Not much of a debate as to where to go Saturday. Game of the week time.
Immaculata (3-0) at Franklin (3-0) at Ackerman Field is Saturday at 1 p.m. in Franklin. No, I won't be covering Scotch Plains-Fanwood at Plainfield or Bound Brook at St. Joseph of the Palisades. I WILL be wondering what's going on in those games.
Anyway...
Franklin is having a resurgence this year. The Warriors had a pivotal 24-17 double-overtime win at Phillipsburg two weeks ago before what they felt was a subpar performance in a 23-6 win at Hillsborough last Thursday night.
Immaculata rolled through Somerville 31-6 in the season opener, outlasted Ridge 28-13 and steamrolled North Hunterdon 47-0.
Immaculata has been very good in signature games like the coming up Saturday. Junior Theo Riddick has been the top reason the Spartans have built a 15-game winning streak. He's rushed for 363 yards on 21 carries and three touchdowns. Franklin senior Brian Thompson has run for 303 yards on 58 carries. Riddick is averaging a phenominal 17.29 yards per carry.
Immaculata throws the ball better than Franklin. Senior quarterback Frank DeNick is 16-for-27 for 204 yards and three touchdowns. Jon Patrick is 14 for 20 for 139 yards and three scores for Franklin.
Couple notes: Franklin linebacker Jimmy Ray Ragland and Riddick are cousins. Also, Franklin coach Lou Solomon became the proud papa of twin boys Tuesday. Congratulations.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Saturday, September 22, 2007
A little controversy in Scotch Plains, Plainf, NPl notes
Eighteen seconds left in the game Friday afternoon between Irvington and Scotch Plains-Fanwood. Irvington has a 36-20 lead. Irvington set up close to the Raiders' goal line.
How about a knee by quarterback Joshua Evans so everybody leaves with a good feeling. No. A two-yard touchdown by Rashon Evans. The Knights then went for two, but the Raiders stopped it short.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood head coach Steve Ciccotelli and his staff weren't happy about head coach Darnell Grant's decision. The Raiders and Knights are both North 2, Group III schools -- so it's possible that the two could meet in the sectional playoffs.
Plainfield's Oreal Douglas scored on a short run in Plainfield's 12-6 loss to Irvington Friday night. The Cardinals are 0-3.
North Plainfield High School's football and cheerleader parent's booster club will hold a fundraiser on Oct. 6 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Vermeule Mansion on Greenbrook Road. There will be food, a disc jockey and door prizes. For more information call Dan Battista at 908-616-3574.
There may also be a special guest. Soprano's star Frank Vincent, who played the role of boss Phil Leotardo, said he will attend barring a professional engagement. Vincent has also starred in "Raging Bull" and "Casino."
How about a knee by quarterback Joshua Evans so everybody leaves with a good feeling. No. A two-yard touchdown by Rashon Evans. The Knights then went for two, but the Raiders stopped it short.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood head coach Steve Ciccotelli and his staff weren't happy about head coach Darnell Grant's decision. The Raiders and Knights are both North 2, Group III schools -- so it's possible that the two could meet in the sectional playoffs.
Plainfield's Oreal Douglas scored on a short run in Plainfield's 12-6 loss to Irvington Friday night. The Cardinals are 0-3.
North Plainfield High School's football and cheerleader parent's booster club will hold a fundraiser on Oct. 6 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Vermeule Mansion on Greenbrook Road. There will be food, a disc jockey and door prizes. For more information call Dan Battista at 908-616-3574.
There may also be a special guest. Soprano's star Frank Vincent, who played the role of boss Phil Leotardo, said he will attend barring a professional engagement. Vincent has also starred in "Raging Bull" and "Casino."
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Pioneers to Blair
So, Somerville heads to Warren County with hopes of winning its first Saturday night against Blair Academy.
The Pioneers are the only public school on Blair's schedule. The Bucs count as a Group I school, but power points aren't what Somerville is thinking about.
"We have to win a game," Somerville coach Greg Arakelian said.
Blair, which does have fifth-year students on its roster, is 1-0.
"They're pretty good; we saw them last week and they have several good backs," Arakelian said. "They want to run the ball. They run a power wishbone.:
Running back Ed Imeokparia is a Division I talent and has received several offers.
Somerville will have one of its starters back. Junior Williams Watson, who injured his ankle early in the Immaculata game, will return, Arakelian said. He missed last week's game with Delaware Valley.
"I'm really happy with the attitude and the toughness of our kids," Arakelian said. "They have been resilient."
Delaware Valley lineman Drew Bourassa, who is playing more and more on defense, has been getting a lot of attention from Cornell, according to Terriers head coach Mike Columbo.
This year, Bound Brook is playing North Warren twice in the regular season. The Crusaders lost to North Warren 24-22 last week and will play again up at North Warren Oct. 12. Last year, Bridgeton played Lower Cape May twice in the regular season, winning both games.
The Pioneers are the only public school on Blair's schedule. The Bucs count as a Group I school, but power points aren't what Somerville is thinking about.
"We have to win a game," Somerville coach Greg Arakelian said.
Blair, which does have fifth-year students on its roster, is 1-0.
"They're pretty good; we saw them last week and they have several good backs," Arakelian said. "They want to run the ball. They run a power wishbone.:
Running back Ed Imeokparia is a Division I talent and has received several offers.
Somerville will have one of its starters back. Junior Williams Watson, who injured his ankle early in the Immaculata game, will return, Arakelian said. He missed last week's game with Delaware Valley.
