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JSZ’s Year in Review Series: 2021 Football Season
The 2021-2022 New Jersey high school sports season is officially over, but that doesn’t mean we can’t reminisce on what was an incredible year. Jersey Sports Zone’s team of multimedia journalists had boots on the ground from August 2021 through June 2022 and covered over 1,000 games in over a dozen different sports during that timeframe. So, before we turn the page on the past year, our team gets together and looks back on their favorite moments in each sport. The 2021 Football Season Jay Cook | North Jersey: Northern Highlands 35 Ramapo 30; Nov. 26, 2021 “After a tumultuous week following the sudden death of longtime head coach Drew Gibbs, Ramapo returned to the field in a pressure situation with a sectional championship on the line. The Raiders’ explosive offense was on point, but so was Northern Highlands’. Enzo Arjona orchestrated a late game-winning drive, capped off with a touchdown pass to Kyle Major, to give the Highlanders a win in one of the most thrilling games of the season in North Jersey.” Rich Chrampanis | North Jersey: East Orange 30 Clifton 24 (3OT); Dec. 5, 2021 “This is a game that will be featured in every state championship history archive in New Jersey football for generations to come. While the game will mostly be remembered for a controversial 100-yard fumble recovery by Ahmad Nalls in which video replay did not get Clifton breaking the plane before the ball came out, it should not overshadow an incredible game played by both teams with insane drama.” Nery Rodriguez | Central Jersey: Hillsborough 28, Kingsway 7; Dec. 4, 2021 “The end of this one could have been in a movie. Hillsborough completed their ultimate goal, a perfect 13-0 season. Rutgers Head Coach, Greg Schiano was in attendance to witness and congratulate future Scarlet Knight Tommy Amankwaa for his 240 all purpose yards and two touchdowns in one of the most memorable moments of the season.” Mike Frankel | South Jersey: Winslow Twp. 34 Shawnee 22; Nov. 20, 2021 “The trophy says Central on it, but this was a true South Jersey final between a team on the rise in Winslow, and one of the area’s most decorated programs in Shawnee. With Hamas Duren, Trey Thorpe and Emeril Mitchell leading the way, the Eagles captured the first sectional title in program history on a Saturday night in the spotlight.” James Mooney | South Jersey: Haddonfield 28 Point Pleasant Boro 27; Dec. 4, 2021 “The drama-filled battle for the South-Central Group 2 Regional Championship set the tone for an unforgettable championship weekend at Rutgers University. Carson Wolff, Bobby Hahn, and company’s thrilling comeback proved that ‘belief is a powerful thing,’ as Haddonfield head coach Frank DeLano would note post-game.”
Texas A&M wins the Chase! Don Bosco 4-star OL commits to Aggies
One of New Jersey’s top 2023 football prospects has made his college choice. Check out the JSZ highlight reel from one of the best offensive lineman prospects in the country! Don Bosco Prep offensive lineman Chase Bisontis has given a verbal commitment to play college football in the SEC for Texas A&M. Bisontis made the announcement on Sunday evening on his social media account. The 6’5″, 290-pound offensive tackle is considered a 4-star recruit and ranked as one of the top offensive line prospects in the country. Bisontis chose A&M over Michigan State, LSU and Rutgers. Gig’em 👍🏽!!!!! pic.twitter.com/NoTIqR9xjv— Chase Bisontis (@CBisontis) July 24, 2022 While nearly every offensive line player lives in anonymity, Bisontis’ reputation has made him one of New Jersey’s most recognized football stars. Check out JSZ’s highlight reel that backs up that claim.
Irvington’s Nasir Addison commits to Kentucky
A July heatwave was not enough to stop friends and family from gathering in Newark as Irvington Wide receiver and Cornerback Nasir Addison made his college decision to play for the Unversity of Kentucky. The three star prospect is coming off a North Group 4 Regional Championship where he finished his junior year with 20 catches for 389 yards and 4 touchdowns. In college Addison’s focus will switch towards the defensive side of the ball. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez was there following the decision: Thank you to RWJ Barnabas Health for sponsoring statewide athletics across New Jersey.
