That fact is not true. The true fact, unfortunately, is that no one is above the Lord and no one is created as invincible. In fact, many of us including myself, take every day we are given for granted. We wake up every morning, go about our day and then go to sleep again at night. And we begin that process again the next day, not realizing that every single second of the day, something can happen to us or someone we love, the people that we care the most about. But that’s the way life is — great, but also so cruel sometimes.

Unfortunately, the cruel, fragile reality of that false invincibility we discussed earlier came so true at Detroit Catholic Central High School, where a young sophomore, David Widzinski, aged 16 — standout linebacker; but more importantly, the son, brother and friend with the bright eyes, handy smile and unparalleled enthusiasm for life, went to be with his Lord and Savior in everlasting rest.

The young man, who had a team high 15 tackles just two weeks earlier in the Division 1 State Championship game, who was just starting to come onto recruiting radars and a loving family that I could only imagine he loved so much. He had it all — the perfect life. But in just an instant while sleeping, that young man — with so much of his life in front of him, went home. He didn’t get a chance to say goodbye. His death came without reason.

You may think I’m going overboard with this story — documenting a life of a person I really didn’t know outside of watching one playoff football game. But the truth, the ultimate reality of all this is to show that despite what state you live in, who you are as a person or what the front of the jersey you wear says, you are a member of a large family — the football community. That is why this story tugs at the seams for me — and hits all too close to home.

When I first heard David’s story, it took me back to the moments surrounding March 3, 2011. If you are a local person reading this, you know the story that I will speak of. If you are a new reader or not from our local area, let me tell you the story.

March 3, 2011 is a moment that defines our athletic conference, local communities and the city of Fennville by one simple name — Wes Leonard. Wes was, like David, a 16-year old high school junior with enormous athletic ability. Wes was the football quarterback who could make a team grind with his speed and arm strength. He was the basketball player who could score a ton of points (over 1,000 in his career), but whom more importantly, was an unselfish, big-hearted person. Wes was all about the team winning more than his personal accolades. He was the epitome of the athlete you’d want to model your daughter or son after — as Dirk Weeldreyer put it “the quintessential All-American kid”.

On March 3, 2011, Fennville took the basketball court, looking to complete an undefeated regular season, which would be the first in school history. Fennville trailed by 11 points at halftime. By all accounts, Wes Leonard put the team on his back in the second half that Thursday night. He brought the Blackhawks back to tie the game and send it to overtime. The story is priceless from there: Wes gets the ball with 20 seconds left, drives to the hoop, lays the ball in. Fennville completes the 20-0 season with a two point win in overtime over Bridgman.

Then, when the team was at its highest point, the curtain came down on Wes — and his life. Amidst the celebration, camaraderie and fans storming the court, Wes Leonard’s big-heart stopped beating.  Despite the efforts of so many, from parents to coaches and emergency personnel, they couldn’t get Wes’ heart to resume. He passed away that night to the utter shock of friends, family and a community where everyone literally knows everyone. In an instant, he was gone. No reason why, no goodbyes, no I love yous. In the end, an uncaught enlarged heart was the culprit of death — much to the dismay of his fabulous family — Gary, Jocelyn, Mitch — everyone.

But what happened in the midst of tragedy is a story for the history books. The team decided to go on in the basketball playoffs. Without the leading scorer on the team and so much grief — so much burden — the team went on to win the district title, beating Lawrence, then Bangor, then Covert. All this occurring in the day before and days after they buried their teammate and more importantly, friend, in the cold, damp, March Fennville ground within shouting distance of Fennville High School. They lost in the regional semifinal to Schoolcraft, also unbeaten at the time, but the status of Fennville High School was defined — triumph over tragedy.

Turn the calendar forward 21 months and now, another Michigan school and community, just weeks after riding the wave of unbridled positive emotions to another state final appearance on the football field, has to come to grips with a tragedy we had hoped to never have to deal with in our lifetimes. But the truth is young people die everywhere everyday — whether it be from cancer or some disease that is undetected or untreatable. Most families choose not to have their stories publicized. Some choose to. In this case, there was no disease, no underlying medical issues. No warning signs, nothing anyone can prepare for. When that happens — when death is so instant and close to home — that is when the realization and pain seems so unreal — and so unfair.

For the family and friends of David Widzinski, the pain, emotion and disbelief right now in the face of their incredible loss is unbearable. And unless you have dealt with what they are dealing with, you do not ever understand that pain and the questions that will ask about “what if”. You just can not. Saying you do when you do not is a complete insult. I completely understand what they are going through because I’ve dealt with it on a personal basis in the instant deaths of my Aunt and Uncle. I’m constantly reminded everyday “what if” we did this or that, but those questions get left unanswered.

It may seem to the family and the friends that the pain will never go away — that the open place inside of your heart that is there will never heal. But the truth is while there is that open hole and open space in your heart now, the heart will heal knowing that your son, brother and friend is at peace with his Lord, is not in pain and is always by your side. Maybe David is not there in his humanly body, but he is there in spirit. His death does not touch his mind, his heart and his soul. All are still there in some shape. The memories you made with him and the memories you create with him in your mind and your hearts will see you through the darkest hours ahead. Trust in the Lord, as he had a plan for David even if you don’t see it now. Perhaps he needed a young man amongst the old. My thought — he needed a great linebacker for his football team. If that is the case, he picked a mighty fine, young man.

Now, to his football family at Detroit Catholic Central — from the current and future players and to the coaching staff: that the entirety of the football community mourns your loss and lifts our hearts up to you in this time of grief. We know you are experiencing a pain that none of us can imagine. We understand that you have all gone from the highest of highs in a magical playoff run to the lowest of lows in the course of the past two weeks. No one — a coach or athlete — deserves that kind of roller coaster of emotions. I have two simple messages to go out to the team — one as a player and one as a coach.

To the players, from the current players to the future players — you guys have the unenviable task of being the ones that were closest to your friend and teammate. You are the ones that, outside of the family, will share the heaviest burden going forward. But remain a team with heads held high. It’s what he likely would have wanted. Carry his name on in your lives as you move forward — whether it’s to college next year or on the same football field you played on this year. You are young men faced with enormous challenges, but if you face the challenges together, as one team, you will be seen through the darkness and a brighter day will come on the other side. To those playing next year, at DCC or college, just remind yourselves to carry out David’s dream. That’s the best way to honor his memory. By playing hard, giving it your all and playing like every game is your last, you are making him so proud of you. To those who play at DCC next fall, remember how close you were to making dreams come true and winning state and remind yourself you have 12 players on the field next year — all in uniform, just one isn’t there in body, but in spirit to help you out. When you dream big, magical things can happen. And to those not playing football after this year, you can make him proud by grinding it out in the classrooms and workplaces of America, becoming great people — husbands, fathers, sons, brothers. There are endless ways to honor him — these reasons can go a long way.

To the coaching staff, one coach said it right when he said “we can fill a linebacker spot, but we can’t fill the hole we all have in our hearts”. That is so true at a time like that. But don’t give up coaching because of this. You are just as vital as a parent, sometimes and at times like this, you are vital. As a coach, you are there to educate, to make an impact so that not only are we making good athletes on the field, but better athletes and citizens off the field. You are there as a father figure to a lot of these guys. Most of my coaches here were my second fathers — a guy I could go talk to when times were good and times were tough. My point is these guys need the coaches not just on the field, but off. From the success that DCC has on the field, I’m sure that the coaches are just as great off of it. Remember, it is you that teaches the valuable lessons of life and at times like this one, the words you say now will make lasting impact on those you touch with your words. Be confident and know so many other programs are with you.

Detroit Catholic Central has the opportunity to prove to all of us what the words “brotherhood” and “unity” mean. When you are in a school with 1,000-plus kids with unique personalities, it is easy to sometimes migrate into your own word. But when a tragedy like this strikes, we remind ourselves that despite our differences, whether we wear one color or look one color or where we came from or even how athletic we are, we are always brothers and always sisters first, regardless. I encourage everyone at Detroit Catholic Central to find someone with a unique interest that interests them and inspire them to reach for their dreams. Be encouraged to meet new people. Maybe you’ll find a friend that is just like David was and you will find out how special life really is.

