SMCC 2021 Schedule Analysis

By Frank Vajcner

It’s now time to head to the alma mater of Gary Hauf and Mike Lusch. A young SMCC squad went 6-3, and grew up with some big wins late in the season. Will the schedule allow for Adam Kipf and company to keep building off of that momentum?

2021 Schedule:

Aug 26: Almont

Sept 2: Grosse Ile

Sept 10: Airport

Sept 17: @ Milan

Sept 24: Riverview

Oct 1: @ Flat Rock

Oct 8: @ New Boston Huron

Oct 15: @ Jefferson

Oct 22: TBD

Gut-Check Game: at Milan. After three games at the friendly confines of Navarre Field, the first road test for the Falcons is a trip to Milan. The Big Reds have been the Falcons’ kryptonite since 2017, despite last year’s game not being played. This is another potential separation game in the Huron League. You can also mention a visit from Riverview the following week, as the Falcons will look to avenge a 35-7 thrashing from last season.

Trap Game: Grosse Ile. Last season, the Falcons swooped onto The Island and shocked the Red Devils with a 47-40 win. The Devils will be looking for revenge in the Huron League opener.

Snoozer: Just refer to any other analysis for a Huron League team.

Non-Conference Challenge: Almont pays a visit to Navarre to open the season. The Raiders went 3-3 last season, losing in the second round of the playoffs. This matchup doesn’t have the hype that last season’s would have had, as both teams were coming off of State Finals appearances.

Notable: The Falcons were scheduled to play Clarkston Everest Collegiate in Week 9, but the Mountaineers have required Catholic League commitments. As of July 11, the Falcons will open with three straight at home, and conclude with three straight on the road.

Thoughts from Frank: The Huron League is always a meat grinder, regardless of which team you support. If the Falcons can get through the first four weeks unbeaten, the showdown with Riverview will be a chance to get in the catbird’s seat for the Huron League Championship.

Thoughts from Gary: Excellent season opener in Almont. The Raiders were finalists in 2019 and missed the playoffs only once since 2004. Clarkston Everest was scheduled for week 9 but the Mountaineers backed out of the deal. That too would have been a dandy. The Falcons are actively searching for a week 9 opponent.

Thoughts from Chris: Typical tough schedule for the smallest school in the league. Milan and Riverview back to back will determine if the Falcons can win the league for the first time since 2015.