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Massillon Fills Week 8 with Charter School from Texas

Massillon Fills Week 8 with Charter School from Texas

Week No. 8 on the Tiger schedule has been a difficult one to fill and lately fans have resigned themselves to the premise that it would be an open date.  But, after several false starts, it has finally been filled.  The opponent is Legacy School of Sports Sciences, which is located in Spring, Texas, a suburb of Houston.  This is the first time Massillon has played a team from the Lone Star state.

This is sure to be a unique experience for the players at Legacy, as they have never traveled this far for a game.  Mostly, they compete in Texas, with an occasional game in Louisiana.

Legacy is a state accredited charter elementary/secondary school that serves grades six through twelve and focuses on both sports and education, while intertwining the two in the course curriculum.  It would be similar to the former Cincinnati Academy of Physical Education (CAPE) from back in the 1970s and 80s.  Also similar to the football-focused NFL Academy-London, which the Tigers played in Oregon this year.  And it would have a correlation to Cleveland’s Ginn Academy, while their athletes participate in sports at Cleveland Glenville.

Legacy has a limited capacity in their facility, so they conduct a lottery among those students that desire admission.  No tuition is charged.  They offer a variety of sports, including baseball, basketball, cross country, flag football, scholastic football, soccer, softball and volleyball.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the school this year has 447 students in grades 6 through 12.  Per U.S. News and World Report, 70% are boys, 95% are minority students and 69% are economically disadvantaged.  The student-teacher ratio is 13:1.

Based on the number of students distributed throughout seven grades, the number of boys in the top three grades may be around 190.  That would conceivably place it in Ohio’s Division V for computer playoff calculations.  Therefore, a win over Legacy would net Massillon 4.5 first level points and the same number for each opponent that Legacy defeats throughout the season.

Legacy began playing football in 2018 and has compiled an overall record of 33-25, including 8-1 marks in both 2018 and 2023.  This year they are 1-3, although all three losses were by a touchdown or less.  Calpreps.com has them ranked No. 159 in Texas with a rating of 24.2.  That would place them 18th in Ohio’s Division II.  For comparison purposes, Massillon is rated 64.8 and ranked first in Ohio among all schools.

The Titans do not play in a league.  According to Maxpreps.com, they have 36 players on the roster.

The game is not included in the season ticket packet.  Therefore, tickets for the game must be purchased through the WHS Ticket Office.

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 5 – Post-St.…

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 5 – Post-St. Edward; Preview of the DeMatha Catholic Game

Massillon (4-1) defeated Lakewood St. Edward (3-2), 31-21.  Massillon now leads the series 6-4.  It was also historical win No. 952.  This week Massillon hosts DeMatha Catholic (2-1).

Link to the St. Edward Game Story

Link to the St. Edward Game Statistics

Other scores:

  • 7th Grade (2-2): Awaiting the score from the Madison game.  Plays at Brunswick on Wednesday, September 25, at 6:00 pm.
  • 8th Grade (4-1): Lost to Warren, 36-14.  Plays home to Memorial (Euclid) Wednesday, September 25, at 6:00 pm.
  • Freshmen (2-3): Lost to St. Edward, 28-6.  Plays at Gilmour Academy on Saturday, September 28, at 6:00 pm.
  • Junior Varsity (3-1-1): Lost to Lakewood St. Edward, 21-10.  Plays home vs. Uniontown Lake on Saturday, September 28, at 9:00 am.

Review of the St. Edward game

In one of best matchups of the season, the top two teams in the state of Ohio (per national rating service Calpreps.com) battled it out for 48 minutes at Lakewood’s First Federal Stadium, with Massillon coming out on top, 31-21. It was the third straight victory by the Tigers over the Eagles, with the wins coming in consecutive years.  The Massillon offensive and defensive lines held the advantage throughout, rushing for 236 yards against 51 yards for St. St. Edward.  Running back Ja’Meir Gamble had his best outing of the season, carrying the ball 22 times for 144 yards and scoring two touchdowns.  On defense, Ja’Dyn Williams recorded 16 tackles.