"I'm really happy with the attitude and the toughness of our kids," Arakelian said. "They have been resilient."
Delaware Valley lineman Drew Bourassa, who is playing more and more on defense, has been getting a lot of attention from Cornell, according to Terriers head coach Mike Columbo.
This year, Bound Brook is playing North Warren twice in the regular season. The Crusaders lost to North Warren 24-22 last week and will play again up at North Warren Oct. 12. Last year, Bridgeton played Lower Cape May twice in the regular season, winning both games.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Riddick will play -- A LOT -- if needed
Sometimes, you just have to ask the athlete.
That's what I did Tuesday night.
Immaculata junior Theo Riddick is arguably the most talked about back in the state on these forums -- and there's more than one site.
Theo said he could play the entire 48 minutes of this Thursday night's game with Noth Hunterdon at Brooks Field. Immaculata probably -- probably -- won't need him to do that, but here's what Theo said Tuesday night:
"My ankle had been bothering me and I just tweaked one (against Ridge)," he said. "I tried to stiff arm and then I went on top of my opponent and wiped out. I only played about five minutes in the first half."
Riddick said he sprained the same ankle -- the right one -- which kept him out of the season-opener with Somerville.
By the way, Riddick picked up 108 yards on six carries in his brief time against Ridge, a game Immaculata won 28-13.
That's what I did Tuesday night.
Immaculata junior Theo Riddick is arguably the most talked about back in the state on these forums -- and there's more than one site.
Theo said he could play the entire 48 minutes of this Thursday night's game with Noth Hunterdon at Brooks Field. Immaculata probably -- probably -- won't need him to do that, but here's what Theo said Tuesday night:
"My ankle had been bothering me and I just tweaked one (against Ridge)," he said. "I tried to stiff arm and then I went on top of my opponent and wiped out. I only played about five minutes in the first half."
Riddick said he sprained the same ankle -- the right one -- which kept him out of the season-opener with Somerville.
By the way, Riddick picked up 108 yards on six carries in his brief time against Ridge, a game Immaculata won 28-13.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Liners-Warriors
Congratulations to Franklin's Warriors, who ended Phillipsburg's 30 game winning streak against Skyland Conference opponents that dated back to 2002. (P'Burg beat North Hunterdon twice last year in the league and in the North 2, Group IV playoffs).
Franklin won 24-17 in double overtime. I wouldn't classify this as a "classic" game. But you think the Warriors care?
Franklin won it with big plays and a very workmanlike second overtime that resulted in their milestone victory. The Warriors are 2-0.
Senior Brian Thompson was the Warriors' star of the game. Of the 15 plays in overtime, Thompson ran the ball 11 times and caught a pass for six yards on another. Thompson scored what turned out to be the game winning TD from two yards out.
Phillipsburg, which had the ball first in the first overtime, was then stopped cold in its second try. Senior quarterback Mike Crossley threw an incompletion before Enrique Rios and Ronald Macauley dropped Crossley for losses on consecutive plays before Crossley was intercepted by Ike Onyejiaka on the last play of the game. Onyejiaka also picked off a pass in the end zone after Phillipsburg had set up with a first-and-10 from the Franklin 28 on the first series of the game.
Couple of thoughts on the game.
I was excited about it -- yes, I admit -- I had an outburst in the wonderful P'Burg pressbox as I pointed out how Franklin makes big plays. Senior defensive back Richard Hemingway took Alex Toma's blocked field goal attempt 80 yards to the house with 11 seconds left in the half to give Franklin a 14-6 lead.
I thought that was it -- but to P'Burg's credit the Liners rallied
Franklin was stunned right from the gate when Phillipsburg lined up with three wide receivers and receiver Jack Buckley split just behind on the first play of the game. Crossley laterelled to Buckley who then threw a pass to a wide open Crossley for a 20 yard gain. Some P'Burg fans felt Crossley should have scored. But Franklin's secondary was able to pull him down.
Franklin led 14-6 at the half, but consider: Phillipsburg had 36 plays in the first half. Franklin had 17. Phillipsburg had 11 first downs; Franklin 3.
A 63-yard pass from Crossley to Buckley set Phillipsburg up at the Franklin 4 late in the fourth. Franklin stopped Eric Deery for a 2-yard gain, Jimmy Ray Ragland then dropped Deery for a two yard loss before the Warriors recovered a fumble, then waited for for overtime.
Franklin won 24-17 in double overtime. I wouldn't classify this as a "classic" game. But you think the Warriors care?
Franklin won it with big plays and a very workmanlike second overtime that resulted in their milestone victory. The Warriors are 2-0.
Senior Brian Thompson was the Warriors' star of the game. Of the 15 plays in overtime, Thompson ran the ball 11 times and caught a pass for six yards on another. Thompson scored what turned out to be the game winning TD from two yards out.
Phillipsburg, which had the ball first in the first overtime, was then stopped cold in its second try. Senior quarterback Mike Crossley threw an incompletion before Enrique Rios and Ronald Macauley dropped Crossley for losses on consecutive plays before Crossley was intercepted by Ike Onyejiaka on the last play of the game. Onyejiaka also picked off a pass in the end zone after Phillipsburg had set up with a first-and-10 from the Franklin 28 on the first series of the game.
Couple of thoughts on the game.
