Around the OAA: Football Shortcomings

by orionontv | Nov 23, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Around the OAA.

This is a blog that is devoted to the OAA. We cover 23 schools from Oakland County to Wayne County. From Oxford to Harper Woods. This blog will give insight and projections around the OAA.

Saturday, November 19, 2022

Football Shortcomings.

Written Saturday November 19th at 4:30 PM

Here are the shortcomings to the end of the OAA football season for 2022.

West Bloomfield: It was a very disappointing year for the Lakers this season which saw a first round exit to Detroit Cass Tech. West Bloomfield loses a ton of talent from this season but they have several talented returners coming back. The Lakers have Requan Nance at quarterback along with Jaiden Allios at running and wide receivers Jamir Benjamin and Bryce Rowe coming back. The lines should be solid with Brandon Davis-Swan and Zander Davis also coming back. The defense should be solid again with Benjamin and Rowe in the defensive secondary along with linebackers Kari Jackson, Reginald Hayes, and Josh Tate coming back for Coach Tyrice Grice. Program strength is a major concern this offseason for West Bloomfield. The Lakers have the talent but questions remain this offseason.

Adams: The Highlanders have had a ton of success in the last two years but they lose a ton from their senior class this season. Program strength will be very interesting in describing Adams this offseason. The Highlanders have Brady Prieskorn, Drew Heppner, and Matteo Humbert coming back at the skill positions and Brendan Watters and Nicholas Lakian coming back for Coach Tony Patritto. Adams could be in line to take a step back with all the experience they lost but Patritto has built this program and kept the veer intact. The Highlanders will be a team to watch this offseason.

Clarkston: The Wolves have had a really good season under first year Coach Justin Pintar but they had a really tough loss to Caledonia in the Division One State Semifinals. Clarkston loses a ton of proven talent but they also have some proven talent coming back for Pintar. The Wolves have playmaker Desman Stephens, tight end Brody Kosin, and Cooper Collins coming back at wide receiver. Watch for Graysen Clark and the Bowman twins next season. The Bowman twins are likely to make an impact on both sides of the football while Clark could likely replace his older brother Ethan at running back. Quarterback will be a question mark this offseason for Pintar. Clarkston should be a force to watch next season.

Lake Orion: The Dragons made some strides this season but had some tough losses to good teams along with the way but did make the postseason. Coach Chris Bell has really stabilized this program. Lake Orion has the balk of their skill players coming back with quarterback Triston Hill, running backs Darrin Jones and Billy Robertson and wide receivers Raymond Payne and Dominic Novak. The lines will need to be addressed somewhat but there are options in Kyle Purdy and Sam Blakeley coming back. The defense will be the biggest question that Bell needs to address this offseason. They have Kaydon Degraffenreid at linebacker and Korbin Smith, Andrew Parker, along with Trey Pochamara in the defensive secondary. They have the talent and program strength to compete with the best in the State. Lake Orion should be a force to be a recon with next season.

Stoney Creek: There were a ton of ups and downs with the Cougars this season. The ups were getting into the postseason and getting a big win over New Baltimore Anchor Bay. The downs were the upset loss to Rochester in the first round. Stoney Creek loses a ton of proven experience from this season. The Cougars have lineman Jacob Krobchak along with linebackers Adam Battizi and Wes Cyrulnick and kicker Quentin Ubaydi coming back for Coach Nick Merlo. Stoney Creek will need to find a quarterback and rushing attack for next season, there are several options out there and program strength is solid for Merlo. The Cougars should be fine heading into next season.

Oxford: It was a very tough season for the Wildcats. Oxford was very young and went through a lot of adversity. The Wildcats have Dominic Cassisee at quarterback, Sean Wilson on the offensive and defensive lines, Luke Johnson at running back, tight end and kicker Jay Cady, and Jake Champagne at wide receiver along with Owen Pavlock, Keegan Wynn, and Domonte Travis in the defensive secondary for Coach Zach Line. Program strength is a concern for Line. Oxford should be better with the young players seeing a ton of playing time and gaining the experience from this season’s struggle. They should be a team to watch next season.

Southfield Arts and Tech: It’s next season or bust with the Warriors. Southfield Arts and Tech made the postseason but fell to Detroit Cass Tech in the district finals. The offense wasn’t the issue and they have a ton of proven offensive players in quarterback Isisah Marshall, running back Davier Burt, lineman Reggie Gardner, and wide receivers Tashi Braceful, Xavier Bowman, Jawon Jarrett, and Parker Kennedy coming back. The defense is the biggest concern for Coach Aaron Marshall this offseason especially the linebackers and the defensive secondary even though they have Maurico Clayton and Mathias Davis at linebacker and Aaron Todd in the defensive secondary coming back. Program strength is also a major concern for Marshall. The Warriors have the offense figured out but defense and special teams will be key if Southfield Arts and Tech wants to make the next step and have a deep postseason run and live up to the expectations.

Rochester: The Falcons had a ton of success this season. They made the postseason and won their first ever playoff game over Stoney Creek. Rochester loses a ton of skill players which could be very tough to replace They have the proven linemen in Casey Burke, Issac Putuus, and Josh Harman along with linebacker Bodie Therkildsen and wide receiver/defensive secondary Jacob Vancollie coming back for Coach Eric Vernon. Program strength is a concern for the Falcons as they have to replace their quarterback and rushing attack this offseason. Rochester should be an interesting team to watch this offseason.

Groves: The Falcons had an incredible season making it to the Division Two State Semifinals falling to Warren DeLaSalle. Groves has a ton of proven experience to look forward to next season. The offense should be very good with Cayden Hardy at quarterback, Mario Lovasco at running back, wide receiver Zach Rogers, Brayden Hall and Avery Gach coming back on the offensive and defensive lines. The back end of the defense should be solid with linebacker Ivan Belew, and Chris Little, Jalen Brooks, and Aiden Leuing coming back in the defensive secondary for Coach Brendan Flaherty. Program strength is a major concern for Flaherty this offseason. The Falcons should be one of the favorites in the White next season and they could if things go right make another deep postseason run.

