Duck Tales, Football 2007

NOV. 22
THANKSGIVING RIVALRY
Germantown 34, Martin Luther King 19
Well, every year on my favorite holiday this game is a part of my life and, as usual, this was a thoroughly joyful experience. The Bears regained control of this rivalry but as always Martin Luther King was an extremely spirited foe. In the game’s early stages, the Bears started off getting the ball to star sophomore halfback Brent West. West led the Bears downfield with relative ease on the game’s first possession, one that was capped off with a 3-yard touchdown run for Tramelle McKie. After a King fumble the Bears added another score with West taking the ball in from 19 yards out. The score put the count at 14-0. The Cougars responded before halftime with a five-yard run from stud sophomore back Joseph Montouth. Senior captain Richard Dixon made the extra point. In the second half there was much more from the Cougars, Montouth found paydirt again on a 3-yard run on the second half’s opening drive. After a G-Town fumble, Montouth again found the end zone with a 3-yard run. Montouth is a rarity in the Public League; he is a big, bruising back who can push piles of tacklers backwards. Only a sophomore with the time to grow and fill out, and with work on exploding through the holes and agility, he could be special in two years. Germantown awoke on the first play of the next drive with senior wide receiver Thorn Cerdan delighting the G-Town section with an absolutely devastating block on a Brent West run. That play along with a dynamic punt block from defensive lineman Jerome Plant set up another short touchdown run for McKie. Following a failed King possession. Quarterback Ramadan Abdullah tossed a 26-yard touchdown pass to Cerdan. That pretty much sealed this one, but West added a 14-yard reception from Abdullah in the late stages. West on the day carried 27 times for 206 yards West has some excellent possibilities; he has to work on his vision and strength but he sure is a talented and quick. Junior linebacker Shahid Bundy was a monster in this game. Bundy delivered 12 tackles and people in Montgomery County may have heard every last one of them. Bundy could be the next big timer from this program. It is all up to him, ALL of the tools are there and he is a hulking 6’0 200 lbs and could add more muscle to his frame and dominate with ease. King has nothing to hang their heads about they featured a majority of underclassmen and in general both programs could have extremely bright days ahead as well as they both return huge portions of their rosters. Two players that will be hard to replace for Coach John Sheroda are Brandon Lee and David Bunion. Both Lee and Bunion played hard and in a physical fashion. Junior linebacker Kadeem Brown led the Cougar defense with 8 tackles. A large shout out to Mamady Magassouba, the Germantown punter/place-kicker, Magassouba was as good if not better than any of the punters in the Public League that I saw all year long. Today on a kickoff that began the second half, he prevented a Kyeem Coleman (Kendall’s brother) kickoff return for touchdown with a sure tackle after ALL of his teammates were embarrassed by Coleman on the 68 yard kickoff return. Sometimes we all forget the importance of punters/kickers, but I was a little surprised that he was not All-Public.
Sidenotes- Lots of great sights at this game. (Not just the women, but of course they were many of them.) In attendance was Germantown alumnus Bernard Hopkins, one of the greatest fighters in Philadelphia’s proud boxing tradition… A nice ceremony at halftime honored former head coach Charlie Hicks and former assistant Don Koster. The locker rooms, which are still getting redone, have been renamed in honor of these two outstanding men…Both teams have exceptional cheerleaders….Germantown’s drumline was pretty awesome as well… I must say this: I cannot wait for next season; G-Town, King, Overbrook, George Washington, Dobbins have PLENTY of quality underclassmen returning. Roxborough, Bartram, Central, Franklin, Imhotep, Northeast and Bok graduate many quality seniors but have some solid underclassmen as well. It should make for an interesting season if the kids work on their books and grades and stay out of trouble. .. Finally an unnamed Germantown senior doused Mike Hawkins with a bucket of water. The coaching staff remarked in unison, “We had nothing to do with it.”

NOV. 9
NON-LEAGUE
Roxborough 20, Germantown 12
Amir Boler!!!. What a player. This guy is as good as any player in the Public League. Yes, he had modest numbers on offense with 8 carries for 44 yards but he turned a short pass from steady quarterback Stephen Tucker into an exciting 67 yard touchdown play. That spotted Roxy a 13-0 lead. On defense, the 6’1 195 pound senior mustered 8 tackles. As the Indians held on late, they turned to Boler for a key carry and he made a spectacular eight yard run for a first down. Boler bobbed and weaved like Sugar Ray Leonard making tacklers miss and stumble on the run. It was surely something to see. Boler is not a one man team, he had plenty of assistance. The Indian defense was able to intercept four passes. Seniors Adrese Hicks and Darryl McCray notched two of the picks. Both Hicks and McCray are quite impressive and fundamentally sound players. The Indians also boast three impressive underclass prospects in junior Joell Hilton (6’5 230), sophomore Braheem Ford (5’9 160) and sophomore Justin Coffey (6’2 255). All three appear to have bright futures. The Bears struggled in this one promising quarterback Ramadan Abdullah, had a day to forget with the four picks. (Its part of the learning process.) Fellow sophomore John Ellis was stellar. Ellis corralled 9 tackles.
Sidenotes- G-Town coach Mike Hawkins gave his squad a legendary tongue-lashing after this one. One issue: One of their teammates got injured and very little was heard from the Bears. On the contrary, after the game they heard plenty from Hawkins.