I was excited about it -- yes, I admit -- I had an outburst in the wonderful P'Burg pressbox as I pointed out how Franklin makes big plays. Senior defensive back Richard Hemingway took Alex Toma's blocked field goal attempt 80 yards to the house with 11 seconds left in the half to give Franklin a 14-6 lead.
I thought that was it -- but to P'Burg's credit the Liners rallied
Franklin was stunned right from the gate when Phillipsburg lined up with three wide receivers and receiver Jack Buckley split just behind on the first play of the game. Crossley laterelled to Buckley who then threw a pass to a wide open Crossley for a 20 yard gain. Some P'Burg fans felt Crossley should have scored. But Franklin's secondary was able to pull him down.
Franklin led 14-6 at the half, but consider: Phillipsburg had 36 plays in the first half. Franklin had 17. Phillipsburg had 11 first downs; Franklin 3.
A 63-yard pass from Crossley to Buckley set Phillipsburg up at the Franklin 4 late in the fourth. Franklin stopped Eric Deery for a 2-yard gain, Jimmy Ray Ragland then dropped Deery for a two yard loss before the Warriors recovered a fumble, then waited for for overtime.
14-14 at Pburg
Eric Deery scored on an 80-yard run and Albie Moran caught a two-point conversion pass from Mike Crossley to even the score for Phillipsburg at 14-14
Franklin leads 14-6
Phillipsburg has 9 first down's to Franklin's 3. Phillipsburg has run 33 plays to Franklin's 11.
But Franklin leads 14-6 at half.
Richard Hemingway's 84 yard return of a blocked field goal attempt by Alex Tomas with 11 seconds left in the first half gave the Warriors a 14-6 lead at Phillipsburg.
Brian Thompson gave Franklin a 7-0 lead with an 83-yard run on Franklin's third play from scrimmage. Thompson finished the half with 110 yards rushing. Franklin quarterback Jon Patrick, who went 4-fo-4 in last week's 50-3 rout of Bridgewater-Raritan with three touchdowns, didn't attempt a pass in the first half.
But Franklin leads 14-6 at half.
Richard Hemingway's 84 yard return of a blocked field goal attempt by Alex Tomas with 11 seconds left in the first half gave the Warriors a 14-6 lead at Phillipsburg.
Brian Thompson gave Franklin a 7-0 lead with an 83-yard run on Franklin's third play from scrimmage. Thompson finished the half with 110 yards rushing. Franklin quarterback Jon Patrick, who went 4-fo-4 in last week's 50-3 rout of Bridgewater-Raritan with three touchdowns, didn't attempt a pass in the first half.
7-6 Franklin with 6:49 left in the first half
Phillipsburg opens with four wide receivers. Quarterback Mike Crossley lateralled to Jack Buckley who threw a 20-yard completion to Crossley for a 20-yard gain to the 42. Phillipsburg drove to the Franklin 28, but Ike Onyejiaka picked off Crossley in the end zone.
Brian Thompson scores on a 83-yard run. Joel Painson kicks the extra point; Franklin 7-0 with 7:51 left in first period.
Brian Thompson scores on a 83-yard run. Joel Painson kicks the extra point; Franklin 7-0 with 7:51 left in first period.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
P'Burg, Stem and Ridge (updated at 4:05 Friday)
The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association was set to uphold its ruling to deny Phillipsburg a waiver of the "70 percent rule." That happened Wednesday. But before the state executive committee was to vote, the Phillipsburg School District chose to drop its four-year case. The District just wanted to drop its csae.
Phillipsburg wanted to return -- I should say wants, because that will not change -- wants to return to its longtime rivals in the Lehigh Valley, those schools in Allentown and Bethlehem. P'Burg wanted to do that, yet wanted to continue to play in the state tournaments in New Jersey. The state requires that the Statelineliners play at least 70 percent of its schedule against New Jersey teams. Phillipsburg has been in the Skyland Conference since 1995.
"You have to remember that Philipsburg played the schools in Allentown and Bethelem for 50 to 60 years," Phillipsburg head coach Bob Stem said. "The people know each other. There's nothing wrong with those teams (in the Skyland Conference), but the tradition is much greater in the (Lehigh) Valley. We've been playing football for 102 years and I think the Allentown schools have been playing for a lot more than that."
Stem also said that coaches across the board have complained about the long trips and hours it takes to get to most of their Skyland opponents.
"You're punishing the kids, honestly," Stemp said.
The same could be said for the schools that drive to Phillipsburg.
Franklin will be making the trip tomorrow afternoon for its game 7 p.m. game with the Stateliners.
Franklin coach Lou Solomon's wife is expecting twin boys. We wish the Solomon family all the best. Lou Solomon is expected to coach the game Friday night.
Central Catholic plays at Nazareth Friday night. Miss you guys.
Ridge coach Tony Mottola on playing powerhouse Immaculata: "First off, we have to make sure to wrap up our tackles and just play hard. They are an outstanding team."
Phillipsburg wanted to return -- I should say wants, because that will not change -- wants to return to its longtime rivals in the Lehigh Valley, those schools in Allentown and Bethlehem. P'Burg wanted to do that, yet wanted to continue to play in the state tournaments in New Jersey. The state requires that the Statelineliners play at least 70 percent of its schedule against New Jersey teams. Phillipsburg has been in the Skyland Conference since 1995.
