and senior WR Kendric
Mallory (6-2, 175) holds an offer
from Illinois. Sophomore QB Messiah DeWeaver (6-0, 175) is back
after throwing for 831 yards and 13
TDs last season in nine starts (including all playoffs). The OL will
Verdontae Wilkinson
RB, Trotwood-Madison
be solid with seniors Ryan Reese
(6-5, 295/Illinois and Kent State
offers) and Clem Vinegar (6-0,
290/All-GWOC) and junior
Brice Hinton (6-4, 286/AllGWOC). The defense will
be formidable again and
led by senior DL Verdontae Wilkinson (6-3,
JJH u d d le .c o m
235/80 tackles, three forced fumbles), a JJHuddle Top 100
prospect that holds offers from Kentucky, Illinois and several MAC schools. Senior DTs John Lewis (6-4, 313) and
Reese also return. The secondary (and receiving corps)
contains plenty of talent in seniors Demarcus Wilson (5-10,
160/All-GWOC) and Kieran Winn (6-2, 180/43 tackles,
three INTs) and juniors Kei Beckham (6-0, 155/Indiana and
Illinois offers) and Harrison Johnson (5-9, 170/Illinois offer).
Teams To Watch
*Dayton Thurgood Marshall (12-2, Region 12 champions): The Cougars are 40-6 on the field the last four years
and made the deepest run ever in the state playoffs by a
Dayton City League team last season. A prolific double
wing offense fueled by confusion and talent produced 767
points last year (54.5 per game) as Marshall surpassed 60
points in over half (seven) its games. The catalyst this year
is senior RB/DB Vayante Copeland (6-0, 183) who is a
JJHuddle 2014 Top 100 player. Copeland, a four-year
starter who rushed for 2,028 yards and 25 TDs last year
and has 17 career INTs, has committed to Michigan State.
Also back is junior QB Jamahl Manley (6-1, 200) who was
first team All-City League and senior RB Deangelo Worthy
(over 1,000 yards rushing & 16 TDs). Replacing three first
team all-league offensive lineman (and four starters) is key.
On defense, the Cougars must replace five first team allleague players. Key returners to the unit are senior DL Jeff
Manley Jr. (6-1, 245/56 tackles), senior DE Landon Brazile
(6-6, 225/Ohio offer), senior DB Dangelo Martin (6-5,
207/92 tackles, two INTs), sophomore DB Daquan Edwards (five INTs) and junior DB Mike Mills (5-10, 162/49
tackles, two INTs). Also keep an eye out for the junior trio
of LB Dante Pinson, WR Brian Carter and K Antonio Camberos. The schedule, despite being just nine games right
now, includes tests in Northmont, Chaminade Julienne,
Alter, Winton Woods and Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary.
*Franklin (10-2, Region 8 semifinalist): The Wildcats
have one of the most talented Athletes sin the state at QB
in junior Luke Kennard (6-5, 182). Kennard, the SWBL QB
of the Year last season after throwing for 1,744 yards and
23 TDs, is also a star point guard that holds hoops offers
from Ohio State, Michigan, Indiana, Dayton, and Notre
Dame. Senior OL Chase Henderson (6-3, 265) and senior
LB Kyle Creech (6-0, 190) also return.
*Hamilton Ross (6-4): The Rams will feature a dynamic
running game led by seniors Andrew Dunn (5-9,
172/847 yards, six TDs) and Drew Chase (5-10,
185/315 yards, six TDs) and juniors Dalton
Jones (5-9, 180/372 yards, seven
TDs) and John Kinkaid (5-10,
200/276 yards, two TDs). Senior
QBs Blake Ballard (5-11, 165)
and Joe Warman (5-11, 156) return after throwing for 518 yards
and three TDs and 235 yards and
two TDs, respectively, last year.
Junior OL Simon Stepaniak (6-4, 276)
is one of Ohio’s top 2015 prospects. He
holds offers from Indiana and several MAC
schools.
*Springfield Kenton Ridge (6-4): The
Cougars return a nice pass-catch combo
in junior QB Mitchell Schneider (5-7,
156/823 yards passing, seven TDs, 619
yards rushing, six TDs) and junior WR
Joey Conley (6-1, 175/229 yards, six
TDs). On defense, senior LB Zach Holt
(5-8, 182/112 tackles, four fumble recoveries, two
forced fumbles, INT) and junior LB Christian Smith (91
tackles, four forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries)
headline the unit.
*Tippecanoe (8-3, Region 8 quarterfinalist): The Red
Devils own nine playoff berths in program history – including the stretch of eight straight their riding now. Tipp is
stacked and has been building to this season. Senior RBs
Jacob Hall (6-2, 215) and Cameron Johnson (6-0, 180)
form a potent 1-2 punch. In two years as starters, Hall has
rushed for 3,087 yards and 40 TDs, while Johnson has
gone for 1,716 yards and 18 TDs. At QB, three-year senior
starter Ben Hughes (6-0, 160) is also back. In two years
he’s thrown for 1,553 yards and 18 TDs. The defense returns seven of its top nine tacklers, including junior LB
Austin Clack (5-11, 200/108 tackles), senior DB Sean Ford
QB: Joe Burrow, 6-4, 190, jr. Athens; Joey Duckworth,
6-3, 215, sr., Louisville (Ohio); George Bollas, 6-4,
215, sr., Aurora (Kent State); Caleb Beans, 6-4, 205,
sr., New Philadelphia; Jacob Wolfe, 6-3, 200, sr.,
Poland; Josh Lyon, 6-3, 195, sr., Canton South; Zade
Deitz, 6-1, 170, jr., Carrollton; Caleb Tingle, 5-10, 175,
jr. Cambridge; Luke Kennard, 6-5, 182, jr., Franklin;
Deyvn Wood, 6-1, 195, sr., Western Brown
RB: Jamal Johnson, 5-6, 165, sr., New Philadelphia;
Ashton Jackson, 5-11, 180, sr., Trotwood-Madison;
Jacob Hall, 6-2, 215, sr., Tippecanoe; Parrish Martin,
5-11, 175, sr., Alliance; Breck Turner, 6-1, 185, jr., Norwalk; Trae Williams, 5-10, 180, jr., Athens; Zach Day,
5-9, 165, sr., Wilmington; Maurice Thomas, 6-1, 160,
jr., Oxford Talawanda; Deangelo Worthy, sr., Thurgood
Marshall
WR: Cory Contini, 6-0, 160, jr., Dover, Ryan
Luehrman, 6-4, 185, jr., Athens; Ajay Alderman, 5-11,
165, sr., Granville; Trey Guilliam, 5-9, 170, sr., Defiance; Hunter Orth, 6-1, 155, sr., Granville; Kendric
Mallory, 6-2, 175, sr., Trotwood-Madison
TE: Reagan Williams, 6-3, 230, jr., Jackson
OL: Ryan Reese, 6-5, 295, sr., Trotwood-Madison;
Simon Stepaniak, 6-4, 276, sr., Hamilton Ross; David
Heil, 6-6, 330, sr., Columbus St. Charles; Collin Prouty,
(5-10, 165/four INTs, 91 tackles), senior DB Jarett Wasson
(5-10, 155/89 tackles) and junior LB Austin Robbins (5-10,
180/76 tackles). Other key returners are senior DL Alex Demers (6-3, 240/77 tackles), junior DE Logan Dawes (6-0,
165/56 tackles) and DL Christian Carlson (6-0, 250/57
tackles).
*Western Brown (8-2): Senior QB Deyvn Wood is the
reigning SBAAC Player of the Year after throwing for
2,700 yards, rushing for 304 yards and accounting
for over 30 total TDs. The Broncos also return Junior WR Christian Dawson (6-2, 190/769 yards receiving),
sophomore RB/LB
Vayante Copeland, Eean Hornung (AllRB, Thurgood Marshall SBAAC as frosh),
senior LB Derric
McIntosh and senior DB/WR/KR
Justin Longbottom (two-time All-SBAAC, needs
three INTs for school record). “Devyn Wood is a special athlete that has made tremendous strides to become an elite QB,” head coach Evan Dreyer said. “Our
team will be built on speed this year. We have over 20
lettermen returning. We will be scrimmaging two programs in the city, Turpin and Anderson, that will help
us see where we are as a program.”
Keep An Eye On
*Bellbrook (5-5): The Golden Eagles are looking to
snap an eight-year playoff drought. Bellbrook returns junior QB/LB Alex Fryman (5-11, 190) who was first team AllSWBL last year. Other key returners are senior DL Nathan
Coffey (6-5, 230), junior DB Sam Martin (5-11, 165) and
junior DB Michael Orbash (5-9, 160).
*Carroll (2-7): The Patriots return two All-GCL players in
seniors Chris Adams (OL, 6-4, 280) and Cary Sullivan
(RB/LB, 5-10, 205). After that the experience is limited.
Carroll opens with three of four on the road, including a trip
to Springfield Shawnee in Week 3. That’s after hosting
Beavercreek Week 2.
*Celina (7-3): The Bulldogs return a trio of key seniors in
WR Braelen Bader (5-11, 175), LB Quinn Giesige (6-1,
190) and OL Alex Giesige (6-1, 185).
*Greenville (1-9): The Green Wave could surprise some
6-5, 280, sr., Dresden Tri-Valley (Kent State); Johnny
Glas, 6-1, 230, sr., Norton; Brandon Craig, 6-3, 275,
sr., Ravenna; Ramone Miles, 6-5, 260, jr., Toledo Central Catholic; Steffan Banks, 6-2, 280, sr., Brookhaven
K: Eric Fox, 5-11, 170, sr., Cambridge
DL: Bryant Schlade, 6-0, 191, sr., Napoleon; Travonte
Junius, 6-3, 190, sr., Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary; Aaron
Adkins, 6-0, 215, sr., Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary;
Ne’Tronne Backus, 5-8, 190, sr., Brookhaven
LB: Adonis Davis, 6-3, 240, Columbus Beechcroft;
Newman Williams, 6-1, 255, sr., Akron St. Vincent-St.
Mary; Trevor Hardesty, 5-11, 200, sr., Cambridge; Nick
Sanchez, sr., Niles McKinley; Chris Green, 6-1, 235,
jr., Toledo Central Catholic; Alijahwon Tarvin, 6-0, 250,
jr., Marion-Franklin; Zach Schmerge, 6-2, 230, sr., Wapakoneta; Ryan Drew, 6-3, 235, sr., Greenville; Bryce
Jenkinson, 6-1, 220, jr., Greenville; Jalen Nelson, sr.,
Springfield Shawnee; Iman Lowery, 6-1, 175, sr.,
Columbus Independence
DB: Shawn Kirk, 5-11, 190, sr., Alliance Marlington;
Deangelo Martin, 6-5, 207, sr., Thurgood Marshall; Anthony Christopher, 5-10, 185, sr., Mentor Lake Catholic
P: Dylan Bell, 6-1, 180, sr., Mentor Lake Catholic;
Grant Massie, 6-0, 190, sr., Wilmington
people this season. Senior RB/DB Ryan Eldridge (6-0,
180) returns after rushing for 651 yards and six TDs and
registering 56 tackles. The LB corps of senior Ryan Drew
(6-3, 235) and junior Bryce Jenkinson (6-1, 220) is a good
one. Drew led the team in tackles last year (104) and Jenkinson owns an offer from Toledo. Other key players are
senior OL/DL Kyle Bruner (6-2, 255), senior DB Zach
Comer (6-0, 165/43 tackles, three INTs) and sophomore
QB Clay Guillozet (6-2, 165/775 yards passing, seven
TDs).
*Oxford Talawanda (1-9): Junior RB Maurice Thomas (61, 160/1,303 yards, 15 TDs) and senior LB Dakota Byrd (60, 200) return after earning All-SWOC honors last year.
*Springfield Shawnee (8-4, Region 12 semifinalist): The
Braves are coming off a historic run that produced a D-III
state finals appearance in 2011 and a win over Alter last
season. There are holes to fill. Senior LB/RB Jalen Nelson
ran for 483 yards and eight TDs and made 84 tackles last
year. Seniors Jeff Van Zant (22 tackles) and Clay Phillips
(60 tackles) add depth on D.
*Wapakoneta (7-3): The Redskins are coming off the best
three-year run (23-7 in regular season) in program history
under veteran head coach Doug Frye. “We will be a young
team this season with not much depth in our senior class,”
Frye said. “Our program has improved and should help us
to be successful. Our kids have learned to compete and
work hard.” Key returners are senior LB Zach Schmerge
(6-2, 230/first team All-WBL), junior OL Blake Pfenning (65, 290) and junior DL Thomas Schoenlien (6-3, 240/HM AllWBL). The Redskins will have a sizeable OL.
*Wilmington (5-5): The Hurricane return three key seniors
at the skill positions. RB Zach Day (5-9, 165) will again
lead the offense after rushing for 1,222 yards and 19 TDs
last year. He lost just one fumble. QB Cody McCune (6-4,
204/915 passing yards, three TDs) returns as does leading
WR Adrian Young (5-10, 175/332 yards). Senior P Grant
Massie (6-0, 190/38.3 average) is a good one. LBs Evan
Hickey (sr.) and Garret Scott (jr.) lead the defense.
Also In This Region
St. Marys (0-10), Graham (1-9), Goshen (5-5), New Richmond (5-5), Cincinnati Woodward (1-9), Cincinnati Hughes
(4-6), Cincinnati Taft (7-3), Hillsboro (0-10), Bellefontaine
(1-8), Belmont (4-6), Ponitz (1-9), Meadowdale (1-9) — EF
25
2013 JJHuddle Ohio HS Football Preview: Division IV
QB: Austin Schimmoeller, 6-2, 185, sr., Bryan
RB: Jordan Campbell, 5-10, 200, sr., Ontario
RB: Bayle Wolfe, 6-1, 200, sr., Clinton-Massie
WR: Justin Sawmiller, 6-1, 175, sr., Kenton
WR: Matt Iammarino, 5-7, 150, sr., Chagrin Falls
TE: C.J. Conrad, 6-5, 218, jr., La Grange Keystone
OL: Michael Dieter, 6-4, 290, sr., Genoa (Wisconsin)
OL: Jared McCray, 6-5, 300, sr., Minford (Louisville)
OL: Bryan Corpuz, 6-4,240, sr, Cincinnati McNicholas
OL: Jake Quick, 5-11, 245, sr., Urbana
OL: Matt Fitchet, 6-5, 230, sr., Ashtabula Edgewood
K: Ed Shelley, 6-0, 186, sr., Chagrin Falls
ATH: Dareian Watkins, 6-1, 204, sr., Galion (Northwestern)
DL: Chase Hambel, 6-4, 235, sr., Philo
DL: Noah Furbush, 6-4, 235, sr., Kenton (Michigan)
DL: Clayton Bullard, 6-4, 200, sr., Johnstown-Monroe
LB: John Manfreda, 6-1, 200, sr., Kettering Alter
LB: Tylor Pritchard, 6-3, 205, sr., Upper Sandusky
LB: Ty Warnimont, 5-9, 170, sr., Gallipolis Gallia Academy
LB: Matt Bahr, 6-1, 215, sr., Kenton
DB: Brady Byers, 6-3, 200, sr., Indian Valley
DB: Mark Handel, 6-1, 183, sr., Youngstown Cardinal Mooney
DB: Jalen Fox, 5-11, 180, sr., Wyoming (Ohio)
DB: Brandon Poncsak, 6-3, 170, sr., Bryan
P: Frank Catrine, 6-0, 180, sr., Middletown Fenwick
Jalen Fox, DB, Wyoming
26
JJH u d d le .c o m
By Eric Frantz
Team To Beat
*Chagrin Falls (11-2, Region 9 finalist): The Tigers are
51-6 the last four years and have played in four straight
regional finals. Graduation took its toll, but don’t fret Chagrin Falls faithful. The Tigers aren’t going anywhere. CF
returns nine starters, including five on defense. Senior
WR Matt Iammarino (5-8, 180) is back after setting school
single-season records in receptions (58), receiving yards
(1,134) and TDs (13). He also ran for three scores. Other
key contributors include senior K Ed Shelley (6-0, 185/7of-11 FGs), senior DB Joey Casarona (5-6, 160/75 tackles, three INTs), senior OL Daniel Herbener (6-1,
265/All-CVC), senior OL Alex Goebel (6-1, 235), senior
LB Lukas Sontich (6-2, 215/79 tackles, five TFL, two
INTs) and junior LB Sean Mackin (6-2, 215/72 tackles,
four sacks). Sontich has offers from several Ivy League
schools. Expect Shelley to slide in at QB and Casarona to
contribute at RB. The wildcard is the return of senior
WR/DB Michael Munday who started on the Tigers 2011
state final four team but missed last year with a knee injury. Other seniors to watch are LB Sam Zdolshek, OL
Kurt Stueber and DB Blake Eagle. Head coach Mark
Iammarino is 143-62 entering his 19th season at CF.
Teams To Watch
*Ashtabula Edgewood (7-4, Region 13 quarterfinalist):
The Warriors will lean on a defense led by the senior
quartet of DL Matt Fitchet (6-5, 230), LB Anthonie Magda (5-9, 180), DB Riis Smith (6-1,
165) and DB Lou Wisnyai (6-2, 170).
*Cleveland John Hay (8-3, Region 9 quarterfinalist): The Hornets are coming off the
first playoff appearance in school history.
They’ll again ride senior RB Latif Hughes
(5-8, 182) and senior WR Deon
Colvin (6-4, 190/13 TDs, 500
yards).
*Youngstown Mooney (36): The Cardinals couldn’t
overcome a treacherous
schedule last season and
failed to earn a chance to
defend their 2011 state title.
Mooney lost to four D-I playoff teams (St. Ignatius, Warren Harding, St. Edward and
Austintown-Fitch), to Ursuline (D-V state semifinalist)
and in double-OT (to Mentor
Lake Catholic). The schedule
this season isn’t quite as ambitious but does include St. Edward, Fitch, Akron SVSM, Ursuline
and three out-of-state opponents.
Senior DB/RB Mark Handel (6-1,
185) holds offers from Youngstown
State and Holy Cross. His speed is impressive.
Keep An Eye On
*Ashtabula Jefferson (8-2): The
Falcons must replace their QB,
top rusher and top four receivers. Senior LB Justin Butler
(5-11, 185/75 tackles) returns.
*Cleveland Benedictine (3-7):
The Bengals have one of the
state’s top junior prospects in LB
Jerome Baker (6-1, 190) who already
holds offers from Ohio State, Florida,
Michigan, Tennessee, Michigan State
and Penn State among others.
*Cleveland Central Catholic (5-5): The Ironmen made the program’s lone playoff appearance
in 1982. This year’s team would like to add a second. Said Head Coach John Lundy (23-17 in four
years): “(We don’t have any) household names yet, but
there’s a lot of potential on this roster to surprise the competition.” Key players include QB/WR Brandon Brown
(jr.), WR Kie'sean Cooke (sr.), LB Devon Robinson (sr.),
LB Curtis Parks (jr.), QB/WR Desmond Lundy (jr.) and
OL/DL Jamil Dean (sr.). The schedule is brutal and opens
with larger schools Warrensville Heights, Euclid, Shaker
Heights, Vermillion and archrival Benedictine. Said
Lundy: “That will test us and let us know right away how
good we are.”
*Fairview Park Fairview (3-7): The Warriors own one
playoff berth in program history, but the return of senior
QB Jason Kish (6-0, 160) has hopes high. Other key contributors are senior OL Cortez Harris (6-2, 279) and senior LB Richard Davis (5-11, 170).
*Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin (8-3, Region 9 quarterfinalist): The Lions made the playoffs for the fourth time in
school history but were denied the program’s first postseason win by eventual state champion Akron SVSM (4923). Gone from that squad is a talented senior class and
200-win head coach Byron Morgan. Incoming head coach
Ben Malbasa (43-17 career coaching record) inherits a
program that will lean heavily on its experience in the
trenches. Key players are seniors Joe DeMuth (LB/TE, 62, 220/two-way returning starter), Brian Blatnik (DE/TE, 61, 190) and Anthony Leonetti (OL/DL, 5-11, 225/two-way
returning starter). Junior LB/OL Nick Wagner (6-1, 210)
started both ways as a sophomore. “We play a very challenging non-conference schedule that includes two playoff teams from last year (Willoghby South and Chagrin
Falls), and our league includes perennial playoff contenders Walsh Jesuit, Lake Catholic, Benedictine, Hoban
and Padua,” Malbasa said. “When replacing a seniorladen team, the challenge is to gain confidence and
improve quickly during the scrimmages and preseason.”
*Mantua Crestwood (4-6): The Red Devils
enter Year 2 of the Pete Thompson era looking for the program’s first winning season since 2006. Expectations are
rising. “We are looking to build
upon the limited success that
we had last season,” Thompson said. “As a new coaching
staff, we decided to play a
good deal of young players.
Several sophomores and
freshman gained valuable experience against a competitive
schedule that included five
playoff teams. We will still be a
young team this season, but our
Jerome Baker,
LB, Benedictine
youth now has experience.” Defense will be Crestwood’s strength.
Senior LB Kenny Jackson (6-1,
215) returns after making 148 tackles last season. Also back are junior
DE Stephen Cox (6-3, 225/30 tackles), junior DB Gabe Surgeon (5-10,
175/60 tackles, three INTs), junior DB
Brendan Harrris (5-10, 185/90 tackles)
and senior LB Eric Harris (5-11, 185/75
tackles). Offensively, Jackson (450
yards rushing and nine TD) and Surgeon (three rushing TDs, two passing
TDs) will make up the backfield. Senior
Grant Bates (5-9, 230) headlines the OL.
New additions to the schedule include
West Branch and Garrettsville Garfield.
Crestwood will scrimmage Chagrin
Falls.
*Streetsboro (7-4, Region 13 quarterfinalist): The Rockets must replace 2,000-yard RB Dorian Williams.
The top leading returning rusher?
Sophomore RB Johnathan Williams (5-10,
170). Senior WR/DB Devin Rencher (6-2, 165) ranked
second on the team in receptions (15), yards (257) and
TDs (two) last year. He also had four INTs. Junior LB
27
Chagrin Falls
Edgewood
John Hay
ND-Cath. Latin
Mooney
Streetsboro
Fairview
Benedictine
Dark Horses
Regional Final
Chagrin Falls
over
Mooney
Crestwood
West Branch Cleveland CC
10 Players to Watch
1. Matt Iammarino, WR, sr., Chagrin Falls
School-records in rec. (58), yds (1,134) & TDs (13) as jr.
2. Deon Colvin, WR, sr., John Hay
Had 500 yards receiving and 13 TDs last season
3. Mark Handel, ATH, sr., Mooney
Offers from Holy Cross & Youngstown State
4. Jerome Baker, LB, jr., Benedictine
Has offers from Ohio State, Michigan, Florida & others
5. Kenny Jackson, LB, sr., Crestwood
Registered 148 tackles last season
6. Ed Shelley, QB/K, sr., Chagrin Falls
Standout kicker (7-of-11 FGs last yr) moves under center
7. Jason Kish, QB, sr., Fairview
Four-year starter; Was third team AP All-Ohio as jr.
8. Devin Rencher, WR/DB, sr., Streetsboro
Four INTs; Two TDs & 257yards receiving last season
9. Braxton Koup, LB, sr., Struthers
All-American Conference pick had over 100 tackles as a jr.
10. Devonte Fellows, ATH, sr., Woodridge
14 total TDs last two years; played just seven games as jr.
Games of the Year
Benedictine @ Steubenville, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
ND-Cath. Latin @ Chagrin Falls, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Woodridge @ Akron SVSM, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Mooney @ Akron SVSM, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Ursuline @ Mooney, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
Kent Roosevelt @ Crestwood, OCt. 25 (Week 9)
Kenton
Bryan
River Valley
Galion
Genoa
Clearview
Triway
Regional
Final
Kenton over
Bryan
Ontario
Dark Horses
Bellevue
Highland
Indian Lake
10 Players to Watch
1. Grant Sherman, QB, sr., Kenton
Threw for 4,076 yards & 49 TDs last year; Five rush TDs
2. Austin Schimmoeller, QB, sr., Bryan
Threw for 2,315 yds & ran for 1,349 last year; 45 total TDs
3. Jordan Campbell, RB, sr., Ontario
4. Dareian Watkins, ATH, sr., Galion
Northwestern commit; Looking to be four-year All-Conf.
5. Justin Sawmiller, WR, sr., Kenton
3-year starter; 128 rec., 1,801 yds & 16 TDs as a jr.
6. L.J. Henderson, LB, sr., Indian Lake
CBC Def. POY; 111 tackles, eight rushing TDs as jr.
7. Jeremy Brisson, RB, sr., Ben Logan
CBC Off. POY; Ran for 1,859 yards and 18 TDs last year
8. Tylor Pritchard, LB, sr., Upper Sandusky
144 tackles, five sacks, four FF, two FR, two INTs as a jr.
9. Jared Rettig, QB, jr., Millbury Lake
Threw for 2,838 yds & ran for 354 in 8 games; 37 total TDs
10. Parker Carmichael, QB, jr., Triway
Threw for 2,745 yds& ran for 220 as jr.: 38 total TDs
Games of the Year
Kenton @ Coldwater, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Triway @ West Holmes, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Norwayne @ Ontario, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Clearview @ Keystone, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Millbury Lake @ Genoa, Oct. 11 (Week 7)
Bryan @ Patrick Henry, OCt. 11 (Week 7)
Josh Reyes (6-1, 195) had 81 tackles as a sophomore.
*Woodridge (7-4, Region 9 quarterfinalist): The Bulldogs must replace their QB, leading rusher and top two
receivers. The good news? Senior ATH/DB Devonte Fellows (6-3, 180) returns after accounting for six TDs in
seven games.
Also In This Region
Ravenna Southeast (7-3); Conneaut (0-10); Beaver (2-8);
East Liverpool (4-6); Salem (0-10); Bay Village Bay (3-7);
Pepper Pike Orange (4-6); Parma Heights Holy Name (55); Perry (4-6); West Branch (6-4); Struthers (6-4); Field
(4-6); Minerva (3-7); Canal Fulton Northwest (2-8); Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (5-5); Cortland Lakeview
(6-4)
Team To Beat
*Kenton (6-4): The Wildcats had a string of three straight
playoff berths snapped last year when they finished ninth
in Region 14. This season Kenton will look to earn the
10th postseason trip in history. Despite only being in the
postseason nine times, Kenton has a 22-7 playoff record
and is 4-0 in state semifinals (2-2 in state finals). Known
for its prolific offense, Kenton has another unit capable of posting incredible numbers. Senior
QB Grant Sherman returns after throwing for
4,076 yards and 49 TDs (and just six INTs).
He also ran for five TDs. The real bad news
for opposing DBs? Kenton returns eight of
its Top 10 receivers. The main target is
senior WR Justin Sawmiller, a threeyear starter, who caught 128
passes for 1,801 yards and 16
TDs last year. Also back are
a pair of studs in junior
WRs Colyn Blackford and
Kollin Stollar. Blackford
caught 54 passes for 684
yards and 10 TDs last year,
while Stollar caught 43
passes for 621 yards and
nine TDs. What makes this
Kenton team special? It’s defense. The Wildcats feature
two prominent defenders in
seniors Matt Bahr (LB) and
Noah Furbush (DE). Bahr was
the team’s leading tackler last
year (160 tackles), while Furbush
(115 tackles, 13 TFL) is one of the
state’s top 40 college prospects.
He owns offers from Toledo,
Bowling Green, Michigan,
Michigan State, Indiana,
Illinois, Missouri, Purdue, Tennessee and
Vanderbilt. Kenton’s defense
also returns junior DB Trevor
Downing (63
tackles,
four
INTs),
senior
DB
Kuert Lautenschlager (75 tackles, three INTs), junior LB
Deric Legge (49 tackles) and junior DL jake Hale (56
tackles, nine TFL).
Teams To Watch
*Bellevue (13-2, Division III State Runner-Up): The
Redmen advanced to their first state championship game
where they came up short against Akron SVSM. Gone
from that team is standout QB Jalen Santoro and a slew
of other impact players. Among the key returners are senior OL Kile Fox (6-4, 250), senior OL/K Jake Strayer (6-0,
270) and junior LB Joey Marin (5-7, 175/119 tackles).
