Friday Night Flashpoints: Week 5 Headlines We Love
Shaker Heights: Resetting the Bar
The Shaker Heights Raiders are rewriting their history. Their 5-0 record is their best start since 2000, and their recent 42-8 victory over Maple Heights was more than just a win; it was a statement. This victory was particularly sweet, given that they hadn't beaten Maple Heights in the 2000s, losing seven straight matchups. Add to that their victories over long-time nemeses Euclid and Solon, and you have a team that's breaking curses left and right.
Lake Catholic's Arsenal of Talent
Lake Catholic is putting up major numbers. Junior quarterback Trinetti's 302-yard, four-touchdown performance last night against Kenston was another statement that Lake Catholic is a contender in 2023. With a total of 1,482 yards and 20 touchdowns in just five games, he's the catalyst behind the Cougars' success. However, he's not alone. DJ Sears has been unstoppable, with 8 TDs in the last two games. Additionally, senior TE/DE Cross Nimmo's 76 yard TD from Trinetti brings his season tally to 8.
Massillon vs. St. Edward: Looking to Settle the Score
The upcoming game between Massillon and St. Edward is more than just a match; it's an epic duel. This will be the 9th meeting between the two schools, with the series currently tied at 4-4. Both teams are undefeated at 4-0, with St. Edward ranked 10th nationally. In their last encounter, Massillon handed St. Edward their only defeat of the season, 31-28. With both teams in top form, this game promises fireworks. The battle in the trenches will be intense, as both teams have returning players from last year's matchup. Moreover, both teams have potent air and ground attacks.
Glenville's Challenge: Facing the Giants of IMG Academy
Glenville, the defending OHSAA Division 4 state champions, have a colossal challenge ahead: facing IMG Academy, the 4th ranked team in the country. This game is a golden opportunity for Glenville to showcase their talent against a national powerhouse. With players like Bryce West and Damarion Witten committed to Ohio State, and IMG Academy boasting talents like Ellis Robinson IV and David Stone, this game promises top-tier football action.
Perry vs. Geneva: A Tale of Two Undefeateds
Perry has dominated the series, with Geneva not tasting victory since 1948. However, could this be the year that changes? Both teams are undefeated this season. Perry's defense has been particularly impressive, conceding only 13 points. On the offensive front, QB Walter Moses has showcased his prowess, throwing for 714 yards and nine touchdowns this season. Geneva, on the other hand, has averaged 32.5 PPG and allowed only 7 points last week against Lutheran West. They will welcome the Pirates to their home turf, hoping to turn the tides in this series.
Cleveland Heights vs. Mentor: Greater Cleveland Conference Showdown
Mentor has been the dominant force in the history of this matchup, but Cleveland Heights is hungry for a win. With Heights' recent close victory against Brunswick (13-10) and Mentor's nail-biting win over Medina (42-41), both teams have something to prove. Scotty Fox leads Mentor with 799 passing yards and 287 rushing yards. Heights' star, Marquise Davis, followed up a 333-yard, 4-TD performance against Hudson with a 122-yard, 2-TD outing against Brunswick.
The game will be played at Cleveland Heights and promises to be a statement for whichever team emerges victorious.
VASJ vs. Gilmour Academy: The Offensive Showdown
Gilmour Academy and VASJ are preparing for a clash that is shaping up to be an offensive showcase. Gilmour's senior QB, Jake Kavcic, has been exceptional this season, amassing 686 passing yards, 13 passing TDs, 355 rushing yards, and 8 rushing TDs in just four games. Moreover, GA's TE/DE, Brody Lennon, grabbed headlines last week by scoring 4 TDs with only 4 catches against NDCL. On the VASJ front, dynamic RB Bo Jackson has distinguished himself, accumulating 553 yards and 8 TDs on the ground. Gilmour Academy will also need strategies to counter RB Amani Powell and the formidable QB/WR duo of Kylan Steuball and Brian Kortovich.
My man's name is Bo Jackson, he better be about that LIFE!!!