Eastern Mass Playoff Outlook

     No need to search around for info on who's got the inside track on playoff spots; we've got everything right here.  Below you'll see who's in, the teams still alive, as well as likely scenarios.  We'll keep this updated until all leagues and conferences are squared away. 

Division 1

Big Three:

- Favorite: #2 Brockton 8-1 (1-0); vs. New Bedford - Brockton is in the driver's seat, and all signs point to them returning to the post-season despite seeming more and more beatable from.

- Knocking on the Door: New Bedford 4-4 (0-0); at Brockton - Brockton may have the inside track, but given the way they've played recently, New Bedford has to like their chances of stealing a win this weekend. If they do, and can beat 3-6 Durfee on Thanksgiving, they'd be the team representing the Big Three in the playoffs.

Catholic Conference:

- Favorite: #4 Xaverian (7-2; 2-0); at Catholic Memorial - The Hawks have found their stride since dropping two straight a few weeks back, but they face a very ticked off Catholic Memorial team this weekend. 

- Knocking on the Door: St. John's Prep (6-3; 2-0); at BC High - Prep has been rolling lately, winning three straight and outscoring opponents 101-36 during that stretch.  They've got BC High this weekend, but a win sets them up with a Thanksgiving showdown against Xaverian that will decide the Catholic Conference champion.  I feel like that's happened before...

- Dark Horse A: Catholic Memorial (5-3; 1-1); vs. Xaverian - The Knights proved last weekend they can play with anyone, pushing Brockton to the brink before losing on a last second bomb.  Their schedule sets up well; if they beat Xaverian and BC High, they'll finish 3-1 in the conference, and own a tie-breaker over Xaverian.  While they lost to SJP, it is very possible Prep loses both their final games.  If that were all to happen, they'd earn themselves a play-off birth.  

- Dark Horse B: BC High (4-4; 1-1); vs. St. John's Prep - The Eagles need some help.  They are 1-1 with a win against Malden Catholic and a loss to Xaverian.  For them to advance, they need to first beat both St. John's Prep and Catholic Memorial.  They would then need Prep and CM to beat Xaverian.  It's a lot, but could happen.  

Greater Boston League

- Favorite: #1 Everett (8-0; 2-0); vs. Malden - The champion will essentially be decided this weekend, as Malden pays the Crimson Tide a visit.  If Everett wins, the league is theirs.

- Knocking on the Door: Malden (4-4; 2-0); at Everett - Despite their early season struggles, Malden has a chance to win the GBL this weekend.  They are perfect in league play, and if they are able to shock Everett, they'll get the GBL's playoff bid.

- Dark Horse: Cambridge (2-5; 1-1); vs. Somerville - It's possible, but not probable.  For the Falcons to shock the state, they need to beat Somerville this weekend, then hope Everett handles business against Malden.  They would then have to beat Everett (in Everett), and hope Medford can pull off an upset against Malden on Thanksgiving.  Again, not probable, but possible. 

Merrimack Valley Large

- Favorite: Central Catholic (6-3; 2-0); at Billerica - There is really no clear-cut favorite in this one, but CC is undefeated in league play, so they get the nod.  That may change this weekend, as they'll have to find a way to slow Billerica's Nick LeSpada.  A win this weekend would go a long way, as their match-up on Thanksgiving with Andover looks to be the deciding game,

- Knocking on the Door A: Chelmsford (6-3; 2-1); at Tewksbury - They've got an out of conference game this weekend, and they need a little help, but if Lowell can upset Andover, and Billerica and Andover beat Central Catholic, it would allow them to sneak in by beating Billerica Thankgiving.

- Knocking on the Door B: Andover (6-3; 1-1); at Lowell - Winning out is a must.  Wins against Lowell and Central Catholic will push their league record to 3-1.  They would then need Billerica to defeat Chelmsford on T-Day.

- Dark Horse: Billerica (5-4; 1-1); vs. Central Catholic - Finishing 2-0 is mandatory.  A win this week would put them at 2-1, and give them the tie-breaker over CC should the two finish tied for first.  Then, they would need to beat Chelmsford on Thanksgiving, and hope Andover loses one of their next two.  We're calling them a Dark Horse, but any team with a player like Nick LeSpada shouldn't be counted out. 

Division 1A

Bay State Carey

- In: #8 Weymouth (9-0; 9-0); vs.Brookline - Nothing left for the Wildcats to do but try and keep their perfect record in tact.

Dual County Large

 - Favorite: Lincoln-Sudbury (6-3; 3-0); at Boston Latin - L-S controls their own destiny, as they can clinch a playoff birth with a win against Latin.

- Dark Horse A: Acton-Boxborough (7-1; 2-1); at Newton South - After their loss to L-S last weekend, they'll need to win out, and have L-S drop both of their remaining games.  

- Dark Horse B: Westford (6-3; 2-1); at Waltham - Westford also has a loss to L-S on it's resume, so they'll need to win out and hope Boston Latin and Newton South can pull of major upsets.

Northeastern Large

- Favorite: #3 Gloucester (9-0; 4-0); vs. Lynn Classical - This weeks match-up with Lynn Classical is essentially the conference championship, as a win solidifies Gloucester getting the chance to defend its crown. 

- Knocking on the Door: Lynn Classical (8-1; 3-0); at Gloucester - Win and their in, as an upset at Gloucester this weekend will push them to 4-0 in the league, and give them the tie-breaker with Gloucester, making their Thanksgiving match-up with high powered Lynn English insignificant.

Old Colony

- In: Bridgewater-Raynham (7-2; 2-0); at Taunton - Their win last weekend against Barnstable sewed up another OCL championship.

Division 2

Bay State Hegret

- In: Walpole (9-0; 9-0); vs. Milton - No competition for the Rebels this year, as all they have left to accomplish during the regular season is beating rival and fellow unbeaten Weymouth.

Hockomock

- Favorite: #7 Mansfield (8-1; 7-0); at Canton - A win this weekend against 0-8-1 Canton locks up a postseason birth for the Hornets, as they own the tie-breaker against the two teams still alive.

- Dark Horse A: North Attleborough (8-1; 6-1); vs. King Phillip - North Attleborough needs to win out, then hope both Canton and Foxborough can pull off upsets against Mansfield.  It won't be easy, as they host King Philip this weekend, and the combined records of Canton and Foxborough are 4-13-1.  

- Dark Horse B: King Philip (7-1; 6-1); at North Attleborough - Tough sledding for King Philip as well, as they need to go to North Attleborough and win, then take care of Franklin on Turkey Day and hope for both Canton and Foxborough to upset Mansfield.

Merrimack Valley Small

- Favorite: #6 Methuen (8-1; 2-0); at Lawrence - A win this week against lowly Lawrence sets up a potential Thanksgiving Day showdown with Dracut that will decide the league champion.  For the Rangers, a healthy Raudy Minaya makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the state.  If he's hurt, the load falls squarely on their rushing attack.

- Knocking on the Door: Dracut (6-3; 2-0); at Haverhill - Remember when everyone wrote off the Middies earlier this year?  Well, a win at Haverhill this weekend will force what amounts to a one-game playoff with rival Methuen.