*Bryan (11-1, Region 10 semifinalist): The Golden
28
Bears capped one of the most impressive seasons in
school history (undefeated regular season, NWOAL title
and home playoff win over Watterson) by winning the inaugural Ohio National Guard JJHuddle Ohio Team of the
Year award. This season could be just as special. Bryan
returns talent galore including the senior trio of QB/DB
Austin Schimmoeller (6-2, 185), WR/DB Brandon Poncsak (6-3, 170) and LB Jake Jones (6-1, 210). Schimmoeller is the reigning NWOAL Offensive Player of the
Year, after rushing for 1,349 yards and throwing for 2,315
more. He accounted for 45 Tds (24 rushing/21 passing).
Poncsak (five INTs) and Jones (133 tackles) were first
team All-NWOAL. Also back are All-NWOAL selections
Daniel Pendegrast (sr., WR, 5-8, 150), Jordan Bostater
(sr., OL, 6-0, 230), Brock Minor (sr., DB, 6-0, 200) and
Dakota McNany (sr., DB, 6-0, 180). McNany had four
INTs last year.
*Caledonia River Valley (8-3, Region 10 quarterfinalist): The Vikings are coming off back-to-back playoff appearances and looking for the first three-year postseason
stretch in program history. RV is also looking for the
school’s first playoff win. And it’s within grasp. Head
coach Doug Green (fourth season at RV/82-68 career
record) returns a talented group that should produce
plenty of points. Senior QB Matt Green (5-9, 160) returns
after throwing for 10 TDs and running for five last season.
Also back are senior RBs Gage Stuckman (5-9, 185) and
Dylan Kelley (5-10, 165) who each ran for over 550
yards and scored nine TDs. Senior RB De Clarke
(5-9, 175) had over 200 yards receiving and rushing and scored three TDs last year. Senior
kicker Eric Bell (6-0, 200/45 PATs), senior TE
Cy Perry (6-2, 200/103 yards receiving,
TD) and senior offensive linemen
Jimmy Longo (6-0, 250), Collin
Mitchell (5-11, 210) and Austin
Guthrie (6-2, 230) also return.
Defensively, senior DB Tyler Simmons (5-11, 165/79 tackles), senior DE Jordan Hale (6-1, 210/28
tackles), senior LB Garrett
Trafzer (5-9, 195/33 tackles) and
Kelley (3 1tackles, two INTs)
headline the unit. The schedule
got a facelift with new non-league
games (Granville, Marion Harding
Dareian Watkins,
DB/ATH, Galion
and Loudonville) and new MOAC
foes (Jonathan Alder and Fairbanks). “We’ve added some bigger schools and some teams that
have a playoff history,” Green
said. “We're excited about the
change. We hope to improve
throughout the season and compete for the MOAC championship
and qualify for the state playoffs.”
*Galion (9-2, Region 14 quarterfinalist): The Tigers are
coming off just their second playoff berth since 1989 and
are poised for another trip to Week 11. Senior QB/ATH
Dareian Watkins (6-1, 204) looks to complete his career
as a four-time all-conference performer and has committed to Northwestern. Wisconsin, Penn State, Michigan
State, Iowa, Louisville, Georgia Tech and Kentucky were
among those that also offered. Senior DB Cario Davison
(6-2, 196) should make an impact after transferring from
Walnut Ridge.
*Genoa (11-1, Region 14 semifinalist): The Comets
have made the playoffs five years in a row, but must replace the Northern Buckeye Conference back (Kyle Nutter) and lineman (Nick Keller) of the year if they want to
do it again. Senior OL Michael Deiter (6-4, 290) gives
them a leg up on the latter. A special player and first team
NBC selection at both OL and DL last year, Deiter holds
offers from Nebraska, Illinois, Wisconsin and several
MAC schools. Also back for the Comets is two-way NBC
first teamer Logan Bryer (OL/DE). Offensively, look for
JJH u d d le .c o m
second team NBC RB and senior David Nutter (5-11, 200)
to carry a lot of the load after rushing for 535 yards and
eight TDs last year. He also added 60 tackles as an LB.
Other key contributors for genoa are senior DL Max
Reeder (second team NBC), senior DB Casey Gose (second team NBC), senior WR Quentin Spiess (HM NBC)
and junior kicker Cody Pickard (first team NBC). Pickard
set the state record with six FGs in a win over Fostoria.
*Indian Lake (6-4): The Lakers are on the verge of something big. Indian lake returns its top three rushers from a
year ago in the senior trio of L.J. Henderson (5-11,
185/657 yards, eight TDs), Chris Teague (5-10, 145/781
yards, nine TDs) and Montel Morgan (6-0, 175/247 yards,
six TDs). Junior RB Hunter Vance (5-11, 170/five TDs)
adds depth. Senior QB Christian Grider (6-3, 175) is also
back after throwing for 883 yards and five TDs. On defense, the Lakers return their top five tacklers, including
Henderson, a LB who had 111 stops last season and is
the reigning Central Buckeye Conference Mad River Division Defensive Player of the Year. Other key returners are
senior LB Ben Wahl (5-10, 160/98 tackles), senior DL
Ethan Downing (6-1, 250/77 tackles, 5.5 sacks), Teague
(72 tackles) and junior LB Cody Winegardner (5-11,
185/53 tackles, four fumble recoveries).
*La Grange Keystone (5-5): The Wildcats have never
been to the playoffs, but that could change this year. Junior WR/TE/DB C.J. Conrad (6-5, 218) is becoming one of
the state’s top junior prospects. Last year he caught 59
passes for 924 yards and 14 TDs. He also had three INTs
and 87 tackles. Key seniors are QB Marcus Gunter (6-0,
170/1,207 yards, 12 TDs), LB Pierce Young (5-10, 165/54
tackles) and LB Kendle Stiner (6-0 190/75 tackles). Junior
LB Ryan Tobicash (6-1, 220/68 tackles) is one to watch.
*Lorain Clearview (7-4, Region 14 quarterfinalist): After
a three-year playoff absence, the Clippers earned the program’s 15th postseason berth last year. A 72-0 first round
loss to Ottawa-Glandorf still stings. The good news? Talent returns. Junior quarterback Roger Engle returns after
throwing for 1,491 yards and 15 TDs. His top target – senior WR Gerrell Williams (6-4, 180) – is also back. Williams
had 26 catches for 699 yards and eight TDs last season.
*Millbury Lake (4-6): The Lakers were an up-and-down
football team last year. A week after getting shutout by
Genoa, Lake scored 54 points in a win over Elmwood.
The next week they lost 41-16 to Rossford. The next week
they beat Fostoria 66-13. Consistency is something this
program needs and something new head coach Mark
Emans hopes to provide. Emans, who spent 21 seasons
at Wauseon and won a D-III state championship in 1993,
replaces former Sherwood Fairview and Versailles HC
Bob Olwin who left after one year to go to Ada. The cupboard is far from bare. Junior QB Jared Rettig (6-2, 180)
returns after throwing for 2,838 yards and 32 TDs in eight
games. He also ran for 354 yards and five TDs. Lake’s top
two WRs return in junior Connor Bowen (59 catches, 844
yards, nine TDs) and sophomore Adam Duncan (28
catches, 460 yards, four TDs). Defensively, senior LB Nick
Walsh (first team NBC) is back.
*Ontario (6-4): The Warriors will again ride the talented
senior backfield of RB Jordan Campbell (5-10, 200) and
QB Tyler Boatwright (5-11, 200). Campbell ran for 1,785
yards and scored 33 TDs last year, while Boatwright accounted for 1,030 total yards and seven TDs. Defensively,
Ontario returns its top four tacklers, including junior LB
Bronson Krull (6-2, 230/74 tackles), senior DB Logan Armstrong (5-11, 180/72 tackles), Boatwright (62 tackles) and
junior LB Aaron Baker (5-11, 200/59 tackles).
*Wooster Triway (7-3): The return of junior QB Parker
Carmichael (5-11, 160) gives the Titans a shot in any
game. Carmichael threw for 2,745 yards and 30 TDs and
ran for 220 yards and eight TDs last year. Junior Jordon
Miller (5-8, 155/43 receptions, 445 yards, nine TDs) leads
a young receiving corps. Junior LB Troy Haven (5-10,
165/77 tackles, 18 TFL) spearheads the defense.
Keep An Eye On
*Ben Logan (4-6): Senior RB Jeremy Brisson (5-9, 175)
returns after sharing Central Buckeye Conference Mad
River Division Offensive Player of the Year honors last
year. He ran for 1,859 yards and 18 TDs. He had a season-high 347 yards against Greenon.
*Brookside (0-10): The Cardinals will lean heavily on
senior QB/P Jake Morgan (5-10, 165).
*Firelands (3-7): Senior OL Joe Sosinski (6-3, 315) is a
good one.
*Lima Bath (5-5): The Wildcats will lean on senior DB
Hayden Atkins (6-1, 190) and senior WR Teran Sullivan
(6-6, 220).
*Marengo Highland (5-5): The Scots will look to ride a
seasoned offensive line led by senior Ed Kontul (6-3,
290/three-year starter) and junior Jacob Brown (6-0,
210/two-year starter). Senior DL Dustin Baker (6-1,240)
was first team All-MOAC last year. Senior RB Kyle Minyo
(5-11, 165/860 yards) will get his share of touches. Expectations are high.
*Otsego (6-4): The Knights will lean on senior RB/DB
Cody Downs, who was second team All-NBC at both positions last year. Junior OL Damoen Nigh was also All-NBC.
*Rossford (6-4): The Bulldogs return a pair of first team
All-NBC performers in RB Ian Stolar (sr.) and LB Jacob
Cowell (sr.). Second team All-NBC LB Ryan Reed (sr.) is
back too.
*Upper Sandusky (7-4, Region 14 quarterfinalist): The
Rams have a special talent in senior LB Tylor Pritchard (63, 205) who had 144 tackles, five sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and two INTs last year.
*Wauseon (3-7): The Indians return a good one in first
team All-NWOAL DB/QB Ty Suntken (6-0, 175, sr.). Suntken ran for 1,141 yards and 16 TDs and threw for 1,087
yards and eight TDs last season.
Also In This Region
Indian Valley
Philo
Licking Valley
Watterson Johns.-Monroe
Indian Creek
Claymont
Col. South
Regional Final
Indian Valley
over
Watterson
Dark Horses
Oak Harbor (7-3), Marengo Highland (5-5), Fostoria (010), Shelby (2-8), Clearfork (3-7), Port Clinton (1-9), Vermillion (2-8), Toledo Scott (3-7)
Tusc. Valley
Team To Beat
*Indian Valley (6-5, Region 15 quarterfinalist): The return of senior QB Brady Byers (6-3, 200) and junior RB
Jake Davis (5-9, 210) have elevated expectations for the
Braves who are coming off back-to-back playoff appearances. The program is still looking for its first postseason
win. Byers ran for 847 yards and nine TDs and threw for
975 yards and four TDs. He also caught a TD pass and
had seven INTs as a DB. Davis ran for 1,587 yards and
25 TDs. Senior LB/WR Logan Ryan (6-0, 180) leads the
defense (73 tackles) and doubles as the team’s leading
receiver (28 receptions, 635 yards, three TDs). Keep an
eye on junior DL Kyle Contini (5-10, 210/90 tackles, 13.5
TFL, 5.5 sacks). Sophomore DB Brady Cotsmire (5-11,
155/50 tackles and three INTs) and junior DL Brock
Weber (6-6, 245/50 tackles, nine sacks) will contribute
heavily.
Teams To Watch
*Claymont (7-3): Mustangs are looking for big things with
the reutrn of six defensive starters, four of five OL starters
and their top two RBs.
*Columbus Watterson (7-4, region 10 quarterfinalist):
The Eagles have missed the playoffs just three times in
21 years. Expect another postseason trip. Head coach
Dan Bjelac (80-37 in 10 years) said Watterson is looking
forward to continuing its “great tradition” and “excited
about the challenges” that provides. The Eagles return a
solid trio of senior RBs in Walter Green (5-6, 155/754
yards, eight TDs), DeAndre Golden (5-9, 189/408 yards)
and Cody Calhoun (5-11, 195/362 yards). Key receiving
threats return in senior WRs Ryan Urquhart (5-10, 175)
and Patrick Roark (6-2, 188) and senior TE Alec Greene
(6-3, 222). Junior K Michael Harper (5-11, 155) is a nice
weapon (29 PATs, hit 5-of-6 FGs). Defensively, senior DE
Kyle Fada (6-2, 252/46 tackles), senior DL John Bogue
(6-1, 260/59 tackles), Calhoun (51 tackles), Urquhart (43
tackles) and Roark (36 tackles) return. Other key contributors will be senior HB Jacob Graham (5-10, 205), senior
OL Nate DiPalma (6-0, 223), senior FB Evan Woosely (59, 178), junior HB Jack haley (5-9, 214) and junior DB
Bena Kaminski (5-11, 189). The schedule is tough again
with games against Walnut Ridge, Mason, Walsh Jesuit,
Winton Woods, LaSalle, Hartley, DeSales, St. Charles
29
Maysville
Edison
10 Players to Watch
1. Walter Green, RB, sr., Watterson
Ran for 754 yards & eight TDs last season
2. Cody Farley, RB, jr., Johns.-Monroe
Ran for 1,792 yards & 17 TDs as a junior
3. Brady Byers, QB/DB, sr., Indian Valley
Accounted for 13 total TD; Had seven INTs on def.
4. Clay Lapp, RB, sr., Meadowbrook
Four-year starter missed six games as jr.; 18 career TDs
5. James Curry, QB, sr., Col. East.
Threw for 900 yards & ran for 800 yards as jr.; 21 total TDs
6. Jake Davis, RB, jr., Indian Valley
7. Deone Linsley, RB/LB, sr., Col. South
Ran for 1,153 yards & 25 TDs as jr.; 83 tackles, three INTs
8. Nolan Marcus, QB, sr., Edison
Threw for 1,345 yards & ran for 633; 23 total TDs last year
9. Grant Garber, QB, sr., Licking Valley
Threw for 1,008 yards & nine TDs last season
10. Clayton Bullard, DE, sr., Johns.-Monroe
Had 123 tackles, including 20 TFL, last year
Games of the Year
Watterson @ Walnut Ridge, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Licking Valley @ Philo, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Amanda-Clearcreek @ Ironton, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Johns.-Monroe @ Licking Valley, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Watterson @ Col. DeSales, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
Indian Valley @ Triway, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
Carlisle
Alter
Clinton-Massie
Wyoming
Gallia Acad.
Fenwick
Urbana
Regional
Final
Massie over
Gallia Acad.
Minford
Dark Horses
Miami Trace
Norwood
Circleville
10 Players to Watch
1. Bayle Wolf, RB, sr., Clinton-Massie
Has rushed for 3,449 yards & 72 TDs last two years
2. John Manfreda, LB, sr., Alter
Leads stellar LBing corps; 46 tackles last season
3. Levi Boyer, QB, sr., Carlisle
SWBL QB of the Yr; 1,994 yds pass, 554 yds rush, 22 TDs
4. David Burroughs, QB, sr., Circleville
Two-time All-Mid-State League
5. Ty Warnimont, RB/LB, sr., Gallia Acad.
148 tackles, 10 sacks, five FF; 948 yds rush, 10 TDs
6. Frank Catrine, WR/DB, sr., Fenwick
2,389 all-purpose yards & 22 TDs as a jr.
7. Jared McCray, OL, sr., Minford
Two-time All-SOC II selection; Committed to Louisville
8. Andrew Conover, QB, sr., Norwood
Threw for 2,137 yards & 25 TDs as jr.; Ran for two TDs
9. Nathan Mays, QB, jr., Urbana
Two-time CBC POY; 4,000 pass yds & 58 TDs in two years
10. Will Marty, QB, sr., Wyoming
Games of the Year
Carlisle vs Franklin, Aug. 31 (Week 1)
Athens @ Gallia Academy, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Thurgood Marshall @ Alter, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Clinton-Massie @ Col. DeSales, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Wheelersburg @ Minford, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
Alter @ Fenwick, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
and Jonathan Alder.
*Johnstown-Monroe (10-3, Region 15 finalist): The
Johnnies have played in two straight regional finals. Making three isn’t out of the question. Junior RB Cody Farley
(5-11, 180) leads the charge after rushing for 1,792 yards
and 17 TDs last season. Senior TE/DE Clayton Bullard
(6-4, 200) is one of Ohio’s small school best. He had 123
tackles last year, including 20 TFL. Senior K/P Charles
Benton (6-4, 200) has connected on 101 of 115 career
PATs. The Johnnies return four starters on offense and
six on defense. Several players from an undefeated reserve team are expected to contribute.
*Philo (7-3): The Electrics were close last year. Two
straight losses to end the season (and two 2-point
losses) kept Philo from earning the program’s fifth postseason berth and first since 1995. The Electrics are 0-4
in the playoffs, but that could change this season. Expectations have grown for a program that raised funds and
independently paid for new field turf at Sam Hatfield Stadium in the offseason. The excitement is real – and for
good reason. Head coach and alumnus Dirk Lincicome
(19-11 in three years) returns a solid cast that includes
senior QB/DB Zak Sheridan (5-9, 160/12 TDs rushing),
senior RB/DB/P Nathan Delozier (5-10, 170/39.3 yards
per punt) and senior TE/DE Chase Hambel (6-4, 235/11
sacks). Other key players are seniors Hunter Smith
(WR/DB, 5-9, 165), Luke Miller (WR/DB, 5-9, 165),
Casey Mayle (OL/DL, 5-11, 220), Connor Church (OL/DL,
6-0, 220) and Andrew Dorman (TE/DL, 6-4, 215). The
Electrics will play their first game on their new turf in
Week 2 against new non-league opponent Licking Valley.
*Steubenville (9-3, Region 11 semifinalist): Big Red will
be led by senior DB Robert Harden (6-1, 190). A fouryear starter, Harden had 47 tackles, including 12 TFL last
year. He had 52 tackles as a sophomore and 47 as a
freshman.
*Wintersville Indian Creek (9-2, Region 11 quarterfinalist): The Redskins have been in the playoffs back-toback seasons (and three times overall), but are still
looking for their first postseason win. Indian Creek will
rally around the senior RBs Blake Roar (5-11, 190/417
yards, eight TDs) and Tran Huynh (5-9, 160/561 yards,
seven TDs). Junior LB Zach Connor (6-1, 215) leads the
dsefense.
*Zanesville Maysville (9-2, Region 11 quarterfinalist):
The Panthers are coming off the school’s first playoff
berth and return a dynamite 1-2 punch in senior RB Jordan Hayes (5-11, 200) and senior WR C.J. Harris (6-0,
195).
Keep An Eye On
*Amanda-Clearcreek (3-7): The Aces had a string of
three straight playoff appearances snapped last year.
Can they rebound?
*Bexley (2-8): The Lions return a pair of defensive standouts in senior DL Jacob Olds (6-0, 198) and senior LB
Jeff Nicosia (5-11, 189). Olds ahd 52 tackles, four TFL
and two forced fumbles, while Nicosia had 53 tackles.
*Byesville Meadowbrook (3-7): The Colts haven’t had a
winning season since 2005 but hopes are high this season. Senior RB Clay Lapp (5-9, 200) returns for his fourth
year as a starter with 1,906 career yards and 18 TDs. He
only played six games last year. Also back is the standout
senior trio of WR Cody Johnston (6-1, 170), OL Justice
May (6-0, 250) and LB Caleb Fehrman (5-11, 175).
*Carroll Bloom-Carroll (5-6, Region 15 quarterfinalist): The Bulldogs – once 2-5 – won their last three regular season games (over Circleville, Amanda-Clearcreek
and Hamilton Township) last year to earn a spot in the
postseason. Senior WR Tyler Sorg (6-2, 180) returns
after earning first team All-MSL honors last year. Senior K
Dominic Garris (5-10, 150/8-of-11 FGs) is a good one.
*Columbus East (5-5): Senior QB James Curry (5-10,
180) returns after throwing for 900 yards and 12 TDs and
rushing for 800 yards and nine TDs. Also back is senior
LB Nate Burkes (6-1, 235) who had 75 tackles last year.
*Columbus South (4-6): The Bulldogs have never been
to the playoffs. Could they get there this year? Yes.
That’s quite a statement for a team that went 0-10 in
2011. The key? Senior RB/LB Deone Linsley (6-0, 200)
who rushed for 1,153 yards and 25 TDs last year. He also
had 83 tackles, three INTs and three defensive TDs. Also
back is senior WR/DB Shaquille Upchurch (5-9, 160) who
30
had 58 tackles, four INTs, 34 receptions, 452 receiving
yards and five TDs.
*Heath (4-6): The Bulldogs will lean on senior LB
Kameron Herring (5-7, 175/72 tackles, four forced fumbles).
*Newark Licking Valley (7-3): The Panthers return the
senior pass-catch combo of QB Grant Garber (6-1,
205/1,008 yards passing, nine TDs) and WR Ty Griffith
(6-2, 185).
*Richmond Edison (2-8): Senior QB Nolan Marcus returns after throwing for 1,345 yards and 13 TDs and running for 633 yards and 10 TDs last season. Also back is
senior WR Rich Springer who caught 25 passes for 509
yards and six TDs.
*Tuscarawas Valley (3-7): Senior RB Kyle Stewart (6-1,
245) leads the charge (772 yards/eight TDs). The Trojans
also return senior QB Derek Horstman (1,275 yards and
nine TDs) and junior WR Jordan Felgenhauer (17 receptions, 300 yards, four TDs).
Also In This Region
John Glenn (6-4), New Lexington (7-3), Morgan (2-8),
Fairfield Union (2-8), Columbus Linden McKinley (1-9),
Utica (1-9), Vincent Warren (4-6), Buckeye Local (4-6),
Warsaw River View (5-5)
Team To Beat
*Clinton-Massie (15-0, D-IV state champions): The
Falcons had a historic season last year. In addition to
winning the program’s first state championship in its first
state final, Massie became the first Ohio school in history
to score over 800 points. They finished with 822. The
Falcons, who lost in the 2011 state semifinals (to Kenton), are looking to earn their 12th straight playoff berth.
Senior RB Bayle Wolf (6-1, 200) returns after rushing for
2,059 yards and 41 TDs last season. He ran for 1,390
yards and 31 TDs as a sophomore. In last year’s state
final, Wolf tied D-IV finals records for points (30) and TDs
(five). He ran for 220 yards. Other key returnees are
RB/LB Kelson Gaudon (6-1/200/sr.), TE/DE Austion Flohea (6-1/220/sr.), OL/DL A.J. Avery (6-2/235/sr.), OL/DL
Kyle Aubrey (6-o/235/ sr.), Josh Loud (5-8/160/db/se/sr.),
RB/LB Chase Wolf (6-2/190/jr.), DB/WR Dylan Rose (63/180/sr.), QB/LB Zack Santoro (5-11/180/jr.), RB/DE
Sam Burnham (6-1/200/ jr.), RB/LB Jared Halley (511/190/jr.), OL/DL Dalton Ferguson (6-3/225/sr.), DB/WR
Issaih Stiverson (6-1/185/jr.) and K Callum Jones (60/160/jr.). Jones set the state kicking record for PATs in a
season (over 100) last year. “The ability to develop at the
QB position will be key,” head coach Dan McSurely (16866 in 17 years) said. “Our O-Line is big and athletic. The
defense is fast.” The schedule, which McSurely says is
the “toughest schedule we’ve had in the history of the
program,” includes new non-league games with Columbus DeSales and Chillicothe.
Teams To Watch
*Alter (8-2-1, Region 12 quarterfinalist): The Knights
have been to the playoff 12 years in a row, but the last
two seasons have suffered disappointing early round exists. This year look for defense to carry the torch. Alter
returns nine All-GCL players, six of which are defenders.
That group is all seniors and includes WR/DB Jordan
George, LB John Manfreda (46 tackles), LB Tim Seifret
(67 tackles), DL Lane Breyer, DL Joe Kramer and LB Andrew Seifert. On offense, look for senior RB Tommy Ruff
(341 yards, three TDs) to get plenty of touches. Senior K
Michael Ruffolo is a serious threat. Junior DL Kraig Howe
(6-3, 253) is one to watch.
*Carlisle (8-2): The Indians could be dangerous. Carlisle
returns a talented backfield in senior QB Levi Boyer (6-1,
195) and junior RB Jason Sandlin (5-7, 150). Boyer was
the SWBL Buckeye Division QB of the Year last season
after throwing for 1,994 yards and 15 TDs and running
for 554 yards and seven TDs. Sandlin, second team AllSWBL, ran for 1,090 yards and eight TDs. Senior Dylan
Clay (5-9, 155) is the top returning receiver (32 rec., 480
yards, four TDs). Senior WR Gideon Cunningham (6-2,
160) is a special teams threat (three kick returns for TDs
JJH u d d le .c o m
last year). Senior DL Darren Milligan (6-1, 270) anchors the
defense.
*Circleville (6-5, Region 12 quarterfinalist): The Tigers
snapped a four-year playoff drought last year. They should
challenge for back-to-back berths. Senior QB David Burroughs (5-9, 170) is one of central Ohio’s best. He’ll be protected by senior OL J.B. Brooks, Circleville (6-5, 295).
Senior LB Rusty Shull, Circleville (6-0, 210) leads the defense.
*Gallipolis Gallia Academy (9-3, Region 12 semifinalist): The Blue Devils beat Cincinnati McNicholas in the first
round of the playoffs last year for their first postseason win
since 2006 and their first home postseason win since 2002.
For an encore they’ll try to deliver the program’s 11th playoff berth. Senior LB/RB Ty Warnimont (5-9, 170) is a twotime first team All-Southeast Ohio Athletic League selection
and a force on both sides of the ball. He ran for 928 yards
and 10 TDs last year and registered 148 tackles, 10 sacks,
five forced fumbles and two INTs. Senior QB Wade Jerrell
(6-0, 160) returns after rushing for 1,035 yards and throwing for 1,231 more. He accounted for 25 TDs (14 passing).
*Miami Trace (6-4): The Panthers are a team to take seriously. The potential is there. The defense returns seven
starters including standout junior DL Cedric Pettiford (6-4,
195). The offense returns a three-year starter at quarterback (Jim Stoker), it’s top four running backs and top two
receivers. A senior, Stoker threw for over 1,000 yards and
rushed for over 800 last season. Big games include Clinton-Massie, Columbus Ready, Logan Elm, Circleville, Chillicothe, Wilmington and Washington Court House. Said
second-year veteran coach Steve Bartlett (176-94 career
record): “If we stay healthy, we have a chance to be pretty
decent. The team should be much improved.”
*Middletown Fenwick (8-3): The Falcons are coming off a
historic season in which they won the third league title in
school history, beat Alter and made the playoffs for the first
time since 2004. A bitter taste remains, though, after a first
round loss at Norwood. Fenwick returns one of Ohio’s most
versatile players in senior RB/WR/DB Frank Catrine who
had 2,389 all-purpose yards (848 rushing, 596 receiving,
804 on kickoff returns) and 22 TDs last year. He also
punted and had 42 tackles and three INTs. In all, Fenwick
returns 87-percent of a backfield that churned out 3,172
yards (and accounted for 30 of the team’s 35 rushing TDs).
The stable includes junior Jake Percy (5-8, 155/528 yards,
three TDs), senior Thomas Sheridan (5-11, 180/471
yards, four TDs) and senior Brandon Moore (6-0,
185/437 yards, six TDs).
*Minford (8-3, Region 15 quarterfinalist): The
Falcons rebounded from a 4-6 finish to make the
playoffs for the fifth time in six seasons. Expectations are high again. Senior OL Jared McCray (6-5,
300) is one of Ohio’s best and has committed to
Louisville. He’ll block for a talented tandem of seniors in QB Cody Stapleton (5-11, 178) and FB
Austin Carter (5-10, 195). Stapleton threw for
844 yards and ran for 178 en route to accounting for 16 TDs last season, while Carter ran
for 807 yards and nine TDs. Carter also had
44 tackles and eight TFL at LB. McCray and
Carter were first team All-SOC II. Head
coach Brent Daniels is 45-20 in six seasons. Other key contributors will be RB
Zach Justice (jr., 5'9, 165), RB Grant Piguet
(jr., 5"10, 185), DE Nathan Compton (sr.,
5'10, 195), WR Caleb Clark sr., 6'0, 180),
DB Jack White (sr., 6'2, 175), LB Levi
Jenkins (sr., 5'8, 195), OL Kane Madden
(so., 6'3, 310), OL Austin Mcknight
(sr., 5'9, 200) and OL Seth Rickman
(sr., 6-0, 225). Big non-league
games loom with Grandview
Heights, Oak Hill and
Portsmouth. “We have a
senior layden club this
year and most have been
starting since they were
sophomores,” Daniels said.
“We have good depth in
several positions on the offensive side of the ball, but we need to
have a couple of younger kids step up on defense.”
