Trumbull's Ian Milne (7) carries the ball during the CIAC quarterfinal football game against Conard at Trumbull on Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2010. Photo: Amy Mortensen / Connecticut Post Freelance
SIXTEEN DOWN.
Twelve to go.
We knock off eight more Saturday.
Welcome to the end of the gauntlet portion — two games, four days — of the new and improved CIAC football playoffs. What used to be championship Saturday is now Semifinal Saturday, a week before the big games at the Rent.
But, boy, it feels like a championship atmosphere already.
Below, we take another comprehensive look at the eight semifinal games, a who’s who of 2010 Connecticut high school football.
In Class LL, Glastonbury, fresh off its 7-6 victory over Staples and back in the semifinals for the third straight season, gets the penultimate crack at upending top-seeded and top-ranked Xavier at Jess Dow Field. The only CCC team remaining just might be the best CCC team. Now it takes on the SCC’s best. In the second game, FCIAC runner-up Trumbull takes on ECC unbeaten NFA at Ken Strong Stadium.
In Class L, aka the Dream Semifinal, we have four of the best high school football programs in the state pitted against each other. On one side, we have the Champions Bowl, FCIAC champion Darien vs. SWC champion Masuk. On the other side, The Mirror Bowl: the FCIAC’s version of Daniel Hand vs. the SCC’s version of New Canaan, otherwise known as New Canaan vs. Hand.
In Class M, Hillhouse, still riding high after its 33-30 upset of top-ranked Berlin in the quarterfinals, takes on playoff newbie Gilbert/Northwestern, which surprised some by crushing Plainville in the quarterfinals for its first playoff victory in its first playoff game. On the other side a prime time matchup between playoff veterans New London and Brookfield. NL lost to the SWC’s Bethel in this spot a year ago. Can the SWC make it a double?
And in Class S, we have the ground round between Montville‘s Tyler Girard-Floyd and Ansonia‘s Montrell Dobbs. On the other side, high flyin’ Jimmy Fairfield-Sonn of Valley Regional takes on Della Vecchia’s son of St. Joseph.
Class LL
No. 4 Glastonbury vs. No. 1 Xavier
WHERE — Jess Dow Field, SCSU, New Haven
WHEN — 2 p.m.
ON THE AIR — WELI 960-AM | Sportingnewsct.com
RECORDS – Glastonbury 10-1 (CCC Division I co-champion); Xavier 11-0 (SCC Division I West champion)
ALL-TIME PLAYOFF RECORD (SEMIFINALS) – Glastonbury 5-2 (1-1); Xavier 3-2 (1-2)
HOW THEY GOT HERE — Glastonbury defeated Staples 7-6; Xavier defeated No. 8 West Haven 28-7
PLAYERS TO WATCH — Glastonbury: Sr. QB/FS Corey Santor (1,245 yards 10 TDs passing; 608 yards rushing, 14 TDs.); Sr. RB/DB Malcom Crossen; Sr. LB Kadeem Ward; Xavier: Sr. LB/TE Graham Stewart; Sr. DE Eric Mischke; Sr. FB/LB Mike Mastroianni; Sr. LB Austen Ahern; Jr. WR/CB Ryan Jacobucci; Jr. TE/SS Ryan Murphy.
OUTLOOK – Glastonbury out-Stapled Staples in the quarterfinals with strong defense and special teams to squeak into its third straight state semifinal game. The Tomahawks, winners of nine straight, have averaged 37 points during the last eight games of the regular season, but scored just seven in the quarterfinals. Scoring will be a challenge again against Xavier’s notoriously big and physical front, which grinds offenses to a standstill. After several shaky performances Xavier’s offense looks like it’s rounding into form. It’s big, strong and with Mastroianni carrying the ball, near impossible to slow down — that is, unless the Falcons do the honor themselves. Glastonbury’s defense must force the issue and win field position if it wants to spring the upset.
OUR PICK – Xavier 34-13
No. 3 Trumbull vs. No. 2 Norwich Free Academy
WHERE — Ken Strong Stadium, West Haven
WHEN – 2 p.m.
RECORDS – Trumbull 10-2 (FCIAC runner-up); NFA 11-0 (ECC Large champion)
ALL-TIME PLAYOFF RECORD (SEMIFINALS) – Trumbull 6-5 (2-1); NFA 2-2 (1-1)
HOW THEY GOT HERE — Trumbull defeated Conard 27-9; NFA defeated Hall 30-14
PLAYERS TO WATCH – Trumbull: Sr. WR/DB/KR Phil Terio; Sr. QB/DB Ian Milne; Jr. FB/LB Don Cherry; Sr. OL/DL Brian Barnash (6-0, 215); Sr. QB Brian Gallo; Sr. WR/DE Tom Pauciello (6-6, 235); Sr. G/DT Will Testani (5-10, 240); Sr. DT Ryan Monaco (5-11, 212); Sr. DE Bryan DeWalt. NFA: Sr. RB/S Anthony Facchini (1,052 yards rushing); Sr. LB Nick Cipriano; Fresh. RB/DB Marcus Outlow; Jr. QB/DB Erik Washburn; Sr. OL/DL Matthew Digby (6-6, 295); Sr. OL Peter Kelly (6-5, 305)
OUTLOOK — NFA is massive up front and uses the 5-11, 200-pound Facchini as a battering ram… over and over and over. That could pose a problem for the FCIAC runner-up. Though strong up front, Trumbull has had its troubles stopping the run (Conard’s Esposito did put up 190 yards in the quarterfinal loss). Similarly, NFA’s defense hasn’t seen an offense in the ECC like Trumbull’s. When Milne’s at QB (and he played the entire quarterfinal game), he loves to scramble for big yards or make big passes to Terio and Pauciello, a blossoming talent who’s suddenly starting to get big college looks. NFA will likely have to play serious ball control and error-free defense to hold the sometimes erratic Eagles at bay. This match could go either way, Trumbull just might have a few more weapons.