NOV. 2
CATHOLIC BLUE
McDevitt 34, Neumann-Goretti 6
This was a rare occasion for me to see the Catholic League. To make matters more strange this is the first time I was able to check out the CL Blue. This is normally Huck’s domain. McDevitt was able to regain control early in the game after falling behind the scrappy Saints, 6-0. They regained control with a 90-yard kickoff return from Jason Golderer. That would not be the last word from Golderer. The Lancer defense then stiffened. They were led by senior linebacker Joe Smart (6’2 225), who delivered 8 tackles, 3 sacks (-36 yards) and 3 quarterback hurries. The Lancer offensive machine took over and dominated the line of scrimmage, forging ahead for touchdown runs from Golderer, Justin Schley and quarterback Luke Sawick. Sawick started the second half by airing it out to wide receiver Steve Harris for a play that should have made all of the Friday night Highlight shows. I was also impressed with the play of senior captain Stephen “The Chief” Yuan. The “Chief” is a force on the defensive line of scrimmage. He had an early injury but man was he tackling people. The same can be said of Smart, who was an absolute beast on the field. Neumann’s banner as carried by junior defensive lineman Kadeem Custis who made 9 tackles and battled non-stop throughout even when suffering an injury. Running back Hakeem "Skiz" Johnson was a solid performer as well for the Saints, who were missing ten key players for various reasons.
Sidenotes- I watched this game with King brothers - Isaiah (Imhotep) and Joe (King). This was the Lancers’ senior night and a very nice ceremony occurred before the game. Father Bill Chiriaco was the announcer for the game and he did an excellent, humorous job on the microphone.

NOV. 2
NON-LEAGUE
Imhotep Charter 14, Southern 6
This was not the greatest game, as I expected beforehand. In most cases, these fill-in games are not always the best because schools are looking ahead to Thanksgiving or watching the playoff games. The Rams were solid in the early going. Currently, the Rams are short on numbers because several players dropped football from their agenda because they were disappointed that they did not make the playoffs. The top performer for coach Stosh Tunney is Tyrell Cooper. This kid has a serious motor, I love his leave-it-all-on-the-field mentality. Cooper, a 6'0 190 lb running back, was able to rush 21 times for 92 yards. Hopefully, the younger Rams will learn to emulate his courage on the field. With a lot of good from Cooper, the Rams were able to get on the scoreboard with a one-yard run from quarterback Shaquille Gaskins. The Panthers responded with a 40-yard bomb pass play from Julius Legg to Andreas Roberts. Roberts made a leaping catch of a slightly high pass, and then turned up field for a crowd-pleasing score to end the second quarter. The game was decided on the opening kickoff of the second half. Junior Fatin “Quady” Trice was able to take the kickoff 77 yards for the score. The Rams rarely threatened in the second half. Gerald Bowman again rushed for over one hundred yards with a steady 21 carries for 116. “G-Weezy” has rushed for over one hundred yards in every game except one. That is quite remarkable. The Panther defense was led by Jacob Pointer, who registered 7 tackles (4 solos). Saladine Walker was also a force on the line of scrimmage and mustered 6 tackles.
Sidenotes- Lots of young players for the Rams, Southern coach “Stosh” is expecting the Rams to get better over time.

