Author: Don Engelhardt

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A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part…

A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part 5 – The 1994 Season

This is the fifth of a 10-part series looking back at all of the Massillon teams of the 1990s.

Head Coach: Jack Rose (3rd Year)
Overall Record: 10-2
Regular Season Record: 9-1
Playoff Results: Division I, Region 2; Regional finals
Key Players: Willie Spencer (QB), Leon Ashcraft (RB), Ryan Shanor (WR), Devon Williams (WR), Courtney Herring (LB), Mark Wells (OL/DL), Kevin Bouder (OL)
All-Ohio: Kevin Bouder (1st), Willie Spencer (1st), Courtney Herring (SM), Mark Wells (SM)

Massillon was led by dual-purpose quarterback Willie Spencer (Akron/Tiffin).  The highlight of the season was Massillon’s 42-41 overtime victory over Canton McKinley in the 100th game of this long rivalry .  Ironically, it was Jack Rose’s only win over the Bulldogs in the seven times he served as the head coach in this game.  Aside from that, the Tigers did fashion a 9-1 regular season mark and won a first-round playoff game.  But, McKinley would enact revenge the following week in the regional finals with a 27-21 turnaround.  But they too would falter in their next game against eventual state champion Cleveland St. Ignatius.  Prior to the second McKinley game, Massillon would play a spirited affair with Fremont Ross, led by future pro Charles Woodson, winning 35-28.  The lone regular season loss was against 9-1 Akron Garfield, 21-6.

PIVOTAL GAMES

Akron Garfield – The Golden Rams were a formidable opponent in that time period and these two teams hooked up for some classics.  This one went the wrong way in a 21-6 Garfield win, which turned out to be Massillon’s only regular season loss.  After a scoreless first half, the Rams scored twice to take a 14-0 lead before the Tigers got on the board in the 4th on a 4-yard run by Spencer.  But Garfield answered with a short scoring run, salting the game away.  The team stats were fairly even.  Individually, Leon Ashcraft led the Tiger rushing attack with 19 carries for 142 yards.  Garfield ended the season at 9-1, while giving up just eight touchdowns throughout.  Their lone loss was at the hands of McKinley, 15-12 in the season opener, the impact of which placed them 5th in Region 2 computer rankings, one place shy of qualifying for the tournament.

Austintown Fitch – Massillon traveled to Fitch in Week 5, which has always proven to be a tough place to win.  As expected, it was defensive game throughout, but the Tigers found a way and prevailed, 10-7.  The undefeated Falcons scored first, in the second quarter, on a 43-yard pass, and held that 7-0 lead going into the fourth quarter.  That’s when Spencer ripped off an 83-yard run to tie the score.  Nick Pribich then tacked on a 40-yard field goal with three minutes remaining to secure the victory, snapping Massillon 4-game losing streak at that facility.  Fitch was well-ahead in the statistics, but they couldn’t finish the drives when needed.  Spencer rushed 15 times for 122 yards and a TD.  Ashcraft added 18 carries for 90 yards.  The Falcons finished the season 7-3, with close losses to Youngstown teams Ursuline and Mooney.

Canton McKinley – Attendance: A sellout crowd of 19,125 at Paul Brown Tiger Stadium witnessed a 42-41 overtime Massillon victory in the 100th game of this great rivalry.  After a scoreless first quarter the offenses took over in the second and the two teams combined to score four touchdowns, two by each team.  For the Tigers, Spencer ran one in from the three and Ashcraft went over from the two.  McKinley’s second score came with 18 seconds left in the half, sending the teams to the locker room tied at 14.  The points continued into the third with Massillon scoring twice. The first was a 62-yard pass to Victor Redrick from Spencer, who had handed off the ball to the running back and immediately received it back for the throw.  On McKinley’s next possession, Adrian Brown (Youngstown State) scored on a short run and then the Tigers responded with another Spencer TD pass, this one going six yards to Vaughn Mohler.  That gave Massillon a 28-21 lead going into the fourth. But the onslaught continued, with McKinley’s Kinta Mitchell scoring his third touchdown of the day to re-tie the game and Ashcraft putting Massillon back ahead on a 20-yard run.  Not to be outdone, the Bulldogs then drove 68 yards in seven plays to tie the game at 35 and send it into overtime.  It was fitting indeed that this classic continue on.  Mitchell scored his fourth touchdown on McKinley’s initial overtime possession, but McDaniels, who was also the kicker, missed the extra point, leaving the door open for the Tigers.  On second down from the 20, Spencer initially kept the ball on a run off-tackle, but then lateraled to Victor Redrick, who grabbed the pigskin at the 16 and sped untouched to the end zone to tie the score.  Nick Pribich’s kick was true and it was all pandemonium on the home side. The two teams had combined for over 700 yards of offense, with Leon Ashcraft rushing for 109 yards and two touchdowns and Spencer rushing for 94 and a score, while passing for another 103 yards and two scores.  McDaniels was 14 of 20 for 148 yards. But for Massillon fans, they partied well into the night.  McKinley would finished the season 8-2 and be the top seeded team in playoff Region 2.

Willie Spencer pitches the ball to Victor Redrick for the winning touchdown in the 1994 100th Massillon-McKinley game

Fremont Ross – The Little Giants entered the first round playoff game with an 8-2 record, while averaging 39 points per game.  And their special weapon?  Future Heisman Trophy winner and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Charles Woodson (U. Michigan/Oakland Raiders/Green Bay Packers) at running back.  And what show a he put on.  He had 28 carries for 231 yards and four touchdowns.  Nearly unstoppable.  But Massillon found a way.  Each team scored three times in the first half, with the score tied at 21 at the break.  For the Tigers, Spencer had two short runs and he connected with Devon Williams on a 51-yard touchdown pass for the third.  For the Giants it was all Woodson, with TD runs of 3, 44 and 3 yards.  Ashcraft tallied in the third on a short run, but Woodson found the end zone in the fourth on a 13-yard run to tie the game again.  But Massillon had the last say with three minutes left in the game, on a 7-yard pass from Spencer to Vaughn Moeller, to finish off an 83-yard drive.  Only, Fremont Ross did threaten one last time when they drove the ball to the Tiger two yard line.  But a pass interception in the end zone by Matt Robinson ended the threat, giving the Tigers a well-earned 35-28 victory.  Ashcraft had a fine night, rushing 25 times for 136 yards and a touchdown.  Spencer was 7 of 11 passing for 132 yards and two TDs.  Williams caught three passes for 89 yards and a score.

Canton McKinley (P.O.) – The Bulldogs proved to be the better team that night on the scoreboard with a 27-20 victory in Akron’s Rubber Bowl, although the final stats were even.  Unfortunately, the Tigers were forced to finish the game without their star quarterback Spencer due to an injury.  Massillon held a 14-13 lead at the half behind two Spencer touchdown runs and they led 20-19 entering the fourth on yet another Spencer short run.  But, McKinley then retook the lead early in the period on a 46-yard pass.   Only, the Tigers were unable to respond owing to the loss of Spencer.  Ashcraft had 20 carries for 128 yards.  Spencer completed 7 of 11 passes for 93 yards, four going to Victor Redrick.  McKinley would lose in the next playoff round to Cleveland St. Ignatius, 32-11.

