Duck Tales, Football 2011

NOV. 24
THANKSGIVING RIVALRY

Germantown 43, Martin Luther King 0

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you and to your families!!!!!!!!! What a beautiful football day, great weather and a huge crowd. On the Germantown side of the stadium a packed house and on King’s side of the stadium was three-quarter packed. And all those fans had a whole lot to witness… The Bears went to work early and scored in first quarter with a one-yard run from halfback Ackeno Robertson. The Cougars were not able to respond, so Robertson answered his first touchdown with his second; a three yard run. So at the half, Germantown led 13-0. The second half and the Bears really took command. Aaron “Snook” Boyd took over with a twenty-six yard touchdown run. On the following King possession, Darnell Baldwin sacked King quarterback Akeece Jones in the end zone for a safety. Then more from Boyd with an interception and a fourteen yard touchdown run. G-Town opened the 4th quarter with a majestic forty-six yard scoring run from William Parks. Parks is easily one of the best players to don a Germantown uniform since I’ve covered them for TS.com. Finally, Boyd capped the day with a sixty yard touchdown run. Check out the day for “Snook”: 14 carries for 210 yards, three touchdowns, two interceptions, a whole lot of high-fives and head nods in the stands. Parks was on top of his game as well, you do not need five fingers on your hand to count how many catches were made on him this season. In fact, you might not need three fingers. Senior Devon Smith involved himself in 9 tackles and the ever-emerging junior Baldwin was in on 7 tackles including two sacks. The offensive line was led by Kwame Miller, Diamir “Uptown” Baker, Jordan Morgan and Brandon Thornton. The defensive line got some additional solid play from junior Avion Plummer (6’1 375) and senior Steve Waddell. MLK did not have a great day on the football field. They were some bright moments early on defense with some play coming from David James, Terrance Irby and Shaun Hill. Khaleel Stewart had some moments on offense. Other than that it just was not their day on the football field. As Thanksgiving is the last game in the season for both teams it should be a time to rest. It also should be a time to consider where each program is and how to improve in the long run. At Germantown, after this season of exhilarating play with memorable players who at times seemed destined to win a Public League or City Title, the question of improvement to the level of a Public League championship team will likely be answered in off-season dedication and continued outlook. For Martin Luther King High, which has lost much of its talent pool in recent years, off-season dedication has to be on its mind as well as finding innovative ways to improve in an ever-evolving Public League.

Sidenotes- The National anthem was an excellent duet between a student from Martin Luther King High and Germantown High; their names were Octavia Grant and Jefferene James. They can go to Showtime at the Apollo, remember Duck if you do . . . As usual, both schools were able to display wonderful cheerleaders, energetic mascots and drum bands… G-Town Coach Mike Hawkins was extremely grateful to all of his staff and in particular the efforts of Kelly Cottle, Edward Dunn, Michael Barbirito, Herbert Hodges, Robert “Buck” Davis, Stacey Lane and Montik Goodwin… Coach Dunn invented a press booth dance; kids please don’t impersonate it… Lots of alumni from both schools in attendance including Bernard “The Executioner" Hopkins from Germantown, maybe next year King can get Eve Jeffers to the stadium…. Hit of the day or maybe season came from Ackeno Robertson. It made the place shake… Great job by clock operator Steve Kupsov and stadium announcer Stephany Tate-Yancey… Germantown had a bunch of colorful characters on their team including Homecoming King Andre Wood, who in addition to playing as a defensive back starred in their drum band….Germantown kicker Thomas Fields has improved tremendously during the season… Lots of former players from both schools came over and said hello to me, it was wonderful to see so many people supporting their alma maters in Philadelphia. Speaking of that community members huge home and school meeting at Martin Luther King High on December 8 at 6 p.m. Hope there are a lot people there, too.

NOV. 4
NON-LEAGUE
Martin Luther King 34, Delaware Valley 14

This one was an eventful contest between two Northwest Philadelphia Football teams. The Cougars were excellent at times on the defensive side of the field and have shown marked improvement since the first whistle was blown on the 2011 High School season. MLK struck first with Akeece Jones intercepting a pass and returning it thirty-yards for a score. Following a successful conversion run, the Cougars continued with another interception – this time by Andre Shirley -- that set up a scoring drive that was capped by Melvin Hopkins’ one-yard scoring run. The Cougars led 16-0 at the half. The Warriors showed their resolve in the third quarter and scored twice during that period. First, there was a beautiful twenty-seven yard touchdown pass from Nate Barnes to Siyiff McLeod. Then, in the waning minutes, an eight yard run from Robert Davis. Entering the fourth period, the score was 16-14, King. On the first drive of the period, Delaware Valley fumbled and David James recovered in DV territory. The very next play and Malik Paulk made a dazzling run, during which he eluded several tacklers horizontally before going to the end zone for a crowd pleasing twenty-four yard run. On the very next possession, Hopkins took advantage of a wayward quarterback pitch and darted thirty-nine yards for a score. Finally, on the following Delaware Valley drive, Shirley put the dagger in the hearts of the Warrior faithful by making a difficult sideline catch for an interception, then making an exquisite ninety-one yard int. return. Three consecutive scores GREATLY influenced by the defense and two successive touchdowns made by the defensive side of the ball. Combine Jones’ earlier interception return with the two 4th quarter scores and three defensive touchdowns for the game, which is truly impressive! Shirley had a monster game as he had two interceptions, 6 tackles (most of which were loud “hard” hits) and he returned a pick ninety-one yards. King Quarterback Khaleel Stewart added a late interception while playing defensive back. DV has some quality players but today was not a good day for most of them. However, McLeod was superb once again while Jamal Allen and Amir Bandy-May had moments of excellence as well. Unfortunately, they were a couple unsportsmanlike penalties as well and a DV assistant was given the heave-ho. Coach Shelton Farmer has a lot of things on his mind.

