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Big Plays Highlight Massillon Win over Cardinal Ritter

Big Plays Highlight Massillon Win over Cardinal Ritter

Statistics

Across four long quarters of football Massillon and Cardinal Ritter slugged it out.  Back and forth they went.  Ground-pounding, old-style football.  Gaining yardage little by little.  But by the end of the night, it was the big plays that spelled the difference, giving the Tigers a hard-earned 28-14 victory over a very good opponent.

Cardinal Ritter, a private school from St. Louis, Missouri, came into the contest with a 2-2 record.  But all four opponents were ranked in the Missouri Top 50, including No.1 Christian Brothers, which had a close win over previous Massillon opponent Rabun Gap, GA, on this same night.  The Lions were huge up front, with an offensive line that averaged nearly 300 pounds.  In addition, every skill player had extreme speed and was very athletic.  And the Lions knew how to play the game.  It was quite a challenge for Massillon, coming off last week’s one-sided loss to Canada’s Football North.  But by game’s end they had made more big plays than Ritter and that really made most of the difference in the game.

The other difference was a Massillon defense that refused to let the Lions cross the goal line when they got close.  They stopped the Lions with an interception at their own 29.  They recovered a fumble at their own 13.  And they held on downs at their own 7 late in the game.

But some of Ritter’s undoing was their own fault.  Sixteen times they were whistled for a penalty, accounting for 144 lost yards.  Add to that three turnovers and it became just too much to overcome.

Nevertheless, the Tiger fans could never get comfortable unless the lead was at least two touchdowns.  That’s because the Lions had the talent to score on any play, either running or passing.  In fact, several times they launched a long bomb to a slightly open receiver, only to have the ball sail just past his hands.

Savior Owens

Massillon wasted no time getting on the scoreboard.  On the first play from scrimmage junior running back Savior Owens ripped off a 14-yard run, setting the tone for the night.  Two plays later he sped around the right side of the line and raced 45 yards for a touchdown.  Mateo Herrara’s PAT then put the Tigers up 7-0.

On Ritter’s second possession they drove 46 yards in 10 plays to the Massillon 13, but fumbled the ball away to Joe Karder.

Early in the second quarter, the Tigers scored again, after first stopping the Lions on downs at the Massillon 46.  The 10-yard TD by Owens came at the end of a 7-play drive that covered 54 yards.

But Ritter got right back into it when Manny Ellis sped 70 yards to the end zone.  Lacking a kicker, the Lions went for two and were successful on a pass from Kashmir Manuzuk to Elijah Lucas, making the score 14-8.

Massillon responded by driving to the Ritter 17, but Manny Patterson lost control of the ball while scrambling out the pocket and the Lions took possession at their own 27.  Only, they gave it right back on a punt snap that literally dribbled along the ground, never reaching the punter.  The stop gave Patterson a chance to redeem himself. Lining up in the slot, he took a reverse lateral from Owens, who first took the snap from the shotgun, and launched a perfectly thrown ball to Jadyce Thigpen in back corner of the end zone for the score.

Although there were just 19 seconds left in the half, it  was enough time for the quick-strike Lions to have the last say.  It came in the final play when Manuzuk fired a 46-yard “Hail Mary” dart into end zone and somehow Ryan McDavis found the ball for a TD.  The PAT pass was incomplete.  So, the two teams headed to the locker room with the Tigers up, 21-14.

The second half was a back-and-forth affair, with the Tiger defense keeping the Lions out of the end zone and the offense finding a way to score one more time.  It came early in the fourth quarter when Christian Culler, who was in the game for the injured Owens, broke loose for a 44-yard run down the right sideline.  It was Culler’s first carry of the season, having been relegated so far exclusively to defense.

Cardinal Ritter led in total offense, 321-259.  For Massillon, Owens rushed 27 times for 168 yards and two touchdowns.  Patterson was 3 of 8 for 30 yards and one score, that pass going to Thigpen.  Isaac Maxheimer led the defense with 9 total tackles, one TFL and a fumble recovery.  Ja’Dyn Williams had seven total tackles and 0.5 TFLs.  Chayce White intercepted a pass to spoil a Lion drive.

For Ritter, Ellis rushed 22 times for 164 yards and one TD.  Rylan Moore completed 6 of 10 passes for 91 yards, while Manuzuk completed 3 of 9 for 42 yards and a touchdown.  The defense was led by Da’Ryan Stringer, who had 11 total tackles and 0.5 TFLs.

Next week Massillon (4-3) will entertain Cornerstone Christian (4-2), from San Antonio, Texas.  Ritter (2-3) will host Roosevelt (1-4).

 

Ja’Dyn Williams (9), Tra’Yon Williams (27), Eli Moore (8)

Head Coach Nate Moore

Savior Owens (1)

Deontay Malone (6)

Savior Owens (1), James Wallace Jr.  (50)

Samuel Doussous (91), Joe Karder (94), Christian Culler (2), Chayce White (35), Ja’Dyn Williams chance after the loose ball.

