3A State Finals Preview, Bellevue vs. Eastside Catholic Round 3

Posted on December 5, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

3A State Finals Preview, Bellevue vs. Eastside Catholic Round 3
By Colin Caruso

The Bellevue Wolverines have won 67 straight games, a streak that goes back to 2010 when Mat Taylor’s Skyline Spartans topped them in a regular season contest. They routinely schedule games against the top teams out of state, this year against Serra (CA), and routinely pull off convincing victories. They are dominate, fast, big and strong. The Wolverines are in search of their 7th consecutive state title, and standing in their way is the Eastside Catholic Crusaders.

Eastside showed their grit last year in advancing past the O’Dea Fighting Irish to the state finals, to meet the Wolverines in a 425 clash. The game wasn’t much of a contest, coinciding with the Wolverines season, and ended in a 52-20 route. This year will prove to be much closer than that. One of the states finest running backs, Brandon Wellington, is now a junior and is playing the best football of his life. Junior quarterback Harley Kirsch is also a year older, more mature, and is prepared for a matchup against one of the finest teams in the nation.

The big question at hand, are the Wolverines vulnerable? They showed hints of vulnerability last week against Marysville-Pilchuck. Can the Cru’ end the streak? I don’t think it’s in the cards just yet, but hey, it has to happen sometime, right?

Sedro-Woolley Marches to State Final

Posted on December 1, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov. 29	2014	2A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Tumwater	0	7	14	6	27
Sedro-Woolley	7	7	7	7	28

Game Recap below

Sedro-Woolley Marches to State Final
By Colin Caruso

When taking on a Tumwater Thunderbird squad with Sid Otten at the helm, the winning-est coach in Washington state history, you know you need to bring your ‘A’ game in order to contend. Strangely enough in this game, it was the team with the fewer mistakes that was able to prevail. An unbelievable 7 turnovers in the first half, seemingly no one wanted the football, led to a 14-7 lead for the Sedro-Woolley Cubs going into the half.

Finally the teams settled down, took care of the football, and we saw some of the finest high school football of the season in the second half. Sid Otten called a fake punt early in the third quarter that led to a Ian Saner touchdown run on the next play, his second of three on the day, to tie the game up at 14. But the Cubs answered quckly. A 4 play march, topped off by a Quinn Carpenter 35 yard run, put the Cubs back on top, 21-14.

Ian Saner wouldn’t let it stay at that score, and punched in another touchdown late in the third to tie the game back up at 21. After a series of punts, Mason Elms, a quarterback/wide receiver/running back/wing back for the Cubs stormed down the far sideline for a 24 yard score. About the score, Elms mentioned, “I wasn’t planning on scoring.” But he did, and he put his team ahead midway through the fourth quarter.

Tumwater would answer with a Griffin Shea score, but the kick missed left, and Tumwater found themselves trailing 28-17 with under 3 minutes to play.

The T-birds forced a 3 and out and drove down to the Cubs 22 yard line. There they set up for a 39 yard field goal. The Cubs line broke through the Thunderbird line on the attempt, and Elijah Hill’s kick was blocked with less than 20 seconds remaining. The Cubs recovered, kneeled out the clock, and advanced to the state finals.

A GREAT game back and forth between two deserving teams. Congratulations to Sedro-Woolley for advancing to the Gridiron Classic.

The FinalScore – Sedro-Woolley 28, Tumwater 27.

Top Performers:
Tumwater
Ian Saner – 18 carries for 91 yards and 3 TD

Sedro-Woolley
Carter Crosby – 82 rush yards and 1 TD
Mason Elms – 80 rush yards and 1 TD

Bothell Explosive in Second Half to Reach 4A Final

Posted on December 1, 2014 by Randall Novak

Saturday	Nov. 29	2014	4A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bothell	13	7	10	7	37
Newport-Bellevue	0	13	6	0	19

Game Recap below

Bothell Explosive in Second Half to Reach 4A Final
By Steven Dion

Tom Bainter is one win away from a perfect season and capturing his first state title. His Cougs were matched with KingCo foe Newport in the 4A semifinal at the Tacoma Dome. The Knights quietly made an impressive playoff run to reach the semis with wins over Lake Stevens and Federal Way. A big question surrounding Bothell’s ability to claim the championship is their ability to fill the shoes of star tailback Sam McPherson. The Blue Train did not appear to lose much steam in the opening rounds of the postseason, but would Newport and their complex run-game and stout line pull an upset?

