Sandusky Blue Streaks 42
Avon Eagles 35
Nobody saw this one coming, as fate appears to be on the Blue Streak's side early in the tournament. The Eagles had not lost a game all year until this point. Sandusky built up a 35-14 half time advantage, but got one crucial stop that sent the Eagles packing. The Blue Streaks will do battle with Maple Heights next week, who defeated the Central Catholic Fighting Irish 34-14.
Maumee Panthers 20
Avon Lake Shoremen 13
Another team from Avon was abruptly eliminated from state title contention late Friday night, as the Panthers of Maumee came out on top Friday over the now 8-2 Shoremen. The Shoremen, who had little problem beating opponents in the regular season, outscoring them 287-114, could not come up with a big play on the final drive of the game, sending their state title hopes to the cellar. The Panthers take on Olmsted Falls next week; they came off a 41-12 win vs. John F. Kennedy.
Lake Catholic Cougars 42
Kenston Bombers 0
It was business as usual for the Cougars who improve to 10-1 overall with their obliteration of Kenston. The Bombers have several tools to counter the strong defense of Lake Catholic, but a strong defensive unit usually prevails. The Howland Tigers will be their next opponent, as they ended Copley's season 17-0 in the first round of the playoffs. Howland is undefeated, and has allowed only 75 points all season long.
Maple Heights Mustangs 34
Central Catholic Fighting Irish 14
The Mustangs continue their march down the home playoff stretch with a solid victory over the Fighting Irish. Their potent offense has rallied up over 400 points for the season, and their balance on defense makes it hard for teams to fight back. Maple Heights has a good habit of scoring early, and forcing uphill battles for the opposition. The Mustangs will be at home next week to host the Sandusky Blue Streaks, who have destiny on their side with their tremendous upsetting of the Avon Eagles.
Ashland Arrows 36
Aurora Greenmen 26
The now 8-3 Greenmen came up short at the hands of the Arrows, who improve to 9-2 overall. Give Aurora credit though; they put up a tough fight for a full 48 minutes, but in the end, Ashland's defense made the final, and deciding stand. The Arrows defense wasn't, and has not been perfect all season, but they did just enough to give their offense the opportunities and the reps that they need to flourish. Ashland looks forward to next week as they take on the Tallmadge Blue Devils on the road. Ashland is 4-1 away from home on the season, but the high powered Blue Devils will be a monumental challenge.