Opp.Rec.Loc.Mass.Opp.Res.Att.MediaStats
Youngtown Rayen4-6H416W10,756StoryStats
Trotwood Madison5-5H3918W10,201StoryStats
Akron Garfield9-1H621L15,772StoryStats
Mansfield Senior4-6H2113W10,752StoryStats
Austintown Fitch7-3A107W8,000StoryStats
Barberton4-6H150W10,034StoryStats
Cuyahoga Falls9-1H2111W13,796StoryStats
Alliance3-7A200W6,000StoryStats
Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary4-6H3115W10,312StoryStats
Canton McKinley10-3H4241W o.t.19,125StoryStats
SUBTOTAL59-44246132114,748
PLAYOFFS
Fremont Ross8-3N3528W12,000StoryStats
Canton McKinley10-3N2027L29,110StoryStats
TOTAL77-50301187155,858Season Stats
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2025 Booster Club Report – Week 4 – Post-Bennett;…

2025 Booster Club Report – Week 4 – Post-Bennett; Preview of the Lakewood St. Edward Game

Massillon (2-2) Defeated Bennett from Buffalo, New York (1-1), 35-0.  This week Massillon hosts Lakewood St. Edward (4-0).

Link to the Bennett Game Story

Link to the Bennett Game Statistics

Other scores:

  • 7th Grade (2-0): Defeated Maple Heights, 28-22.  Plays home against Warren on Tuesday, September 16, at 6:00 pm.
  • 8th Grade (1-3): Lost to South Range, 36-28.  Plays at Warren on Wednesday, September 17, at 6:00 pm.
  • Freshmen (1-3): Lost to Cincinnati Moeller, 42-0.  Plays at Lakewood St. Edward on Thursday, September 18, at 6:00 pm.
  • Junior Varsity (0-3-1): Lost to Cincinnati Moeller, 28-8.  Plays at Lakewood St. Edward on Saturday, September 20, at 10:00 am.

At the start of the gathering Massillon Tiger Swing Band Director Jason Neal spoke on the group’s preparation for the season.  He addressed that they have a different show prepared for each of the nine home games.  He also touched on pre-season counseling for group leaders, orientation for incoming freshmen and game preparation.  He mentioned that the band always appreciates it when the team sticks around for the post-game performance.  Moore added that the level of support the band receives from the Massillon community is highly unusual when compared to other schools around the country.

Review of the Bennett Game

Massillon evened the slate with a 35-0 victory over Bennett, from Buffalo, New York.  It was a one-sided affair with all of the points scored in the first half and a running clock in effect for the remainder of the game.  Eli Moore and Rasmus Haines shared duty at quarterback in place of the injured Manny Patterson and they performed commendably, combining for 8 of 11 completions for 89 yards and two touchdowns.  On the receiving end of the two scores was Gio Jackson Jr., who finished the game with four receptions for 53 yards.  Savior Owens led the rushing attack with 10 carries for 103 yards and two touchdowns, while Anthony McMullen Jr. added another 67 yards and score.  On defense, Braylon Gamble had a pass interception.

“I’m overall really happy with the way we played, especially being down in players like we were,” said Head Coach Nate Moore.  “We got better.  We’re back on the win track.”

The guest players were co-captains Braylon Gamble, Eli Moore, Ja’Dyn Williams and Savior Owens.  “They’re doing  a tremendous job,” said Moore.  “I’m proud of all of them.”

  • Gamble – We’re underdogs, referring to the upcoming game against St. Edward.  But we’re  ready to make a statement.  They run a lot of RPOs.  We need to read our keys.  We’ll be OK.
  • Moore – The offense played really well (vs. Bennett).  We’re going to be ready.
  • Williams – We played a pretty decent game.  We fixed a lot of mistakes that we had.  We’re headed in the right direction.
  • Owens – We plan to run the ball against St. Edward.

St. Edward Scouting Report

Massillon own a 3-game winning streak over St. Edward, having won in each of the last three years, by scores of 31-28, 15-13 and 31-21.  The Tigers also lead the all-time series, 6-4.  The Eagles have a 5-year record of 50-11 and have qualified for the playoffs in each of the past five years, with a record of 23-2.  In fact, as the dominant team in northern Ohio, they have made a habit of playing in the state tournament, with more recent championships in 2014, 2015, 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2023.  Last year they advanced to the state semifinals, but were defeated by eventual champion Olentangy Liberty, 21-7.

The Eagles enter this year’s matchup with the Tigers as the No. 1 team in the Ohio and the No. 55 team in the country (per hsratings.com).  They average 41 points per game and give up 17.  The Tigers, at 2-2, average 35 points per game and give up 23.  Cleveland Glenville is the only common opponent.  The Eagles defeated Glenville last week 28-14, after trailing 14-7 entering the fourth quarter.  Two costly Glenville turnovers on their own side of the field greatly influenced the outcome.  Massillon fell behind 19-7 to Glenville in the first half, but stormed back in the second half to tie the score at 27, only to lose in overtime.

St. Edward’s schedule to date:

  • Pickerington North (3-1), 24-0
  • Delbarton School, NJ (1-2), 48-28
  • Huber Heights Wayne (2-2), 63-27
  • Cleveland Glenville (2-2), 28-14

“We have a big one this week,” said Moore.  He said it will be a mental game.  Eds is well-coached and disciplined.  The Tigers won’t be out-hit.  They won’t be out talented.  But they can win with great preparation.  Nevertheless, you can’t beat yourself.

Offensively, the Eagles align mostly in 1-personnel, with some empty sets and some 2-back sets.  All are good players, according to Moore.  As usual, the line has great size, averaging 6′-3″, 291 lbs.  And they have some very good skill players.  Quarterback Jonny Evanchick makes good decisions and is an accurate passer.  He also runs out of a fake jet sweep, similar to the Massillon play.  The best receiver is Zach Hackleman, who lit it up against opponents last year.  He is as good as you will see.  He runs great routes.  The running back is Brando White, who returns for a third year as a starter, although he missed last year’s game against Massillon.  He is an excellent player; best the Tigers have seen this  year.  Similar to Savior Owens.

  • Senior offensive lineman Mason Wilhelm (6’-4”, 290), HM All-Ohio, 3-star recruit, North Carolina commit
  • Senior quarterback Jonny Evanchick (6′-1″, 175), 38 of 52 (73%) for 564 yards and 9 TDs; 29 carries for 153 yards (5.3) and 1 TD.
  • Senior wide receiver Zach Hackleman (6’-1”, 170), 1st Team All-Ohio, 18 receptions for 259 yards (14.4 ave.) and 6 TDs.
  • Senior wide receiver Ryan Mikovsky (6′-1″, 180), 9 receptions for 124 yards (13.8 ave.) and 0 TDs.
  • Senior Brandon White (5′-8″, 200), 59 carries for 404 yards (6.9 ave.)and 7 TDs.