Harper Woods: It was a very rough transitional year for the Pioneers being their first year in the OAA this season. Harper Woods had some really tough losses to very good teams. Coach Rob Oden will look to have a bounce back year next season with a ton of proven experience. The Pioneers back end of the defense should be solid. They have a very talented secondary in Jacob Oden, Johnny Nelson, Jaylen Wilkerson, Brandon Houston, and Jacob Sims along with Caitlin Scott, Willy Powell, and Matthew McGraw at linebacker and linemen Elron Beaman, Jessten Johnson, and Trevon Mendanhall coming back. Oden will have Ramonty House and Oden coming back at wide receiver. The quarterback is the question mark for Oden and is something to watch this offseason. Harper Woods could be back with a vengeance next season.

Bloomfield Hills: The Blackhawks had a tough season this year but they closed the season out strong with two wins. Bloomfield Hills loses a ton of talent but they have several players that could help out next season. The Blackhawks have Kierran Crossley. He was the backup this season and could replace CJ Jackson at quarterback. They also have Gavin Cote at running back, Jonah Zekman at wide receiver, and lineman Jack Holton coming back for Coach Dan Loria. They need to find out their defense this offseason and build upon their program strength which is a concern this offseason. Bloomfield Hills should be a team to watch this offseason.

Oak Park: It was a very tough season for Coach Greg Carter and the Knights. Oak Park struggled in games but did improve despite the outcomes. Program strength is a serious concern for Carter this offseason. They have A’Jaylen King and Candice Fityoumouth coming back in the defensive secondary along with Arytell Guyton and Austin Smith at wide receiver. Carter has to replace his quarterback, rushing attack, and find some proven linemen and linebackers. It’s going to be a very tough task for Carter this offseason with the Knights.

Farmington: The Falcons had a ton of great moments this season which included sharing the Blue title with Seaholm, making the postseason, and getting the Farmington Cup back from North Farmington after a three year vacation. Coach Jason Albrecht needs to replace his quarterback this offseason but he has the proven playmakers in running back Cam Pettaway and Michael Woods coming back. The back end of the defense should be very talented next season. They have linebackers Trenton Dardon, Josh Walker, and Cooper Williams along with Cam Hughes and Owen Mattison in the defensive secondary and linemen Jacob Braswell and Steven Krager. Farmington could be a sleeper next season. They will need to find who their quarterback will be and if they do then they could be a team to watch.

Seaholm: The Maples had a bounce back season which saw a ton of success but they have had issues with Groves which cost them big time and a tough loss to Farmington which saw them share the Blue. Seaholm has a ton of proven talent coming back even though they could be thin up front. The Maples have the Kinnie brothers Colton and Grayden coming back. Colton will be back at quarterback and Grayden at linebacker and could play some at running back for Coach Jim DeWald despite having Kyle Robbins coming back at running back and Jack Lewis in the defensive secondary. The Maples have the talent to make another run but depth and program strength will be question marks this offseason.

Troy: The Colts made the postseason for the second straight year but was blown out by Southfield Arts and Tech. Bottom line is that Troy needs to play tougher competition so this doesn’t happen on a consistent basis. The Colts have the majority of their offense coming back led by quarterback Parker Brandenburg and running back Nolan Block. Jalen Peacock leads the defense which was very good all season. Program strength is a concern for Coach Chris Fraiser heading into next season. If there is a team that could take a step back it’s the Colts.

North Farmington: The Raiders had a very rough season this year. North Farmington loses a ton of talent from this senior class and program strength is a serious concern going forward for Coach Jon Herstein. The Raiders have Brandon Rice coming on the offensive and defensive lines along with Thomas Thakady at linebacker, Duke Blanch in the defensive secondary, and wide receiver Will Coleman coming back. Coleman did see some time at quarterback in their 9-0 win over Troy. It’s unknown if Herstein will turn to him to play quarterback next season. North Farmington has some serious questions this offseason to address if they want to make some noise.

Troy Athens: It was a very interesting first season for Coach Tom Cook and the Red Hawks. Troy Athens saw their ups and downs this season. The program is back on the rise after having three teams this year. The Red Hawks should be young again but it’s a very good young. Troy Athens has Anthony Ashor and Charles Robinson coming back at running back and Evan Watson in the defensive secondary. Cook has a good quarterback in Patrick Ciuria also coming back. If the Red Hawks can find some proven linemen and build depth on both sides of the football then they could make some noise next season for sure.

Ferndale: The Eagles had a resurgence this season despite barely getting into the postseason. Ferndale lost a ton of proven experience which they will need to replace next season. Coach Erik Royal will have Leander Neal coming back at wide receiver and also in the defensive secondary, Lavar Cronton on the offensive and defensive lines, Gary Maxwell in the defensive secondary, Bryce Ferguson at linebacker, and Jacoby Young at linebacker and running back. Program strength is a concern for Royal next season. If Royal can keep this program at a high level like he has been doing then there is no reason why the Eagles should be back in this conversation again.

Avondale: It was a much better season for Coach Corey Bell and the Yellow Jackets. Avondale was very competitive this season. They have a proven nucleus coming back in quarterback Tyler Herzog along with Cooper Voeffray and Justin Sykes at wide receiver. The defense should be solid with Matthew Lloyd and Myles Moore at linebacker along with punter Hunter Petras and Alfonso Merritt in the defensive secondary. The offensive and defensive lines has Dhruv Thakur, Charlie Killian, and Cameron Washington coming back. Program strength looks to be on the way up for Bell and his program. The Yellow Jackets need to find a running back for next season but other than that they look ready to make the next step.

Royal Oak: It was a disastrous year for the Ravens which saw their Coach Dustyn Truitt placed on administrative leave. Royal Oak really struggled on the field where they weren’t competitive in most games. The Ravens lose a ton of proven experience. They have running back Nathan Benton and wide receiver Owen Louwers at the skill positions along with Aiden Tesch and Sam Klonke on the offensive and defensive lines and linebackers in Elijah Lyons, Michael Herman, and Steven Johnson coming back. Mindset needs to change if they want to turn this around. If there is a program that needs a complete reboot it’s the Ravens.