"You have to remember that Philipsburg played the schools in Allentown and Bethelem for 50 to 60 years," Phillipsburg head coach Bob Stem said. "The people know each other. There's nothing wrong with those teams (in the Skyland Conference), but the tradition is much greater in the (Lehigh) Valley. We've been playing football for 102 years and I think the Allentown schools have been playing for a lot more than that."
Stem also said that coaches across the board have complained about the long trips and hours it takes to get to most of their Skyland opponents.
"You're punishing the kids, honestly," Stemp said.
The same could be said for the schools that drive to Phillipsburg.
Franklin will be making the trip tomorrow afternoon for its game 7 p.m. game with the Stateliners.
Franklin coach Lou Solomon's wife is expecting twin boys. We wish the Solomon family all the best. Lou Solomon is expected to coach the game Friday night.
Central Catholic plays at Nazareth Friday night. Miss you guys.
Ridge coach Tony Mottola on playing powerhouse Immaculata: "First off, we have to make sure to wrap up our tackles and just play hard. They are an outstanding team."
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Bound Brook-North Warren I and other things
How many times have you heard of schools playing each other TWICE in a regular season?
It happens from time to time in regular season/playoff scenarios, but never in the same regular season. It actually happened quite frequently before 1950. Even I wasn't born yet.
Well, Friday night, Bound Brook plays host to North Warren in the first of two games scheduled between the Skyland Conference Valley Division rivals. This is a one year deal. Both schools were absolutely unable to come up with a game for the second date, which will be in Blairstown Oct. 12. So Bound Brook-North Warren II was scheduled.
The game Friday night is the divisional game.
"The kids know how important it is," BB coach Kevin Carty said. "North Warren is big and fast and their quarterback has a strong arm."
Last year, Bound Brook beat the Patriots 20-13 in Blairstown and the Crusaders are expecting a very difficult game. It was because of that loss lsat year that North Warren didn't make the playoffs. Consider this: North Warren was 7-1 at the North 1, Group II playoffs and didn't qualify.
Bound Brook did make the CJ Group I playoffs for the first time since 1978. The win against North Warren was a major reason the Crusaders got a home playoff game against Keansburg.
"We are going to have to beat North Warren once or Belvidere to make it this year," Carty said. "The first game with North Warren is very important because the second time we play them is the week after we play Belvidere."
Bound Brook did get some good news today. Junior quarterback Mike Romanella, who injured his left, non-throwing shoulder after making a wild touchdown run in last Friday's 39-22 win over Bernards, will likely start.
"He's cleared to play," Carty said. "He threw 20 balls today and he threw pretty well. Whether he plays or not, Jeskie (Chris) will also play some quarterback."
Governor Livingston, which opened with a win against Roselle last week, will help A.L. Johnson christen its new field turf field Friday night. Johnson opened the season last year with a 19-7 win at Berkeley Heights and the teams nearly played a rematch in the Central Jersey Group II semifinals. But Johnson was upset by Raritan 23-20 in overtime, while GL was beating Carteret. Governor Livingston was beaten 20-19 by Raritan in the semifinals and the Rockets were knocked off 6-0 by Weequahic in the sectional final at Rutgers.
It happens from time to time in regular season/playoff scenarios, but never in the same regular season. It actually happened quite frequently before 1950. Even I wasn't born yet.
Well, Friday night, Bound Brook plays host to North Warren in the first of two games scheduled between the Skyland Conference Valley Division rivals. This is a one year deal. Both schools were absolutely unable to come up with a game for the second date, which will be in Blairstown Oct. 12. So Bound Brook-North Warren II was scheduled.
The game Friday night is the divisional game.
"The kids know how important it is," BB coach Kevin Carty said. "North Warren is big and fast and their quarterback has a strong arm."
Last year, Bound Brook beat the Patriots 20-13 in Blairstown and the Crusaders are expecting a very difficult game. It was because of that loss lsat year that North Warren didn't make the playoffs. Consider this: North Warren was 7-1 at the North 1, Group II playoffs and didn't qualify.
Bound Brook did make the CJ Group I playoffs for the first time since 1978. The win against North Warren was a major reason the Crusaders got a home playoff game against Keansburg.
"We are going to have to beat North Warren once or Belvidere to make it this year," Carty said. "The first game with North Warren is very important because the second time we play them is the week after we play Belvidere."
Bound Brook did get some good news today. Junior quarterback Mike Romanella, who injured his left, non-throwing shoulder after making a wild touchdown run in last Friday's 39-22 win over Bernards, will likely start.
"He's cleared to play," Carty said. "He threw 20 balls today and he threw pretty well. Whether he plays or not, Jeskie (Chris) will also play some quarterback."
Governor Livingston, which opened with a win against Roselle last week, will help A.L. Johnson christen its new field turf field Friday night. Johnson opened the season last year with a 19-7 win at Berkeley Heights and the teams nearly played a rematch in the Central Jersey Group II semifinals. But Johnson was upset by Raritan 23-20 in overtime, while GL was beating Carteret. Governor Livingston was beaten 20-19 by Raritan in the semifinals and the Rockets were knocked off 6-0 by Weequahic in the sectional final at Rutgers.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
New game at the paper
I had five or six people ask me Saturday what the trouble was with our newspaper. We had just two football games in Saturday's paper, leaving some our readers frustrated, others irritated and others downright mad.
Here's what is going on. We are on a new system and our paper has gone through a bit of a re-organization.