The defense normally operates with an odd front, either 3-4 or 3-3, with some even front 4-2 thrown in.  They use a lot of run blitz, which worked effectively against Cleveland Glenville last week.  Coverages are variable, especially on 3rd down.  The line is on the smaller side for a St. Edward team and may be an area to exploit by the Massillon run game.  It averages 6′-1″, 227 lbs.  The inside linebackers are both good players.  The secondary is considered the strength of the team.  Moore particularly cited safety Brayden Thomas ((Michigan State) and safety Brodon Moore.

  • Senior defensive end Collin Crocker (6′-1″, 230), 43 tackles, 6.5 TFLs
  • Senior linebacker Aiden Peterson (6′-1″, 210), 60 tackles, 6 TFLs
  • Senior defensive back Brayden Thomas (6’-0”, 175), HM All-Ohio, 37 tackles, 8 TFLs, 3-star recruit, Michigan State commit
  • Senior cornerback Mahki Boone (6′-0″, 170), 3-star recruit, Miami of Ohio
  • Senior safety Landon Lehmer (6′-0″, 190), 47 tackles, 3 TFLs
  • Senior Brodon Moore (5′-11, 170), 20 tackles, 3.5 TFLs

Based on the Massillon depth chart provided by Moore, the Tigers should be at full strength for this one.

Incidentally, the Tigers’ offensive line averages 6′-2″, 268 lbs. and the defensive line averages 6′-3″, 260 lbs.

Massillon Statistics Leaders

  • Manny Patterson (quarterback) – 35 of 49 (71%) for 478 yards (13.7 ave.) and 9 TDs
  • Gio Jackson Jr. (wide receiver) – 16 receptions for 218 yards (13.6 ave.) and 5 TDs
  • Deontay Malone (wide receiver) – 15 receptions for 207 yards (13.8 ave.) and 4 TDs
  • Jadyce Thigpen (wide receiver) – 8 receptions for 107 yards (13.4 ave.) and 2 TDs
  • Savior Owens (running back) – 66 carries for 478 yards (7.2 ave.) and 7 TDs
  • Anthony McMullen Jr. (running back) – 35 carries for 107 yards (3.1 ave.) and 1 TD
  • Ja’Dyn Williams (linebacker) – 50 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 5.5 TFLs
  • Braylon Gamble (safety) – 16 tackles, 1.5 TLFs, 3 pass breakups, 1 pass interception, 1 forced fumble
  • Christian Culler (linebacker) – 15 tackles, 2 sacks, 4.5 TFLs, 1 forced fumble
  • Tra’Yon Williams (safety) – 15 tackles, 0.5 TFLs, 3 pass breakups
  • DeVaughn Williams (linebacker) – 15 tackles, 0.5 sacks, 2 TFLs
  • Isaac Maxheimer (linebacker) – 2 pass interceptions
  • Mateo Herrera (kicker) – 17 for 17 in PATs
  • Rasmus Haines (punter) – 10 punts (36.2 ave.), long 54

 

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Massillon Evens the Slate with a Convincing Win over…

Massillon Evens the Slate with a Convincing Win over Bennett

Statistics

For the second time this year Massillon played a game against a team from out of state, this time L.J. Bennett, from Buffalo, New York.  Last week they faced Georgia’s Rabun Gap and there are still three more of these opponents remaining on the schedule.  Following next week’s match against Lakewood St. Edward, the Tigers will face in order, Football North from Ontario, Canada, Cardinal Ritter from Missouri and Cornerstone Christian from Texas.  While the Tigers met their match last week, this time around it was a much easier encounter as they cruised to a 35-0 victory.  In fact, all of the points were scored in the first half and a running clock was in effect for the entire second part of the game.

The big story was that the fans were excited to see how the two backup quarterbacks, Eli Moore and Rasmus Haines, would perform in place of the injured Manny Patterson.  Fortunately, from the get-go they both responded well.  In that first half of action Moore completed all three of his attempts for 23 yards and a touchdown.  And Haines connected on five of seven for 66 yards and a score.

2025 – Braylon Gamble

Meanwhile, Massillon’s No. 1 running back Savior Owens saw limited duty while lining up at both his normal position and in the wildcat, carrying the ball just nine times in the half.  But he was still the best player on the field, rushing for 91 yards and scoring two touchdowns.  Backup Anthony McMullen Jr., who had more of dual starting role in this one, had 15 attempts for 43 yards and a TD.  He also ran for a 2-point conversion.

Bennett (also called the Tigers) competes in Buffalo’s city league where they are considered the best of the group and the favorite to win their remaining six games.  They have very good players at the skill positions, along with good sized lines, and they put forth a good effort on every play.  But their fundamentals are just a tad behind a team like Massillon, and this was evident in their inability to finish drives when on offense.  The one bright spot for Bennett was their quarterback, Jacob Dowell.  For the game he ended up completing 10 of 17 passes (3 of 8 in the first half) for 53 yards, while helping a running attack that struggled throughout against the stout Tiger defense.  For the game Bennett rushed 15 times for 27 yards.

For Massillon, Owens was mostly in the wildcat position.  When the situation called for a pass, Owens came out and McMullen plus one of the two quarterbacks was inserted.  But it certainly wasn’t a walkover game.  Bennett forced the Tigers earn everything they got and appeared to be coached very well.  Their alignment was man-to-man on the receivers with one free safety and the corners pulled back at times, up close at other times.  Thus, for most plays they had eight players committed to run.  So, it’s a credit to Owens’ running ability that he was able to do what he did, averaging over ten yards per carry.  Meanwhile, the quarterbacks were limited to short throws throughout, while Haines did manage to complete one long one for a touchdown.  And at times the QBs were unable to locate open receivers.  Nevertheless, it was the consistency of the balanced Tiger offense they eventually won the day.

Massillon scored on each of its first five possessions.  The first was on a 12-play, 67-yard drive that ended when Owens ran the ball into the end zone from the ten.  That’s when special teams problems arose once again.  The snap was low on the PAT attempt and the holder was forced to eat the ball.  Later in the game, Bennett would return a kickoff 50 yards, in spite of the Tigers having four players in position to make the tackle during the early part of the return.

Following a Bennett 3-and-out, Massillon was on the move again, driving 46 yards in 9 plays.  The score came when Moore completed a 5-yard pass to Gio Jackson.  McMullen then ran in the PAT to make the score 14-0.

It was after this score that Bennett’s Jack Eskridge V returned the kickoff 51 yards to the Massillon 22.  But the visitors gave up the ball four players later.  In response, Massillon proceeded to move the ball 83 yards in nine plays to score their third touchdown, a 19-yard run by Owens.  Owens also had runs of 14 and 20 yards during the drive.

