Next Level

Cleveland Area Roster Announced

2011-11-16T17:55:00.000-05:00


Ohio State bound De'van Bogard

QB – Brennan Laird – Olmstead Falls
QB – Austin Pritchard – Strongsville
QB - George Gresko - Eastlake North

RB – Marc Remy – North Olmstead
RB – Lakeith Wells - Rhodes

WR – Justin Hardee - Glenville
WR – Kyle Perkins - Westlake
WR – Jeremy Graves – Maple Heights
WR – Milton Germany Jr. – VASJ
WR – Marcus Martin - JFK

TE - Jordan Moore TE/LB – Bedford

OL – Willie Henry - Glenville
OL – Clinton Cooper – Cleveland Heights
OL – Saiv’on Jefferson - JFK
OL – Rob Wallace - Padua
OL – Jerry Petit C/DT – Bedford
OL – Tad France – Elyria Catholic (INJURED WILL NOT PLAY)

DB – Houston Boone - Euclid
DB – Sean Draper - Glenville
DB – De’Van Bogard - Glenville
DB - Terrick McKinney – Bedford

LB – Christian Cartwright – Cleveland Heights
LB – Chase Bell – Cleveland Heights
LB – Markus Hawkins – Cleveland Heights
LB - Sie Doe - Lakewood
LB - Anthony Zappone – Westlake – (INJURED WILL NOT PLAY)

DL – Alex Pace – Glenville
DL – Alex Jones – Maple Heights
DL – Arron Pipkins – Maple Heights
DL – Darryl Render – St. Edward

Akron Area Roster Announced

2011-11-14T12:16:00.003-05:00

Next Level Sports Development is proud to announce the Akron roster for the Northeast Ohio Thanksgiving All Star Classic. The offense will will be lead by Division I quarterback prospects Mason Schreck & Tevin Richards, while the defense is loaded with play-makers at each position.

Medina's Seamus McDonald

QB – Mason Schreck – Medina

QB – Tevin Richards - East

RB – Tyrin Williams - Tallmadge

RB – Romeo Jefferies - Buchtel
RB – Timonte Anderson – Ellet

FB – Hugh Hullum - Firestone

WR – Alex Reasbeck - Nordonia

WR – CJ Chatman – Copley

WR - Tony Britt III - Kent Roosevelt
WR - Richard Graves - Kent Roosevelt

TE – Dylan Seibel - Lake

OL – Mitch Durkee - Twinsburg

OL – Dierre Smith – Ellet

OL - Seamus McDonald – Medina

OL – Desmond Burley - Buchtel

OL – John Cipa - Tallmadge

OL – Tony Matteo - Manchester

DB – Isaiah Thompson – Buchtel

DB – Ronnie Jones – Kent Roosevelt

DB – Austin Petite - Nordonia

DB – Devonte Suddeth - Buchtel

DB – Larry Sullivan – Ellet

DB - Benny Cunningham - Medina (INJURED WILL NOT PLAY)

LB – Ryan Predovic – Nordonia

LB – Corey Paulino – Lake

LB – Steve Vincent - Kenmore

DL – Devereaux McCall - Twinsburg

DL – Donald Turner - Kenmore

DL – Joshmere Dawson - East

DL – Jalen Avent - Buchtel

DL – Darnell Vickers - Kenmore

DL – Devon Myers - East

K/P – John J. Otterman – Buchtel

Chase Bell - NEO Thanksgiving All Star Classic

2011-11-07T16:18:00.001-05:00

Cleveland Heights' own Chase Bell has committed to playing in the Northeast Ohio Thanksgiving All Star Classic. Bell helped lead his team to an undefeated regular season and had a stellar year. Check him out for yourself

Tevin Richards - NEO Thanksgiving All Star Classic

2011-11-07T16:07:00.001-05:00

Tevin Richards, the beast from Akron East has committed to playing in the Northeast Ohio Thanksgiving All Star Classic. Richards, who scored 12 touchdowns this season, is currently being recruited by Kent State, Toledo, & Hampton. Checkout Tevin below

Mason Schreck - NEO Thanksgiving All Star Classic

2011-11-07T15:16:00.004-05:00

Medina's big time quarterback Mason Schreck has been added to the roster for the Northeast Ohio Thanksgiving All Star Classic.

The 6'5 212lb Schreck is coming off of an impressive year and has been recruited by Buffalo, Toledo, and Indiana. Checkout Mason's highlight film from ScoutingOhio.com here

Northeast Ohio Thanksgiving All Star Classic

2011-11-04T12:32:00.000-04:00

This game, which was originally tabbed as the Akron vs Cleveland Thanksgiving All Star Classic, has transformed into something bigger. Due to the interest and feedback we've received, Next Level Sports Development has opened this game to include more players by changing the format to include all of Northeast Ohio. Please stay tuned as more details are to follow.

Ohio State Pro Combat Uniforms

2011-11-02T15:30:00.001-04:00

What did you think of Ohio State's uniforms from this past weekend? They're apart of Nike's 2011 Pro Combat Series. Check out more photos and a promo video after the break.

Corey Smith - Alternate Route

2011-11-02T14:59:00.000-04:00

Check out this article on Next Level Sports Development's own, Corey Smith from Akron Buchtel High School. Smith, who previously committed to attend the University of Tennessee is currently enjoying great success at Grand Rapids Community College before taking his talents to the Division I big stage. Smith is averaging over 18 yards per catch.

GRAND RAPIDS -- In a perfect world, Corey Smith would be enjoying his senior year at Buchtel High School, with a Division I scholarship awaiting him, and helping the football team compete for a state championship.

Instead, the four-star wide receiver from Akron, Ohio, is biding his time with the nationally ranked Grand Rapids Community College football team.

The 6-foot-1, 180-pound Smith verbally committed to the University of Tennessee in May. He chose the Volunteers over Michigan State, West Virginia, Illinois and Ohio State.

But when academic issues arose after transferring from another high school as a freshman, Smith opted to forgo his senior year in high school.

"I was looking forward to my senior year as a preseason All-American, and I was invited to a couple All-American games, but in May, my high school coach told me that my freshman year credits were messed up, and if I stayed, then I would have to go to a Division II or JUCO next year," Smith said.

"So, it was best for me to get it out of the way early. I dropped out of high school, but I went to get my GED and I passed the first time taking it. It was hard for me to leave high school, because when I look at my team now, if I was there, it would be different."

Buchtel football coach Ricky Powers, a former standout at the University of Michigan, told the Akron Beacon Journal that Smith was eligible to come back and play one more season there, but his chances to play Division I football would be hindered because of the early high school credit issues.

Smith now must complete 62 credit hours within two years to play Division I football.

He can’t officially sign a letter of intent with Tennessee, or any other school, until December 2012.

Tennessee had a plan in place to send Smith to East Mississippi Community College to further his education, but the long distance didn’t suit Smith.

"I didn’t feel comfortable going that far away and not knowing anybody," Smith said. "My godbrother is at GRCC, and after talking to coach (Tony) Annese, I decided to come here."

While Smith was the star player in high school, he was forced to adjust to a different role at GRCC. He is one of several top-notch athletes comprising the Raiders’ roster and has dealt with diminished playing time.

"I’m humbling myself, because at the beginning, I was expecting to get the ball a lot like I did in high school," Smith said. "After the first two games, I wasn’t getting the ball as much as I wanted and I got mad.

"I got in trouble, and had to sit out a half, but I texted my receivers coach and told him that I was going to go 110 percent all the time and give my best effort all the time. That experience really helped me grow up and become a better team player. This is good competition for me, and the older guys are teaching me a lot for when I do go Division I."

Through five games, Smith has caught 10 passes for 151 yards and scored a touchdown. He also returns punts.

After the early conflict, GRCC coach Tony Annese said Smith has become the "consummate" team player.

"He is being a good, supportive teammate, and he’s working hard on being a good perimeter blocker and making plays when he has the chance," Annese said. "He is a game breaker."

Smith and his teammates are preparing for their biggest test of the season when they welcome No. 5-ranked Iowa Western Community College to Houseman Field on Saturday night.

Iowa Western spoiled the Raiders’ national championship hopes last season when it defeated them 15-12. It was GRCC’s only loss of the regular season.

"We all remember how excited they were to beat us, and they stormed the field," Annese said. "But the motive isn’t revenge, it is to play our best and keep ourselves in position where we are playing for a league championship."

Next Level Alumni

2011-10-26T13:40:00.006-04:00

Next Level Sports Development Alumni

(Student Athletes who have participated in a Next Level Sports Development camp or all star event that have gone on to continue their education while playing college sports.)

Tommy Brown – Ohio State University

Adam Redmond – Harvard University

Dylan Brumbaugh - University of Akron

Cody Grice – University of Akron
Joe Rodgers Jr – Kent State University

Nate Terhune – Kent State University
Tony Traylor - Bowling Green State University

Kevin Hyland – University of Cincinnati

Ben Russell – Ohio University

Ricky Johnson Jr. – Bethune Cookman University

DaVonte Beard – Sienna College

Duane Mitchell – Robert Morris College

Vinny Pugliese – Columbia University

Reed Remington – Lehigh University
T.J. Dent - Lane College

Tyler Jones – Tiffin University

Chase Cole – University of Mount Union

Drew Pendergast – University of Mount Union

Dj Marrah – University of Findlay

Kevin Brewton – University of Findlay

Dan Pennino – Notre Dame College

Donald Mercilus – University of Mount Union
Shawntrail Smith - Hiram College

Urban Lee – University of Mount Union

Marcus Lee – St Augustine College

Gerald Gregory – Ashland University

Rennick Dutton – Tiffin University

Nick Codrea – Brown University

Mike Greenwell – Otterbein College

Luke Davies – University of Mount Union

King Damon Antoine – Grand Rapids Community College

Corey Smith – Grand Rapids Community College

Brian Coman – Ventura College
Brandon James - College of Wooster

Alden Hill Commits to Tennesee

2011-07-20T17:36:00.000-04:00

Marlington senior running back Alden Hill has given a verbal commitment to the University of Tennessee Volunteers. Hill is coming off of a huge junior season where he rushed for 2,245 yards. Hill is an impressive 6'2 220lbs and has been clocked at a 4.5 in the forty yard dash.

King Damon Antoine to play at Grand Rapids

2011-06-11T21:27:00.002-04:00

Antoine led Woodridge to a successful season scoring nearly everytime he touched the ball.

Woodridge High School standout wide receiver and return specialist King Damon Antoine has decided to continue his playing career at Grand Rapids. Antoine is a 2010 NLSD Combine alum and also played in the NLSD Thanksgiving Day All Star Game. Antoine is a beast on the field, he has amazing footwork, the ability to change gears at will, and a knack for getting to the end zone. Don't believe us, check him out for yourself in the video below. We're expecting big things. We're proud of you, best of luck on the next level.

Antoine finished 2nd in MVP voting in the NLSD Thanksgiving Day All Star Game

Players Commit to Big Name Schools

2011-05-23T14:38:00.001-04:00

Corey Smith - Buchtel - Committed to Tennesee

Blake Thomas - St Ignatius - Committed to Ohio State

Pharaoh Brown - Brush - Committed to Michigan

Evan Jones - Ridgewood - Committed to Michigan State

Benny McGowan - Centerville - Committed to Michigan State


Corey Smith, NLSD Akron Combine Alum

NLSDFootball.com Reaches 30K

2011-05-02T15:22:00.000-04:00

Next Level Sports Development would like to thank everyone who has visited our website. We have just eclipsed another milestone as our website has now registered over 30,000 views. Please let your friends and family know about what we're doing! We appreciate your continued support and strive to bring you bigger and better things in the upcoming months.

Dayton Combine This Saturday (5/7/11)

2011-05-02T15:17:00.001-04:00

Saturday we're in Dayton, Ohio with the CIFL's Dayton Silverbacks. The combine will take place at Hara Arena on the astroturf playing surface. Top players from the area have already committed and registered. Will you step up to the challenge? All combine participants will receive a FREE ticket to the Dayton Silverbacks game against the Indianapolis Enforcers.

Get registered by visiting the link on the sidebar or by visiting the 2011 Combines page. Hurry slots are filling up.

Combine Season

2011-04-26T14:23:00.000-04:00

Women's Football Camp for Breast Cancer Research

2011-04-19T14:39:00.003-04:00

Next Level Sports Development & Double Coverage PR Group are proud to announce that we are bringing a women's football camp to the Northeast Ohio area to help benefit breast cancer research.

The camp will take place on Saturday May 14, 2011 at Gilmour Academy (34001 Cedar Rd, Mills Gates, Ohio 44040)

This camp will give women and up close and personal football experience while supporting a good cause. Additionally, some of the NFL's brightest stars will be on hand to help coach during the camp. Women over the age of 18 can register for the camp by clicking HERE

Combine with The Bloomington Extreme

2011-04-11T18:25:00.001-04:00

Next Level Sports Development is proud to announce the new deal between NLSD & The Bloomington Extreme. Event and Community Relations Coordinator, David Ramsey, has been hard at work to bring the College Prep Combine Series to Bloomington, a tough nose city with a passion for football.

This combine will take place on Friday June 3rd and will be the first of two combine dates in the State of Illinois.

The Bloomington Extreme are currently standing at the top of the IFL with a 5-1 on the season

NLSD & The Marion Blue Racers

2011-04-07T13:49:00.002-04:00

Next Level Sports Development is pleased to announce our partnership with the Marion Blue Racers of the CIFL.

This partnership will bring a high school football combine to the Columbus area and allow high school athletes to compete in a professional sports arena. This is an excellent opportunity for Next Level Sports Development as we get to work with Central Ohio's only professional football team.

You can register for the Columbus area combine with the Marion Blue Racers by clicking HERE

Veteran's Memorial Colesium

Next Level Sports Development Links Up with The Slaughter to Invade Chicago

2011-04-07T13:22:00.003-04:00

Next Level Sports Development is proud to announce our official partnership with the Chicago Slaughter of the Indoor Football League (IFL).

This partnership will bring NLSD's College Prep Combine Series to The Sears Centre Arena in Chicago and will give high school players the opportunity to perform combine drills in a professional football venue.

NLSD Event & Community Relations Coordinator David Ramsey stated, "I'm ecstatic, this is the right direction for us...we're setting the standard for expansion."

The June 4th combine will cap off a two day weekend in Illinois for NLSD. The College Prep Combine Series will be in Bloomington, IL on June 3rd.

Sears Centre Arena

2011 Combine Series is Here

2011-04-05T18:46:00.003-04:00

We're happy to announce that we are back in action with our 2011 Combine Prep Combine Series.
We have expanded operations and will be bringing combines to three states this year. You can can check combine dates by clicking the "2011 Combine Series" link at the top of the page. Check back periodically as we will be adding dates and opening registration for those locations.

