|
|
 |
2005 MVAL Football Preview
|
DL/LB-Dink Snowden-Sr.-North Hagerstown
ANTIETAM CONFERENCE
Pre Season All-MVAL Antietam Conference
OFFENSE
QB-Zach Shoemaker-Sr.-Boonsboro
QB-Tyler Braithwaite-Sr.-Clear Spring
RB-Justin Thompson-Sr.-Smithsburg
RB-Eric Zwilsky-Sr.-Brunswick
RB-Marcus Scott-Jr.-North Hagerstown
OL-Bryan Rouzee-Sr.-North Hagerstown
OL-Rob Shawley-Sr.-Williamsport
OL-Jared Bussard-Sr.-South Hagerstown
OL-Bobby Bechtel-Jr.-North Hagerstown
OL-Larry Burdette-Sr.-Brunswick
Recv-Dustin Mitchell-Sr.-Smithsburg
Recv-Mike McMillan-So.-North Hagerstown
Recv-Donnie Lapole-Sr.-Clear Spring
TE-Chris Papanicolas-Sr.-Brunswick
DEFENSE
DL-Dink Snowden-Sr.-North Hagerstown
DL-Rob Shawley-Sr.-Williamsport
DL-Matt Rhoderick-Sr.-Boonsboro
DL-Coty Grove-Sr.-South Hagerstown
DL-Matt Leeney-Sr.-Smithsburg
LB-Kenny Getzandaner-Sr.-Catoctin
LB-Danny Lefebrve-Sr.-Brunswick
LB-Ryan Lee-Sr.-Williamsport
LB-Kent Worthington-Sr.-North Hagerstown
LB-Josh Talbert-Sr.-North Hagerstown
LB-Brandon Miskell-Sr.-Brunswick
DB-Dustin Mitchell-Sr.-Smithsburg
DB-Matt Byers-Sr.-Boonsboro
DB-Matt Thompson-Sr.-Smithsburg
DB-Marcellus Sumlin-Jr.-South Hagerstown
K-Andrew White-Sr.-Brunswick
P-Ryan Lee-Sr.-Williamsport
Offensive Players of the Year: Justin Thompson-RB-Smithsburg; Eric Zwilsky-RB-Brunswick
Defensive Player of the Year: Dink Snowden-DE-North Hagerstown
Others Antietam Conference Players to Watch:
Boonsboro: Jeremiah Mills-Sr.-RB/LB, Kyle Kane-Jr.-RB, Adam Rippeon-Sr.-FB, Vince Van Orden-Jr.-DL, Dave Harman-Sr.-WR/DB, Patrick Fogle-Sr.-RB/LB, Andy Seabright-Sr.-OL/DT, Brian Presley-Sr.-OL/LB, Ross Collins-Jr.-OT/DT. Brunswick: Aaron Main-Sr.-QB, Andrew Derr-Sr.-WR/DB, Chris Rucker-Sr.-WR/DB, Cody Crwol-Jr.-OG/DL, Grant Wilson-Jr.-FB/DE, Kyle Clem-Jr.-OG/DL, Marcus Henderson-Jr.-RB/LB, Brandon Bowens-Jr.-RB/DB. Catoctin: D.J. Doyle-So.-QB/DB, Wyatt Baseley-Sr.-RB/LB, Ben Hickman-Sr.-OL, Mike Lovejoy-Sr.-RB/LB, Mark Krstanovic-Sr.-OL/DL, Conor Tremaine-Sr.-OL/DT. Clear Spring: Derek Dyer-Jr.-WR/DB, Chris Penwell-Sr.-WR/LB, Ryan Byers-Sr.-RB/LB, Brian Worthington-Sr.-OL/DL, Lorenzo Smith-Sr.-QB/LB, Craig Clopper-Jr.-OL/DE, John Mason-Jr.-RB/DB, Dan Jarvis-Jr.-RB/LB. North Hagerstown: Logan Kelso-Jr.-QB, Joey Lamp-Sr.-LB, Lamar Harris-RB, Kevin Redden-Jr.-DL, Bobby Bechtel-Jr.-C, Chris Reid-Jr.-K/P, Jarell Rodriquez-Sr.-SL/DB. Smithsburg: Matt Leeney-Sr.-DL, Andrew Bohan-Sr.-QB, J.B.Dove-Sr.-OL/DL, Chris Brown-Sr.-DB, Troy Bradner-Jr.-RB/DB, Derek Martin-Sr.-TE/LB, Jake Alexander-Jr.-OG/DL, Clay Rohrer-Jr.-OL/DL. South Hagerstown: Marcellus Sumlin-Jr.-Ath, Mark Bryan-Sr.-QB/DB, Coty Grove-Sr.-RB, Travis Gatrell-Sr.-TE/DL, Brandon Jenkins-Sr.-OL/DL, Jeremy Gross-Sr.-OL/DL, Tim Poppen-Sr.-RB/DB, Corey Kershner-Sr.-TE/DE, Phillip Nave-Sr.-OG/LB, Zeke Ricketts-Jr.-TE/LB, Trey Jones-Jr.-OL/DL, Brandon Martinez-Jr.-OL/DL. Williamsport: Vaughn Zimmerman-Jr.-RB/LB, Justin Bussard-Sr.-DB, Joel Nava-Sr.-RB/LB, Tanner Brown-Sr.-TE/DE, T.J. Wallech-Sr.-OL/DL, Levi Pouge-Jr.-LB, Tim Lowery-Sr.-FB.
PREDICTIONS
1. North Hagerstown
The two-time defending MVAL Antietam Conference champs are the favorites to win their third straight league title, but it might not be as easy as the past two. The Hubs only return a few starters from last year, but have some solid newcomers and a full roster for Head Coach Danny Cunningham to work with. North’s offense is likely to take a slide after averaging a mind-blowing 46 points a game in conference play last year---but Cunningham will have plenty of weapons for 2005. The young North offense will be led junior quarterback Logan Kelso who showed promising results last season as a backup. Another junior, Marcus Scott, who transferred back from Martinsburg in mid-season, will likely get the bulk of the carries for the Hubs, while seniors Lamar Harris and Dink Snowden will join an intimidating backfield. The receiving corps will be another athletic group led by sophomore stud Mike McMillan, junior Jarell Hasan, and senior Jarell Rodriquez. The offensive line will be anchored by Bryan Rouzee (Sr.), Jordan Granville (Jr.), Bobby Bechtel (Jr.), and Shawn Baker (Sr.). Nike Elite camp participate Snowden (DL) will lead the North defense. Snowden attended the Virginia Tech camp and finished second in the bench presses for all campers, so look for teams to avoid his side of the field. The Hubs will also have Josh Talbert (SS, Sr.), Kent Worthington (LB, Sr.), Joey Lamp (LB, Sr.), and Kevin Redden (DE, Jr.) on the defensive side of the ball. Cunningham knows he has a young talented team that has the pieces for big things---if he can put them all together, this could be his best team yet.
2. Brunswick
The Brunswick Railroaders finished with a 5-5 record in 2004, as they were a true definition of an up-and-down team. They scored over 25 points five times and scored under 12 points five times, including being shutout twice. This season the ‘Roaders and third year Head Coach Kevin Lynott will look for more consistency. Brunswick will have their top three stars returning---Aaron Main (QB/DB Sr.), Eric Zwilsky (RB/LB Sr.), and Chris Papanicolas (TE/DE Sr.). Zwilsky, arguably the top running back in the conference, will be the backbone of the Brunswick offense. The bruising senior running back gained 1501 yards on the ground last season and will look to eclipse that this year. Teams can’t completely key on Zwilsky as the ‘Roaders have one of the MVAL’s best quarterbacks in Main and receivers Papanicolas and Chris Rucker to throw to. The defense is led by linebackers Danny Lefebvre, Brandon Miskell, Zwilsky, and Main. Juniors Kyle Clem and Grant Wilson spearhead the defensive line, while Chris Rucker heads up a young group of defensive backs. If Brunswick can get on a roll, they could make some noise in the conference and the very tough 1A West playoff race.
2. Boonsboro
The Warriors are coming off two straight losing seasons, something unfamiliar in the ‘Boro in recent memory. With Middletown coach Tim Ambrose retiring, Boonsboro’s Clayton Anders becomes the MVAL’s longest tenured coach. Anders returns a solid group for 2005 and could make a serious run at the post season in now very strong 1A West region. Zach Shoemaker will lead the Boonsboro at quarterback. Shoemaker had a solid junior season throwing for 932 yards and eight touchdowns for the 4-6 Warriors. Anders will keep the usual Wing-T look, but may open up the offense to allow Shoemaker to throw a little more. Senior Adam Rippeon will move to fullback and junior Kyle Kane will step into the halfback position. Jeremiah Mills (RB/LB Sr.), Matt Rhoderick (DL Sr.), Matt Byers (SE/DB Sr.), and Vince Van Orden (OL/DL Jr.), Brian Presley (OL/LB Sr.), and Dave Harman (WR/DB Sr.) will also be key contributors for the 2005 Warriors. Boonsboro showed promise at the end of 2004 as they won four of their last five games, including a 36-30 upset over playoff-bound and bitter rival Smithsburg. Look for the Warriors to continue that late season success in 2005 and be in the conference title and post season hunt.
4. Smithsburg
For the first eight games last season the Leopards looked like an unstoppable machine. Smithsburg then dropped three of their last four games to put a sour taste in everybody’s mouth after such a promising start. So the big question for 2005 is…can the Leopards put together another season like 2004 without all-everything, heart-and-soul player Matt Feiser? Answer….maybe. Head Coach Buddy Orndorff does bring back a few key players on offense, including one of the MVAL’s best running backs---Justin Thompson. Senior Andrew Bohan will step into the signal-caller roll and will have all-leaguer Dustin Mitchell to throw to. The defense may not be as sound, as Smithsburg has plenty of question marks on the defensive side of the ball, including replacing 157 tackles and 10.5 sacks from the departing Feiser. Smithsburg will look to Matt Leeney (DE Sr.), Matt Thompson (DB Sr.), and Mitchell to fill the void. The Leopards will have a very difficult early season schedule. Smithsburg plays Archbishop Spalding, Poolesville, Tuscarora, and conference foe North Hagerstown in the first four games. If Orndorff can survive the early schedule, find some blocking for Thompson, and rebuild his defense, the Leopards should have another successful campaign.
4. South Hagerstown
A .500 season a year ago was viewed as a success after losing several keys players from the 2003 team. Now the Rebels are looking to take a few more steps in 2005---a winning season, making a run at the league title, and returning to the post season. As Head Coach Greg Kellick enters his 18th season, he knows these goals won’t be easy. Kellick has some good players returning and has a junior class moving up that went undefeated at the JV level last season. Look for Marcellus Sumlin (QB/DB Jr.), Tim Poppen (Ath/DB Sr.) Coty Grove (RB/DL, Sr.), Mark Bryan (QB/DB, Sr.), Justin Bussard (OL/DL Sr.), Brandon Jenkins (OL/DL Sr.), Travis Gatrell (TE Sr.), Zeke Ricketts (TE/LB Jr.), along with a few others to lead the Rebel charge this season. If South can get through a tough early season schedule, they could set the tone for the conference slate and roll right into the thick of the title chase and into the 2A West playoff picture.