Sidenotes -- On the King sideline was former Cougar standout Joe Montouth, it was wonderful to see him cheering on his former teammates and offering advice . . . Nice attendance. Around 100 people in the house . . . King rested star junior receiver/defensive end Shaun Hill (ankle sprain) . . . People who read this column please find time to complain about the school closings, some of which are setting the stage for bigger changes. I shook my head at a couple, but was dumbfounded when they had Pepper Middle School on the list. Where are they going to go to middle school down there in deep SW Philly if Pepper closes? I know. In Darby or Sharon Hill? I know that both King and Roxborough are hosting meetings on the 19th and more people are getting upset because when they pass me in the street they whisper, "You were right. Vallas and Ackerman were (deleted)." My reply is, "If you'd trust your Duck, we would be in luck."

OCT. 28

PUBLIC AAAA FIRST ROUND
Germantown 32, Abraham Lincoln 27

Playoff football is something special…. Earlier in the season (Week Three) the Railsplitters from the Public League AAAA Silver Division were able to defeat the Bears who played in the Public League Gold Division, 19 -14. This match-up was an entertaining contest that captured the Northwest Philadelphia atmosphere. Lincoln got on the board first in the middle of the 1st quarter with a precision drive lead by junior quarterback Miguel Sanchez and senior halfback, Marquise "Marty" McFarland. The Railsplitters struck first with a three yard run for McFarland followed by a beautiful kick by Amir Albarouki. On the ensuing kickoff the Bears got on the board with an eighty yard return by senior Ackeno Robertson. On the following drive McFarland rushed in from the three and following the extra point, the score was 14-6 at the end of the 1st quarter. As the Mount Airy atmosphere became colder, the Bears scored early in the second quarter when Aaron “Snook” Boyd rumbled through the Lincoln defense maintained his balance despite being hit by several tacklers and scored from twenty-two yards out. Following a conversion play in which the Bears were able to connect on a pass. The score is knotted at 14-14 with 11:11 remaining in the half. After a defensive stand, Germantown would get the ball back in fair field position and proceed to the Lincoln twenty yard line. Robertson made a hard run towards the end zone on a sweep and leapt from roughly the three yard line to score a majestic touchdown by crossing the goal line right in front of the linesman. G-Town led 20-14. Lincoln showing composure and focus answered with a stunning twenty-eight yard pass play as Sanchez found senior receiver Sincere Merced on a "sincerely" gorgeous touchdown. After a high snap, Germantown was able to block the extra point. At the half the score is 20-20 (like the ABC News show that comes on Friday Nights). Second half and after an early defensive stop, Germantown sophomore Cedric Wright aired it out fifty-nine yards to Germantown senior William Parks (Pittsburgh commit) who beat his defender and the safety for a crowd-pleasing, go-ahead score. With the crowd screaming “Parks Place,” many people thought that the ballgame would be all Germantown from that point forward. They were extremely foolish. A well orchestrated thirteen yard drive would be capped with one-yard sneak from the super cool Sanchez. Albarouki hammered the extra point cleanly through the uprights and Lincoln with one minute and fifty seconds remaining in the third period held a one point lead. As the fourth quarter began both teams showed flashes but failed to advance into the scoring area; Sanchez nailed a fifty yard punt with five minutes and twenty-nine seconds remaining to put G-Town on their twenty-four yard line. G-Town’s seniors and Wright would respond. First Down: Wright completed a thirty-four yard pass play down the sideline to Parks. Following a six yard run by Robertson on the subsequent 1st down; Boyd made an electric thirty-nine yard run to the Lincoln twelve yard line. The Railsplitters defense came up huge on the next two plays setting up a third and fifteen, G-Town called timeout. Many people pondered the play call as they were many options. What would the Bears do? Anyway, Wright stepped back to pass and threw a pass into the left corner of the end zone and senior Myles Brooker made a tough catch with defenders nearby to put the Bears on top, 32-27 with only two minutes and fifty-six seconds remaining. The final drive began with an onsides kick in which Lincoln’s Joshua Pagan determinedly recovered. Sanchez was sacked on first down by G-Town’s Darnell Baldwin. Second down: Brooker deflected a deep pass. Third Down: G-Town’s Devon Smith tackled a Lincoln tailback behind the line of scrimmage on a screen pass. Finally, fourth down; Sanchez while being hurried fails to connect with a covered receiver. Germantown has the ball as the Railsplitters turned the ball over on downs. Awkwardly, the Bears ran out the clock and won a cleanly played football contest that many spectators will recall for many years to come. For G-Town; Parks caught 5 passes for 121 yards while Boyd ran 18 times for 156. For Lincoln; McFarland carried 15 times for 106, while Michael Johnson had 7 tackles (6 solo). The somewhat heartbreaking part of this is while Germantown moves on to take on rival George Washington in the Public League AAAA Final Four, the underrated Lincoln squad has to keep playing until the Turkey Day showdown with Father Judge. Playoff football is really something special…..