Irvington WR Famah Toure Finds a Home at Rutgers
Irvington’s booming football program is producing as much Division One talent as any public school in New Jersey. The Blue Knights added another Power Five recruit from the Class of 2023 to their growing list. Wide receiver Famah Toure announced on social media Friday evening he’s verbally committed to Rutgers University. His commitment signals a familial homecoming for the Toure family. Famah’s older brother, Mohamed Toure, is currently on the Rutgers football roster as a defensive end. Watch Famah Toure’s Junior Season Highlights Toure was only one of two Irvington players to crack 1,000 all-purpose yards last season. The 6’4″, 200 pound wideout was used in a multitude of offensive sets and brought a lethal combo of speed and physicality to the Blue Knights’ offense. Toure accumulated 1,098 yards and six total touchdowns as a junior. Irvington had a historic 2021 season – they went 11-2, won the first sectional championship in program history and then followed that up with a North Group 4 Regional Championship win over undefeated Northern Highlands at, ironically enough, Rutgers University’s SHI Stadium. Toure will help headline an uber-talented senior class at Irvington for the 2022 season alongside Notre Dame commit Adon Schuler and fellow Power 5 recruit Nasir Addison.
First Marisa Rose Bowl Showcases Middlesex County All-Stars
The Middlesex County community came together to support and raise money for cancer in the newly renamed Marisa Rose Bowl all-star football game. St. Joseph Metuchen quarterback Christian Solino tossed a 23 yard touchdown pass to Aidan Holloway of Metuchen in the second quarter for the game’s first score. Rocco Bellamy of Piscataway answered back with an 11 yard rushing score to tie the game at 7-7 heading into halftime. Christian Solino scoring the eventual game-winning touchdown received MVP honors. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights and postgame reaction from North Brunswick: Thank you to RWJ Barnabas Health for sponsoring high school athletics across New Jersey.
Monmouth County Wins Fourth Straight All-Shore Gridiron Classic
Following a two year break due to Covid-19 protocols, the 43rd annual All-Shore Gridiron Classic All-Star Football Game returned to Brick Township High School. Monmouth County would take a fourth straight matchup with a 14-7 win over Ocean. Nunes Bukula began the game with a touchdown run for Ocean, but Monmouth answered in the second with scores from Middletown South’s Ryan St. Clair and Nick Vecchiarelli of Howell to take a 14-7 lead at halftime. St. Clair received offensive MVP honors for his touchdown and two point conversion. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights and postgame reaction: Thank you to RWJ Barnabas Health for sponsoring statewide coverage of all the best in high school athletics across New Jersey.
Cherokee RB Boria Commits to Stony Brook
Cherokee rising senior Brandon “Bam” Boria ran wild during his junior campaign for the Chiefs. Boria rushed for over 1,600 yards and scored 22 touchdowns, after rushing for nearly 900 yards during his sophomore season. Boria made his college decision on Monday, committing to Stony Brook. After a great visit with @Coach_Priore, I am proud and excited to announce my commitment to Stony Brook! 💥 @Biggame_24 @okingcoach @CoachMartinoSBU @Coach_Hatch @Fballchiefs @CoachPerrone #HOWL 🐺 pic.twitter.com/uBFqBpDeN9— Brandon “Bam” Boria (@BamXXVIII) July 11, 2022 Check out Boria’s JSZ junior season highlight reel:
Vandy’s McAllister returns to Rumson to launch foundation
Elijah McAllister is set to begin his third year as a starter for the Vanderbilt Commodores. The Rumson-Fair Haven two-sport standout came back home to NJ to launch his new charitable foundation. Watch our JSZ feature! At six-foot-seven, 270 pounds, it’s natural to look up to Elijah McAllister. Young football players certainly did that in more ways than one July 10 at Borden Stadium. It turns out that his dedication to giving back towers over his massive frame. The former Rumson-Fair Haven two-sport standout, who is now a starting outside linebacker at Vanderbilt University came back to his high school alma mater last Saturday to host a football camp as the kickoff to his charitable efforts. His foundation name comes from his two uniforms worn at Vandy. From 41 to earning the captain’s No. 1 jersey resulted in the naming of the All 41, One For All Foundation. Watch our JSZ feature on McAllister’s influence on his high school and the start of his foundation: To donate to McAllister’s All 4:1-One For All Foundation, click here: https://account.venmo.com/u/AllFourOneAndOneForAll Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Rumson-Fair Haven is brought to you by Mario Venancio
NJ Sack Artist DJ Samuels Headed To Maryland
One of New Jersey’s most prolific pass rushers has figured out his next home. Bergen Catholic defensive end DJ Samuels took to social media last night and announced that he had verbally committed to the University of Maryland. Samuels, a 6’1″and 240 pound pass rusher, was one of the top remaining uncommitted players in the state heading into the summer after a monster junior season where he broke Brian Cushing’s All-Time Career sacks record at Bergen Catholic. Watch DJ Samuels’ Junior Year Highlights! Samuels was named a two-time JSZ All-Zone team selection during his junior season just weeks after he helped lead Bergen Catholic to a perfect 12-0 season and a Non-Public A state championship. He logged 39 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, had a team-high nine sacks, forced three fumbles and even scored two touchdowns on offense. The Crusaders allowed only 7.8 points per game last season. This news comes in the midst of a huge offseason for Bergen Catholic, in terms of recruiting. Four-star defensive lineman Sydir Mitchell recently announced he had verbally committed to the University of Texas, WR Christian Carti pledged to Columbia and RB Saeed St. Fleur gave a verbal commitment to the University of Delaware. With Samuels leading the way, the Crusaders should once again field one of the most talented defenses in the state. You can bet he’ll also look to add onto the school’s all-time sack record that he now holds.
