CLEVELAND, Ohio — Last season ended with just one area team celebrating a state championship at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton.
Kirtland is accustomed to it. The Hornets won 15 games for the second straight year. They will need no more than 13 to do it again in 2020.
The Ohio High School Athletic Association's modified six-week regular season begins Friday before the playoffs start Oct. 9, with up to seven weeks of the postseason, depending on how many schools in each division opt for the competition.
While Kirtland competes for another Division V crown, Northeast Ohio has its share of contenders in each division — from St. Edward and Mentor in Division I, to Archbishop Hoban and Avon in Division II, to Chardon in Division III and Perry in Division IV. You met half of the top 50 teams entering the 2020 season. Now it’s time for the Top 25:
25. MAPLE HEIGHTS MUSTANGS
2019 record: 7-4, Division II regional quarterfinalist
Coach: Shaq Washington (third season)
Players to watch
Dawon King, QB, 5-8, 158, So.
Delonte Hall, WR/CB, 5-9, 160, Sr.
Keith Allen, WR/DB, 6-1, 190, Sr.
James Murray, WR/DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.
Bry'Shaun Haskin, WR/CB, 6-3, 180, Jr.
Roger Smith, G/C, 6-4, 320, Sr.
Timothy Alonzo Jr., G, 6-3, 285, Sr.
Da'Vion Evans, OLB/S, 6-2, 174, Sr.
Demel Daniel, S/WR, 6-0, 175, Sr.
About the Mustangs: In two years leading his alma mater, Shaq Washington has seen the Mustangs to two playoff appearances. That included an unbeaten run two years ago until meeting state champion Archbishop Hoban in the Division II regional finals. Did graduating a big senior class slow the Mustangs last year? Hardly. King stepped in as a freshman QB and Hall emerged as a two-way threat, one of the few returning starters on that 2018 team. Hall — coming off 1,282 all-purpose yards and nine touchdowns last season — is now a third-year starter and will be leaned on heavily for a team in which Washington sees some similarities to two years ago. Hall has scholarship offers from Southern Illinois, which likes him at receiver, and Hampton, which prefers him at cornerback. He even took over at quarterback some last year when King was injured. Both are back with a big offensive line on the interior and some sizable playmakers on both offense and defense, including Allen, Evans and Daniel.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 29 vs. Holy Name at North Royalton
Sept. 4 at Cleveland Heights
Sept. 11 vs. Bedford
Sept. 19 vs. Shaw at Euclid
Sept. 25 vs. Garfield Heights
Oct. 2 vs. Revere
24. RIVERSIDE BEAVERS
2019 record: 4-6
Coach: Dave Bors (11th season)
Players to watch
Dom Lulow, QB/S, 5-9, 175, Sr.
Cayman Locher, RB, 5-10, 206, Sr.
James Bruno, SB/CB, 5-11, 200, Sr.
Matthew Spofford, SB/S, 6-3, 205, Sr.
Jamir Francis, WR/DB, 6-2, 190, Sr.
Mason Stephens, WR/DB, 5-11, 175, Sr.
Kaden Tinner, WR/DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.
Alex Sigh, OT/DE, 6-4, 225, Sr.
Nick Messenger, G, 6-2, 265, Jr.
Dylan Yowell, C/DT, 6-5, 280, Sr.
Matt Watson, DE/TE, 6-3, 275, Sr.
About the Beavers: Four of Riverside’s six losses last year came by single digits, two in overtime. The Beavers also pushed Perry and Kirtland, two undefeated teams in the regular season, as much as nearly any team. All that’s changed this year for Riverside is those two are off the schedule, thanks to the six-week modified schedule. Much of Riverside’s personnel, including playmakers Bruno, Locher and Spofford, are back around Lulow with a big offensive line to clear the way. Riverside has the experience to emerge in the Western Reserve Conference — even with just five WRC games — and contend in Division II.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Willoughby South
Sept. 4 at Mayfield
Sept. 11 vs. Walsh Jesuit
Sept. 18 vs. Chardon
Sept. 25 at Madison
Oct. 2 at Eastlake North
23. ST. VINCENT-ST. MARY FIGHTING IRISH
2019 record: 8-3, Division III regional quarterfinalist
Coach: Bobby Nickol (third season)
Players to watch
Evan Pelfrey, QB/LB, 6-2, 230, Sr.
Evan Palmer, QB, 6-2, 180, Jr.
Nate Lenz, QB, 6-0, 165, So.
George Linberger, RB/LB, 5-11, 205, Jr.
O'Hadji Jackson, WR, 6-1, 160, Sr.
Dalen Burney, TE/DL, 6-5, 220, Sr.
Peter Schmitt, OT, 6-4, 280, Sr.
Tariq Montgomery, OT, 6-5, 290, Jr.
Tyler Ellsworth, C, 6-2, 220, Sr.
Macyo Williams, DE, 6-3, 260, Sr.
David Robinson, DL, 6-1, 280, Jr.
Quinn Knox, LB/TE, 6-1, 215, Sr.
Shawn Lodge, CB/WR, 6-1, 165, Jr.
Darrian Lewis, S/WR, 5-10, 175, Sr.
Dierre Clayton, DB, 5-6, 140, Sr.
Luke Dobson, K, 5-8, 170, Sr.
About the Irish: Four-year starting quarterback Luke Lindsay is now at Walsh University. STVM is relying on Nickol to find the next winning leader. Junior Evan Palmer and sophomore Nate Lenz are expected to compete at QB. The rest of the offense could be centered around Linbgerger (1,171 yards, 13 TDs), who returns as the leading rusher, with a change-of-pace athlete in Lewis and big target in Burney.
Big left tackle Savion Washington is now at Kent State and a talented defensive line lost Jahiem Peake, David Hooks and Jaylon Burton to graduation. Williams and Lewis are the two returning playmakers on defense. Williams is another Kent State commit who had 10 sacks and 56 tackles last year. Lewis is a returning cleveland.com all-star with eight interceptions and 41.5 tackles last year. Offensively, he added 639 yards from scrimmage with five TDs between rushing and receiving.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. TBD
Sept. 4 vs. Benedictine
Sept. 11 at Louisville
Sept. 18 vs. TBD
Sept. 25 vs. Archbishop Hoban
Oct. 2 at Warren Harding
Perry running back Jaylen Anderson scores a touchdown Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019 during a four-team scrimmage with Cleveland Heights, Kirtland and Eastlake North. (Matt Goul, cleveland.com)Matt Goul
22. PERRY PIRATES
2019 record: 12-1, Division IV regional finalist
Coach: Matt Rosati (14th season)
Players to watch
Brayden Richards, QB, 5-9, 165, Fr.