OCT. 26
PUBLIC RED
Murrell Dobbins 13, Germantown 6
The winner of this one would get a spot in the Public League playoffs. Both squads wanted to win in the worst way. Also, both teams are young teams so this game would go along way in terms of program development. So guess what happened for the entire first quarter? Not one penalty until an encroachment penalty from Germantown occurred with 1:15 remaining in the first half. In terms of scoring there was none of that either in the first half. Finally, in the 3rd quarter, Germantown halfback Tramelle “Smelly” McKie (16 carries for 138) was able to make a big play with a 50-yard touchdown run. The conversion play failed. On the next drive it was clear that the Mustangs were determined to get another score and they did when Tyrek Hagins ran in a short run. Some controversy during the drive; on a 3rd and 7 play, Dobbins quarterback Terez Sydnor drops back and throws a swing pass in the direction of Melvin Smith, the ball sails on Smith and Germantown attempts to recover what they deemed a backwards pass. (It appeared to be backwards.) The play was whistled dead and G-Town was given a personal foul penalty. The ball was moved to the 35 and from there it was only a matter of time with the running of budding junior star Anthony Walker moved the Mustangs into scoring positions and the always tenacious Hagins plowed in from the one. The Bears had another chance but fumbled deep in Mustang territory. The game’s star was senior K-G-DE Toyre Fredericks. All Toyre (pronounced tor-ee) did was kick the extra point, recover a fumble, make 5 tackles including one for a key loss and block like crazy on the offensive line. Oh I forgot he also kicked two major punts in this one. He uncorked a 62 yarder but more importantly perfectly placed a 36 yarder to the Germantown two-yard line where Paul McPherson downed the ball. This set up the Mustangs second score when impressive sophomore cornerback Joshua Bangura returned an interception twelve yards to give the Mustangs some late breathing room. Bangura busied himself with 6 tackles and the interception. (He also was penalized for performing the “soldier dance” after he scored. But at least, he got the dance steps right.) Walker, speedy and tough, was able to muster 110 yards on 17 carries. Linebackers Derek Clark ( an intriguing junior prospect, his twin Daryl is a warrior on the offensive line) and Chris Perkins were bringing the pain with some hard hitting. Perkins is a frisky and underrated performer, he is almost always making a play or near the football. Many of the key players for “Disco” Lou Zambino are underclassmen, so this playoff experience against a tough Overbrook squad could go a long way for their program. On the other hand, the Bears have nothing to hang their heads on in this one. G-Town is even younger than Dobbins and in this one for the most part the younger Bears showed the most heart and poise. Sophomore John Ellis put in a man-sized effort with 8 tackles, 3 for losses and one sack. Junior linebackers Rahmel Hamilton (8 total tackles) and Shahid Bundy provided the sparse but energetic home crowd with some loud echoing tackles. Sophomore tackle Derrick Sanders (6’1 280) was ultra impressive. Sanders recorded the block of the year on a Dobbins defender and proceeded to clear out a lineman. Needless to say, this big fella could have a bright future.
Sidenotes- This game was summed up in post-game conversation between Coach Mike Hawkins and Mustang Defensive Coordinator John Sullivan. “This was like one of the games back in the old [mid-city or B] division,” Sullivan said. “Yeah, those games between G-Town and Dobbins were special,” replied Hawkins . . . As I said before there were a lot of good underclassmen in this game. Let's hope that they all work hard (classroom, field, citizenship) so that “Disco” and “Hawk” can have some real fun in the years to come . . . Mad props to two injured seniors who showed deep loyalty and conviction for their schools in the press box. David Sims for Dobbins and Thorn Cerdan for Germantown. In the earlier game the same could be said of PC's Bryan Tate.

OCT. 26
PUBLIC AAA
Prep Charter 22, Imhotep Charter 14
What an upset! What a game! Let's start from the first possession for the Huskies, because that set the tone for the entire game. Prep Charter gets on the board behind the running of speedy halfback James Hines. Hines consistently was able to get around the corner on runs and that created a lot of havoc for the Panther defense. Hines scored on a 4-yard run with 8:50 remaining in the 1st quarter. Hines then added the conversion run. To most people watching this game through the raindrops at Benjamin Johnston Memorial Stadium, this was just a lucky score for the upstart Huskies. In fact, that argument could have been bolstered because the Panthers marched down the field and scored promptly when Julius Legg found his favorite target, senior receiver Andreas Roberts, with a 48-yard touchdown play. The Huskies were able to step it up on defense and stopped the Panthers on the conversion play and for the remainder of the half. The Huskies were then able to regain possession in the waning moments of the second quarter. Junior quarterback Shelton Jones completed his only pass of the game to junior wideout Lindsey Givens. Givens made the catch and then barreled through a defender and carried another into the end zone for an amazing touchdown. The touchdown score with 2.2 seconds remaining on the clock. Halftime and I’m fairly certain the Panthers were given a severe tongue-lashing from Head Coach Marc Wilson and his staff. (It is hard to picture Marc yelling but I’m positive he let loose on his troops.) Well, promptly following the intermission, Hines took a run outside from 47 yards out to “pay turf.” Some controversy on this play, most observers felt that the Huskies false-started on this play. The Panthers had their chances, but they were hampered by the inability to complete a snap from center. Yes, they fumbled the center snap on four consecutive offensive plays. One resulted in a fumble, three resulted in loss of yardage. When the Panthers did get going on offense with superstar back Gerald “G-weezy” Bowman (34 carries for 166 yards) they struggled to get into the end zone. LB Khalil Raines, a junior was outstanding with 10 total tackles and he received ample support from seniors Michael Passaro (a linebacker/defensive end) and Joseph Crooks (an impressive defensive lineman). The Panthers did get back on the scoreboard with Legg plowing in for a 1-yard run. The Panther defense was able to register a late safety when James Clark sacked Jones in the end zone. The offense got another chance but overthrown passes and a key dropped pass thwarted their final charge. The Panthers were crestfallen and the Huskies were jubilant. Coach Larry Arata and his staff played the game with only 21 players, and will finish their debut season in the Pub with a 3rd place finish in Public League AAA. Hines carried 12 times for 119.
Sidenotes- This is becoming a major rivalry in the Pub and across the city, as these two schools have a true distaste for each other . . . After the game, Bowman shook hands a second time with a few of the Huskies. The kid has class . . . Who took the screens out of the press box window and did not put them back? . . . Imhotep was without star DL Daniel Jones, a junior, who was sorely missed.