6. Catoctin
After two great seasons, the Catoctin Cougars hit a bump in the road last season, finishing 4-6. The main problem was inexperience. This year Head Coach Doug Williams returns more players familiar with his system and is looking for better results. Williams gambled last season by starting freshman D.J. Doyle at quarterback---this season he’s looking for that to pay off. Catoctin will stay with their traditional double-wing offense, but will look to spread the field more with the able Doyle behind center. The Cougars will have Wyatt Baseley, Kenny Getzandaner, and Mike Lovejoy in the backfield to carry the load. The Cougars ended 2004 winning their last three games, including a 26-7 upset over Brunswick. A top tier finish will be difficult, but the little team that could—has surprised before.
7. Williamsport
In 2004 the Wildcats were shutout six times and held under ten points in eight games. In fact, if you take away the 51 points scored in the Clear Spring game, the Cats averaged only 4.1 points a game. Things will have to change if Williamsport plans to win more than one game. Head Coach Adrian Custer believes things will change and is impressed with what he has coming back on offense---especially his backfield. Justin Bussard (RB/DB Sr.), Kyle Cunningham (RB/LB So.), Tim Lowery (FB Sr.), and Ian Hamilton (RB/LB Sr.) will anchor the backfield, while the Cat’s best athlete, Ryan Lee, will see time at quarterback and receiver. The defense will also have to improve, as the 2004 squad gave up 38.4 points a game. Lee and Cunningham will lead the Williamsport defense as linebackers. Rob Shawley (OL/DL Sr.), an all-conference pick last season, and Tanner Brown (TE/DE Sr.) will be key starters for the 2005 Cats.
8. Clear Spring
2004 was the inaugural season at the varsity level for the Clear Spring Blazers and they suffered some serious first-year woes. The young Blazer defense allowed 56.8 points per game, including 63.1 in Antietam Conference play. Clear Spring also didn’t score an offense rushing touchdown in their first season. If Clear Spring is to win a game in 2005, these statistics will have to change. Now the good news---The Blazers return most of their skill position players, including QB Tyler Braithwaite. The senior signal-caller put up some impressive numbers in Head Coach John Wilson’s five-wide offense by throwing for 1613 yards, 106 completions, and 15 touchdowns. Braithwaite will have his top two receivers back in Donnie Lapole and Derek Dyer. If Brathwaite gets time to throw, the pass-happy Blazer offense could be more potent, but the defense will have to drastically improve for Clear Spring to notch that historical first-ever win.
|
WR-Jimmy Roche-Sr.-Urbana
CHESAPEAKE CONFERENCE
Pre Season All-MVAL Chesapeake Conference
OFFENSE
QB-Kevin Clancy-Sr.-Westminster
QB-Mike Murray-Sr.-Urbana
RB-Jon Sweadner-Sr.-Linganore
RB-Sean Alder-Sr.-Urbana
RB-Ryan Finch-Sr.-Westminster
RB- Ryan Pentz-Jr.-Century
OL-Robert Bishop-Jr.-Thomas Johnson
OL-Dan Stone-Sr.-Westminster
OL-Charles Curry-Sr.-Thomas Johnson
OL-Danny Edwards-Sr.-Tuscarora
OL-James Cebula-Sr.-Urbana
Recv- Jimmy Roche-Sr.-Urbana
Recv-Chris Maienshien-Sr.-Westminster
Recv-Ryan Payne-Sr.-Westminster
TE-Adam Anderson-Sr.-Linganore
DEFENSE
DL-Tredale Kennedy-Sr.-Thomas Johnson
DL-Dan Stone-Sr.-Westminster
DL-Adam LaChance-Sr.-Linganore
DL-Adam Deiseroth-Sr.-Linganore
DL-A.J. Capece-Jr.-North Carroll
LB-Bobby Humphries-Sr.-Thomas Johnson
LB-Jason Butts-Sr.-Urbana
LB-Richie Astlin-Sr.-Westminster
LB-Brendan Porter-Sr.-Urbana
LB-Mike Hall-Jr.-Urbana
DB-Ryan Smith-Sr.-Urbana
DB-Tommy Ranshaw-Sr.-Linganore
DB-Rob Shields-Sr.-Urbana
DB-Brent Hawkins-Sr.-Urbana
DB-Mike Herrod-Sr.-Linganore
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Kevin Clancy-Sr.-QB-Westminster
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Bobby Humphries-Sr.-LB-Thomas Johnson
Others Chesapeake Players to Watch:
Century: Josh Kusnick-Sr.-G/LB, Mike Lemate-Sr.-QB/DB, Robbie Krug-Sr.-RB/DB, Michael Yohn-Sr.-OL/DT, Steve Scott-Sr.-RB/DB, Steve Komaramy-Jr.-TE/DE, Matt Hoffman-Jr.-TE/LB, Justin Meeks-OL/DT. Linganore: Nick Lawrence-Sr.-LB, Chris Rich-Sr.-QB, Jimmy Forosisky-Sr.-WR/DB, Arin Abrahamian-Sr.-OL, Cliff May-Jr.-LB, Josh Puckett-Jr.-DB, C.J. Thomas-So.-WR. North Carroll: Mike Bartlett-Sr.-RB/SS, Jake Kues-Jr.-WR/CB, Dominic Pasta-Sr.-QB/FS, J.T. Albright-Sr.-OL/DT, Dan Trumpower-Sr.-WR/SS, Mike Disantostefano-Sr.-T/DE, Nick Covell-Sr.-FB/ILB, Bryan Green-Sr.-G/DT, Paul Dwyer-Sr.-G/DT, Bill Tunney-Jr.-FB/LB, Stefan Mitchell-So.-QB/WR/FS. Thomas Johnson: Brad Betson-Sr.-QB/DB, Albert Leech-Sr.-OL/LB, George Forder-Sr.-TE/DE, Ed Whitham-Jr.-QB/DE, Terrance Kerns-Jr.-RB/DE, J.D. Jones-Jr.-LB, Harlan Mitchell-Jr.-TE/LB. Tuscarora: Mike Clementson-Sr.-C/LB, Jeff Haga-Sr.-OL/DL, Patrick Greene-Sr.-TE/DE, Steven Johnson-Jr.-OL/DL, Ian Quirk-Jr.-OL/DL, Brian Sweeney-Jr.-QB/FS, Cruz Mannherz-Jr.-RB/DB, Dusty Willett-Sr.-WR/DB, Kenny White-Sr.-RB/LB. Urbana: Derrick Randolph-Sr.-RB/SS, Brendan Porter-Sr.-RB/LB, Mike Hall-Jr.-TE/LB, Taylor Byrne-Sr.-LB, Mike Jarboe-Jr.-WR, Brad Thompson-Jr.-WR/DB, Kevin Parrish-Jr.-OL/DT, Charlie Griggs-Sr.-OT/DT. Westminster: Sean Blake-Sr.-DB, Brion Dell-Sr.-NT, Sean Flynn-Sr.-OL, Andrew Pearce-Sr.-DB, Kevin Tehansky-Sr.-DB, Brett Stull-Sr.-DE, Ritchie Astlin-Sr.-WR/LB, Brian Belt-Sr.-OL/DT, Mike Cain-Sr.-C, Jeremy Hines-Jr.-RB/LB, Rick Stultz-Jr.-WR.
2005 PREDICTIONS
1. Urbana
The Urbana Hawks had a major loss in the off-season. Longtime Head Coach Dave Curruthers decided to step down due to a quirk for retied teachers in the Maryland pay system for coaches. Former Urbana assistant Joe Polce was named head coach in the spring. Polce has served as offensive line coach and defensive coordinator and now has the daunting task of replacing a legend, but has a pretty good team to work with. The Hawks started in June by winning their bracket at the 2005 MDVarsity.com Passing Jamboree in Frederick. Polce hopes that’s a sign of things to come in 2005. Urbana returns senior quarterback Mike Murray (1704 passing yds), senior running back Sean Alder (800 rushing yds), and receiver Jimmy Roche (9 recv tds) to an offense that averaged over 34 points a game in 2004. Urbana has traditionally been strong on defense and 2005 will be no different. Six Hawks (Butts, Porter, Hall, Smith, Shields, and Hawkins) are on the pre-season conference team and all should make an impact. The non-conference schedule includes Randallstown, Archbishop Curley, Frederick, and Middletown, while the usual strong Chesapeake schedule gets the Hawks battle tested for the playoffs. The I-70 rivalry with Linganore will again decide the conference title and possibly an undefeated regular season for the Hawks and their first year coach---but the Lancers will likely have something to say about that. Getting to the playoffs may be a goal to most high school football programs, but at Maryland’s most successful program over the last eight years, Urbana wants nothing less than a state championship. Look for the Hawks to make another run deep playoff run in 2005 for their new coach.
2. Linganore
Rick Conner’s Linganore Lancers found themselves in an unfamiliar place last season---home for the post season. That shouldn’t happen this year. Conner is 30-7 since taking over the Lancers in 2002, while leading them to a state championship in 2003. A 0-2 start after losses to Bonita Vista from California and Damascus (4A runner-up) put the Lancers in a tough situation to defend their state title. 3A West runner-up Frederick dashed Linganore’s dim playoff hopes by giving them a third loss on the season. Linganore actually still finished in the final state top 20 and earned a share of the Chesapeake title with an 18-15 victory over bitter rival Urbana in the I-70 series. Now the Lancers are primed and ready to start over. All-State running back Matt Castor is gone, but Linganore has a talented group of skill players coming back. Senior Jon Swaedner, who finished last season with four straight 100-yards rushing games, will replace Castor in the backfield. The quarterback position will be a battle between Mike Herrod and Chris Rich, although Conner says both will see time behind center. Defensively, Linganore will look to Tommy Ranshaw (DB Sr.), Danny Knight (RB/DB Sr.), Adam LaChance (DT Sr.), and Herrod to be key players. A strong schedule awaits the Lancers. The Lancers open the season with non-conference games against Edmundson, Francis Scott Key, Damascus, and Walkersville, before facing the Chesapeake schedule. Conner knows he has the talent for a return trip to the playoffs, but a win over Urbana should give the Lancers the conference title to boot.
3. Westminster
Brad Wilson took over the Westminster program last season and turned them into an offensive juggernaut. The Owls averaged 31.1 points per game during a 5-5 season. Now the Owls are looking to take the next step---the playoffs. Wilson’s 2005 group should be one of the better Westminster teams of recent past. Kevin Clancy returns as quarterback for the explosive Owls. Clancy threw for 1945 yards, 171 completions, and 22 touchdowns in 2004, all MVAL bests. Wilson’s offense will show mostly four-receiver sets, so look for Clancy to have another banner year. Running back Ryan Finch returns to the backfield where he caught 27 passes last season, while the receivers will include Chris Maienshein (27 recps), Ryan Payne (16 recps), and Richie Astlin. The offensive line will be anchored by 6-foot-3, 285-pound lineman Dan Stone. The defense returns six starters including Stone on the line and 6-foot-5 Brett Stull at defensive end. The Owls are looking to break one of the state’s longest playoff drought’s which has lasted 23 years. If the offense can produce like last season and the defense buckles down, the Owls should be playing in week 11.