OUR PICK – Trumbull 27-20
♦♦♦♦
Class L
No. 5 Darien at No. 1 Masuk
WHERE – Finn Stadium, Shelton
WHEN — 2 p.m.
ON THE AIR — Sportingnewsct.com
RECORDS – Darien 11-1 (FCIAC Champions); Masuk 11-0 (SWC Champions)
ALL-TIME PLAYOFF RECORD (SEMIFINALS) – Darien 10-6 (5-0); Masuk 9-10 (5-3)
HOW THEY GOT HERE – Darien defeated Wethersfield 31-7; Masuk defeated Bristol Eastern 49-23
PLAYERS TO WATCH — Darien: Sr. LB/FB Jake Weil; Sr. OL/DL Charlie Kunze (8 sacks); Sr. DE Tucker Morehouse (13 sacks); Sr. RB/DB Graham Maybell (532 yards, 5 TD rushing); Sr. QB Chris Allam (1,268 yards passing, 15 TD, 8 INT). Masuk: Sr. WR/DB/K Jon Testani (5 TDs, 5 FG, 5 INT); Jr. QB Casey Cochran (2,670 yards, 36 TD, 7 INT passing); Jr. RB Colin Markus (1,267 yards rushing, 20 TDs; Sr. WR Tyler Perimenis (644 yards, 9 TDs receiving); Sr. WR/S/KR Joe Diaz; Jr. DB Shawn Flynn; Sr. LB Anthony Calabrese;
OUTLOOK – Part one of the dream semifinal is a matchup of FCIAC and SWC champions. Darien does it with a strong, aggressive defense and a patient offense. Masuk does it with a strong, aggressive defense and a quick-strike offense. Thanks to injuries and suspensions, coach Rob Trifone says Darien is perhaps 80 percent of its former self. The Wave’s hopes rest on Weil, Morehouse and Kunze to plug the gaps, stop Markus, get pressure on Cochran (he’s been sacked eight times in two games) and force turnovers and keep the high-flying Panthers off the scoreboard. The key will be Darien’s offense. Allam and Blue Wave must find a way to establish themselves early. If Darien gets too far behind, or commits any turnovers, it could be in serious trouble.
OUR PICK — Masuk 31, Darien 16
No. 6 New Canaan vs. No. 3 Hand
WHERE – Ken Strong Stadium, West Haven
WHEN – 7 p.m.
ON THE AIR – WELI 960-AM
RECORDS — New Canaan 10-1 (FCIAC third place), Hand 10-1 (SCC Division I East co-champion)
ALL-TIME PLAYOFF RECORD (SEMIFINALS) — New Canaan 17-4 (8-2); Hand 15-6 (4-0)
PLAYERS TO WATCH — New Canaan: Sr. WR/DB/KR Kevin Macari (954 yards, 15 TDs); Sr. QB Matt Milano (2,576 yards, 36 TD passing); Sr. OL/DL Conor Hanratty; Sr. RB/DB Joe Costigan; Sr. NG Ryan Schullman; Sr. OL/DL Jack Atchue; Hand: Sr. QB Zach Miller (2,245 yards, 18 TD, 4 INT passing; 496 yards rushing); Sr. WR Alec Pacelli (900 yards receiving); Jr. RB Kevin Frey; Sr. RB/LB Michael Leone; Jr. NG Joe Demichele; Sr. LB A.J. Hill.
OUTLOOK – Programs don’t get more similar than these. Both are relatively medium-sized schools from affluent communities who rally around the team. Both have the same championship pedigree (Hand 9 titles, New Canaan 8 ) and have won almost the same number of playoff games. Both run spread offenses, produce system QBs, feature top-flight receivers and have underrated defenses. Both have pride and tradition and feature some of the state’s best coaching minds. But only one can go to Rentschler Field. Flip a coin. Put on a blindfold, throw a dart. We’ll take the four-time defending state champion Rams — who have won 9 straight playoff games and grabbed the second of their trophies at Hand’s expense — in a nailbiter.
OUR PICK – New Canaan 36-34
♦♦♦♦
Class M
No. 8 Hillhouse vs. No. 4 Gilbert/Northwestern
WHERE – Municipal Stadium, Waterbury
WHEN – 2 p.m.
ON THE AIR — Sportingnewsct.com
RECORDS — Hillhouse 8-3 (SCC Division II West runners-up); Gilbert/Northwestern 9-2 (Pequot Uncas runner-up).
ALL-TIME PLAYOFF RECORD (SEMIFINALS) – Hillhouse 7-2 (3-1); Gilbert/Northwestern 1-0 (0-0)
HOW THEY GOT HERE — Hillhouse defeated No. 1 Berlin 33-30; Gilbert/Northwestern defeated Plainville 41-6
PLAYERS TO WATCH – Hillhouse: Fresh. RB Harold Cooper (1,000+ yards rushing); Sr. RB/LB Taurese Washington; Sr. WR/DB/K Steven Dejournett; Sr. OL/DL Tyvon Williams (6-0, 365); Soph. QB Je’Vaughn Moore. Gilbert/Northwestern: Sr. QB Bobby Lippincott; Jr. OL/LB J.P. Dulac (8 sacks); Jr. RB Devon Molway (1,210 yards rushing, 10 TD); Sr. WR/DB Drew McCarthy (5 INT).
OUTLOOK – Two of the best stories in high school football go head-to-head in this clash of cultures. Big city Hillhouse of the mighty SCC and one of the state’s most storied programs, vs. small town Gilbert/Northwestern of Winsted, here in the playoffs for the first time. Both teams love to run and use their athletic quarterbacks to make plays. Both teams play smash-mouth defense. Gilbert has size, but not Hillhouse size. Nor does it have Hillhouse speed. G-N will come in as heavy underdogs. It’ll take an extra-ordinary effort for them to pull the upset.
