CLASS AA
WINNER: Shaker - We've already talked about Shaker here on this blog, but they get another nod for the manner they disposed of Bethlehem and now are in position to win the division with a win over rival Colonie on Friday.
LOSER: Schenectady - Had the Patriots been better with their extra point conversions, we could be talking about them being in a comfortable position entering the final week of the season to make the playoffs. Instead they must win their Week 7 game against LaSalle. A loss eliminates them with no chance for outside help.
Games To Watch
Saratoga Springs (3-3) at Ballston Spa (2-4) - Fri, 7PM: The good news is that Saratoga Springs holds the tiebreaker over Guilderland should they lose, but the bad news would be that if that situation comes to be, they'll be possibly making a trip south to Shaker for the first round, a team who already beat the Blue Streaks this season. Ballston Spa needs the win to get in.
Colonie (4-2) at Shaker (5-1) - Fri, 7PM: Another year where the Colonie Cup will come into play when it comes to playoff seeding. And this time it's for the top spot in the Liberty Division. Shaker has rattled off five straight wins since losing to CBA to start the season, whereas Colonie could wind up with any of the four seeds with this game. A win guarantees them the #1 seed, but a loss could throw Colonie into a Week 8 meeting at Shenendehowa.
LaSalle (2-4) at Schenectady (3-3) - Fri, 7PM: And this is the game that could throw Colonie as far down as the #4 seed. A LaSalle win over Schenectady will clinch their berth into the playoffs. Where they end up as far as seeding is concerned depends on the Colonie/Shaker game as well as the Bethlehem/Columbia game. Schenectady will have one seed if they win, the #4 seed.
Bethlehem (4-2) at Columbia (1-5) - Fri, 7PM: Back-to-back losses against Colonie and Shaker has Bethlehem in a position where if they make the playoffs, they're going to have to play on the road next week. The Eagles do not want to open the Quarterfinals against Shenendehowa.
CLASS A
WINNER: Amsterdam - The Rugged Rams were critiqued heavily by onlookers after dropping their first game against Cornwall, and those same came out in masses when they lost to Averill Park. But last Friday's win against Troy was a statement that the Rugged Rams aren't dead. And now they have the chance to play for the #1 seed.
LOSER: Troy - It was going to be a season of change for the Troy Flying Horses, but how bad the change was going to affect them on the field is becoming more extreme with each loss. After losses to Bishop Maginn and Amsterdam, the Flying Horses have no chance at playing at home next week, and now find themselves playing Burnt Hills or Queensbury on the road -- two teams the Flying Horses fell to handily in the regular season.
Games To Watch
Queensbury (6-0) at Burnt Hills (5-1) - Fri, 7PM: The two games between Spartans last year remained close and dramatic until the very end -- with Queensbury coming out winners both times. Many are already talking as these will be the two teams left standing come Week 10. The winner gets the #1 seed and will be guaranteed to play at home in Week 9, but the loser will likely face a road game should they win their first round sectional game.
Bishop Maginn (6-0) at Amsterdam (4-2) - Fri, 7PM: If Bishop Maginn is to walk into the playoffs with the #1 seed, they first must walk out of Amsterdam with a win. Bishop Maginn can fare no worse than a #2 seed, but Amsterdam can drop down to having to face Burnt Hills or Queensbury in the first round as they lose the tiebreaker against Averill Park.
Averill Park (4-2) at Scotia (4-2) - Fri, 7PM: With the right recipe, this could be the start of a home-and-home series, with Averill Park potentially possessing the Southeast's #2 seed and the Scotia Tartans guaranteed the Northwest's #3 seed. You probably will see some chess maneuvering that you wouldn't otherwise see, with either team not wanting to release too much of their playbook in the event both will meet the following week.
South Glens Falls (1-5) at Gloversville (2-4) - Fri, 7PM: One playoff spot in Class A isn't set in stone. The winner of this game will be awarded the #4 seed and will travel to either Bishop Maginn or Amsterdam for the first round next week. The loser is out of the playoffs and will be playing a crossover game.
CLASS B
WINNER: Cohoes - Exiting their non-divisional game against the Glens Falls Indians, the Tigers looked soft. They had just lost 40-20 to fall to 1-3. Since then, the Tigers have won back-to-back games and now find themselves with an opportunity to snatch the #2 seed from Ravena with a win over the Indians at their home debut this Friday night.
LOSER: Johnstown - It was a non-divisional game, but a big statement could have been made had Johnstown held onto their 28-20 lead in the 4th quarter against Ravena. The Sir Bills, still pushing for their first winning season in nearly 20 years, turned the ball over and yielded two quick touchdowns to give the Indians the victory.
Games To Watch
Ravena (5-1) at Cohoes (3-3) - Fri, 7PM: The Cohoes Tigers have spent all season on the road and are finally coming home after renovations to their field. And what a big game they will face on their homecoming under portable lights - a chance to snatch away the #2 seed in the Reinfurt Division from the Ravena Indians. Winner will get to stay at home next week.
Hudson Falls (3-3) at Broadalbin-Perth (4-2) - Fri, 7PM: The Hudson Falls Tigers can make things easier on themselves with a win over the Patriots, as that would secure a playoff spot without having to play spectator at the following day's Johnstown/Glens Falls game. And with the right ingredients, the Tigers could turn what could be a trip to Rotterdam into a home date next weekend. Broadalbin-Perth cannot be the #1 team, but can secure their #2 seed with a win at home.
Johnstown (3-3) at Glens Falls (2-4) - Sat, 1:30PM: Last year, the Glens Falls Indians lost their home finale, but still got outside help to continue their playoff streak. This year, the Indians are on their own. They need a win, otherwise they will miss the playoffs for the first time in nearly two decades. Johnstown isn't in yet, but a win will push them through to the playoffs. A loss won't doom them if Broadalbin-Perth beats Hudson Falls, as it would push them into a three-way tie where they hope their quarter points are sufficient enough to make Hudson Falls's loss back in Week 2 matter.
Hudson (2-4) at Albany Academy (2-4) - Sat, 1:30PM: The winner of this game will win the right to travel to Schuylerville for the Quarterfinals next Friday as the Reinfurt's #4 seed. The loser is out of the playoffs, and will play a crossover game next week.
CLASS C
WINNER: Fonda - The Braves played Westhill strong back in Week 1 at the Carrier Dome. And held strong against Coxsackie-Athens in the first half before blowing the game open in the second half. Fonda's playing some great football since their trip to Syracuse and could arguably be the best team in Class C right now, even above Hoosick Falls. The Braves have allowed only 34 points since Week 1, while averaging over 50 points per game since.
LOSER: Corinth - After back-to-back tough games against Greenwich and Hoosick Falls (and Schuylerville in week 2), the Corinth Tomahawks could have enjoyed homecoming with a tune-up against Schoburg to get them ready for Fonda this week. However, that game disappeared as Schoburg was forced to forfeit due to injuries. This week will provide a challenge for Corinth, and it doesn't get any easier from here on out with the playoffs around the corner.
Games To Watch
Fonda (5-1) at Corinth (4-2) - Fri, 7:00PM: Fonda's locked in as one of the top 3 seeds, and Corinth is locked in as one of the middle 3 seeds for the postseason. So this match could very well be a preview for a playoff game. With that said, Corinth will be fighting hard after not getting to play last week, and Fonda will want to continue making a statement in Section 2.
Mechanicville (5-1) at Holy Trinity (4-2) - Sat, 1:00PM: The winner clinches the #2 spot in the Central Division, and the loser has to hope their resume is well enough to grab one of the two wild card spots. Greenwich and Chatham will be watching this game closely as their playoff chances could hang in the balance.
CLASS D
WINNER: Cambridge - After their 21-19 loss to Whitehall in the rain two weeks ago, the Indians bounced back in a big way with their win over Warrensburg. Ethan English was perfect, Caleb Rowland and Chris Warnke provided English with big plays, and the Cambridge Indians made a statement that the loss at Ambrose Gilligan Field was a small setback and that the Indians are still a contender for the Class D Sectional title.