*Norwood (10-2, Region 16 semifinalist): The Indians
QB: Grant Sherman, 6-4, 200, sr., Kenton; Will Marty,
6-4, 190, sr., Wyoming; Parker Carmichael, 5-11, 160,
jr., Wooster Triway; Nathan Mays, 6-3, 185, jr., Urbana; Wade Jarrell, 6-0, 160, sr., Gallipolis Gallia
Academy; Jason Kish, 5-11, 148, sr., Fairview Park
Fairview; Jared Rettig, 6-2, 180, jr., Millbury Lake;
Levi Boyer, 6-1, 195, sr., Carlisle; Nolan Marcus, sr.,
Richmond Edison; David Burroughs, 5-9, 170, sr., Circleville; Andrew Conover, 5-11, 175, sr., Norwood;
James Curry, 5-10, 180, sr., Columbus East
RB: Deone Linsley, 6-0, 200, sr., Columbus South;
Jake Davis, 5-9, 210, sr., Indian Valley; Cody Farley,
5-11, 180, jr., Johnston-Monroe; Jeremy Brisson, 5-9,
175, sr., Ben Logan; Jason Sandlin, 5-7, 150, jr.
Carlisle
WR: Jared Peters, 6-0, 170, sr., Norwood; Shane
Ware, 5-11, 190, sr., Urbana; Deon Colvin, 6-4, 190,
sr., Cleveland John Hay; Gerell Williams, 6-4, 170, sr.,
Lorain Clearview; Ty Griffith, 6-1, 185, sr., Newark
Licking Valley; Tyler Sorg, 6-2, 170, sr., Carroll BloomCarroll; Connor Bowen, jr., Millbury Lake; Rich
Springer, sr., Richmond Edison; Jordan George, 5-11,
made the playoffs for the first time since 2004 last year and
beat Fenwick in the first round. Norwood returns standout
senior QB Andrew Conover (5-11, 175) who threw for 2,137
yards and 25 TDs last year. He also
ran for 336 yards and two TDs.
Conover’s favorite target – senior WR Jared Peters (6-0, 170) –
is back too. Peters caught 50
passes for 993 yards and 12
TDs as a junior.
*Urbana (9-2, Region 10 quarterfinalist): New head coach
Nick Marion (a 2007 UHS grad)
inherits a team heavy on talent. The Hillclimbers have
won 14 straight Central
Buckeye Conference
mad River Division
games and three
straight conference titles. Junior QB Nathan
Mays (6-3, 185) is a twotime CBC Mad River Player of
the Year whose thrown for over
4,000 yards and 58 TDs in two years.
Also back are four All-CBC seniors in
OL/DL Jake Quick (5-11, 245),
RB/DB Shane Ware (5-11, 190),
FB/LB Drake Forest (5-11, 165)
Bayle Wolf,
RB, Clinton-Massie
and OL/DL Justin Weller (6-2, 260). Ware
had six INTs and caught 35 passes for 591
yards and nine TDs last year, while Frost caught
four TD passes and had 82 tackles.
* Valley View (4-6): The Spartans own 16 playoff
berths in the last 21 years but haven’t been to the
postseason since 2009. That could change. VV returns seven All-SWBL players including junior QB Clay
Smith, senior DB Mike Valenti and senior LB Shane
Hannah. Also back are the senior all-league quartet of RB
Isaac Stamper, WR Tyson Skidmore, RB/DB Cole Johnson
and OL Logan Shrout.
180, sr., Alter
OL: Logan Bryer, Genoa, sr.; Luke Ream, 6-1, 215,
sr., Springfield Northwestern: Joe Sosinski, 6-3, 315,
sr., Oberlin Firelands; Kile Fox, 6-4, 250, sr., Bellevue
K: Callum Jones, 5-11, 155, jr., Clinton-Massie; Cody
Pickard, Genoa, jr.; Dominic Garris, 5-10, 150, sr.,
Bloom-Carroll
DL: Cedric Pettiford, 6-4, 195, jr., Miami Trace; Kraig
Howe, 6-3, 253, jr., Alter
LB: Jerome Baker, 6-1, 190, jr., Benedictine; LJ Henderson, 5-11, 170, sr., Indian Lake; Anthonie Magda,
5-9, 180, sr., Ashtabula Edgewood; Jake Jones, sr., 61, 210, Bryan; Lukas Sontich, 6-2, 215, sr., Chagrin
Falls; Joey Marin, 5-7, 175, jr., Bellevue
DB: Tyler Simmons, 5-11, 155, sr., Caledonia River
Valley; Ty Suntken, 6-0, 175, Wauseon; Thomas
Schrader, 6-2, 195, sr., Greenfield McClain; Devonte
Fellows, 6-3, 180, sr., Woodridge; Joey Casarona, 56, 160, sr., Chagrin Falls
P: Charles Benton, Johnstown-Monroe, 6-4, 200;
Jake Morgan, 5-10, 165, sr., Sheffield Brookside
*Wyoming (7-3): The Cowboys have enough talent for an
extended run. First team All-Cincinnati Hills League senior
QB Will Marty (6-4, 190) returns after throwing for 2,413
yards and 24 TDs. Additional returning senior All-CHL selections include RB Terrell Dailey (5-8, 170), LB Casey
Howell, WR Dominic Vamosi and DB Jalen Fox (5-11, 180).
Dailey ran for 1,016 yards and scored 20 TDs last year,
while Vamosi caught 34 passes for 571 yards and five TDs.
Howell led the team in tackles (102) and Fox – Ohio Commit – had 67 tackles and three INTs (one TD). Junior DB
Parker Chalmers (5-9, 160) had 91 tackles
Keep An Eye On
*Batavia (11-1, Region 16 semifinalist): The Bulldogs fell
to eventual state champion Clinton-Massie in the regional
semis last year.
*Cincinnati McNicholas (7-4, D-III Region 12 quarterfinalist): The Rockets have been in the playoffs two of the
last three years and will try to make back-to-back appearances from the first time since 2000-01. The challenge is
steep. McNick loses 10 All-GCL performers, including
seven first teamers and POY Austin Ernst. First team GCL
OL Bryan Corpuz (sr.) will block for returning second team
RB Sean Bryne (jr.). Bryne ran for 390 yards rushing, 413
receiving and eight TDs last season.
*Dayton Oakwood (2-8): The Lumberjacks will lean on returning All-SWBL QB Max Banke (sr.) and RB Cory Carter
(sr.). Keep an eye on the junior dupe of LB Austin Payne
and OL/DL Pat Roberts.
*Eaton (6-4): Line play will be strong for the Eagles who
return seniors Steven Ritchie and Tyler Bulach and junior
Cole Howard on the OL and DL. All three were All-SWBL.
*Greenfield McClain (7-3): The Tigers return senior defensive standouts in LB Chris Sellman, Greenfield McClain, 58, 185) and DB Thomas Schrader (6-2, 195).
*Jonathan Alder (4-5): The Pioneers had a string of 11
straight playoff appearances snapped last season. This
season Alder ends years of independent status when it begins play in the Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference.
*Pomeroy Meigs (3-7): The Marauders will lean on senior
RB/DB Devon Cundiff and junior TE/LB Ty Phelps. Both
were All-TVC Ohio Division last year.
Also In This Region
Indian Hill (2-8); Monroe (2-8); Springfield Northwestern (55); Greenon (1-9); North Bend Taylor (5-5); London (3-7);
Dayton Dunbar (5-5); Chillicothe Unioto (5-5) — EF
31
2013 JJHuddle Ohio HS Football Preview: Division V
QB: Joe Dreher, 6-2, 175, sr., Creston Norwayne
RB: Jaylon Brown, 5-7, 165, sr., St. Clairsville
RB: Jacob Basso, 5-11, 180, sr., Baltimore Liberty-Union
WR: Chase Cook, 6-0, 160, sr., Findlay Liberty-Benton
WR: Kaleb Harris, 6-4, 205, sr., Creston Norwayne (Cincinnati)
TE: Jon Bezney, 6-5, 275, sr., Mariemont
OL: Wesley Martin, 6-3, 295, sr. West Milton Milton-Union (Indiana)
OL: Dakota Tallman, 6-5, 290, sr., Elyria Catholic
OL: Nick Demaline, 6-4, 285, sr., Liberty Center
OL: Jake Hanzel, 6-2, 235, sr., Akron Manchester
OL: Josh McDade, 6-3, 250, sr., Columbiana Crestview
K: Lincoln Parsley, 5-11, 170, sr., Archbold
ATH: Eddie Miller III, 6-2, 175, sr., Wheelersburg
DL: Michael Bland, 6-2, 200, sr., Mount Gilead
DL: Shane Roy, 6-5, 225, sr. Reading (Pitt)
DL: Kalil Morris, 6-3, 230, sr., Columbus Hartley
LB: Tyler Smith, 5-8, 180, sr., West Salem Northwestern
LB: Michael Ferns, 6-3, 232, sr., St. Clairsville (Michigan)
LB: Nick Marsh, 6-0, 190, sr., CHCA
LB: Parker Berzin, 6-2, 225, sr., Gates Mills Gilmour Academy
DB: Trevahn Beery, 6-2, 165, sr., Creston Norwayne (Western Michigan)
DB: Brody Hoying, 5-10, 185, jr., Coldwater
DB: Jay Banyasz, 6-2, 195, sr., Columbia Station Columbia
DB: Alonzo Saxton, 5-11, 175, sr., Columbus Hartley (Duke)
P: Jared Brandewie, 6-5, 205, sr., Columbus Hartley
Michael Ferns, LB, St. Clairsville
32
JJH u d d le .c o m
By Eric Frantz
Team To Beat
*Youngstown Ursuline (8-5, Region 17 finalist): The
Irish have played in five of the last six regional finals and
have won four. They should contend for that plateau
again. Senior QB Chris Durkin (6-4, 230) is a JJHuddle
Top 100 prospect and has committed to Michigan State.
Defensively senior DL Shahaun Williams (6-3, 24) anchors the front seven. Williams had 14 sacks, five TFL,
two fumble recoveries, two blocked punts and a defensive TD as a junior. The schedule is again one of Ohio’s
hardest (includes Steubenville, Mooney, Akron SVSM,
Mentor Lake Catholic, Walsh Jesuit and Massillon Jackson).
Teams To Watch
*Akron Manchester (8-4, Region 13 semifinalist): After
an 0-2 start last season, the Panthers rallied to win their
19th PAC title and make the postseason for the fourth
year in a row and 20th time overall. Expectations are high
again. Head coach Jim France enters his 42nd season at
the school with a mark of 349-91-3. His latest squad will
be led by senior OL Jake Hanzel (6-2, 265) who was first
team All-Pac 7 and is one of Ohio’s best small school
lineman. Senior TE Chandler Stahl (6-1, 210) returns (23
catches, 199 yards) too. Defensively, Manchester is led
by the senior tandem of LB John Beavers (5-11, 195) and
FS Dakota Craig (5-11, 175). Beavers had 99 tackles last
year, while Craig had 94. Other key contributers are
C David Gresham (sr., 6-5, 315), RB/LB Austin
Klein (sr., 6-2,185), LB Logan Harvey (jr., 6-2,
180), ST Bob Bowen (sr., 5-8, 150), DB/WR
Anthony Miltner (jr., 5-8, 160) and LB Sterling Jackson (jr., 5-10, 190).
*Beachwood (7-3): The Bison return
standout junior RB Nate Hamilton (511, 185) who averaged 12.4 yards per
carry (1,135 yards on 91 carries) and
scored nine TDs last year. Senior
OL Josh Goode (6-2, 350) will
open holes. Keep an eye on
senior ATH Jordan Lane (5-9,
175).
*Black River (6-4): The Pirates will lean on senior RB
Andrew Vaughn (6-0, 190)
who ran for 1,567 yards
and scored 122 points last
season.
*Columbiana Crestview (11-1,
Region 17 regional semifinalist): The Rebels scored over 50
points nine times last year and
had 628 points on the season.
Wow is right. Crestview has made
the playoffs eight of the last nine
years but is still waiting for its first
regional title. This could be the
year. The Rebels must replace
2,000-yard rusher Nick Blower,
but they do return senior QB
Collin Gilbert (5-11, 175) who ran
for 1,096 yards and 18 TDs and
threw for 1,006 yards and 13 TDs
a year ago. Anchoring the line will
be senior OL Josh McDade (6-3,
245), a four-year starter and state
wrestling qualifier. Senior K Caleb
McGath is back after converting 73
Pats and three FGs. Senior DL Robert
Logan (60 tackles, four sacks and
three forced fumbles) leads the defense.
*Gates Mills Gilmour Academy (3-6):
The Lancers will lean on senior LB
Parker Berzin (6-2, 225) who had 102
tackles, 5.5 sacks, five fumble recoveries
and five blocked Pats as a junior.
*Gates Mills Hawken (9-2, Region 13 quarterfinalist):
The Hawks return several talented seniors in QB/DB Ian
Bell (6-2, 175), DL Seth King (5-11, 180), RB/LB Khari
Anderson (6-2, 185) and LB/FB Josh Walters (6-0, 205).
Expectations are high.
*Hanoverton United (6-4): The Eagles and 12-year head
coach Mike Ward (74-47) have their sights set on the
program’s second playoff berth ever. United returns 10
starters on both offense and defense. Said Ward: “We believe we can be a contender for the (ITC) league title and
a playoff spot.” The headliner is senior QB Garrett Beech
(5-10, 175) who threw for 1,017 yards and ran for 1,427
yards and 22 TDs. He’s joined in the backfield by fellow
seniors and first team all-league selections Mike Martin
(RB/DB, 5-8, 155) and Zach Maze (FB/LB, 5-9, 210). The
OL features three juniors who earned All-ITC honors last
year in Lucas Cooper (6-3, 210), Charlie Smith (6-0, 265)
and Eric Blosser (6-2, 220).
*Youngstown Liberty (9-3, Region 13 semifinalist):
The Leopards return senior QB/DB Asim Pleas (6-3, 180)
who threw for 901 yards and eight TDs and ran for 204
yards and five TDs last year. New head coach Kevin
Cylar was an Ursuline assistant the last six years.
Keep An Eye On
*Campbell Memorial (6-4): The Red Devils finished ninth
in Region 17 last year. Expect CM to lean heavily on senior LB Adrien Brown (5-8, 180) who had 50 tackles and
15 sacks last year.
*Harrison Central (7-4, Region 15 quarterfinalist): The
Huskies will lean on a pair of standout LBs in senior Niko
Williams and junior Nate Maykowski.
*Independence (5-5): The Blue Devils started 4-0 last
season before going 1-5 the rest of the way. Of
those losses, four were against playoff teams.
Line play will be a plus with the return of seniors Jimmy Wotowiec (6-1, 245), Matt Wilson
(6-1, 230) and Jack Konopa (6-2, 255). Senior LB Tyler Skoczen (6-1, 225) also returns.
*Middlefield Cardinal (6-4): The
Huskies were a young team that
played a lot of sophomores last
season. Head coach Eric Cardinal
(73-58 in 13 years) says this
year’s rendition will be a
“youngish, veteran team.” Key
contributors will be senior
QB/DB Justin McClain (6'1",
190), senior RB/DE Pete Ribar
(6'0", 196), senior OL/DL Logan
Chris Durkin,
QB, Ursuline
Cala (5'10", 230), junior RB/LB
Clark Thurling (5'11", 170) and
sophomore OL/DL Logan Schultz
(6-2, 248).
*Sandy Valley (4-6): The Cardinals
return a talented player in senior DL
Logan Trbovich (6-3, 190) who had
74 tackles and 14 TFL last season.
*Warren Champion (5-5): The Flashes
return senior RB Mike Cyrus who ran for
1,050 yards and 16 TDs last season.
*Warrensville Heights (1-9): The
Tigers drop all the way down from D-III.
Their schedule, however, remains top
heavy with seven combined D-I and II
schools.
*Wickliffe (3-7): The Blue Devils have a
good one in senior junior RB Tiontay
Phillips (5-9, 190) who ran for 1,158
yards and 13 TDs last year.
Also In This Region
Grand Valley Orwell (7-3); Pymatuning
Valley (4-6); East Palestine (2-8); Garrettsville Garfield (4-6); Navarre Fairless (3-7);
Canton Central Catholic (4-6); Girard (1-9);
LaBare (1-9); Lutheran West (5-5); Massillon Tuslaw (6-4)
33
Ursuline
Black River
United
Manchester Beachwood
Col. Crestview
Liberty
Dark Horses
Hawken
Regional
Final
Ursuline over
Col. Crestview
Gilmour Acad.
Cardinal
Independence
10 Players to Watch
1. Chris Durkin, QB, sr., Ursuline
Michigan State commit & JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
2.Tinotay Phillips, RB, jr., Wickliffe
Ran for 1,158 yards & 13 TDs as a soph.
3. Garrett Beech, QB, sr., United
Threw for 1,017 yards & ran for 1,427; 22 total TDs
4. Asim Pleas, QB, sr., Liberty
5. Andrew Vaughn, RB, sr., Black River
Ran for 1,567 yards & scored 122 points last year
6. Mike Cyrus, RB, sr., Champion
7. Colin Gilbert, QB, sr. Crestview
Ran for 1,096 yards & threw for 1,006; 31 total TDs
8. Logan Trbovich, DL, sr., Sandy Valley
Registered 74 tackles, including 14 TFL, last season
9. Nate Hamilton, RB, sr., Beachwood
Ran for 1,135 yards & nine TDs last year
10. Parker Berzin, LB, sr., Gilmour Acad.
102 tackles, 5.5 sacks, five FR & five blocked PATs
Games of the Year
Malvern @ United, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Black River @ Manchester, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Liberty @ Crestview, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Cuyahoga Heights @ Hawken, Oct. 4 (Week 6)
Ursuline @ Mooney, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
Akron SVSM @ Ursuline, Nov. 1 (Week 10)
Team To Beat
Norwayne
Loudonville
West. Reserve
Columbia
Coldwater
Elyria Catholic
Regional Final
Norwayne
over
Columbia
Liberty Center Liberty-Benton
Dark Horses
Archbold
Pleasant
Northwestern
10 Players to Watch
1. Kaleb Harris, WR/DB, sr., Norwayne
Cincinnati commit; Missed eight games last year
2. Evan Wyse, QB, sr., Archbold
Threw for 2,446 yards & ran for 917; 36 total TDs
3. Brody Hoying, QB/DB, jr. Coldwater
59 tackles, six INTs, two FR as soph.; Was WR last year
4. Joe Dreher, QB, sr. Norwayne
5. Jay Banyasz, QB/DB, sr., Columbia
Threw for 1,549 yards & ran for 1,040; 32 total TDs
6. Dakota Tallman, OL. sr., Elyria Catholic
Coach says the best OL he’s had since Alex Boone
7. Chase Cook, WR, sr., Liberty-Benton
54 rec., 1,020 yards and 14 TDs as a junior
8. Trevhan Beery, WR/DB, sr, Norwayne
Western Michigan commit; 48 tackles, three INTs
9. Cody Thompson, QB, sr, Huron
Toledo commit; Threw for 1,574 yards & ran for 1,001, 29 TDs
10. Tyler Smith, RB/LB, sr., Northwestern
Looking for third straight 1,000-yard season; 25 TDs
Games of the Year
Kenton @ Coldwater, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Huron @ Elyria Catholic, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Northwestern @ Columbia, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Liberty-Benton @ Leipsic, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
Norwayne @ Northwestern, Nov. 1 (Week 10)
Liberty Center @ Archbold, Nov. 1 (Week 10)
*Norwayne (13-1, Region 13 champions): The Bobcats
are on quite a run under head coach Joe Harbour who is
41-10 in four years at the school and 27-2 the last two. Although Norwayne failed to defend its D-IV state title last
year, it did reach the state semifinals. Impressive for a
program that hadn’t even won a playoff game until 2010.
Expect Norwayne to compete for another trip to Stark
County. The Bobcats feature a formidable passing attack
led by senior QB Joe Dreher (6-2, 175) who completed
nearly 70-percent of his passes for 3,860 yards and 41
TDs last year. Dreher is within reach of several league
and county career records. Two of his
favorite targets return in senior D-I
prospects Trevahn Beery (6-2,
180/Western Michigan commit)
and Kaleb Harris (6-4,
215/Cincinnati commit). Beery
caught 23 passes for 328
yards and four TDs last year
and registered 48 tackles
and three INTs. Harris, despite missing eight games,
still managed 16 catches
for 401 yards and five TDs
and 26 tackles and two
INTs. The OL will be led by
senior Zach Weinman (63, 270) and juniors Chris
Scruggs (6-0, 230) and
Christian Steiner (6-1,
235). Senior RB Brock
Maxwell (5-10, 195)
slides into the feature
back roll vacated by
record-setter Jon Zimmerly. Maxwell ran for
458 yards and five
TDs last season.
Weinman (69 tackles,
nine TFL, INT, FF,
FR) doubles as a
standout DL. The
schedule has a new
face in Week 3 as
Ontario replaces Western Reserve. “We are
coming off a two year run of unprecedented
success for our school with the first-ever state
title in 2011 and first-ever undefeated regular
season in 2012,” Harbour said. “We hope to continue to build upon recent success and who
knows, maybe even combine the two great accomplishments of 2011’s state title and 2012's undefeated regular season into one season in 2013.”
Teams To Watch
*Archbold (8-3, Region 18 quarterfinalist): The
Blue Streaks made the playoffs for the fourth time in six
seasons last year thanks in part to the play of QB Evan
Wyse. The good news? He’s back. A senior, Wyse (6-0,
180) threw for 2,446 yards and 19 TDs last season. He
ran for 917 yards and 17 TDs. Senior WR Lincoln Parsley
(5-11, 170) also returns after catching 35 passes for 655
yards and five TDs. Parsley doubles as an outstanding
kicker.
*Coldwater (15-0, D-IV State Champions): The Cavaliers have been in four straight state finals and own the
state’s longest current playoff streak (16 seasons). Both
runs are in jeopardy. Coldwater graduated a talented senior class that left plenty of holes, but talent does remain.
Junior Brody Hoying (5-11, 180) takes over at QB after
catching 23 passes for 318 yards and a TD last year.
Hoying is a Division I caliber prospect who also had 59
tackles, six INTs and two forced fumbles as a DB. Senior
WR/LB Mitch Schoenherr (6-2, 195) returns after catching
25 passes for 428 yards and six TDs and registering 66
tackles, four sacks, three fumble recoveries and two INTs.
Senior DE/OL Andrew Schwieterman (6-1, 215) is also
back after making 50 tackles and four sacks. “We’re trying to rebuild after losing 23 seniors,” Coldwater head
34
coach Chip Otten said. “We’ve got a good group of core
skill players returning, but the front 7 on both sides is very
inexperienced and untested.” The Cavaliers schedule
opens with six straight former state champions (Kenton,
Hartley, Versailles, Delphos St. John’s, minster and St.
Henry). A road game at Marion Local looms in Week 8. Of
note, defensive coordinator Tim Hoyng is retiring after 36
years at Coldwater and 39 years overall. Said Otten: “It’s
going to be a huge challenge for us to compete for the
MAC title and continue our playoff streak.”
*Collins Western Reserve (8-3, Region 18 quarterfinalist): The Roughriders have been to the playoffs two of
the last three years and are looking to make it back-toback seasons for the first time ever. Odds are good. AllFirelands Conference senior QB Will Pritt returns as does
all-league WR/DB Nate Good (sr.). The defense is lead
by the senior foursome of LB Mason Robson, DL Tim
Hunkley, LB Damian Conglose and Good.
*Columbia Station Columbia (10-2, Region 18
semifinalist): The Raiders are riding the momentum of the best season in school history.
Last year, Columbia won the Patriot Athletic
Conference title outright, hosted its firstever playoff game and won its first-ever
playoff game (39-34 over Archbold). A
solid core returns from that squad led
by the conductor – senior QB/DB Jay
Banyasz (6-3, 180). Last year,
Banyasz threw for 1,549 yards and
Kaleb Harris,
WR/DB, Norwayne
Trevhan Beery,
WR/DB, Norwayne
14 TDs and ran for 1,040 yards
and 18 TDs. He also had 54
tackles, four INTs, a forced
fumble, a fumble recovery and
a defensive TD. Banyasz holds
offers from Ohio Dominican
and Lake Erie. Also back are
senior DB Justin Reznik (61
tackles, five INTs), senior DL
Dan Laub (12 TFL, eight sacks)
and senior LB Jacob Kleinhenz
(team-high 115 tackles).
*Elyria Catholic (6-4): The Panthers had their ups and downs
last season and ultimately failed
to reach the postseason. The expectations haven’t diminished.
This year’s team should contend
for the program’s 15th playoff
berth and beyond. Senior QB Jeremy Holley (6-5, 210) returns for
his third year under center. He played in just three games
last year (tossed 10 TDs) after throwing for 21 TDs as a
sophomore. Also back is junior RB Justin Rankin (5-10,
190) who ran for 900 yards and had 300 yards receiving
last year. Rankin doubles as a standout DB. Leading the
way up front is senior OL Dakota Tallman (6-5, 300/170
career knockdowns), whom head coach Mike Polevacik
says is the best lineman he’s coached since Alex Boone
at St. Edward. Senior DB/WR Conner Riddell (6-0, 190)
impacts both sides of the ball. The defense will be led by
senior LB Will Washington (5-11, 195), senior LB Luke
Michalski (6-1, 185) and senior DB Lucas Ball (6-0, 185).
The Panthers ,must overcome a brutal schedule if they
want to make the postseason. EC plays four D-I and two
D-II schools. “I feel we have enough talent to be a major
contender in our region,” Polevacik said. “The brutality of
our schedule is something we must over come. We have
not been able to get wins against the big boys on our
schedule the last two years. There are plenty of playoff
points available for us to get. We have the talent and experience to compete with our schedule. We have a
wealth of experience on both sides of the ball and some
JJH u d d le .c o m
of the most talented players I have coached
(Tallman/Holley/Rankin). If we can make the jump and
beat the majority of the teams on our schedule, I can't
see how we would miss the playoffs. We could tehn
make some serious noise.”
*Huron (6-4): The Tigers will be led by senior QB Cody
Thompson (6-2, 180) who is coming off a season in
which he threw for 1,574 yards and 14 TDs and ran for
1,001 yards and 15 TDs. Thompson has committed to
Toledo. Huron will also get a boost from senior DB Gabe
Camella (6-3, 185) who had 77 tackles and two INTs in
six games last year.
*Liberty-Benton (12-2, D-V state semifinalist): The Eagles made a remarkable run to their third state semifinal
appearance in school history last season before being
derailed by Coldwater. Senior WR Chase Cook (6-0, 170)
returns after catching 54 passes for 1,020 yards and 14
TDs (school record) as a junior. He also had a punt return for a TD and a 102-yard INT return for a TD. As a
sophomore, Cook caught 24 passes for 425 yards and
four TDs. Senior DL Brandon May (62 tackles, eight
sacks), senior LB Anthony Webb and junior RB Austin
Combs are back too.
*Liberty Center (8-3, Region 18 quarterfinalist): The
Tigers have one of the state’s best two-way lineman in
senior OL/DL Nick Demaline (6-4, 285) who has earned
first team All-NWOAL honors the last two seasons on
both sides of the ball. He’s accounted for 83 tackles and
eight sacks the last two years. Also back is first team AllNWOAL OL Kam Pohlman (sr., 6-0, 170). Those two will
open holes for returning standout Anthony Righi (sr., 511, 195) who ran for 822 yards and 11 TDs and earned
All-NWOAL honors at three different positions – RB (second), DB (first) and K (second) – last season.
*Loudonville (8-3, Region 19 quarterfinalist): The Redbirds snapped a 12-year postseason drought by making
the 2012 playoffs. A 24-0 loss to Bucyrus Wynford in the
regional quarterfinals should ignite expectations. Senior
RB/LB Ryan Weber (6-0, 210) and junior RB Kolton Edmondson are two reasons hopes are high. Last year Edmondson went over 1,000 yards in seven games. Weber
was a team captain. Other key contributors will be seniors Ty Young (OL) and Craig Henderson (LB) and juniors
Tristan Bender (DB) and Tucker Bender (K).