New Site

2011-03-04T15:10:00.002-05:00

We've officially launched our affiliate website NLSDHoops.com. Go check it out today for all of your high school basketball needs.

NLSD & The Cleveland Gladiators

2011-03-02T12:21:00.000-05:00

Next Level Sports Development is proud to announce our new partnership with The Cleveland Gladiators. Details of this partnership will be released in the upcoming weeks.

The Gladiators open up training camp today. Make sure you go to the Gladiators official team website by clicking HERE. Season ticket packages are still available.

Corey Smith Picks Up SEC Offer

2011-02-22T17:54:00.000-05:00

Buchtel wide receiver Corey Smith picked up another offer today, this one coming from SEC contender, Tennessee. Smith plans to continue to field offers and visits as his senior year approaches.

Corey Smith at 2010 NLSD HS Football Combine

This is Amazing

2011-02-14T13:37:00.000-05:00

Cam Newton's Media Workout

2011-02-10T22:51:00.000-05:00

Glenville Has Appeal on Signing Day

2011-02-03T15:59:00.000-05:00

Article via Bob Fortuna, Cleveland Plain Dealer

Andre Sturdivant chose Toledo over Penn State

Many thought Glenville quarterback Cardale Jones and lineman Aundrey Walker would be college teammates, but they dashed that notion Wednesday when Jones decided to sign with Ohio State and Walker chose Southern Cal.

"I've always wanted to be a Buckeye. I'm going to be given the opportunity to compete and that's all I ever wanted," said Jones (6-6, 225), who passed for over 3,800 yards and 40 touchdowns while rushing for 650 yards and 14 touchdowns the past two seasons.

Shane Wynn, headed to Indiana

But Jones' quest to compete with highly touted recruit Braxton Miller of Huber Heights Wayne will have to wait since Jones will grayshirt. Grayshirting is applied to a player who signs a letter of intent in February, but doesn't report in the fall. He delays entry to college until midyear and the NCAA five-year clock doesn't start ticking until the player enrolls as a full-time student.

"[Grayshirting] was mentioned all along, so it's no surprise," said Jones, who will attend a prep school before enrolling at OSU in January. "I don't know what prep school I'll attend, but the OSU coaches are looking into it right now as we speak."

Walker (6-5, 330) said his decision was pretty much made before he visited USC the weekend of Jan. 14.

"USC has always been my dream school," said Walker, who accounted for 17 knockdowns while blocking at a 91 percent efficiency, despite missing three games with a hyperextended knee. "The coaches showed me love and I feel they were real. My heart is with USC."

Walker is scheduled to debut at right tackle but was told he eventually will move to the left side.

"And the opportunity of playing early at USC was big," he said.

Linebacker/tight end Frank Clark signed with Michigan and all-purpose standout Shane Wynn chose Indiana.

Clark (6-3, 210) could end up playing safety for the Wolverines. "The coaches told me they're looking for players who can come in and help out immediately, and I feel I can do that. The new coaching staff is determined to bring the program back to where it was, and I want to be a part of that," he said.

Wynn (5-8, 160) considered Michigan, Hawaii, USC and Toledo.

"I want to play against some of my friends, and I like the fact that Indiana plays a spread offense," said Wynn, who averaged 62.6 yards on kickoff returns, 36.3 yards on punt returns and totaled seven touchdowns. He said he also will be used as a slotback.

Linebacker/center Andre Sturdivant said it wasn't fun deciding between Penn State and Toledo. When the 6-3, 265-pounder donned a Toledo cap, he also let out a sigh.

"This was tough because I liked both schools," said Sturdivant. "When you talk to a legend like Joe Paterno, it's going to leave an impression, but I was also impressed with [Toledo] coach [Tim] Beckman."

Tailback Robert Walton Jr. was the final Tarblooder who announced his choice on Signing Day, and he will join Sturdivant as part of the Rockets' class. Walton gained over 2,283 yards in three seasons.

"I feel I can contribute there early," said Walton.

Buckeyes Recruit Four Akron Area Standouts

2011-02-03T15:41:00.001-05:00

Article via Michael Beaven, Akron Beacon Journal

They brought smiles to the faces of their high school football coaches by being integral players on their respective teams.

Fans and rival coaches watched them play and admired their skills.

College coaches from across the United States made their best recruiting pitches to lure these highly touted seniors to their school.

Ultimately, Ohio State coach Jim Tressel prevailed as Akron-area standouts Steve Miller, Tommy Brown, Devin Smith and Doran Grant signed national letters of intent on Wednesday to continue their academic and football careers on scholarship in Columbus. And also to be part of one of the top recruiting classes in the nation, according to most recruiting rating websites.

Tressel and assistant coach Jim Bollman successfully snagged the four to be Buckeyes after each player made a lasting imprint on his high school team.

''We are all pretty cool with each other,'' Brown said. ''It is like a tradition to go down there if you get a chance. Having people from mostly the Akron area is huge for us. It is a great thing.''

''I'll be on the sideline with the Jim Tressel. I look forward to it.''

Brown, a Firestone offensive lineman, and Grant, a St. Vincent-St. Mary defensive back, flaunted their talents in Summit County.

''We want to start a trend of guys from around here going down to Ohio State,'' Grant said. ''We want to get there and play as freshmen and make an impact.''

Miller, a Canton McKinley defensive end, and Smith, a Massillon Washington wide receiver, starred in Stark County

''This is very exciting,'' Miller said. ''I feel like I'm going from one traditional school to another. It feels good.''

Smith cited Tressel and tradition, too.

''I am really excited,'' Smith said. ''Just to be down there with the tradition and playing for Jim Tressel is really No. 1 for me. Playing with guys I am close to is special, too. I am looking forward to everything down there.''

Getting to know you

Smith said he recalls attending an NFL junior player development camp hosted by Buchtel High School when he was in middle school. Two of the fellow campers were Brown and Grant.

The three have kept in touch over the years. Grant and Smith, who also compete in basketball and track and field, are cousins.

''I know Tommy pretty well through the recruiting process,'' Grant said. ''We text a lot, Twitter each other, hang out here and there, and we talk a lot on the phone, too.

''Devin and I have known each other for several years and then last year we found out we were cousins through my father's side of the family. That made us even closer.''

Grant and Miller bonded at the Under Armour All-America Football Game in January, an event that included quarterback Braxton Miller, who is one of the top members of this recruiting class.

''I know Doran because we played in the Under Armour game together,'' Miller said. ''He was my roommate for a week in Tampa, Fla. We were on the same team. It was a good experience to hang with the best of the best.''

Miller and Grant are also slated to play in the Big 33 All-Star Game in June.

''I had always heard about Steve since we were sophomores and we were being recruited,'' Grant said. ''In Florida, I got a chance to really meet him for first time and we just connected. It felt like we have known each other for a long time.''

The first three

Miller, 6-foot-4 and 245 pounds, was the first of the four to orally commit to OSU, pledging in October of 2009, right before the Massillon-McKinley game.

''It should be fun being on the same team with Devin, and playing with a guy I have been trying to take out,'' Miller said. ''We have a mutual respect for each other.''

Smith agreed: ''We both knew what we had to do. We were pumped up because they were big games, but we kept level heads and were respectful toward each other.''

Miller chose OSU over Tennessee, Florida, UCLA and West Virginia. ''My family and coaches can come see me play,'' Miller said. ''That was a big, important thing.''

Brown, 6-foot-5 and 320 pounds, gave OSU an oral commitment in April of 2010 over Cincinnati, Michigan State, West Virginia and Duke.

''The tradition and just being around positive people as far as the coaches and the fans at Ohio State is exciting,'' said Brown, a right tackle for the Falcons who could play at either right or left tackle, or right guard for the Buckeyes.

Brown is the only player of the four who has graduated from high school, departing from Firestone on Jan. 20. He is scheduled to start classes at OSU on March 28 and will be eligible to participate in spring practice. He plans to attend the Firestone graduation ceremony in the spring.

''I have been waiting for this moment for months,'' Brown said. ''I am ready to go.''

Smith spent his first two years at Ellet and then transferred to Massillon for his final two years. He committed to OSU in June of 2010, the same month that he won the state Division I long jump title with a jump of 23 feet, 41/2 inches.

Smith, 6-foot-3 and 185 pounds, chose OSU from Cincinnati, Notre Dame, West Virginia and Michigan State.

Smith has another cousin currently on the Buckeyes football team, Cleveland Glenville graduate Christian Bryant.

The final one

Grant was the final player of the four to pick OSU, making his announcement at the Under Armour All-America Football Game.

''It was a little bit of everything,'' Grant said of Ohio State. ''Columbus is close to home. Ohio State has a tradition of competing for Big Ten championships and national championships. We have great guys coming in, and I enjoyed the atmosphere, too.''

Grant, 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, selected OSU over Michigan State, Penn State, USC and Michigan. He is projected to play defensive back and could also see action on special teams and as a wide receiver.

''I can't wait,'' Grant said. ''It will be an honor to play for coach Tressel. I can't wait to do good things for him.''

Brown felt confident that Grant was Columbus-bound.

''Basically, seeing him down at Ohio State, he looked like a little kid in a candy store,'' Brown said of Grant. ''He was excited and happy to be there. He got to know some of the players. I couldn't see him turning his back on that.''

Time will tell what kind of impact they will have on the Buckeyes.

2011 National Signing Day

2011-02-03T15:32:00.000-05:00

National Signing Day is the culmination of years of hard work for a high school athlete. Listed below are players from the Akron area who signed with or committed to signing with schools on signing day.

Players in BOLD and underline either attended a NLSD combine or played in our All Star Game. Congratulations guys and best of luck on the Next Level!

Tommy Brown Firestone OL 6-5 300

He committed to Ohio State on April 3. He had several other offers including West Virginia, Michigan State and several Mid-American Conference programs.

Dylan Brumbaugh Green DE 6-5 265
He committed to Akron in 2010 after he also had offers from Marshall and Youngstown State.

Connor Cook Walsh Jesuit QB 6-5 200
One of the state's top quarterbacks. He committed to Michigan State in early April 2010 during an unofficial visit. Cook felt very comfortable with the Michigan State coaching staff.

Doran Grant St. V-M DB 5-11 175

He committed to Ohio State in early January. He is considered to be the prized recruit from the area in the 2011 class. His scholarship offers included virtually all the major BCS schools. He narrowed his choices to Ohio State and Michigan State before picking OSU.

Cody Grice Firestone RB-DE 6-0 240
He chose Akron in 2010 over an offer from Alabama State.

Drew Kaser Walsh Jesuit P 6-4 215
He chose Texas A&M and is undoubtedly one of the state's best punters. He had offers from Illinois and Central Michigan.

Aaron Macer Twinsburg DB 6-1 190
He committed to Ohio University in mid-January. Also offered by Akron, Toledo, Kent State, Miami (Ohio) and Bowling Green.

Chevin Meadows Buchtel Athlete 5-10 170
He verbally committed to Kent State in mid-January.

Steve Miller Canton McKinley DE 6-5 218
He committed to Ohio State in 2009. Also had offers from Florida, UCLA, Michigan State, West Virginia, Stanford and several others.

Mark Murphy St. V-M SS 6-2 195
He remained committed to Indiana despite Bill Lynch being let go as coach in late November. He initially made his commitment to Indiana in mid-June. Also offered by Arizona, Akron and Kent State.

Justin Olack Massillon WR 6-4 195
He committed to Toledo last week after backing out of his commitment to Pittsburgh, which had multiple coaching changes. He also had offers from Big Ten and MAC schools.

Max Pirman Orrville OLB-DE 6-5 221
He originally made an oral commitment to Indiana but changed his mind and committed to Nebraska in November. He had several other offers, including Kansas and MAC schools.

Rakim Reed Canton Timken TE 6-4 210
He made a commitment to Marshall after considering Pittsburgh.

Evan Shimensky Kent Roosevelt QB 5-11 182
He committed to Kent State last summer and stuck to his plan despite the coaching change to Darrell Hazell.

Devin Smith Massillon WR 6-2 175
He committed to Ohio State in mid-June. He also had offers from several other BCS schools.

Other Signings
Mike Aylward, Canton McKinley, Baldwin Wallace;
Kevin Brewton, Garfield, Findlay;
Ray J. Brown, Brunswick, Notre Dame College;
Freddie Burton, McKinley, Walsh University;
Austin Carstensen, Wooster, Ashland;
Jake Crowley, Wadsworth, Notre Dame College;
Johnny Duncan, McKinley, Seton Hall;
Elijah Farakhan, McKinley, Findlay;
Rodney Gist, Garfield, Notre Dame College;
Bo Graf, Medina, Notre Dame College;
Gerald Gregory, East, Ashland;
Marcus Lee, East, St. Augustine College (N.C.);
Nate Manos, Marlington, Notre Dame College;
DJ Marrah, Minerva, Findlay;
Pete Meadows, CVCA, Notre Dame College;
Seth Nalbach, Massillon, Notre Dame College;
Kyle Ohradzansky, McKinley, Lafayette;
Robert Partridge, Massillon (Miami, Ohio), Notre Dame College;
Daniel Pennino, Woodridge, Notre Dame College;
Vinny Pugliese, Walsh Jesuit, Columbia;
Adam Redmond, Walsh Jesuit, Harvard;
Reed Remington, Walsh Jesuit, Bucknell;
Aaron Robey, Massillon, Notre Dame College;
Brian Robinson, Massillon, Notre Dame College;
Tyler Robinson, Massillon, Ashland;
Jason Suggs, Medina, Lehigh;
Eric Thompkins Jr., Canton South, Ashland;
Stephen Wilmington, Ravenna, Lehigh;
Colin Wymer, Roosevelt, Ashland;
Chavas Young, Alliance, Ashland.

*Info as provided by The Akron Beacon Journal

Unsigned Hype: Marlon Oden - Buchtel HS (Akron, Ohio)

2011-01-20T16:20:00.000-05:00

Marlon Oden is a rare talent. He's extremely versatile and capable of playing on both sides of the ball, but it's obvious that defense is his calling. Marlon shows alot: lock down coverage, the ability to make the big hit, and effectively make open field tackles. He was the defensive leader on a team that was the Division II state runner up in Ohio. Marlon will excell at a strong safety position in college. Do not be surprised when Marlon Oden becomes a household name. You heard it here first

Unsigned Hype: Derrick Nzeakor - West Mesquite HS (W.Mesquite, Texas)

2011-01-20T15:10:00.001-05:00

Derrick Nzeakor is a BEAST.

