Cascade Christian Cruises to 1A Championship Game

Posted on November 30, 2014 by Randall Novak

Saturday	Nov. 29	2014	1A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Eatonville	0	0	7	7	14
Cascade Christian	14	7	7	14	42

Game Recap below

Cascade Christian Cruises to 1A Championship Game
By Steven Dion

One year ago, the Cougs that hail from the Puyallup Valley ended their season in the Tacoma Dome. Unfortunately for them, it was on a game winning overtime field goal by Mount Baker. This year, Randy Davis’ Cougars refused to let history repeat itself. They advanced in the playoffs to earn themselves a chance to compete for the title next week with a win over the Eatonville Cruisers. Both teams had identical 11-0 marks heading into the contest. How would one team emerge to maintain the spotless record?

CCHS wasted no time getting their dynamic offense rolling. Jaelin Goldsmith connected with Bryce Powers on a 59 yard bomb with less than two minutes elapsed in the game. Their ability to throw the ball effectively opened up the run game and turned into a rushing score by Riley Ramos. The Cougar defense led by hard-hitting Mason Tobeck contained a run-heavy Cruiser squad and pitched a shutout in the first half. One more score by Cascade Christian in the first half by Tobeck brought the lead to 21 points heading into the locker room. But before halftime, Eatonville freshman Tucker Poil pulled off a rare feat. He intercepted a pass, but was stripped of ball as he tried to return it and turned it back over. On the very next play, he recorded another interception!

Eatonville needed to make changes at the intermission to climb back into the offense and the momentum slowly started to shift in Coach Fairhart’s team’s way. A seven-play, sixty-one yard drive was capped off with a 3 yard touchdown grab by Justin Brandt from Jacob McCormick. Eatonville was able to quickly get the ball back and drive into Cascade territory. A big gamble on fourth down deep in Cougar territory fell short for the Cruisers. Moments later, sophomore tailback Zach Bartolome took the rock 58 yards to retain a comfortable lead. Goldsmith found Powers in the endzone twice more from 14 and 15 yards out to complete the Coug scoring. In the final seconds, Eatonville’s George Tomal scored a touchdown to get his team into double digits. Cascade Christian takes on Colville next weekend at the TDome.

The FinalScore – Cascade Christian 42, Eatonville 14.

Top Performers:
Cascade Christian
Jaelin Goldsmith- 10/22 ,235 pass yds, 4 TDs, 2 INTs
Zach Bartlome- 8 rushes, 140 yds, TD

Eatonville
Jacob McCormick- 11/26, 131 pass yds, 1 TD, 2 INTs
George Tomal- 5 rushes, 38 yds, TD

Napavine Squeaks Past Toledo

Posted on November 29, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Nov. 28	2014	2B	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Toledo	0	7	7	8	22
Napavine	0	14	0	14	28

Napavine Squeaks Past Toledo
By Colin Caruso

Napavine had yet to be tested prior to this contest. Their margin of victory has been off the charts, and they already placed a 36-6 rout on the visiting Toledo Indians. But that didn’t stop the Indians from fighting until literally the very last play.

With just 3 yards (yes 3 yards) of total offense in the first half, the Toledo Indians fought and clawed their way to a 14-7 deficit at half. Their only score, a 76 yard kickoff return for a TD following a Mac Fagerness TD catch brought them even with the high powered Napavine offense. Napavine was able to sneak in another Fagerness catch with just 7 seconds left in the half, taking the 14-7 lead. The stats were unbelievably misbalanced at this time. Total yards were 225-3 in favor of the Tigers.

The second half saw constant action throughout. The heavy underdog Indians stormed back midway through the third with an amazing 56 yard pass and catch from Dalton Yoder to Grant McEwen. They added another score early in the fourth, taking the lead in a game they where they were heavily outgained in yards. Unfortunately the PAT for Toledo was blocked, but they still held a 20-14 lead early in the fourth.

Napavine answered, as a championship caliber team does, with a march and score. Sam Fagerness this time, Mac’s brother, caught a 29 yard pass from Wyatt Stanley, his third on the day. The PAT was up and good, and the Tigers took a 21-20 lead. After a punt, the Tigers got the ball back, marched again, and scored again on another Stanley pass, his fourth of the day!

This final score put the game out of reach for the Indians, who added a safety on the final play to end the contest 28-22. What a game!

The FinalScore – Napavine 28, Toledo 22.

