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Big 6 QB Dorian Nowell Makes College Choice
One of the toughest high school football conferences has produced yet another Division I quarterback, and this time the destination is our nation’s capital. Rising senior Dorian Nowell announced Saturday evening he had committed to Georgetown University. Georgetown 25’ #HoyaSaxa #DefendtheDistrict pic.twitter.com/dutwL7loNZ— Dorian Nowell✍🏾 (@doriannowell) May 23, 2020 Nowell, now enrolled at St. Joe’s (Mont.), was the starting quarterback at Paramus Catholic during his sophomore and junior seasons. With the Paladins, he collected 16 touchdowns to only five interceptions for 2,484 yards and went 6-15 over the past two seasons. WATCH Nowell’s Junior Season Highlights! Nowell did not play in Paramus Catholic’s final two games last season and it was announced in January he had transferred to St. Joe’s. The rising senior is expected to be in the mix for the starting quarterback job with the Green Knights this season as senior Michael Alaimo is graduating and committed to play at Purdue University. Nowell will now head into the 2020 season as the only quarterback from a Big Six program (St. Joe’s, Bergen Catholic, St. Peter’s Prep, Paramus Catholic, Don Bosco Prep, DePaul) committed to a D-I program so far. For all the latest on recruiting news for New Jersey high school athletes, follow along with JerseySportsZone.com!
Princeton’s Shayla Marciano – Michigan LAX commit
One of Mercer County’s best didn’t get to touch the lacrosse field this year but it doesn’t take away from the greatness she’s brought with her the last three seasons. In 2019 Princeton’s Shaylah Marciano had 62 goals, 50 assists and 76 draw controls to help lead the Tigers to a Central Group 4 Title. Marciano will continue her lacrosse career at the University of Michigan. Watch her junior season highlights below: Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Princeton coverage.
NJSIAA Lays Out Plan For When HS Sports in NJ Can Return
It’s been nearly three weeks since officials closed New Jersey schools for the remainder of the 2019-2020 year to curb the spread of COVID-19. That effectively put an end to the spring sports season in 2020. Now the conversation turns to when high school sports in the Garden State can actually resume. New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) executive committee president Mary Liv Ivans penned a letter Friday laying out that plan in detail. It’s all centered around having a fall sports season this year. Ivans will chair the newly-formed NJSIAA COVID-19 Medical Advisory Task Force, a collaboration of professionals tasked with the goal of making sports safe for New Jersey high school athletes this fall. “The goal of the task force is to identify and implement both general and sports-specific modifications that will be required by NJSIAA member schools,” Ivans wrote. “In the short-term, our efforts will be focused on returning the fall athletes to their sports for the 2020 season.” The formation of this new group comes only days after the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) released a 16-page guideline depicting how high school athletes can be kept safe when a return to sports is made. The NJSIAA’s new task force will look to “identify and implement both general and sports-specific modifications that will be required by NJSIAA member schools,” wrote Ivans. “The fewer cases there are today, the greater the likelihood we will play in the fall. And as we navigate the next few months, it is important that we prepare to be flexible with a new normal. Of course, the timing of our return to school will ultimately be determined by the State of New Jersey. And, it’s important to keep in mind that going back to our school buildings won’t necessarily guarantee an immediate return of athletics. It’s possible that some sports will follow different schedules than others,” she continued. The state athletic association announced members signed onto the task force. They are Kathy Whalen, NJ Department of Education; Dr. Lakota Kruse, medical director, NJ Department of Health, Division of Family Health Services; Dr. Jack Kripsak, chair of the NJSIAA Medical Advisory Committee; Dr. Damion Martins, team physician and director of Internal Medicine to the New York Jets and a member of the NFL COVID Taskforce; and Dr. Rob Franks, a team physician for USA wrestling and team consultant to the Philadelphia Phillies. NJSIAA assistant director Tony Maselli will serve as the NJSIAA liaison. “Many obstacles remain,” Ivans concluded. “Hard work, patience and flexibility will be required, and at times some may feel deflated. But I’m confident that together, we will help get our kids safely back in the game.” For the latest on how the COVID-19 pandemic will impact high school sports in New Jersey, continue to follow along with us here at JerseySportsZone.com.
Highland’s Johnny Martin III Commits to Temple
Johnny Martin rushed for 11 touchdowns and over 1,000 yards in just six games for Highland last fall. The Tartans rising senior announced his college decision on Thursday night, committing to Temple University. Hey philly🦉🍒 pic.twitter.com/DJXKfa3nVK— Johnny Martin III (@johnnymartin0) May 21, 2020 Watch Martin’s junior season highlight reel here: Coverage of Highland is brought to you by Cooper University Health Care.
Union’s Desmond Igobinsun stays home and commits to Rutgers
In 2019 Union’s Desmond Igobinsun scored 8 touchdowns, 43 catches, 700 + yards receiving, 935 all purpose yards, 96 tackles, 2 interceptions and a blocked field goal. His efforts helped lead the Farmers to a 12-2 record and the North, Group 5 Regional Championship. He has decided to make the short trip and continue his football career in the Fall at Rutgers University. Check out the three star recruit’s junior season highlights:
Lenape’s Xavier Coleman Commits to Boston College
Xavier Coleman rushed for over 600 yards and scored 14 touchdowns on the ground for Lenape last season. Coleman also finished with over 500 receiving yards and hauled in seven touchdown catches during his junior year for the Indians. Coleman announced his college decision on Sunday evening, committing to Boston College. This for you Ma ❤️609% Committed 🙏🏽THANK YOU GOD ! pic.twitter.com/0akCmLpU0G— Xavier Coleman (@Xtooshiftyy) May 10, 2020 Watch Coleman’s junior season highlights here:
Mater Dei’s Naran Buntin commits to Kent State
The Seraphs wideout becomes the second Mater Dei Division I commit from the class of 2021. Watch his JSZ highlight reel! Mater Dei Prep wide receiver Naran Buntin was one of the Seraphs key weapons on offense during their run to the Non-Public Group 3 state finals. Buntin will play FBS football at Kent State giving his verbal commitment to the Golden Flashes on social media: ALL IN ⚡️#FLASHFAST pic.twitter.com/E7k1XqTLlB— Naran Buntin (@asvp_naran) May 5, 2020 Buntin joins Mater Dei Prep teammate Dominick Giudice (Michigan) as Seraphs D-1 football commits. Watch Naran’s JSZ highlight reel from his electric junior season: Jersey Sports Zone is excited to have ACI Medical & Dental School join our team and present our Central Jersey Game Balls all year long in addition to allowing us to bring great highlights and features to Rumson-Fair Haven and Middletown North. One of the top technical schools in NJ, Advantage Career Institute Medical & Dental School in Central New Jersey offers a variety of programs in the in-demand medical and dental industries. Visit ACI.edu to learn more!
Penns Grove’s Nasir Robinson Commits to Navy
Nasir “Hollywood” Robinson helped lead Penns Grove to its second straight South Jersey Group 1 championship last season. The junior rushed for over 1,600 yards and scored 34 touchdowns for the Red Devils. Robinson announced his college decision on Tuesday evening, committing to Navy. 100% COMMITTED TO NAVY #WE21ive #BuiltDifferent #NavyFB @CoachKnowsBest @NextLevelQBs @her_visions @JMacDonald_Navy @NavyFB @ArmyNavyGame @ryanwpatti @AlexBroggi @Rivals pic.twitter.com/bOoIiSPKsU— Nasir “Hollywood”Robinson (@NasirRobinson15) May 5, 2020 Watch Robinson in action for Penns Grove last season here:
Holy Spirit’s Patrick Smith Commits to Colorado State
Patrick “Cheeks” Smith helped lead Holy Spirit to the Non-Public Group 2 state championship last season. Smith rushed for over 1,300 yards and scored 22 touchdowns for the Spartans last fall. The junior recently announced his college decision, committing to Colorado State University. COMMITTED…….#2am1y ✅🐏 #RamClash🤜🤛#ColoradoSTATEofmind #WakeUpRammin #GreenMeansGo🚦 pic.twitter.com/cYccXsuK89— Patrick “Cheeks” Smith🚀⚡️🏈 (@thatkidd_cheeks) May 4, 2020 Watch a highlight reel of Smith in action here:
Hun’s Kevin Wigenton II talks committing to Michigan State football during quarantine
The Covid-19 pandemic has made 2020 the most interesting year in sports history. With professional leagues taking a hiatus and the NCAA cancelling their Spring calendar, high school athletics have also taken a hit as many athletes still await their fate of getting to play a season before Summer. Offensive lineman Kevin Wigenton II of the Hun School (Princeton) is one of New Jersey’s premiere pass blockers in the Class of 2021 and he speaks with JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez on committing to Michigan State during quarantine: Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Hun coverage!
How North Jersey Athletes Are Giving Back During COVID-19 Pandemic
The coronavirus pandemic has hit the United States hard and New Jersey is the second-most impacted state in the country. As the end of April nears, the Garden State has 116,264 positive cases and 6,770 deaths. High school sports in New Jersey have been shut down for over a month but that doesn’t mean student-athletes have stopped working to support their communities. Indian Hills senior Vicki Enright and Don Bosco Prep senior Christian Schmidhauser are just two of the hundreds of high school athletes going the extra mile to help aide frontline healthcare workers during this trying time all across the state. JSZ North Jersey MMJ Jay Cook highlighted the pair as their initiatives have helped supports nurses and doctors across North Jersey: Other North Jersey Teams and Athletes Giving Back Great job @CPHS__Soccer Staff!#NJThanksYou #RedRaiders #BL16 https://t.co/usAc2Vk9Tt pic.twitter.com/Lq9pIcYtpu— CPHS Athletics (@CPHS_Athletics) April 29, 2020 The softball team will be conducting a fundraiser to support The Valley Hospital Foundation 💜 if interested in purchasing a shirt or mask please follow the link below!https://t.co/tBPD1brdeJ pic.twitter.com/uuknoSUife— NorthernHighlandsSoftball (@NorthernHighla1) April 29, 2020 Excited, Proud, and Fortunate to be a part of helping the community that ALWAYS helps us…Ramsey Softball donates 1K to Ramsey Strong. Here’s to helping the local restaurants and first responders who are making a difference 🙏💙🥎💛🐏🙏 #RamseyStrong #RamseyPride pic.twitter.com/GWmRtssdfg— Ramsey Softball (@RamseySoftball) April 29, 2020 SW#5 with another big thanks to first responders and healthcare workers for their UNMATCHED dedication and sacrifice #team #together #FirstResponders #HealthcareHeroes pic.twitter.com/QQTGV6huzr— Westwood Card Hoops (@wwrsdboyshoops) April 29, 2020 We are partnering with ‘Feed it Forward.’ This group seeks out people who are unable to access meals in our and nearby communities. We will buy food locally to support our restaurants. If you would like to make a donation, pm us. Thank you and stay safe:) @whillsathletics pic.twitter.com/YhluE36wPq— Wayne Hills Track and Field (@WayneHillsTFXC) April 24, 2020 Our program was able to donate meals to the St. Barnabas ICU today. So happy to help out the brave men and women fighting on the front lines of this pandemic. Thank you to our parents & families for their generous donations and Fresco Market & Catering for providing the food! pic.twitter.com/fE5i7jIEOt— West Essex Boys Lacrosse (@WEBoysLax) April 25, 2020 Sponsor Shoutout! JSZ wants to thank its loyal sponsors for supporting New Jersey high school athletics so we can continue to tell meaningful stories during the coronavirus pandemic. Thanks to Rothman Orthopaedics for sponsoring our coverage in North Jersey!