Nzeakor displays great quickness off the ball and is extremely aggressive. Seems to have a natural knack for finding the ball and possesses great skill at making tackles in space and in the open field. At 5'10 210lbs, Nzeakor has ideal size play outside linebacker. Based off of his film, Nzeakor did not play a large role in coverage schemes for West Mesquite but seems to have the necessary skill set to make the transition into a big time college safety. You can check him out for yourself here. His highlight reel speaks for itself.

Chevin Meadows Gives Verbal to Kent State

2011-01-18T17:10:00.000-05:00

Next Level Sports Development would like to congratulate Buchtel senior defensive back Chevin Meadows as he verbally committed to sign with Kent State University after his visit this past weekend.

2011-01-10T18:46:00.000-05:00

Top 5 Recruiting Classes (As of 1/10/11)
1. Texas Big 12
2. Ohio State Big Ten
3. Alabama SEC
4. Florida State ACC
5. USC Pac-10

Division I Verbals

2011-01-10T18:21:00.002-05:00

Recruiting season is in full swing and many players across the state are commiting prior to signing day. Check out the latest committments below:

Antwan Crutcher

GLENVILLE HIGH SCHOOL - Ball State University

Tony Davis

WYOMING HIGH SCHOOL - Ohio University

Devonte Morgan

GLENVILLE HIGH SCHOOL - University of Akron

Johnny Robinson Jr

GLENVILLE HIGH SCHOOL - University of Akron

Brandon Jackson

ST EDWARD HIGH SCHOOL - Ohio University

Congratulations guys

Chevin Meadows Receives Offer From Kent St

2011-01-10T18:08:00.001-05:00

The standout defensive back from Akron Buchtel has received an offer from Kent State. I spoke with Chevin the other day and he stated that he plans to wait closer to signing day to make a decision. Meadows has also received interest from a handful of other Division I programs

Check out Chevin below:

Doran Grant Gives Verbal to Ohio State

2011-01-06T14:26:00.002-05:00

Video Vault: Doran Grant

2011-01-06T14:24:00.000-05:00

Checkout this interview with Doran Grant from the 2010 Summit County Thanksgiving Day All Star Game

SVSM Star Doran Grant Makes His Own "Decision"

2011-01-06T13:40:00.000-05:00

In the end, it was mom who prevailed over dad in the recruitment of blue-chip prospect Doran Grant.

The son of former Michigan State wide receiver Ted Jones (1980-82) chose Ohio State over his father’s alma mater Wednesday night during the Under Armour All-American game in St. Petersburg, Fla.

When he put on the Buckeye hat during ESPN’s broadcast, his mom nearly burst into tears the way she said she did when she received the recruiting letter from Ohio State Head Coach Jim Tressel.

Grant had narrowed his list to include just the Buckeyes and Spartans before Wednesday’s decision. It comes just one day after Ohio State’ big 31-26 win over Arkansas in the Sugar Bowl, and less than a week after Michigan State’s devastating 49-7 loss to Alabama in the Florida Citrus Bowl.

The Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary prospect is the top-rated cornerback in the country according to Rivals.com, and No. 2 at his position according to Scout.com, who made him a 5-star prospect. He becomes the 20th member of Ohio State’s 2011 class, but his commitment could not have come at a more imperative time for the Buckeyes.

The entire nation (at least cable viewers) watched as Ohio State was forced to play a number of young kids in their secondary after senior Chimdi Chekwa went down with a wrist injury Tuesday night. The Buckeyes will not only replace Chekwa in their secondary next season, but also Devon Torrence and Jermale Hines.

Behind Chekwa and Torrence, there was not a lot of depth at the corner position. Both C.J. Barnett and Corey Brown were converted to safeties, and Christian Bryant slid inside to learn the “Star” position.

That leaves Howard, Clarke, senior Donnie Evege and current redshirt Bradley Roby as the only returning cornerbacks on scholarship next season. The staff was obviously concerned enough about the position to accept a transfer from Florida State senior Dionte Allen, who will be eligible to play next fall.

Allen was a former 4-star prospect out of Michigan, but Grant is a different kind of player. The 5-foot-11, 175-pounder has good speed and ability to change direction. He can also play wide receiver, but the Buckeyes desperately need him at the corner spot, where they have not landed a truly elite prospect since Eugene Clifford in 2007.

Corey Brown was a 5-star prospect in 2009, but the staff never really liked him as a corner and preferred his ball skills at safety. Besides, Brown will likely be out through the spring after tearing up his knee during the regular season.

That means Grant could come in and compete for a spot right away. The Buckeyes would probably prefer not to have a true freshman starting at corner next fall, but he just might be that good. He has great closing speed and showed coaches an ability to be physical with receivers during all-star practice this week.

Grant joins 3-star prospect DerJuan Gambrell in Ohio State’s recruiting class. With a 6-foot-2 frame, the Toledo Rogers product has tremendous size and hands. There is a question of whether he will need to play safety at the next level, but the Buckeyes like him as a corner right now.

The spring will be interesting for a lot of reasons, and one of them will be the players who emerge to fill those holes on defense.

Grant is rated as the No. 2 player in the state of Ohio by both major recruiting services, which is huge because the Buckeyes already lost top-rated linebacker Trey DePriest to Alabama. Tressel has now landed commitments from six of the top-10 players in the state, according to Rivals, with Glenville offensive tackle Aundrey Walker still out there.

Ohio State Cornerback Classes since 2006:

2011

Doran Grant (4/5 stars)

DerJuan Gambrell (3 stars)

2010

Christian Bryant (4 stars) – Capable of playing corner, but better suited for “Star.”

Bradley Roby (3 stars) – Converted WR who redshirted in 2010.

2009

C.J. Barnett (4 stars) – Since moved to safety.

Corey Brown (5 stars) – Since moved to safety.

Dominic Clarke (4 stars) – Listed in the 2-deep and played against Arkansas.

2008

Travis Howard (4 stars) – No. 3 corner in 2010, probable starter for next season.

2007

Eugene Clifford (4/5 stars) – Since left the team

James Scott (4 stars) – Since left the team

Devon Torrence (4 stars) – Two-year starter for the Buckeyes at corner.

Donnie Evege (4 stars) – Has never seen much playing time because of injuries.

2006

Chimdi Chekwa (3 stars) – Three-year starter for the Buckeyes at corner.

Kurt Coleman (4 stars) –Move to safety, now in NFL.

(Article via The-Ozone.net by Brandon Castel)

New Under Armour Micro G Cleats

2011-01-05T13:35:00.002-05:00

Doran Grant & Braxton Miller on Sporting News Cover

2011-01-04T22:04:00.000-05:00

Watch both of these guys in the Under Armour All American Game tomorrow night at 7pm on ESPN

Under Armour All American Game Rosters

2010-12-28T02:09:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to SVSM's Doran Grant and fellow state of Ohio standout Braxton Miller. Could they be teammates next fall???? Only time will tell. Good luck guys

WHITE ROSTER

No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. School College

5 Braxton Miller QB 6-1 185 Wayne (Ohio) Ohio State

15 Kendal Thompson QB 6-1 170 Southmore (Okla.) Oklahoma

13 Max Wittek QB 6-3 200 Mater Dei (Calif.) USC

1 Mike Bellamy RB 5-10 176 Charlotte (Fla.) Clemson

28 Brandon Williams RB 6-0 190 Brookshire (Texas) Oklahoma

2 Quan Bray WR 5-11 180 Callaway (Ga.) Undecided

23 Amir Carlisle WR 5-10 181 Kings Academy (Calif.) Stanford

8 DaVaris Daniels WR 6-2 164 Vernon Hills (Ill.) Notre Dame

80 Jarvis Landry WR 5-11 181 Lutcher (La.) LSU

26 Malcolm Mitchell WR 6-0 175 Valdosta (Ga.) Undecided

22 Justin Scott-Wesley WR 6-0 200 Mitchell-Baker (Ga.) Georgia

3 Jamal Turner WR 6-1 175 Sam Houston (Texas) Nebraska

10 Ben Koyack TE 6-5 228 Oil City (Pa.) Notre Dame

11 Jay Rome TE 6-5 230 Valdosta (Ga.) Undecided

70 La'El Collins OT 6-5 285 Redemptorist (La.) LSU

74 Brey Cook OT 6-6 295 Har-Ber (Ark.) Arkansas

55 Bobby Hart OT 6-5 298 St. Thomas Aquinas (Fla.) Florida State

51 Giorgio Newberry OT 6-5 249 Fort Pierce (Fla.) Florida State

71 Kiaro Holts OT 6-4 270 Warren Central (Ind.) North Carolina

64 Angelo Mangiro OG 6-3 290 Roxbury (N.J.) Penn State

73 Spencer Region OG 6-5 230 Cullman (Ala.) Undecided

72 Mitch Smothers OG 6-4 285 Springdale (Ark.) Arkansas

50 Trey Pettis C 6-5 285 De Land (Fla.) Florida State

8 Anthony Johnson DT 6-3 295 O. Perry Walker (La.) LSU

40 Kevin McReynolds DT 6-3 276 Saint Johns (Wash. D.C.) Undecided

80 Jordan Phillips DT 6-5 285 Circle (Kan.) Oklahoma

92 Antwaun Woods DT 6-1 295 Woodland Hills-Taft (Calif.) USC

47 Xzavier Dickson DE 6-4 229 Griffin (Ga.) Undecided

90 Nathan Hughes DE 6-5 240 Klein Oak (Texas) Oklahoma

88 Steve Miller DE 6-3 226 McKinley (Ohio) Ohio State

42 Stephone Anthony OLB 6-3 220 Anson Senior (N.C.) Undecided

45 A.J. Johnson OLB 6-3 225 Gainesville (Ga.) Tennessee

9 James Vaughters ILB 6-2 230 Tucker (Ga.) Stanford

1 Anthony Wallace ILB 6-2 225 Skyline (Texas) Oregon

5 Jabari Gorman S 6-0 180 Monsignor Edward Pace (Fla.) Undecided

17 Marcus Roberson S 6-0 170 St. Thomas Aquinas (Fla.) Undecided

3 Keelin Smith S 6-3 185 Treasure Coast (Fla.) Florida State

11 Karlos Williams S 6-2 210 Ridge Community (Fla.) Florida State

21 Doran Grant CB 5-10 170 Saints Vincent and Mary (Ohio) Undecided

6 Ryan Henderson CB 5-10 170 Rancho Verde (Calif.) Utah

24 Demetrious Nicholson CB 5-10 170 Bayside (Va.) Undecided

2 De'Ante Saunders CB 5-11 185 DeLand (Fla.) Florida

20 Danzel Williams CB 5-8 185 James Martin (Texas) Oklahoma

4 Andre Heidari K 5-11 185 Stockdale (Calif.) USC

62 Peter McBride LS 6-1 210 Chaparral (Ariz.) USC

RED ROSTER

No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. School College

6 Jeff Driskel QB 6-4 224 Paul J. Hagerty (Fla.) Florida

15 Kiehl Frazier QB 6-2 210 Shiloh Christian (Ark.) Auburn

17 Brett Hundley QB 6-3 210 Chandler (Ariz.) UCLA

1 Isaiah Crowell RB 5-11 200 Carver (Ga.) Undecided

28 Savon Huggins RB 5-11 190 Saint Peter's (N.J.) Undecided

12 Devon Blackmon WR 6-0 180 Summit (Calif.) Undecided

10 Eli Rogers WR 5-10 178 Miami Northwestern (Fla.) Louisville

4 Marvin Shinn WR 6-3 180 Vigor (Ala.) Alabama

2 Ja'Juan Story WR 6-3 190 Nature Coast Technical (Fla.) Florida

9 Tacoi Sumler WR 5-8 157 Christopher Columbus (Fla.) Oregon

3 Bradley Sylve WR 5-11 175 South Plaquemines (La.) Alabama

5 Michael Thomas WR 6-2 180 Woodland Hills-Taft (Calif.) Undecided

88 Malcolm Faciane TE 6-5 260 Picayune Memorial (Miss.) Alabama

11 Brandon Fulse TE 6-4 250 Fort Meade Senior (Fla.) Undecided

7 A.C. Leonard TE 6-3 232 Interlachen (Fla.) Florida

80 Brian Miller TE 6-3 225 Andover (Mass.) Boston College

62 Le'Raven Clark OT 6-5 250 Rockdale (Texas) Texas Tech

65 Cyrus Kouandjio OT 6-7 325 DeMatha Catholic (Md.) Undecided

75 Christian Westerman OT 6-5 290 Hamilton (Ariz.) Texas

72 Andre Yruretagoyena OT 6-5 260 Chaparral (Ariz.) Oregon

55 Cyrus Hobbi OG 6-3 285 Saguaro (Ariz.) Undecided

76 Marcus Jackson OG 6-2 295 Vero Beach Senior (Fla.) Undecided

77 Thomas O'Reilly OG 6-3 296 Alan C. Pope (Ga.) Auburn

50 Reese Dismukes C 6-2 275 Sapanish Fort (Ala.) Auburn

78 Ryan Kelly C 6-4 264 Lakota West (Ohio) Alabama

74 Mo Latu C 6-2 300 Perry (Ariz.) Undecided

41 Todd Barr DT 6-2 265 Lakewood (Calif.) California

80 Christian Heyward DT 6-2 270 Point Loma (Calif.) Undecided

99 Desmond Jackson DT 6-1 273 Westfield (Texas) Texas

90 Gabe Wright DT 6-3 255 Carver (Ga.) Undecided

95 Anthony Chickillo DE 6-3 225 Alonso (Fla.) Miami

7 Jadeveon Clowney DE 6-5 220 South Pointe (S.C.) Undecided

93 Greg Townsend Jr. DE 6-3 260 Beverly Hills (Calif.) Undecided

33 Trey DePriest OLB 6-2 220 Springfield South (Ohio) Alabama

19 Travis Hughes ILB 6-1 225 Kempsville (Va.) North Carolina

11 Ryan Shazier OLB 6-2 200 Plantation (Fla.) Ohio State

3 Vinnie Sunseri OLB 5-11 202 Northridge (Ala.) Alabama

8 Lawrence Thomas ILB 6-3 230 Renaissance (Mich.) Michigan State

4 Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix S 6-2 200 Dr. Phillips (Fla.) Alabama

2 Erique Florence S 6-2 185 Valley (Ala.) Undecided

9 Marqise Lee S 6-1 190 Junipero Serra (Calif.) Undecided

20 Robenson Therezie S 5-10 190 Miami Jackson (Fla.) Undecided

10 Quandre Diggs CB 5-10 190 Angleton (Texas) Texas

5 Darius Jennings CB 5-11 175 Gilman (Md.) Undecided

1 Josh Turner ATH 5-11 180 Millwood (Okla.) Texas

6 Nick Waisome CB 5-10 168 South Lake (Fla.) Florida State

23 Taylor Bertolet K 5-9 160 Exeter Township (Pa.) Texas A&M

40 Zach Ewan LS 5-10 230 North Canyon (Ariz.) Wyoming

Jasper Howard Remembered

2010-12-28T02:03:00.001-05:00

In October, while Connecticut was struggling to a 3-4 start and losing its first two Big East games, a young player stood up in the back of the room during a team meeting. He told the rest of the team, simply, "Jazz wouldn't have this."

