2024: Massillon 21, Bergen Catholic, NJ 35

Bergen Catholic defeats Massillon with Second Half Surge

Game Statistics

Massillon’s 18-game winning streak came to an end on this rainy Friday night.  After running the table last year with a 16-0 record and capturing the Division II state championship, the Tigers found the going a bit too difficult against national power Bergen Catholic in this Week 3 game.  While the two teams left the field at halftime tied at 21 apiece, it was all Bergen in the second half as the Crusaders left town with a 35-21 victory; big for them, but respectable for the Tigers on this national stage.

Prior to the game Massillon head coach Nate Moore billed Bergen, which entered the game rated No. 17 in the country, as perhaps the best opponent to ever visit Paul Brown Tiger Stadium.  And he was certainly close.  They were big and physical and fast.  Plus, they appeared to have worked out the kinks from last week’s close loss to No. 5 IMG Academy.  Twelve of their players hold offers from Power 5 universities and another two have offers from MAC schools.

The Tigers did everything they could to stay in the game, but Bergen switched up in the second half as the heavy rains set in, going to a 2- tight end set, “ground and pound” offense to control the clock.  That created much difficulty for Massillon defenders as they tried to push through the large blockers to get initial hits at the line.  On defense, knowing that passing would now be difficult in the wet conditions, the Crusaders rushed one of the outside linebackers in addition to their very large and talented front-4 linemen on every play, which caused havoc for Massillon offense.  Suddenly, the run game struggled and quarterback Jalen Slaughter was under constant pressure, limiting him to just short passes.  So, in the second half, the Tigers were able to gain just 14 yards on the ground and 57 in the air, while never crossing the 50 yard line.  That’s how good this Bergen team is.

The first half of the game was classic football between two very good teams, with the scoring going back and forth throughout and the skill players making big plays.  After holding Bergen to a 3-and-out, the Tigers needed just three plays to cover 51 yards for their initial score.  It began with a screen pass over the middle from Slaughter to tight end Deangelo Zimmerman that picked up 18 yards.  And it ended with a 32-yard run by Ja’Meir Gamble, who tried the middle and then scooted to the outside, beating several defenders to the end zone.  Mateo Herrera kicked the PAT to give Massillon the early lead.

Bergen came right back when quarterback Dominic Campanile (Toledo offer) connected with 6’-4” Quincy Porter (Ohio State commit) on a 56-yard touchdown bomb to tie the score.  Later in the first quarter Massillon drove 47 yards in four plays for their second score.  This one was a 26-yard TD pass from Slaughter to Zimmerman, who ran a hitch pattern and left the defender considerably behind.  But Bergen again responded.  After returning the ensuing kickoff to the Tiger 20, they needed just four plays, all on the ground, to drive the ball into the endzone, with Dante Kain’s 4-yard run.  So, it was 14-14 as the quarter ended.

The Crusaders scored again on their next possession, when Najee Calhoun (Pitt offer) burst through the middle and raced 45 yards for a score.  After an exchange of punts, Massillon took over at the Bergen 45.  On the first play, Gamble raced around the left side and broke several tackles before finally being stopped at 24, only to fumble.  Nevertheless, it all balanced out when, two plays later, Massillon’s Tra’Yon Williams leaped high in the air to intercept Campanile’s errant pass and he sped to the right corner for a 27-yard score.

Bergen again drove down the field searching for points and made it to Massillon 22.  However, disaster struck.  The pass was on target, although a little low.  But Daylan Pringle had read the play and broke early enough to dive in front of the intended receiver to make the interception.  That’s how the half ended, with the teams tied at 21.

The second half was another story, with the Crusaders taking control of the game by putting up two early scores.  That is the mark of a great team.  The first score was a 2-yard run by Calhoun off a 20-yard drive and second was when Mikey McMahon recovered a quarterback fumble at the goal line, off a drive that covered 76 yards.

For Massillon, Slaughter completed 18 of 32 passes for 132 yards and one touchdown.  Gamble rushed 13 times for 98 yards (7.5 ave.) and a touchdown.  He also caught 6 passes for 20 yards.  Braylyn Toles caught 4 balls for 32 yards.  Jaydyn Williams and Tyler Hackenbracht each recorded 12 tackles.  Hackenbracht also averaged a fine 38.3 yards on his 8 punts.  Mylen Lenix was credited with 1.5 quarterback sacks.

For Bergen, Campanile completed 9 of 16 passes for 125 yards and one touchdown.  Porter caught 6 of the passes for 85 yards and the score.  But Najee Calhoun had the big night, rushing 42 times for 227 yards (5.4 ave.) and two touchdowns.

Next week, another out-of-state opponent will face the Tigers, the more familiar Canisius, from Buffalo.
Go Tigers!