OUR PICK – Hillhouse 34-14
No. 3 Brookfield vs. No. 2 New London
WHERE — Bulldog Field, Bunnell High School, Stratford
RECORDS – Brookfield 9-2 (SWC third-place); New London 9-2 (ECC Large Division runners-up)
ALL-TIME PLAYOFF RECORD (SEMIFINALS) – Brookfield 8-4 (5-1); New London 8-6 (2-1).
HOW THEY GOT HERE — Brookfield defeated Lyman Hall 50-21; New London defeated Platt 58-14
PLAYERS TO WATCH — Brookfield: Sr. WR/DB Brian Kelly (632 yards, 11 TD; 300 yards rushing 4 TD; 9 INT, 3 defensive TDs); Soph. RB/LB Leaon Gordon (1,234 yards, 15 TD rushing); Soph. QB Boeing Brown (1,219 yards, 17 TD, 3 INT); Sr. TE/LB Shea McGorty (6 sacks); Sr. OL/DL Dion Koumoutseus (6-3, 300); Sr. DB/WR Nick Paez; New London: Sr. QB Josh Clements (1,400 yards, 20 TDs); Jr. RB/LB Kyle McKinnon (1,056 yards rushing, 15 TD); Sr. FB/LB Stefan Dance; Jr. WR/DB Garrick McQueen; Jr. RB/DB Jevon Elmore; Sr. LB Carlos Lozada.
OUTLOOK – Brookfield’s Brian Kelly is having one of the best individual seasons in the state this season. The Bobcats are going to need everything from him, Paez and breakout sophomores Brown and Gordon if they want to punch their tickets to Rentschler. The Whalers, who are down at least one key lineman, have equal talent at the skill positions to potentially make this semifinal an offensive showcase. That said, expect for fireworks on defense. From Dance or McKinnon or Elmore for the Whalers, Paez or Gordon from Brookfield. But Kelly might be the difference-maker again.
OUR PICK – Brookfield 36-26
♦♦♦♦
Class S
No. 4 St. Joseph vs. No. 1 Valley Regional/Old Lyme
WHERE – Municipal Stadium, Waterbury
WHEN — 7 p.m.
ON THE AIR — Sportingnewsct.com
RECORDS — St. Joseph 8-3, Valley Regional/Old Lyme 11-0 (Pequot Sassaucus champion)
PLAYOFF RECORD – St. Joseph 11-2 (1-0) Valley Regional/Old Lyme 1-0 (0-0)
HOW THEY GOT HERE – St. Joseph defeated Woodland 48-12; Vally Regional/Old Lyme defeated Sacred Heart 37-24
PLAYERS TO WATCH – St. Joseph: Sr. FB/LB Tyler Matakevich; Sr. QB Joe Della Vecchia (2,658 yards, 30 TD passing, 522 yards rushing, 4 TD); Sr. RB/DB Jerry Kramer; Sr. WR/DB Quinn Irwin; Sr. RB/DB Joe Burns; Sr. WR/DB Pat Mulligan (12 TD); Sr. RB/LB L.J. Hunt (724 yards rushing); Sr. LB Sean Chinova. Valley: Jr. QB Jimmy Fairfield-Sonn (2,420 yards total offense, 27 TD passing, 28 TD rushing; 8 INT); Sr. DE/TE Mitchell King (6-6, 232); Sr. OL/DE Cavan Flynn.
OUTLOOK – It’s been a dream season for coach Tim King and Valley Regional/Old Lyme, who have a sparkplug in Fairfield-Sonn and a big time stopper in Mitchell King (no relation). St. Joseph’s season came thisclose to being a nightmare. But Matakevich returned, Della Vecchia has overcome some injuries and the Hogs are again playing at the championship level predicted in the preseason. Valley’s got size up front and wont be bullied. Sonn-Fairfield is one of the state’s best and more than capable of matching Della Vecchia’s quick strikes, especially against a defense that’s had been shaky until the quarterfinals. And the Valley Regional defense is top-notch. But the Hogs have played these kinds of teams all season. As good as Valley is (and don’t be fooled, it’s excellent), that big-game experience should serve St. Joe well.
OUR PICK – St. Joseph 34, Valley Regional 30
No. 3 Ansonia vs. No. 2 Montville
WHERE — Middletown High School, Middletown
WHEN — 2 p.m.
ON THE AIR — Sportingnewsct.com
RECORDS — Ansonia 10-1 (NVL runner-up); Montville 10-1 (ECC Medium champion)
ALL-TIME PLAYOFF RECORD (SEMIFINALS) — Ansonia 25-13 (8-6); Montville 3-5 (2-1)
HOW THEY GOT HERE – Ansonia defeated Hyde 47-26; Montville defeated Cromwell 55-28.
PLAYERS TO WATCH – Ansonia: Sr. RB Montrell Dobbs (2,744 yards rushing, 37 TDs); Jr. QB Eliot Chudwick (21 TD passing); Fresh. RB/DB Arkeel Newsome (711 yards, 11 TDs rushing); Jr. TE/DE Sean Rowley; Jr. LB Tyler Wood; Soph. WR/DE Andrew Matos. Montville: Sr. RB/LB Tyler Girard-Floyd (1,894 yards, 26 TD rushing); Sr. RB/DB Skyler McNair (648 yards, 10 TD rushing); QB/DB Troy Nunes (879 yards, 11 TD passing); Sr. WR Robert Johnson; Sr. TE/LB Cody Bigelow; Soph. RB/DE Jake Basillica (6-3, 200); Jr. LB/FB Ken Strecker.
OUTLOOK — Ansonia’s Montrell Dobbs is Connecticut’s leading tailback. Led by bruiser Girard-Floyd, Montville’s is Connecticut’s top rushing team (3,149 yards). We’re going out on a limb and say these teams will try to run, run and run. So whose defense is up to the task? Right now, Montville’s D looks the better of the two, having surrendered a 162 points to Ansonia’s 246. The Chargers haven’t allowed less than 20 points in a game since Week 2. As good as Dobbs is, this might be the best defense the Chargers have faced all season. Ansonia’s young D will have to play its best game of the year to stay within striking distance.