Sydir Mitchell Makes Splash, Commits to Texas
The state’s most disruptive and physically imposing defensive lineman is officially off the board – and he’s headed to the Lone Star State. Class of 2023 Bergen Catholic defensive lineman Sydir Mitchell announced Sunday evening that he verbally committed to the University of Texas. Mitchell, a towering presence who stands at 6’5″ and 335 pounds, is the latest in a long list of Bergen Catholic products to commit to top-level Power 5 college football programs. Mitchell’s decision to commit to the Longhorns comes after a productive junior season with the Crusaders. He logged 40 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, two sacks and even snagged one interception. His play along the defensive line was instrumental to Bergen Catholic putting together a 12-0 season and winning the Non-Public A state championship last December. Watch Sydir Mitchell’s JSZ Junior Year Highlights! A who’s who of elite college football programs recruited Mitchell. According to 247Sports, he collected 21 offers and chose Texas over Georgia, Miami and Texas A&M, among others. His recruitment initially exploded after a productive sophomore season in which he assumed a starting role along Bergen Catholic’s defensive line after Tywone Malone (current Ole Miss defensive lineman) went down with a season-ending injury. Mitchell, who was a JSZ All-Zone Non-Public team selection from the 2021 season, will once again be a centerpiece for Bergen Catholic’s defense this upcoming fall.
The 2021-22 HS Sports Season Comes to a Close
After over 1,000 games and months of boots-on-the-ground reporting, the 2021-2022 high school sports season in New Jersey has come to a close for Jersey Sports Zone. This past scholastic year brought remarkable highs and moments that will live on for years to come. We also saw coaches, players and entire school communities battle through hardships and persevere despite tough times. So, in the best way we know how, we close out the year in our style. Check out the Top 10 Boys Plays of the Year and the Top 10 Girls Plays of the Year. Also, JSZ’s Jay Cook reviews the year in an impactful video essay that spans the highlights of this past year. 2021-22 In The Books: A Video Essay by Jay Cook Top 10 Boys Plays of the Year Top 10 Girls Plays of the Year Jersey Sports Zone is proudly sponsored by RWJ Barnabas Health!
Hillsborough’s Will Dixon Commits to WVU
As the high school sports calendar year has wrapped up and graduations have taken center stage to close out the month of June, Hillsborough’s Will Dixon ended his senior year on a high note with a commitment to play football for West Virginia University. Dixon was originally committed to the University of Akron but Covid giving players an extra year of illegibility made no room on the depth chart. The six foot five tight end was then scheduled to attend Blair Academy in the Fall, but received a slew of offers in recent weeks. Will Dixon helped lead the Raiders to a perfect 13-0 season capped off with a Central/South Group 5 Championship, he had 20 catches for 269 yards and four touchdowns in 2021. Watch his senior year highlight reel now: Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Hillsborough coverage.