Jaylen Anderson, RB/OLB, 6-1, 210, Sr.
Seann Norman, C, 5-11, 250, Sr.
Jadynn Anderson, DE/WR, 6-2, 215, Jr.
Bryce Harper, DE, 6-1, 250, Sr.
Jeffrey Harris, DT, 5-9, 270, Sr.
Nate Smith, LB, 6-0, 200, Sr.
Javin Richards, LB, 6-2, 180, Jr.
Brock Sivon, CB, 6-0, 175, Jr.
Desmond Malone, S/WR, 6-1, 180, Sr.
Calvin Rowan, K, 5-6, 135, Jr.
About the Pirates: West Virginia commit Jaylen Anderson is the star of the show, entering his fourth year as a starter. Younger — but not so little — brother Jadynn Anderson is one of the anchors on defense with fellow junior Javin Richards. Add Malone, who had a team-high seven interceptions last year, and Perry has plenty of standouts. Brayden Richards steps in as a freshman quarterback to replace Drew Schiano, who threw for 3,296 yards and 42 TDs to four interceptions during last year’s regional final run. Jaylen Anderson rushed for 1,086 yards and 16 TDs, while adding another 883 yards and 11 TDs on 51 receptions. The Pirates lost some punch up front, but defensively Malone (81) and Jadynn Anderson (79) are their top two returning tacklers. Jadynn Anderson added 12.5 tackles for loss last year, while Richards (62 tackles, four interceptions) gives Perry three of its top four tacklers from last season.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Ashtabula Edgewood
Sept. 4 at Harvey
Sept. 11 vs. Orange
Sept. 17 vs. Chagrin Falls
Sept. 25 at Ashtabula Lakeside
Oct. 2 at Geneva
21. STREETSBORO ROCKETS
2019 record: 11-1, Division III regional quarterfinalist
Coach: Pete Thompson (fourth season)
Players to watch
Maysun Klimak, QB, 5-9, 165, Jr.
Donovan Washington, RB/LB, 6-1, 210, Sr.
Richtell McCallister, RB/LB/S, 5-8, 175, Sr.
Carter Giacomo, WR/OLB, 6-2, 190, Sr.
Hunter Hopperton, WR/LB, 6-2, 220, Jr.
Keisean Johnson-Wilson, OT/DT, 6-4, 273, Jr.
Kyle Dirk, OT/C/LB, 6-2, 240
Michael Hall Jr., DE/DT/OT, 6-3, 290, Sr.
Kolton Cutwright, LB, 6-2, 205, Jr.
Jordan Scarpino, LB/RB, 5-11, 190, Jr.
Shawn Gates, CB/WR, 6-0, 180, Sr.
Chris Golson, CB/S/WR/KR, 6-0, 200, Sr.
Tyler Hall, CB/WR, 5-9, 180, Sr.
Tyler Bodovetz, S, 6-0, 175, Sr.
About the Rockets: Ohio State commit Mike Hall is the star up front and he has some help with emerging Buchtel transfer Keisan Johnson-Wilson. District offensive player of the year Krys Riley-Richardson was part of a big senior class that led the Rockets to their first playoff home win in school history. Leading tacklers Colton Scheall and Andrew Douglas also are gone. However, there still is plenty of talent and potential beyond the Rockets’ big recruit. Klimak and Golson were All-Northeast Inland District selections, with the quarterback throwing for 1,051 yards and 13 TD passes to just one interception as a sophomore. His weapons include Washington (932 rushing yards, eight TDs). Golson finished third in tackles and is the leader among returning defenders with 81 tackles and six for loss. Golson and Giacomo each had three interceptions last year.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Coventry
Sept. 4 at Mogadore Field
Sept. 11 vs. Woodridge
Sept. 18 at Cloverleaf
Sept. 25 vs. Ravenna
Oct. 2 at Norton
20. AURORA GREENMEN
2019 record: 13-1, Division III state semifinalist
Coach: Bob Mihalik (20th season)
Players to watch
Alex Moore, QB, 6-2, 195, Jr.
Evan McVay, RB/WR/S, 5-9, 180, Sr.
Derek Blum, WR/DB, 6-2, 165, Jr.
Ryan Weber, WR/OLB, 6-2, 185, Jr.
Michael Sedar, OT/DT, 6-5, 270, Sr.
Sam Logalbo, OT/DE, 6-4, 200, Sr.
James Ingram, G/DT, 6-4, 235, Jr.
Aden Ricketts, OL/DL, 6-2, 220, Sr.
Kevin Paul, DT, 6-3, 290, Jr.
Toto Gomez, DT, 5-9, 185, Sr.
Dylan Fishback, LB, 6-1, 205, Jr.
Aidan Henderson, LB/S/RB, 6-1, 165, Jr.
Jordan DeMicco, CB/SB, 5-10, 175, Jr.
Jacob Matousek, CB/SB, 5-10, 160, Jr.
About the Greenmen: Defensively, the Greenmen must adjust to the graduation of linebacker A.J. Barner (Ohio University) and safety John Papesh (eight interceptions). However, Paul emerged at defensive tackle and McVay contributes both ways. The defensive line should be a strength. QB Moore started as a sophomore, throwing for more than 2,000 yards. His line has two big tackles to make life a little easier, too.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Brecksville
Sept. 4 at Revere
Sept. 11 vs. Tallmadge
Sept. 18 at Kent Roosevelt
Sept. 25 at Cuyahoga Falls
Oct. 2 vs. Twinsburg
19. NORDONIA KNIGHTS
2019 record: 5-5
Coach: Jeff Fox (ninth season)
Players to watch
Billy Levak, QB, 5-11, 190, Sr.
Sal Perrine, RB, 5-10, 180, Sr.
Shane Robinson, RB/DB, 5-11, 185, Sr.
Joel Jones, WR, 6-3, 185, Sr.
Cooper Rusk, WR/LB, 6-0, 185, Jr.