Long Branch 4,000-yard rusher makes college choice
Jermaine Corbett was one of the most electrifying running backs in New Jersey over the past three years. Watch JSZ’s highlight reel and see where he’s heading to play college football Jermaine Corbett has given a verbal commitment to play Division II football at Stonehill College. Corbett racked up 4,367 yards and scored 60 times in his three-year varsity career with the Green Wave. Despite playing most of his senior year injured, Corbett was still able to rack up over 900 yards on the ground and was a game-changer on defense and special teams. Corbett’s senior year highlight reel includes Jermaine’s thanks to everyone who helped him make the decision: 110% COMMITTED💜 pic.twitter.com/vUG4WhywAY— Jermaine Corbett (@Jermaine_2x) April 25, 2020
P’Burg QB Ben Ries Commits to Bloomsburg
Patience is a virtue, and no one in Phillipsburg knows that better than Ben Ries. After over 1,000 combined yards of offense and 19 total touchdowns, the Stateliners’ senior signal caller announced this week his commitment to Bloomsburg University. JSZ caught up with Ries about why he chose to commit to the Huskies, what he loves about the program and his high school career with Phillipsburg. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story: Sponsor Shoutout! Jersey Sports Zone is able to keep highlighting New Jersey athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic thanks in part to our loyal sponsors who love high school sports. Thanks to our long-time sponsor, the Garnet Booster Club, for sponsoring JSZ’s coverage of the Phillipsburg Stateliners.
End of an Era? St. Joseph Faces Uncertain Future
The St. Joseph (Hammonton) football team is one of the most storied programs in South Jersey. Now the future of the school is in doubt after the Diocese of Camden announced St. Joseph would be closing at the end of June. The Wildcats say they’re not going down without a fight, as school officials look for a different path forward. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the story: South Jersey coverage is brought to you in part by Cooper University Health Care.
Tim Watson Steps Down at Cedar Creek
Tim Watson is the only head football coach in the history of Cedar Creek High School. After nine seasons and two sectional championships, Watson announced he’s stepping down to spend more time with his family. His career record with the Pirates stands at 71-27, including a 10-3 campaign last fall. Cedar Creek beat Camden in the Central Jersey Group 2 final last season. Here’s Watson’s speech to his team after that victory:
Keshon Griffin Commits to Rutgers
Keshon Griffin of St. Joseph (Hammonton) announced his college decision on Friday, making a verbal commitment to Rutgers. The junior was one of the Wildcats’ top players last fall as both a tight end and an outside linebacker. Griffin projects as an outside linebacker for the Scarlet Knights, adding to a loaded 2021 recruiting class for Rutgers. Watch some of Griffin’s junior year highlights here: @TodderickHunt @StJoe_Football @RUCoachFran @CoachPanagos @GregSchiano @RFootball #Chop21 pic.twitter.com/hk6oDBHsak— Keshon Griffin (@yeakeyyy) March 27, 2020 Coverage of South Jersey football is made possible by NJM Insurance.
Mater Dei’s Giudice commits to Michigan
JSZ brings you some big recruiting news. Mater Dei Prep defensive end Dominick Giudice is on his way to the Maize and Blue. Watch the highlight reel of New Jersey’s sack leader in 2019! One of New Jersey’s fast-rising recruits in the class of 2021 has made his college choice. Mater Dei Prep defensive end Dominick Giudice has given a verbal commitment to play Division I football in the Big Ten at the University of Michigan. Giudice led the state in sacks with 24 in his junior season and helped guide Mater Dei Prep to the Non-Public Group 3 state championship game. Giudice made his announcement on Wednesday night via his social media channels: God has blessed me with the opportunity to play the game of football at a high level to be used as a platform for Him! I’m so blessed to announce that I am committed to my childhood dream school, The University of Michigan!!! #GoBlue @CoachNua @FBCoachDBrown @CoachJim4UM pic.twitter.com/rgXI8QwK9c— Dominick Giudice (@dom_giudice27) March 26, 2020 Giudice spoke with JSZ about his commitment and how he’s keeping busy as the state remains locked down due to the coronavirus: Giudice was a JSZ All-Zone selection in 2019 after his 24 sack season. Watch our highlight reel from the dynamic pass rusher:
St. Augustine’s Carnell Davis Commits to Rutgers
Carnell Davis made an instant impact once he became eligible for St. Augustine last fall. The junior standout was a force on both sides of the football, at defensive back and wide receiver, helping to lead the Hermits to the Non-Public Group 4 semifinals. Davis announced his verbal commitment to Rutgers on Tuesday, as he plans to stay in the Garden State and suit up for the Scarlet Knights. Check out Davis’ 2019 JSZ All Zone Profile here: @BrianDohn247 @NextLevelQBs @CoachPhilJr @EauGallieHC @HermitAthletics @RivalsFriedman @RFootball @RUCoachFran @GregSchiano pic.twitter.com/CDxXqbSVsy— Nell®2️⃣1️⃣ (@carnell_davis1) February 18, 2020
Camden’s Alijah Clark Commits to Rutgers
Rutgers’ 2020 recruiting class was filled with some of the Garden State’s best players. Now the Scarlet Knights have landed their first commitment in the class of 2021. Camden athlete Alijah Clark made a verbal commitment to Rutgers, announcing the news on his Twitter account. Clark reeled in five touchdown catches for the Panthers last fall, before an injury at quarterback changed The High’s offensive focus to the running game. Clark also finished with a pair of rushing touchdowns and five interceptions for The High in 2019, leading Camden to the Central Jersey Group 2 final. Check out new Rutgers commit Alijah Clark in action: #All in pic.twitter.com/Fnmxe7WdlP— (Cinco)Alijah Clark5️⃣ (@cinco_agent) February 6, 2020 Coverage of Camden is brought to you by Cooper University Health Care.
St. Joe’s Head Coach Augie Hoffmann Joining Rutgers Football Staff
The North Jersey to Rutgers University pipeline just got that much stronger, but not in the way you’d initially think. St. Joe’s (Mont.) head coach Augie Hoffmann — who was at the helm for six seasons and two state championships — has accepted a role on the Rutgers University coaching staff under Greg Schiano. According to a source familiar with the situation, Hoffmann made the announcement during an emotional team meeting Tuesday morning. Those familiar with the St. Joe’s program knew Hoffmann, who was a Class of 1999 St. Joe’s alum himself, as a beloved member in the Green Knights’ community. That same source also confirmed to Jersey Sports Zone that Hoffmann will be the tight ends coach at Rutgers University. “Augie is one of the most respected coaches in New Jersey,” Schiano said in a statement. “As a leader of one of the top programs in the state, he has a proven track record of developing elite talent both on and off the field. Augie is a tireless worker and his reputation among the players and coaches in our state speaks for itself. We look forward to welcoming Augie and his family to Rutgers.” Hoffmann received significant interest from to join other coaching staffs. He turned down a job on the Miami Dolphins under head coach Brian Flores last year. He also received significant interest from Boston College to work under new head coach Jeff Hafley, the source said. Hoffmann is a 2003 grad from Boston College. WATCH: JSZ’s coverage of Augie Hoffmann Hoffmann was handpicked by former St. Joe’s head coaching legend Tony Karcich to replace him after retirement going into the 2014 season. In the six seasons as head coach, Hoffmann accumulated a 49-19 record while winning a Non-Public Group 3 state championship in 2016 and a Non-Public Group 4 state championship in 2018. Players and coaches in North Jersey knew Hoffmann to have a fiery yet passionate personality. That translated to numerous players transferring into the program to play for a coach who got the best out of them. What This Means for Rutgers Schiano has quickly put together a coaching staff with tons of New Jersey flavor. He retained last year’s interim head coach Nunzio Campanile (former Bergen Catholic head coach) and brought in former Temple defensive back coach Fran Brown (Camden native). Fired up to be on the same sideline w/ my guy Coach Hoffmann. #Chop https://t.co/afgV7Ka0xa— Nunzio Campanile (@CoachNunz) January 7, 2020 Sean Gleeson, a New Jersey native and former Princeton University assistant, is both the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Hoffmann coached current Scarlet Knights tight end Matt Alaimo during his high school career at St. Joe’s. That much New Jersey influence is sure to have an impact on recruiting some of the Garden State’s best to stay home. WATCH: What do NJ high school coaches think of Greg Schiano?