4. Thomas Johnson
The 2005 Patriots will be the most improved team in the entire 22-team MVAL. TJ returns most of their starters and should make a drastic jump in the win column. The Pats are loaded with talent starting with seniors Tredale Kennedy (OL/DE 6-4, 252) and Bobby Humphries (RB/LB, 6-3, 232). Both received all-conference honors last season and both will keys to the Patriots 2005 success. Senior quarterback Brad Betson will lead an offense that struggled in 2004, but look for that to change with eight returning starters. Speedy junior Terrance Kerns will see plenty of time in the backfield and Robert Bishop (Jr. 6-2, 217) and Charles Curry (Sr. 6-3, 242) will join Kennedy on the o-line. Studs Humphries (LB) and Kennedy (DE) will also anchor the Pats 5-2 defense. TJ’s schedule is one of the toughest in the MVAL and has no cupcakes. The non-conference slate includes Middletown (pre-season Piedmont favorite), Bel Air, North Hagerstown (pre-season Antietam favorite), and city-rival and 2A West contender Frederick. The Frederick game will not be a conference game for the first time in 35 years. Head Coach Ben Wright will try to restore the glory of years past with this group of Patriots---and this TJ crew has the talent to do it.
5. Tuscarora
The Titans finished their first varsity season at 1-9. After a 70-0 whitewash in their first ever varsity contest, Tuscarora was actually very competitive in most of their remaining games. The Titans offense averaged an impressive 21.5 points a game, but their defense allowed 38.0 ppg, including over 40 points five times. The good news for the Titans, Head Coach Shawn Carey believes with more depth, more player confidence, and a better defense Tuscarora should be in for a much better season. Now the bad news, the Titans were shifted to the super-strong MVAL-Chesapeake for 2005 and will now have one of the tougher schedules. All-Piedmont first-team quarterback Chris Castro (Sr. 6-2, 195) returns to a solid offense that has nine returning starters. Castro will likely throw more this season and will have WR Dusty Willett (Sr. 5-10, 170) and TE Patrick Greene (Sr. 6-4, 200) as targets. Danny Edwards (Sr. 6-2, 255 and Mike Clementson (Sr. 6-0, 200) are top dogs on an improved offensive line. Tuscarora plays a 5-2 on defense and will look to prevent the “big play” this season. Carey says, “We need to stop the big play on defense and have more big plays on offense.” The Titans schedule includes non-league dates with Frederick, South Hagerstown, Smithsburg, and Winters Mill, and the new Chesapeake slate. The second-year coach thinks his Tuscarora squad will be more competitive this season--even with the upgrade in schedule.
6. North Carroll
The North Carroll Panthers return six starters on offense and nine on defense, but unfortunately they have the tough task of competing in the MVAL’s strongest conference. Head Coach Rob Johnson still thinks this season’s Panther squad could be one of the better North Carroll teams of recent past and is looking to shock a few teams in 2005. The Panthers will rely on senior running back Mike Bartlett, who missed most of 2004 with an injury, to carry the load offensively. Dominic Pasta (Sr. 5-11, 170) likely will step into the QB role, replacing three-year starter Dave Dix. 6-foot-3 junior A.J. Capece (TE) and Jake Kues (WR/CB, Sr.) will be Pasta’s main targets. J.T. Albright (G/DT, Sr.), Mike Disantostefano (T/DE, Sr.), and Dan Trumpower (WR/SS) will also be keys to the Panthers success this year. The Panthers are looking to gain some momentum before ending the regular season with the Chesapeake’s murder’s row in Linganore, Urbana, and Westminster. Johnson knows keeping his staff intact and returning for his second season is huge for the Panthers who have had five coaches in five years. If Johnson’s players can buy into his system, North Carroll could be a big surprise in the MVAL. The Panthers, much like Westminster, would love to break a playoff drought that has reached 26 years. Johnson thinks they are on the right track to do it---soon.
7. Century
Tony Shermeyer took over the Century football program in May from Matt Flanagan, who started the program from the ground up. Shermeyer is no stranger to the program, assisting on the football staff from the beginning. The Knights struggled mightily on offense last season, averaging an MVAL-worst 8.2 points a game and scoring one touchdown or less seven times. That statistic should change this season as the Knights wing-T offense returns six starters, including junior running back Ryan Pentz (5-8, 150). Pentz will be the Knights top rusher and second-year senior quarterback Mike Lemate returns to an offense that will look to spread the field more often. The 4-4 Century defense will be led by Pentz (DB) and Josh Kusnick (LB), both All-Carroll County selections last season. Century has gone 3-7 the last two seasons and now with the move from the Piedmont to the Chesapeake Conference, the Knights now have their work cut out for them. Shermeyer is looking forward to the challenge of playing in the MVAL’s toughest conference.
_____________________________________________________________________
|
RB/LB-Matt Angell-Sr.-Francis Scott Key
PIEDMONT CONFERENCE
Pre Season All-MVAL Piedmont Conference
OFFENSE
QB-Jason Burns-Sr.-South Carroll
RB-Gerald Price-Sr.-Frederick
RB-Matt Angell-Sr.-Francis Scott Key
RB-Juris Eyler-Jr.-Middletown
OL-Steve Thomas-Sr.-South Carroll
OL-Kevin Greenville-Sr.-South Carroll
OL-Trevor Felkner-Jr.-Francis Scott Key
OL-Nate Eyler-Sr.-Francis Scott Key
OL-Geoff Fry-Sr.-Frederick
OL-Andrew Crown-Jr.-Middletown
Recv-Anthony Walker-Jr.-Frederick
Recv-Phil Dorsey-Sr.-Winters Mill
Recv-Mike Lewis-Sr.-South Carroll
TE-Travis Fritz-Sr.-Middletown
DEFENSE
DL-Geoff Fry-Sr.-Frederick
DL-Steve Thomas-Sr.-South Carroll
DL-Chris Hershe-Sr.-South Carroll
DL-T.J. Smith-Sr.-Francis Scott Key
LB-Nate Eyler-Sr.-Francis Scott Key
LB-Tommy Gillmore-Sr.-Frederick
LB-Travis Fritz-Sr.-Middletown
LB-Tim Gonski-Sr.-Liberty
LB-Salahuddin Gadson-Sr.-Frederick
LB-Tyler Moser-Sr.-Middletown
DB-Isaiah Randolph-Sr.-Walkersville
DB-Ryne Bridges-Sr.-Winters Mill
DB-Andrew Ledore-Sr.-Walkersville
DB-Jordan Wike-Sr.-Winters Mill
DB-Juris Eyler-Jr.-Middletown
P-Nick DeCarlo-Sr.-Walkersville
Offensive Player of the Year: Matt Angell-RB-Francis Scott Key
Defensive Players of the Year: Tim Gonski-LB-Liberty; Tommy Gillmore-LB-Frederick
Others Piedmont Conference Players to Watch: Francis Scott Key: T.J. Smith-Sr.-OL/DL, Mike Vetri-Sr.-WR/DB, Brandon Eckard-Jr.-QB/LB, Josh Alban-Sr.-WR/DB, Chris Felkner-Jr.-C, Bradley Martz-So.-RB/DB, John Bassier-So.-OL/DL, Nick Hanson-Jr.-WR/DB, Logan Hersh-Jr.-RB/LB, Matt Hyson-Jr.-TE/LB, Eric Hoddy-Jr.-RB/LB. Frederick: Patrick Desmond-Sr.-WR, Quentin Ferguson-Jr.-LB, Chris Thompson-Jr.-WR/DB, Chris Naylor-Jr.-QB, Damian Wallace-Jr.-QB, Steve Custis-Jr.-WR/DB, Todd Scharf-So.-OL/LB, Ernest Woods-So.-RB/WR/DB Liberty: Brandon Gervie-Sr.-G/DL, Chris Jennings-Sr.-WR/DB, Justin Ford-Sr.-FB/LB, Jake Black-Sr.-OL/DL, Matt Barr-Sr.-WR/DB, Richard D’Argenio-Sr.-OT/DL, Adam Shaw-Sr.-G/DT, Bobby Bassani-Sr.-T/DT, Adam Dullinger-Sr.-WB/LB, Alex Harpine-Jr.-RB/DB, Jared Heffler-Jr.-RB/DB, Allen Strelczyk-Jr.-WR/DB, Ryan Bantum-Jr.-WR/DB. Middletown: Frank Starnes-Sr.-QB/DB, Tyler Moser-Sr.-TE/LB, Juris Eyler-Jr.-RB//DB, Spencer Cox-Sr.-RB/LB, Andrew Staszesky-Sr.-WR/DB, Parker Lumley-Sr.-FB/LB, Kevin Linehan-Jr.-QB/WR/DB, Pat McCormick-Jr.-QB, Jimmy Hargett-Jr.-TB/SS, Ryan Gillgan-Jr.-TE/DT. South Carroll: Ryan Hash-Sr.-RB/LB, Roger Yohn-Jr.-RB/LB, Terrence Gray-Sr.-RB/LB, Jason Bartee-Sr.-WR/DB, Ryan Fowler-Sr.-WR/DB, Paul Schoonmaker-Sr.-OL/LB, Kyle Schmitz-Sr.-OL/DT. Walkersville: Ryan Nusbaum-Jr.-QB, Chad Kelley-Sr.-WR/DB, Chris Keiser-Jr.-OL/DL, Paul Chamberlain-Sr.-WR/DB, Kenny Renner-Sr.-WR/DB, Ryan Joyce-Jr.-FB/LB, Thomas Fiammettz-Sr.-OL/DL, Jack Smith-Sr.-RB/LB. Winters Mill: Mike Hoppe-Sr.-WR/DB, John Hopkins-Jr.-OL/DE, Jeff Braun-So.-OL/DL, Zach Means-So.-G/LB, Garrett Hill-Jr.-RB/LB, Jake Stocksdale-Jr.-WR/DB, Travis Love-Jr.-QB/DB, Dustin Johnson-Jr.-RB/DB, Miguel Burgos-Sr.-RB/LB, Paul McDoanld-Jr.-TE/DE, Derek Myers-Jr.-C/DT, Chris Batts-Jr.-WR/DB.
2005 PREDICTIONS
1. Frederick
2004 was a season to remember for Head Coach Vince Ahearn and his Frederick Cadets. Frederick tied a school record for victories, broke a 17-year playoff drought, won a share of the Chesapeake title, and advanced to the 3A West title game. So how can they match that? Playing schools more their size is a start. Frederick was shifted from the strong big-school Chesapeake Conference to the mid-size Piedmont Conference, while also falling from a 3A to 2A in school classification. This should allow the Cadets to have another solid season after losing 15 starters on offense and defense. Junior Damian Wallace will take over for departed three-year starter Cory Rhodes at quarterback, while Gerald Price will be the running back in Ahern’s spread-gun offense. Price, who preformed well in the Maryland Junior Combine, will replace all-area selection Bruce Dorsey. The receivers will include Patrick Desmond (Sr.), Anthony Walker (Jr.), Chris Thompson (Jr.), and Steve Custis (Jr.), while Geoff Fry (Sr. 6-2, 255) will lead the offensive line. Fry (DL), along with Tommy Gillmore (LB, Sr. 5-9, 200) and Salahuddin Gadson (LB, Sr. 5-10, 185) will be key starters on defense for the Cadets. Frederick will face a tough non-league schedule with Tuscarora, North Hagerstown, Urbana, and Thomas Johnson. This will mark the first time since the 1960’s the TJ finale is not a conference game. The first three conference games are key to claiming the Piedmont title as the Cadets face a trio of Piedmont contenders. Frederick opens the conference loop with defending champ Francis Scott Key, and then travels to South Carroll and Middletown. A 2-1 or 3-0 record in those games could unlock the door for another league championship---this season the Piedmont.