Jon Henderson, WR/S/PR, 5-10, 165, Jr.
Chase Riedel, OT, 6-3, 240, Jr.
Ian Davis, G, 5-11, 260, Sr.
Matt Berger, C, 6-0, 200, Sr.
Mar'quez Hart, DE, 5-11, 220, Sr.
Josh Wujnovich, DE, 5-11, 185, Sr.
Mike Westbrooks, MLB/RB, 6-0, 205, Sr.
Geo Loya, OLB, 6-1, 210, Sr.
Jonathan Banks, CB/WR/KR, 5-10, 165, Sr.
Jahdon Wimbush, CB, 5-8, 165, Sr.
Bryan Russ, S, 5-10, 180, Jr.
Shane Robinson, S, 5-11, 185, Sr.
Andrew Lastovka, K, 5-8, 140, Jr.
About the Knights: Depth and playmaking is on the side of Nordonia, which looks to crash the Suburban League party and return to the playoffs after a one-year absence. Perrine rushed for 1,202 yards and 13 TDs last year, while Levak threw for 2,180 yards and 19 TDs. Rusk had 60 receptions for 642 yards and four TDs, while Jones (46 receptions for 721 yards, nine TD) and Henderson (30 receptions for 408 yards, three TDs) were his top three targets. All are back along with the left side of the offensive line. Defensively, Banks and Westbrooks lead the way with Wimbush and Robinson, who transferred from Bedford.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 at Hudson
Sept. 4 vs. Barberton
Sept. 11 vs. Wadsworth
Sept. 18 vs. Highland
Sept. 25 vs. North Royalton
Oct. 2 vs. Stow
18. BRUNSWICK BLUE DEVILS
2019 record: 6-4
Coach: Mark Pinzone (fourth season)
Players to watch
Jake Scherette, QB/CB, 5-11, 190, Sr.
Nick Vadini, RB/LB, 5-7, 160, Sr.
Jonah Clement, WR, 6-3, 170, Sr.
Connin Som, WR/CB, 5-9, 165, Jr.
Jacob Dye, WR, 6-0, 185, Sr.
Tomas Rimac, OT/DE, 6-6, 280, Sr.
Jack Pacek, G/DT, 6-2, 218, Sr.
Brian Klesch, G/DT, 5-7, 185, Sr.
Nathan Wagoner, C, 6-4, 265, Sr.
Dominic Svozil, DE, 6-4, 228, Sr.
Kyle Scherette, MLB/TE, 6-0, 200, Sr.
Andrew Haber, ILB/RB, 5-11, 210 Sr.
Quintyn McKinley, LB/RB, 5-8, 165, Sr.
Luke Petrowski, S/WR, 6-0, 190, Jr.
About the Blue Devils: Brunswick opened last year winning five of its first six, becoming one of the area’s most improved programs after a 1-9 season in 2018. This year’s senior class is the first group to play all four years under Pinzone, who returned to Brunswick after runs with Buckeye and Holy Name. Headlining the senior class is Rimac, who committed in June to West Virginia. He had a team-high nine tackles for loss with 3.5 sacks. Kyle Scherette led the team in tackles (30 solo, 48 assists) and interceptions (three).
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Euclid
Sept. 4 vs. Medina
Sept. 11 at Elyria
Sept. 18 vs. Mentor
Sept. 25 at Strongsville
Oct. 2 vs. Garfield Heights
17. WADSWORTH GRIZZLIES
2019 record: 9-3, Division II regional semifinalist
Coach: Justin Todd (fifth season)
Players to watch
Mitch Evans, QB/P, 6-7, 230, Sr.
Anthony Cirino, SB, 5-9, 165, Sr.
Barret Labus, WR/RB/CB, 5-11, 180, Sr.
Tyler Montgomery, WR, 6-2, 180, Sr.
Ethan Korecky, WR, 6-1, 200, Sr.
Joey Rozak, OT, 6-3, 265, Sr.
Evan Mizen, G, 6-0, 275, Sr.
Logan Seme, DE/TE, 6-4, 245, Sr.
Logan Shiarla, DE, 6-0, 205, Sr.
Jamisen "Jazz" Jackson, MLB, 5-11, 211, Sr.
Nick Metzger, LB, 5-10, 195, Sr.
Carston Marshall, S/OLB, 6-3, 195, Sr.
Ben Carroll, S, 6-1, 190, Sr.
Brandon Wright, S, 6-0, 180, Sr.
About the Grizzlies: Versatility is what stands out among some of Wadsworth’s top talents this year. Labus started last year as a receiver, but stepped in at running back when Dom Loparo went down with an injury. All Labus did was rush for 510 yards on 61 carries to go with his 1,007 yards receiving on 65 receptions. Defensively, Marshall can play the deep safety or rush from the edge. That’s why he is headed to Iowa State. Then there’s Evans, the Notre Dame commit at tight end, who is transitioning back to quarterback this year. Evans played just one season at tight end, which led to his breakout as a recruit.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 at North Royalton
Sept. 4 at Stow
Sept. 11 at Nordonia
Sept. 18 vs. Hudson
Sept. 25 vs. Barberton
Oct. 2 at Brecksville
16. OLMSTED FALLS BULLDOGS
2019 record: 7-4, Division II regional quarterfinalist
Coach: Tom DeLuca (eighth season)
Players to watch
Charlie Ciolek, QB, 6-3, 180, Jr.
Andrew Parkowski, RB/LB, 6-0, 215, Sr.
Adam Varga, SB/OLB, 5-11, 170, Jr.
Anthony Argenziano, SB/OLB, 5-10, 175, Sr.
Ryan Feskanich, SB, 5-10, 180, Sr.
Jimmy Cooney, WR, 6-1, 165, Sr.
Jacob McCabe, G/DT, 6-3, 250, Sr.
Connor Simon, G, 5-11, 215, Sr.
Thomas Vas, C, 6-0, 255, Sr.
Jeff Dreifke, ILB, 5-11, 220, Sr.
Sam Munoz, CB, 5-11, 170, Jr.
R.J. Simon, S, 6-0, 185, Sr.
Nick Hearn, S, 5-7, 170, Sr.
Drew Kanaba, K/P, 5-10, 155, Sr.