“We’re happy for the victory,” said Massillon head coach Nate Moore.  “The Tigers played well.  In places were were undersized.”  Moore was also appreciative of the support the several thousand Tiger followers brought to the event.  “Our fans were amazing,” he said.  “At the critical moments you guys showed up.  It was a huge side of the victory.  You guys are the 12th man!”

The guest players were running back Ja’Meir Gamble, linebacker Ja’Dyn Williams and safety Tyler Hackenbracht.  Collectively, they felt that the Tigers dominated in all three phases of the game: offense, defense and special teams.  On offense, Massillon finally got the running game going, rolling up 236 yards on the ground at 6.6 yards per tote.  On defense, they held the Eagles to little yardage on the ground, including three stops on fourth down.  And on special teams, they blocked a punt, negated a field goal attempt and kicked a crucial field goal.  But this week, against DeMatha, the players said that they are facing some big lines and a good quarterback.  But nothing they haven’t seen before.

DeMatha Catholic Scouting Report

DeMatha is the No. 3 team in Maryland per Calpreps.com, behind Archbishop Spalding (28-14 win over Hoban) and St. Francis Academy.  They hold wins over Zion Prep, MD (0-3), 48-0, and Roman Catholic, PA (4-1), 49-12, with a loss to Spalding (5-0), 26-10.  The “Stag” plays in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference along with 2023 Massillon opponent St. John’s College,  DC.  Last year DeMatha finished 9-2, with victories over Ohio Division I runner-up Springfield, OH, 35-7, and St. John’s, 21-14 in the regular season and 21-3 in the playoffs.  The Stag has a 5-year record of 35-13, along with two league playoff runners-up.

“Out of the frying pan and into the fire,” remarked Moore.  ”  DeMatha is one of the best teams in the country.  Their offensive line is really big.  The running back is going to Maryland.  It’s the best quarterback we’ve seen.  He can throw and run.  And they have a wide receiver going to Penn State.  Great players everywhere.”

According to the scouting report DeMatha is a team with a great collection of  talent.  What the coaches need to see is if that great talent can play as a team to the level needed to win against good competition.

The offense operates out of the spread.  This is the the fastest and most athletic offense to have faced the Tigers this year, particularly at quarterback and running back.  Their offensive line is massive, averaging 6′-3″, 295 lbs., about the size of line on last year’s Lakewood St. Edward’s team.  Their top personnel are as follows:

  • Senior quarterback Denzel Gardner (6′-0″, 185), 3-star, Marshall commit; best offensive player; designed runs; good arm
  • Junior wide receiver Lavar Keys (5′-11″, 170), 3-star, Penn State commit; favorite target; good route runner
  • Senior running back Bud Coombs (5′-10″, 195), 4-star, Maryland commit; downhill runner with good speed; can get to the outside
  • Senior fullback Michael Boxley (6′-0″, 220); solid; finishes blocks; physical
  • Junior tackle Zion Smith (6′-5″, 300), 2-star, Syracuse offer
  • Senior tackle Anthony Chuman (6′-1, 300), Syracuse offer

The defense is a 4-front with three linebackers, but plays like a 4-2-5, with one linebacker having defensive back skills.  The line on this side of the ball also has good size, averaging 6′-3″, 266 lbs.  The strength of the group is the linebacker corps.  Their top personnel are as follows:

  • Senior nose tackle Anthony Chuman (6′-1″, 310), 2-star, Syracuse offer; strong and holds ground well
  • Sophomore end James Pace (6′-4″, 225), 4-star, Florida offer
  • Senior middle linebacker Jermaine Minnis (6′-1″, 215), 3-star, Ohio U commit; very athletic and moves well
  • Senior outside linebacker Noah Chambers (6′-2″, 210), 4-star,  Virginia Tech commit; very good tackler; makes a lot of plays
  • Senior outside linebacker Terry Dorsey (6′-1″, 195), 2-star, Akron offer
  • Senior cornerback Jacob Wallace (6′-2″, 175), 2-star, Marshall offer; explosive out of his breaks
  • Junior safety Darrell Carey (6′-2″, 175), 2-star, West Virginia offer; fast and physical; covers a lot of ground

“In games like this, the best TEAM is going to win,” said Moore.  “We have plenty of good players, too!”  In other words, DeMatha has some great personnel based on the number of college offers.  But how well they play as a team will determine the outcome the game.