OCT. 19
NON-LEAGUE
Imhotep 26, University City 12
This was Imhotep’s homecoming, but it was a road game. Yes, I know that does not make for much sense; but what makes sense these days? A nice sized crowd was on what turned out to be Gerald “G-Weezy” Bowman’s big night. The talented senior back registered 31 carries for 153 yards, thus becoming Imhotep’s first 1,000-yard rusher in a season. Also, he became the first 1,000-yard back from a Charter school. Big quarterback Julius Legg was on the money in this game. He connected for four passes, all touchdowns. Two of those went to underrated wide receiver Andreas Roberts. The other stars for the Panthers were Isaiah King and Kendrick Lewis. King is a frisky hard-hitter. And when I say hard hitter, this kid was hitting people with bombs. On a kickoff, he ran down and absolutely gave a guy a big booming hit that his ancestors probably felt. Lewis added an impressive touchdown reception, when he made a DIFFICULT catch and then ran it in from 34 yards out. The Jaguars struggled with the basics. The quarterbacks could not get the ball from center. When the Jaguars mounted drives, they were halted by fumbles of the quarterback snap. Amier Washington had the play of the day when he scooped up a fumble and made a dazzling 97-yard sprint to the other end zone. It will be interesting to see the Jaguars next year because they have no less than five underclassmen who have a lot of potential. One I have my eyes on already is 6’4 freshman receiver Joseph Clayborne. Clayborne has the “look.” Sadly, tackling machine Telmez “Muscle” Irons is a senior, so he is going to miss out on the future fun. Irons mustered 10 tackles.
Sidenotes- Good crowd turnout for Imhotep . . . Nice music was played all game long . . . I was at the 10,000 men march on Sunday and guess who I saw? Lou Williams, U-City’s Head Coach, was there with a couple of his fraternity friends. Guess what I overheard his friends calling him? "Sweet” Lou. That tops “Disco” Lou Zambino as the funniest nickname for a football coach. You do not need to ask how he got the nickname if you have ever seen him. He always has on suits and looks like he's running for office. A little later I was on my way home and I saw Imhotep Coach Marc Wilson. Marc had just come from the Eagles' loss to Chicago. Marc seemed down. I laughed. The Eagles need to let the Pub and Catlic Lig (Puckspeak) have that field, which we paid our taxes for, for their championships and the city title game. At least the Cowboys let their high schools use their stadium. Please do not shoot me, E-A-G-L-E-S fans.

OCT. 12
PUBLIC WHITE
Overbrook 34, John Bartram 18
The Panthers took control early in this game and have taken control of the Public League’s White Division. Before I get to the game details, let me just say that it was not too long ago that the Panthers' program had one coach (Ken Sturm) who had no assistants. They had never made a Public League playoff as well, and it appeared that the football program would remain a long-time joke. Oh, well, that was then, this is now. And now began with talented tailback Darius Johnson taking a run up the gut and turning it outside for an 88- yard touchdown. The Panthers were just getting started and continued to impress when junior quarterback Markeyse Carter tossed a 18-yard scoring pass to junior standout Johnny Melvin. Melvin made a nice grab while covered and he was able to get his foot down while tip-toeing the endline. An outstanding play by an emerging Public League star. The Panthers were able to get more scoring later in the game with a Carter one-yard sneak and senior fullback Joseph Gaines' 48-yard touchdown scamper. Johnson had a beautiful 52-yard run as well. Johnson finished with 159 yards on 14 carries. Gaines had 85 yards on 8 carries. The Panthers line was anchored by Vincent Gowans, who shined at center. Also, big number 98, Ramile Brice, had some moments as well. The Braves were led by Michael Alexander (you thought it would be someone else?) who was impressive yet again with 16 carries for 114 yards. Also, showing well was junior quarterback Laquan Williams, who despite throwing two picks was able to toss for 148 yards. Both Williams and Carter have nice throwing motions and with some more tutelage (maybe a summer passing camp) they should develop into quality quarterbacks.
Sidenotes- Nice crowd on hand… It was nice to see the Overbrook public address announcer in action; he is none other than Michael Yancy, a former Overbrook player . . . Overbrook has the inside track on the division. If the Panthers wind up in the playoffs, they'll have to work on the silly penalties . . . Bartram tight end Ishmar Malcolm showed well, but on one play he nearly incited a riot. (I believe it was unintentional. While running a sideline route, Malcolm collided with Overbrook soph Tyriuq “Pop Tart” Gordon who had caught the errant pass from Williams. The two teams gave glances, but good work on the sideline by the Overbrook coaching staff prevented an incident.)