Finally, I ask everyone reading this — whether you are a parent or a child — to give your child or parents a great big hug tonight. Make those moments count and cherish them. Eat dinner at the dining room table or just sit in the living room together and just have a talk as a family. Make new memories. Just remember that you never know when your time is up and, much like David’s family and many others before, you don’t get a second chance at life. You get one shot, so treat everyday like your last and make everyday count.

With that, I’m reminded of the great Jim Valvano and what he said in his 1993 ESPY speech just eight weeks before his death from bone cancer in April, 1993 he said “I urge all of you, all of you, to enjoy your life, the precious moments you have. To spend each day with some laughter and some thought, to get your emotions going. To be enthusiastic everyday and like Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Nothing great could be accomplished without enthusiasm — to keep your dreams alive in spite of problems whatever you have. The ability to be able to work hard for your dreams to come true, to become a reality.”

I think that’s the perfect quote to leave this blog with. I know this a long blog — for some, more than enough to take in. But remember one family and a school community with high school football ties, like ours, is grieving today. And for them it may take a lifetime for their hearts to heal — if ever. Just remember if you read this good enough, you know to remember that never know when your time is coming nor that you are not, nor never will be, invincible.

Jerrod Birmele is the web site administrator for the Hartford Indian Football web site and is the sole contributor of the Hartford Indian Football web site Blog. He can be reached by clicking the “Contact” tab on the menu of each blog post or each page of the web site.

First, the annual Hartford Indian Football awards ceremony will be held on Thursday night, November 29th at 6:00 PM in the High School Auditorium. We ask that everyone attending please arrive early so you can catch a special glimpse of the 2012 highlight video, created by our video guru, Joe MacMillan. After the awards ceremony is completed, you may purchase your own version of the highlight video or all full game sets of Varsity and Junior Varsity games from this season, as well. You may purchase each video, which will go for $10 / video. After Thursday night, copies of the same videos will be available to purchase in the Athletic Office for the same cost, $10 / video.

Secondly, Hartford High School will be hosting the 14th annual “College Football Recruiting Fair“ on Monday night, December 3rd from 5:00-7:00 PM in the High School / Middle School Cafeteria. The recruiting fair is open to all juniors and seniors who are interested in playing football at the next level of athletic competition. This Recruiting Fair is FREE to all players and parents. Players are encouraged to bring their transcripts, as well as game highlights and video to give to the college coaches and recruiters that attend. This year, up to 30 different colleges from 5 states will make the trek to Hartford for the Recruiting Fair. During its current 13 year run, more than 2,000 student-athletes have attended. If you would like more information about the Recruiting Fair, please continue to visit our web site for updates or contact Dave Janicki, High School Principal and Varsity Football coach at (269) 621-7100 or at janickid@hpsmi.org.

With this Blog post, we complete the 2012 Prep Football season and the editions of “Jerrod’s Game Picks”. I hope you have enjoyed my commentary and analysis all season long. We will return with the 2013 “Jerrod’s Game Picks” beginning week one of the 2013 Prep Football season! Thanks for your support and kind words all season long, fans!

Last Week: 13-3 (.812)
Regular Season and Playoffs: 336-79 (.810)

FRIDAY GAMES
Division 8 Championship Game
Beal City (13-0) vs. Harbor Beach (12-1)
Friday, November 23 — 10:00 AM (LIVE on Fox Sports Detroit)

About the Teams
BEAL CITY AGGIES
Head Coach: Lou Rau (131-29 Overall)
Conference Played In: Highland Conference
Overall Record: 13-0, 6-0 Conference
Points Scored: 542
Points Allowed: 148
Road to Ford Field: defeated Mio 62-0, Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart 28-21, Johannesburg-Lewiston 49-16, Saint Ignace LaSalle 25-7

HARBOR BEACH PIRATES
Head Coach: Troy Schelke (107-59 Overall)
Conference Played In: Greater Thumb Conference — East Division
Overall Record: 12-1, 5-0 Conference
Points Scored: 567
Points Allowed: 182
Road to Ford Field: defeated Merrill 48-0, New Lothrop 56-20, Waterford Our Lady 17-10, Muskegon Catholic Central 32-27

Game Analysis
Beal City Players to Watch: Sam Schafer (Sr., QB/DE), Ryan Tilmann (Jr., TE), Ty Rollin (Jr., RB/DB), Hayden Huber (Jr., RB/DB), Nick Hoogerhyde (Jr., LB), Nate Schafer (Sr., OL/DL)
Harbor Beach Players to Watch: Eli Kraft (Jr., QB), Aaron Ginther (Sr., RB/LB), Travis Essenmacher (Jr., WR), Derek Plaff (Sr., RB), Colin Cook (Jr., DB), Brandon Oswald (Sr., OL/DL), Nick Hessling (Jr., P/K)
Game Prediction: Beal City 28, Harbor Beach 20. The first game of the weekend has the opportunity to be one of the best games. Beal City has been here before, winning in 2009. Harbor Beach makes its first state final appearance since 1991, when it lost to Muskegon Catholic Central in the final. Beal City has slight advantage in SOS and defense. Harbor Beach gives up points in quick amounts (26 in 14 minutes last week) and if Beal City plays like last week against unbeaten Saint Ignace LaSalle, the Aggies win their second title in four years. Harbor Beach must run well against a big Beal City front line to win. They must also avoid turnovers, bad snaps and the number of points given up — something they didn’t do well last week.

Division 2 Championship Game
Muskegon (12-1) vs. Birmingham Brother Rice (11-2)
Friday, November 23 — 1:00 PM (LIVE on Fox Sports Detroit)

About the Teams
MUSKEGON BIG REDS
Head Coach: Shane Fairfield (27-8 Overall)
Conference Played In: Ottawa-Kent Conference — Black Division
Overall Record: 12-1, 4-1 Conference
Points Scored: 477
Points Allowed: 236
Road to Ford Field: defeated Grand Rapids Kenowa Hills 34-21, Lowell 15-13, Midland 49-21, Caledonia 34-21

BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE WARRIORS
Head Coach: Al Fracassa (414-117-7 Overall)
Conference Played In: Catholic League — Central Division
Overall Record: 11-2, 3-1 Conference
Points Scored: 397
Points Allowed: 186
Road to Ford Field: defeated Port Huron 47-26, Oxford 38-6, Walled Lake Western 42-12, Wyandotte Roosevelt 31-3

Game Analysis
Muskegon Players to Watch: Jalen Smith (Sr., QB), Marcus Smith (Sr., WR), Sherman Hodges (Sr., WR), John King (Sr., RB), William Hunt (Jr., LB), Ronald Jenkins (Sr., OL/DL)
Birmingham Brother Rice Players to Watch: Cheyne Lacanaria (Sr., QB), Corey Lacanaria (Jr., WR), Brian Walker (Jr., RB), Shon Powell (Jr., RB), Jon Reschke (Sr., LB), Lucas Cherocci (Sr., LB), Christopher Carter (Jr., DB)
Game Prediction: Birmingham Brother Rice 35, Muskegon 27. Talk about once of those “too close to call” choices — this is one of them. Muskegon is favored on paper — but I’m taking Brother Rice. They are the defending state champions in this division and coach Al Fracassa, 80 years young and 414 wins on his record, has adapted to the change in football over time. Besides, Brother Rice is a quick strike offense. If they keep high powered Muskegon out of the end zone in the first half, Brother Rice wins. Outside of two defensive missed assignments, Caledonia beat Muskegon last week in the second half and of 477 points, Muskegon has scored less than 200 in the second half. They often say offense wins championships — which one shows up?