LOSER: Whitehall - Meanwhile, the Whitehall Railroaders looked well on their way to a 6-0 start by building a 20-0 lead in the first quarter against Hoosic Valley. But then it fell apart, as the Railroaders allowed 27 unanswered points to trail 27-20 in the third quarter. Justin Hoagland's kickoff return for a touchdown gave the Railroaders hope to tie the game, but Justin Culligan went for two on a pass attempt, and never saw the lead again as the pass failed.
Games To Watch
Rensselaer (4-2) at Whitehall (5-1) - Sat, 1:00PM: So, according to The Post-Star's Pete Tobey, Whitehall should have enough quarter points should that they lose the game against the Rams, their head-to-head against Cambridge in the first tiebreaker in the quarter points system will yield them the #1 seed. But after losing to Hoosic Valley, the Railroaders are going to want to make sure they're ready for the playoffs. Remember, they narrowly beat Canajoharie in Week 1 on a goal-line stance, therefore Justin Culligan will want to make sure that the team is freshly prepped for the battle come Week 9.
Hoosic Valley (5-1) at Cambridge (5-1) - Sat, 1:00PM: Hoosic Valley finishes off the season with an explosive Cambridge Indians offense that, like Whitehall, will want to use this game to gear up for the playoffs come two weeks from this weekend. The Indians are having an exceptional season, and are hoping to give it an exclamation point with a win over one of the perennial teams to beat.
Showing posts with label Winners and Losers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Winners and Losers. Show all posts
Thursday, October 16, 2014
Thursday, October 9, 2014
Winners & Losers + Week 6 Games to Watch
It's time once again to take a look at the Winners and Losers from Week 5 in high school football, and what games are the ones you're going to want to attend.
Be sure to check out the updated standings page.
CLASS AA
WINNERS
Shaker (4-1) - On a Thursday night, the Shaker Blue Bison propelled to the top of the Liberty Division thanks to their win over LaSalle, coupled with a heartbreaking loss for Bethlehem. After their 34-16 season-opening loss to CBA, the Blue Bison are back and looking to potentially return to Bob Ford Field in November.
LOSERS
Bethlehem (4-1) - The Eagles have had some narrow victories, including squeezing out a single point win over LaSalle in Week 4. But an overtime loss to Colonie has opened the door for Shaker, and could be a game that pushes Bethlehem from a potential #1 seed down to a potential #3 seed.
GAMES TO WATCH
CBA (4-1) at Saratoga Springs (3-2) - Friday, 7PM: The winner of this game will get to play at home come Week 8. For Saratoga Springs, it's their chance to show they're contenders for the Class AA Sectional Title after dropping games to Shaker and Shenendehowa this season. CBA is in the same boat, where they want to show they can knock off good competition on their way to the top.
Shaker (4-1) at Bethlehem (4-1) - Friday, 7PM at Bob Ford Field: It's homecoming for the Eagles, and they need the fan support in a big way after dropping their game last Thursday in overtime against Colonie. A win for Bethlehem will give them a chance to control their own destiny for the #1 seed next week, but a loss, as noted above, could drop them down to the #3 seed. Shaker still has the Colonie Cup coming up next week, and would love to enter knowing they can win their way to the #1 seed.
Schenectady (3-2) at Colonie (3-2) - Friday, 7PM: Schenectady needs a win as a loss here could force the Patriots into a must-win situation against LaSalle next week in order to save their playoff chances. Colonie yielded a game to LaSalle a few weeks ago, and currently holds the #3 seed by virtue of their win over Bethlehem. The Garnet Raiders still have a chance for the top seed, and a win here would make next week's Colonie Cup a battle for the #1 seed. The losing team will have to fight hard next week to keep themselves from having to face Shenendehowa in the first round.
CLASS A
WINNERS
Bishop Maginn (5-0) - Critics are going to argue that the Bishop Maginn Golden Griffins win over Troy isn't legitimate, with Troy sitting players due to suspensions (see below). But what is legitimate is their 5-0 record that they possess heading into Week 6, with Lansingburgh and Amsterdam still to round out their schedule. They haven't won big, but they've done what they needed to in order to remain unbeaten.
LOSERS
Troy (2-3) - Troy makes this list not because of their loss against Bishop Maginn. The loss hurts -- it makes this week's game against Amsterdam more important, but it's off-field issues that puts the Flying Horses on this list. 22 players and cheerleaders were suspended due to illicit and illegal pranks conducted during Troy's homecoming. Hopefully the kids who were benched for the game will learn the lesson that there is a time and place, and this wasn't one of them.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Amsterdam (3-2) at Troy (2-3) - Friday, 7PM: It's a key game for both teams -- more for Amsterdam. Amsterdam doesn't have the tiebreaker over Averill Park, Troy does. Both teams really doesn't want to travel to face Queensbury or Burnt Hills in the first round. Amsterdam still have to face Bishop Maginn next week.
CLASS B
WINNERS
Schalmont (5-0) - The Schalmont Sabres didn't just beat Ravena to get full control of the Reinfurt Division last week, they rolled over the Indians and made it look easy. And with the two basement teams left on their schedule, they can cruise control their way to the #1 seed.
Hudson Falls (3-2) - The Hudson Falls Tigers won their first Jug Game since 1997. That's great, but what's even better is that they are back in the playoff hunt with that win. A loss to Glens Falls would have put the Tigers playoff chances on thin ice, needing help from Cobleskill this week to set up a winner-takes-all match next week with Broadalbin-Perth.
LOSERS
Glens Falls (2-3) - Likewise, the Jug Game loss for the Indians means they need to help themselves if they are going to get into the playoffs. A way of accomplishing that will be this Saturday when they face Schuylerville, but their win-or-go-home moment will come the final week of the season when they host Johnstown.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Cohoes (2-3) at Albany Academy (2-3) - Saturday, 2PM: The final stop on the Cohoes Tigers road trip will be at Albany Academy, where the Cadets will hope to gain the edge over the Tigers for the #3 seed in the Reinfurt. Win or lose, Cohoes will have a chance to play for the #2 seed next week when they host Ravena, but a win will clinch them a spot in the playoffs.
Schuylerville (5-0) at Glens Falls (2-3) - Saturday, 1:30PM: The Indians suffered injuries to their quarterback and running back in their Jug Game loss, and hope to have them back for a battle with division-leading Schuylerville. A win for Glens Falls makes things very interesting for the division entering Week 7, and a loss will clinch the Black Horses the #1 seed.
CLASS C
WINNERS
Greenwich Witches (4-1) - The Witches looked rough in their loss to Corinth in Week 4. They looked more polished in their win over a previously unbeaten team that until Week 5, had only given up 16 points and never trailed in a game. The win should help Greenwich earn the support they need to be one of the wild card teams in the upcoming playoffs.
LOSERS
Coxsackie-Athens (4-1) - Coxsackie-Athens exhibited why extra points matter in their loss to Greenwich. They converted none of their extra point tries, only getting six for their three touchdowns, which ended up being the margin that they lost to the Witches by. It should be a lesson that the Indians take into their next match...
GAMES TO WATCH:
Coxsackie-Athens (4-1) at Fonda-Fultonville (4-1) - Saturday, 2PM: Since returning from their loss to Westhill at the Carrier Dome in Week 1, the Braves have outscored their opponents by an average of 50-7 per game. And the Braves appreciate last week's loss against Greenwich, as it shows them some ways on film that Coxsackie-Athens can be beat. Coxsackie-Athens is having a great season, and a win here will be an exclamation point. The winner clinches the Southern Division.
CLASS D
WINNERS
Whitehall Railroaders (5-0) - It wasn't pretty, but the Whitehall Railroaders took advantage of six Cambridge turnovers as they remain undefeated. The win doesn't give the Railroaders the #1 seed for the playoffs just yet, as Rensselaer could be a determining factor when they come to Ambrose Gilligan Field next Saturday. However, the Railroaders are chugging down the tracks with their first win over Cambridge since 1989.