Jasper Howard is still an inspiration to his teammates more than a year after he was killed.That message came through loud and clear. The last thing any of the Huskies want to do is dishonor the memory of Jasper "Jazz" Howard.

"We all knew what kind of player Jazz was and how mad and frustrated he would have been with the way we were playing," said senior linebacker Scott Lutrus, who recounted the story of the young player's message. "It hit home for all of us how negative it was not having him here. I think that helped us turn things around."

Howard has been gone since Oct. 18, 2009, when he was stabbed to death on campus. Hours earlier, the defensive back played his final game for UConn in a win over Louisville. But Howard's spirit and memory remain a vital part of this team, a source of strength and inspiration. And he has been in the Huskies' hearts during this improbable run to the school's first BCS game.

"We think about him every day," receiver Kashif Moore said. "Not only do we play for ourselves and our families and the university and the state of Connecticut, but we play for him. We play the game how he would want us to and how he would play the game."

The bonds for Moore are tighter than for others. A close friend, he held Howard in his arms as his teammate lay bleeding to death. Since then, Moore has called Howard's mother every night before he plays a game.

Those who weren't as close to Howard receive daily reminders of his presence. A large photo of Howard in uniform greets visitors to the lobby of UConn's Burton Family Football Complex, along with a quote Howard gave to reporters hours before his death: "You have to play each play like it's the last play you'll ever play."

Last year's team received the Football Writers Association of America Courage Award for how it dealt with the tragedy. A string of agonizing losses followed Howard's death until an emotional, overtime triumph over Notre Dame after which coach Randy Edsall was moved to tears in his postgame interview.

UConn would go on to win its final four games, including a bowl spanking of South Carolina. It is on a similar late-season roll this year, having won five straight heading into Saturday's Tostitos Fiesta Bowl showdown with Oklahoma.

After Howard's death, the 2009 Huskies had a series of close losses followed by a late-season surge. They went on to beat South Carolina in the PapaJohns.com Bowl."The adversity this team has had to overcome the last two years is just remarkable," Edsall said.

Edsall's office is decorated with photos of Howard's daughter, who was born a few months after the stabbing. And after clinching the BCS bid Dec. 4 at South Florida on a last-second field goal, Edsall couldn't help but think of Howard again. He said then he hoped the Discover Orange Bowl would select the Huskies, because Howard is from north Miami and his family could attend the game.

As of Sunday night, it was unclear if any of Howard's relatives would make it to the Fiesta Bowl. But his mother, stepfather, two sisters, girlfriend and daughter received an ovation from the Rentschler Field crowd in Connecticut's home finale. Howard would have been a senior this season, and he was the last player announced on Senior Day. Edsall has named him an honorary captain for this year's team.

"Jazz is still with us and is a part of this senior class," Lutrus said. "He's here every day."

UConn is a heavy underdog to Oklahoma and will face some major challenges in the game. But the Huskies know what to do when things get tough: Play like it's the last play they'll ever play. That's the only way Howard would have had it.

Article via Brian Bennett (ESPN.com)

Terrelle Pryor & Other Buckeys Suspended...

2010-12-28T01:54:00.001-05:00

Terrelle Pryor and teammates were suspended for getting "improper benefits."

Terrelle Pryor and four other Buckeyes must sit out the first five games of the 2011, but they were not suspended for the Jan. 4 Sugar Bowl game against Arkansas.

According to an NCAA press release, "Pryor must repay $2,500 for selling his 2008 Big Ten championship ring, a 2009 Fiesta Bowl sportsmanship award and his 2008 Gold Pants, a gift from the university."

Along with Terrelle Pryor, running back Daniel Herron, wide receiver DeVier Posey, offensive lineman Mike Adams and defensive end Solomon Thomas were punished.

There is also concern that Terrelle Pryor and some OSU teammates got tattoos in exchange for autographs.

Ohio State University Football Schedule 2011

Sat, Sep 03 Akron at Ohio State Columbus, Ohio

Sat, Sep 10 Toledo at Ohio State Columbus, Ohio

Sat, Sep 17 Ohio State at Miami, Fla. Miami, FL

Sat, Sep 24 Colorado at Ohio State Columbus, Ohio

Sat, Oct 01 Michigan State at Ohio State Columbus, Ohio

Sat, Oct 08 Ohio State at Nebraska Lincoln, Neb.

Sat, Oct 15 Ohio State at Illinois Champaign, Ill

Sat, Oct 29 Wisconsin at Ohio State Columbus, Ohio

Sat, Nov 05 Indiana at Ohio State Columbus, Ohio

Sat, Nov 12 Ohio State at Purdue West Lafayette, Ind.

Sat, Nov 19 Penn State at Ohio State Columbus, Ohio

Sat, Nov 26 Ohio State at Michigan Ann Arbor, Mich.

Sat, Dec 03 Big Ten Championship Game Indianapolis, Ind

2011 Class Commitments

2010-12-22T14:58:00.000-05:00

Here is a list of seniors across the state of Ohio who have recently committed to signing a letter of intent in Febuary. Congratulations guys and good luck next year.

Eric Price
WYOMING HIGH SCHOOL
Commits to Ohio University

Jeremey Whitlow
CLEVELAND CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
Commits to Illinois

Marquise Vann
FAIRFIELD HIGH SCHOOL
Commits to Connecticut

Steven Daniels
ST XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL
Commits to Boston College

Tyler Williams
COLERAIN HIGH SCHOOL
Commits to Akron

Walsh's Reed Remington Pick's Up Offer

2010-12-22T14:48:00.002-05:00

Walsh Jesuit senior defensive end Reed Remington has reportedly been offered by Holy Cross, according to ScoutingOhio.com. Remington, who is 6-foot-4 and 250 pounds, also has offers from Bucknell and Wayne State, according to the website.

Remington also started at defensive end in the first annual Summit County Thanksgiving Day All Star Game.

Reed Remington in NLSD Summit County Thanksgiving Day All Star Game ( Maroon & yellow helmet, blue jersey)

Doran Grant Narrows His List

2010-12-22T14:43:00.000-05:00

St. Vincent-St. Mary's defensive back Doran Grant, generally considered the top recruit in the state of Ohio this year, has narrowed his college choices down to two.

Ohio State and Michigan State will learn Jan. 5 during the Under Armour All-America Football Game, which will air at 7 p.m. on ESPN.

Grant completed an official visit with the Buckeyes this past weekend where he got to meet the coaches and players and get a lot of his questions answered, he said.

''Their facilities are some of the best in the country,'' he said.

Grant might eventually feel torn in two directions, however. There's the lure of playing for the dominant college football program in his home state, one whose national exposure is the rule and not the exception. But then there's the chance to honor his father Ted Jones, who led the Spartans in receiving 1980-81.

(Via George Thomas - Akron Beacon Journal)

Associated Press All American Team

2010-12-16T18:17:00.000-05:00

Auburn's Heisman Trophy winner, Cam Newton

NEW YORK -- No. 1 Auburn will have an All-American anchoring each side of the ball when the Tigers play for the national title.

Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton and defensive tackle Nick Fairley were voted to The Associated Press All-America team along with Oregon running back LaMichael James, who will face Auburn in the Tostitos BCS National Championship Game in Glendale, Ariz., on Jan. 10.

AP All-America First Team

Position Player School

QB Cam Newton Auburn

RB LaMichael James Oregon

RB Kendall Hunter Okla. St.

OT Gabe Carimi Wisconsin

OT Nate Solder Colorado

Guard Rodney Hudson Fla. St.

Guard John Moffitt Wisconsin

Center Chase Beeler Stanford

Tight End Michael Egnew Missouri

WR Justin Blackmon Okla. St.

WR Ryan Broyles Oklahoma

All-purpose Randall Cobb Kentucky

Kicker Alex Henery Nebraska

DE Da'Quan Bowers Clemson

DE Ryan Kerrigan Purdue

DT Nick Fairley Auburn

DT Stephen Paea Oregon St.

LB Luke Kuechly Boston College

LB Greg Jones Mich. St.

LB Von Miller Texas A&M

CB Patrick Peterson LSU

CB Prince Amukamara Nebraska

Safety Tejay Johnson TCU

Safety Quinton Carter Oklahoma

Punter Chas Henry Florida

Auburn is one of five teams with two players on the first team.

Wisconsin had two players from its excellent offensive line: Outland Trophy winning tackle Gabe Carimi and guard John Moffitt.

Oklahoma State, with the nation's No. 1 offense, placed wide receiver Justin Blackmon and running back Kendall Hunter on the first team. Not to be outdone, rival Oklahoma, which edged out the Cowboys for the Big 12 South title, had receiver Ryan Broyles and safety Quinton Carter on the team.

Big 12 North champion Nebraska also had two All-Americans: cornerback Prince Amukamara and kicker Alex Henery.

But no team had two more dominant players this season than Auburn.

Newton, in his first season with the Tigers after transferring from junior college, became the first quarterback in Southeastern Conference history to reach 2,000 yards passing and 1,000 yards rushing in the same season. He also accounted for 49 touchdowns (28 passing, 20 rushing and one receiving).

"We knew and understood he was talented, but we didn't realize he could do things on his own that a defense just can't account for," Auburn coach Gene Chizik said.

"There were times we knew we'd called a bad play and 50 yards later Cam would have made it look good."

Newton was practically unstoppable and Fairley was nearly unblockable.

"He's played on the other side of the line of scrimmage and that's what you want from your guys up front," Chizik said.

The 295-pound junior led Auburn with 10½ sacks and 21 tackles for loss, blossoming into one of the best defensive tackles into the country after starting just two games in 2009.

Chizik said it took Fairley, another junior college transfer, a season to adjust to playing in the SEC.

"He's come a million miles from where he was last year," he said.

Both of Auburn's All-Americans also drew some negative attention this season.

The NCAA investigated Newton's recruitment and determined that his father tried to get Mississippi State to pay for his son to play for the Bulldogs. Newton was allowed to keep playing.

Fairley drew criticism for being a dirty player, especially after he hit Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray in the back with his helmet.

2010-11 Bowl Schedule

Every game, every time, every site to watch, from the New Mexico Bowl right through the Tostitos BCS National Championship Game. Bowl schedule

Those issues aside, Newton and Fairley are the biggest reasons Auburn, which started the season ranked No. 22, is unbeaten and in position to win its first national title since 1957.

Auburn also had tackle Lee Ziemba voted to second team and center Ryan Pugh on the third team.

No. 2 Oregon was represented on the three AP All-America teams by James, who led the nation in rushing at 153 yards per game and finished third in the Heisman voting, and cornerback Cliff Harris, a second-team selection.

Heisman runner-up Andrew Luck of Stanford was the second-team quarterback, finishing behind Newton again. Kellen Moore of Boise State, the other Heisman finalist, was the third-team quarterback for the second straight year.

Joining the two big Badgers on the first-team offensive line were Florida State guard Rodney Hudson, Colorado tackle Nate Solder and Stanford center Chase Beeler. Missouri's Michael Egnew was the tight end.

Kentucky's versatile star Randall Cobb was the first-team all-purpose player. He ran for 401 yards, had 955 yards receiving and also returned kickoffs and punts.

Joining Fairley on the defensive line were Clemson end Da'Quan Bowers , who led the country with 15½ sacks, Purdue end Ryan Kerrigan, whose 26 tackles for loss were tops in the nation, and Oregon State tackle Stephen Paea, the Pac-10 defensive player of the year.

Linebacker Greg Jones of Michigan State was the only player to make the first team for a second consecutive season. Boston College's Luke Kuechley, the nation's leading tackler with 171, and Texas A&M's Von Miller were the other linebackers.

Filling out the secondary were LSU cornerback Patrick Peterson and TCU safety Tejay Johnson.

The punter was Chas Henry of Florida.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

Nike Alpha Talon

2010-12-14T16:10:00.000-05:00

Clay Matthews, Felix Jones, Steven Jackson, Suh unveil the Nike Alpha Talon cleat. The Talon is a versatile cleat designed for all players on the field.

Nike Unveils Oregon's Gear

2010-12-14T16:03:00.000-05:00

Nike is always very creative when it comes to Oregon's uniforms. Today Nike released pictures of what the Ducks will be wearing in the BCS National Championship Game against Auburn. Check out the exclusive pics below.

Under Armour Unveils Auburn Gear

2010-12-14T15:58:00.001-05:00

Under Armour officially unveiled Auburn's shoe's and gloves to be worn in the 2011 BCS National Championship Game against Oregon. Check them out below

State Championship Weekend Review

2010-12-07T23:02:00.000-05:00

Buchtel Talks About Loss

2010-12-07T22:48:00.000-05:00

Big Hits

2010-11-30T17:29:00.002-05:00

If this video doesn't get you going, I don't know what will. Check out some of the biggest hits of the year across the nation. Video courtesy of MaxPreps

SportsInk.com All Star Game Video Coverage

2010-11-29T14:32:00.003-05:00

Jay Brophy Jr & Mike Murphy Jr Interview Clip

2010-11-29T14:28:00.000-05:00

Click HERE to listen to an in-game interview with Next Level Sports Development staff Mike Murphy Jr. & Jay Brophy Jr. as they discuss bringing back the Turkey Day Game tradition, and what Next Level Sports Development is all about

All Star Game Slideshow

2010-11-29T14:05:00.000-05:00

Next Level Sports Development would like thank Don Ostapowicz for the excellent photography.

SportsInk.com's All Star Game Coverage

2010-11-29T14:02:00.006-05:00

AKRON, Ohio – They felt as much like pioneers as they did football players.And many will remember the experience for many years to come.

The seniors chosen to compete in the first Next Level Summit County Senior All-Star Football Game understood they were reviving a dormant tradition.

High school football on Thanksgiving Day had become extinct in Summit County since 1990.

Offensive MVP, Joe Rogers Jr (Running Back, Barberton HS)

Defensive MVP, Joey Studer (Cornerback, Hudson HS)

Eighty-five high school standouts representing every corner of the county came together Thursday morning at St. Vincent-St. Mary’s Green Stadium and staged an entertaining football game, despite damp conditions.

The blue-clad East stars prevailed 21-14 in two overtimes, and along with the West stars took pride in knowing they had brought back a holiday tradition.

East quarterback Rennick Dutton of Ellet scored on a 1-yard touchdown plunge in the second overtime and Hudson’s Joey Studer sealed the outcome with this second interception.

