College Football is Back for another Weekend of Football Action....
These are the select games that Sports Corner has chosen.
# 15 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (1-0) at Kansas Jayhawks (0-1)- SAT Noon EDT
Georgia Tech goes to a down and out Jayhawks football team.
Pick: Georgia Tech 33-7
# 22 Georgia Bulldogs (1-0) at # 24 South Carolina Gamecocks (1-0)- SAT Noon EDT
The Bulldogs and Gamecocks square off in this early SEC East rivalry.
Pick: Georgia 24-13
Hawaii Rainbow Warriors (0-1) at Army Black Knights (1-0)- SAT Noon EDT
The Rainbow Warriors began the season with a loss to USC (Southern Cal). Now, the Rainbow Warriors have to cross five time zones to play Army, who squeaked by Eastern Michigan.
Pick: Army 31-10
South Florida Bulls (1-0) at Florida Gators (1-0)- SAT 12:20PM EDT
The Gators just got by Miami (OH) last week in the first game of the post-Tebow era in Florida. Now, the South Florida Bulls are traveling up north to the swamp. Could this be the upset of the week? Nah.
Pick: Florida 28-16
Idaho Vandals (1-0) at # 6 Nebraska Cornhuskers (1-0)- SAT 12:30PM EDT
The Huskers welcome the Vandals to Lincoln.
Pick: Nebraska 56-6
Iowa State Cyclones (1-0) at # 9 Iowa Hawkeyes (1-0)- SAT 3:30PM EDT
Kirk Ferentz will be on the sidelines at Iowa City for the next ten years after this, but the question is how long can the Hawkeyes keep quarterback Ricky Stanzi healthy at cross-state rivals Iowa State come to Kinnick Stadium?
Pick: Iowa 41-20
# 17 Florida State Seminoles (1-0) at # 10 Oklahoma Sooners (1-0)- SAT 3:30PM EDT
The Jimbo Fisher era began with a romp over I-AA team Samford last week, and what do the Seminoles do for an encore? The Seminoles travel to Norman to play the Sooners.
Pick: Florida State 31-27
# 13 Miami Hurricanes (1-0) at # 2 Ohio State Buckeyes (1-0)- SAT 3:30PM EDT- SPORTS CORNER CO-GAME OF THE WEEK
In a rematch of the 2002 BCS National Championship at the Fiesta Bowl, The Ohio State Buckeyes host the Miami Hurricanes at the Shoe. After this Hurricane leaves Columbus, the Buckeyes chances of winning a National Championship will go with it as Miami is hungry for revenge almost eight years since the Fiesta Bowl showdown as Miami comes to Columbus looking for both revenge and respect. Just watch out for flying Silver Bullets, Miami!
Pick: Miami 31-28
Colorado Buffaloes (1-0) at California Golden Bears (1-0)- SAT 3:30PM EDT
The Buffaloes are joining the Pac-10 next year, and will get a taste of Pac-10 play as they travel to Berkeley to play the Golden Bears of Cal.
Pick: Cal 24-17
Michigan Wolverines (1-0) at Notre Dame Fighting Irish (1-0)- SAT 3:30PM EDT- SPORTS CORNER CO-GAME OF THE WEEK
The Michigan Wolverines are looking to rebuild and redeem theirselves as they travel to South Bend in this perennial rivalry. Last week, Wolverines quarterback Denard Robinson ran all over UConn. This week, they want to go 2-0, as this is the only speed bump in their first five games this season. Notre Dame beat Purdue last week, and would love to be 2-0 in the Brian Kelly era in South Bend.
Pick: Notre Dame 27-21
University of Nevada-Las Vegas Rebels (0-1) at # 20 Utah Utes (1-0)- SAT 4PM EDT
UNLV, off a loss to Wisconsin visits Utah, fresh off a season-opening win over Pitt.
Pick: Utah 38-3
# 18 Penn State Nittany Lions (1-0) at # 1 Alabama Crimson Tide (1-0)- SAT 7:00PM EDT- SPORTS CORNER COLLEGE CO-GAME OF THE WEEK
This would make a great doubleheader: Miami-OSU and then Penn State-Alabama. This could be the earliest "Game of the Year", as the Nittany Lions visit Tuscaloosa to play the defending National Champs, Alabama. This might not be the only Big Ten team Bama plays, if # 1 and # 2 hold up throughout the year. Last week, Penn State started a true freshman at quarterback for the first time ever and beat Youngstown State 44-14. Alabama ain't no I-AA school. They're the # 1 team in the nation, and they will show that in front of a national crowd.
Pick: Alabama 38-14
Wyoming Cowboys (1-0) at # 5 Texas Longhorns (1-0)- SAT 7:00PM EDT
These Cowboys travel to Austin to play the Longhorns.
Pick: Texas 41-0
# 19 LSU Tigers (1-0) at Vanderbilt Commodores (0-1)- SAT 7:00PM EDT
The LSU Tigers travel to Music City to play Vandy in this SEC rivalry.
Pick: LSU 41-6
Toledo Rockets (0-1) at Ohio Bobcats (1-0)- SAT 7:00PM EDT
Pick: OU 27-7
Virginia Cavaliers (1-0) at Southern California (USC) Trojans (1-0)- SAT 10:30PM EDT
Pick: USC 21-17
# 25 Stanford Cardinal (1-0) at UCLA Bruins (0-1)- SAT 10:30PM EDT
Pick: Stanford 31-13
THE SMALLER CENTRAL OHIO SCHOOLS:
Capital Crusaders (0-0) at Baldwin-Wallace Yellowjackets (1-0)- SAT 6:30PM
Pick: Capital 30-20
Mount Union Purple Raiders (0-0) at Wisconsin-Oshkosh Titans (0-0)- SAT 1:00PM
The Purple Raiders are the Kings of D-III football, winning 10 National Championships over the last 16 years, while Oshkosh has only had six winning seasons in its 120 year history.
Pick: Mount Union 49-0
Northwood (Michigan) Timberwolves (0-1) at Ohio Dominican Panthers (0-0)- SAT 12:00PM
Pick: Ohio Dominican 34-0
Ohio Dominican Bishops (0-1) at Wittenberg Tigers (1-0)- SAT 7:00PM
The Tigers rolled over Olivet last week, and the Tigers are expected to take the North Coast Athletic Conference, as Ohio Dominican comes to Springfield.
Pick: Wittenberg 42-7
Earlham Quakers (0-1) at Denison Big Red (1-0)- SAT 2:00PM
Pick: Denison 28-12
Hiram Terriers (0-1) at Kenyon Lords (0-1)- SAT 1:00PM
Pick: Kenyon 37-8
Otterbein (1-0) is idle this week
This blog is a spin-off of A Man and His Awards, and hosts weekly football predictions as well as predictions for the NCAA Division I Basketball Tournament.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Central Ohio High School Football: Week 3
High School Football: Week 3
This is the third week of the 2010 Ohio High School Football season, and the final week of non-league play for most of the teams, as conference play is just around the corner.
"The Battle of Hard Road"- Worthington Kilbourne Wolves (1-1) at Dublin Scioto Irish (1-1)
The 16th Battle of Hard Road takes place as rivals Worthington Kilbourne and Dublin Scioto square off. The winner of this game, will get...you guessed it, a piece of Hard Road.
Pick: Worthington Kilbourne
Licking Valley Panthers (0-2) at Bishop Ready Silver Knights (2-0)
The Panthers after losses to New Albany and Zanesville are a surprising 0-2, and that is probably a bad idea to go to a very tough Ready team, fresh off a road win in Pennsylvania. Look for the Silver Knights to dominate this game on both sides of the ball.
Pick: Ready
Bexley Lions (2-0) at Bishop Hartley Hawks (2-0)- SPORTS CORNER GAME OF THE WEEK
These neighborhood rivals square off again in what will be an exciting match-up between 2-0 teams, considering the Lions upset the Hawks a couple years back. However, for Bexley to win, they have to be able to contain Hartley's explosive running back, Noah Key.
Pick: Hartley
Marion-Franklin Red Devils (2-0) at Ashland Arrows (2-0)
The Red Hot Marion-Franklin Red Devils travel up I-71 to Ashland, in a war of the undefeated against the Arrows of Ashland, which could prove to be a real big test for Marion-Franklin's defense, which shut down Brookhaven and Dublin Scioto in the first two weeks of the young season. The Arrows shot down Willard and Dover in their first two games, and would love to shoot the Red Devils down.
Pick: Ashland
Cleveland St. Ignatius Wildcats (1-1) at Lancaster Golden Gales (2-0)
The Golden Gales picked a tough load in perennial D-1, Region 1 Catholic school powerhouse St. Ignatius, which should be the storm before the calm of OCC Ohio play for these Gales.
Pick: St. Ignatius
Reynoldsburg Raiders (1-1) at Logan Chieftains (0-2)
Logan is still looking for its first win after losses to rival Lancaster, and to Pickerington North. Reynoldsburg is on a roll after spanking Toledo Scott last week, and would like to continue that roll as Grove City is next on the docket for the Raiders.
Pick: Reynoldsburg
Columbus Academy Vikings (1-1) at Centerburg Trojans (1-1)
The Academy Vikings go to visit Centerburg, and a Trojan team looking to go up. Academy's running game may be too much for these Trojans.
Pick: Columbus Academy
Grandview Heights Bobcats (1-1) at Whitehall Yearling Rams (1-1)
About a few years back, both teams made playoff runs of their own, but in the past few years, both of these small suburban teams have been struggling to just win.
Pick: a close one, but in a squeaker, Whitehall
Groveport Madison Cruisers (2-0) at Dublin Jerome Celtics (1-1)
The unbeaten Cruisers cruise up to Union County to play Dublin Jerome, in what should be an interesting game on Friday night.
Pick: Groveport
Beechcroft Cougars (1-1) at St. Charles Cardinals (2-0)
Last week, Beechcroft's spread offense was decimated as Bishop Watterson came up with four interceptions. The Cougars stay in the Central Catholic League, with a trip to Bexley to play St. Charles, who knocked off Eastmoor and Canal Winchester, and is on a roll so far this year.
Pick: St. Charles
Mifflin Punchers (2-0) at Watkins Memorial Warriors (2-0)
Both teams are a surprising 2-0. Watkins, with quarterback Devonte Marable is trying to make some noise on the field before heading into a competitive battle in the OCC Capital (with Big Walnut, Delaware Hayes, and New Albany leading that way). Mifflin is 2-0 under new head coach Gregg Miller, want to finish non-league play undefeated before opening up City League play against East next week. This is a surprising battle of the undefeateds this week, indeed.
Pick: a close choice, but Watkins Memorial
Pickerington North Panthers (1-1) at Northland Vikings (2-0)
Northland, who is undefeated after an upset win over Eastmoor and a blowout at Central Crossing, has another big test in Pickerington North, fresh off their first playoff appearance last year. Northland's defensive line will have their work cut out for them, trying to contain that big offensive line of Pickerington North.