All-American Jalen Berger Commits to Wisconsin
The wait is over. Jalen Berger — a 2019 JSZ Zoneman Finalist and the consensus No. 1 ranked player in New Jersey’s Class of 2020 — has officially announced his commitment to Wisconsin. Berger made his decision official during the NBC broadcast of the 2020 All-American Bowl from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday afternoon. Committed!! AGTG #OnWisconsin 🦡 pic.twitter.com/cZLXzNhdwq— Jalen Berger (@JalenBerger) January 4, 2020 His announcement caps off a remarkable high school career for a player who was a national recruit courted by most, if not all, of college football’s elite programs. Watch Jalen Berger’s 2019 Highlight Reel HERE The Wisconsin to New Jersey connection is clear. Former Salem High School and South Jersey star running back Jonathan Taylor spent the last three seasons in Madison, putting together one of the best collegiate careers in NCAA history. Taylor was recently named an All-American and Doak Walker Award winner for the second consecutive season. He picked the Badgers over LSU, Penn State, Rutgers, UCLA, Alabama, Ohio State, Oregon and many others. The six-foot, 190-pound Newark native was a dynamic and dominant offensive player in his four-year varsity tenure at perennial North Jersey powerhouse Don Bosco Prep. Although he’s officially listed as a running back, the Ironmen offensive staff used Berger in a multitude of formations. On any given down, he could be found in the backfield, lined up in the slot, cast out wide or even in the shotgun taking a snap. His prowess on the gridiron translated to eye-popping numbers in his senior season. He accounted for 1,081 rushing yards, 338 receiving and 18 total touchdowns while leading his team to the Non-Public Group 4 state championship at MetLife Stadium. Berger headlined New Jersey’s representation at the 2020 All-American Bowl. Joining him were St. Joe’s (Mont.) OL Luke Wypler (Ohio State); St. Peter’s Prep LB Cody Simon (Ohio State); Bergen Catholic DB Jordan Morant (Michigan) and Delran DB RJ Moten (Michigan). Berger was one of six finalists for JSZ’s Zoneman Trophy given to the top high school football player in New Jersey:
The Schiano Effect: JSZ All-Zoners flip commitments to Rutgers
Watch JSZ highlight reels of the newest commitments to Rutgers and follow along as the recruiting trail heats up leading to Wednesday’s early Signing Day period. On Tuesday, Rutgers head football coach Greg Schiano spoke at the third annual Jersey Sports Zone football banquet in front of the state’s top players talking about the importance of recruiting in-state talent. In the span of three days, Schiano and his staff have managed to get three members of JSZ’s All-Zone team to switch from Power 5 commitments to stay in-state and be part of the Scarlet Knights football program. That number could continue to grow leading up to the first early signing day period this Wednesday: Chris Long, Willingboro An original commit to Temple, Long was recruited by Fran Brown to Philadelphia. Long gave a glimpse of his future when he had a 7 catch, 212 yard, 3 TD performance at SHI Stadium in the Chimeras 50-14 win over Penns Grove in the South Group 1 championship. Long finished with South Jersey’s single-season receiving yards record topping 1600 yards with 20 TD catches. Brown was on the sidelines for the Willingboro victory and two days later Long announced his switch from the Owls to Rutgers: I just want to thank God because without him none of this would even be possible. For the next 3-4 years I will be taking my Talents to Rutgers University. Represent My state🙏🏾 #Chopnation @GregSchiano @RUCoachFran pic.twitter.com/C3dwAYoEHu— Chris Long™️ (@Hunchoboychris) December 10, 2019 Max Melton, Cedar Creek Wide Receiver Melton was a Big Ten commit to Purdue, but he is now on his way to Piscataway. Melton will join his older brother Bo on the Scarlet Knights roster and is projected to play in the secondary in college: COMMITTED⚔️‼️… Thanking God for every blessing he has given me. I will be representing my home state! #ChopNation @RUCoachFran @GregSchiano pic.twitter.com/7BYUu50In7— Malachi "Max" Melton (@melton_max) December 11, 2019 Tyreem Powell, Vineland Linebacker Another big name from South Jersey makes the switch. The original Virginia Tech commit made the switch to Rutgers. Projected as a linebacker in college, Powell played quarterback showing off his athleticism in his senior season at Vineland: IM STAYING HOME ! 🛡 ⚔️ #ChopNation @GregSchiano @RUCoachFran pic.twitter.com/UQNjjQrns4— Tyreem Powell (@ReeeemX_) December 12, 2019 Greg Schiano at JSZ Football Banquet Watch coverage of Greg Schiano’s visit to the JSZ Football Banquet including reaction from high school coaches in the Garden State along with Schiano’s message to the top players in the state:
N.J. HS Football Coaches Excited about Greg Schiano Hire
There’s no doubt about it — New Jersey high schools produce some of the most talented and competitive players in college football. In the two weeks new Rutgers University head coach Greg Schiano has been on the job, he and his assistant coaches have been hitting the pavement to recruit the Garden State’s best to stay home. So we had to ask some of New Jersey’s top high school coaches — what do you think about the Schiano hire? Let’s just say they’re excited. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story: JSZ’s 1-on-1 with Greg Schiano Greg Schiano was a surprise special-guest speaker at Jersey Sports Zone’s third annual All-Zone football banquet on Dec. 10 in Woodbridge. JSZ’s Chief Operating Officer, Rich Chrampanis, spoke with Schiano about his excitement to be back at the helm with the Scarlet Knights.
Diggs wins Zoneman, Schiano speaks at JSZ Football Banquet
The third annual JSZ Football Banquet featured the top players in New Jersey, an inspiring JSZ Courage Award and Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano opening our ceremony. It all capped off with Woodrow Wilson’s Fadil Diggs winning the Zoneman Trophy. Watch Jersey Sports Zone’s team coverage now! Rutgers Greg Schiano speaks at third annual Jersey Sports Zone Football Banquet The top high school football players from every part of New Jersey were assembled at the Delta Hotel in Woodbridge for the JSZ Football Banquet. Before the highlights of the 2019 JSZ All-Zone team, Rutgers head football coach Greg Schiano got things started with a great message to the honorees. The Scarlet Knights have made it known that recruiting the best players in -state is a top priority. Schiano was joined by assistant coaches Nunzio Campanile and Fran Brown to celebrate New Jersey’s best on the gridiron: Fadil Diggs wins JSZ Zoneman Trophy Woodrow Wilson defensive end and wide receiver Fadil Diggs took home the JSZ Zoneman Trophy. The Texas A&M commit helped lead the Tigers to a South Group 3 Regional Championship and won the balloting among NJ head football coaches and statewide media members. St. Joe-Hammonton running back Jada Byers was the runnerup. Byers and Diggs had equal first-place votes but Fadil was on nine more ballots in the Heisman style voting which gave him the top honor: The Zoneman Trophy was presented by NJM Insurance. Thanks to NJM’s Joe Dotro for being on hand to honor the best players in New Jersey! Zoneman Voting Name High School 1st 2nd 3rd Total Fadil DiggsWoodrow Wilson252411134 Jada ByersSt. Joe-Hammonton251610117 Jalen BergerDon Bosco Prep13182499 Cody SimonSaint Peter's Prep12142080 Luke WyplerSt. Joe-Montvale251026 Kyle MonangaiDon Bosco Prep42521 Thanks to everyone from around the state who was part of the Zoneman process Zoneman Ballots JSZ Staff: Rich Chrampanis, Nery Rodriguez, Mike Frankel, Jay Cook Statewide Media: Chris Melvin, Asbury Park Press, Dave McCarthy, McCarthy Report, Todderick Hunt, NJ.Com, Bob Badders, Shore Sports Network, Kevin Minnick, NJ.Com, Andrew Koob, NJ.Com, Pat Lanni, NJ.Com, JJ Conrad, NJ.Com, Mike McGarry, Press of Atlantic City, Ryan Patti, Rivals.Com, Tom Williams, PrimeEvents.Net, Tom McGurk, Courier-Post, Brian Carr, NorthJerseySports.Com, Shawn Brown, 247 Sports, GMC Gridiron, Joe Zedalis, NJ.Com, Mike Kinney, NJ.Com, Mike Fenske, MJF Recruiting, Brian Dohn, 247 Sports, JP Parachini, Worrell Media Coaches: John McKenna, DePaul Catholic, Vito Campanile, Bergen Catholic, Dallas Whitaker, Somerville, Dan Russo, Vineland, Pete Lancetta, St. Augustine Prep, Jim Raso, Hammonton, Tim Gushue, Shawnee, John Emel, Penns Grove, Rob Hinson, Timber Creek, Dennis Thomas, Millville, Steve Scanlon, Clearview, Chuck Smith, Mainland, Joe Hoyle, Dwight Morrow Bill Fitzgerald, Seton Hall Prep Montrey Wright, Salem Kevin Smith, Ocean City Kevin Stetser, Egg Harbor Twp. Joe Wojceichowski, Lenape Jay Graber, Matawan Kevin Kostibos, Summit Dan Higgins, Piscataway Ken Loomis, Wildwood Vin Mistretta, Jackson Memorial Jeff Rainess, Holmdel John Fiore, Montclair Brian Bowers, Delbarton John Whitehead, Paramus Catholic Barris Grant, Hillside Len Zdanowicz, Brick Township John Adams, Woodstown Benji Wemberly, Hackensack Rob Davis, Barnegat Marion Bell, West Side Jamil Jackson, Elizabeth Drew Gibbs, Ramapo Rich Hansen, St. Peter’s Prep Wilber Valdez, Union City Kevin Carty, Hillsborough Frank Duffy, Phillipsburg Augie Hoffmann, St. Joe’s (Mont.) Ed Guerreri, Manalapan Jim Sharples, Jackson Liberty Brian Russo, Rahway William Nahan, Randolph Drew Lachenmayer, Allentown David Schuman Red Bank Regional Kenny Scott, Winslow Twp. Brian Leary, Highland LJ Clark, Lakewood Dan Sabella, Don Bosco Sean Clancy, Notre Dame Chris Thomas, Pitman Dan George, Long Branch Clifton Tabb, Pennsauken Mike Schatzman, Washington Twp Tim Hagerty, Glassboro Ralph Cinque, Clifton Sights and Sounds from JSZ Banquet Before the players came inside to eat dinner and watch JSZ’s All-Zone presentation, Nery Rodriguez gave us some red carpet coverage having fun with some of the best players in the state! JSZ Courage Award Winners Coach Dwayne Savage, Kenneth Smith – Camden Coach Chris Sacco, Ernest Howard, Pleasantville Jersey Sports Zone’s Mike Frankel was shooting highlights of Camden and Pleasantville in the state playoffs when gunshots rang out during the third quarter wounding two and killing 10-year old Micah Tennant. Through adversity, both towns turned to their football teams to help unite communities and begin the healing process. JSZ was proud to honor four great leaders with this award. In case you missed it, Jersey Sports Zone chronicled the resumption of the Camden/Pleasantville game at the home of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles Meet the 2019 JSZ All-Zone Team QuarterbackRunning BackWide ReceiverTight EndOffensive LineZoneman Finalists Michael Alaimo, St. Joe-MontvaleJaiden Abrams, HammontonTedy Afful, DePaul CatholicKevin Bauman, Red Bank CatholicChandler Bird, Saint AugustineJalen Berger, Don Bosco Prep Louie Barrios, Cedar CreekMyles Bailey, North BrunswickAhmad Brown, Holy SpiritDominic Busby, Seton Hall PrepBryan Felter, Bergen CatholicJada Byers, St. Joe-Hammonton JD Breslauer, Parsippany HillsMatt Colantuono, Seton Hall PrepEJ Comerford, Parsippany HillsShawn Collins, MontclairBardhyl Gashi, West EssexFadil Diggs, Woodrow Wilson Tahjamell Bullock, Saint Peter's PrepCorey Dempster, BoontonCarnell Davis, St. Augustine PrepCharles Finley, DePaul CatholicJalen Genao, Union CityKyle Monangai, Don Bosco Prep Andrew Butler, DePaul CatholicAudric Estime, St. Joe-MontvaleMalik Harvey, Woodrow WilsonLucas Giordano, Seton Hall PrepCody Simon, St. Peter's Prep Ryan Clark, Donovan CatholicEthan