“Everyone out here is an all-star. Everyone deserved to make it. So, it’s great to play with amazing talent,” said Studer, who squashed a potential game-winning West drive with his first interception and was named Defensive MVP. “How could you ask for a better way to start Thanksgiving? I’m just pumped to go home and eat some turkey now and celebrate the win and have memories for the rest of my life because of this game.”

The founders of the game – Jay Brophy, Jr., Mike Murphy, Jr., and Jacob Thompson – have started a company Next Level Sports Development and their primary purpose is to assist high school athletes through the college recruitment process.

They cleared many hurdles to make this game a reality and were fueled by stories they had heard about Thanksgiving Day football at the Rubber Bowl.

“We just needed to make it happen,” Brophy said. “We fought through everything.”

A share of the proceeds was directed to the Akron Canton Regional Food Bank.

“Being that it is Thanksgiving Day there would be no better charity than the Food Bank,” Murphy said.

Joseph Rogers, Jr., of Barberton scored on a 6-yard run late in the first quarter and Firestone kicker Alana Gaither added the extra point to put the West on top 7-0.

At 10:31 of the second quarter, Stow running back Duane Mitchell ran through two tackles and scored on an impressive 63-yard dash for the East squad. Tallmadge kicker Mitch Heath added the point to make it 7-7.

The red-clad West stars answered when St. Vincent-St. Mary quarterback Oliver Hildebrandt connected with Woodridge wide receiver Damon Antoine on a 15-yard touchdown strike with 7:42 left until halftime.

The West led 14-7 and that was the halftime score.

A scoreless third quarter saw the East squad having touchdowns on back-to-back plays waived off due to penalty.

Mitchell’s 17-yard scoring run and Stow quarterback Mike Greenwell’s 27-yard scoring toss both were negated.

Finally, with 7:29 to play, Nordonia’s Donnie Eatmon popped a 37-yard touchdown run for the East squad to even the score at 14-14.

The West was driving to get into field-goal position late in the game when Studer intercepted a pass with 30 ticks left in regulation time.

Each team fumbled away its first overtime possession.

Mitchell did the heavy lifting getting the ball to the 1-yard line for the East and Dutton powered into end zone for a 21-14 lead after Heath’s kick.

Studer then intercepted an underthrown ball and clinched the win for the Joe Vassalotti-coached East team.

“I wanted to come out and have fun, but I also wanted to get the win,” said Eatmon, who is being recruited by several Mid-American Conference schools. “I think we definitely kept the tradition going.”

Mitchell indicated Boston College and Syracuse have expressed interest in his gridiron talent.

Rogers finished with 119 rushing yards and one score for the West and captured the Offensive MVP.

“It actually was surprising because I got selected to be on the team a little bit later than everybody else did,” Rogers said. “It was nice to play with the three from Barberton again.”

Rogers said Notre Dame College in South Euclid was the only school to express interest in him and that may change after his all-star performance.

NOTES: The East Orientals made their presence felt with defensive end Trevoris Bell contributing a sack and a fumble recovery. East receiver Tony Johnson also had a sensational pass reception. ... Nordonia outside linebacker Jay Velez, sporting Troy Polamula hair, had a strong defensive game for the East and received consideration for Defensive MVP. ... Walsh Jesuit defensive end Reed Remington had a stalwart game as well for the East. ... Archbishop Hoban strong safety Nate Greczanik made several defensive plays for the West squad. ... Ohio State-bound two-way tackle Tommy Brown looked every bit 6-foot-5, 300 pounds. ... Woodridge coach Eric Ervin directed the West stars.

Buchtel Pummels Marlington

2010-11-29T13:51:00.000-05:00

CANTON: One stat stands out when looking at Buchtel's domination of Marlington Saturday night at Fawcett Stadium.

The Dukes didn't get their initial first down until five minutes to go in the first half, and that qualified as the offensive highlight of their game at the time.

Precious few more followed as the Griffins smashed the Dukes 52-8 with an impressive performance on both sides of the ball to advance to the Division III state championship game — their first appearance in the big show since 1996, when they were state runners-up.

This wasn't domination. It was evisceration, as the Griffins' swarming defense didn't give Marlington any room to breathe, let alone score.

''Some things motivate you. You're playing against a team that's 13-0. Their running back was player of the year,'' coach Ricky Powers said. ''We had a little chip on our shoulders. We wanted to prove some things. Our kids played fast and played exactly the way we coached them.''

The Griffins' defense held Marlington to 157 yards on offense. Most of those yards came in the fourth quarter, with Buchtel up by more than 40 points. Buchtel held Marlington's two 1,000-yard rushers to a combined 77 yards. The Griffins also scored their 12th and 13th defensive touchdowns of the season.

''We wanted to show that their running backs hadn't been hit all year and hadn't played anybody. We said at halftime we didn't want to let up. We just wanted to finish them off and step on their necks,'' defensive back Marlon Oden said.

Mission accomplished.

But you can't overlook the Griffins' offense.

On their first play from scrimmage, senior quarterback Steve Parker found junior wide receiver Corey Smith for a 60-yard touchdown to open Buchtel's scoring barrage.

In another series of plays with Buchtel backed up at its own 10-yard line, it looked as if the Dukes might have a chance to take advantage of field position with a stop. No such luck. Three plays, 90 yards and less than a minute later, Parker stood in the end zone after scoring on a 5-yard touchdown run to take a 20-0 lead. The Griffins' quarterback got the glory, but he can thank the Herculean efforts of Smith, who grabbed two passes in the drive for 85 yards.

''What can I say? He was just going up and getting the ball for me. He made a couple of terrific plays,'' Parker said of Smith's effort.

In all, Smith caught five passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns, including a 59-yard touchdown catch. None would be as impressive as the second catch on the 90-yard drive.

''Steve just told me to run and get the ball, and the second one he just threw the ball up,'' Smith said.

By halftime, Buchtel led 26-0 and there was little doubt what the outcome would be.

That's a long way from where the Griffins were before Powers arrived.

''It's a huge step [for the program],'' Powers said. ''They're in the state championship. What more can you ask them to do other than win it? That's going to be our focus. Our kids are excited about it. Our coaching staff is excited.''

And at least one Griffin proved prescient when it came to the season.

''Marlon had a good quote earlier this year,'' Smith said. ''He said, 'We're going to start at Massillon and end at Massillon.' ''

Win or lose, they will face Columbus Bishop Watterson at 3 p.m. Saturday at Paul Brown Stadium in Massillon. The way they're playing right now, especially defensively, they may be the equivalent of a runaway freight train.

''We feel unstoppable because we are making things happen,'' said defensive end Jevonte Blackwell.

Article by George Thomas (Akron Beacon Journal)
Photos courtesy of Phil Masturzo (Akron Beacon Journal)

Akron Buchtel Advances to State Championship

2010-11-29T13:40:00.003-05:00

Videos courtesy of FridayNightOhio.com & SportsInk.com

Thanksgiving Day All Star Game in the Media

2010-11-29T13:24:00.002-05:00

We would like to thanks all of our media outlets for the positive exposure we received for the Summit County Thanksgiving Day All Star Game. Your help has been invaluable.

Thanksgiving Day All Star Game is Huge Success

2010-11-29T13:19:00.000-05:00

A new Thanksgiving Day tradition started Thursday morning in Akron with the return of the Turkey Day Game.

Woodridge's King Damon Antoine

The first Summit County Thanksgiving Day All-Star Game took place in the rain, but attracted a crowd of around 2,000 fans at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, to the delight of event organizers Jacob Thompson, Mike Murphy Jr. and Jay Brophy Jr.

Hudson's Joey Studer enjoyed being a part of the event, grabbing two interceptions to help the East All-Stars defeat the West All-Stars 21-14 in double overtime.

''It was a great environment,'' Studer said. ''There was amazing talent on the field. How could you ask for a better way to start Thanksgiving? I am just pumped to go home, eat some turkey and take away some memories from playing in this game.''

The weather did not stop people from being apart of history

After a 19-year absence, an organized high school football game took place on a day that used to have the Akron Public Schools City Series Championship Football Game at the historic Rubber Bowl.

That tradition started in 1942 and ran every year from 1948 to 1990 before being stopping as a result of the expanding Ohio High School Athletic Association state football playoff system.

Tallmadge coach Joe Vassalotti guided the East team and was thrilled to be involved.

''I think this is a fantastic tradition to bring back,'' said Vassalotti, who grew up in the Firestone Park area before moving to Tallmadge and then graduating from Walsh Jesuit.

''I remember going to the Rubber Bowl as a kid and watching the City Series championship game. You always looked forward to Thanksgiving morning being that way in Akron. I think this is something that could really catch on with the people of Akron. We had a good turnout today despite the weather.

''We emphasized having fun, but also that we wanted to come out and compete and try to win. I think we struck that balance.''

The West took a 7-0 lead after a 5-yard touchdown run by Barberton's Joseph Rogers Jr. with five seconds remaining in the first quarter.

''It has been a pleasure working with these fellas,'' said Rogers, who rushed for 119 yards on 19 carries.

The East tied the score after a 63-yard touchdown run by Stow's Duane Mitchell with 10:31 to go in the second quarter.

''I had fun. That is always the important thing to do in an all-star game,'' said Mitchell, who rushed for 100 yards on 12 carries. ''It was sweet to be a part of this game.''

The West then took a 14-7 advantage when Woodridge's Damon Antoine caught a 15-yard touchdown pass from St. V-M's Oliver Hildebrandt with 7:42 left in the second quarter.

Nordonia's Donnie Eatmon rushed for a 35-yard touchdown with 7:59 to go in the fourth quarter to help the East force overtime.

''This was an exciting game,'' said Eatmon, who rushed for 96 yards on 11 carries ''I am glad we came out of here with a W. You always want to come out and have fun, but I also wanted to come away with a win, too.''

Ellet's Rennick Dutton rushed for a 1-yard touchdown to give the East the lead to open the second overtime. Studer intercepted a pass to secure the win.

Stow's Kevin Herman and East's Gerald Gregory also had an interception for the East team, and East's Trevoris Bell recovered a fumble.

Woodridge's Sebastian Dodds and Revere's Claudio Manera each recovered a fumble for the West. St. V-M's Josh Steadman forced a fumble, and Coventry's Zach Stover snagged an interception.

Even with the loss, Woodridge coach Eric Ervin had fun leading a West team that included Firestone offensive lineman Tommy Brown, an Ohio State University recruit.

''I think it is great that they are bringing the tradition back,'' said Ervin, an Archbishop Hoban graduate who grew up in the Kenmore neighborhood. ''I went to a lot of Turkey Day games when I was a kid. My dad used to take me. I went to the last one they had in 1990. This has been a long time in the making. Kudos and hats off to these guys for bringing it back. I am happy I could be a part of it.''

Tallmadge's Mitch Heath made three point-after kicks for the East, and Firestone's Alana Gaither converted two point-after kicks for the West.

''I got to turn the lights back on for a Turkey Day game,'' said Tony Esola, St. V-M's facility manager and an Ellet graduate.

''I opened this place up at 6:30 in the morning, and it was pouring down rain. I was up in the press box all by myself and when I was standing, all of these memories came back to me. My dad used to take me to the games in the '60s. All I could remember was Babe Flossie and Dom Patella coaching down on the field. It used to be Garfield and East back then.''

Article by Michael Beaven (Akron Beacon Journal)

Jay Brophy Talks About the Thanksgiving Day Game Tradition

2010-11-25T00:42:00.003-05:00

Gameday is here...

2010-11-25T00:16:00.000-05:00

Event Registration Online for Summit County Thanksgiving Day All Star Game

Vinny Pugliese

2010-11-24T19:51:00.000-05:00

Walsh Jesuit's Vinny Pugliese is the type of player that can cause headaches for the opposing coach. He plays well on both sides of the ball. Check him out.

Reed Remington

2010-11-24T19:48:00.000-05:00

Reed Remington is the big bruising defensive end from Walsh Jesuit. Remington has the body to compete and be successful at the next level right now.

Kevin Brewton

2010-11-24T19:43:00.001-05:00

Real deal defensive end, Kevin Brewton of Akron Garfield HS

Oliver Hildebrandt

2010-11-24T19:38:00.002-05:00

At 6'5 215, Oliver Hildebrandt has the potential to become a big time quaterback. Come check him out

Luke Davies

2010-11-24T19:37:00.000-05:00

Check out Green High School's versatile wide receiver, Luke Davies. Luke has a good combination of size and speed. Anytime he touches the ball there is a chance for a big play

Dylan Brumbaugh

2010-11-24T11:51:00.001-05:00

Today we'll take time to highlight some of the fine student athletes that are playing in tomorrow's Thanksgiving Day All Star Game....Here's Dylan Brumbaugh from Green High School. Check him out and see why the University of Akron is excited about having him on campus next year.