Pick: Pickerington North
New Albany Eagles (2-0) at St. Francis DeSales Stallions (2-0)- SPORTS CORNER GAME OF THE WEEK
Another battle of the unbeatens will occur this Friday as unbeaten New Albany visits unbeaten DeSales in this newfound rivalry. These Eagles are trying to soar over the Stallions, but these Stallions, steep in tradition will try to stampede to the goal line of victory first.
Pick: DeSales
Big Walnut Golden Eagles (2-0) at Olentangy Braves (2-0)
Big Walnut squares off against Olentangy in this Delaware County rivalry. The Braves, fresh off their first losing season in almost two decades, are on a roll and a win over the rival Golden Eagles will solidify that after wins over Olentangy Orange and Delaware Hayes.
Pick: Olentangy
Columbus West Cowboys (2-0) at Hamilton Township Rangers (1-1)
Cowboys and Rangers, the battle that Westerns are made of. However, that will be a battle on the far South side of Columbus, as unbeated West travels to play Hamilton Township, who is looking to remain perfect at home.
Pick: Hamilton Township
Brookhaven Bearcats (0-2) at Dublin Coffman Shamrocks (1-1)
The Shamrocks were outplayed by Westerville South's running game at the Herbstreit classic on Sunday, and were unable to stop Jayshan Jackson. They'll have no problem stopping Brookhaven, who has only scored five points through two games.
Pick: Dublin Coffman
Columbus South Bulldogs (1-1) at Centennial Stars (0-2)- SPORTS CORNER UNDERDOG GAME OF THE WEEK
I don't remember the last time Centennial won a football game. It was during the Bush administration, however (George W.). In over 30 years of school history, the Stars have only had two winning seasons, one of the most inept football programs in Central Ohio, while South hasn't had a winning season in 16 years. Something has gotta give up on Bethel Road on Friday night, and the hungry Stars are trying to shoot up to the sky for a "W".
Pick: Centennial
Canal Winchester Indians (1-1) at Westerville Central Warhawks (0-2)- SPORTS CORNER UPSET PICK OF THE WEEK
Westerville Central isn't the only surprising 0-2 team in Central Ohio (just ask Brookhaven, Grove City, Licking Valley, and idle Eastmoor Academy). The Warhawks host a team that they beat last year in Canal Winchester, fresh off a win last week against Grove City.
Pick: Westerville Central
Grove City Greyhounds (0-2) at Westerville South Wildcats (1-1)
Grove City is still looking for their first win since their triumphant return to the field. Westerville South is fresh off the high from their win over Dublin Coffman in the Horseshoe at the Herbstreit Classic. Can the Wildcats keep their running game going after a short week of practice? I think that South will have just enough muster to keep the Greyhounds at bay.
Pick: Westerville South
Olentangy Liberty Patriots (1-1) at Delaware Hayes Pacers (1-1)
The Patriots and Pacers square off in one of many Delaware County rivalries, as the Patriots are fresh off a convincing win over Olentangy Orange, and Hayes off a blowout loss to the Olentangy Braves.
Pick: Olentangy Liberty
London Red Raiders (1-1) at West Jefferson Roughriders (2-0)
London, fresh off a comeback win over Hamilton Township, looks to win their second straight, as they travel down Route 40 to play the red hot Roughriders in this Madison County rivalry.
Pick: West Jefferson
Toledo St. Francis DeSales Knights (1-1) at Hilliard Davidson Wildcats (2-0)
The Knights play the red hot Wildcats, who are on fire offensively, with wins over Grove City and Brookhaven.
Pick: Hilliard Davidson
Briggs Bruins (2-0) at Columbus East Tigers (0-2)
Briggs could be one of the most deceiving 3-0 teams in Central Ohio, already with wins over Whetstone and Franklin Heights, as they travel to Harley Field to play an East team that surrendered eight turnovers to Walnut Ridge last Friday in a 51-0 blowout. Briggs is looking to beat the Tigers in this City League rivalry, as East has won the last couple of meetings between the two, and the Tigers would like to pull off an upset, as their next two games are against unbeatens Mifflin and Northland.
Pick: Briggs
and
Saturday- "The Green Bowl"
Newark Catholic Green Wave (2-0) at Fisher Catholic Irish (0-2) at Lancaster H.S. Fulton Field
These two Division VI Catholic powers meet on Saturday night down in Fulton Field in Lancaster as Newark Catholic looks to beat their rivals, Fisher Catholic once again.
Pick: Newark Catholic
and
Pickerington Central (2-0) and Eastmoor Academy (0-2) have byes this week; Central on their own choosing (after wins against two out-of-state schools); Eastmoor was originally slated to play Toledo Libbey on Friday, but a failed levy in May forced the Toledo City School district to close Libbey at the end of last school year.
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SPORTS CORNER TOP 10 (Week 3):
In our first top 10, these are whom DJBC Sports Corner picks as the ten best football teams in the area going into the third week.
1) Hilliard Davidson Wildcats (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Central; Division I, Region 3
2) Pickerington Central Tigers (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Ohio; Division I, Region 3
3) St. Francis DeSales Stallions (2-0)- Central Catholic League Silver; Division III, Region 10
4) Bishop Hartley Hawks (2-0)- Central Catholic League Gold; Division IV, Region 15
5) Bishop Watterson Eagles (2-0)- Central Catholic League Silver; Division III, Region 10
6) Marion-Franklin Red Devils (2-0)- City League South; Division II, Region 7
7) Groveport-Madison Cruisers (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Ohio; Division I, Region 3
8) Olentangy Braves (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Cardinal; Division II, Region 7
9) Watkins Memorial Warriors (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Capital; Division II, Region 7
T-10) West Jefferson Roughriders (2-0)- Mid State League Cardinal; Division V, Region 20
T-10) Walnut Ridge Scots (2-0)- City League South; Division II, Region 7
T-10) Big Walnut Golden Eagles (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Capital; Division II, Region 7
HONORABLE MENTION:
Mifflin Punchers (2-0)- City League North; Division II, Region 7
Bexley Lions (2-0)- Mid State League Ohio; Division III, Region 10
St. Charles Cardinals (2-0)- Central Catholic League Silver; Division II, Region 7
Dublin Coffman Shamrocks (1-1)- Ohio Capital Conference Central; Division I, Region 3
Westerville South Wildcats (1-1)- Ohio Capital Conference Cardinal; Division I, Region 3
Briggs Bruins (2-0)- City League South; Division II, Region 7
New Albany Eagles (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Capital; Division II, Region 7
Upper Arlington Golden Bears (1-1)- Ohio Capital Conference Central; Division I, Region 3
BEST TEAM THAT IS/TEAM THAT I'M SURPRISED TO SEE (0-2):
1) Eastmoor Academy Warriors (0-2)- idle; next game is vs. West on Sept. 17; lost in Overtime to Northland 25-19 in Week 1, lost to St. Charles 20-6 in Week 2
2) Brookhaven Bearcats (0-2)- at Dublin Coffman; lost to Marion-Franklin 27-2 in Week 1, lost to Hilliard Davidson 37-3 in Week 2
3) Westerville Central Warhawks (0-2)- vs. Canal Winchester; lost to Big Walnut 28-26 in Week 1, lost to New Albany 33-6 in Week 2
4) Grove City Greyhounds (0-2)- at Westerville South; lost to Hilliard Davidson 28-21 in Week 1, lost to Canal Winchester 38-14 in Week 2
5) Whetstone Braves (0-2)- at Dayton Dunbar on Saturday- lost in Overtime to Briggs 27-21 in Week 1, lost to Thomas Worthington 28-6 in Week 2
MOST DECEIVING (2-0) TEAM:
1) Briggs Bruins (2-0)- easy game against East this week, then plays another easy game against Africentric, but closes out the season with Marion-Franklin, Walnut Ridge, and West.
2) St. Charles Cardinals (2-0)- tough second-half of their nine-game schedule, which closes with DeSales, Zanesville, Watterson, and Jonathan Alder; still in the shadow of DeSales and Watterson in the Central Catholic League Silver
3) Watkins Memorial Warriors (2-0)- Has New Albany, Big Walnut, and Delaware Hayes on their OCC Capital schedule, plus Olentangy Orange and Franklin Heights
4) Hilliard Darby Panthers (2-0)- Has the misfortune of playing Hilliard Davidson, Upper Arlington, Dublin Coffman, Worthington Kilbourne, and a potentially dangerous Thomas Worthington team in the OCC Central
5) Mifflin Punchers (2-0)- goes to Pataskala to play Watkins Memorial this week; can they beat Northland, Brookhaven, and/or Beechcroft?
This is the third week of the 2010 Ohio High School Football season, and the final week of non-league play for most of the teams, as conference play is just around the corner.
"The Battle of Hard Road"- Worthington Kilbourne Wolves (1-1) at Dublin Scioto Irish (1-1)
The 16th Battle of Hard Road takes place as rivals Worthington Kilbourne and Dublin Scioto square off. The winner of this game, will get...you guessed it, a piece of Hard Road.
Pick: Worthington Kilbourne
Licking Valley Panthers (0-2) at Bishop Ready Silver Knights (2-0)
The Panthers after losses to New Albany and Zanesville are a surprising 0-2, and that is probably a bad idea to go to a very tough Ready team, fresh off a road win in Pennsylvania. Look for the Silver Knights to dominate this game on both sides of the ball.
Pick: Ready
Bexley Lions (2-0) at Bishop Hartley Hawks (2-0)- SPORTS CORNER GAME OF THE WEEK
These neighborhood rivals square off again in what will be an exciting match-up between 2-0 teams, considering the Lions upset the Hawks a couple years back. However, for Bexley to win, they have to be able to contain Hartley's explosive running back, Noah Key.
Pick: Hartley
Marion-Franklin Red Devils (2-0) at Ashland Arrows (2-0)
The Red Hot Marion-Franklin Red Devils travel up I-71 to Ashland, in a war of the undefeated against the Arrows of Ashland, which could prove to be a real big test for Marion-Franklin's defense, which shut down Brookhaven and Dublin Scioto in the first two weeks of the young season. The Arrows shot down Willard and Dover in their first two games, and would love to shoot the Red Devils down.
Pick: Ashland
Cleveland St. Ignatius Wildcats (1-1) at Lancaster Golden Gales (2-0)
The Golden Gales picked a tough load in perennial D-1, Region 1 Catholic school powerhouse St. Ignatius, which should be the storm before the calm of OCC Ohio play for these Gales.