Division 6 Championship Game
Ithaca (13-0) vs. Constantine (11-2)
Friday, November 23 — 4:30 PM (LIVE on Fox Sports Detroit)

About the Teams
ITHACA YELLOWJACKETS
Head Coach: Terry Hessbrook (85-17 Overall)
Conference Played In: Tri-Valley Conference — West Division
Overall Record: 13-0, 7-0 Conference
Points Scored: 638
Points Allowed: 83
Road to Ford Field: defeated Grandville Calvin Christian 42-14, Hemlock 49-14, Montrose Hill-McCloy 31-0, Shelby 31-14

CONSTANTINE FALCONS
Head Coach: Shawn Griffith (81-17 Overall)
Conference Played In: Kalamazoo Valley Association
Overall Record: 11-2, 7-2 Conference
Points Scored: 593
Points Allowed: 299
Road to Ford Field: defeated Watervliet 48-33, Schoolcraft 40-27, Hillsdale 49-35, Monroe Saint Mary Catholic Central 36-14

Game Analysis
Ithaca Players to Watch: Travis Smith (Jr., QB/DB), Bryan Shaw (Jr., RB), Caden Kipp (Sr., WR), Zach Allen (Sr., WR), Jared Evers (Sr., WR), Dakota Reeves (Sr., LB), Tyler Gibson (Sr., LB), Rickey King (Jr., LB), Jordan Hessbrook (Sr., DB), Josh Capen (Sr., OL/DL)
Constantine Players to Watch: Tom Reed (Sr., QB/DB), Justin Hull (So., RB), Ben Mallo (Sr., RB/LB), Jeff Steiner (Sr., RB/LB), Payton White (Sr., RB/DB), Justin Bontrager (Sr., TE), Cody Hartwick (Jr., DB/K), Phil VanZile (Sr., OL/DL), Dominick Rogers (Sr., OL/DL)
Game Prediction: Ithaca 42, Constantine 28. Rematch #1 this weekend in Detroit as the Yellowjackets and the Falcons play once again. Last season, the game was tied 14-14 at half, but Ithaca opened it up, scoring 28 points and capitalizing on Falcon turnovers to pull away with a 42-14 win. This time, it will be much closer. Remember, QB Tom Reed of Constantine was out last year in the state final. Constantine is a team that must play from ahead — they rely on the run far too much. If they gain a lead, they have a solid shot. However, standout college recruits Travis Smith (2014) and Jared Evers (2013) will take care of Constantine’s underperforming pass defense and score the third straight title and 42nd straight win for Ithaca.

Division 4 Championship Game
Grand Rapids South Christian (10-3) vs. Detroit Country Day (11-2)
Friday, November 23 — 7:30 PM (LIVE on Fox Sports Detroit PLUS)

About the Teams
GRAND RAPIDS SOUTH CHRISTIAN SAILORS
Head Coach: Mark Tamminga (22-18 Overall)
Conference Played In: Ottawa-Kent Conference — Gold Division
Overall Record: 10-3, 4-1 Conference
Points Scored: 436
Points Allowed: 205
Road to Ford Field: defeated Paw Paw 48-0, Dowagiac 42-23, Three Rivers 38-14, Comstock Park 21-7

DETROIT COUNTRY DAY YELLOWJACKETS
Head Coach: Dan MacLean (107-58 Overall)
Conference Played In: Independent
Overall Record: 11-2
Points Scored: 426
Points Allowed: 174
Road to Ford Field: defeated Clinton Township Clintondale 35-0, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 14-12, Grosse Ile 47-14, Saginaw Swan Valley 38-0

Game Analysis
Grand Rapids South Christian Players to Watch: Jon Wassink (So., QB), Austin Diekevers (Sr., WR), Jason Miller (Sr., WR), Chad Sterk (Sr., WR/DB), Alex Haan (Sr., OL/LB)
Detroit Country Day Players to Watch: Tyler Wiegers (Jr., QB), Maurice Ways (Jr., WR), Tristan Wiegers (So., WR), Richard Wilson (Jr., RB), Gianmarco Rea (Sr., FB/LB), Rhodwin Chungag (Sr., OL/DL), Poet Thomas (Sr., OL/DL)
Game Prediction: Detroit Country Day 31, Grand Rapids South Christian 21. Good to see two “underdogs” make the state finals in Division 4. South Christian had to win their finale, then go through Paw Paw (9-0), Dowagiac (10-0), Three Rivers and Comstock Park to get there. Check that off. For Detroit Country Day, the last two games have been what Detroit Country Day has done all year — score a lot of points with the big plays, scoring 45 and 38 points the last two weeks. I think in the finale on Friday, both defenses will be tested — and tired. Both teams pass the ball very well and both teams will be containing QB’s most of the night. The thing that hurts Grand Rapids South Christian is the health of sophomore QB Jon Wassink, injured last week in the semifinals. If he’s not 100%, South Christian falls, no doubt. I think the big play ability of DCD takes care of the Sailors anyways.

SATURDAY GAMES
Division 7 Championship Game
Ispheming (12-1) vs. Detroit Loyola (13-0)
Saturday, November 24 — 10:00 AM (LIVE on Fox Sports Detroit)

About the Teams
ISPHEMING HEMATITES
Head Coach: Jeff Olson (144-86 Overall)
Conference Played In: Mid-Peninsula Athletic Conference
Overall Record: 12-1, 5-1 Conference
Points Scored: 431
Points Allowed: 105
Road to Ford Field: defeated Lincoln Alcona 40-12, Mancelona 32-0, Lake City 28-12, Pewamo-Westphalia 8-7

DETROIT LOYOLA BULL DOGS
Head Coach: John Callahan (37-8 Overall)
Conference Played In: Catholic League — Intersectional Division
Overall Record: 13-0, 6-0 Conference
Points Scored: 596
Points Allowed: 77
Road to Ford Field: defeated Royal Oak Shrine Catholic 36-14, Grosse Pointe Woods University Liggett 50-7, Britton Deerfield 32-0, Flint Beecher 54-6

Game Analysis
Ispheming Players to Watch: Alex Briones (Jr., QB), Brad Wootke (Sr., OL/DL), Eric Kostreva (Sr., RB), Bobby Zhulkie (Jr., LB), Eric Dompierre (Sr., K)
Detroit Loyola Players to Watch: Toby Sharpe (Sr., QB), Keymonn’e Gabriel (Sr., RB), Keith Graves (Jr., WR/DB), Malik McDowell (Jr., OL/DL), Darryl Clemons (Jr., OL/DL), Calvin Jackson (Sr., DB)
Game Prediction: Detroit Loyola 38, Ispheming 20. Two small school powerhouses (in 2012, anyways) battle in the small division game on Saturday at Ford Field, as 13-0 Detroit Loyola takes on 12-1 Ispheming. If you are looking for a defensive advantage in this game, it is non-existent. Both teams have very solid defenses, with Loyola giving up just 77 points, Ispheming 105. This game will have to be won by the offenses — and there is a big advantage for Loyola in that category. Almost 600 points in a season? Pretty unheard of, even with a 14 game schedule. However, Loyola runs and passes very well — they can do so behind a line averaging around 220 pounds. Ispheming relies on the run — and if defenses win games, Loyola wins both sides of the ball — with a state championship trophy for the case.