Photos by Rob Engelhardt

Eli Moore (18), Chris Fair (52), Robert Blakely (59)

Mylen Lenix

Ja’Meir Gamble (21)

Ja’Meir Gamble (21), Braylyn Toles (1)

Tra’Yon Williams (27), Michael Wright Jr. (45)

Braylyn Toles (1), Ja’Meir Gamble (21)

Marcus Garner (60), Jalen Slaughter (2)

Isaac Maxheimer (87), Tra’Yon Williams (27), Michael Wright (45), R’Celle Hill (37), Jalen Gamble (1)

Mylen Lenix (5)

 Jalen Slaughter (2), Michael Looney (75), Gavin Kappes (57), Andrew Brumfield (51)

Andrew Brumfield (51), Braylyn Toles (1)

Jalen Slaughter (2)

Hall of Fame Inductees: (l-r) Rosa Wood (wife of Alex Wood), Lee Owens,

Raleigh Layfield, Eric Wright, and Cheryl Carter (mother of Troy Ellis)

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 2 – Post-Canton…

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 2 – Post-Canton GlenOak; Preview of the Bergen Catholic Game

Massillon (2-0) defeated Canton GlenOak (0-2), 45-0, for their 18th win in a row.  The Tigers lead the overall series against the Golden Eagles with a record of 16-4.  It was also Massillon’s 950th all-time win.  This week is the season home opener as the Tigers host Bergen Catholic (0-1) from New Jersey.

Link to the Canton GlenOak Game Story

Link to the Canton GlenOak Game Statistics

Other scores:

• 7th Grade (2-0): Defeated Canton GlenOak, 22-6.  Plays home (PBTS) vs. Youngstown Catholic on Wednesday, September 4, at 6:00 pm.
• 8th Grade (2-0): Defeated Canton GlenOak, 40-12.  Plays home (MJHS) vs. Maple Heights Milkovich on Wednesday, September 4, at 6:00 pm.
• Freshmen (2-0): Defeated Canton GlenOak, 38-6.  Plays at Lakewood St. Edward on Wednesday, September 4, at 6:00 pm.
• Junior Varsity (2-0): Defeated Canton GlenOak, 24-8.  Plays at Lakewood St. Edward on Saturday, September 7, at 9:00 am.

Review of the GlenOak game

“I’m proud of our guys,” said head coach Nate Moore.  “Our kids played with great effort.  We took a big step forward from Week 1 to Week 2.  We’re pleased with a lot of things.  But there are things to work on.”

The guest players were co-captains quarterback Jalen Slaughter and linebacker Tyler Hachenbracht.  Slaughter said that the offense played OK.  The offensive line stepped it up and the receivers had a really great game.  Hackenbracht added that the defense did a pretty good job, with the whole front seven playing well.

Bergen Catholic Scouting Report

In a matchup of national powers, Bergen comes into the game this Friday rated No. 1 in New Jersey and No. 17 in the country per Calpreps.com.  Massillon is rated No. 2 in Ohio behind Lakewood St. Edward and No. 26 in the country.  Moore believes that Bergen may be one of the best teams to ever to come into Paul Brown Tiger Stadium.  “Teams like this are good everywhere,” he said.  “We couldn’t ask for a better home opener.”

Bergen opened the season last week with a hard-fought 27-14 loss to IMG Academy, the nations No. 5 ranked team.  Last year they finished 11-1 and won the New Jersey Non-Public A state championship.  They also have a 5-year record of 54-7, with state championships in 2021, 2022 and 2023 (there were no playoffs in 2020).  While most of their opponents are rated average to below average, they do on occasion go outside of New Jersey to play a challenging opponent or two.  This year it is IMG and Massillon.  Last year it was Chaminade from Florida, a game that they lost, 61-21.  In 2021 they defeated Akron Hoban, 42-7.  Local competition is limited to Don Bosco.

Bergen returns seven starters on offense, including No. 1 quarterback senior Dominic Campanile (6′-1, 195), No. 2 running back junior Dante Kain (5′-11, 215), No. 1 wide receiver senior Quincy Porter (6′-4″, 200) and No. 2 wide receiver junior Bryan Porter (6′-1″, 205).  Then, add in starting running back junior Najee Calhoun (5′-11, 190).   All of these skill players have great speed.  Campanile last year completed 131 of 221 passes (60%) for 2,208 yards and 30 touchdowns.  He has an offer from Toledo.  Quincy Porter (jersey No. 0) is perhaps the best of the lot and is of course the most-targeted receiver, while certainly a deep threat.  Committed to Ohio State, last year he caught 41 passes for 969 yards and 16 TDs.  Brian Porter has an offer from Michigan and last year caught 35 passes for 334 yards and 3 TDs).  Kain is more of a power runner, while Calhoun is the speed back.  Last year Kain rushed 69 times for times for 398 yards (5.8) and 16 touchdowns.

The offensive line is massive (think Lakewood St. Edward), averaging 6′-3″, 283 lbs.  The best players in this group are their tackles.  Senior Chris Vigna (6′-6″, 295) is committed to Rutgers.  He is physical player and will force pass rushers upfield and away from the quarterback.  Junior Rocco Costello (6′-3″, 265) is also a physical player.

