Week 1 Playoff Football; Alter stops C-J again; Springfield, Trotwood advance;

Usually the football craze is a All-Time high, especially during the 1st week of the OHSAA playoffs;
And this season it didn't dissapoint, as more than 10 teams entered the first round of the playoffs:

Here's the Top HEADLINES, RESULTS OF
Week 1 of OHSAA Footaball Playoffs:

Alter Ends Chaminade's dream season with late FG
The Alter Knights, who, at 4-4, saw their season slipping away after a rough mid-season stretch; as they headed into Week 9 questions were abound:
Were the Knights overrated? Is a new coaching staff needed?  The end of a run possibly?

However, with a key road win and the final Regular season victory over C-J, the Knights would sneak into the playoffs and quiet all the critics.

And their reward? A rematch at Chaminade, no less.
In a defensive battle that had all the makings of a ESPN classic playoff game, Alter would kick a late FG to win a grueling 10-7 win at C-J High School.
Alter would and C-J would score first 2nd quarter on a Marquis Henry TD, in which Alter Kale Steneman would throw a TD in the 3rd to setup the dramatic ending.
After great defense by both teams, Alter was able to move into position late in the 4th quarter on a electric 27-yard run by Steneman run to set up the game- winning kick.
C-J had the ball on the 3 yard line but a late INT sealed the deal on a rollout pass, shocking the Eagles nation and send the Knights into a rage of happiness.

C-J was the top seed in the Region and in the Top 10 of the OHSAA State Rankings all season.

Alter, amidst all the talk of a new regime and other possibilities,  rose up from the depths of the dead and now will move on to Regional Semis.
C-J ends season at 9-3.
Player of the Game: 
Kale Steneman, QB, Alter 


Trotwood rolls over Wapakoneta in "Getback" Game as Anderson takes Over
Trotwood was able to revisit a place that cost them their chance for back to back Championships.
Not to mention there was some racial tension the last couple times the Rams have made their way to Wapakoneta,  with detailed accounts of the disrespect from the Wapak fans.

Trotwood would make sure there would be no dissapointment this season, as the Rams smacked Wapak 33-21 to move into Regional Semifinals for the 4th time in 5 seasons.

The game was tied at half (7-7) when All-State WR-DB Sammie Anderson took over.
Anderson sliced and diced Wapak with a Punt Return for a TD which gave the Rams a lead they'd never relinquish (14-7).
Then after a Rams defensive TD by Ravae Garrett, Anderson would score on a 39-yard TD from Cooper Stewart, and the game was essentially over late in the 3rd quarter (27-7).

The vaunted Rams defense shut down Wapak for most of the game, led by Ke'Shawn Huguely (10 tackles, sack) in which the unit forced 3 sacks and a defensive TD.
Player of the Game: 
Sammie Anderson, Trotwood


Springfield shuts out Marysville as Tolliver, Stephens, Defense dominate 
The Cats welcomed a tough and upset minded Marysville team, who has made a name in the OHSAA playoffs;
This year?
It's all about the Cats as they shut out Marysville 23-0 en route to a big win at home in Week 1 of the playoffs.

In a packed house, the Cats would strike early as Jeff Tolliver, one of the most explosive players in Ohio,  would run the opening kickoff 80 yards, setting the tone for the Cats, getting them a lead (7-0) they would never lose.

Tae'Sean Smoot, the dynamic Sophomore QB, would direct the Springfield offense to 2 TD drives, both caught by All-State WR Larry Stephens Jr. as Marysville would focus on not letting the powerful running game defeat them.

In the 2nd half?
 The defense would turn out the lights on Marysville, holding the shutout in tact and exciting Former NFL DB and Current Head Coach Maurice Douglass.
DL Jokell Brown was rock solid and led the squad with 11 tackles and a sack. Te'Vion Gilbreth was the game-changer on defense on this night.
Gilbreth, a senior, a stout DE with speed, caused 2 fumbles on the night to go with 7 tackles, and was a problem for Marysville all night long.