Top Performers:
Toledo
Dalton Yoder – 4-11 for 85 yards and 2 TD
Grant McEwen – 3 catches for 74 yards and 2 TD

Napavine
Wyatt Stanley – 10-21 for 161 yards and 4 TD
Mac Fagerness – 6 catches for 65 yards and 2 TD

Wolverines Advance, Pilchuck’s Memorable Season Ends

Posted on November 29, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Nov. 28	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Marysville-Pilchuck	0	3	7	0	10
Bellevue	0	10	0	10	20

Game Recap below

Wolverines Advance, Pilchuck’s Memorable Season Ends
By Steven Dion

Bellevue is no stranger to the Tacoma Dome and the juggernaut from the east side of Lake Washington will play in the Gridiron Classic for the 11th time in the last 13 seasons. To reach December football, Goncharoff’s guys would square off against Marysville-Pilchuck. The Tomahawks have overcome major adversity on and off the field these past few months so this game was emotionally charged in many ways. The sea of red on the MP sideline was enormous and the support was felt by everyone at the Tacoma Dome. But there was a game to be played, how did it shake out?

The smothering defense of Bellevue made a statement early by stuffing Marysville on their first few possessions. Likewise, the Tomahawks stuffed a run-heavy attack of BHS and helped keep the contest scoreless after one quarter. However, the first play of the second was a one-yard touchdown run by Sam Richmond to close a long drive for Bellevue. Pilchuck found their offensive groove by eating away a huge chunk of the frame by moving the chains and setting up Sebastian Navar for a 24 yard field goal. In the waning moments of the half, Bellevue drove quickly and efficiently down the field to retain their seven point lead as Kian Khodamorad knocked home a field goal from 28 yards out to close the first half of play. At the break, M-P head coach Brandon Carson told his team, “24 minutes, lay it on the line.”

Pilchuck’s ability to keep the score within one possession and feeding off the crowd helped take their defensive effort to another level. Bellevue was held scoreless in the third quarter. Meanwhile, the Pilchuck offense came alive as Austin Joyner and Killian Page barreled through defenders to keep a long drive going into Wolverine territory. Drew Hatch who finished with 11 tackles on defense was the recipient of a 14 yard strike from Erik Lind to tie the ballgame at ten apiece. The Pilchuck sideline erupted as their resilient squad was battling toe-to-toe with the best. With one quarter left, the game was up for grabs.

The Bellevue coaching staff gathered the team together to refocus and they responded accordingly. BHS quarterback Justus Rogers found success in running the football later in the contest and set his team up for another redzone opportunity. Richmond rumbled through defenders en route to a two yard touchdown run despite the ball popping loose at the end of the run. Down a score, Pilchuck needed a response. Their offense stalled and were forced to punt. Bellevue drove down the field quickly, but were stopped from recording a likely back-breaking touchdown. Khoadamorad set up for a field goal. Off the post!

But wait, a flag was down! Running into the kicker. The Wolverines would knock it home this time to go up by ten. In the final moments of desperation, MP fumbled the ball and Bellevue would hold on to win. Incredible support by both sides as the entire Bellevue team saluted the Marysville faithfaul. Asked what Carson was going to tell his team after the game…”I love them.”

The FinalScore – Bellevue 20, Marysville-Pilchuck 10.

Top Performers:
Bellevue
Sam Richmond- 29 carries, 99 yards, 2 touchdowns

Marysville-Pilchuck
Austin Joyner- 16 carries, 90 yards

Same Matchup, Different Result Between Bothell, Bellarmine

Posted on November 23, 2014 by Randall Novak

Saturday	Nov. 22	2014	4A	Boys	Football
Mount Tahoma High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bothell	13	21	3	0	37
Bellarmine Prep	0	0	0	14	14

Game Recap below

Same Matchup, Different Result Between Bothell, Bellarmine
By Steven Dion

364 days ago, Bellarmine Prep advanced to the state semifinals over Bothell in overtime. The Cougs had a shot at redemption Saturday as the perennial 4A powers squared off on Saturday at Mount Tahoma High School. Three weeks ago, Bainter’s Cougs appeared to be on a fast-track to the Tacoma Dome whereas Prep was unlikely to make the playoffs after suffering a 49-0 loss to Gig Harbor at home. Since then, Bothell’s star running back Sam McPherson is out for the season with a knee injury. Meanwhile, Tom Larsen’s Lions have rattled off back to back road wins against #7 Kentwood and #1 Camas. Although undefeated, it is difficult to consider Bothell a clear favorite at this point. Bellarmine grabbed the victory last year as their defense had a monster game amassing four interceptions, a forced fumble, and a sack. Then junior Matt Philichi knocked a 37 yard field goal in OT to secure the win. Bothell wideout Dayzell Wilson had a reception touchdown in this contest. Round 1 was 20-17 in favor of Bellarmine. Did Bothell avenge last season’s loss?

Coach Bainter clearly did not adjust his commitment to the running game without his workhorse McPherson as he fed his runners early and with great frequency. Caleb Meyer found an opening which led to a 24 yard touchdown to get early momentum. The enormous Bothell crowd roared as the “Blue Train” grabbed an early lead. Steven Weedin added a pair of field goals in the first frame from 30 and 35 yards. The choice to attack the north endzone played a big role for punts and place-kicking for Bothell in the first half with howling winds from the south. Leading 13-0, the Cougs continued the scoring spree when Ross Bowers connected with Dayzell Wilson from 61 yards. The domination continued as two more Bellarmine turnovers resulted in touchdowns to put Bothell up 34-0 at the break.