Middlesex

- Favorite: #10 Reading (9-0; 6-0); vs. Lexington - If Reading can take care of Lexington this weekend, they'll punch their ticket to the post-season.  

- Dark Horse: Lexington (5-4; 4-2); at Reading - Winning out is paramount, and that starts with their trip to Reading this weekend.  It wont get any easier on Thanksgiving, as they would need to find a way to slow the Burlington rushing attack.  Beyond that, they'd need Stoneham to upset Reading. 

Division 2A

Atlantic Coast

- Favorite: Plymouth North (7-2; 3-0); at Dennis-Yarmouth - Huge game for North this weekend, as a win solidifies a trip to the post-season. 

- Knocking on the Door A: Dennis-Yarmouth (8-1; 3-1); vs. Plymouth North - The Dolphins are still very much in it.  They need to knock off North this weekend, which would bring their conference record to 4-1, and open the door for a three-way tie between North, Marshfield, and themselves.

- Knocking at the Door B: Marshfield (4-4; 3-1); vs. Sandwich - Marshfield is also alive, but needs Dennis-Yarmouth, who they've previously beaten, to beat North this weekend.  That, coupled with a win against Sandwich, would bring us to the aforementioned three-way tie.  For them to advance outright, they need a win, and Plymouth North to drop both of their remaining games. 

Cape Ann Large

- Favorite: North Andover (8-1; 3-0); vs. Pentucket - Another win and your in situation here.

- Knocking on the Door: Pentucket (7-2; 2-1); at North Andover - The Sachems need to beat North Andover this weekend, then beat rival Triton on Thanksgiving in order to extend their season.

Dual County Small

- Favorite: Concord-Carlisle (7-2; 3-0); vs. Tyngsborough - Concord-Carlisle controls their own destiny, as wins at Tyngsborough and Bedford will earn them a playoff birth.
- Knocking on the Door: Bedford (5-3; 2-1); at Wayland - Bedford actually has the second most direct route to a title, as a win at Wayland and at home against C-C coupled with another Weston loss would propel them to the league title.

- Dark Horse A: Weston (8-1; 2-1); vs. Arlington - Weston dropped their match-up with C-C, but if they can manage wins against Arlington and Wayland, they can still play on, pending C-C loses to both Tyngsborough and Bedford.

- Dark Horse B: Wayland (4-5; 2-1); vs. Bedford -Wayland is also still alive.  They've lost to C-C, so they need to win their remaining two against Bedford and Weston, then have C-C drop both their remaining games. 

Patriot (Keenan)

- Favorite: Duxbury (9-0; 3-0); vs. Hingham - Duxbury needs only a victory this weekend against Hingham to win the conference outright.  A loss would cause a three-way tie between Hingham, Silver Lake, and themselves.

- Knocking on the Door A: Hingham (6-1; 2-1); at Duxbury - Hingham needs a win this weekend at Duxbury to keep their playoff aspirations alive.  A win would put them above Duxbury, but below Silver Lake, whom they've lost to.

- Knocking on the Door B: Silver Lake (5-4; 3-1); vs. Quincy - Silver Lake is done with league play, compiling a 3-1 record that includes a win over Hingham, but a loss against Duxbury.  They're hoping for a Hingham win this weekend.

Division 3

Eastern Athletic

- Favorite: Somerset (9-0; 3-0); vs. Bishop Feehan - Somerset can lock up a title with a win against Bishop Feehan, who has quietly went undefeated in league play.

- Knocking on the Door: Bishop Feehan (4-5; 3-0); at Somerset - All their early season struggles mean nothing, as Feehan has put themselves in a position to play past Thanksgiving if they can beat Somerset this weekend.  It''ll be tough, but stranger things have happened.

Northeastern Small

- Favorite: Beverly (4-5; 4-0); vs. Swampscott - Believe it or not, Beverly has won four straight and is sitting pretty atop the NE Small.  A win over high powered Swampscott this weekend wraps up a title for the Panthers.

- Knocking on the Door: Swampscott (7-2; 2-1); at Beverly - Early on, it looked like Swampscott would roll through the league, but after dropping a game at home against Winthrop, they find themselves in a must-win game at Beverly this weekend that could seal their fate.

Patriot (Fisher)

- Favorite: Scituate (7-2; 3-0); at Pembroke - Scituate heads to the post season with a win at Pembroke this weekend.

- Knocking on the Door: Pemborke (5-3; 2-1); vs. Scituate - Pembroke's hopes are alive and well if they win this weekend against first place Scituate.  They dropped one against Quincy earlier, but the Presidents are out of contention, so the loss is essentially a non-factor.  

South Coast

- Favorite: Dighton-Rehoboth (8-1; 5-0); at Old Rochester - Big match-up for D-R this weekend, as they visit Old Rochester in hopes of pushing their league record to 6-0 and effectively wrapping up a playoff spot.

- Knocking on the Door A: Old Rochester (4-5; 4-1); vs. Dighton-Rehoboth - Old Rochester has got a great shot at stealing the South Coast, as their final two games are against the teams currently ahead of them (D-R and Apponequet).  If the Bulldogs win out, they're in.

- Dark Horse: Apponequet (7-2; 4-1); vs. Wareham - Apponequet is on the outside looking in after their loss to Dighton-Rehoboth, but if D-R chokes in their final two games, and Apponequet is able to win out, they would be champs.

Division 3A

Cape Ann Small

- Favorite: Hamilton-Wenham (6-2; 4-0); vs. Lynnfield - Winning out gets the Generals a playoff birth, but they'll have to knock off a very talented Lynnfield team this weekend to do so.  If they do, their Thanksgiving battle with Ipswich should be gravy (no pun intended).

- Knocking on the Door A: Lynnfield (8-1; 3-1); at Hamilton-Wenham - Lynnfield might be the most talented team in the league, but their loss at Newburyport was a killer.  They'll need to win out, then hope for Newburyport to lose one of their last two.

- Knocking on the Door B: Newburyport (5-4; 3-1); vs. Georgetown - They beat Lynnfield, but their loss to H-W to open the season is what has them in a tough position.  Winning out, coupled with a Hamilton-Wenham two game skid to end the season will catapult them to the top off the Cape Ann Small.  A three-way tie is also a possibility should H-W only lose one of their next two.

Catholic Central Large

- Favorite: Cardinal Spellman (9-0; 3-0); vs. Arlington Catholic - Winning out secures them a playoff birth.

- Knocking on the Door: St. Mary's (8-1; 3-1); at Bishop Fenwick - St. Mary's is only a game behind, but their loss to Cardinal Spellman stings.  The need to knock off Bishop Fenwick this weekend and hope Spellman closes out the season with a two-game losing streak.  

South Shore

- Favorite: Rockland (9-0; 5-0); at Norwell - Rockland has been phenomenal all year, and if they can win their remaining two games, they'll head back to the postseason.

- Knocking on the Door: East Bridgewater (8-1; 4-1); vs. Mashpee - They dropped one to Cohasset early on, but winning out would still give them the South Shore crown.  They'll need their best effort Thanksgiving against Rockland if they hope to do so.  