Sidenotes- Lots of football people in attendance it was wonderful to see several different college football programs in the building… Really nice music was played throughout the game…. G-Town will play George Washington, while Central will take on Frankford. Interestingly, Frankford, began as an annex of Central about one-hundred and two years ago…. Damien Chin-Rose and Jonathan Berrette were active on both lines of scrimmage all night for Lincoln…. I really want to see Lincoln take on Gold Division teams the next two weeks…..Both teams had a lot of missed tackles early in the game….My personal thanks to whomever put the La Salle High School soccer video on the site; I really wanted to see Darius Madison and judging by that snippet he is the real deal. How was he not on the US under 17 team?

OCT. 22

PUBLIC AA

Prep Charter 3, Delaware Valley 0

Your eyes are not fooling you; three to zero was the score. Ironically, on the night that Albert Pujols joined Babe Ruth and Reggie Jackson as the only men to hit three home runs in a World Series Game, I saw a game with a baseball score. Not much to talk about as penalties were abundant and not much for statistics. Early, 4th quarter following a couple of productive runs from Anthony Wyche and fullback Josephus Dennis, the Huskies attempted a 20 yard field goal. The kicker was Vion Dolo, the quarterback and punter. Dolo not only made the field goal, it would have been good from thirty yards. So with nine minutes and thirteen seconds remaining, the Huskies had to hold off the Warriors. Delaware Valley, in its short history, is known for having explosive players so it was going to be a challenge. The very young team from South Philly held on. Dolo made a couple of superb punts; one late in the game when he pooched the ball to the five yard line from the forty-five. That change of position was with a little under two minutes remaining, the Warriors failed to advance past their nineteen yard line, and on the game’s final play PC’s standout two-way lineman Keith Jenkins (6’3 245) forced a fumble and recovered the ball on the one-yard line. Jenkins was active all game long setting blocks and making key defensive plays (tackles and hurries). Delaware Valley received some quality defense from Donte Walker, Quameer Dabner and Siyiff McLeod but the offense was null and void. In fact, their most productive play was off a busted punt. I’m certain that the coaching staff will make some adjustments and things will improve during the following weeks. Prep Charter takes on Edward Bok Tech in a 1st round playoff contest.

Sidenotes- Here is a quote; “Thank you, thank you Jesus Christ for coming down here and reincarnating yourself to show these guys how to run straight.” The author was Robert Ford, a colorful assistant at Prep Charter…. Excellent job by the Delaware Valley Cheerleaders and wonderful presentation to the fall senior athletes…. Wyche carried 11 times for 82 yards…. I would like to invite all School District administrators to the Public League Playoffs; you can refrain from the Imagine 2014 agenda (They called it Renaissance 2010 in Chicago) and check out some football. The playoff s are really something nice to watch. … By the way Albert, there was only one Mr. October.

OCT. 22

PUBLIC AAAA GOLD

Germantown 24, John Bartram 6

This was an afternoon affair in Northwest Philadelphia. The Bears came out flat and the Braves made sure that they paid for it as they capitalized on a fumble in the early second quarter. The Brave score was a one yard touchdown from senior Michael Pritchette. Thereafter they made some noise on an Elijah Clark interception, which he returned for a touchdown but there was a hold, so the play was negated. After Clark’s interception, the Bears took control on the ground with a two-pronged attack featuring Ackeno Robertson (19 carries for 124 yards) and Aaron “Snook” Boyd (14 carries for 93 yards) dominating the play from that point forward. The Braves were not able to do much in the second half, as they got few plays from scrimmage and when they did have plays, they failed to advance the ball. The big O-line was anchored by Diamir Baker and Kwame Miller. The defense received some inspired play from many players as the Bears played this one without star William Parks (Rest-shoulder). Myles Brooker had a couple of hits that could have been heard in New Jersey. Brooker, also, had an acrobatic catch over a defender to set up a touchdown. John Bartram is trying to finish out this rough season with some positives as they have struggled, generally, in the Public League Gold Division. With players like Pritchette, Clark and Brandon Jones, I would not doubt that they will have a “day or two in the sun. “ Germantown moves on to the playoffs and a rematch with the Abraham Lincoln High School who defeated the Bears (19-14) during the third week of the season.