The offense operates out of the spread with the quarterback in the shotgun and the receivers in 10, 11 or 12 personnel.  The preferred plays are the buck sweep and multiple screens.  But they are a run first team.  “We need to get the receivers out of the game and make them run the ball,” said Hachenbracht, from his perspective as a defensive back.  “We will be physical.”

The defense returns seven starters from last year, including senior linebacker Ethan Cohall Jr. (5′-11″, 190).  Last year he was the third leading tackler, with 27 solos and 34 assists.  He also recorded 5.5 quarterback sacks.  The defensive line is the strength of the team and all four linemen are stout, while averaging 6′-1″, 245 lbs.  The best player is senior nose tackle Delaney Fludd, who holds an offer from West Virginia.  He is explosive off the ball, has good hands and is good against the double team.  But they will also bring a fast, hard rush from both edges.  Depth on the front line is not an issue in that one backup has an offer from Ohio State and another an offer from Michigan.  Cohall, the leader of the 3-man linebacker corps, is committed to Pennsylvania.  In all, they will rotate eleven guys in their front seven.

Both cornerbacks are very good.  Senior Naiim Parrish (5′-11, 175) is committed to Minnesota and junior Jorcan Thomas (6′-1″, 185) holds an offer from Ohio State.  Also helping the back end is junior safety Xavier Jackson (6′-1″, 185).  He is considering an offer from West Virginia.

The front seven aligns in a 4-3, while the back end utilizes cover-3 and some cover-1.  Typically, the fourth defensive back moves up, over top of the slot receiver.  Slaughter remarked that the defense has really good skill players. “We need to slow them down,” he said.  “If we play  Massillon football, we can beat them.”

“We have a very good opponent coming up,” said Moore in closing.  “We need to have a great week of  practice.  And we have so far.  It will take heart, effort and physicality to pull off a win.  And we will need to the crowd.  It’s going to be a great atmosphere.”

Go Tigers!

2024: Massillon 45, Canton GlenOak 0

Massillon is All Business in Downing Canton GlenOak

Game Statistics

Former Massillon head coach Bob Commings, while in the midst of his 1970 state title run, once said that he wished that he could WALK his team onto the field, throttle the opponent, and then just nonchalantly WALK off, with a business-like approach to the whole evening.  Fast forward some 54 years and that’s exactly what current coach Nate Moore did with his charges in easily handling Canton GlenOak, 45-0.  The players walked in, took care of business and walked off.  With the win, the defending Division II champion Tigers have now run their season record to 2-0.

It was all Massillon in the first half as they scored on five of six possessions, while outgaining the Golden Eagles in yards, 264 to 84, and in first downs, 18-4.  Going to the air early, quarterback Jalen Slaughter in that half completed 12 of 18 passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns.  The combination of Ja’Meir Gamble and Peytton Mitchell also added another 85 yards on the ground in just eleven carries.  Meanwhile, GlenOak never threatened.

With machine-like precision, the Tigers literally took its opponent apart.  Here are the five first half scores:

• Touchdown – 8-play, 44-yard drive. Gamble scores from the two.  Slaughter passes short on the first five plays and completes each one against GlenOak’s cover-4 secondary.
• Field goal – 8-play, 37-yard drive. Mateo Herrera kicks a 20-yard field goal.  The Golden Eagles stiffen against the run.
• 3-and-out, punt. Those last two drive stops were the only bright spots for Golden Eagles for the night.
• Touchdown – 6-play,69-yard drive. Gamble scores from 18 yards out.  Slaughter passes 27 yards to Vito McConnell to set up the score.
• Touchdown – 4-play, 53-yard drive. Slaughter completes a 39-yard TD pass to Jacques Carter, who had beaten the defender down the left side.  Slaughter completes a 16-yard pass to Braylyn Toles during the drive.
• Touchdown – 3-play, 50-yard drive. Slaughter drops a 30-yard pass in the end zone over two defenders to Ricardo Wells Jr. as time expires.  The drive started with 14 seconds remaining in the half.

Massillon tallied again, on its first possession of the second half when, following a 40-yard kickoff return by Tyler Hackenbracht, they drove 40 yard in just three running plays.  Gamble picked up 33 yards in two carries and Mitchell carried it in from the one.  After that, Moore called off the dogs and inserted the backups.  The final score came in the fourth quarter when a GlenOak pass was blocked high into the air by Lucas Shertzer and retrieved by Bishop Cupp, who ran 13 yards for the touchdown.

Slaughter finished the game with 12 completions in 20 attempts for 174 yards and two touchdowns.  Braylyn Toles caught 4 passes for 37 yards, while Carter and Wells each caught a TD pass.  Gamble led all rushers with 11 carries for 120 yards (10.9/att.) and 2 touchdowns.  Defensively, the tackles were spread quite well among the players.  McConnell and Logan Allman each recorded a pass interception.