The Knights commitment to the run was evident early, but they coughed the ball up twice early in the contest leading to Bothell points including a 37 yard return by Jordan Baker. After conducting a blowout against Bellarmine last week, it seemed the Cougars were poised to do the same Saturday night. However, Newport put together a strong second quarter starting with a 14 play, 71 yard drive capped off with a Nick Keithley dive from the 1 yard line. After the ensuing kickoff, NHS recovered the football on a bobbled snap resulting in a Thomas Day touchdown two plays later. The lead was restored by the blue and white when Ross Bowers connected with Jackson Keimig shortly before halftime. Bothell led 20-13 with 24 minutes to play.

Newport conducted a signature long drive to open the second half which was capped off with a Thomas Day highlight-reel run from 26 yards out. The Knights ran the ball on 54 of 57 plays from scrimmage. While this led to success for most of the game, it eventually led to Bothell’s ability to clamp down. Led by hard-hitting Tyler Wharf and his 8.5 tackles, Bothell’s defensive front gave their offense ample time of possession to put the game away. Dayzell Wilson hauled in a jump ball despite tight coverage and a wide open strike for 41 yards in a span of four minutes to ice the game. The Cougars will play the defending champions Chiawana next week for the 4A title.

The FinalScore – Bothell 37, Newport 19.

Top Performers:
Bothell
Ross Bowers- 12/15, 172 yards, 3 TDs
Dayzell Wilson- 5 rec, 76 yards, 2 TDs

Newport
Thomas Day- 13 rush, 71 yards, 2 TDs

Neah Bay Grinds a State Semifinal Win over Lummi

Posted on December 1, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov. 29	2014	1B	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Neah Bay	0	20	0	6	26
Lummi	6	6	8	0	20

Game Recap below

Neah Bay Grinds a State Semifinal Win over Lummi
By Colin Caruso

In their third matchup this season, in 8-8 football (a ton of fun, I encourage you to catch a game) the Neah Bay Red Devils faced off against the Lummi Blackhawks for a trip to the state finals. Neah Bay won both previous matchups by a 12 point margin in both games, but Lummi was looking to knock off the defending champs.

Lummi started the scoring in the first quarter with an Austin Brockie 1 yard run. But it was Neah Bay’s second quarter that really changed the course of this game. Three scores for the Red Devils, one with Cole Svec’s arm and one with his legs, along with a fumble recovery gave the Red Devils an 8 point lead heading into the second half.

Lummi answered in the third with a needed Hank Hoskins 2 yard run, he was great for the Blackhawks all day and had two scores in the game. But Neah Bay wore the Blackhawks out. Hoskins went down with a cramp and was gassed going into the fourth quarter. Neah Bay capitalized on a Cameron Buzzell 28 yard catch, proving to be the final score of the game.

The Red Devils advanced to the state finals for the fourth season in a row!

The FinalScore – Neah Bay 26, Lummi 20.

Top Performers:
Neah Bay
Cole Svec – 18 carries for 90 yards and 1 TD, 68 yard passing TD

Lummi
Hank Hoskins – 12 carries for 55 yards and 2 TD

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

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

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

Lake Stevens Captures 4A Wesco

Posted on October 31, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Oct. 24th	2014	4A	Boys	Football
Frank Goddard Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Lake Stevens	7	7	13	10	37
Kamiak	14	7	0	13	34

Game Recap below

Lake Stevens Captures 4A Wesco
By Colin Caruso

On the day of tragedy, with all the news stations surrounding the Marysville community and Wesco Conference, two teams met to play for the Wesco regular season title, Lake Stevens and Kamiak. There was a 30 second moment of silence for the victims of the horrific incident that took place just hours before at Marysville-Pilchuck High School. These two teams, both 5-1, both lost to the same Marysville-Pilchuck High in out of league play.

It was a somber atmosphere to begin, but the action began right away. Lake Stevens struck first with a Jacob Eason pass to Tevin Gray to go up 7-0. But Kamiak responded with the next 21 points, one touchdown coming from a Tyler Becker pass, and another with his legs. With just 7 seconds remaining in the first half, Lake Stevens fought within a score with another Eason pass to Gray, cutting the Kamiak lead to 21-14.

This game completely shifted in the third quarter. The momentum seemed to be entirely with the Lake Stevens Vikings, and they only ran two offensive plays from scrimmage in the quarter. The Vikings scored on a punt return from Brandon Otis, and then on a two play, both Andrew Grimes runs, a 56 yard drive for another score, to bounce ahead 27-21.

Kamiak answered with a beautiful pass and catch from Becker to Nate Shubert, but Grimes was not done for the Vikings. Eason had to throw the ball one time in the second half, because Grimes took over. He scored on another run, this time 48 yards, to seal the win for the Vikings. Lake Stevens will now be the #1 team in 4A Wesco in the playoffs, with Kamiak secured as the #2 team.