Tri-Valley

- Tri-Valley Championship: Medway (8-1; 8-1) at Holliston (8-1; 8-1) - It's winner take all this weekend, as Medway tries to knock off Holliston for the second time this year.

Division 4 

Boston North

- Favorite: Madison Park (5-1; 4-0); at East Boston - Madison Park is in the drivers seat, as a win this weekend at East Boston will lock down a league title.

- Knocking on the Door: East Boston (6-2; 3-0); vs. Madison Park - East Boston is very much alive, as wins this week against Madison Park and on Thanksgiving against South Boston will have them returning to States.

Commonwealth Large

- Favorite: Shawsheen (7-1; 3-0); at Manchester Essex - Win and they're in.

- Dark Horse A: Manchester Essex (3-5; 3-1); vs. Shawsheen - They may be under .500, but a win this week and two Greater Lawrence losses gives them the league.

- Dark Horse B: Greater Lawrence (6-3; 2-1); vs. Lynn Tech - Greater Lawrence dropped their game against Shawsheen, so they need to win out, then have Shawsheen lose two straight.

Mayflower Large

- Favorite: Blue Hills (8-1; 3-0); vs. South Shore Voc-Tech - Blue Hills can finish of their great season by beating South Shore Voc-Tech Friday night.

- Knocking on the Door: South Shore Voc-Tech (4-4; 3-0); at Blue Hills - SSVT needs a win against visiting Blue Hills this weekend, then another against Southeastern on Turkey Day to punch their ticket to the tourney.

Division 4A

Boston South

- In: Brighton (7-2; 4-0)

Catholic Central Small

- Favorite: Lowell Catholic (7-1; 4-0); vs. Marian - The only reason they occupy our "favorite" slot is because they have a better overall record than the second place team.  Winning out gets them in.

- Knocking on the Door: Pope John (6-2; 4-0); vs. Matignon - Pope John's path is cut and dry: wins over Matignon and Lowell Catholic assure them a post season birth.

- Dark Horse: Matignon (4-4; 4-1); at Pope John - Matignon was blown out by Lowell Catholic, so they'll need a win this weekend against Pope John and two straight Lowell Catholic losses.

Commonwealth Small

- Favorite: North Shore (8-1; 2-0); vs. Minuteman - As is the case with Lowell Catholic, they get the nod as favorite only because they have a better overall record than the team they're tied with.  Winning out captures them the crown.

- Knocking on the Door: Northeast (7-2; 2-0); vs. Chelsea - They're headed for a Thanksgiving showdown against rival North Shore with everything on the line if they can handle Chelsea this weekend.   

Mayflower Small

- In: West Bridgewater (7-1; 6-0)

Week 9 Movers and Shakers

Here are five teams who saw their stock rise last weekend with impressive performances.

• Pentucket (7-2; 2-1) - Pentucket was able to handle a tough Masconomet team last weekend to run their league record to 2-1, putting them in a position to take over first place in the Cape Ann Large should they be able to slow quarterback Brandon Walsh and North Andover this weekend.  Nolan Dragon again set the tempo for the Sachems, and for them to continue their solid play, he will need to be at his best on both sides of the ball. 
• Medway (8-1; 8-1) - You've got to like where your sitting if you're the Mustangs.  They already beat Holliston back in October, and last week they were able to continue their great second half play, piling up 21 points to finish off a 28-18 win over Norton.  If the Mustangs can again stymie Sean Mayo, they'll find themselves Tri-Valley champs and headed to the playoffs.  
• Catholic Memorial (5-3; 1-1) - CM lost a heart-breaker last week, but despite losing, they proved they are now a top program.  A win against Xaverian sets them up with a chance to steal the Catholic Conference.  If they can beat the Hawks, they would need a win against rival BC High on Thanksgiving coupled with Xaverian and BC High wins over St. John's Prep.  If that were all to happen, they'd get their chance at a rematch with Brockton.  
• Lynn Classical (8-1; 3-0) - Classical has a good chance to do the unthinkable: beat Gloucester on the road for the Northeastern Large title.  It will take a flawless game, but Classical has the horses up front to slow the Gloucester pass rush.  Keith Nance and Nick Grassa have combined for 29 touchdowns this year, and their defense has given up a paltry 15.1 points per game.  All that won't matter if they let Gilbert Brown, Jordan Shairs, and the Fishermen offense move the ball like they have every game the past two years.  
• Dracut (6-2; 2-0) - Dracut is one game from being on the cusp of a league title.  All that stands between them and a Thanksgiving Day showdown with Methuen for all the marbles is lowly Haverhill.  Matt Silva has regained his 2009 form, helping his offense put up roughly 33 points per game.  A win erases all the doubts that arose after their 0-2 start. 
  

Week 10 Top Ten

Gloucester and Reading are gaining ground, but no changes this week.

1. Everett (8-0)  - Everett marched through Somerville, and with their last two opponents having a combined 6-9 record, don't expect their string of league championships to end this year.
2. Brockton (8-1) - The Boxers pulled out another close one, but if they don't begin playing more consistently, they may find themselves with another early playoff exit.  
3. Gloucester (9-0) - Huge game with Lynn Classical this week that will decide the Northeastern Large champion.  
4. Xaverian (7-2) - A tough test this week for the Hawks, who will be trying to stay on top of the Catholic Conference.   
5. St. John's Shrewsbury (8-1) - SJS was able to shake off last week's loss to Xaverian and come away with a win against arguably the most talented Western Mass team other than themselves.   
6. Methuen (8-1) - A great win for the Rangers, but with Raudy Minaya injured, they will now have to lean even more heavily on the run game.  
7. Mansfield (8-1) - The Hornets defense was dominant yet again, and now only Canton and Foxborough stand between them and the postseason.   
8. Weymouth (9-0) - The Wildcats haven't given up a point in eight straight quarters, and with 1-7 Brookline up next, that streak may very well extend to 12.  
9. Longmeadow (8-1) - The Lancers have quietly put themselves in position for another Super Bowl birth.  
10. Reading (9-0) - Look for this team to move up in the standings should they smack around a very formidable Lexington team. 

Dropping Out: None
Knocking on the Door: Duxbury (9-0), Walpole (9-0) 

On Deck for This Week

     Plenty in store for this week as we inch towards Thanksgiving and the playoffs.  Tomorrow we'll debut our new Top 10 rankings, as well as identifying our Movers and Shakers.  Tuesday will feature our Game of the Week announcement and our state playoff outlook, breaking down what teams are in, who's in the driver seat, dark horses, and key match-ups.  This will undoubtedly be the most in-depth breakdown of any blog covering Massachusetts high school football.  The breakdowns for the two teams going head to head in our Game of the Week will be posted Wednesday, and Thursday we'll bring you our player interviews.  Then, per usual, Friday will feature out Week 10 Radar.

     Thoughts on stories we should cover for Thanksgiving?  Shoot me an e-mail at adfcphantom@gmail.com.  Also, friend our blog on facebook. 

How They Fared, Week 9

No surprises this week as our Top 10 goes 10-0 for the first time this year.  