For GlenOak, the swift quarterback Adrion Burt had 9 carries for 47 yards, but completed just 4 of 17 passes for 47 yards.  In addition, the Golden Eagles were hampered just a bit when starting 225 lb. running back Jerome Cox went down with an injury on the first series of the game.   Nevertheless, backup Javi’ion McClendon did a commendable job as a replacement, rushing 9 times for 23 yards.

As a team, Massillon outgained GlenOak, 330-103, while holding the Eagles on the ground to just 56 yards (2.8/att.).  They also led in first downs, 20-9.

The only negative for the Tigers was numerous 15-yard penalties, which was a carryover from the previous week.  In all, they were flagged 14 times for 125 yards.  But on the positive side, the offense is finally getting a handle on the outside zone running plays.  Plus, the defense is showing the same levels of skill and intensity as last year’s team.  They are tackling well, defending the pass well and putting a lot of pressure on the quarterback, even when rushing just three players.  Finally, the kicking game is in good hands, with Nolan Hendricks placing his kickoffs consistently in the corner of the field, Hackenbracht booming punts high and long and sophomore Herrera having now converted 28 straight PATs, a streak carrying over from last year.

Next week Massillon (2-0) holds the home opener against Bergen Catholic, NJ (0-1).  Bergen lost this weekend to IMG Academy in a well-played game.  GlenOak (0-2) travels to Austintown Fitch (2-0).

The following photos are by Rob Engelhardt

Tyler Hackenbracht (24) and Daylan Pringle (6)

Ja’Meir Gamble (21)

Jalen Slaughter (2), Andrew Brumfield (51) and Chris Fair (52)

Tyler Hackenbracht (24) and Daylan Pringle (6) and Tra’Yon Williams (27)

Peytton  Mitchell (32)

Jalen Slaughter

Jamir Gamble (21) and Jalen Slaughter (2)

Peytton Mitchell (32), Mike  Looney (75) and Chris Fair (52)

Terrell Green (48)

Bishop Cupp (20) with the pass interception and Lucas Shertzer (26)

The Oregon Adventure Was Truly a Unique Experience

The Oregon Adventure Was Truly a Unique Experience

Oregon is one of the very few states that I had never visited.  So, I didn’t hesitate to undertake the long trip, accompanied by Gary Vogt and Linda Sasavicz, both fellow members of the Massillon Football Museum group, along with Linda’s husband, Harold.  What a great time we had, particularly when attending the Massillon vs. NFL Academy-London football game and touching base with the many recognizable Tiger fans.

Leaving on Wednesday, we took a 1-hour flight from Cleveland to Chicago Midway, and then two hours later a 4-hour flight to Portland, Oregon.  Along the way, I snapped a photo of Mount Adams, with the infamous Mount St. Helens looming in the background.  The travel was uneventful, although it seemed long, especially when a 400 lb. (I’m not kidding) person took the middle seat between Gary and myself.  That, of course, was a bit taxing.  But we did arrive safely.

Travel time to the Beaverton Comfort Inn was thirty minutes, but involved five different freeways.  We concluded that there is not a straight road in Oregon.  Thanks to Gary for driving, while I navigated.

Game day.  Up rather early, owing to the 3-hour time zone difference.  Then, a long wait until the 6:00 am hotel breakfast.  At 9:30 am we gathered in the parking lot, having donned much Tiger gear, only to hear the sounds of “TIG.”  Of course, we answered “ERS,” only to be met by Big Mike’s mother.  What a joyful lady she is.  After a few photos we headed for our morning destination, the Raptor Ridge Winery, which is located at the end of a very pleasant drive through the hills of Oregon.  Along the way we passed by hundreds of Hazelnut trees enroute to a 10:00 am reservation.  10:00 am?  Well, it’s 1:00 pm home time, so it’s surely acceptable to indulge at that time of day.  The wine was good, we had the place to ourselves and the view of the landscape was fantastic.  We were told that on sunny days, one can see Mount Rainier in Seattle, some 150 miles away.  Unfortunately, this day was overcast.

Before leaving Massillon, I inquired about seating at the Nike World Headquarters stadium and was disappointed to learn that very few seats were brought in for the game.  Thus, we were concerned enough that we arrived for the event at 1:15 pm for a 3:30 pm kickoff, with parking wherever one could find it.  That meant first sitting through the girls’ flag football game, between teams from Alaska and New Orleans.  Surprisingly, it was quite entertaining.