Sidenotes- Some loud spectators at Benjamin Johnston Stadium. My ears still hurt…. As always it was great to see Damond “Smash” Warren an alumnus/ former coach at John Bartram…. Good job Germantown cheerleaders.

OCT. 21

PUBLIC AAA
Martin Luther King 40, University City 12

This game started slowly my friends. A lot of early penalties and incomplete passes made it seem as if the game would not enjoyable, but that would not be the case. University City (the home team) was able to strike first with a fifty yard touchdown pass from Joshua Fenwick to Matthew Gilliam. The Jaguars seemed to have control but early in the second period a big forty-yard pass play from junior quarterback Khaleel Stewart to junior receiver Shaun Hill helped to turn the tide of the game. Four plays later senior halfback Malik Paulk ran into the end zone for a touchdown. After the following Melvin Hopkins conversion run, the Cougars had the best of the catfight. Paulk carried the ball 23 times for 130 yards. Also, aiding in the rushing game was Kyle Eggleston carried 9 times for 102. MLK’s defense was sharp all-around but they shutdown the U-City aerial attack. Stewart and Andre Shirley snared two interceptions apiece. Hill mustered a blocked punt, a blocked extra point and two sacks. At 6’3 195, he is an intriguing prospect. U-City speedster Marcus Lyles returned a kickoff seventy-five yards for a score in the third quarter. Lyles had an earlier eighty-seven yard kickoff return negated because of block in the back. Strange thing: He was ahead of the block so there was no need for it.

Sidenotes- There was a decent crowd on hand roughly seventy-five to eighty-five people on hand…. Paulk is one fast dude; he had a couple of runs that I wish I could have timed with a stopwatch… U-City has some promising underclassmen in junior receiver M. Gilliam and his classmate lineman Davon Wise. Wretchedly, UC does not have a junior varsity program to develop some assistance for those two… Also disappointing thus far King has not had any cheerleaders, they had a really nice program the last five years or so…. John Casey (UCity) and Shirley (King) both had some hard hits.

OCT. 14

PUBLIC AAAA GOLD
Frankford 24, Germantown 22

This was another fine football affair. It started with a bang: Germantown’s Aaron “Snook” Boyd took the opening kickoff eighty-five yards for a touchdown . . . only to have it negated because of a holding penalty. On the second play from scrimmage, Cedric Wright found star receiver William Parks from thirty-two yards out and the Bears were on the board, 6-0. (A key play to remember, considering the score, was the missed extra point.) Frankford fumbled the kickoff, but was able through some solid defense to hold the Bears scoreless on that possession. The Pioneers were able to respond with a score coming from halfback Malik Stradford on a fourteen yard touchdown scamper on the Red, Blue and Gold’s first possession from scrimmage. The key play on that drive was a majestic thirty-three yard pass play from junior quarterback Tim DiGiorgio to senior standout tight end Aaron Allison. After the successful extra point, the Pioneers would gain possession with a fumble recovery on the kickoff. Stradford added a one yard score with just less than three minutes to go in the quarter and kicker Eric Salguero made the extra point. On the ensuing kickoff, Boyd took the ball and sped eighty-two yards to pay turf. Parks was able to find the end zone on the conversion to tie things at 14. So in this 1st quarter, there were two fumbles on kickoffs, a kickoff called back for a touchdown, a kickoff for a touchdown and both teams registered two touchdowns apiece for a tie game. 2nd quarter and Frankford was able to take the lead, controlling the ball with a mix of the Wing T and their new Spread offense. Late in the half, on a fourth and three, Mike Brown, the wingback, made a forty-three yard run to the Germantown eight yard line. Germantown was able to stop the Pioneers from scoring a touchdown but Salguero, coolly, made a twenty-five yard field goal with forty-eight point seven seconds remaining. After exchanging empty possessions, Frankford would make a move behind the play of DiGiorgio, who made two great completions -- one to Allison, the other to Marquan Scott -- late in the third period. Those two passes, combined with a nineteen yard run from Brown, set up a two-yard pass scoring play to Scott which put the Pioneers on top by ten. Early 4th quarter, on a fourth and eleven, Wright hooked up with Myles Brooker on thirty-one yard pass play. Parks plowed into the end zone from the one yard line on the next play and combined with a Boyd run on the conversion the score is 24-22 FKD with nine minutes and sixteen seconds remaining. Guess what? No, you could not guess it. The kickoff is fumbled and Germantown recovers with decent field position at the Frankford twenty-eight yard line. The Pioneers then showed their resolve, as their defense clamped down on the Bears, sending them backwards on each play and taking over on downs with an impressive four down stand. During this series each tackle was definite and in a game packed with broken tackles by both teams, the Pioneers sent a lasting message. Junior halfback Eddie Coleman did a very good eating up the clock with solid running, and DiGiorgio outran two defenders on a third and seven, to get a huge first down. DiGiorgio did err late and throw an interception to Parks with two minutes and one second remaining. Germantown took over on their twelve yard line and advanced to their forty with only twenty seconds left. Wright went back to pass but was sacked by senior defensive end Kashiem Poland. That play ended this electric contest. Frankford moves on to a huge battle with arch-nemesis George Washington. Germantown remains at home to take on the Bartram Braves. Public League Football is fantastic!!!!!