Our deadline is now about 10 p.m. Friday night. As some of you know, we rely very, very heavily on coaches or their stats to call results in since we only cover two games per Friday night -- but that wasn't the problem this time. The only two games we had in the paper Saturday were the ones we were able to cover -- I was at the Montgomery at Watchung Hills game, and my colleague Jerry Carino was at the Somerville-Immaculata contest.
We are now working with our sister paper the Home News Tribune to produce the daily sports report. As a result, we are working on new computer systems and new ways to get the latest news in the paper.
After a bumpy start last weekend, we believe that we have addressed the issue that cost us problems last weekend and that going forward you'll have the same timely reports you expect from us.
It's been a challenge for all of us -- we're all learning a new way to do things. But I'm sorry our readers felt shortchanged. We're fixing it.
Here's what is going on. We are on a new system and our paper has gone through a bit of a re-organization.
Our deadline is now about 10 p.m. Friday night. As some of you know, we rely very, very heavily on coaches or their stats to call results in since we only cover two games per Friday night -- but that wasn't the problem this time. The only two games we had in the paper Saturday were the ones we were able to cover -- I was at the Montgomery at Watchung Hills game, and my colleague Jerry Carino was at the Somerville-Immaculata contest.
We are now working with our sister paper the Home News Tribune to produce the daily sports report. As a result, we are working on new computer systems and new ways to get the latest news in the paper.
After a bumpy start last weekend, we believe that we have addressed the issue that cost us problems last weekend and that going forward you'll have the same timely reports you expect from us.
It's been a challenge for all of us -- we're all learning a new way to do things. But I'm sorry our readers felt shortchanged. We're fixing it.
Saturday, September 08, 2007
Franklin baby
Hot day at old Ackerman Field Saturday, especially for Franklin.
The Warriors blasted Bridgewater-Raritan 50-3. Franklin looked great. They weren't penalized in the second half, and didn't have a turnover.
I'm pretty bad at going overboard on early games, but Franklin has some players to keep it up. The Warriors have a solid offensive and defensive line, speedy linebackers, Gavin Roberts anchoring the defensive backfield. Roberts also made a terrific catch off a lob from junior quarterback Jon Patrick in the first half and tipped away a pass that B-R quarterback Alonzo Miller threw to a wide open Rob Pennella.
Franklin plays at Phillipsburg Friday night. The Stateliners haven't lost a Skyland Conference game since 2002 and has won four straight Skyland East titles.
Plainfield -- despite the penalties it incurred -- kept it close against Elizabeth Saturday, losing 20-13. Oreal Douglas scored twice on short runs and kicked the extra point. Plainfield plays at Irvington Saturday. Irvington beat Union in a wild game Saturday afternoon.
The Warriors blasted Bridgewater-Raritan 50-3. Franklin looked great. They weren't penalized in the second half, and didn't have a turnover.
I'm pretty bad at going overboard on early games, but Franklin has some players to keep it up. The Warriors have a solid offensive and defensive line, speedy linebackers, Gavin Roberts anchoring the defensive backfield. Roberts also made a terrific catch off a lob from junior quarterback Jon Patrick in the first half and tipped away a pass that B-R quarterback Alonzo Miller threw to a wide open Rob Pennella.
Franklin plays at Phillipsburg Friday night. The Stateliners haven't lost a Skyland Conference game since 2002 and has won four straight Skyland East titles.
Plainfield -- despite the penalties it incurred -- kept it close against Elizabeth Saturday, losing 20-13. Oreal Douglas scored twice on short runs and kicked the extra point. Plainfield plays at Irvington Saturday. Irvington beat Union in a wild game Saturday afternoon.
Friday, September 07, 2007
Montgomery and other things
Well, just so everybody knows -- our newspaper has gone through quite a bit recently, so if you don't see the score of your school's game in the paper, you probably will see it Sunday. Our deadlines have been pushed up some, so we've been pushing it a bit and getting used to the new working relationship with our friends at the Home News and Tribune. We'll be better for it.
I was at the Watchung Hills-Montgomery game Friday night and it's pretty clear that Cougar senior quarterback Kevin Watson knows what he's doing. The Cougars won in a 38-3 rout. Watchung Hills scored first on Jim Morrow's field goal, but the Warriors should have gotten at least six -- but -- the Montgomery defense wouldn't let it and sacked Jeff Janoski.
Watson threw for 215 yards with no interceptions. Chris Garcia, J.T. Tartacoff and the unheralded Andy Singley had very good games. Garcia and Tartacoff had a couple of touchdowns each and Singley was very effective in short yardage spots.
Montgomery's defense was also very good. A very impressive opener for the Cougars.
Now, for Watchung Hills. First off, senior defensive back Brian Macellara didn't play because of a high ankle sprain. That didn't help Watchung Hills' pass coverage.
We have mentioned in several articles that the Warriors would miss the graduated tight end Matt Hunt and quarterback Joe Giaimo and halfback Rob Ritter. But what we haven't mentioned is how much the Warriors would miss the graduated linemen Matt Crystal and Ron Quacquarini. It showed Friday night. Quarterbacks Janoski and Kevin Scholato were under pressure throughout the game.
That's it for now. It's late.
Oh, Nazareth lost to Parkland Friday night. Miss you guys.
I was at the Watchung Hills-Montgomery game Friday night and it's pretty clear that Cougar senior quarterback Kevin Watson knows what he's doing. The Cougars won in a 38-3 rout. Watchung Hills scored first on Jim Morrow's field goal, but the Warriors should have gotten at least six -- but -- the Montgomery defense wouldn't let it and sacked Jeff Janoski.