 

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2024: Massillon 31, Lakewood St. Edward 7

Massillon Downs Lakewood St. Edward in Battle of Defending State Champions

Game Statistics

In one of best matchups of the season, the top two teams in the state of Ohio (per national rating service Calpreps.com) battled it out for 48 minutes at Lakewood’s First Federal Stadium, with Massillon coming out on top, 31-21.  It was the third straight victory by the Tigers over the Eagles, with the wins coming in consecutive years.

The intensity in the game displayed by both players and fans rivaled that of a good Massillon-McKinley game, given its playoff atmosphere and overflow crowd.  The Tigers displayed a crushing defensive front-7 that brought the Eagle run offense to its knees, forcing them to go to the air, especially after they had lost the lead at the end of the first half.  By the time the game ended Massillon had held its St. Edward and their huge offensive line to a mere 51 yards on the ground, against 251 yards through the air.  But it is a rare day when the Tigers lose a game to a one-dimensional passing team.

Ja’Meir Gamble

The Tigers had struggled to run the ball consistently in their previous four games.  So, the key for this one was to establish the run and mix in the pass to consistently move the sticks.  Although they did sputter at times with both, there was enough of each to get the job done.  Ja’Meir Gamble had his best outing of the year, rushing 22 times for 144 yards (6.6 ave.) and two touchdowns, including a burst up the middle for a 47-yard jaunt to the end zone.  Late in the game, part-time running back Mylen Lenix added a 39-yard touchdown run that sealed the victory.  Quarterback Jalen Slaughter added just enough, completing 14 of 22 passes for 106 yards and a score, that one going to Braylyn Toles.  Five passes were caught by Deonte Malone.

Defensively, junior linebacker Ja’Dyn Williams had a marvelous day, recording 19 tackles, 1.5 sacks and 3 tackles for loss.  On one play he literally in one motion knocked the blocking running back to the ground and then proceeded to sack the QB seven yards past the attempted block.  Cornerback Daylan Pringle added another nine tackles.  Michael Wright Jr. was a beast on the field disrupting the Eagle runs up the middle and three times he was in the backfield helping to stop the runner for a loss.  Kicker Mateo Herrera converted a 26-yard field.

For St. Edward, quarterback Thomas Csanyi, who was also the starter in last year’s game, had perhaps his best outing of the season.  He completed 19 of 30 passes for 251 yards and three touchdowns.  Twice he hit deep, with a touchdown throw of 69 yards and another of 39 yards that advanced his team to the red zone.  Running back Tyrese Buchanan, who played in place of the injured Elijah Kimble, carried the ball 20 times for 49 yards (2.5 ave.).

Both teams were quickly stopped on their initial possessions.  The Eagles, on their second try, used seven plays to advance the ball from their own 30 to the Tiger 10, aided by Csanyi’s 39-yard bomb to Zach Hackleman.  But, after being stopped on downs, they attempted a 42-yard field goal, only to have it blocked by Malone.

Massillon then went on an 11-play 59-yard drive that was halted at the St. Ed 9 yard line.  But it wasn’t for naught, as Herrera gave his team a 3-0 advantage with a 26-yard field goal.  Late in the drive, sophomore Savior Owens plowed 11 yards up the middle from the wildcat position, reminiscent of his older brother’ Da’One’s modus operandi during last year’s state championship run.

Following a punt by the Eagles, the Tigers came right back and this time scored a touchdown on a 15-yard run by Gamble.  It took 8 plays to methodically advance the ball 43 yards to paydirt.

Then it was the Eagles’s turn.  First was an 8-play, 50-yard drive, with a 14-yard pass to Bradley Eaton.  Then it was a 69-yard pass to Hackleman for a second score, that one coming on the first play of the series, to put St. Edward up 14-10 with 2:58 left in the half.