Douglass has instilled focus in this team, and they have bought in, so much so, that the Wildcats seem like they are on a mission to get to State.
Player of the Game:
Jeff Tolliver, RB 
Te'Vion Gilbreth, DL 


Miami Valley League champs fall to Walnut Ridge
Xenia, who were the outright Champs in the MVL, lost their first ever OHSAA playoff Home Opener  28-7.
Chris Jones, a top DB in the Miami Valley League, would get a 60-yard Interception Return for a TD, and the Bucs fans were riled up.
But Columbus Walnut Ridge QB Howard Thronton would shake off the INT to run for 2 TDs and pass for another to lead Walnut Ridge to a road win.
Marshon Mankins had 16 tackles and recovered a big fumble to stand out for Walnut Ridge defensively.
Walnut Ridge would run off 28 straight before the game is over.
Ryan Foulbert (14), DE Devin Hall (14), and Isaiah Goodrum (10) led the D in tackles.
Player of the Game:
Howard Thornton, QB, Walnut Ridge


Springboro falls in 5 OTs 
Springboro fought to the bitter end, but came up short in a 5 OT loss at home to Dublin Jerome  38-31.
In a game that Springboro dominated for the most part, the Panthers missed opportunities that costed them a trip to the Regional Semifinals.

After Willieon Yates scored on a 20-yard catch, his 2nd of the game from Landon Palmer, Jerome would score in the 5th OT to secure the deal on a Adam Booth TD, his 3rd of the game.

Despite averaging less than 2.5 yards per rush, and throwing for less than 60 yards total, Jerome was able to grind out a win.
Jake Kowalski and Nathan Swartz led the Panthers defensively while the offense ran for over 200 yards at a 5 ypg clip.
Springboro ends season at 9-2
Player of the Game: 
Willieon Yates, RB-WR, Springboro 
Adam Booth, RB, Jerome 

Northmont Season ends at home as Whitmer Rallies
The Bolts would sqeak in the playoffs, only to be knocked out by Toldeo Whitmer 35-21.
Earlier in the game, Northmont would come out firing on all cylinders,  scoring twice and holding a early 14-0 lead.
Then Whitmer would gain their footing, and would score the next 35 of 42 points to seal the deal.
Star RB Jared Banks would run roughshod over the Bolts for 271 yards and 3 TDs, as Whitmer ran for over 330 yards total in the win.

Jazz Keys, one of the best names and top WRs in Southwest Ohio, went off with a Opening TD, a big kickoff return, and 2 TDs on the night.
But Whitmer shut down the Northmont running game and the Bolts were forced to pass all night long, forcing 2 INTs and keeping the Bolts offense off balance all night.

Phillip Quansah  (15 tackles, 2 sacks) was unstoppable as was Rod Smith (13 tackles) for  Northmont defensively.
Northmont ends season at 6-5.
Player of the Game: 
Jared Banks, RB, Toledo Whitmer 
Jazz Keys, WR, Northmont 


Franklin rally comes up short
The Franklin Wildcats season was ended after a good season, as they lost in the 1st round to St Marys 14-10.  Franklin, who had won 7 straight heading into playoffs,
lost a close one as the SWBL Champs fell at home.
Franklin ends season at 9-2.


Troy eliminated by offensive explosion 
Troy finished their season losing to Lewis Center Olentangy 42-10 at home. The Trojans could not solve the offensive explosion that Lewis Center produced.
Troy ends season at 9-2.


Valley View moves on to Regionals with big win
Valley View showed why they could be a player in the OHSAA playoffs with a resounding 42-28 win in the first round. QB Caden Cradlebaugh threw 5 TD's - 3 to WR Troy Coulter - as Clinton Massie was no match for the Spartan gunslinger.


Dayton Christian falls after return to playoffs 
The DC Crusaders made their way back to the playoffs, only to fall in the first round.

Dunbar Thomas runs wild on Thurgood, scores 7 TD's in playoff berth win; Final SWOPL Standings; Playoff Matchups for Belmont, Dunbar; Player of Year Candidates

Here's the top Headlines for Week 10 in the SWOPL as we head to the playoffs. 

Tavion Thomas led Wolverines to playoffs with 300 yard, 7 TD Performance

Dunbar Thomas runs wild, leads Wolverines to playoff clinching win

In a game that had so much riding on the line, Dunbar knew there was no tomorrow.

No other chances to show that this group of seniors could come through in the clutch and reach the OHSAA playoffs.

Hadn't done it in 7 years, and after the tumultuous ending last year, would the Wolverines bounce back?

They bounced back in dramatic fashion, as Oklahoma commit and All-SWOPL selection Tavion Thomas would lead the way, with over 300 yards rushing and 7 - yes you read it right - 7 touchdowns on the night to lead the Wolverines to a big win (46-0) over one of its rivals and in the process, ending the Cougars 6-game winning streak and playoff hopes to boot.