OUR PICK – Montville 44, Ansonia 29
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Predictions:
Class LL
Glastonbury Vs Xavier
This should be a great defensive struggle. The x-men have a way of coming up with the big play.
14-7 Xavier
NFA Vs Trumbull
Trumbull is battle tested. Their offense prevails.
35-14 Trumbull
Class L
Darien Vs Masuk
The big question here beyond Fairfield County bragging rights is can Darien’s highly acclaimed defense stop Masuk’s high octane offense. Then can they score? I don’t think so but I’ll be there.
28-0 Masuk
New Canaan Vs Hand.
Two great programs go at it. I’m certain the Hand coaches remember the last time these two met. Hand’s only loss was to NDWH a team with a good passing game. NC’s loss was to St Joes another team with a strong passing game. Whoever has the ball last wins this shootout.
35-33 Hand.
Class M
Brookfield Vs New London
This one is a toss up. Brookfield did a good job on Lyman Hall so I’ll go with them hoping for a match up with “The House”
28-21 Brookfield.
Hillhouse Vs Gilbert/ NW
The Acs are on a roll. I know nothing about Gilbert/NW but I doubt they can compete with a physical team like Hillhouse .
31-14 Hillhouse
Class S
St Joes Vs Valley
The Hogs are just too good for this class.
35-7 St Joes
Ansonia Vs Montville
Can the NVL boys find Middletown? Hint: Its not on RT 8. Ansonia is the last hope for the NVL and Ray Brown aka Daddywags is already talking about youth, inexperience and next year. Remmy is picking Ansonia but then he picked Derby over Shelton. I want that Ansonia Vs St Joes match up.
42-38 Lavender
Comment by dave k — December 3rd, 2010 @ 8:22 am
With two high-flying teams like NC and Hand squaring off, the impulse is to expect a high-scoring game. But in high school ball, these same receivers are your d-backs. The coverage is better. That’s why I expect people to be talking more about Conor Hanratty after the game. Having a big guy like that gives you confidence to send a back or tight-end on a release instead of in to block. A guy like that makes a defense think twice about blitzing.
The only thing that can limit NC’s passing game is the weather. For NC to lose under ideal conditions, you need a team with a strong ball-control running game. Or, you need a good passing team where the QB is smart enough and mobile enough to run instead of force something into a covered receiver. If Hand wins, all the talk will likely be of QB Zach Miller of Hand. Every NC player should watch this highlight reel of the kid, paying special attention to Cheshire, the one team that was able to put some pressure on the kid. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EjnwrrR5dU0
Comment by Scott — December 3rd, 2010 @ 9:23 am
St. Joe’s has no idea what is coming to them tomorrow night. Valley is more physical and tougher than St. Joe’s. make sure you come to Municipal to see the HOGS get blasted by Valley.
Comment by Deep_River — December 3rd, 2010 @ 10:02 am
SPB,
Joes game is at 7pm in Waterbury not 2pm. u have both Hillhouse and Joes at 2pm in the preview above.
Comment by Brian — December 3rd, 2010 @ 10:46 am
Xavier 21 Glastonbury 7: Lost in the great defensive performance that the Tomahawks put on Tuesday night their offense really didn’t do a thing. Now they are going against one of the two best defenses in the state? Give me the Falcons.
Trumbull 30 NFA 20: No matter what they’ve done I really haven’t bought NFA all year. I think Cherry, Terio and the rest of the Eagles are just going to be too much.
Masuk 35 Darien 17: Masuk might get a challenge for the first time all season. The Wave need to jump on Masuk early if Darien falls behind they’re cooked.
Hand 38 New Canaan 34: I’ve seen both teams once this year, and was very impressed with Hand has they thrashed West Haven and even in a loss like what I saw out of New Canaan fighting back against St. Joes. This run of success New Canaan has had in the playoffs can’t last forever and I think that this time they meet their match in Miller and the Tigers
Hillhouse 27 Gilbert 7: Congratulations to Gilbert for getting here. But their run ends here. Also after making several bad picks this year I feel vindicated somewhat for picking House to beat Berlin.
Brookfield 24 New London 20: I really don’t know and think both of these teams are even. It might be the best of the Saturday afternoon games.
St. Joes 40 Valley 28: Agree that Valley is much better then they are given credit for, however in the Pequot they haven’t seen anything like the Cadets.
Montville 35 Ansonia 20: Chalk this up as experience for a young Charger team that will probably be the early favorite in this class next year. If Dobbs can’t get rolling then they have no chance.
Comment by The Dude — December 3rd, 2010 @ 10:52 am
dave k–your a st.joes guy now? your as big a fraud as the shelton team was this year.by the way where are the gayles playing this week?
Comment by RAY BROWN — December 3rd, 2010 @ 10:57 am
Thanks Brian
Comment by Sean Patrick Bowley — December 3rd, 2010 @ 11:25 am
hand will have a big advantage at QB. Milano is a very good passer but doesn’t scramble that much.
Comment by jeb — December 3rd, 2010 @ 11:29 am
Valley Regional 42 St. Joe’s 20…Mark it down
Comment by Deep_River — December 3rd, 2010 @ 11:30 am
Glastonbury 17 Xavier 14 – Major upset in the makings!!
Comment by Tim Cashman — December 3rd, 2010 @ 11:47 am
@Ray
The gaels are in the weight room savoying that Thanksgiving thrashing of an NVL power house. And why wouldn’t I be cheering for St Joes they do have some of our Shelton Kid on their roster.
Comment by dave k — December 3rd, 2010 @ 11:48 am
We’d love to see some upsets.
Comment by Sean Patrick Bowley — December 3rd, 2010 @ 11:50 am
I think Deep River is right. Sj could be in trouble tomorrow night. Fairfield-Soon is said to be a special player.