After another 3-and-out by Bennett, Braylon Gamble returned a punt 32 yards to the Bennett six.  Two plays later McMullen was in the end zone following a 3-yard run.  The final score came following a Bennett fumble at their own 34.  It took just three plays from there, with Haines dropping a perfect pass to Gio Jackson at the goal line, along the right sideline, with Jackson ahead of the defender by a single step.

The second half was played under a running-clock situation and neither team scored.  Although, Massillon did lose the ball on a fumble near the Bennett goal line on one of their two possessions.  And Gamble returned a pass interception 24 yards for a score, only to have the ball brought back on account of a defensive penalty.  Bennett never did threaten against the backups.

By game’s end the Tiger two quarterbacks had combined to complete 8 of 11 passes for 89 yards and three touchdowns; a very commendable outing.  Owens had a final run in the third quarter of 12 yards and he finished the game with 103 yards.  On defense, Ja’Dyn Williams recorded six total tackles.

Next week Massillon will host Lakewood St. Edward, Ohio’s No. 1 team (No. 53 in the country).  Bennett will be at home against Hutchinson Tech.

 

 

 

Gio Jackson Jr. (21)

Jadyce Thigpen (44)

 

Jadyce Thigpen (44)

Anthony McMullen Jr. (24), Eli Moore (8), Logan Allman (13), Robert Blakely (59)

Will Hymes (34), Savior Owens (1), James Wallace Jr. (50), Owen Sirgo (53), Kevin Elliott Jr. (74)

Savior Owens (1)

Savior Owens (1)

Ja’Dyn Williams (9)

Eli Moore (8), Anthony McMullen Jr. (24)

Gio Jackson Jr. (21) – TD

Braylon Gamble (5)

 

Christian Culler (2), Tra’Yon Williams (27), Gio Jackson Jr. (21)

 

 

 

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Pro Football Hall of Fame Names Bob Vogel as…

Pro Football Hall of Fame Names Bob Vogel as a Nominee

Bob Vogel with the Baltimore Colts

Former Massillon player Bob Vogel has been nominated by the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a potential inductee for Hall’s Class of 2026.  Vogel falls into the category of “senior player”, those that suited up over 25 years ago.  He is also one of 35 offensive lineman named and one of 162 overall nominees.

Vogel was a tight end for the Tigers in 1958 and then moved to offensive tackle by Ohio State, where following his senior season he was named 1st Team All-American.  Drafted by the Baltimore Colts, he was tapped four times as an All-Pro.  And he was fortunate to be on the winning side of the 1971 Super Bowl.

For Vogel’s complete story, click on the link below:

Bob Vogel – Wall of Champions

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A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part…

A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part 4 – The 1993 Season

This is the fourth of a 10-part series looking back at all of the Massillon teams of the 1990s.

Head Coach: Jack Rose (2nd Year)
Overall Record: 10-2
Regular Season Record: 9-1
Playoff Results: Division I, Region 2; Regional finals
Key Players: Mike Danzy (QB), Leon Ashcraft (RB), Ali Dixon (RB), Alonzo Simpson (WR), Jerry May (WR), B.J. Payne (OL), Mark Fair (OL), Trevor Paisley (DL), Chad Buckland (DB), Willie Spencer, Jr. (DB)
All-Ohio: B.J. Payne (1st Team), Trevor Paisley (2nd Team), Alonzo Simpson (SM)

Massillon won its first nine games, before dropping a 21-13 decision to Canton McKinley.  In the the first round of the playoffs the Tigers defeated  Mansfield (9-1), 46-6.  It was the second time these two faced each other that year, with Massillon winning the regular season encounter, 53-22.  But, the Tigers lost in the second round to unbeaten Walsh Jesuit, 30-20.  Ironically, Walsh had defeated Canton McKinley 19-0 in their first round game.  Quarterback Mike Danzy was a true dual-purpose quarterback, passing for 948 yards (17.2 ave.) and rushing for a team-high 702 yards (7.5 ave.).  Ashcraft and Dixon combined for 1,358 yards (6.4 ave.).  The team’s total rushing average of 6.56 yards per attempt ranks 5th in the Massillon record book, while their 3,223 rushing yards ranks 7th and their 47 rushing touchdowns ranks 10th.  Their 42 points per game ranks 9th.

PIVOTAL GAMES

B.J. Payne

Akron Garfield – The Golden Rams entered the contest with a 7-0 loss to McKinley and a 28-7 win over Akron St. Vincent.  Garfield scored first on a 23-yard pass, but Massillon then reeled off the next 28 points to win convincingly, 28-7.  The Tigers were ahead just 14-7 at the start of the second half, but Payne came up big on defense with three successive stops, forcing the Rams to punt.  The Tigers then drove 53 yards in eight plays to score and take a commanding 21-7 lead.  For the game, Danzy completed 7 of 11 passes for 119 yards and two touchdowns, including one to Dixon, who also scored a rushing touchdown.  The Rams would win the rest of their games that year and finish 8-2.

Austintown Fitch – Both the Tigers and the Falcons entered the game undefeated at 4-0.  In front of nearly 15,000 fans, Massillon scored first on a 2-yard Ashcraft run.  But Fitch, with their misdirection attack, would score the next 15 points on two touchdowns and a safety to lead 15-7 at halftme.  Only, the second half belonged to the Tigers as they tallied four times to win 34-15.  Two of the scores were off of interception returns by Tim Menches (67 yards) and Spencer (54 yards).  For the game, Danzy rushed 11 times for 136 yards and threw a touchdown pass.  Fitch would finish the season at 7-3, including a 1-point overtime loss to McKinley and 1-point loss to Youngstown Ursuline, with wins over Youngstown Cardinal Mooney, Warren Harding and Boardman.

Canton McKinley – On a muddy Fawcett Stadium turf Massillon’s potent offense, which was averaging 47 points per game coming into the game, was ground to a halt in a 21-13 defeat by the Bulldogs.  It was also the Tigers’ first loss of the season.  Massillon’s vaunted rushing game managed just 108 yards in the quagmire, while Danzy’s passing was not enough to overcome the deficit.  McKinley, which had a much larger team, managed the conditions better and led 14-7 at the half.  The two teams split touchdowns in the fourth quarter.  The Bulldogs finished the season with a 9-2 record, including a first round loss to Walsh Jesuit, 19-0.

Walsh Jesuit – The Warriors jumped out to a 16-0 lead by halftime and maintained a lead throughout the rest of the game in a 30-20 win.  Walsh had a pair of brothers at quarterback and wide receiver and that combo proved deadly throughout the game.  Nevertheless, the Tiger did cut the deficit to 23-20 in the fourth quarter when Danzy connected to Simpson on a 55-yard pass.  But, Walsh had the last say with a final TD on a 48-yard scoring drive following a 39-yard kickoff return.  The total yards in the game were relatively even and Massillon’s rushing average was a fine 7.4 yards per carry.  But three turnovers contributed to the loss.  Danzy finished with 120 yards rushing off of 10 carries, but managed to complete just 3 of 13 passes for 108 yards and one TD.