Devil Dogs win ninth annual Basoline Bowl
Devil Dogs 21 Leathernecks 7 | Basoline Bowl A great night of football concluded with the Devil Dogs defeating the Leathernecks 21-7 at the 2022 Basilone Bowl from Bridgewater-Raritan High School. Touchdown scores from Owen Bill (Hunterdon Central) and Nasan Colson (Franklin) put the Devil Dogs up 14-0 at halftime. Hillsborough’s Tyler Michinard would also added a nine yard touchdown score in the fourth. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights:
Watch 2022 Phil Simms NJ North/South All-Star Football Classic Highlights
North 21 South 16 After a two year hiatus due to Covid-19 protocols, the annual Phil Simms NJ North/South All-Star Football Classic returned to Kean University. The North All-Stars defeated South 21-16 in a second half comeback victory as East Orange quarterback Raeden Oliver tossed two touchdown passes. Former New York Giants and Super Bowl Champions Jonathan Casillas and Phil Simms were both on site for a memorable evening of high school football. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights and postgame reaction from Union:
Shore wins second straight Shore Conference Flag Football Championship
Rylee Drahos caught three touchdown passes and Julia Iannuzzelli threw six scores to lead Shore Regional to a win the Shore Conference flag football championship game. Watch all the highlights from Middletown! Shore Regional 38 Middletown North 26 | Shore Girls Flag Football Championship The Green Bay Packers won the first two Super Bowls. For the trailblazers of girls flag football, it’s Shore Regional winning the first two Shore Conference titles. Julia Iannuzzelli threw six touchdown passes with Rylee Drahos leading the way with three scores. The Blue Devils avenged its only loss of the season to previously unbeaten Middletown North with a steady offensive performance. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from Middletown: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Middletown North and Shore Regional is brought to you by Monmouth Medical Center
Fanetti fires six TDs to give Middletown North home field in flag football playoffs
We’ve got more great Girls Flag Football action from the Shore Conference. Watch the highlights of Middletown North and quarterback Valentina Fanetti! Middletown North 40 Holmdel 30 Valentina Fanetti threw six touchdown passes to keep Middletown North unbeaten in regular-season play and clinch home field for the four-team Shore Conference playoffs. Fanetti threw three touchdowns in the first half and three more in the second. Julia Saporito caught two touchdowns from Michelle Steele for Holmdel in the second half. Jersey Sports Zone’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights and post-game reaction from Shore Regional High School: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Middletown North is brought to you by Monmouth Medical Center
Top 2 Shore Flag Football Teams Show Potential of Rising Sport
Jersey Sports Zone has profiled the growth of flag football in New Jersey. We decided to give the top two teams in the Shore the Friday Night Lights treatment and Holmdel and Shore Regional did not disappoint. Watch a full breakdown of an excellent game NOW! Shore Regional 28 Holmdel 19 Rylee Drahos had 10 receptions for 122 yards and four touchdowns along with two interceptions to account for all of Shore’s points in a matchup of the top two teams in the 10-team Shore Conference football league. Julia Iannuzzelli threw all four TD passes for Shore. The Shore Regional quarterback played an hour earlier for the Blue Devils varsity softball team going 1-3 with a run scored. The second season of Shore Conference flag football is supported by the New York Giants and continues to grow across the state. Take a look at these highlights and you’ll see that growth firsthand in an excellent game played by both teams: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Shore Regional is brought to you by Monmouth Medical Center
Ocean’s Pickett is first QB selected in 2022 NFL Draft