Jadyce Thigpen (44)

Jadyce Thigpen (44)

Anthony Mullen Jr. (24)

Christian Culler (2) scoring run, Kevin Elliott (74)

Christian Culler (2), Chayce White (35), Ja’Dyn Williams (9)

 

Tra’Yon Williams (27), Deontay Malone (5)

Savior Owens (1)

Andrew Holland (36), Isaac Maxheimer (20), Tra’Yon  Williams (27), Noah Jenkins (16)

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A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part…

A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part 7 – The 1996 Season

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

Head Coach: Jack Rose (5th Year)
Overall Record: 9-2
Regular Season Record: 9-1
Playoff Results: Division I, Region 2, 1st; lost in first round
Key Players: Ben Hymes (QB), Christian Morgan (RB), Devin Williams (WR), Ben Mast (OL), Milo McGuire (DL), Eric Lightfoot (DB)
All-Ohio: Ben Mast (1st), Milo McGuire (1st), Eric Lightfoot (SM)

The season was highlighted by an weeks-long No.1 ranking in the state A.P. Poll, plus victories over Cincinnati Moeller and eventual Division I  state champion Lima Senior.  Nevertheless, what started out as a promising season ended with a whimper, owing to a Week-10 loss to a dominant Canton McKinley team and a first round upset by Brunswick in a snow-covered Rubber Bowl.  Christian Morgan led the offense, rushing 202 times for 1,044 yards (5. ave.) and scoring 102 points.  Devin Williams caught 21 passes for 211 yards and 2 TDs.  Eric Lightfoot contributed with three pass interceptions, a fumble recovery and exceptional punting.  Josh Kreider had six takeaways: four picks and two loose balls.

PIVOTAL GAMES

Christian Morgan

Lima Senior – This was an early showdown of the season’s state powers and it was a classic, at least for Massillon.  For, they came away with 28-14 victory over Lima Senior, a team that went on to win the Division I playoff state championship.  It was also Lima’s only loss of the season.  The Tigers scored first on a 77-yard run by 6′-4″ Christian Morgan.  In in the second quarter the Spartans responded with a short run, but then Morgan followed with his second TD of the game, from two yards out, to put the Tigers out in front again.  Following the halftime break the momentum fully swung in Massillon’s favor when Eric Lightfoot intercepted a pass and returned it 37 yards for a score.  In the final period Morgan got his third touchdown of the game on a short run, making the score 28-7, although Lima did push one in late in the game to make the final margin respectable.  Morgan ended with 22 carries for 156 yards.

Walsh Jesuit – Walsh entered the game with a 4-1 record and a close loss to Lake Catholic, but was summarily pummeled by a surging Tiger team, 34-10.  Morgan again led the way with three rushing touchdowns, of 2, 21 and 2 yards, while Dusty Limbaugh returned a blocked punt for a TD and Elijah Blake scored on a 1-yard run.  It turned out to be the Warrior’s only regular season loss, although they failed to make the Division III playoffs.

Naperville Central, IL – Naperville Central, owning a 6-1 record, played a competitive game with the host Tigers.  In fact, they led Massillon 13-0 at halftime.  But the second half was a complete reversal and the Tigers left the field with a 21-13 victory.  In the third quarter Jared Sefanako scored on an 8-yard run.  Then in the fourth, Ben Hymes tallied from one yard out, with Josh Hose adding the PAT, to give Massillon a 14-13 lead.  The  clinching points were scored by Morgan on a 1-yard run.  The overall stats were fairly even, while the Tigers held a sizeable edge in the rushing game.  Naperville finished the season with a 7-2 record.

Cincinnati Moeller – Massillon defeated the Crusaders for a second straight time, by the score of 20-15.  Massillon was ahead 14-13 at the break off a 10-yard pass interception return by Josh Kreider and 25-yard run by Elijah Blake.  Moeller had a short run and kicked field goals of 32 and 45 yards.  Neither team found the end zone in the third quarter, but in the fourth Dave Hodgson got loose on a 74-yard TD run to put the Tigers ahead 20-12.  Meanwhile, the Crusaders could not dent the end zone and were forced to settle for a 46-yard field goal, which simply closed the gap.  Hodgson ended with 8 carries for 134 yards.  Moeller finished the regular season with an 8-2 record, the other loss coming at the hands of Cincinnati Elder.  In the second round of the playoffs the Crusaders again lost to Elder.

Canton McKinley – The two titans faced off in yet another classic.  Massillon came in unbeaten, while  McKinley had one loss, 47-19, to eventual state finalist Cleveland St. Ignatius.  As good as the Tigers were throughout the season, it all came crashing down in this one with a 21-0 defeat.  The Bulldogs scored twice in the second quarter and once in the third, while the Tigers gained just 110 yards for the game and were forced to punt six times.  They also turned the ball over twice on pass interceptions.  In the playoffs the Bulldogs, after defeating Brunswick, lost 31-24 in the state semifinals to St. Ignatius,

Brunswick – A driving snow storm at the University of Akron’s Rubber made playing conditions nearly impossible, with up to six inches of the wet stuff blanketing the field.  The snow came down so hard that attempts to plow it proved fruitless.  In a game that should have been postponed, the Tigers lost 7-6.  The difference?  Massillon attempted their PAT immediately following their touchdown, with the kicker lining up from within a bed of snow, while Brunswick called time out to first shovel the snow suitable enough for the kicker to have some footing during his ultimately successful kick.  After a scoreless first half, Christian Morgan sped through the line and plodded 89 yards for a touchdown.  The Blue Devils, employing a 2-tight end set, scored their TD late in the fourth quarter on a short run, capping a drive that covered just over half of the field.  Massillon’s size and speed advantage was negated by the poor field conditions and they managed just over 100 yards of offense, aside from Morgan’s long run.  Also, they couldn’t take advantage of four Brunswick fumbles.  Of course, the Blue Devil’s couldn’t cash in on the Tiger’s four turnovers.  The following week Brunswick would lose in the playoffs 36-15 to McKinley, on a dry field.