But back to the seating.  Our first choice was on the 20 yard line at the top row.  The top row meaning Row 2!  Might as well be sitting in the endzone, where they at least had three rows of seats.  We got the impression that Nike really didn’t want any spectators at the game, just media coverage.  Later, we discovered a section of around 60 folding chairs in an 8-row section at midfield.  However, half of these had restricted sightlines, since there were spotter towers blocking the view of the field on either side.  Again, not fan friendly.  Fortunately, I ended up in Row-3, with the rest of the party in the row behind and the view was OK.  Just the players to see over.  Nevertheless, it was fully packed with Massillon supporters.  The remaining twenty Tiger fans or so assembled where we began.  Word on the street was that around 220 Tiger fans were headed to the game.  And that estimate swelled to 600 later in the week.  However, in reality there were probably around 80-90 in total.

The event from start to finish lasted about six hours.  As such, the fans were sure to be hungry.  However, the only food available was a table of candy.  Very poorly planned.  Again, little consideration given to the spectators.

Regarding the game itself, Massillon looked good in their uniforms and played very well for an opener, except for the penalties, which undoubtedly prevented a running clock.  A blowout would have shortened the game and that is something that the promoters surely did not want.

Speaking of promoters, it was a Nike classic, but it was also funded partially by the NFL with a specific final goal; i.e., establish professional football in Europe.  They began this endeavor by fielding a quality high school football team in order to drum up interest in the sport within the continent.  In essence, they are using these European players as a public relations endeavor, while at the same time giving them opportunities to land football scholarships at American Universities.  Some do; most don’t.  But it was imperative that the team show well for the viewing audience.

Then there is Massillon.  While the coaching staff headed to Oregon with the objective of showing the world how great and wonderful the Tigers are, the theme of the event was entirely different.  That is, to promote football in Europe by showcasing the London team.  In other words, Massillon was that nameless opponent like the one that faces the Harlem Globetrotters in their exhibition basketball shows, the so-called team called the “Washington Generals.”  Except that in this situation the opponent was the better team.  That’s why it seemed that every time the Tigers got a 2-score lead, the penalty flags began to fly.

Nevertheless, it was personally a very enjoyable experience to be at the game, especially while watching it from ground level.  One receives a whole  different impression from that vantage point.  The speed and physicality of the game is really apparent.  Meanwhile, the players certainly had a great time during their three days on the Nike campus, one that they will remember for the rest of their lives.

As we exited the field proper, we passed several of the Academy players and wished a few well.  But they looked absolutely spent.  And I instantly recalled looking across the field after the third quarter, only to find the entire Acdemy defense sitting on the bench.  One player mentioned after the game that they had never been hit so hard.

Finally, we returned to the parking lot only to find that the exits to the public roads were closed to traffic.  One after another.  Only when we reached the main gate some distance away within this massive multi-building complex did we find a way out.  I guess the football game was small potatoes compared to the eleven thousand employees that work there.  And the day had come to an end for them by the time the 3-hour game was over.  So night security was now in charge.

Early the following morning we returned to Massillon, with a lasting memory of the shoutout from one of the Portland-to-Chicago flight attendants in support of the Massillon Tigers.  What will the next chapter of this football season bring?

Go Tigers!

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 1 – Post-NFL…

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 1 – Post-NFL Academy; Preview of the GlenOak Game

Massillon (1-0) defeated NFL Academy-London (0-2), 35-20.  It was the 100th win for Head Coach Nate Moore as a Tiger.  In addition, the program winning streak now stands at 17.   This week Massillon travels to Canton GlenOak (0-1).

Link to the NFL Academy Game Story

Link to the NFL Academy Game Statistics

Other scores:

• 7th Grade (1-0): Defeated Akron Firestone, 14-0.  Plays home vs. GlenOak on Tuesday, August 27, at 6:00 pm.
• 8th Grade (1-0): Defeated Akron East (7&8), 46-24.  Plays at GlenOak on Wednesday, August 28, at 6:00 pm.
• Freshmen (1-0): Defeated Olentangy Berlin, 32-12.  Plays at GlenOak on Thursday, August 29, at 6:00 pm.
• Junior Varsity (1-0): Defeated Wadsworth, 22-8.  Plays home vs. GlenOak Saturday, August 31, at 10:00 am.

Review of the NFL Academy game

“What an incredible experience for our guys,” said Moore.  “The kids got to spend so much time together.  The week was incredible.”  They also were offered the Nike facility for use in final game preparation.  Moore thought they played with great effort, but will need to clean up the mistakes.  The offense and defense played well enough, but the special teams will need some polishing.

The guest players were outside linebacker Vito McConnell and running back Ja’Meir Gamble.  McConnell said that the momentum flipped a couple times during the game: once when the Academy tied the score 14-14 and another time when the Tigers regained the lead 28-14.  Gamble said that he enjoyed the experience of traveling with his brothers.  He also thought that the strength of the Academy was their offense.

Canton GlenOak Scouting Report

The Golden Eagles play physical ball, according to Moore.  They play with toughness and are well coached.  The did lose last week 42-7 to Cleveland St. Joseph, but they played with toughness.  They just didn’t match up athletically.  Nevertheless, this is a rivalry game and he expects that the Eagles will draw on past victories for motivation.