Opp.Rec.Loc.Mass.Opp.Res.Att.MediaStats
Alliance4-6H406W10,326StoryStats
Grove City5-5H4210W13,352StoryStats
Akron Garfield8-2H287W13,245StoryStats
Mansfield Senior8-2A5322W8,000StoryStats
Austintown Fitch7-3H3415W14,792StoryStats
North Park, ONH613W10,275StoryStats
Youngstown Rayen1-5H620W10,021StoryStats
Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary4-5H427W10,412StoryStats
Youngstown East2-4H636W8,975StoryStats
Canton McKinley8-2A1321L19,625StoryStats
SUBTOTAL43897119,023
PLAYOFFS
Mansfield Senior8-2N466W10,312StoryStats
Walsh Jesuit11-1N2030L11,765StoryStats
TOTAL504133141,100Season Stats
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2025 Booster Club Report – Week 3 – Post-Rabun…

2025 Booster Club Report – Week 3 – Post-Rabun Gap; Preview of the Bennett Game

Massillon (1-2) lost to Rabun Gap, GA (1-2), 50-35.  This week Massillon hosts Buffalo Bennett, NY (1-0).

Link to the Raybun Gap Game Story

Link to the Raybun Gap Game Statistics

Other scores:

  • 7th Grade (1-0): The game with Wadsworth was canceled.  Plays at Maple Heights on Wednesday, September 10, at 6:00 pm.
  • 8th Grade (1-2): Lost to North Royalton, 36-30.  Plays at home against South Range (MJHS) on Wednesday, September 10, at 6:00 pm.
  • Freshmen (1-2): Lost to Lakewood St. Edward, 42-0.  Plays at Cincinnati Moeller on Saturday, September 13, at 11:00 am.
  • Junior Varsity (0-2-1): Lost to Lakewood St. Edward, 42-7.  Plays at Cincinnati Moeller on Saturday, September 13, at 1:00 pm.

Review of the Rabun Gap Game

Christian Culler

Massillon played national power Rabun Gap and lost 50-35 in an offensive shootout.  Rabun Gap is a boarding school located in northern Georgia that is stocked high-profile athletes from seven different countries, including Canada and some in Europe.  At least eight players have offers from Division I colleges.  The game was tied at halftime with 21 points apiece and the Eagles held a 35-28 lead entering the fourth quarter.  But a Tiger fumble led to a Rabun Gap touchdown and the 2-score deficit was just too much to overcome.  The difference in the game was Rabun Gap’s massive offensive line, which contains three players with Power-5 offers (1 @ Auburn, 2 @ TBD), and its ability to pass block for their very accurate quarterback (Menphis).  In addition, the Eagles returned two kickoffs for long distances, one for a touchdown and another that set up a short TD run.  For Massillon, quarterback Manny Patterson completed 11 of 17 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns.  The scoring receptions went to Jadyce Thigpen and Deontay Malone.  Running back Savior Owens carried the ball 21 times for 182 yards and three TDs, including a 42-yarder near the end of the game during which he broke numerous tackles.  Defensively, Ja’Dyn Williams had 15 total tackles.  Christian Culler had 8 total tackles, 1.5 tackles-for-loss and caused a fumble.

“They were an excellent team,” said Massillon Head Coach Nate Moore at the weekly Booster Club meeting.  “I was really proud in a lot of ways.  We did a lot of good things.  But we came up short.  We scored 35 points and still thought we left some points on the field.  Defensively, we made them drive the field.  They were high-powered and explosive.”  Moore cited the two long kickoff returns and said that really hurt. “We need to get better this week and move forward,” said Moore.  “Rabun Gap was not the last really good team we’re going to play this year”.

The guest players were Eli Moore and Isaac Maxheimer.

  • Moore – Said that the team needs to toe the line to win these big games.  But he assured that the team will be there for 48 minutes.
  • Maxheimer – Remarked that the team needs to finish four quarters, even when tired (note that Rabun Gap ran 76 offensive plays).

Bennett Scouting Report

Bennett High School, located in Buffalo, New York, has been in existence for exactly fifty years.  In 2018 the school introduced a new curriculum and is now referred to as, “Lewis J. Bennett High School of Innovative Technology.”  It also boasts of several dozen notable alumni, including NBA basketball great Bob Lanier.

The Tigers compete mostly against other Buffalo schools and in New York Playoff Division AA.  They are considered the Number 1 team in Buffalo.  For Ohio computer ranking purposes they are classified as Division IV.  Last year they finished with a record of 7-2 and have a 5-year record of 40-14, with five playoff qualifications.  This is the first time that they have faced Massillon.

Bennett played their first game of the season last week and defeated Niagara, NY, 18-13.  They are currently ranked No. 11 in Division AA (A is the highest in New York).  While they have several very good players in their starting lineup, according to Moore what they are lacking in is the level of execution.  Moore said that they are a step below that of Massillon in that category, particularly since the orange and black has already played three games.  Special teams also have issues in execution.

Offensively, they want to run the ball first, using a heavy set with an I-formation.  They will run iso, power and counter off of that.  They will also switch to the spread with they need to throw the ball.  The offensive line has good size, averaging 6′-2″, 270 lbs.  Both running backs are very good, according to Moore.  The starter is senior Jimmy Valentine (5′-10″, 185), wihle the backup is junior Dontre Hampton (6′-2″, 170).  At times both will be in the backfield.  Valentine last year rushed 51 times for 508 yards (10.0 ave.) and five touchdowns.  He also plays on defense.  The quarterback is just a sophomore in Jacob Dowell (6′-0″, 155).  Another player to watch is senior wide receiver Jack Eskridge IV (5′-6″, 150), who last year caught 26 passes for 281 yards (10.8 ave.) and 8 TDs.

The defense aligns in a 4-front with cover-1 and some cover-3.  Occasionally, they will switch to a bear defense.  The like to pressure the quarterback at times with a blitz.  The best players are in the linebacking corps.  Valentine is at outside linebacker, where last year he recorded 49 tackles and four tackles-for-loss.  In the inside are senior Nyree Feaster (5′-9″, 215) and junior Dontre Hampton (6′-2″, 170).  The best player on the back end is junior Donte Parker (6′-2″, 185).  The defensive line averages 5′-11″, 245 lbs.  Five players on this side of the ball also start on offense.

“We need to be ready to go and get back on the win track,” said Moore in closing.  “We need to get after them (Bennett) so they don’t get any momentum,”

Go Tigers!

 

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Massillon Loses to Powerhouse Georgia Team in Offensive Shootout…

Massillon Loses to Powerhouse Georgia Team in Offensive Shootout – Game Story and Photos

Statistics

If you’re a six foot six, 285-pound athletic high school kid living Belgium it doesn’t take too long for you to realize that European soccer is just not going to be your sport.  So, you pack your bags and head for the States and Rabun Gap, a private boarding school nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia.  With an emphasis on top-level football, you will surely find a place that fits your needs, along with the hope of earning a scholarship to a U.S. college.  Assemble enough of these special out-of-towners and you suddenly have a hellava of a football team.  In fact, Raybun Gap has players from fifty different countries.  AND they are VERY good.