LOSERS
Fort Edward (0-5) - The Fort Edward/Argyle Flying Forts had one last opportunity to remain in the playoff race, but that came to an end with their loss to Canajoharie that cemented the four teams who will be playing at Schuylerville come November 1st. The Flying Forts and the Warrensburg Burghers are outside looking in, and will meet to see which team will scoop up their first win of the season next Saturday.
GAMES TO WATCH
Canajoharie (2-3) at Rensselaer (3-2) - Friday, 7PM: The Rams, with a win, will still have a shot at a top seed, but will need to win out their final two games and then hope they have enough Quarter Points to top Whitehall and Cambridge. Canajoharie doesn't want to sit as the #4 seed, and can do something about that with a win on Friday. A Canajoharie win will clinch the #1 seed for Whitehall.
Be sure to check out the updated standings page.
CLASS AA
WINNERS
Shaker (4-1) - On a Thursday night, the Shaker Blue Bison propelled to the top of the Liberty Division thanks to their win over LaSalle, coupled with a heartbreaking loss for Bethlehem. After their 34-16 season-opening loss to CBA, the Blue Bison are back and looking to potentially return to Bob Ford Field in November.
LOSERS
Bethlehem (4-1) - The Eagles have had some narrow victories, including squeezing out a single point win over LaSalle in Week 4. But an overtime loss to Colonie has opened the door for Shaker, and could be a game that pushes Bethlehem from a potential #1 seed down to a potential #3 seed.
GAMES TO WATCH
CBA (4-1) at Saratoga Springs (3-2) - Friday, 7PM: The winner of this game will get to play at home come Week 8. For Saratoga Springs, it's their chance to show they're contenders for the Class AA Sectional Title after dropping games to Shaker and Shenendehowa this season. CBA is in the same boat, where they want to show they can knock off good competition on their way to the top.
Shaker (4-1) at Bethlehem (4-1) - Friday, 7PM at Bob Ford Field: It's homecoming for the Eagles, and they need the fan support in a big way after dropping their game last Thursday in overtime against Colonie. A win for Bethlehem will give them a chance to control their own destiny for the #1 seed next week, but a loss, as noted above, could drop them down to the #3 seed. Shaker still has the Colonie Cup coming up next week, and would love to enter knowing they can win their way to the #1 seed.
Schenectady (3-2) at Colonie (3-2) - Friday, 7PM: Schenectady needs a win as a loss here could force the Patriots into a must-win situation against LaSalle next week in order to save their playoff chances. Colonie yielded a game to LaSalle a few weeks ago, and currently holds the #3 seed by virtue of their win over Bethlehem. The Garnet Raiders still have a chance for the top seed, and a win here would make next week's Colonie Cup a battle for the #1 seed. The losing team will have to fight hard next week to keep themselves from having to face Shenendehowa in the first round.
CLASS A
WINNERS
Bishop Maginn (5-0) - Critics are going to argue that the Bishop Maginn Golden Griffins win over Troy isn't legitimate, with Troy sitting players due to suspensions (see below). But what is legitimate is their 5-0 record that they possess heading into Week 6, with Lansingburgh and Amsterdam still to round out their schedule. They haven't won big, but they've done what they needed to in order to remain unbeaten.
LOSERS
Troy (2-3) - Troy makes this list not because of their loss against Bishop Maginn. The loss hurts -- it makes this week's game against Amsterdam more important, but it's off-field issues that puts the Flying Horses on this list. 22 players and cheerleaders were suspended due to illicit and illegal pranks conducted during Troy's homecoming. Hopefully the kids who were benched for the game will learn the lesson that there is a time and place, and this wasn't one of them.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Amsterdam (3-2) at Troy (2-3) - Friday, 7PM: It's a key game for both teams -- more for Amsterdam. Amsterdam doesn't have the tiebreaker over Averill Park, Troy does. Both teams really doesn't want to travel to face Queensbury or Burnt Hills in the first round. Amsterdam still have to face Bishop Maginn next week.
CLASS B
WINNERS
Schalmont (5-0) - The Schalmont Sabres didn't just beat Ravena to get full control of the Reinfurt Division last week, they rolled over the Indians and made it look easy. And with the two basement teams left on their schedule, they can cruise control their way to the #1 seed.
Hudson Falls (3-2) - The Hudson Falls Tigers won their first Jug Game since 1997. That's great, but what's even better is that they are back in the playoff hunt with that win. A loss to Glens Falls would have put the Tigers playoff chances on thin ice, needing help from Cobleskill this week to set up a winner-takes-all match next week with Broadalbin-Perth.
LOSERS
Glens Falls (2-3) - Likewise, the Jug Game loss for the Indians means they need to help themselves if they are going to get into the playoffs. A way of accomplishing that will be this Saturday when they face Schuylerville, but their win-or-go-home moment will come the final week of the season when they host Johnstown.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Cohoes (2-3) at Albany Academy (2-3) - Saturday, 2PM: The final stop on the Cohoes Tigers road trip will be at Albany Academy, where the Cadets will hope to gain the edge over the Tigers for the #3 seed in the Reinfurt. Win or lose, Cohoes will have a chance to play for the #2 seed next week when they host Ravena, but a win will clinch them a spot in the playoffs.
Schuylerville (5-0) at Glens Falls (2-3) - Saturday, 1:30PM: The Indians suffered injuries to their quarterback and running back in their Jug Game loss, and hope to have them back for a battle with division-leading Schuylerville. A win for Glens Falls makes things very interesting for the division entering Week 7, and a loss will clinch the Black Horses the #1 seed.
CLASS C
WINNERS
Greenwich Witches (4-1) - The Witches looked rough in their loss to Corinth in Week 4. They looked more polished in their win over a previously unbeaten team that until Week 5, had only given up 16 points and never trailed in a game. The win should help Greenwich earn the support they need to be one of the wild card teams in the upcoming playoffs.
LOSERS
Coxsackie-Athens (4-1) - Coxsackie-Athens exhibited why extra points matter in their loss to Greenwich. They converted none of their extra point tries, only getting six for their three touchdowns, which ended up being the margin that they lost to the Witches by. It should be a lesson that the Indians take into their next match...
GAMES TO WATCH:
Coxsackie-Athens (4-1) at Fonda-Fultonville (4-1) - Saturday, 2PM: Since returning from their loss to Westhill at the Carrier Dome in Week 1, the Braves have outscored their opponents by an average of 50-7 per game. And the Braves appreciate last week's loss against Greenwich, as it shows them some ways on film that Coxsackie-Athens can be beat. Coxsackie-Athens is having a great season, and a win here will be an exclamation point. The winner clinches the Southern Division.
CLASS D
WINNERS
Whitehall Railroaders (5-0) - It wasn't pretty, but the Whitehall Railroaders took advantage of six Cambridge turnovers as they remain undefeated. The win doesn't give the Railroaders the #1 seed for the playoffs just yet, as Rensselaer could be a determining factor when they come to Ambrose Gilligan Field next Saturday. However, the Railroaders are chugging down the tracks with their first win over Cambridge since 1989.
LOSERS
Fort Edward (0-5) - The Fort Edward/Argyle Flying Forts had one last opportunity to remain in the playoff race, but that came to an end with their loss to Canajoharie that cemented the four teams who will be playing at Schuylerville come November 1st. The Flying Forts and the Warrensburg Burghers are outside looking in, and will meet to see which team will scoop up their first win of the season next Saturday.
GAMES TO WATCH
Canajoharie (2-3) at Rensselaer (3-2) - Friday, 7PM: The Rams, with a win, will still have a shot at a top seed, but will need to win out their final two games and then hope they have enough Quarter Points to top Whitehall and Cambridge. Canajoharie doesn't want to sit as the #4 seed, and can do something about that with a win on Friday. A Canajoharie win will clinch the #1 seed for Whitehall.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
HS Football Week 4: Winners & Losers
We've crossed the halfway point and are making our way towards the end of the season now. 13 teams remain undefeated at this point in the season, however, at least two of those 13 teams will experience their first loss of the season before the weekend is done.