Harris, Northern HighlandsKyree Hinton, SomervilleNajae Hallenbeck, Toms River NorthLuke Wypler, St. Joe-Montvale Charles DePrima, RamapoMalik Ingram, Mater Dei PrepConnor Kennedy, LenapeDeclan McCauley, Westfield Devin Kargman, Woodrow WilsonAli Lee, Jr. WoodbridgeChris Long, WillingboroJosh Toner, Cherokee Connor Katz, CranfordMuheem McCargo, Woodrow WilsonJelani Mason, Saint Peter's PrepColin Tunc, Bergen Catholic Vincent Pinto, Park RidgePiotr Partyla, LyndhurstMalachi Melton, Cedar CreekGeno VanDeMark, St. Joe-Montvale Andrew Sanborn, UnionTrebor Pena, OceanAhmirr Robinson, UnionDevon Willock, Paramus Catholic Hank Shapiro, WestfieldFrank Riggio, VeronaGriffin Rooney, WestfieldIsaiah Wright, Saint Peter's Prep Zakee Swann, IrvingtonByron Shipman, Saint Peter's Prep Jake Tirone, RamapoTarheeb Still, Timber Creek Cortaz Williams, Notre Dame Zahir Swann, Irvington Defensive LineLinebackerDefensive BackKicker/PunterJSZ All-Prep Team Jeremiah Grant, Bergen CatholicTirek Austin-Cave, CamdenNahree Biggins, HillsideVincenzo Rea, ManalapanAaron Armitage, Blair Academy Jahmir Greene, Don Bosco PrepBobby/Tommy Coury, PhillipsburgDarian "Duce" Chestnut, CamdenSebastien Tasko, St. Joe-MontvaleNick DeGennaro, Hun Dominick Giudice, Mater Dei PrepJake DeLuccia, Wayne ValleyNasir Clerk, IrvingtonChristian Forbes, Lawrenceville Cameron Horsley, CinnaminsonSolomon DeShields, MillvilleJermaine Corbett, Long Branch Ian Franzoni, Hun Aaron Lewis, WillamstownGordon Forsyth, Rumson-Fair HavenCasey Larkin, WallSanoussi Kane, Blair Academy Leon Lowery, North BrunswickMikai Gbayor, IrvingtonClarence Lewis, Mater Dei PrepChristopher Mayo, Peddie Tywon Malone, Bergen CatholicCharlie Gordinier, Red Bank CatholicJoe Lusardi, SummitMatt Sluka, Peddie Andrew Messineo, RidgewoodTyreem Powell, VinelandElijuwan Mack, St. Joe-MontvaleKorey Smith, Peddie Collin McCarthy, Jackson MemorialColin Ramos, Don Bosco PrepJordan Morant, Bergen Catholic Isaiah Raikes, Saint Augustine PrepMakhi Scott, Penns GroveRJ Moten, Delran George Rooks, Saint Peter's PrepDalton Short, ShawneeAlex Odom, Kingsway Khurram Simpson, Mater Dei PrepClyde Washington, LenapeRomaine Robinson, Don Bosco Prep Amin Vanover, Saint Joe-MontvaleJack Wittmaack, RidgewoodEric Rogers, Burlington Twp. Ryan Ruane, Rumson-Fair Haven Keon Sabb, Glassboro DJ Woodbury, Burlington City JSZ Top Plays from 2019 We had the Top Play Belt winners of 2019 and the end of year Plays of the Year winners attend the banquet. Thanks to everyone who voted all year long! Jersey Sports Zone Weekly Top Play Winners Week 0: Sam Williams, PingryWeek 1: Thomas Amankwaa, HillsboroughWeek 2: David Hicks, Red Bank RegionalWeek 3: Nate Summerville, ShawneeWeek 4: Nasir Calhoun, Donovan CatholicWeek 5: Nasir Abney, Holy CrossWeek 6: Mike Casanata, Wayne HillsWeek 7: Jada Byers, St. Joe-HammontonWeek 8: Jake Cook, MainlandWeek 9: Jimmy Pepe, Randolph Week 10: Lonnie Cebulski, Jackson Memorial Jersey Sports Zone Plays of the Year Winners Touchdown Run of the Year: Billy Guidetti, Red Bank Catholic Touchdown Pass Play of the Year: Hank Shapiro/Griffin Rooney, Westfield Defensive TD of the Year: Wally Doman, Jackson Memorial Special Teams TD of the Year: Damon Murray, Hoboken Sack/Big Hit of the Year: Amin Vanover, St. Joe-Montvale Clutch Play of the Year: Jahmir Brown, Woodbridge Viewers Choice Play of the Year: Brandon Martins, Nutley 2019 JSZ Zoneman Trophy Finalists In case you missed it, watch JSZ’s profile of our six Zoneman Finalists: Jalen Berger, Don Bosco Prep Jalen Berger has been one of New Jersey’s most prolific recruits throughout his four-year varsity career as the starting running back at North Jersey power Don Bosco Prep. Berger, named a 2020 All-American, delivered the goods in his senior season while accounting for 1,218 scrimmage yards and 17 touchdowns for the Ironmen. Berger remains uncommitted yet holds offers from college football’s best — Alabama, Ohio State, Penn State, Wisconsin, LSU and Michigan are among the schools recruiting him. The announcement will come on live TV during the All-American bowl on Jan. 4 from San Antonio, TX. Jada Byers, St. Joseph (Hamm.) There’s no other way to put it — Jada Byers is the most dynamic scoring threat to ever grace South Jersey. Byers, a Sacred Heart commit, was an electric runner with the football who scored a South Jersey record 102 touchdowns in three years of varsity play with the Wildcats. His mark of 644 career points ranks second in South Jersey history only behind Kevin Harvey. The highlights of Byers’ 2019 season was a 10-touchdown performance against Morris Catholic in the sectional semifinals. Fadil Diggs, Woodrow Wilson There might not be a better two-way player in the Garden State. The Woodrow Wilson star and future Texas A&M Aggie shined on both sides of the ball in a stellar 2019 season. He collected 95.5 tackles and 17.5 sacks on defense while also catching 65 passes for 1,031 yards and 11 touchdowns on offense. Woodrow Wilson head coach Preston Brown told JSZ Diggs is the best player in Camden’s history. Kyle Monangai, Don Bosco Prep Talk to anyone in North Jersey and they’ll tell you Don Bosco Prep doesn’t get back to it’s winning ways without Kyle Monangai on the field. After transferring to the Ramsey private school from Seton Hall Prep after his sophomore season, Monangai put up eye-popping numbers. He put up 2,903 scrimmage yards on 310 touches with 35 touchdowns in arguably the toughest conference in America. He holds 25-plus D-I offers yet remains uncommitted. Cody Simon, St. Peter’s Prep He’s the best player on the best team in New Jersey — does anything else need to be said? Simon’s boasts one of the most polished resume’s we’ve seen in years. He was a preseason for the 2019 Butkus Award, was one of five N.J. players named an All-American and is committed to play at Ohio State. Simon led the Marauders with 106 tackles, 4.5 sacks, four interceptions and four touchdowns on defense and special teams. Luke Wypler, St. Joe’s (Mont.) What does it take to be ranked the No. 1 center in the entire country? Watch the way Luke Wypler dominates on the gridiron. Wypler’s intelligence and intensity on the field is a major reason why St. Joe’s had the toughest offensive line in the state — that translated to a Non-Public Group 4 championship in 2018. Wypler, also named a 2020 All-American, is committed to play at Ohio State after a stellar career in Montvale.
Meet the 2019 JSZ Zoneman Trophy Finalists
Jersey Sports Zone is excited to formally announce the six finalists for the 2019 Zoneman Award — our version of the N.J. high school football player of the year. The winner will be announced on Dec. 10 during our All-State Football Banquet held at the Delta by Marriot Woodbridge Hotel. Watch all six features from our team of multimedia journalists to learn more about New Jersey’s top football honor! The Story of the Zoneman Trophy and Our Football Banquet By Rich Chrampanis | Jersey Sports Zone Chief Operating Officer In the year 2000, I received the great honor of a Heisman Trophy ballot as I started my tenure on television at WPDE-TV in Myrtle Beach. I was so excited to get the chance to weigh in on such a significant award and it got me thinking of bringing the same kind of excitement to our high school football coverage. So we built a trophy and instead of the Heisman, the Zoneman was born. During my 15 years, we were fortunate to have some outstanding winners of our award starting with former Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins linebacker Lawrence Timmons, former Notre Dame quarterback Everett Golson and current Oakland Raiders wide receiver Hunter Renfrow, who caught the game winning TD pass in the 2016 National Championship game. The Zoneman tradition is still going strong in South Carolina, began its New Jersey chapter on the Jersey Shore and is now a statewide honor. We’re excited to continue this tradition in New Jersey high school football as we will present the most outstanding player in the state with our Third Annual Zoneman Trophy. Somerville quarterback Jalahn Dabney won the 2018 Zoneman Trophy for his outstanding senior season with the Pioneers. The Zoneman Balloting Our 2019 Zoneman was voted on by head coaches from every part of the state (WJFL, Shore Conference, Greater Middlesex Conference, Mid-State 38 and the SFC) as well as the JSZ staff and media representatives from around the state. Every ballot has a 1st, 2nd and 3rd place vote with three points awarded for 1st, two for 2nd and one point for 3rd. We are excited to announce the finalists for the 2019 Zoneman Trophy in alphabetical order: Meet the 2019 Zoneman Finalists Jalen Berger, Don Bosco Prep Jalen Berger has been one of New Jersey’s most prolific recruits throughout his four-year varsity career as the starting running back at North Jersey power Don Bosco Prep. Berger, named a 2020 All-American, delivered the goods in his senior season while accounting for 1,218 scrimmage yards and 17 touchdowns for the Ironmen. Berger remains uncommitted yet holds offers from college football’s best — Alabama, Ohio State, Penn State, Wisconsin, LSU and Michigan are among the schools recruiting him. The announcement will come on live TV during the All-American bowl on Jan. 4 from San Antonio, TX. Jada Byers, St. Joseph (Hamm.) There’s no other way to put it — Jada Byers is the most dynamic scoring threat to ever grace South Jersey. Byers, a Sacred Heart commit, was an electric runner with the football who scored a South Jersey record 102 touchdowns in three years of varsity play with the Wildcats. His mark of 644 career points ranks second in South Jersey history only behind Kevin Harvey. The highlights of Byers’ 2019 season was a 10-touchdown performance against Morris Catholic in the sectional semifinals. Fadil Diggs, Woodrow Wilson There might not be a better two-way player in the Garden State. The Woodrow Wilson star and future Texas A&M Aggie shined on both sides of the ball in a stellar 2019 season. He collected 95.5 tackles and 17.5 sacks on defense while also catching 65 passes for 1,031 yards and 11 touchdowns on offense. Woodrow Wilson head coach Preston Brown told JSZ Diggs is the best player in Camden’s history. Kyle Monangai, Don Bosco Prep Talk to anyone in North Jersey and they’ll tell you Don Bosco Prep doesn’t get back to it’s winning ways without Kyle Monangai on the field. After transferring to the Ramsey private school from Seton Hall Prep after his sophomore season, Monangai put up eye-popping numbers. He put up 2,903 scrimmage yards on 310 touches with 35 touchdowns in arguably the toughest conference in America. He holds 25-plus D-I offers yet remains uncommitted. Cody Simon, St. Peter’s Prep He’s the best player on the best team in New Jersey — does anything else need to be said? Simon’s boasts one of the most polished resume’s we’ve seen in years. He was a preseason for the 2019 Butkus Award, was one of five N.J. players named an All-American and is committed to play at Ohio State. Simon led the Marauders with 106 tackles, 4.5 sacks, four interceptions and four touchdowns on defense and special teams. Luke Wypler, St. Joe’s (Mont.) What does it take to be ranked the No. 1 center in the entire country? Watch the way Luke Wypler dominates on the gridiron. Wypler’s intelligence and intensity on the field is a major reason why St. Joe’s had the toughest offensive line in the state — that translated to a Non-Public Group 4 championship in 2018. Wypler, also named a 2020 All-American, is committed to play at Ohio State after a stellar career in Montvale.