1. Everett (8-0) Beat Somerville - Junior quarterback Jon DiBiaso hooked up with four different teammates en route to five total touchdowns to help the Crimson Tide keep a strangle hold on the #1 spot.
2. Brockton (8-1) Beat Catholic Memorial - Brockton seems to be looking less and less like the dominant team we thought they were, and with Albert Louis-Jean a bit banged up, the Boxers will need a better effort all around to pull off a title run.  
3. Gloucester (9-0) Beat Revere - The Jordan Shairs show was up to its old tricks, producing four scores to help the Fishermen take care of business.  
4. Xaverian (7-2) Beat BC High - How do you top a win over a team that was ranked in everyone's top 5?  Shut out another that many picked as most likely to dethrone you.  The Hawks are for real. 
5. St. John's Shrewsbury (8-1) Beat to Wachusett Regional - Great bounce back win for the Pioneers, as their offense looked every bit the dominant force they've been known to be. 
6. Methuen (8-1) Beat Central Catholic - The Rangers don't win these close games with luck; they win them with physical line play and sure tackling on defense.  Central Catholic can now attest to that.  
7. Mansfield (8-1) Beat Franklin - A good win over a spirited Franklin team will serve the Hornets well down the stretch.  
8. Weymouth (9-0) Beat Wellesley - Again the Wildcats were able to have their way on offense and shutout their opponent on defense yet again.  
9. Longmeadow (8-1) Beat Westfield - A good effort by Westfield was for not, as Longmeadow used their dominant running game to secure their seventh consecutive win.  
10. Reading (9-0) Beat Woburn - Woburn fought hard early on, but Reading has the look of a team that can taste back to back state titles. 

Week 9 Radar Recap

Connection difficulties delayed our posting, but here are how the games we had an especially close eye on panned out.

• #6 Methuen over Central Catholic - Yet another hard fought game win for the Rangers, who were able to ride the arm and legs of quarterback Cal Carroll to their eighth straight win.  Despite Cam Walsh racking up 87 yards and a score, Methuen did a great job bottling up the CC rushing attack.  Like many other Rangers victories this year, it took a near-perfect fourth quarter effort.  Both teams scored twice in the final frame, but it was Methuen's ability to take advantage of Central Catholic's mistakes (and not make any of their own) that turned out to be the deciding factor.
• #4 Xaverian over BC High - Incredibly convincing win for the Hawks.  They completely shut down an Eagles offense that came in scoring 26 points per game, and held Eagles' back Preston Cooper completely in check, something Everett and Brockton were not able to do.  The Hawks defense looked surprisingly fresh given the battle they had with St. John's Shrewsbury last weekend, and Chris Calvanese showed that he is the smoothest signal caller in the Catholic Conference.
• Bridgewater-Raynham over Barnstable - All is back to normal in the Old Colony League.  B-R was every bit as dominant as they have been in the past, putting the clamps on the Red Raiders offensive attack and letting their backfield go to work.  I wrote a few weeks back that you never bet against a Dan Buron-coached team, and since then they have beaten Xaverian, pushed their win streak to four games, and locked up the OCL.  And with a Thanksgiving match-up with Brockton looming, this team will be ten times more tested than last years version come playoff time. 
• Cardinal Spellman over Austin Prep - The Cardinal Spellman defense was going to be the key, and sure enough, it pitched a shutout to put them in the drivers seat in the Catholic Central Large.  Blaise Branch has been sensational this year; he found the end zone twice yesterday to run his season total to 25.  The blanking of Prep pushes the Cardinals season total to four, good for best in Division 3A.
• Dennis-Yarmouth over Falmouth - This was an absolute blowout, and perhaps the most telling loss for Falmouth thus far.  D-Y had their way on the ground and through the air, and the Falmouth offense was shut out, with their point total during their three game losing streak 13.  For Dennis-Yarmouth, this win shows that their defense is a heck of a lot better than it seemed at the beginning of the year.  They've got a tough one against Plymouth North this weekend, but the Dolphins appear to be perhaps the strongest team in the Atlantic Coast. 

ADFC Game of the Week - #2 Brockton 19 Catholic Memorial 18

     Heartbreak.  Utter heartbreak.  That is the only way to describe the feeling Catholic Memorial and their fans left with after Friday night's game.  In what was without question the most exciting game we've covered this year, Brockton was able to score with seven seconds left to secure a 19-18 win.

     The defenses stole the show in the first half, as both teams were only able to muster only five combined first downs.  The defensive lines did fabulous jobs applying pressure and clogging running lanes.  For CM, senior Paul Fahey and junior Kristian Siri were able to disrupt the Brockton run game as well as force Paul Mroz to move the pocket.  The Boxers were aided by senior William Carruthers, who at times was blowing the man across from him clear into the backfield.

     After battling to a 0-0 score at the half, CM was able to strike first with a 60-yard run by junior Donovan Henry.  Henry took the AJ Doyle hand-off and flew around the corner untouched, having to make only one man miss before turning on the jets and finding pay-dirt. 
     Brockton would answer on their next possession.  After putting together a physical drive, senior Trevon Offley burst up the middle for a 13-yard score that put the Boxers up 7-6.  

     The Knights wasted no time regaining the lead.  On the very next play from scrimmage, junior Camren Williams found Henry for a breathtaking 82 yard touchdown pass that showed CM's ability to take advantage of the aggressive Brockton defense.  

     Not to be outdone, Mroz marched his team right back down the field.  A key completion to senior Albert Louis-Jean on fourth and six set up first and goal from the CM four.  On first and goal, Offley attempted to go over the top for a score, but lost the ball.  CM senior Dimitri Claude came up with the recovery, and the Knights took over inside their own 10.  
     The Brockton defense would stiffened to force a CM punt.  On the second play of the ensuing drive, Offley took a hand-off up the middle 37-yards to give the Boxers a 13-12 lead. 
     It was the CM Ground Show on the next drive.  Juniors Donovan Henry, William Earl, and Armani Reeves each chipped in first down runs to get the ball inside the Brockton 5.  After two failed rushing attempts, Doyle found Reeves on a swing pass that put CM back on top, 18-13.  

     Then came the heartache.  After starting at their own 40, Brockton was able to advance the ball to the CM 42 by way of an Offley screen pass.  On fourth and 10, Mroz dropped back, looked left, then launched a bomb to a wide-open Lucas Depina who hauled in the pass, sending his sideline into a frenzy.  