But Massillon wasn’t yet done.  A 15-yard run by Gamble, a 12-yard carry by Slaughter and an 18-yard 3rd down pass to Deontay Malone set up a final 7-yard pass to Toles for a score, as the Tigers regained the lead at 17-14.

Michael Wright Jr

Massillon received the second half kickoff and made the most of it, driving 80 yards in just four plays.  After Slaughter connected with Malone on a 25 yard pass, Gamble on the next play broke through the line and outraced the secondary to the end zone for a 47-yard touchdown.  It put the Tigers up 24-14 and suddenly the Eagles had their backs against the wall.  So, for the rest of the game, they focused on the pass.

Two series later St. Edward’s Csanyi completed a 4-yarder to Joe Saffold to close the margin to 24-21 and that’s as close as they got for the rest of the game, as Massillon then focused on defense.  On St. Ed’s next drive they were stopped on downs at the Massillon 35.  They next punted from the Tiger 41.  On the third try they were stopped on downs at the Massillon 40.

But Massillon had the ball at the Eagle 39 and a minute and a half remaining.  And the Eagles were out of timeouts.  So, it might have been time to take a knee.  But Lenix found a gap on the right side of the line and quickly burst through it.  After that, it was clear sailing to the end zone.  But on the downside, it gave St. Eds time to potentially score and then attempt an onside kick.  But as it turned out, with Massillon now aligned in a prevent defense, they managed to move the ball just to the Tiger 31, where they were stopped on downs.

This game has turned into quite a rivalry and looks to continue into the future.  It has certainly proved competitive from year-to-year.  Massillon now owns a 6-4 lead in the series.

Next week the Tigers (4-1) return home to face another outstanding opponent in DeMatha from Maryland.  The Eagles (3-2) also have another tall task as they host Cleveland Glenville.

Go Tigers!

The Tigers enter the field at Lakewood First Federal Stadium

Braylyn Toles (1) looks for running room after the catch.

Savior Owens (25) on the wildcat

Jacques Carter (7) after the catch; Deonte Malone (80)

Ja’Meir Gamble (21) cuts to the outside; Michael Looney (75)

Michael Wright Jr. (45) with assistant coach J.P. Simon

Deonte Malone (80); can anyone say “pass interference?”

Ja’Meir Gamble (21) heads around end; Marcus Garner (60)

Ja’Meir Gamble (21) with the ball.

Mylen Lenix (5) on his way to the end zone.

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 4 – Post-Canisius;…

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 4 – Post-Canisius; Preview of the Lakewood St. Edward Game

Massillon (3-1) defeated Canisius, NY (1-1), 41-7.  Massillon now leads the series 3-1.  It was also historical win No. 951.  This week Massillon travels to Lakewood to face the St. Edward Eagles.

Link to the Canisius Game Story

Link to the Canisius Game Statistics

Other scores:

  • 7th Grade (2-2): Lost to Madison, 12-8.  Plays at Warren on Thursday, September 19, at 5:30 pm.
  • 8th Grade (4-0): Defeated Madison, 22-8.  Plays home (MJHS) vs. Warren on Wednesday, September 18, at 6:00 pm.
  • Freshmen (2-2): Lost to Cleveland Glenville, 56-14.  Plays home vs. Lakewood St. Edward on Thursday, September 19, at 6:00 pm.
  • Junior Varsity (3-0-1): Tied Cleveland Glenville, 20-20.  Plays home vs. Lakewood St. Edward on Saturday, September 21, at 10:00 am.

Review of the Canisius game

The Tigers opened a 35-0 lead by halftime and cruised to their third win in four starts, 41-7.  In fact, the entire second half was played under running-clock conditions.  The scores were multiple and came in the form of three offensive touchdowns, two via the run and one via the pass, a pass interception return, a fumble return and a punt return.  Quarterback Jalen Slaughter completed 10 of 12 passes for 150 yards and one touchdown.  Jacques Carter caught four of the passes for 91 yards and one TD.  Meanwhile, the first team defense held the Crusaders under 40 yards of total offense throughout the three quarters they were on the field.