Comment by UTAH!!! — December 3rd, 2010 @ 11:51 am
RAY – IF YOU’D LIKE TO GO TO THE GAME IN MIDDLETOWN YOU NEED TO LET ME KNOW ASAP. THIS IS IN A DIFFERENT COUNTY YOU KNOW. YOU’LL NEED TO PROMISE ME THAT YOU’LL KEEP THE ANKLE BRACELET SECURELY FASTNED, AND MUST TAKE YOUR MEDS BEFORE AND AFTER THE GAME. PURELY PRECAUTIONARY. THE WHOLE GANG DOWN HERE IS PULLING FOR THE CHARGERS.
Comment by Ray Brown's Parole Officer — December 3rd, 2010 @ 12:29 pm
cant wait to watch the NC vs. Hand game. it should be an offensive showcase for both teams. Whoever plays better defense wins the game. the x factor is shullman from new canaan. he can get pressure by himself allowing the nc defense drop back and not have to blitz. new canaan wins by 2 tds all because of him
Comment by richard fitzwell — December 3rd, 2010 @ 12:55 pm
the fciac actually has a legit shot at winning states in all 3 divisons they are in. if they had an “m” team it might be all 4 divisions
Comment by richard fitzwell — December 3rd, 2010 @ 12:57 pm
@JEb with NC line Milano doesn’t need to be a great scrambler, they are the X factor, that is a very good line.
Comment by RandyTheRam — December 3rd, 2010 @ 1:09 pm
Valley doesn’t know whats coming to them. Yes they are undefeated, Yes they are good, otherwise they wouldn’t be in the spot they are now. St. Joes plays in one of the best, if not the best, divison in the state. Valley plays in the Pequot or whatever, I’ve never even heard of that. Also, from what ive seen they have 1 good player,1. SJ has numerous amounts of threats, Matakevich is one of the best players in the state, if it werent for his injured foot you would truly see what he is made of. Della Vecchia might be the best QB in the FCIAC. Mulligan and Kramer are both threats on either side of the ball and Irwin is sneaky, he quiet but can make big plays. Valley doesnt have the expierence St. Joes had last season. St. Joes playing on the same field that they thrased Holy Cross on last year being the underdog. I don’t see why they cannot do it again, in the same fashion they did last year.
St. Joes 42 Valley 21
Comment by footballfan44 — December 3rd, 2010 @ 1:10 pm
According to MaxPreps, here is the total offense ratings for CT: 1. Cody Keith (Cheshire Academy), 2. Joe Della Vecchia (St. Joseph), 3. Sean Goldrich (Notre Dame, WH), 4. Zachary Miller (Hand), 5. Montrell Dobbs (Ansonia), 6. Dontay Long, (Wilbur Cross), 7. Max Slade (Cheshire), 8. Kyle Nolan (Branford), 9. Matthew Milano (New Canaan), 10. Casey Cochran (Masuk).
All familiar names around here except the Cheshire Academy kid (big fish, small pond) and Zach Miller. Good Youtube video of Miller. Bigger test for NC it appears than previously thought. Hand’s only loss was to ND-WH when they gave up 200+ yards on the ground– the bane to any good passing team. Would love to see the game, but West Haven is a haul from Fairfield County. Will have to make due rooting for Darien in Shelton. As for Trumbull, the kids tell me they encountered the NFA players at a weightlifting event and they were massive. For the FCIAC to prevail this week, we will have to earn it.
Comment by Jeff — December 3rd, 2010 @ 1:19 pm
Sorry Footballfan #44…You #44 is geting taken out by #47. Trust me Valley will explode on SJ. SJ has never seen a play like fairfield-Sonn. NEVER…He will run all over them just like MOST teams. You hear that St. Joe’s????? We are coming and it won’t be pretty. Valley will shut down that pop warner offense and run all over that TERRIBLE defense. Hey St. Joe’s???? At least it was fun while it lasted.
Comment by Deep_River — December 3rd, 2010 @ 1:24 pm
Did BWP move to Old Lyme?
Comment by CT Football Rocks — December 3rd, 2010 @ 1:38 pm
Ok Deep River, now your going over board with your mouth. I thought maybe u had a shot until now. U cant run your mouth when u play nobody all year… You lost all credability when u said SJ never has seen a player like Fairfield-Soon. Is it SOON or is it SON? Ah whats the diffference. Good Luck!!
Comment by UTAH!!! — December 3rd, 2010 @ 1:56 pm
Let’s all be civil please. Not publishing any more trash talking.
Comment by Sean Patrick Bowley — December 3rd, 2010 @ 2:12 pm
#8 Fairfield-Son will be the BEST player on the field come Saturday night. Come what the show!!! It’s going to be great
Comment by Deep_River — December 3rd, 2010 @ 2:20 pm
I didn’t even know a place in CT existed called Deep River. They must recruit from more towns up there than St.Joes does.
Comment by Brian — December 3rd, 2010 @ 2:22 pm
Listen, I understand all of the St. Joseph guys trying to pump their team up by posing as uberfans from Deep River … but knock it off. …Knock it off, or I start calling people out.
Comment by Sean Patrick Bowley — December 3rd, 2010 @ 2:24 pm
No way that guy is from Deep_River. Having said that I do think Valley will win tomorrow by a touchdown or 2
Comment by Pequot2 — December 3rd, 2010 @ 2:28 pm
“@Pequot2″ — Neither are you. (Psst! Changing the email address doesn’t work)
Comment by Sean Patrick Bowley — December 3rd, 2010 @ 2:33 pm
SPB-
You think the St Joes guys are the only ones posting under false circumstances to pump peolple up? I am guessing that BWP is probably some NC guy throwing gas on the fire to get people pumped against Darien.
Comment by trying hard to be objective — December 3rd, 2010 @ 2:41 pm
Lets just play the games
Comment by Chris — December 3rd, 2010 @ 2:43 pm
I’ve already checked him. But, to reiterate, he’s posting from New Canaan.