The offense runs through 2-year returning starter, senior quarterback Adrion Burt (6′-1″, 190) and returning starter,  senior running back Jerome Cox (6′-0″, 225).  The group runs a lot of power and counters behind a line that averages 6′-0″, 248 lbs.  McConnell thought GlenOak’s quarterback was good and will run a lot.  So, the Tigers will need to box in the run game.  They do appear to run better than they pass.

The defensive line has good size, averaging 5′-11, 250 lbs.  Keep and eye on junior nose tackle Donell Hampton (5′-11″, 260), returning starter, senior safety Quincy Jones (5′-9″, 165) and 2-year returning starter, senior Nasjier Corner (5′-11″, 175).  They utilize a lot of odd fronts.  Gamble noted that they are physical up front, which is the strength of the defense.

Go Tigers!

2024: Massillon 35, NFL Academy-London 20

Massillon Defends American Turf with Opening Game Victory

Game Statistics

It was the 3^rd Annual Nike Football Kickoff Classic and the Tigers were honored to be invited to participate and represent the United States.  The opponent was NFL Academy-London, an all-star team representing Europe and Africa and mentored by selected NFL coaches.  The event was held at Nike World Headquarters, which is located in Beaverton, Oregon.

Massillon came out of the game on top 35-20, but it could have been much, much worse.  Consider this: three near-miss passes (hands on the ball) at the goal line on separate drives.  Two touchdown passes called back on account of penalties.  Several questionable officiating calls on line blocking within the tackles that halted drives deep in the opponents’ territory (I guess the rules in Oregon are different!).  On defense, the Mylen Lenix just couldn’t secure a pick-six pass interception, while another pass to the ten was also nearly taken away.  Plus, a drive-stopping fumble recovery that was negated by the referee, resulting in multiple penalties for protesting the call that moved the ball inside the ten.  And that’s not considering those 5-yard technical penalties that often occur in an opening game.  Nevertheless, those items did keep the score close to the delight of the broadcast announcers.  The last thing they wanted was a running clock that affected the time slot.

Massillon jumped on the Academy early by scoring on each its first two possessions.  After holding the Academy to negative six yards on their opening try and forcing a punt, the Tigers went on an 8 play 60-yard drive that culminated in a 3-yard stretch play touchdown run by Ja’Meir Gamble.  The key play was a 22-yard pass from quarterback Jalen Slaughter to Braylyn Toles that advanced the ball to the Academy seven.  Two plays later, and following the PAT kick by Mateo Herrera, the Tigers were up 7-0, .

Again, the Academy was held to a 3-and-out and Massillon was on the move again, this time from the 30 yard line.  It took just three plays to cover the distance.  First, Slaughter connected with Ricardo Wells Jr. for 50 yards over the middle.  Wells had split the safeties and hauled in the pass in stride and unopposed.  Slaughter next hit Jacques Carter to the 12 and Gamble did the rest on a 12-yard run.  Score, 14-0.

The quick scores seemed to shock the Academy, giving the message that if they wanted to compete in this game, they would need to raise their defensive level of play in terms of response to keys and the level of physicality.  Only, they did just that.  For the remainder of the game they were much more aggressive and matched Massillon with their effort.  They were stingy against the run, with blitzes up the middle and quick secondary responses to the edges.  However, they didn’t have a match for the speed the Tigers had at the wide receiver positions and were forced into cover-3, with the second safety pulled up near the inside linebackers to aid the linebacker blitz.  So Slaughter, who managed the pocket quite well with his scrambling, took full advantage of it.  By game’s end, he had completed 29 of 44 passes for 403 yards and three touchdowns and all three marks are now in the Massillon record book for single game passing:  The 29 pass completions ties Kyle Kempt and Justin Zwick for first, the 44 pass attempts ranks fifth and the 387 yards ranks second.

Following an exchange of punts, the Academy finally found the scoreboard, on a 70-yard bomb from quarterback Michael Szabo to Seb Harris, who had beaten his defender by two yards along the sideline and received the ball in stride.

Late in the second quarter, following a missed 36-yard field goal by the Tigers, the Academy struck again.  This time the speedy Justus Seelig broke through the middle of the Tiger line, reversed direction across the field and outraced the secondary to the end zone for a 46-yard score, tying the game at 14 apiece.  It became Seelig’s best run of the day, while his other 18 carries netted just 61 yards, owing to good run defense.  The score came with just 2:44 left before halftime.

Massillon fumbled the ball inside its own territory on its next possession, but managed to stop the Academy on downs and take over the ball at its own 25, now with just 1:18 left.  Managing the clock perfectly, the Tigers methodically moved down the field.  A 6-yard completion to Deonte Malone.  A 21-yard pass to Wells.  A 15-yards shovel pass to Gamble.  Another shovel pass to Gamble for 12 yards and suddenly the ball was at the Academy 21 with 25 seconds left.  Slaughter then wrapped it up with a perfectly thrown pass to Carter in the right corner of the end zone, giving his team a 21-14 lead going into the locker room, a lead that they did not relinquish for the rest of the game.