Opp.Rec.Loc.Mass.Opp.Res.Att.MediaStats
Mansfield Madison8-2H336W12,131StoryStats
Lima Senior13-1H2814W7,363StoryStats
Akron Garfield5-5H366W10,223StoryStats
Mansfield Senior5-5H4228W11,934Story Stats
Austintown Fitch4-6A109W5,500StoryStats
Walsh Jesuit7-2H3410W12,811StoryStats
Naperville Central, IL7-2H2113W11,852StoryStats
Cincinnati Moeller9-3H2015W13,102StoryStats
Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary3-7H477W8,766StoryStats
Canton McKinley11-2H021L19,303StoryStats
SUBTOTAL72-35271129112,985
PLAYOFFS
Brunswick11-1N67L6,500StoryStats
TOTAL83-37277136119,485Season Stats
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2025 Booster Club Report – Week 6 – Post-Football…

2025 Booster Club Report – Week 6 – Post-Football North; Preview of the Cardinal Ritter Game

Massillon (3-3) lost to Football North from Ontario, Canada (2-3), 34-2.  This week Massillon hosts Cardinal Ritter from Missouri (2-2).

Link to the Football North Story

Link to the Football North Game Statistics

Other scores:

  • 7th Grade (4-0): Defeated Canfield, 30-8.  Plays at Massillon Perry on Wednesday, October 1, at 6:00 pm.
  • 8th Grade (1-4): Lost to Medina Highland, 13-8; plays at Austintown on Wednesday, October 1, at 6:00 pm.
  • Freshmen (1-4): The game vs. Football North was canceled.  Plays home to Medina Highland on Thursday, October 2, at 6:00 pm.
  • Junior Varsity (0-5-1): Lost to Football North, 40-10.  Plays at Avon on Saturday, October 4, at 10:00 am.

Review of the Football North Game

Rasmus Haines

Massillon played from behind the entire game in a 34-2 loss.  North won the battle in the trenches on both sides of the ball and also took advantage of seven Tiger turnovers.  North’s Josh Martin-Pendkey was the whole offense  for North as he rushed 26 times for 192 yards and scored four touchdowns.  The North defensive front, along with a constant linebacker blitz, put tremendous pressure on the Massillon quarterback.  The stout defense also kept the Tigers bottled up in their own end of the field, with the average starting field position being the 25 yard line.  Massillon also failed to score an offensive point, the first time since 2015.  For the Tigers, Savior Owens rushed 14 times for 51 yards.  Quarterback Manny Patterson completed 13 of 24 passes for 117 yards.  Giorgio Jackson Jr. had four receptions for 16 yards.  Isaac Maxheimer led the defense with 11 total tackles, a quarterback sack and two tackles for loss.  Junior Rasmus Haines punted four times with an average of 42.5 yards per attempt.

“A terrible loss,” said Massillon Head Coach Nate Moore at the Monday Booster Club meeting.  “We got our butts kicked on both sides of the ball, on the line.  We weren’t physically strong enough to handle them.  It’s a tough pill to swallow.  We need to correct the mistakes.  That was an excellent football team.  Very physical.  If we can’t move people physically to run the ball, we need to find another way.”

Moore also said that the defense was placed in tough positions as a result of the turnovers.  Otherwise, he felt that side of the ball played well.  As did special teams, particularly Haines with his ever-improving punting.

The guest players were junior offensive lineman Dayvionne Floyd and junior defensive back Braylon Gamble.

  • Floyd – We did not play to  our capability.
  • Gamble – We were prepared, but we weren’t ready for what they brought.

Cardinal Ritter Scouting Report

Cardinal Ritter plays in the AAA League along with four other area parochial schools.  Last year they finished with a record of 10-2, while losing 30-18 in the third round of the playoffs to Lafayette.  Over the past five years they have a record of 49-15, with state championships in 2022 and 2023.  The Lions (2-2) are currently ranked 11th in Missouri among all schools and 3rd in Division 5 (Division 6 is the largest).  The top player returning from last year is junior linebacker Marshaun Ivy (6’-3”, 220) (71 tackles).  He is a 3-star athlete that has offers from several Power-5 schools.  For the purposes of Harbin points, Ritter is classified as Division V, but compete above their enrollment classification.

Cardinal Ritter’s schedule to date:

  • No. 9 Jackson (5-0), 20-23 L
  • No. 1 Christian Brothers (5-0), 12-34 L
  • No. 33 Howell Francis (3-2), 50-0 W
  • No. 44 St. Pius X (2-3), 36-8 W

“Ritter is a good team,” said Moore.  “No let up for Massillon this week.”