Thomas clearly made his statement to possibly be the SWOPL Player of the Year as he ran around, over, and through the Cougars for his career high (301) in his last regualar season game as a Wolverine.

 On  a night which it was raining consistently and cold? Would be a ground and pound type of night.

Exactly the type of game Thomas and the Wolverines wanted.

Thurgood had been putting up major numbers lately, scoring over 40 in recent weeks, but couldn't get the running game going, which doomed the Cougars.

Thurgood ends the season at 6-4 and despite the hurt and not reaching the playoffs, the Cougars were happy with their season overall.

The Wolverines (7-3) now sit as a #5 seed and will head to Cincinnati to take on Goshen (9-1) on Friday night. Goshen is a rock solid program who the Wolverines beat the last time these teams seen each other in the playoffs years ago.

Final Regular Season Standings (SWOPL)

SWOPL AMERICAN	W-L	PCT	PF	PA	W-L	PCT	PF	PA	STRK
Belmont	6 - 0	1.000	294	9	9 - 0	1.000	411	9	W9
Thurgood Marshall	5 - 1	.800	158	90	6 - 4	.556	218	196	L1
Meadowdale	3 - 3	.500	66	152	4 - 6	.400	123	345	W1
Western Hills	2 - 4	.333	91	134	3 - 7	.300	147	253	L2
Woodward	2 - 4	.333	107	139	2 - 8	.200	146	274	L1
Ponitz Career Tech	2 - 3	.250	33	67	4 - 6	.250	77	144	W1
Hughes	1 - 5	.200	43	201	3 - 7	.333	141	309	L5

Standings
	Conference				OVERALL
SWOPL NATIONAL	W-L	PCT	PF	PA	W-L	PCT	PF	PA	STRK
Taft	5 - 0	1.000	154	68	8 - 2	.800	266	192	W7
Dunbar	3 - 1	.750	166	65	7 - 3	.700	368	191	W2
Aiken	3 - 2	.600	166	84	8 - 2	.800	350	142	W5
Gamble Montessori	2 - 3	.400	80	126	5 - 5	.500	210	217	W1
Shroder	1 - 4	.200	92	189	2 - 8	.200	147	400	L3
Riverview East	0 - 5	.000	26	234	3 - 7	.300	142	332	L2

Week 1 Playoff Matchups (All games on Friday)

Belmont (9-0)   @ Sidney (8-2)   Can the Bison continue their epic season? After a Cinderella type season, the Bison have to go on the road to play a similar type of opponent in Sidney.  Which running team will get it done on a night in which the weather could be another factor like it was in Week 10?

Key Players To Watch: Isaiah Bowser, Andre Gordon, Dawson Martin, Elijah Malcolm, Jaden Rucker Furlow

Keys to Bison victory: Stay with the formula. But play action pass must be used in what will be a ruckus crowd in Sidney. The Yellow Jackets don't matchup well outside  with Belmont, but in the trenches its a even match. Belmont must control the tempo, and the vaunted D must show its worth against the GWOC's top rusher in Isaiah Bowser and one of  top 10 dynamic players in Andre Gordon.

Dunbar  (7-3)    @ Goshen (9-1)  Can the Wolverines take on a really good Goshen team and defeat them  in Cincy? The Wolverines have had a couple of big road wins, but this game will not be like any of those they have faced. Although Dunbar beat Goshen in the playoff years ago, these teams are different, and should have no effect on this big matchup.

Key Players: Tavion Thomas, Joseph Scates, Seth Arnold, Jimmy Strunk (RB), Payton Leugers (DB-WR), Kyle Proffitt (QB)

Keys to Dunbar win: Wolverines must be able to get passing game going, Must establish a 3 &
out defensively within first 2 possessions.
 The teams who have given Goshen the most problems are the teams who can air the ball out. Goshen is a running team, similar to Belmont, and have a stout D, but the advantages for Dunbar lie in play action and the WR core. If the Wolverines can strike first, then it could be a good night for Dunbar.
The defensive line must have a breakout game as well.

Player of the Year Candidates: SWOPL

Heres our Top 10 Candidates for  Player of The Year in the SWOPL

Could Dawson Martin (23) nab Player of the Year in the SWOPL?