Catholic Memorial Notes

• Senior defensive back Dimirti Claude is as fun to watch as any player I've seen this year.  He's quick, aggressive, lively...and 5'7.  Claude was everywhere last night.  He is decent in coverage, but the tenacity with which he plays is what makes him so valuable.  Claude had no problem putting his head down and wrapping up Offley, who outweighs him by at least 20 pounds.  His ability to find the ball allowed him to come up with the key recovery in the fourth.  He'll be a heck of a steal for some program. 
• I was thoroughly impressed with the job Armani Reeves did against Albert Louis-Jean.  Not only was he able to stay with Louis-Jean throughout the game, but he had did a fantastic job using positioning to help make up for the size difference.  On one particular play, Mroz threw a go route to Louis-Jean down the Brockton sideline.  Reeves did a great job staying on his hip, got himself in perfect position before the ball arrived, then broke up the play.  Very impressive showing by the junior.
• Remember the name Kristian Siri.  He is a 6'3 junior defensive lineman who was a problem for the Boxer offensive line all day.  I like his ability to stay low coming off the ball, but his motor is his biggest asset.  Siri forced Mroz to flee the pocket all day, consistently hurrying him.  He does a good job with his hands, and a nice job getting off blocks.
• We can put to rest the notion that CM's defense is a liability; they can play with anyone.  They gave Brockton all they could handle Friday night.  Their defensive backs held the Boxer air attack in check, and they did a much better job wrapping up the ball carrier.  Their match-up with Xaverian will be a lot closer than people may think.
• Turns out I was wrong.  The two-headed backfield that is to be feared is Catholic Memorial's.  Donovan Henry and William Earl ran well the entire night.  Both were able to consistently pick up yardage and help keep the pressure off AJ Doyle.  The Knights could have themselves the most talented receiving and rushing corps in the state next year.

Brockton Notes

• Senior linebacker Zachary Apotheker is an animal.  He flew around all night, making stops and laying a stick on anyone wearing a red jersey.  On defensive possessions, he was the first Boxer on the field.  He was the most animated, and his excitement seemed to rub off on his teammates.  Apotheker is a pretty good ball player too.  He has a quick first step, uses his lower body well on tackles, and did a good job getting to his drops when defending the pass.
• Lucas Depina was responsible for the game winning catch, but I was most impressed with his work as a defensive back.  Depina is a very well rounded defender.  He has above average cover skills, and was able to stay with whichever CM wideout he was matched-up with.  I was very impressed with his willingness to make a stick.  On two different occasions he chested-up a CM player and planted him.  Very interesting prospect.
• I like quarterback Paul Mroz.  He's progressed leaps and bounds since the first time I saw him in week one.  He has a strong arm, good mechanics, and a very fluid drop back.  His feet are an asset, and his athleticism makes him a threat on every play.  He can be a bit mechanical with his throwing motion, but all in all he is a well rounded quarterback with the tools to play at the next level.
• Trevon Offley is as good as advertised.  This was my first time seeing him in person, and all the good things that have been written and said about him are absolutely true.  He is patient, fast, strong, and explosive.  I love the way he hits the hole.  He is smart enough to know that attacking the hole and picking up a yard here and there will eventually set up an opportunity to bounce one outside.  He has an aggressive style, and his ability to break arm tackles puts constant pressure on the defense.
• University of Miami commit Albert Louis-Jean had to be helped off the field by two teammates after a great fourth down grab in the second half.  No news was available immediately after the game, but our prayers are with him and his family.     

Man-to-Man with Catholic Memorial's AJ Doyle and Camren Williams

     If you find yourself in the West Roxbury area on a Friday night in the fall, ask for directions to Catholic Memorial; you won't be disappointed.  The Knights have the most talented offensive attack in the state, and every one of their skill position difference-makers will be returning next season.  Quarterback AJ Doyle and wide receiver Camren Williams have been nothing short of amazing.  Doyle has registered 14 total touchdowns and is arguably the most polished signal caller Massachusetts has to offer.  Williams is a big target that is second to none in route running ability.  We got a chance to dig a little deeper into the minds of these two game changers the day before they square off with second ranked Brockton.

• You have your choice to win a game one of two ways: picking off a pass or catching/throwing a touchdown.  Which do you choose?
• DOYLE: Definitely throw the pass.  Definitely. 
• WILLIAMS: I'm going to go with the catch.  All the attention of making the big play and being the one to help your team win is exciting. 
  
• Your coach comes to you and says he feels someone else can do a better job at your position.  He says you can either switch positions or compete for your spot.  What would you do?
• DOYLE: If he tells me switching positions can help us more, I definitely want to play, so I would make the move because I want what's best for the team.  But I also would want to continue to compete at my spot while working at the other position.
• WILLIAMS: I would have to compete.  Coach always stresses the importance of competition and the role it plays.  Pushing the other guy can only make us better and force the both of us to work harder, so I'd keep working at my position.
• What have you found is the most stressful part of the recruiting process? 
• DOYLE:  For me, it's waiting to see if I'll get an offer because I don't have any yet.  It's a different process for quarterbacks to get offers, but the waiting is definitely one of the most stressful parts.  The other is the consistency of the mail.  Sometimes I'll get three things in one day from one school, then won't hear back from them for like a week.
• WILLIAMS: Staying consistent reading the mail is tough.  Once a week I'll sit with coach and we'll go through a huge stack.  My dad also has me read mail every weekend.  Because there's so much its hard to find time to remain social, stay on top of my school work, and focus on football.  How time consuming it can be is what makes it so stressful. 
• How have you guys stayed focused on this game with some big conference match-ups looming?
• DOYLE: We take it one week at a time.  You can't overlook anyone.  We're only focused on Brockton right now.  We know it's a non-conference game, but it's a must win game for us in terms of proving to ourselves we are the kind of team we want to be.
• WILLIAMS:  We cancel everything out and keep focused on the task at hand.  We have the opportunity to compete with one of the best teams in the state and prove we are on that level and can play with anyone, and we want to take advantage of that.  
• What is the biggest thing you notice about Brockton when you watch them on film?
• DOYLE: They're athletic everywhere.  They play fast, and always have had lots of speed at every position.
• WILLIAMS:  The biggest thing you notice is they are a huge school with a huge program, and when you look on that sideline its almost like an endless sea of black jerseys.  They will have over 1o0 dressing for the game, which can be somewhat intimidating.  What we have to do is block all that out and just focus on controlling what we can.
• What opposing athlete do you admire most?
• DOYLE:  I'd have to say Brockton's Al Louis-Jean. We throw with him throughout the summer, and just seeing what he does to prepare himself is amazing.  He does a great job in the off-season, and it shows.
• WILLIAMS:  I agree.  I've known him since I was in the 5th grade, and he's been like a mentor for me.  I've went on a lot of visits with him and he's taught me what it takes to get to his level.  How hard he worked during the off-season is an example of what it takes to be that kind of player. 
• What are some of the perks of going to an all-boys school?
• DOYLE:  Definitely being around your friends all day.  And there's not a lot of drama.
• WILLIAMS: CM is a really small school, so we're all friends, we all know each other.  If there were girls it would kind of separate and distract us.  It makes us more of a close knit community.
• What is the single biggest asset you feel you'll bring to a college program?
• DOYLE: I don't know at this point.  Whatever I can do, and whatever a coach needs me to do is what I will work at and bring to that program.
• WILLIAMS:  When things don't go my team's way, I try to encourage my teammates to bounce back.  Football is a game of momentum, and what I bring to the table is being able to help keep the team up and bounce back.
• AJ: Out of Armani and Camren, which one is TO and which one is OchoCinco?
• DOYLE:  You can't compare them to those two.  They don't have the mouths of either one of them.  They (Williams and Reeves) are both great athletes.  They're great at everything they do. Armani is more of a speed guy, and Cam is a very efficient route runner, but honestly, they really both do everything equally well.
• Cam: Your dad and your brother decide to put on the pads and have it out.  Who wins?
• WILLIAMS: My dad always says he can take Brennan if it's for one play, but I would say my brother.  He is really athletic, 310 pounds, and not an ounce of fat.  I can't picture a way my dad can get around him, and he can't bull rush him, so I'd say my bro.  
• COACH CAMPEA: If I could say something on this quickly.  There is something called "Dad Strength", where no matter what the time, what the day, that dad has something in him that will make him pull it out.  That would be my answer to that question.
• What is it going to take for Catholic Memorial to finish off the season 3-0?
• DOYLE:  Hard work and focus.  That's all any team can do that wants to finish strong.  Come out everyday and work as hard as you can.
• WILLIAMS:  We're a really talented team.  We have a lot of juniors who are getting a lot of attention, but we can't let that get to us and start to think just because we're in demand we're going to beat everyone.  We have to stay focused and be prepared.