Comment by Sean Patrick Bowley — December 3rd, 2010 @ 2:44 pm
T minus 21 hours until tailgate activities commence. SPB, if you are in the vicinity of Shelton High School around 1130, please stop by. You are familiar with this group from Masuk.
Good luck to all the players tomorrow. Look forward to a great day (and night) of football.
Comment by CT Football Rocks — December 3rd, 2010 @ 3:04 pm
I’m not sold on Masuk.
In the past, when it came to the State Playoffs, Masuk wouldn’t always have the best team, but they always came fired up and ready to play. That wasn’t the case on Tuesday, they were complacent and over confident.
Part of the problem as I see it was that the SWC was down this year in terms of the number of high quality teams, which I think gave them a false sense of their capabilities. Even under the expanded format only two teams made the playoffs from the league, which was about right.
I hope the complacency is behind them, and they play their best in representing the SWC in the Battle of Fairfield Champions.
The last thing I want to see are NC & Darien victories and have to suffer through “Bailout Bowl III” on Dec 11.
Comment by tj — December 3rd, 2010 @ 4:47 pm
The voice of reason is here to opine the fine matchups we have in store for semi-final saturday. X-Men in a defensive battle and ground control red rover. N.F.A. over Trumbull in a low scoring high impact,smashmouth whoever scores last wins game. The high scoring,high flying Masuk panthers will make the Darien bluewave feel like low tide at calf pasture-BLOWOUT!!! The Rams of N.C. will Hand off a loss to the surf club boys of madison in a close one,only to be out coached in the next station to heaven. Hillhouse has a lot to prove and everthing to lose,but not on this saturday! Brookfield is on an offensive roll since getting beat up by masuk,and should keep rolling over a caseyless new london. St.Joe’s will say their prayers and eat their vitamins and try to pull off another miracle! Ansonia dosnt have 19 state titles because they might win,they will with Montrell Dobbs leading the way to rent day. R-MAC
Comment by R-MAC — December 3rd, 2010 @ 4:49 pm
Footballfan44 has never heard of the Pequot conference. Does that speak more to the Pequot’s level of play, or his lack of knowledge on CT High School Football?
I’m rooting for Gilbert and Valley tomorrow (and I’ll be going to the Valley game) but I’m very realistic about the odds here. My prediction: VR loses a tight game, 20-14.
P.S.: I really can’t believe the amount of VR hate here in the comments. First football playoff birth ever, and suddenly VR is a recruiting powerhouse. Ridiculous.
P.P.S.: SPB, not to be nitpicky, but you have the Valley QB’s name as Sonn-Fairfield in the blog (or, at least once you do). It’s Fairfield-sonn.
Comment by mike — December 3rd, 2010 @ 5:14 pm
Oh, and my picks.
Xavier-Trumbull,
Masuk-Hand,
Hillhouse-Brookfield,
and what the hell, imma go with my heart instead of my brain.. so disregard what my brain said above-
Valley-Montville
Comment by mike — December 3rd, 2010 @ 5:18 pm
1) Gilbert is going to get steamrolled. Gilbert is the 10th or 11th best team in the conference. Hillhouse can declare whatever they want the score to be.
2) St Joes is a good team. Valley is a good team. Valley CAN beat St Joes. St Joes SHOULD win. It is a larger private school. If Valley plays on defense like they did against Cromwell and offense like they did against Coginchaug they could walk out a winner. Then again if they play like they did last week on defense they might get blown out by thirty points. Valley 22 – St Joes 21
3) No chance the person calling themselves “Deep River” above is from V/LOL. Just no chance. Valley is a classy team and the Shoreline is a classy league (with the exception of North Branford).
Comment by Pequot — December 3rd, 2010 @ 6:56 pm
Let me start off by saying i think this blog is great, it has really elevated CTHS football greatly. With that said i feel some commenters are just here to stir fires to games that dont need any xtra hype…. this is the PLAYOFFSSS! To the players in these blogs with nothing to say besides how bad your gonna beat your opponent keep it to yourself and show it on the field. With that said im really pumped for masuk darien tomorrow. I hope the wave can come out and give masuk a good game, but highly doubt it. As good as there D is i just think masuks O is better, way too many weapons to stop completely.
Comment by onmymind — December 3rd, 2010 @ 7:09 pm
So u guys think ST. Joes is only going to score 3 TDs?? Are they playing the Chicago Bears? They score on everybody and I don’t think this will be any different. If valley wants to win they better be able to score.
Comment by Utah! — December 3rd, 2010 @ 7:16 pm
I must say how dissappointed I am about the comment the P.A. annnouncer from Masuk High School made about the fortunes of the Staples football team. Not only was it innapropriate but it was mean spirited and classless. I read it here on this blog so maybe he was misquoted or didn’t say anything at all. I hope someone who was at the game can respond to its authenticity. I am not a Staples supporter just a fan of high school sports.
If true, then Athletic Director Dave Strong should take immediate action. This is an embarrassment to the entire Masuk community. Masuk High School athletic teams have ALWAYS carried themselves with class and dignity and these comments should not be tolerated. Johnny G. where are you?
Comment by Gman — December 3rd, 2010 @ 8:15 pm
Masuk 49 Darien 7
Comment by Master of Meaningless Information — December 3rd, 2010 @ 9:33 pm
Ansonia/Montville game is a must see. Two of the best offensive players in the state. Edge to Montville. Too many weapons on offense. Very explosive. Better defense.
NL/Brookfield appear very evenly matched. Breaks will decide this game.Stopping NL big plays is the key. Very balanced offense. Lots of speed. Turf field to NL’s advantage. If NL’s passing game is on they will win big. Having watched Brookfield can’t see their line stopping NL’s runners. Brookfield’s Kelly, Brown & Paez are for real. Will be interesting game.