Division 1 Championship Game
Detroit Catholic Central (9-4) vs. Detroit Cass Tech (11-2)
Saturday, November 24 — 1:00 PM (LIVE on Fox Sports Detroit)

About the Teams
DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL SHAMROCKS
Head Coach: Tom Mach (333-81 Overall)
Conference Played In: Catholic League — Central Division
Overall Record: 9-4, 3-1 Conference
Points Scored: 371
Points Allowed: 206
Road to Ford Field: defeated Hartland 21-15, Walled Lake Northern 45-17, Plymouth 28-7, Rockford 35-6

DETROIT CASS TECH TECHNICIANS
Head Coach: Thomas Wilcher (111-58 Overall)
Conference Played In: Detroit Public School League — West Division
Overall Record: 11-2, 5-0 Conference
Points Scored: 446
Points Allowed: 164
Road to Ford Field: defeated Grosse Pointe South 37-3, Dearborn 42-23, Saline 21-14, Lake Orion 34-27

Game Analysis
Detroit Catholic Central Players to Watch: Garrett Moores (Sr., QB), Jon Malone (Sr., RB), Anthony Darkangelo (Sr., RB), David Houle (Sr., RB)
Detroit Cass Tech Players to Watch: Jayru Campbell (So., QB), Mike Weber (So., RB), Jourdan Lewis (Sr., WR), Damon Webb (Jr., WR/DB), David Dawson (Sr., OL/DL), Dennis Finney (Sr., OL/DL), Deon Drake (Jr., LB)
Game Prediction: Detroit Cass Tech 28, Detroit Catholic Central 14. Rematch #2 of the weekend at Ford Field features Detroit Catholic Central and Detroit Cass Tech. If you are wondering how a 9-4 team got in, ask Detroit Catholic Central. They played one of the most aggressive tough schedules of any team in the state, traveling twice to — and losing in — Ohio, as well as playing state finalists Brother Rice and Saint Mary’s (twice against Saint Mary’s). Detroit Cass Tech won the battle very handily last fall, 49-13 in the most lopsided affair on championship weekend. This season will not see Cass Tech dominate by that margin, but see them win. It doesn’t hurt when seven college recruits are on the same team — with most of them on both sides of the ball. Cass Tech has also played the stronger postseason schedule — battle tested and ready for back-to-back titles.

Division 5 Championship Game
Grand Rapids West Catholic (10-3) vs. Portland (12-1)
Saturday, November 24 — 4:30 PM (LIVE on Fox Sports Detroit)

About the Teams
GRAND RAPIDS WEST CATHOLIC FALCONS
Head Coach: Dan Rohn (62-12 Overall)
Conference Played In: Ottawa-Kent Conference — Bronze Division
Overall Record: 10-3, 5-0 Conference
Points Scored: 287
Points Allowed: 215
Road to Ford Field: defeated Hopkins 19-13 (OT), Muskegon Oakridge 13-6, Newaygo 21-7, Menominee 20-17

PORTLAND RED RAIDERS
Head Coach: John Novara (53-22 Overall)
Conference Played In: Capital Area Activities Conference — White Division
Overall Record: 12-1, 4-1 Conference
Points Scored: 488
Points Allowed: 174
Road to Ford Field: defeated Leslie 48-6, Olivet 36-0, Flint Powers Catholic 45-28, Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard 28-23

Game Analysis
Grand Rapids West Catholic Players to Watch: Travis Russell (So, QB), David Kuzma (Sr., WR), David Bancuk (Jr., WR), Drake Wooten (Jr., WR), Andy Corey (Jr., RB), Max Boorsma (Jr., LB), Daniel Green (Sr., OL/DL)
Portland Players to Watch: Tanner Allison (Jr., QB), Austin Brandt (Jr., WR), Logan Seal (Sr., WR/DB), Jacob Kimmell (Jr., RB), Caleb Hickling (Sr., RB), Sam Goodman (So., LB), Jared Krausz (Sr., DL)
Game Prediction: Grand Rapids West Catholic 34, Portland 21. This may surprise most, but this was the hardest game to select for championship weekend, as this game is a game of physical equals — not only on paper, but the field. But in the end, I sided with the west side of the state and went with the Falcons to beat the Red Raiders. Sure, you look above at the points scored to points allowed and both favor Portland — especially, points scored. But you also have to realize that when you play in the Ottawa-Kent Conference, you are going to play tough games — like West Catholic. Besides, it’s the team that is playing hot in the playoffs that wins — and West Catholic is hot. Upsets over Hopkins in OT, Muskegon Oakridge and Menominee in three of four weeks and an defense that is stopping opponents in their tracks at the right time usually wins games in November. Advantage, West Catholic.

Division 3 Championship Game
Grand Rapids Christian (12-1) vs. Orchard Lake Saint Mary’s (11-2)
Saturday, November 24 — 7:30 PM (LIVE on Fox Sports Detroit)

About the Teams
GRAND RAPIDS CHRISTIAN EAGLES
Head Coach: Don Fellows (28-6 Overall)
Conference Played In: Ottawa-Kent Conference — White Division
Overall Record: 12-1, 5-0 Conference
Points Scored: 550
Points Allowed: 247
Road to Ford Field: defeated Fruitport 45-6, Zeeland West 68-44, Stevensville Lakeshore 31-7, DeWitt 52-28

ORCHARD LAKE SAINT MARY’S EAGLETS
Head Coach: George Porritt (216-59 Overall)
Conference Played In: Catholic League — Central Division
Overall Record: 11-2, 3-1 Overall
Points Scored: 452
Points Allowed: 152
Road to Ford Field: defeated South Lyon East 59-7, Auburn Hills Avondale 49-14, Detroit East English 42-24, Battle Creek Harper Creek 28-7

Game Analysis
Grand Rapids Christian Players to Watch: Alex Van de Vusse (Sr., QB), Drake Harris (Jr., WR), Sam Kuiper (Jr., WR), Zach Crouch (Sr., TE), Seth McIntosh (Sr., RB), Joel Schipper (Sr., K), Matthew Hall (Sr., LB)
Orchard Lake Saint Mary’s Players to Watch: Matt Linehan (Sr., QB/S), Van Jefferson (So., WR/DB), Grant Niemiec (Sr., RB/LB), Parker McInnis (Sr., RB/DB)
Game Prediction: Grand Rapids Christian 35, Orchard Lake Saint Mary’s 21. Hopefully, these games won’t go as quick as this Blog has picking them, but this is the final game of the weekend and it features Grand Rapids Christian and Orchard Lake Saint Mary’s, whose back at the state finals for the fourth time in seven years. These are two powerhouses, regardless of division. I think personally Grand Rapids Christian is the best team in the state, overall — regardless of division. They have a quarterback who has nearly passed for 3,200 yards and a receiver, a basketball player to be in two years at MSU who has 1,500-plus receiving yards. Defense is the only question mark for Grand Rapids Christian. This could be a higher scoring game then I am predicting, but it still favors Grand Rapids Christian. If Saint Mary’s thought they saw it all when they played East Grand Rapids multiple times, think again. Christian and East Grand Rapids play in the same division in the same conference.

Local Games Last Week: 4-2 (.667)
Statewide Games Last Week: 18-8 (.692)
Overall Games Last Week: 22-10 (.687)
Regular Season and Playoffs: 323-76 (.810)

DIVISION 1 GAMES
Detroit Catholic Central 31, Rockford 17 (at Battle Creek Central H.S.)
Lake Orion 24, Detroit Cass Tech 20 (at Troy Athens H.S.)

DIVISION 2 GAMES
Muskegon 38, Caledonia 20 (at Hudsonville Baldwin Street M.S.)
Birmingham Brother Rice 35, Wyandotte Roosevelt 21 (at Gibraltar Carlson H.S.)

DIVISION 3 GAMES
Grand Rapids Christian 45, DeWitt 28 (at East Kentwood H.S.)
Orchard Lake Saint Mary’s 35, Battle Creek Harper Creek 14 (at Chelsea H.S.)

DIVISION 4 GAMES
Grand Rapids South Christian 28, Comstock Park 14 (at Houseman Field, Grand Rapids)
Detroit Country Day 38, Saginaw Swan Valley 24 (at Ortonville Brandon H.S.)

DIVISION 5 GAMES
Menominee 31, Grand Rapids West Catholic 24 (at Superior Dome, NMU, Marquette)
Portland 35, Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard 28 (at Howell H.S.)

DIVISION 6 GAMES
Ithaca 41, Shelby 20 (at Top Taggart Field, Ferris State University, Big Rapids)
Constantine 28, Monroe Saint Mary Catholic Central 21 (at Battle Creek Harper Creek H.S.)

DIVISION 7 GAMES
Ispheming 31, Pewamo-Westphalia 28 (at Superior Dome, NMU, Marquette)
Detroit Loyola 35, Flint Beecher 21 (at Fenton H.S.)