Let's take our weekly look at the teams that helped themselves this past week, and those who put their playoff hopes on thin ice.
CLASS AA
WINNERS:
Shenendehowa Plainsmen (4-0) - In a rivalry game against a good squad, the Shenendehowa Plainsmen not only beat the Saratoga Springs Blue Streaks, they stole the Streaks thunder and electrified their season, and their chances of being the #1 seed in the Empire Division. The Plainsmen have Ballston Spa this Thursday, whose only win came against winless Albany, the Plainsmen's Week 6 opponent. They finish the season with another one-win team that has only beaten Albany in Guilderland.
LOSERS:
Colonie Garnet Raiders (2-2) - The Garnet Raiders dropped a 39-14 decision to previously winless LaSalle, dropping their record to 2-2. The Garnet Raiders appeared to bounce back nicely after falling to Shenendehowa in Week 2 with their win against Columbia, but fell apart against LaSalle. But granted, LaSalle's playing some good ball now as they narrowly lost to Bethlehem in the closing minutes last week and now this win against Colonie.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
LaSalle (1-3) at Shaker (3-1) - Thursday, 7PM: As noted above, the Cadets are playing good football right now and could find themselves in the thick of the race for #2 in the Liberty Division with a win over the Blue Bison. But the Shaker Blue Bison would like to still fight for #1, and would set up a battle for the top seed with Bethlehem next week with a win on Thursday Night.
CLASS A
WINNERS:
Bishop Maginn Golden Griffins (4-0) - The Golden Griffins made the best of their yardage, spoiling Averill Park's homecoming with their 22-15 win. Joe Grasso's squad has grown since last year's, already exceeding the number of wins the 2012 and 2013 squads had combined. They've survived one of their three key tests, next up is Troy.
South Glens Falls Bulldogs (1-3) - The South Glens Falls Bulldogs have a monkey off their back, winning their first game in 20 tries and ending their 19 game losing streak, which thanks to Newfield winning on Thursday night, was the longest active streak in New York State. With that said, the winning streak is likely to cease at one game with Burnt Hills this week and Queensbury next week, but it's good not to see South Glens Falls on the list of active losing streaks.
LOSERS:
Scotia Tartans (2-2) - The Scotia Tartans make this list not because of what the loss to Queensbury means for their season, but for how the Tartans came up empty after closing the gap to three points with eight minutes to play in the second quarter. Two quick touchdowns late in the quarter, including Brett Rodriguez's option pass to Erik Wettersten in the final play of the half, gave the Spartans a commanding 33-17 lead, and the Tartans had no answers for it. The Tartans are still good to make the playoffs with wins over South Glens Falls and Gloversville with only Green Tech left to play, giving them a good shot at the Northwest's #3 seed.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
Bishop Maginn (4-0) at Troy (3-1) - Friday, 7PM: Two obstacles are keeping the Bishop Maginn Golden Griffins from the Southeast Division's #1 seed, one of them being Troy. The Troy Flying Horses haven't dazzled in their two wins, doing enough to get by Averill Park and Mohonasen. The winner here should be guaranteed a home date come Week 8.
CLASS B
WINNERS:
Schalmont Sabres (4-0) - The Schalmont Sabres made a statement to the rest of the state that they are arguably the best Class B team in Eastern New York with their win over the Class A Burnt Hills Spartans. The Spartans made it a contest late by scoring 21 points unanswered after falling behind 34-7, but in the end, the Sabres were able to make the defensive stop they needed to preserve the victory to set up a battle of the unbeaten in the Reinfurt Division this Friday.
Johnstown Sir Bills (3-1) - The Johnstown Sir Bills have gone 5-36 in the last five years, with four of those five wins coming from last year's squad that went 4-5. The last time Johnstown saw a winning record was in 1995, when they finished 7-2. And they haven't seen the playoffs since 2003, when they were knocked off in the first round by Ravena. But all of that could be coming to an end as the Sir Bills are now two wins away from a winning record, and potentially one win away from scoring a playoff berth. It won't be easy the next two weeks, with Broadalbin-Perth waiting this week and next week hosting Ravena.
LOSERS:
Cobleskill-Richmondville Bulldogs (1-3) - The Bulldogs needed a win badly last Friday against Johnstown and failed to produce, and now finds their playoff hopes hanging on by a thinning thread that needs a bunch of outside help in order to not be trimmed. In order to make sectionals, the Bulldogs will need to win the rest of the way, plus have Glens Falls and Broadalbin-Perth lose the rest of their conference games, which would tie Cobleskill with Broadalbin-Perth in the standings, but would advance on the head-to-head over Broadalbin-Perth as the two teams meet in Week 6.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
Ravena (4-0) at Schalmont (4-0) - Friday, 7PM: Even before the season began, people had this date circled on the calendar. Ravena has met up with Schalmont in each of the last four postseasons, with Schalmont winning all four of them. Add the 13-12 non-conference win in 2009, and that makes five straight wins for the Sabres over Ravena. But now these two teams face each other in the same division, and first place is on the line.
Johnstown (3-1) at Broadalbin-Perth (2-2) - Friday, 7PM: Broadalbin-Perth has played two difficult opponents in Schuylerville and Hoosick Falls, but won't get a breather here as Johnstown comes to town with a chance to snatch away a potential #2 seed. As noted above, a win for Johnstown could push them into sectionals for the first time in 11 years, and put them 1 win away from their first winning season in 19 years.
Hudson Falls (2-2) at Glens Falls (2-2) - Friday, 7PM: The Jug Game between these two teams is accelerated by both teams needing a win to help their playoff chances, which that need could be emphasized even more if Broadalbin-Perth beats Johnstown, resulting in three teams sitting at two divisional wins. Hudson Falls needs it more, having already yielded a game to Johnstown, but Glens Falls still has to face Schuylerville.
CLASS C
WINNERS:
Fonda-Fultonville Braves (3-1): The Fonda-Fultonville Braves made a big statement and basically ensured that Week 6's game against the Coxsackie-Athens Indians will determine the Southern Division title with their 56-6 win over Chatham. The lone loss for the Braves was in Week 1, when they lost to Westhill at the Carrier Dome in a hard-fought effort.
Coxsackie-Athens Indians (4-0): Let's face it, the Indians are gelling on both offense and defense, outscoring their opponents 114-6 during the four weeks of the season. The Indians have never trailed, and never had to hit the panic button yet. They still have two challenges ahead, with Greenwich this week and Fonda next week, but it's almost safe to say Coxsackie-Athens will be among the eight teams playing a Sectional Quarterfinal game come Week 8.
Corinth Tomahawks (3-1): The Greenwich Witches had started 3-0, but have done so against the likes of Granville, Stillwater and Lake George, a combined 0-9 entering Week 4. Corinth trailed early, but got it back and rolled away to the 37-14 victory, setting up a battle for first place in the North Division with the Hoosick Falls Panthers this Friday.
LOSERS:
Chatham Panthers (2-2): It seems odd to put the Chatham Panthers on this list, but Saturday's blowout loss to the Braves now has their twelve straight season Sectional appearance streak in jeopardy. The Panthers have two winnable divisional games on their schedule, but need help from Fonda and Coxsackie's foes in order to save themselves from the Wild Card microscope for the final two berths.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
Corinth (3-1) at Hoosick Falls (4-0) - Friday, 7PM: Corinth has an extra day of rest after the referee issue forced the delay of the Broadalbin-Perth/Hoosick Falls game, and will need a strong offensive effort to put an end to the Panthers streak. This is the last divisional game for the Tomahawks, whereas the Hoosick Falls Panthers wrap up their season against Greenwich and Granville. Corinth can clinch the top spot in the Northern Division with the win.