West All Stars Roster

2010-11-24T04:05:00.003-05:00

OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

Adam Gammell – Cuyahoga Falls

Oliver Hildebrandt - SVSM

Running Backs / Fullbacks

Xavier Kirksey-Ivery - Hoban

Cody Grice – Akron Firestone

Eric Finn –Akron Kenmore

Josh Steadman – SVSM

Troy DeWitt – Revere

Aaron Wright – Akron Kenmore

Wide Receivers

Demonte' Powell – Akron North

Tyler Carey – Norton

King Damon Antoine – Woodridge

Evan Luse – Hoban

Kyle Dougherty – Manchester

Kelvin Gilchrist - Barberton

Offensive Linemen

Kevin Pask – Cuyahoga Falls

Tommy Brown – Akron Firestone

Joe Connolly – Copley

Dylan Haywood - Barberton

Allen Hopson – Hoban

Nick Codrea – SVSM

William Wilkins – Akron North

Pat Oborn – Hoban

Pete Ostapowicz – Copley

Jake Goudy – Coventry

Andrew Fredericks – Revere

Sam Miihlbach – Cuyahoga Falls

Punter

Ben Deighton – Revere

Kickers

Alana Gaither – Akron Firestone

Ado Hasanovic – Cuyahoga Falls

DEFENSE

Defensive Backs

Anthony Cicione II – SVSM

Sebastian Dodds - Woodridge

Brandon James – Barberton

Tyler Carey – Norton

Nate Greczanik – Hoban

Desmond Jacobs – Coventry

Kerrigan Cain – Hoban

Zach Stover – Coventry

Ian Santoferraro – Hoban

Linebackers

Marcus Dempster - Akron Firestone

Michael Greissing – SVSM

Erik Maag – Revere

Marcus Thompson – Woodridge

Joe Rogers - Barberton

Defensive Line

Claudio Manera – Revere

Tre Turner - Akron Firestone

Vince Joyce – SVSM

Jared Page – Woodridge

Nick Conlon – SVSM

Ross Burt – Akron Firestone

*Freeland Oliverio – SVSM

(* denotes injured player)

East All Stars Roster

2010-11-24T03:59:00.004-05:00

OFFENSE

Quaterbacks

Rennick Dutton – Akron Ellet

Mike Greenwell – Stow

Running Backs / Fullbacks

Duane Mitchell – Stow

Steve McAninch – Tallmadge

Joey Studer – Hudson

Brandyn Clark – Nordonia

Wide Receivers

Luke Davies – Green

Marcus Lee – Akron East

Andrew Bonnette – Tallmadge

Johnny McIntyre – Springfield

Nate Geer - Akron Ellet

Tyler Starkey – Walsh

Tight Ends

Kevin Brewton – Akron Garfield

Matt Moleski-Belski - Hudson

Mike Garrison – Stow

Chase Cole – Springfield

Offensive Linemen

Jake Renick – Akron Ellet

Dylan Brumbaugh – Green

Nick Conrad- Stow

Sam DiSanto- Stow

Austin Thompson – Tallmadge

John Simon – Stow

Kris Kamps – Tallmadge

Kicker / Punter

Mitch Heath - Tallmadge

DEFENSE

Defensive Backs

Donald Mercilus – Akron Garfield

Gerald Gregory – Akron East

Bryan Coman – Akron East

Kevin Herman – Stow

Donnie Eatmon - Nordonia

Linebackers

Eric Knox – Akron East

Vinny Pugliese – Walsh

Jay Velez – Nordonia

Anthony Johnson Jr. – Akron East

Nico Gagne-Cross – Twinsburg

Defensive Line

Trevoris Bell – Akron East

Reed Remington – Walsh

Sean Hoover – Hudson

Sam Sims - Twinsburg

Brett Gulosh -Twinsburg

Urban Lee – Twinsburg

Chance Woodall – Akron East

Ticket Prices - ONLY $7

2010-11-23T13:06:00.000-05:00

Correction...Thanksgiving Day All Star Game tickets prices are as listed:

General Admission (Students & Adults) - $7

General Admission (12& Under / Senior Citizens) - $5
(Can only be purchased at the ticket gate)

You can avoid standing in line by purchasing your tickets in advance online by clicking HERE or
by purchasing them at the following locations:

Buchtel High School
Cuyahoga Falls High School
East High School
North High School
Delanies Neighborhood Grille
2 Live Music

Marlington - Dover Regional Final Highlights

2010-11-22T13:11:00.000-05:00

Marlington will play Akron Buchtel on Saturday for the right to play in the Division III State Championship Game

Video courtesy of FridayNightOhio.com

Akron Buchtel - Youngstown Cardinal Mooney Highlights

2010-11-22T13:05:00.003-05:00

Video courtesy of SportsInk. Check them out at http://www.sportsink.com/

Buchtel Plows Through to State Semifinals

2010-11-22T12:58:00.000-05:00

The Buchtel Griffins showed Saturday night that they're not willing to make the same mistake twice in the playoffs.

After toying with Padua Franciscan last week and allowing it back in the game near the end before sealing the victory, Buchtel vowed that it had learned its lesson. The battle cry: Play every down.

Saturday night at Ravenna Stadium, defensive players Marlon Oden, Chevin Meadows, Shaquille Riddick, Kevin Jones and the rest of the Buchtel team played every down — and then some.

The Griffins vanquished Youngstown Cardinal Mooney, a defending state champion, in a Division III regional final 35-10.

''We just said when we get up, we want to step on their necks and never let up this week,'' Oden said.

And that they did. Mooney took a three-point lead at 6:31 of the first quarter; it was one of two leads it experienced during the night.

Buchtel's offense gave Mooney a preview of what it would have to contend with for much of the night on its next possession. Quarterback Steve Parker dashed 84 yards for a touchdown.

Buchtel racked up 397 yards, 289 on the ground. Offensively, the domination could have been greater.

However, the Griffins continued a trend, as mistakes piled up in the form of turnovers. They turned the ball over on fumbles four times and, as is to be expected, one of those instances came back to haunt them. They also had a touchdown nullified because of a penalty.

Buchtel opened the second half with the ball. Two plays into the half, the Griffins coughed it up. They watched as Mooney running back Charlie Brown scored on a three-yard run. That gave Mooney a 10-8 lead.

''That [Brown] they have is a tough kid,'' coach Ricky Powers said. ''[He] didn't fall down easily. These guys can come back, so we just wanted to keep going and keep going.''

The Griffins could have folded after that score, but instead they showed the resiliency that Powers often praises. On their next possession, they marched down the field. It looked as if Mooney had Buchtel stopped at the Cardinal 34. Parker dropped back on a third-and-14 and completed a pass to wide receiver Corey Smith, who made a nice grab for a touchdown.

That was it as the defense, which had been pierced in the second half when the Mooney coaches adjusted their blocking, found its second wind. Overall, Buchtel held a Mooney offense that averaged 232 rushing yards per game to 123 yards. Add to that 12 tackles for a loss, an interception return for a touchdown, the 11th defensive TD for Buchtel of the season, and you have a recipe for domination.

''What I told them was we are the [University of Miami] back in the '80s,'' said senior defensive back Meadows. ''We play fast. We play with a swagger. We don't go out there like idiots, like they expect us to play.''

In the back of the Griffins' minds was last week's game against Padua.

''You make mistakes. You learn from them and you forget them,'' Meadows said.

''It's huge for Akron. It's huge for our school and community and I'm proud of them,'' Powers said.

Buchtel will next take on Marlington in a state semifinal game.

Article from George Thomas (Akron Beacon Journal)

Buchtel's Corey Smith on OSU's Radar

2010-11-22T12:50:00.000-05:00

Akron Buchtel wide receiver Corey Smith has caught the eye of the Ohio State Buckeyes. After receiving offers from Michigan State and North Carolina, Smith is now on OSU’s radar said Buchtel coach Ricky Powers.

Whether the Buckeyes offer him depends on his grades and college test scores. Smith has also drawn interest from LSU, their program is apparently waiting for game film from the entire season.

SVSM's Doran Grant Announces Visits

2010-11-22T12:47:00.001-05:00

St. Vincent-St. Mary defensive back Doran Grant has selected four colleges for official visits. Grant is one of the state’s prized recruits in football and although he plies his trade predominantly at defensive back, he played quarterback, receiver and running back for the Irish this year. The schools he will officially visit:

Michigan State

Ohio State

USC

Notre Dame

Schools still in the running for the fifth visit:

Michigan

Georgia Tech

Iowa

Penn State

Article from George Thomas (Akron Beacon Journal)

Ticket Locations

2010-11-17T15:53:00.002-05:00

All Star Game tickets are on sale for $7 and can be purchased at:

North High School - 985 Gorge Blvd Akron, Ohio 44310

Buchtel High School - 1040 Copley Rd. Akron, Ohio 44320

2 Live Music - 1286 Vernon Odom Blvd Akron, Ohio 44307

Delanie's Neighborhood Grille - 67 West Ave Tallmadge, Ohio 44278

Tickets can also be purchased online by clicking HERE

Updated Rosters Coming

2010-11-17T12:39:00.000-05:00

Updated All Star Game rosters will be posted soon. Players from St Vincent St Mary, Twinsburg, and Tallmadge were previously omitted from the roster because they were in playoff competition.

Joe Vassalotti Named Head Coach

2010-11-17T12:37:00.001-05:00

Tallmadge High School's head coach Joe Vassalotti has been named head coach of the East All Stars. Vassalotti will replace Woodridge's Eric Ervin as the East All Star's head coach, after Woodridge was moved to the West All Star's because of the current playoff situation.

Vassalotti is coming off a impressive season after leading the Blue Devils to a 11-1 record and capturing the Suburban League championship. Vassalotti is a 3-time Akron Touchdown Club Coach of the Year. (2004, 2005, & 2007)

Woodridge Moves to West All Stars

2010-11-17T12:28:00.000-05:00

Woodridge High School has moved to the West All Stars squad. Eric Ervin will remain as a head coach, however, he will move with the all stars from his team to the West All Stars squad.

Two playoff teams remain alive on the West All Stars squad. (Akron Buchtel & Manchester). As of right now, these players are not eligible to play.

All Star Game Tickets

2010-11-15T18:13:00.000-05:00

Purchase your Thanksgiving Day All Star Game ticekts in advance! Ticketes only $7. Click HERE

Cleveland Plain Dealer Starting Blocks TV

2010-11-15T18:08:00.002-05:00

Starting Blocks TV High School Sports Edition for the week of Nov. 15, 2010

Oden Emerging as a Two-Way Star

2010-11-15T17:47:00.000-05:00

Check out this article on Marlon Oden from Buchtel High School. Marlon is a beast on the field but he's also an excellent kid.

Article via George Thomas - Akron Beacon Journal

Buchtel football coach Ricky Powers doesn't understand why more people don't know who Marlon Oden is.

''He's the best-kept secret in Ohio high school football,'' Powers said.

Not a lot has been said or written about the speedy, hard-hitting hybrid linebacker-safety for the Griffins.

''I don't know why no one knows who this kid is. If you had to play Buchtel High, in your meetings, you sat down and you worried where No. 2 was,'' Powers said. ''The kid has been doing it forever, and this year, he's really shined. Every game we've won, he's had an impact on it.''

After seeing Oden play, it's not difficult to figure out exactly who he is. Against Firestone, his efforts on defense, including an interception near the goal line, proved to be the difference in the game.

In the opening round of the playoffs against Poland Seminary, the senior ran 45 yards for a score. Yes, he's also an effective running back.

''I've been playing great on defense all year, and I just felt like it would have been my breakthrough on offense,'' Oden said Tuesday as the Griffins prepared to play Parma Padua Franciscan (8-3) on Saturday night at Judy Kirsch Field in Brunswick.

But playing on offense comes with occasional risk. In his case it came after he fumbled just one play after Buchtel's defense had recovered a Poland fumble near the Buchtel 3-yard line. Poland Seminary recovered and scored. Fortunately for the Griffins, the 2-point conversion attempt failed and they escaped with a 20-18 victory last Friday.

''There were a lot of things going on with that fumble; I wouldn't have been able to live with myself if we hadn't been able to pull things through,'' he said.

It's one of those moments that high school athletes live with and hopefully learn from. It's just one of the lessons he has absorbed in a short life — the other being discovering where he belongs.

He wasn't one of the original players who bought into Powers, who took over the program four years ago. Oden began his athletic career at Copley High School. He stayed there for two years, then transferred back to his neighborhood school.

''I went out to Copley for a new start, but it wasn't the best thing for me. Just coming back here fit. I was home,'' Oden said. ''Copley was a great learning environment, but as far as me wanting to get to the next level, I really couldn't see myself getting there.''

That points to an advantage that the Griffins might have over other schools in the city — the mere presence of Powers, a guy who succeeded at Buchtel, went on to play at the University of Michigan and played some in the NFL.

''It's a big difference, but it's not,'' Oden said. ''Buchtel was a powerhouse team when he was here, and he's trying to get that legacy going again with us.''

Powers doesn't need to recruit players to Buchtel. He wants players from the neighborhood who want to play for him. That is Oden, who has succeeded off the field, too.

''Buchtel's always had a bad rep. People say, 'It's an all-African-American school. They are thugs,' and all of that,'' Powers said. ''It's not like that. These kids see that. Check Marlon's grades. See what they were at Copley and see what they are here. The kid has bought in.''

That has worked on the field, too. Between his junior and senior seasons, Oden began waking at 6 a.m. during the summer to go run the steps at InfoCision Stadium on the University of Akron campus.

''I had a chance to work out with some guys that have been there before and just dedicated myself to it,'' he said.

That's one of the differences this season, Powers said.

''He got more comfortable. He was new to us last year. He's bought into the way we do things here at Buchtel. He's a Buchtel guy,'' he said. ''If you want a picture of a Buchtel guy; it's Marlon Oden.''

In this case, being a Buchtel guy is a good thing because Oden will have options, athletically and academically. He has an interest in studying engineering or sports management.

The grades are there, but the ACT scores need to improve slightly for him to land at a Division I college — Northern Illinois, Marshall and Syracuse have shown interest. Powers has brought in a tutor to help him and teammates with that issue.

Who is Marlon Oden?

College recruiters are learning. Tuesday another learned when paying Powers a visit.

''Michigan State came here [Tuesday], and they didn't hear of Marlon Oden,'' Powers said. ''They heard of Chevin Meadows. They knew who Corey Smith was. I told the recruiter, 'Let me get you some film and you figure it out for yourself.' ''

Here's betting that it won't take long.

Buchtel Advances to Regional Semifinals

2010-11-15T17:42:00.000-05:00

Article via George Thomas - Akron Beacon Journal

BRUNSWICK:A flair for the dramatic is never needed in any playoff game and the Buchtel Griffins could have certainly done without it during their Division III regional semifinal game against the Parma Padua Bruins.

Entering the fourth quarter with a seemingly insurmountable 19-point lead, the Griffins proved once again that they can be their own worst enemies. They endured an offensive onslaught in the fourth quarter to survive against the Bruins 32-21, winning the right to face Youngstown Cardinal Mooney in a regional final next Saturday.

For the Griffins, it's almost as if a little drama is needed for them to kick things up a notch or two.

''I hope not,'' said Buchtel coach Ricky Powers. ''We started before the season with some drama. Right now, we should be a documentary.''

Padua scored two touchdowns inside a minute and 30 seconds to tighten a game that should have never been that close.

The Griffins defense set the tone on the first play from scrimmage. The Bruins received the ball to start the game and the Griffins defense blew up a running play, causing a fumble. Buchtel defensive end Jevonte Blackwell scooped up the fumble and rumbled 28 yards for a touchdown to give the Griffins the lead eight seconds into the game.

''I just saw an opportunity to make a play,'' Blackwell said. ''We don't let up. We do what we have to do to win.''

But that fire almost escaped them during the game's late stages as the Bruins capitalized on two long pass plays. Padua quarterback Nick Solano finished both drives with runs of fewer than 5 yards.

What was a commanding 25-7 lead dwindled to just 25-21 with time no longer being the Griffins' ally, but a nemesis. The Bruins got a final shot at winning the game, but Buchtel's defense found its rhythm and constantly harassed Solano on Parma Padua's last drive.

Solano, running for his life, tossed a ball that bounced off the hands of his receiver and into the waiting arms of Buchtel defensive back Jarrod Wilson, who raced 57 yards for the backbreaker with 2:07 left in the game.

''Once I caught the ball, I knew that I could score,'' he said.

It was a perfect way for a defense to redeem itself, he said.