DIVISION 8 GAMES
Beal City 28, Saint Ignace LaSalle 21 (at Thirlby Field, Traverse City)
Muskegon Catholic Central 31, Harbor Beach 21 (at Bahlke Field, Alma College, Alma)

DIVISION 1 GAMES
Rockford (11-1) vs. Detroit Catholic Central (8-4)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Battle Creek Central H.S.

Detroit Cass Tech (10-2) vs. Lake Orion (11-1)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Troy Athens H.S.

DIVISION 2 GAMES
Muskegon (11-1) vs. Caledonia (9-3)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Hudsonville (Baldwin Street M.S.)

Birmingham Brother Rice (10-2) vs. Wyandotte Roosevelt (11-1)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Gibraltar Carlson H.S.

DIVISION 3 GAMES
DeWitt (10-2) vs. Grand Rapids Christian (11-1)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at East Kentwood H.S.

Battle Creek Harper Creek (10-2) vs. Orchard Lake Saint Mary’s (10-2)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Chelsea H.S.

DIVISION 4 GAMES
Comstock Park (11-1) vs. Grand Rapids South Christian (9-3)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Houseman Field, Grand Rapids

Saginaw Swan Valley (10-2) vs. Detroit Country Day (10-2)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Ortonville Brandon H.S.

DIVISION 5 GAMES
Menominee (11-1) vs. Grand Rapids West Catholic (9-3)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 2:00 PM at Superior Dome, Northern Michigan University (Marquette)

Portland (11-1) vs. Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard (11-1)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Howell H.S.

DIVISION 6 GAMES
Shelby (10-2) vs. Ithaca (12-0)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Top Taggert Field, Ferris State University (Big Rapids)

Constantine (10-2) vs. Monroe Saint Mary Catholic Central (10-2)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Battle Creek Harper Creek H.S.

DIVISION 7 GAMES
Ispheming (11-1) vs. Pewamo-Westphalia (9-3)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 11:00 AM at Superior Dome, Northern Michigan University (Marquette)

Detroit Loyola (12-0) vs. Flint Beecher (8-4)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Fenton H.S.

DIVISION 8 GAMES
Saint Ignace LaSalle (12-0) vs. Beal City (12-0)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Thirlby Field, Traverse City

Muskegon Catholic Central (9-3) vs. Harbor Beach (11-1)
Game Time / Location: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Bahlke Field, Alma College (Alma)

Last Week: 5-4 (.556)
Regular Season and Playoffs: 301-66 (.820)

Division 2
Region 2 Finals (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Mattawan 41, Caledonia 20: Battle on Friday night in Mattawan between 10-1 Mattawan and 8-3 Caledonia. Mattawan has a run going and its only loss was to 11-0 Lakeshore. Caledonia went 6-3, then beat Swartz Creek handily and East Lansing in OT on an extra point kick. As I’ve said all year, I think come playoff time, home field advantage is huge. Mattawan scored big last week with standouts Trevor Sweeney and Brok Lamorandier last week. Caledonia runs a pro-style offense, but Mattawan just runs — and runs to the schools first district title Friday behind 300-plus rushing yards.

Division 3
Region 2 Finals (Saturday, 1:00 PM) — Grand Rapids Christian 51, (at) Stevensville Lakeshore 37: I envisioned this happening before the playoffs began and a match-up to see happens Saturday as the 10-1 Eagles and 11-0 Lancers go at it. Stevensville Lakeshore has faced some solid competition this season, notably Portage Central and Northern, as well as Mattawan. Denny Dock always has successful playoff runs. But they haven’t been as good as Grand Rapids Christian has been. Their only loss was at powerhouse Cincinnati Moeller in Ohio; it was a 42-34 affair. Their quarterback has thrown for 2,300-plus and their top receiver has 1,100-plus of that and Lakeshore struggles against passing teams. Plus, scoring 45 and 68 points the last two weeks and this games oozes Eagles — in a high-scoring affair.

Division 4
Region 2 Finals (Friday, 7:00 PM at Byron Center H.S.) — (at) Grand Rapids South Christian 41, Three Rivers 14: This Friday night, two 8-3 teams go at it in the Sailors (the host team) and the Wildcats. I’ve been wrong both weeks so far — with both these teams. This week I must choose one — and the Sailors are my pick. This is a opponent vs. opponent basis. Three Rivers lost to Dowagiac. Grand Rapids South Christian beat 9-0 Paw Paw in the first round, 10-0 Dowagiac in the second round. Sure, Sam Shutes poses a dual threat as QB in Three Rivers. Three Rivers is a great team. But South Christian is rolling, having won three straight games. Sophomore QB Jon Wassink has thrown for 1,815 yards. If Three Rivers gets spread out, the Sailors won’t be stopped — until the clock reads zero.

Division 6
Region 3 Finals (Friday, 7:00 PM) — Constantine 35, (at) Hillsdale 31: Welp, I’ll say it again — Constantine knows how to make playoff pushes and this year, it’s no different. This week, the 9-2 Falcons take on the 11-0 Hillsdale Hornets this week. And why am I picking 9-2 over an 11-0? Simple — Constantine wins games this time of year. When you have the threats of Ben Mallo, Jeff Steiner and Payton White in the open field, they are hard to catch. This team put 40 up on unbeaten Schoolcraft last week — the most points the Eagles gave up all year. Hillsdale keeps it close — Jeff McMullen has rushed for nearly 1,800 yards this season with 20 touchdowns. I like the Falcons in this close game — line play determines the winner, though.

Division 7
Region 2 Finals (Saturday, 1:00 PM) — Pewamo-Westphalia 22, (at) Decatur 14: Another great, small school game hits the field this Saturday, with the 9-2 Raiders and the 8-3 Pirates taking the field. I’m basing this game on previous games this season — and the Pirates tip the game in their favor. This isn’t the same P-W team that went to the state final game last year, but they are still rather fast and big on their front lines. They nearly took down Mendon in week nine — the Hornets escaped in overtime. Decatur needs to continue to run the ball hard — using Nate Gerhold and Corey Olkowski can’t be a bad thing for a team that is rolling like a wheel through an open field. Ultimately though, Decatur gets out manned on the front line — and the Pirates get the call to the Final Four. Decatur has a GREAT chance to win, though.

Division 8
Region 3 Finals (Saturday, 1:00 PM) — (at) Mendon 28, Muskegon Catholic Central 21: Oh boy, another Mendon and Muskegon Catholic Central game — at Mendon — on Saturday. Mendon is 11-0, MCC is 8-3. These two teams know each other well, with Mendon escaping 28-21 over the Crusaders last year in the second round. This game comes down to time of possession and how the defenses play. MCC has had a solid defense, but Mendon’s has been much more consistent. Sure, this isn’t the Mendon team of last year, but with Tyler Harris still leading the backfield and Nick Eberstein stepping up in the play calling role, Mendon, like Constantine, wins games in the playoffs. This week will be a close game until the clock hits zero. Mendon wins, however, in their final home game of the season.