Coxsackie-Athens (4-0) at Greenwich (3-1) - Friday, 7PM: It doesn't get any easier for the Witches, who now has to face a team that has yielded all of six points during the first four weeks of the season. The turnover bug bit Greenwich last Friday at Corinth, and will need to control their mistakes against a team that has been exploiting them all season long.
CLASS D
WINNERS:
Hoosic Valley Indians (4-0): The Hoosic Valley Indians look like this will be the last year they play as a Class C squad playing down in competition. This wasn't as easy as their Week 2 win over Fort Edward, but the Indians clawed their way to victory over Canajoharie for their first 4-0 start in program history. The Indians have never made the playoffs, and won't again this year, but it's safe to say that the Indians will become a team to watch under Coach Porcelli.
LOSERS:
Rensselaer Rams (2-2): It's hard to pick a loser in a seven team division, especially in a week when the teams who should win do, and those who you figure will lose do as well. This week the losers are the Rensselaer Rams, but only because injuries forced the Rams to pull out of their scheduled contest against Sullivan West down at Dietz Stadium.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
ALL OF THEM - Seriously. All three games that are on the schedule for Class D this week are must-watch games, each for their own special reason. So let's look at each of them.
Cambridge/Salem Indians (4-0) at Whitehall Railroaders (4-0) - Saturday, 1PM: The Whitehall Railroaders average just short of 50 points per game, topping the Warrensburg Burghers 42-14 in their latest win. The Railroaders are going to be tried the rest of the way, with no bigger of a challenge coming by the way of the Cambridge/Salem Indians this Saturday. The Cambridge/Salem Indians only needed a couple of plays before jumping out to the early lead against the Flying Forts, winning easily 54-0. The Indians have allowed 12 points all season. The winner of this game has the upper path to the Class D's #1 seed, and for Whitehall, a win makes the last two divisional games against Hoosic Valley and Rensselaer a little less stressful.
Rensselaer Rams (2-2) at Hoosic Valley Indians (4-0) - Saturday, 1PM: Like with Whitehall, Hoosic Valley's challenge begins with three straight games against the other top teams of Class D. Rensselaer had a week off to recover from nagging injuries, and needs a win to help stay alive in the playoff chase. Hoosic Valley has a chance to prove themselves here.
Canajoharie Cougars (1-3) at Fort Edward/Argyle Flying Forts (0-4) - Saturday, 1PM: Fort Edward is done with the top teams of Class D, and now might have a chance to pick up their first win as a combined program. And they're going to need to if they want to remain in the playoff chase. Canajoharie can potentially set things up so that Week 7's game between Fort Edward and Warrensburg is just for team pride, as a win will clinch the Cougars a playoff spot and eliminate both Fort Edward and Warrensburg.
Let's take our weekly look at the teams that helped themselves this past week, and those who put their playoff hopes on thin ice.
CLASS AA
WINNERS:
Shenendehowa Plainsmen (4-0) - In a rivalry game against a good squad, the Shenendehowa Plainsmen not only beat the Saratoga Springs Blue Streaks, they stole the Streaks thunder and electrified their season, and their chances of being the #1 seed in the Empire Division. The Plainsmen have Ballston Spa this Thursday, whose only win came against winless Albany, the Plainsmen's Week 6 opponent. They finish the season with another one-win team that has only beaten Albany in Guilderland.
LOSERS:
Colonie Garnet Raiders (2-2) - The Garnet Raiders dropped a 39-14 decision to previously winless LaSalle, dropping their record to 2-2. The Garnet Raiders appeared to bounce back nicely after falling to Shenendehowa in Week 2 with their win against Columbia, but fell apart against LaSalle. But granted, LaSalle's playing some good ball now as they narrowly lost to Bethlehem in the closing minutes last week and now this win against Colonie.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
LaSalle (1-3) at Shaker (3-1) - Thursday, 7PM: As noted above, the Cadets are playing good football right now and could find themselves in the thick of the race for #2 in the Liberty Division with a win over the Blue Bison. But the Shaker Blue Bison would like to still fight for #1, and would set up a battle for the top seed with Bethlehem next week with a win on Thursday Night.
CLASS A
WINNERS:
Bishop Maginn Golden Griffins (4-0) - The Golden Griffins made the best of their yardage, spoiling Averill Park's homecoming with their 22-15 win. Joe Grasso's squad has grown since last year's, already exceeding the number of wins the 2012 and 2013 squads had combined. They've survived one of their three key tests, next up is Troy.
South Glens Falls Bulldogs (1-3) - The South Glens Falls Bulldogs have a monkey off their back, winning their first game in 20 tries and ending their 19 game losing streak, which thanks to Newfield winning on Thursday night, was the longest active streak in New York State. With that said, the winning streak is likely to cease at one game with Burnt Hills this week and Queensbury next week, but it's good not to see South Glens Falls on the list of active losing streaks.
LOSERS:
Scotia Tartans (2-2) - The Scotia Tartans make this list not because of what the loss to Queensbury means for their season, but for how the Tartans came up empty after closing the gap to three points with eight minutes to play in the second quarter. Two quick touchdowns late in the quarter, including Brett Rodriguez's option pass to Erik Wettersten in the final play of the half, gave the Spartans a commanding 33-17 lead, and the Tartans had no answers for it. The Tartans are still good to make the playoffs with wins over South Glens Falls and Gloversville with only Green Tech left to play, giving them a good shot at the Northwest's #3 seed.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
Bishop Maginn (4-0) at Troy (3-1) - Friday, 7PM: Two obstacles are keeping the Bishop Maginn Golden Griffins from the Southeast Division's #1 seed, one of them being Troy. The Troy Flying Horses haven't dazzled in their two wins, doing enough to get by Averill Park and Mohonasen. The winner here should be guaranteed a home date come Week 8.
CLASS B
WINNERS:
Schalmont Sabres (4-0) - The Schalmont Sabres made a statement to the rest of the state that they are arguably the best Class B team in Eastern New York with their win over the Class A Burnt Hills Spartans. The Spartans made it a contest late by scoring 21 points unanswered after falling behind 34-7, but in the end, the Sabres were able to make the defensive stop they needed to preserve the victory to set up a battle of the unbeaten in the Reinfurt Division this Friday.
Johnstown Sir Bills (3-1) - The Johnstown Sir Bills have gone 5-36 in the last five years, with four of those five wins coming from last year's squad that went 4-5. The last time Johnstown saw a winning record was in 1995, when they finished 7-2. And they haven't seen the playoffs since 2003, when they were knocked off in the first round by Ravena. But all of that could be coming to an end as the Sir Bills are now two wins away from a winning record, and potentially one win away from scoring a playoff berth. It won't be easy the next two weeks, with Broadalbin-Perth waiting this week and next week hosting Ravena.
LOSERS:
Cobleskill-Richmondville Bulldogs (1-3) - The Bulldogs needed a win badly last Friday against Johnstown and failed to produce, and now finds their playoff hopes hanging on by a thinning thread that needs a bunch of outside help in order to not be trimmed. In order to make sectionals, the Bulldogs will need to win the rest of the way, plus have Glens Falls and Broadalbin-Perth lose the rest of their conference games, which would tie Cobleskill with Broadalbin-Perth in the standings, but would advance on the head-to-head over Broadalbin-Perth as the two teams meet in Week 6.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
Ravena (4-0) at Schalmont (4-0) - Friday, 7PM: Even before the season began, people had this date circled on the calendar. Ravena has met up with Schalmont in each of the last four postseasons, with Schalmont winning all four of them. Add the 13-12 non-conference win in 2009, and that makes five straight wins for the Sabres over Ravena. But now these two teams face each other in the same division, and first place is on the line.
Johnstown (3-1) at Broadalbin-Perth (2-2) - Friday, 7PM: Broadalbin-Perth has played two difficult opponents in Schuylerville and Hoosick Falls, but won't get a breather here as Johnstown comes to town with a chance to snatch away a potential #2 seed. As noted above, a win for Johnstown could push them into sectionals for the first time in 11 years, and put them 1 win away from their first winning season in 19 years.