Pick: St. Ignatius
Reynoldsburg Raiders (1-1) at Logan Chieftains (0-2)
Logan is still looking for its first win after losses to rival Lancaster, and to Pickerington North. Reynoldsburg is on a roll after spanking Toledo Scott last week, and would like to continue that roll as Grove City is next on the docket for the Raiders.
Pick: Reynoldsburg
Columbus Academy Vikings (1-1) at Centerburg Trojans (1-1)
The Academy Vikings go to visit Centerburg, and a Trojan team looking to go up. Academy's running game may be too much for these Trojans.
Pick: Columbus Academy
Grandview Heights Bobcats (1-1) at Whitehall Yearling Rams (1-1)
About a few years back, both teams made playoff runs of their own, but in the past few years, both of these small suburban teams have been struggling to just win.
Pick: a close one, but in a squeaker, Whitehall
Groveport Madison Cruisers (2-0) at Dublin Jerome Celtics (1-1)
The unbeaten Cruisers cruise up to Union County to play Dublin Jerome, in what should be an interesting game on Friday night.
Pick: Groveport
Beechcroft Cougars (1-1) at St. Charles Cardinals (2-0)
Last week, Beechcroft's spread offense was decimated as Bishop Watterson came up with four interceptions. The Cougars stay in the Central Catholic League, with a trip to Bexley to play St. Charles, who knocked off Eastmoor and Canal Winchester, and is on a roll so far this year.
Pick: St. Charles
Mifflin Punchers (2-0) at Watkins Memorial Warriors (2-0)
Both teams are a surprising 2-0. Watkins, with quarterback Devonte Marable is trying to make some noise on the field before heading into a competitive battle in the OCC Capital (with Big Walnut, Delaware Hayes, and New Albany leading that way). Mifflin is 2-0 under new head coach Gregg Miller, want to finish non-league play undefeated before opening up City League play against East next week. This is a surprising battle of the undefeateds this week, indeed.
Pick: a close choice, but Watkins Memorial
Pickerington North Panthers (1-1) at Northland Vikings (2-0)
Northland, who is undefeated after an upset win over Eastmoor and a blowout at Central Crossing, has another big test in Pickerington North, fresh off their first playoff appearance last year. Northland's defensive line will have their work cut out for them, trying to contain that big offensive line of Pickerington North.
Pick: Pickerington North
New Albany Eagles (2-0) at St. Francis DeSales Stallions (2-0)- SPORTS CORNER GAME OF THE WEEK
Another battle of the unbeatens will occur this Friday as unbeaten New Albany visits unbeaten DeSales in this newfound rivalry. These Eagles are trying to soar over the Stallions, but these Stallions, steep in tradition will try to stampede to the goal line of victory first.
Pick: DeSales
Big Walnut Golden Eagles (2-0) at Olentangy Braves (2-0)
Big Walnut squares off against Olentangy in this Delaware County rivalry. The Braves, fresh off their first losing season in almost two decades, are on a roll and a win over the rival Golden Eagles will solidify that after wins over Olentangy Orange and Delaware Hayes.
Pick: Olentangy
Columbus West Cowboys (2-0) at Hamilton Township Rangers (1-1)
Cowboys and Rangers, the battle that Westerns are made of. However, that will be a battle on the far South side of Columbus, as unbeated West travels to play Hamilton Township, who is looking to remain perfect at home.
Pick: Hamilton Township
Brookhaven Bearcats (0-2) at Dublin Coffman Shamrocks (1-1)
The Shamrocks were outplayed by Westerville South's running game at the Herbstreit classic on Sunday, and were unable to stop Jayshan Jackson. They'll have no problem stopping Brookhaven, who has only scored five points through two games.
Pick: Dublin Coffman
Columbus South Bulldogs (1-1) at Centennial Stars (0-2)- SPORTS CORNER UNDERDOG GAME OF THE WEEK
I don't remember the last time Centennial won a football game. It was during the Bush administration, however (George W.). In over 30 years of school history, the Stars have only had two winning seasons, one of the most inept football programs in Central Ohio, while South hasn't had a winning season in 16 years. Something has gotta give up on Bethel Road on Friday night, and the hungry Stars are trying to shoot up to the sky for a "W".
Pick: Centennial
Canal Winchester Indians (1-1) at Westerville Central Warhawks (0-2)- SPORTS CORNER UPSET PICK OF THE WEEK
Westerville Central isn't the only surprising 0-2 team in Central Ohio (just ask Brookhaven, Grove City, Licking Valley, and idle Eastmoor Academy). The Warhawks host a team that they beat last year in Canal Winchester, fresh off a win last week against Grove City.
Pick: Westerville Central
Grove City Greyhounds (0-2) at Westerville South Wildcats (1-1)
Grove City is still looking for their first win since their triumphant return to the field. Westerville South is fresh off the high from their win over Dublin Coffman in the Horseshoe at the Herbstreit Classic. Can the Wildcats keep their running game going after a short week of practice? I think that South will have just enough muster to keep the Greyhounds at bay.
Pick: Westerville South
Olentangy Liberty Patriots (1-1) at Delaware Hayes Pacers (1-1)
The Patriots and Pacers square off in one of many Delaware County rivalries, as the Patriots are fresh off a convincing win over Olentangy Orange, and Hayes off a blowout loss to the Olentangy Braves.
Pick: Olentangy Liberty
London Red Raiders (1-1) at West Jefferson Roughriders (2-0)
London, fresh off a comeback win over Hamilton Township, looks to win their second straight, as they travel down Route 40 to play the red hot Roughriders in this Madison County rivalry.
Pick: West Jefferson
Toledo St. Francis DeSales Knights (1-1) at Hilliard Davidson Wildcats (2-0)
The Knights play the red hot Wildcats, who are on fire offensively, with wins over Grove City and Brookhaven.
Pick: Hilliard Davidson
Briggs Bruins (2-0) at Columbus East Tigers (0-2)
Briggs could be one of the most deceiving 3-0 teams in Central Ohio, already with wins over Whetstone and Franklin Heights, as they travel to Harley Field to play an East team that surrendered eight turnovers to Walnut Ridge last Friday in a 51-0 blowout. Briggs is looking to beat the Tigers in this City League rivalry, as East has won the last couple of meetings between the two, and the Tigers would like to pull off an upset, as their next two games are against unbeatens Mifflin and Northland.
Pick: Briggs
and
Saturday- "The Green Bowl"
Newark Catholic Green Wave (2-0) at Fisher Catholic Irish (0-2) at Lancaster H.S. Fulton Field
These two Division VI Catholic powers meet on Saturday night down in Fulton Field in Lancaster as Newark Catholic looks to beat their rivals, Fisher Catholic once again.
Pick: Newark Catholic
and
Pickerington Central (2-0) and Eastmoor Academy (0-2) have byes this week; Central on their own choosing (after wins against two out-of-state schools); Eastmoor was originally slated to play Toledo Libbey on Friday, but a failed levy in May forced the Toledo City School district to close Libbey at the end of last school year.
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SPORTS CORNER TOP 10 (Week 3):
In our first top 10, these are whom DJBC Sports Corner picks as the ten best football teams in the area going into the third week.
1) Hilliard Davidson Wildcats (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Central; Division I, Region 3
2) Pickerington Central Tigers (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Ohio; Division I, Region 3
3) St. Francis DeSales Stallions (2-0)- Central Catholic League Silver; Division III, Region 10
4) Bishop Hartley Hawks (2-0)- Central Catholic League Gold; Division IV, Region 15
5) Bishop Watterson Eagles (2-0)- Central Catholic League Silver; Division III, Region 10
6) Marion-Franklin Red Devils (2-0)- City League South; Division II, Region 7
7) Groveport-Madison Cruisers (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Ohio; Division I, Region 3
8) Olentangy Braves (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Cardinal; Division II, Region 7
9) Watkins Memorial Warriors (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Capital; Division II, Region 7
T-10) West Jefferson Roughriders (2-0)- Mid State League Cardinal; Division V, Region 20
T-10) Walnut Ridge Scots (2-0)- City League South; Division II, Region 7
T-10) Big Walnut Golden Eagles (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Capital; Division II, Region 7
HONORABLE MENTION:
Mifflin Punchers (2-0)- City League North; Division II, Region 7
Bexley Lions (2-0)- Mid State League Ohio; Division III, Region 10
St. Charles Cardinals (2-0)- Central Catholic League Silver; Division II, Region 7
Dublin Coffman Shamrocks (1-1)- Ohio Capital Conference Central; Division I, Region 3
Westerville South Wildcats (1-1)- Ohio Capital Conference Cardinal; Division I, Region 3
Briggs Bruins (2-0)- City League South; Division II, Region 7
New Albany Eagles (2-0)- Ohio Capital Conference Capital; Division II, Region 7
Upper Arlington Golden Bears (1-1)- Ohio Capital Conference Central; Division I, Region 3
BEST TEAM THAT IS/TEAM THAT I'M SURPRISED TO SEE (0-2):
1) Eastmoor Academy Warriors (0-2)- idle; next game is vs. West on Sept. 17; lost in Overtime to Northland 25-19 in Week 1, lost to St. Charles 20-6 in Week 2
2) Brookhaven Bearcats (0-2)- at Dublin Coffman; lost to Marion-Franklin 27-2 in Week 1, lost to Hilliard Davidson 37-3 in Week 2
3) Westerville Central Warhawks (0-2)- vs. Canal Winchester; lost to Big Walnut 28-26 in Week 1, lost to New Albany 33-6 in Week 2
4) Grove City Greyhounds (0-2)- at Westerville South; lost to Hilliard Davidson 28-21 in Week 1, lost to Canal Winchester 38-14 in Week 2
5) Whetstone Braves (0-2)- at Dayton Dunbar on Saturday- lost in Overtime to Briggs 27-21 in Week 1, lost to Thomas Worthington 28-6 in Week 2
MOST DECEIVING (2-0) TEAM:
1) Briggs Bruins (2-0)- easy game against East this week, then plays another easy game against Africentric, but closes out the season with Marion-Franklin, Walnut Ridge, and West.
2) St. Charles Cardinals (2-0)- tough second-half of their nine-game schedule, which closes with DeSales, Zanesville, Watterson, and Jonathan Alder; still in the shadow of DeSales and Watterson in the Central Catholic League Silver
3) Watkins Memorial Warriors (2-0)- Has New Albany, Big Walnut, and Delaware Hayes on their OCC Capital schedule, plus Olentangy Orange and Franklin Heights
4) Hilliard Darby Panthers (2-0)- Has the misfortune of playing Hilliard Davidson, Upper Arlington, Dublin Coffman, Worthington Kilbourne, and a potentially dangerous Thomas Worthington team in the OCC Central
5) Mifflin Punchers (2-0)- goes to Pataskala to play Watkins Memorial this week; can they beat Northland, Brookhaven, and/or Beechcroft?