2. Middletown
For the first time in Middletown Knights football history the head coach roaming the sidelines will not be legendary MVAL coach Tim Ambrose. Lorne Ridenour replaces a coach that had 249 victories, 29 straight non-losing seasons, 14 MVAL titles, and 12 playoff appearances. Ridenour is up to the challenge of replacing one of the state’s top coaches and a Middletown icon. The Knights should be in the hunt for the Piedmont title chase with Frederick, South Carroll, and Francis Scott Key. All-leaguer Travis Fritz (Sr. TE/LB) and Tyler Moser (Sr. WR/LB) will be Middletown’s heart and soul players on both sides of the ball. Senior Frank Starnes (Sr. 5-10, 175) will battle Kevin Linehan (Jr. 5-10, 145) and Pat McCormick (Jr. 6-3, 180) for the quarterback spot, while junior Juris Eyler (5-11, 175) will likely be the Knights tailback. The offensive line is typically one of Middletown’s strongest units and 2005 will be no different with junior Andrew Crown (6-4, 250) leading the way. Fritz, Moser, and Eyler will highlight a 5-2 defense for the Knights. Ridenour would like to silence critics who say it’s tough to replace a legend. A league title and/or a playoff berth would certainly do just that.
3. South Carroll
The Cavaliers and second year Head Coach Butch Schaffer are hoping to rekindle the magic of the 2003 season where they advanced to the 2A state semifinals. With 17 returning starters that might be in the cards this season. Jason Burns returns for his senior season after a broken hand limited him to just five games. Burns managed to throw for over 1000 yards and ten touchdowns in South Carroll’s spread offense. Barring injury, look for Burns to do more of the same this season. Jason Bartee (Sr. 5-9, 145), Mike Lewis (Sr. 6-2, 180), and Ryan Fowler (6-2, 165) will be Burns key targets, while Ryan Hash (Sr. 5-10, 180) and Terrence Gray (Sr. 5-7, 180) will split the carries out of the backfield. 6-foot-7, 300-pound monster Steven Thomas will highlight the line on both sides of the ball. Piedmont sack leader Chris Hershe also returns to the Cavs 50 defense. The opening game on the schedule against Westminster should give South Carroll an idea how good they are. A win over the Carroll County rival Owls could give the Cavs the confidence to roll right through the season---much like 2003.
3. Francis Scott Key
FSK had a memorable year in 2004 that included the Piedmont Conference title and the school’s first-ever playoff win. For the Eagles to repeat that success, several newcomers will have to step in and produce right away after FSK lost 15 starters from last year. Star running back Matt Angell (Sr. 5-10, 185) and defensive standout Nate Eyler (Sr. 6-4, 210) are two players that do return. Both will be called on to lead a young squad. Head Coach John Baugher is counting on his younger players success at the lower levels to carry over to the varsity team. The schedule doesn’t cut the Eagles a break this year. After a home opener against North Carroll, FSK travels to face Linganore, Westminster, and new conference foe Frederick. The Eagles should remain in the top half of the league standings, however that will all depend on the maturity of the younger players. If the young Eagles are ready to fly, they could end up right in the thick of things at seasons end.
5. Liberty
The Lions move into the Piedmont Conference after two long seasons in the Chesapeake. Things won’t get much easier as the Piedmont is the strongest it’s been since the expansion of the MVAL. Jason Potts will take over a program that has fallen on tough times over the past four years. The former assistant Potts is emphasizing on basics to lead the Lions back on the prowl and isn’t fazed by the stiff conference competition. Tim Gonski (FB/LB, Sr.), Justin Ford (FB/LB, Sr.), Brandon Gervie (OL/LB, Sr.), Leroy Wheatley (QB/WR/DB, Sr.), Jake Black (OL/DL, Sr.), Paul Kinzel (OL/DL, Sr.), and Adam Dulling (RB/DB, Sr.) are all key players in Liberty’s resurgence. This will be the first year in Potts’ plan to shape the Lions into a championship caliber team over the next few seasons and “The Lions Den” could become a difficult place to play in years to come.
6. Winters Mill
The Winters Mill Falcons and Head Coach Ken “Speedy” Johnson knows his program is going to have a breakout season, the question is----is 2005 the year? Johnson thinks he’ll have his fastest team since starting the Falcon program, and that’s a good thing since his nickname is “speedy”. Winters Mill’s speed will come mainly from a deep and talented backfield. Miguel Burgos (Sr. 5-9, 185) and Jordan Wike (Jr. 5-8, 160) return, while Dustin Johnson (Jr. 5-10, 175) and Garrett Hill (Jr. 6-0, 195) will move up from an 8-1 JV team. Each back will battle for carries. Ryne Bridges (6-0, 155) returns for his third season at quarterback for the Falcons and may be challenged by junior Travis Love (6-0, 155). The offensive and defensive lines are Johnson’s biggest concern, but some big and strong juniors and sophomores are looking to step in. If Winters Mill can get good production out of the seniors and continue the success the junior class had at the lower levels, these Falcons could snatch more victories than most think.
7. Walkersville
Since the MVAL expansion two years ago, the Lions have fared pretty well---qualifying for the playoffs in each season. This season new coach Ryan Hines is starting over---completely. Walkersville lost most of their offensive and defensive starters from a season ago and is now in the rebuilding mode, although Coach Hines is still optimistic about a winning season. Hines will change the offense from the wing-T to the I-formation and the defense to a 4-3. Seniors Isaiah Randolph (DB 5-10, 165) and Andrew Ledore (WR/DB 5-8, 145) are two players Walkersville will look to this season to lead them. Hines thinks a new coaching style may be good for a rebuilding program and know his team has the intelligence and desire to succeed.
|
Gerald Price of Frederick scores the first touchdown of the game against Tuscarora Friday night at Frederick High Stadium.Staff photo by Travis S. Pratt, Frederick News Post
|
Westminster's Ryan Finch runs over South Carroll's Jason Bartee. Finch scored three touchdowns in the Owls' win Friday. KEN KOONS/STAFF PHOTO, CARROLL COUNTY TIMES
|
Catoctin quarterback Darrel Doyle, left, runs the ball behind the protection of running back Michael Lovejoy in the second quarter of Thursday's game. Photo by Frederick News Post
Week #1
Thursday, September 8
Beall 42, Catoctin Cougars 13
Friday, September 9
Archbishop Spalding 50 Smithsburg Leopards 6
Northern Garrett 47, Clear Spring Blazers 6
Walkersville Lions 26 South Hagerstown Rebels 7
Linganore Lancers 31, Edmondson-Westside 0
Winters Mill Falcons 14, Century Knights 10
Francis Scott Key Eagles 35, North Carroll Panthers 7
North Hagerstown Hubs 38, Liberty Lions 34
Middletown Knights 14, Thomas Johnson Patriots 8
Tuscarora Titans 42, Frederick Cadets 29
Westminster Owls 44, South Carroll Cavaliers 8
Poolesville 28, Brunswick Railroaders 3
Boonsboro Warriors 40, Moorefield-WV 13
Saturday, September 10
Urbana Hawks 40, Randallstown 0
Williamsport Wildcats 26, Hancock 0
|
Bel Air's Brad Bishop attempts to bring down Thomas Johnson tailback Terrance Kerns during Saturday's game at TJ. Photo by Frederick News Post.
|
Brunswick's Grant Wilson, right, looks for room after taking a handoff from Aaron Main (No. 11) on Friday Night at Walkersville High. Defending for Walkersville are Kenny Renner (No. 80) and Isaiah Randolph (No. 27). Photo Credit: Frederick News Post
|
Frederick’s Thomas Gillmore tries to break the ankle tackle of North Hagerstown’s Kent Worthington during Friday’s game at School Stadium. (Photo credit: Yvette May / Staff Photographer)
|
Westminster's Ryan Finch (14), top, bulls over Winters Mill's Jordan Wike (15), bottom, for a touchdown in the first quarter Friday evening at Westminster High School. The Owls defeated their crosstown rivals, 48-13. DYLAN SLAGLE/STAFF PHOTO-Carroll County Times
WEEK #2
Friday, Spetember 16, 2005
Linganore 12, Francis Scott Key 9
Westminster 48, Winters Mill 13
South Carroll 40, Century 7
Middletown 36, Boonsboro 8
Frederick 28, North Hagerstown 3
Frankfort 26, Williamsport 0
Clear Spring 41, Westmar 28
North Carroll 13, Liberty 12
Brunswick 30, Walkersville 21
Tuscarora 29, South Hagerstown 7
Urbana 42, Archbishop Curley 0
Poolesville 40, Smithsburg 21
Saturday, September 17, 2005
Catoctin 30, Sidwell Friends 20
Thomas Johnson 28, Bel Air 20
__________________________________________________________________
|
Urbana's quarterback Mike Murray fights off Frederick defenders as he runs the ball in the first half. Photo Credit: Frederick News Post
WEEK #3
Thursday, September 22
Urbana Hawks 49, Frederick Cadets 6
Friday, September 23
Westminster Owls 46, Francis Scott Key Eagles 20
Middletown Knights 31, Brunswick Railroaders 10
Catoctin Cougars 55, Walkersville Lions 30
Thomas Johnson Patriots 46, North Hagerstown Hubs 0
South Carroll Cavaliers 47, South Hagerstown Rebels 0
Century Knights 34, Liberty Lions 14
Damascus Hornets 28, Linganore Lancers 7
Winters Mill Falcons 39, North Carroll Panthers 0
Hancock Panthers 22, Clear Spring Blazers 16
Tuscarora Titans 28, Smithsburg Leopards 0
Williamsport Wildcats 33, Bishop Walsh 6
Berkeley Springs-WV 13, Boonsboro Warriors 12
|
Tuscarora's Chris Castro against Smithsburg. Photo Credit: Herald-Mail.
|
Winters Mill's Phil Dorsey (3), right, foils an interception attempt by South Carroll's Jason Burns (16) during the first half of their game at Winters Mill High School on Friday night. DYLAN SLAGLE/STAFF PHOTO, CCT
WEEK #4
Friday, September 30, 2005
Westminster Owls 27,Urbana Hawks 25
Thomas Johnson Patriots 41, Century Knights 0
North Hagerstown Hubs 48, Smithsburg Leopards 13
Boonsboro Warriors 53, Clear Spring Blazers 6
Middletown Knights 20, Liberty Lions 14
Winters Mill Falcons 30, South Carroll Cavaliers 21
Francis Scott Key Eagles 21, Frederick Cadets 10
Linganore Lancers 48, Walkersville Lions 7
Brunswick Railroaders 35 South Hagerstown Rebels 20
Catoctin Cougars 27, Williamsport Wildcats 6
Tuscarora Titans 34, North Carroll Panthers 7
_____________________________________________________________________
|
Urbana quarterback Mike Murray runs up the middle for 14 yards under heavy pressure by the Tuscarora defense on Monday night. Photo Credit: Frederick News Post.
|
Westminster's Kevin Clancy fires off a pass Monday night as the Owls lost for the first time this season to Linganore 22-10. He has passed for more than 1,200 yards this season. KEN KOONS/STAFF PHOTO CCT
|
Brunswick's senior Eric Zwilsky, right, breaks through the North Hagerstown line for a big gain and the Railroaders' first touchdown in the second quarter Friday night at Brunswick. Pursuing for North Hagerstown is sophomore defensive back Mike McMillan. Photo by Frederick News Post.