*Marion Pleasant (7-3): The Spartans missed the playoffs for the third time in four years last season, but expectations have not changed for a program that owns 19
postseason berths and three state titles. “We were very
young a year ago and will be returning a lot of experience
and depth,” Head Coach Aaron Cook (25-7 in three
years) said. “Our seniors are great leaders and the underclassman are a great supporting cast. We always
have high expectations and goals at Pleasant and this
year is no different.”Senior LB Chase Kelly returns after
earning first team All-MOAC honors last season. Second
team All-MOAC selections return in senior WR/DB Jordan Kelly (6-2, 185/78 tackles, 10 INTs) and senior
OL/DL Scott Foster. Other key contributors will be senior
OL/DL Jeff Fairchild and juniors Ryan Maniaci (QB/DB),
Kyle Galyk (RB/WR/KR/DB) and Bryce McDonald
(OL/DL). Galyk (5-8, 175) caught 15 passes for 455
yards (30.3 average) and 11 TDs last year. He also
rushed for three TDs and had 1,117 all-purpose yards.
The schedule has been overhauled and includes new
non-league games with Sycamore Mohawk, Triad and
Lima Central Catholic. Jonathan Alder is also a new
MOAC foe. “Our schedule is very difficult and is probably
one of the most challenging schedules we have ever had
at Pleasant,” Cook said. “We look forward to the challenge.”
*West Salem Northwestern (8-3, Region 13 quarterfinalist): The Huskies have a good one in senior RB/LB
Tyler Smith (5-8, 180). A four-year starter, Smith is looking for his third straight 1,000-yard season rushing. He
accounted for 25 TDs last year. Senior DB Malachi Nolletti (6-3, 190) teams with Smith to lead the defense.
Keep An Eye On
*Milan Edison (6-4): The Chargers have a lot of talent
returning at the skill positions, but must replace an OL
that helped set the school’s single-season rushing record
last year. Key returning seniors are LB/RB Austin Utter
(6-2, 225), TE Luke Frankboner (6-8, 230), DB/RB Brandon Cushler, QB/DB Chris Smith (6-1, 190), LB Kyle
Robinson (5-9, 170), DL Shane Barnett (5-10, 230/threeyear starter) and DL Dakota Ouelette.
*Orrville (1-9): The Red Riders are looking for the program’s 600th win. Orrville is at 597 and counting.
*Ottawa-Glandorf (12-1, Region 14 finalist): The Titans
have several holes to fill from last year’s epic run, but
they do return two All-Western Buckeye League seniors
in LB Cody Alt (6-2, 185) and RB Brad Racer (5-9, 215).
*Pemberville Eastwood (5-5): The Eagles return a talented cast that includes five first or second team AllNorthern Buckeye Conference selections, including
seniors Brent Schlumbohn (RB) and Shane Vance (OL)
and juniors Grant Geiser (LB), Devin Snowden (DB) and
Brennan Seifert (P).
*Swanton (0-10): The Bulldogs have won five games in
four years. Senior DB Brady Hartlett (5-10, 170) returns
after being named All-NWOAL.
Hartley
Liberty Union
Martins Ferry St. Clairsville Wheelersburg
Also In This Region
Wellington (4-6); Van Wert (1-9); Waynedale (0-10);
Doylestown Chippewa (1-9); Paulding (0-10); Castalia
Margaetta (3-7); Delta (2-8); Willard (4-6); Marion Elgin
(4-6); Bucyrus (4-6)
Ironton
Zane Trace
Fairland
Dark Horses
Regional Final
Hartley
over
Wheelersburg
Team To Beat
*Columbus Hartley (13-1, Region 14 Champions): The
Hawks were derailed and shocked in the state semifinals
last year by eventual D-IV state champion ClintonMassie. This season Hartley drops to D-V. It’s talent
doesn’t drop at all. Head coach Brad Burchfield (51-11 at
Hartley/82-36 career) returns seven starters on offense
and five on defense. Included in that mix is senior DB/WR
Alonzo Saxton (5-11, 175) who verballed to Duke over offers from Illinois, Purdue, Toledo, Wisconsin, Northwestern, Cincinnati, Indiana, West Virginia and Kentucky.
Another key component is senior DL Kalil Morris (6-3,
275) who has an offer from Ohio Dominican and 105
tackles and 14 sacks the last two seasons. Offensively,
the Hawks will lean on senior QB Jared Brandewie (6-5,
205) who threw for 1,071 yards and 15 TDs last year.
Senior RB/LB Sam Mackowiak will get a good chunk of
touches after running for 771 yards and 10 TDs. Upfront
seniors Austin Kirkbride (5-11, 190), Max Steele (6-0,
250) and Nick Boeriu (6-3, 230) anchor the line. The
schedule is brutal and includes a new Week 2 game with
Coldwater. Also on the slate are Marion-Franklin, St.
Charles, Watterson, Ironton, Ready and Bishop Luers
(Ind.). Hartley is going for a program-record fourth
straight CCL title.
Teams To Watch
*Baltimore Liberty-Union (11-3, Region 19 champions): The Lions surprised some people last year with a
legit run to the D-V state semifinals. This year the focus
will be on returning. And the odds are good. Senior RB
Jacob Basso (5-11, 180) spearheads the offense after
running for 1,683 yards and 17 TDs last year. He also
threw a TD and caught 24 passes (for 310 yards). Also
back are senior QB Auston Vannatta, who threw for over
1,000 yards and six TDs last year and junior RB Adam
Snyder (who ran for eight TDs last season). Defensively,
senior LB Justin Barber (5-10, 170) returns after making
177 tackles (and 12 TFL) as a junior. Other key returners
are junior DB Tyler Makuch (5-6, 130/83 tackles, six
INTs), senior DB Tyler Magley (5-11, 145/67 tackles, five
INTs), senior LB Logan Piccirillo (5-6, 135/67 tackles,
three INTs), junior LB Braden Powers (6-1, 180/92 tackles), senior LB Dustin Short (5-11, 220/72 tackles) and
Snyder (42 tackles, four INTs). The big change for the
Lions is moving to the Mid-State League Buckeye Division (replacing Canal Winchester) where they will be the
smallest team. “The 2013 team is in a new league with
great coaches and program traditions,” said head coach
Dan Johnson (195-168-1 in 28 years). “The focus of Liberty Union Football will continue to be to work to be
‘Good Men’ and improve daily. Winning championships
35
Piketon
Portsmouth
Mt. Gilead
10 Players to Watch
1. Alonzo Saxton, WR/DB, sr., Hartley
Duke commit & JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
2. Jacob Basso, RB, sr., Liberty-Union
Ran for 1,683 yards & 17 TDs; Also caught 24 passes
3. Adam Webb, OL, sr., Ironton
At 6-6, 330 pounds, Webb is an imposing force
4. Robert Vargo, TE/LB, sr., Martins Ferry
Two-way standout; All-OVAC in football & basketball
5. Jaylon Brown, RB, sr., St. Clairsvile
Has 38 TDs & seven INTs the last two years
6. Eddie Miller, QB/DB, sr., Wheelersburg
School records in total yards, pass yards & TDs last year
7. Michael Ferns, LB, sr., St. Clairsville
Michigan commit is a JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect
8. Michael Bland, WR/DE, sr., Mt. Gilead
TDs pass, run & catch last year; 54.5 tackles, 14.5 TFL
9. Jeremy Farmer, RB/LB, sr., Piketon
Accounted for 11 TDs & had 118 tackles
10. Tyler Claxon, WR, sr., Wheelersburg
Caught school-record 67 passes for 880 yards & 10 TDs
Games of the Year
Wheelersburg @ Ironton, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Marion-Franklin @ Hartley, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Fairland @ Wheelersburg, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Hamilton Twp. @ Liberty-Union, Oct. 4, (Week 6)
St. Clairsville @ Bellaire, Oct. 12 (Week 7)
Hartley @ Ready, Nov. 1 (Week 10)
CHCA
CJ
Mariemont
Brookville
North Union
West Jeff
Milton
Regional Final
CHCA
over
North Union
Badin
Dark Horses
Greeneview
Madison
Maderia
10 Players to Watch
1. Conner Osborne, QB, sr., CHCA
2. Shane Roy, DE, sr., Reading
Pitt commit; Had 98 tackles last season
3. Nick Marsh, RB/LB, sr., CHCA
Seven rushing TDs; 131 tackles, 11 sacks, 8.5 TFL
4. Jon Bezney, TE/DL, sr., Mariemont
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; Five TDs last year
5. Grant Hopewell, WR, sr., Maderia
Caught 39 passes for 903 yards and nine TDs as jr.
6. Thane Hoffman, RB, sr., North Union
Had 23 TDs last year; Ran for 939 yards
7. Jake Hatfield, RB/LB, sr., West Jeff
Ran for 678 yards & 11 TDs last year; Added 60 tackles
8. Brandon Spencer, QB, sr., Northridge
Threw for 1,511 yards & ran for 1,055 last year
9. Chance Frye, QB/DB, jr., Greeneview
10. Wesley Martin, OL/DL, sr., Milton-Union
Indiana commit; First team All-SWBL
Games of the Year
CHCA vs Madison, Aug. 29 (Week 1)
West Jeff @ Marion Local, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
North Union @ Marion Pleasant, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Summit Country Day @ CHCA, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Milton-Union @ Madison, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Mariemont @ Maderia, Oct. 11 (Week 7)
and qualifying for the playoffs just became much harder.
But anything is possible for ‘Good Men’ who improve
daily and play together as a team. Each week will
be a challenge.”
*Ironton (7-4, Region 15 semifinalist): The
Tigers have been to the playoffs 30 times and
five years in a row. Second-year head coach
Mark Vass must replace 21 seniors. The
schedule is again daunting with Columbus
Hartley, Amanda-Clearcreek, Wheelersburg and Columbus St. Charles. Standout
senior OL Adam Webb (6-6, 330) returns.
*Martins Ferry (5-5): The Purple Raiders
could be set up for a big run. Martins
Ferry returns four of five starters on the
OL – led by senior Luke Staub (6-0,
260) – and has a beast at TE in senior Robert Vargo (6-5, 242). Senior
WR/DB Brian Styles (5-8, 160)
will make plays on both
sides of the ball. Large
junior and sophomore
classes lend depth
and talent.
*St. Clairsville (141, D-IV state runner-up): The Red
Devils made a historic run to the school’s
first state final last season
and have been in the playoffs
six of the last seven years. Excellence is a standard now – and
will be maintained. Despite the
loss of standouts Matt Kinnick
(QB), Jerrid Marhefka (WR) and Dan Monteroso (WR), talent remains. Senior RB Jaylon Brown (57, 165) will be featured on offense, while senior LB
Michael Ferns anchors the defense. Brown has accounted for 38 TDs and seven INTs the last two years,
while Ferns, a four-year starter with over 350 career tackles, is a Michigan commit. Also back is senior K Zach
Musilli (5-8, 135).
*Wheelersburg (8-3, Region 19 quarterfinalist): The Pirates made the playoffs for the 24th time last season and
this year should make it 25. Impressive indeed. But the
Burg hasn’t won a regional title since 1998. This could be
the season the drought ends. Last year the Burg set offensive team records for yards per game (378.4), passing
yards (2,251), total recpetions (178) and receiving TDs
(24). The good news, seven offensive starters return including seniors Eddie Miller (QB), Tyler Claxon (WR) and
Dylan Miller (WR). Eddie Miller (6-1, 170) is a special talent. As a sophomore, Miller threw a TD pass, ran for a
TD, caught a TD pass, returned a kick for a TD and
scored a defensive TD. As a junior he set school singleseason records for total offense (3,109 yards), passing
yards (2,208) and TDs (24). He ran for 901 yards and 15
TDs. Claxon returns after catching a school record 67
passes for 880 yards and 10 TDs. Dylan Miller caught 59
passes for 751 yards and nine TDs last year. Other key
returners include: Sam Robinson, Christian Ellis, Michael
Staggs, Wade Martin, Chase Chambliss, Austin May and
Mitchell Warner. The defense – led by senior DE Cam
Parsley (6-2, 205) – returns eight starters. Parsley had 73
tackles and 10 sacks a year ago. “For the past few years
we have played a lot of underclassmen,” head coach Rod
Woodward (43-14 in five years) said. “Those guys are
now seniors and we are expecting big things from them in
2013.” The schedule is beyond solid.
Keep An Eye On
*Chillicothe Zane Trace (4-6): Despite a sub-.500
record, the Pioneers were close to the playoffs last year
(finished ninth in Region 15). Senior RB Collin Swackhammer (5-11, 195) will log plenty of carries. Keep an eye
on sophomore linebacker Truman Love who had 102
tackles as a freshman.
*Mount Gilead (2-8): The Indians return senior WR/DL
Michael Bland (6-2, 200) who had TDs receiving, rushing
and passing last season. He also had 54.5 tackles, 14.5
TFL and four sacks.
*Piketon (9-3, Region 15 semifinalist): The Redstreaks
36
return a good one in senior LB/RB Jeremy Farmer (6-3, 200). Farmer ran
for 205 yards and eight TDs and
caught 32 passes for 533 yards
and three TDs. He also made
118 tackles.
*Portsmouth (1-9): The Trojans
return three All-SEOAL performers in senior QB/DB Brandon Wedebrook (5-10, 160),
senior RB/LB Johnie Charles
(5-7, 180) and junior WR/DB
Jaylon Brown,
RB, St. Clairsville
Alex Dickerson (6-2, 175).
*Proctorville Fairland (5-5): The
Dragons could push for the program’s
third playoff berth ever and first since
2003. Junior QB Chance Short (6-2,
165) returns after throwing for 889
yards and 10 TDs. Senior WR Kyle
Sowards (5-10, 160) caught 21 passes
for 354 yards and four TDs and also ran
for two TDs last season. Junior RB Nick
Campbell (5-9, 165) was the team’s second-leading rusher last year (512 yards and
eight TDs) and scored 11 TDs. Defensively, Fairland returns eight players who had at least 40 tackles
last year, including junior LB Dylan Murphy (6-2,
160/104 tackles), senior DE Darren Bishop (5-10, 165/88
tackles, 13 TFL, nine sacks).
*Westfall (9-2, Region 16 quarterfinalist): The Mustangs lost one of the program’s best players ever with the
graduation of QB Trent Williamson (accounted for over
100 career TDs). Westfall will also have a new coach this
year as Brian Spicer assumes control. Spicer was 12-28
the last four years as the head coach at Hillsboro.
Also In This Region
Albany Alexander (4-6); Belmont Union Local (1-9);
Frankfort Adena (3-7); Chillicothe Southeastern (1-9); McDermott Northwest (0-10); Portsmouth West (4-6); Waverly (2-8); Johnstown-Northridge (2-8); West Muskingum
(0-10); Coshocton (2-8); Bidwell River Valley (2-8); Wellston (4-6); South Point (1-9); Rock Hill (1-9); Chesapeake
(5-5)
Team To Beat
*Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy (9-2, Region 16
quarterfinalist): The Eagles have made all eight of the
program’s playoff appearances in the last 11 years and
have gone to the postseason three years in a row. Expectations are high again. CHCA, which lost just four
seniors to graduation, returns 16 starters – eight on each
side of the ball. “We are looking forward to a great season,” head coach Eric Taylor (43-14 in five years at
CHCA) said. “We lose three receivers and three DBs so
we hope that our experience up front will protect the inexperience in some of our skill positions. The QB and running backs are all three-year starters.” Senior QB Conner
Osborne (5-11, 175) threw for 2,380 yards and 28 TDs
last season, while senior RBs Nick Marsh (6-0, 190) and
Tyler Renners (5-10, 170) ran for 540 yards and seven
TDs and 574 yards and seven TDs, respectively. The OL
returns all five starters and features senior Ryan Prescott
(6-3, 230) and junior Jacob Halter (6-5, 240). Taylor calls
junior WR/DB Cam Murray (5-11, 165) the team’s
“biggest returning playmaker.” On defense, Marsh (LB,
131 tackles, 11 sacks, 8.5 sacks, four forced fumbles),
Renners (DB, 55 tackles) and junior LB Jonah James (60, 180/125 tackles) headline the unit. Junior P Josh Eckert (6-2, 215) averaged 35.5 yards per punt last season.
This is just the 17th year for the CHCA program, which is
looking for its 14th straight winning season.
JJH u d d le .c o m
Teams To Watch
*Dayton Chaminade Julienne (6-4): The Eagles had lofty
expectations entering last year, but an injury-plagued season resulted in no playoffs. This year, if CJ is to make the
postseason for the third time in five years, sophomore QB
Jacob Harrison will play a key role. Harrison, who transferred from Centerville last year, returns after earning second team All-GCL honors (832 yards passing, 409 yards
rushing, 10 TDs combined). Senior All-GCL performers
Juleon Elmore (37 tackles) and Will Peterson (five INTs) return at LB and DB, respectively. HC Marcus Colvin – a program alum – is 15-8 in two years. Early non-conference
games with Thurgood Marshall and Troy are stiff tests.
*Mariemont (5-5): The Warriors have some key pieces to
replace, but the talent coming back is notable. Senior
TE/DE Jon Bezney (6-5, 275) is a JJHuddle Top 100
prospect that owns over 10 offers. Last year five of his
eight recptions went for TDs. He also made 76 tackles.
Senior David Quiambo (5-10, 220) helps anchor the OL,
while senior K Hans Hinebaugh (5-6, 140) adds a dimension. Senior RB Ryden Lewis (5-11, 155) will get a share of
the carries after rushing for 363 yards and five TDs last
year. Mariemont returns its leading receiver as well in junior David Cowart (6-2, 180) who caught 30 passes for 484
yards and three TDs. On defense, the Warriors will lean on
a pair of senior DBs in Sam Long (5-10, 170/83 tackles)
and Danny Renner (5-10, 155/70 tackles).
*Middletown Madison (4-6): The Mohawks could make
some noise with the return of two 1,000-yard rushers in
senior Tre Owens (6-0, 180) and junior Caleb Hollen (5-11,
180). Hollan ran for 1,059 yards and 10 TDs a year ago,
while Owens ran for 1,009 yards and 15 TDs. Owens
(threw for 249 yards and three TDs) and returning junior
Randy Davis (6-1, 180) both saw time at QB a year ago.
Madison also returns its leading receiver in junior Jesse
Jones (6-1, 180). Senior OL Chris Mills (6-1, 200) was second team all-league last year.
*Richwood North Union (11-1, Region 14 semifinalist):
The Wildcats made the playoffs for the fourth straight season last year and won the program’s first playoff game.
Can they extend the streak to five? Yep. Senior DL Nate
Curts (6-6, 205/42 tackles, 14 TFL, eight sacks) anchors
the defense, while senior RB Thane Hoffman returns after
rushing for 939 yards and accounting for 23 TDs. He also
had 349 yards receiving. Junior FB Jacob Blevins (6-0,
185) added 782 yards rushing and three TDs.
*West Jefferson (7-3): The Roughriders had played in five
of six regional finals before missing the playoffs all together
last season. They finished ninth in Region 20. West Jeff’s
three losses? To D-VI state champion Marion Local, D-V
state semifinalist Liberty Union and D-II playoff team Licking Heights. This season the Roughriders face a new challenge with a new league (switching divisions in the
Mid-State League). Five of the 10 teams on 2012’s schedule have been replaced. New games loom with Jackson
(non-league), Madison Plains, Bexley, Columbus Academy
and Whitehall-Yearling. There’s also a trip to Marion Local
in Week 2. “We will be a senior laden football team with big
game experience,” head coach Shawn Buescher (86-40 in
12 years) said. “We feel that our out of conference schedule will prepare us for the new challenges we will face once
we start league play. We are extremely excited about starting in our new conference.” West Jeff should be. It returns
a ton of talent. Senior RB/LB Jake Hatfield (5-10, 195) is
back after rushing for a team-high 678 yards and 11 TDs
last year. He also ranked second on the team in tackles
(60). Look for senior Logan Stepp (6-0, 170), the team’s
second leading receiver last year (36 catches, 600 yards,
five TDs), to step in at QB for the departed Seth Castro.
Other key contributors will be senior OL/DL DJ McAninch
(6'2", 215/49 tackles/eight sacks), senior WR/LB Nick
Mendenhall (6'5", 185/45 tackles, three INTs), Senior
OL/DL Brandon Doran (6'3", 300), senioir WR/DB Ross
Brennenman (6'0", 160), senior RB/DB Hayden Fulton
(5'9", 155) and senior OL/DL Carter Harris (6'0", 215/33
tackles).
Keep An Eye On
*Brookville (6-4): The Blue Devils own 10 playoff appearances but have only been to the postseason twice in the
last 12 years. This year’s unit should challenge for a Week
11 game. Junior OL/DL Jared Daniels (5-11, 200) was first
team All-SWBL last year and is one of five returning all-lea-
QB: Chris Durkin, 6-4, 230, sr., Youngstown Ursuline
(Michigan State); Evan Wyse, 6-0, 180, sr., Archbold;
Jeremy Holley, 6-5, 205, sr., Elyria Catholic; Cody
Thompson, 6-2, 180, sr., Huron (Toledo); Collin
Gilbert, 5-11, 175, sr., Columbiana Crestview; Garrett
Beech, 5-10, 170, sr., Hanoverton United; Conner Osborne, 5-11, 175, sr., CHCA; Asim Pleas, 6-3, 180, sr.,
Youngstown Liberty
RB: Andrew Vaughn, 6-0, 190, sr., Black River; Justin
Rankin, 5-10, 190, jr. Elyria Catholic; Kolton Edmondson, jr., Loudonville; Mike Cyrus, sr., Warren Champion; Nate Hamilton, 5-11, 185, jr., Beachwood;
Tiontay Phillips, 5-9, 190, jr., Wickliffe
WR: Grant Hopewell, 6-0, 180, sr., Madeira; Kyle
Galyk, 5-8, 175, sr., Marion Pleasant; Tyler Claxon,
sr., Wheelersburg; Dylan Miller, sr., Wheelersburg
TE: Robert Vargo, 6-6, 242, sr., Martins Ferry
OL: DJ McAninch, 6-2, 215, sr., West Jefferson;
Adam Webb, 6-6, 330, sr., Ironton; Colton McKivitz, 65, 250, jr., Belmont Union Local; Ryan Prescott, 6-3,
230, sr., CHCA; Jared Daniels, 5-11, 200, jr.,
Brookville; Glenn Zaller, 6-0 200, sr., Orwell Grand
Valley; Scott Foster, 6-1, 265, sr., Marion Pleasant;
guers. The others are senior TE/DL Carson Alber (6-2,
235), senior QB Lance Stevenson (5-10, 170), senior
OL/DL Jacob Heck (6-1, 195) and senior RB/LB Marcus
Hummel (5-8, 170).
*Cincinnati Purcell Marian (3-7): The Cavaliers snapped
a 46-game GCL losing streak last season with a win over
Hamilton Badin. Can they take the next step? Six All-GCL
performers return, including junior first teamers OL Thomas
Darrah and WR Jair Knox (1,040 all-purpose yards; 409
yards receiving; seven TDs). QB McKell Jones, a second
team selection, returns after rushing for 608 yards and
throwing for 556 more (10 TDs combined, five each). The
defense will lean on seniors DL Alex Raines (37 tackles),
DL Zach Ward and LB Jaylan Winters. HC Brian Miller enters the season 12-58 in seven years.
*Cincinnati Roger Bacon (0-10): The Spartans went from
a playoff team in 2010 to winless. Can they continue the
trend and return to the playoffs? Many think so. Eight AllGCL Central selections return, including four first team seniors in DL Max Bishop (49 tackles), WR Carlas Jackson (52
rec., 621 yards, six TDs), LB Noah Most (65 tackles) and
RB Eli Nixon (527 yards). Senior QB Ruggiero DeLuca returns after throwing for 1,307 yards and nine TDs. Junior
LB Andrew Hawkins (63 tackles) is one to watch.
*Dayton Northridge (1-9): The Polar Bears will lean heavily on senior QB Brandon Spencer who earned first team
All-SWBL Buckeye honors last year after throwing for 1,511
yards and rushing for 1,055 more. He accounted for 14
TDs. WRs Ivan King (5-11, 170, sr.) and Tyler Venters (510, 150, jr.) will be key targets. King had 29 catches for 361
yards and three TDs last season, while Venters caught 12
passes for 104 yards and two TDs. Venters also scored
nine 2-point conversions, while King scored TDs three different ways (rushing, receiving and returning). Also back
are all-league players DB Christopher Guffie (6-0, 155, sr.)
and OL Trent Hatfield (6-0, 230, sr.).
*Greeneview (5-5): The Rams continue to climb towards
the program’s first winning season since 1999. On offense,
Greeneview returns all 11 starters. Expect junior QB/DB
Chance Frye (6-1, 190) to contribute heavily. Frye threw for
908 yards and nine TDs and ran for 750 yards and eight
TDs last year. Sophomore RB Logan Reed was the second
leading rusher as a freshman (330 yards, seven TDs). A
pair of talented senior WRs return as well in Dalton Caudill
(22 receptions, 318 yards, seven TDs) and Mason Gallagher (22 receptions, 272 yards, two TDs). Junior LBs
Jacob Halter, 6-5, 250, jr., CHCA
K: Zach Musilli, 5-8, 135, sr., St. Clairsville; Caleb McGath, 5-9, 170, sr., Columbiana Crestview
DL: Zach Weinman, 6-3, 270, sr., Creston Norwayne;
Dan Laub, 5-11, 210, sr., Columbia Station Columbia;
Cody Tarman, 6-2, 240, jr., Coshocton; Logan Trbovich, 6-3, 190, sr., Sandy Valley
LB: Ryan Weber, 6-0, 210, sr., Loudonville; Adrien
Brown, 5-8, 180, sr., Campbell Memorial; Justin Barber, 5-10, 170, sr., Baltimore Liberty Union; Chase
Kelly, 6-1, 200, sr., Marion Pleasant; Jeremy Farmer,
6-3, 200, sr., Piketon
DB: Anthony Righi, 5-11, 190, sr., Liberty Center;
Conner Riddell, 6-0, 145, sr., Elyria Catholic; Justin
Reznik, 6-3, 190, sr., Columbia Station Columbia;
Matt Ballweg, 6-1, 170, sr., Madeira; Kyle Sowards, 510, 160, sr., Proctorville Fairland; Nick Campbell, 5-9,
165, jr., Proctorville Fairland; Jordan Kelly, 6-2, 185,
sr., Marion Pleasant
P: Brennan Siefert, 5-9, 154, jr., Pemberville Eastwood
Klay Partin (59 tackles, four fumble recoveries) and Klye
Gilliam (55 tackles) lead a defensive unit that returns 10
starters.
*Hamilton Badin (5-5): The Rams return four All-GCL seniors in LB Luke Marot (6-2, 185), QB/DB Cameron Mohr (510, 185), RB Eric Murrell (6-0, 180) and OL Michael Pate
(5-11, 245). Mohr threw for 809 yards and six TDs last
year. Marot had 70 tackles. Sophomore RB Cole Heflin (510, 170) ran for 258 yards and a TD in five games.
*Maderia (9-2, Region 16 quarterfinalist): The Mustangs
must replace seven first team All-Cincinnati Hills League
players, but they do return standout senior WR Grant
Hopewell (6-0, 180) who caught 39 passes for 903 yards
and nine TDs last year. He also made 37 tackles as a DB.
Also back is senior DB Matt Ballweg (6-1, 170) who had 36
tackles and six INTs.
*Milton-Union (10-3, D-IV Region 16 Finalist): Seniors
Wes Martin (6-3, 305) and Jason Siler (6-4, 235) anchor
the OL. Martin was the SWBL Buckeye OL of the Year and
has committed to Indiana, while Siler was a first team allleague selection too. Junior OL Andrew Lynn (6-3, 220) is
also back after being second team All-SWBL.
*Preble Shawnee (0-10): The Arrows have suffered six
straight losing seasons after going 5-5 in 2006. Junior LB
Wyatt Austin returns after earning first team SWBL Buckeye honors.
*Reading (4-6): The Blue Devils have a JJHuddle Top 100
prospect in senior DE Shane Roy (6-5, 225) who has committed to Pitt. Roy had 98 tackles, four fumble recoveries
and an interception last season.
*Waynesville (7-3): Despite putting the hurt on some people last year with a prolific offense led by then-sophomore
QB Troy Black, the Spartans had their string of playoff appearances snapped at five. Waynesville, which scored 89
points against Preble Shawnee and 75 against Northridge,
will again be led by Black, a second team All-SWBL Buckeye selection who threw for 1,034 yards and 14 TDs and
ran for 463 yards and eight TDs. Replacing WR Ty Black –
the school’s all-time receiving leader – is key.