“It was a great team win,” said Massillon head coach Nate Moore.  “Anytime we score in all three phases, we’re pretty happy.  Canisius was a good team.  Our style of play was the difference in the game; physicality and effort.  I’m  proud of our guys.”

The guest players were linebacker Ja’Dyn Williams and running Ja’Meir Gamble.  Williams thought that the defense played really, while Gamble believed the same of the offense.  In regards to St.  Edwards, the focus for the defense will be on the run, per Williams.  Gamble said that the Tigers should have an edge in the passing game.  Not that the Eagle secondary isn’t good, but the Massillon receivers have an edge in speed.

Lakewood St. Edward Scouting Report

St. Edward is the 3-time defending Ohio Division I state champion.  Last season they compiled a record of 15-1, defeating Springfield 31-21 in the state finals.  That was the third consecutive year that they faced Springfield in this venue.  Their lone loss came at the hand of Massillon by the score of 15-13.  The Tigers also defeated the Eagles the previous year, 31-28.  St. Ed owns a 61-7 record over the past five years, with a 21-2 mark in playoff games.  Massillon leads the overall series, 5-4.

This year the Eagles have a record of 3-1, with victories over Pickerington North (3-0), 28-0, St. Joseph Prep, PA (1-1), 35-21, and Cincinnati Elder (3-1), 24-17.  Their loss came two weeks ago at home against Doyle County, KY (4-0) by the score of 38-21.  Doyle is a 7-time Kentucky state champion.  St. Edward is currently ranked 44th in the country by Calpreps.com.  Massillon is ranked 47th.

The Eagles return 3 starters on offense and 5 on defense, plus backup quarterback senior Casey Csanyi (6’-2”, 190).  Against Massillon last year as the starter Csanyi completed 14 of 29 passes for 153 yards and two touchdowns.  An Ashland commit, he has a good arm and can hit receivers with great accuracy in tight windows.  He also runs of the read option when the play calls for it, which is very often.  His favorite receiver is junior Zach Hackleman (6′-1″, 170), who likes to run come-back routes on the hash.  But all of the receivers are good.

The starting running back appeared to be 2-star recruit, junior Brandon White.  But he is believed out with a knee injury that he suffered in the St. Joe game.  In his place is junior Tyrese Buchanan (5′-10, 175), also a strong runner, with a quick burst through the hole.

The offense utilizes the spread, but wants to run the football, especially with the quarterback.  The line is the strength of the team and averages 6′-2″, 284 lbs., nearly as large as last year.  The best players are the two tackles.  Senior Sawyer Prementine (6′-3″, 290) has an offer from Ashland.  He is really good at pass protection and has good footwork.  Junior 2-star recruit Mason Wilhelm has an offer from Toledo.

The defense aligns in a 4-3 even front, but will game plan when the opponent calls for it, like they did against the Tigers last year.  The secondary is in mostly cover-3, with some cover-1 and press coverage of the wide receivers.  They also like to blitz from and edge, particularly on long yardage plays.  The line averages 6′-0″, 246 lbs.  The best players line up in the middle and include senior Jaden Woods (6′-0″, 275) and junior Diondre Taylor (6′-1″, 265).  Woods is  the most physical of the line group and has a high motor.  Taylor is considered by Moore as the best player.

The linebacker corps is led by 3-star recruit, senior Nate Gregory (6′-0″, 230), who is  committed to Coastal Carolina.  Gregory is a 3-year starter and has received 15 offers to Division 1 schools.  He reads keys well and makes plays.  Moore said that as a linebacker “he is as good as it gets.”  At outside linebacker is 1-star recruit, senior Bradley Eaton (5′-9″, 170), who has an offer from Bowling Green.  He is also a 3-year starter.  The best player in the secondary is junior cornerback Makhi Boone (6′-0, 165).

This is a very good team across the board.  Very well coached.  “This is a great matchup,” said Moore. “They play the game the  right way.  They have a great team again this year.  The offensive line is the most outstanding part.  They are still big, still physical, and come off the ball well.  The best team is going to win.”

Massillon’s Season to Date

Passing

  • Jalen Slaughter – 69 of 108 passing (64%) for 859 yards (12.5 ave.) and 7 touchdowns, with one interception.