It was a great challenge for Massillon to take on the Eagles, especially for the youthful players sprinkled throughout the lineup.  There are no average players on the field for Rabun Glen.  They have great size and they have exceptional speed and well-developed skill.  But the Tigers hung in there as best they could and played their hearts out for four quarters.  But by the end it was just too much to overcome and they fell by the score of 50-35.

It was a back-and-forth contest for the better part of three quarters, but then came a turning point.  The Eagles held a 35-28 lead and were driving to gain their first 2-score lead.  But on second and ten at the Tiger 29 they lost the ball on a fumbled snap.  Massillon then took over at the 45 and were in prime position to once again tie the score.  Only, on the first play of the series they fumbled the handoff on a jet-sweep and that quickly negated the opportunity.  The Eagles went on to score five plays later, upping the margin to 42-28 and putting the Tigers in a difficult situation from which they never recovered.

Massillon received the ball to start the game and drove 62 yards in six plays, scoring when quarterback Manny Patterson connected with Jadyce Thigpen on a 15-yard touchdown pass.

That’s when the penalties began.  On three successive kickoffs following the TD, Mateo Herrara booted the ball out of bounds in failed attempts to reach the coffin corner.  In each case Rabun Gap accepted a 5-yard penalty requiring a re-kick.  It was a precursor of three things to come:

  • Penalties: The Tigers were flagged 16 times for 142 yards; the Eagles 17 times for 173 yards.
  • Field position: Rabun Gap’s average starting position was near midfield.
  • Special teams: The Eagles returned a kickoff to the end zone and another to the Massillon 12; three successive PAT attempts by the Tigers began with errant snaps, making life difficult for the holder and kicker; fortunately, they did a marvelous job of converting the points.

The Eagles scored on that first drive on a 31-yard pass from quarterback Gavin Owens to Obrokta.  It was evident in that early stage that, given the size of the Rabun Gap offense line (6’-286 ave.), the accuracy of the quarterback and proficiency of the line in pass blocking, Massillon was in for a tough fight in the passing part of the contest.

The Tigers scored again on their third possession when Patterson threw across the field to a wide open Deontay Malone for 20-yard strike.  Then it was the Eagles turn, with back-to-back rushing touchdowns of 12 yards by Grayson Clary, following a 76-yard kickoff return, and 8 yards by Walker Bryson, making the score 21-14 in their favor.

With three minutes remaining in the half Rabun Gap was facing a 4th and 27 from their own 19 and was lined up to punt.  But the punter, apparently sensing an opportunity, elected to try running for a first down.  Only, Massillon’s Ja’Dyn Williams showed why he’s headed to Indiana when with a burst of speed ran down ball carrier after a gain of just eight yards.  Massillon then, on the third play of the drive, tied the score when Savior Owens broke through the line for a 26-yard score.

The Eagles did drive to the Massillon four following the ensuing kickoff, but after a fumble on the ensuring play set them back,  they ended up missing on a 37-yard field goal attempt.  So, the two teams headed to the locker room tied at 21.

Savior Owens

The third quarter resumed the back-and-forth action.  First Joshua Buckhalter return Hererra’s kickoff 79 yards for a touchdown.  The Tigers then responded with a 2-yard run by Owens, which he set up with a prior 29-yard run.  The Eagles came right back with a 14-play drive that ended when Gavin Owens completed a 15-yard pass to Buckwalter for a TD.  That was followed by the two fumbles described above.

Buckwalter would score again from two yards out and his team would convert a fake PAT to up the margin to 50-28, before Savior Owens would have the last say on a 42-yard TD run.

Savior Owens finished the game with 21 rushing attempts for 182 yards and three touchdowns.  Patterson completed 11 of 17 passes for 138 yards and two scores, to Jadyce Thigpen and Malone.  Unfortunately, Patterson left the game with eight minutes left on account of an injury and his status for next week is unknown.

For Rabun Gap, Gavin Owens completed 13 of 23 passes for 196 yards and two TDs.  Buckwalter caught 7 passes for 68 yards and a touchdown and also scored a rushing touchdown.

Teamwise, the Eagles led in total yards, 404-316, although in yards per play, the Tigers were slightly ahead, 5.9 ave. on their 54 plays to Gap’s 5.3 ave. on their 76 plays with their ball control scheme.

The difference in the game?  Both had equal talent in the skill positions, but Raybun Gap had those big lines.  On offense their tight splits across it kept the Tiger rushers at bay, providing ample time for the quarterback to locate his receiver.  And on defense, they put Patterson under constant pressure, often forcing him to step up  into the pocket to avoid a sack.  Nevertheless, Patterson did handle it very well.  But it also led to his injury.

Next week Massillon will entertain another out-of-state team in L.J. Bennet, which hails from Buffalo, New York.  Raybun Gap hosts Ambassador in the first of several games against North Carolina opponents.  Due to their sports structure the high school athletic association in Georgia bars them from playing in their post-season tournament.  Thus, the Eagles secured a home with the Carolina teams.

 

Ja’Dyn Williams (9), Noah Jenkins (16), Christian Culler (2), Gio Jackson Jr. (21)

 

Anthony McMullen (24)

Anthony McMullen (24)

Mateo Herrera (7), Savior Owens  (1)

Christian Culler (2), Ja’Dyn Williams (9)

Deontay Malone (6)

Will Hymes (34), Savior Owens (1), Owen Sirgo (53)

Jadyce Thigpen (44)

Will Hymes (34)

Deontay  Malone (6)

Kevin Elliott Jr. (74), RJ Harris (23), Gio Jackson Jr. (21)

Gio Jackson Jr. (21)

Savior Owens (1)

 

Kevin Elliott Jr. (74), Manny Patterson (10)

 

Kevin Elliott Jr. (74), Savior Owens (1)

 

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A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part…

A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part 3 – The 1992 Season

This is the third of a 10-part series looking back at all of the Massillon teams of the 1990s.

Head Coach: Jack Rose (1st Year)
Overall Record: 5-5
Regular Season Record: 5-5
Playoff Results: Division I, Region 3; did not qualify for the playoffs
Key Players: Mike Danzy (QB), Andre Stinson (RB), Alonzo Simpson (WR), Jerry May (WR), Dan Hackenbracht (DB), Marty Gugov (DB), Leon Ashcraft (RTN), Jason Brown (K)
All-Ohio: Dan Hackenbracht (1st Team), Brandon Jackson (SM)

Assistant Coach Jack Rose was promoted to head coach following Lee Owens’ departure and began the first season of a 6-year career in this position.  Typical of a new head coach, he struggled to a 5-5 record.  But his team did register a few quality wins, one of which snapped a 4-game losing streak to Akron Garfield (6-4), Cincinnati Moeller (7-3), Austintown Fitch (8-2) and North Central of Indianapolis (8-3).