Week 9 Radar

Catholic Memorial-Brockton is getting most of our attention, but these games are worth paying close attention to as well.

• #6 Methuen (7-1) at Central Catholic (6-2) - Another tough match-up for the Rangers.  Since starting the season 1-2, Central Catholic has rattled off five straight wins that include two consecutive shutouts.  Trae Musumarra has been incredible during that stretch, scoring ten times.  But all year Methuen has been faced with tall tasks and found a way to win.  In order for Central Catholic to change that, they'll need to keep Cal Carroll and company off the field by controlling the tempo.  Both teams run the ball extremely well, so the one that does so best will walk away with a victory.  
• BC High (4-3) at #4 Xaverian (6-2) - Who in the world made the Hawks' schedule, the St. John's Prep AD?  As a reward for beating high flying St. John's Shrewsbury, the Hawks get a visit from BC High, arguably the most complete team in their conference other than themselves.  The secret in this one is really no secret: the team whose young quarterback plays the best will win.  Both teams have talented defenses and game-changing backs. The signal caller that limits their mistakes and makes the most plays will win. 
• Barnstable (5-3) at Bridgewater-Raynham (6-2) - B-R has found their stride since losing to Plymouth North.  They knocked off #4 Xaverian, and now find themselves head to head with what seems to be their biggest threat in the Old Colony Conference.  Barnstable struggled slowing down Plymouth North last weekend, but the key for them will be finding a way to spread it around on offense.  Jordan Henderson is without question a top receiver, but the Red Raiders are toughest to beat when the wealth is shared.  Look for the Mike Chicoine-led Trojan defense to try and bring pressure in an attempt to limit Barnstable quarterback Doug Crook's effectiveness.  This one will most likely come down to the last play, as each teams strength is their opponents weakness.  
• Austin Prep (4-4) at Cardinal Spellman (8-0) - Despite the extreme difference in record, this game has serious playoff implications.  If Austin Prep can steal this one, it would bring them to 2-1 in the conference and put them in a tie with St. Mary's, whom they lost to, and Cardinal Spellman.  From there, anything can happen, as St. Mary's already has lost to Spellman, and has a tough game at Bishop Fenwick on the horizon.  It'll take a big day from senior running back Ryan Harvey, who has scored seven of his nine touchdowns in Austin Prep wins.  For Spellman, their defense is their biggest asset.  They've pitched three shutouts, and have given up double digit points only once.  Add to that the fact that they haven't allowed a score in seven consecutive quarters, and it's easy to see why the Cougars will have to play a near-flawless game.
• Dennis-Yarmouth (7-1) at Falmouth (5-2) - Falmouth needs to stop the bleeding, and fast.  After racing out to a 5-0 start that included a win against BC High, they've been handled with relative ease the last two weeks, scoring only once each game.  Falmouth will need to get it going on offense to keep up with a Dolphins attack that is averaging 35.4 points per game and has scored 35 or more in all but two games.  They also will need to keep Dennis-Yarmouth quarterback Matt Montalto in check; he's been able to throw for 16 scores and run for another 9.   

#2 Brockton Breakdown

     Speed kills.  And in New England, Brockton is always amongst the fastest.  Whether it be Albert Louis-Jean blowing past defensive backs or Saquaan Louis exploding into the backfield, Brockton traditionally has plenty of players with the ability to change the game on the basis of their speed alone.  That speed has helped them to a 7-1 record that includes wins against BC High, St. John's Prep, and Pinkerton (NH).  Add all that talent with the bitter taste left in their mouths after losing in the playoffs last year, and you have the makings of a very talented, very ticked-off team.  Here are their keys to victory:

• Paul Mroz must keep progressing.  The key to the Boxers returning to the mountain top is the same key to them winning this game: senior quarterback Paul Mroz.  Not many expected Mroz to win the quarterback battle coming into this season, but he has responded to the tune of 17 total touchdowns.  Despite his success, Mroz has made some mistakes that have cost his team dearly, none more so than his fumble that helped Xaverian end Brockton's bid at an undefeated season.  If Mroz can control the tempo and protect the football, there aren't many teams that will be able to slow them down.
• Their defensive discipline is their weakness.  As talented and deep as they are, Brockton has been burnt for four scores that spanned 30 yards or more.  To put that in perspective, Xaverian hasn't allowed any scores of 30-plus yards.  This can be attributed to Brockton's aggression.  They seem to have a tendency to over-pursue, thus allowing opposing running backs to find cut back lanes.  This could spell doom against a team with skill players as talented as CM.  
• If they get both backs going, it will be a long day for Catholic Memorial.  Trevon Offley is a monster of a back, but I think Brockton is most dangerous when they mix him and junior Joshua Brewster. Both backs are capable of the big play, but Brewster brings a little more wiggle than Offley, who is among the toughest backs to bring down.  Beating CM over the head with both these guys will not only wear down the Knights' first level, but it will lead to more opportunities for Mroz to go up top.  If the Brockton offensive line is able to play the way they did against Xaverian and BC High, it'll take a hell of an effort for the Knights to pull this one out.  

Brockton by the Numbers

- Record: 7-1 (1-0)

- Points Scored: 217 (27.1 ppg)

- Points Allowed: 125 (15.6 ppg)

- Margin of Victories: 95 (197-102)

- Margin of Defeats: 3 (23-20)

- Passing Touchdown Leader: Paul Mroz (11)

- Rushing Touchdown Leader: Trevon Offley (8)

- Receiving Touchdown Leader: Albert Louis-Jean (5)

- Total Touchdown Leader: Paul Mroz (17)

- Longest Win Streak: 5

- Longest Losing Streak: 1

Catholic Memorial Breakdown

     Don't let last weeks loss fool you; Catholic Memorial is one of the most talented teams in the state.  They sport a balanced offensive attack that features our #2 ranked quarterback (AJ Doyle), as well as two players we have in the top five at their respective positions (Armani Reeves and William Earl).  Add in a solid offensive line, and you've got a team that is more than capable of running the table.