Top Performers:
Lake Stevens
Jacob Eason – 12-20 for 148 yards, 2TD
Tevin Gray – 5 catches for 78 yards, 2TD
Andrew Grimes – 17 carries for 228 yards, 2TD

Kamiak
Tyler Becker – 12-15 for 219, 3TD, rushing TD
JoJo Binda Jr. – 13 carries for 71 yards

Fans are called to Unite this weekend! Tragedy has….

Posted on October 30, 2014 by Randall Novak

2014 Varsity Football Live Interview
Garfield Bulldogs – Athletic Director and Head Basketball Coach
Ed Haskins

Tragedy has struck at the heart of the Marysville-Pilchuck and Seattle communities this week, affecting people throughout the state of Washington. This weekend we call all FANS to unite and attend a high school football game. We wish to show our support for your local schools and the people of Marysville-Pilchuck and Seattle by filling the stands with everyone wearing something WHITE signifying HOPE and HEALING.

This includes fans, parents, students, administrators and staff attending any and all football games on Friday and Saturday. So grab anything white; a hat, scarf, a big t-shirt that can fit over your coat! We want the people of Seattle and Marysville-Pilchuck to know the entire state is behind them.

It is at times like these that we must come together to support one another, even if we aren’t personally affected. We express our thoughts and prayers by coming together as ONE and wearing WHITE as a symbol of hope for a better tomorrow.

Dick Fain caught up with Ed Haskins from Garfield High School today regarding Seattle Schools support of two communities. They also touched on the renewal of the game classified as “The Game of the Century”.

Garfield takes on Bishop Blanchet this Friday night – 39 years after the historic battle between the same schools in front of 13,000 fans at Memorial Stadium. It took 4 overtimes for Blanchet to come up with the victory and Garfield is looking to grab a win on Friday.

The Region is asked to join together. We encourage everyone to attend a high school football game in your area and show support by WEARING WHITE AS A SYMBOL OF HOPE.

To catch the complete radio interview with Garfield Coach Ed Haskins,
simply click on the PLAY BUTTON below.

Lincoln Squeaks Past Wilson for League Title

Posted on October 25, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Oct. 24th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Stadium High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Lincoln	6	0	0	6	12
Wilson	3	0	0	0	3

Game Recap below

Lincoln Squeaks Past Wilson for League Title
By Steven Dion

The Abes are quickly climbing up the ranks in 3A as Lincoln has put up big scoring totals to go with an undefeated record thus far. However, the primary team in the Narrows that has been breathing down Kitna and Co.’s necks all season long has been Wilson. That didn’t stop Kitna from sitting several players down, who do not meet the academic standards Kitna has set for his team. He wasn’t shy starting two freshman offensive linemen against a tough Wilson squad. This would be a true test for the Abes.

The Rams entered the contest 6-1 and had a chance to take the lead in the league standings. In fact, a Wilson win would essentially assure they would claim 3A Narrows and earn a first round bye in the playoffs. Something had to give in the rain-soaked Stadium Bowl in Tacoma.

WHS led by Don Clegg took advantage of the Lincoln offensive line that was loaded with second string players due to off-the-field issues with several starters. Abe quarterback Jordan Kitna threw an early pick under heavy pressure which led to a Ram field goal off the right leg of Alex Greenleaf. The red and white had the lead and captured early momentum. Before the conclusion of the first frame, Kitna found nimble-footed Tony Archie on a 9-yard strike in the corner of the endzone for six. A no-good two point conversion by Lincoln kept the lead at three. Before halftime, Greenleaf attempted to tie it up on a long field-goal but the harsh elements took a toll on the airborne pigskin and left it short. At the half, the Abes maintained their 6-3 lead.

Wilson carried their tenacity through a lengthy halftime as the first play from scrimmage in the second half was a pick by Julius Yates-Brown. Yates-Brown is also the quarterback for the Rams so he helped his own cause early in the second! However, the turnover did not result in any points. In fact, the score did not change in the third. Greenleaf had another shot to tie up the ballgame early in the fourth, but the kick was blocked. Lincoln put the nail in the coffin on a deep pass down the sideline to set up Marcus Johnson for a one yard touchdown run. The Abes remain undefeated by the final score of 12-3.

