Northeast - North Shore Preview

     Rivalry Week kicks off Saturday, as Northeast visits North Shore for what amounts to the Commonwealth Small league championship.  North Shore comes in having won six straight, posting a 9-1 record overall which includes a 3-0 record against league foes.  Northeast, last year's champ, is also undefeated in the league, and has an 8-2 record overall. 

     North Shore is one of the more well-rounded teams in Division 4A, with their defense allowing only 13.3 points per game, and their offense putting up 26.4.  They have dominated league play thus far, outscoring opponents 104-20.  Jesse Wilkins is their big play back,  scoring 22 total touchdowns.  Jordan Smith has been a handful for opposing linemen all year, and Terrell Suggs has made his fair share of big plays as well.  To knock off Northeast, it's imperative Smith and Wilkins get the ground game going against a Northeast defense that ranks third in Division 4A in points allowed.   

     Northeast, last year's defending champion, has quite the squad as well.  They've recorded four shutouts, and with players like John O' Connell getting after the quarterback, they have to like their chances at repeating.  As good as the defense has been, it's been the offense that has done the most damage to opponents, averaging a little over points per game.  Quarterback Don DiPietrantonio has been able to make plays with his arm and legs all year, and the backfield duo of Bobby Novello and Brandon Sullivan has combined for 19 touchdowns.  If their defense can clog running lanes and keep North Shore from consistently putting together long drives, Northeast will be headed back to the postseason.

North Shore by the Numbers

Record - 9-1 (3-0)

Longest Win Streak - 6

Longest Losing Streak - 1

Points Scored Per Game - 26.4

Points Allowed Per Game - 13.3

Total Touchdown Leader - Jesse Wilkins (22)

Northeast by the Numbers

Record - 8-2 (3-0)

Longest Win Streak - 5

Longest Losing Streak - 2

Points Scored Per Game - 30.2

Points Allowed Per Game - 11.5

Total Touchdown Leader - Bobby Novello (13)