Watch JSZ’s Top 10 Plays from MetLife and Rutgers
The 2019 high school football season is over and Jersey Sports Zone closed it out in style with highlights and post-game reaction from 13 games over two weekends at MetLife Stadium and Rutgers University. The JSZ team put together our Top 10 Plays captured by our cameras. Thanks to everyone who watch our videos and take one more look at an incredible display of New Jersey’s best on the biggest stages: JSZ’s Top 10 Plays from MetLife and Rutgers – NJSIAA Regional and State Championships #10: Ahmad Brown, Holy Spirit #9: Cody Simon, Saint Peter’s Prep #8: Vincent Pinto, Park Ridge #7: Colin Ramos, Don Bosco Prep #6: Matt Wesley/Mike Giunta, Shawnee #5: Tommy Moran/Elijah Lugo, Wayne Valley #4: Fatir Bell, Hillside #3: Malik Harvey, Woodrow Wilson #2: Demie Sumo, Willingboro #1: Quentin Lemon/Avery Powell, Saint Peter’s Prep
Watch Sunday 12.8 JSZ Championship Football Highlights
It’s the final day of the New Jersey high school football season and we’ve got four fantastic games to close out the 2019 season. The highlights are posted from a full day of action at Rutgers! Holy Spirit 38 St. Joe (Hamm.) 0 | Non-Public Group 2 Championship In a rematch of the 2018 Non-Public Group 2 final, the Spartans got their revenge and then some. Patrick Smith rushed for a pair of touchdowns, E’lijah Gray scored a TD, and Trevor Cohen connected with Elijah Steward for a touchdown on offense. Spirit blocked a punt for a touchdown on special teams. And perhaps most impressively, the Spartans defense shut down the Wildcats all night long. Spirit dedicated the win to former player, head coach, and assistant coach Bill Walsh, who died less than a month ago after a courageous battle with ALS. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction from Rutgers: Hillside 25 Cedar Creek 3 | South-Central Group 2 Regional Championship Hillside has reached perfection! The Comets close out a stellar 2019 campaign with a signature performance to end the year with a 12-0 record. James Louis found the end zone twice in the win while Nahree Biggins and Co. led a suffocating defensive outing. JSZ’s Jay Cook has all the highlights and post-game reaction: Woodrow Wilson 12 Wall 7 | South-Central Group 3 Regional Championship After falling to Rumson-Fair Haven a year ago, Woodrow Wilson returned to the South/Central Group 3 Regional Championship and defeated Wall. The Tigers scored in the first quarter on a Malik Harvey touchdown, but Wall would take a 7-6 lead at halftime. Defense ruled the second half with both teams coming up with big stops on fourth down. Quarterback Devin Kargman’s one-yard keeper put Wilson ahead 12-7 in the fourth quarter. Despite the Knights moving the ball well with under two minutes remaining, Malik Harvey would end the game with a strip to hand Wall its only loss of the season. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Willingboro 50 Penns Grove 14 | South Group 1 Championship Au-Shaun Davis threw five first-half touchdown passes and the combination of Demie Sumo and Chris Long had three TD’s apiece as the Chimeras ended the 25-game win streak of Penns Grove and avenged last year’s Group Championship loss at MetLife Stadium. Long finished with 7 catches for 212 yards and 3 TD grabs making him the South Jersey single -season receiving yards leader. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights of the final high school football game of 2019 in the Garden State:
Watch Saturday 12.7 JSZ Championship Football Highlights
The final weekend of the season is underway at Rutgers. JSZ has complete coverage from a pair of regional championship games, plus a Non-Public title game. The highlights are posted from all three Saturday games! DePaul Catholic 27 Mater Dei Prep 25 | Non-Public Group 3 Championship Andrew Butler threw for 363 yards and 3 TD passes along with a TD run and the DePaul defense made a critical stop on a game-tying two-point conversion attempt in the fourth quarter to win their fifth state championship this decade. Mater Dei stormed back from a 20-6 halftime deficit with long TD’s from Clarence Lewis and Naran Buntin to rally in the second half, but the Seraphs could not punch in the game-tying two-point conversion attempt. DePaul WR Tedy Afful had 10 catches for 203 yards and a TD in the win. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from Rutgers: Williamstown 30 Cherokee 14 | South-Central Group 5 Regional Championship The Braves took it to the Chiefs from the start, building a 23-0 lead at Rutgers. Sophomore Turner Inge turned in a monster performance, rushing for 141 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Dougie Brown and Brody Colbert also found the end zone for Williamstown in the win. Billy Osborn threw a pair of touchdown passes for Cherokee in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction: Shawnee 34 Hammonton 0 | South-Central Group 4 Regional Championship What a third quarter it was for Shawnee. The Renegades took a 14-0 lead into halftime but exploded after the break with two turnovers and three touchdowns to power a 34-0 rout of Hammonton. Matt Welsey chipped in four touchdowns in the win while Matt Papa (19 tackles, 1 INT) and Matt Suriano (35-yard fumble return TD) led a suffocating defensive effort. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights and post-game reaction: JSZ’s coverage of all Shawnee athletics for the 2019-2020 athletic year is proudly brought to you by Cooper University Health Care.
Watch Saturday 11.30 JSZ Championship Football Highlights
There was plenty of hardware to hand out on Saturday with two regional championship games and a non-public sectional final at MetLife Stadium, plus another sectional final taking place in South Jersey. Check back throughout the night for all of the highlights and reaction! St. Peter’s Prep 21 Don Bosco Prep 14 | Non-Public Group 4 Championship St. Peter’s Prep’s magical season has ended in glory. The Marauders completed a heart-pounding fourth quarter comeback (for the fourth time this season) to capture the Non-Public Group 4 crown. Tahj Bullock was masterful late in the game, scoring on a touchdown run with five minutes to play. Jelani Mason took in the game-winning two-point conversion right away to give St. Peter’s a lead it would never squander. JSZ’s Jay Cook has all the highlights and post-game reaction from MetLife Stadium: JSZ’s coverage of the Non-Public Group 4 state championship at MetLife Stadium was made possible by QuickChek. Wayne Valley 21 Northern Highlands 17 | North Group 4 Championship In a meeting of two teams who each snapped title draughts of over 20 years, Wayne Valley defeated Northern Highlands 21-17 for the North Group 4 Regional Championship. The Indians trailing 17-0 in the second quarter scored 21 unanswered points to eventually take their first lead late in the fourth when quarterback Tommy Moran found Elijah Lugo on a 38 yard touchdown with 5:51 left. Moran finished with 180 yards passing, two throwing scores and completed 12 of 16 passes. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: JSZ’s coverage of the Regional Championships at MetLife Stadium was made possible by QuickChek. Park Ridge 28 Boonton 21 | North Group 1 Championship Vincent Pinto accounted for 379 yards of total offense and all four Owls touchdowns including the game-winning 36-yard TD pass to Justin Wagner with 1:38 remaining to give Park Ridge the North Group 1 trophy. Pinto had 201 yards on the ground and 179 yards in the air. Boonton rallied from 14-0 down and took a 21-14 lead on a Danny Portas 77-yard touchdown pass to Michael Kreitz early in the fourth quarter. But Pinto responded with a 63-yard TD run on a fake reverse to tie the game and the Owls QB engineered the game-winning drive that culminated in the pass to Wagner. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the full recap from East Rutherford: JSZ’s coverage of the Regional Championships at MetLife Stadium was made possible by QuickChek. Cedar Creek 31 Camden 23 | Central Group 2 Sectional Final The Pirates held off the Panthers down the stretch to capture the second sectional championship in program history. Louie Barrios rushed for a pair of touchdowns in the win. Purdue commit Malachi Melton scored on an 81-yard touchdown run, while Jamal Chapman returned a fumble for a TD to seal the victory. Jalin Brownlee threw three touchdown passes for The High in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction from Egg Harbor City: Coverage of Camden is made possible by Cooper University Health Care.
Watch Friday 11.29 JSZ Football Regional Championship Highlights
The New Jersey regional championships kick off with six games over two days at MetLife Stadium. JSZ will bring you highlights and post-game reaction from every single game in East Rutherford and next weekend at Rutgers. The action gets started with three games on Friday. Ridgewood 41 Union 37 | North Group 5 Championship Ridgewood defeated Union 41-37 to hand the Farmers their only loss of the 2019 season. The Maroons, trailing for most of the game, didn’t take their first lead until the fourth quarter. Four lead changes later Reuben Pillai scored on a five-yard touchdown run with 28 seconds left to put Ridgewood ahead by four. Union, in a last chance effort, had its Hail Mary pass intercepted by Tommy Bourque, who pinned the ball against his helmet. Ridgewood dedicated the win to longtime head coach Chuck Johnson, who has been out since October with an illness. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Ramapo 38 Parsippany Hills 21 | North Group 3 Championship Ramapo’s football program has entered elite territory. The Raiders have won 26-straight games (dating back to Sept. 1, 2018) and along the way have captured two-consecutive regional championships. Ramapo is also the first team in state history to complete back-to-back perfect 13-0 seasons. Jake Tirone (193 yards, 3 TD’s) and Charles DePrima (266 yards, 2 TD’s) led the way in an electric win. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights and post-game interviews: Verona 41 Lyndhurst 0 | North Group 2 Championship Frank Riggio ran for 155 yards and 4 scores on the ground to go along with a fifth TD on a 19-yard pass to lead the Hillbillies to a dominant effort and a perfect 12-0 record. Riggio topped the 2000 yard mark in his junior season and a total of 38 touchdowns. Verona’s defense produced five turnovers in the win. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights and post-game reaction: Thanks to QuickChek for supporting JSZ’s coverage of the football state playoffs
Watch 11.28 JSZ Thanksgiving Football Highlights
Happy Thanksgiving from the Jersey Sports Zone team! Our cameras were on hand for six rivalry games around the state. Enjoy the highlights! Easton (PA) 16 Phillipsburg 13 Nahjee Adams ran for two touchdowns including a 48-yard run in the third quarter to give the Red Rovers a fifth consecutive Thanksgiving win over their bitter rivals. It’s 113th time these two teams have met in one of the nation’s oldest and most storied Thanksgiving traditions. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley was there to bring you the highlights from Lafayette: Jersey Sports Zone thanks the Garnet Booster Club for helping us bring you Stateliner highlights all year long! Vineland 27 Millville 26 In one of the country’s oldest rivalry games, the Fighting Clan rallied not once, but twice to stun the Thunderbolts. Nahzir Broome rushed for two touchdowns in the victory. Virginia Tech commit Tyreem Powell threw two touchdown passes, including a TD toss to Levi Manson with just over one minute left in the game. Pitt recruit Solomon DeShields finished with two touchdown catches in the loss. Shamore Collins also had a TD catch and an interception return for a touchdown for Millville. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction from a thriller in Cumberland County: Middletown South 21 Middletown North 7 Middletown South’s offense was hungry on Thanksgiving Day as the Eagles’ offense gobbled up yards and first downs in the first half to take a 21-0 lead into the break. Senior Chris Lotito scored two touchdowns and had two interceptions on defense to lead the Eagles to their 31st win over Middletown North on Turkey Day. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Middletown: Red Bank Regional 21 Long Branch 8 Jack Chamberlain threw two touchdown passes in windy conditions and the Bucs scored 21 unanswered points to reach the seven-win mark for a second consecutive season. Makai Mickens had a 14-yard TD run to go along with TD catches by AJ Abarno and Gordon Ogden. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from the 97th edition of RBR and Long Branch: JSZ was able to bring you this great game thanks to two great partners. Thanks to Rosario Realty (Long Branch) and Ryser’s Landscape Supply (Red Bank Regional) for their support! Lenape 24 Shawnee 7 Lenape defeated rival Shawnee 24-7 to not only earn bragging rights, but to also win a share of the WJFL American Division title. The Indians took a 21-0 lead thanks to two touchdowns from Xavier Coleman. Shawnee, set to play in the upcoming Central-South Group 4 Regional Championship, did not play its starters in the fourth quarter. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Thank you to Cooper University Health Care for sponsoring our Shawnee coverage. Holy Spirit 27 Atlantic City 0 The Spartans used a 21-point second quarter to topple the Vikings and win the Boyd-Marczyk Memorial Trophy for the second year in a row. Senior E’lijah Gray rushed for three touchdowns, including a 63-yard run to open the second quarter. Holy Spirit now prepares for the Non-Public Group 2 title game next week against rival St. Joseph (Hamm.) at Rutgers University. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Atlantic City:
Watch Wednesday 11.27 JSZ Football Highlights
Everyone loves a good appetizer! JSZ has a pair of Thanksgiving Eve games to hold you over until the main course on Thursday! Absegami 42 Oakcrest 14 The Braves jumped on the Falcons from the start, thanks to Jordan Marcucci’s 70-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to open the game. Sophomore QB Ray Weed had a night to remember, rushing for three touchdowns and throwing for two more. Weed’s TD tosses went to Marcucci and Jaden Stanley. Oakcrest QB Angel Casanova rushed for a touchdown and threw a TD pass to Sebastian Terrones in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Galloway: Cherry Hill West 19 Cherry Hill East 7 For the seventh year in a row, “The Boot” is staying with the Lions. Joshua Jean-Baptiste sparked Cherry Hill West with a 50-yard rushing touchdown in the first quarter, then followed that with a 70-yard receiving touchdown in the second. Hakim Melvin turned in a great all-around performance, intercepting a pass in the second quarter and icing the game with a touchdown catch in the fourth. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Cherry Hill:
Vote now for JSZ’s 2019 Football Plays of the Year!