The NFL Season- 2010, Week 1 Predix
As mentioned, the NFL season will begin on Thursday night as the defending Super Bowl champions, the New Orleans Saints host the Minnesota Vikings.
KICKOFF GAME:
Minnesota Vikings (0-0) at New Orleans Saints (0-0)- The Superdome- New Orleans, Thursday @ 8:30PM EDT, NBC
This is a rematch of last year's thrilling NFC title game, and the Saints will be ready to defend their title in front of the Home Crowd. New Orleans 28-10
SUNDAY AFTERNOON GAMES:
Cleveland Browns (0-0) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-0)- Raymond James Stadium- Tampa Bay, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
The Holmgren Era in Cleveland will either begin with a bang, thud, or whimper. I think it will be a bang, considering the Browns set sail in sunny Tampa to play the lowly Bucs. Cleveland 27-7
Miami Dolphins (0-0) at Buffalo Bills (0-0)- Ralph Wilson Stadium- Buffalo, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
The Dolphins have too many weapons on offense, including the Wildcat, for the Bills to handle. Miami 37-7
Cincinnati Bengals (0-0) at New England Patriots (0-0)- Gillette Stadium- Foxboro, Mass., Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
Ochocinco y Ocho Uno make their grand debut together in good old Beantown. However, the Patriots will be red hot and ready, with Tom Brady under center, and Brady will have a field day finding his favorite targets. New England 34-17
Indianapolis Colts (0-0) at Houston Texans (0-0)- Reliant Stadium- Houston, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
The Texans are an abysmal 1-15 against the Colts, who have had eight straight seasons of ten wins or more, looking to make it nine straight. Indianapolis 31-20
Denver Broncos (0-0) at Jacksonville Jaguars (0-0)- Alltel Stadium- Jacksonville, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
This is a make or break season for both teams. Tim Tebow returns to the state that made him a legend, albeit on the sidelines as Kyle Orton is still the Broncos' starting quarterback. Will it be a long trip home for Tim Tebow and his new team? Denver 21-14
Atlanta Falcons (0-0) at Pittsburgh Steelers (0-0)- Heinz Field- Pittsburgh, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, Fox
The first game of the Big Ben-less era for Pittsburgh begins as they host a Falcons team, off a pair of back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in their franchise's history, and the Falcons are soaring for more, and they might just get the job done in Steel City. Atlanta 28-21
Oakland Raiders (0-0) at Tennessee Titans (0-0)- LP Field- Nashville, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
This is a make-or-break season for Oakland, who brought back coach Tom Cable for round three, two rounds more than people think he deserved. Tennessee 31-21
Carolina Panthers (0-0) at New York Giants (0-0)- The NEW Giants Stadium- East Rutherford, NJ, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, Fox
The New York Giants christen their new home against a Carolina team that needs to find itself, especially at the quarterback position, now that Jake Delhomme is the offensive showrunner for the Browns. Giants 20-17
Detroit Lions (0-0) at Chicago Bears (0-0)- Soldier Field- Chicago, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, Fox
The Lions, hungry to get back to their winning ways of the 1950s, goes down the I-80/90 turnpike. Chicago is still winning this game. Chicago 23-10
Arizona Cardinals (0-0) at St. Louis Rams (0-0)- Edward Jones Dome- St. Louis, Sunday @ 4:15PM EDT, Fox
And so it begins...the Sam Bradford era begins in the Arch City. Can Bradford bring back "the Greatest Show on Turf"? He doesn't have the supporting cast yet, that Arizona has with Larry Fitzgerald, but the retirement of Kurt Warner may dampen Arizona's spirit later down the road. Arizona 20-17 (OT)
Green Bay Packers (0-0) at Philadelphia Eagles (0-0)- Lincoln Financial Field- Philadelphia, Sunday @ 4:15PM EDT, Fox
For the first time in 12 years, Donovan McNabb is not on the sidelines in the city of Brotherly Love. I am not solid on Kevin Kolb as a starting quarterback. Neither will the Packers. Green Bay 35-13
San Francisco 49ers (0-0) at Seattle Seahawks (0-0)- Qwest Field- Seattle, Sunday @ 4:15PM EDT, Fox
Pete Carroll's third tour of head coaching duty in the NFL commences in Seattle. The resurging 49ers want to bring back the winning ways that they had during the Joe Montana/Steve Young era. San Francisco 30-8
SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL:
Washington Redskins (0-0) at Dallas Cowboys (0-0)- Cowboys Stadium- Arlington, Tex., Sunday @ 8:20PM EDT, NBC
The Mike Shanahan era in Washington begins with the Redskins visiting their rivals, the Cowboys, who are on a mission to be the last NFL team standing on their home turf, come February. Look for the home team to be ready. Dallas 34-20
MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL DOUBLEHEADER:
Baltimore Ravens (0-0) at New York Jets (0-0)- The New Giants Stadium- East Rutherford, NJ, Monday @ 7:00PM EDT, ESPN
The 41st season of Monday Night Football begins at the new Giants Stadium as the J-E-T-S, Jets, fresh off a playoff run last year, and their own show (Hard Knocks) during training camp, as they christen Giants stadium against Head Coach Rex Ryan's former team, the Ravens. Expect this to be a defensive battle, tooth and nail. J-E-T-S, Jets 17-10
San Diego Chargers (0-0) at Kansas City Chiefs (0-0)- Arrowhead Stadium- Kansas City, Monday @ 10:15PM EDT, ESPN
The San Diego Super Chargers play the Chiefs (not to be confused with New England 2.0, because the Chiefs nabbed talent from the Patriots- Offensive Coordinator Charlie Weis, Quarterback Matt Cassel, Linebacker Mike Vrabel), as both teams close out the first week of the 2010 NFL season. The Chargers offense will be too much for the Chiefs to handle. San Diego 31-13
KICKOFF GAME:
Minnesota Vikings (0-0) at New Orleans Saints (0-0)- The Superdome- New Orleans, Thursday @ 8:30PM EDT, NBC
This is a rematch of last year's thrilling NFC title game, and the Saints will be ready to defend their title in front of the Home Crowd. New Orleans 28-10
SUNDAY AFTERNOON GAMES:
Cleveland Browns (0-0) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-0)- Raymond James Stadium- Tampa Bay, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
The Holmgren Era in Cleveland will either begin with a bang, thud, or whimper. I think it will be a bang, considering the Browns set sail in sunny Tampa to play the lowly Bucs. Cleveland 27-7
Miami Dolphins (0-0) at Buffalo Bills (0-0)- Ralph Wilson Stadium- Buffalo, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
The Dolphins have too many weapons on offense, including the Wildcat, for the Bills to handle. Miami 37-7
Cincinnati Bengals (0-0) at New England Patriots (0-0)- Gillette Stadium- Foxboro, Mass., Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
Ochocinco y Ocho Uno make their grand debut together in good old Beantown. However, the Patriots will be red hot and ready, with Tom Brady under center, and Brady will have a field day finding his favorite targets. New England 34-17
Indianapolis Colts (0-0) at Houston Texans (0-0)- Reliant Stadium- Houston, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
The Texans are an abysmal 1-15 against the Colts, who have had eight straight seasons of ten wins or more, looking to make it nine straight. Indianapolis 31-20
Denver Broncos (0-0) at Jacksonville Jaguars (0-0)- Alltel Stadium- Jacksonville, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
This is a make or break season for both teams. Tim Tebow returns to the state that made him a legend, albeit on the sidelines as Kyle Orton is still the Broncos' starting quarterback. Will it be a long trip home for Tim Tebow and his new team? Denver 21-14
Atlanta Falcons (0-0) at Pittsburgh Steelers (0-0)- Heinz Field- Pittsburgh, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, Fox
The first game of the Big Ben-less era for Pittsburgh begins as they host a Falcons team, off a pair of back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in their franchise's history, and the Falcons are soaring for more, and they might just get the job done in Steel City. Atlanta 28-21
Oakland Raiders (0-0) at Tennessee Titans (0-0)- LP Field- Nashville, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, CBS
This is a make-or-break season for Oakland, who brought back coach Tom Cable for round three, two rounds more than people think he deserved. Tennessee 31-21
Carolina Panthers (0-0) at New York Giants (0-0)- The NEW Giants Stadium- East Rutherford, NJ, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, Fox
The New York Giants christen their new home against a Carolina team that needs to find itself, especially at the quarterback position, now that Jake Delhomme is the offensive showrunner for the Browns. Giants 20-17
Detroit Lions (0-0) at Chicago Bears (0-0)- Soldier Field- Chicago, Sunday @ 1PM EDT, Fox
The Lions, hungry to get back to their winning ways of the 1950s, goes down the I-80/90 turnpike. Chicago is still winning this game. Chicago 23-10
Arizona Cardinals (0-0) at St. Louis Rams (0-0)- Edward Jones Dome- St. Louis, Sunday @ 4:15PM EDT, Fox
And so it begins...the Sam Bradford era begins in the Arch City. Can Bradford bring back "the Greatest Show on Turf"? He doesn't have the supporting cast yet, that Arizona has with Larry Fitzgerald, but the retirement of Kurt Warner may dampen Arizona's spirit later down the road. Arizona 20-17 (OT)
Green Bay Packers (0-0) at Philadelphia Eagles (0-0)- Lincoln Financial Field- Philadelphia, Sunday @ 4:15PM EDT, Fox
For the first time in 12 years, Donovan McNabb is not on the sidelines in the city of Brotherly Love. I am not solid on Kevin Kolb as a starting quarterback. Neither will the Packers. Green Bay 35-13
San Francisco 49ers (0-0) at Seattle Seahawks (0-0)- Qwest Field- Seattle, Sunday @ 4:15PM EDT, Fox
Pete Carroll's third tour of head coaching duty in the NFL commences in Seattle. The resurging 49ers want to bring back the winning ways that they had during the Joe Montana/Steve Young era. San Francisco 30-8
SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL:
Washington Redskins (0-0) at Dallas Cowboys (0-0)- Cowboys Stadium- Arlington, Tex., Sunday @ 8:20PM EDT, NBC
The Mike Shanahan era in Washington begins with the Redskins visiting their rivals, the Cowboys, who are on a mission to be the last NFL team standing on their home turf, come February. Look for the home team to be ready. Dallas 34-20
MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL DOUBLEHEADER:
Baltimore Ravens (0-0) at New York Jets (0-0)- The New Giants Stadium- East Rutherford, NJ, Monday @ 7:00PM EDT, ESPN
The 41st season of Monday Night Football begins at the new Giants Stadium as the J-E-T-S, Jets, fresh off a playoff run last year, and their own show (Hard Knocks) during training camp, as they christen Giants stadium against Head Coach Rex Ryan's former team, the Ravens. Expect this to be a defensive battle, tooth and nail. J-E-T-S, Jets 17-10
San Diego Chargers (0-0) at Kansas City Chiefs (0-0)- Arrowhead Stadium- Kansas City, Monday @ 10:15PM EDT, ESPN
The San Diego Super Chargers play the Chiefs (not to be confused with New England 2.0, because the Chiefs nabbed talent from the Patriots- Offensive Coordinator Charlie Weis, Quarterback Matt Cassel, Linebacker Mike Vrabel), as both teams close out the first week of the 2010 NFL season. The Chargers offense will be too much for the Chiefs to handle. San Diego 31-13
The Return of the NFL: 2010
The NFL is Back with a vengeance this Thursday night, at the defending Super Bowl champs, the New Orleans Saints host the Minnesota Vikings in a rematch of last year's thrilling NFC Championship game. It should be a fun Thursday night full of action, and a lot of scoring.