Top Performers:
Lincoln
Tony Archie – 9 yard game-winning touchdown run

Wilson
Julius Yates-Brown – Defensive INT, Major producer on offense.

theFinalScore.TV
4A State Football Rankings Week 7

Posted on October 22, 2014 by Randall Novak

theFinalScore.TV
4A State Football Rankings Week 7
By Steven Dion

Our team has scoured the entire state of Washington to see who might raise the trophy over their heads in December. As league play comes to an end and the playoffs quickly approach, here is our breakdown of the top teams in the 4A Classification.

1) Camas 7-0, 4-0 League
The 2013 state runner-up a season ago has wins over 3 of the top 10 in 4A (Camas, Federal Way, Union) earning the Papermakers the top spot.

2) Bothell 7-0, 5-0 League
Last week’s 56-0 dismantling of Skyline on the plateau was impressive. Bainter’s Cougs are firing on all cylinders as the playoffs approach.

3) Chiawana 6-1, 5-0 League
The defending state champs took down a tough Walla Walla team on the road last Friday. Falling to a hungry Camas squad by two points in week one is the only blemish on the schedule.

4) Union 6-1, 3-1 League
The Titans earned a road win against top-10 Federal Way in the season opener. Their only loss? Last Friday against Camas by the score of 37-20.

5) Gig Harbor 6-1, 4-0 League
Beating Olympia 45-14 is a clear indicator the Tides are steadily climbing up the 4A ranks. As the season unfolds, the win over Peninsula looks more impressive. Eastlake is the only loss on the record.

6) Gonzaga Prep 6-1, 4-1 League
The Bullpups shut-out Bellarmine Prep 17-0 early in the season and also have a nice win over Mt. Spokane. The lone blemish this season is a fluky loss against league opponent Shadle Park.

7) Kentwood 6-1, 3-0 League
The Conks are only allowing one touchdown per game this season. Yep, 7 points! The 35-14 win over Emerald Ridge was nice but a recent loss vs. Federal Way may be the only true test thus far.

8) Lake Stevens 6-1, 5-0 League
Since falling to Marysville-Pilchuck in week two, the Vikings have rolled out some blowout wins. Jacob Eason and the Viks square off against a tough Kamiak team on Friday.

9) Graham-Kapowsin 6-1, 3-1 League
Taking down the Spartans at Skyline HS on September 10^th in front of a packed house shows the Eagles have grit to close out games. Losing to Emerald Ridge by a field goal is GK’s one trip-up this season.

10) Federal Way 5-2, 4-0 League
Meagher’s Eagles were slow out of the gates as they squandered a lead to #4 Union in week one and were blown out in week two by #1 Camas. Since then? 5-0 including a win over #6 Kentwood on the road.

Eastside Catholic Fends Off Fighting Irish

Posted on October 18, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Oct. 17th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
West Seattle Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Eastside Catholic	13	6	7	0	26
O'Dea	10	0	7	3	20

Game Recap below

Eastside Catholic Fends Off Fighting Irish
By Colin Caruso

A subtle drizzle amplified the setting of this great matchup between two of our state’s finest in 3A, the Eastside Catholic Crusaders travelling to West Seattle to face the O’Dea Fighting Irish. The last competition between these two stellar programs took place in the Tacoma Dome, with a trip to the State finals on the line. Eastside Catholic took that contest 28-14, and O’Dea’s seniors came into this one looking to avenge that State semi-final loss.

Scoring started early in the light rain, with a forced fumble on the second play from scrimmage by O’Dea senior Garrett Granlund. The ball fell into the hands of the fastest player on the field, Myles Gaskin, for an easy touchdown run and a 7-0 O’Dea lead just 35 seconds into the game. O’Dea would add just one more touchdown before the night ended.

Eastside Catholic responded on their next drive. Addison Hull, Eastside’s non-featured back ran right through the middle of O’Dea’s defense for 39 yards and a score to tie the game at seven. The scoring continued in the first, with a field goal from the Irish and another Eastside Catholic rushing touchdown, putting the Crusaders up 13-10.

The story in this game was the defense of the Crusaders. O’Dea would only total 10 points in quarters 2-4. Their touchdown came on an 88-yard run from Gaskin, but outside of that score, the Crusaders in white played tenacious defense. Great tackling, shedding blocks, and constant pressure gave O’Dea fits in their offensive backfield.

While the Crusader defense continued its exemplary play, their offense was not in full sync. Quarterback Harley Kirsch missed a number of open receivers, and seemingly when he threw a great ball, the receivers would drop his passes. The rushing game, however, continued to perform. Dominique Fetui added a score in the second, and Hull again in the third, putting the game just out of reach for the Irish.

This game was effectively the Metro-Mountain championship game. If both of these teams maintain their superior play, which I expect they will, we will see them late into November yet again.