Even with a clear victory locked up for Bothell, Bellarmine continued to battle and found the scoreboard in the second half. Ahmad Lewis was rewarded for his strong running with a 6 yard touchdown. In the waning moments of the contest, Jared Richardson found Wilcoxen in the back of the endzone on a 29 yard strike to end the one-sided game on a good note for the Lions. Bothell advances to face the winner of Federal Way and Newport. The FinalScore 37-14.

Top Performers:
Bothell
Caleb Meyer-2 rushing touchdowns (5, 24)

Bellarmine Prep vs. Bothell Preview

Posted on November 23, 2014 by Randall Novak

Bellarmine Prep vs. Bothell Preview
By Steven Dion

364 days ago, Bellarmine Prep advanced to the state semifinals over Bothell in overtime. The Cougs will have shot at redemption Saturday as the perennial 4A powers square off on Saturday at Mount Tahoma High School. Three weeks ago, Bainter’s Cougs appeared to be on a fast-track to the Tacoma Dome whereas Prep was unlikely to make the playoffs after suffering a 49-0 loss to Gig Harbor at home. Since then, Bothell’s star running back Sam McPherson is out for the season with a knee injury. Meanwhile, Tom Larsen’s Lions have rattled off back to back road wins against #7 Kentwood and #1 Camas.

Although undefeated, it is difficult to consider Bothell a clear favorite in this match-up. Bellarmine grabbed the victory last year as their defense had a monster game amassing four interceptions, a forced fumble, and a sack. Then junior Matt Philichi knocked a 37 yard field goal in OT to secure the win. Bothell wideout Dayzell Wilson had a reception touchdown in this contest. Round 1 was 20-17 in favor of Bellarmine. Can Bothell avenge last season’s loss? Here is a breakdown of the matchup:

QB’s
Ross Bowers (BOTHELL) v. Will Robertson (BELLARMINE PREP)-Advantage BOTHELL
The Cal commit Bowers is one of the best under center in the state

RB’s
Jamal Ervin + Nathan Golterman-Doyle (BELLARMINE PREP) v. Damani St. John Watkins (BOTHELL)-Advantage BELLARMINE PREP
The strong in-between-tackles Ervin and shifty Golterman-Doyle duo outmatches Coug run game without McPherson

WR’s/DB’s
Sean Hahrahan+ Dayzell Wilson (BOTHELL) v. Matt Ogard (BELLARMINE PREP)-Advantage BOTHELL
Cougs sure-handed wideouts Hahrahan and Wilson also impact players on defense.

LB’s
Damani St. John-Watkins+ Shawn Munro (BOTHELL) v. Noah Failauga+ Jamal Ervin (BELLARMINE PREP)-Advantage BOTHELL
Bothell defense hasn’t wavered all season with big anchors in the middle

ST’s
Matthew Philichi (BELLARMINE PREP) v. Chad Zaback (BOTHELL)
One of the best place-kickers in the state, Philichi hit the game-winner last year.

Sedro-Woolley Pitches Mammoth Shutout, Tacoma Dome Bound

Posted on November 22, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Nov. 21	2014	2A	Boys	Football
Arlington High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Sedro-Woolley	7	14	7	6	34
Burlington-Edison	0	0	0	0	0

Game Recap below

Sedro-Woolley Pitches Mammoth Shutout, Tacoma Dome Bound
By Steven Dion

It is rare to play in the state quarterfinal round against your chief rival from a few miles down the road. The 2A bracket worked in mysterious ways this year to allow such to happen as Sedro-Woolley battled Burlington-Edison at Arlington High School. The bleachers were packed to see this pair of Northwest League foes face each other once again. The SW Cubs took the first round on September 19th in Burlington-Edison by the score of 28-10. Would the Tigers return the favor with a trip to the Tacoma Dome on the line.

Woolley received the opening kickoff in this contest and they never looked back after making a statement on the opening possession. The Cubs moved the chains until they reached the 1 yard line and handed the ball off to their fullback/linebacker captain Quinn Carpenter. The ability to run the ball for big chunks play after play revealed a major discrepancy that defined the contest. Cub quarterback Devin Willard was a magician with the football in the way he delayed handoffs and hid the pigskin. Burlington was unable to get much offensive output early and a Chad Wilburg interception late in the first had SWHS back on the move. Woolley capitalized on the turnover with a 53 yard touchdown run by Jeffrey Barnhart. Minutes later, Wilburg picked off another ball, but took it to the house 33 yards. At the half, S-W held a commanding 21-0 lead.