STATEWIDE PLAYOFF GAMES:
Division 1
GAME TO WATCH: Macomb Dakota 28, (at) Lake Orion 24 (Saturday, 1:00 PM) – This game comes down to defenses. Dakota has allowed 12 points on average in the playoffs. Lake Orion may just be too sky high from last weeks upset of Utica Eisenhower to hold them. In a game that could determine a state champ in Division 1, Dakota has a slight advantage.
OTHER GAMES: (at) Clarkston 31, Rockford 17 (Saturday, 1:00 PM), Detroit Catholic Central 27, (at) Plymouth 12 (Saturday, 1:00 PM), Detroit Cass Tech 38, (at) Saline 20 (Friday, 7:00 PM)

Division 2
GAME TO WATCH: Birmingham Brother Rice 27, (at) Walled Lake Western 14 (Friday, 7:00 PM) – Game comes down to defense and skill players. Brother Rice possesses a solid linebacking core and are defending D2 champs. Josh Jones, WLW’s best rusher, must hit holes and edges to keep them in it or their toast. Ultimately, I picked defense — advantage, Brother Rice.
OTHER GAMES: Muskegon 34, (at) Midland 17 (Saturday, 1:00 PM), (at) Wyandotte Roosevelt 31, Oak Park 28 (Friday, 7:00 PM)

Division 3
GAME TO WATCH: (at) DeWitt 28, Saint Johns 21 (Friday, 7:00 PM) – Rematch from a DeWitt 34-20 win in the regular season. DeWitt will have to rebound from a tiring, hard six OT game last week, while Saint John’s need to find its rush attack. As much as I like the “upset”, DeWitt wins the game in the clutch — the final frame.
OTHER GAMES: (at) Battle Creek Harper Creek 21, Tecumseh 17 (Friday 7:00 PM), (at) Orchard Lake Saint Mary’s 34, Detroit East English 10 (Saturday, 1:00 PM)

Division 4
GAME TO WATCH: Grosse Ile 24, (at) Detroit Country Day 21 (Saturday, 2:00 PM) – The key is the offensive skill players, especially the rushing players. Detroit Country Day is evenly spread, Grosse Ile is coming off nearly 700 yards of rushing, along with 70 points. With those numbers, Grosse Ile will be tough to stop, even for a much more athletic, Yellowjacket team.
OTHER GAMES: (at) Comstock Park 31, Ogemaw Heights 10 (Saturday, 1:00 PM), (at) Croswell-Lexington 35, Saginaw Swan Valley 21 (Friday, 7:00 PM)

Division 5
GAME TO WATCH: (at) Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard 28, River Rouge 22 (Saturday, 1:00 PM) – This game comes down to turnovers. Both teams have solid turnovers gained to lost ratios. Gabriel Richard is questionable on defense, though. River Rouge has never here before, winning their first district title last week. They are old school — run, run, run. Gabriel Richard is solid on defense and pass a lot. River Rouge falls short — but what a season for them.
OTHER GAMES: (at) Menominee 34, Clare 14 (Saturday 2:00 PM), (at) Grand Rapids West Catholic 38, Newaygo 20 (Friday, 7:00 PM), (at) Flint Powers Catholic 41, Portland 14 (Friday, 7:00 PM)

Division 6
GAME TO WATCH: (at) Grass Lake 28, Monroe Saint Mary Catholic Central 20 (Friday, 7:00 PM) – The key to this game will be line control. Monroe Saint Mary is a Wing-T, power run team that made two state final appearances in a row (2009, 2010). They rarely pass. Grass Lake does — and has better skill players in the backfield and outside. Spread offenses in this Division do well — Grass Lake is no different.
OTHER GAMES: (at) Negaunee 28, Shelby 10 (Saturday, 1:00 PM), (at) Ithaca 48, Montrose Hill-McCloy 20 (Friday, 7:00 PM)

Division 7
GAME TO WATCH: (at) Saginaw Nouvel 42, Flint Beecher 7 (Friday, 7:00 PM) – This game should be one sided — for the Panthers. One back for the Panthers has over 1,500 yards. They have already beaten unbeaten Reese in the playoffs. Beechers only hope is they put up points — they have put up 81 points in the playoffs so far, but against rush heavy offenses, have given up 34 and 47 points. Nouvel rolls.
OTHER GAMES: (at) Ispheming 40, Lake City 24 (Saturday, 1:00 PM), (at) Detroit Loyola 38, Britton Deerfield 7 (Saturday, 1:00 PM at Bishop Foley H.S.)

Division 8
GAME TO WATCH: (at) Harbor Beach 21, Waterford Our Lady 14 (Saturday, 1:00 PM) – A good game to watch if you love good hard running, small school ball. Harbor Beach had two rushers go for 100-plus yards last week, one for nearly 150 yards. Waterford Our Lady was a powerhouse in the late 90′s and early 2000′s, but has been solid. 9.5 points/game allowed in the playoffs. A dual threat. However, Harbor Beach is their toughest opponent. That and a strong Harbor Beach defense wins.
OTHER GAMES: Saint Ignace LaSalle 38, (at) Felch North Dickinson 14 (Friday, 7:00 PM), (at) Beal City 38, Johannesburg-Lewiston 12 (Friday, 7:00 PM)

Below is the entire list of All-Conference players from the Southwestern Athletic Conference All-Conference Football teams. HartfordFootball.com congratulates ALL the athletes on this list for a great 2012 season!

NORTH DIVISION
1st Team Offense
QB: Joey Olsiewicz (Gobles)
OL: Tim Howard (Bangor), Seth Goodrich (Saugatuck), Andrew Blok (Saugatuck), Aaron Lane (Gobles), Dylan Harrison (Bloomingdale)
WR: Corless Parker (Bangor), Jonathan Moored (Martin)
RB: Jesse Ring (Bangor), Joe Koscielski (Saugatuck), Adam Vosburg (Gobles)
P: Tanner Nutting (Saugatuck), Seth Johnson (Gobles)

1st Team Defense
DL: Kenny Aemisegger (Bangor), Andrew Blok (Saugatuck), Jeff Gilbert (Gobles)
DE: Andrew Johnson (Bangor), Phil Cooley (Saugatuck)
DB: David Watkins (Bangor), Justin Blodgett (Gobles), T.J. Sobota (Bloomingdale)
LB: Joe Koscielski (Saugatuck), Seth Goodrich (Saugatuck), Brian Hayward (Gobles)
K: Tanner Nutting (Saugatuck)

2nd Team Offense
QB: Brian Norman (Bloomingdale)
OL: Shawn Steinman (Gobles), Clayton Upsen (Bloomingdale), Adam Harris (Fennville), Cam White (Saugatuck)
WR: Phil Cooley (Saugatuck)
RB: Ryan Hunt (Martin), Justin Blodgett (Gobles), Nick Svay (Fennville), T.J. Sobota (Bloomingdale)

2nd Team Defense
DL: Ben Wyngarden (Saugatuck), Dylan Harrison (Bloomingdale)
DE: Greg Burr (Martin), Adam Vosburg (Gobles), David Smith (Gobles), Mike Jones (Bloomingdale), Nick Svay (Fennville)
DB: Adam Nausieda (Martin), Brody Westerhoff (Bloomingdale)
LB: Matt Lopez (Bloomingdale), Seth Schut (Fennville)

Honorable Mention
Bangor: Kenny Aemisegger, Chris Crandall
Bloomingdale: James Baranoski, Jacob Kasinger
Fennville: Pedro Mendoza, Frank Null
Gobles: Jamie Summerville, Brian Hayward, Jacob Tiller
Saugatuck: Logan Bush, Jason Maxwell

SOUTH DIVISION
1st Team Offense
QB: Jake Cowsert (Watervliet)
OL: Tony Kucharski (Hartford), R.J. Rudel (Watervliet), A.J. Henderson (Lawton), Dusty Kolberg (Decatur)
WR: Travis Bolin (Watervliet), T.J. Stambek (Decatur)
RB: David Mireles (Hartford), Javauntae Thomas (Watervliet), Brandon St. Clair (Lawton), Nate Gerhold (Decatur)
P: Gareth MacMillan (Hartford)

1st Team Defense
DL: Gilbert Lopez (Hartford), Nick Steinke (Watervliet), Alec Terry (Lawton), Dusty Kolberg (Decatur)
DE: Kaleb Munro (Lawton)
DB: Jake Cowsert (Watervliet), Tony Pineda (Lawton)
LB: Tony Kucharski (Hartford), Deven Schultz (Watervliet), Kody Brigham (Lawton), Nate Gerhold (Decatur)
K: Brenden Wimes (Lawton)

2nd Team Offense
QB: Connor Murney (Lawrence)
OL: Josh Najacht (Hartford), Jake High (Marcellus), Freddy Little (Watervliet), Jacob Bukoski (Lawton), Stephayn Church (Lawton)
WR: Kaleb Munro (Lawton), Brenden Wimes (Lawton), Matt Cammire (Lawrence)
RB: Marcus Pompey (Marcellus), Corey Olkowski (Decatur), Salvador Rocha (Lawrence)

2nd Team Defense
DL: Dominic Ledesma (Hartford), Dale Mann (Decatur)
DE: Weston DeHaven (Watervliet), T.J. Stambek (Decatur)
DB: Jared Jones (Marcellus), Josh Hamilton (Lawton)
LB: Mike Ellis (Marcellus), R.J. Rudel (Watervliet), Matt Maynard (Lawton)
K: Connor Sonnevil (Marcellus)

Honorable Mention
Decatur: T.J. Cerven, Matt Glidden
Hartford: Tony Saldana, Jimmy Mullins, Casper Aviles
Lawrence: Jared Frank, Derek Gribler
Lawton: Tom Vanorder, Justin Albrecht
Marcellus: Mason New, Tony Reed
Watervliet: Connor Gohr, Travis Bolin

Last Week: 12-5 (.706)
Regular Season and Playoffs: 296-62 (.826)

Division 2
Region 2, District 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Mattawan 38, Portage Central 24: Rematch of a 35-34 Mattawan win in week seven of the regular season. This time, it’s at Mattawan, where the Wildcats are 5-1 this season. 35-34 will turn into a two touchdown margin. As Trevor Sweeney said last night, Mattawan accomplishes a long time goal — district title. Winner of this game has a home regional next week.