Hudson Falls (2-2) at Glens Falls (2-2) - Friday, 7PM: The Jug Game between these two teams is accelerated by both teams needing a win to help their playoff chances, which that need could be emphasized even more if Broadalbin-Perth beats Johnstown, resulting in three teams sitting at two divisional wins. Hudson Falls needs it more, having already yielded a game to Johnstown, but Glens Falls still has to face Schuylerville.
CLASS C
WINNERS:
Fonda-Fultonville Braves (3-1): The Fonda-Fultonville Braves made a big statement and basically ensured that Week 6's game against the Coxsackie-Athens Indians will determine the Southern Division title with their 56-6 win over Chatham. The lone loss for the Braves was in Week 1, when they lost to Westhill at the Carrier Dome in a hard-fought effort.
Coxsackie-Athens Indians (4-0): Let's face it, the Indians are gelling on both offense and defense, outscoring their opponents 114-6 during the four weeks of the season. The Indians have never trailed, and never had to hit the panic button yet. They still have two challenges ahead, with Greenwich this week and Fonda next week, but it's almost safe to say Coxsackie-Athens will be among the eight teams playing a Sectional Quarterfinal game come Week 8.
Corinth Tomahawks (3-1): The Greenwich Witches had started 3-0, but have done so against the likes of Granville, Stillwater and Lake George, a combined 0-9 entering Week 4. Corinth trailed early, but got it back and rolled away to the 37-14 victory, setting up a battle for first place in the North Division with the Hoosick Falls Panthers this Friday.
LOSERS:
Chatham Panthers (2-2): It seems odd to put the Chatham Panthers on this list, but Saturday's blowout loss to the Braves now has their twelve straight season Sectional appearance streak in jeopardy. The Panthers have two winnable divisional games on their schedule, but need help from Fonda and Coxsackie's foes in order to save themselves from the Wild Card microscope for the final two berths.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
Corinth (3-1) at Hoosick Falls (4-0) - Friday, 7PM: Corinth has an extra day of rest after the referee issue forced the delay of the Broadalbin-Perth/Hoosick Falls game, and will need a strong offensive effort to put an end to the Panthers streak. This is the last divisional game for the Tomahawks, whereas the Hoosick Falls Panthers wrap up their season against Greenwich and Granville. Corinth can clinch the top spot in the Northern Division with the win.
Coxsackie-Athens (4-0) at Greenwich (3-1) - Friday, 7PM: It doesn't get any easier for the Witches, who now has to face a team that has yielded all of six points during the first four weeks of the season. The turnover bug bit Greenwich last Friday at Corinth, and will need to control their mistakes against a team that has been exploiting them all season long.
CLASS D
WINNERS:
Hoosic Valley Indians (4-0): The Hoosic Valley Indians look like this will be the last year they play as a Class C squad playing down in competition. This wasn't as easy as their Week 2 win over Fort Edward, but the Indians clawed their way to victory over Canajoharie for their first 4-0 start in program history. The Indians have never made the playoffs, and won't again this year, but it's safe to say that the Indians will become a team to watch under Coach Porcelli.
LOSERS:
Rensselaer Rams (2-2): It's hard to pick a loser in a seven team division, especially in a week when the teams who should win do, and those who you figure will lose do as well. This week the losers are the Rensselaer Rams, but only because injuries forced the Rams to pull out of their scheduled contest against Sullivan West down at Dietz Stadium.
WEEK #5 GAMES TO WATCH:
ALL OF THEM - Seriously. All three games that are on the schedule for Class D this week are must-watch games, each for their own special reason. So let's look at each of them.
Cambridge/Salem Indians (4-0) at Whitehall Railroaders (4-0) - Saturday, 1PM: The Whitehall Railroaders average just short of 50 points per game, topping the Warrensburg Burghers 42-14 in their latest win. The Railroaders are going to be tried the rest of the way, with no bigger of a challenge coming by the way of the Cambridge/Salem Indians this Saturday. The Cambridge/Salem Indians only needed a couple of plays before jumping out to the early lead against the Flying Forts, winning easily 54-0. The Indians have allowed 12 points all season. The winner of this game has the upper path to the Class D's #1 seed, and for Whitehall, a win makes the last two divisional games against Hoosic Valley and Rensselaer a little less stressful.
Rensselaer Rams (2-2) at Hoosic Valley Indians (4-0) - Saturday, 1PM: Like with Whitehall, Hoosic Valley's challenge begins with three straight games against the other top teams of Class D. Rensselaer had a week off to recover from nagging injuries, and needs a win to help stay alive in the playoff chase. Hoosic Valley has a chance to prove themselves here.
Canajoharie Cougars (1-3) at Fort Edward/Argyle Flying Forts (0-4) - Saturday, 1PM: Fort Edward is done with the top teams of Class D, and now might have a chance to pick up their first win as a combined program. And they're going to need to if they want to remain in the playoff chase. Canajoharie can potentially set things up so that Week 7's game between Fort Edward and Warrensburg is just for team pride, as a win will clinch the Cougars a playoff spot and eliminate both Fort Edward and Warrensburg.
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
HS Football Week 3: Winners and Losers
Week 3 gives us the opportunity to see some of the top teams separate themselves from the pack. Some did it better than others, while some teams picked up badly-needed wins to keep their playoff chances afloat. While there's still a lot of football to be played, we have a better understanding on which teams will be playing meaningful games come Week 8 (9 in Class D) and which teams won't.
So here are the teams that made great strides (Winners) this past week, and those who stumbled some (Losers).
CLASS AA
WINNERS: Shaker Blue Bison (2-1) - The Shaker Blue Bison didn't just beat Schenectady on Friday night, they dominated them in a fashion that will return the Blue Bison in the discussion on who should be playoff contenders. Matt Woods was a strong part of the attack, completing 12 of 18 passes for 239 yards in a better effort than we had seen from him in the previous two games (combined 12 for 33, 154 yards).
LOSERS: Schenectady Patriots (2-1) - Entering 2-0, the Patriots had the opportunity to show they are playoff worthy after missing last year. While this one game won't break the Patriots season, getting shut out by Shaker after a great effort in the raw and rainy conditions at Bob Ford Field against Albany gives Mark Cerrone and his assistant coaches plenty to think about heading into another tough tussle this Friday against Bethlehem.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Saratoga Springs (2-1) at Shenendehowa (3-0) - The 2014 version of this rivalry is emphasized by Shenendehowa's return to the top of the ladder, sporting a 3-0 record after last week's win against CBA. Saratoga Springs dropped their second week game to Shaker, but bounced back soundly as they knocked off Guilderland last week.
Bethlehem (3-0) at Schenectady (2-1) - The Patriots got a rough awakening when they got shut out by Shaker last week. Bethlehem needed a late comeback to persevere over winless La Salle. If the team that soundly beat Ballston Spa and Albany shows up, the Patriots could make this a tight battle with the current leader of the Liberty Division.
CLASS A
WINNERS: Bishop Maginn Golden Griffins (3-0) - How nice it was for Joe Grasso to win his 200th career game at home when the Golden Griffins won against Mohonasen. And after a pair of rocky seasons, Bishop Maginn is among the top teams in the Southeastern Division. Granted the hardest part of their season is still ahead, with games against Troy, Amsterdam and Averill Park still to come, but if the Golden Griffins pick up a win in at least one of those three, they'll be in good position for a playoff berth and possibly their first winning season since 2011.
Averill Park Warriors (2-1) - The Warriors never led until when it mattered most as they outgunned Amsterdam on Friday night. The boost was much needed for the Warriors, who in Week 1 lost to Troy in a game which the Warriors held a 14-0 lead entering the 4th Quarter.