Receiving

  •  Braylyn Toles – 18 receptions for 109 yards (10.7 ave.) and 1 TD.
  • Jacques Carter – 12 receptions for 232 yards (19.3 ave.) and 4 TDs.
  • Ricardo Wells – 11 receptions for 183 yards (16.6 ave.) and 1 TD.
  • Ja’Meir Gamble – 11 receptions for 94 yards (8.5 ave.) and 0 TDs.

Rushing

  • Ja’Meir Gamble – 44 carries for 339 yards (7.7 ave.) and 6 TDs.
  • Peytton Mitchell – 12 carries for 25 yards (2.1 ave.) and 1 TD.
  • Mylen Lenix – 5 carries for 43 yards (8.0 ave.) and 1 TD.

Scoring

  • Ja’Meir – 36 points
  • Jacques Carter – 24 points
  • Mateo Herrera – 21 points

Defense

  • Jadyn Williams – 16 solos, 16 assists – 32 tackles, 2.5 TFLs
  • Mylen Lenix – 13 solos, 10 assists – 23 tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 1.5 sacks
  • Tra’Yon  Williams – 14 solos, 6 assists – 20 tackles, 1 pass interception
  • Tyler Hackenbracht – 10 solos, 10 assists – 20 tackles
  • Logan Allman – 6 solos, 13 assists – 19 tackles
  • Lennox Lemon – 2 pass interceptions
  • Vito McConnell – 1 pass interception

 

 

 

Go Tigers!

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2024: Massillon 41, Canisius, NY 7

Massillon Uses Big Plays to Take Down Canisius

Coaches will tell you that there are three phases to the game of football: offense, defense and special teams.  And the performance of each is measured following the game.  If one looked at just the scoring statistics, all three measured up quite well for the Tigers, as they cruised to their third win in four starts, defeating Canisius, 41-7.

Massillon scored in nearly any way they could in the game of football.  There were two rushing touchdowns.  There was a passing touchdown.  There was a pick-6 interception return.  A punt was returned for a score.  And even a fumble was returned to the house.  All of that negated a fine defensive performance by the Crusaders.

Lennox Lemon

On Canisius’ first possession they ran the ball twice to set up a 3rd and 5 from their own 40.  The  situation against the stingy Tiger defense called for a pass.  Only, quarterback Matteo Brusco threw the ball right into the hands of Massillon’s Lennox Lemon, who promptly returned it 44 yards to pay dirt.  Mateo Herrera’’s kick gave the locals a 7-0 early advantage.

Following a punt by the Crusaders, the Tigers went on a 9-play, 83-yard drive for their second score.  The key play was a 43-yard pass from quarterback Jalen Slaughter to Jacques Carter.  Carter was covered by a glove as he headed down the middle of field and both players had a hand on the ball.  But after it received several more touches Carter managed to secure it at the six yard line.  Then, after losing five yards on the next play, Mylen Lenix took a handoff from the jumbo set, the first time it had been used this year, and sped around the right side for the score.

In the second quarter, Canisius punted from their own ten and the ball bounced past return player Tyler Hackenbracht.  It looked as if he was going to just let it go, but the ball had a lot of momentum.  So, in order to protect field position, he caught it on the bounce while running toward his own end zone and pulled an Austin Brawley by reversing field.  Following some fine blocking down the left sideline, he raced for a 52-yard touchdown return.  That made the score 21-0.

Nolen Hendricks placed the ensuing kickoff on the three yard line and the return player was content to let it bound into the end zone.  Only, Hendricks used a 9 iron on this one and the ball checked up.  By the time the returner realized this he quickly retrieved the ball, but was promptly tackled at his own three yard line.  An encroachment penalty advanced it to the eight.  But three plays later the handoff was fumbled and picked up by Lenix, who had friendly company as he strolled into the end zone.  The game was essentially over at that point.

The final score of the half came on a 24-yard bomb to the corner of the end zone from Slaughter to Carter.  So, the two teams headed into the locker room with the score sitting at 35-0 and second half to be played under a running-clock situation.