Kenny Pickett is staying in Pittsburgh after the Steelers selected him with the 20th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. JSZ was at Pickett’s celebration in Loch Arbor and talks with the newest NFL QB Kenny Pickett could have gone to Las Vegas to be part of the glitz and glamour of the 2022 NFL Draft but instead opted to celebrate his life-changing moment at home with family and friends. Pickett was at Deal Lake Bar and Co. in Loch Arbor. Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi was on hand along with Ocean Township head coach Don Klein when the Pittsburgh Steelers selected Pickett with the #20 overall pick in the first round: Kenny Pickett is a Pittsburgh SteelerThe moment he gets the call and finds out he’s being selected with the 20th overall pick in the #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/Zk38Gi2Ey9— Johnny McGonigal (@jmcgonigal9) April 29, 2022 Jersey Sports Zone talked with Pickett moments after he was drafted as he talked about his New Jersey roots and how important it was for him to be home when his big moment came:
National Signing Day 2022: JSZ Coverage
Today is the biggest day of the year for high school athletes going to play at the next level. JSZ has statewide coverage from National Signing Day as some of the top football players put pen to paper and sign their National Letters of Intent. East Orange Caps Off Historic Season With Three Signees The 2021 season at East Orange will be talked about for years to come. A perfect 13-0 season, a pair of trophies and a number of top-notch players highlighted a year for the record books. The Jaguars put their memorable season to bed on Wednesday as three seniors signed National Letters of Intent. Kyle Louis signed with the University of Pittsburgh, Ahmad Nalls inked with Kent State and Dieunerst Collin made it official with D-II Lake Eerie College. Their senior leadership and the examples they set may have changed East Orange football for years to come. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story from Essex County: RBC’s Alex Bauman Signs with Tulane One of New Jersey’s premier two-way players, Bauman brings a versatile skill set to the American Athletic Conference. Bauman was a JSZ All-Zone Non-Public selection on the defensive line but will be suiting up as a tight end when he arrives on campus in New Orleans. He collected 26 catches for 432 yards and six touchdowns for RBC’s high octane offense and made 79 tackles with eight sacks, 16 tackles for loss, 18 hurries, and two fumble recoveries as the leader of the Caseys’ defense. Watch his JSZ senior year highlight reel now! Notre Dame’s Jenkins Signs with Tennessee The 6’6 260 DL chose the Vols over Florida, Virginia, Mizzou and West Virginia. The Notre Dame senior elevated himself to a three-star recruit and was named to JSZ’s All-Zone team. Check out his profile below: Army West Point Lands Jack Latore Once again, Middletown South’s football program produces another Division One-level talent. The 6-5, 240 pound defensive lineman wreaked havoc in opposing backfields all season long and that high level of play earned him an offer to play at Army West Point. The Black Knights land a player who’s potential continues to improve. He notched 89 tackles, 25 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks for the 9-2 Eagles this season. Watch his JSZ senior year highlight reel now! Kanye Udoh Signs with Army The Black Knights landed another Garden State gem on Wednesday, as St. Augustine’s Kanye Udoh made his college decision. The St. Augustine standout was one of the state’s top running backs in 2021, finishing with 1,500 yards and 16 touchdowns. Udoh helped lead the Hermits to a 9-2 record and a run to the Non-Public A semifinals. Watch his JSZ All-Zone Profile here: Donovan Catholic’s McNair signs with Old Dominion Donovan Catholic two-way lineman Caron McNair is on his way to Virginia after signing to play FBS football at Old Dominion. McNair was a 2021 JSZ All-Zone selection: A Pair of SPP Marauders Sign with Holy Cross Holy Cross has established a successful recruiting pipeline in New Jersey for years. Now, the Crusaders have made an impact this cycle at St. Peter’s Prep. Avery Powell and Sam Slade – both JSZ All-Zone Non-Public selections – signed their National Letters of Intent Tuesday with the Crusaders. Powell is a physical