Also In This Region
Cincinnati Shroder (8-2); North College Hill (6-4); Springfield Northeastern (4-6); Clermont Northeastern (1-9);
Bethel-Tate (2-7); Blanchester (6-4); East Clinton (3-7);
Finneytown (1-9); Deer Park (1-9); Clark Montessori (6-4)
— EF
37
2013 JJHuddle Ohio HS Football Preview: Division VI
QB: Chase Crouch, sr., Newark Catholic (Illinois)
RB: Akili Taylor, 5-9, 170, sr., Columbus Ready
RB: Tobey Hernandez, 5-9, 190, sr., Patrick Henry
WR: Jared Shilot, 6-3, 200, sr., Salineville Southern
WR: Nick Patrone, 5-9, 160, sr., Bellaire
TE: Ethan Wolf, 6-6, 232, sr., Minster (Tennessee)
OL: Austen Pleasants, 6-5, 290, jr., Coal Grove Dawson-Bryant
OL: Colt Pettit, 6-4, 252, sr., Patrick Henry (Virginia Tech)
OL: Wes Hegemann, 6-2, 250, sr., Minster
OL: Carson Williams, 6-2, 290, sr. McDonald
OL: Logan Pinkelman, 6-3, 230, sr., Metamora Evergreen
K: Michael Fellers, 6-0, 170, sr. Casstown Miami East
ATH: Antonio Woods, 6-1, 180, sr., Summit Country Day
DL: Brady Taylor, 6-5, 267, sr., Columbus Ready
DL: Ryan Bee, 6-7, 240, sr., Jeromesville Hillsdale (Marshall)
DL: Michael Barwick, 6-2, 286, sr., Summit Country Day (Indiana)
LB: Cannon Schroeder, 6-1, 210, sr., Kirtland
LB: Justin Dickens, 6-5, 200, sr., Oak Hill
LB: Kalito Lasenby, 6-0, 195, sr., Lima Central Catholic
LB: Bryce Huth, 5-11, 180, sr., Mogadore
DB: Chandler Lang, 5-11, 175, sr., Fort Frye
DB: Kelly Culbertson, 5-10, 170, sr., Columbus Ready
DB: Colton Rebel, 6-3, 195, sr., East Knox
DB: Darius West, 6-0, 195, sr., Lima Central Catholic (Kentucky)
P: Derek Drewes, 6-0, 180, sr., Defiance Tinora
Chayce Crouch, QB, Newark Catholic
38
JJH u d d le .c o m
By Eric Frantz
experience you expect to be a better football team.”
Team To Beat
*Kirtland (14-1, D-V state runner-up): The Hornets
made a second straight appearance in the state finals but
failed to defend their title – barely – falling 10-9 to Coldwater. With standout RB Damon Washington now at
Miami (Ohio), expect defense to be Kirtland’s calling card.
Senior DL Cannon Schroeder (6-1, 210) returns after
being named the AP D-V Co-Defensive Player of the Year
last season thanks in part to 19 sacks. Also back is junior
TE/LB Matthew Finkler (6-3, 230) who registered 124
tackles in 2012. Expect four-year starter Ryan Loncar (511, 190) to make a difference at DB. On offense, a new
regime will take command in senior RB Sam Kukura (511, 190/950 yards) and junior RB Adam Hess (5-11,
205/950 yards). Expect big contributions from senior
OL/DL Mike Cymal (6-2, 230), senior OL/DL Brad
Blankenship ( 5-8, 190) and senior LB/RB Eric Guhde (511, 205). New to the schedule? Division I Eastlake North
in Week 1. Giddy-up. Head coach Tiger LaVerde is 76-12
in seven years.
Teams To Watch
*Cuyahoga Heights (10-2, Region 17 semifinalist): The
Redskins have made the playoffs 15 of the last 16 years
and don’t intend to stop now. Senior QB/DB Jordan Martin (6-1, 180) returns after throwing for 22 TDs and running for six more last year. CH also returns a pair of
talented senior WR/DBs in Jack Alpert (6-1, 170) and
Tyler Gallo (5-8, 160). Alpert, who caught 20 passes for
404 yards and seven TDs, had 28 tackles, three INTs and
scored two defensive TDs. Gallo caught 41 passes for
521 yards and eight TDs. He also made 59 tackles. Another weapon is senior DB/WR Trent Gallo (5-8
150) who made 89 tackles and caught 18
passes for 252 yards and three TDs last
season.
*McDonald (6-4): After making five
straight postseasons, the Blue Devils have now missed out two years
in a row. That string should end
this season. McDonald returns a very talented cast
led by junior RB/LB
Cameron Ifft (6-2, 190/twotime All-ITC), senior OL/DL
Carson Williams (6-2,
290/two-time All-ITC), senior WR Tom Rebraca (6-1,
205/first team All-ITC),
junior OL/DL Albert Yates
(6-2, 275/All-ITC), junior
OL/DL Caleb Dimery (60, 200/All-ITC) and
senior WR Matt Morrell (6-0, 170/All-ITC).
*Mogadore (13-1, Region 21 Champions): The
Wildcats have made the
postseason every year since
the playoffs expanded to eight
teams (1999). Last season Mogadore won its 17th regional title and
39th league title. Senior standout LB
Bryce Huth (5-11, 180) returns to lead
the defense.
*Newcomerstown (4-6): The Trojans
are searching for the program’s first
winning season since 2002. Head
coach Eric Brock (19-31 in five years)
welcomes back a cast that includes
LB Mitchell Meeks (sr.), RB/SS Cody
Hall (5-9, 165, sr./527 yards rushing,
six TDs), OL Tristen Durr (sr.),
RB/DL Jason Garlando (5-10, 165,
sr.), WR/DB Austin King (sr.), OL/DL Darnell Crider-Harris (jr.), RB/LB Brill Dansby (5-10,
188, jr./882 yards rushing, eight TDs) and QB/DB Austin
Zufelt (6-2, 165, jr.). “We return a good group of kids,”
Brock said. “When you have a lot of starters with game
Keep An Eye On
*Brookfield (12-1, Region 13 finalist): The Warriors
must replace a strong senior class that led the program to
new heights. Another big difference this year is dropping
from D-IV to D-VI. Key contributors this season will be
senior WR/RB Joe Clark (5'8", 185/four-year starter, second leading receiver and third leading ball carrier, 12
TDs), senior OL Eric Kusky (6'3, 285/two year starter),
senior OL Adam Gann (6'1, 220), senior WR/DB RJ Leon
(6', 170/two way starter) and sophomore DB Tyler Hailey
(64 tackles). Head coach Randy Clark is three wins from
50 for his career. Said Clark: “We’re going to be young,
but big up front.”
*Columbiana (6-4): The Clippers failed to reach the playoffs for just the third time in 10 years last season. Head
coach Bob Spaite (156-103-4 in 25 years) welcomes
back four starters on each side of the ball. Key contributors will be senior OL/DL Mike Buzzard (6-2, 175) and
senior OL/LB Steve Kurilla (5-11, 190). Buzzard had 92
tackles, 15 TFL and nine sacks last season. Kurilla made
83 tackles.
*Dalton (4-6): The Bulldogs return a pair of standout seniors in QB Jack Burke (5-11, 175) and RB Quentin raines
(6-1, 175). Burke threw for 332 yards and three TDs and
ran for 417 yards and five TDs last year, while Burke ran
for 680 yards and eight TDs.
*Jackson-Milton (0-10): The Blue Jays didn’t win a
game last year, but that won’t be the case this season.
Jackson-Milton returns 15 starters, including several key
senior offensive pieces in QB Jeremy Fitzpatrick, WR
Thomas Gatewood and RB Tyler Shaffer. Gatewood
caught 42 passes for 876 yards and seven TDs last year,
while Shaffer ran for 876 yards and six TDs. Fitzpatrick
threw for 1,976 yards and 13 TDs.
*Jeromesville Hillsdale (7-4, Region 19 quarterfinalist): The Falcons have made the playoffs
three of the last four years and went 9-1 the
season they didn’t reach Week 11. Hillsdale
has one of the state’s top small school lineman in senior DE Ryan Bee (6-7, 240).
Bee, who holds an offer from Marshall,
had 66 tackles, 11 sacks, 11 TFL and
three caused fumbles last year. Offensively, junior RB Corbin Mager
(5-10, 185) returns after setting the
school record for single-season
rushing yards (1,572) last year.
Ryan Bee,
Hillsdale, TE/DE
*Lisbon David Anderson (2-8): Senior
RB Brandon Barnes returns after running
for 1,192 yards and 15 TDs last season.
*Louisville St. Thomas Aquinas (9-2,
Region 17 quarterfinalist): After making
the playoffs for the first time in 23 years
in 2011, the Knights achieved back-toback playoff appearances for the first
time since 1983-86. Gone from last
year’s team are 15 seniors and 36 rushing TDs. Back, however, is junior QB/DB
Anthony Moeglin (6-1, 190) who threw
for 1,113 yards and 16 TDs last year. He
also made 54 tackles.
*Newton Falls (1-9): Senior QB Brandon
Fuller returns after running for 795 yards
and passing for 548 last year.
*Salineville Southern (6-4): The Indians
have one of the state’s best small school
WRs in senior Jared Shilot (6-3, 200) who
had 52 catches for a school record 921
yards and eight TDs last year. He scored
11 TDs total.
*South Range (7-3): The Raiders return
two of their top three rushers in senior Billy
Goodall (5-11, 160/519 yards, five TDs) and junior David
McCabe (5-9, 180/408 yards, six TDs). Junior QB Ryan
39
Kirtland
Cuy. Heights
Mogadore
Brookfield
Hillsdale
McDonald
Aquinas
Regional
Final
Kirtland over
Cuy. Heights
Garaway
Dark Horses
Dalton
South Range
New’Town
10 Players to Watch
1. Cannon Schroeder, DL, sr., Kirtland
Had 19 sacks last year en route to being AP D-V DPOY
2. Jordan Martin, QB, sr., Cuy. Heights
Threw for 22 TDs and ran for six more last year
3. Cameron Ifft, LB/RB, jr., McDonald
Already a two-time All-ITC selection
4. Thomas Gatewood, WR, sr, Jack.-Milton
Caught 42 passes for 876 yards & seven TDs as jr.
5. Ryan Bee, TE/DE, sr., Hillsdale
Marshall offer; 66 tackles, 11 sacks, 11 TFL as jr.
6. Brandon Barnes, RB, sr., Anderson
Ran for 1,192 yards and 15 TDs last season
7. Anthony Moeglin, QB/WR, jr. Aquinas
Threw for 1,113 yards and 15 TDs as a so.; 54 tackles
8. Mike Buzzard, DL, sr, Columbiana
Had 92 tackles, 15 TFL & nine sacks as a jr.
9. Jared Shilot, WR, sr., Southern
52 catches, school-record 921 yards, eight TDs last year
10. Logan Wilson, LB, sr., Garaway
82 tackles, nine TFL as jr.; 95 tackles as so.
Games of the Year
Aquinas @Marlington, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
McDonald @ Cuyahoga Heights, Sept. 14 (Week 3)
Cuyahoga Heights @ Kirtland, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Garaway @Newcomerstown, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Western Reserve @ McDonald, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Hillsdale @ Norwayne, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
Patrick Henry Wayne Trace
Ada
Miller started the last two games last season and threw
for 423 yards and five TDs.
*Sugarcreek Garaway (10-1, Region 17 quarterfinalist): Senior LB Logan Wilson (6-2, 195) is one of the
state’s best small school defenders. He had 82 tackles,
nine TFL and six sacks last season after registering 95
tackles as a sophomore. Wilson also ran for four TDs.
Junior WR Jacob Werker (6-1, 165) returns after a stellar
sophomore season (18 receptions, 293 yards, five TDs).
Junior DB Clay Honigford (6-2, 195) returns after making
62 tackles.
Also In This Region
Wynford
LCC
Col. Crawford
Tinora
Northwood
Regional
Final
Patrick Henry
over W. Trace
Dark Horses
Jefferson
Carey
Bluffton
10 Players to Watch
1. Colt Pettit, OL/DL, sr. Patrick Henry
Virginia Tech commit; Four-year starter
2. Matt Wilcox, WR/DB, sr., Ada
42 rec., 830 yards & seven TDs; 39 tackles, three INTs
3. Nate Klingenberger, QB, sr. Col. Crawford
4-year starter; Threw for 2,210 yards & 25 TDs last year
4. Colby Speice, QB, sr., Wayne Trace
Threw for 3,156 yards & 48 TDs as jr.; six TDs rushing
5. Logan Pinkelman, OL/DL, sr., Evergreen
First team All-NWOAL OL & second team DL
6. Darius West, DB, sr., Lima CC
Kentucky commit and JJHuddle Top 100 prospect
7. Dominik Bermejo, RB/DB, sr., Northwood
First team All-TAAC on both sides of the ball last year
8. Issac Little, LB, sr., Bluffton
Miami (Ohio) commit
9. Derek Drewes, QB/DB/P, sr., Tinora
All-Green Meadows Conference at all three positions
10. Tobey Hernandez, RB, sr., Patrick Henry
Ran for 1,285 yards and 21 TDs in regular season
Games of the Year
Wynford @ Liberty-Benton, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Lima Central Cath. @ Delphos SJ, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Col. Crawford @ Galion, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Wayne Trace @ Tinora, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
Bryan @ Patrick Henry, Oct. 11 (Week 8)
Ada @ Lima Central Cath., Nov. 2 (Week 10)
Smithville (5-5); Oberlin (6-4); New Middletown Springfield (4-6); Burton Berkshire (4-6); Waterloo (3-7); Rootstown (2-8); Rittman (2-7); Cleveland VASJ (1-9);
Ashland Crestview (2-8); Greenwich South Central (3-7);
New London (6-4)
Team To Beat
*Hamler Patrick Henry (10-3, Region 18 finalist): The
Patriots put together another solid run last season, falling
22-21 to Liberty-Benton in Week 13. It was PH's 11th
straight playoff berth. OL play will be a strength this season with the return of senior Colt Pettit (6-4, 252) and junior Caleb Carrizles (6-3, 235). Both were first team
NWOAL last year and Pettit doubles as one of Ohio’s top
small school DL prospects (Virginia Tech commit with offers from Bowling Green, Kent State, Indiana,
Akron, Toledo, Miami of Ohio, Purdue, Illinois, Ohio, Western Michigan and Air
Force). Also back for PH are seniors
and All-NWOAL performers WR Zach
Nye (6-1, 170), DL Nathan Andonian
(5-9, 175), LB Logan Ziegler (5-11,
185), DB Josh Peterson (5-11, 180)
and DB Derek Hoops (5-9, 167). Defense should be a strength for the
Pats. The wildcard is senior RB
Tobey Hernandez (5-9, 190) who
ran for 1,285 yards and 21 TDs
before being ruled ineligible prior
to the playoffs.
Teams To Watch
Ada (10-2, Region 22 semifinalist): The Bulldogs made the
playoffs for the seventh straight
season last year before losing to
St. Henry (40-35). This fall they’ll
be under new leadership as former head coach Micah Fell has relocated to Lima Senior. Welcome
Bob Olwin. Olwin – a 30-year
coaching veteran with stints at
Versailles and Sherwood
Fairview – brings with him a
pass-happy offensive attack
that’s produced 10
Colt Pettit,
league titles
Patrick Henry, DL
and seven
playoff
berths. Ada
must replace its leading passer, rusher
and top two receivers (all
were first team All-Northwest
Conference). Cushioning the
blow is the return of senior
WR Matt Wilcox (6-2, 180)
who may see time at QB.
Wilcox caught 42 passes for
830 yards and seven TDs last season. Defensively, he
had 39 tackles, three INTs and three TFL. Several new
faces will have to make immediate impacts. Fort Loramie
replaces Upper Scioto Valley in Week 4.
*Bucyrus Wynford (9-3, Region 19 semifinalist): The
Royals had their 63-game win streak snapped last year
40
with a 26-7 loss to Ontario in Week 6. One streak they
kept intact, though, was their playoff streak, which
reached eight years in a row. Wynford welcomes back
standout senior RB Cory Brown (6-1, 210).
*Colonel Crawford (8-3, Region 23 quarterfinalist):
The Eagles are coming off the school’s first playoff berth
ever and have plans for a return trip. Senior QB Nate
Klingenberger (6-4, 195) returns for his fourth season as
a starter after throwing for 2,210 yards and 25 TDs last
season. He also ran for six scores. Klingenberger has 45
career TDs and 3,613 passing yards. He missed five
games in each his freshman and sophomore seasons.
*Haviland Wayne Trace (9-1): Who was the best team
not to make the playoffs in 2012? The small school answer could very well be Wayne Trace. The Raiders averaged 50.4 points per game and finished with nine wins
but where left out of the playoffs. WT finished 11th in Region 18. Ouch. The good news? Senior QB Colby Speice
(6-3, 190) and his rocket arm return. Last year, Speice
threw for 3,156 yards and 48 TDs and ran for 364 yards
and six TDs en route to earning Green Meadows Conference Offensive Player of the Year honors. Speice earned
second team All-GMC honors as a LB. The great news?
Four All-GMC offensive linemen return as well in seniors
Devin Wenzlick, Brock Worden, Aaron Stoller and T.J.
Blackmore. WT also returns an all-conference RB in senior Jared Sherry. Defensively, Wenzlick and Worden double as bookend DEs. Could be a big year for a program
that has just one playoff berth in history (2005, went 1-1).
*Lima Central Catholic (11-1, Region 18 semifinalist):
The Thunderbirds must replace seven first team AllNorthwest Conference performers, but horses remain.
Especially on offense. Senior DB/WR Darius West (6-0,
195) is a JJHuddle Top 100 prospect who has committed
to Kentucky. Senior QB Colin Stolly and senior RB
Mykale Rogers (6-1, 185) also return. Senior
LB Kalito Lasenby (6-0, 195/79
tackles, three forced fumbles)
leads the front seven on defense. Senior DB Lee
Stewart (6-0, 188) will contribute heavily.
*Northwood (10-1, Region 18 quarterfinalist):
The Rangers are looking to
Darius West,
Lima Central Catholic, DB
make the playoffs for the fifth year in a
row. If they do, expect junior RB/DB
Dominik Bermejo (5-10, 155) to play a
large part. The two-way standout
(named first team All-TAAC on
both sides of the ball) scored
18 TDs and had eight INTs
last season. Also returning
is the senior trio of DL
Kyle Corbitt (6-1, 210)
and OL Travis Whitmore (6-0, 255).
Keep An Eye On
*Ayersville (5-5): The
Pilots return senior QB/DB/P
D.J. Hagerman (6-2, 185) who
rushed for 536 yards and eight
TDs and had a 34.7 punting
average.
*Bluffton (5-5): The Pirates
will feature three defensive
standouts in senior LB
Issac Little (6-3, 195), senior LB Drake Luginbuhl and
junior DB Robbie Stratton. Little has committed to Miami (Oh.).
* Carey (8-2): The Blue Devils finished just outside the
playoffs last year (ninth in Region 18), but making Week
11 this season is a real possibility. Carey returns senior
QB Matt Holsinger, who tied a state record last year with
a 99-yard TD run against North Baltimore. Also back is
JJH u d d le .c o m
senior OL Jacob Goble, senior OL Anthony
Blair, senior DB Brandon Zechman and junior
DB Bryan Powers.
*Convoy Crestview (5-5): The Knights
could make some noise this season.
Senior OL/DL Scott Miller and senior
RB/DB Malcolm Oliver were AllNorthwest Confernece on both
sides of the ball last year.
*Defiance Tinora (8-2): After
making the playoffs seven of nine
years, the Rams missed Week
11 for the second straight season. Eight wins is nothing to cry
about, though. Tinora should be
right in the thick of things again.
Why? The main reason is senior QB/DB/P Derek Drewes (61, 180) who earned All-Green
Meadowws Conference honors
at quarterback, defensive back
and punter in 2012. Also back?
All-GMC RB Kurt Kahle (senior).
Defensively, look for senior linemen
Logan Dickerson and Jacob Zigler to
command attention. Senior DB Reid
Renollet leads the secondary.
*Delphos Jefferson (6-4): The Wildcats
started 5-1 but dropped three of their
last four – including two games by two
points or less – to finish out of the postseason. That bad taste should motivate
a talented group. Jefferson returns a
solid senior backfield in RB Zavier
Buzard and QB Austin Jettinghoff. Also
back is senior TE/LB Ross Thompson.
Keep an eye on sophomore LB Dalton Hicks.
*Elmore Woodmore (4-6): The Wildcats feature one of
the state’s toughest small players in senior DB Evan Ulinski (5-5, 141). Ulinkski was a D-III wrestling state runnerup at 106-pounds last year.
*Harrod Allen East (2-8): Senior RB Ross Stewart (6-1,
200) returns after earning second team All-Northwest
Conference honors.
*Metamora Evergreen (5-5): Senior Logan Pinkelman
(6-3, 230) was first team All-NWOAL OL and second
team DL.
* Spencerville (8-2): The Bearcats will lean heavily on
senior RB Colton Miller.
Also In This Region
Sherwood Fairview (6-4); Bloomdale (4-6), Van Buren (55), Mt. Blanchard Riverdale (4-6), Kansas Lakota (2-8),
Gibsonburg (4-6), Seneca East (7-3), Hopewell-Loudon
(4-6), Montpelier (3-7)
Team To Beat
*Newark Catholic (12-3, D-VI state runner-up): The
Green Wave own nine state titles and nearly had No. 10
last year (lost 28-21 to Marion Local). Don’t fret Green
Wave fans. There’s enough talent returning to produce a
return trip to the state final (which would be the school’s
15th). Senior QB Chayce Crouch (6-4, 219) has committed to Illinois. Crouch threw for 2,077 yards and 18 TDs
last season and ran for 500 yards and 11 TDs. He also
caught seven passes for 126 yards. Protecting Crouch
will be a veteran line of seniors Spencer Champman (6-5,
200), Joe Davis (6-1, 210), Evan Hartman (6-4, 26) and
Brenden Jurden (6-3, 265). Senior WR Aaron Jurden (60, 170) will be a key target. He caught 17 passes for 387
yards and three TDs last year. On defense, senior LBs
Mike Lohr (5-9, 165) and Eric Lensink (6-1, 195/four INTs)
return. The schedule gets a facelift with several new foes
(Watkins, Johnstown-Monroe, Johnstown Northridge and
Utica) and a new league (Licking County League).
Teams To Watch
*Bellaire (8-3, Region 17 quarterfinalist): The Big Reds
snapped a five-year absence from the playoffs last year
and beat rival Martins Ferry for the first time in
six years. This season look for them to contend for a Week 11 win and more. Sound familiar? Bellaire will rally around a standout
QB-WR duo in seniors Spencer Badia
(5-9, 175) and Nick Patrone (5-9, 160).
Badia threw for 3,001 yards and 24
TDs last year, while Patrone
caught 66 passes for 1,009 yards
and seven TDs. Patrone also had
58 tackles, six INTs, three fumble
recoveries and two forced fumbles
Brady Taylor,
Columbus Ready, DL
Bellaire
Fort Frye
Ready
Newark Cath.
Lucasville V.
Centerburg
East Knox
Regional Final
Newark
Catholic over
Ready
on defense as a
DB. Junior
WR Hunter
Westlake (62, 175) will
catch plenty of
balls as well. Senior DB Kenny
Hess leads the defense.
*Beverly Fort Frye (10-1, Region 17 quarterfinalist): The
Cadets earned the school’s
first playoff berth since 2000
and second ever last season
before falling to Kirtland in
the regional quarters. Expect
another run – and maybe a
longer one. In addition to returning four of five OL starters, the
Cadets bring back senior QB
Chandler Lang (5-11, 175). A
two-time All-PVC and AllOVAC selection, Lang threw
for 1,304 yards and 16 TDs
and ran for 824 yards and 15
TDs last year. He also kicked
30 PATs and had 111 tackles. The
defense – led by junior DL Luke Yates (6-1, 180) – will be
very experienced too.
*Columbus Ready (7-3, Region 14 quarterfinalist): The
Silver Knights are poised for a big run. Where to start?
Senior OL/DL Brady Taylor (6-5, 267) is one of the state’s
top line prospects regardless of class and owns over 20
offers including Kentucky, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Indiana,
Illinois, South Florida, Boston College, Virginia Tech and
West Virginia. The offense is led by senior QB Matt Yoho
(6-3, 190), who threw for 1,100 yards and accounted for
21 TDs last season, and senior RB Akili Taylor (5-9,190),
who ran for 1,125 yards and 10 TDs. Senior DB Kelly
Culbertson leads the defense. Ready opens with Newark
Catholic and closes with Columbus Hartley.
* Lucasville Valley (12-1, Region 19 finalist): The Indians will lean heavily on senior RB Nate Arnett (6-0, 200)
who ran for 1,214 yards and 10 TDs last season. Also
back are senior DL Hayden Dunn (6-4, 240) and senior
DB Zach Shope (5-10, 170).
Keep An Eye On
*Barnesville (4-6): Senior LB David Brown (5-10, 235,)
was first team 3A All-OVAC last year.
*Belpre (4-6): The Eagles rebounded from a 1-5 start to
win three fo their last four. Can they carry the momentum? Junior RB Manney Tullius (5-9, 140) was All-TVC
Hocking Division last season.
*Centerburg (5-5): The Trojans will lean heavily on the
play of senior QB Tyler Stoyle who threw for 1,889 yards
and 18 TDs last season. He threw for 1,597 yards and 13
TDs as a sophomore. Junior RB/DB Jeremy Sesma (510, 170) returns after rushing for 558 yards and five TDs.
He also had three TD catches and three INTs.
*Chillicothe Huntington (5-5): Former Miami Trace assistant Alan Preston takes over a Hunstsmen’s program
that is coming off a dramatic turnaround. Under former
head coach Wade Bartholomew (now at Gallia Academy),
Huntington snapped a 37-game losing streak last year
and finished .500.
41
Nelson.-York
Dark Horses
Hannibal River
Oak Hill
Buckeye Trail
10 Players to Watch
1. Chayce Crouch, QB, sr., Newark Catholic
Illinois commit; 2,077 passing yards, 29 total TDs as jr.
2. Spencer Badia, QB, sr., Bellaire
Threw for 3,001 yards & 24 TDs as a jr.
3. Chandler Lang, QB/DB, sr., Fort Frye
1,304 pass yds, 824 yds rush & 31 total TDs; 111 tackles
4. Brady Taylor, DL, sr., Ready
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect; Over 20 offers
5. Tyler Stoyle, QB, sr., Centerburg
Thrown for 3,486 yards & 31 TDs last two years
6. Nick Patrone, WR, sr., Bellaire
66 rec., 1,009 yards & seven TDs; 58 tackles, six INTs
7. Nate Arnett, RB, sr., Lucasville Valley
8. Colton Rebel, DB, sr., East Knox
Had 39 tackles & seven INTs as a jr.
9. Austin Hathaway, QB, jr., Fredericktown
1,069 pass yards & seven TDs; 681 yards rush & nine TDs
10. Justin Dickens, DL, sr., Oak HIll
Reigning SOC-I Lineman of the Year
Games of the Year
Newark Catholic @ Ready, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
St. Clairsville @ Bellaire, Oct. 12 (Week 7)
Rosecrans @ Fort Frye, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
Centerburg @ East Knox, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
Oak Hill @ Ironton, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
Hartley @ Ready, Nov. 1 (Week 10)
Summit CD
Miami East
Minster
Fairbanks
Tri-Count N.
Versailles
Regional Final
Summit CD
over
Versailles
West Liberty National Trail
Dark Horses
Anna
St. Henry
Dayton Christ.
10 Players to Watch
1. Nick Campbell, QB, sr., Versailles
Accounted for 5,623 total yards and 66 TDs in two years
2. Michael Fellers, DB/WR, sr., Miami East
13 total TDs as jr. (four on ret.); 35 PATs; 37.8 punt avg.
3. Chandler Cotterman, OL/DL, jr., Anna
All-MAC selection; Top junior prospect
4. Hunter Burnett, QB, sr., Fairbanks
Threw for 2,082 yards pass & 22 TDs as jr.; Three rush TDs
5. Michael Barwick, DL, sr., Summit CD
Indiana commit; 87 tackles, 16 TFL, five fumble rec.
6. Ethan Wolf, TE, sr., Minster
JJHuddle Top 100 Prospect is headed to Tennessee
7. Austin Hutchins, QB, sr., Tri-County N.
Threw for 1,319 yards pass & 18 TDs as jr.; Four TDs rush
8. JR Menifee, ATH, sr., Cincinnati CD
Scored TDs five ways as jr.: rec., rush & returns (Int, P, KO)
9. Antonio Woods, QB, sr, Summit CD
1,276 yards pass & 21 TDs; 876 yards rush & 10 TDs
10. Garett Griffin, QB, jr., National Trail
Set 10 school records last year; 2,112 yds pass, 16 TDs
Games of the Year
Covington @ St. Henry, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Galion @ Fairbanks, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Versailles @ Valley View, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Summit CD @ CHCA, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Versailles @ Minster, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
National Trail @ Tri-County North, Nov. 2 (Week 10)
*Columbus Academy (5-5): The Vikings will lean on
senior DE Charlie Waters (6-4, 200).