On the Tigers’ first possession after the break they advanced the ball to their own 38 and punted.  Only, the ball was fumbled by the Crusaders and recovered by Lo’Quan Young at the 24.  Two plays later Ja’Meir Gamble showed his speed in racing around the left side, while eluding two would-be tacklers, for a 9-yard score.

Mateo Herrera

At that point the first team was done for the night, with 1:41 left in the third quarter.  The unit had put up six touchdowns: three by the offense, two by the defense and one by special teams.  Meanwhile, d Canisius was held under 40 yards of total offense.  For the night, Massillon led in first downs 10-8 and total yards 209-131.  Gamble rushed 10 times for 63 yards and a touchdown and Slaughter completed 10 of 12 passes for 150 yards and a touchdown.  Carter caught 4 passes for 91 yards and two scores.  On defense, Lenix and Logan Allman collected five tackles each.  Herrera has now converted 41 straight varsity extra points through last season.

It should be noted that the Crusaders were operating just a bit shorthanded in two different ways.  The first was that their best player, 3-star recruit running back/receiver/cornerback Elijah Kimble, who holds offers from Michigan and Oregon, had suffered a broken hand earlier in the week when he fell off a bicycle and had the injured limb in a wrap.  In a conversation with Canisius Coach Kraig Kurzanski prior to the game, the coach said that running was doubtful and receiving was out of the question, but he would play some defense.  In the end Kimble gutted it out and did what he could, rushing 10 times for 15 yards and playing some on defense.  He also caught a kickoff one-handed.

The second issue was their small roster size, around 35 players.  Coach Kurzanski explained that, unlike the large parochial powers in Ohio that gather good players from the public schools and pay little or no tuition, Canisius experiences the complete opposite situation in that each player is responsible for paying some amount of tuition.  Also, in the city of Buffalo, public students can attend any school they desire.  As a result, some schools are loading up with talented football players, similar to Cleveland Glenville, and in fact are raiding Canisius, given that no tuition would be required in a public school.  Hence, the small roster.  Nevertheless, the players the Crusaders do have certainly play good football and they play hard to the end.

For Massillon, the Tigers had difficulty running the ball against a stout Canisius from-7 and gained just 59 yards in 19 carries.  In addition, Slaughter was under pressure most times when he dropped back to pass.  Sure, the Crusaders had some big defensive linemen.  But this is an area that needs to be shored up.  The return of the injured senior Gavin Kappes may help and he did perform well when he subbed in.  But he was slated in this game mostly for defense, which has its own problems as Coach Nate Moore appears to be still searching for the right players to start, with the goal of keeping All-Ohio Mike Wright in the middle, where he is most effective.  Nevertheless, the defense overall did put in a fine performance, particularly against the rush, giving up just 84 yards, mostLY coming against the backups.

Next week Massillon (3-1) travels to Lakewood to face St. Edward.  Canisius (1-1) is also on the road, at Erie Cathedral Prep.

Go Tigers!

 

Robert Blakely (59)

Lennox Lemon (0) following the interception return.

Assistant coach J.P. Simon

Ja’Meir Gamble runs for yardage; Chris Fair (52)

Jacques Carter (7) battles for the ball on the long bomb; Elijah Kimble (0)

Jacques Carter (7) secures the the ball on the long bomb; Elijah Kimble (0)

 

Mylen Lenix (5); Amare Wallace (23)

Tyler Hackenbracht (24) with the punt return; Jahyden Clark (1)

Mylen Lenix (5) with the fumble return; Tra’Yon Williams (27), Daylan  Pringle (6), Chris Fair (52), Logan Allman (13)

Jacques Carter (7) with the touchdown reception

Leo Wingerter, a Tiger Swing Band Senior sousaphone player, entertains Tiger fans during the band’s half time performance.

 

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 3 – Post-Bergen…

2024 Booster Club Report – Week 3 – Post-Bergen Catholic; Preview of the Canisius Game

Massillon (2-1) lost to Bergen Catholic, NJ (1-1), 35-21, bringing their 18-game winning streak to an end.  Bergen, as a result of their win over the Top 50 Tigers, moved up to No. 8 nationally per Calpreps.com.  This week Massillon faces Canisius (1-0), from Buffalo, New York.