Once again the Tigers will be facing a team that has a huge offensive line that knows how to play.  This one averages 6′-3″, 294 lbs.   The wide receivers in their 10-personnal formation are really, really fast, according to Moore.  The two best are senior Elijah Lucas (6′-3″, 200) and sophomore Ryan McDavis (6′-1″, 150).  They play two underclass quarterbacks in freshman Rylan Moore (5′-8″, 155) and sophomore Kashmir Manuzuk (6′-0″, 175).  Both are good players.  They also feature two alternating running backs in senior Manny Ellis (5′-7″, 165) and sophomore Kenny Robinson (5′-8″, 175).  The Lions like to run the ball first, but won’t hesitate to go deep.

Defensively,  Ritter employs an even front with four linemen.  They average 6′-2″, 225 lbs., with a couple 275 lb. backups in the wings.  The best of the two inside linebackers is Ivy (see above).  The 5-man secondary is very fast and aggressive and uses a lot of man-to-man coverage.  They will align mostly in cover-0 and cover-1, with occasional cover-3.  Not much blitzing.

On special  teams, they are not a great at kicking, but have good return players.

“This is a good football team,” Moore said in closing.  “Strong and physical.  They play the game the right way.  Another great challenge.”

Go Tigers!

 

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Massillon Falls to Canada’s Football North in One-Sided Loss

Massillon Falls to Canada’s Football North in One-Sided Loss

Statistics

Coaches will tell you that in order to win in the game of football a team must run the ball and stop the run.  And that philosophy goes hand in hand with the need to control the line of scrimmage.  It also helps to win the turnover battle.  But on this pleasant fall evening Massillon was able to do none of the above and fell to the visitors from Mississauga, Ontario, 34-2.

Football North is an all-star team that rosters players from all over Canada, who hope to receive football scholarships from American universities.  They compete against opponents exclusively from within the United States.  As such, they are not your typical Canadian football team.  North is also a bit disadvantaged at the start of the season since, like Rabun Gap, they don’t get their players in camp until just a few weeks prior to the first game.  So, they peak later.  Unfortunately, it appears that the Tigers caught them at peak time, unlike previous opponents, and perhaps underestimated them a bit based on their earlier performances.  It would be surprising if they lost another contest this year.

The star of the game was North’s diminutive running back Josh Martin-Pendkey, who rushed 26 times for 192 yards (7.4 ave), including a long of 54, and scored four touchdowns.  He was fast, strong and elusive and he was everything you wanted in a running back.  On most plays he would take the handoff and head directly for the line.  Once bottled up, he would then quickly change direction to the outside, skirting the end for most of his yards, dragging would-be tacklers along the way.  The rest of the team produced just 54 yards, but Martin-Pendkey’s was enough.

The other star was the North defense, which kept the Tigers pinned back in their own territory for most of the game, while in essence pitching a shutout.  It didn’t help that Massillon gave the ball away seven times, four in conjunction with quarterback sacks, two when runners were stripped of the ball and one on a pass interception.  But credit for all the fumbles goes to the North defensive front, which played in the Tiger backfield for the entire game.  Incidentally, three of fumbles led to short-field touchdowns on second half drives of 2 yards, 3 yards and 36 yards.  Nevertheless, the fumbles didn’t affect the eventual outcome, just the final score.

Massillon picked up two points from a safety early in the game when a punt snap sailed over the head of the punter and out of the end zone.  But it became their only points.  The last time the Tigers failed to score a touchdown in a game was in 2007 in a 27-0 loss to Cleveland St. Ignatius.  The last time they failed to score an offense touchdown was in a 7-6 loss to Austintown Fitch in 2015.  That TD came on a punt return.

As well as North ran the ball, Massillon did finish with good statistics in the passing part of the game, limiting quarterback Jacob Muller to just 3 of 13 for 65 yards, with one interception.  As a result, North was able to convert just 4 of 12 third downs.  That at least kept the score under control until the turnovers became a factor.

The North defense caused problems for the Tigers all night.  They had big, powerful linemen to control the line of scrimmage and blitzed two linebackers on nearly every play, thereby closing down the running plays and putting maximum pressure on the quarterback.  With this scheme they also relied on a speedy secondary to limit the passing yards.  As a result, a frustrated Owens had little success running from either the running back position or from the shotgun and finished with 14 attempts for just 51 yards (3.6 ave.).  Meanwhile, quarterback Manny Patterson was under duress the entire night and was constantly chased out of the pocket.  Give him credit for trying to make something happen with his team behind on the scoreboard, but it was also costly in the long run, resulting in five sacks, four fumbles, 56 lost rushing yards and 1 of 8 on third down conversions.  Field position was also a problem, with Massillon’s twelve possessions beginning on average at their own 25 yard line.

North scored on the third play of its first possession on a 12-yard rush by Martin-Pendkey.  The TD was set up when Mujller connected with Andre Meltzer on a 38-yard pass and Martin-Pendkey followed up with a 10-yard run.  Massillon responded by moving the ball to midfield, but fumbled it away.  Then, after a mishandled snap from scrimmage moved North back 29 yards, the ensuing snap on fourth down sailed over the punter’s head to award Massillon the safety.

The Tigers did have a chance for points on their next possession when they moved to the North 28, but were stopped on downs.