Watson threw for 215 yards with no interceptions. Chris Garcia, J.T. Tartacoff and the unheralded Andy Singley had very good games. Garcia and Tartacoff had a couple of touchdowns each and Singley was very effective in short yardage spots.
Montgomery's defense was also very good. A very impressive opener for the Cougars.
Now, for Watchung Hills. First off, senior defensive back Brian Macellara didn't play because of a high ankle sprain. That didn't help Watchung Hills' pass coverage.
We have mentioned in several articles that the Warriors would miss the graduated tight end Matt Hunt and quarterback Joe Giaimo and halfback Rob Ritter. But what we haven't mentioned is how much the Warriors would miss the graduated linemen Matt Crystal and Ron Quacquarini. It showed Friday night. Quarterbacks Janoski and Kevin Scholato were under pressure throughout the game.
That's it for now. It's late.
Oh, Nazareth lost to Parkland Friday night. Miss you guys.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Don't forget DeNick
Immaculata senior quarterback Frank DeNick directed the Spartans to a 12-0 season last year, winning Non-Public Group III and Skyland West titles.
He'll once again be counted on to lead the way and it starts against Somerville Friday night at Brooks Field.
The Spartan line should be outstanding with center Mark Brazinski, guards T.J. Hoppe and Robert Gorgy and tackles Andrew Heaney and Cody Bohler. Immaculata will most likely be without star running back Theo Riddick against Somerville. Riddick has a high ankle sprain.
DeNick could wind up throwing the ball off a few more snaps.
"It'll give us the chance to prove to people that we're not a one-man team," said DeNick, who also batted in the leadoff spot and played right field for the Somerset County Tournament champion Spartans last spring. "I love playing with Theo and he's a great friend of mine, but it's a chance to prove we can handle his absence."
One thing about Somerville: maybe we're not giving the Pioneers enough credit. These kids have been successful at the freshman and junior varsity levels.
Quarterback Colin Klika has two solid backs to hand off to in Williams Watson and his brother St. Claire Watson. The receivers are good too. Mike Naples and Steve Robinson are two of the Pioneer receivers with plenty of varsity experience.
He'll once again be counted on to lead the way and it starts against Somerville Friday night at Brooks Field.
The Spartan line should be outstanding with center Mark Brazinski, guards T.J. Hoppe and Robert Gorgy and tackles Andrew Heaney and Cody Bohler. Immaculata will most likely be without star running back Theo Riddick against Somerville. Riddick has a high ankle sprain.
DeNick could wind up throwing the ball off a few more snaps.
"It'll give us the chance to prove to people that we're not a one-man team," said DeNick, who also batted in the leadoff spot and played right field for the Somerset County Tournament champion Spartans last spring. "I love playing with Theo and he's a great friend of mine, but it's a chance to prove we can handle his absence."
One thing about Somerville: maybe we're not giving the Pioneers enough credit. These kids have been successful at the freshman and junior varsity levels.
Quarterback Colin Klika has two solid backs to hand off to in Williams Watson and his brother St. Claire Watson. The receivers are good too. Mike Naples and Steve Robinson are two of the Pioneer receivers with plenty of varsity experience.
Immaculata stuff
We've been told that junior running back Theo Riddick will not be playing in Friday night's cross-borough game with Somerville.
Immaculata assistant coach Joe Servidio said that Riddick has a high ankle sprain. The Spartans will use a committee of backs to fill in -- senior Mike Kuhn, junior John Mack and sophomore Kyle Jordan.
Riddick's availability for next week's game at Ridge won't be known for awhile.
Riddick suffered a concussion in last year's game with Somerville, but the Spartans won anyway as graduated fullback A.J. Albert began what turned out to be a dream season for him and the team.
Kuhn also missed last year's opener with turf toe along with the graduated Kent Amoo Achampong, who never came back after a broken wrist suffered in the summer.
So Kuhn, Mack and Jordan can look at this as an opportunity to seize a prominent role in the Spartan offense. Of course, that all changes when Riddick returns.
Nazareth plays at Parkland tonight. Go Blue Eagles.
Immaculata assistant coach Joe Servidio said that Riddick has a high ankle sprain. The Spartans will use a committee of backs to fill in -- senior Mike Kuhn, junior John Mack and sophomore Kyle Jordan.
Riddick's availability for next week's game at Ridge won't be known for awhile.
Riddick suffered a concussion in last year's game with Somerville, but the Spartans won anyway as graduated fullback A.J. Albert began what turned out to be a dream season for him and the team.
Kuhn also missed last year's opener with turf toe along with the graduated Kent Amoo Achampong, who never came back after a broken wrist suffered in the summer.
So Kuhn, Mack and Jordan can look at this as an opportunity to seize a prominent role in the Spartan offense. Of course, that all changes when Riddick returns.
Nazareth plays at Parkland tonight. Go Blue Eagles.
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Game of the week and other things...
Face it, the team you play for is the most important team in the world. We understand that, but unfortunately, we can only have one "game of the week" per week.
The season opening game of the week has been bestowed upon Montgomery and Watchung Hills. Game time Friday night is 7 p.m. in Watchung at Tozier Field.
It's not Somerville-Immaculata or Hunterdon Central-North Hunterdon or even Franklin-Bridgewater-Raritan, but -- it's a vital game for both and we figure it to be a close game.