Sidenotes- Lots of scouts and college coaches in the stands…. Beasley Reece and Friday Night Frenzy were on hand as well….. Allison is a true football monster and he is an honor student…. Frankford received solid defense from Johnny Leach and Marquan Scott who were all over the field…. Parks had four solo tackles and an interception. Only Jordan Alexander (a very promising sophomore) and Deon Garnett made more than one solo tackle besides him for G-Town.

OCT. 7
PUBLIC AAAA GOLD

Germantown 24, Northeast 12

This primetime match-up was a contest between the Vikings of Northeast High School and the Bears of Germantown. Germantown had recently lost to George Washington, 41-34, the Vikings recently shut out Samuel Fels, 38-0. Fittingly this one started with a bang as Shimeek Carter, a talented halfback, took off on a fifty-six yard run and two plays later was in the end-zone to provide the Vikings with a 6-0 led. Germantown answered with a ground attack led by senior backs Ackeno Robertson and Aaron “Snook” Boyd. Eight rushes from the backfield tandem set up a one-yard run from William Parks. Following a successful on-side kick recovered by Darnell Baldwin; the Bears would score early second quarter on a pass play from quarterback Cedric Wright to Myles Brooker. The Vikings replied on the ensuing drive with a pass play of their own; Harold Alexander to Daquan White. After a defensive stop, Northeast would drive to the Bear 13 yard line before Parks was able to make an amazing deflection of an end-zone pass on fourth down with only thirty-eight seconds remaining in the half. So at halftime in front of a sizeable, football oriented crowd on a Friday night – the score is 12-12. After halftime, the Vikings are able to make another drive deep into Bear territory behind the speed and shiftiness of Carter. The game gets to a crucial juncture with one minute and thirty-five seconds remaining with the Vikings on the Bear four-yard line and faced with a fourth and two. The Vikings decided to give the pigskin to Carter but he is promptly tackled by a cadre of Bears including Robertson and fellow senior Shariyf Bey for a one yard loss. Then the Bears began a drive that went into the early part of the fourth quarter. The drive was once again behind a huge offensive line highlighted by seniors Kwame Miller (6’5 390) and Diamir Baker (6’2 245) with added support from junior center Tahir West (6’1 260) they provided holes for the halfbacks Boyd and Robertson as they marched into Viking land. Key decision a third and eleven from the twenty-seven yard line; Wright connected with Baldwin for a twenty-six yard pass play. The next play Parks (Pittsburgh commit) gets in from the one-yard line and with seven minutes and forty-eight seconds remaining, the score is Germantown 18, Northeast 12. The defending Public League Champions have a drive starting at their thirty-seven yard line with plenty of time remaining. 1st play; a beautiful three yard run from Carter, then the second play a short pass to a receiver who despite holding on to the ball for a one-yard gain got hit HARD by Parks. In a game packed with hard, helmet- knocked-off heads hits from both teams, this one took the prize as most important and profound. After a failed third down and punt, for a final time Robertson (21 carries for 161) and Boyd (20 carries for 129) marched downfield from their thirteen to set up Parks for his third score. Robertson’s last second interception provided the exclamation point to the biggest win in Germantown's football history since winning the Public League title in 1999. Northeast Coach Chris Riley and his assistants move on to a road game against arch-rival, George Washington Friday afternoon on Bustleton Ave. Coach Mike Hawkins’ Bears stay at home to take on the always tough Pioneers of Frankford. The Public League season is heating up, I don’t know about you, but I love it.

Sidenotes – If memory serves right the last time NE had a fourth and two within the five yard line, they opted for a fake field goal to capture the PL title…. Absolutely nobody wanted to know about the Phillies game (just kidding)…. Daquan White can play. Matter of fact, he is pretty damn good… Lots of Germantown alumni were present and Coach Hawkins appeared extremely happy to see them . . . Good game. Good game!

OCT. 7

PUBLIC AAA

Boys' Latin 26, Martin Luther King 6

This one was interesting for a quarter and a half. Boys' Latin struck first with talented junior quarterback Erik Lark finding freshman receiver Edington Wright from eighteen yards out. Senior kicker Oumar Diawara made the extra point but the Cougars responded quickly with an 85-yard kickoff return from speedy halfback Malik Paulk. Boys' Latin would score again in the beginning of the third quarter with a four yard run from junior standout Ben Coulibaly. The last score of the game was a 26 yard interception return for David Peterson. That was a key play for a dominant defense which did not give up a point and totally bottled up the Cougar offense. BL was able to post four interceptions including two by Doug Osbourne in the fourth quarter. Senior Mark Bowser registered 4.5 sacks. In the next two weeks, BL faces Dobbins and undefeated West Philly – it should be some good football!!!!