Here is my predictions on how all 32 teams will fare:
AFC:
NORTH:
1) Baltimore Ravens (11-5)- The original Cleveland Browns will continue to dominate this division
2) Cincinnati Bengals (9-7)- The Bengals have a tougher schedule than last year, playing such heavy hitters as Indy, New England, New Orleans, Atlanta, Miami, plus Pittsburgh twice, the Browns (Baltimore & Cleveland) four times, and a Thanksgiving night showdown against the last two teams the Bengals played- the J-E-T-S, Jets!
3) Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)- Big Ben (Roethlisberger)'s suspension is now four games, but the Steelers' run in the AFC North is over...for now.
4) Cleveland Browns (4-12)- Mike Holmgren should have either stayed in Seattle or stayed retired; Cleveland sports teams are in a recession of their own, no thanks to LeBron James's defection to Miami
EAST:
1) New England Patriots (12-4)- The Patriots are flying high in the AFC East
2) Miami Dolphins (10-6)
3) New York Jets (7-9)- Last year, the Cincinnati Bengals were on Hard Knocks, and they won the AFC North. This year, the Jets were on Hard Knocks, and they won't win the AFC East.
4) Buffalo Bills (4-12)- The Bills are the new Raiders/Browns- keeping the cellar nice and warm.
WEST:
1) San Diego Chargers (12-4)
2) Denver Broncos (8-8)
3) Oakland Raiders (7-9)- The Raiders will improve, but it won't be enough to get them in the playoffs
4) Kansas City Chiefs (6-10)- New England 2.0 is not New England 1.0. Enough said?
SOUTH:
1) Indianapolis Colts (13-3)- You can't stop Peyton Manning, you can only hope to contain him
2) Houston Texans (11-5)- This will be Houston's Breakout Year, Part II
3) Tennessee Titans (9-7)
4) Jacksonville Jaguars (3-13)- Jacksonville is screwed, plain and simple; hopefully, they'll beat the Cleveland Browns to Los Angeles
NFC:
NORTH:
1) Minnesota Vikings (11-5)
2) Green Bay Packers (10-6)
3) Chicago Bears (8-8)
4) Detroit Lions (7-9)- The Lions will move up in the world, not by much, but it will be better than the pre-0-16 mark they had.
EAST:
1) Dallas Cowboys (13-3)- Dallas will do anything to win the Super Bowl on their own field, it could be possible
2) Washington Redskins (11-5)- The Redskins will be back this year
3) New York Giants (9-7)
4) Philadelphia Eagles (5-11)- The Eagles will realize that trading McNabb to one of their NFC East rivals was a huge mistake that will have costly effects
WEST:
1) San Francisco 49ers (10-6)- The 49ers will be back, but they aren't the Joe Montana/Steve Young 49ers that I grew up watching, but the NFC West will be once again the weakest division of the NFL
2) Arizona Cardinals (7-9)- The Cards will realize how much Kurt Warner will be missed
T-3) Seattle Seahawks (4-12)- Pete Carroll should stay in college football; if things don't work out, there might be an opening in Ann Arbor, Michigan, should the Michigan
Wolverines lose to Ohio State for the seventh straight year
T-3) St. Louis Rams (4-12)- Pick a coin, but the Rams will win more than one game this year, but that still won't be enough with Sam Bradford under center
SOUTH:
1) New Orleans Saints (12-4)
2) Atlanta Falcons (11-5)
3) Carolina Panthers (9-7)
4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-15)
PLAYOFFS
(AFC)
1) Indianapolis; 2) New England
WILDCARD: 6) Miami @ 3) San Diego; 5) Houston @ 4) Baltimore
ROUND 2: 5) Houston @ 1) Indianapolis; 3) San Diego @ 2) New England
AFC CHAMPIONSHIP: 2) New England @ 1) Indianapolis
(NFC)
1) Dallas; 2) New Orleans
WILDCARD: 6) Washington @ 3) Minnesota; 5) Atlanta @ 4) San Francisco
ROUND 2: 5) Atlanta @ 1) Dallas; 3) Minnesota @ 2) New Orleans
NFC CHAMPIONSHIP: 2) New Orleans @ 1) Dallas
SUPER BOWL XLV: New England Patriots @/vs. Dallas Cowboys
SUPER BOWL XLV CHAMPIONS: The home team, Dallas
Here is my predictions on how all 32 teams will fare:
AFC:
NORTH:
1) Baltimore Ravens (11-5)- The original Cleveland Browns will continue to dominate this division
2) Cincinnati Bengals (9-7)- The Bengals have a tougher schedule than last year, playing such heavy hitters as Indy, New England, New Orleans, Atlanta, Miami, plus Pittsburgh twice, the Browns (Baltimore & Cleveland) four times, and a Thanksgiving night showdown against the last two teams the Bengals played- the J-E-T-S, Jets!
3) Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)- Big Ben (Roethlisberger)'s suspension is now four games, but the Steelers' run in the AFC North is over...for now.
4) Cleveland Browns (4-12)- Mike Holmgren should have either stayed in Seattle or stayed retired; Cleveland sports teams are in a recession of their own, no thanks to LeBron James's defection to Miami
EAST:
1) New England Patriots (12-4)- The Patriots are flying high in the AFC East
2) Miami Dolphins (10-6)
3) New York Jets (7-9)- Last year, the Cincinnati Bengals were on Hard Knocks, and they won the AFC North. This year, the Jets were on Hard Knocks, and they won't win the AFC East.
4) Buffalo Bills (4-12)- The Bills are the new Raiders/Browns- keeping the cellar nice and warm.
WEST:
1) San Diego Chargers (12-4)
2) Denver Broncos (8-8)
3) Oakland Raiders (7-9)- The Raiders will improve, but it won't be enough to get them in the playoffs
4) Kansas City Chiefs (6-10)- New England 2.0 is not New England 1.0. Enough said?
SOUTH:
1) Indianapolis Colts (13-3)- You can't stop Peyton Manning, you can only hope to contain him
2) Houston Texans (11-5)- This will be Houston's Breakout Year, Part II
3) Tennessee Titans (9-7)
4) Jacksonville Jaguars (3-13)- Jacksonville is screwed, plain and simple; hopefully, they'll beat the Cleveland Browns to Los Angeles
NFC:
NORTH:
1) Minnesota Vikings (11-5)
2) Green Bay Packers (10-6)
3) Chicago Bears (8-8)
4) Detroit Lions (7-9)- The Lions will move up in the world, not by much, but it will be better than the pre-0-16 mark they had.
EAST:
1) Dallas Cowboys (13-3)- Dallas will do anything to win the Super Bowl on their own field, it could be possible
2) Washington Redskins (11-5)- The Redskins will be back this year
3) New York Giants (9-7)
4) Philadelphia Eagles (5-11)- The Eagles will realize that trading McNabb to one of their NFC East rivals was a huge mistake that will have costly effects
WEST:
1) San Francisco 49ers (10-6)- The 49ers will be back, but they aren't the Joe Montana/Steve Young 49ers that I grew up watching, but the NFC West will be once again the weakest division of the NFL
2) Arizona Cardinals (7-9)- The Cards will realize how much Kurt Warner will be missed
T-3) Seattle Seahawks (4-12)- Pete Carroll should stay in college football; if things don't work out, there might be an opening in Ann Arbor, Michigan, should the Michigan
Wolverines lose to Ohio State for the seventh straight year
T-3) St. Louis Rams (4-12)- Pick a coin, but the Rams will win more than one game this year, but that still won't be enough with Sam Bradford under center
SOUTH:
1) New Orleans Saints (12-4)
2) Atlanta Falcons (11-5)
3) Carolina Panthers (9-7)
4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-15)
PLAYOFFS
(AFC)
1) Indianapolis; 2) New England
WILDCARD: 6) Miami @ 3) San Diego; 5) Houston @ 4) Baltimore
ROUND 2: 5) Houston @ 1) Indianapolis; 3) San Diego @ 2) New England
AFC CHAMPIONSHIP: 2) New England @ 1) Indianapolis
(NFC)
1) Dallas; 2) New Orleans
WILDCARD: 6) Washington @ 3) Minnesota; 5) Atlanta @ 4) San Francisco
ROUND 2: 5) Atlanta @ 1) Dallas; 3) Minnesota @ 2) New Orleans
NFC CHAMPIONSHIP: 2) New Orleans @ 1) Dallas
SUPER BOWL XLV: New England Patriots @/vs. Dallas Cowboys
SUPER BOWL XLV CHAMPIONS: The home team, Dallas
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Central Ohio H.S. Football 2010- Week 2
Tomorrow night, the second week of high school football takes flight around Ohio, and it's an extended weekend, with the Kirk Herbstreit Classic at the Horseshoe (Ohio Stadium) on Sunday and Monday. There are a lot of games happening this weekend.
