SMCC @ Grass Lake

SMCC (9-2) is coming off of a convincing win over Detroit Consortium 35-12 while Grass Lake (10-1) defeated Manchester 27-7. These two teams last met in the Division 6 Regional in 2010. SMCC won that game by an impressive score of 48-14.

Grass Lake finished in a first place tie in the Cascades Conference with Michigan Center and Manchester but defeated those teams the first two weeks of the playoffs.

The Warriors have a powerful offensive attack that is led by seniors Logan Konopka and Frank Vuocolo. The 6’1″ 210 lb Konopka has thrown for over 1,200 yards and 12 TD’s. Vuocolo, a 6’0″ 190 lb RB/LB has rushed for 129 ypg and has scored 11 TD’s. Sophomore RB Justin Wright brings speed to the Warrior backfield and has scored 14 TD’s.

Defensively Grass Lake is led by two junior defensive linemen. Chris Greca is a 6’4″ 290 lb wall in the middle that enters the game with 72 tackles while Seth Radabaugh leads the defense with 102 tackles.

SMCC finished third in the Huron League and lost competitive games to Milan and Grosse Ile. Grosse Ile is still alive the Division 4 playoffs.

SMCC runs it’s traditional straight T attack with a bunch of different backs carrying the ball. Drew Antonelli, Josh Czarniowski, and Michael Wilson lead an explosive offense that is averaging 37 ppg.

The Falcon defense is led by senior LB and captain Levi Eddings. Defensive lineman Chris LaPlante is one of the best defensive players in the Huron League. SMCC’s team speed is solid on a defense that gives up just over 17 ppg.

This should be a close game. Grass Lake has playoff experience and are battle tested. SMCC is coached by Jack Giarmo, who is one of the best in Michigan. Many are saying that SMCC is a year away but the Falcons time may be now. Pick: SMCC 22 Grass Lake 21