WEEK #5
Liberty Lions 10, Walkersville Lions 0
Boonsboro Warriors 49 Williamsport Wildcats 0
Brunswick Railroaders 21, North Hagerstown Hubs 7
Thomas Johnson Patriots 44, North Carroll Panthers 6
Francis Scott Key Eagles 25, Century Knights 6
Middletown Knights 16, Winters Mill Falcons 14
Linganore Lancers 22, Westminster Owls 10
Urbana Hawks 39, Tuscarora Titans 7
South Carroll Cavaliers 35, Frederick Cadets 7
South Hagerstown Rebels 12, Clear Spring Blazers 2
Catoctin Cougars 33, Smithsburg Leopards 6
___________________________________________________________________
|
Middletown's Jimmy Hargett (No. 28) tries to evade but is eventually tackled by Frederick's Gadson Salahuddin, left, in first-quarter football action at Middletown Friday night. The Knights pulled out a close win, 7-0. Photo Credit: Frederick News Post.
|
Thomas Johnson's Danny Lagdon (4) breaks up a pass intended for Urbana receiver Brent Hawkins on Saturday at Urbana High School. TJ's Terrance Kerns, left, looks on. Photo Credit: Frederick News Post.
|
Brunswick's Eric Zwilsky, No. 44, is tripped up by Smithburg's Matt Thompson, No. 23, in first quarter football action at Brunswick Friday night. Looking on is Brunswick's Chris Papanicolas, No. 89. Photo Credit: Frederick News Post.
|
Urbana's Sean Alder breaks through Middletown defense on Thursday night. Photo Credit: Frederick News Post.
|
South Carroll's Roger Yohn runs past Francis Scott Key defenders Shane Eyler (12) and Kyle Tracey (35) during the first half of the Cavaliers' victory Thursday night in Winfield. South Carroll was led by Ryan Hash's four touchdowns in the victory.CHRIS AMMANN/STAFF PHOTO, CCT
WEEK #7
Thursday, Oct 20
Linganore Lancers 28, Tuscarora Titans 25
South Carroll Cavaliers 35, Francis Scott Key Eagles 13
Urbana Hawks 14, Middletown Knights 0
Winters Mill Falcons 33, Walkersville Lions 6
Friday, Oct 21
Frederick Cadets 20 Liberty Lions 14
Boonsboro Warriors 7, North Hagerstown Hubs 3
Catoctin Cougars 61, Clear Spring Blazers 14
Brunswick Railroaders 47, Smithsburg Leopards 27
North Carroll Panthers 3, Century Knights 0
Westminster Owls 34, Thomas Johnson Patriots 20
Saturday, Oct 22
Williamsport Wildcats 30, South Hagerstown Rebels 14
|
WEEK #8
Friday, October 28
Francis Scott Key Eagles 34, Middletown Knights 6
Westminster Owls 49, Liberty Lions 14
Boonsboro Warriors 20, Brunswick Railroaders 14
North Hagerstown Hubs 62, Clear Spring Blazers 0
Smithsburg Leopards 20, Williamsport Wildcats 13
Linganore Lancers 55, North Carroll Panthers 6
Thomas Johnson Patriots 56, Tuscarora Titans 14
Urbana Hawks 59, Century Knights 8
South Carroll Cavaliers 34, Walkersville Lions 14
Winters Mill Falcons 14, Frederick Cadets 0
Saturday, October 29
Catoctin Cougars 14, South Hagerstown Rebels 0
|
Chris Rich (7) of Linganore unloads the ball as William Sweeney, of Thomas Johnson, close in in the fourth quarter. Photo Credit: Frederick News-Post.
|
Walkersville's Ryan Joyce approaches Frederick's Jake Guillen on a run before being tackled out of bounds in the second quarter. Photo Credit: Frederick News-Post.
WEEK #9
Thursday, November 3
Winters Mill 12, Tuscarora 6
Friday, November 4
Boonsboro Warriors 54, South Hagerstown Rebels 0
Brunswick Railroaders 45, Williamsport Wildcats 20
Catoctin Cougars 42, North Hagerstown Hubs 12
Smithsburg Leopards 54, Clear Spring Blazers 0
Linganore Lancers 28 Thomas Johnson Patriots 12
Urbana Hawks 83, North Carroll Panthers 0
Westminster Owls 58, Century Knights 0
Francis Scott Key Eagles 48, Liberty Lions 22
Middletown Knights 35, South Carroll Cavaliers 14
Frederick Cadets 13, Walkersville Lions 12 (OT)
|
WEEK #10
Friday, November 11, 2005
Brunswick Railroaders 46, Catoctin Cougars 26
Williamsport Wildcats 57, Clear Spring Blazers 0
Boonsboro Warriors 62, Smithsburg Leopards 7
North Hagerstown Hubs 42, South Hagerstown Rebels 15
Tuscarora Titans 50, Century Knights 14
Westminster Owls 56, North Carroll Panthers 7
South Carroll Cavaliers 40, Liberty Lions 28
Middletown Knights 28, Walkersville Lions 8
Francis Scott Key Eagles 32, Winters Mill Falcons 18
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Urbana Hawks 10, Linganore Lancers 0
Thomas Johnson Patriots 50, Frederick Cadets 0
|
Westminster players celebrate a recovered fumble against Linganore Friday night. KEN KOONS/STAFF PHOTO CCT
Westminster 21, Linganore 7
by By Patrick Stoetzer, Times Staff Writer
Kevin Clancy and Ryan Payne know each other well enough that if one is in trouble, the other will bail him out.
The Westminster quarterback and wide receiver hooked up five times Friday night, and two of those were big "bail-out" situations.
The senior duo accounted for all but one of Westminster's points as the Owls beat Linganore 21-7 in a Class 3A West semifinal.
Clancy threw for 154 yards and scored a rushing touchdown. Payne caught five passes for 110 yards and two touchdowns. Payne even hauled in a two-point conversion pass from Clancy.
But it was their scoring connections that lifted Westminster (10-1) to its first playoff win since 1976.
The Owls led 6-0 and faced third-and-9 from the Linganore 47-yard line late in the third quarter. The Lancers had been pressuring Clancy most of the night, but during a scramble he spied Payne streaking down the sideline and well past a Linganore defender.
Clancy's heave and Payne's grab went for 47 yards, and they converted two points for a 14-0 lead.
Linganore (8-3) found the end zone after a Clancy interception and a 37-yard drive ended on Chris Rich's 1-yard quarterback sneak. Suddenly, the Lancers trailed only 14-7 with 9 minutes, 40 remaining in regulation.
But Clancy and Payne found each other again, this time on a fourth-down pass play from Linganore's 10. Payne said running back Ryan Finch (131 yards on 19 carries) was the intended receiver, but the Lancers had him covered during Clancy's rollout.
"I told Kevin, 'If you're in trouble, just throw it up on my side,' " Payne said. "'I'll go up and get it for you.' "
That he did - Payne used his 6-foot-3 frame and jumped over the noticeably smaller Linganore defender, kept one foot in the back of the end zone and sealed the victory for Westminster.
"It all started back in the spring and the summer with passing camps," Owls coach Brad Wilson said. "That confidence between them ... that has to happen. They have that thing where they really believe, 'I'm going to put this ball up here, and I trust that you're going to go get it.' "
Westminster hosted its first playoff game since that 1976 season, when the Owls played Largo for the state championship.
Westminster lost that state final 20-7 and finished 10-2 on the year. The Owls need three wins to claim their first state crown, and they'll host Seneca Valley next Friday night at 7 in the 3A West final.
Getting past Linganore, which handed the Owls its only loss of the season, was a big motivator. Lancers running back Jon Sweadner ran for more than 200 yards in the regular-season win. But he was held to 11 yards on nine carries (Sweadner suffered a concussion last week in a loss to Urbana).
Linganore amassed a mere 145 yards of offense Friday compared to the 339 they carved out in a 22-10 win back on Oct. 10.
"We wanted to play Linganore in the playoffs and get our revenge," Clancy said. "We know we can beat them."
And now they get a chance to reach the 11-win mark for the first time in school history.
"It's pretty special to see," Wilson said. "They were really focused this week during practice and in films. I think they wanted this one bad."
WESTMINSTER 21, LINGANORE 7
Linganore 0 0 0 7-7
Westminster 6 0 8 7-21
SCORING SUMMARY
W-Kevin Clancy 1 run (kick blocked)
W-Ryan Payne 47 pass from Clancy (Payne pass from Clancy)
L-Chris Rich 1 run (Todd Cox kick)
W-Payne 10 pass from Clancy (John Hajnos kick)
TEAM STATISTICS
L W
First downs 7 18
Rushes-yards 25-69 40-137
Passing 8-17-2 11-19-2
Passing yards 76 154
Fumbles-lost 1-1 2-0
Penalties-yards6-32 4-20
Punts-avg. 5-31.8 2-30.5
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS
Rushing
L-Chad Stevens 12-57, Jon Sweadner 9-11, Chris Rich 4-3, Mike Herrod 1-(-2); W-Ryan Finch 19-131, Dan Cremens 1-9, Chris Maienshein 1-2, Clancy 16-(-1), Michael Hill 3-(-4).
Passing
L-Rich 8-17-2 76; W-Clancy 11-19-2 154.
Receiving
L-Adam Anderson 3-11, A.J. Jefferson 2-31, C.J. Thomas 2-21, Herrod 1-13; W-Payne 5-110, Cremens 3-30, John Bandzwolek 1-7, Finch 1-6, Maienshein 1-1.
|
Middletown quarterback Kevin Linehan (8) runs with the ball in the third quarter to set up a field goal for the first score of the game on Friday night against Winters Mill.
Middletown 5, Winters Mill 0
By Brandon Oland, Frederick News-Post Staff
MIDDLETOWN -- Middletown coach Lorne Ridenour yelled himself hoarse, but he managed to uncork one fine motivational halftime speech.
"It was one of his better ones," Middletown linebacker John Nichols said.
Ridenour challenged all of his players to make plays and commanded his offensive linemen to start blocking.
He got what he wanted.
When the Knights took the field in the second half, the line starting
opening holes, and the Middletown special teams made two crucial plays in a 5-0 win over Winters Mill before about 1,000 frozen fans at Knights stadium.
Middletown plays host to the winner of today's South Carroll-Francis Scott Key matchup in next week's Class 2A West championship.
Falcon-killer Spencer Cox did it again. Cox, who caught an 8-yard touchdown with 2.8 seconds left in Middletown's 16-14 win over Winters Mill in the regular season, had a 33-yard field goal in the third quarter. He also returned Ryan Gilligan's blocked punt to the Middletown 2-yard line.
Cox's field goal proved to be game's pivotal play. After a perfect snap from Tim Harper and a fine hold from Pat McCarrick, Cox boomed the frozen football through the uprights, finally breaking a scoreless tie with five minutes, 34 seconds left in the third quarter.
"I'm wearing a couple pairs of socks," Cox said. "When it's cold, they say wear layers, right?"
Hey, whatever works.
With both teams struggling on offense, it seemed like the first team to score would win. Thanks to a fine performance by the Middletown defense, that proved true.
Middletown (9-2) held Winters Mill (6-5) to 69 total yards and just two completions. Kevin Linehan and Alex Crane had interceptions and Nichols, a junior linebacker, anchored a hard-hitting performance that ABC broadcaster John Madden would have loved.
"We just went out there full boar all day," Nichols said. "Sometimes the offense needs our help, and we have to go out there and help them out."
Running behind 280-pound center Andrew Crown, running back Jimmy Hargett found plenty of holes in the second half. He finished with 129 yards.
"When Crown is in there," Hargett said, "holes usually open up."