Bishop Watterson Golden Eagles @ Beechcroft Cougars
This will be an interesting North side battle as perennial playoff power Watterson visits City League player Beechcroft. Pick: Watterson
St. Charles Cardinals @ Eastmoor Academy Warriors
Last week, the Cards held off Canal Winchester, and this week they play an Eastmoor team that was upset last week in overtime by Northland. The Cards have the edge in this East Side battle tomorrow night, having beaten the Warriors last year. Pick: St. Charles
Brookhaven Bearcats @ Hilliard Davidson Wildcats
The last three years, these two powerhouses have played close games: 14-13, 21-17, and 22-13, all won by the defending Division I state champs, Davidson. After Brookhaven's poor performance against Marion-Franklin last week, this one won't even be close. Pick: Hilliard Davidson
Dublin Scioto Irish @ Marion-Franklin Red Devils
Seven years ago, nobody was talking about the Red Devils at all. Now after six consecutive Division II playoff appearances and last year's trip to the Division II State Semifinals, the Red Devils are the new force to be reckoned with in the City League, after last week's drubbing of Brookhaven. However, the Red Devils play an OCC Team this week in Dublin Scioto (who won the Division II State Title in the school's inaugural year), and the Ohio Capital Conference is a powerhouse in the region. Pick: Dublin Scioto
Whetstone Braves @ Thomas Worthington Cardinals- "The Battle of High Street"...or "Clintonville vs. Worthington"
These two schools serve North High Street from the Delaware County line to the Short North. The Cardinals are coming off only their third non-losing season in the last 20 years, and the Braves are looking to make their first ever playoff appearance. But the Cards need momentum, being in a division with such greats as Upper Arlington, Hilliard Davidson, Dublin Coffman, and fellow Worthington high school- Worthington Kilbourne. While the Braves have the 2 B's (Brookhaven & Beechcroft) and a surging Northland and Mifflin to deal with. Pick: Thomas Worthington
Franklin Heights Golden Falcons @ Briggs Bruins
The Falcons are a blocked field goal try (against Bishop Ready last week) from being 1-0. The Golden Falcons travel down the street to play the Briggs Bruins, who upset Whetstone last week in overtime and are looking to go 3-0 into City League South play. Pick: Franklin Heights
Bishop Hartley Hawks @ Columbus Academy Vikings
Last week, both teams had impressive wins as the Hawks dismantled the Amanda-Clearcreek aces and Columbus Academy sailed past Northridge. Whomever has the ball last will probably win this game. Pick: Hartley
Delaware Hayes Pacers @ Olentangy Braves
In this battle of Delaware County...again, these two rivals are looking to go 2-0. Only one of them will. Pick: Olentangy
Westerville Central Warhawks @ New Albany Eagles
The Warhawks are the best 0-1 team around, and could get their first win. However, I think they could be the best 0-2 team around, as New Albany is loaded with talent this year. Pick: New Albany
Grove City Greyhounds @ Canal Winchester Indians
Canal Winchester at 0-2? Don't count the home team out, but it is possible, because Grove City's Greyhounds are hungry for a win. Pick: Grove City
Olentangy Orange Pioneers @ Olentangy Liberty Patriots
The Battle of Olentangy, Round Two. Pick: Olentangy Liberty
Groveport Madison Cruisers @ Westerville North Warriors
The Westerville North Warriors were once a mighty team to be reckoned with. Now, they are on a 16-game losing streak, hoping to turn it around with a Groveport team looking for its second win of the year against a Westerville team (the Cruisers beat South 19-10 last Saturday). Pick: Groveport Madison
Independence 76ers @ Mifflin Punchers- "Eastland vs. Easton Bowl"
This is a game in which I can insert any and every Eastland/Easton joke I can, given the two's closeness to the Columbus-area shopping centers (Independence- Eastland; Mifflin- Easton). This is a brand new day for Mifflin, making Coach Gregg Miller's debut a successful one. Pick: Mifflin
Walnut Ridge Scots @ Columbus East Tigers
The Scots, coming off a win up in Cleveland last weekend, return to Columbus to play City League rival East, who is looking for their first win of the year. Which colors will prevail- scarlet and grey or orange and black? Pick: Walnut Ridge
Watkins Memorial Warriors @ Licking Heights Hornets- "The Battle of Broad Street" (part 2)
Last week, Columbus West won the Broad Street battle over Columbus East. This week, the real Battle of Broad Street occurs in Pataskala between rivals Watkins Memorial and Licking Heights. Pick: Licking Heights
and
The Kirk Herbstreit Classic:
Westerville South Wildcats vs. Dublin Coffman Shamrocks
Last year, both teams played in this classic (South- L 21-20 to Hilliard Davidson; Coffman- W 52-0 over Olentangy Liberty). Coffman got off to a good start last week, while South lost at Groveport. South has a lot to overcome if they want to get their first win of the year. Pick: Dublin Coffman
and
Pickerington Central Tigers vs. Oscar Smith (Virginia)
Pick: Neutral
OTHER AREA GAMES:
Hamilton Township Rangers @ London Red Raiders
Linden McKinley Panthers @ Galloway Westland Cougars
Columbus West Cowboys @ Centennial Stars
Linsly Prep (West Virginia) @ Africentric Nubians
Harvest Prep Warriors @ Columbus South Bulldogs
St. Francis DeSales Stallions @ Maumee
Chillicothe Cavaliers @ Sunbury Big Walnut Golden Eagles
Hilliard Bradley Jaguars @ Ashville Teays Valley Vikings
Cambridge @ Mount Vernon Rams
Hilliard Darby Panthers @ Dublin Jerome Celtics
Bexley Lions @ Northridge Vikings
Jonathan Alder Pioneers @ Marysville Monarchs
Upper Arlington Golden Bears @ Springfield
Worthington Kilbourne Wolves @ Solon Comets
Lima Senior @ Gahanna Lincoln Lions
West Chester Lakota West @ Lancaster Golden Gales
Newark Wildcats @ Marion Harding Presidents
Logan Chieftains @ Pickerington North Panthers
Toledo Scott @ Reynoldsburg Raiders
Utica @ Granville Blue Aces
Johnstown Johnnies @ Heath Bulldogs
Millersport Lakers @ Hebron Lakewood Lancers
Licking Valley Panthers @ Zanesville Blue Devils
Whitehall-Yearling Rams @ Bloom-Carroll Bulldogs
Chillicothe Zane Trace @ Amanda-Clearcreek Aces
Newark Catholic Green Wave @ Nelsonville-York
Circleville Tigers @ Washington Court House Blue Lions
Westfall Mustangs @ Logan Elm Braves
Fredericktown Freddies @ Berne Union Rockets
East Knox @ Grandview Heights Bobcasts
West Jefferson Roughriders @ Madison Plains Eagles
Danville Blue Devils @ Apple Creek Waynedale
Loudonville @ Ashland Crestview
South Charleston Southeastern @ Fairbanks
Bishop Ready @ Blairsville, Pennsylvania
Fairfield Christian @ Fisher Catholic
Bishop Watterson Golden Eagles @ Beechcroft Cougars
This will be an interesting North side battle as perennial playoff power Watterson visits City League player Beechcroft. Pick: Watterson
St. Charles Cardinals @ Eastmoor Academy Warriors
Last week, the Cards held off Canal Winchester, and this week they play an Eastmoor team that was upset last week in overtime by Northland. The Cards have the edge in this East Side battle tomorrow night, having beaten the Warriors last year. Pick: St. Charles
Brookhaven Bearcats @ Hilliard Davidson Wildcats
The last three years, these two powerhouses have played close games: 14-13, 21-17, and 22-13, all won by the defending Division I state champs, Davidson. After Brookhaven's poor performance against Marion-Franklin last week, this one won't even be close. Pick: Hilliard Davidson
Dublin Scioto Irish @ Marion-Franklin Red Devils
Seven years ago, nobody was talking about the Red Devils at all. Now after six consecutive Division II playoff appearances and last year's trip to the Division II State Semifinals, the Red Devils are the new force to be reckoned with in the City League, after last week's drubbing of Brookhaven. However, the Red Devils play an OCC Team this week in Dublin Scioto (who won the Division II State Title in the school's inaugural year), and the Ohio Capital Conference is a powerhouse in the region. Pick: Dublin Scioto
Whetstone Braves @ Thomas Worthington Cardinals- "The Battle of High Street"...or "Clintonville vs. Worthington"
These two schools serve North High Street from the Delaware County line to the Short North. The Cardinals are coming off only their third non-losing season in the last 20 years, and the Braves are looking to make their first ever playoff appearance. But the Cards need momentum, being in a division with such greats as Upper Arlington, Hilliard Davidson, Dublin Coffman, and fellow Worthington high school- Worthington Kilbourne. While the Braves have the 2 B's (Brookhaven & Beechcroft) and a surging Northland and Mifflin to deal with. Pick: Thomas Worthington
Franklin Heights Golden Falcons @ Briggs Bruins
The Falcons are a blocked field goal try (against Bishop Ready last week) from being 1-0. The Golden Falcons travel down the street to play the Briggs Bruins, who upset Whetstone last week in overtime and are looking to go 3-0 into City League South play. Pick: Franklin Heights
Bishop Hartley Hawks @ Columbus Academy Vikings
Last week, both teams had impressive wins as the Hawks dismantled the Amanda-Clearcreek aces and Columbus Academy sailed past Northridge. Whomever has the ball last will probably win this game. Pick: Hartley
Delaware Hayes Pacers @ Olentangy Braves
In this battle of Delaware County...again, these two rivals are looking to go 2-0. Only one of them will. Pick: Olentangy
Westerville Central Warhawks @ New Albany Eagles
The Warhawks are the best 0-1 team around, and could get their first win. However, I think they could be the best 0-2 team around, as New Albany is loaded with talent this year. Pick: New Albany
Grove City Greyhounds @ Canal Winchester Indians
Canal Winchester at 0-2? Don't count the home team out, but it is possible, because Grove City's Greyhounds are hungry for a win. Pick: Grove City
Olentangy Orange Pioneers @ Olentangy Liberty Patriots
The Battle of Olentangy, Round Two. Pick: Olentangy Liberty
Groveport Madison Cruisers @ Westerville North Warriors
The Westerville North Warriors were once a mighty team to be reckoned with. Now, they are on a 16-game losing streak, hoping to turn it around with a Groveport team looking for its second win of the year against a Westerville team (the Cruisers beat South 19-10 last Saturday). Pick: Groveport Madison
Independence 76ers @ Mifflin Punchers- "Eastland vs. Easton Bowl"
This is a game in which I can insert any and every Eastland/Easton joke I can, given the two's closeness to the Columbus-area shopping centers (Independence- Eastland; Mifflin- Easton). This is a brand new day for Mifflin, making Coach Gregg Miller's debut a successful one. Pick: Mifflin
Walnut Ridge Scots @ Columbus East Tigers
The Scots, coming off a win up in Cleveland last weekend, return to Columbus to play City League rival East, who is looking for their first win of the year. Which colors will prevail- scarlet and grey or orange and black? Pick: Walnut Ridge
Watkins Memorial Warriors @ Licking Heights Hornets- "The Battle of Broad Street" (part 2)
Last week, Columbus West won the Broad Street battle over Columbus East. This week, the real Battle of Broad Street occurs in Pataskala between rivals Watkins Memorial and Licking Heights. Pick: Licking Heights
and
The Kirk Herbstreit Classic:
Westerville South Wildcats vs. Dublin Coffman Shamrocks
Last year, both teams played in this classic (South- L 21-20 to Hilliard Davidson; Coffman- W 52-0 over Olentangy Liberty). Coffman got off to a good start last week, while South lost at Groveport. South has a lot to overcome if they want to get their first win of the year. Pick: Dublin Coffman
and
Pickerington Central Tigers vs. Oscar Smith (Virginia)
Pick: Neutral
OTHER AREA GAMES:
Hamilton Township Rangers @ London Red Raiders
Linden McKinley Panthers @ Galloway Westland Cougars
Columbus West Cowboys @ Centennial Stars
Linsly Prep (West Virginia) @ Africentric Nubians
Harvest Prep Warriors @ Columbus South Bulldogs
St. Francis DeSales Stallions @ Maumee
Chillicothe Cavaliers @ Sunbury Big Walnut Golden Eagles
Hilliard Bradley Jaguars @ Ashville Teays Valley Vikings
Cambridge @ Mount Vernon Rams
Hilliard Darby Panthers @ Dublin Jerome Celtics
Bexley Lions @ Northridge Vikings
Jonathan Alder Pioneers @ Marysville Monarchs
Upper Arlington Golden Bears @ Springfield
Worthington Kilbourne Wolves @ Solon Comets
Lima Senior @ Gahanna Lincoln Lions
West Chester Lakota West @ Lancaster Golden Gales
Newark Wildcats @ Marion Harding Presidents
Logan Chieftains @ Pickerington North Panthers
Toledo Scott @ Reynoldsburg Raiders
Utica @ Granville Blue Aces
Johnstown Johnnies @ Heath Bulldogs
Millersport Lakers @ Hebron Lakewood Lancers
Licking Valley Panthers @ Zanesville Blue Devils
Whitehall-Yearling Rams @ Bloom-Carroll Bulldogs
Chillicothe Zane Trace @ Amanda-Clearcreek Aces
Newark Catholic Green Wave @ Nelsonville-York
Circleville Tigers @ Washington Court House Blue Lions
Westfall Mustangs @ Logan Elm Braves
Fredericktown Freddies @ Berne Union Rockets
East Knox @ Grandview Heights Bobcasts
West Jefferson Roughriders @ Madison Plains Eagles
Danville Blue Devils @ Apple Creek Waynedale
Loudonville @ Ashland Crestview
South Charleston Southeastern @ Fairbanks
Bishop Ready @ Blairsville, Pennsylvania
Fairfield Christian @ Fisher Catholic
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
The Return of College Football: Week 1
College Football is Back this week, and so there are a lot of games on the docket.