About the Bulldogs: Olmsted Falls lost plenty of talent entering 2019, but still powered its way back to the playoffs for a fifth consecutive year under DeLuca. The reason is simple to Parkowski: the backups were ready. Now, those backups are returning starters. LB/RB Parkowski had 69 tackles last year with six tackles for loss. Offensively, he rushed for 720 yards and eight touchdowns as part of Falls’ multiple-back sets. Varga has the tools to emerge both as a runner and receiver for Ciolek, another returning starter at quarterback, and the line is strong with McCabe and Vas leading the way.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Midview
Sept. 4 vs. Avon
Sept. 11 at North Olmsted
Sept. 18 at North Ridgeville
Sept. 25 vs. Amherst
Oct. 2 at Avon Lake
15. MEDINA BEES
2019 record: 7-4, Division I regional quarterfinalist
Coach: Larry Laird (fourth season)
Players to watch
Drew Allar, QB, 6-5, 210, Jr.
Ryan Gillespie, QB/WR, 6-4, 225, Sr.
Luke Hensley, WR, 6-2, 200, Sr.
Jajuan Jackson, WR/CB/WR, 5-11, 180, Jr.
Matt Spatny, WR/OLB, 6-4, 245, Jr.
Ben Butler, WR, 5-11, 170, Jr.
Kyle Schultz, OT, 6-4, 280, Sr.
Otto Weight, G, 6-4, 285, Sr.
Jack Pilarski, C, 6-0, 250, Sr.
Ryan Farrell, DE, 6-3, 240, Jr.
Mason Pogue, DE, 6-5, 240, Jr.
Nick Manley, DT, 6-5, 265, Jr.
Nathan Spatny, LB, 6-1, 220, Sr.
Keon Johnson, CB/WR, 5-11, 170, Jr.
About the Bees: Allar took over as QB last year and proceeded to throw for 1,802 yards with 23 touchdowns, while rushing for 294 yards with three more TDs. Gillespie is pretty good, too, as Medina won four times with him behind center. This gives the Bees two QBs who could start on most teams, and their offense sometimes resembled a video game with their passing production. Hensley is back after an injury prematurely ended 2019 to lead those five-wide sets in Medina. The left side of the offensive line returns, while Farrell, Pogue and Manley lead a young but promising defensive front. The Bees won four of their last five regular-season games to make the 2019 playoffs.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Mentor
Sept. 4 at Brunswick
Sept. 11 at Strongsville
Sept. 18 vs. Elyria
Sept. 25 at Euclid
Oct. 2 vs. TBD
14. STOW BULLDOGS
2019 record: 6-4
Coach: Tom Phillips (third season)
Players to watch
Owen Bainbridge, QB, 6-5, 185, Jr.
Xavier Preston, RB/CB, 6-1, 181, Jr.
Dalen Stovall, WR, 6-3, 184, Sr.
Justin Weightman, WR/CB, 5-9, 166, Sr.
Vance Sheppert, WR/CB, 5-11, 165, Jr.
Mason Mennell, OT/G, 6-4, 300, Jr.
Van Shyjka, OT, 6-4, 282, Jr.
Brad Leonard, OT/G, 6-5, 300, So.
Zach Phillips, C/DT, 6-2, 255, Jr.
Keon Johnson, DT, 6-4, 335, So.
Courtney Reynolds, DT, 6-1, 295, So.
Stanley Gray, DE/OLB, 6-1, 194, Sr.
Luke Abernathy, MLB, 6-1, 222, Jr.
Teddy Gregory, LB, 5-11, 200, So.
Stephen Mangira, LB/TE, 6-1, 200, Sr.
Jack Bryden, CB/WR, 5-11, 180, Sr.
Clayton Mosher, S/WR, 6-0, 196, Sr.
About the Bulldogs: Stow lost at Brecksville in overtime and at home in Week 9 to Hudson, but could easily avenge those setbacks this year. The Bulldogs have size, the biggest offensive line in Phillips’ three years at Stow — and certainly since the 2017 team had Penn State-bound Michael Miranda and Matt Esterle. Behind this group, however is a slew of playmakers beginning with a third-year starter in Bainbridge. He threw for 2,112 yards and 17 touchdown passes last year, has a top target in Toledo-bound Stovall (42 receptions, 605 yards, six TDs) and running back in Preston (898 yards, eight TDs on 116 carries).
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 at Barberton
Sept. 4 vs. Wadsworth
Sept. 11 vs. Highland
Sept. 18 at North Royalton
Sept. 25 vs. Brecksville
Oct. 2 at Nordonia
13. KIRTLAND HORNETS
2019 record: 15-0, Division V state champion
Coach: Tiger LaVerde (15th season)
Players to watch
Liam Powers, QB, 5-10, 185, Sr.
Mason Sullivan, RB/LB, 6-0, 206, Sr.
Anthony DeMarco, RB/LB, 6-0, 185, Sr.
Gage Sullivan, SB/DB, 6-4, 190, Jr.
Brad Davis, TE/DE, 5-10, 181, Sr.
Kristian Grman, G/DT, 5-10, 225, Sr.
Angelo Blassani, DT, 6-0, 185, Sr.
Carson Andonian, LB/RB, 5-11, 175, Sr.
Mason Rus, LB/RB, 5-11, 175, Jr.
Joey Grazia, CB/WR, 5-10, 155, Sr.
Mario Rodin, K/P, 6-0, 160, Sr.
About the Hornets: Last year’s run to another state championship, Kirtland’s fifth in the decade and second straight, came with playmakers who return for 2020. Longtime starting defender and running back Mason Sullivan leads the way as a two-time All-Ohio selection (on defense as a sophomore and offense as a junior). He rushed for 1,894 yards and 31 touchdowns in 15 games. Defensively, he added five interceptions. Younger brother Gage Sullivan emerged as a deep threat with big plays down the stretch, including the Division V state championship win vs. Ironton. Powers is back at quarterback, while Andonian and Rus return to that group of linebackers with Sullivan. Grazia, another All-Ohio selection at cornerback, returns following a nine-interception season.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 at Lake Catholic
Sept. 4 at Crestwood
Week 3 open
Sept. 18 vs. Cardinal
Sept. 25 at Orwell Grand Valley
Oct. 2 vs. Ashtabula Lakeside
12. CHARDON HILLTOPPERS
2019 record: 10-3, Division III regional finalist
Coach: Mitch Hewitt (10th season)
Players to watch
Drew Fetchik, QB, 6-0, 170, Sr.