Top Performers:
Eastside Catholic
Brandon Wellington – 13 carries for 120 yards and 1TD

O’Dea
Myles Gaskin – 25 carries for 189 yards and 1TD, fumble recovery for TD, defensive INT

Peninsula Survives Shootout with Lions, Claim First Place in League Standings

Posted on October 18, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Oct. 17th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Auburn High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Peninsula	3	10	0	12	25
Auburn Mountainview	0	7	7	6	20

Game Recap below

Peninsula Survives Shootout with Lions, Claim First Place in League Standings
By Steven Dion

The 3A classification of the South Puget Sound League has been a roller coaster ride this season starting with the logjam at the top. The big surprise thus far Auburn-Mountainview would put their undefeated mark on the line as battle-tested Peninsula rolled into town. With a win, the Lions would capture the league title. The Seahawks would be able to claim the crown with a win in the final two games. When the final whistle sounded, everyone had witnessed an instant classic.

Heavy rainfall picked up right at kickoff, making for a slow start for both squads. Peninsula started the scoring on a pair of 24 yard field goals by Logan Marten. Following the second score, the AMHS got rolling as Gresch Jensen found a passing rhythm with his wideouts, capped off by a 25 yard touchdown pass to Abenego Kondiano. The Seahawks responded with a drive of their own in the waning ticks of the first half. Robert Kvinsland connected with Kyle Olson-Urbon on a well-placed ball to the corner of the endzone with twenty seconds remaining. At the half, Peninsula led 13-7.

The Seahawks appeared to address their lack of an effective rushing attack in the first 24 minutes as Major Ali would carry his team on his 5’7” 189 pound frame. But before he could make his presence felt, he watched Gavin Robertson carry the ball into the endzone from seven yards out, regaining the lead for the home team. Ali strung together several big gains to put the Hawks within scoring position, but an interception by Robertson near his own goal line turned the ball back over. Fortunately for PHS, Jack Filkins returned the favor by picking off Jensen.

In the final quarter trailing 14-19 on 4th and 6, Gresch Jensen found his steady playmaker Gavin Robertson downfield to move the chains. On another 4th down moments later, Ki’Jan Weisinger hauled in a pass which put the Lions up 20-19. The Seahawks had three minutes to march down field and at least get within field goal position. With a steady dose of Ali runs, Peninsula was on the red zone. A penalty by AMHS put the Hawks on the 7 with a running clock. Sticking to what kept Peninsula clicking, Kvinsland handed the ball off to Major who rumbled to the endzone with 7 seconds left in the contest. The Peninsula faithful in the bleachers erupted with excitement. To put the icing on top, PHS recovered the ensuing squib kickoff and ran down the final seconds. In a game reminiscent of basketball where the team with the ball last would win, Peninsula rose to the occasion and now control their own destiny to win the SPSL 3A title. Auburn-Mountainview’s dream season is in the balance as next week will decide their outcome.

Top Performers:
Peninsula
Major Ali- Game winning 7 yard touchdown with 7 seconds remaining

Auburn Mountainview
Gavin Robertson- 7 yard touchdown run, Defensive Interception

Graham-Kapowsin Shocks Skyline

Posted on October 16, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Oct. 10th	2014	4A	Boys	Football
Spartan Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Graham-Kapowsin	0	14	3	0	17
Skyline	7	7	0	0	14

Graham-Kapowsin Shocks Skyline
By Colin Caruso

On a beautiful evening on the Issaquah plateau, the Graham-Kapowsin Eagles travelled north to face off against the home side Skyline Spartans. It was homecoming for the Spartans and their crowd was in full force expecting a win in this non-conference matchup. The Eagles and their strong fan base had different plans.

The game began in typical Skyline fashion, with a long drive of both passing and running, capped off by a 1 yard touchdown run by Rashaad Boddie. After a failed fourth and goal attempt for the Eagles on their next drive, the Eagles forced a punt from the Spartans and capitalized mid-way through the second on an Asbjornsen pass to Walkinshaw to tie the game at 7.

Skyline responded, as they typically do, with another great drive, and a touchdown pass from Blake Gregory to Derek Loville. Loville had a huge day for the Spartans; he finished the day with 162 yards receiving. But he wasn’t targeted as much in the second half despite single coverage, and this proved catastrophic for the Spartans.

Graham-Kapowsin tightened their defense immensely in the second half. The Eagles held the Spartans to negative 32 yards rushing in the second half, negative 11 from Boddie. The Eagles 6’6″ 310 pound sophomore Foster Sarell became the big play maker, clogging up the line on defense and blocking well against one of the state’s best pass rushers, Skyline’s Cameron Saffle.