THURSDAY:
Marshall Thundering Herd at (2) Ohio State Buckeyes
Remember the movie We are Marshall. Terrelle Pryor doesn't care, because he doesn't want anything to get in the way of the Heisman. This game will be over by halftime as the Buckeyes will stampede the Herd. Buckeyes 55-0
Speaking of Ohio State, guess who they have next...
Florida A&M Rattlers at (13) Miami Hurricanes
This game is basically meaningless, and the Canes will prepare for their trip up north by blowing away the Rattlers. Canes 67-0
Southern Mississippi Eagles at South Carolina Gamecocks
Pick: South Carolina 23-16
(15) Pitt Panthers at Utah Utes
The Utes are capable of playing with the "big kids" (BCS division teams), having knocked off the Maize and Blue in the Big House two years ago. Utah 24-21
(14) Southern Cal Trojans at Hawaii Rainbow Warriors
The Trojans begin the Lane Kiffin era in the Aloha State, but will it be a Honolulu hangover the next day, or will these Trojans not miss a step? USC 21-10
SATURDAY:
Miami Red Hawks at (4) Florida Gators
This is not the Miami-Florida matchup that many of us were expecting. But in this post-Tebow era, the Gators have to start small if they want to get back to the National Championship. Florida 31-10.
Purdue Boilermakers at Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Fighting Irish want Coach Brian Kelly's first game to be a great one, but the Boilermakers want to spoil the party. Purdue 24-21
Connecticut Huskies at Michigan Wolverines
If UConn's football team was like the UConn basketball programs, these Huskies would be mauling the Wolverines much worse than the Tresselball-led Ohio State Buckeyes. Will the third year be the charm for Rich Rodriguez, or will the trigger-happy athletic department at U of M get ready to show Rich Rod the door? I think that Michigan will finally get it done this season, and it begins with taming these Huskies. Michigan 35-31
(24) Oregon State Beavers vs. (6) Texas Christian Horned Frogs
PICK: TCU 41-20
(21) LSU Tigers vs. (18) North Carolina Tar Heels
These Bengals travel to Chapel Hill to play the Tar Heels, who are trying to be as successful as the basketball counterparts. LSU 38-20
MONDAY
Navy Midshipmen vs. Maryland Terrapins
PICK: Navy 30-20
LOCAL COLLEGE TEAMS
Otterbein Cardinals at Husson (ME) Eagles
The last two seasons were very successful for the Cardinals, ranging from their best start in school history (8-0 in 2008), first ever playoff appearance (2008- L 62-45 to Franklin College [Indiana]), and an overall 17-4 record. Throw all that aside as the Cards take their gridiron show on the road to jolly old New England to play the Husson Eagles from Husson University in Maine. Will the Cards keep up the momentum, despite losing a few key players, or will they be jetlagged in Maine? Husson 33-20.
THURSDAY:
Marshall Thundering Herd at (2) Ohio State Buckeyes
Remember the movie We are Marshall. Terrelle Pryor doesn't care, because he doesn't want anything to get in the way of the Heisman. This game will be over by halftime as the Buckeyes will stampede the Herd. Buckeyes 55-0
Speaking of Ohio State, guess who they have next...
Florida A&M Rattlers at (13) Miami Hurricanes
This game is basically meaningless, and the Canes will prepare for their trip up north by blowing away the Rattlers. Canes 67-0
Southern Mississippi Eagles at South Carolina Gamecocks
Pick: South Carolina 23-16
(15) Pitt Panthers at Utah Utes
The Utes are capable of playing with the "big kids" (BCS division teams), having knocked off the Maize and Blue in the Big House two years ago. Utah 24-21
(14) Southern Cal Trojans at Hawaii Rainbow Warriors
The Trojans begin the Lane Kiffin era in the Aloha State, but will it be a Honolulu hangover the next day, or will these Trojans not miss a step? USC 21-10
SATURDAY:
Miami Red Hawks at (4) Florida Gators
This is not the Miami-Florida matchup that many of us were expecting. But in this post-Tebow era, the Gators have to start small if they want to get back to the National Championship. Florida 31-10.
Purdue Boilermakers at Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Fighting Irish want Coach Brian Kelly's first game to be a great one, but the Boilermakers want to spoil the party. Purdue 24-21
Connecticut Huskies at Michigan Wolverines
If UConn's football team was like the UConn basketball programs, these Huskies would be mauling the Wolverines much worse than the Tresselball-led Ohio State Buckeyes. Will the third year be the charm for Rich Rodriguez, or will the trigger-happy athletic department at U of M get ready to show Rich Rod the door? I think that Michigan will finally get it done this season, and it begins with taming these Huskies. Michigan 35-31
(24) Oregon State Beavers vs. (6) Texas Christian Horned Frogs
PICK: TCU 41-20
(21) LSU Tigers vs. (18) North Carolina Tar Heels
These Bengals travel to Chapel Hill to play the Tar Heels, who are trying to be as successful as the basketball counterparts. LSU 38-20
MONDAY
Navy Midshipmen vs. Maryland Terrapins
PICK: Navy 30-20
LOCAL COLLEGE TEAMS
Otterbein Cardinals at Husson (ME) Eagles
The last two seasons were very successful for the Cardinals, ranging from their best start in school history (8-0 in 2008), first ever playoff appearance (2008- L 62-45 to Franklin College [Indiana]), and an overall 17-4 record. Throw all that aside as the Cards take their gridiron show on the road to jolly old New England to play the Husson Eagles from Husson University in Maine. Will the Cards keep up the momentum, despite losing a few key players, or will they be jetlagged in Maine? Husson 33-20.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Central Ohio Friday Night Football 2010- Week 1
Welcome to DJBC's Sports Corner...
In Central Ohio, high school football is full of traditions....
Tonight is the beginning of the 2010 football season in Central Ohio as scores of high school football stadiums across the city, across the state, and across the country will be filled with cheering fans rooting for their favorite team.
WEEK 1 TOP BILLING:
Hilliard Davidson Wildcats @ Grove City Greyhounds
This game will be an emotional game for both teams. Davidson, the defending Division I State Champions, is still mourning the loss of star back Rico Butler, who drowned in May. This is Grove City's first game in two years, after having their entire season cancelled last year, due to a failed levy in the Southwestern City School District that made headlines all over. Grove City is one of four schools in the district that had their season scrapped, but Grove City has one of the biggest traditions in Central Ohio football, lasting over 80 years.
OTHER MARQUEE GAMES:
Amanda Clearcreek Aces @ Bishop Hartley Hawks
This will be the first game in three decades for the Aces without Coach Ron Hinton (who left for Chillicothe) on the sidelines. The Aces travel to the east side to play a hungry Hartley team that is loaded with talent on both sides of the ball.
Marion-Franklin Red Devils @ Brookhaven Bearcats
These two City League teams split meetings last year, with the Bearcats winning a rain delayed season opener, before the Red Devils avenged that loss on their way to the Final Four (eventually losing to eventual Division II state champions Winton Woods).
Dublin Coffman Shamrocks @ Olentangy Liberty Patriots
The last time these two teams met, the Shamrocks embarrassed the Patriots on national television (broadcast on ESPN as part of the Kirk Herbstreit Classic) 52-0. The Patriots have been in the playoffs every year since their second year of school history, and are looking to make it 7 in a row, while Coffman is an early season favorite to compete for the Division I state title.
Columbus West Cowboys @ Columbus East Tigers
The real battle of Broad Street will take place at Chic Harley Field on the near east side as the Cowboys (whose marching band was on CD101's Morning Show this morning) travel up Broad Street to play the Tigers. Both teams are looking to go up in City League Divisions where they have to look up to serious contenders (West--> Eastmoor Academy, Marion-Franklin, Walnut Ridge and East--> Brookhaven & Beechcroft)
Canal Winchester Indians @ St. Charles Cardinals
Both teams are in the 7th Region of Division II, which last year was a heavily crowded field with so many teams that missed out on the playoffs (New Albany, Beechcroft, New Philadelphia, Zanesville, and St. Charles). The Indians travel up to Bexley to play the Cardinals, who are in the shadow of Central Catholic League rivals DeSales and Watterson, having not beaten the former team in 34 years.
St. Francis DeSales Stallions @ Gahanna Lincoln Lions
The Stallions take their show on the road to the Herb Capital of Ohio to play the Gahanna Lions. The Stallions are loaded with talent on both sides of the ball, and are Division III runners-up. The Lions are looking to rebuild in a very competitive Division I region (3) and conference (Ohio Capital Conference).
Westerville Central Warhawks @ Big Walnut Golden Eagles
The quest for the WarEagle trophy is on in Sunbury tonight as these two rivals have a lot to play for. A surging Central team is looking for their first ever playoff appearance, while Big Walnut is three years removed from winning the Division III state title.