Berkley: It was a very disappointing season for the Bears and Coach Sean Shields. Berkley took a major step back as mentioned. The Bears lose a lot of size and talent up front. They have John Passon coming back up front along with quarterback Sunny Kadlicz and defensive back Alex Papadelious. If the Bears want to get back to where they were at last season they have to build on both sides of the football and get back to what Berkley football was all about.

Pontiac:  It has been a really rough 12 years for the Phoenix going 5-82 in that span but there is hope and optimism for next season. Pontiac does have their quarterback Kayne Donaldson coming back along with running back Davieon Hall, Bryce Brown on the offensive and defensive lines, and Debon Johnson in the defensive secondary. The Phoenix will have a new coach next season as Ken Wade stepped down a few weeks ago so there could be a transition period with the new coach. It’s only a matter of time until Pontiac starts getting back in the win column.

Around the OAA: Week Eleven Recap

by orionontv | Nov 7, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Week Eleven Recap

Written Saturday November 5th at 10:30 AM

ADAMS 28, ROCHESTER 14. This was a very odd game on Friday night in Rochester which almost saw an upset occur for the first time since 1996. The Falcons controlled the first half by playing time possession football. Alex Bueno had a one yard quarterback keeper for the Falcons in the second quarter to take a 7-0 lead to the half. Adams would respond in the third behind a fake punt to tie the game but Rochester responded with Grant Calcagno scoring a three yard touchdown to give the Falcons a 14-7 lead. The Highlanders answered with 21 unanswered points starting with a 68 yard rushing touchdown from Parker Picot tying the game at 14-14. Picot would then find Demarcus Rouse for a 20 yard passing touchdown for a 21-14 Adams lead. Picot would add another touchdown from five yards to give the Highlanders a 28-14 lead in which that would wrap up the scoring. Adams would hold off Rochester winning their 25^th straight game over the Falcons and getting to the regional finals for the second straight year. The Highlanders will travel to Clarkston next week for the regionals.

CLARKSTON 49, Davison 40. Ethan Clark has went nuts for the Wolves. He had over 400 yards of total offense, 336 rushing yards, and six touchdowns. Clark had a 12 yard rushing score along with a 26 yard rushing score, a 50 yard touchdown run, and a 65 yard touchdown run for Clarkston. The offensive line should get the most credit. They have done very well for the Wolves to give Clark the holes he needed against a very good Cardinals defense. The Saginaw Valley League player of the year Carter Herriman had a one yard score to start the home team’s scoring on the night while Jaylen Flowers added a 12 yard score for Davison. The Cardinals added a kickoff touchdown in the third quarter but the Wolves responded with Mike Hein scoring a 35 yard rushing score off a quarterback keeper. Davison added a touchdown to make it 35-27 but Clark struck for his fifth rushing touchdown from two yards to increase the Wolves lead to 42-27. The Cardinals responded with another touchdown from 70 yards off a trick play keeping within striking distance at 42-34. Flowers added his second touchdown of the night but Davison failed on the two point conversion attempt to tie the game keeping the score 42-40 Wolves. Clark would add his sixth rushing touchdown going 67 yards to make the score 49-40 Clarkston. The Wolves defense would then rise to the occasion and stop the Cardinals on fourth down keeping the score at 49-40 Clarkston. The Wolves moves onto the regional finals where they will play Adams next week.

GROVES 26, SEAHOLM 12. A ton of missed opportunities and rough breaks for both teams but it was the Falcons that beat the Maples for the second time this season and 11^th of the last 13 times these two rivals have played. Seaholm scored first with Colton Kinnie He had a six yard touchdown run to give the Maples a 6-0 lead. Kyle Robbins added a 51 yard touchdown off the pitch option from Kinnie to make it 12-0 Maples. Groves would score 26 unanswered points. The Falcons started their comeback with a Josh Woods four yard rushing touchdown and added a 26 yard touchdown pass from Cayden Hardy to Jailen Samuel to take the lead. Woods would then go 80 yards for a touchdown in the third to give the Falcons a seven point lead. Groves would then add a 95 yard touchdown from Elias Kendra off the misdirection to increase their lead. The Falcons stopped the Maples veer attack and is now moving onto the regional finals to play Livonia Franklin next week.

Detroit Cass Tech 25, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 14. It was going to be a very interesting matchup with the weather conditions not favoring the passing game with the wind. The game started fast when Isiah Marshall started the game with almost throwing a pick six but instead had a 22 yard rushing touchdown to put the Warriors up 7-0 early. The Technicians responded with quarterback Leeshaun Mumpfield rushing from five yards out on their first drive but missed the extra point to make it 7-6 Southfield Arts and Tech. Detroit Cass Tech would take the lead as they scored a passing touchdown from Mumpfield to Elijah Jordan from 30 yards to make it 13-7 Technicians. The Warriors responded with a five yard rushing score from Marshall and a tough extra point making the score 14-13 Southfield Arts and Tech. The Warriors started with the football but the Detroit Cass Tech defense held firm and went down and scored a 15 yard touchdown run from Mumpfield but missed the two point try for a 19-14 Technicians lead in the third quarter. Detroit Cass Tech would recover the onside kick, very similar strategy against West Bloomfield from last week. It allowed the Technicians to score on a two yard rushing touchdown from Sean Hodges increasing the Detroit Cass Tech lead to 25-14 in the fourth. The Technicians would shut down Southfield Arts and Tech’s high octane offense the rest of the way earning their second win over a top ten team and a measure of revenge from week one. Detroit Cass Tech will head to Macomb Dakota to play the Cougars next week. Another difficult loss for the Warriors. They will be a force next season with a ton of proven experience coming back.

Around the OAA: Postseason Thoughts

by orionontv | Oct 24, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Postseason Thoughts.

Written Sunday October 23rd at 7:40 PM

Here are my thoughts on the postseason matchups that were announced this evening. I will have more coverage on the podcast and more during the week so stay tuned everyone.

Birmingham Brother Rice at AVONDALE: There are some differences from last season compared to this season. This is a rematch of a 58-0 Warriors blowout win over the Yellow Jackets at Wisner Stadium last season. Avondale should be more prepared for Birmingham Brother Rice this time despite being a very tough matchup. This was expected with the winner likely to see Walled Lake Western in the next round.