OCT. 12
PUBLIC RED
Northeast 13, Dobbins 6 (OT)
There is an old saying in football: "It pays to have a kicker.” Well, in this one it was pretty clear that the old adage is extremely true, especially in the “Pub.” The Vikings escaped defeat in this one in large part because of the left leg of junior kicker Tim Freiling. Freiling got the Vikings on the board early with a 32-yard field goal in the second quarter. The Vikings were able to keep the Mustangs off of the scoreboard until the early fourth quarter when Mustangs senior quarterback Terez Sydnor was able to scamper in from the 25. On the ever-important conversion play, Dobbins opted to kick the extra point instead of going for two from the 1 1/2 yard line after an encroachment penalty. Toyre Fredericks' kick did not have a chance. They were six minutes and forty-nine seconds remaining in the fourth quarter when Sydnor scampered in. The Vikings proved their mettle and marched down the field with precision. Yet Dobbins had a chance to ice it late when an errant Malik Stokes pass was nearly picked off. The Vikings marched Freiling back out on the field and he makes a pressure packed 28-yard field goal with 58.4 seconds remaining. The Mustangs err with the ball, as Sydnor throws an ill-advised interception to Je’Ron Stokes. The Vikings again march with precision, and again Freiling marches out to take a major pressure field goal with only a 1.2 seconds remaining in the game. Freiling does not make this one; he eases it wide right. Overtime, baby!! The Vikings won the toss and took possession. First down: Nafis Muhammad is stopped for no gain by Charles “Livewire” King (5'11, 170). Second down: M. Stokes' pass to Tyrik Clary is incomplete. Third down: Muhammad runs to the outside for eight yards. Fourth down: James Rosseau bursts through the middle for the touchdown. Freiling adds the extra point. The ball moves over to the Mustangs. First down: Sydnor is tackled for a one-yard gain by Albert Burgos (nobody was behind him). Second down: Sydnor runs again for three yards. Antoine Fowler made the tackle. Third down: Sydnor runs for a loss and actually fumbles out of bounds. Northeast's defenders were Quinton Reid and Clifton Parnell. Fourth down: Sydnor throws to Robert Collins in the end zone and the ball is dislodged by Reid and James McCrae. The Vikings ran out onto the field and celebrated. The Mustangs were on the ground for a few minutes, as they were quite despondent. The Vikings got chewed out immensely by Defensive Coordinator Phil Gormley and head coach Mel Hinton assured that their celebration was extremely short. The stars for the Vikings were Freiling, Rosseau and Clary. Rosseau only carried 5 times for 33 yards, but he sure made the big run that mattered. Clary was a stud on the defensive end with 6 tackles. The Mustangs, who suffered their second consecutive heartbreaker, received king-sized efforts from defensive back King, who totaled an incredible line: 10 tackles, 8 solo, 2 sacks, 1 pass defended and 1 interception; junior FB-LB Tyrek Hagins (lots of superb blocking, 3-25 rushing, 2-21 receiving) and massive tackle Randolph Latimore (anchored both lines superbly).
Sidenotes- I did not see him but it was confirmed by two reliable sources that Indianapolis Colts Defensive end Raheem Brock (Dobbins Class of ’97) was in attendance… When I got to the field Mustangs coach Lou Zambino chided me about my comment last week about him being “Disco Lou." Sorry, Zam, that is your new nickname “Disco” Lou. It just fits too well . . . King in tandem with junior Ralston Thomas did a respectable job on Je’Ron Stokes. The star receiver from Northeast did not have a catch. J. Stokes did have 6 tackles and an interception. Stokes has a similar build to mid-90’s Olney star Kenyatta Carter. Burgos made the first tackle of overtime on his first play of the game . . . Dobbins center Darryl Clark was injured on 3 different occasions.

OCT. 5
PUBLIC RED
Central 13, Dobbins 12
This one should have been played at night at one of the super sites instead of the bumpy field of Central's stadium. The Lancers prevailed and if this game were played at one of the better venues to a larger audience I'm sure this one would have been talked about by a lot of people for an extremely long time. The Lancers scored first with a touchdown from senior star Ray Harris. The second quarter drive that led to the score was preserved by a call that had the Dobbins faithful infuriated. (A late hit on a quarterback sack from head official Gary "Heart" Butler). The Lancers added a touchdown on a run from Corey Barkers, who finally got in the end zone after posting a dubious season as the top rusher on YPC in the area without a touchdown. The score is now 13-0 but instead of going to talented freshman kicker Joe Guarneri (isn't that close to the name of one of the former American Idol finalists?), the Lancers went for two and missed. The Mustangs responded with a 90-yard kickoff return from speedy junior Anthony Walker. The Mustang defense was able to hold and got another touchdown when quarterback Terez Sydnor found tough senior fullback Eric Wiley for 14 yards. The Mustangs lined up to take the extra point to tie the game, but instead faked as reserve quarterback Terrell "Mouse" Barringer ran to the outside and was tackled by Central senior Montez Barclay. Mustangs' coach Lou "Disco Lou the Riverboat Gambler" Zambino (don't tell me you cannot picture Lou back in the disco in the early '80s with John Travolta in "Saturday Night Fever"; also he infamously wore a disco shirt while coaching Mansion's girls to the Pub title game in 2003) decides to kickoff with 3:11 on the clock after a close call on a prior onsides kick went Central's way. After a stop the Mustangs got the ball back with less than a minute remaining, but Sydnor's pass was picked off by Central's impressive sophomore defensive back, Devonne Boler, to ice the victory. Boler had two picks on the day and he could develop into a very good player, one to watch over the next two years for sure. Dobbins was led on defense by impressive junior linebacker Derek Clark, who had 7 tackles and one fumble recovery.

Sidenote: Good to see ex-Dobbins coach Doug Macauley out watching his old team.