Tavion Thomas - RB   (Dunbar)  Thomas ran for over 1,000 yards and scored 16 TDs on the season, capping it off with a 300 yard, 7 TD performance for the ages.

Dawson Martin  - RB - DB (Belmont)  Martin scored 20 TD's on offense (tops in the SWOPL) in almost 1150 yards of total offense. He also is one of  the key players on Defense as well as he nabbed 2 INT's as he help spearhead a D that allowed only 1 TD all regular season.

Cleveland Farmer - QB  (Taft) Farmer, a dynamic option type QB, led the SWOPL in passing yards (1283), threw for 12 TDs & ran for 12 more while amassing almost 500 yards on the ground. He also led the Senators to a playoff berth and a big win over Dunbar to boot.

Jaden Rucker Furlow - DB/ WR  (Belmont) While Rucker Furlow didn't have the stats that most had, he was the leader of a D that allowed 9 points in 9 games. Furlow was treated like Deion Sanders, where he didn't get many passes thrown his way. He had 2 early INT's which set the tone for the whole season. A Miami of Ohio commit. Had TD's receiving and on kickoff returns.

Joseph Scates  - WR / DB  (Dunbar) Scates had a good year, with over 800 yards of receiving and  with  for the high powered offense of Dunbar, along with being a captain of the squad.

Could Defensive Standout Seth Arnold or Oklahoma commit Tavion Thomas win Player of the Year? 

Demarco Bradley  - DB - WR (Aiken) Bradley was one of the top Defensive guys with 7 INT's on defense while amassing 78 tackles; he also ran for 900 yards, with 8 TD's and a kickoff return TD as well.

Deshawn Lawrence  - WR / S  (Aiken) Lawrence garnered 5 INT, 98 Tackles on D while racking up 1047 Rec Yards and 8 TDs on Offense for Aiken. Possibly the best 2 way player in the SWOPL.

Seth Arnold  - LB   (Dunbar) Towns delivered over 135 Tackles and was the unquestioned leader for the Wolverines D. He accounted for 2 INT's, 4 forced fumbles, 3 sacks, and 23 tackles for loss. Has ability to play in coverage, against the run, or blitz with efficiency.

Elijah Malcolm  - RB / LB   (Belmont) 1,063 yds, 14 TD's  Malcolm was the offensive leader for the undefeated Bison 9-0. He steamrolled Dunbar in the season opener to set the Bison on the move. The engine of the Belmont offense.

Kayvon Britten -  RB  (Western Hills) Britten led the SWOPL in Rushing (1255)  as a sophomore. Had a 230 yard game late in the season.

V'Sean Palmer - DB /WR (Thurgood)  Palmer led the SWOPL in INT's,  and was the key player in the Cougars resurgence to a 6-4 record this season.

3 Teams go for State Berth Tonight; Why Pickerington deserves a beatdown? Matchups, Predictions& more

With a Chance at State Seminal Berth on the line, here's the Match ups for Friday Night:

D-1
Wayne (11-0-1)   vs Pickerington Central (11-1)  @ 
 London HS 
 As if Wayne wasn't focused enough, they received a couple of photos that turned out to be bulletin board material for the Wayne Train. Central described the Warriors as thugs and convicts, which sent the net into a frenzy and now will set the stage for two teams who have a chance to reach State Semifinals tonight.
 The Warriors are too good of a team and too well coached to fall into the buffoonery that Pickerington is trying to cause.
Look for a Wayne win 37-24.


D-2 
Miamisburg (10-2)   vs  Cincy LaSalle  (10-2)  @ 
Mason HS 
Miamisburg has been able to win with a huge o-line, a physical backfield and skill players all over the field. Combine that with a fiery unpredictable coach, and the Burg is a LaSalle defeat away from State. Problem is LaSalle is as focused as ever and boasts a potent offense of its own.
We got Miamisburg winning 31-26.



D-4
 Alter  (12-0)   vs Cincy Wyoming (12-0) 
  The Knights will face a stiff test in Wyoming, as they have handled all their opponents the same way Alter has. Easily.  Alter seems to have a focused unparalleled in a while, and that could spell doom for the undefeated Wyoming squad who is led by a D-1 signee of its own.
We got Alter winning via the running game and late game coaching by a score of 34-28.