NFA/Trumbull will be a defensive battle. NFA is huge upfront and backs are very patient/disciplined following blockers. QB can throw and has great receivers.
St. Joe’s better not think Valley will be easy. They are good!
Comment by East Ct football Fan — December 3rd, 2010 @ 9:37 pm
valley’s getting a lot of love…didn’t they just beat sacred heart 37-24?? the sacred heart that gave up 61 less than a week prior to 2-8 wilby?? if st. joe’s doesn’t win large i will be shocked.
Comment by garfy — December 3rd, 2010 @ 9:54 pm
Xavier rolls one of the best of the CCC showing once again how terrible that league is from top to bottom
Murphy gives his team a heavy dose of humble pie this week and they come out like a real playoff ready masuk team should and ends the waves already fading season…
Brookfield bust’s out the harpoons and lets kelly have a field day
Montville surprised the state and beats the nvl powerhouse…
Comment by Dick Trickle — December 3rd, 2010 @ 10:19 pm
dave k—–what r they doing in weight room?you dont need to get big
to go 6-4
Comment by ray brown — December 3rd, 2010 @ 10:35 pm
my parole officer, thanks for the advice,but i might skip game and listen to it on radio with your woman.
Comment by ray brown — December 3rd, 2010 @ 10:39 pm
@ Utah no doubt that St Joes is peaking at the right time of the year.
I have no doubt that they are playing great football. But on the other hand they have shown some vulnerability this season too.
Comment by Pequot — December 4th, 2010 @ 12:34 am
ITS A SHAME CPTV DOESNT DO THE GAMES LIKE THEY DID 3 YRS BACK,THEY DID A GOOD JOB. IT GAVE FANS A CHANCE TO SEE SEVERAL GAMES.I GUESS LACK OF FUNDING LIKE EVERYTHING ELSE DID THIS IN.
Comment by bulldog bob — December 4th, 2010 @ 6:22 am
I AGREE WITH YOU SPB .. THIS BLOG IS ABOUT SHARING INFO ON FOOTBALL AND SPORTS ETC IF YOU WANT TO TALK TRASH GO ON THE JERRY SPRINGER SHOW AND USE THAT AS YOUR FORUM!
Comment by bulldog bob — December 4th, 2010 @ 6:37 am
@Ray
Ansonia losses 90% of their offense without Dobbs next year, They can’t play defense against the spread, they have no passing game are you really confident about next year?
Comment by dave k — December 4th, 2010 @ 8:27 am
yes.theyll have more weapons next year and have a loaded frosh team
for depth.
Comment by RAY BROWN — December 4th, 2010 @ 8:45 am
If you are relying on Soph. for next year you have a problem…
Comment by RandyTheRam — December 4th, 2010 @ 8:55 am
Ray
I guess its easy for Ansonia to reload with that cup cake NVL schedule. Seven automatic wins with JV players. Only games they need to show up for are Woodland,Derby and Naug.
Comment by dave k — December 4th, 2010 @ 10:05 am
@comment #44 – So, I guess the fact that Xavier rolled West Haven (not once, but twice) says that the SCC sucks too? IF Xavier kills Glastonbury, it won’t say anything about the CCC. A private boys school with top athletes that have been recruited SHOULD be able to beat up on a public high school team with a lot of average players and a few good ones.
Comment by CCCFan — December 4th, 2010 @ 10:36 am
I get that Mr./Mrs. Deep River is excited about their team in the playoffs. If you really had something to add other than bravado from behind the computer screen you would likely understand the difference between the Pequot league and the FCIAC. You are correct that SJ has never seen a team like Valley Regional: call later, they’re busy playing New Canaan, Greenwich, and Trumbull.
Comment by joe — December 4th, 2010 @ 10:43 am
SJ 37 Valley Regional 24 (4th quarter 2nd string effect)
Comment by joe — December 4th, 2010 @ 10:47 am
Valley Regional you have no shot against St. Joes. You barely squeaked by Sacred heart. You are going to get buried.
St. Joes 48-21
Ansonia 36-34 (Excuse my bias)
C’mon Chargers!
Comment by Ansonia Fan — December 4th, 2010 @ 12:00 pm
@ CCCFan
Trot out the old “recruiting” accusation ha ha ha. Weak.
Glastonbury has won more championships than Xavier, so if that’s what recruiting does for them, then I’d say let ‘em.
The point is you have to win your games this year to earn respect this year.
BTW IMO West Haven would have been any other LL playoff team, but unfortunately didn’t get the chance to prove it.
Good luck today!
Comment by FauxRealism — December 4th, 2010 @ 12:44 pm
@ Ray Brown
Never thought you’d be a fair weather fan! Your complaints about the Ansonia coaching job vs. Naugy (mostly on the NVL blog) and your discussing next year are pathetic.
That plus your flurry of posts on both boards shows me that you are bigtime worried about the matchup vs. Montville. Ansonia’s biggest fan running scared? Never thought I’d see the day.
Anyway can we at least wait for the playoffs to end before we talk about next year?
Comment by FauxRealism — December 4th, 2010 @ 12:49 pm
Good for you Ray, I’ll be here at work waiting for live blogs.GO ANSONIA!!!
Comment by anotherfan — December 4th, 2010 @ 2:11 pm
Ansonia will be loaded next year. They are in the finals with one senior. You have to stop with the BS. They have exceeded everyones expectations and are one win away from another state title. You have no idea about them or how good theses kids are going to be. You guys are clueless.
Comment by Captainobvious — December 4th, 2010 @ 4:42 pm
BWP KNOCKED OUT FRO THE COUNT.
Comment by Mike — December 4th, 2010 @ 5:04 pm
not worried about montville—–worried bout our performance last 5 games—i questioned chargers playcalling vs. naugy but im always a brockett backer—-common sense says were underdogs but well be ok,and aound for a very long time
Comment by RAY BROWN — December 4th, 2010 @ 7:37 pm
ram—-arkeel newsome—-write it down it down
Comment by RAY BROWN — December 4th, 2010 @ 7:40 pm
so much for that close sj game hahaha…GO HOGS! BACK2BACK!