* Dawson-Bryant (6-4, Region 19 quarterfinalist): The
Hornets return a trio of standout juniors in OL/DL Austen
Pleasants (6-5, 290), LB/FB Tanner Murphy (5-11, 215)
and RB/DB Isaiah Gunther (5-8, 165).
* Fredericktown (5-5): After a state semifinal appearance in 2010, the Freddies have put together back-toback 5-5 finishes. Junior QB Austin Hathaway returns
after throwing for 1,069 yards and seven TDs and rushing for 681 yards and nine TDs. He also had a 35.5 punting average and made 34 tackles on D.
*Grandview Heights (5-5): The Bobcats return senior
TE/DE/P standout Tim Murphy (6-2, 210).
*Hannibal River (7-4, Region 23 quarterfinalist): The
Pilots will lean on senior RB/LB Jordan Sapp (5-11, 170)
who ran for 814 yards and eight TDs last season. He
also had 63 tackles. Defensively, line play will be a
strength with the return of seniors DL Brett Rosen (5-9,
215/74 tackles, 12 TFL), DL Brandon Reusser (5-11,
180/45 tackles, 10 TFL) and DB Bryce Cross (6-0,
180/85 tackles). Junior kicker Colton Wright (6-1, 150)
who connected on 35 Pats and three FGs last year is
back.
*Howard East Knox (5-5): The Bulldogs return some
nice talent, including senior DB Colton Rebel (6-3, 195)
who had seven INTs and 39 tackles as a junior. Also
back? Senior RB Dylan Wears (5-10, 200/613 rushing
yards, 12 total TDs) and senior DL Hayden
Freeze (6-1, 210/60 tackles, seven TFL, three
fumble recoveries).
*Monroe Central (7-3): Senior LB Mike
Jones (5-11, 175) and junior RB/CB Levi
Brown were 3A All-OVAC last year.
*Nelsonville-York (7-3): The
Buckeyes missed the playoffs
for just the second time in
10 years last season.
*Oak Hill (9-3, Region 19
semifinalist): After going
just 2-8 in 2011, the Oaks
earned the program’s third
playoff berth in four years
last season. Back from that
team is senior DE/TE Justin
Dickens (6-5, 200) who was
the SOC-I Lineman of the
Year last season. Other key
returners are seniors Mason
Waugh (LB/G, 5'9, 190), Garrin Stiltner (SS/RB, 5'9, 185),
Josh Williams (DT/RB, 5'6, 145)
and Brandon Adkins (DT/T, 5'8,
275); juniors Johnathon Harrison (CB/W, 5'8, 145) and Griffen Jenkins (NG/T, 5'9, 285);
and sophomores Willy Harris
(FS/RB, 5'10, 150) and Matt
Gilliland (LB/FB,5'10, 200).
The schedule is the same as
last year. “After a conference
title and a playoff win, we must
replace a strong senior class
that led us on and off the field,”
head coach Nathan Dugan
said. “I’m very interested to
see how some of the younger
players develop. We had
freshmen and sophomores
who played last season and
performed very well, in addition
to having a 7-1 junior varsity
team. We look to be a more balanced team this season
as opposed to the run dominance of last year.”
*Old Washington Buckeye Trail (4-6): Junior QB Morgan Dougherty (6-1, 180) returns after being first team
3A All-OVAC last season. Senior OL/DL Cory Cutlip (6-1,
265) anchors the lines. Senior FB/LB Codey Kimble (510, 200) is a good one.
*Stewart Federal Hocking (6-4): The Lancers will lean
on returning All-TVC Hocking Division selections and
seniors Delbert Crum (RB/LB) and Peyton Seel (LB/RB).
* West Lafayette Ridgewood (6-4): The Generals re-
42
turn senior RB/DB Garrett Bethel (5-9, 180) who had 762
yards and 11 TDs last season. He also made 78 tackles.
Also In This Region
Berne Union (1-9), Shenandoah (0-10), Crooksville (4-6),
Galion Northmor (2-8), Cardington-Lincoln (3-7)
Team To Beat
*Cincinnati Summit Country Day (11-1, Region 20
semifinalist): The Silver Knights have been one of
Ohio’s biggest success stories the last few years. SCD is
attempting to make the playoffs for the fourth straight
time, but there have been plenty of lumps. In 2010, SCD
lost 43-6 to West Jefferson in the regional quarterfinals.
In 2011, the Sliver Knights got thumped 79-7 to Marion
Pleasant in the regional quarterfinals. Last year, however,
after an undefeated regular season, SCD beat Triad 3527 in the regional quarterfinals for the program’s first
postseason win. This year could be even bigger. SCD returns arguably the best 1-2 small school punch in Ohio in
senior QB Antonio Woods and senior DL Michael Barwick. Both are JJHuddle Top 100 prospects. Woods (6-1,
180) holds offers from Kent State, Bowling Green, Northwestern, Indiana, Miami of Ohio, Toledo, Cincinnati, Illinois and West Virginia. Last year he was second
in the Miami Valley Conference in both rushing
and passing after throwing for 1,276 yards
and 21 TDs and running for 876 yards and
10 TDs. Woods also caught a TD pass.
Barwick (6-2, 297), an Indiana commit,
had additonal offers from Bowling
Green, Kent State, Toledo, Ball
State, Akron, Western Michigan,
Buffalo and Central Michigan. All he
did last year was rack up 87 tackles, 16 TFL, six sacks, five fumble
recoveries and two forced fumbles. Senior WR Daniel Bruns
(6-5, 195) also returns after
leading the team in receiving
yards (287), catches (18) and
Antonio Woods,
Summit Country Day, QB
TDs (eight) last year. He only played nine
games and has gained 20 pounds since last
year. Other key contributors will include senior
RB/LB Gage Goodwin (5'11", 180) and senior
QB/WR/DB Matt Brinkman (6'2", 175). Watch out for
juniors CJ Suggs (5-11, 160, WR/DB) and Brooks
Taylor (5-10, 170, RB/LB). “The senior class in 2014
is a special one in that they know what it takes to
make the playoffs,” head coach Mike Brown (18-5 in
two years) said. “Although we only lost 6 seniors last
year, they were high contribution guys. All started at
least one way and half of them started both ways. That
type of football player and leadership is tough to replace.
“Luckily, we have two team captains back from last year's
11-1 history making team in Michael Barwick and Antonio
Woods. Weightroom numbers have been the highest they
have ever been and the commitment to the program is
encouraging.” The schedule will include a pair of new
Miami Valley Conference teams in Dayton Christian and
St. Bernard-Elmwood Place. The opener with Benjamin
Logan is new too. “In the past, Summit Football has had a
moving and debatable identity,” Brown said. “In the last
couple years the identity of Summit Football has been solidified, which is to play great defense, control the ball by
running it, make big plays on special teams and play as
one Family.”
Teams To Watch
*Anna (5-5): The Rockets will build around junior RB
Christiaan Williams (5-10, 215) and junior DL Chandler
Cotterman (6-5, 280). Both were second team All-MAC
JJH u d d le .c o m
last year. Two additional all-conference players return in
senior WR/DB Nick Ihle (6-2, 170) and junior TE/LB Wes
Showalter 6-4, 210).
*Casstown Miami East (7-4, Region 20 quarterfinalist):
The Vikings made the playoffs for the third time in six years
last season but are still searching for their first postseason
win (0-3 all-time). Head coach Max Current (65-78 in 14
years) thinks this year’s team is capable of getting that
program “first.” Seven starters return on each side of the
ball as do 19 lettermen and 14 seniors. The catalyst is senior RB/K/KR/DB Michael Fellers (6-0, 170) who accounted
for 14 TDs last year (eight rushing, four on returns, two receiving). He also connected on 35 PATs, punted 35 times
(37.8 avg.), made 38 tackles and had an INT and fumble
recovery. Also back are three starters on the offensive line,
WR Dalton Allen (sr., 5-9, 160/339 yards receiving, four
TDs) and RB Colton McKinney (jr., 5-11, 170/227 yards
rushing, two TDs). Two players return with varsity experience in junior Conner Hellyer (6-0, 165) and sophomore
Braxton Donaldson (6-2, 230). Hellyer threw for 528 yards
and six TDs before being injured in Week 6. Donaldson
(338 yards passing, two TDs) finished the season under
center. Defensively, senior DL Robbie Adams (6-0, 180) returns after making 91 tackles, 10 TFL and six sacks last
year. He also had three TDs as a FB. Other key defensive
contributors will be seniors DB Dalton Allen (5-9, 160/56
tackles), LB Franco Villella (5-8, 155/83 tackles) and DE
Alex Brewer (5-11, 170/93 tackles, 10 TFL, three sacks).
Overall, the Vikings return 10 players who had at least 23
tackles each last year. Miami East opens with Miami
County rival Milton-Union, which it hasn’t beaten since
2001.
*Milford Center Fairbanks (5-5): The Panthers started 1-5
last year but won their final four games, including key victories over Lehman Catholic and playoff team WaynesfieldGoshen, to capture a share of the Northwest Central
Conference title with Fort Loramie. The goal this year is to
win a league title in the program’s first year in a new
league (the MOAC) and earn the program’s first playoff
berth since 2007 and second since 2000. Several key
pieces return. Senior QB Hunter Burnett (6-1, 190) is back
after throwing for 2,082 yards and 22 TDs last season. He
also ran for three TDs. Joining Burnett in the backfield is
senior RB Brent Nicol (6-1, 185) who ran for 1,009 yards
and 13 TDs last year. On defense, Fairbanks returns its top
two tacklers in senior LB Connor Smith (5-11, 195/70 tackles) and junior DL Will Day (6-1, 180/59 tackles). The
schedule is totally different. The only remaining opponents
from 2012 are non-league foes Mechanicsburg (Week 2)
and Triad (week 3). Galion comes aboard in Week 1 and
the MOAC, which includes Jonathan Alder, Marion Pleasant and North Union, starts in Week 4. Said head coach
Dave Gebhart: “The road to success is always under construction.”
*Minster (9-3, Region 24 semifinalist): The Wildcats
have made the playoffs three years in a row but must replace several key offensive skill players if they want to
make it four. They also have a new head coach. Geron
Stokes, who spent he last four years at Urbana, takes over
for Nate Moore who landed at Cincinnati LaSalle. Stokes,
just 28, inherits a team with some talent. Senior TE Ethan
Wolf (6-6, 232) has committed to Tennessee. Wolf, who
caught 77 passes for 885 yards and 14 TDs, has over 20
offers including Alabama, Wisconsin, Michigan State, Nebraska and Arkansas. Also back are senior DL/OL Wes
Hagerman (6-2, 250) and senior LB/RB Paul Dues (6-3,
185). Hagerman is a four-year starter, while Dues had 67.5
tackles, four forced fumbles and three INTs last year. Due
to the MAC’s revolving schedule, the Wildcats don’t face
Marion Local (during the regular season). The Week 1 visit
from Fort Loramie is a big one.
*Tri-County North (7-4, Region 24 quarterfinalist): The
Panthers return several solid players on both sides of the
ball. Senior QB/DB Austin Hutchins (6-3, 185) returns after
throwing for 1,319 yards and 18 TDs and running for 232
yards and four TDs last year. Also back is junior RB/LB
Colton Booth (5-11, 190) who ran for 560 yards and seven
TDs. Booth had 69 tackles, 8.5 TFL and four caused fumbles on defense. Hutchins chipped in 66 tackles. Those
two are just part of a formidable defense. Other key returnees are sophomore LB Garrett Woodyeard (511,
175/82 tackles, three fumble recoveries, two INTs), junior
DE Blake Lawson (5-10, 175/57 tackles, 13 TFL), junior DL
QB: Kolby Speice, 6-3, 190, sr., Haviland Wayne
Trace; Spencer Badia, 5-9, 175, sr., Bellaire; Matt
Yoho, 6-3, 190, sr., Columbus Ready; Nick Campbell,
6-1, 190, sr., Versailles; Morgan Dougherty, 6-1, 180,
jr. Old Washington Buckeye Trail; Austin Hutchins, 63, 185, sr., Tri-County North; Nate Klingenberger, 6-4,
195, sr., Colonel Crawford; Jordan Martin, 6-1, 180,
sr., Cuyahoga Heights; Tyler Stoyle, sr., Centerburg;
Hunter Burnett, 6-1, 190, sr., Milford Center Fairbanks; Austin Hathaway, jr., Fredericktown
RB: Corbin Mager, 5-10, 185, jr., Jeromesville Hillsdale; Nate Arnett, 6-0, 200, sr., Lucasville Valley;
Brandon Barnes, sr., Lisbon David Anderson; Christiaan Williams, 5-10, 215, jr. Anna; Brent Nicol, 6-1,
185, sr., Milford Center Fairbanks
WR: Thomas Gatewood, sr., Jackson-Milton; Tyler
Gallo, 5-8, 160, sr. Cuyahoga Heights; Jack Alpert, 61, 170, sr. Cuyahoga Heights; Joe Clark, 5'8", 185,
sr., Brookfield
TE: Matt Finkler, 6-3, 230, jr., Kirtland; Ross Thompson, sr., Delphos Jefferson; Tom Rebraca, 6-1, 205,
sr., McDonald
OL: Brenden Jurden, 6-2, 260, sr., Newark Catholic;
Cory Cutlip, 6-1, 265, sr., Old Washington Buckeye
Trail
K: Colton Wright, 6-1, 150, jr., Hannibal River; Trey
Reilly Lipinski (5-10, 210/50 tackles, 21.5 TFL) and senior
DL Cole Gunder (6-0, 200/46 tackles, nine TFL). Junior K
Trey Summers (5-11, 160) returns as well.
*Versailles (5-5): Senior QB Nick Campbell (6-1, 190) is
one of the state’s top small school signal callers. In the last
two years he’s thrown for 4,307 yards and 55 TDs. He’s
also rushed for 1,316 yards and 11 TDs. One of Campbell’s
favorite targets returns in All-MAC senior WR Damien
Richard (32 receptions, 342 yards, six TDs).
* West Liberty-Salem (11-1): The Tigers have been in the
playoffs seven of the last nine seasons and have won 26
straight Ohio Heritage Conference games. This season,
Dan McGill, an eight-year assistant at WLS, assumes head
coaching duties from Toby Smith (who took the Bellefontaine job). Senior RB/DB Taylor Cordell will contribute
heavily.
Keep An Eye On
*Arcanum (3-7): The Trojans return a good one in senior
LB Mason Garber (6-2, 183) who had 111 tackles, including 90 solo, last year.
*Cincinnati Country Day (4-5): The Indians return a dynamic player in senior RB/WR/DB JR Menifee (5-10, 175).
Mennifee had 1,004 all-purpose yards last year and scored
TDs receiving (three), rushing (two) and on INT, punt and
kickoff returns.
*Dayton Christian (10-1, Region 20 quarterfinalist): The
Warriors must adjust to life after Heath Harding. Now a
freshman RB at Miami (Oh.), Harding set multiple program
records en route to helping DC earn its first playoff berth
ever last year. Where to start? How about with junior
QB/RB/DB Brandon Williams (6-0, 165) who threw for
seven TDs, ran for five and returned an INT and kickoff for
TDs last year. Also back is junior RB/DB Mikel Davis (6-1,
165) who returned two INTs for TDs last year.
*National Trail (6-4): Under the direction of head coach
Tony Sonsini (7-13 in two years), the Blazers had a memorable season last year. NT, which went just 2-58 from 20072011, posted its first winning record in 16 years. There’s
plenty to be excited about moving forward. Junior QB Garrett Griffin (6-4, 175) threw for 2,112 yards and 16 TDs last
season en route to setting 10 school records. He’s just nine
Summers, 5-11, 160, jr, Tri-County North
DL: Robbie Adams, 6-0, 180, sr., Casstown Miami
East; Caleb Carrizles, 6-3, 235, jr., Patrick Henry;
Reilly Lipinski, 5-10, 210, jr., Tri-County North; Jordan
Wright, 6-1, 210, sr., Williamsburg; Mike Buzzard, 6-2,
175, sr., Columbiana
LB: Paul Dues, 6-3, 185, sr., Minster; Logan Wilson,
6-2, 195, sr., Sugarcreek Garaway; Colton Booth, 511, 190, jr., Tri-County North; Mason Garber, 6-2, 183,
sr., Arcanum; Cameron Ifft, 6-2, 190, jr., McDonald;
Logan Ziegler, 5-11, 185, sr., Patrick Henry
DB: Matt Wilcox, 6-2, 180, sr., Ada; Brandon
Williams, 6-0, 165, jr., Dayton Christian; JR Menifee,
5-10, 160, sr., Cincinnati Country Day; Dominik
Bermejo, 5-10, 155, jr. Northwood; Mike Lohr, 5-8,
165, sr., Newark Catholic; Ryan Locar, 5-11, 190, sr.,
Kirtland
P: D.J. Hagerman, 61-185, sr., Ayersville; Tim Murphy, 6-2, 210, sr., Grandview Heights
TDs and 345 yards shy of being the program’s career
leader in both. Senior WR Devin Mize (5-9, 150) returns
after catching 37 passes for 875 yards and six TDs. He
added two INTs on defense and averaged 32.8 yards as a
punter. Along the lines, expect juniors Josh Baker (OL/DL,
6-3, 315) and Cody Hapner (TE/LB, 6-1, 205/55 tackles,
five sacks) to contribute heavily. Under coach Mike Griffin,
NT’s defense improved 20 points in points allowed last
year, going from 50 to 30. “We took a giant step in the right
direction last year, but we know that there will be a target
on our back this coming season,” Sonsini said. “Our goal is
to take it one game at a time, not overlook any team and
try to be 1-0 every Saturday morning at film. Teams have
been used to pushing us around over the years, and that
allowed us to sneak up on some teams. That is not going
to happen with as many starters as we have returning this
year.”
*New Lebanon Dixie (7-4, D-V Region 20 Quarterfinalist): The Greyhounds rode a strong senior class to their
first playoff appearance ever last season. Graduation has
left large holes. Dixie must replace its leading passer,
rusher and receiver. Junior QB Justin Leonard threw just
five passes last year in back-up duty and senior RB Trent
Cummins (195 yards on 37 carries) is the top returning
rusher.
* St. Henry (9-4, Region 20 finalist): The Redskins are
under new direction with first year head coach Brad Luthman who replaced Jeff Starkey. Starkey (two state titles)
left to become principal at LaBrae. Luthman, who won a
state title as a player at Versailles and has spent the last
two seasons on Marion Local’s staff, inherits a team that
returns a pair of second team All-MAC players in senior RB
Adam Reichert and senior DB Tyler Schwieterman.
*Williamsburg (3-7): The Wildcats return a good one in
senior DL Jordan Wright (6-1, 210).
Also In This Region
Madison Plains (4-6), Parkway (0-10), Mechanicsburg (46), Twin Valley South (3-7), Tipp City Bethel (5-5), Cincinnati Oyler (3-5), New Bremen (2-8), Fayetteville-Perry
(2-8), New Miami (4-5), Mississinawa Valley (0-10), St.
Bernard-Elmwood Place (0-8) — EF
43
2013 JJHuddle Ohio HS Football Preview: Division VII
QB: Adam Bertke, 6-6, 205, sr., Marion Local (Pitt)
RB: Ben Tobin, 5-11, 205, sr., Lancaster Fairfield Christian
RB: A.J. Ouellette, 5-10, 190, sr., Covington
RB: Tyler Jettinghoff, 6-2, 210, sr., Delphos St. John’s
WR: Hunter Wilker, 6-0, 180, soph., Marion Local
WR: Cade Cummings, 6-2, 185, jr., Tuscarawas Central Catholic
OL: Jason Brunswick, 6-1, 240, sr., Marion Local
OL: Dakota Morgan, 6-1, 205, sr., Bainbridge Paint Valley
OL: Wyatt Westfall, 6-1, 235, sr. Reedsville Eastern
OL: Cory Banco, 6-2, 295, sr., Shadyside
OL: Corey Durbin, 6-1, 255, sr., Fremont St. Joseph
K: Eric Bofenkamp, 6-0, 175, sr., Warren JFK
ATH: Delaunte Thornton, 5-8, 193, sr., Fort Loramie
DL: Conway Baldridge, 6-3, 190, sr., Danville
DL: Tymere Dubose, 6-6, 250, sr., Youngstown Christian (Kentucky)
DL: Marcus Somers, 6-2, 215, sr., Tiffin Calvert
LB: Nate Yoakum, 5-9, 180, sr., Bainbridge Paint Valley
LB: Jacob Koons, 6-1, 195, sr., Glouster Trimble
LB: Garrett Eilerman, 5-11, 184, sr., Fort Loramie
LB: Cobin Plessinger, 5-11, 185, sr., Malvern
DB: Tmonte Watson, 5-10, 160, sr., Dayton Jefferson Twp.
DB: Jacey Goettemoeller, 5-11, 175, jr., Marion Local
DB: Tre McIntyre, 6-1, 195, sr., North Lewisburg Triad
DB: Connor Hug, 6-1, 195, sr., Edon
P: Scottie Slauterback, 6-0, 175, sr., Norwalk St. Paul
44
Adam Bertke,
Marion Local, QB
JJH u d d le .c o m
By Eric Frantz
Team To Beat
*Berlin Center Western Reserve (9-3, Region 21 semifinalist): The Devils are coming off two highly successful
seasons (state semis in 2011 and regional semis last
year). Can they put together another run in D-VII? Yep.
WR returns one of the state’s best small school backfields in QB Nick Allison and RB Dan Zilke. Both seniors
were first team All-Inter Tri-County last year. Also back
are WR/DB Dan Rosati (sr.), WR/LB Jon Timko (sr.) and
OL/DL Matt Mace (jr.). Overall, WR has been to the playoffs five years in a row and six of the last seven.
Teams To Watch
*Danville (11-2, Region 23 finalist): The Blue Devils fell
one win shy of the program’s third state semifinal appearance and first since 2004 by dropping a 48-46 shootout to
eventual state runner-up Newark Catholic in the regional
final. That squad relied on offense (scored 457 points).
This year’s rendition will lean on defense. Three-year lettermen and senior DEs Conway Baldridge (6-3, 185/109
tackles, 21 TFL) and Andy Payne (6-4, 260/97 tackles/13
TFL) bookend a unit deep in experience. Danville returns
five of its top six tacklers, including senior TE/LB Marshall
Magers (6-1, 175/155 tackles, seven TFL), senior LB
Thomas Hawk (6-0, 165/139 tackles) and senior LB
Austin Gonzales (5-10, 195/91 tackles, six TFL). If the
Devils offense can rebuild quickly, watch out.
*Garfield Heights Trinity (4-6): The Trojans return three
players at the QB position who completed passes in
games last year, including seniors Pat Sobolewski (671
yards, five TDs) and Matt Iacobucci (542 yards, three
TDs) and sophomore Kyle McSweeney (84 yards). Iacobucci was the team’s leading rusher last year too
(374 yards, five TDs). Also back is first team
All-North Coast Conference RB/DL Antonio
Capasso. Last year Capasso ran for 276
yards and four TDs and made 58 tackles.
Other key returnees are senior WR/DB
Griffin Filippi (6-2, 185/269 yards receiving, four TDs), senior WR/DL
Jacob Walters (6-2, 190/231 yards
receiving, TD, 33 tackles), senior
WR/DB Cory Haire (5-8, 150) and
sophomore Brett Dawson (5-10,
150).
*Norwalk St. Paul (7-4, Region
22 quarterfinalist): Veteran
head coach John Livengood
flirted with the Clyde job but decided to remain with the Flyers
where’s he’s accumulated a
record of 201-60 in 21 years.
St. Paul graduated seven
seniors but returns a talented
group high on experience.
Line play will be a strength
thanks to the return of senior
All-Firelands Conference
players Caleb Meyer (6-1,
195) and Ryan Reikowski (6-2,
235). Senior QB/DB/K/P Scottie
Slauterback (6-0, 175) is vital to all
facets (all-league). Junior RB Devin
Smith (second team), sophomore LB
Jaret Nickoli (first team), junior DL Matt
VanDootingh (HM) and junior DB Wes
Fritz (HM) were All-Firelands as well.
*Warren JFK (9-2, Region 21 quarterfinalist): The Eagles made the
playoffs for the 19th time last season
but must replace nine All-North
Coast Conference players. JFK
does return one of the state’s top
kickers in senior Eric Bofenkamp (60, 175). Bofenkamp hit 40-of-44 PATS (including 31 in a row) last year and was 7-of-9 on FGs (long of
37). Expect senior RB/DB Carl Zallow (5-8, 155) to get
plenty of touches. Also back are senior TE/LB Austin
Munno and junior WR/DB Chad Zallow.
Keep An Eye On
*Elyria Open Door Christian (6-2): The Patriots have
only been playing football for three years and this is the
first season they’ll compete against a varsity football
schedule. Don’t fret. They’ll be competitive – and young.
“This will be a huge jump for our players, moving from a
JV schedule to a Varsity schedule,” head coach Ray
Lowe said. “All of the games will be big.” A good group of
juniors is leading Open Door into its new era. Junior QB
Danny Stintsman (6-2, 165) returns after throwing for 745
yards and 12 TDs and rushing for 467 yards and seven
TDs. Junior WR Jacob Lowe (5-8, 150) is a threat both
rushing (167 yards, four TDs) and receiving (435 yards,
nine TDs). Junior RB Troy Atwood (5-8, 148) ran for 493
yards and three TDs last year. Defensively, Lowe (28
tackles, two INTs), Stintsman (19 tackles, seven sacks,
three INTs) and Atwood (20 tackles, two INTs) excel too.
Look for juniors Zach Davis (5-11) and Dennis Robinson
(5-11, 277) and sophomore Cody Edwards (6-2, 225) to
make an impact on both lines. Said Lowe: “We are a very
young team, but our upper classmen have been in the
program for two years know, and they are getting better
and better each year. We will rely on them to bring the
freshmen and sophomores along. We are not soft by any
sense of the word.”
*Fairport Harding (7-4, Region 21 quarterfinalist): The
Skippers made the playoffs for the first time since 1991
and for just the second time ever last year. Now they
must replace nine all-district players.
*Leetonia (5-5): The Bears return senior RB Zack Van
Giesen who ran for 849 yards and 10 TDs last year.
*Lucas (3-7): The Cubs are a wildcard. Head coach Scott
Spitler (13-27 in four years) welcomes back nine starters
on each side of the ball, but must replace 3,000 yards of
offense. Lucas also faces eight new opponents in 2013.
“The schedule is all new after week two,” Spitler said. Key
contributors will be: senior RB/DB Kolton Bernhardt (5-9,
160) and senior FB/LB Dominick Strassell (5-9,
165).
*Monroeville (4-6): The Eagles return five AllFirelands Conference players and could
have a huge season. Senior DL Seth Farley was the conference Defensive Lineman of the Year last season. Senior
RB Rick Heck was first team all-conference. Other key pieces are senior
DB Levi Anderson, senior LB Nick
Tommas and senior DL Nate Thomas.
*Plymouth (5-5): The Vikings .500
record last year secured the program’s
Tymere Dubose,
Youngstown Christian, DL
first back-to-back non-losing seasons since 1993-94. Junior QB
Hunter Bailey returns after earning second team All-Firelands
Conference honors. Also back are
junior WR Tyrell Edmiston and junior LB Chance Butcher.
*Vienna Mathews (1-9): Senior RB
Austin Arnal expects to get plenty of
touches again after running for 1,002
yards and eight TDs last season.
*Wellsville (4-6): Senior RB Marcus Moxley will again carry the load after running for
923 yards and nine TDs last season. He’s a
two-time All-ITC selection.
*Windham (3-7): The Bombers move from
the Portage Trail Conference to the Northeastern Athletic Conference this season. The
change allows Windham to play teams more
their size. Expectaitions are heightened with
the move of junior WR Parker Rickey to QB. Junior RB Dillon Blewitt, senior WR Joey Miranda and senior OL/DL Jonah Konzen will contribute heavily.
*Youngstown Christian (9-3, Region 21 finalist): The
Eagles have posted back-to-back playoff appearances.