Division 3
Region 2, District 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Stevensville Lakeshore 41, Hamilton 21: Hamilton’s yo-yo season continued by beating Edwardsburg last week. Good job Hawkeyes, but you just booked a ticket on the Denny Dock express. And this express is 10-0 and is full steam ahead. Common opponent between the two — Holland Christian. Lakeshore beat them last week, Hamilton lost to them, 26-24. Hence, Lakeshore wins — and gets a tough test next week.

Region 3, District 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Battle Creek Harper Creek 31, Plainwell 20: As I said last week, Plainwell perks up playoff time — and last week was no different. Great win against a solid Hastings team. But let’s be honest — nothing in the Wolverine “B” North can prepare you for a team like Harper Creek. Just look at the Beavers — winners of eight straight after starting 0-2. Teams on a roll usually keep rolling, hence in a game full of blue and white, I’m picking Harper Creek.

Division 4
Region 2, District 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Dowagiac 38, Grand Rapids South Christian 35: Dowagiac is 10-0, but after seeing Grand Rapids South Christian roll all over previous unbeaten Paw Paw last week, you have to wonder — were the Redskins looking too far ahead? Maybe it was just because the Sailors outplayed them. Total domination by South Christian. However, Dowagiac wins a close game with them this week. It may come down to the foot of Brett Scanlon in my mind, not his QB ability.

Region 2, District 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Williamston 27, Three Rivers 21: Big win for the Wildcats last week, knocking off Battle Creek Pennfield on the road. This week, they travel to Hornet country to take on Williamston. It’s a long ride to the Lansing area this week. This game will come down to who has the better offense. On paper, it’s Three Rivers. But I’m taking Williamston and here’s why — they are 7-3. Their losses? To playoff teams in Ithaca, Portland and Lansing Catholic. And they’ve won four straight games.

Division 6
Region 3, District 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Schoolcraft 28, Constantine 22: In terms of Friday’s games, this could be the best in the area. KVA rivals and a rematch of week two, a 42-32 Schoolcraft win in Constantine. Constantine has run out three years of at least semifinal appearances, but I think Schoolcraft wins this game at home. Being in conference, they have all common opponents, so that doesn’t go for much for me. It’s about momentum and home field — that favors the Eagles. Winner likely travels to what should be 11-0 Hillsdale next week in regional play. Easy? I think not.

Division 7
Region 2, District 1 (Saturday, 1:00 PM) — (at) Pewamo-Westphalia 31, Gobles 27: Gobles gets to travel to Pewamo-Westphalia this week. These two know each other well. These two played each other three straight years in the playoffs (from 1998-2000, all three Gobles wins). However, these are two different teams from then. Pewamo-Westphalia went to the state finals last year, but lost a huge senior class. They’ve reloaded, though. If Gobles plans to win, they have to stop the run. If they can’t, this game could get out of hand quick. Adam Vosburg has to turn it up for the Tigers to stay in it.

Region 2, District 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Lawton 28, Decatur 21: Another rematch of teams that played in conference play in the Blue Devils and Raiders. This meeting happened in Decatur, where Lawton dominated the Raiders, 38-7. I still favor Lawton in this game, because of the big plays. Decatur gave up a few big plays against Hartford last week. And without a key player playing due to suspension, it could open it up again. Joe Groh has gone back to basics and it has worked, but the Karsen brothers have been on basics all year — big difference come playoff time.

Division 8
Region 3, District 2 (Saturday, 1:00 PM) — (at) Mendon 35, Climax-Scotts 21: Looking for something to do with your Saturday afternoon? Make your way down to Saint Joseph County, where two 10-0 teams will play in the Panthers and Hornets. These two met in the same round one year ago, which was a 35-10 victory for Mendon, who won the state title in D8 last year. This isn’t the same Mendon team and it has shown vulnerability at times, but Schwartz has them playing well in the playoffs. Too bad this is a district final and not further down the line. Winner gets either Muskegon Catholic Central or defending D8 runner-up Fowler next week.

Last Week: 29-10 (.744)
Regular Season: 284-57 (.833)

Division 2
Region 2, District 2, Game 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Mattawan 38, Battle Creek Lakeview 20: Lakeview is the pleasant surprise in the SMAC East this year. Mattawan was runner-up in the SMAC West. Mattawan is loaded, however. And its only loss is to unbeaten Stevensville Lakeshore. This isn’t Muskegon for the Wildcats this year. This year, Mattawan comes in pretty tested. And with home field and a 6-3 team coming in, ‘Cats win pulling away.

Region 2, District 2, Game 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Portage Northern 31, Portage Central 17: Rematch of a game two weeks ago, easily won 42-13 by Portage Northern. Unless the Mustangs pull a rabbit out of their hat, nothing changes, Northern wins. However, if Central wins, this would remind me of the Stevensville Lakeshore / Saint Joseph games of the past. Should they change the goal posts back yellow at McCamley Field if Central wins?

Division 3
Region 2, District 2, Game 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Stevensville Lakeshore 45, Holland Christian 14: Stevensville Lakeshore is rolling. They just concluded an unbeaten season and returned to the top of the SMAC West Division this season after losing it to Mattawan last season. Holland Christian is one of those 5-4′s in on playoff points. Usually, that doesn’t bode well come playoff time. Denny Dock’s team rolls on in a district of two 5-4 teams and a 6-3 team.

Region 2, District 2, Game 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Edwardsburg 38, Hamilton 28: The Eddies disappointed me last season. They went 8-0 — just to fall in week one of the playoffs in a scoring barrage by Plainwell. In Edwardsburg, none-the-less. Hamilton is another one of those 5-4′s in the postseason. They have been inconsistent to say the least. Started 4-0, then lost four of five, but got in on playoff points. Only thing going in Hamilton’s favor — last Wing-T team they saw in Zeeland West, they won. That win got them in the playoffs.

Region 3, District 1, Game 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — Plainwell 28, (at) Hastings 22: This might be the most even matchup in southwest Michigan in week one. Just three tenths of a playoff point separated them. They were both 6-3 overall this season. Both lost in week nine. Only thing different may the offenses being run this Friday night. Plainwell seems to rise up in the playoffs, especially after last seasons upset at Edwardsburg in this round. Taking the Trojans over the Saxons in this battle of equals.

Division 4
Region 2, District 1, Game 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Dowagiac 41, Otsego 20: Talk about staying in the conference — and the same city two weeks in a row. If Dowagiac had a hotel in their town, Otsego could have stayed there. This is a rematch of a game from last week, won by Dowagiac, 43-0. All I gotta say is I really like Dowagiac and their chances to make a big push this fall. Last season, this team ran into the runner-up in Division 5, Lansing Catholic. Lansing Catholic isn’t in the way this year and it’s the Chieftains region to run away with — unless…

Region 2, District 1, Game 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Paw Paw 38, Grand Rapids South Christian 14: Remember how I just said “unless” above? As much as I like Dowagiac’s chances, I also like Paw Paw’s, as well. Paw Paw finished number 3 in the state this season, led by its spread offense. Defense is a little sketchy, however. Paw Paw has been tested, though. However, before then, Paw Paw must take care of a Grand Rapids South Christian team, fresh off a big win over Hastings last week. They do — but must not look ahead to Dowagiac. If it happens, South Christian could upset them — and do them in.