This stifling defense did not allow a point in the second half, while the Eagles added just one field goal, which proved to be the game winner. Graham-Kapowsin came up with the big road win, 17-14.

Top Performers:
Graham-Kapowsin
Trevor Asbjornsen – 17-28 for 192 yards and 1TD
Shannon Edwards – 20 carries for 114 yards and 1TD

Skyline
Blake Gregory – 20-37 for 282 yards and 1TD
Derek Loville – 9 catches for 162 yards and 1TD

Crusaders Cruise Over Blanchet in Saturday Showdown

Posted on October 12, 2014 by Randall Novak

Saturday	Oct. 11th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Auburn High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Eastside Catholic	7	21	14	7	49
Bishop Blanchet	0	0	6	6	12

Game Recap below

Crusaders Cruise Over Blanchet in Saturday Showdown
By Steven Dion

The high school football season is at the halfway point and the weather has behaved nicely for virtually the entire duration. Saturday would be a surprise at kickoff as rain hit hard an hour before kickoff following morning sunshine. Regardless, there was a game to be played between perennial goliath Eastside Catholic led by Jeremy Thielbahr and Aaron Maul’s up-and-comer Bishop Blanchet.

On the opening drive, ECHS coughed up the football giving Blanchet early momentum. However, minutes later Daniel Carlton picked off Davine Tullis which set up an 18 yard slant to Matt Laris for a touchdown. At this point Harley Kirsch was just getting warmed up. In the second frame, he connected with Laris again and Hunter Bryant for 53 and 7 yard scores respectively. A powerful goal-line run by Dominique Fetui capped off a 21 point second quarter for the Crusaders. Blanchet was yet to score at the break.

The Eastside onslaught continued in the third as Kirsch found Matt Kveck and Jake Jackson in the endzone for two more of his five touchdown passes on the day. Bishop Blanchet played an inspired second half starting with a pick by Oshea Trujillo midway through the quarter. That set up a play which was improvisational brilliance by the Braves’ featured halfback Trujillo. A shotgun snap sailed over BB quarterback Alex Freeman’s head. Trujillo, who was the lone man in the backfield sprinted to the loose ball. As the swarm of defenders rushed to pick up the football, the BB back picked up the pigskin and let it fly toward the endzone. The act of desperation resulted in Blanchet’s first points of the game; a 10 yard touchdown reception for Elijah Davis in the corner of the endzone.

Despite a running clock from a Crusader lead of forty points or more, the home team continued to battle. The final play of the contest was a 20 yard dart through multiple defenders from Freeman to David Gats who moments prior hauled in an extraordinary one-handed grab. However, Eastside Catholic would claim a 49-12 victory heading into next Friday against league powerhouse O’Dea. Maul’s Braves will put this one behind them and build on a much better second half of a runaway contest.

Top Performers:
Eastside Catholic
Harley Kirsch- 5 touchdown passes (7,15,18,36,53)

Bishop Blanchet
Oshea Trujillo- 10 yard touchdown pass, Defensive INT

Auburn-Mountainview Defends Spotless Record Against Hungry Lancers

Posted on October 11, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Oct. 10th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Auburn High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Lakes	0	0	0	0	0
Auburn Mountainview	0	10	7	0	17

Game Recap below

Auburn-Mountainview Defends Spotless Record Against Hungry Lancers
By Steven Dion

At this point of the season, many leagues have runaway favorites where one team isolates itself at the top of the standings; SPSL 3A is not one of those leagues. The separation between Auburn Mountainview (5-0) and Lakes (4-1) is first and fourth place with Auburn and Peninsula sandwich in between. Needless to say, this clash of title contenders posed high stakes for the postseason run.

The Lancers reigning from the city of Lakewood have been frequent visitors to the Tacoma Dome in recent years, but the time has slipped a bit to the point where the days of dominance are in the rear view mirror. Auburn-Riverside does not have the historical pedigree of their opponent, but are riding high with a blemish free-record. Would the Lions retain it?

AMHS’s loaded skill positions including Gresch Jensen, Nate Hardin, Bitner Wilson, and Devon Tandberg would account for all of their team’s scoring in this contest. After a scoreless first quarter. Tandberg connected with a 26 yard field goal to break the deadlock. Wilson would bust through for an eleven yard rushing score later in the frame to give the Lions a double digit advantage. Lakes drove, but a pass break up near the goal line blew up a key Lancer scoring opportunity.