PIVOTAL GAMES

Alliance – Massillon opened the season with a 17-8 victory over the Aviators, which finished the year with an 8-2 record and runner-up spot in the Federal League to unbeaten Perry.  The Tigers scored the first 17 points on a 20-yard field goal by Brown, a 27-yard touchdown pass from Danzy to Simpson and a 10-yard run by Hackenbracht.  Alliance scored their lone TD in the fourth quarter.

Walsh Jesuit – Week 2 brought the Warriors to town.  Down 14-0 at the end of the third quarter, Massillon exploded in the fourth to win in overtime, 27-24.  In that fourth, the Tigers scored three consecutive touchdowns: a 5-yard pass to Simpson, a 75-yard punt return by Hackenbracht and a 59-yard pass from Danzy to May.  But Walsh clawed back and tossed a TD pass to tie the score, finishing off a 78-yard drive with just 19 seconds remaining in regulation.  In the overtime, the Warriors moved to the one, but needed to settle for a 24-yard goal due to a penalty.  The Tigers then found paydirt when Danzy connected with May on a 15-yard pass.  Walsh finished the year with a 7-2 record.

Bloomington South, IL – The Panthers were cruising through the season unbeaten with seven consecutive victories and a defense that had given up less than seven points per game.  But a 3-4 Massillon squad found something in tank and came out with a superb defensive performance to grab a convincing 38-0 victory.  In the first half alone they scored 32 points to put the game away early.  For the game, the Tigers held South to just 134 total yards, with negative two on the ground.  Following the game the Panther head coach said that Massillon was very physical and hurt his team with the blitz.

 Canton McKinley – The Bulldogs, with a 8-1 record entering the contest, were a clear favorite.  But the Tigers played them tough, at least on the scoreboard, and lost by just 14-6.  The six came in the form of two field goals by Brown, of 22 yards and 24 yards.  And Massillon even led 3-0 at the half.  But McKinley scored in the third on a long pass off a double screen and in the fourth with a 15-yard run.  The Bulldogs finished the season with a 9-1 record, but failed to qualify for the 4-team regional in the playoffs due to insufficient second-level points.

Opp.Rec.Loc.Mass.Opp.Res.Att.MediaStats
Alliance8-2H178W11,640StoryStats
Walsh Jesuit7-2H2724W11,731StoryStats
Akron Garfield6-4H1314L9,950StoryStats
Cincinnati Moeller7-3H1424L16,762StoryStats
Austintown Fitch8-2A014L8,000StoryStats
North Central, Indianapolis, IN8-3N2035L11,000StoryStats
Bloomington South, IL9-1H380W9,571StoryStats
Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary3-6H440W10,497StoryStats
Youngstown East2-8H5520W7,000StoryStats
Canton McKinley9-1H614L17,000StoryStats
TOTAL67-31234153113,151Season Stats
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2025 Booster Club Report – Week 2 – Post-Canton…

2025 Booster Club Report – Week 2 – Post-Canton GlenOak; Preview of the Rabun Gap Game

Massillon (1-1) defeated Canton GlenOak (0-2), 44-10.  This week Massillon hosts Rabun Gap, GA (0-2).

Link to the GlenOak Game Story

Link to the GlenOak Game Statistics

Other scores:

  • 7th Grade (1-0): Defeated Canton GlenOak, 26-0.  Plays at home (MJHS) against Wadsworth on Thursday, September 4, at 6:00 pm.
  • 8th Grade (1-1): Lost to Canton GlenOak, 14-19.  Plays at home against North Royalton (PBTS) on Wednesday, September 3, at 6:00 pm.
  • Freshmen (1-1): Defeated Canton GlenOak, 29-20.  Plays at home against Lakewood St. Edward on Thursday, September 4, at 6:00 pm.
  • Junior Varsity (0-1-1): Tied Canton GlenOak, 26-26  Plays home against Lakewood St. Edward on Saturday, August 30, at 10:00 am.

Review of the Cleveland Glenville Game

Mandwel Patterson

Massillon scored early and often in routing Canton GlenOak, 44-10.  So dominant were the Tigers that all of their points were scored in the first half over a span of a just quarter and a half.  Defensively, the Golden Eagles appeared to focus their scheme on stopping the run, specifically Massillon running back Savior Owens, who performed exceptionally well in last week’s overtime loss to Cleveland Glenville.  That left the secondary in a cover-4 alignment, with little linebacker support against the pass.  So, with the running attack hampered most of the night, the Tigers took full advantage of the pass game.  So, by halftime, quarterback Manny Patterson managed to complete 16 of 21 passes for 200 yards and four touchdowns.  Deontay Malone caught seven passes for 102 yards and a touchdown and Giorgio Jackson Jr. caught seven passes for 72 yards and two TDs.  And all of these players sat out the second half.  On defense, Ja’Dyn Williams had another big outing, with 12 total tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss.

“I felt great walking off the field,” said Massillon Head Coach Nate Moore at the weekly Booster Club meeting.  “We have a great football team.  The energy; the passion.  I’m so proud of our football team.”  It was a good performance, but still had some issues.  Moore noted that the offensive line struggled early to open holes, which of course led to changing focus to the pass.  He mentioned that the offensive line had trouble picking up the movement of the GlenOak defensive linemen and that’s what affected the run game.  “I expected more from the line,” he added.  “But we’re a young team and we’re growing up together.”

The guest players were Tra’Yon Williams, Braylon Gamble and Christian Culler.

  • Williams – We played to their (GlenOak’s) level.  We can’t play like that this week.  We need to play our game.
  • Gamble – We need to set the tone and play with a lot of heart.
  • Culler – We need to play all four quarters.

Rabun Gap Scouting Report

Rabun Gap Nacoochee was founded in 1903 as a way to educate children in Appalachia Mountains of northern Georgia.  Since then, it has evolved into a private boarding school with 680 students from over fifty different countries, including Canada and countries of Europe.  The primary focus is college prep with students that are distributed from  pre-kindergarten through the 12th grade.  Although the school is located in the northern reaches of Georgia, they compete mostly in North Carolina.

The Eagles play in the NCISAA Western League.  Last year they finished with a 12-1 record and finished with a 42-39 victory over Providence Day to win the state championship in their division.  Over the past five years they have a record of 48-11 with four qualifications for the playoffs.

  • League: NCISAA Western
  • Playoff Division: NCISAA IU
  • 2024 Overall Record: 12-1
  • 2024 Playoff Results: 3-1; state champion in North Carolina; defeated Providence Day, NC, 42-39
  • 2024 Calpreps.com: Ranked No. 17 in Georgia; ranked No. 4 in North Carolina; rated 52.0
  • 5-Year Record: 48-11
  • 5-Year Playoff History: 4 qualifications; 7-3
  • Last Time vs. Massillon: n.a.
  • Historical Series Massillon vs: Rabun Gap: 0-0
  • Bonus: Returns senior quarterback Gavin Owens (6’-4”, 198) (198-289-2,815, 35 TDs), senior wide receiver Walker Bryson (5’-11”, 170) (47-593, 7 TDs), senior wide receiver Joshua Buckhalter (5’-8”,165) (40-652, 9 TDs), senior defensive end Ryan Hassett (6’-3”, 230) (37 tackles, 7.0 TFLs, 13 QB sacks) and senior safety Zeke Marshall (6’-5”,180) (6 interceptions).