Watchung Hills lost tight end Matt Hunt and quarterback Joe Giaimo among its graduates in June and several good lineman from a team that went 6-4.
Montgomery has its prized senior quarterback Kevin Watson back along with tight end Chris Garcia and senior Devon Saunders and a nice group of lineman.
"We can split Chris, isolate him," Montgomery coach Zoran Milich said. "He's a beast. He's really a pysical specimen."
Years ago, former New York Rangers coach Colin Campbell described the Devils' forwards as interchangeable parts. That's what Watchung Hills reminds me of. The Warriors run their Delaware Wing-T and share the ball in the backfield with small, quick guys who make plays. They're a tricky team to play and for coaches to prepare their teams to play.
"Jim does a phenominal job with it," said Milich of Watchung Hills' coach Jim Benedict. "He can run a clinic with that offense."
I'm officially on the Franklin bandwagon. They have enough players to make a big jump this year. Will they do it is another question. Franklin resides in the Skyland Delaware East Division with Phillipsburg, which has made it to three straight North 2, Group IV finals, winning in '05. Phillipsburg has won 20 straight division games and has claimed four straight divisional titles. Hunterdon Central was the last team to beat Phillipsburg in a divisional game Nov. 2 2002. Central won the division title that year.
Could Franklin stop P'Burg's run?
"We have a nice looking group, but a lot of them are untested," Franklin coach Lou Solomon said.
Bridgewater-Raritan is up first Saturday afternoon in Franklin at 1 p.m. Bridgewater-Raritan was 2-8 last year (beating Hillsborough and Plainfield) and Franklin was 5-5.
The season opening game of the week has been bestowed upon Montgomery and Watchung Hills. Game time Friday night is 7 p.m. in Watchung at Tozier Field.
It's not Somerville-Immaculata or Hunterdon Central-North Hunterdon or even Franklin-Bridgewater-Raritan, but -- it's a vital game for both and we figure it to be a close game.
Watchung Hills lost tight end Matt Hunt and quarterback Joe Giaimo among its graduates in June and several good lineman from a team that went 6-4.
Montgomery has its prized senior quarterback Kevin Watson back along with tight end Chris Garcia and senior Devon Saunders and a nice group of lineman.
"We can split Chris, isolate him," Montgomery coach Zoran Milich said. "He's a beast. He's really a pysical specimen."
Years ago, former New York Rangers coach Colin Campbell described the Devils' forwards as interchangeable parts. That's what Watchung Hills reminds me of. The Warriors run their Delaware Wing-T and share the ball in the backfield with small, quick guys who make plays. They're a tricky team to play and for coaches to prepare their teams to play.
"Jim does a phenominal job with it," said Milich of Watchung Hills' coach Jim Benedict. "He can run a clinic with that offense."
I'm officially on the Franklin bandwagon. They have enough players to make a big jump this year. Will they do it is another question. Franklin resides in the Skyland Delaware East Division with Phillipsburg, which has made it to three straight North 2, Group IV finals, winning in '05. Phillipsburg has won 20 straight division games and has claimed four straight divisional titles. Hunterdon Central was the last team to beat Phillipsburg in a divisional game Nov. 2 2002. Central won the division title that year.
Could Franklin stop P'Burg's run?
"We have a nice looking group, but a lot of them are untested," Franklin coach Lou Solomon said.
Bridgewater-Raritan is up first Saturday afternoon in Franklin at 1 p.m. Bridgewater-Raritan was 2-8 last year (beating Hillsborough and Plainfield) and Franklin was 5-5.
Monday, September 03, 2007
New Bound Brook quarterback
Mike Romanella, Bound Brook's junior quarterback, transfers over from New London High School in Connecticut.
Romanella played for Jack Cochran, who was in the news last year regarding a blowout rule in Connecticut. In 2005, New London, coached by Cochran, beat Griswold High 90-0 and won four games by 50 or more points. In Connecticut, teams are prohibited from beating their opponents by more than 50 points.
It's widely believed that the rule by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference was directed at Cochran, who is still at New London. New London would be a larger Group I school in New Jersey.
"New London went 9-2 two years ago and 7-3 last year," said Romanella, who started most of last year's game for New London before being hurt. "New London would be a small school in New Jersey, but they'd be pretty powerful.
"My freshman and sophomore years we didn't have a guy who was 6-foot to throw to. Just this year we had a tight end transfer in who was 6-foot-2," Romanella said. "We never had any targets who could jump, run and catch like these guys (Deven Baker and Erron Banks). These guys are unbelievable down there. They are great passing targets."
Romanella said he would rather pass than run the ball.
"I just like to sit back there and pass," Romanell said. "If I have to run I'll run. I'm not slow."
Pretty interesting article in the Wall Street Journal last week about how more and more coaches are using film to practice to combat new regulations in using shorter practice time.
Romanella played for Jack Cochran, who was in the news last year regarding a blowout rule in Connecticut. In 2005, New London, coached by Cochran, beat Griswold High 90-0 and won four games by 50 or more points. In Connecticut, teams are prohibited from beating their opponents by more than 50 points.
It's widely believed that the rule by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference was directed at Cochran, who is still at New London. New London would be a larger Group I school in New Jersey.
"New London went 9-2 two years ago and 7-3 last year," said Romanella, who started most of last year's game for New London before being hurt. "New London would be a small school in New Jersey, but they'd be pretty powerful.