Trailing by ten, the Lancers needed a spark to get their offense rolling. Yisrael Stephens provided some punch from the backfield, but not enough to sustain drives and keep the Lions at bay. Gresch scurring on one of his many read option plays for a 14 yard touchdown to give Auburn-Mountainview a lead they would not give up. In fact, their defense pitched a shutout thanks to Gavin Robertson, Jason Sele, Aeron Watson, and the rest of their gritty unit. Jaiave Magalei and Max Nauer were warriors in this contest despite the losing effort. Final score: Auburn-Mountainview 17 Lakes 0.

Top Performers:
Auburn Mountainview
Gresch Jensen 9/18 105 yards, 15 rush 90 yds TD
Bitner Wilson 9 rush 55 yards, TD

Bellevue Proves Too Much for Glacier Peak

Posted on October 8, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Oct. 3rd	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Bellevue Memorial Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Glacier Peak	0	0	0	0	0
Bellevue	16	14	0	0	30

Bellevue Proves Too Much for Glacier Peak
By Colin Caruso

On a gorgeous Friday evening in Bellevue, the hometown Wolverines welcomed in the Glacier Peak Grizzlies from just a few miles north. The Wolverines have won the 3A state title 11 of the past 13 years, and prior to the game, maintained a 58 game winning streak. This streak would continue to 59 by the end of the evening, with Bellevue putting together another dominant performance.

The onslaught began in the first quarter with a Yofiel Wyle touchdown run, followed by a 74 yard touchdown pass from Justice Rogers to Christoph Hirota. The Wolverines are not known for throwing the football, but Rogers throws an enticing deep ball, forcing safeties to play back and opening up the box for their tremendous running game. A safety bumped the Wolverines to 16-0 after one quarter.

The second quarter saw much of the same from Bellevue, with two more touchdowns and not allowing the Grizzlies to cross mid-field. Glacier Peak didn’t see Bellevue territory in this ballgame until 2:50 seconds left in the game. The Wolverine defense was menacing; extremely fast towards the ball and swarming tackling. Glacier Peak had a couple of glimmers of hope with on target passes from their quarterback Brady Southard, but drops plagued the Grizzlies throughout and they were unable to put points on the board.

Bellevue continued their streak and portrayed their dominance yet again, with a 30-0 shutout win over Glacier Peak.

Top Performers:
Bellevue
Justice Rogers – 195 yards passing and 1TD, 59 yards rushing
Ercle Terrell – 59 yards rushing and 1TD
Tyson Penn – 4 catches for 102 yards

Bothell Maintains Dominance

Posted on September 27, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Sept. 26th	2014	4A	Boys	Football
Pop Keeney Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Mount Si	0	0	0	13	13
Bothell	17	14	6	6	43

Bothell Maintains Dominance
By Colin Caruso

Pop Keeney welcomed the Mount Si Wildcats to take on the #1 team in the state in 4A football, the Bothell Cougars. It was Homecoming for the Cougars, who have dismantled their opponents this year by a total score of 173-59. This game was par for the course for the Cougars, who jumped all over the Wildcats early and often.

Three first half touchdowns for Sam McPherson and the Cougars led to a 31-0 halftime score. They also amounted two interceptions on defense and blocked two punts in the first half. It was a superb effort for the Cougars, 4-0, who click on all sides of the ball. McPherson would add another rushing score in the second half, and a kick return TD, giving him 5 touchdowns on the day.

Mount Si, despite being a larger team than Bothell, could not get off the ball with the same pace and tenacity as the Cougars. The Cougar crowd was in full force for the Homecoming festivities, and their team played with the pace needed to secure a good victory.

Mount Si falls to 2-2 on the year, an unfamiliar place for them, as the past few years they have been at the top of 3A/2A KingCo, right behind the Wolverines of Bellevue. This jump to the bigger 4A division has shown its difficulties, and Mount Si will have to battle through that. A roster of over 15 seniors should bring this team back with a force to finish the year strong.

But this night belonged to McPherson and the Cougars. A final score of 43-13 closed Friday night for Pop Keeney, and Bothell was able to celebrate their Homecoming with a victory.

Top Performers:
Mount Si
Jonathan Hillel – 14-22 150 yards, 2TD, 2INT

Bothell
Sam McPherson – 15 carries for 109 yards and 4TD, 90 yard KO return for TD
Ross Bowers – 16-23 205 yards, 1TD 1INT

Juanita Remains Undefeated, Drops Islanders By a Touchdown

Posted on September 27, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Sept. 26th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Mercer Island	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Juanita	0	10	7	7	24
Mercer Island	7	3	0	7	17

Game Recap below

Juanita Remains Undefeated, Drops Islanders By a Touchdown
By Steven Dion

In a clash of KingCo squads on opposite ends of the standings, the 3-0 Rebels hailing from Kirkland would travel to the Island to take on 1-2 Mercer Island. To MI’s credit, they were knotted up with the juggernaut Bellevue at halftime last week 21-21 before dropping the contest in the second half. The home team was desperate for a win on their home turf to turn their season back in the right direction.