“They are a very good football team,” said Moore.  “One of the better teams to come into Paul Brown  Tiger Stadium.  Good at all three levels: offense, defense and special teams.  They have some very good players.  Good size at several areas.”

With an offensive line that averages 6′-5″, 286 lbs., they like to run power when they run.  But prefer to pass first, particularly to senior wide receiver Walker Bryson (5′-11″, 180), a 3-star recruit who has committed to Indiana University.  Last year he caught 47 passes for 593 yards (12.6 ave.) and seven touchdowns.  The quarterback is senior Gavin Owens (6′-4″, 210).  He has good pocket presence within their spread offense formations and he see the whole field when selecting a receiver.  A returning starter, Owens last year completed 198 of 289 passes (69%) for 2,815 yards (14.2 ave.) and 35 touchdowns.  He is a 3-star recruit who has committed to Memphis.  Aside from basic pass patterns, the Eagles will also throw in some tag screens if they are available.

The defense aligns in a 3-3 odd-stack, with the weak side outside linebacker walked up to the line.  The 3-man front averages 6′-2″, 265 lbs.

Per Moore, every Rabun Gap player is good.  But some are very good.  There are no average players.  Here are some of the other college recruits:

  • Senior offensive lineman Wilson Zierer (6′-6″, 275), 3-star recruit, committed to Auburn.
  • Junior offensive lineman  Jacob Burns (6′-7″, 290), 3-star recruit, D1 offers.
  • Junior offensive lineman Elijah Hutchenson (6′-6″, 270), 4-star recruit, D1 offers.
  • Senior wider receiver Isaac Obrokta (6′-0″, 185), 3-star recruit, committed to Georgia Tech.
  • Senior defensive lineman Ryan Hassett (6′-3″, 255), 3-star recruit, committed to Northern Illinois.
  • Senior safety Zeke Marshall (6′-5″, 185), 3-star recruit, D1 offers.

Go Tigers!

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Massillon Uses Aerial Assault and Stiff Defense to Down…

Massillon Uses Aerial Assault and Stiff Defense to Down Canton GlenOak – Game Story and Feature Photos

Statistics

The last time Massillon dropped two games in a row during a season was 2015, Head Coach Nate Moore’s first year at the helm.  That’s long stretch of ten years and they weren’t about to let visiting Canton GlenOak interrupt that.  Intent on erasing the bad taste of last week’s overtime loss to Glenville, while also preventing two consecutive losses, the Tigers came out firing and had the Golden Eagles completely dismantled by halftime, with a lead of 44-3 and a running clock in effect after the break.  The final score was 44-10,

GlenOak had a problem.  Do they defend the run that features Savior Owens and Anthony McMullen Jr., or defend the pass that features quarterback Manny Patterson and a bevy of talented receivers?  They knew they couldn’t do both, with Massillon having this many skilled athletes in their arsenal.  So, they elected to focus the run.  And it worked pretty well, with their 3-4 front-7 gaming as such.  Guarding the pass then was the back end, aligned in cover-4.  With the linebackers focused on the run, the scheme also required that the corners play off the wide receivers, which created some measurable mismatches.  So, the Tigers, although initially intent on running the ball, switched gears and took full advantage of the passing game.

Patterson, just a junior, ended up with a career night, completing 16 of 21 passes (76%) for 200 yards and four touchdowns.  And three of the incompletions were right-on-target long bombs that were simply well defended. His quarterback efficiency rating was a fine 219.  On the receiving end of most passes were Deontay Malone (7 receptions for 102 yards and a TD) and Giorgio Jackson Jr. (7 receptions for 72 yards and two TDs).  In addition, Jadyce Thigpen had a reception for a 22-yard score and Will Hymes also caught a pass.

Defensively, Massillon overwhelmed GlenOak on the ground.  Aside from surrendering an early 83-yard run to Javion McClendon that set up a 27-yard field goal, they held the opponent to negative two yards throughout the first half.  So hampered was the Golden Eagle ground game that by the middle of the second quarter they completely abandoned the run and went exclusively to the pass.  For the game, quarterback Evan Crissey completed 12 of 28 passes for 107 yards and a TD, although all but 11 yards came in the second half.

Massillon scored first when Patterson connected in the end zone with Jackson on a 14-yard strike.  Jackson was well-covered, but at 6’-4” he had a 7-inch height advantage over the much shorter defender and he used that advantage to his benefit.  The score was set up by a pass interception by Isaac Maxheimer at the Eagle 34, which he returned to the 18.  It was his first of two picks for the night.  The TD became the first of five consecutive tallies for the Tigers.  The other four were:

  • 4-yard run by Ja’Dyn Williams; 8-play, 68-yard drive; set up by a 27-yard pass completion to Malone.
  • 22-yard pass to a wide-open Thigpen; 2 plays, 26 yards drive.
  • 12-yard pass to Jackson; 8 play, 21-yard drive.
  • 25-yard run by Savior Owens; 3-play, 55-yard drive; included a 16-yard run by Owens and a 14-yard pass completion Malone.

With 57 seconds remaining in first half Massillon recorded a safety when the GlenOak quarterback was called for intentional grounding in the end zone, upping the score 37-3.  After returning the kick to the Tiger 49, Patterson hit Malone for 12 and then for six more.  On the third play he found Malone once again, this time on a 33-yard throw-back pass for the final Massillon score of the night.

At that point the team held 44-3 lead on the scoreboard and was in front in total yards, 264-98.

The halftime show had a military appreciation theme and the two bands performed together for the final number.

The Eagles kept their first unit on the field for the entire second half, while the Tigers substituted the starting quarterback and starting wide receivers.  GlenOak put up the only points when Crissey tossed a 35-yard touchdown Caydren Saunders.

Next week Massillon will entertain Rabun Gap from Georgia, while GlenOak will host Cleveland East Tech.

Owen Sirgo (53), Kevin Elliott (74), George Rivera (29)

Deontay Malone (6)

Chayce White (35); for GlenOak: Javi’ion McClendon (5)

 

Manny Patterson (10), Anthony McMullen Jr. (24), Davionne Floyd (52), Savior Owens (1), Kevin Elliott (74); for GlenOak: Drew Delp (45)

Giorgio Jackson  (21)

Manny Patterson (10); for GlenOak: Drew Delp (45)

Ja’Dyn Williams (9)

Braylon Gamble (5)

Deontay Malone (6); for GlenOak: Dom Wagner (35)

Savior Owens (1), Robert Blakely (59)

Giorgio Jackson (21), Savior Owens (1)