Saturday 

D-3 
Trotwood  (11-1)   vs St Mary's Memorial (11-1)

Week 2 Playoff Recap: Wayne, Trotwood, Miamisburg, Alter advance; How did they do it? Stars of Week 2;

After the 2nd Week of the Playoffs, one thing is crystal clear:

 The Miami Valley, and in particular, the GWOC, is reppin' well in the OHSAA State Football Playoffs, as 4 teams will play for a chance to reach the State Semifinals this weekend.

  With the teams that are still in, they all have a legitimate shot to not only get to state, but to win it.

Here's last weekend results and recap, as we see how all the local teams fared in their divisions.

Can these thoroughbreds lead their respective teams to the State Semifinals? 

(D-1) Wayne blows out Dublin Coffman   -
   Wayne RB Fred Pitts scored 4 times as the Warriors D shut out Coffman in the first half (31-0) and cruised to a victory vs Dublin Coffman 52-10. Coffman was outmatched from the start as the Wayne Train steamrolled Coffman in the first half. Wayne, who is now ranked #6 in the country (Max Preps) was clicking on all cylinders, and looked razor sharp from the kickoff.



(D-2) Miamisburg beats Troy again   - Different location, but the same results after Miamisburg defeated Troy 28-21. The game was played to a tilt until a late blocked punt helped the Burg seal the deal. Star RB Jake Netherton scored on a burst to give the Vikings the 28-21 lead they never relinquished, and will now head to the Regional Finals. Troy (10-2) had a great season, only losing to Miamsburg twice after only winning 2 games last season.

Rising Star QB Markell Stephens-Peppers of Trotwood passed for 3 TDs last week 

(D-3) Trotwood slams new Richmond
 Trotwood star RB Ravieon Hargrove once again scored on the first play of scrimmage and rising star QB Markell Stephens-Peppers threw 3 TDs as the Rams overwhelmed New Richmond 47-10. The D also did a great job of shutting down New Richmond offense as the Rams (11-1) head to another Regional Final.


(D-4) Alter shuts out Massie  -
Alter dominated early and often as they shut out Clinton Massie 42-0 as the #1 team in Ohio in D-4 moved to another Regional Final. Star RB John Bivens ran for a score as the Knights Defense stymied the Massie attack.



(D-3) Franklin falls to St Marys  - 
Franklin fell behind early, and fell prey to a tough St Marys team as they lost 55-31. Once St Marys got rolling, the Franklin offense couldn't stop them, as they scored, but wasn't able to get back in the game.



(D-4) Valley View falls to Cincy Wyoming
 Cincy Wyoming scored twice in the 2nd quarter to build a 21-6 halftime lead and take control in the game to hold off Valley View. The Spartans pulled it to 21-12 but missed the 2 point conversion and Wyoming scored in the 4th to seal the deal. Colin Genslinger and Colin Wood scored for the Spartans in a losing effort

Wayne Train takes highest ranking ever into Regional Final tnite

After watching the Wayne Train steamroll every opponent they play this season, we watch their rankings go up, up, up in the process. Now the Warriors take the Regional Final stage as the #5 ranked team in the country according to USA Today.

DeWeaver headed to All-American Game

Tonight  they will battle Hilliard Davidson (12-1)  who won last week 17 - 10  over Upper Arlington. Hilliard has been dominant as well minus the 1 setback this season.

   Wayne, who just recently had its prized QB Messiah DeWeaver win a spot on the All-America team, will look to continue its winning ways, en route to maybe the most successful season in the history of the School.

   Initially the game was to be held in Columbus area, but it was switched to Welcome Stadium,  as it should, since everyone feels the Warriors are #1 or #2 in the state overall, depending on who u ask.
 
  On a wet night, look for the games O and Defensive lines to have a major impact; Also expect to see a lot of the running game for Wayne.
   While the WayneTrain passing game is unparalleled, the running game is underrated.
 
    After seeing what the Warriors have done to everyone else, along with city field advantage?

  Wayne Train gets back to state, 33- 24.

 

 
 

GWOC set to jump off tnite with Trotwood, Miamisburg, Piqua, Springboro, Vandailia Butler in action

After the GWOC football teams beat up on each other this season, 6 teams made the playoffs.
 5 will play tonight, with the marquee team playing tomorrow night - Wayne of course.
But to have 6 teams in the playoffs out of one division? It is a major accomplishment to say the least.

Let's take a look at the matchups for tonight and see who has the best chance moving on to the next round.