While Middletown's offense did not score a touchdown, it moved the ball just enough to win the field position battle.
Winters Mill coach Ken Johnson forced punter Garrett Hill to walk into the back of the end zone and take a safety early in the fourth quarter, rather than risk having another punt blocked.
The bizarre decision backfired. On the next possession, Middletown moved the ball and Winters Mill never did cross the 50-yard line in the fourth quarter.
Crane's interception with 13.7 seconds left sealed it, starting a huge celebration on the Middletown sideline.
In the end, the Knights did what Ridenour desired at halftime and extended their season.
"(Ridenour) was pretty fired up," Hargett said. "Really, he just wanted to get the blocking down. That was all he was really worried about. He kept asking us, 'What kind of playoff player are you?'"
NOTE: Former Middletown lineman Andrew Presnell, a freshman lineman at the University of Connecticut, returned home and caught his first Knights game of the season. ... Middletown's Brad Hoffmaster had a sack.
|
Allegany knocks out Brunswick, 35-6
By John Cannon, Frederick News-Post Staff
CUMBERLAND -- Playing against one of Maryland's most storied programs, Brunswick had good reason for hope.
The Railroaders only trailed by seven points, and they had a promising fourth-and-2 situation from Allegany's 3-yard line. A momentum-building touchdown was just seconds away, but it wasn't the one the Railroaders were looking for.
Brunswick got stuffed for no gain. And on the next play, the Campers' Jeff Link busted loose for a 97-yard touchdown run with 10 minutes, 6 seconds left in the second quarter.
Allegany was on its way to a 35-6 win over Brunswick in the Class 1A State football semifinals at chilly and windy Greenway Stadium on Friday night.
It was hard to tell which play in that back-to-back sequence was more damaging. Was it that alert tackle by Allegany's John Hawkins or the breathtaking run by Link?
"Both," Brunswick coach Kevin Lynott said. "That's like a one-two punch. The momentum was taken from not scoring, and then they take it to the house."
While Link's touchdown only gave the Campers a 15-0 lead, it set the stage for several other game-breaking plays. In fact, 6-foot-2, 200-pound senior wide receiver Donavin Vinson had a bunch of them, hooking up with quarterback Logan Reiter for three touchdown passes. Vinson scored three straight touchdowns on catches of 29, 35 and 25 yards, staking the Campers to a 35-0 lead that set the running clock in motion with 9:36 left in the third quarter.
"Even though it was windy," Vinson said. "We still wanted to go to the air."
Vinson showed why. On his first touchdown grab, the pass got hung up in the wind, but Vinson turned around and made a jumping catch. Wasn't the wind problematic?
"Just a tad bit," Vinson said. "I went up and got it like I always do."
Vinson didn't have to be so acrobatic on his second touchdown catch, but he had to utilize his athleticism. Taking a swing pass, he shook off a tackler and sprinted 35 yards into the end zone.
"He's probably one of the best receivers in the state," Lynott said. "It's hard to cover him. We had him double-covered at times."
Vinson wasn't Allegany's only offensive weapon. Link rushed for 143 yards on seven carries, Tyler Wharton scored the game's first touchdown on an 18-yard run and Reiter completed all five of his passes for 124 yards.
"They're passing game hurt us," Lynott said. "Defensively, we struggled. Offensively, we demonstrated we could move the ball."
The Railroaders did just that on their near-miss drive in the second quarter, going from their own 45 to Allegany's 3. But on Aaron Main's quarterback keeper, Hawkins delivered the tackle that stalled the drive.
"Not getting in hurt," Lynott said.
The Railroaders didn't reach the end zone until Main zipped a 10-yard touchdown pass to Chris Papanicolas with 1:23 left in the fourth quarter.
Main completed 13 of 21 passes for 164 yards, and Papanicolas made five catches for 66 yards.
Eric Zwilsky, playing the final game of his stellar career, rushed for 81 yards on 22 carries. With Zwilsky leading the way, the Railroaders (9-4) reached the state tournament for the first time since 1999.
"We're the North 1A champs, we were in the Final Four, we played one of the most storied teams in Maryland," Lynott said. "Hopefully, we can build on this year."
|
Westminster's Ryan Finch battles for more yards against City College Friday evening at Westminster High School. KEN KOONS/STAFF PHOTO, CCT
Westminster headed to State Championship
Owls defeat City College 35-6 to advance to 3A state title game
By Patrick Stoetzer, Carroll County Times Staff Writer
Westminster, MD----The chilling temperature and biting wind put Westminster's passing game into a deep freeze Friday night.
Never mind the tricky footing this week. Passes to open receivers turned into missed opportunities thanks to the hand-numbing conditions.
So the game plan switched from pass-first, run-last to run first and run past.
Enter Ryan Finch, who rushed for 206 yards and scored two touchdowns as Westminster cruised past City College 35-6 and advanced to the Class 3A state championship game.
The Owls (12-1) reached their first state title game since 1976 behind another big effort from Finch. The senior totaled 18 carries on a night when holding on to the ball was critical.
The teams combined for 12 fumbles - City lost it four times to Westminster's two - and Finch had one in the first quarter.
But the Owls scored 35 unanswered points, and Finch averaged 11.4 yards per carry.
"The weather had a little to do with it," said coach Brad Wilson. "And they made it tough for us early. I said, 'Hey Ryan, we're going to give you the ball.' He said, 'I want it. Give it to me.' Hey. I'm not stupid."
Pretty smart decision.
City (11-2) led 6-0 after Sheldon Bell took a short pass and raced 50 yards for a touchdown with 4:25 left in the first quarter, and the Owls conversely started poorly.
Quarterback Kevin Clancy, who began the game without gloves, put on a pair for the Owls' third series, and eventually took to wearing a glove only on his left (non-throwing) hand, couldn't connect with his receiving corps and a Finch fumble led to City's touchdown.
Once Westminster focused on the run, however, things changed.
"We knew we could run on them when our run executes well," said Finch, who had seven runs of 19 yards or more. "It's a lot easier to run when the holes are there."
Finch's bursts through City's defense allowed Clancy to start finding his wideouts. And he used his athletic ability to get his team on the board.
Clancy ran away from a potential 20-yard loss after a bad snap sailed over his head, and found Dan Cremens for a minimal completion near midfield. On fourth-and-10 from City's 39-yard line, Clancy eluded another rush to his team's sideline and floated a touchdown pass to Cremens just beyond a pair of Knights defensive backs.
Clancy did it again with 3 minutes, 38 seconds remaining in the first half. On third-and-5 from City's 10, Clancy scrambled around and hit Ryan Payne for a score.
Westminster had the lead and the confidence it needed to start utilizing Finch and breaking City's spirits.
"We needed someone who can run the ball like he does," said Payne, who caught four passes for 51 yards and two touchdowns. "We are an all-purpose team. We can throw the ball and catch the ball, and we can run the ball, too."
City started strong by scoring off the turnover, but the Knights finished with 141 yards of offense (34 rushing on 28 carries).
Players and fans started celebrating during the final minutes of the fourth quarter, knowing they'd be playing in the state final at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
They braved the bitter cold and wind gusts to witness something that hasn't happened in 29 years. The crowd didn't seem as large as in previous weeks because of the weather, but nobody really minded.
The chattering teeth and tingly fingers were well worth it.
"When they had to do it, they got it done," Wilson said through his own shivers. "It's just a great group of kids."
WESTMINSTER 35, CITY 6
City 6 0 0 0-6
Westminster 0 21 14 0-35
SCORING SUMMARY
C-Sheldon Bell 50 pass from Ellis Foster (pass failed)
W-Dan Cremens 39 pass from Kevin Clancy (John Hajnos kick)
W-Ryan Payne 9 pass from Clancy (Hajnos kick)
W-Ryan Finch 2 run (Hajnos kick)
W-Payne 14 pass from Clancy (Hajnos kick)
W-Finch 3 run (Hajnos kick)
TEAM STATISTICS
C W
First downs 6 19
Rushes-yards 28-34 38-259
Passing 7-17-0 12-28-1
Passing yards 107 140
Fumbles-lost 6-4 6-2
Penalties-yards 5-28 4-31
Punts-avg. 7-34.7 3-36.3
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS
Rushing
C-Matthew Holloman 7-36, Dominick Roseborough 5-8, Remington Pack 1-1, Greg Valentine 4-0, Foster 6-(-5), Brian Dunston 5-(-6); W-Finch 18-206, Michael Hill 7-45, Clancy 9-6, Cremens 1-4, Chris Maienshein 1-0, Nick Brunner 1-(-2).
Passing
C-Foster 7-17-0 107; W-Clancy 12-27-1 140, Brunner 0-1-0 0.
Receiving
C-Bell 5-78, Pack 1-23, Roseborough 1-6; W-Payne 4-51, Cremens 3-51, Finch 3-14, John Bandzwolek 2-24.
|
South Carroll's Ryan Hash (25) drives into the end zone during the fourth quarter for their Class 2A state semifinal game against Milford Mill at Woodlawn High School on Saturday afternoon. South Carroll advances tot he state final for the first time in school history. DYLAN SLAGLE/STAFF PHOTO
South Carroll upsets Milford Mill, head to title game
By Patrick Stoetzer, Carroll County Times Staff Writer
BALTIMORE - Jason Burns had mud caked on his jersey, bandages wrapped on his right wrist and steam rising from his sweaty head.
Burns managed to crack a smile despite his disheveled appearance. He knew he had just helped South Carroll's football team reach the Class 2A state championship.
Burns played well on both sides of the ball Saturday afternoon as the Cavaliers held off Milford Mill 27-18 at Woodlawn High School.
As SC's quarterback, Burns threw two touchdown passes and led his team on the biggest scoring drive of the season. As SC's defensive back, Burns made 10 tackles and collected two interceptions.
Both of them came near midfield; one of them led to a Cavs' touchdown
Burns took several hard hits as the QB, and actually skipped a series midway through the second quarter to catch his breath and rest his bruised body.
He wore reminders of the Millers' physical defense all day - the jersey No. 16 on his back was barely visible in the second half - but still finished with 101 yards on 9 of 15 passing.
Burns tossed a 20-yard touchdown pass to Jason Bartee that gave SC a 13-12 lead at halftime. The Cavs went up 20-12 on Matt Greene's 17-yard scoring run, six plays after Burns' second pick of the day, but Milford Mill hung in with Joe Embree's 33-yard scoring scamper.
The Millers missed the two-point conversion, and the ensuing kickoff left the Cavaliers (10-3) on their own 30-yard line with 7 minutes, 50 seconds remaining.
"I knew it wasn't over yet," Burns said. "I was just trying to keep our guys' heads in it."
Ryan Hash started the drive with a 38-yard run, which calmed South Carroll and flustered Milford Mill (11-2). SC was flagged for holding on the next play, but Burns settled in and found tight end Mike Lewis for seven yards.
Burns ran for 18 on a designed rollout on the next play. Greene (121 yards, 14 carries) then carried twice for seven yards and Hash once for one, leaving the Cavs with fourth-and-1 from the Millers' 9-yard line.
A Burns sneak gained four yards, however, and kept the drive alive.
Milford Mill pushed Greene back for minus-three and Burns lost five on the following play, but he threw to Greene for six more and faced another fourth-down conversion from the 7.
Burns rolled to his right and threw back across the field to Hash, who followed his blockers on the screen pass and scored to seal the victory.
"We felt like that last play was there," Burns said. "It worked for us."