SEPT. 28
PUBLIC RED

George Washington 36, Germantown 0
Congratulations, Ron Cohen. This is victory number 200!!! The Eagles removed all doubt in the early going as a strong defensive effort, led by Brett Sommerer, was able to get this game over early. The Eagles also received some hard-nosed running from junior halfback Omar Hunter, who is one of those runners who loves to initiate contact. Overall, the physicality of the Eagles made this one a blowout early. Quarterback Clinton Granger did not get a chance to showcase all of his talents, but was on the money with a touchdown pass to Damien Wilmer, an impressive tight end. Wilmer caught two passes for 89 yards. He is also a spirited team leader who would make many a college coach happy. Also, playing a prominent role was sophomore linebacker James Fowler, who was a menace all over the field. I was also REALLY impressed with the play of junior linebacker James Johnson; he could be special in time. (One of those guys who has the "look".) The Bears were pretty horrible. There is really nothing else to say, but they are mostly a bunch of "nice kids." (Wink, wink. Get the point). Once again linemen Jarrett Travis and Paul Maiellano played well and with true grit (Maiellano sadly suffered broken ribs in this game. Have a nice recovery.) And they got 5 tackles out of junior Shahid Bundy. But for the most part they looked like a JV playing a varsity.

Sidenotes- One true hallmark of Washington teams has to be the way they take the field. Coach Cohen and his staff have to be commended. Each year I marvel at how they take the field like cold-blooded assassins. I notice when they got to the field that the Imhotep, Furness, and G-Town players immediately knew it and you could sense a level of intimidation . . . Ron Cohen was doused with water and ice before thanking a multitude of people. Also, his 89-year-old mother, Ethel, was in attendance. She hugged everybody around and I can say she could probably play middle linebacker because the woman is strong (smile).

SEPT. 28
PUBLIC AAA
Imhotep 48, Furness 6
This was a mismatch. In time Furness probably will be a better team, but right now they are painfully small. Imhotep is running on all cylinders. And when we speak of Imhotep running, we must begin with Gerald Bowman. All Gerald did today was gallop for 186 yards on 17 carries. This game would have been dreadful to watch if Bowman was not there. The kid is a very talented rusher, a lot of colleges could flock to see him. The Panther also received a nice effort from quarterback Julius Legg, who tossed for 3 touchdowns. Two of the scores went to impressive junior tight end Saledeem Major.. Junior defensive lineman Daniel Jones was solid on the defensive line and was able to get a touchdown on a fumble return. The Panthers jumped on the Falcons to the tune of a 24-0 early lead. Furness finally got on the board with a one yard run from quarterback Anthony Ings. The Falcons did receive a good effort from defensive back Tyreece Brown, who had 7 tackles and one interception.
Sidenotes- The Falcons have a nice prospect in 6’7 225 lb Robert Westbrooks. He had a couple of nice moments, while consistency is a trait he must learn. By the way, where was he during basketball season?

SEPT. 21
NON-LEAGUE

Bartram 26, Germantown 14

Well, this was another good game following a legendary contest in the opener. This game was web cast and will be shown on Comcast Cable's channel 245 at 8 p.m. on the 22nd. The star of stars today was Bartram's Michael Alexander, who not only ran for 143 yards but he snagged two touchdown grabs (both were highly impressive catches). Alexander is listed at 5'7, 160, but those numbers do not measure what is inside of his chest. The first score came on a pass from junior quarterback Laquan Williams. The Bears responded when junior kick returner Jeffrey Best took the ensuing kickoff 89 yards to the house. Junior Khaleel Lindsey had a huge block on the play. The Braves took control behind the running of Alexander in tandem with Dominique King. The defense was led by Alexander, who had 6 tackles, and impressive junior cornerback Antwain Byrd, who snagged an interception and showed well as a cover corner. The Bears did receive a good effort from halfback Tramelle McKie, who was able to muster a touchdown amongst his 14 carries for 57 yards. Linemen Jarrett Travis and Paul Maiellano showed well for the Bears, who were victimized by dropped passes and a poor showing on defense. Germantown had gotten within five late and had forced a 3rd-and-19. Williams aired it out and Alexander skied and pulled down a high throw and ran into the end zone. Ballgame folks.

Sidenotes: Great fan turnout . . . When leaving the stadium, some really good looking lady was chastising the Germantown cheerleaders. Maybe she should be yelling at the defensive players.