In the second quarter North scored again, capping off a 52-yard drive with a quarterback keeper from the one.  The PAT failed.  The score stayed at 13-2 until late in the third quarter when the fumble scenario began.  First was a 1-yard TD run by Martin, then a 3-yard TD run by Martin, followed by a 1-yard TD run by Martin in the fourth as it seemed that the roof was falling in on the Tigers.  The total offense for the three TDs?  Just 41 yards.

Massillon’s final attempt at a score came on their last possession and ended when a 12-yard pass into the end zone was intercepted by Jorel Sahay.  Patterson finished the game completing 13 of 24 passes for 117 yards.  Isaac Maxheimer, who was moved to outside linebacker for this one, led the team with eleven total tackles, one quarterback sack and two tackles for loss.  Rasmus Hines punted four times and averaged a very fine 42.5 yards per attempt.  Deontay Malone caught three passes and returned a kickoff 61 yards.

Next week Massillon (3-3) is home to Cardinal Ritter (2-2) from Missouri.  Football North (2-3) travels to Mt. Zion Prep (0-5).  The following week they play Lakewood St. Edward.

Ja’Dyn Williams (9), Josh Henderson (19), Christian Culler (3), Eli Moore (8), Gio Jackson Jr. (21)

Eli Moore

Manny Patterson (10)

Deontay Malone (6)

Ja’Dyn Williams (9)

Deontay Malone (6)

 

 

Anthony McMullen Jr.

Gio Jackson Jr. (21)

Manny Patterson (10)

Savior Owens (1)

Jadyce Thigpen (44)

 

 

 

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A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part…

A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part 6 – The 1995 Season

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

Head Coach: Jack Rose (4th Year)
Overall Record: 7-3
Regular Season Record: 7-3
Playoff Results: Did not qualify
Key Players: George Whitfield (QB), Vinnie Turner (RB), Devin Williams (WR), Brett Wiles (WR), Ben Mast (OL/DL), Paul Salvino (OL/DL), Elijah Blake (DB), Eric Lightfoot DB)
All-Ohio: Vinnie Turner (SM)

Senior quarterback George Whitfield was under center leading a predominantly underclass team.  After college, George founded a professional quarterback training business.  Massillon defeated Cincinnati Moeller for the first time in eight tries by the score of 21-18.  The Tigers hosted one of the best teams from Florida in Miami Southridge (8-1), losing 21-7, with the visitors breaking a 7-7 tie in the fourth quarter.  The Tigers nearly overcame a 17-7 halftime deficit against Canton McKinley with a courageous second half comeback.  For the season, running back Vinnie Turner carried the ball 204 times for 1,227 yards (6.0 ave.) and led the team in scoring with 108 points.  Whitfield of completed half of his passes for 929 yards and six touchdowns.

PIVOTAL GAMES

Cincinnati Moeller – Massillon led the entire way in defeating Moeller for the first time in eight tries, by the score of 21-18.  The two teams combined for seven fumbles, three by the Tigers and four by the Crusaders.  Massillon took a 7-0 lead in the first quarter when Turner sped for 38 yards.  Turner scored again on a 1-yard run in the second to up the margin to 14-0.  Moeller then responded with a 27-yard field goal before halftime.  In the third quarter the Crusaders closed the margin to 14-11, before Turner scored his third TD of the night on a 13-yard run.  Josh Hose then added his third PAT kick.  Moeller tallied their final points with three minutes left in the fourth on a short run, but the Tigers held on  for the win.  Team statistics were slightly in favor of the Crusaders, but Turner had perhaps his best night of the season, rushing 25 times for 196 yards (7.8 ave.) and three touchdowns.

Miami Southrange, FL – Massillon took a foray into the national scene with a home game against Southrange and put up a good fight in a 20-7 loss.  The Tigers opened the scoring in the second quarter when Turner caught a 6-yard pass from Whitfield in the end zone and took that lead into the locker room at halftime.  Southrange tied the score in the third on a 1-yard run and then tallied again in the fourth from 12-yards out to complete a 15-play drive.  Their final points came on a 12-yard pick-six.  Turner gained 129 of Massillon’s total 180 yards.  But the speed of Southrange really made the difference in this game.  That and a pair of turnovers.

Canton McKinley – The Bulldogs led 17-7 at the half and then needed to stave off a hard-charging Tiger team, eventually winning 24-21.  But not before Massillon fumbled at the McKinley five yard line with under a minute left to play.  That, and four turnovers cost Massillon dearly in this one in an evenly played game yardage-wise.  Adrian Brown (Youngstown State) scored all three of McKinley’s touchdowns, on long runs of 72, 72 and 24 yards.  Massillon’s scores came from Lavell Everett/Weaver (1-yard run), Brett Wiles (17-yard pass from Whitfield) and Vinnie Turner (12-yard pass from Whitfield).  In his final Tiger game, Whitfield completed 18 of 30 passes for 210 yards and two touchdowns.