James Pettyjohn, RB, 5-10, 160, Sr.
Jesse Decipeda, OT, 6-1, 290, Sr.
Nick Fay, G/DT, 6-0, 270, Sr.
Dylan Friend, C, 5-11, 290, Sr.
Gavin Slife, DL, 6-0, 220, Sr.
Myles Mendeszoon, DE/OLB, 6-4, 205, Sr.
Vince Ferrante, LB/RB, 5-10, 190, Sr.
Cade McDevitt, LB/RB, 6-0, 180, Sr.
Evan Ash, LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.
Blake Barker, LB, Sr.
Christian Hall, LB, Jr.
Kevin Doyle, CB, 5-11, 175, Sr.
Nathanael Sulka, S/LB/QB/WR, 6-4, 190, Jr.
Brady Toth, S, 6-5, 180, Sr.
About the Hilltoppers: With arguably the deepest linebacker corps in the area, Chardon brings back leading tackler Ferrante (125 tackles, 14 tackles for loss), versatile Sulka (59 tackles in eight weeks), McDevitt (100 tackles), Ash and an edge rusher headed to Iowa State in Mendeszoon (8.5 sacks). Combine that with an effective wing-T run game, and it’s difficult for teams — especially in the playoffs — to prepare on short notice. Pettyjohn leads the offense, rushing last year for 1,102 yards.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Eastlake North
Sept. 4 vs. Willoughby South
Sept. 11 at Kenston
Sept. 18 at Riverside
Sept. 25 vs. Mayfield
Oct. 2 open
Hudson quarterback Jacob Paltani (1) celebrates his touchdown keeper in the first half, October 25, 2019, at Stow-Munroe Falls High School. (John Kuntz, cleveland.com)cleveland.com
11. HUDSON EXPLORERS
2019 record: 7-4, Division II regional quarterfinalist
Coach: Jeff Gough (fifth season)
Players to watch
Jacob Paltani, QB, 5-9, 150, Sr.
Drew Lightner, RB/OLB, 5-9, 175, Sr.
Aiden Lal, RB/WR, 6-3, 201, Jr.
Brendan Demuynck, FB/DT, 5-9, 200, Sr.
Luke McLaughlin, WR/S, 5-10, 170, Sr.
Colin Pierce, SB/S, 5-10, 165, Jr.
Kevin Toth, OT, 6-6, 260, Sr.
Johnathan Heisa, MLB, 5-11, 180, Sr.
Jackson Thomas, CB, 5-10, 160, Sr.
Caleb Junko, K/P, 6-2, 180, Sr.
Jake Vidmar, K, 5-8, 150, Sr.
About the Explorers: Hudson brings back an explosive offense that served as catalyst to winning a share of last year's Suburban League National Division title. Paltani rushed for 1,564 yards and 23 touchdowns. He threw for another 1,372 yards and 11 TD passes, establishing himself as one of the area's top dual threats. Paltani still can hand off to Lightner (1,090 yards, 16 TDs) or throw to McLaughlin (39 receptions, 625 yards, five TDs) and has a Rutgers commit in Toth protecting his blind side. As usual for Hudson, the Explorers have two dependable kickers to help with field position.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Nordonia
Sept. 4 at Brecksville
Sept. 11 vs. Barberton
Sept. 18 at Wadsworth
Sept. 25 at Highland
Oct. 2 vs. North Royalton
10. BRECKSVILLE BEES
2019 record: 7-4, Division II regional quarterfinalist
Coach: Martin Poder (third season)
Players to watch
Joe Labas, QB/P, 6-4, 200, Sr.
Garret Kubitz, RB/DE, 6-0, 205, Sr.
Corey Stease, FB/HB, 6-0, 200, Sr.
Jeremy Jonozzo, WR/CB, 5-11, 160, Sr.
Ray Carroll, WR/S, 6-1, 175, Sr.
Luke Kirin, OT/DT, 6-4, 290, Sr.
Kirk Doskocil, OT/DT, 6-3, 275, Jr.
David Drinko, G/C/LS/DT, 5-11, 205 Sr.
Jake Ryan, DE/FB, 5-11, 195, Sr.
Joey Fazioli, DT, 5-9, 225, Jr.
Ethan VanRumppe, DE/HB, 6-4, 220, Sr.
Matt Rose, MLB/RB, 6-1, 190, Jr.
Ben Day, OLB, 6-1, 190, Jr.
James Bronstrop, CB, 5-9, 160, Sr.
Carter Lloyd, S, 5-10, 170, Sr.
Aiden Minnick, K, 5-11, 160, Sr.
About the Bees: Brecksville has five returning third-year starters on offense, led by Labas — last year’s cleveland.com Offensive Player of the Year and an Iowa commit — with Kubitz, Jonozzo, Kirin and Doskocil. Labas returned last year from a 2018 hand injury to complete 65 percent of his passes for 2,351 yards with 23 TDs to two interceptions. He also rushed for 486 yards and nine TDs. Kubitz is the leading returning rusher (1,020 yards, 13 TDs), but 977-yard Ethan Hatcher and the interior offensive line has graduated. Poder is confident in those stepping into those positions.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 at Aurora
Sept. 4 vs. Hudson
Sept. 11 at North Royalton
Sept. 18 at Barberton
Sept. 25 at Stow
Oct. 2 vs. Wadsworth
9. BENEDICTINE BENGALS
2019 record: 10-2, Division II regional semifinalist
Coach: Jarritt Goode (second season)
Players to watch
Ronnie Schultz, QB, 5-11, 170, Sr.
Gary Merrill, RB/LB, 5-9, 195, Sr.
Duane Jackson, RB, So.
Chris Gales, WR/S, 6-1, 199, Sr.
Marvin-Christ Conkle, WR/S, 6-2, 180, Jr.
Angelo Lott, SB/S, 5-10, 160, Sr.
Jacob Vasko, OT/C, 6-3, 240, Sr.
Sawyer Hamrick, OT/DT, 6-3, 245, Sr.
Luke Beltavski, G/C, 6-2, 290, Sr.
Thomas Jolly Jr., DT, 6-0, 270, Sr.