FARMINGTON at Temperance Bedford: This is an awful matchup for Farmington. They have to travel south on I-275 to I-75 in Monroe County. The Mules are coming off a stunning 7-0 win over Saline two weeks ago. The Falcons have a solid quarterback in Dominic Peshi and running back Cam Pettaway. Either way this is a brutal matchup for Farmington.

FERNDALE at SEAHOLM: This is a very interesting matchup. The Eagles were the last team to get into the postseason in Division Two after winning 54-21 over St. Clair Shores South Lake last week. Seaholm has won five of the last six meetings over Ferndale. The Maples have lost two straight games to close the season. It’s a tough matchup for Ferndale going up against the veer but it’s an opportunity for the Eagles to see if they can matchup against a very good team.

Warren Mott at GROVES: The Falcons earned a big 14-7 win over Seaholm last week not only just to get into the postseason but they get a home game out of this. Groves couldn’t play Warren Mott in the postseason a few years ago because they played an ineligible player and had to forfeit that game. The Marauders really haven’t played the competition that the Falcons have so this is a great matchup for Groves in Beverly Hills.

TROY at SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH: The Warriors got a great first round matchup with the Colts. Southfield Arts and Tech is riding with a ton of confidence heading into the postseason and is coming off a huge 28-21 win over River Rouge last week. Troy has not seen the competition or the quarterback like they will in Isiah Marshall. Expect their defense will be tested. It could be a long night for the Colts in this matchup.

Detroit Cass Tech at WEST BLOOMFIELD: I’m in absolute shock and in horror that the MHSAA unless this is media related which I think it is that they would send Detroit Cass Tech northwest to the Swamp to take on the Lakers. This game ended up being the “Ballys Sports Game of the Week.” The good news for West Bloomfield is that they should have Requan Nance and Semaj Morgan coming back but this is not the matchup that I expected them to get. At least the game is in the Swamp and not on the road.

ROCHESTER at STONEY CREEK: The Falcons have had their problems against their city rivals in Adams and Stoney Creek. They will get one of them in Stoney Creek. It is also a rematch of a 43-22 Cougars win over Rochester two weeks ago that game was also at Stoney Creek. There are a ton of storylines in this game as well especially with Coach Nick Merlo going up against alum school. Rochester needs to exercise their city demons. This could be a start.

LAKE ORION at ADAMS: This is a very interesting matchup and a rematch of two Red rivals. Not to mention that the Dragons and Highlanders met a few weeks ago in Lake Orion with Adams coming out on top 42-21. The Highlanders have been rolling on all cylinders ever since their loss to Clarkston. The Dragons really struggled against Saline. Lake Orion is a team that is playing with nothing to lose.

Lapeer at CLARKSTON: The Lightning have had a Wolves problem in the last seven meetings. This is  a rematch of a 48-13 Clarkston rout of Lapeer two weeks ago. Ethan Clark had four touchdowns in that game. This game is at the Wolves Den which they have only played three games on their home field this season. If I’m the Lightning I am absolutely sick and tired of playing the Wolves and they get them again. If Clarkston wins this game then they could play Davison in the district finals.

Around the OAA: Picks Week One

by orionontv | Aug 24, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Around the OAA.

This is a blog that is devoted to the OAA. We cover 23 schools from Oakland County to Wayne County. From Oxford to Harper Woods. This blog will give insight and projections around the OAA.

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Written by Sammy Taormina

Picks Week One.

Written Tuesday August 23rd at 10:10 AM

Hello to everyone and welcome to the 2022 football season. We will be doing our weekly picks this season so here are the people to get to know.

Sammy Taormina-Host OAA Now, Last Three Brain Cells Podcast, known as SANDY DUNES

Scott Burnstein-State Champs host and MIPrepZone writer, known as BURNEY

Keith Dunlap-Special writer at WDIV, known as DUNLAP

Tim English-Blogger, historian, known as TIM

Dan Stickradt-Writer for North Oakland Sports, known as STICK

Sean Cotter-North Farmington Boys Basketball and Walled Lake Western film guy, known as COTTER

We’ll get TIM’s picks when we get them

SANDY DUNES 0-0

BURNEY 0-0

DUNLAP 0-0

TIM 0-0

STICK 0-0

COTTER 0-0

1. West Bloomfield vs Sterling Heights Stevenson at Wayne State: The Lakers should be no strangers to the spotlight. They are on Bally Sports Detroit for the fifth time in the last two years. West Bloomfield has made the postseason eight straight years. They should be no strangers to playing against the Macomb Area Red. Donovan Edwards who is now at Michigan had the game of his life at Runkel Field in a stunning 63-6 blowout of the Titans in the 2020 postseason. It’s the second meeting between the two schools. Sterling Heights Stevenson made the postseason three straight years but fell to Belleville in the Division One State Semifinals last season. This should be a really interesting matchup at Wayne State but West Bloomfield better be careful.

SANDY DUNES: WEST BLOOMFIELD 31, STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 7.

BURNEY: WEST BLOOMFIELD 34, STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 14.

DUNLAP: WEST BLOOMFIELD 27, STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 17.

TIM:

STICK: WEST BLOOMFIELD over STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON.

COTTER: WEST BLOOMFIELD 38, STERLING HEIGHTS STEVENSON 14.

Orchard Lake St. Marys at 2. Adams: The Highlanders should be hungry for more success after making the Division One State Finals last season. They have the majority of their team coming back despite losing some key players to graduation. Adams coach Tony Patritto should be no stranger to playing against George Poritt led Orchard Lake St. Marys programs or the Catholic League itself. The Eaglets have a new coach in former Michigan standout Jermaine Gonzales. It’s the first meeting between these two schools Patritto should know them quite well prior to coming to Adams.

SANDY DUNES: ADAMS 27, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS 20.

BURNEY: ADAMS 32, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS 29.

DUNLAP: ADAMS 31, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS 20.

TIM:

STICK: ADAMS over ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS.

COTTER: ADAMS 24, ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARYS 7.