• William Earl can carry this team.  Junior quarterback AJ Doyle is a Division 1 prospect, and Armani Reeves and Camren Williams are FBS talents.  But William Earl is the key to me.  The Knights have to get him going in order to open up their down field attack, which is where they are most dangerous.  Getting him his touches early, regardless of the result, will almost surely cause the Brockton defense to creep up; that means getting Reeves and Williams in single coverage situations.  While they won't win every battle against a secondary as talented as Brockton, they'll surely be able to make their fair share of plays.  
• To beat Brockton, you have to use their aggression against them.  Speed can be the single most devastating aspect a team can have.  Traditionally, it has been what separates the Boxers from the rest of the pack.  But it can also be their Achilles heel.  This team in particular is prone to giving up the big play due to their aggression.  If they think they know the play, they fly to the the spot.  Because they are so fast, when they are fooled on play-action fakes and misdirection plays, they often find themselves way out of position.  If CM can set up the Brockton defense, they will earn themselves a few easy scores. 
• Arm tackles will turn this game into a blown out.  I'm not one of the people who believe the Knights have a weak defense.  Their problem isn't talent; its execution.  The kiss of death in their loss to Longmeadow, as has been the case for much of the year, was their inability to wrap up ball carriers.  St. John's Prep's Tyler Coppola had a number of broken tackles last week, and while he is a very good back, he is not in the same class as Brockton's Trevon Offley.  For CM to win this game, they need to make sure they chest-up Offley and limit his ability to pick up second-effort yards.

 Catholic Memorial By the Numbers

- Record: 5-2 (1-1)

- Points Scored: 204 (29.1 ppg)

- Points Allowed: 142 (20.3 ppg)

- Margin of Victories: 76 (149-73)

- Margin of Defeats: 14 (69-55)

- Passing Touchdown Leader: AJ Doyle (12)

- Rushing Touchdown Leader: William Earl: (5)

- Receiving Touchdown Leader: Armani Reeves (7)

- Total Touchdown Leader: AJ Doyle (14)

- Longest Win Streak: 4

- Longest Losing Streak: 1

ADFC Redzone Individual Awards Watch List

     We have quite a few ways of giving kudos, from our All ADFC Redzone Team to the Pup Squad (top Sophomores and Freshman).  Today, we debut the players in the running for our individual awards: ADFC Redzone Offensive and Defensive players of the year, as well as the ADFC Redzone Player of the Year.  PLEASE NOTE: our watch lists are NOT rankings.  These are just lists of the players who we feel are a notch above the rest at this point.  This list could also grow or shrink from time to time.  Our winners will be released the day after the state champions are decided. 

ADFC Redzone Player of the Year

The player who wins this award doesn't have to play both ways, but it helps if he does.  He is constantly on the field, and without him, his team's chances of winning decrease exponentially. 

• Manny Asprilla, RB/WR/DB, Everett
• Can beat you four different ways: rushing, receiving, forcing a turnover, or returning a kick. 
• Nick LeSpada, QB/DB, Billerica*
• The driving force behind his team.  Best player on the field, whether he's playing offense or defense. 
• Albert Louis-Jean, WR/DB, Brockton
• Uses his speed and agility to embarrass opponents on either side of the ball. 
• Preston Cooper, RB, BC High*
• Shifty, powerful runner who averages two highlight-reel runs a game.
• Richard Rodgers, WR/DE, St. John's Shrewsbury
• Best ball skills in the state receiver wise, and a solid defender to boot.
• Armani Reeves, WR/DB, Catholic Memorial*
• Has shown the ability to demand double teams when on offense and take away one side of the field on defense.
• Doug Crook, QB, Barnstable*
• Leading his team to what may very well be another post-season birth.
• Vondell Langston, RB/LB, Everett*
• Uses his linemen superbly to get to ball carriers.  With the ball in his hands, he may be the toughest back to tackle north of Brockton. 
• Dylan Colarusso, RB/LB, Weymouth
• Beastly competitor that is the heart and soul of a feisty Weymouth squad.
• AJ Doyle, QB, Catholic Memorial*
• Mechanics? Check. Decision Making? Check.  Arm Strength? Double Check.
• Obum Obukwelu, DE, BC High
• Has at least one play a game that makes you shake your head.
• Randall Jette, QB/DB, Martha's Vineyard
• Very rarely not the most gifted athlete on the field.
• Tyllor McDonald, QB/DB, Lynn English
• Tireless competitor that has been the biggest reason for his team's success. 
• Jamel Marshal, RB, Mansfield
• Well built back who has put up Madden-type numbers.
• Dan Light, QB, St. John's Shrewsbury
• Much more than just a product of a talented team.  He could play at the Division 1 level on either side of the ball.

ADFC Redzone Offensive Player of the Year

This player is the most explosive offensive weapon in the state.  He is nearly impossible to stop, and week in and week out he is able to put his team in a position to win.

• Nick LeSpada, QB, Billerica*
• Lightning.  He can throw, run, and if he needed to, he could catch it.  He appears on every list we have, and rightfully so.
• Richard Rodgers, WR, St. John's Shrewsbury
• Big, sturdy play maker who is damn near impossible to single cover.  Good speed, excellent hands.
• Armani Reeves, WR, Catholic Memorial*
• Speedy wideout who is perhaps the best in the state at coming off the ball.
• Doug Crook, Jr., QB, Barnstable*
• Our #1 ranked quarterback prospect.  Great fundamentals and a feel for the game.
• John DiBiaso, Jr., QB, Everett*
• Dual threat that can and will beat you with his arm and his legs.
• Matt Costello, WR, Everett
• Top notch route runner with an uncanny ability to get open on the deep route.
• Manny Asprilla, RB/WR, Everett
• Smooth, smooth player.  Explodes into space effortlessly.
• Jamel Marshal, RB, Marshfield
• Powerful back who uses his vision to put defenses on their heels.
• Seth DeMello, QB, Somerset
• Wing-T quarterback who makes good decisions and has a knack for the big play.
• AJ Doyle, QB, Catholic Memorial*
• Good mechanics compliment an unfairly powerful arm. 
• Cam Carrol, QB, Methuen
• A leader's leader who has the ability to put his team on his shoulders.
• Trevon Offley, RB, Brockton
• Aggressive back who refuses to let one man take him down.
• Tyler Copolla, RB, St. Johns Prep
• Shifty rocket who is capable of 150-plus yards against anybody.
• Joe Colton, RB, Xaverian
• North-South runner who is a huge reason his team is in the hunt for back to back titles.
• Sean Mayo, QB, Holliston
• Heady and confident, he leads one of the most potent offensive attacks in the state.
• Jordan Shairs
• 20 plus touchdowns through eight games should get you on eveyones top players list. 

ADFC Redzone Defensive Player of the Year

This award will go to the player who was the biggest nightmare for opposing offenses.  Plenty of athletes to choose from.  Here is who has caught our eye thus far.