The coup de gras came on Massillon’s first possession of the second half.  After Wells returned the kickoff to the 45, the Tigers marched 55 yards in just four plays and tallied when Slaughter hit Carter on a 40-yard strike.  With the score now at 28-14, Massillon had assumed better control of the game.

That’s until later in the quarter when Tyler Hackenbracht stripped the Academy runner of the ball at the Massillon 38 and Garner secured it.  Only, the referee ruled the runner down by contact.  That set off a massive protest by both the players and the coaches.  Interestingly, the NFL game broadcast showed that it was clearly a fumble and a Massillon recovery.  The result of the mayhem was multiple penalties against the Tigers, which advanced the ball to the eight yard line.  From there, Szabo fired a swing pass to Seelig for a score, aided by two missed tackles.  That made the final score 35-20.  Szabo ended the game with 15 completions out of 32 attempts for 244 yards and two touchdowns.

Later in the quarter, Massillon put the final points on the board when Slaughter sent a short pass to Toles on a crossing pattern and Toles did the rest for a 44-yard score.

The Academy did threaten one more time, in the fourth quarter, but a 9-yard pass was intercepted by Lenox Lemon when he stepped in front of the receiver and returned it to the 24 yard line.

After that, the sportsmanship deteriorated somewhat, with the Tigers being assessed several penalties.  This will surely be addressed by the coaches.  But the chippiness from withing both teams was going on for most of the game and the referees just didn’t take control of it early.  Eventually, it led to this.

Nevertheless, the Academy showed they are a fine team that plays serious football and very much look the part.  Their players took the loss hard, and rightly so.  But they also earned the respect of the many Tiger fans that traveled to Oregon.  Spectators saw a team that has excellent size and positional speed and is well-coached.  They would certainly compete well against most of the teams in this country.  In addition, they showed marked improvement from their close loss of a week ago to a team from Edgewater, Florida.  Finally, having played in this high-level physical game, they may also grasp what it takes to move to the next level.  The future looks good for this program.

For the Tigers, those first-game technical penalties are now out of the way and they too can get down to playing sounder football.  The passing game is at a high caliber, the running game has great potential and the run defense is very stingy.  However, play in the secondary against the pass will need some polishing.  However, based on their game performance in this one, Massillon has shown that they are going to be a VERY good football team.

Massillon led in first downs 20-13 and total yards 504-346.  But they were also assessed 18 penalties for 189 yards, a couple of which negated potential scoring opportunities.  The Academy punted eight times to the Tigers’ six.  Toles caught 9 passes for 114 yards and a touchdown, Wells caught 7 passes for 113 yards and Carter caught 4 passes for 76 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Gamble rushed 10 times for 58 yards and 2 touchdowns.  He also caught four passes for 69 yards.  Save for the passing near misses, Slaughter would have certainly re-written the record book.

Next week Massillon travels to Canton GlenOak.  The Academy will host De La Salle from Los Angeles on October 8^th and IMG Academy on November 8.

Massillon to Open the 2024 Season Against NFL Academy-London

Massillon to Open the 2024 Season Against NFL Academy-London

The scrimmages are over and it’s time for the regular season to get underway.  The first order of business is a long road trip to Oregon, for a game against NFL Academy-London.  This is an intriguing matchup of two teams across the pond from each other, something that the Tigers have never done before, let alone few other American teams.  It is also a great opportunity for the players to experience the travel logistics normally afforded to just college and professional teams.

The Nike Football Classic, which is a joint venture of the Nike Corporation and the National Football League, will be held on Thursday, August 22, beginning with a girls’ flag football game, followed by the Massillon-Academy game.  For Nike, it’s a chance to promote their company brand, while the NFL hopes to increase football participation in Europe at the high school level.  As such, the game will receive national television exposure.

“The Nike Football Kickoff Classic brings fresh excitement to the start of the high school football season. For the third consecutive year, Nike has given us something to look forward to as the season begins,” said Roman Oben, Vice President of NFL Football Development. “This year, we’re adding an international twist with the NFL Academy facing off against Massillon. The experience these teams will share will be unforgettable. Congratulations to all the high school football players this year.  The collaboration between Nike and the NFL continues to amplify the kickoff of the high school football season and allows each of the participating boys and girls’ high school teams to play in one of the most unique experiences in the country. The experience at Nike also allows student athletes to learn about the history of Nike and its relationship with the NFL. Student athletes will get an opportunity to hear from former Nike/NFL Ambassadors about why they love football and learn about professional development from some of the best in sports, touring one of the most robust campuses in the world.” – Ref. Play Football

The flag football game will begin at 1:30 pm, pacific time, and feature De La Salle High School of New Orleans, Louisiana, against South Anchorage High School of Alaska.  Massillon and the Academy will follow at 3:30 pm.  The venue is Renaldo Soccer Field, which is located at Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton.  Although the stadium does not presently have any permanent seating, Nike will erect portable bleachers to accommodate the crowd, which is expected to include some 250 Massillon fans.