3. Clarkston vs Davison at Michigan: This is a rematch of a hard fought 29-26 Wolves victory over the Cardinals last season in Ann Arbor. Clarkston has won all five meetings against Davison whether it was in the regular season or in the postseason. The Cardinals will have to deal with Ethan Clark. Clark had a monster game against them last season. Davison has not fared well against the OAA. They are 0-7 against the league since 2010 (Adams doesn’t count because they had to forfeit because of COVID protocol.) Clarkston needs to be careful despite having Michigan experience. The Cardinals have a tough schedule and getting a win like this would make their season.

SANDY DUNES: CLARKSTON 27, DAVISON 24.

BURNEY: CLARKSTON 28, DAVISON 23.

DUNLAP: DAVISON 35, CLARKSTON 31.

TIM:

STICK: CLARKSTON over DAVISON.

COTTER: DAVISON 31, CLARKSTON 28.

4. Southfield Arts and Tech vs Detroit Cass Tech at Lawrence Tech: This is a rematch of two programs that know each other very well. The Technicians won 49-22 over the Warriors at Wayne State. The game was moved to Lawrence Tech which is in Southfield this season. The Warriors defense was a complete disaster allowing 346 points which was the most in school history last season. Southfield Arts and Tech has a high octane offense led by quarterback Isiah Marshall. Detroit Cass Tech has athletes too and they are stout as well. They have made the postseason 15 of the last 16 years. This should be a shootout but whoever’s defense shows up should win this game.

SANDY DUNES: DETROIT CASS TECH 70, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 56.

BURNEY: SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 30, DETROIT CASS TECH 15.

DUNLAP: DETROIT CASS TECH 31, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 21.

TIM:

STICK: DETROIT CASS TECH over SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH.

COTTER: DETROIT CASS TECH 42, SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH 28.

5. Lake Orion at Utica Eisenhower: This is the 11^thmeeting between the two schools. The Dragons and Eagles are no strangers to each other whether it is in the regular season or especially in the postseason. Utica Eisenhower beat Lake Orion 27-20 in the 2019 postseason but the Dragons have gotten the best of the Eagles in 2008, 2010, 2012 in the postseason and last season’s 33-7 blowout. Utica Eisenhower has Preston Crumm back at quarterback while Lake Orion should be much improved defensively. This could be a low scoring game with both teams usually have stout defenses. It should be very interesting at Sweinhart Field.

SANDY DUNES: LAKE ORION 24, UTICA EISENHOWER 20.

BURNEY: LAKE ORION 27, UTICA EISENHOWER 26.

DUNLAP: LAKE ORION 28, UTICA EISENHOWER 24.

TIM:

STICK: LAKE ORION over UTICA EISENHOWER.

COTTER: LAKE ORION 28, UTICA EISENHOWER 21.

6. Harper Woods at Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy: This is the second meeting between these two city rivals in what is dubbed “The Backyard Brawl.” The Pioneers won 15-12 over the Eagles in 2009. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy forfeited their year last season but they were 6-2 technically. Harper Woods has a ton of proven players coming back. The Pioneers need to be on upset alert especially going up against a program that is much better than their record indicates.

SANDY DUNES: HARPER WOODS 24, CHANDLER PARK 21.

BURNEY: HARPER WOODS 31, CHANDLER PARK 17.

DUNLAP: HARPER WOODS 23, CHANDLER PARK 16.

TIM:

STICK: HARPER WOODS over CHANDLER PARK.

COTTER: HARPER WOODS 39, CHANDLER PARK 8.

Milan at 7. Berkley: The Bears are 12-6 and have two postseason appearances. Berkley will be a different team according to Coach Sean Shields. They are trying to get to their goal which is a league crown which looks very manageable. The Bears should be tested against a very good Milan program. The Big Reds have made the postseason 15 of the last 18 years. Milan is 35-8 since 2018. This is going to be a very tough matchup at Hurley Field to say the least.

SANDY DUNES: BERKLEY 35, MILAN 32.

BURNEY: BERKLEY 24, MILAN 20.

DUNLAP: BERKLEY 17, MILAN 13.

TIM:

STICK: BERKLEY over MILAN

COTTER: BERKLEY 24, MILAN 21.

Seaholm at 8. Bloomfield Hills: This is third meeting between these two neighborhood rivals and the first meeting since 2017 when Bloomfield Hills won 21-19. Seaholm won the first meeting 38-21 in 2014. This is a very interesting matchup of two different styles. The Blackhawks are more of a spread team while the Maples are more of a veer team. The quarterback matchup is very intriguing between CJ Jackson of Bloomfield Hills and Colton Kinnie of Seaholm. Whoever wins the battle of intangibles wins this game.

SANDY DUNES: SEAHOLM 27, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 20.

BURNEY: BLOOMFIELD HILLS 28, SEAHOLM 27.

DUNLAP: SEAHOLM 27, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 24.

TIM:

STICK: BLOOMFIELD HILLS over SEAHOLM.

COTTER: SEAHOLM 26, BLOOMFIELD HILLS 21.

9. Stoney Creek at Detroit Mumford: This is the first meeting between the Cougars and the Mustangs. Stoney Creek was supposed to play Port Huron but the Big Reds are playing Grand Rapids Catholic Central instead. Detroit Mumford is 6-10 in the last two years. The Cougars have a veteran team. This should be very interesting in Detroit.

SANDY DUNES: STONEY CREEK 28, DETROIT MUMFORD 12.

BURNEY: STONEY CREEK 25, DETROIT MUMFORD 20.

DUNLAP: STONEY CREEK 35, DETROIT MUMFORD 7.

TIM:

STICK: STONEY CREEK over DETROIT MUMFORD.

COTTER: STONEY CREEK 32 DETROIT MUMFORD 8.

10. Oxford at Romeo: These two schools are no strangers to each other having played since 2014. The Wildcats are 7-25 against the Bulldogs. Oxford fell 34-13 to Romeo last season in a game that was closer than the score indicated. The Bulldogs have a ton of experience coming back. The Wildcats have not fared well at Dan Barnabo Field. It should be very interesting to see what happens.

SANDY DUNES: ROMEO 24, OXFORD 20.

BURNEY: OXFORD 25, ROMEO 24.

