By Frank Vajcner
We now go island hopping for our next stop in the schedule analysis series. Grosse Ile continued their trend of being successful in even-numbered years, but will the schedule allow for success in an odd-numbered year?
2021 Schedule:
Aug 27: @ Riverview Gabriel Richard
Sept 2: @ SMCC
Sept 10: Milan
Sept 17: @ Airport
Sept 24: Jefferson
Oct 1: New Boston Huron
Oct 8: Flat Rock
Oct 15: @ Riverview
Oct 22: @ Clinton Township Clintondale
Gut-Check Game: at SMCC. Between Chris, Gary, and myself, none of us thought that SMCC would come to The Island and knock off the Red Devils. That was a swing and a miss, as a young Falcons team swooped in and ran wild to the tune of 580 rushing yards and a 47-40 victory. The Devils will now have to open up Huron League play at the friendly confines of Navarre Field, where they have not won since 2011.
Trap Game: Jefferson. The Devils faced the Bears twice last season, winning both. This year’s matchup comes at the end of a brutal September slate.
Snoozer: I’m not going to keep beating a dead horse. Just refer to the same section on Airport’s schedule analysis.
Non-Conference Challenge: The Devils will hit the road for both non-conference games. Riverview Gabriel Richard will mark the season opener. The Pioneers went 6-2 last season. Clinton Township Clintondale will mark the regular season finale. The Dragons were 3-5 last season, including a 36-8 loss to the Devils.
Notable: The Devils will play three straight home games from Weeks 5-7.
Frank’s Thoughts: The last odd-numbered year that John Bodner and company made the postseason was 2011. In order to get back there, surviving a tough first four weeks will be key. If the Devils can get through at least 2-2, there will be reason to believe a postseason trip is in the cards.
Thought’s from Gary: We will find out how good the Red Devils are right out of the gate. Weeks 1-3 should prove to be a great test for the Islanders.
Thoughts from Chris: Two tough road games could set the tone for the season before the Red Devils host always tough Milan in week 3.
My prediction for the Islanders
1- Grosse Ile over RGR
2- SMCC over GI
3- Milan over GI
4- GI over Airport (upset special pick)
5- GI over Jefferson
6-Huron over GI
7- GI over Flat Rock
8- Riverview over GI
9- GI over Clintondale
Will that be enough to get in the playoffs Frank?
The new playoff point format has yet to be tested. There is no way of knowing.
A 5-4 GI would be VERY close to not making it in my opinion.
BUT lets be positive, a 5-4 GI would be also be VERY close to making it as well.
Edit: I just noticed you asked Frank… Frank, what say you?
Look forward to reading your analysis on all of the teams Frank!
You always do a Great job!