Greene said the Cavs practiced that play all week just in case, and they chose the right time to unveil it.
Milford Mill started strong and gained 73 yards on two of its first four plays. But the Millers finished with only 70 yards passing and, despite solid efforts from Rodney Webb (139 yards) and Joe Embree (83), couldn't find any rhythm.
It didn't help that kicker Rashod Underwood missed two extra points and a 26-yard field goal along the way.
Milford Mill gathered some momentum on the final drive, but it wasn't enough as time ran out and South Carroll celebrated on the field.
"It's really a tribute to the kids," said Cavs coach Butch Schaffer, who endured a water-cooler dousing moments before the game ended. "They bought into the system from the beginning. We knew we needed to work on every aspect of the game in order to win."
South Carroll scored its second special teams touchdown of the playoffs when Bartee returned a kickoff 78 yards, the first play after Milford Mill scored its first touchdown of the game.
Bartee finished with two touchdowns and 116 all-purpose yards.
Both he and Hash battled back after committing turnovers, and Burns helped make up for the fumbles by withstanding Milford Mill's defensive pressure.
"That's the motto for our team all year: We come at you," Schaffer said. "Our big guys up front lead the way, and they did a great job."
And Burns had a little something to do with it, too.
"I knew we had a good team this year," he said, "but I never though we'd go this far."
South Carroll 13 0 7 7-27
Milford Mill 6 6 0 6-18
SCORING SUMMARY
M-Brandon McDonald 5 pass from Robert Jackson (kick failed)
S-Jason Bartee 78 kickoff return (Derek Ritgert kick)
S- Bartee 20 pass from Jason Burns (kick failed)
M-Torrane Kelly 3 blocked punt return (kick failed)
S-Matt Greene 17 run (Ritgert kick)
M-Joe Embree 33 run (pass failed)
S-Ryan Hash 7 pass from Burns (Ritgert kick)
TEAM STATISTICS
S M
First downs 16 14
Rushes-yards 43-210 33-247
Passing 9-15-0 8-16-2
Passing yards 101 70
Fumbles-lost 3-2 2-0
Penalties-yards 3-15 6-40
Punts-avg. 4-15.8 4-19.8
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS
Rushing
S-Greene 14-121, Hash 16-72, Burns 12-17, Roger Yohn 1-0; M-Rodney Webb 18-139, Embree 4-83, Rashod Underwood 4-18, Jackson 6-7, Antoine Staten 1-0.
Passing
S-Burns 9-15-0 101; M-Jackson 8-16-2 70.
Receiving
S-Hash 3-16, Bartee 2-38, Greene 2-27, Alex Eisold 1-13, Mike Lewis 1-7; M-McDonald 5-52, Teddy Dargan 1-13, Underwood 1-8, Embree 1-(-3).
|
Brunswick quarterback Aaron Main lofts the ball over the heads of Western's Daryen Coates, left and Jeremy Bernard in the second quarter of Friday night's game. Photo Credit: Frederick News Post
2005 Playoffs
Class 3A West
Regional Semifinals
#1-Westminster 21, #4-Linganore 7
#2-Seneca Valley 45, #3-Urbana 39 (3-OT)
Regional Finals
#1-Westminster 38, #2-Seneca Valley 20
3A State Semifinals
Westminster 35, City 6
3A State Championship
Gwynn Park 20, Westminster 14 (2-OT) (M&T Bank Stadium; Baltimore, MD)
___________________________________________________________________
Class 2A West
Regional Semifinals
#1-Middletown 5, #4-Winters Mill 0
#3-South Carroll 35, #2-Francis Scott Key 20
Regional Finals
#3-South Carroll 21, #1-Middletown 3
2A State Semifinals
South Carroll 27, Milford Mill 18
2A State Championship
Potomac 38, South Carroll 3 (M&T Bank Stadium; Baltimore, MD)
___________________________________________________________________
Class 1A West
Regional Semifinals
#1-Allegany 38, #4-Fort Hill 16
#2-Beall 29, #3-Boonsboro 7
Regional Finals
#1-Allegany 15, #2-Beall 13
Class 1A North
Regional Semifinals
#1-Brunswick 68, #4-Pikesville 42
#3-Western Tech 35, #2-Catoctin 12
Regional Finals
#1-Brunswick 20, #3-Western Tech 14
1A State Semifinals
Allegany 35, Brunswick 6
_____________________________________________________________________
|
South Carroll falls to Potomac in 2A State Championship, 38-3
by Carroll County Times
Baltimore, MD---Standing in the end zone on the McDaniel College football field after Thursday's practice, encircled by his captivated South Carroll players, coach Butch Schaffer talked about Saturday's Class 2A state final opponent.
Schaffer reminded his kids that defending state champion Potomac might be faster and stronger than them. But the Wolverines weren't better than them, he said.
Potomac proved Schaffer and the Cavs wrong with a 38-3 victory at M&T Bank Stadium. Potomac scored 38 unanswered points and matched the fifth-largest margin of victory in state final history with an impressive display of strength and quickness.
Running back Antonial Coles scored three touchdowns and rushed for 98 yards, and he was one of many Potomac runners who shook SC tacklers and eluded defenders to gain extra yardage.
Ollie Thomas caught three passes for 74 yards and Adrian McLeod added a 36-yard touchdown catch as the Wolverines outgained South Carroll 268-166 and scored 14 points off two turnovers.
Still, the Cavaliers (10-4) felt they had a good chance against a team making its third straight state final appearance.
"We came out strong, but then ... we made too many errors and we couldn't recover," said junior running back Matt Greene. "We knew they were going to be a good team. We just didn't play like we were supposed to."
SC had a 3-0 lead late in the first quarter on Derek Ritgert's 32-yard field goal, and had to be pleased with its first two possessions. Potomac twice went three-and-out to start the game, and Alex Eisold recovered a muffed punt on the Wolverines' 39 with 4 minutes, 4 seconds to go in the quarter.
Potomac got untracked from there.
Coles scored on a 3-yard touchdown after quarterback James Nickens converted a fourth-and-8 from the 23 by avoiding a sack, scrambling around and finding Bobby Shannon for 20 yards.
"Fourth-and-whatever-it-was," Greene said, "it's a play that should never have happened."
South Carroll forced a punt two possessions later, but Stephan Stanback sacked quarterback Jason Burns on his own 5-yard line. The ball came loose and rolled into the end zone before Rodney Jackson fell on it for the score.
The Cavs went three-and-out on their next possession and Potomac (12-2) used four plays to cover 66 yards, capping the drive with a Coles 19-yard touchdown.
"They were probably the most physical team we played," said SC defensive end Chris Herche. "They were kind of fast, too."
Kind of.
"They had tremendous team speed," Schaffer said. "We were hoping our size could neutralize their speed. But unfortunately it didn't work."
Nickens was able to spot receivers in the middle of the field once the Wolverines established their running game. He completed five passes for 130 yards and kept SC's defense guessing once the game was out of reach.
Coles added scoring runs of 19 and 14 yards, and said he was surprised at how quickly Potomac took control of the game.
"I didn't even know it was going to be this easy," he said. "As soon as I got the ball, the holes opened wide open. All I had to do was shake the safeties to score a touchdown."
Potomac used its speed on defense, too, pressuring Burns on nearly every play. Burns was sacked nine times, losing nearly 90 yards and two fumbles. Playing with an injured right thumb, sustained against Milford Mill in the state semifinal, made it difficult for Burns to grasp the ball.
Potomac's speed rush didn't help.
"Their D-ends were quick," Burns said. "Every time I dropped back they were right there. There was nothing we could do about it."
Burns finished 9-for-17 for 106 yards and an interception. Greene caught four passes for 53 yards and carried six times for 27 yards. Potomac bottled up Ryan Hash for most of the game (he totaled 68 yards but gained 34 of them on his final two attempts).
Turns out Potomac, at least on this day, was faster, stronger and better than South Carroll.
"Coach said we had nothing to be ashamed of," Herche said. "We made it this far and played as hard as we could."
Burns was disappointed with the defeat but said he felt good about leading his team to its first state final berth, even if it resulted in a loss.
"They were the best team we played all year," he said. "I'm happy we made it. Even though we lost, I couldn't be more proud of myself and the team."
South Carroll 3 0 0 0-3
Potomac 0 20 18 0-38
SCORING SUMMARY
S-Derek Ritgert 32 field goal
P-Antonial Coles 3 run (kick failed)
P-Rodney Jackson fumble recovery in end zone (Bobby Shannon pass from James Nickens)
P-Coles 19 run (pass failed)
P-Coles 14 run (kick failed)
P-Chris Mason fumble recovery in end zone (pass failed)
P-Adrian McLeod 36 pass from Nickens (pass failed)
TEAM STATISTICS
S P
First downs 14 10
Rushes-yards 41-68 26-138
Passing 9-18-2 5-10-0
Passing yards 106 130
Fumbles-lost 5-2 2-1
Penalties-yards 4-40 13-101
Punts-avg. 4-34.3 3-36.3
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS
Rushing
S-Ryan Hash 14-68, Matt Greene 6-27, Terrence Gray 2-8, Joey Grimes 3-7, Jason Burns 16-(-42); P-Antonial Coles 15-98, James Nickens 5-20, Ollie Thomas 1-9, Adrian McLeod 2-8, Marquis Davis 2-2, Marcus Whitley 1-1.
Passing
S-Burns 9-17-1 106, Ryan Swanson 0-1-1 0; P-Nickens 5-10-0 130.
Receiving
S-Greene 4-53, Jason Bartee 1-31, Mike Lewis 1-8, Grimes 1-6, Evan Dayhoff 1-5, Hash 1-3; P-Thomas 3-74, McLeod 1-36, Bobby Shannon 1-20.
|
Westminster's Ryan Finch is consoled by coach Brad Wilson following the Owls' 20-14 double overtime loss to Gwynn Park in the Class 3A state championship game Saturday evening at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. CHRIS AMMANN/STAFF PHOTO, Carroll County Times
Westminster loses OT heartbreaker to Gwynn Park in 3A State Title, 20-14
by Carroll County Times
BALTIMORE---Gwynn Park and Westminster played through 48 minutes, and then some, of missed opportunities and extra chances in Saturday's Class 3A state final.
Gwynn Park capitalized on its final chance, and it brought the Yellow Jackets their first state crown.
William Little's 2-yard touchdown run in double overtime capped a wild finish as Gwynn Park edged the Owls 20-14 at M&T Bank Stadium.
The Yellow Jackets (14-0) escaped with the win despite a few solid chances from Westminster down the stretch.
Owls quarterback Kevin Clancy hooked up with Ryan Payne on the first play of the second OT, and in-house television replays appeared to show Payne had one foot in bounds just across the goal line. Officials ruled the play incomplete, however, and Gwynn Park's Phillip Higgins followed by intercepting Clancy to hand the Yellow Jackets their game-winning possession.
Freshman kicker John Hajnos trotted out in the first OT with a chance to give Westminster (12-2) the win after Gwynn Park failed to score on its possession. His 21-yard field goal had the distance but missed wide left by a foot or two, and Gwynn Park had life.
"Both teams defensively did a hell of a job," Owls coach Brad Wilson said. "Offensively we had some opportunities we didn't take advantage of or just missed.
"Unfortunately someone has to be a loser in this."
Gwynn Park took advantage of Higgins' pick and gave the ball to its workhorse, Little.
He ran for 95 yards and scored twice, the last of which broke the hearts of the Owls and their horde of supporters.