As we get ready for the Regional Championships and the end of the high school football season, JSZ has gone deep in its archives to pick out the best plays captured by our cameras during the 2019 football season. We’ve got seven categories for you to vote on. The polls are open NOW through Wednesday night at 9:00 p.m. The winner of each category will get an invite to Jersey Sports Zone’s third annual football banquet on December 11 in Woodbridge. Thank you again to all the great athletes for giving us so many incredible plays to choose from. Watch all the videos below and cast your vote now! TD Run of the Year Take Our Poll TD Pass Play of the Year Take Our Poll Defensive TD of the Year Take Our Poll Special Teams TD of the Year Take Our Poll Sack of the Year Take Our Poll Clutch Play of the Year Take Our Poll Viewers Choice Play of the Year Take Our Poll JSZ’s Top Play Belt winners from the regular season are not in the Plays of the Year. Those winners will be invited to the banquet and be honored along with our Plays of the Year winners. JSZ 2019 Top Play Belt Winners Week 0: Sam Williams, Pingry Week 1: Thomas Amankwaa, Hillsborough Week 2: David Hicks, Red Bank Regional Week 3: Nate Summerville, Shawnee Week 4: Nasir Calhoun, Donovan Catholic Week 5: Nasir Abney, Holy Cross Week 6: Mike Cassanata, Wayne Hills Week 7: Jada Byers, St. Joe-Hammonton Week 8: Jake Cook, Mainland Week 9: Jimmy Pepe, Randolph Week 10: Lonnie Cebulski, Jackson Memorial
Watch Saturday 11.23 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
Two more sectional championship trophies were up for grabs on Saturday, plus two more Non-Public semifinal games were held. Check back throughout the night for all of the action! Don Bosco Prep 10 St. Joe’s (Mont.) 8 | Non-Public Group 4 Semifinal Don Bosco Prep continues to raise eyebrows in North Jersey with their stellar defensive play. The Ironmen have now won five straight games, holding their opponents to 14 points or less in each of those contests. Arsheen Jiles’ 40-yard fumble return touchdown in the second quarter was Don Bosco’s only trip to the end zone. The Ironmen staved off a late two-point conversion inside two minutes to secure the win. Don Bosco Prep will face St. Peter’s Prep in the Non-Public Group 4 state final at MetLife Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 30 at 7:05 p.m. JSZ’s Jay Cook has all the highlights and post-game reaction from Montvale: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of all St. Joe’s (Mont.) athletics is proudly brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics. Woodrow Wilson 54 Somerville 30 | Group 3 South Final Woodrow Wilson claimed its second consecutive South Group 3 Championship with a 54-30 win over Somerville. The Tigers broke open an eight point lead in the third quarter to go ahead 42-22 behind an impressive day from Temple University commit Muheem McCargo and Texas A&M commit Fadil Diggs. McCargo finished with 150 total yards and four touchdowns while Diggs had 127 yards receiving and two scores. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Penns Grove 30 Paulsboro 0 | Group 1 South Final The Red Devils dominated the Red Raiders to win their second straight South Jersey Group 1 championship. Kavon Lewis threw two touchdown passes and ran for a score in the win. Nasir “Hollywood” Robinson rushed for a TD, while Torvon Ransome and Jymir Gilliam each had a touchdown catch. Makhi Scott and the Penns Grove defense were equally impressive, shutting down the Paulsboro offense. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction from Carneys Point: St. Joseph (Hamm.) 76 Morris Catholic 22 | Non-Public Group 2 Semifinal It was a historic day in Hammonton as Jada Byers scored ten total touchdowns and 520 yards of offense to break the single-game touchdown record in New Jersey and set a new career touchdowns record in South Jersey. Byers had 21 carries for 326 yards and eight rushing touchdowns to go along with 7 catches for 194 yards and two scores via the air. The Wildcats advance to the Non-Public Group 2 Final and will face Holy Spirit at Rutgers University on Sunday, December 8th at 4 p.m. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Hammonton:
Watch Friday 11.22 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
It’s arguably the most exciting night of the 2019 season. Sectional champions crowned on the Public side. State semifinal action on the Non-Public side. JSZ has all of the thrilling highlights for you! Watch our teaser and then scroll down to watch eight games from around New Jersey. We’ll have four more big playoff games on Saturday right here on JSZ! St. Peter’s Prep 35 St. Augustine 28 | Non-Public Group 4 Semifinal It wasn’t pretty, but in the playoffs that certainly doesn’t matter. Despite completing seven out of 20 passes, St. Peter’s Prep QB Tahj Bullock showed once again why he very well may be the most clutch player in New Jersey high school football. Bullock threw for 253 yards and four touchdowns and also scored the game-winning touchdown with a one-yard keeper with four seconds left in regulation. The Marauders will face the winner of St. Joe’s (Mont.)/Don Bosco Prep in the state final. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Caven Point: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of the state playoffs is made possible by QuickChek! Mater Dei Prep 10 Red Bank Catholic 3 | Non-Public Group 3 Semifinal Malik Ingram’s 8-yard touchdown run in the second quarter was the only touchdown of the game as the Seraphs defense produced eight sacks to avenge last year’s state championship loss to the Caseys. Ingram finished with 137 yards on the ground and Dominick Guidice led the sack brigade with three. Mater Dei will face DePaul Catholic in the state finals. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from Red Bank: Thanks to Jersey Shore Institute of Health & Wellness for supporting JSZ’s coverage of Red Bank Catholic all year long. Hammonton 28 Jackson Memorial 12 | Central Group 4 Final The Blue Devils knocked off the Jaguars to capture their first sectional championship since 2009. Jaiden Abrams rushed for a pair of touchdowns and caught a TD pass from Ryan Barts. Barts also connected with Hunter MacDuff for a score. Lonnie Cebulski threw two touchdown passes to Zack Novak for Jackson Memorial in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction from Hammonton: Jackson Memorial coverage is brought to you by Louro Chiropractic Center. Northern Highlands 37 Woodbridge 7 | North 1 Group 4 Final For the first time in 41 years, the Northern Highlands football team won a sectional championship. The top-seeded Highlanders defeated second-seeded Woodbridge 37-7 behind a career-high game from running back Ethan Harris. Harris finished with 351 yards rushing and four touchdowns on 31 carries. Northern Highlands moves on to face Wayne Valley for the North Group 4 regional title. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Union 42 Clifton 28| North 2 Group 2 Championship Diante Wilson had 13 carries for 210 yards and 2 TD’s to lead the Farmers to their first sectional championship in 26 years. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights: Williamstown 14 Lenape 10 | South Group 5 Final The Braves needed a total team effort to erase a ten-point deficit and win its second consecutive South Group 5 sectional championship. Turner Inge scored the go-ahead touchdown with 42 seconds left in regulation. Michigan commit Aaron Lewis made huge plays down the stretch defensively in his final home game for Williamstown, including the game-ending sack and forced fumble. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights and reaction from Williamstown: Ramapo 28 Pascack Valley 23 | North 1 Group 3 Championship Jake Tirone had three touchdown runs including the go-ahead score in the fourth quarter to give the Green Raiders back to back sectional titles for the first time since 2001. Jake Williams had three TD’s in a losing effort for Pascack Valley. JSZ has the highlights and post-game reaction from Ramapo’s 25th straight victory: Wall 14 Rumson-Fair Haven 13 | Central Group 3 Championship Logan Peters threw two touchdown passes to Casey Larkin in the first half and the Wall defense was able to buckle down in the fourth quarter to get the Crimson Knights to 11-0 and a sectional championship. Larkin caught passes for 31 and 41 yards to give Wall a 14-0 lead at the half. Parick Crowley scored on a 1-yard TD run and Patrick Jamin made a 4-yard pass from Collin Coles but the extra point hit the upright to make it a one-point game. Wall will face the winner of Somerville and Woodrow Wilson in a Group 3 regional championship. Watch the highlights of a Shore Conference showdown:
Jackson Memorial QB earns final JSZ Top Play Belt of 2019
Jackson Memorial quarterback Lonnie Cebulski had an 18-yard TD run with :34 left in the fourth quarter to give the Jaguars a 27-21 win over Toms River East in the Central Jersey Group 4 state playoffs. Cebulski’s last-minute heroics gave the Jaguars signal-caller JSZ’s final Top Play Belt of 2019. Kenneth Bradley was at Jags practice and captured the presentation prior to practice. Jackson Memorial travels to Hammonton in the Central Jersey Group 4 championship on Friday night: Take Our Poll We want to thank everyone who voted for Game Balls and the JSZ Top Play Belt throughout the 2019 high school football season. We will have one more round of voting after this weekend’s state playoff games with the JSZ Football Plays of the Year. The winners from those categories will earn an invite to the 3rd annual JSZ Football Banquet on December 11 in Woodbridge
“17 Minutes for Micah”: A Jersey Sports Zone Exclusive
Wednesday night at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia provided two communities in South Jersey with a pair of themes — the sadness surrounding the loss of an innocent life to gun violence and the passions and drive to prosper through tough times. Six shots rang through the air during the third quarter of Friday night’s NJSIAA sectional playoff game between Camden and Pleasantville. Micah Tennant, 10-year-old bystander in the stands, was shot, leading the game to be suspended. The shooting sent shockwaves through South Jersey. Ultimately, the Philadelphia Eagles lent a helping hand and host the remaining 17 minutes of game play while giving the players a first-class experience. Tennant, who battled for days in a local hospital, succumbed to his wounds and passed away only hours before the game resumed Wednesday evening. Jersey Sports Zone presents “17 Minutes for Micah,” a long-form feature giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how players from Pleasantville and Camden — with aid from the Philadelphia Eagles — bonded together to persevere in a tragic time:
NFL’s Eagles Help Heal After Shooting