D-1   (11)  Springboro @  (6) Mason
The Boro' ended the season with a nice win over Lebanon as dual threat Elijah Cunningham threw 3 TD'S and ran for one. Mason has had a banner year, and has been playing top notch the last few weeks.
We're taking the Boro' in a minor upset 27-25.



D-2  (5) Lima Senior  @  (4) Miamisburg  (7pm)
Lima Senior, powered by a balanced attack (200 rushing and passing a game) lost its last game to Central Catholic by blowing a 20 -Point lead, while Miamisburg dismantled West Carrollton. Miamisburg has been playing lights out, but has surrendered big leads as well. But this being the last game ever in Harmon field, and the fact that Lima Senior barely escaped Piqua with a OT win leads us to belive the Burg' will move on to the next round by a score of 26-17.



D-2  (8) Vandalia Butler  @  (1) Cincinnati LaSalle
  while Butler lost his last game at Trotwood by a wide margin, they still had a very good year, and didn't really hurt themselves too bad in the loss. unfortunately, with the loss they will play one of the highest ranked teams in the state. The cell is loaded, and will look to use the home field advantage and their great play of late.
We're taking LaSalle by a score of 31-22.



D-3 (7) Piqua  @  (2) Tippecanoe   (7pm)
 Piqua is coming into the tourney feelin real good about themselves after a 2 big weeks with wins over Trotwood and rival Troy to squeeze into the playoffs.
However Tipp has been lights out lately dominating a tough Stebbins and shutting out Kenton Ridge 40-0.
We think that Piqua will get the upset, as they seemingly have found their rhythm. If Tipps-Clemons gets rolling, watch out.
 Piqua wins 31-28 in OT




D-3   (6) Celina   @  (3)  Trotwood Madison
With Celina coming in playing good football, this will be a real test for Trotwod, who slumped late in the season.
When I spoke with Coach Jeff Graham earlier in the season, he felt like his team was young,  but would be OK with seasoning.
After giving a beatdown last week to D2 Butler 57-35, it's safe to say they're ready.
Ravieon Hargrove, the next superstar HS player from Trotwood, ran for almost 400 yards last week.
   With a healthy Hargrove, it takes pressure off the entire team to produce.
Look for the Rams to produce a similar score if things go right.
We're taking the Rams 28-18.

  Last week prediction record 3-2

Can Belmont get a playoff win after a 37 year wait? Lankford Player of the Year

With all the excitement surrounding the Belmont Bison these days, one can't help to wonder...

Could the Bison actually beat the #1 seed in the Region?
   Wapakoneta is undefeated and ranked in the state.
"Wapak" as they are nicknamed, don't make mistakes. They are well coached. Living out in the "sticks" or the "fields" as they like to call the country, they welcome you with open arms...
Then they work on destroying you.
They are big on the O line. Both lines, for that matter.  They can run and pass well.
You don't get to 10-0 by not being very good.

Question is, have they seen a team like Belmont?

 Belmont, by all accounts, has taken what has been the "History of Belmont" in the last 2 years & put it to bed.
  Behind the leadership of Earl White and SWOPL Player of the Year Davion Lankford, the Bison have  came out of nowhere. And make no mistake, it's not just Lankford.
  With a trio of runners, Belmont have plenty of firepower. But in the playoffs, it's all about adjustments.
And with a coach who has reached the State Finals, it's safe to say Coach White will try to adjust on the fly to what he sees.
   With huge playoff wins over Alter and other big programs, it has put White into elite coaching company.

Can the Bison get the ball in space and play through the conditions? Can they not make silly mistakes and stay with the plan?

Lets just be honest here.

Last week, in a playoff type game vs Dunbar and coming off a bye week, Belmont came out flat, fumbled all night and we're flattened by the Wolverines. It was a game that looked bad from the start.
  But while Dunbar is one of the most talented teams in Southwest Ohio, Belmont played like the "Old Belmont".

   And while their incredible season merits them in the playoffs, they must prove that tonight. (7pm)

  Now with a chance to prove they belong, can they go into a hostile territory, make their mark, & re-write history again?
  Don't be surprised if they do.
They don't care about history. They want to make it.
And after talking with Coach Dewberry, they will be ready to go.



Lankford grabs Player of the Year in the SWOPL  

Davion Lankford    
Won Southwest Ohio Public League Player of the Year earlier this week.

Lankford Player of Year in SWOPL

  Lankford, a senior RB-DB, tallied up over 1600 yards and had 23 TDs as he led the Bison to their first City League title and playoff berth in 37 years.