George Whitfield lets loose on a  pass against Canton McKinley
Opp.Rec.Loc.Mass.Opp.Res.Att.MediaStats
Youngstown Rayen2-8H2621W10,307StoryStats
Cincinnati Moeller5-5H2118W15,394StoryStats
Akron Garfield4-6H2114W10,872StoryStats
Mansfield Senior6-4A2021L9,100StoryStats
Austintown Fitch4-6H2114W10,922StoryStats
Barberton5-5N2220W8,500Story Stats
Southridge, Miami, FL8-1H720L9,500StoryStats
North Park, ON4-5-1H517W7,041StoryStats
Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary4-6H2821W7,930StoryStats
Canton McKinley8-3A2124L20,000StoryStats
TOTAL50-49-1238180109,566Season Stats

 

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Lee Owens Book Signing Event Was a Rousing Success

Lee Owens Book Signing Event Was a Rousing Success

The Massillon Museum served as host for a packed house on Wednesday to hear three former Tiger coaches and a current one reflect back on their experiences as head coaches of the Massillon football program.  The group included Lee Owens, Rick Shepas, Tom Stacy and Nate Moore.  Following the forum each took part in signing a recently released book written by Owens titled, “The Spirit of a Team.”  The contents of the publication are described as “Successful CEOs and Coaches Share Their Strategies for Achieving Excellence,” with a forward written by Jim Tressel, Lt. Governor of Ohio and former Ohio State football head coach.

Emceeing the event was Scott Ryan and Becca Moore, with the support of the museum staff, including football curator Logan Carr and museum director Alexandra Nicholis Coon.

(l-r) Tom Stacy, Rick Shepas, Nate Moore, Becca Moore, Scott Ryan and Lee Owens

Lee Owens was the head coach of Massillon from 1988 through 1991.  He was hired at a time when the Tigers were struggling to consistently field a competitive team.  In fact, Massillon had lost four consecutive games to Canton McKinley and had a year left on a 3-year ban from post-season play.  Owens quickly righted the ship and went on to compile a win-loss record of 35 wins and 13 losses over his four seasons.  His teams also qualified for the playoffs three times and captured two regional championships.  In addition, he won three of four games against the Bulldogs, including a 42-13 beat down during the 1991 season.  Owens then left Massillon for a 3-year stint as an assistant coach for Ohio State, which was followed by six years as head coach at the University of Akron, where his 2000 team finished first in the MAC East.  He finished his career as a very successful mentor for Ashland University, retiring with a 137-61 record, four league championships and six NCAA Division II playoff qualifications over a 19-year span from 2004 to 2022.  Four times he was named Conference Coach of the Year.  While an active member of the American Football Coaches Association, he has also been inducted into both the Massillon Tiger Football Hall of Fame and the Ohio High School Coaches Hall of Fame.  Please welcome back Coach Lee Owens.

Rick Shepas was the head coach of Massillon from 1998 through 2004, where he compiled a record of 53 wins and 27 losses.  He was not shy in scheduling the top parochial schools from around the state and played them fairly evenly.  But his record against peer public schools was a fine 49 wins against just 13 losses, including 5-3 mark versus McKinley.  His 1999 team was undefeated during the regular season and his 2001 and 2002 teams captured playoff regional championships.  Following Massillon, Rick was the head coach for twelve years at Division III Waynesburg University, where he had a record of 69-55.   Four of his teams qualified for post-season play.  His next stop was athletic director for the Youngstown City Schools and he is currently the AD for Warren Harding.  Please welcome back Coach Rick Shepas.

Tom Stacy, who was an assistant coach under Lee Owens at both Massillon and the University of Akron, returned to Tigertown in 2005 as head coach.  He remained in that position for three years, compiling a record of 25 wins and 11 losses.  His best season was his first when his team advanced to the Division I playoff state finals.  The Tigers had a remarkable year, finishing the season with a 9-1 record, defeating Cleveland St. Ignatius for the first time ever, revenging a season-ending loss to Canton McKinley and beating Lakewood St. Edward in the state finals, before dropping a close one in the state finals to Cincinnati St. Xavier.  The 2005 team also set a Massillon record with 13 victories.  He then served three years as head coach at Green High School before re-uniting with Owens at Ashland as an assistant coach, where he remains today in his 16th year.  Please welcome back Coach Tom Stacy.

Nate Moore is the current head coach of the Massillon Tigers.  This is his 11th year as a Tiger where he has compiled an overall record of 113 wins and 27 losses, owning more wins there than any previous Massillon coach.  In fact, Moore has elevated the program from state-level to national-level prominence, while regularly scheduling and defeating teams from throughout the country.  Four times his teams finished the season ranked in the Top 100 nationally.  Through ten years he has experienced six playoff regional championships, along with a Division II state championship in 2023.  During that year the Tigers finished with a perfect 16-0 record, a regular season victory over Division I state champion Lakewood St. Edward and a state finals victory over nemesis Akron Hoban.  Following the season Moore was named Ohio Division II Coach of the Year, Maxpreps.com National Coach of the Year and head coach of the Ohio North-South All-Star Game.  Prior to his arrival at Massillon, Moore won a Division II state title at Cincinnati LaSalle High School.  Please welcome Coach Nate Moore.

 

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2025 Booster Club Report – Week 5 – Post-Lakewood…

2025 Booster Club Report – Week 5 – Post-Lakewood St. Edward; Preview of the Football North Game

Massillon (3-2) Defeated Lakewood St. Edward (4-1), 21-14.  Historical win No. 962.  This week Massillon hosts Football North from Ontario, Canada (1-3).