The Philadelphia Eagles opened Lincoln Financial Field on Wednesday for the resumption of the Camden-Pleasantville state playoff game following a shooting in the stands last Friday night that claimed the life of 10-year old Micah “Dew” Tennant. Jersey Sports Zone provides team coverage from all the activity in Philadelphia Camden 22 Pleasantville 0 | Central Jersey Group 2 Semifinal Dashaun Harris and Duce Chestnut scored on touchdown runs at the home of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles to lead Camden to the Central Jersey Group 2 championship game. The game resumed in Philadelphia with 4:58 remaining in the third quarter and Camden leading 6-0. The Panthers were able to put together two scoring drives on Wednesday to earn a road trip to Cedar Creek in the title game on Saturday, November 30. The Philadelphia Eagles hosted the resumption of this playoff game. Head coach Doug Pederson led Eagles players including Carson Wentz, Zach Ertz, Brandon Graham, Malcolm Jenkins, and Jason Peters to meet with both teams. A moment of silence took place for Micah Tennant, the 10-year old who was shot last Friday night at the game and died earlier on Wednesday. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has a recap from the entire day in Philadelphia: Coming on Thursday to JSZ: “17 Minutes for Micah” Coming up on Thursday, Jersey Sports Zone will have an in-depth look at the day in Philadelphia for the Camden and Pleasantville football teams. We will take you inside the locker rooms of the Panthers and Greyhounds and we’ll have more on how the Eagles tried to help unite two proud communities from this tragedy. Here’s a sneak peek of what we’ll have in our extended feature:
Philadelphia Eagles to host conclusion of Camden-Pleasantville state playoff game
The NJSIAA has announced Camden and Pleasantville will resume their Central Group 2 playoff game on Wednesday, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The game is closed to the public, but a limited number of passes will be made available for players on both teams to distribute to their family members. The game was stopped suddenly due to gun violence on Friday night. The game will resume in the third quarter with Camden holding a 6-0 lead. Larry White, executive director, NJSIAA (New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association) issued the following update on plans for completing the approximately 17 remaining minutes of the scholastic football playoff game between Pleasantville H.S. and Camden H.S. This contest was halted on Friday (11/15) evening, following a shooting in Pleasantville, where the game was being held. “Following NJSIAA’s statement on Saturday related to the completion of the game on Wednesday, November 20, at a neutral site, we can now announce that the Philadelphia Eagles have offered to host the suspended Pleasantville H.S. / Camden H.S. football playoff game at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20, at Lincoln Financial Field. Each high school will be provided a defined number of free passes, specifically for distribution to players’ parents and family members; the game will be closed to the general public. Specific details on the game passes will be provided shortly to both schools. The game will also be streamed live and free-of-charge on NJ.com. “The NJSIAA would like to thank many of our member schools that offered their assistance, including the Black Horse Pike School District for its willingness to step in to host this game on such short notice and under difficult and unusual circumstances. “It’s extremely unfortunate that a senselessly violent act has impacted this game, and there will certainly be a wide range of emotions along both sidelines. However, thanks to the Eagles’ generosity and community spirit, Pleasantville and Camden student-athletes and their families will have an opportunity to write their own ending to this game. They’ll compete on a world-class stage, sending a clear message that violence will not win.”
Vote now for final JSZ Top Play Belt of 2019!
As we head towards the sectional championship games and the second edition of NJ’s bowl series, we have one more group of nominees for JSZ’s Top Play Belt. The polls are open now through Tuesday at 3:00 pm and we’ll hand out one more Top Play Belt at a mid-week practice. Thanks to everyone who has voted all year long and all of our Top Play Belt winners will be invited to JSZ’s Football Banquet coming up on December 11 in Woodbridge. Take Our Poll Last Week’s Top Play Winner – Jimmy Pepe of Randolph
Watch 11.16 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
Playoff action continues with sectional semifinal games on the Public side, and quarterfinal games on the Non-Public side. We’ve got four more games of action. Watch our teaser then scroll below to watch all the highlights! St. Augustine 20 Seton Hall Prep 15 | Non-Public Group 4 Quarterfinal Is this the biggest win in St. Augustine football history? It just might be. The Hermits lead 14-0 late in the third quarter before Seton Hall Prep scored 15 unanswered points to take the lead with just over four minutes left in regulation. St. Augustine answered with the play of the day, an 80-yard touchdown from Austin Leyman to Carnell Davis for the win. The Hermits will face No. 1 seed St. Peter’s Prep in the semifinals next Friday. JSZ’ Jay Cook has all the highlights and post-game reaction from this thriller in West Orange: Jersey Sports Zone’s state playoff coverage is made possible by QuickChek. Mater Dei Prep 49 Pope John 14 | Non-Public Group 3 Quarterfinal Malik Ingram was dominant in his final home game with 20 carries for 302 yards and 4 touchdowns to give the Seraphs a rematch with Red Bank Catholic in the state semifinals next week. Last year, RBC topped Mater Dei Prep 14-10 at MetLife Stadium in the state finals. Mater Dei led 28-14 at the half before adding three more scores. Clarence Lewis, Kyree Drake and Isaiah Noguera had the other Seraphs touchdowns. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from Middletown: Jersey Sports Zone’s state playoff coverage is made possible by QuickChek. Cedar Creek 50 Bernards 10 | Group 2 Central Semifinal The Pirates stormed out to a 28-0 lead after the first quarter and never looked back. Louie Barrios rushed for a pair of touchdowns. Purdue commit Max Melton had an interception and a kickoff return for a score. Jamal Chapman found the end zone on a pick-six. Jojo Bermudez and Jeremy Taylor rushed for touchdowns as well. Creek advances to face either Camden or Pleasantville in the sectional final next weekend. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Egg Harbor City: Woodrow Wilson 42 Holmdel 0 | Group 3 South Semifinal The Tigers turned in a dominant performance to punch its ticket to the Group 3 South Final. Devin Kargman was fantastic through the air, passing for 449 yards and 4 touchdowns. His top target on the day was Malik Harvey, who racked up 5 catches for 187 yards and 4 touchdowns. Woodrow Wilson looks to win its second-consecutive sectional title as they host Somerville next week. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Camden: Coverage of Holmdel is brought to you by the Law Office of Lawrence Luttrell.
Watch 11.15 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
Our cameras were on hand for sectional semifinal action all across the state as the journey to MetLife and Rutgers continues! Watch our teaser and then scroll down to watch all of our coverage. Don Bosco Prep 24 Bergen Catholic 7 | Non-Public Group 4 Quarterfinal Don Bosco Prep has their revenge. After suffering through a four-game losing streak to Bergen Catholic — including a blowout loss to the Crusaders in last year’s semifinal round — the Ironmen are back even. Jalen Berger led N.J.’s hottest team past their long-time rivals with a trademark 82-yard touchdown run in the second half, while Jahmir Greene and Colin Ramos helped a dominant defensive effort. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Ramsey: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of all Bergen Catholic athletics is brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics. St. Peter’s Prep 43 Notre Dame 35 | Non-Public Group 4 Quarterfinal Notre Dame’s undefeated season came to a close when top seeded St. Peter’s Prep defeated the Irish (9) 43-35 to advance to the Non-Public Group 4 Semifinals. The Marauders struggled to find their footing in the fist half but were able to put up 23 unanswered points to take control. Quarterback Tahj Bullock threw three touchdown passes. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Notre Dame coverage. Ocean City 21 Long Branch 20 | Group 4 South Semifinal Ocean City QB Joe Repetti had a TD pass and two TD runs including the game-winner midway through the third quarter as the #7 seed moves to the South Jersey Group 4 championship game. Long Branch took a 20-14 lead late in the second quarter on Jermaine Corbett’s second touchdown of the game, but a late first-half interception knocked Green Wave QB Kyle Davidson out of the game with an arm injury. Long Branch was inside the 30-yard line in the final two minutes, but a fumble secured the win for Ocean City. The Raiders will face Shawnee in the title game. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from Long Branch: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Long Branch is brought to you by Rosario Realty Shawnee 27 Millville 18 | Group 4 South Semifinal The Renegades found themselves in a battle against the fifth-seeded Thunderbolts. Shawnee built a 20-6 halftime lead but needed to weather a second half storm from Millville to advance to the Group 4 South Final. Matt Welsey led the way for the Renegades throwing for 198 yards and two touchdowns. Shawnee now faces Ocean City for the Group 4 South title, where the Renegades will look to win its third-straight sectional crown. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Medford: Coverage of Shawnee is brought to you by Cooper University Health Care. Jackson Memorial 27 Toms River East 21 | Central Group 4 Semifinal Lonnie Cebulski’s 13-yard TD run in the final minute gave the Jaguars a comeback victory and a spot in the Central Jersey Group 4 championship game. Toms River East raced out to a 14-0 lead behind QB Mike Goodall who had 178 yards rushing and 2 TD’s, but the Jags rallied in the second half. A muffed punt with :52 seconds left gave the Jags the ball at the 13 and Cebulski scored on the first play after the turnover to seal the victory. Jackson Memorial will travel to top seed Hammonton in the title game. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from a fantastic ballgame: We were able to get all the highlights from this great game thanks to the support of Louro Chiropractic Center who sponsors our Jackson Memorial coverage Wayne Valley 7 Phillipsburg 0 | North 2 Group 4 Semifinal Tom Moran’s 1-yard TD run was the only score of the game to lead Wayne Valley to an upset of the number one seed. Wayne Valley will travel to Old Tappan for the North 2 Group 4 championship. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of the Stateliners is made possible by the Garnet Booster Club Hillside 35 Haddonfield 0 | South Group 2 Semifinal Isn’t revenge sweet? Hillside sure thinks so. After losing to Haddonfield in the inaugural South Jersey Group 2 bowl championship last season, the Comets came out blazing to blowout the reigning champs. This win marked Hillside’s sixth shutout of the season. JSZ has the highlights from Haddonfield: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Haddonfield is brought to you by NJM Insurance.