Sidenotes-The scoreboard clock worked for the game. King junior Shaun Hill made a nice catch and was active on defense, as was senior Melvin Hopkins… Good crowd, about fifty people…. Lark and Coulibaly are impressive prospects. They are both listed as juniors. Coulibaly rushed 23 times for 146 yards.

OCT. 1

PUBLIC AA

Imhotep 36, Prep Charter 0

This one was not very competitive following the 1st quarter. The Panthers have a nice combination of talent between veterans and rookies whereas the Huskies are extremely young throughout their roster. The Panthers scored first behind the legs of talented junior tailback Eerin Young, who burst down the right side from 45 yards. Young would add a short one from two yards out and finish the day with 140 yards on 13 carries. It must be noted that awhile back Imhotep had an excellent tailback in Gerald Bowman (now a nationally regarded junior college safety) Young is slightly similar to Bowman at his high school position. Other stars for the Panthers were promising quarterback Andre Dreuitt and sophomore safety Dreandre Scott. Scott and senior Nasheed Parker were able to snag interceptions. Quinzell Lassiter provided the exclamation point when he blocked a punt and Saayid Statan recovered in the end zone for a touchdown. Prep Charter nearly had a fifty-eight yard score for Quadeem Starkes. They have some pretty good young players.

Sidenotes-This was Imhotep’s homecoming and they had a big crowd… Temple signee Shakur Nesmith is fast… A comment from an Imhotep coach was very interesting after they did not convert on a conversion: “All we do is score touchdowns." This game was less than two hours long. Actually, it was an hour and forty minutes from opening whistle to the handshake line.

SEPT. 29
PUBLIC AAA

Benjamin Franklin 20 Martin Luther King 14

This was a pleasing game. With no clock because of rain (it has to dry out) I was rather perturbed. The Electrons were able to ease my annoyance early and the Cougars did so as well in the second quarter. The Electrons got on the board early with a two-yard run by quarterback Anwar "Huddy" Mathis. The Cougars responded with Andre Shirley’s 89 yard return of a blocked field goal. The Cougars would not be done on offense as they would follow Shirley’s city record with another touchdown as junior quarterback Khaleel Stewart would hit promising junior receiver Shaun Hill ( 6’3 185) for a twenty-four yard touchdown play. The conversion play was a precision pass from Stewart to Melvin Hopkins. It must be noted that the second score was set up with solid defense from Hill, Hopkins and Akeece Jones. The Electrons would respond in the fourth quarter with steady quarterback play coming from “Huddy” (6-12 116). Mathis would find Chris Sullivan from six yards out for a touchdown combined with the second successful extra point for sophomore Lionel Detchou. Tie ball game and the Electrons defense took center stage under the coordination of alumnus David Carter. Solid defense from BF was able to control the entire second half and set up the final touchdown. After neutralizing the King offense, BF capitalized on a huge fourth-and-sixth play with a pass from Mathis hitting the arms of Michael Dixon. The 24 yard pass play would lead to a four yard scoring run from Randell Robinson. The extra point was blocked emphatically by Jones. The Cougars only had two minutes and twelve seconds remaining according to the stripes (no scoreboard). Well, the Electrons were able to stop MLK and hold on. Their top players are Demetrius Town and Crusito Cruz. Town is very active, strong and consistent two-way lineman; also Demetrius is 6’3 310. Cruz rushed for 96 yards on 19 carries before leaving with an ankle sprain after some hard hitting from King’s defense. Franklin has a big match-up next week with Public League AAA Division leader West Philly. King plays host to Boys Latin.

Sidenotes- Not bad. Maybe thirty people again for this contest, which is good considering there was no school. Keep trying. I had a great time talking with former King athletic director Marge Stinson, Officer Butler and Coach Ramer. Also, fun talking to Coach Carter and Coach Rob Moore (Constitution)…. Rounding out the conversation crew was clock operator Steve Kupsov. I had to console him about the Red Sox’s collapse and final day loss to the Orioles (they got to the last strike) and for the clock not working. Shirley’s blocked field goal return was a city record, breaking 87 by two guys (McDevitt's Scott Yancey in '75 and Malvern's Blake Gunther earlier this season).