"My freshman and sophomore years we didn't have a guy who was 6-foot to throw to. Just this year we had a tight end transfer in who was 6-foot-2," Romanella said. "We never had any targets who could jump, run and catch like these guys (Deven Baker and Erron Banks). These guys are unbelievable down there. They are great passing targets."
Romanella said he would rather pass than run the ball.
"I just like to sit back there and pass," Romanell said. "If I have to run I'll run. I'm not slow."
Pretty interesting article in the Wall Street Journal last week about how more and more coaches are using film to practice to combat new regulations in using shorter practice time.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
The Boro
So, who gets more attention on the forums these days?
Immaculata? Probably. But what about Hillsborough? Are you expecting me to rip head coach Vin Coviello and blame him for going 3-7 last year in his first year?
Coviello is in his second year. He replaced longtime coach Rick Mantz, who led the Raiders to a Central Jersey Group IV title in 2000. Vinnie had a tough act to follow.
"It really doesn't bother me," said Coviello of the critics. "If it wasn't me, it would be another coach."
Can Hillsborough turn things around? The Raiders have a brutal schedule -- Piscataway to open Friday night followed by the likes of Hunterdon Central and Franklin. Franklin should be better. The Warriors can blame the loss to Hillsborough for them not making the playoffs.
Hillsborough will be speedy and senior lineman Rocco Mazzagatti will be in his fourth year of varsity football. Junior quarterback Mike Daly is a year older and wiser and has a long list of receivers to throw. Daly threw for 636 yards last year with four touchdowns.
Sophomore running back/defensive back Mike Banaciski played as a freshman last year.
"He's a special kid," Coviello said.
The Raiders could look a lot better this year, but the results might not be found on their final record. The season could be hard to judge for those not close to the program -- which means a lot more critique for the head coach.
Immaculata? Probably. But what about Hillsborough? Are you expecting me to rip head coach Vin Coviello and blame him for going 3-7 last year in his first year?
Coviello is in his second year. He replaced longtime coach Rick Mantz, who led the Raiders to a Central Jersey Group IV title in 2000. Vinnie had a tough act to follow.
"It really doesn't bother me," said Coviello of the critics. "If it wasn't me, it would be another coach."
Can Hillsborough turn things around? The Raiders have a brutal schedule -- Piscataway to open Friday night followed by the likes of Hunterdon Central and Franklin. Franklin should be better. The Warriors can blame the loss to Hillsborough for them not making the playoffs.
Hillsborough will be speedy and senior lineman Rocco Mazzagatti will be in his fourth year of varsity football. Junior quarterback Mike Daly is a year older and wiser and has a long list of receivers to throw. Daly threw for 636 yards last year with four touchdowns.
Sophomore running back/defensive back Mike Banaciski played as a freshman last year.
"He's a special kid," Coviello said.
The Raiders could look a lot better this year, but the results might not be found on their final record. The season could be hard to judge for those not close to the program -- which means a lot more critique for the head coach.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Welcome to September
North Hunterdon and Voorhees actually started school Aug. 30, so we're into the school year up here in Hunterdon County already. Pennsylvania starts Sept. 4.
Hunterdon Central opens the season Friday night at North Hunterdon. The Red Devils, who game scrimmaged West Morris Friday night, were Central Jersey Group IV champions last year, beating Howell at Giants Stadium for the title.
But remember that Central lost to North Hunterdon 21-18 in last year's season opener.
The Red Devils haven't forgotten.
"We talk about it a whole bunch," Central coach Matt Perotti said. "We just didn't look prepared that night and I have to hand it to (North coach Dennis Haughey) Haughey. North was ready, but we weren't and that game has been with me since. To start the season at home with a loss. I didn't do a good enough job."
Central doesn't have much room for unexpected losses now that they have joined the extraordinarly deep North 2, Group IV field.
Central suffered from five turnovers in the North game.
"I think that what happened was that it was overhpyed and we didn't come into it mentally prepared," said tight end/linebacker Garrett Thul. "We didn't take it as seriously as we should have and it was do or die that moment on."
North Hunterdon looked good Saturday in a late-scheduled scrimmage with Warren Hills.
Nazareth lost its season-opener to Pleasant Valley in a season over at home. Pleasant Valley hadn't won a season opener in eight years. I miss you guys very much.
More tomorrow!
Hunterdon Central opens the season Friday night at North Hunterdon. The Red Devils, who game scrimmaged West Morris Friday night, were Central Jersey Group IV champions last year, beating Howell at Giants Stadium for the title.
But remember that Central lost to North Hunterdon 21-18 in last year's season opener.
The Red Devils haven't forgotten.
"We talk about it a whole bunch," Central coach Matt Perotti said. "We just didn't look prepared that night and I have to hand it to (North coach Dennis Haughey) Haughey. North was ready, but we weren't and that game has been with me since. To start the season at home with a loss. I didn't do a good enough job."
Central doesn't have much room for unexpected losses now that they have joined the extraordinarly deep North 2, Group IV field.
Central suffered from five turnovers in the North game.
"I think that what happened was that it was overhpyed and we didn't come into it mentally prepared," said tight end/linebacker Garrett Thul. "We didn't take it as seriously as we should have and it was do or die that moment on."
North Hunterdon looked good Saturday in a late-scheduled scrimmage with Warren Hills.
Nazareth lost its season-opener to Pleasant Valley in a season over at home. Pleasant Valley hadn't won a season opener in eight years. I miss you guys very much.
More tomorrow!
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