If Burlington-Edison was to claw their way back into the contest, they would have to get busy early. The Tigers offensive line gave Mason Schwetz ample pass protection early in the third and they moved the ball into Cub territory. However, the drive stalled and a turnover on downs occurred when Quinten Roppel stopped the Tiger tailback on fourth and two. Sedro found the endzone shortly thereafter when Carter Crosby ran a draw play 16 yards to the pylon. Burlington’s commitment to the passing game in the stormy elements when Anthony Cann grabbed an interception off a deflection. Cruising to a win, Sedro scored its final points on a 6 yard pass from Willard to Crosby. When the scoreboard read triple zeros, Sedro-Woolley puched their ticket to the semifinals at the woodshed next weekend against Tumwater. FinalScore 34-0.

Top Performers:
Sedro-Woolley
Chad Wilburg – 2 interceptions (1 returned for TD for 33 yards)

Bellevue Takes Route 66 over Peninsula

Posted on November 22, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov. 21th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Bellevue High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Peninsula	0	0	0	7	7
Bellevue	3	7	21	0	31

Game Recap below

Bellevue Takes Route 66 over Peninsula
By Colin Caruso

These Bellevue Wolverines, who seem to never lose, just rattled off their 66th straight win, with a fine 31-7 performance over the Peninsula Seahawks on Friday night in the Washington State quarterfinals. The Wolverines, led by Sam Richmond on the ground were able to capitalize on an unfortunate injury for the Seahawks.

Big number 77, Caleb Greer for the Seahawks went down with an ankle injury late in the second quarter, in just a 3-0 ballgame at that point. With this injury on the interior line, Bellevue was able to score quickly with a Sam Richmond touchdown.

Greer was able to return in the second half, but was limited by his injury and did not finish the contest. This opened up running holes all over the field for the Wolverines, who put up 21 straight in the third quarter to take a commanding 31-0 lead. Peninsula was able to score on a great throw by Robert Kvinsland to Kyle Olson-Urbon midway through the fourth, but it was too little too late for the Hawks.

Bellevue’s defense was menacing throughout, only allowing 6 total yards in the first half. Bellevue will advance to the state semifinal to take on the winner of Marysville Pilchuck and Columbia River.

Top Performers:
Peninsula
Robert Kvinsland – 14-24 for 139 yards and 1TD

Bellevue
Sam Richmond – 23 carries for 159 yards and 1TD

Newport Stuns Viks in Comeback Fashion

Posted on November 17, 2014 by Randall Novak

Saturday	Nov. 15th	2014	4A	Boys	Football
Lake Stevens High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Newport-Bellevue	15	13	8	7	43
Lake Stevens	20	13	7	0	40

Game Recap below

Newport Stuns Viks in Comeback Fashion
By Steven Dion

Momentum is an intangible, yet powerful force in football that plays a major role in the outcome of the game. When one team grabs a lead and puts together several big plays, doubt creeps into the minds of the opposition. Newport was able to keep cool (in freezing conditions) in several moments of the game even when Lake Stevens appeared to be in good shape to pick up the win. After the opening kickoff of the game, it was clear that everyone in attendance was in for a show.

Brandon Otis wasted no time putting the Viks on the board as the junior took the opening kickoff 90 yards to the house for six quick points. Minutes later, LSHS added seven more on a 19 yard run by Andrew Grimes. Trailing by 14 with only 4 minutes elapsed, the Newport sideline was reeling. However, the Knights took a deep breath and proceeded to run in a 45 yard score in the hands of the quarterback Jordan Sanberg. They converted on the two-point conversion and sprouted new life. The high scoring first quarter would close out with touchdowns for each squad by Paul Wells and Hunter Eckstrom for NHS and LSHS respectively.

The Vikings grabbed hold of the game by capitalizing on back to back scoring drives on another Grimes rushing score and passing touchdown from Jacob Eason to Riley Krenz after Newport fumbling. Could the Knights overcome another double digit deficit trailing 33-15? The red and white rallied again by closing out the second half with another long quarterback keeper by Sanberg and a 12 yard dash to the plyon by Wells at the buzzer. Lake Stevens led by a slim margin at the half 33-28.

The running game was the name of the game for both sides with a slight edge in execution to Newport as their ability to mask the ball carrier and ability to create space with their offensive line from guys like Calvin Throckmorton kept the Viks on their heels. The Knights surprisingly picked up the lead early in the third as Nick Keithley ran 4 yards up the gut for a score. However, Grimes notched his third touchdown shortly thereafter with a 4 yarder of his own. Trailing 40-36 heading into the final quarter, could the Knights erase the deficit one last time?

Paul Wells answered the call again as an 18 yard run gave Newport a 43-40 lead. Jordan Sanberg would pick off Eason putting NHS in the driver’s seat to run down the clock. However, Lake Stevens recovered a fumble deep in Newport territory and were on the move. As the Viks were about to take the lead, a gang of Newport tacklers stripped the ball and needed a few first downs to kill the clock. They succeeded and came away with a shocking 43-30 win despite appearing dead in the water on several occasions. The Knights face Federal Way next week. FinalScore 43-40 Newport.