Alfonso Gonzalez was able to connect with wideout Jack Vassau on the opening drive on a ball that was frankly up for grabs to any takers. Juanita responded with a 32 yard score from Dexter Mell to Jared Holden. Mell filled in for injured Tavin Montgomery from early on in the first frame. Each of the first two touchdowns in the game were scored on fourth and long. The game was deadlocked 10-10 at the break after Jackson Clemensen (Juanita) and Michael Crebs (Mercer Island) buried field goals in the second quarter.

The Rebels grabbed this contest by the horns early in the third by handing the ball off to Salvon Ahmed who took the ball 69 yards to the house. Ahmed was not done yet as he punched in another third quarter score: this time from two yards out. The Islanders had a difficult time running the ball on Austin Cole and the Juanita defense. A late touchdown by MI put the Islanders within a score late, but an unsuccessful onside kick was enough to seal the deal for the Rebels. JHS advances to 4-0.

Top Performers:
Juanita
Salvon Ahmed- 2 TD’s (2, 69)

Mercer Island
Alfonso Gonzales- 2 passing TD’s (22, 40)

Irish Prove Too Much for
Joyner-Less Pilchuck

Posted on September 20, 2014 by Randall Novak

Friday	Sept. 19th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
West Seattle Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Marysville-Pilchuck	3	0	0	7	10
O'Dea	7	6	21	0	34

Game Recap below

Irish Prove Too Much for Joyner-Less Pilchuck
By Steven Dion

Week three of the high school football season featured a non-league matchup of top dawgs in 3A O’Dea of the Metro League and Marysville-Pilchuck of Wesco. Both teams were capable to running the table in league play, but this would put a blemish on the record of one of the teams in this game. The Tomahawks would be without their elite playmaker on both sides of the ball in Austin Joyner. M-P had their work cut out for them if they were to defeat the powerhouse O’Dea.

The Tomahawks would draw first blood as an errant snap by O’Dea resulted in a turnover and eventually a 39 yard field goal by Sebastian Navarro. This lead would not last long as explosive tailback Myles Gaskin broke off an electrifying 79-yard scamper for six. Davarea Proctor also found himself in the endzone before the first half concluded on a 8 yard run. The Irish brought a 13-3 lead into the locker room.

Gaskin broke the game wide open in the third quarter as 19 and 56 yard rushing touchdowns in addition to a 46 yard punt return score put the game out of reach for Marysville-Pilchuck. The running game of the Tomahawks held their own as a Killian Page score gave the Tomahawks their first touchdown and the final points of the game. O’Dea moves to 3-0 with the 34-10 victory.

Top Performers:
O’Dea
Myles Gaskin- 4 TD’s 3 rush (19, 56, 79) 1 punt return (46)

Cleveland’s Speed Proves too much for Bainbridge

Posted on September 14, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Sept. 13th	2014	3A Metro	Boys	Football
Memorial Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bainbridge	7	0	7	6	20
Cleveland	7	15	0	6	28

Game Recap below

Cleveland’s Speed Proves too much for Bainbridge
By Colin Caruso

To celebrate the unification of the Metro schools, the National Guard and other sponsors put together the Memorial Football Classic. Friday’s games saw Kennedy vs. Seattle Prep and Mariner vs. O’Dea. Saturday’s games featured all Metro teams, including this matchup between the Cleveland Eagles and the Bainbridge Spartans.

Cleveland jumped on the Spartans early, led by a rushing and passing touchdown from senior leader Amonte Phillips in the first half. Bainbridge added a great score to keep it close in the first half, a 31 yard rush by quarterback Casey Brink.

Bainbridge kicked off the second half with a brilliant onside kick which they recovered. They put together a six play drive to punch in their second score of the game to cut the lead to 22-14. But Cleveland responded, and Phillips struck again. He rushed around the corner for a 24 yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 28-14 in the beginning of the fourth.

Bainbridge would add a QB sneak touchdown later in the fourth by Kyle Jackson, but the defenses held throughout and Cleveland took the first contest in the Memorial Classic, 28-20.

Top Performers:
Bainbridge
Kyle Jackson – Passing TD and Rushing TD

Cleveland
Amonte Phillips – Passing TD and 2 Rushing TD