Link to the St. Edward Game Story

Link to the St. Edward Game Statistics

Other scores:

  • 7th Grade (3-0): Defeated Warren, 28-8.  Plays home against Canfield on Wednesday, September 24, at 6:00 pm.
  • 8th Grade (1-3): vs. Warren (no score reported).  Open this week.
  • Freshmen (1-4): Lost to Lakewood St. Edward, 28-7.  Plays home to Football North on Saturday, September 27, at noon.
  • Junior Varsity (0-4-1): Lost to Lakewood St. Edward, 31-0.  Plays home to Football North on Saturday, September 27, at 10:00 am.

Review of the Lakewood St. Edward Game

St. Edward entered this year’s matchup with the Tigers as the No. 1 team in the Ohio and the No. 55 team in the country (per hsratings.com).  The Eagles scored its two touchdowns via a long run on its first play of the game and against a prevent defense at the end.  In between those two scores, Massillon put up 21 straight points and racked up 386 yards of total offense to the Eagles’ 141 in a 21-14 victory.  The Tigers did it first with a crushing running attack, featuring junior back Savior Owens, who carried the ball 32 times for 162 yards (5.1 ave.) and two TDs.  Junior quarterback Mandwell Patterson, completed 17 of 25 passes for 157 yards and a score, with most of the work coming in the first half, while helping his team build a 21-7 halftime lead.  He spread his passes around to seven different receivers.  The win marks the fourth consecutive victory over St. Edward.  With the win and potentially the next five Massillon would likely be in position take first or second place in the computer rankings and receive a bye in the first round of the playoffs.

“I’m really proud of the guys,” said Massillon head coach Nate Moore.  “They played hard.  The level of execution was pretty high in all three phases: offense, defense and special  teams.  One of the best wins I’ve ever been part of.  Beat up the Number One team in the state.  There’s been a lot of development in the past five weeks.  We really put it all together.”

The guest players were Gio Jackson Jr. and Isaac Maxheimer.

  • Jackson – We didn’t do anything different (against St. Edward).  We just want to keep winning.  Canada North is pretty athletic.  A lot of zone in the secondary.
  • Maxheimer – Everybody doubted us.  Big players make big plays.  Canada North’s offense is big up front.  They run a 2-back set, with a lot of inside and outside zone.

Football North Scouting Report

Football North plays in the East Coast Power Prep League, comprised of teams exclusively in the U.S.  Over the past five years they have a record of 17-24.  Last year they finished with a record of 8-3, including a 45-6 loss to Massillon.

Football North’s schedule to date:

  • Bishop McDevitt, PA (3-1): 27-7 W
  • Walsh Jesuit (5-0): 6-30 L
  • Detroit Central Catholic, MI (4-0): 28-41 L
  • The St. James Academy, VA (2-0): 42-76 L

“They are a pretty good football team,” said Moore.  “Best in  Canada. They play great competition; all American teams.”

It’s starts with their offensive line, which averages 6′-3″, 269 lbs.  Junior quarterback Jacob Muller (6′-1″, 205) is considered to be the best player.  He throws a good ball and wants to stretch the field.  He’s also a good runner.  There is some speed in the wide receiver corps.  They will use 11-personnel formations, with some open sets.

Defensively, they have good size on the line, averaging 6′-2″, 250 lbs.  Junior tackle Graham Harburn-Weldon (6′-2″, 240) is their best in that area.  He is very physical.  The inside linebackers also have good size, hovering in the 200-pound range and they like to blitz.  The defense aligns with an even front, with three linebackers and four defensive backs.  In the secondary, they will use multiple coverages, both man and zone.  Look for cover-0 cover-1, cover-2 and cover-3 formations.

Go Tigers!

 

 

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Massillon Holds Off No.1 Lakewood St. Edward to Win…

Massillon Holds Off No.1 Lakewood St. Edward to Win 4th Consecutive Game in the Series

Statistics

If you are in the business of predicting the scores of high school football games then it’s time to open your mouth and insert your foot.  Because you’ve proven once again that your algorithm is flawed without a true “strength of schedule” component in your equation.  For, Massillon entered the contest against Ohio’s No. 1 Lakewood St. Edward as much as a 34-point underdog owing to a couple of losses.  But those losses were in overtime to a very good Cleveland Glenville team and by two scores to nationally ranked Rabun Gap from Georgia.  Only, the Tigers proceeded to take the Eagles apart piece-by-piece in a 21-14 victory.  Who’s the best team in Ohio now?  The Massillon coaches knew how special this squad was going to be.  But obviously the prognisticators are working with flawed tools and can’t see that.

St. Edward scored its two touchdowns via a long run on its play of the game and against a prevent defense at the end.  In between those two scores, Massillon put up 21 straight points and racked up 386 yards of offense to the Eagles’ 141.  The Tigers did it first with a crushing running attack, featuring junior back Savior Owens, who carried the ball 32 times for 162 yards (5.1 ave.) and two TDs.  Then there was junior quarterback Mandwell Patterson, who completed 17 of 25 passes for 157 yards and a score, with most of the work coming in the first half, while helping his team build a 21-7 halftime lead.  He spread his passes around to seven different receivers.  Finally, the youthful defense is now showing maturity and thus executed the game plan well.