Delaware Hayes Pacers @ Buckeye Valley Barons
These Delaware County rivals meet again, and Hayes is looking to go back to the Division I playoffs, where they competed two years ago. The Barons, despite four straight winning seasons, have never been there. Could a win over the Pacers put the Barons on the winning edge?
Olentangy Braves @ Olentangy Orange Pioneers
The Pioneers, fresh off their first playoff appearance in their short history, host the elder Olentangy school in the season opener. The Braves are looking to rebound from a dismal 3-7 season last year.
Eastmoor Academy Warriors @ Northland Vikings
The Warriors, looking to win it all in Division III travel up north to play a school, who has made national headlines for its basketball team and now OSU freshman Jared Sullinger. Back to football, the Vikings are looking to emerge from the shadow of Brookhaven and Beechcroft, and make the playoffs. That won't be easy for the Vikes, who are in a Division I region full of Ohio Capital Conference contenders.
SATURDAY:
Westerville South Wildcats @ Groveport Madison Cruisers- The Wildcats travel to Groveport to play the Cruisers on Saturday night.
Pickerington Central Tigers vs. Plainfield (Indiana) Quakers at Indianapolis Warren Central H.S.- The Tigers take their quests for a Division I title to the Hoosier state to play Plainfield.
TEAMS TO LOOK OUT FOR in 2010:
(City League North) Mifflin, Northland
(City League South) Walnut Ridge
(Central Catholic League) Bishop Hartley
(Ohio Capital Conference- Capital) Olentangy Orange, Big Walnut
(Ohio Capital Conference- Cardinal) Westerville Central
(Ohio Capital Conference- Central) Upper Arlington, Hilliard Davidson, Worthington Kilbourne
(Ohio Capital Conference- Ohio) Pickerington North, Groveport Madison, Lancaster, Grove City
(Mid State League- Buckeye)
(Mid State League- Cardinal) Liberty Union
(Mid State League- Ohio) Newark Catholic, Bexley, Columbus Academy
TITLE CONTENDERS in 2010:
(City League North) Brookhaven, Beechcroft
(City League South) Marion-Franklin, Eastmoor Academy, Walnut Ridge
(Central Catholic League) Bishop Hartley, Bishop Ready, Bishop Watterson, St. Francis DeSales
(OCC Capital) New Albany, Olentangy Orange
(OCC Cardinal) Olentangy Liberty, Westerville South
(OCC Central) Dublin Coffman, Hilliard Davidson
(OCC Ohio) Pickerington Central
(Mid State League Buckeye) Canal Winchester
(Mid State League Cardinal) Licking Heights, West Jefferson
(Mid State League Ohio) Granville, Heath
SLEEPER of 2010:
(City League) Mifflin- with new coach Gregg Miller, don't be surprised if Mifflin wins games
(OCC Capital) Big Walnut
(OCC Cardinal) Westerville Central
(OCC Central) last year, it was Thomas Worthington....it probably might be again, but I'm going with the other Worthington school, Kilbourne
(OCC Ohio) Groveport Madison or Grove City
(Mid State League Ohio) Bexley or Columbus Academy
Games on the Docket for Week 2:
The Herbstreit Classic (Sunday: Dublin Coffman vs. Westerville South, Monday: Pickerington Central vs. Oscar Smith [Virginia]) @ Ohio Stadium
and these...
Westerville Central @ New Albany
Delaware Hayes @ Olentangy
Olentangy Orange @ Olentangy Liberty
Whetstone @ Thomas Worthington
Bishop Watterson @ Beechcroft
Grove City @ Canal Winchester
Bishop Hartley @ Columbus Academy
Walnut Ridge @ Columbus East
The Battle of Broad Street/Pataskala: Watkins Memorial @ Licking Heights
Dublin Scioto @ Marion-Franklin
Brookhaven @ Hilliard Davidson
St. Charles @ Eastmoor Academy
Linden McKinley @ Westland
In Central Ohio, high school football is full of traditions....
Tonight is the beginning of the 2010 football season in Central Ohio as scores of high school football stadiums across the city, across the state, and across the country will be filled with cheering fans rooting for their favorite team.
WEEK 1 TOP BILLING:
Hilliard Davidson Wildcats @ Grove City Greyhounds
This game will be an emotional game for both teams. Davidson, the defending Division I State Champions, is still mourning the loss of star back Rico Butler, who drowned in May. This is Grove City's first game in two years, after having their entire season cancelled last year, due to a failed levy in the Southwestern City School District that made headlines all over. Grove City is one of four schools in the district that had their season scrapped, but Grove City has one of the biggest traditions in Central Ohio football, lasting over 80 years.
OTHER MARQUEE GAMES:
Amanda Clearcreek Aces @ Bishop Hartley Hawks
This will be the first game in three decades for the Aces without Coach Ron Hinton (who left for Chillicothe) on the sidelines. The Aces travel to the east side to play a hungry Hartley team that is loaded with talent on both sides of the ball.
Marion-Franklin Red Devils @ Brookhaven Bearcats
These two City League teams split meetings last year, with the Bearcats winning a rain delayed season opener, before the Red Devils avenged that loss on their way to the Final Four (eventually losing to eventual Division II state champions Winton Woods).
Dublin Coffman Shamrocks @ Olentangy Liberty Patriots
The last time these two teams met, the Shamrocks embarrassed the Patriots on national television (broadcast on ESPN as part of the Kirk Herbstreit Classic) 52-0. The Patriots have been in the playoffs every year since their second year of school history, and are looking to make it 7 in a row, while Coffman is an early season favorite to compete for the Division I state title.
Columbus West Cowboys @ Columbus East Tigers
The real battle of Broad Street will take place at Chic Harley Field on the near east side as the Cowboys (whose marching band was on CD101's Morning Show this morning) travel up Broad Street to play the Tigers. Both teams are looking to go up in City League Divisions where they have to look up to serious contenders (West--> Eastmoor Academy, Marion-Franklin, Walnut Ridge and East--> Brookhaven & Beechcroft)
Canal Winchester Indians @ St. Charles Cardinals
Both teams are in the 7th Region of Division II, which last year was a heavily crowded field with so many teams that missed out on the playoffs (New Albany, Beechcroft, New Philadelphia, Zanesville, and St. Charles). The Indians travel up to Bexley to play the Cardinals, who are in the shadow of Central Catholic League rivals DeSales and Watterson, having not beaten the former team in 34 years.
St. Francis DeSales Stallions @ Gahanna Lincoln Lions
The Stallions take their show on the road to the Herb Capital of Ohio to play the Gahanna Lions. The Stallions are loaded with talent on both sides of the ball, and are Division III runners-up. The Lions are looking to rebuild in a very competitive Division I region (3) and conference (Ohio Capital Conference).
Westerville Central Warhawks @ Big Walnut Golden Eagles
The quest for the WarEagle trophy is on in Sunbury tonight as these two rivals have a lot to play for. A surging Central team is looking for their first ever playoff appearance, while Big Walnut is three years removed from winning the Division III state title.
Delaware Hayes Pacers @ Buckeye Valley Barons
These Delaware County rivals meet again, and Hayes is looking to go back to the Division I playoffs, where they competed two years ago. The Barons, despite four straight winning seasons, have never been there. Could a win over the Pacers put the Barons on the winning edge?
Olentangy Braves @ Olentangy Orange Pioneers
The Pioneers, fresh off their first playoff appearance in their short history, host the elder Olentangy school in the season opener. The Braves are looking to rebound from a dismal 3-7 season last year.
Eastmoor Academy Warriors @ Northland Vikings
The Warriors, looking to win it all in Division III travel up north to play a school, who has made national headlines for its basketball team and now OSU freshman Jared Sullinger. Back to football, the Vikings are looking to emerge from the shadow of Brookhaven and Beechcroft, and make the playoffs. That won't be easy for the Vikes, who are in a Division I region full of Ohio Capital Conference contenders.
SATURDAY:
Westerville South Wildcats @ Groveport Madison Cruisers- The Wildcats travel to Groveport to play the Cruisers on Saturday night.
Pickerington Central Tigers vs. Plainfield (Indiana) Quakers at Indianapolis Warren Central H.S.- The Tigers take their quests for a Division I title to the Hoosier state to play Plainfield.
TEAMS TO LOOK OUT FOR in 2010:
(City League North) Mifflin, Northland
(City League South) Walnut Ridge
(Central Catholic League) Bishop Hartley
(Ohio Capital Conference- Capital) Olentangy Orange, Big Walnut
(Ohio Capital Conference- Cardinal) Westerville Central
(Ohio Capital Conference- Central) Upper Arlington, Hilliard Davidson, Worthington Kilbourne
(Ohio Capital Conference- Ohio) Pickerington North, Groveport Madison, Lancaster, Grove City
(Mid State League- Buckeye)
(Mid State League- Cardinal) Liberty Union
(Mid State League- Ohio) Newark Catholic, Bexley, Columbus Academy
TITLE CONTENDERS in 2010:
(City League North) Brookhaven, Beechcroft
(City League South) Marion-Franklin, Eastmoor Academy, Walnut Ridge
(Central Catholic League) Bishop Hartley, Bishop Ready, Bishop Watterson, St. Francis DeSales
(OCC Capital) New Albany, Olentangy Orange
(OCC Cardinal) Olentangy Liberty, Westerville South
(OCC Central) Dublin Coffman, Hilliard Davidson
(OCC Ohio) Pickerington Central
(Mid State League Buckeye) Canal Winchester
(Mid State League Cardinal) Licking Heights, West Jefferson
(Mid State League Ohio) Granville, Heath
SLEEPER of 2010:
(City League) Mifflin- with new coach Gregg Miller, don't be surprised if Mifflin wins games
(OCC Capital) Big Walnut
(OCC Cardinal) Westerville Central
(OCC Central) last year, it was Thomas Worthington....it probably might be again, but I'm going with the other Worthington school, Kilbourne
(OCC Ohio) Groveport Madison or Grove City
(Mid State League Ohio) Bexley or Columbus Academy
Games on the Docket for Week 2:
The Herbstreit Classic (Sunday: Dublin Coffman vs. Westerville South, Monday: Pickerington Central vs. Oscar Smith [Virginia]) @ Ohio Stadium
and these...
Westerville Central @ New Albany
Delaware Hayes @ Olentangy
Olentangy Orange @ Olentangy Liberty
Whetstone @ Thomas Worthington
Bishop Watterson @ Beechcroft
Grove City @ Canal Winchester
Bishop Hartley @ Columbus Academy
Walnut Ridge @ Columbus East
The Battle of Broad Street/Pataskala: Watkins Memorial @ Licking Heights
Dublin Scioto @ Marion-Franklin
Brookhaven @ Hilliard Davidson
St. Charles @ Eastmoor Academy
Linden McKinley @ Westland
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