LOSERS: Amsterdam Rugged Rams (1-2) - Critics were hard on Amsterdam in Week 1 when they lost to the Cornwall Green Dragons at the Carrier Dome. Those same critics are shining even brighter after giving up 58 points to Averill Park in a game that turned into a shootout. While the Cornwall loss is understandable (the Green Dragons advanced to the State Semifinals at Kingston last year and played a close match against Queensbury), the hard-fought loss to Averill Park stings even more.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Burnt Hills (3-0) at Schalmont (B) (3-0) - These two titans of their respective classes met last in 2012, with Burnt Hills winning 37-0 on their way to winning the state title. They started slow against Scotia, but easily took care of Green Tech and Troy the last two weeks. Schalmont has rolled over their competition this year, and will appreciate the test to see how far the Sabres have come since last year's trip to the Carrier Dome. Both teams will be in for a battle on both sides of the ball.
Bishop Maginn (3-0) at Averill Park (2-1) - Bishop Maginn got to celebrate Joe Grasso's 200th win on home turf last week, and has coasted their way through the first three weeks of the season. But they're going to get tested between now and the end of the regular season, with the first test coming at Averill Park. The Warriors come in after an offensive battle with the Amsterdam Rugged Rams and are hoping that momentum will carry them to their third divisional win of the season. A win will put the Warriors in good position for a top seed in the Southeast Division with only one divisional game left on their schedule.
CLASS B
WINNERS: Schuylerville Black Horses (3-0) - The Black Horses are now one win away from matching their win total from the last two seasons, and now are the favorites to walk away with the #1 seed in the Western Division. The last time Schuylerville got to play in Week 10 was in 2008, when they were a Class C squad who fell to Watervliet in the Super Bowl.
Glens Falls Indians (1-2) - The Glens Falls Indians gave their season a much-needed shot in the arm with their 27-7 win over Cobleskill to win their first game of the season. After starting the season with three straight road games, the Indians get to stay home the rest of the regular season. With Broadalbin-Perth already out of the way, a pair of wins during this homestand should catapult the Indians into the playoffs for the 16th straight year, the fourth longest active streak in Section 2.
LOSERS: Cobleskill-Richmondville (1-2) - The Bulldogs looked good against Hudson, but failed to solve the Miner problem against Glens Falls, and now finds themselves with an 0-2 divisional record. Cobleskill-Richmondville had their 10 year playoff streak snapped back in 2012, and could find themselves outside looking in for the third straight season as the Bulldogs still have yet to face Schuylerville and Broadalbin-Perth.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Cobleskill-Richmondville (1-2) at Johnstown (2-1) - For that reason listed above, this Friday's game against the Johnstown Sir Bills is going to be a must-win for the Bulldogs. Cobleskill-Richmondville is a game behind everyone except Schuylerville in the standings, and cannot afford to go 0-3 in the division with the top two teams still on their schedule. Johnstown has momentum on their side after shutting out Schoburg last week.
Broadalbin-Perth (2-1) at Hoosick Falls (C) (3-0) - Hoping to bounce back after losing to Schuylerville, the Broadalbin-Perth Patriots find themselves having to travel to northeastern Rensselaer County for a Friday Night battle with the team holding a 52 game Section 2 win streak. Hoosick Falls has been in control of their Section 2 opponents for the last five seasons, but the Patriots are a strong threat to end that long streak.
CLASS C
WINNERS: Voorheesville Blackbirds (3-0) - The Blackbirds took firm control of first place with their 10-7 win over Mechanicville in the closing minute on Saturday. Voorheesville has the tiebreakers over Holy Trinity, Mechanicville and Watervliet, the only teams with divisional wins, placing them as the heavy favorite to win the Central Division title.
LOSERS: Mechanicville Red Raiders (2-1) - It's really hard to place a team as a loser in this category, as the ones who lost, outside of Mechanicville, had .500 or .000 records going in and lost to better teams. Mechanicville faced a strong faced a strong defensive team that has allowed just over 12 points per game in their first three games, and will have to study the game film well so that they can better plan their attack for Holy Trinity in Week 7.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Greenwich (3-0) at Corinth (2-1) - The Witches have adjusted nicely to their Class C surroundings, but it's exam time. Three tough games coming up for Greenwich starts with Corinth on the road before hosting undefeated Coxsackie-Athens then Hoosick Falls in Week 6. Corinth rebounded nicely from their loss to Schuylerville with a win over Granville last week. But they, like Greenwich, have Hoosick Falls still looming on their schedule and would like good momentum heading into that pivotal North Division match.
Stillwater (0-3) at Mechanicville (2-1) - Stillwater heads into this rivalry game needing a win in a big way, having already dropped two of their divisional games. Mechanicville lost a back-breaker to Voorheesville in the closing minute on Saturday, having a 7-3 lead much of the way. A Mechanicville win will put them in better position for a wild card, whereas a Stillwater loss might put them in a hole too deep to dig out of.
Chatham (2-1) at Fonda (2-1) - Admit it, when you saw this game listed on the schedule in March, you were thinking this was going to be the game that would settle the top spot in the South Division. A win by Chatham could set up an interesting scenario come Week 6 when Fonda hosts Coxsackie-Athens, but a Fonda win will set things up for that game to determine who wins the division.
CLASS D
WINNERS: Cambridge/Salem Indians (3-0) - A statement game against the team that they have had to deal with on a regular basis for the Sectional Title, but as Doug Luke pointed out after the game, there are still some things the Indians will have to work on as the Indians made some sloppy mistakes with the game in hand.
Whitehall Railroaders (3-0) - Speaking of statements, the Railroaders have outscored their opponents 117-6 since their Week 1 game against Canajoharie. A lot of it has come thanks to senior quarterback Justin Hoagland, but he is getting much needed assistance by Jarrett McMahon and Brad Hanna. How good the Railroaders really are will be tested on October 4th when they face Cambridge, in what could turn into a battle of the unbeatens.
Ticonderoga Sentinels (Section 7, 2-1) - Going outside the section, the Ticonderoga Sentinels made a statement against the Moriah Vikings on Friday night, escaping central Essex County with a 31-0 win in a game that the Sentinels were never really pressured, and now becomes the favorite to be the team that has to face Section 2's champion come Week 11.
LOSERS: Rensselaer Rams (2-1) - The Rams lost a lot of talent at the end of last season, but was able to get things done against Fort Edward and Warrensburg the first two weeks of the season. But the Rams came up empty against Cambridge, only scoring points after Cambridge had a commanding lead. The loss brings serious doubts to whether or not the Rams can make their 7th straight Super Bowl appearance.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Hoosic Valley (3-0) at Canajoharie (1-2) - It's been a great start to the season for the Hoosic Valley Indians, reaching a 3-0 record for the first time in program history. But their three wins have come against winless teams. The difficulty for the Indians will begin to rise when they face Canajoharie. Canajoharie separated themselves from that pack last week with their win against Warrensburg, and will give their playoff chances a boost over Warrensburg and Fort Edward with a win.
So here are the teams that made great strides (Winners) this past week, and those who stumbled some (Losers).
CLASS AA
WINNERS: Shaker Blue Bison (2-1) - The Shaker Blue Bison didn't just beat Schenectady on Friday night, they dominated them in a fashion that will return the Blue Bison in the discussion on who should be playoff contenders. Matt Woods was a strong part of the attack, completing 12 of 18 passes for 239 yards in a better effort than we had seen from him in the previous two games (combined 12 for 33, 154 yards).
LOSERS: Schenectady Patriots (2-1) - Entering 2-0, the Patriots had the opportunity to show they are playoff worthy after missing last year. While this one game won't break the Patriots season, getting shut out by Shaker after a great effort in the raw and rainy conditions at Bob Ford Field against Albany gives Mark Cerrone and his assistant coaches plenty to think about heading into another tough tussle this Friday against Bethlehem.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Saratoga Springs (2-1) at Shenendehowa (3-0) - The 2014 version of this rivalry is emphasized by Shenendehowa's return to the top of the ladder, sporting a 3-0 record after last week's win against CBA. Saratoga Springs dropped their second week game to Shaker, but bounced back soundly as they knocked off Guilderland last week.