Can they make it three? Senior DL Tymere Dubose (6-6,
45
Danville
W-Reserve
Warren JFK
Trinity
St. Paul
Youngs. Chr. Monroeville
Windham
Dark Horses
Regional Final
Western
Reserve
over St. Paul
Open Door
Plymouth
Wellsville
10 Players to Watch
1. Nick Allen, QB, sr., Western Reserve
First team All-ITC last year
2. Conway Baldridge, DE, sr., Danville
109 tackles, including 21 TFL last year
3. Tymere Dubose, DL, sr., Youngs. Chr.
Committed to Kentucky over Michigan State & WVU
4. Austin Arnal, sr., RB, Mathews
Rushed for 1,002 yards & eight TDs last year
5. Seth Farley, DE, sr., Monroeville
Firelands Conference DL of the Year
6. Marcus Moxley, RB, sr., Wellsville
Two-time first team All-ITC; 923 yards, 9 TDs
7. Zack Van Giesen, RB, sr., Leetonia
Ran for 849 yards & 10 TDs last year
8. Andy Payne, DE, sr., Danville
97 tackles, inlcuding 13 TFL last year
9. Danny Stintsman, QB, jr., Open Door
745 passing yards, 467 yards rushing, 19 total TDs
10. Conner Black, WR, jr., Mapleton
Caught 79 passes for 1,149 yards & 16 TDs as a soph.
Games of the Year
Cuy. Heights @ Western Reserve, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Western Reserve @ Malvern, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Fairfield Christian @ Open Door, Sept. 27 (Week 5)
Plymouth @ St. Paul, Oct. 12 (Week 7)
Warren JFK @ Trinity, Sept. 19 (Week 9)
Monroeville @ St. Paul, Nov. 2 (Week 10)
DSJ
McComb
Hicksville
Edon
Leipsic
St. Joe’s
Regional
Final
Leipsic over
DSJ
Col. Grove
Calvert
Dark Horses
Arlington
Mohawk
Ottawa Hills
10 Players to Watch
1. Zack Kuhlman, QB, sr., Leipsic
4,719 passing yards & 53 TDs last two years
2. Tyler Jettinghoff, RB, Sr, DSJ
Two-time All-MAC; 1,790 yards & 20 TDs last year
3. Connor Hug, QB/WR/DB, sr., Edon
Scored TDs rushing, passing and receiving last year.
4. Kaleb Johns, RB, sr., Hicksville
First team All-Green Meadows Conference
5. Corey Durbin, OL/DL, sr., St. Joseph
MAL Special Teams POY last season; 17 TFL
6. Tyler Long, QB, jr., Tiffin Calvert
Threw for 1,144 yards & rushed for 1,098 last year
7. Jordan Chamberlin, RB, sr., Leipsic
All-BVC back ran for 991 yards & 10 TDs last season
8. Luke MacLennan, FB, sr., DSJ
Rushed for 603 yards & nine TDs as a junior
9. Marcus Somers, DE, sr., Tiffin Calvert
3-year starter; 91 tackles, eight sacks last year
10. Marcus Kerr, RB, sr., St. Joseph
First team All-Midland Athletic League
Games of the Year
DSJ at Elida, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Norwalk St. Paul @ Calvert, Sept. 7 (Week 2)
Edon @ Hicksville, Sept. 13 (Week 3)
Marion Local @ DSJ, Oct. 4 (Week 6)
Liberty-Benton @ Leipsic, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
Calvert @ Fremont St. Joseph, Oct. 19 (Week 8)
250) has committed to Kentucky.
Also In This Region
Sandusky St. Mary Central Catholic (2-8); Ashland
Mapleton (2-8); Newbury (3-7); Thompson Ledgemont
(5-5); Lowellville (4-6) ; Sebring McKinley (0-10); East
Canton (5-5); Mineral Ridge (6-4); Southington Chalker
(4-6); Richmond Heights (2-8); Cleveland Heights
Lutheran East (1-9)
Team To Beat
*Leipsic (8-3, Region 22 quarterfinalist): The Vikings
are 38-9 the last four years and have been to the playoffs
each season. They’ve lost three times to Delphos St.
John’s, including last year. Leipsic is loaded again. The
Vikings return senior QB Zack Kuhlman (6-3, 190) who is
a two-time first team All-Blanchard Valley Conference selection. Kuhlman threw for 2,275 yards and 27 TDs last
year. He threw for 2,444 yards and 26 TDs as a sophomore. Junior RB Jordan Chamberlin returns after running
for 991 yards and 10 TDs en route to first team All-BVC
honors. Opening holes will be seniors Alfie and Adonijah
Flores, a pair of second team All-BVC lineman. Replacing
four first team all-conference defenders is key.
Teams To Watch
*Delphos St. John’s (8-5, Region 22 finalist): The Blue
Jays lost to five playoff teams last year, including four that
made regional finals and two that won state titles. This
year the schedule doesn’t get any easier with the addition
of Elida as a Week 2 non-league game. Lima Central
Catholic remains the opener. DSJ will lean heavily on
senior workhorse RB Tyler Jettinghoff (6-2, 210), a twotime All-Midwest Athletic Conference selection who ran
for 1,790 yards and 20 TDs last year. Also back is senior
FB Luke MacLennan (5-10, 205) who had 603 yards and
nine TDs last season. Senior OLs Spencer Ginter and
Ryan Shumaker also return. Junior DB Evan Hays headlines the defense. Said head coach Todd Schulte (144-41
in 14 years): “Once again this year's schedule will be brutal. The key for our 2013 season will be QB play and
health.”
*Edon (7-3): The Bombers have one of the best 1-2-3
small school punches in Ohio in senior QB/WR Connor
Hug (6-1, 185/746 yards, 14 TDs), senior RB Trevor
Green (5-7, 170) and senior WR Brock Thiel (5-10, 195).
*Fremont St. Joseph (10-2, Region 22 semifinalist):
The Crimson Streaks return nine All-Midland Athletic
League selections from a team that earned the program’s
third playoff berth in four years (and 12th overall). Included in the mix is a talented senior cast that includes
RB Marcus Kerr, OL/DL Corey Durbin (6-1, 255), OL
Hunter Harrison (6-3, 240), DL Nick Militello (6-3, 310),
DL Ryan Williams, LB Bennett Weickert, LB Matt Fox and
OL/DL Mitchell Gonya (6-0, 200). Junior WR Jake Yeckley will contribute heavily.
*Hicksville (6-4): The Aces should make the playoffs if
history holds. Hicksville made Week 11 in 2009 and 2011
and missed it in 2010 and 2012. The return of First Team
All-Green Meadows Conference RB Kaleb Johns (sr.)
bodes well. Senior OL Blake Sholl will open holes.
*McComb (13-1, Region 22 champions): The Panthers
had a historic season last year by advancing to the state
semifinals before falling to eventual state champion Marion Local 34-28 in three OTs. McComb now faces the
huge task of replacing two-time Blanchard Valley Conference Offensive Player of the Year Jerry Brown (RB). Key
returners include senior OL Andrew Nauth and senior LB
Andrew Gibson.
*Tiffin Calvert (7-5, Region 22 semifinalist): The
Senecas posses a rich history. Calvert owns 11 playoff
berths and is 16-9 with four state semifinal appearances
and two state titles (1980-81). The Senecas are on the
verge of another run. Entering 2013 with back-to-back
postseason appearances, Calvert is looking to extend its
streak to three. The Senecas return nine starters on each
side of the ball. Junior QB/DB Tyler Long (6-2, 195) threw
for 1,144 yards and rushed for 1,098 more last season.
He also made 61 tackles. Other key returners include
46
RB/S Austin Ball (sr., 5'11, 170, 215 yards rushing),
OL/DL Marcus Somers, (sr., 6'2, 215, 3 year starter, 91
tackles, 8 sacks), OL/DL Austin Perry (sr., 6'2, 220, 2 year
starter, 56 tacklers, 8 sacks), OL Cameron Felter (jr., 6'2,
210,) OL/DL Matt Iannantuono (jr., 5'8" 205), K Mike
Smith (40/42 Pats), OL/TE/DL Aaron Englehart (sr., 6'2,
200), OL/DL Marcus King (jr., 6'2, 245), LB Mitch Depinet
(sr., 5'11, 190/101 Tackles, 4 sacks) and WR/DB Dan
Reineke (sr., 6-0, 175/48 tackles, 4 INTs). The schedule
includes non-conference games against McComb and
Norwalk St. Paul. Calvert played both teams twice last
year (regular season and playoffs).
Keep An Eye On
*Arlington (7-4, Region 22 quarterfinalist): The Red
Devils returned to the playoffs after a two-year absence
last season. Key contributors will be senior Jordan Freed
and juniors Bryce Hartman, Logan Greiser and Hunter
Bernhardt (DL).
*Buckeye Central (2-8): A year after finishing D-VI state
runner-up, the Bucks won just two games.
*Ottawa Hills (7-4, Region 22 quarterfinalist): After two
straight playoff appearances the Green Bears will be
pressed to make it three.
*Danbury Lakeside (2-8): The Lakers graduated just
four seniors.
Also In This Region
Columbus Grove (5-5); Arcadia (4-6); Cory-Rawson (2-8);
Vanlue (1-9); Holgate (2-8); Cardinal Stritch (1-9); Toledo
Christian (4-6); Lima Perry (4-6); Morral Ridgedale (0-10);
Antwerp (0-10); Pandora-Gilboa (5-5); Edgerton (2-8);
West Unity Hilltop (4-6); North Baltimore (2-8); Sycamore
Mohawk (3-7); Crestline (0-10)
Team To Beat
*Glouster Trimble (10-2, Region 23 semifinalist): Led
by a suffocating defense, the Tomcats had a remarkable
run last year losing only to West Virginia state champion
Wahama and Ohio D-VI state runner-up Newark
Catholic. Trimble allowed 79 points in 12 games and had
six straight shutouts in weeks 4-9. Back from that unit is
reigning Tri-Valley Conference Hocking Division Defensive Player of the Year Jacob Koons (6-1, 195) . The
senior LB had 161 tackles last year. Offensively, the
Tomcats return the TVC Hocking Offensive Player of the
Year as well in senior QB Konner Standley, a 1,000-yard
rusher and passer who accounted for 32 TDs. Standley
(5-10, 185) was an all-district WR as a sophomore. Senior Jon Stevens (5-11, 240) anchors both lines. Junior
WR Austin Downs (6-0, 180) is a good one. Trimble has
made the playoffs four of the last five years and three
years in a row. Expectations are rightfully high again.
Teams To Watch
* Lancaster Fairfield Christian Academy (8-3, Region
23 quarterfinalist): The Knights are coming off the program’s second playoff appearance ever (and in three
years). Expectations are at an all-time high with the return of the team’s leading rusher, passer and receiver.
Senior RB Ben Tobin (5-11, 205) is back after putting up
staggering numbers (2,942 yards and 31 TDs on 343
carries) as a junior. He had 3,179 all-purpose yards.
Senior QB Collin Young (6-2, 230) also returns after
throwing for 1,243 yards and 18 TDs. Young also ran for
283 yards and five TDs. On defense, Young had three
INTs and a fumble recovery. He also punts and kicks off.
Senior WR Jacob Walker (6-2, 190) led the team with
624 yards receiving and nine TDs on 20 catches last
year. Sophomore Josh Heeter (5-11, 180) made an impact as a freshman with three INTs and 545 all-purpose
yards. Seniors Brian Miller (6-1, 190) and Josh Coleman
(5-10, 225) anchor the OL. Senior Austin Mosely (5-10,
240) anchors the DL. The Knights begin play in the MidState League this season.
*Malvern (10-2, Region 21 semifinalist): The Hornets
return one of the state’s best small school backfields in
senior RB Cobin Plessinger (5-11, 185) and senior QB
Trey Tucci (6-3, 205). Plessinger ran for 1,734 yards and
JJH u d d le .c o m
15 TDs last year, while Tucci threw for 1,010 yards and
14 TDs. Malvern must replace its top three WRs. Defensively the Hornets return Plessinger (63 tackles and eight
TFL), senior LB Anthony Ruegg (5-10, 195/63 tackles),
senior DB Mitchell Haasz (6-3, 180/29 tackles/three INTs)
and junior DL Eddie Zinn-Turner (6-3, 240/43 tackles, 10
TFL, eight sacks).
*Shadyside (Region 21 quarterfinalist): The Tigers will
feature a fearsome defense led by senior OL/DL Cory
Banco (6-2, 295), junior DL Scot Hammond (6-1, 175),
junior DL Eric Howell (6-2, 195) and junior TE/LB Austin
Dorris (6-5, 215). Dorris caught 29 passes for 507 yards
and seven TDs and also made 60 tackles.
*Steubenville Catholic Central (6-5, Region 21 quarterfinalist): The Crusaders snapped a four-year absence
from the playoffs last year. Expect them to compete for a
return trip. Senior QB Brenton Colabella (6-2, 185) returns for his fourth year as a starter. As a junior he threw
for 2,484 yards and 28 TDs. Colabella already owns SCC
records for passing yards in a game (369), passing yards
in a season (2,484), career passing yards (5,513), touchdown passes in a season (28) and career touchdown
passes (53). Defensively, SCC will lean on seniors LB
Aleks Porecca (5-10, 190) and DB Ryan Fletcher (6-1,
195). Fletcher made 49 tackles and had three INTs (returned one for a TD). He also caught 24 passes for 370
yards and three TDs. Porreca made 52 tackles (11 TFL).
Keep An Eye On
*Beallsville (5-5): Senior OL/DL Dalton Sechrest (6-1,
265) is a two-way standout.
* Bridgeport (2-8): The Bulldogs lost just three seniors
from last year’s team. Junior FB/LB Patrick Britton (5-10,
165) is one to watch.
*Columbus Africentric (0-10): The Nubians return senior QB Trevonn Potts (5-10, 175) who threw for 1,665
yards and 19 TDs last year.
*Corning Miller (1-9): Shoring up a defense that allowed
496 points last year is a must for the Falcons. Senior QB
Garrett Smith and senior OL/DL Stephen McGrath return
after being named All-TVC Hocking Division last
year.
*Lancaster Fisher Catholic (3-7): The
Irish, former state runners-up (1998),
are looking for their first winning
season since capping four straight
playoff berths in 2006. Head
coach Tony Hurps (5-15 in
two years) expects improvement. “There’s
some excitement that
hasn't been here of
late with a very strong
young group of kids
and increased numbers,” Hurps said. “We
should be deeper than
we have been in past
years, but we will still be
playing several young players. We have some newcomers who should really shine in
our offense.” A couple of those
are junior RB Ben Kerns (5-11,
185), sophomore TE Jacob
Burley (6-3, 215) and big WR
Derrick Stoughton (6-3).
Adding experience is senior OL
Luke Schmelzer (6-0, 235), junior
K Nick Klitzka (5-11, 175) and senior
TE Josh Evans (6-2, 210). Defensively,
Evans (32 tackles, eight TFL), and Kerns
(61.5 tackles) headline the charge. The
schedule, which includes Newark
Catholic, Symmes Valley, Columbus
Ready and Buckeye Valley, is difficult.
*Racine Southern (4-6): The Tornadoes are a team to watch with the return of three All-TVC Hocking Division
selections in seniors RB/LB Tyler Barton (5-11, 175), DL/OL Casey Pickens
and RB/LB Trenton Deem (5-9, 185).
*Reedsville Eastern (6-4): The Eagles return senior
standout OL Wyatt Westfall (6-1, 235).
*South Gallia (2-8): The Rebels, a playoff team in 2011,
have two of southeast Ohio’s top small school players in
senior RB Ethan Spurlock and senior DE Jacob White.
*Strasburg-Franklin (2-8): The Tigers have a pair of
standout senior DLs in Evan Hensel (5-11, 185) and
Tommy Addy (6-1, 215). Hensel had 59 tackles and 10
sacks last year., while Addy had 56 tackles and five
sacks. Hensel doubles as a pounding RB (468 yards
rushing and two TDs on 68 carries). Senior LB/RB Landry
Hostetler (6-1, 195) also returns after making 56 tackles.
He ran for three TDs.
*Symmes Valley (8-3, Region 23 quarterfinalist): The
Vikings return three senior standouts in DL Jacob Easthom (5-11, 250), LB Tyler Rowe (6-3, 215) and DB D.J.
Miller (5-11, 185).
* Tuscarawas Central Catholic (4-6): The Saints return
junior WR Cade Cummings (6-2, 185) who caught 49
passes for 801 yards and 13 TDs last year. TCC also returns junior WR Michael Teater (5-11, 160/22 receptions,
281 yards, three TDs).
*Zanesville Rosecrans (8-4, Region 23 semifinalist):
The Bishops return two extremely talented juniors in DB
Cameron Roberts (6-2, 165) and QB/RB Adrick Cronin (62, 175/1,116 yards, 15 TDs; five INTs).
Also In This Region
Canal Winchester Harvest Prep (6-4); Millersport (0-10);
Grove City Christian (5-5); New Matamoras Frontier (4-6);
Waterford (2-8); Caldwell (2-8); Bellaire St. John Central
(4-6); Conotton Valley (5-5); Toronto (3-7)
Trimble
Shadyside
Fair. Chr. Acd.
Malvern
Steub. CC
Rosecrans
Southern
Regional Final
Trimble over
Fairfield Chr.
Acad.
Symmes Valley
Dark Horses
S-Franklin
Team To Beat
*Marion Local (13-2, D-VI State Champions): The Flyers have won back-to-back D-VI state titles and now
reside in D-VII. ML lost just six players to graduation. “Although we have the bulk of our team
back, we do have some big shoes to fill,”
head coach Tim Goodwin (154-40 in 14
years) said. “We lost three linebackers
to graduation, with two of them being
first team All-MAC. We have a handful of guys who have been working
their way back from injury and
have not been able to participate
fully in the offseason program,
which is a concern. Like any
small school, we will be a little
thin in terms of depth at a couple of positions.” The bulk that
returns is talented. Senior QB
Adam Bertke (6-6, 200) has
committed to Pitt and is 264 as a starter. He’s accounted for 57 TDs the
last two years and doubles as a standout DB
(first team All-MAC last
year after making 68
tackles and four INTs).
Bertke is joined in the
Jacey Goettemoeller
RB/DB, Marion Local
Photo by Gary Housteau
backfield (both offensive and defensive) by junior RB/DB Jacey
Goettemoeller (5-11, 175). One of
the state’s most versatile players
and a first team All-MAC selection
as a sophomore, Goettemoeller ran
for 1,576 yards and had 402 yards
receiving last year. He scored 31 TDs.
47
Tusky CC
Harvest Prep
10 Players to Watch
1. Jacob Koons, LB, sr., Trimble
Reigning TVC Hocking Defensive POY; 161 tackles
2. Ben Tobin, RB, sr., Fairfield Chr. Acd.
Ran for 2,942 yards and 31 TDs as a junior
3. Cobin Plessinger, RB, sr., Malvern
Ran for 1,754 yards and 15 TDs; Added 63 tackles
4. Konner Standley, QB, sr., Trimble
Reigning TVC Hocking Offensive POY; 32 TDs
5. Brenton Colabella, QB, sr., Steub. CC
Owns career passing yards (5,513) and TD (58) records
6. Trevonn Potts, QB, sr., Africentric
Threw for 1,665 yards and 19 TDs as a junior
7. Adrick Cronin, QB, jr., Rosecrans
Threw for 1,116 yards & 15 TDs as a sophomore
8. Wyatt Westfall, OL/DL, sr., Eastern
Top two-way lineman had 51 tackles as a junior
9. Ryan Fletcher, DB/WR, sr., Steub. CC
49 tackles, three INTs; 24 rec., 370 yards & three TDs
10. Cade Cummings, WR, sr., Tusky CC
Caught 49 passes for 801 yards and 13 TDs last year
Games of the Year
Steubenville CC @ Bellaire, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Nelsonville-York @ Trimble, Aug. 31 (Week 1)
Fairfield Chr. Acd. @ Jefferson, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
BC Western Reserve @ Malvern, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Racine Southern @ Trimble, Oct. 25 (Week 9)
Rosecrans @ Fort Frye, Nov. 1 (Week 10)
Marion Local
Triad
Fort Loramie
On defense, Goettemoeller had five INTs and 51 tackles. The OL will be anchored by seniors Jason
Brunswick (6-1, 240/3-year starter) and Sam Poeppelman (6-3, 290). Junior DB/P Dustin Rethman (6-0,
180/four INTs, 38.2 yard punting average) and sophomore WR/RB/KR Hunter Wilker (6-0, 180/579 yards receiving, eight TDs) are key pieces. The Flyers have six
state titles (all since 2000) and are 48-9 all-time in the
playoffs.
Teams To Watch
Waynesfield
Notre Dame
Paint Valley
Covington
Southeastern
Regional
Final
Marion Local
over Loramie
Dark Horses
Bradford
Spg. Catholic
Jefferson
10 Players to Watch
1. Adam Bertke, QB, sr., Marion Local
26-4 as starter, Pitt commit, 57 TDs last two years
2. Nate Yoakum, LB, sr., Paint Valley
Looking to become three-time All-Ohioan
3.Jacey Goettemoeller, RB, jr., Marion Local
Over 2,000 all-purpose yards, 31 TDs, five INTs as so.
4. A.J. Ouellette, RB, sr., Covington
Ran for 2,434 yards and scored 46 TDs last year
5. Delaunte Thornton, RB, sr., Fort Loramie
Ran for 1,314 yards and 21 TDs as a junior
6. Tre McIntyre, WR/DB, sr., Triad
2,200 all-purpose yards, 27 TDs, nine INTs last year
7. Tmonte Watson, ATH, sr., Jefferson
Scored TDs three different ways as jr. (rush, rec., ret.)
8. James South, LB, sr., Southeastern
HAd 98 tackles and 15 sacks last season
9. Dakota Smith, RB, sr., Notre Dame
First team All-Southern Ohio Confernece last year
10. Hunter Wilker, WR, so., Marion Local
Had 579 yards receiving and eight TDs as a freshman
Games of the Year
Fort Loramie @ Minster, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
Covington @ St. Henry, Aug. 30 (Week 1)
West Jefferson @ Marion Local, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Triad @ Marion Pleasant, Sept. 6 (Week 2)
Ada @ Fort Loramie, Sept. 20 (Week 4)
Coldwater @ Marion Local, Oct. 18 (Week 8)
*Bainbridge Paint Valley (6-3-1): The Bearcats are set
up for success. In addition to dropping from D-V to DVII, PV returns eight starters on each side of the ball
and 21 letterwinners from a team that finished 10th in
Region 20. “We are very excited for the 2013 season,”
head coach Pete Hollon (102-74-1 in 17 years at PV)
said. “We have always been one of the smaller D5
schools.” PV returns a ton of talent, including seniors
Mark Clifford (FB/DL, 6-1, 215), LB Nate Yoakum (LB,
5'9, 180) and Dakota Morgan (OL/LB, 6'1, 205); juniors
Clay Archer (OL, 6'1, 225), Gavin Carter (OL/DL, 6'3,
235) and Mason McCloy (WR/DE, 6'4, 220); and sophomores Teagan McFadden (RB/DB, 5'10, 185), Anthony
McFadden (QB, 5'9, 160) and Caleb Johnson (TE/DE,
6'1, 190). Clifford is a two-time Scioto Valley Conference
Punter of the Year and Yoakum is vying to become a
three-time All-Ohioan. “We return our top three tacklers
and over 90-percent of our offensive output,” Hollon
said. “We have decent size and better than average
speed with the McFadden boys, Clifford and Tony Hatfield (a sophomore RB who qualified for the regional
track meet in the 100 meters). Many of our seniors have
started for three years and we return a very good sophomore class that had five kids start as freshmen. Hopefully our juniors will step up and fill a few voids left by
graduation, but overall, even though we are still fairly
young, we are an experienced team.” The schedule is
improved. The Bearcats added Lockland and Columbus
Africentric to the non-league slate. Paint Valley owns
seven playoff berths but is looking for its first trip since
2003.
*Covington (12-1, Region 20 finalist): The Buccs had
a season to remember in 2012. Covington won its 27th
league title and earned its 17th playoff berth. The Buccs
only loss was to Coldwater in the regional final. Among
the team records set in 2012 were points scored (656),
total yards (5,858) and rushing yards (5,560). The great
news? Last year’s catalyst is back. Senior RB A.J. Ouellette (5-10, 190) returns after posting school single-season records for points (317), TDs (46) and rushing yards
(2,434). In 14 games, Covington’s defense allowed just
122 points. The unit remains strong. Senior NG/RB
Bobby Alexander (6-0, 190) is a three-year starter, while
classmates DL/OL Dalton Bordelon (6-0, 185) and
LB/RB Justin Williams (5-8, 200) are two-year starters.
Senior Jordan Wolfe (6-0, 265) and junior Logan Perkins
(5-11, 190) bolster the OL. “We lost a very talented
group of seniors from the 2012 team, which made it to
the regional finals,” Head coach Dave Miller said (61-11
in five years at Covington). “Of that group there were
several 3 and 4 year starters. Replacing them will be
tough. As always, it will primarily be up to the incoming
seniors to fill the void, and most importantly provide the
leadership necessary for us to max out on our potential
as a team, which is always our number one goal.” Covington bolstered its schedule with the addition of St.
Henry in Week 1. The game is on the road and is the
first of a four-year contract “Obviously, this will be a
major test for our football team based on the traditions
at St. Henry and the MAC,” Miller said. “Conferencewise Miami East, Tri County North and Bradford all qualified for the 2012 playoffs and have the potential to be
very good again this season.”
*Fort Loramie (8-3, Region 24 quarterfinalist): The
Redskins have made the playoffs four years in a row.
The next step? A regional title. This could be the year. It
won’t be easy in a section of the state dominated by the
MAC, but Loramie has its own horses. Head coach Matt
Burgbacher (36-11 in four years) welcomes back a veteran club that return s eight starters on each side of the
ball. “We are cautiously optimistic for the upcoming sea-
48
son,” Burgbacher said. “One area we need to focus on
is continuing to improve and fight complacency. Our program has taken great strides in the last four years, and
this year should no different.” Offensively, the Redskins
will ride senior RB Delaunte Thornton (5-8, 193) who is
attempting to become the program’s first Division I recruit ever. Last year, Thronton ran for 1,314 yards and
21 TDs. Also back is senior WR Craig Fullenkamp (5-10,
140) who caught 25 passes for 516 yards and six TDs
last year. Senior Tyler Kazmaier (6-2, 185) steps in at
QB. The OL will be anchored by seniors Andy Meyer (511, 190) and Zach Brandewie (6-1, 205) and juniors
Luke Gigandet (5-8, 165), David Ahrns (5-11, 275) and
Tristan Stripling (5-10, 190). On defense, senior DL Garrett Eilerman (5-11, 184), the reigning Northwest Central
Conference Defensive Player of the Year, returns after
registering 76 tackles, 11 TFL and 5.5 sacks last season. Other key contributors are senior DE Logan McGee
(6-0, 185/49 tackles, 5.5 sacks), Brandewie (100 tackles), Fullenkamp (three INTs), Kazmaier (66 tackles) and
Ahrns (50 tackles, five TFL). Other key contributors will
be senior RB/LB Troy Benanzer and junior QB/DB Andy
Grewe (5-9, 150). Stripling doubles as an effective
kicker (48 PATs last year). Loramie’s schedule includes
MAC foes Minster and New Bremen in weeks 1 and 2
and then new non-league games against Defiance
Tinora and Ada in weeks 3 and 4. “This is the best
schedule we have had in our short history of football at
Fort Loramie,” Burgbacher said. “After our first 4 games,
we will know what kind of football team we have. It's imperative we get off to a great start. We play in one of the
toughest regions in the state with the likes of Marion
Local, Ada, Minster,and St. Henry. We know what it
takes to advance in the playoffs.”
*North Lewisburg Triad (8-3, Region 20 quarterfinalist): The Cardinals are thinking mountain top – as in
state title. Head coach Payton Printz (13th year) is high
on a club that returns 18 of 22 starters on offense and
defense. “We graduated seven seniors and four of them
started for us in 2012,” Printz said. “We have players
waiting in the wings to fill their void. I believe we will be
a league contender, playoff contender and Division VII
contender.” Triad’s go-to guy is one of Ohio’s most versatile. Senior DB/WR Tre McIntyre (6-1, 195) had 2,200
all-purpose yards and 27 TDs last year. He also had 95
tackles, nine INTs, four fumble recoveries, three forced
fumbles and 13 pass breakups. Also back are senior receiver threats Doug Lowe (6-2, 180) and Steven Feasel
(6-2). Lowe had 300 yards receiving and five TDs last
year, while Feasel had 34 receptions and seven TDs.