• Albert Louis-Jean, DB, Brockton
• Top 100 recruit for a reason.  Very good awareness, can cover, and will lay you out.
• Obum Obukwelu, DE, BC High
• Great first step of the ball helps him dominate the majority of linemen he faces.
• Tim Joy, LB, Chelmsford*
• Young, strong backer with the ability to make an impact for any FBS team.
• Chris Unis, DE, Gloucester
• Dominant lineman comes from a great football pedigree. 
• Shaquille Taylor, DL, Everett
• If you want to see how dominant he is, watch what he does when teams try and block him with one man.  Scary good.
• Vondell Langston, LB, Everett*
• Rare prospect.  Big, athletic, fearless. 
• Deontae Ramey-Doe, DB, BC High*
• Fluid cover corner who week in and week out does a great job against his opponents top receiving threat. 
• Nelson Baptiste, DB, Falmouth
• Aggressive player who would fit beautifully as a Rover on a team that runs a 4-2.
• Chris Mooney, DL, Stoneham
• Unheralded lineman who commands two blockers on every down. 
• Zach Smerlas, DL, Lincoln-Sudbury
• Technically sound player with the ability to single handily take away a teams rushing attack.
• Saquaan Louis, LB, Brockton
• What he lacks in natural ability he makes up for in swagger.
• Chris Tamasi, LB, Xaverian
• Quite possibly the best at his position in the state.
• Nick LeSpada, DB, Billerica*
• Ball skills are second to only Louis-Jean (and not by much).
• Mike Chicoine, LB, Bridgewater-Raynham
• Blue collar player who thrives on making ball carriers pay. 

* Denotes Underclassman

ADFC Game of the Week

     When you have a chance to see four of the top 25 players in the state go head to head, you have to take it.  With that in mind, we picked the Friday night showdown between #2 Brockton and Catholic Memorial as our Game of the Week.  We will again bring you interviews and breakdowns of both teams as the week progresses.

     This game will go a long way in telling us just how good Catholic Memorial's Armani Reeves and Camren Williams are.  Brockton boasts the best defensive backfield in the state, as well as Massachusetts' top cover man in Albert Louis-Jean.  A good showing for the pair this weekend will solidify them as being in the Top 100 wide receivers in the class of 2012. 

     Brockton has won five straight since losing at #4 Xaverian.  The Boxers have played one of the toughest schedules in the state, with only three of their 11 opponents having records below .500. 

     Catholic Memorial has seen a fair amount of success as well.  Their two losses have come to teams with a combined 15-4 record, and they have showed the ability to light up the scoreboard, scoring 25-plus points in six of their seven games. 

     Tomorrow we will begin our Game of the Week coverage by breaking down Catholic Memorial.  Thursday will be dedicated to Brockton.  Check back later today as we name the players in the running for our three individual awards.

Boston.com Coach of the Year Endorsement

     I want to talk about something other than football for a second.  It was brought to my attention that David Tynes, head of the Cambridge Program for Individuals with Special Needs, has been selected as a finalist for Boston.com Coach of the Year.  The winner of this will award will have their program get a surprise visit form Celtics captain Paul Pierce. Here is why David is so deserving of this honor.  
     David started his career with “The Program" twenty years ago. What he started with was a group of individuals who on a daily basis faced trials and tribulations most of us could never imagine.  What has evolved is a powerhouse: they’ve won eight of the last 10 Special Olympics state basketball championships, had numerous athletes earn single event gold medals, as well as had a national champion power lifter who broke the national record with a 455-pound dead lift.  The number of members has grown from in the teens to 60 plus, and three of their athletes have been inducted into the Special Olympics Hall of Fame.
     But you'd be doing David a disservice by only focusing on his athletic accomplishments with The Program.  He’s run 10 out of the last 11 Boston Marathons (and finished nine of them) to help raise money.  He has brought in guest speakers to help parents of his athletes learn about their tax and guardianship rights.  He has expanded the program to include a traditional after school program on Mondays and Wednesdays, as well as a bowling league on Tuesdays.  Their exercise program on Wednesday nights was put in place to assure his older athletes learn healthy living and eating habits.    
    Even those reasons are not why David deserves your vote.  Perhaps the biggest accomplishment he has made during this time has been his work as a father.  Countless athletes have come to David over the last 20 years with no positive male role model.  David has welcomed them not only into his program, but also inside his home.  He showed them how to shave; helped them learn proper hygiene; taught them how to take public transportation; helped them get jobs; appeared on their behalf in court dates; administered tough love when it was needed.  Most importantly, he gave them hope.  He worked them harder than anyone ever has, pushed them further than they could have ever imagined, and made them believe in themselves, all because he loves them. 
     In case you’re wondering, he does have a life.  He has a wife and family in Newton, where he is a Physical Education teacher.  He has three children, one who has completed college, one currently in her freshman year at Penn State, and another who recently began seventh grade.  Rarely did David miss a game, recital, Parent Teacher conference or special day.  Some days he would leave work in Newton at 2:30, work in Cambridge from 3-5, then jet back to Newton to see the final few outs of his sons baseball games.  I should know.  David is my dad.
     Let me leave you with a story.  On Senior Day at UMD, like Senior Day anywhere, the parents walk out with the players onto the field before the game.  My dad still hadn't arrived when the family directly before me was about to be called.  As they were beginning their walk, the parents of John Henry, one of my best friends, started making their way back to walk me down the cheerleader-made isle.  At that moment, my dad burst onto the field, making it just in time.  Why was he late?  He had to pick up my brothers.  There, along the home sideline, where three of my dad's athletes I grew up with.  They cheered and yelled louder than anyone else in attendance.  While it was very modest statistically, I had my career high in catches that day.  I had no other choice but to perform, really.  They would have never let me live it down.
     So if you have a free second today, click the link below and give David a vote.  Don't do it for me.  Hell, don't even have to do it for him.  Do it for Victor, Elmo, Elias, Anthony, Denise, and the countless other athletes that, just like the ones we cover here, can't wait for Saturdays.  Because they know that for those 7 hours, in that Cambridge gym, they are the stars.

http://www.boston.com/yourtown/specials/gallery/2010_outstanding_coach?pg=7

Week 9 Top10

Not much movement this week as all but one of our teams handled business. 

1. Everett (7-0) - No real threats left on their schedule as they continue GBL play. Last Week: #1
2. Brockton (7-1) - Another close win for the Boxers, who are beginning to look more and more human.  Last Week: #3
3. Gloucester (8-0) - They survived an early Lynn English charge to push their record to 8-0 and set up a key match-up with Lynn Classical November 12.  Last Week: #4
4. Xaverian (6-2) - The Hawks silenced the critics with an impressive win over previously unbeaten St. John's Shrewsbury. Last Week: #5
5. St. John's Shrewsbury (7-1) - The loss to Xaverian stings, but a loss to Wachusett this weekend could cost them a playoff birth.  Last Week: #2
6. Methuen (7-1) - The Rangers were again able to dominate their opponent up front on both sides of the ball. Last Week: #6
7. Mansfield (7-1) - Statement win last week for the Hornets as they passed what should be their last real test before the playoffs.  Last Week: #7
8. Weymouth (8-0) - The Cats can now begin counting down to their Thanksgiving Day showdown with Walpole.  Last Week: #8
9. Longmeadow (7-1) - Lancers look to continue their winning ways this week when they take on a streaky Westfield team.  Last Week: #9
10. Reading (8-0) - Little doubt left as to who is the king of the Middlesex Large after last weeks smacking of Burlington.  Last Week: #10

Dropping Out: None
Knocking on the Door: Walpole (8-0), Plymouth North (6-2)