SEPT. 21
PUBLIC AA
Imhotep 21, FitzSimons 14
This was a game to remember . . . Please, I’m serious this time. I need the DVD. The best game I've seen this year was 30 minutes long. Here is the background: I got to the field at 2:03pm. By 2:35, it was clear that Fitz was not going to make it on time. Imhotep coach Marc Wilson, in an extremely classy move, sent his school’s bus to pick up FitzSimons. (FitzSimons has a new administration since last year, so nobody called for a bus.) A lot of observers commented before Fitz arrived that this game should be played on Saturday, Sunday or Monday. When Fitz finally did arrive it was 3:52, and I was already exhausted after a long time talking to the really nice officials, clock operator Steve Kupsov and Franklin assistant Al Hill about everything: from baseball to 1970s Public League track to fencing to why I hate the sport of crew (anorexia, bulimia, body-type specific sport.) Fitz Coach Irv Sigler runs off the bus and onto the field. District 12 chairman Robert Coleman, head official James Capprezzio (I think I got that right), Wilson and Sigler are engaged in a discussion, so I poke my head in. Citing the National rules, the game is shortened. So at 4:02 the captains are at the 50 and by 4:08 kickoff. What a game that followed; lots of speed and athletes. FitzSimons looked like they were going to score first when talented tailback Kevin Coston burst along the sideline for a 16-yard yard gain. But in a game where holding onto the football was a problem, a costly center snap fumble results in a 66-yard scoring return for Saladine Walker. The Rams responded when Kwame Robinson recovered a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown. The Panthers turned the bulk of their offense over to star rusher Gerald Bowman. Bowman is the real deal. Do not think because he plays in 3A he cannot play with the big boys. He has nice lateral cuts and runs through tackles. He still has to work on holding onto the ball, but he sure is fun to watch. Following a safety, Bowman added a 2-yard touchdown run. The Panthers were seemingly in control with the score 15-6. Most observers thought the Rams would crumble. Not in the least. Coston took a burst up the middle and was gone to the house and nobody could catch him (The kid has to be in the 4.4 range). But lo and behold with Coston at the 2-yard line, and in need of no blocks, a teammate clips at the 15 and negates what would have been a 75-yard touchdown run. The Rams then turned the ball over and Imhotep capitalized with a Julius Legg touchdown pass to impressive senior receiver Andreas Roberts on a fourth down play. Legg, who is listed at 6’5 275 (let's just chuckle about that weight) shook off four tackles and hit Roberts with a strike. What a play from the big quarterback when his team needed him most. The third quarter began with only 5:00 on the clock. Fitz quarterback James Robinson (9-11 121 yards) airs it out to Sam Polk, who outleaps the Imhotep secondary and pulls down the ball for a beautiful 69-yard score. Remember, only five minute quarters in the second half. Fitz stops Imhotep, and then starts to mount a drive late but cannot score or pick up the first down with only 8 seconds remaining. That was it, folks, a game to remember and an overall experience that will stay with me forever.
Sidenotes- Fitz could be pretty good in time… Beautiful day for football... Imhotep's Derrick Butts had a nice interception.

SEPT. 14
PUBLIC AAA

Franklin 42, Freire Charter 6

Good job, Ben Franklin. The Electrons are clearly the best team that I have seen thus far this season. They have a lot of talent in their senior class but also boast some impressive underclassmen as well. Senior linebacker Calvin Johnson got the Electrons on the scoreboard with a sack of Donte Blow in the end zone. The Electrons pressed on and added two touchdowns from physical halfback Duane "Bam" Burrell. The Franklin defense, which has experienced consistent success under Allen Rushing and now under Ken Geiser, had to deal with one of the Pub's most dangerous runners in Freire's Antoine "Blueberry" Singleton. Singleton is the definition of elusive; he sure is a treat to watch from the halfback position. In some cases, he even took snaps from center and played quarterback. Singleton led the Dragons down the field for a 4-yard touchdown run from junior Kirk Wright. Wright could be described as a poor man's Blueberry, so maybe they should call him 'Blueberry Pie.' The Electrons were still on top, 16-6, but it was clear that the foot was off the gas pedal. Coach Geiser ripped into them a little during the first half and some more during halftime and then the onslaught began in the second half. Speared on by two FC turnovers, (fumble recovery by Johnson and a nice interception from Tajidin McGough), the Electrons dominated the second half. Stud running back Chris Sturgis galloped for two second half scores; the second of which got the rather sizeable crowd amped. Sturgis, back to receive a punt, dropped the ball on his 41, picked it up, reversed field and out ran a cadre of Dragons for a high-quality score. Junior star Jamel "Redz" Haggins (6'3 225) booted two extra points while he also displayed soft hands at tight end and bonecrushing tackles at linebacker. Haggins is definitely one to watch during this season and next year as well. The same may be said in time of sophomore tailback Marquis Wright, who added two electric touchdown runs. M. Wright attends Constitution High. (More on this is sidenotes.) The Franklin lines are pretty solid. I noticed a lot of good work being conducted by Lydell Boanes, Aaron Edwards, Dante Jackson and others on both sides of the ball. The showdown with Bok could be the game of the year in the entire Pub, but both teams should be advised not to take anyone lightly up until that game.

Sidenotes- Constitution High is a good idea and a partnership between the city school district and the National Constitution Center but because kids go there because of an interest in the Constitution (not athletics), so the school should not have separate athletics. One way to still give the school recognition is to eventually denote them (maybe a small patch on a uniform that says Madison -- of course, James Madison was the father of the Constitution -- on a uniform sleeve.) But we as a Pub do not need another sports team. Please, people, think like the forefathers did and be proactive, because this is getting sad.