defensive back who loves to tackle, make a big hit and then drop back into coverage and make quarterbacks pay. He made 67 tackles, had 11 pass breakups and one interception as the leader of the Marauders’ defensive backfield in 2021. A tenacious runner with the ability to fly by defenders made Sam Slade one of North Jersey’s most dangerous tailbacks. The 5-10, 190 pound tailback was the only player on St. Peter’s Prep’s offense to eclipse 1,000 scrimmage yards during the 2021 season. Watch both of their JSZ senior season highlight reels now! Seton Hall Prep’s Thomason Inks with New Hampshire Congratulations to Seton Hall Prep running back Myles Thomason for signing a national letter of intent to play Division I FCS football at the University of New Hampshire. Thomason eclipsed 1,000 all-purpose yards and had 13 touchdowns for the Pirates. Watch his 2021 JSZ All-Zone Profile below: Signings Around The State It’s official!!! @CianCurylo is off to the Thundering herd of Marshall University!!! @BucDeck @BucDeck @RBRBBF @RBRicehockey @Bob_Badders @smfalk @Rich_Chrampanis @CoachDavis23 @sherlonapp @HerdFB pic.twitter.com/qgEyGXKuHS— RBR Athletics (@rbrathletics) February 2, 2022 Congratulations Rajahn Cooper Merrimack College, Alex Bauman Tulane Univ, and Ryan McPherson Assumption College signing a NLI to continue their football careers pic.twitter.com/2hD08O4goj— CaseysSports (@CaseysSports) February 2, 2022 Congratulations @SRRamsfootball Jaiden Brown on his commitment to @HoyasFB pictured with his parents, Coach Larson, Coach Sharkey & HFC Donohue Sr. #RamPride🐏🏛🏈🇺🇲 #HoyaSaxa @coachsgarlata @HoyasFB pic.twitter.com/GY7I3c59j0— Chuck Donohue Jr. (@DonohueJr) February 2, 2022 COMMITMENT DAY! FOLLOW FOR UPDATES THROUGHOUT THE DAY pic.twitter.com/Hx5vEOE006— SJR Football (@SJRFB) February 2, 2022 Congratulations to Cole Kozlowski on his commitment to play Football for the Colgate Raiders! pic.twitter.com/u4bRuejZS1— Manasquan Athletics (@SquanAthletics) February 2, 2022 Congrats to the kid @dj_thomson4 on making his commitment to @ESU_Football ! Proud of you ! @Bryanthomson18 @Alex_Thomson3 @FBKeyport @Keyport_B_Bball pic.twitter.com/UKZW8pAiUZ— JMaguireKPSD (@jmaguireKPSD) February 2, 2022 Congratulations & Best of Luck, AJ Ayman Elhossiani & Family on signing his NIL to continue his Football Career at Shippensburg U! @ShipFootball @ShipURaiders @WhsBarronsFB pic.twitter.com/loYKp9tyWs— WHS Athletics (@BarronsSports) February 2, 2022 Demarest Signing day. We had a total of 16 student-athletes commit to compete at the collegiate level next year. Good luck to all our senior athletes. Go Norsemen! @NJScom @BigNorthConBNC @VarsityAces pic.twitter.com/uzxC2S9E5X— NV-Demarest Athletics Official Site (@DemarestNv) February 2, 2022 Official!!!!! @CoachDeLoach11 @Red_Zone75 @KUBearsFootball pic.twitter.com/8ai9Bs8PcA— Ahmad Dixon (@ahmadixon03) February 2, 2022
Ridgewood’s Joe Grasso Wins First SFC Young Man of the Year Award
So many postseason awards are hyper-focused on achievements on the gridiron. But, the Super Football Conference’s newest honor shines a spotlight on the student athletes who are stars off the field, too. Of eight finalists up for the award, Ridgewood senior Joe Grasso was named the 2021-2022 Super Football Conference’s Steve DiGregorio Young Man of the Year. Grasso was honored with a plaque, a trophy and gift no one saw coming – a pair of tickets to Super Bowl 56, courtesy of the New York Jets. The day was also a celebration of Steve DiGregorio, a longtime institution around North Jersey football who passed away in October. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story from MetLife Stadium: Steve DiGregorio Young Man of the Year Award Finalists Joe Grasso, Ridgewood Michael McGuire, Madison Anthony Miller, Chatham Zach Cooper, Dover Michael Mastroeni, Hopatcong Zaheem Crawford-Patterson, Irvington Chris Corbo, West Essex Erik Perez, St. Peter’s Prep
LeQuint Allen Wins 2021 Zoneman Trophy, Celebrates Syracuse Signing