''We sort of let up,'' Wilson said. ''We need to stay focused and remember that anything can happen.''

Anything might have happened were it not for the timely play of quarterback Tyler Jones. Subbing for an injured Steve Parker, Jones, who began the season as the team's starting quarterback, scored on touchdown runs of 12 and 21 yards and threw another 21-yard touchdown to wide receiver Corey Smith.

''I didn't want this to be his last game,'' Jones said of Parker. ''I had to make sure that he got the chance to start one more game.''

He did that and more, but even Jones couldn't deny one fact. Despite letdowns in the fourth quarter, the defense won this game with its ninth and tenth touchdowns of the season.

''When your defense can put points on the board, that's a good thing,'' he said in what very well may be the understatement of the year related to this Griffins team.

Woodridge's Eric Ervin Named Head Coach

2010-11-11T17:19:00.001-05:00

Eric Ervin, head coach of Woodridge High School has been named head coach of the East All Stars.

Ervin, who is in his 7th year at Woodridge, is coming off of an impressive season after leading the Bulldogs to a 7-3 record. In 2009, Ervin was named the Summit & Portage County Coach of the Year by the Cleveland Touchdown Club as well as the Clem Caraboolad Memorial Coach of the Year award in April 2010 AND Co-Coach of the Year in the Portage Trail Conference. The Bulldogs finished that season at 10-3 while making a nice playoff run. Ervin inherited a team that went 1-9 in his first year and has turned the program around to becoming a perennial playoff contender. Woodridge is now regarded as one of the best teams in the PTC.

You can read an article about Coach Ervin from The Akron Beacon Journal after the jump

In early December of 1987, the lives of Eric Ervin and Clem Caraboolad intersected for the first and only time.

The occasion was a visitation session for eighth-grade students considering Archbishop Hoban as their high school of choice.

It was then that Ervin, a prospective student and football player from Immaculate Conception School in Akron, met Caraboolad, a mathematics and religion teacher and the football coach at Hoban.

''At the time, I really liked St. V. [St. Vincent-St. Mary], but my dad liked Hoban. He really liked coach Caraboolad,'' said Ervin, who is now the football coach at Woodridge. ''When I met him, he was vibrant, excited. You could tell he had a great passion for Hoban.

''I remember going into his classroom. There were Christmas lights up. There was a big pyramid in the middle of the room, hanging from the ceiling. There was music playing. It seemed like he made school an enjoyable place to be.''

Ervin eventually choose to attend Hoban and play football for the Knights but was never coached by Caraboolad.

About two months after that meeting, Caraboolad died of a heart attack at the age of 43.

About 23 years after that meeting, the two will forever be linked because Ervin has been named the 2010 winner of the Clem Caraboolad Memorial Coach of the Year award.

''It's an honor, a real honor. To win the award, looking back, it means a lot more because of the short interaction with him and that it helped me pick Hoban,'' Ervin said. ''To win an award named after him is special.''

Ervin, 35, who is in his sixth year as coach of the Bulldogs, will receive the award Sunday at the Touchdown Club of Greater Akron winter banquet at Guy's Party Center.

The award is given annually to the area coach who exemplifies the dedication shown by Caraboolad in motivating students and players to excel, as well as having that same commitment to his family.

Ervin took over a dormant Woodridge football program in 2004. In 2009, the Bulldogs qualified for the state playoffs for the first time in school history.

His work as a coach is matched by his work as an English teacher, Woodridge principal Mic Becerra said.

''The excellence you see in him as a coach on the field, you see it in the classroom as well. He is a father figure to many of our students, and not just the athletes,'' Becerra said. ''What he gets out of his kids on the field, he will get it out of his students in class. He has a great relationship with so many of our students.''

Jill Schissler, the Woodridge athletic director, said she nominated Ervin — known around school as ''Coach Erv'' — for the award because of his people skills.

''I believe what makes Eric effective is his honesty with kids and his rapport with kids,'' Schissler said. ''Anybody can have a background in Xs and Os. Eric has a background in people. He can relate to parents and students. He is a great communicator and a great motivator.''

Schissler said she saw another side of Ervin last year, one that related to the commitment Ervin has for his wife of 11 years, Maryann, and their two children, Cameron (10) and Marisa (7).

''Eric came to Mic and I and said, 'Guys, I am going to give up the offseason weight training. One of my assistants is going to do it,' '' Schissler said. ''We then asked him what was up, why he was doing it. He said he wanted to spend more time with his family. He is very family-oriented.''

Ervin played football for four years at Hoban under then-coach Mike Schmitz. He then played at the University of Akron from 1994-96 under then-coaches Gerry Faust and Lee Owens.

After getting his degree, he was a teacher and assistant football coach at Beachwood, Stow and Hudson. In 2004, he was named football coach at Woodridge but continued to teach at Hudson. He did that for two years before also becoming a teacher at Woodridge in 2006.

The Bulldogs had pockets of football success through the years but had no tradition of winning consistently. His first Woodridge team had only 33 players and finished 1-9.

''It was a challenge. They had some great players and coaches in the past, but just could never put it all together. We had to fix that,'' Ervin said. ''The first thing we had to do was change the culture. We had to teach them how to prepare, how to practice, how to win.''

Improvement was gradual, with his 2005 team going 2-8 and his 2006 team going 3-7. Ervin needed all his coaching and people skills during that 2006 season because the school's new stadium had turf problems that delayed its opening by a year and meant no home games.

''That was a very difficult year. We sold the players on the idea of playing in the new stadium and it didn't happen,'' Ervin said. ''It was a backbreaker. I felt bad for all of them, especially the seniors.''

Then came 2007, when the improvement was evident in an 8-2 record. In 2008, the Bulldogs were 5-5 — and was a precursor for the magical 2009 that ended with a 10-3 record.

In the first appearance ever in the state playoffs, the Bulldogs — with a roster of 82 players — defeated Martins Ferry (49-28) and Girard (34-20) in Division IV to become the only Summit County school to make a regional final.

The Bulldogs lost to Chagrin Falls (58-28) in that game, but that could not erase the memories of an accomplishment a long time coming.

''It was a special year. But it wasn't like we just showed up and it happened. A lot of hard work went into it,'' said Ervin, who was voted Northeast Ohio-Inland district co-coach of the year in Division IV. ''I was excited for the people around here. We are a small school in a big-school area, so it brought a lot of pride to this place.''

To players such as Bryan Peters and David Charles, Ervin's role in the 2009 success must never be underestimated.

''As a coach, he meant the world to us. He was by far, the greatest coach I have ever had,'' said Peters, a junior defensive end. ''He worked with me in practice, so when game times came around, I did my best for him.

''This year was a dream come true and he was the leader. He rode us hard and got the most out of us.''

Charles, a senior linebacker, said Ervin was positive on and off the field.

''Coach has been great to all of us. He built the program from nowhere. He completely changed everything,'' Charles said. ''He is one of he best motivators I have ever seen or talked to.

''This year, he knew we could be good and he made sure we stayed focused. He made it clear we could be successful as long as we could keep our heads on straight.''

During the 2009 season, Ervin also showed Caraboolad-type compassion for senior Brandon King.

King suffered a shoulder injury late in the 2008 season. He played baseball in the spring so he did not have surgery. Finally, in the summer of 2009, he could wait no longer. A torn labrum and subsequent surgery meant no football for King in 2009.

Ervin, though, did not let King feel unwanted or unneeded.

''I had to call him during the summer and tell him I couldn't play. It was very emotional,'' King said. ''He was very compassionate about it. He told me I would be missed, but that I could hang out with the team as much as I wanted to.

''He said he would find a job for me. A lot of coaches would have forgotten about me since I couldn't play. Coach Erv knew how to handle it. He made me a sideline cameraman so I could be down on the field with the team.''

Ervin's other professional passion is as an English teacher. He has three American Literature classes and two freshman English classes per day, with a total of about 100 students.

In the literature classes, he tries to take a practical approach that this generation of students can understand, often having them reenact classic plays or books.

''I like to take a piece of literature that is old, older than any of us, maybe centuries old and show kids how it can relate to their lives today,'' said Ervin, who resides in Stow with his family.

In all of his English classes, Ervin tries to emphasize the values of reading, writing and thinking.

''There are three goals I have in my classes,'' he said. ''I want them to be able to read something and understand it. Second, I want them to form an opinion on what they read. And then I want them to be able to defend that opinion, in writing or in speaking.

''If you can do those things things when you leave my class, you are successful and I think I am successful.''

When Eric Ervin says things like that, he sounds just like a teacher-coach he met in 1987.

Photos courtesy of The Akron Beacon Journal

Big Name Players Commit to Thanksgiving Day Game

2010-11-11T16:28:00.001-05:00

The Ohio State's prized recruit Tommy Brown of Akron Firestone High School is one of many big name players who have committed to playing in the Summit County Thanksgiving Day All Star Game. Tommy also attended our Akron area combine. If you haven't had a chance to see Tommy play, come check him out in person at Thursday November 25th.

2010-11-10T19:08:00.000-05:00

Don't hear about it...be there.

Tickets available online HERE

Game Balls Are In

2010-11-10T18:21:00.000-05:00

Again, much thanks to Wilson, the official football of the NFL, NCAA, and OHSAA. Today we received a shipment of footballs for the game. To find out more please visit Wilson's website, http://www.wilson.com/football

What a Play!

2010-11-09T15:28:00.000-05:00

All Star Game Tickets on Sale Now

2010-11-09T11:24:00.000-05:00

Make sure you purchase your all star game tickets now. You can do so by clicking here HERE

Buchtel Back as a Force in Postseason

2010-11-08T13:26:00.000-05:00

Buchtel quarterback Steve Parker (left) gets away from Poland Seminary's Jerry Lawman on a second quarter run in a Division III Regional Quarterfinal game at InfoCision Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010, in Akron, Ohio. (Phil Masturzo/Akron Beacon Journal)

Last week, there was little special about Buchtel's special teams.

It proved to be a different story in a Division III first-round playoff game against Poland Seminary on Saturday night at InfoCision Stadium in Akron.

The Griffins' special teams were the difference, along with a defensive stand on a 2-point conversion in a thrilling 20-18 victory over Poland Seminary.

''The big thing we did this week is took a whole day on special teams,'' Buchtel coach Ricky Powers said. ''We thought it was that important. Sometimes that's what's going to make a difference in a game. Some of the great teams we played this year, that's how they got us. They broke the game open with special teams.''

Buchtel blocked two field-goal attempts by Poland to deny the Bulldogs precious points in a game in which scoring opportunities were few. Those blocks came early in the game, but their presence loomed throughout as Poland continued to try to scrape back in a game that it never led.

''I think that anybody who plays us, their weakness is going to be our speed,'' Powers said. ''We really focused on hitting those gaps and getting around those corners because I don't think anyone can block our corner kids.''

In a scrappy, tough game that didn't lack for thrills, the big plays were more obvious because there were so few of them. Big in this case, doesn't mean significance with respect to yardage, but with respect to impact on the outcome.

None was more significant than a 17-yard scoring catch by wide receiver Corey Smith (four receptions, 52 yards, one touchdown) with 17 seconds left in the second quarter to cap a nine-play, 65-yard drive. Smith said that the Bulldogs' secondary kept giving him different looks in their coverage throughout the game.

On the play, he had double coverage. Quarterback Stephen Parker dropped back and heaved the ball to the corner of the end zone. Smith ripped the ball from the defender's hands.

''You throw the ball up and I go get it. It was in the air and he had it,'' he said. ''I just had to go get it from him. You have to go get the ball. That's our philosophy. If the ball is in the air, it's yours.''

The effort didn't surprise Powers.

''Mr. Smith is a guy who is finally showing what he can really do,'' he said. ''That's something we know he can do naturally. The biggest thing is we want him to show that he can do it naturally.''

That didn't clinch things for the Griffins, however. In fact, even an early fourth-quarter touchdown run by quarterback Tyler Jones wasn't enough to give the Griffins some breathing room.

In a bizarre series of events, Poland drove to the Griffins' 3-yard line with just over two minutes to go and looked to be going in. But their running back fumbled the ball and Buchtel recovered. Victory was just a first down or two away.

But on the first play from their 2-yard line, the Griffins fumbled the ball, giving the Bulldogs life. Poland scored and needed the 2-point conversion. Bulldogs quarterback Colin Reardon dropped to pass and only found the waiting hands of Griffins senior cornerback Chevin Meadows. A failed onside kick sealed the deal.

Buchtel will face Parma Padua in the second round. The Griffins, however, did allow themselves to enjoy this moment.

''I feel very happy for our seniors,'' Smith, a junior said. ''They've been waiting for four years just to try to get here.''

Article courtesy of George Thomas / Akron Beacon Journal

FridayNightOhio's Week 11 Coverage

2010-11-08T13:17:00.000-05:00

Go check out FridayNightOhio.com now

Summit County Thanksgiving Day All Star Game

2010-11-06T01:25:00.000-04:00

It's coming...Are you ready?

Official All Star Game Ball

2010-11-04T16:01:00.000-04:00

We are proud to announce that the good people over at Wilson Sporting Goods Co. will be sponsoring the Summit County Thanksgiving Day All Star Game. The Wilson GST 1003 will be used in all star practices and as the official game ball of the Thanksgiving Day All Star Game. Wilson is also the official football of the NFL, NCAA, AYF and the Ohio High School Athletic Association.

You can check out Wilson and more about their footballs at www.Wilson.com/football

Players Pick Up Scholarships

2010-11-03T17:34:00.000-04:00

Here are the most recent players in the state to commit to scholarship offers at Divison I schools:

Sean Duggan - St. X

Sean Duggan - Cincinnati St Xavier - Boston College

Jesse Hayes

Jesse Hayes - Cincinnati Moeller - Wisconsin

Gridlocks TV Week 11

2010-11-03T17:01:00.000-04:00

Watch The Akron Beacon Journal's Gridlocks TV here:
Gridlocks: Week 11

All Star Game UPDATE

2010-11-02T18:45:00.000-04:00

There has been a change to the format of the upcoming all star game. In order to better serve the players of Summit County, we have decided to only include Summit County schools. The game will be played between the East All Stars and the West All Stars.

The teams will be divided as follows: (BOLD denotes teams currently in state playoffs)

EAST All Stars

Akron East
Akron Ellet
Akron Garfield
CVCA
Green
Hudson
Mogadore
Nordonia
Springfield
Stow
Tallmadge
Twinsburg
Walsh Jesuit
Woodridge

WEST All Stars

Akron Buchtel
Akron Firestone
Akron Kenmore
Akron North
Archbishop Hoban
Barberton
Copley
Coventry
Cuyahoga Falls
Manchester
Norton
Revere
St Vincent St Mary

Online voting will end at Midnight on Wednesday November 4, 2010. We are currently sorting through coach nomination forms and rosters will be finalized THIS FRIDAY November 6, 2010.