Top Performers:
Newport
Paul Wells – 3 rushing touchdowns (12, 18, 44)

Lake Stevens
Andrew Grimes – 3 rushing touchdowns (4, 19, 20)

Federal Way Avenges Season Opener, Advances to Round of 8

Posted on November 15, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Nov. 14th	2014	4A	Boys	Football
Federal Way High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Union	0	7	7	0	14
Federal Way	7	0	3	13	23

Game Recap below

Federal Way Avenges Season Opener, Advances to Round of 8
By Steven Dion

Nine weeks ago, football season kicked off with one of the marquee games on the docket a clash of Union and perennial power Federal Way. Fast forward to this frigid fourteenth of November and a rematch was set with an advancement of the 4A playoffs on the line. Union took the first round on a second half comeback. This game had some significant differences which played into the Eagles’ favor. Their strong linebacker group led by Jared Pulu, Andrzej Hughes-Murray, and Charlie Taumoepeau were back from injury whereas Titans starter quarterback Nolan Henry would sit out due to concussion. Would these personnel shake-ups prove significant enough for revenge or would Union take down the Eagles again?

The rushing attacks for both teams are highly productive, but quite different in terms of distribution. Federal Way elects to hand the ball off to their electric playmaker Chico McClatcher with high frequency whereas the Titans host a handful of ball carriers in Caleb Browning, Alex Berfanger, and Jack Bauer. The majority of the first half featured heavy dosages of running with few pass attempts from the pair of junior quarterbacks. FWHS put the first points on the board when Hughes-Murray barreled up the middle for a 15-yard TD including a hurdled defender near the goal line. Late in the second quarter, the Eagles were set to punt the ball, but an errant snap winded up giving Union the ball deep in FW territory. This led to the tying score, a 22 yard quick pass from Jordan Lawson to Keithen Shepard. The scoreboard read 7-7 at the break.

Early in the second half, the Eagles capitalized on another extended drive when Sam Han drove a low line drive from 32 yards through the uprights giving his team a 10-7 lead. Union bested that scoring drive by methodically marching down the field with a balanced pass to rush mix ending on a 2-yard dive to the goal line by Alex Berfanger. The Titans held a four point lead going into the final quarter. Chico McClatcher had a relatively quiet game to this point with no touchdowns and lacking a game-changing play. Credit goes out to UHS Head Coach Gary McGarvie drawing up a bend-don’t-break defensive scheme which prevented big plays. With less than three minutes left, the floodgates opened. McClatcher finally found a bit of daylight past the front line of Union defenders and broke free for a 17-yard touchdown to take the lead. After squandering the extra point, Union had one last chance to get within field goal range to win. On the first play from scrimmage, Ben Koler picked off Lawson to turn the ball back over. Chico proceeded to ice the game with a 42 yard touchdown to close out a 13-0 run in the fourth for the home team. Federal Way will take on the winner of Newport/Lake Stevens, Union’s season is over. FinalScore 23-14.

Top Performers:
Federal Way
Chico McClatcher – 264 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs (17,42)

Union
Keithen Shepard – 4 receptions, 58 yards, TD (22)

Roosevelt Survives See-Saw Ride with Central Kitsap

Posted on November 9, 2014 by Randall Novak

Saturday	Nov. 8th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Memorial Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Central Kitsap	7	3	14	0	24
Roosevelt	7	0	13	6	26

Game Recap below

Roosevelt Survives See-Saw Ride with Central Kitsap
By Steven Dion

In a win-or-go-home scenario for a ticket to the 3A dance, representatives from the Narrows and Metro would duke it out at Memorial Stadium in Seattle. Both teams are far from familiar faces in the state tournament, so each squad entered this game with tangible enthusiasm to extend their season. The stage was set for a clash between the Roughriders and Cougars from the peninsula.

Roosevelt’s biggest playmaker Ryan Gleeson tacked on the first points of the game as the senior rumbled for a 40-yard score. CK responded with a touchdown of equal distance to the tune of a Kelsey Deer reception by Kaleb Bates. The pace of the game slowed down as the first half rolled along until the Cougs were able to muster a scoring drive in the final minute before intermission. As the buzzer sounded, Kevin White knocked home a 22-yard field goal to put Central Kitsap up 10-7 at the half.

The second half quickly turned into a track meet as the elusive Sean Barefield was rewarded with an 11-yard TD run, on a drive that helped move the chains down the field significantly. However, the un-phased Riders scored six on their first play from scrimmage after the kickoff as Gleeson took a Calvin Smith toss over the middle 87 yards to the house. If this wasn’t enough, Smith connected with tailback Noah Gold on a short screen pass at the Roosevelt 21 yard line only to take the rock 79 yards to the endzone after benefitting from great downfield blocking by his linemen. CK wasn’t content with letting go of their lead, so Bates took matters into his own hands by running the ball in from the six yard line for a 24-20 edge. Before the third frame came to a close, RHS was on the move.