Gun Violence Mars Camden-Pleasantville Playoff Game
It was a normal New Jersey high school football playoff game; until it wasn’t. Camden was leading Pleasantville 6-0 in the third quarter when at least six shots were fired in the stands behind the Greyhounds sideline. Fans, players, and coaches ran for cover. Referees dropped down onto the turf field. Police officers, security guards, and emergency personnel quickly rushed to the stands. At least two people, including a child, were taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital. Saturday Update: Five people were arrested in connection with the shooting. A total of three people were shot. Here’s the latest update courtesy of NBC News The NJSIAA has announced that the Camden-Pleasantville game will resume on Wednesday at an undisclosed neutral location with no fans allowed to attend. Camden leads the state playoff game 6-0 in the third quarter Statement by Larry White, executive director, NJSIAA (New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association) pic.twitter.com/NfMiBLf8Un— NJSIAA (@NJSIAA) November 17, 2019
Jimmy Pepe of Randolph Wins Week 9 Top Play Belt!
Randolph’s Jimmy Pepe was a driving force in the Rams first round 42-28 upset against Montgomery. The Senior finished with 250 all purpose yards and 4 touchdowns. On the game’s opening possession Pepe scored on a 52 yard touchdown from quarterback Matt Kleiven. The fans have spoken and he is our Week 9 Top Play Belt Winner! JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez stopped by practice for another electric ceremony: Take Our Poll Thank you to Quick Chek for sponsoring all Jersey Sports Zone playoff coverage!
Wall Wallops Allentown in Atypical Sunday Playoff Game
It’s been an odd week surrounding three high school teams — Wall, Allentown and Robbinsville. Robbinsville and Allentown played a “play-in” game Wednesday night, with Allentown securing a 28-10 win advancing to play Wall in the Central Jersey Group 3 quarterfinal. Then, in the interest of time, the Crimson Knights and Redbirds had to play their quarterfinal game before the end of the week, so that took place, rather unusually, on Sunday afternoon. Wall, one of the state’s top public school programs, punished Allentown Sunday afternoon. The Crimson Knights forced six turnovers and Logan Peters led the offense with a four-touchdown performance. No. 1 seed Wall advances to play No. 5 seed Lacey next weekend. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Allentown is made possible by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates.
Vote now for a playoff edition of JSZ Top Plays!
The New Jersey high school football playoffs are here and Jersey Sports Zone got some big moments from the opening round. We have the Top Plays captured by our cameras (with some help of a viral video courtesy of Monroe High!). Watch the best of the best from Week 9 and cast your vote through Tuesday at 3:00 pm. The winner of our poll will win the JSZ Top Play Belt. Thanks to the athletes we cover for another batch of outstanding highlights! Take Our Poll Thanks to QuickChek for sponsoring JSZ’s coverage of the state playoffs. Don’t forget to head to QuickChek and use our Buy One Get One Free Ciabatta! Last Week’s Top Play Winner Thanks to everyone at Mainland who voted for Jake Cook to win the Top Play Belt along with his teammates Sean Bradley who earned a JSZ Game Ball:
Watch Saturday 11.9 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
The opening round of the state playoffs concludes with Saturday action all around the state. JSZ has two fourth-quarter rallies, an upset by Notre Dame and a revenge win for Ocean City. Watch our teaser and then scroll down to watch all the action Westfield 27 Bridgewater-Raritan 23 | North 1 Group 5 The Blue Devils rallied from a 23-0 deficit late in the third quarter to put together 27 unanswered points and one of the great comebacks in NJ high school football playoff history. Hank Shapiro threw for 317 yards and 3 TD passes including the 29-yard TD pass to Griffin Rooney on the game-winner. Rooney and John Czarnecki both topped 100 yards receiving in the win. Westfield will take on top seed Ridgewood in the sectional semifinal. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from one of the most exciting games of 2019: Jersey Sports Zone brought you this incredible game thanks to the support of Princeton Orthopaedic Associates (Bridgewater-Raritan) and Assemblyman Jon Bramnick (Westfield). Notre Dame 34 Delbarton 31 | Non-Public Group 4 Notre Dame (9) captured its first playoff win since 2004 with a 34-31 victory over Delbarton (8). The Irish got a lift from running back Cortaz Williams who finished with 210 rushing yards, four touchdowns and an interception. ND advances to face St. Peter’s Prep (1) in the quarterfinals. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Notre Dame coverage. Special thanks to Tip of the Spear Football for sponsoring our Delbarton coverage. Irvington 22 Cranford 21 | North 1 Group 4 The Blue Knights rally for 14 fourth-quarter points capped off by a Taiyon Battle touchdown run with 2:16 left in the game to rally into the sectional semifinal. Connor Katz threw three first-half touchdown passes to give the Cougars a 21-8 halftime lead but Irvington got a 50-yard TD from AJ Henderson and Battle’s game-winner to earn a date with top seed Northern Highland in round two. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the comeback from Irvington: Thanks to Quick Chek for supporting JSZ’s high school football playoff coverage Ocean City 21 Mainland 14 | South Group 4 Just eight days after losing to the Mustangs 21-6, the Red Raiders exacted revenge against their rivals. Joe Repetti threw two touchdown passes to Jake Schneider and ran for a score to lead the way for Ocean City. Zack Graziotto threw two touchdown passes for Mainland in the loss. The Mustangs had the ball inside the Red Raiders ten yard line with under a minute left, but Chris Armstrong recovered a fumble to seal the win for OC. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction as Ocean City earned its first playoff win since 2001: Paramus Catholic 42 St. Joseph (Met.) 7 | Non-Public Group 4 Paramus Catholic might be the No. 10 seed in the Non-Public Group 4 bracket, but the Paladins sure didn’t play like it. Michael Hudson was thrust into the starting quarterback role Saturday and led the way with a four-touchdown performance in a blowout win against No. 7 seed St. Joseph. The Paladins will face No. 2 St. Joe’s (Mont.) next Saturday. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Metuchen: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of the state playoffs is proudly sponsored by QuickChek. Hillside 36 Cinnaminson 2 | South Group 2 Hillside has a habit of jumping up five scores on their opponent before halftime — it was the opposite on Saturday as the Comets exploded for 36 points in the second half to blowout Cinnaminson in the opening round of the state playoffs. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Hillside: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Cinnaminson is provided by NJM Insurance. Delran 29 Manasquan 14 | South Group 2 University of Michigan commit R.J. Moten’s 51-yard touchdown late in the first quarter was the spark fifth-seeded Delran used fly right past No. 4 seed Manasquan in the opening round of the state playoffs. Dustin Desher, Eren Ibas, Jake Bauman and Kenny Fletcher all contributed to a Bears attack that outgained Manasquan 334-157. Delran advances and will face top-seeded West Deptford next Friday. JSZ has the highlights from Manasquan: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of the state playoffs is made possible by QuickChek. Paulsboro 20 Glassboro 14 | South Group 1 The Red Raiders jumped out to an early 12-0 lead over the Bulldogs, but needed a stout defensive effort in the second half to preserve the win. Bhayshul Tuten scored twice for the Red Raiders to highlight a productive day on the ground. Paulsboro advances to the Group 1 South semifinals and will host 3-seed Gateway next Saturday. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Paulsboro: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of the state playoffs is proudly sponsored by QuickChek.
Watch Friday 11.8 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
It’s playoff time in New Jersey! Our cameras were on hand for opening round quarterfinal action all across the state as the journey to MetLife and Rutgers begins. Watch our teaser to get you ready and then scroll down to watch all of our highlights and post-game reaction from around the state. Wayne Valley 13 Wayne Hills 6 | North 2 Group 4 One of New Jersey’s most tightly-contested cross-town rivalries again went down the wire, but this time there was much more on the line than local bragging rights. No. 5 seed Wayne Valley secured a win over No. 4 seed Wayne Hills for the first time since 2012. The Indians were powered by a lights-out defensive effort in the second half that shutout their rivals for the final 24 minutes of regulation. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Wayne: Thanks to QuickChek for supporting our coverage of the NJSIAA football playoffs! Seneca 27 Ocean Township 23 | Group 3 South Malin Jasinski engineered a 71-yard drive in 1:10 capped off by a 10-yard TD pass to George Thorp with :10 left to give the #6 seed an upset win over previously unbeaten Ocean. Jasinski threw a 47-yard bomb to Johnny Kennevan to set up the game-winning score. Ocean took a 23-21 lead in the fourth quarter on a field goal and got three TD’s from Trebor Pena. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights and post-game reaction from a thriller: Thanks to QuickChek for supporting our coverage of the NJSIAA football playoffs! Holmdel 22 Red Bank Regional 14 | Group 3 South Tom Ammirati had a TD pass and two TD runs and Myles Day blocked a field goal and came up with two interceptions as Holmdel beat their Shore Conference rival for a second time this season. Ammirati scored two straight touchdowns in the third quarter to help Holmdel open up a 22-7 lead. Jack Chamberlain had two touchdown passes in the loss for the Bucs. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights: Jersey Sports Zone brought you highlights from Holmdel and RBR thanks to the support of our partners. Thanks to Ryser’s Landscape Supply (RBR) and the Law Offices of Lawrence Luttrell (Holmdel) for their support! Timber Creek 27 Raritan 26 | Group 3 Central The third-seeded Chargers outlasted the sixth-seeded Rockets in a game that came right down to the wire. Raritan’s Steve Coponi scored on an 86-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter to bring the Rockets within one. Timber Creek’s defense held on the two-point conversion attempt though, as Dior Boyd intercepted the pass in the end zone. Donovan Leary threw three TD passes in the win; two to Marcus James, and one to Maryland commit Tarheeb Still. Elijah Williams rushed for a score in the victory. Coponi rushed for three touchdowns for the Rockets in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction from Gloucester Township: Timber Creek coverage is made possible by Cooper University Health Care. Rumson-Fair Haven 27 Delsea 6 | Group 3 Central John Volker had two first-half touchdown runs as the Bulldogs raced out to a 19-0 halftime lead on the way to an opening-round playoff victory. RFH will host Timber Creek in the Central Jersey Group 3 semifinal. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights: Thanks to NJM Insurance for supporting our coverage of Delsea all year long Randolph 42 Montgomery 28 | North 1 Group 4 Randolph (6) busted the North 1 Group 4 playoff bracket with a dominating 42-28 upset win over Montgomery (3) in the opening round. The Rams were led by running back Jimmy Pepe who racked up 250 all-purpose yards and four touchdowns including an 85-yard kickoff return. Quarterback Matt Kleiven threw for 158 yards, two touchdowns and also ran in a score. Randolph will face Woodbridge (2) in the semifinals. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Montgomery coverage. Jackson Memorial 20 Moorestown 0 | Group 4 Central Now this is how you use the big play! Jackson Memorial found the end zone three times Friday night with big plays that gained chunk yardage. The Jags defense had their best game of the season, holding Moorestown to a goose egg on the scoreboard. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Jackson: Coverage of Jackson Memorial is made possible by Louro Chiropractic Center. Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Moorestown is brought to you by NJM Insurance.