Terrance Hollon, LB/RB, 6-1, 208, Sr.
Derell Bedingfield Jr., LB, 6-2, 190, Jr.
Andre Rogers Jr., CB/RB/KR, 5-9, 160, Sr.
Antonio Patterson, CB, Jr.
Ivan Shuran, K/P, 5-10, 155, Sr.
About the Bengals: Goode’s return to Benedictine culminated last year with a six-win improvement in his first season. The Bengals returned to the playoffs after a one-year absence and bulked up their schedule in 2020 to match their rising expectations. However, that schedule took a turn with the OHSAA’s six-game regular season. Beltavski, a Robert Morris commit, anchors a big and experienced line that should give time for Schultz (2,354 yards and 28 touchdown passes) to find his playmakers, including Gales (42 receptions, 656 yards, six TDs) and Lott (39 receptions, 429 yards and three TDs), plus emerging Conkle, who missed most of last season because of injury. Defensively, leading tackler and sack artist Hollon (72 tackles, eight sacks) is back at linebacker with Merrill (63 tackles), while Gales moves from cornerback to safety with a rising junior on the pass-rushing edge in Bedingfield. He holds scholarship offers from Akron and Cincinnati.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 29 at Warren Harding
Sept. 4 at St. Vincent-St. Mary
Sept. 11 vs. Archbishop Hoban
Sept. 18 at Massillon
Sept. 26 vs. Austintown Fitch
Oct. 2 vs. St. Edward
Saint Ignatius coach Chuck Kyle talks with his team before their game against Archbishop Hoban on Aug. 24, 2017, at Dowed Field in Akron.John Kuntz, cleveland.com
8. ST. IGNATIUS WILDCATS
2019 record: 5-5
Coach: Chuck Kyle (38th season)
Players to watch
Jaxon French, QB, 6-2, 200, Jr.
Michael Simcak, RB, 5-9, 185, Sr.
Alec LaSpina, WR, 6-0, 170, Sr.
Jack Dunstan, WR, 5-11, 160, Sr.
Steven Bodamer, WR, 6-0, 170, Jr.
Nick Lamirand, TE, 6-5, 220, Sr.
Gus Salopek, G, 6-5, 250, Sr.
Ashton Montgomery, C, 6-2, 300, Jr.
Bennett Adler, DE, 6-3, 230, Sr.
Luca LaSpina, DE, 6-5, 250, Sr.
Aidan Hubbard, LB, 6-4, 230, Sr.
Aidan Conway, LB, 6-1, 225, Sr.
Nick Velotta, LB, 6-0, 220, Sr.
Chris Snyder, CB, 6-1, 170, Sr.
Emmett Hanna, S, 6-2, 200, Sr.
Andrew Chime, S, 6-0, 190, Sr.
Braeden Lair, S, 5-11, 180, Jr.
Declan Mangan, K/P, 5-11, 165, Sr.
About the Wildcats: The Wildcats’ bid for the playoffs last year ended with a Week 9 home loss to Cincinnati St. Xavier. It is only the third time the Wildcats have missed the playoffs since 1988. They enter the 2020 season with experienced edge rushers in Hubbard — a Northwestern commit — and Adler, one of the state’s strongest legs at kicker in Mangan and some big interior linemen to help a new quarterback. Their season will not begin until the third week of the OHSAA’s modified six-week regular season before the playoffs begin for all in early October. St. Ignatius, which saw fall practices stop during the first week, is set to return Aug. 29 in preparation for the season.
Modified four-week schedule
Week 3 open
Sept. 19 vs. St. Edward
Sept. 25 at Massillon
Oct. 3 at Cincinnati St. Xavier
7. AVON LAKE SHOREMEN
2019 record: 11-2, Division II regional finalist
Coach: Matt Kostelnik (fourth season)
Players to watch
Michael Corbo, QB, 6-2, 180, Sr.
Gage Duesler, RB/CB, 5-10, 170, Sr.
Mason Wheeler, RB/LB, 6-0, 200, Sr.
Griffin Lidyard, FB/LB, 6-1, 230, Sr.
Mitchell Fedders, WR/DB, 5-11, 175, Sr.
Aidan Grabowski, WR/CB, 5-11, 165, Sr.
Jared Krukowski, WR/CB, 5-10, 165, Sr.
Michael Stuewe, TE/S, 6-0, 190, Sr.
Alex Padgett, OT/DT, 6-5, 300, Sr.
Brady Shildwachter, OT/DL, 6-1, 240, Jr.
Kevin McKinley, G/DE, 6-1, 230, Sr.
Joe Lubertozzi, G/DL, 5-11, 243, Jr.
Griffin Romes, C/DT, 6-0, 290, Sr.
Kadyn Viancourt, DE/TE, 6-0, 200, Sr.
Jacob Sintic, DT, 5-10, 175, Sr.
Nate Cikalo, OLB/WR, 5-11, 183, Sr.
Sean Summers, CB/RB, 5-10, 185, Sr.
Billy Simpson, S/WR, 6-3, 185, Sr.
About the Shoremen: Avon Lake is as experienced as any team coach Matt Kostelnik has enjoyed in his four years. The last time the Shoremen were this experienced? Might have to go back to when he played in the early 2000s on their state championship team. Thirteen players earned significant time on offense last year, and all five starters return on the offensive line. Padgett leads that group as a Bowling Green commit. The defense lost some speed to graduation, including edge rushers Nick Marsh and Jack McCrum. However, Sintic had 13.5 sacks last year from the interior. Simpson also is one of the top safeties in the area with four interceptions last season. Cikalo and Viancourt also are back for that vaunted pass rush.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Avon
Sept. 4 at Berea-Midpark
Sept. 11 vs. Midview
Sept. 18 at Amherst
Sept. 25 at North Olmsted
Oct. 2 vs. Olmsted Falls
6. AVON EAGLES
2019 record: 13-1, Division II state semifinalist
Coach: Mike Elder (14th season)
Players to watch
Niko Pappas, QB/S, 6-0, 180, Sr.
Devon Hunter, RB/LB, 5-11, 200, Sr.
Michael Ptacek, WR/CB, 5-10, 170, Sr.
Ryan Ptacek, WR/S, 6-2, 185, Jr.
Aidan Hanna, WR, 5-9, 155, Sr.