Link to the Bergen Catholic Game Story

Link to the Bergen Catholic Game Statistics

Other scores:

  • 7th Grade (2-1): Lost to Youngstown Catholic (7,8,9), 61-6.  Plays at Madison on Wednesday, September 11, at 5:00 pm.
  • 8th Grade (3-0): Defeated Maple Heights Milkovich, 40-12.  Plays at Madison on Wednesday, September 11, at 6:30 pm.
  • Freshmen (2-1): Lost to Lakewood St Edward, 35-6.  Plays home vs. Cleveland Glenville on Thursday, September 12, at 6:00 pm.
  • Junior Varsity (3-0): Defeated Lakewood St. Edward, 28-24.  Plays home vs. Cleveland Glenville on Saturday, September 14, at 10:00 am.

Review of the Bergen game

“I’m proud of our guys,” said head coach Nate Moore.  “We learned a lot  about us.  Our offense started out hot.”

The guest players were co-captains junior linebacker Ja’Dyn Williams and senior offensive lineman Chris Fair.  “The defense could have done things better,” said Williams.  “We had a hard time stopping their offense.”  Fair added that Bergen was a really good team.  “Our pass pro did really well,” he said.  “We started out well.  Fought in the second half, but it didn’t go well.”

Canisius Scouting Report

Canisius, which is located in Buffalo, New York, is a member of the Monsignor Martin Athletic Association.  In size, they are equivalent to an Ohio Division II team.  Last year they finished with a record of 5-6, losing 21-20 to St. Francis in their playoff semifinals.  They also have a 5-year record of 27-22.  Massillon, which leads the overall series 2-1, lost to the Crusaders 49-35 in 2017 and won 23-24 in 2021 and 42-7 last year.

Canisius opened their season last week with a 39-25 victory over Scranton Preparatory.  They are currently ranked as the No. 6 in New York by Calpreps.com, with the upcoming game against the Tigers, ranked as No. 1 this week in Ohio, as clearly the best opponent they will face this year.

“The have some really good players,”  said Moore.  “They are better than last year.  They are big up  front and have some speed.  Another tough week ahead.”

The offense operates out of the spread with the quarterback in the shotgun, while using multiple receiver formations.  Although they have a balanced attack, they really prefer to run the ball owing to their big offensive line and 3-star running back.  The line averages 6′-3″, 269 lbs.  The best player in this group is 6′-5″, 300 lb. senior Patrick Enright , a 3-star recruit that is committed to Holy Cross.  The running back is Elijah Kimble (5′-10″, 190). Just a sophomore, he is perhaps the best player on the team, with offers from Michigan and Oregon.  He is an explosive runner and will readily bounce his carries to the outside.  On occasion, he will line up in the wildcat.  He will also line up at receiver, where he is the No. 2 target.  The No. 1 target is Jahyden Clark.  the 6′-1″180 lb. senior has good speed and line release.  He has an offer from Buffalo.  The starting tight end is senior Mason Alnutt (6′-4″, 235).  He is committed to UNLV.  The quarterback is junior Marreo Brusco (5′-10″, 180).  He throws a good ball in the short game, but tends to throw the ball up when going deep and let the receiver track it down.

The defense aligns in a 4-3, cover-3, while occasionally switching to a 3-4 and also occasionally switching to a cover-0.  Their goal is to provide maximum pressure up front.  The defensive line, all seniors, has good size and height, averaging 6′-4″, 260.  However, all four also play both ways, two on the offensive line and two at tight end.  Clark, the wide receiver mentioned above, also plays outside linebacker.  And then there is running back Kimble, who lines up at cornerback.

This will be a good game for Massillon to get back on track.

Go Tigers!

Photo by Rob Engelhardt

Tyler Hackenbracht returning the punt against Bergen Catholic.

 

 

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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.”

Jalen Slaughter

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.

Tyler Hackenbracht

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!

 

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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.

Ja’Meir Gamble

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)

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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!