The game is on November 25, 2010 (Thanksgiving Day) at 10:30am at St.Vincent St. Mary High School.
You can purchase tickets online now by clicking HERE

SVSM's Doran Grant on Cover of ESPN's RISE Magazine

2010-11-01T16:54:00.000-04:00

St Vincent - St. Mary's coveted recruit Doran Grant graced the cover of ESPN's Rise Magazine this past week. You can read the entire article after the jump.

As a kid, Doran Grant was a daredevil who gave his mother, Tonya, plenty of reasons to worry.

When he was 2, he regularly attempted to scale the fireplace and kitchen cabinets at his house. At 4, he started doing back flips in the backyard. Then at 7, he began imitating Superman by clearing his home’s 12-step staircase in a single leap with a towel tied around his neck like a cape.

He clearly had an endless amount of energy. He just needed to find a way to channel it — other than working on his Michael Jackson dance moves, which he also loved to do as a kid — before he hurt himself or drove his mom crazy. Enter organized sports.

Grant started off by playing basketball, then he joined the Ellet Raiders football squad and also ran track. By middle school, he had added wrestling and ice hockey to the docket. Thankfully for Tonya, she was finally able to relax at home once her son found more productive outlets for his exuberance.

“He got better because he saved his energy for sports,” says his mother.

And he’s used that energy well. Grant is now a three-sport star at St. Vincent-St. Mary (Akron, Ohio) The senior is the defending Division II state champion in the 110-meter hurdles and also plays on the SVSM basketball team. But it’s the football field where he truly excels.

The 5-foot-11, 180-pound Grant is a star cornerback, wide receiver and kick returner for the Irish. Projected to play corner in college, he’s rated the No. 3 player nationally at the position and is the No. 65 overall recruit in the ESPNU 150. He was one of 64 elite players who participated in the Champion Gridiron Kings this past summer in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., as part of the ESPN RISE Games Presented by Target.

With that kind of résumé, it’s no wonder national programs like USC, Michigan and Penn State — in addition to local powerhouses like Ohio State and Cincinnati — have offered him scholarships.

Grant has been working toward gridiron greatness since he began training seven days a week when he was in the sixth grade. His father, Ted Jones, is a former standout wide receiver at Michigan State and has been a key influence on Grant’s career. Having seen up close what makes a great cornerback during his college career, Jones has passed on numerous tips to his son. Grant appreciates all his father has shown him, though he wishes his dad would go one on- one against him.

“I told him he doesn’t want an old, fat man beating him,” says Jones with a laugh. “As good as he is now, he still can’t beat me.”

“He wouldn’t get off the line,” says Grant. In addition to working with his dad, Grant lifts weights regularly at the local YMCA. And every Saturday night during the offseason he works with Mark Harris, CEO of Raw Talent Sports, at the company’s training facility in Warrensville Heights. Harris, who was a cornerback at Kent State and has trained Pro Bowl corner Nate Clements, works with Grant on position-specific drills like backpedalling fundamentals and coverage techniques.

“I give these kids everything I’ve learned to help prepare them for the next level,” says Harris.

But Grant’s training doesn’t end there. Every Sunday, he runs the steps at the McKinley Memorial in Canton to improve his conditioning.

“I work out hardest on Sundays because that’s the day I want to play on,” he says.

It’s all paid off in a big way. A three-year varsity starter, Grant recorded 33 tackles, three picks, two fumble recoveries, three defensive touchdowns and four blocked field goal attempts during his sophomore season with the Irish.

Two of those defensive scores came in a game against rival Archbishop Hoban. With the Irish trailing 12-6 in the fourth quarter, Grant picked up a fumble and returned it 53 yards for a score. He later clinched the game with a 59-yard pick-6 to help SVSM prevail, 20-12.

"He won the Hoban game by himself,” says SVSM fourth-year head coach Dan Boarman. “Right there, I knew we had something special.

”Last season, Grant picked up All-Ohio second team honors after shining in every aspect of the game. He caught 33 passes for 688 yards and seven touchdowns on offense, tallied 40 tackles and an interception on defense, and blocked a field goal and returned a punt for a touchdown on special teams.

The explanation for Grant’s modest numbers on defense is that teams simply don’t dare throw or run to his side. And it’s easy to see why.

He can bench press 325 pounds, so if you try to go through him he’ll just use his strength to jam you. He’s been laser-timed at 4.37 seconds in the 40, so good luck running past him. And with his 41.2-inch vertical, don’t even bother trying to outjump him.

Grant relishes the fact that he can completely neutralize his side of the field.

“You’re out on an island and you’ve got to own it,” he says.

“He’s got all the tools,” adds Boarman, who was the defensive coordinator for three SVSM state championship teams. “He’s great with his technique and he can tackle. You’ve got a lot of guys who can run who won’t be physical. He won’t shy away from that.”

Perhaps Grant’s greatest attribute is his leadership, which the two-year captain displays on and off the field. Boarman describes Grant as a great teacher who’ll often work on technique with underclassmen after practice.

“This kid is a special one,” says Boarman. “He’s the kind of kid that every coach wants around.”

“Doran is the total package,” adds Harris. “He’s a great kid, and he does everything the way it’s supposed to be. This is who you’d want to be your son.”

As for that youthful energy, Grant still does backflips, only these days it’s while leading his team onto the field. And he’s perfected his Michael Jackson dance moves, which he often showcases for family and friends. But for the most part, he saves his energy for the field. At home, those days of climbing fireplaces and cabinets are long gone.

“I can barely get him to move now,” says Tonya.

How times have changed.

State Playoff Pairings

2010-11-01T16:41:00.000-04:00

COLUMBUS The Ohio High School Athletic Association released the regional quarterfinal (first-round) pairings Sunday for the football state tournaments. Listed below are the seeds, schools and won-lost records of the tournament qualifiers.

Seeds 1-4 are regional quarterfinal hosts and will meet with the OHSAA in Columbus Monday (Nov. 1), at which time any changes to the game location or time will be finalized. Should any updates occur (due to shared facilities, lack of lights, etc.), updated pairings will be released Monday night or Tuesday morning.

The regional semifinals, regional finals and state semifinals will all be played at neutral sites. The state finals will be played at Massillon Paul Brown Tiger Stadium and Canton Fawcett Stadium Dec. 3-4.

See the match ups after the jump

Division I - Games tentatively scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6.

Region 1

8 Brecksville-Broadview Heights (7-3) at 1 Solon (10-0)

7 Warren G. Harding (8-2) at 2 Cleveland Glenville (10-0)

6 Mentor (7-3) at 3 Lakewood St. Edward (10-0)

5 Willoughby South (9-1) at 4 Austintown-Fitch (9-1)

Region 2

8 Medina (8-2) at 1 Canton McKinley (8-2)

7 Twinsburg (9-1) at 2 Sylvania Southview (10-0)

6 Massillon Washington (7-3) at 3 Toledo Whitmer (9-1)

5 Fremont Ross (9-1) at 4 Toledo St. John's Jesuit (9-1)

Region 3

8 Troy (8-2) at 1 Pickerington Central (9-0)

7 Columbus Northland (8-2) at 2 Hilliard Davidson (10-0)

6 Hilliard Darby (8-2) at 3 Springfield (8-2)

5 Dublin Coffman (8-2) at 4 Westerville South (8-2)

Region 4

8 Huber Heights Wayne (7-3) at 1 Middletown (10-0)

7 Hamilton (7-3) at 2 Cincinnati Colerain (10-0)

6 Cincinnati St. Xavier (5-4) at 3 Cincinnati LaSalle (9-1)

5 Centerville (8-2) at 4 Cincinnati Archbishop Moeller (7-3)

Division II - Games tentatively scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Frida y, Nov. 5.

Region 5

8 Kent Roosevelt (8-2) at 1 Tallmadge (10-0)

7 Chagrin Falls Kenston (8-2) at 2 Mentor Lake Catholic (9-1)

6 Warren Howland (10-0) at 3 Copley (9-1)

5 Aurora (8-2) at 4 Ashland (8-2)

Region 6

8 Sandusky (6-4) at 1 Avon (10-0)

7 Maumee (7-3) at 2 Avon Lake (8-2)

6 Cleveland John F. Kennedy (7-3) at 3 Olmsted Falls (7-3)

5 Maple Heights (10-0) at 4 Toledo Central Catholic (8-2)

Region 7

8 Zanesville (9-1) at 1 Columbus Marion-Franklin (10-0)

7 Dresden Tri-Valley (8-2) at 2 New Albany (10-0)

6 Columbus St. Charles (5-4) at 3 Uniontown Lake (7-3)

5 Sunbury Big Walnut (8-2) at 4 Canal Winchester (9-1)

Region 8

8 Dayton Carroll (7-3) at 1 Cincinnati Winton Woods (9-1)

7 New Carlisle Tecumseh (7-3) at 2 Kings Mills Kings (9-1)

6 Cincinnati Mount Healthy (8-2) at 3 Cincinnati Turpin (9-1)

5 Harrison (5-5) at 4 Trotwood-Madison (8- 2)

Division III - Games tentatively scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6.

Region 9

8 Hunting Valley University School (7-3) at 1 Parma Padua Franciscan (7-3)

7 Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary (6-4) at 2 Hubbard (8-2)

6 Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (5-4) at 3 Mogadore Field (7-3)

5 Poland Seminary (7-3) at 4 Akron Buchtel (7-3)

Region 10

8 Columbus St. Francis DeSales (5-5) at 1 Columbus Bishop Watterson (8-1)

7 Shelby (8-2) at 2 Clyde (9-1)

6 Columbus Eastmoor Academy (6-3) at 3 Tiffin Columbian (9-1)

5 Elida (8-2) at 4 Tipp City Tippecanoe (9-1)

Region 11

8 Minerva (8-2) at 1 Alliance Marlington (10-0)

7 Dover (8-2) at 2 Steubenville (8-2)

6 Salem (8-2) at 3 Thornville Sheridan (10-0)

5 Newark Licking Valley (8-2) at 4 East Liverpool (8-2)

Region 12

8 Washington Court House Washington (8-2) at 1 Springfield Shawnee (9-1)

7 Dayton Dunbar (7-3) at 2 Cin. Archbishop McNicholas (8-2)

6 Cincinnati Wyoming (9-1) at 3 St. Bernard Roger Bacon (7-3)

5 Jackson (9-1) at 4 Eaton (10-0)

Division IV - Games tentatively scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5.

Region 13

8 Perry (6-4) at 1 Akron Manchester (10-0)

7 Garrettsville Garfield (8-2) at 2 Chagrin Falls (9-1)

6 Cortland Lakeview (8-2) at 3 St. Clairsville (8-2)

5 Campbell Memorial (9-1) at 4 Martins Ferry (7-2)

Region 14

8 Mansfield Ontario (7-3) at 1 Bellville Clear Fork (9-1)

7 Huron (7-3) at 2 Elyria Catholic (9-1)

6 Wooster Triway (8-2) at 3 Orrville (7-3)

5 Ottawa-Glandorf (8-2) at 4 Genoa Area (10-0)

Region 15

8 Coshocton (8-2) at 1 Ironton (8-2)

7 Albany Alexander (8-2) at 2 Heath (9-1)

6 Amanda-Clearcreek (7-3) at 3 Columbus Bishop Hartley (8-2)

5 Portsmouth West (8-2) at 4 Sparta Highland (8-2)

Region 16

8 Cincinnati Taft (7-3) a t 1 Clarksville Clinton-Massie (10-0)

7 Waynesville (8-2) at 2 Plain City Jonathan Alder (9-1)

6 Kettering Archbishop Alter (8-2) at 3 Cincinnati North College Hill (10-0)

5 Kenton (9-1) at 4 Carlisle (10-0)

Division V - Games tentatively scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6.

Region 17

8 North Lima South Range (7-3) at 1 Youngstown Ursuline (10-0)

7 Independence (8-2) at 2 Kirtland (10-0)

6 Hanoverton United (7-3) at 3 Cuyahoga Heights (9-1)

5 Creston Norwayne (8-2) at 4 Columbiana Crestview (9-1)

Region 18

8 Northwood (7-3) at 1 Archbold (10-0)

7 Jeromesville Hillsdale (9-1) at 2 Collins Western Reserve (10-0)

6 Columbia Station Columbia (9-1) at 3 Hamler Patrick Henry (9-1)

5 Defiance Tinora (10-0) at 4 Lima Central Catholic (9-1)

Region 19

8 Coal Grove Dawson-Bryant (8-2) at 1 Oak Hill (9-1)

7 Woodsfield Monroe Central (8-2) at 2 Fredericktown (10-0)

6 West Lafayette Ridgewood (10-0) at 3 Wheelersburg (8-2)

5 Nelsonville-York (8-2) at 4 Minford (8-2)

Region 20

8 Hamilton Badin (5-5) at 1 Richwood North Union (10-0)

7 Cin. Summit Country Day (7-3) at 2 West Jefferson (10-0)

6 Lees Creek East Clinton (8-2) at 3 Cincinnati Hills Christian Acad. (7-3)

5 Coldwater (7-3) at 4 Anna (8-2)

Division VI - Games tentatively scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5.

Region 21

8 Dalton (7-3) at 1 Bucyrus Wynford (10-0)

7 New Washington Buckeye Central (9-1) at 2 Mogadore (10-0)

6 Monroeville (8-2) at 3 Thompson Ledgemont (10-0)

5 McDonald (8-2) at 4 Berlin Center Western Reserve (9-1)

Region 22

8 Edgerton (7-3) at 1 Delphos St. John's (10-0)

7 Fremont St. Joseph Central Catholic (9-1) at 2 McComb (10-0)

6 Toledo Christian (8-2) at 3 Sycamore Mohawk (9-1)

5 Leipsic (9-1) at 4 Ada (9-1)

Region 23

8 Glouste r Trimble (7-3) at 1 Shadyside (9-1)

7 Salineville Southern (8-2) at 2 Bridgeport (10-0)

6 Lancaster Fairfield Christian Academy (9-0) at 3 Newark Catholic (7-3)

5 Malvern (7-3) at 4 Willow Wood Symmes Valley (9-1)

Region 24

8 Minster (5-5) at 1 Springfield Catholic Central (9-1)

7 Lockland (6-4) at 2 Sidney Lehman Catholic (9-1)

6 Ansonia (9-1) at 3 Covington (10-0)

5 Maria Stein Marion Local (8-2) at 4 Fort Loramie (8-2)

FridayNightOhio's Week 10 Coverage

2010-11-01T16:14:00.001-04:00

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