Region 2, District 2, Game 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Battle Creek Pennfield 41, Three Rivers 20: First and foremost, kudos go out to Coach J.J. Wagner and the Wildcats for returning to the playoffs, a place they have become familiar with in recent years. However, Battle Creek Pennfield is not the welcoming back gift you wish for under the Christmas tree. Some in the media have labelled this as an upset for Three Rivers, but remember — Pennfield’s only loss was a late game score by Schoolcraft. The Wolverine B South is tough, but not tough like the KVA. They do realize Battle Creek Pennfield made a big run last year and Constantine was in the state finals, right?

Division 5
Region 2, District 2, Game 1 (Friday, 7:30 PM) — (at) Muskegon Oakridge 38, Buchanan 14: Congratulations Bucks — you are back in the playoffs. If they said they wanted Muskegon Oakridge first round, they must have been being really nice. A game with a perennial powerhouse like Oakridge isn’t good. Oakridge is primed for a nice run in Division 5 and isn’t 9-0 for no reason. They have been rock solid all year, winning big game after big game. This Oakridge team reminds me of the team Hartford beat in 1993, but knew all along — they are a tough out. Unfortunately, Buchanan isn’t the team to knock em’ out.

Region 2, District 2, Game 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Hopkins 48, Grand Rapids West Catholic 28: The Vikings are certainly back to where they were under former head coach Rex Weaver — back with the big boys and unbeaten for the first time in a regular season since 1998. Their opponent is a good one in Grand Rapids West Catholic, a former state championship team from a couple of years ago. Grand Rapids West Catholic has to be drained, celebrating a playoff birth with a win last week to get them to six wins. Hopkins is ready for battle at home — and unless the 2010 state championship Falcon team are dressed out, Hopkins rolls.

Division 6
Region 3, District 1, Game 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Schoolcraft 45, Niles Brandywine 7: Another team making a return to the playoffs is the Niles Brandywine Bobcats, 7-2 on the season and the first team since 2002 at Brandywine to make playoffs. Ultimately, you would like to see an easier game then 9-0 Schoolcraft, one of the favorites in Division 6 this year. Schoolcraft was number two in the final poll in Division 6. Once again, another KVA powerhouse takes down a victory. If Brandywine thought the Lakeland was tough, they went 1-2 in that league. Schoolcraft was 9-0 — just in the KVA.

Region 3, District 1, Game 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — Constantine 38, (at) Watervliet 35: One of those games I needed to break out the coin and flip for a favorite. In the end, Constantine (heads) defeated Watervliet (tails) two to one. That’s what this game will come down to — a play in one direction. Both teams may be a little deflated after losing week nine games (Watervliet losing a perfect season in the process). Last season, I picked against Constantine in the district round. Fail. Picked them to lose in the regional round. Fail. Come playoff time, something coach Shawn Griffith does makes Constantine play well. Very well. Gotta push Constantine ahead in this close game. The gift for both these teams if they win will be Schoolcraft. I’d be a fan of either winning, as the district game would be pretty good.

Division 7
Region 2, District 1, Game 2 (Saturday, 1:00 PM) — (at) Gobles 30, Springport 22: Gobles finds themselves back into the playoffs for the second straight year — and also a likely favorite to score a district title with the other two teams at 6-3 (never count out another Gobles / Pewamo-Westphalia game, though) in the other district game. Gobles needs to come out fast against Springport, though. Especially coming off a devastating loss in Saugatuck last week. Two sure touchdowns getting called back didn’t help. If Gobles is to win, the run attack needs to shine — and the penalties need to be limited. If you have just one of those work, you can’t win. Gobles pulls out a close one, though, either way.

Region 2, District 2, Game 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Lawton 48, Bridgman 10: Bridgman is back in the playoffs — for the first time this millennium, that is. The 6-3 Bees return against Southwestern Athletic Conference South Division champion Lawton. Lawton is well, tough. They run the ball well. Their defense may bend, but it doesn’t break. And their lone loss was to Hartford, a game they didn’t play particularly well in. One thing they have to clean up is discipline. Not saying they need to this week, but they need to do that to make a big playoff push. Lawton is a big favorite in a district that very well could field a regional champion. Don’t look ahead though, Lawton.

Region 2, District 2, Game 2 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — Decatur 20, (at) Hartford 14: OK, I hear you Hartford — why pick against the Indians? I think week seven at Decatur is a very good reason to pick the Raiders. The Indians only had 127 yards of total offense in the entire game. Most Hartford games — that’s a quarter of offense. This game will be determined Monday – Thursday on really how the Indians practiced. Last time, they didn’t practice well. Look what happened. I think this game, Hartford puts forth an aggressive effort, but falls just short. Hartford may be making its 18th playoff appearance, but haven’t won a game in the postseason since 2006. You may remember names like Chris Cook, Rory Short and Coty Marcoux — they were juniors then. I’m an Indian, through and through, though. Proud one.

Division 8
Region 3, District 2, Game 1 (Friday, 7:00 PM) — (at) Climax-Scotts 41, Saint Joseph Lake Michigan Catholic 14: This is just one game in a powerhouse district that will feature two unbeatens — Climax-Scotts and Mendon. And the most likely scenario features them meeting up once again. This game is going to feature a double wing offense (Climax-Scotts) against a single wing offense (LMC). The single wing is much tougher to prepare for, but Climax-Scotts is by far the better team. Lake Michigan Catholic has achieved its goals — a conference title and a playoff birth. But that’s all they get. The game is close until half and then, the Panthers pull away. That sets up the likely best district final game in the state.

Region 3, District 2, Game 2 (Saturday, 1:00 PM) — (at) Mendon 56, Colon 7: Did I just mention Mendon? Oh yeah, the defending division eight champions are back — and undefeated yet again. I guess ten state championship for Coach John Schwartz isn’t really enough. The problem for the Hornets all season has been some troubles within his team. It has resulted in suspensions of players. And in the last two games, it has shown. They had to hold off a pesky Buchanan team on the road, then needed OT to beat defending division seven runner-up Pewamo-Westphalia last week. The Hornets are battle tested, but following this weeks win, Climax-Scotts could loom and then afterwards, Fowler or Muskegon Catholic Central, two teams the Hornets are familiar with from last season. Road isn’t easy, Hornets.

As always, I hope this post will give you an honest, intellectual assessment into my thinking of the teams of the local area around Hartford! As always, leave a comment or send me an e-mail message by clicking the “Contact” link on the top of the page. I always enjoy comments, good or bad!

BIG SCHOOL TOP 10
1) Stevensville Lakeshore (9-0)
2) Dowagiac (9-0)
3) Paw Paw (9-0)
4) Hopkins (9-0)
5) (+1) Mattawan (8-1)
6) (-1) Portage Northern (7-2)
7) (+3) Buchanan (7-2)
8) (-1) Hastings (6-3)
9) (+2) Three Rivers (6-3) NEW TO POLL
10) (-1) Edwardsburg (6-3)
Honorable Mention: Otsego (6-3), Plainwell (6-3), Portage Central (6-3)

LITTLE SCHOOL TOP 10
1) Mendon (9-0)
2) Schoolcraft (9-0)
3) (+1) Climax-Scotts (9-0)
4) (+2) Lawton (8-1)
5) (-2) Watervliet (8-1)
6) (-1) Constantine (7-2)
7) (+1) Decatur (7-2)
8) (+1) Hartford (7-2)
9) (+1) Niles Brandywine (7-2)
10) (-3) Gobles (7-2)
Honorable Mention: Saint Joseph Lake Michigan Catholic (8-1), Colon (5-4), Saugatuck (5-4)