The fourth overtime final in state history almost never came to be. Gwynn Park's Trevor Germany hauled in a 50-yard pass on third-and-10 from his own 41-yard line, setting up a first-and-goal with 27 seconds remaining. Two plays later Germany was all alone in the end zone, behind three Owls defenders, but dropped a soft Banks pass that would've given his team the lead with seconds remaining.
Gwynn Park lined up for a potential game-winning 27-yard field goal, but botched it on a bad snap and Westminster sneaked into overtime.
Clancy gave his team a 14-7 lead in the second quarter with the second of his 1-yard sneaks. Gwynn Park's defense frustrated the Owls all day, though.
Clancy was sacked nine times, many of which came during scrambles. Clancy usually made things happen on those plays during the season, but the Jackets were too quick with their pressure.
The Owls finished with minus-20 rushing yards on 30 carries.
"We pretty much pulled everything out, it's just that defense was the best I've ever played," said an emotional Clancy. "It just didn't go our way."
The Jackets tied the game on Little's 1-yard burst early in the fourth quarter, set up after Westminster (four turnovers) fumbled in Gwynn Park territory.
They scored their first touchdown when Adrian Moten picked off Clancy at his own 25 and raced 75 yards for a touchdown.
Moten only caught one pass on offense, but his defensive play got Gwynn Park back in the game when Clancy and the Owls looked like they made start to pull away.
"The whole team, coaching staff, everybody is just great over there," Moten said of Westminster, which scrimmaged the Yellow Jackets during the summer.
"I loved playing against them. It gets me ready for college, I'll tell you that much."
Westminster sought its first state title in school history, and looked to be in control early on. Even when Gwynn Park rallied, the Owls never trailed until Little scored in overtime.
His touchdown ignited a raucous celebration on the field for Gwynn Park while several Westminster players lay motionless around the end zone.
"To lose something like that, that close, when you put so much work into it," said Owls junior linebacker Scott Placide, whose voice trailed off in the end.
|
Westminster's Clancy named Consensus All-State QB
MVAL Players named to All-State Team
All-State (Consensus)
CONSENSUS, FIRST TEAM
QB: Kevin Clancy, Westminster, Sr., 6-1, 175
All-State (Big School)
BIG SCHOOL, FIRST TEAM
QB: Kevin Clancy, Westminster, Sr., 6-1, 175
BIG SCHOOL, SECOND TEAM
WR: Ryan Payne, Westminster, Sr., 6-3, 185
AP: Ryan Finch, Westminster, Sr., 5-8, 185
DL: Dan Stone, Westminster, Sr., 6-3, 285
LB: Bobby Humphries, Thomas Johnson, Sr., 6-3, 230
BIG SCHOOL HONORABLE MENTIONS
QB: Mike Murray, Urbana, Sr.
RB: Sean Alder, Urbana, Sr.
RB: Terrance Kerns, Thomas Johnson, Jr.
OL: Linganore; Mike Burdette
OL: Mike Cain, Westminster
OL: Charles Curry, Thomas Johnson
OL: Danny Edwards, Tuscarora
OL: Tredale Kennedy, Thomas Johnson
Recv: Adam Anderson, Linganore
WR: Chris Maienshein, Westminster
AP: C.J. Thomas, Linganore.
K/P: Jon Sweadner, Linganore, Sr.
K/P: Brandon Tomlinson, North Carroll
DL: Steven Johnson, Tuscarora
DL: Brad Woodcock, Urbana
LB: Jason Butts, Urbana, Sr.
LB: Taylor Byrne, Urbana
LB: Todd Cox, Linganore
LB: Danny Knight, Linganore
LB: Patrick Greene, Tuscarora
LB: Jeremy Hines, Westminster
LB: Josh Kusnick, Century
DB: Brent Hawkins, Urbana
DB: Mike Herrod, Linganore, Sr.
DB: Steve Peach, Linganore
DB: Ryan Pentz, Century, Sr.
DB: Ryan Smith, Urbana
All-State (Small School)
SMALL SCHOOL, FIRST TEAM
DL: Andrew Crown, Middletown, Jr., 6-4, 275
DL: Nate Eyler, Francis Scott Key, Sr., 6-4, 210
DL: Chris Herche, South Carroll, Sr., 6-1, 205
DB: Jason Burns, South Carroll, Sr., 6-2, 185
SMALL SCHOOL SECOND TEAM
RB: Eric Zwilsky, Brunswick, Sr., 5-9, 195
OL: Geoff Fry, Frederick, Sr., 6-2, 255
LB: Tim Gonski, Liberty, Sr., 6-1, 215
P: Nick Hanson, Francis Scott Key, Jr., 6-1, 150
SMALL SCHOOL HONORABLE MENTIONS
QB: Zach Shoemaker, Boonsboro, Sr.
RB: Matt Angell, Francis Scott Key, Sr.
RB: Ryan Hash, South Carroll, Sr.
RB: Justin Thompson, Smithsburg, Sr.
OL: Jeff Braun, Winters Mill
OL: Trevor Felkner, Francis Scott Key
OL: Seth Haines, Brunswick
OL: John Hopkins, Winters Mill
OL: Matt Rhoderick, Boonsboro, Sr.
OL: Bryan Rouzee, North Hagerstown, Sr.
WR: Andrew Leadore, Walkersville, Sr.
WR: Mike Lewis, South Carroll
WR: Alex Harpine, Liberty
K: Andrew White, Brunswick, Sr.
DL: Josh Cole, Francis Scott Key
DL: Dink Snowden, North Hagerstown, Sr.
DL: Chris Thompson, Frederick, Jr.
LB: Quinten Ferguson, Frederick
LB: Salahuddin Gadson, Frederick, Sr.
LB: Garrett Hill, Winters Mill
LB: Danny Lefebvre, Brunswick, Sr.
LB: Tyler Moser, Middletown
DB: Jason Bartee, South Carroll
DB: Mike Hoppe, Winters Mill
DB: Kevin Linehan, Middletown, Jr.
DB: Gerald Price, Frederick, Sr.
_____________________________________________________________________
|
2005 MVAL Football Standings
(FINAL)
Antietam Conference
Team...........Conference....MVAL.....Overall
x-Boonsboro..............7-0......7-1........8-3
Brunswick.................6-1......7-2........9-4
Catoctin....................5-2......6-2........7-4
North Hagerstown.....4-3......5-5........5-5
Smithsburg...............3-4......3-5........3-7
Williamsport.............2-5......2-5........4-6
South Hagerstown.....1-6......1-9........1-9
Clear Spring..............0-7......0-7........1-9
Chesapeake Conference
Team...........Conference....MVAL.....Overall
x-Westminster..........5-1......10-1.......12-2
x-Urbana..................5-1.......7-1........9-2
x-Linganore..............5-1.......7-2........8-3
Thomas Johnson......3-3.......5-4........6-4
North Carroll...........1-5.......2-8........2-8
Tuscarora................2-4.......5-5........5-5
Century...................0-6.......1-9........1-9
Piedmont Conference
Team...........Conference....MVAL.....Overall
x-Middletown........5-1.......9-3........9-3
x-F.Scott Key........5-1.......7-4........7-4
South Carroll........4-2.......9-3.......10-4
Winters Mill.........3-3.......6-5........6-5
Liberty.................2-4.......2-8........2-8
Frederick..............2-4.......3-7........3-7
Walkersville..........0-6.......1-9........1-9
x-conference champions or co-champions
|
2005 Antietam Conference Players of the Week
Week #1: Logan Kelso-QB-North Hagerstown (210 passing yds, 4 TD's)
Week #2: Danny Lefebvre-RB-Brunswick (107 rushing yds, 2 TD's)
Week #3: Zach Shoemaker-QB/DB-Boonsboro (rushing TD, 7-13, 101 yds passing, 3 defensive INT's)
Week #4: Marcus Scott-RB-North Hagerstown (10-162 rushing, 2 TD's)
Week #5: Eric Zwilsky-RB-Brunswick (193 yd rushing, 2 TD's)
Week #6: Adam Rippeon-RB-Boonsboro (142 yd rushing, 3 TD's)
Week #7: Eric Zwilsky-RB-Brunswick (259 yds rushing, 2 TD's) & Justin Thompson-RB-Smithsburg (265 yds rushing, 2 TD's)
Week #8: Adam Rippeon-RB-Boonsboro (2 TD's)
Week #9: Eric Zwilsky-RB-Brunswick (223 yds rushing, 3 TD's)
Week #10: Eric Zwilsky-RB-Brunswick (232 yds rushing, 3 TD's)
2005 Chesapeake Conference Players of the Week
Week #1: Chris Castro-QB-Tuscarora (125 passing yds, 4 TD's)
Week #2: Ryan Finch-SB-Westminster (82 rushing yds, 4-122 receiving, 4 TD's)
Week #3: Ryan Finch-SB-Westminster (12-174 rushing, 5-111 receiving, 4 TD's)
Week #4: Steve Peach-RB-Linganore (4 TD's)
Week #5: Jon Sweadner-RB-Linganore (201 yds rushing, 2 TD's)
Week #6: Kevin Clancy-QB-Westminster (passing: 18-29, 375 yds, 3 TD's; rushing: 9-44, 2 TD's)
Week #7: Kevin Clancy-QB-Westminster (passing: 165 yds, 3 TD's; rushing: 84 yds, 2 TD's)
Week #8: Kevin Clancy-QB-Westminster (passing: MVAL single-game records 397 yds, 23 completions, and 6 TD's; 1 rush TD)
Week #9: Kevin Clancy-QB-Westminster (passing: 227, 3 TD's; rushing: 2 TD's)
Week #10: Jason Butts-LB-Urbana
2005 Piedmont Conference Players of the Week
Week #1: Matt Angell-RB-Francis Scott Key (130 rushing yds, 4 TD's)
Week #2: Ryan Hash-RB-South Carroll (160 rushing yds, 3 TD's)
Week #3: Ryan Hash-RB-South Carroll (3 TD's); Ryan Nusbaum-QB-Walkersville (13 comps, 238 yds passing)
Week #4: Jordan Wike-RB-Winters Mill (157 yds rushing, 3 TD's)
Week #5: Matt Angell-RB-Francis Scott Key (282 yds rushing, 3 TD's)
Week #6: Matt Angell-RB-Francis Scott Key (145 yds rushing, 3 TD's)
Week #7: Ryan Hash-RB-South Carroll (148 yds rushing, 4 TD's)
Week #8: Ryan Hash-RB-South Carroll (225 yds rushing, 5 TD's)
Week #9: Brad Martz-RB-Francis Scott Key (4 TD's)
Week #10: Matt Angell-RB-Francis Scott Key (188 yds rushing; 3 TD's)
|
2005 MVAL Power Poll
(FINAL)
1. Westminster (12-2)
2. Urbana (9-2)
3. Linganore (8-3)
4. South Carroll (10-4)
5. Thomas Johnson (6-4)
6. Middletown (9-3)
7. Francis Scott Key (7-4)
8. Brunswick (9-4)
9. Winters Mill (6-5)
10. Boonsboro (8-3)
11. Tuscarora (5-5)
12. Catoctin (7-4)
13. Frederick (3-7)
14. North Hagerstown (5-5)
15. Liberty (2-8)
16. Smithsburg (3-7)
17. North Carroll (2-8)
18. Century (1-9)
19. Williamsport (4-6)
20. Walkersville (1-9)
21. South Hagerstown (1-9)
22. Clear Spring (1-9)
| |
|