Lankford was the first ever Dayton High School Sports Athlete of the Week last year.

With his speed, agility, added strength, ability to make defenders miss and his explosion once he sees daylight?

Has the D-1 coaches salivating.

But it has been his maturity off the field that has gotten him to this point.
Lankford did what most young kids in Dayton do, when they don't quite understand what sports can actually do for someone's life.
Once Lankford realized this, it was game over.
Starting hitting the books harder, working harder than he ever had.

With responsibilities that far outweigh his on-the-field duties, Lankford has had to grow up fast.
And to his respect, he has grown up. Has matured. To be the leader of a program that has taken almost 4 decades of losing and change it?

That's maturing my friends.
Hard to not root for the young man.

Lankford will make his decision on college after the season.

Impact of Dunbar - Belmont game could be huge tonight (830pm)

For years the Belmont Bison have been the doormats of the City League.  Almost 37 to be exact. They've had a year or so where they have been decent, but nothing like what has happened in the last 2 years.  

    Well, the Bison have a chance to kick down history once and for all.
    At the hands of possibly the most celebrated High School in the Miami Valley.
   Before the season started, Dunbar was the team who were one of the pre-season favorites to win the newly formed SWOPL (Southwest Ohio Public League) which merges Dayton & Cincinnati Public schools for football.

Belmont? Figured to go .500 at best.

   But after both teams took season opening losses on the road, Belmont was able to bounce back and ride it's star to 7 straight wins, a possible playoff berth and a chance to complete history, as the first team to win the SWOPL outright in its first year back.
   But can they actually beat Dunbar?

    Dunbar smacked Belmont last season, and for years at that. They're like the big bro who smacks lil bro around and never thinks twice about that lil bro will get bigger and stronger one day and not forget all them whoopins. After the tough loss last season you can be sure that coach learned a thing or two about this team since that time.
   Dunbar is supremely talented, well coached and if not for a couple of tough late game losses, they'd be playing for a playoff spot themselves. They seemingly have the top talent that bring themselves to the Wolverines each and every season. However, they have made some timely mistakes which has been their undoing.
 
Will Dunbar once again prove that their talent and will outweighs that of any other team in the city, and stop The Bison amazing momentum?
The Wolverines are notorious for slamming Title hopes.
   Just not sure they can hold off 37 years of Bison frustration.
  Welcome Stadium will be rockin' tonight (830) as we will see if the Bison are forreal.

   Win this game? & Expect a Bison revival, a playoff run, and a new Era at Belmont.
Lose? Well, we've heard that story for 37 years. We know that ending.
At least the Bison are exciting,  relevant, and doing things the right way.
Expect a classic game tonight. Expect great High School football, coaches by two of the best coaches in the Miami Valley tonight. Expect plays made by D-1 players all over the field tonght.
City League football is on the rise.

NOTE: A possible Annual Dayton HS Sports City League All-star HS Football Challenge in the works for March - April debut.
Football in Dayton, Ohio is back on the rise.
History will be made tonight.

Who makes it, Belmont or Dunbar?


 

If committee is paying attention, Bison will make it to playoffs

   We had the luxury to have Belmont on the TV show of Dayton High School Sports last year. After initially speaking with rising star RB Davion Lankford  you got the sense that the smooth RB with sick moves and a gear few have, hadn't quite understood what he was accomplishing.

  He hadn't played ball in years. His grades wasn't on par, and, quite frankly, he wasn't focused on being a student athlete. Or even a student.

However with the coaxing of his family and new staff of Belmont football coaches, Lankford did make changes.
Big changes. Program resurrecting changes.
With stunning results, we might add.

But back to the Interview.
Before the interview Lankford was nervous, excited, and happy to be on the show. He had ran for 200+ with 3 TDs, and his mom, uncles, and support staff was there.He genuinely seemed shocked that he was getting so much attention for playing football. 

He was our first ever DHSS Athlete of the Week. And he beamed for that moment.

But the one thing you also seen was the hunger for more, and the desire to be great. The longer the interview went on, the better he got. Kind of like how he is on the field. And in the books too.

    After a nice start last season,  the Bison fizzled late, and you started to hear the rumors of the "Old Belmont Bison ways", which was losing, losing, and more losing.
    But the one difference between the old Bison and the new Bison is quite simple:

Coach Earl White and his coaching staff.