SEPT. 7
NON-LEAGUE
Olney 10, University City 0
If you like defense then this one was right up your alley (You know me I like defense and hard hits, but I would take a 58-42 game any day of the week.) Olney prevailed and I would suspect that with the league as watered down and wide open as ever they probably will make a strong push in their first season in the Public League’s White Division. Olney is led by probably my favorite player in the league, senior QB-DB Mike Reyes (5’10 175). Reyes is the definition of tough and determined. And even though he did not dominate this game, as always he made a major impact. The Trojans got on the board first in the second quarter when impressive junior defensive end Antwion Allen (6’2 185) and senior stalwart Frank Randall (6’0 270) tackled U-City punter Maurice Evans in the end zone for a safety. The Jaguar defense held for much of the game behind the physical play of LB Telmez “Muscle” Irons. Irons is a tackling machine he was in on 9 tackles including 6 solo, some of them made loud echoes into the Nicetown air. Furthermore, the Jaguars got a big day from promising sophomore defensive back Wade Moore (6’2 175). Moore was in on four stops, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. The Jaguars miss graduated quarterback Kenny Moore so their offense has a huge hole. They could not generate much of a passing game. Halfbacks Neville Hill-Brown and Samir Artist showed well but the passing game needs to be upgraded. The Trojans secured this one in the 3rd quarter as tailback Braheem Brown scored on a 15-yard gallop. Reyes tossed to Brown for the conversion. The Jaguars had two nice late drives, Reyes made a beautiful interception late to halt one. And the final drive, the clock did in the Jaguars. The clock ran after a first down and then a little more after a timeout.
Sidenotes- Antwion Allen has lots of upside, he registered 2.5 sacks . . . The Jaguar lines were anchored by Freeman Ford. Freeman arrived at the field before 1o’clock… What the heck is up with King? 49-0? I nearly fainted when I heard the score. Every kid in Mount Airy plays football. I know because the Ivy Hill Saints are down the block from me and they must have 200-plus kids and West Oak Lane and Northwest Raiders have all those kids, too . . . Freshman Jaron Turner had 4 tackles for Olney. Is that the city record for tackles for a kid who has not attended a day of class at his high school yet? (Classes start Sept. 10). Olney lineman Tyree Green is a really big dude they list him at 6’6 260; no way, more like 6’7 290.

SEPT. 1
NON-LEAGUE
Dougherty 28, Germantown 8
This seemingly obvious match-up has not been played in a long time. So long that nobody can actually remember when. I asked lots of people when it was last played and did not receive any definitive answer from anyone. (Ted's note: It's possible these teams had never played. I'll post an exact answer when research is completed.) As opening games go, (especially ones held two weeks before school starts) this was a dandy. The opening drive was a thing of beauty for G-Town. Senior quarterback Kyle Payne (6’3 180) was able to find junior halfback John Banks with a short pass that resulted in an 8 yard touchdown play. The scoring drive was highlighted by a 47-yard kickoff return by promising sophomore running back Brent West. West accumulated 34 of his 112 yards on this scoring drive. Then Payne was able to find junior receiver Lanier Ruffin for the two-point conversion. Dougherty would respond in the second phase, when quarterback Phil Baxter lofted a beautiful pass to receiver Keith Dockery. Kicker Mike Martin (not Martian) was able to add the extra point. The CL squad would continue to play well and scored another touchdown when speed back Michael Sutton scampered in from the 14. Germantown then showed some resolve. Two highlight reel pass plays took the Bears to the Cardinals' 3 yard line with 3.4 seconds remaining. G-Town’s stud senior receiver, Thorn Cerdan, had made a two spectacular catches of 31 yards and 56 yards as the Bears drove in the first half's waning moments. After a clock play, Payne finds Cerdan open in the end zone, and he drops it. Cerdan seemed to be rattled after that. (Keep your head in the game, anybody can drop a pass, it is he who can overcome a mistake who succeeds in life and sport.) The Cardinals then cemented this historic win for Coach Chris Riley when Baxter carried a 5-yard run into the end zone at the 6:01 mark of the 3rd quarter. Star running back Braheem Carroll (17 carries for 73 yards) added the touchdown run. Carroll appears to be a helluva prospect. The defense was led by Quinten White and Wrenston Wright. White displayed an excellent work ethic as he tallied 7 tackles and two sacks. Wright, big No. 64, was a beast on the line and dominated at key junctures of the game. Riley and Co. should keep some games competitive in the CL Blue, but because of small numbers and a smallish (yet disciplined) offensive line, they will also struggle in many games in their league. Much of the same can be said of G-Town but if they can get some consistency from some of their young players they can improve considerably. The game’s best hit came from senior defensive back Khalil “Cocomo” Laney who made a hard hit on special teams.
Sidenotes: Coach Riley had a memorable exchange with a player during warmups. The player had reported to the huddle without reporting to Coach Riley. Riley responded “Get out of here. What am I, somebody’s wife? They say the wife is the last to know.” Nice turnout of G-town alums, including the legendary Dorian Brewer and Jeffrey “JT” King, members of the 1999 Public League championship squad. G-Town linebacker Shahid Bundy (6’0 200) had a couple of nasty hits; consistency must become a key for him, because as a junior, he already shows some stud qualities. The roster misspelled the kicker’s name it appeared as Martian, his name is Martin. Possible nickname: Mike "My Favorite" Martin.