Andrew Smith, TE/OLB, 6-2, 200, Sr.
Jake Frye, OT/DE, 6-4, 290, Sr.
Nick Gardner, OT/DT, 6-4, 240, Jr.
Nathan Tran, G/DT, 5-9, 250, Sr.
Mason Bingham, C/DE, 6-0, 248, Sr.
Desmond Kelly, DE/RB, 5-9, 205, Sr.
Dominic Vakos, DT/G, 5-10, 245, Sr.
Kaya Yonkers, OLB/RB, 5-10, 190, Sr.
Cade Juhl, LB, 5-9, 165, Sr.
Kam Erskine, CB, 5-9, 153, Sr.
Michael Matlak, CB/RB, 6-2, 205, Sr.
Chase Myers, CB/QB, 5-10, 150, Sr.
Johnny Love, S, 5-10, 180, Sr.
Nathanial Vakos, K/P, 6-0, 170, Jr.
Arlind Bengu, P/K, 5-11, 170, Sr.
About the Eagles: Avon’s third straight trip to the OHSAA Division II state semifinals proved to be its toughest. One by one, starters fell to injury. But the Eagles took down Benedictine in the second round of the playoffs, beat SWC rival Avon Lake for a second time and ran into Massillon with a trip to Canton on the line. They did this with the top two QBs down with injuries. Pappas is back, the backup last year with expectations this year as the starter. The same goes for Hunter (1,135 yards, 18 TDs), who emerged earlier in the season for standout running back Nick Perusek. Second-leading tackler Yonkers (80 tackles) is back to lead that defense with Erskine (six pass breakups) and Matlak (10 breakups). Even more players emerged for injured starters, and they are now seasoned for a run in 2020.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 at Avon Lake
Sept. 4 at Olmsted Falls
Sept. 11 vs. North Ridgeville
Sept. 18 vs. North Olmsted
Sept. 25 vs. Berea-Midpark
Oct. 2 at Midview
Solon quarterback Pat McQuaide throws a pass in the first half against Brunswick, September 20, 2019, at Solon High School. (John Kuntz, cleveland.com)cleveland.com
5. SOLON COMETS
2019 record: 8-3, Division I regional quarterfinalist
Coach: Jim McQuaide (18th season)
Players to watch
Pat McQuaide, QB/S, 6-0, 185, Sr.
Khalil Eichelberger, RB, 5-10, 205, Sr.
Hark Sohi, OT, 6-6, 290, Sr.
Chase Johnson, OT/DE, 6-1, 210, Jr.
Ben Weingarten, C/LB, 5-11, 195, Sr.
Najee Story, DE/OT, 6-4, 235, Sr.
Jamari Holmes, DT/OL, 5-11, 230, So.
Scott Siegel, DT/OL, 6-0, 245, Sr.
Markell Green, OLB/RB, 5-11, 195, Jr.
Jakob Oldenburg, OLB/WR, 6-1, 195, Jr.
Noah Jahnke, K, 5-11, 165, Sr.
About the Comets: Solon began Phase 1 workouts Aug. 17 and does not plan to compete while the school district is conducting remote learning. The Comets still could compete this fall. If they do, they bring back a balanced group, headlined by Northwestern commit Story on defense with an offense that has McQuaide (2,257 yards passing, 24 TDs to two interceptions) and Eichelberger (1,098 yards, 11 TDs) leading the way on that side of the ball. Defensively, the Comets bring back more than Story. Green compiled a team-high 76 tackles, while Oldenburg is another returning starter at linebacker.
4. EUCLID PANTHERS
2019 record: 9-3, Division I regional semifinalist
Coach: Jeff Rotsky (sixth season)
Players to watch
Malachi Davis, QB/CB, 5-9, 170, Sr.
Atiba Fitz, RB/S, 5-9, 182, Sr.
Javon Colvin, RB, 5-7, 165, Sr.
Armond Scott, WR/CB, 6-3, 200, Sr.
Claishon Ivory, WR, 5-11, 165, Jr.
Herman Taylor, OT, 6-4, 285, Sr.
Harold Jarvis, C/DT, 6-0, 280, Sr.
Alex Reese, DE/OT, 6-4, 260, Sr.
Brandon Krivacic, DE/OT, 5-11, 215, Sr.
Chrishaun Edwards, DT, 5-8, 285, Sr.
Ty Howard, MLB/FB, 5-11, 190, Jr.
Andre Tillman, LB/DE, 6-2, 220, Sr.
Ahjay Cody, LB/RB, 5-11, 195, Sr.
Ryan Merrill, LB/FB, 5-11, 210, So.
Michael Gravely Jr., CB/S/WR, 6-1, 183, Sr.
Cameron Smith, S, 6-2, 170, Sr.
About the Panthers: It took Euclid some time to get back on the field. Ten days after some its rivals to be exact. The Panthers began their preseason practices Aug. 11 and took the field with not only an experienced senior class, but a defensive backfield that can rival any in the state. Three players are headed next year to Division I colleges from that secondary; a fourth, if Scott (Kentucky commit at receiver) spends more time there, too. Euclid already had Air Force-bound safety Fitz and Eastern Michigan commit Smith, but it added Glenville transfer Gravely (a Michigan State commit) to that mix. The linebackers are experienced, too, with a trio of Howard, Tillman and Cody back again. Offensively, one of those returning starters from the secondary takes over at quarterback in Davis. He will hand off to Fitz and a slew of running backs, while Scott and Ivory are two of his top targets.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 at Brunswick
Sept. 4 vs. Mentor
Sept. 11 at Cleveland Heights
Sept. 18 vs. Strongsville
Sept. 25 vs. Medina
Oct. 2 at Elyria
3. ARCHBISHOP HOBAN KNIGHTS
2019 record: 11-2, Division II regional finalist
Coach: Tim Tyrrell (eighth season)
Players to watch
Shane Hamm, QB, 5-11, 187, Sr.
Victor Dawson, RB, 6-0, 215, Sr.
Markim McKinnie, RB/CB, 5-11, 175, Jr.
David Vincent, RB, 5-11, 200, Jr.
Brayden Fox, WR, 6-3, 200, Sr.
Kharion Davis, WR/S, 5-11, 160, Sr.
Shawn Parnell, WR, 5-10, 187, Jr.
