By Frank Vajcner
We now head to the alma mater of Jeff Grodi for our next stop. Does Jefferson’s schedule allow for them to take another step forward?
2021 Schedule:
Aug 26: @ Onsted
Sept 2: Riverview
Sept 10: @ Flat Rock
Sept 17: New Boston Huron
Sept 24: @ Grosse Ile
Oct 1: Airport
Oct 8: @ Milan
Oct 15: SMCC
Oct 22: @ Detroit Northwestern
Gut-Check Game: Riverview. The home opener at Marc Cisco Field is the reigning Huron League Champs. Gene Gennoe will have to have his squad ready if they want to make a statement. The last time the Bears beat the Pirates was 2016.
Trap Game: at Onsted. Yes, I know that this game fits the bill for the snoozer category, but keep in mind that this one is on the road right before Riverview comes to town.
Snoozer: I’m not putting Flat Rock here, as that game could go either way.
Non-Conference Challenge: The non-conference slate is pretty mundane. Last year’s scheduled meeting with Onsted had more sizzle to it. A trip to Detroit Northwestern, which marks the end of the regular season, doesn’t move the needle. The Colts went 2-5 last season, with wins over woebegone Detroit Douglass and Detroit Osborn.
Notable: Onsted was last on the schedule for a home-and-home series in 2000 and 2001. The Bears won both meetings 30-6 and 42-13…This will be the first meeting between Jefferson and Northwestern on the gridiron.
Frank’s Thoughts: Wins against Onsted, Flat Rock, and Northwestern are feasible, but the Bears will have to steal a couple elsewhere if they want to make the playoffs.
Thoughts from Gary: Love the Onsted opener. Little travel involved but a great game vs two historically rugged programs. Closing with Northwestern is certainly winnable.
Thoughts from Chris: I like the way the schedule shakes out for the Bears. They could find themselves at 4-2 entering week 7 at Milan.