And let’s not forget the rocking crowd of thousands at Paul Brown Tiger Stadium that generated a playoff game atmosphere throughout the contest.  Their support of this team is unmatched by any other school in the country.

The victory marks Massillon’s fourth consecutive win over St. Edward covering the past four years.  And in two of those years the Eagles went on to capture the Division I state championship.  And, in all four wins the Tigers were able to successfully run the ball.  In this particular game they often went to a tight formation with Owens in the wildcat position, who aimed for the center of the line.  It was there that Massillon owned a 40-pound per man advantage.  When a pass was called for, Patterson took over and once again demonstrated uncanny accuracy with his arm and sack avoidance with his feet.  As a result, the Tigers were able to convert 7 of 14 third down conversions and 2 of 2 fourth down tries.

On defense, Massillon used just three linemen, with minimal blitzing, while committing the remaining players to rush containment and pass defense.  Ed’s stellar running back Brandon White carried 19 times for 157 yards and a touchdown.  But aside from his 66-yard run on the game’s first play, he was 18 totes for 91 yards (5.1 ave.).  In the passing game, however, quarterback Jonny Evanchick completed just 8 of 18 for 107 yards and one TD, with one interception.  But the telling stat was third down conversions, where the Eagles were successful on just 2 of 9.

St. Edward received the opening kickoff and returned it to the 34.  From there White took a handoff and quickly sped through the left side of the Tiger line.  Once to the sideline he would not be caught.

Massillon responded with a 10-play, 73-yard drive, ending when Owens carried the ball in from the five.  The Tigers quickly had another chance for a score when the Eagles fumbled the ensuing kickoff but were stopped on downs.

In the second quarter, after St. Ed’s was halted at the Massillon 34, the Tigers were on the march again, this time driving 66 yards in six plays.  The score came when Owens broke through the line and raced 45 yards to paydirt, making the score 14-7.

It might have remained that way at halftime when the Eagles dropped a punt at the Tiger eight with 3:55 left.   But the home squad was not one to waste an opportunity.  A second down pass to Gio Jackson Jr. gave Massillon life at their own 21.  Then there was an 18-yard screen pass to Owens that advanced the ball to Eds 48.  Next was a pretty 24-yard strike to Deontay Malone from a rolling right Patterson that put the ball at the Eagle six with 40 seconds left in the half.  The punctuation came when Patterson hit a wide-open tight end Logan Allman in the end zone.  Mateo Herrera completed the scoring with his third PAT kick.

The second half was focused on Massillon milking the clock with their run game and St. Edward trying to find any kind of offense that worked.  Nevertheless, each team had an opportunity.  In the third quarter, the Tigers were at the Eagle 21 with 2nd and 8, but threw an interception in the end zone.  In the fourth, the Eagles advanced to the Massillon 38, but Ja’Dyn Williams (9 tackles, 0.5 TFLs, 1 fumble recovery, 1 interception) stepped in front of the receiver and picked off the pass.  Eds eventually got untracked with two and a half minutes left in the game when they marched 69 yards in six plays.  The score came when Evanchick completed a 43-yard pass to Johah Koopman with 1:30 left to play.  The subsequent onside kick was then dribbled to Massillon’s Jadyce Thigpen,  followed by the Tigers taking a couple of knees to end the game.

With the win and potentially the next five Massillon would likely be in position take first or second place in the computer rankings and receive a bye in the first round.  For the Eagles, they are expected to once again learn from this loss and continue on toward a successful season.

Next week the Tigers (3-2) will host Football North from Ontario (1-3).  St. Edward will host Bishop McNamara from Maryland (2-2).

Eli Moore (8), Tra’Yon Williams (27), James Wallace Jr. (50)

Gio Jackson Jr.  (21), Makhi Boone (3)

Gio Jackson Jr. (21), Brodon  Moore (4)

R’Celle Hill (41)

Savior Owens (1), Marcus Garner Jr.  (60), BP Paulozzi (32), Gavin Dubinsky (34)

Chayce White (35), Ryan Mikovsky (7)

Chayce White (35), Zach Hackleman (8)

William Hymes (34),

Christian Culler (2)

Head Coach Nate Moore with son Eli Moore

Savior Owens (1), Robert Blakely (59), Manny Patterson (10), Marcus Garner Jr. (60), Sabastian Harper (3),

Tra’Yon Williams (27), Sabastian Harper (3), Anthony McMullen  Jr. (24), Ve’vaughn Wiliams (30)

Manny Patterson(10), Tra’Yon Williams (27), Jadyce Thigpen (44), De’vaughn Williams (30)

Samuel Dossous (91), Bennie Anthony (83), Braylon Pachis (38), Travis Shaw (40)

Head Coach Nate Moore with son Eli Moore

 

De’vaughn Williams (30), Coach J.P. Simon, Manny Patterson (10), R’Celle Hill (35), Tra’Yon Williams (27)

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A Look Back at Past Massillon Teams – Part…

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

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

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

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

PIVOTAL GAMES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Link to the Bennett Game Story

Link to the Bennett Game Statistics

Other scores:

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

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

Review of the Bennett Game

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

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

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

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

St. Edward Scouting Report

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

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

St. Edward’s schedule to date:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Massillon Statistics Leaders

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