It was a celebration on a few different levels for Millville’s LeQuint Allen on Friday. He was awarded the 2021 Zoneman Trophy, Jersey Sports Zone’s honor for the top player in New Jersey. Allen rushed for neary 2,000 yards, scored 26 touchdowns, and made over 120 tackles on defense for the Thunderbolts this fall. JSZ was able to present Allen with the hardware during a signing celebration. Allen officially signed with Syracuse University on Wednesday, but family, friends, coaches and teammates were on hand on Friday to celebrate the achievement. Watch JSZ’s coverage of Allen’s big day: Zoneman Voting Breakdown It was the largest ballot (seven players) in the history of the award, as well as the closest final tally in voting history. JSZ polled 92 coaches + 31 media members to collect 123 total ballots. The ballots were collected equally from all parts of the state. Voting Coaches John Hack, Morris Catholic | Ashley “Smoke” Pierre, Irvington | Steve Dunn, Rutherford | Nick Campanile, DePaul | Dan Marangi, St. Joe’s (Mont.) | Dan Sabella, Don Bosco | Todd Smith, Hun | Mike Cipot, North Brunswick | Ryan Fullen, Hightstown | Jason Glezmen, Keyport | Jay Graber, Matawan | Frank Duffy, Phillipsburg | Lou Zampella, Hudson Catholic | Anthony Lanzafama, Old Bridge | Jeff Rainess, Holmdel | Matt Ahearn, Colts Neck | AJ Russo, Holy Spirit | Montrey Wright, Salem | Jim Raso, Hammonton | John Emel, Penns Grove | Mike Schatzman, Washington Twp. | John Adams, Woodstown | Kevin Smith, Ocean City | Kenny Scott, Winslow Twp. | James Melody, Cedar Creek | Steve Scanlon, Clearview | Dennis Thomas, Millville | Chuck Smith, Mainland | Dallas Whitaker, Somerville | Brian Russo, Rahway | Jon Viotto, South Brunswick | Vin Mistretta, Jackson Memorial | Jim Sharples, Jackson Liberty | Jim Desarno, Westfield | Kevin Carty Jr., Hillsborough | Ralph Cinque, Clifton | James Magazine, Eastside | Brian Fitzgerald, Seton Hall Prep | Brian Bowers, Delbarton | Barris Grant, Hillside | Rich Hansen III, St. Peter’s Prep | Len Zdanowicz, Brick Township | Albert Chiola, Linden | Andrew Patterson, Robbinsville | Shane Fallon, Red Bank Regional | Dom Gaston, Pope John | Chris Beagan, Sayreville | Joe LaSala, Woodbridge | Rich Hilliard, St. Joseph Metuchen | Benjie Wimberly, St. Joe-Montvale | Kevin Kostibos, Summit | John Bird, Keansburg | Roger Kotlarz, Wayne Valley | William Clark, Perth Amboy | Brian Wright, Timber Creek | Jason Morrell, West Deptford | Dominic Tomeo, Triton | William Hamilton, South Plainfield | Chet Parlavecchio, New Providence | Matthew Demarest, Passaic Tech | Anthony Petruzzi, Raritan | Rob Gogerty, Cedar Grove | Dominick Lepore, Manalapan | Rich Seubert, Watchung Hills | Joe Wojchekowski, Lenape | Lou Grasso, Union | Tim Gushue, Shawnee | Don Klein, Ocean Township | Nick Pulli, Gateway | Vito Campanile, Bergen Catholic | Ray Lucas, Harrison | Brian Staub, Point Pleasant Boro | J. Schulte, Rumson-Fair Haven | Tom Roarty, Colonia | Andy West, Ridge | Zoran Milich, Montgomery | Joe Passaro, Pingry | Dan Curcione, Donovan Catholic | Jon Simoneau, Bernards | Kevin Kley, North Hunterdon | Mike Lange, RBC | Darnell Grant, West Orange | Ken Loomis, Wildwood | Garrett Lucas, Delran | Milo McGuire, Nottingham | Drew Lachenmayer, Allentown | Chris Sacco, Absegami | Kevin Stetser, Egg Harbor Twp. | Sean Clancy, Notre Dame | Walt Currie, Brick Memorial | Mike Wilson, Schalick Voting Media Kevin Minnick, NJ Advance Media | Michael McGarry, Press of Atlantic City | Rich Chrampanis, JSZ | Ryan Patti, Rivals | Dave McCarthy, McCarthy Report | Jay Cook, JSZ | Tom Williams, Prime Events | Mike Frankel, JSZ | Nery Rodriguez, JSZ | Tom Horak, Max Preps/NJ Advance Media | Big Central Gridiron | Andrew Koob, NJ Advance Media | Shawn Brown, 247 Sports | Scott Faytok, NJ Advance Media | Jon Jones, Max Preps | Simeon Pincus, Gannett | Pat Rice, PJR Sports Report | Mike Pavlichko, Central Jersey Sports Radio | Ken Bradley, JSZ | Sean Miller, NJ Advance Media | Korbid Thompson, King James Radio | Bob Badders, Shore Sports Network | Marcus Borden, Gannett | Mark Trible, Glory Days | Todderick Hunt, NJ Advance Media | Pat Lanni, NJ Advance Media | James Mooney, JSZ | Steve Bassin, Gannett | Darron Wallace, JSZ | Chris Melvin, Asbury Park Press | Joe Zedalis, NJ Advance Media 2021 JSZ Zoneman Balloting 123 coaches and media members cast their vote for New Jersey's Player of the Year. 3 points for a first-place vote, 2 points for a 2nd, 1 point for a 3rd. Name High School 1st 2nd 3rd Total LeQuint AllenMillville341715151 Tommy AmanwkaaHillsborough242719146 Davison Igbinosun Union232324139 JoJo BermudezCedar Creek112227104 Steve AngeliBergen Catholic15151691 Alex BrownRed Bank Catholic12131173 Q'Yaeir PriceDePaul Catholic46933 Highlight Reels of the 2021 Zoneman Finalists