Colton Burkhart, G, 6-2, 270, Jr.
Keshawn Haynes, G, 6-3, 315, Jr.
Luke Petit, C, 6-2, 250, Sr.
Darryl Peterson III, DE, 6-3, 245, Sr.
Chances Carter-Hill, DE/TE, 6-3, 215, Sr.
Jason Martin III, NT, 6-0, 270, So.
Bryce Sisak, DT, 6-2, 240, Jr.
Damon Ollison II, LB, 6-0, 215, Sr.
Luke Bauer, OLB, 6-0, 232, Sr.
Mike Hayden, ILB, 5-10, 190, Sr.
Alvin Stallworth Jr., CB, 6-0, 190, Sr.
Amir Stewart, CB, 6-0, 195, Sr.
A.J. Kirk, S/KR, 6-1, 197, Sr.
Charlie Durkin, K/P, 5-11, 180, Jr.
About the Knights: Hoban’s run of four straight state championships ended last year in the Division II regional finals against Massillon. Talented players depart every year, but plenty remain — which has been typical for Tyrrell’s program — with 10 returning starters on defense and a fourth-year starting quarterback leading the way in Hamm (2,453 yards passing, 23 TDs to three interceptions last season). The big losses to graduation include Arizona State recruit DeaMonte Trayanum at running back and Michigan State linebacker Devin Hightower. However, Peterson is a Wisconsin recruit and Ollison has Power Five conference scholarship offers. Fox is headed to Rutgers next year, Kirk comes in from Dublin Coffman and has an Ohio State offer, among others. Meanwhile, Dawson proved to be a capable back last year in place of Trayanum. With the ASU recruit sidelined for stretches last year with an injury, Dawson stepped in to put up 1,300 total yards. He is joined this year in the backfield by Vincent and McKinnie, a transfer from Barberton.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 vs. Reigning Sports Academy
Sept. 5 at St. Edward
Sept. 11 at Benedictine
Week 4 vs. TBD
Sept. 25 at St. Vincent-St. Mary
Oct. 2 at Walsh Jesuit
2. ST. EDWARD EAGLES
2019 record: 11-2, Division I regional finalist
Coach: Tom Lombardo (sixth season)
Players to watch
Christian Ramos, QB, 6-1, 180, Jr.
Malachi Watkins, RB, 5-10, 200, Sr.
Broden Bostwick, WR, 5-10, 180, Jr.
Connor Goodall, WR, 6-3, 165, Jr.
Andrew Cook, TE, 6-1, 196, Sr.
Brad Delphia, TE, 6-2, 185, Jr.
Joe Lavelle, OT, 6-1, 260, Jr.
Thomas Aden, G/DT, 6-2, 285, Sr.
Chris Moran, G/C, 6-3, 295, Sr.
Trey Bixby, DE, 6-4, 235, Jr.
Charles Calhoun III, DE, 6-2, 215, Sr.
Caden Casto, DT, 6-2, 250, Sr.
C.J. Hankins, MLB, 5-11, 220, Sr.
Jaylen Castleberry, CB, 6-0, 180, Sr.
Joel Castleberry, CB, 6-0, 160, Jr.
Jack Riley, S, 5-11, 165, Jr.
Justin Slattery, P, 5-11, 185, Sr.
About the Eagles: A two-point conversion by Mentor last year in overtime is all that potentially separated St. Edward from a successful state title defense. The Eagles graduated another strong senior class that included a pair of Michigan State recruits in defensive end Jeff Pietrowski (14.5 sacks) and Montorie Foster. However, in typical St. Edward fashion, the cupboard is still well stocked in Lakewood. Hankins and Bixby, who committed to Minnesota, are the stars of the defense. Ramos is ready to step in at quarterback for graduated Conor O’Malley and the offensive line is experienced on the interior.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 at Massillon
Sept. 5 vs. Archbishop Hoban
Sept. 11 at Mentor
Sept. 19 at St. Ignatius
Week 5 open
Oct. 3 at Benedictine
1. MENTOR CARDINALS
2019 record: 13-1, Division I state semifinalist
Coach: Matt Gray (first season)
Players to watch
Ian Kipp, QB/CB, 6-3, 215, Sr.
Riley Coughlin, RB, 5-10, 205, Sr.
Hutch Baird, WR/CB, 6-1, 190, Sr.
Colin DePasquale, WR, 6-0, 180, Sr.
Hunter Colao, OT, 6-0, 270, Sr.
Tommy Shea, OT, 6-2, 275, Sr.
Stan Zalewski, C, 5-11, 260, Sr.
Ethan Bostelman, OL, 6-2, 250, Jr.
Brenan Vernon, DE, 6-5, 255, So.
Greg Predina, DE, 6-4, 250, Sr.
Preston Cardina, DT, 6-1, 280, Sr.
Benny LoDuca, DL, 6-2, 270, Jr.
Evan Boyd, LB, 5-11, 195, Sr.
Andrew Edwards, LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.
Noah Gladish, CB, 6-0, 180, Sr.
Eriq Martemus, CB, 6-1, 175, Sr.
Andrew Smith, K, 6-5, 190, Sr.
About the Cardinals: Gray takes over for Steve Trivisonno, who retired following last season — his 23rd at the school — with a run to the state semifinals. It ended with a close loss to state champion Pickerington Central, but the Cardinals bring back one of the state’s top dual threats at quarterback in Kipp with three returning starters on the offensive line and an experienced defensive front. Kipp threw for 2,314 yards and 22 TD passes to just two interceptions. He rushed for another 849 yards and 14 TDs. Kipp will be without his top two receivers from last year, Luke Floriea (Kent State) and Justin Luke, plus leading rusher Brian Trobel. The Cardinals are replacing 14 of 22 starters from the state semifinals, but they still have the star power — with a Division I college prospect in Vernon and Predina pushing the defensive edge — to keep Mentor a favorite while the new regulars accustom themselves to Friday nights.
Modified six-week schedule
Aug. 28 at Medina
Sept. 4 at Euclid
Sept. 11 vs. St. Edward
Sept. 18 at Brunswick
Sept. 25 vs. Elyria
Oct. 2 vs. Strongsville
More high school football preview coverage
Preseason quarterback watch list
Contact sports reporter Matt Goul on Twitter (@mgoul) or email (mgoul@cleveland.com).