To open the final quarter, Roosevelt got in the end-zone for their fourth and final time on a 5-yard pass to Jackson Reavis in the corner. However, for the second time in the contest, special teams botched the extra point so the lead was two with virtually an entire quarter remaining. The time would wind down quickly as both teams turned to a conservative run game to set up a finishing move. With three minutes left, CK had their chance. With 85 yards between them and victory, they decided to run on first and second downs with no success. Third down was an incomplete pass and on fourth down, Bates aired it out but the ball was batted away. This allowed Roosevelt to move the chains once and assemble into the victory formation. Riders move on, Cougs hop on the ferry with another season in the books – FinalScore 26-24.

Top Performers:
Roosevelt
Ryan Gleeson – 87 yard TD reception, 40 yard TD run

Central Kitsap
Kaleb Bates – 40 yard pass TD, 6 yard TD run

Meadowdale Grabs Early Lead, Never Looks Back

Posted on November 9, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Nov. 7th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Edmonds Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Auburn	0	0	0	7	7
Meadowdale	14	9	7	0	30

Game Recap below

Meadowdale Grabs Early Lead, Never Looks Back
By Steven Dion

The postseason has arrived which means it’s do or die for the final 32 teams in each classification. Edmonds Stadium served as the site for a 3A clash of SPSL and Wesco in Auburn and Meadowdale on a chilly Friday night. The winner would earn a ticket to the next stage against second-ranked Eastside Catholic. The Trojans came into the game playing their best football while the Mavericks were coming off a high scoring contest with Marysville-Pilchuck.

Auburn would receive the ball first and after a short drive were forced to punt the ball to the opposition. On the Mavs second play from scrimmage, Caleb Tinstand raced to a 55-yard touchdown on a quarterback keeper. This stunned the Auburn sideline. On the ensuing drive, the Trojans were stalled once again. On the first play of Meadowdale’s second drive, Rory Spillum went the distance on a 46-yard run to give his team a two-possession lead. Was this game over before it started? Even before the teams would regroup at halftime, MHS added on a punt return block by Charlie White in the endzone for two and an 11-yard strike from Tingstad to White. The Mavericks led 23-0 at the half with little resistance by Auburn.

The second half opened with the Trojans pinning MHS deep and getting a crack at the scoreboard. However, untimely penalties dashed Auburn’s hopes of finding the endzone and clawing their way back into the game. Meadowdale added insurance points as Tingstad found Malik Braxton on a vertical route down the sideline for 59 yards and a score. The line of MHS including Timothy Smith, Garrett Walsh, and Charlie White opened big gaps for their tailbacks and were able to stop the motion-heavy running game of Auburn on the defensive side of the ball. The Trojans did not hang their heads as Justin Ioimo put his team on the board on an 11-yard QB sneak in the waning minutes of the game. Ioimo also had a fantastic interception early in the game. The backfield of Deshawndre Appleton and Avery Wade played tough despite an overpowering defensive line against them. When the dust settled, Meadowdale ran away with a dominant 30-7 win earning them a playoff rematch with the red-hot Crusaders.

Top Performers:
Meadowdale
Caleb Tingstad – 2 passing TDs (11, 59) 1 rushing TD (55)

Auburn
Justin Ioimo – 11 yard rushing TD

theFinalScore.TV
3A State Football Rankings Week 9

Posted on November 3, 2014 by Randall Novak

theFinalScore.TV
3A State Football Rankings
By Steven Dion

Marysville-Pilchuck has been on everybody’s mind. The Tomahawks took on Meadowdale with a packed house looking on, they got the win. We have broken down the top 10 Washington State 3A Classification Teams for you.

1) Bellevue 8-0, 6-0 League
The Wolverines rattle off another undefeated regular season. They have a great chance to raise the hardware in December once again.

2) Eastside Catholic 8-1, 4-0 League
Undefeated against teams from Washington and 1-1 out of state record. This may be Thielbahr’s best chance to capture a state title.

3) O’Dea 8-1, 4-1 League
Monte has rested the best tailback in the state through the latter half of the season. Myles Gaskin and the veteran lineman from the Irish have a playoff run in them.

4) Marysville-Pilchuck 7-1, 4-0 League
The community has rallied around this team in the wake of tragedy and they are responding by playing great football heading into the postseason.

5) Lincoln 9-0, 7-0 League
An undefeated regular season gives the Abes another crack at the best 3A has to offer. Will Kitna be able to make another step and overtake the elite teams in the postseason?

6) Peninsula 8-1, 7-0 League
After losing a one-point game in the season opener against Gig Harbor, the Seahawks have won eight straight en route to a 3A SPSL title run.