Bethlehem (3-0) at Schenectady (2-1) - The Patriots got a rough awakening when they got shut out by Shaker last week. Bethlehem needed a late comeback to persevere over winless La Salle. If the team that soundly beat Ballston Spa and Albany shows up, the Patriots could make this a tight battle with the current leader of the Liberty Division.
CLASS A
WINNERS: Bishop Maginn Golden Griffins (3-0) - How nice it was for Joe Grasso to win his 200th career game at home when the Golden Griffins won against Mohonasen. And after a pair of rocky seasons, Bishop Maginn is among the top teams in the Southeastern Division. Granted the hardest part of their season is still ahead, with games against Troy, Amsterdam and Averill Park still to come, but if the Golden Griffins pick up a win in at least one of those three, they'll be in good position for a playoff berth and possibly their first winning season since 2011.
Averill Park Warriors (2-1) - The Warriors never led until when it mattered most as they outgunned Amsterdam on Friday night. The boost was much needed for the Warriors, who in Week 1 lost to Troy in a game which the Warriors held a 14-0 lead entering the 4th Quarter.
LOSERS: Amsterdam Rugged Rams (1-2) - Critics were hard on Amsterdam in Week 1 when they lost to the Cornwall Green Dragons at the Carrier Dome. Those same critics are shining even brighter after giving up 58 points to Averill Park in a game that turned into a shootout. While the Cornwall loss is understandable (the Green Dragons advanced to the State Semifinals at Kingston last year and played a close match against Queensbury), the hard-fought loss to Averill Park stings even more.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Burnt Hills (3-0) at Schalmont (B) (3-0) - These two titans of their respective classes met last in 2012, with Burnt Hills winning 37-0 on their way to winning the state title. They started slow against Scotia, but easily took care of Green Tech and Troy the last two weeks. Schalmont has rolled over their competition this year, and will appreciate the test to see how far the Sabres have come since last year's trip to the Carrier Dome. Both teams will be in for a battle on both sides of the ball.
Bishop Maginn (3-0) at Averill Park (2-1) - Bishop Maginn got to celebrate Joe Grasso's 200th win on home turf last week, and has coasted their way through the first three weeks of the season. But they're going to get tested between now and the end of the regular season, with the first test coming at Averill Park. The Warriors come in after an offensive battle with the Amsterdam Rugged Rams and are hoping that momentum will carry them to their third divisional win of the season. A win will put the Warriors in good position for a top seed in the Southeast Division with only one divisional game left on their schedule.
CLASS B
WINNERS: Schuylerville Black Horses (3-0) - The Black Horses are now one win away from matching their win total from the last two seasons, and now are the favorites to walk away with the #1 seed in the Western Division. The last time Schuylerville got to play in Week 10 was in 2008, when they were a Class C squad who fell to Watervliet in the Super Bowl.
Glens Falls Indians (1-2) - The Glens Falls Indians gave their season a much-needed shot in the arm with their 27-7 win over Cobleskill to win their first game of the season. After starting the season with three straight road games, the Indians get to stay home the rest of the regular season. With Broadalbin-Perth already out of the way, a pair of wins during this homestand should catapult the Indians into the playoffs for the 16th straight year, the fourth longest active streak in Section 2.
LOSERS: Cobleskill-Richmondville (1-2) - The Bulldogs looked good against Hudson, but failed to solve the Miner problem against Glens Falls, and now finds themselves with an 0-2 divisional record. Cobleskill-Richmondville had their 10 year playoff streak snapped back in 2012, and could find themselves outside looking in for the third straight season as the Bulldogs still have yet to face Schuylerville and Broadalbin-Perth.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Cobleskill-Richmondville (1-2) at Johnstown (2-1) - For that reason listed above, this Friday's game against the Johnstown Sir Bills is going to be a must-win for the Bulldogs. Cobleskill-Richmondville is a game behind everyone except Schuylerville in the standings, and cannot afford to go 0-3 in the division with the top two teams still on their schedule. Johnstown has momentum on their side after shutting out Schoburg last week.
Broadalbin-Perth (2-1) at Hoosick Falls (C) (3-0) - Hoping to bounce back after losing to Schuylerville, the Broadalbin-Perth Patriots find themselves having to travel to northeastern Rensselaer County for a Friday Night battle with the team holding a 52 game Section 2 win streak. Hoosick Falls has been in control of their Section 2 opponents for the last five seasons, but the Patriots are a strong threat to end that long streak.
CLASS C
WINNERS: Voorheesville Blackbirds (3-0) - The Blackbirds took firm control of first place with their 10-7 win over Mechanicville in the closing minute on Saturday. Voorheesville has the tiebreakers over Holy Trinity, Mechanicville and Watervliet, the only teams with divisional wins, placing them as the heavy favorite to win the Central Division title.
LOSERS: Mechanicville Red Raiders (2-1) - It's really hard to place a team as a loser in this category, as the ones who lost, outside of Mechanicville, had .500 or .000 records going in and lost to better teams. Mechanicville faced a strong faced a strong defensive team that has allowed just over 12 points per game in their first three games, and will have to study the game film well so that they can better plan their attack for Holy Trinity in Week 7.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Greenwich (3-0) at Corinth (2-1) - The Witches have adjusted nicely to their Class C surroundings, but it's exam time. Three tough games coming up for Greenwich starts with Corinth on the road before hosting undefeated Coxsackie-Athens then Hoosick Falls in Week 6. Corinth rebounded nicely from their loss to Schuylerville with a win over Granville last week. But they, like Greenwich, have Hoosick Falls still looming on their schedule and would like good momentum heading into that pivotal North Division match.
Stillwater (0-3) at Mechanicville (2-1) - Stillwater heads into this rivalry game needing a win in a big way, having already dropped two of their divisional games. Mechanicville lost a back-breaker to Voorheesville in the closing minute on Saturday, having a 7-3 lead much of the way. A Mechanicville win will put them in better position for a wild card, whereas a Stillwater loss might put them in a hole too deep to dig out of.
Chatham (2-1) at Fonda (2-1) - Admit it, when you saw this game listed on the schedule in March, you were thinking this was going to be the game that would settle the top spot in the South Division. A win by Chatham could set up an interesting scenario come Week 6 when Fonda hosts Coxsackie-Athens, but a Fonda win will set things up for that game to determine who wins the division.
CLASS D
WINNERS: Cambridge/Salem Indians (3-0) - A statement game against the team that they have had to deal with on a regular basis for the Sectional Title, but as Doug Luke pointed out after the game, there are still some things the Indians will have to work on as the Indians made some sloppy mistakes with the game in hand.
Whitehall Railroaders (3-0) - Speaking of statements, the Railroaders have outscored their opponents 117-6 since their Week 1 game against Canajoharie. A lot of it has come thanks to senior quarterback Justin Hoagland, but he is getting much needed assistance by Jarrett McMahon and Brad Hanna. How good the Railroaders really are will be tested on October 4th when they face Cambridge, in what could turn into a battle of the unbeatens.
Ticonderoga Sentinels (Section 7, 2-1) - Going outside the section, the Ticonderoga Sentinels made a statement against the Moriah Vikings on Friday night, escaping central Essex County with a 31-0 win in a game that the Sentinels were never really pressured, and now becomes the favorite to be the team that has to face Section 2's champion come Week 11.
LOSERS: Rensselaer Rams (2-1) - The Rams lost a lot of talent at the end of last season, but was able to get things done against Fort Edward and Warrensburg the first two weeks of the season. But the Rams came up empty against Cambridge, only scoring points after Cambridge had a commanding lead. The loss brings serious doubts to whether or not the Rams can make their 7th straight Super Bowl appearance.
GAMES TO WATCH:
Hoosic Valley (3-0) at Canajoharie (1-2) - It's been a great start to the season for the Hoosic Valley Indians, reaching a 3-0 record for the first time in program history. But their three wins have come against winless teams. The difficulty for the Indians will begin to rise when they face Canajoharie. Canajoharie separated themselves from that pack last week with their win against Warrensburg, and will give their playoff chances a boost over Warrensburg and Fort Edward with a win.
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