DUNLAP: OXFORD 27, ROMEO 20.

TIM:

STICK: ROMEO over OXFORD.

COTTER: ROMEO 27, OXFORD 7.

Utica at Rochester: This is the 25^th meeting between the Falcons and the Chieftains. Rochester has won three straight and won the 2012 and 2013 meetings by a combined 66-21 including a 28-14 victory in 2013. The last time that Utica beat Rochester was in 1979 when they won 26-0. The Chieftains have been improving, they made the postseason last season. The Falcons should have their hands full in this game at Rochester Stadium.

SANDY DUNES: ROCHESTER 28, UTICA 14.

BURNEY: ROCHESTER 36, UTICA 21.

DUNLAP: ROCHESTER 28, UTICA 7.

TIM:

STICK: ROCHESTER over UTICA.

COTTER: ROCHESTER 31, UTICA 14.

North Farmington at Groves: These are two teams that are trying to turn around tough seasons and losing streaks. The Raiders lost six straight games which caused them to miss the postseason for the first time in three years. North Farmington’s last win came against Groves when they won 49-0 at Ron Holland Field. The Falcons missed the postseason for the first time in eight years last season. Groves wants to get back to where they have been. This is the 18^th meeting between the two schools with the Raiders holding a 10-7 season series edge. This game should be tight in Beverly Hills.

SANDY DUNES: NORTH FARMINGTON 20, GROVES 17.

BURNEY: NORTH FARMINGTON 21, GROVES 20.

DUNLAP: GROVES 21, NORTH FARMINGTON 20.

TIM:

STICK: NORTH FARMINGTON over GROVES.

COTTER: NORTH FARMINGTON 21, GROVES 14.

Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit at Oak Park: These two neighborhood rivals are no strangers to one another. They are separated by four miles and are in the same district for boys basketball almost every year. The Knights are 2-1 against the Cubs. They have met in the postseason three times. Oak Park won 27-21 at Hazel Park in the 2020 district finals and 26-17 in the first round in 2016. Detroit University-Detroit Jesuit won 14-8 in the district finals in the 2013 postseason. This should be a very interesting matchup in Knight Valley.

SANDY DUNES: OAK PARK 28, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 21.

BURNEY: OAK PARK 24, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 23.

DUNLAP: DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 14, OAK PARK 7.

TIM:

STICK: OAK PARK over DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT.

COTTER: OAK PARK 22, DETROIT UNIVERSITY-DETROIT JESUIT 21.

Troy Athens at Fraser: This is the first meeting between the two schools. The Red Hawks have a new coach in Tom Cook taking over the program. Troy Athens is 12-64 since 2012 but won five games last season. Fraser is coming into this season with high expectations. The Ramblers are 10-7 with two postseason appearances. They were 10-35 since 2015 prior to the two years. The Red Hawks are a different team. This should be a very interesting matchup.

SANDY DUNES: TROY ATHENS 20, FRASER 17.

BURNEY: TROY ATHENS 26, FRASER 25.

DUNLAP: FRASER 28, TROY ATHENS 17.

TIM:

STICK: TROY ATHENS over FRASER.

COTTER: TROY ATHENS 33, FRASER 14.

Troy at Macomb L’Anse Creuse North: This is the first meeting between the two schools. It has been a strong two years for the Colts. Troy is 12-6 in that span. The last time they took on a Macomb County opponent they were embarrassed 33-0 on regional television in the first round of the postseason by Chippewa Valley. The Crusaders are 0-14 in the last two years and 7-33 since 2016. This should be a cakewalk for the Colts but if not then let the criticism began.

SANDY DUNES: MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 20, TROY 14.

BURNEY: TROY 27, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 17.

DUNLAP: MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 24, TROY 20.

TIM:

STICK: TROY over MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH.

COTTER: TROY 34, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE NORTH 7.

Ypsilanti Lincoln at Farmington: This is the second meeting between the Falcons and the Railsplitters but the first at Falcon Field. Farmington won 35-14 in Ypsilanti in 2019. The Falcons will look to have a bounce back year after going 4-12 in the last two seasons. Ypsilanti Lincoln is 13-21 since 2017. This should be a very interesting matchup at Falcon Field.

SANDY DUNES: FARMINGTON 24, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 21.

BURNEY: FARMINGTON 33, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 19.

DUNLAP: FARMINGTON 10, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 7.

TIM:

STICK: FARMINGTON over YPSILANTI LINCOLN.

COTTER: FARMINGTON 28, YPSILANTI LINCOLN 21.

Ferndale at Macomb L’Anse Creuse: This will be the first meeting between the two schools. It was a very rough year for the Eagles which was un Coach Eric Royal like. They were not the same program since losing to Royal Oak last season. Ferndale heads into Macomb County to take on Macomb L’Anse Creuse. The Lancers have made the postseason three straight years and is 18-10 in that span. This is going to be a very difficult matchup for the Eagles.

SANDY DUNES: FERNDALE 24, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE 17.

BURNEY: FERNDALE 22, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE 18.

DUNLAP: FERNDALE 21, MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE 20.

TIM:

STICK: FERNDALE over MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE

COTTER: MACOMB L’ANSE CREUSE 42, FERNDALE 6.

Royal Oak at Holly: This is going to be a really interesting matchup which will be on grass which could be an advantage for the Bronchos. It’s also a battle of new coaches between Dustyn Truitt at Royal Oak and Billy Keenest at Holly. Keenest is no stranger to the OAA coaching at Troy Athens and Berkley and is an Oxford alumni as well. Truitt is a Farmington alumni which makes this matchup the more interesting. The quarterback battle should be very interesting between Hudson Siddle and Ashton DeHart. The Ravens have Mekahi Jenkins which gives them an edge up front. This should be a classic battle up front as both teams are trying to get off to good starts.

SANDY DUNES: HOLLY 24, ROYAL OAK 20.

BURNEY: ROYAL OAK 28, HOLLY 15.

DUNLAP: ROYAL OAK 14, HOLLY 10.

TIM:

STICK: HOLLY over ROYAL OAK.

COTTER: HOLLY 27, ROYAL OAK 7.