7) Auburn-Mountainview 8-1, 6-1 League
The Lions have plenty of talent at the skill positions to make some noise in the playoffs, but a push to the Tacoma Dome will be a tall task for a team with limited postseason experience.

8) Oak Harbor 6-1, 4-0 League
Hats off to the Wildcats for awarding the 3A Wesco League title to Marysville-Pilchuck. That game projected to be great measuring stick for Oak Harbor, but the circumstances rightfully took priority.

9) Kennedy Catholic 7-0, 4-0 League
Spotless record for the Lancers with only 30 points allowed all season. The Seamount did not present any great obstacles, but Bourgette’s boys will not back down from any playoff challengers.

10) Mount Spokane 7-2, 5-1 League
The Wildcats’ two losses were by a total of 10 points by Sandpoint (ID) and Gonzaga Prep. Beating several 4A teams throughout the season earns this Greater Spokane League squad the tenth spot.

On the Bubble
Meadowdale 6-1, 5-0 League
Bishop Blanchet 7-2, 2-2 league
Capital 7-2, 6-1 league

theFinalScore.TV
4A State Football Rankings Week 9

Posted on November 3, 2014 by Randall Novak

theFinalScore.TV
4A State Football Rankings Week 9
By Steven Dion

There has been a little movement this week with teams in the Top 10. Federal Way jumped a couple of spots to number 6. Here is our breakdown of the top teams in the 4A Classification.

1) Camas 9-0, 6-0 League
Coach Eagle has his eyes set on unfinished business from 2013. The Papermakers season will likely wrap up in the woodshed again, but can they raise the hardware?

2) Bothell 9-0, 6-0 League
These Cougars has some serious firepower posting a 422-79 combined scoring tally in the regular season. The blue and white have the pieces to contend.

3) Chiawana 8-1, 7-0 League
Don’t sleep on the reigning champs. This team posted another solid season with the lone loss a non-league clash with fire-breathing Papermakers.

4) Gig Harbor 8-1, 6-0 League
The Tides are playing like tsunamis right now as Coach Chantler’s gradual building of a program has a Narrows 4A title in the bank and a great deal of momentum heading into the playoffs.

5) Union 8-1, 5-1 League
A team that has shown the ability to rise up in nail biters can bode well in November when most games are settled in the waning minutes. The mighty, mighty Titans are not a team to take lightly.

6) Federal Way 7-2, 5-0 League
The Eagles have been dominant since opening the season with a pair of losses. With a healthy linebacker unit and game-breaker Chico McClatcher, the sky is the limit.

7) Kentwood 8-1, 4-0 League
A staunch defense is the cornerstone of Conks football and the regular season did not disappoint as only 78 points have been surrendered in 9 games thus far.

8) Lake Stevens 8-1, 6-0 League
Clawing out a victory over Kamiak may be just what the doctor ordered as the Viks prepare for the postseason. The more reps young Eason gets, the more dangerous Lake Stevens becomes.

9) Gonzaga Prep 8-1, 6-1 League
The parity in the Greater Spokane league has given the Bullpups a well-balanced schedule in which there has not been any push-over weeks. A league championship may not be enough for Prep.

10) Graham-Kapowsin 8-1, 5-1 League
The second of two SPSL Eagles in the top ten rankings finished second to Emerald Ridge in the league standings, but are a top ten talent in the state. Foster Sarell can wreak havoc moving forward.

On the Bubble:
Wenatchee 8-1, 6-0 League
Emerald Ridge 7-2, 6-0 League
Kamiak 7-2, 6-1 League

Lakeside Prevails in Double Overtime Shootout with Hale

Posted on November 2, 2014 by Randall Novak

Saturday	Nov. 1st	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Memorial Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	1OT	2OT	Final
Nathan Hale	7	7	14	7	7	0	42
Lakeside	3	8	7	17	7	7	49

Game Recap below

Lakeside Prevails in Double Overtime Shootout with Hale
By Steven Dion

November has arrived which means playoff football is in it stages of infancy as seeding is underway for the postseason. The seventh and eighth seeds for the Metro League were to be decided by the Lakeside Lions and Nathan Hale Raiders. It is fitting the game was played at Memorial Stadium because this contest was indeed memorable.

The Lions took advantage of an extended drive early in the contest by allowing Wyatt Paul to boot a 20 yard chip shot. Paul was a big factor in the game as his leg was responsible for 9 points and a great deal of field position advantage for his squad. Hale responded with a Nathan Cooprider quarterback keeper from five yards out for a Raiders lead. Cole Stephens returned the favor with a 13 yard scamper of his own for the third of eight lead changes in the game. The Raiders turned up the intensity a notch by blocking a field goal and forcing a pick in the hands of Sam Tessema. The latter led to a Naweeb Kamiab run to establish a 14-11 lead which they took to the locker room.