SEPT. 23
PUBLIC AA
Imhotep 19, Delaware Valley 6

What a pleasant evening for a monsoon bowl. This neighborhood match-up is one of the most entertaining contests – this year it has been renamed the Community Cup. With the cup goes yearly bragging rights amongst the two rival charter schools. Anyway, when the game began it was raining and it was very difficult for teams to advance the ball. Imhotep should have scored in the second quarter when promising sophomore defensive back DeAndre Scott scooped up a fumble and darted for a touchdown. Sadly, Scott’s heroism was negated by a unneeded block in the back. The Panthers would redeem themselves in the 3rd stanza when senior cornerback Nasheed Parker intercepted a pass and jetted 43 yards for a score. The 3rd quarter would continue to prove fruitful for the Panthers; junior star Eerin Young added another score with a twenty yard touchdown run. The Warriors of Delaware Valley did respond in the fourth quarter when they unveiled talented sophomore running back Antron Smith. Smith had a pair of dazzling runs that set up his five yard touchdown scamper. DV would not be able to further threaten and the Panthers added a late score when Shaquil Ryder picked up a fumble and ran into the end zone with less than a minute remaining. The 6’3 260 pound Ryder was among a cadre of active defenders for Coach Marc Wilson’s squad. The most prominent were sophomore linebacker Steven Denby, Scott, Elijah Anthony (7 tackles) and sophomore linebacker Tyrone Barge. It does not take long to view that the Panthers have a strong sophomore class on the defensive side of the ball and with talented quarterback Andre Dreuitt being only a freshmen, they are loaded for the future. Smith mustered 93 yards on only 10 carries. Defensively the top Warrior (and he was named DV’s defensive MVP) was the highly active Syeff McLeod. McLeod had other teammates who did some hard-hitting as well. The top Panther was Young who carried 13 times for 83 yards.

Sidenotes – Well over 800 people, I estimate, were in attendance during the rain… Delaware Valley Charter had a nice a drum band… Interesting conversation in the press box: One observer mentioned he was from Boston and he said that he went to Trinity. Interestingly enough I went to Colby. Colby and Trinity play football on Saturday… I had a great time in the box with three class individuals in Frank "Roscoe" Natale and Vince Trombretta from Bok and Rob Hale from Prep Charter. All three obviously took their scouting inside… Neighborhood rivalries are something especially when people remember it is only a game.

SEPT. 16
NON-LEAGUE
Abraham Lincoln 19 Germantown 14

This one was a delight to watch and as the final score tells it was a MAJOR victory for the Railsplitters. Lincoln struck first with a seven yard touchdown run from senior halfback Joshua McClam midway through the first quarter. The extra point however went wide to the right. Germantown did respond on the ensuing drive with a forty-five yard touchdown reception for William Parks from Cedric Wright. The Bears also failed to convert on the point after conversation. In the waning seconds of the first period McClam entered the end zone again from one yard out. Amar Albarouki drilled the extra point and the Railsplitters led 13-6 after one. Once again Germantown would answer, this time Wright hooked up with wide receiver Myles Brooker for a pair of highlight reel pass plays. Brooker hauled in the touchdown while being tripped and on his back. Impressive! Brooker would add the conversion on a nice reception. After an uneventful third quarter, the Lincoln would apply the dagger in the fourth quarter; when Wright is hit by a pair of rushers and lofted his third interception into the arms of Marquise McFarland. McFarland returned the ball nineteen yards to the Germantown five yard line. On the next play, McClam would scamper around the end and into the end zone. Plenty of time remaining and Germantown appeared to have a drive started but where hindered by a false start and another interception. Lincoln would hold on from there as the final Germantown possession did not have enough time to seriously threaten. The heroes were plentiful for the black and gold; headlined by McClam who rushed 11 times for 100 yards and amazingly nimble wingback Sincere Merced. Merced caught four passes for thirty-six yards and was terror on defense as was McFarland and Isaiah Gonzalez. McFarland involved himself in eight tackles and had the big interception, as well. Gonzalez had two picks and Merced one int. Lincoln’s offensive tempo and well thought out/ executed scheme greatly bothered G-Town and in short they outplayed and outworked them as well. Damien Chin-Rose worked hard all game long on the offensive line. Germantown received big days from their stars Parks and Brooker. Parks caught three balls for seventy-four yards and Brooker caught six for one hundred-six. Both snagged two interceptions apiece while Parks was involved in five tackles. Underrated performer Aaron “Snook” Boyd had 15 carries for 80 yards but like Parks did not receive carries at key junctures. (In fact, Parks did not carry the ball at all.) Self-control and discipline were lacking for the Bears with penalties and poor tackling playing a large part in their demise. Also this contest had eight interceptions and a fumble lost, so it was wild to say the least.

Sidenotes- This was Friday Night Lights in the Northwest part of the city… Lots of highlight reel plays by highly skilled athletes; Brooker skied for a pass and made an Al Toon/ Lynn Swann like catch in the second quarter. You kids have no idea who Toon and Swann are but nobody playing now could make acrobatic catches like them… The Railsplitters’ Edwin Waters appeared to make a nice grab but it was ruled incomplete and McClam skied high and almost brought down a “rainmaker”. Lincoln’s quarterback Miguel Sanchez, a junior, could develop into a goodie and G-Town’s Wright threw for 196 yards…. Lots of Enon Eagles Football jerseys and jackets were at this game… Also, I had a great time talking to Coach Anthony Pastore and Sharif Smith from Furness before the game.