NFL Academy-London is a traditional boarding high school, located in the UK.  Over a thousand high students from across Europe try out for the Academy each year, with the goal of earning football-related scholarships to American universities and eventually finding their ways to the NFL. Eighty will secure spots on the team.  There, they receive a heavy education in American football, along with taking a full load of high school-level academics.  The school also adheres to the age limits that American schools use for playing eligibility.  Coaches are American-bred and selected by the NFL.

The Academy opened their fall season last week by hosting Edgewater, Florida, which is rated nationally No. 57 by Play Football and No. 161 by calpreps.com.  While it is considered an official game by the Academy, it was the final scrimmage for Edgewater, which opens their regular season this week.  The game was a high-scoring affair, with a final point tally of 51-45 in favor of Edgewater, which led for the entire game.  Obviously, not a lot of defense was on display from start to finish in a game that featured outstanding offensive athletes by both teams.  However, neither tackled well and the Academy scored most of their points when missed open-field tackles led to long scores.  It’s also possible that Edgewater substituted liberally, this being a scrimmage.  The Academy does have some fast skill players on the roster, with good high school size on the lines.  What they lack, however, is game experience.  But the coaching appears to be sound and they do resemble a decently skilled high school football team.

The Massillon-Academy game be televised live on the NFL YouTube Channel and the NFL Network the following Saturday.

The Tigers are expected to travel on Tuesday and have a short practice upon arrival.  A full practice is scheduled for Wednesday, along with a tour of the Nike facility.  They will return on Friday.

As far as the computer calculations are concerned, the contest does not figure in and the Tigers will receive a seasonal average of Harbin points the same as having an open date.  For those fans concerned about Massillon having sufficient games to qualify for the playoffs, this item has already been discussed by the OHSAA and Coach Nate Moore and there are no issues with the makeup of the schedule and the number of “Harbin games” as it stands today.

Scrimmage Report: Massillon vs. Cincinnati Moeller

Scrimmage Report: Massillon vs. Cincinnati Moeller

Massillon Head Coach Nate Moore is not shy about scheduling some very good teams for pre-season scrimmages.  That’s because these teams will certainly expose the Tigers’ weaknesses before the regular games get underway.  Last Saturday it was Avon, the dominant power in Division II, Region 6, and on Thursday it was Cincinnati Moeller, the Division I, Region 4 champion in each of the past three seasons.  It doesn’t get much better than that.

Talk before official practice got underway was that Moeller is primed this year with enough talent to possibly unseat 3-time defending Division I champion Lakewood St. Edward.  And they certainly showed why against Massillon by fielding a stellar defense and an excellent quarterback to boot.  In the first half it was all Crusaders as they out-did the Tigers in first downs, 9-1.  However, they only led 7-3 at the break on account of a Massillon ground defense that was just as stingy.

Moeller scored in the first quarter when they drove the ball 60 yards on their second possession and finished with a 2-yard TD pass to the tight end.  In the second quarter they were stopped on downs at the Tiger nine, and later at the Massillon twenty, when Michael Wright caused and recovered a fumble.  A third scoring drive was negated when, with 16 seconds left, a 44-yard field goal attempt was missed wide to the left.

For Massillon, however, it was one 3-and-out after another.  Five in a row.  Only, after taking over the ball following the missed field goal, quarterback Jalen Slaughter finally completed a pass, of 68 yards, to the speedy Jacques Carter, which advanced the ball to the 17 yard line with 6.5 seconds left.  A subsequent pass was dropped in the back of the end zone, but Mateo Herrera was able to connect on a 33-yard field goal as time expired, making the score 7-3 in favor of the Crusaders.  During that half both Slaughter and Eli Moore held the reigns at the QB position.

In the Tigers’ sole varsity possession of the second half, they went to the air and drove 65 yards for a touchdown, with Slaughter completing 4 of 8 passes for 48 yards, including a 5-yard toss to Braylyn Toles for the score.  The drive was aided by a pass interference penalty on Moeller.  That made the final varsity score 10-7 in favor of Massillon.

Moeller struggled most of the time to move the ball effectively on the ground, but had good success with the passing game.  But they had difficulty finishing drives.  Meanwhile, the Tigers did have a few good runs, but just couldn’t convert first downs on account of missed passes and dropped balls.

The JV team lost their end of the scrimmage, four touchdowns to one.  The lone Tiger score came on a 15-yard pass from Sherraad Bennard to Javon Merriweather.  It was a 6-play drive, all passes, as Bennard completed 3 of 6 for 83 yards.

Massillon travels to Beaverton, Oregon, next Wednesday to open the season with a game against NFL Academy-London.

A big thank you goes out to Matt McBeth for providing live details of the scrimmage.