Comment by Former Hog — December 4th, 2010 @ 10:53 pm
I cant stand Cochran as much as the next person, but way to show up Darien. I’m from SHelton good thing I didnt give my 5 bucks to watch that game. Pitiful. I like the FCIAC its good football but c’mon are you guys really telling me they’re one of the better teams in the state? that was embarassing. Kudos to Hillhouse Ill be rooting for them!
Comment by IhateBerlin — December 5th, 2010 @ 12:49 am
New Canaan vs. Masuk. the dream matchup. cant wait. to bad its being played at the rent. how about the fciac has 3 teams in 4 classes in the finals. it would probably be 4 for 4 if their was a team from the fcaic in M. Goes to show you why people think the FCIAC is the best league in the state. Congrats to Trumbull and St. Joes. Lets get silly this weekend. All three games are coin flips. this is how the playoffs should be! Go RAMS!
P.s. rams looked pretty good tonight vs a very good hand team. matt milano broke all the NC records tonight congrats to him. Vote for Kevin Macari as overtime player of the year!
Comment by NC Rules — December 5th, 2010 @ 1:28 am
So both L semi’s yesterday. Very appropriate these two teams have made it to this point. You could build a very strong case that either team that wins is the best team in the state. Remember, a failed 2 point conversion against St. Joes (Class S finalist) is the only thing separating New Canaan from an undefeated season.
Can’t wait for Saturday. Going to be a long week at work!!!
Comment by CT Football Rocks — December 5th, 2010 @ 7:32 am
Can we wait until after the Finals are played before we crown the FCIAC the best conference in the state?
Go 3-0, I’ll be the first to post. 2-1, we can discuss. Less than that, and I don’t think so.
The SCC also has a chance to crown 2 champions.
Comment by FauxRealism — December 5th, 2010 @ 8:33 am
Unfortunately the SCC will win the big boy division again.
Comment by High School Football Fan — December 5th, 2010 @ 8:45 am
Probably time for all of us to let Darien get off the mat… they’ve been thouroughly embarrassed off the field and then on the field by NC on Thanksgiving and then totally outclassed by Masuk in the Semi-Final.
I think they’ve more than paid the price for the irresponsible actions of a few- good luck as you rebound next season Blue Wave.
@NC Rules- I think you’re “getting silly” already! I do agree that three of the games will be a coin flip and the other is likely to bump up against that rule (again) I’ll let you figure out which one.
Comment by The Voice — December 5th, 2010 @ 9:43 am
A great performance by Masuk. Game over in 2nd Qtr. I guess the Darien players kicked off the team were defensive players because I can’t remember seeing poorer tackling by a League championship team. Masuk ran thru arm tackles and turned short gains into big plays all afternoon.
Comment by dave k — December 5th, 2010 @ 10:18 am
why are games being played in East Hartford if 7 teams are from this part of state?
Comment by carl — December 5th, 2010 @ 11:00 am
FCIAC fans claim the league championship game is more important to them than state titles. Their league champion is thoroughly embarassed yesterday…but they point to three state finalists as proof that their league is the best. Which is it? (and don’t tell me Darien would not have been blown out but for the suspensions).
If Darien had an illigitmate claim to the throne, (which I tend to agree with), then scrap the stupid FCIAC title game or play a 2-division, 9 game regular season with a league title game on Thanksgiving. And put Staples and New Canaan in the same division. If the FCIAC goes 1 for 3 next weekend like I think they will, does that still make it the best league?
Anything can happen as well all know, but I think the favorites next week have to be Xavier, Masuk, New London, and St. Joe’s.
Comment by roto — December 5th, 2010 @ 11:07 am
Has an FCIAC Champion ever lost that badly in the playoffs?
Comment by MasukRules — December 5th, 2010 @ 11:24 am
@roto
I couldn’t agree with you more…and I’m an FCIAC fan! I can’t stand when fans/coaches/players/a certain blogger down here pump up the FCIAC championship game as being more important than playing for a state title. These people need serious reality checks! The FCIAC championship game should either be played on Thanksgivng or eliminated completely. I vote for eliminating completely. It’s an exhibition. The FCIAC schedule stinks, as the good teams often don’t play each other. Teams have different paths to that championship game. Staples never has to play Greenwich until AFTER that game is completed! Does that make sense?
It’s all about the states—sadly, most people down my way just don’t see it that way, and that’s a shame.
Comment by Stillwater — December 5th, 2010 @ 1:51 pm
@MasukRules..
yes, New Canaan lost to Bloomfield in the state championship game (coached by Jack Cochran) 55-6 in either 1999 or 2000. That was after New Canaan upset Greenwich in the FCIAC title game.
That Bloomfield team is widely considered one of the greatest Connecticut football teams of all time.
Comment by Stillwater — December 5th, 2010 @ 1:55 pm
I’m so excited that i finally get to have a showdown with MasukRules!
New Canaan should be ranked higher!!!! (just kidding…good luck to you guys)
Comment by NC Rules — December 5th, 2010 @ 4:20 pm
No matter how you look at it Fairfield County has four quality teams left in the tournament.
Masuk from Monroe SWC conference
St. Joes from Trumbull Fciac
Trumbull High School Fciac
New Canaan Fciac
So no matter how you look at it fairfield county will have at least one champion (winner of Masuk-New Canaan) and maybe two others in Trumbull or ST. Joes. The best football in played in the Fairfield County area without question.
Comment by jeb — December 5th, 2010 @ 5:20 pm
Why are FCIAC people bragging about there league? Xavier is going to win LL and Masuk is going to win .FCIAC has won nothing yet.SCC will win LL and M.Masuk beats NC soundly
Comment by Sam — December 5th, 2010 @ 7:54 pm