SEPT. 15
PUBLIC AAA
West Philadelphia 24, Martin Luther King 2

This was an interesting match-up with the Speedboys of West Philadelphia making a trek up to Mount Airy to take on MLK. The Speedboys, equipped with a new school building, are trying to open up their “new house” without any losses. Coach Paul Noon’s squad entered this contest at 2-0 with wins over Bartram and Dobbins, no slouches in my book. This one started, interestingly enough, as King fumbled the opening kickoff and WP ran it in for a touchdown; that score would be erased because of a penalty during the return. Surprisingly, the Cougars got on the scoreboard first when a West Philadelphia punt when wrong. The ball was snapped over Speedboys’ punter Leander Berry’s head and out of the end zone. The crew from West Philly would respond in the second quarter when star wide receiver Eric “T.O” Leslie hauled in a seven yard pass from junior Ricardo Streams. This touchdown was a classic example of you cannot allow a good team too many chances. On the prior play from scrimmage MLK defensive back Akeece Jones made a good defensive play on a fourth down pass play in the end zone. Jones’ play was negated because of a face mask personal foul away from the ball. Leslie could not be defended when he hauled in the pass over his shoulder for the score. On the conversion talented tight end Jesse Thomas (6’3 165) made a nice catch for the two points. King had a chance to tie the game when Andre Shirley snagged an interception and jetted for touchdown. No joy for the Cougars on the play: the touchdown was called back for a block in the back. Second half and this was all West Philly as the running game was solid with two backs taking the limelight; Markel Faulk and Elijah Hardy. Faulk’s numbers were misleading (22 carries for 49 yards) as he did run hard for key first downs through King arm tackles. Hardy, a sophomore, was exciting. Though small he has a nice combination of strength, speed and shiftiness and he totaled 82 yards on only 10 carries. Hardy added a touchdown with a five yard run late in the third period. Leslie hauled in a conversation after that, T.O. had scored a second touchdown earlier in the third stanza. The Speedboys are not a large team but they would likely win a 220 and under weight football league championship. (Lord only knows we do not need 220 and under in Philadelphia or anywhere for that matter. Please do not come up with a 220 league -- smile.) Thomas was a true monster on defense, as he registered 6 tackles and deflected 3 passes. Joseph Southern was another star for the Speedboys with 6 tackles as well. Coach Noon appears to have a deep and talented coaching staff and they are looking to build a program of prominence. The Cougars are not very good but as usual they come up with solid players who are seniors and did not play before on varsity. Shirley played well at tight end and as a linebacker; he is only 5’11 180 but a PLAYER. Another player that seemed to fit the bill was Rashann Foreman. Halfback Malik Paulk is quality and showed so last season but the West Philly defense keyed on him early and limited his effectiveness.

Sidenotes- About 30 people in the stands; best King crowd for a non-Thanksgiving game in about five years. Whistletopps network was here for this contest. It was fun talking to King's new Athletic Director, Duane Ramer, and West Philly Defensive Coordinator Frank Steed before and after the contest, respectively.

SEPT. 2
NON-LEAGUE
Emmaus 35, Germantown 12

Football season began with a bang! This was a competitive contest in Northwest Philly on a glorious Friday night. After a scoreless first quarter, Emmaus was able to score midway through the second stanza on a three-yard run from their superstar Khaleel Artis. Immediately, the Bears responded and they did so with a balanced offensive attack. Sophomore quarterback Cedric Wright completed two highlight reel passes, one to senior standout Will Parks (Pittsburgh commit) and the other to Myles Brooker. Parks is as good as advertised; I really hope people come to Benjamin Johnston Stadium to watch him play. Not only is he an amazing cornerback, he is a problem for defenses when he is on offense because he makes plays. He made a nice grab and run for a thirty-yard gain and two plays later Brooker made a great catch on a beautiful ball for a thirty-eight yard pass play. Those two plays led to senior halfback Ackeno Robertson’s 15 yard touchdown run. So in this highly anticipated match-up the score is 7-6 Emmaus at the half. Third quarter and a few things occur, a major scoreboard malfunction caused a delay and then Artis scored a touchdown from eight yards out. Germantown suffered a couple of penalties and Artis added an eighty-seven yard touchdown run. Germantown lost a little bit of discipline and self-control during a four-six minute period of the game or I could be writing about an upset. Wright is one to watch, he throws a beautiful deep ball and Coach Mike Hawkins is letting him throw it – Wright was 16-28 for 197 with a late touchdown to Brooker. The Bears have a lot more than Wright, Parks and Brooker. Robertson and Aaron “Snook” Boyd appear to be a nice one-two punch in the backfield and the development of 6’6 390lb two-way tackle Kwame Miller is amazing. The big fella is a "freak of nature." The squad might need to add some depth which most PL squads do after the beginning of school in the PIAA era. And if self control improves they should challenge in the Gold Division.

Sidenotes- Where do I begin? Anyway, great atmosphere as Emmaus brought a full-scale marching band and they performed the National Anthem and two songs at halftime……… The Bears, in addition to Parks, who is qualified, have four more qualified seniors receiving college recruiting attention in Miller, Brooker, Robertson and 6’2 250 lb lineman Diamir Baker……The Germantown sideline was extremely active and involved throughout and that is a really good sign……Lots of Wissahickon Braves’ jerseys. Hit of the day Germantown linebacker Anton Adams “got low” for a nice hard stick right before halftime.