Avondale at Warren Cousino: This is the seventh meeting all time between the Yellow Jackets and the Patriots but the first meeting since 2001. Warren Cousino is 6-37 since 2017. Avondale is 11-15 in their last three years. On paper this looks like a mismatch but you never know.

SANDY DUNES: AVONDALE 42, WARREN COUSINO 0.

BURNEY: AVONDALE 23, WARREN COUSINO 22.

DUNLAP: WARREN COUSINO 20, AVONDALE 17.

TIM:

STICK: AVONDALE over WARREN COUSINO.

COTTER: AVONDALE 49, WARREN COUSINO 7.

Madison Heights Bishop Foley at Pontiac: This is the first meeting between the Phoenix and the Ventures. Pontiac was supposed to take one Detroit Osborn in what would had been a much easier matchup but instead went with a much tougher matchup against Madison Heights Bishop Foley. The Ventures are well coached under Coach Brian Barnes. This will not be an easy matchup for Coach Ken Wade and company but the good news it’s at home.

SANDY DUNES: MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 28, PONTIAC 26.

BURNEY: PONTIAC 21, MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 17.

DUNLAP: MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 24, PONTIAC 7.

TIM:

STICK: MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY over PONTIAC.

COTTER: MADISON HEIGHTS BISHOP FOLEY 49, PONTIAC 6.

at August 23, 2022 No comments: 

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Friday, August 19, 2022

Volleyball Preview.

Written Friday August 19th at 9:30 PM

Here is my early preview for Volleyball heading into the season.

AROUND THE OAA TOP TEN

1. Clarkston
2. Berkley
3. Oxford
4. Lake Orion
5. Stoney Creek
6. Adams
7. Seaholm
8. Bloomfield Hills
9. Troy
10. West Bloomfield

Red

Clarkston

Oxford

Lake Orion

Adams

Stoney Creek

Seaholm

Bloomfield Hills

Troy

EARLY THOUGHTS: When looking at the Red. Clarkston is the team that stands out. They have a ton of experience coming back. Oxford looks to be the top challenger to Clarkston. The Wildcats have a solid core coming back. Lake Orion returns one of the most dangerous outside hitters in the State but there are some questions surrounding the Dragons. Adams should be solid this season. Stoney Creek as well should be in the mix. Seaholm is a wildcard in the Red. Bloomfield Hills has a new coach but has looked solid early. Troy should be a team to watch for as well. The Wolves are the early favorite with the proven experience that is back.

White

Berkley

West Bloomfield

North Farmington

Groves

Rochester

Farmington

Troy Athens

Avondale

EARLY THOUGHTS: When looking at the White. Berkley made a ton of strides last season. I think the Bears are ready for some more and they could have a deep postseason run if things go right. The Bears have a ton of proven experience coming back. West Bloomfield has a ton of proven experience coming back. North Farmington has some experience coming back. Groves could be a factor this season. Rochester has some experience coming back. Farmington lost a lot of talent from last season. Troy Athens will be very young this season. Avondale could make some noise as well this season. Overall this division looks like three teams have a shot but it’s anyone’s division.

Blue

Ferndale

Royal Oak

Harper Woods

Ferndale University

Southfield Arts and Tech

Oak Park

Pontiac

EARLY THOUGHTS: The Blue is not a strong division when looking at it on paper. Ferndale is the early favorite. The Eagles have proven experience and have been there and done that. Royal Oak could surprise some people. The Ravens have some proven experience coming back. Harper Woods is the new team on the block. There are some questions surrounding the Pioneers. Ferndale University is the darkhorse. The Eagles could surprise some people. Southfield Arts and Tech has been up and down. Oak Park has struggled recently as has Pontiac. I think Ferndale has the edge over everyone in this division.

2022 Football Uniform Grades

by orionontv | Aug 8, 2022 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Around the OAA.

This is a blog that is devoted to the OAA. We cover 23 schools from Oakland County to Wayne County. From Oxford to Harper Woods. This blog will give insight and projections around the OAA.

Friday, August 5, 2022

2022 Football Uniform Grades.

By Sammy Taormina

Written Friday August 5th at 8:30 PM

Here are my grades on the 2022 OAA Football uniforms heading into the season. Enjoy.

Red

Clarkston (Uniform Provider-Nike): I really like the Wolves uniforms. The road uniforms are all white with blue numbering to go along with white pants with blue stripes on the sides. The blue Michigan helmet makes this look one of the best around the league. The home uniforms are solid as well with the all blue look even though I’m not a huge fan of the white trim on them. The all white look looks very good, wish they would bring back the name plates. GRADE A.

Lake Orion (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Dragons are going back old school with the football uniforms. The all green and all white with the green V-Neck look is classic Lake Orion. There are no stripes or no LO V-neck collar, just a simple classic look with names on the back. The only down side is the road uniforms say DRAGONS as well and not LAKE ORION. The pants have the classic stripes on the sides with the Dragons logo and the green helmet makes it a perfect uniform. Finally a jersey that Coach Chris Bell got right and it’s me approved. GRADE A.

Adams (Uniform Provider-Adidas): The Highlanders have a yellow helmet with the Adams A on one side and the player number on the other side. There was talk about putting the script Adams which I questioned why they would do that. The home yellow is okay but not great, it is an upgrade over the brown jerseys and white pants look and or the brown and yellow look. The road whites are different with the brown and yellow stripes on the elbows. They look very similar to the North Farmington jerseys. Adams completely changed the design. I’m not a fan of these jerseys, not at all. GRADE D.

West Bloomfield (Uniform Provider-Home/Road-Nike, Third Jersey-Russell Athletic): The Lakers haven’t changed much with their uniforms. The white pants are classic along with the green and white uniforms. The third uniforms are solid as well. The helmet needs work, great design but needs a paint job. Green helmet would be much better and smoother. GRADE A-

Stoney Creek (Uniform Provider- Home/Road-Under Armor, Third Jersey-Zenith): I really like the Cougars uniforms. They have name plates on the back and they can wear any pants whether gold, blue, or white. The helmet needs a redesign a little bit. I’m a fan of the gold helmet but not the design with the SC on one side and the player number on the other side. The Armor Up on the V-Neck looks very good. The traditions are great. I didn’t mention their military uniforms but they look very good as well. The third jersey is the all gold, I really like that jersey as well. Overall great uniform designs. GRADE A.