Heading into the third trailing by only three points was a stroke of luck for Lakeside because they committed nine penalties to Hale’s one. The yellow laundry started to catch up with Lakeside in the opening minutes of the third, as they committed two personal fouls which aided a touchdown drive capped off by a 25 yard run by Noah Witmer. On the ensuing drive, Lakeside’s quarterback Bennett Dondoyano found a wide open Mayan Chavez and connected, but the ball mysteriously came free from the Lion receiver’s hands mere yards from the endzone. Nathan Hale took advantage by feeding Witmer and he delivered with another touchdown run, this time from 26 yards out. NHHS had the momentum at this point leading 28-11. The Lions took it back as they conducted a three-play, eighty yard drive which finished on a 37 yard Stephens run. After three quarters, Hale led 28-18.

To climb back into the game, Lakeside was forced to gamble on fourth downs to keep the chains moving. With 10:45 left, Cole Stephens scored for the third time on a 53 yard screen pass from Dondoyano. Minutes later, Dondoyano got a TD of his own after Stephens converted on a 4th and 3 previously. Hale bit back on a Webb Hopkins touchdown grab, one of many fine catches by the senior. NHHS recovered the ensuing kickoff in the redzone, but came away with no points. With 1:37 remaining, Lakeside had to travel 98 yards to erase a 3 point deficit. The Lions were able to get to the Hale 2 with 5 ticks left. Wyatt Paul hit a 17 yard FG at the buzzer to tie it up 35 apiece. We headed to overtime.

First Overtime
Hale would get the ball first as Lakeside chose to defer after winning the toss. Cooprider found William Sanders open on an option from 10 yards out that tricked the Lion defense. Lakeside needed to match the Raiders to keep the contest alive. Cole Stephens stepped up as he did all game by punching the pigskin in from 2 yards out. The game continued.

Second Overtime
Lakeside won the toss again and chose to receive. For the fifth and final time, Cole Stephens barreled into the endzone from the one yard line. Needing a touchdown, Nathan Hale found themselves in a fourth and two situation. They handed the ball to Sanders. He dove forward very close to the first down marker. It was close. The chain game came out to measure. Short. Ballgame. Lakeside wins 49-42 to take the seventh seed in the Metro playoffs. Hale takes 8th.

Top Performers:
Lakeside
Cole Stephens
4 rushing TDs (1, 2, 13, 37) and 1 receiving TD (52)

Nathan Hale
Noah Witmer – 2 rushing TDs (25, 26)

Blanchet’s Big Fourth Quarter Earns Braves Fifth Seed, Bulldogs Sixth

Posted on November 1, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Oct. 31st	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Memorial Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Garfield	0	7	0	0	7
Bishop Blanchet	3	14	0	14	31

Game Recap below

Blanchet’s Big Fourth Quarter Earns Braves Fifth Seed, Bulldogs Sixth
By Steven Dion

For many in attendance at Memorial Stadium, it is probably hard to believe tonight marks the 39th anniversary of arguably the greatest high school football game in the history of the state between Bishop Blanchet and Garfield. Members of both teams from 1975 were the honorary captains during the coin toss including Bruce Harrell and Joe Steele. That game had nearly thirteen thousand fans in attendance and ended in the fourth overtime with BBHS the victor. This playoff game would not replicate the one from four decades ago.

Both squads were determined to run the football into the teeth of the opposition from the start. The Braves’ featured back Oshea Trujillo has racked up nice numbers this season, but the Bulldogs have an improving front seven that kept him at bay early. Blanchet drew first blood on a 27 yard field goal by Liam vanLeynseele after the Braves drive stalled. Garfield had a difficult time moving the chains in the first half and had to continually return the ball to the green and yellow.

Blanchet struck again on a double reverse in which wideout David Gats hurled an 18 yard flair to Jack Sendelbach to put them up by ten. The lead grew when Davine Tullis tossed a dart to Sendelbach for his second score and a 17-0 lead. On the ensuing kickoff with twenty-two ticks remaining, the squib was recovered near midfield to give Garfield a chance to score. At the buzzer, Rashad Jones was in the endzone on a 35 yard post route to give the Bulldogs momentum heading into the locker room.

The third quarter was slightly less eventful as both teams refused to put up points and turnovers continued to pile up. The Bulldogs were trailing by ten heading into the fourth, but they couldn’t take advantage of several scoring chances. A fumble recovery for touchdown at the eleven yard line of Garfield by Gats zapped the Bulldogs energy. Elijah Davis scored late to give BBHS their final points and a 31-7 victory. The Braves have captured the fifth seed and Bulldogs take sixth in Metro heading into playoffs next week.

Top Performers:
Bishop Blanchet
Jack Sendelbach LB/TE
14 Tackles, 2 for Loss – 1 Fumble Recovery
2 Receptions 33 yards, 2 TD’s

David Gats
18 yd TD pass, 11 yd fumble recovery TD

Garfield
Rashad Jones – 35 yard TD Reception