  Not to mention a rejuvenated Bison fan club (Bison Nation) which tailgates, whoops and hollers and support their Bison with the best of them.

   White took the Colonel White / Thurgood Marshall program and took it to a level very few coaches have reached in City League and Southwest Ohio HS football history.
   Multiple City League Titles, numerous playoff beths, (including a signature victory over the vaunted Alter Knights) and a State Berth, to name a few.
   White was a former player himself, and holds every player, coach, and staff member accountable.

And if you don't like it?  Deal with it.


  And by his results, the players have responded and love his style. Whether u like his style of play or not, it has worked almost 70% of the time, which is a great winning percentage for any coach on any level. He knew it would take a little time, but a Southwest Public City League Championship in their first season and his first City Title after two years?

Ohio HS Football Playoff Committee, are you watching?

  After a gutsy win over Ponitz, we asked some family where Lankford was looking to go.
   Sources close to Davion told us that Coach White told Lankford that, "When the time is right" he'd unveil the list of schools drooling over the two way star for his services.

"Stay focused on books and the season, and the rest will take care of itself." White said.

Well after a 5 TD game last week, it's safe to that Lankford is listening.

Now about that change...
Lankford has become the unquestioned leader of the Bison. He has squared his grades, worked extremely hard on his body, as he takes major punishment every week. He is a captain of the team, become more vocal and holds all the other players accountable while lifting an entire program back to notoriety.

  Lankford has taken a glimpse of hope and turned it into a mountain of opportunities.
D-1 offers, loved by his peers, respected and feared by his opponents.

  But, in his most recent interview, its obvious he is focused on the task at hand. He talked about his team, getting to the playoffs and rising up even with its looks dim, as his boys had just won in OT after he had scored a TD, 2-pt conversion and had a key sack.

  The Bison (6-1) sit 9th in the region for a playoff berth, with 2 games to go. Although they won their league, it's not guaranteed to make the playoffs.  With White's pedigree in previous playoffs, & the a team loaded with talent, quality coaching, and players who have bought into the system?

Never too late.

Just ask Davion Lankford and Earl White.

OHSAA Football playoff Committee, are you paying attention? If not, you should be.

Everyone else sure is.

Salute the Bison.

Dunbar wins by 70; Kennard drops 33; all City League teams into 2nd round

With the Regular Season over in High School, its all about the State, and here are the top Headlines for week 1 in HS Hoops in Southwest #Ohio:

(1) #Dunbar wins by 70, destroys Eaton
Earlier last week after speaking with the Dunbar coaches, they all were eager to see how their kids would respond after another City League Title, A top-10 State Ranking, and a great record to boot; however, the coaches weren't as happy with some late season performances and wanted the Wolverines to show more of a "dominant" mentality.

Well if the first round is any indication, I see why nobody wanted to play them, as Franklin, Ponitz, & Thurgood elected to head to the other side of the district bracket.
In a completely overwhelming performance, the #Wolverines won 101-30.

Key stat?

Eaton never scored in double digits - in any quarter. 9 was all they could muster.

#OhioSt signee #AJHarris dropped 20, and it was a rout from the tip.
#Dunbar will play #Belmont next.

(2) #Kennard drops 33, as Franklin defeats Monroe;
#Franklin held serve vs Monroe as smooth lefty Luke Kennard was hot early and often, and moved the #1 seeded Wildcats to the next round. Kennard, (headed to #Duke next season) who recently moved to #3 on the All-Time scoring list, will look to get Franklin out of the Districts for the first time in his tenure.

(3) #Wayne dominates
Nationally ranked #Wayne dismantled Butler 103-46; With multiple players in double figures, this was merely a warm up. Up next:

(4) All City-League teams still alive after 1st round:
Its always interesting to see which city league teams will last the longest. With Ponitz being on par with Dunbar this season and Thurgood and Stivers slipping a little, its a wonder:

How many City League squads can legitimately get to regionals?
Last year there were three:
 (Thurgood, Dunbar, Stivers)

• #Ponitz has all the talent to go to state, but can they win in the bright lights with the pressure turned up?
• Can #Stivers shake off a tough season and show their playoff mettle? Last year they got to regionals. Can their leaders step up and repeat the performance?
• Can #Meadowdale make a run in D-3 this season?
• Can #Thurgood show their savvy and ride their key players (Daniels & Hoskins) back to the regionals?

Note: Thurgood and Ponitz plays next round.