Oxford (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Wildcats have a classic simple uniform whether it’s the home blue or road white uniforms. They went with a yellow helmet which is different from past tradition when they wore blue helmets. The design needs some work with the O on one side and the player number on the other side. The simple plain uniform looks very nice especially with yellow or blue pants. Oxford should NEVER wear white pants under any circumstance. White pants have been bad luck in the past. GRADE A.

White

Harper Woods (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Pioneers have an interesting uniform combination. They have three helmets and a very good uniform design. I like the black and maroon helmet much better than their white helmets. The uniform top looks great whether if it’s maroon, black, or white jerseys and pants. The black or maroon helmets make the uniform look very strong but the white helmet, not so much. GRADE B.

Harper Woods Twitter. https://twitter.com/HW__Football/status/1553813051580846081

Southfield Arts and Tech (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Warriors finally got out of the Adidas looks and went to Nike. They look so much better in the Nike uniforms but the helmet needs to go back to blue or something, white is not a good look for the helmet. Great uniform and pants but the helmet needs a paint job and quick. GRADE B.

Oak Park (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Knights changed uniforms last season. I really like the home red uniforms with the name OAK PARK on the crest with white pants with the Knights logo. The all white look looks great with the black helmets however the rumor on the street is that the Knights are going to white helmets. Overall I like the uniform design looks good but if they change to white helmets that’s a bit of a concern. GRADE B.

Groves (Uniform Provider-Nike, Third Jersey-Zenith): The Falcons have a great home uniform but a subpar road uniform. The green helmet is great with the old classic Atlanta Falcons bird on both sides of the helmet. The home green, gold, and black look is a great look for the Falcons. The road white uniforms are too plain. It’s not like two years ago with that look, now that was a great look, the current look not so much. The alternate uniforms look good, the yellow jerseys look solid with the Falcons wings on the top of the jerseys. Great design to say the least. GRADE B.

Rochester (Uniform Provider-Under Armor): The Falcons went back to tradition and no gimmicks. Rochester has an all blue uniform with a blue helmet and a road white look with a blue helmet. They have an alternate black look for a game if it’s a big one. I like that they finally figured out the uniform design and not go all Oregon like they did a few years ago which was the definition of fashion disaster. GRADE A.

Bloomfield Hills (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Blackhawks went back to black helmets which made the most sense and brought a black uniform with purple lettering. I like this uniform a lot. The white uniforms look solid as well for Coach Dan Loria with the helmet. I like the uniforms as mentioned. GRADE A.

Blue

North Farmington (Uniform Provider-Home/Road-Nike, Third Jersey-Zenith): The Raiders went with three jerseys last season. The all black uniforms look very good. I also liked their home and road uniforms. They have the right design on the helmet but need to repaint the helmet. I think a gold or brown would make most sense with their jerseys. The uniforms look very good but they need to repaint the helmets. GRADE B.

Seaholm (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Maples went back to Maple helmets and went with an all Maple look at home and all white on the road. I think its ok but it’s not like the uniforms from two years ago. I wished the Maple helmet were with the old uniforms of the past. It’s an ok look but the jerseys are too plain. GRADE B.

Troy (Uniform Provider-Home-Nike, Road-Adidas): The Colts home uniforms look very good with the all black with the names on the back of the uniforms. The road whites are a complete disaster. The Adidas logo shows front and center with the TROY name and numbering in black font with the Colts logo on the elbows. It’s not a good look. If there is a team that really needs to change their road uniforms, this is it. GRADE C.

Troy Athens (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Red Hawks classic uniform design I really like with the gold helmet, red jersey, and gold pants. It’s the traditional look. They will wear red pants at times as well. The all white on the road looks very strong as well. I would like for Coach Tom Cook to at least put a Red Hawk bird on the helmet and not an A. The names on the back of the uniforms are perfect. I love the Nike uniforms they wear. GRADE A.

Farmington (Uniform Provider-Nike): This is not the best design when it comes to uniforms. I don’t like the helmet being white but the Falcon wings make up for it. The all blue look looks very good but the helmet doesn’t click. If there is a team that could go back to a classic look like they did with the Penn State look then Farmington might have a great shot to do so. GRADE B.

Gold

Berkley (Uniform Provider-Nike): This is one of the best uniform combos. I really like the all maroon look with maroon pants and blue helmets. The road uniform looks sharp as well. Both have name plates on the back. The helmet fits really nicely. Great uniform, yes indeed. GRADE A.

Royal Oak (Uniform Provider-???): The Ravens went with new uniforms on media day. The new jerseys have the Ravens name in white with blue numbering. The elbows are much better with the blue, white, blue stripes. The road ones are the same design. They have a black helmet to go with it. I forgot the designer they told me. This is a much better look and they made a video about the new uniforms. GRADE A.

Royal Oak Twitter.  https://twitter.com/ROHSFootball/status/1555634102019280897

Ferndale (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Eagles changed uniforms last season going to an all brown look. They still have an all yellow look and an all white look as well. The helmet is dark brown which I really like a lot. This is a great uniform that can make the colors work to their advantage. GRADE A.

Pontiac (Uniform Provider-Home-Russell Athletic, Third Jersey-Zenith, Road-Nike): The Phoenix have a solid color scheme. Pontiac has their traditional home purple uniforms with black pants. They wore a new black uniform with purple wings on them during Media Day, I really like them a ton. The road is white with all white uniforms looks very solid. I like the purple helmet, it matches all three uniforms very well. Pontiac does have three different uniform providers but I’ll live with it. GRADE A.

Avondale (Uniform Provider-Home/Third Jersey-Nike, Road-Adidas): The Yellow Jackets changed their home uniforms last season. I really like their home purple uniforms with the yellow pants. It’s very classic. I am not a fan of their road uniforms. I think the AVONDALE name is too small with the Adidas logo front and center along with the white pants. The all black third jerseys looks sharp. I want them to change the road uniforms, they are in need of an upgrade. GRADE B-