Full-time QB duties transition to sophomore Trent McIntyre (6-0, 185) who threw for 1,200 yards and 12 TDs in
four starts last year. He also ran for four TDs. Junior OL
Colton Coil (6-1, 310) anchors both lines. Junior LB/FB
Chaz Adams (6-0, 185) leads the defense. He had 87
tackles last year. Triad’s first three games (all nonleague) are on the road at Indian Lake, Marion Pleasant
and Fairbanks. The Cards only have four home games.
Could be five with Week 11. Joked Printz: “If our players can overcome our coaching...they may just win a
State Title.”
Keep An Eye On
*Bradford (8-3, Region 24 quarterfinalist): The Railroaders reached the playoffs for the first time in 30 years
(1982) last season. Head coach Curtis Enis has the
turned the program around. Now can they maintain momentum? Of note…Bradford has had a 2,000-yard
rusher in two of the last three seasons.
*Cedarville (1-8-1): The Indians will lean on senior LB
Justin Liming (5-11, 190).
*Dayton Jefferson Township (5-4): The Broncos have
never been to the playoffs, but could make a push this
season. Senior ATH/DB Tmonte Watson (5-10, 165) is
abig reason why. Watson returns after rushing for three
TDs, catching two TDs and returning a kick for another.
Other key returners are senior FB/LB Almatino Dargan II
(5-7, 185/65 tackles, seven TFL), senior WR/DB Trent
Works (6-0, 145/27 tackles) and junior DL Lamont
Ragland (6-2, 245).
*Waynesfield-Goshen (4-7, Region 24 quarterfinalist): That’s no misprint, the Tigers made the playoffs last
JJH u d d le .c o m
year with four wins. In 2011 they had seven wins, won the
NWCC title and finished ninth in computer points.
*Springfield Catholic Central (2-8): Head coach Steve
DeWitt enters his 35th season with the Irish (222-147-1).
SCC has been in the playoffs eight of the last 10 years.
*South Charleston Southeastern (5-5): The Trojans
have one of the state’s top small school defenders in senior LB James South (6-2, 175) who had 98 tackles and 15
sacks last season. Other key senior contributors will be
LB Bryant Banion (6'0, 185/seven sacks), RB Thorne
Stoops (6'0, 175), OL Nick Hess (6'1, 255) and OL Josh
Clark (6'0, 250). The wildcard? Junior QB/DB Ben Miller
(6'2, 175). Head coach Greg Bonifay is 24-28 in five
years.
*Portsmouth Notre Dame (7-3): The Titans are ready to
challenge for the program’s second playoff berth since
2000. Key contributors will be senior RB Dakota Smith (60, 160), senior DL Daniel Ogg (6-4, 225), senior LB Jack
Kayser (6-0, 175) and senior DB Will Haney (6-2, 170).
*Dola Hardin Northern (0-10): The Polar Bears, who
won the D-VI state title in 2004 and own 12 playoff berths
as a program, decided to not play varsity football this season. As of early July only 12 players were committed to
the program. The school said it would try to play a junior
varsity schedule.
Also In This Region
DeGraff Riverside (0-9), Manchester (1-8), Ansonia (1-9),
Lockland (2-8), Cincinnati Gamble Montessori (5-4),
Cincinnati College Prep Academy (4-4), Upper Scioto Valley (1-9), Cincinnati Christian (2-8), Fort Recovery (3-7),
Franklin Furnace Green (3-7), Ridgeway Ridgemont (5-5),
Portsmouth Sciotoville (4-6), Lehman Catholic (4-5) — EF
QB: Zach Kuhlman, 6-3, 190, sr., Leipsic; Konner
Standley, 5-10, 185, sr., Trimble; Brenton Colabella,
6-2, 190, sr., Steubenville Catholic Central; Collin
Young, 6-2, 230, sr., Fairfield Christian; Tyler Long,
6-2, 195, jr., Tiffin Calvert
RB: Jordan Chamberlin, sr. Leipsic; Kaleb Johns, sr.,
Hicksville; Marcus Kerr, sr., Fremont St. Joseph;
Dakota Smith, 6-0, 160, sr., Portsmouth Notre Dame;
Rick Heck, sr., Monroeville; Carl Zallow, 5-8, 155, sr.,
Warren JFK
WR: Connor Black, 5-10, 170, jr., Ashland Mapleton;
Jacob Walker, 6-2, 190, sr., Lancaster Fairfield
Christian; Craig Fullenkamp, 5-10, 140, sr., Fort Loramie; Austin Downs, 6-0, 180, sr., Glouster Trimble
TE: Marshall Magers, 6-1, 175, sr., Danville
OL: Dalton Sechrest, 6-1, 265, sr., Beallsville; Sam
Poeppelman, 6-3, 290, sr., Marion Local; Hunter
Harrison, 6-3, 240, sr., Fremont St. Joseph; Brian
Miller, 6-0, 190, sr., Lancaster Fairfield Christian
Academy; David Arhns, 5-11, 175, sr., Fort Loramie
K: Dario Paolina, 5-9, 160, sr., Bellaire St. John's
DL: Andy Payne, 6-4, 260, sr., Danville; Zach Bran-
dewie, 6-1, 205, sr., Fort Loramie; Bobby Alexander,
6-0, 190, sr., Covington; Tom Addy, 6-1, 215, sr.,
Strasburg-Franklin; Michael Pruni, 6-2, 290, sr., New
Philadelphia Tuscarawas Central; Evan Hensel,
Strasburg-Franklin, 5-11, 185, sr.; Jacob Easthom, 511, 250, sr., Symmes Valley; Ryan Reikowski, 6-2,
235, sr., Norwalk St. Paul; Seth Farley, sr., Monroeville; Antonio Capasso, 5-11, 215, sr., Garfield
Heights Trinity; Lamont Ragland, 6-2, 245, Dayton
Jefferson Twp.
LB: James South, 6-2, 175, sr., South Charleston
Southeastern; Aleks Porecca, 5-10, 190, sr.,
Steubenville Catholic Central; Tyler Rowe, 6-3, 215,
sr., Symmes Valley; Jack Kayser, 6-0, 175, sr.,
Portsmouth Notre Dame
DB: Ryan Fletcher, 6-1, 195, sr., Steubenville
Catholic Central; Carson Haney, 5-10, 170, sr., New
Philadelphia Tuscarawas Central; Aaron Abernathy,
5-8, 160, jr., Cincinnati Gamble Montessori; Gideon
Woodson-Levy, 5-9, 175, sr., Harvest Prep
P: Dustin Rethman, 6-0, 180, jr., Marion Local; Mark
Clifford, 6-1, 215, jr., Bainbridge Paint Valley
Tre McIntyre
WR/DB, Triad
A.J. Ouellette
RB, Covington
Submitted Photo
Photo by colorgreen
Delaunte Thornton
RB, Fort Loramie
Submitted Photo
49
JJHuddle 2013 Football Preview: Positional Rankings
T
his is by no means an end-all list when it
comes to Ohio’s top high school football
players, but its our top prospect list. And we
consider it strong. We also consider it a roll call of
names you’ll likely hear this season - and in the future on Saturdays (at whatever level). These kids
have special talent, big potential or both. They may
already be stars or on the verge of a break-out. One
thing is for certain, keep your eyes - and ears - open
for them. You’re also bound to see several of them
when we release the JJHuddle Top 200 online starting August 1. Enjoy...
Quarterbacks
Top 10
1. DeShone Kizer TOLEDO CENTRAL
CATHOLIC (Notre Dame)
2. Christopher Durkin URSULINE (Michigan State)
3. Chayce Crouch NEWARK CATHOLIC
(Illinois)
4. Adam Bertke MARION LOCAL (Pitt)
5. Cody Callaway MIDVIEW (Bowling
Green)
6. Joey Duckworth LOUISVILLE (Ohio)
7. Antonio Woods SUMMIT COUNTRY
DAY
8. Ramroth Finnegan WHETSTONE
9. Hunter Wells FAIRLESS
10.Grant Russell NEWARK
The Next 10
Will Marty WYOMING
Jalen Reese MANSFIELD
Nick Tensing ST XAVIER
Kevin Rogers ANDERSON
Anton Vrebac EASTLAKE
Jared Drake WESTERVILLE CENTRAL
Quan Robinson GLENVILLE
Jensen Harris WILLIAM MASON
Eric Eichler LAKOTA EAST
Mathew Barr TROY
50
By JJHuddle/ScoutingOhio Staff
10 More
Tavion Pauldo CLEVELAND HEIGHTS
Caleb Beans NEW PHILADELPHIA
Alex Ward KINGS
Brennan Wassil HUBBARD
Jeremy Holley ELYRIA CATHOLIC
Isaac Maurer GRANVILLE
Matt Thompson INDIAN HILL
Jared Brandewie BISHOP HARTLEY
Peter Mahoney ST IGNATIUS BOYS
Matt Yoho BISHOP READY
Running Backs
Top 10
1. Parris Campbell, Jr ST VINCENT-ST
MARY (Ohio State)
2. Vayante Copeland THURGOOD MARSHALL (Michigan State)
3. Mikel Horton LAKOTA WEST (Kentucky)
4. LJ Scott MARION HARDING (Louisville)
5. Ashton Jackson TROTWOOD-MADISON
6. CJ Hilliard ST XAVIER (Iowa)
7. Bobby Brown LAKOTA EAST
8. Miles Hibbler TROY (Kent State)
9. Jarred Brumfield STEBBINS (Ohio)
10. Gregory Claytor Jr. SHAKER HTS
The Next 10
Darius McDonald DUBLIN SCIOTO
Akili Taylor BISHOP READY
Jaylon Brown ST CLAIRSVILLE
Darien Miller WESTERVILLE-SOUTH
Devine Redding GLENVILLE
Jordan Nobles NORDONIA
Martice Jackson WADSWORTH
Elijah Todd HOLLAND SPRINGFIELD
Dametrius Clark HILLIARD DAVIDSON
Delaunte Thornton FORT LORAMIE
10 More
Greg Simpson SYCAMORE
(Top to Bottom): Bobby Brown, RB,
Lakota East; Joey Duckworth, QB,
Louisville; CJ Hilliard, RB, St.
Xavier; Devin Pike, TE, Elder
Photos by ScoutingOhio
JJH u d d le .c o m
Quinten Bailey HAMILTON
Tawain Gordon Jr. PICK. CENTRAL
Rameses Owens SHAKER HTS
Jacob Hall TIPPECANOE (Brown)
Anthony Shumpert SHAW
Matt Blasiole UNIONTOWN LAKE
Jarrod Smith MCKINLEY
Martine Perez EASTMOOR
Jamal Johnson NEW PHILADELPHIA
Tight Ends
Top 10
1. Ethan Wolf MINSTER (Tennessee)
2. Darryl Long WESTERVILLE-SOUTH
(Kentucky)
3. Devin Pike ELDER (Illinois)
4. Andrew Gray CHARDON (Maryland)
5. Beau Huffman WASHINGTON
6. Chance Sorrell MIDDLETOWN (Vanderbilt)
7. Nate Patterson PERRYSBURG (Miami,
Ohio)
8. Connor Brown MIAMISBURG (Ohio)
9. Kyle Kuhar AVON LAKE (Ohio)
10. Jordan Rigg SPRINGBORO
The Next 10
Taylor Lee ELDER
Jacob Oblak STRONGSVILLE
Deon Colvin JOHN HAY
Alec Greene BISHOP WATTERSON
Brandon Burkholder MADISON
Will Davis HOLY NAME
John Luke Arrington SPRINGBORO
AJ Wright GILMOUR ACADEMY
Ibrahima Camara REYNOLDSBURG
Sean Hennessey ST CHARLES
10 More
Nick Meola LAKESIDE
Paul Yeager AVON
Alex Backenstoe HILLIARD DAVIDSON
Spencer Chapman NEWARK CATHOLIC
TJ Blackmore WAYNE TRACE
Andy Rieman MT GILEAD
Nicholas Mangiaracina MOELLER
Mike Profitt BUTLER
Nathan Hawkins ST THOMAS AQUINAS
Cody Fravel HILLIARD DAVIDSON
Wide Recievers
Top 10
1. Derek Kief LA SALLE (Alabama)
2. Thaddeus Snodgrass SPRINGFIELD
(Kentucky)
3. Brandon Fritts MENTOR (North Carolina)
4. Odell Spencer SHAKER HTS (Bowling
Green)
5. Conner Krizancic MENTOR (Cincinnati)
6. Marcus Whitfield WASHINGTON
7. Cody Thompson HURON (Toledo)
8. Tre Hudson COLERAIN
9. Kendric Mallory TROTWOOD-MADISON
10. Torrodd Carter WESTERVILLE-SOUTH
The Next 10
Ryan Frey ST XAVIER
Luke Grandjean HOOVER
Michael Siragusa ST IGNATIUS BOYS
Izaiah Fuller LA SALLE
Isaiah Gentry MOELLER
Derich Weiland TOLEDO CENTRAL
CATHOLIC
Chris Boykin WHITMER
Nolan Jackson-Daniel SHAKER HTS
Charles Holland WEST
Timmy Tupa BRECKSVILLE BROADVIEW
HEIGHTS
10 More
Eldin Anu WESTERVILLE CENTRAL
Andrew Meyer PICK. CENTRAL (Ohio)
Cliff Garner MAPLE HEIGHTS
Darnell Tate HUBBARD
Blake Dennis RITTMAN
Allen Jones MARION HARDING
Mykale Rogers LIMA CENTRAL CATHOLIC
JT Mcfarland ZANESVILLE
Alfonso Onunwor BRUSH
Tristan Davis WAYNE
Offensive Line
Top 10
1. Kyle Trout LANCASTER (Ohio State)
(Top to Bottom): Ethan Wolf, TE,
Minster; Brandon Fritts, WR, Mentor; Marcelys Jones, OL, Glenville;
Odell Spencer, WR, Shaker Heights
51
2. Marcelys Jones GLENVILLE (Ohio
State)
3. Jimmy Byrne ST IGNATIUS (Notre
Dame)
4. Nick Richardson WESTERVILLE CENTRAL
5. Jarrett LaRubbio LAKOTA EAST (Kentucky)
6. Daniel Burns FAIRFIELD (Louisville)
7. Jamerez Bowen SHAKER HTS
8. Jon Bezney MARIEMONT
9. Alex Dalton TROY (Oklahoma)
10. Patrick Osterhage CENTERVILLE
The Next 10
Michael Deiter GENOA AREA (Wisconsin)
Nathaniel Devers WASHINGTON (Cincinnati)
Luke Callahan OLENTANGY LIBERTY
(Cincinnati)
Joshua Krok NILES MCKINLEY (West Virginia)
Zach Harmon TOLEDO CENTRAL
CATHOLIC (Duke)
Martesse Patterson MARION-FRANKLIN
Jared McCray MINFORD (Louisville)
Wesley Martin MILTON-UNION (Indiana)
Joe Lowery TALLMADGE
Jared Weyler CENTERVILLE (Bowling
Green)
30 More
Kyle Ritz SOUTH (Kent State)
Nathan Puthoff ST CHARLES (Kent State)
DeAngelo Ware CLEVELAND HEIGHTS
Alex Pfeiffer ANDERSON (Toledo)
Jake Pruehs ST EDWARD (Ohio)
Brandon Bailey STRONGSVILLE
chase lash WASHINGTON
Ryan Bee HILLSDALE (Marshall)
Alex Conley WALSH JESUIT
Isiah Moore COLUMBIAN
Dakota Tallman ELYRIA CATHOLIC
Collin Prouty TRI-VALLEY (Kent State)
Walter Rauterkus AVON
Robert Behanan FAIRFIELD (Middle Tennesse State)
52
Stephen Langenkamp MOELLER
Jake Grant REYNOLDSBURG
Andy Simms OLENTANGY
Collin Wittig DELAWARE HAYES
Brennan Dudziak PICK. CENTRAL
Jeff Duncan KETTERING FAIRMONT
John Conner WALSH JESUIT
Mason Butler MINERVA
Jeff Rotheram NORTH OLMSTED
Eric Lorenzen OLENTANGY LIBERTY
Josh McDade CRESTVIEW
Antonio Weatherspoon MAPLE HEIGHTS
Gavin Peacock ROSS
Ty Green ASHLAND
John Lewis TROTWOOD-MADISON
Ben Gaal ST EDWARD
Defensive Ends
Top 10
1. Joe Henderson SHAKER HTS (Tennessee)
2. Noah Furbush KENTON (Michigan)
3. Terry Ramsey NORTHMONT
4. Robert Bowers WALNUT RIDGE
5. Brady Taylor BISHOP READY
6. Shane Roy READING (Pitt)
7. Tymere Dubose YOUNGSTOWN
CHRISTIAN (Kentucky)
8. Nick Carovillano ST XAVIER (Indiana)
9. Ben Oxley AVON LAKE (Northwestern)
10. Kent Berger MENTOR (Ohio)
The Next 10
Heath Reineke ASHLAND (Toledo)
Stefano Millin PERRY (Kent State)
Curtis Mitchell WESTERVILLE-SOUTH
Adrian Rankin WINTON WOODS
Josh Humbert HILLIARD DARBY
Delvon Maddox MENTOR
Ty Howard WARREN G HARDING
Brandon Reynolds SOLON
Clayton Bullard JOHNSTOWN MONROE
Travonte Junius ST VINCENT-ST MARY
26 More
Joseph Kraemer ARCHBISHOP ALTER
(Top to Bottom): Kyle Trout, OL,
Lancaster; Jimmy Byrne, OL, St. Ignatius; Danny Burns, OL, Fairfield;
Nathaniel Devers, OL, Massillon
JJH u d d le .c o m
Chase Green PERKINS
Drew Shreve UNIONTOWN LAKE
Shahaun Williams URSULINE
Devin Nye SPRINGFIELD
Adonis Davis BEECHCROFT
Jacob Betschel JACKSON
Coleman Murray NEW LEXINGTON
Clayton Seymour TEAYS VALLEY
Cameron Dial TWINSBURG
Micheal Buzzard COLUMBIANA
Jeremy Farmer PIKETON
Dustin Applegate ELDER
Richard Spernoga THOMAS WORTHINGTON
Joey Fodor CHARDON
Seth Overla TROY
Kyle Van Dyne TECUMSEH
Derrick Irons Jr LIMA
Charlie Watters COLUMBUS ACADEMY
Jacob Niggemeyer OLENTANGY LIBERTY
Mitchell Farmer TURPIN
Andrew Payne DANVILLE
Jacob Dempsey ELYRIA CATHOLIC
Cameron Oshodi GROVEPORT MADISON
DJ Freer WORTHINGTON KILBOURNE
Collin Giesey ALEXANDER
Defensive Tackles/Nose
Top 10
1. Daniel Cage WINTON WOODS
2. Tito Odenigbo CENTERVILLE (Illinois)
3. Ryan Stout SYLVANIA SOUTHVIEW
4. Colt Pettit PATRICK HENRY (Virginia
Tech)
5. Anthony Clark BUCHTEL
6. Michael Barwick Jr. THE SUMMIT
COUNTRY DAY (Indiana)
7. Chance Weitz ELIDA (Bowling Green)
8. Ryan Reese TROTWOOD-MADISON
9. Chalmer Frueauf MOELLER
10. Jonathan Morgan-Cunningham BEDFORD (Kent State)
The Next 10
Tyler King ST EDWARD (Bowling Green)
Kalil Morris BISHOP HARTLEY
Logan Dziak BUCKEYE VALLEY
Skylar Hartley HILLIARD BRADLEY
Cayden Richter SYCAMORE
Noah Spielman UPPER ARLINGTON
Brennan Williams FIRESTONE
Geno Rollo PICKERINGTON NORTH
Darius Walker MARYSVILLE
Justin Wazbinski AURORA
15 More
Jean Nsanzimana KETTERING FAIRMONT
Tony Stephens FAIRFIELD
Zach Temple LEXINGTON
Dante Bland NORTHMONT
Dale Rodick JOHN HAY
John Bogue BISHOP WATTERSON
Kenny Coleman NORTHMONT
Austin Gutting FINDLAY
Tyler Campbell XENIA
Marshal Davis OLENTANGY LIBERTY
Wesley Hegemann MINSTER
Brent Benner NEWARK
Nick Demaline LIBERTY CENTER
Jailen Jennings CARDINAL MOONEY
Taylor Bruner TROY
Linebackers
Top 10
1. Dante Booker Jr. ST VINCENT-ST
MARY (Ohio State)
2. Kyle Berger ST IGNATIUS (Ohio State)
3. Michael Ferns ST CLAIRSVILLE (Michigan)
4. Sam Hubbard MOELLER (Ohio State)
5. Chris Frey Jr UPPER ARLINGTON
(Michigan State)
6. Tegray Scales COLERAIN
7. Micky Crum HAMILTON TOWNSHIP
(Louisville)
8. DORIAN HENDRIX WAYNE (Kentucky)
9. Airius Moore BEAVERCREEK
10. Verondtae Wilkinson TROTWOODMADISON
The Next 10
Dorian Baker CLEVELAND HEIGHTS
(Top to Bottom): Joe Henderson, DE,
Shaker Heights; Kent Berger, DL, Mentor; Noah Spielman, DL, Upper Arlington, Micky Crum, DE, Hamilton Twp.
53
Davonte James SPRINGFIELD
Paul Moses TOLEDO CENTRAL
CATHOLIC
Dameon Willis Jr. ST IGNATIUS BOYS
Tinashe Bere SYCAMORE (Duke)
Matthew Sommers ROOSEVELT (Kent
State)
Jamal Davis II MCKINLEY
Clay Caruso STRONGSVILLE
Isaac Little BLUFFTON (Miami, Ohio)
Bryan DiCillo WALSH JESUIT
22 More
Griffith Saunders ST FRANCIS DE SALES
(Bowling Green)
Collin Lucas AVON LAKE
Andy Struttmann WESTERVILLE-NORTH
Reggie Howard WITHROW (Kent State)
Matt Stewart WILLIAM MASON (Navy)
Mike Berry BEAVERCREEK
George Bollas AURORA (Kent State)
Newman Williams ST VINCENT-ST MARY
Bayle Wolf CLINTON-MASSIE
Mark Delas PERRYSBURG
Chris Schroer ELDER
Khari Anderson HAWKEN
Ryan Drew GREENVILLE
Jacob Lewis OLENTANGY ORANGE
Dylan Weigel PICKERINGTON NORTH
Jeremiah Shaw WESTERVILLE CENTRAL
Adam Sandor WESTLAKE
Anthony Dermotta CARDINAL MOONEY
Ross Thompson DELPHOS JEFFERSON
Jalen Nelson SHAWNEE
Isaiah Dexter LANCASTER
Tyler Reasoner BEAVERCREEK
Cornerbacks
Top 10
1. Marshon Lattimore GLENVILLE
2. Mike Edwards WINTON WOODS (Kentucky)
3. Alonzo Saxton II BISHOP HARTLEY
(Duke)
4. Antione Stone BEDFORD (Western
Michigan)
54
5. Phillipie Motley DAVIDSON (Pitt)
6. Erik Simpson GLENVILLE
7. Trevahn Beery NORWAYNE (Western
Michigan)
8. Chekiah Washington MANSFIELD
9. Josh Blanton NORTHMONT
10. Jordan Whitfield WAYNE
The Next 10
Stephen Mosley BUCHTEL
Jalen Fox WYOMING (Ohio)
Jerrell Foster WINTON WOODS
Lawrence Inman FAIRBORN
Marques Moore SPRINGFIELD
Aaron Bushner ST VINCENT-ST MARY
Tyson Proctor HOLLAND SPRINGFIELD
Dale Irby PERKINS
Deonte Morgan WARREN G HARDING
Antonio Orr AVON
10 More
Tejuan James TOLEDO CENTRAL
CATHOLIC
Derrick Thomas ST EDWARD
Khari Golden CANAL WINCHESTER
Tyrell Howard NEW ALBANY
Cameron Gunnels WILLIAM MASON
Jamal Gladden ZANESVILLE
Willie Whittaker VALLEY FORGE
Sayyid Kanu COLUMBUS DE SALES
Jamar Hunter SYCAMORE
Jalen Wells THOMAS WORTHINGTON
Safety
Top 10
1. Erick Smith GLENVILLE
2. Darius West LIMA CENTRAL CATHOLIC
(Kentucky)
3. JJ ( JERNARD) Pinckney SYLVANIA
SOUTHVIEW
4. Nilijah Ballew WALNUT HILLS
(Louisville)
5. Kaleb Harris NORWAYNE (Cincinnati)
6. Nathan Hall SYLVANIA SOUTHVIEW
(Northwestern)
7. Ben Hale Jr. ST CHARLES PREPARA-
(Top to Bottom): Bryan Dicillo, LB,
Walsh Jesuit; Tegray Scales, LB,
Colerain; Dante Booker, LB, Akron
SVSM; Sam Hubbard, LB, Moeller
JJH u d d le .c o m
TORY (Bowling Green)
8. Jack Walz III ST EDWARD (Bowling
Green)
9. Marcus Elliott WHITMER (Kent State)
10. Demetrius Suesberry WINTON
WOODS
The Next 10
Cam Bouldin LA SALLE
Mark Handel CARDINAL MOONEY
Charles Coleman BUCHTEL
Ryan Williamson COLERAIN
Marlon Nunn SPRINGFIELD
Cody Calhoun BISHOP WATTERSON
Kory Pearson CLEVELAND HEIGHTS
Isaiah Williams NORTHMONT
Frank Catrine BISHOP FENWICK
Kieran Winn TROTWOOD-MADISON
Ten More
Robert Young MIAMISBURG
Ali Grose BUCHTEL
Devon Rogers HILLIARD DARBY
TK Fortson HOWLAND
Robert Hayden STEUBENVILLE
Timmy Bates WESTERVILLE-SOUTH
Tre McIntyre TRIAD
CJ Yonek PADUA FRANCISCAN
Nathan Bischof ST VINCENT-ST MARY
Lee Stewart LIMA CENTRAL CATHOLIC
Athletes
Top 10
1. Dareian Watkins GALION (Northwestern)
2. Tyrell Gilbert PRINCETON (Cincinnati)
3. Tyler Jones LAKOTA WEST
4. Nick Johnson TIMKEN
5. Aaron Ivory GLENVILLE
6. Chris Davis BUCHTEL
7. Sam Bruno ANTHONY WAYNE
8. Marcus Bagley CLEVELAND HEIGHTS
9. Matt Merimee BENEDICTINE
10. Devonte Fellows WOODRIDGE
The Next 10
Dangelo Martin THURGOOD MARSHALL
Darius Sanders BOARDMAN
Stephen Shorts BRUSH
Darien Townsend YOUNGSTOWN CHRISTIAN
Tyree Elliott MT HEALTHY
Malik Bland WITHROW
Bryant Holloway JR. PRINCETON
Jordan Aekins REYNOLDSBURG
Jhustus Cornley NORTHLAND
Malik Duncan CLEVELAND CENTRAL
CATHOLIC
Ten More
Austin Osborne HOWLAND
Asim Pleas LIBERTY
KeShawn Stafford STEBBINS
Chris Rhoades KETTERING FAIRMONT
Zephaniah Miller PICKERINGTON NORTH
Kalvin Gordon Jr MADISON COMPREHENSIVE
Tyler Boatwright MANSFIELD
Lamar Carmichael WARREN G HARDING
Landon Yeartie MARION-FRANKLIN
Donteal Stone FIRESTONE
Kickers/Punters
18 To Watch
Matt Colella ST IGNATIUS BOYS
Jake Hartbarger ANTHONY WAYNE
Ryan Gallenstein MADEIRA
Keon Hemerlein SOLON
Charlie Stack ST FRANCIS DE SALES
(COLUMBUS)
Logan Allison GALLIA ACADEMY
Nate Green HILLIARD DARBY
Karch Holland PICKERINGTON NORTH
Jake Costin JACKSON
Sam Bell NEWARK CATHOLIC
Dean Granot BEACHWOOD
Eric Bofenkamp WARREN JFK
Justin Martin LAKOTA WEST
Jordan Watkins REYNOLDSBURG
Jacob Roberts CARDINAL STRITCH
Caleb McGath CRESTVIEW
Austin Harlow LICKING VALLEY
Pierce Royster HUDSON
(Top to Bottom): Marshon Lattimore,
DB, Glenville; Marcus Elliott, DB, Whitmer; Nathan Hall, DB, Syl. Southview;
Antoine Stone, DB, Bedford
55

Games of the Year

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