Meet the 2021 JSZ All-Zone Football Team
Jersey Sports Zone is proud to salute our All-State selections. We have video highlights of every JSZ All-Zone selection and celebrate Millville’s LeQuint Allen as the 2021 JSZ Zoneman Trophy winner LeQuint Allen wins 2021 JSZ Zoneman Trophy It was a celebration on a few different levels for Millville’s LeQuint Allen on Dec. 17. He was awarded the 2021 Zoneman Trophy, Jersey Sports Zone’s honor for the top player in New Jersey. Allen rushed for nearly 2,000 yards, scored 26 touchdowns, and made over 120 tackles on defense for the Thunderbolts this fall. JSZ was able to present Allen with the hardware during a signing celebration. Allen officially signed with Syracuse University on Wednesday, but family, friends, coaches and teammates were on hand on Friday to celebrate the achievement. Watch JSZ’s coverage of Allen’s big day: Zoneman Voting Breakdown It was the largest ballot (seven players) in the history of the award, as well as the closest final tally in voting history. JSZ polled 92 coaches + 31 media members to collect 123 total ballots. The ballots were collected equally from all parts of the state. Voting Coaches John Hack, Morris Catholic | Ashley “Smoke” Pierre, Irvington | Steve Dunn, Rutherford | Nick Campanile, DePaul | Dan Marangi, St. Joe’s (Mont.) | Dan Sabella, Don Bosco | Todd Smith, Hun | Mike Cipot, North Brunswick | Ryan Fullen, Hightstown | Jason Glezmen, Keyport | Jay Graber, Matawan | Frank Duffy, Phillipsburg | Lou Zampella, Hudson Catholic | Anthony Lanzafama, Old Bridge | Jeff Rainess, Holmdel | Matt Ahearn, Colts Neck | AJ Russo, Holy Spirit | Montrey Wright, Salem | Jim Raso, Hammonton | John Emel, Penns Grove | Mike Schatzman, Washington Twp. | John Adams, Woodstown | Kevin Smith, Ocean City | Kenny Scott, Winslow Twp. | James Melody, Cedar Creek | Steve Scanlon, Clearview | Dennis Thomas, Millville | Chuck Smith, Mainland | Dallas Whitaker, Somerville | Brian Russo, Rahway | Jon Viotto, South Brunswick | Vin Mistretta, Jackson Memorial | Jim Sharples, Jackson Liberty | Jim Desarno, Westfield | Kevin Carty Jr., Hillsborough | Ralph Cinque, Clifton | James Magazine, Eastside | Brian Fitzgerald, Seton Hall Prep | Brian Bowers, Delbarton | Barris Grant, Hillside | Rich Hansen III, St. Peter’s Prep | Len Zdanowicz, Brick Township | Albert Chiola, Linden | Andrew Patterson, Robbinsville | Shane Fallon, Red Bank Regional | Dom Gaston, Pope John | Chris Beagan, Sayreville | Joe LaSala, Woodbridge | Rich Hilliard, St. Joseph Metuchen | Benjie Wimberly, St. Joe-Montvale | Kevin Kostibos, Summit | John Bird, Keansburg | Roger Kotlarz, Wayne Valley | William Clark, Perth Amboy | Brian Wright, Timber Creek | Jason Morrell, West Deptford | Dominic Tomeo, Triton | William Hamilton, South Plainfield | Chet Parlavecchio, New Providence | Matthew Demarest, Passaic Tech | Anthony Petruzzi, Raritan | Rob Gogerty, Cedar Grove | Dominick Lepore, Manalapan | Rich Seubert, Watchung Hills | Joe Wojchekowski, Lenape | Lou Grasso, Union | Tim Gushue, Shawnee | Don Klein, Ocean Township | Nick Pulli, Gateway | Vito Campanile, Bergen Catholic | Ray Lucas, Harrison | Brian Staub, Point Pleasant Boro | J. Schulte, Rumson-Fair Haven | Tom Roarty, Colonia | Andy West, Ridge | Zoran Milich, Montgomery | Joe Passaro, Pingry | Dan Curcione, Donovan Catholic | Jon Simoneau, Bernards | Kevin Kley, North Hunterdon | Mike Lange, RBC | Darnell Grant, West Orange | Ken Loomis, Wildwood | Garrett Lucas, Delran | Milo McGuire, Nottingham | Drew Lachenmayer, Allentown | Chris Sacco, Absegami | Kevin Stetser, Egg Harbor Twp. | Sean Clancy, Notre Dame | Walt Currie, Brick Memorial | Mike Wilson, Schalick Voting Media Kevin Minnick, NJ Advance Media | Michael McGarry, Press of Atlantic City | Rich Chrampanis, JSZ | Ryan Patti, Rivals | Dave McCarthy, McCarthy Report | Jay Cook, JSZ | Tom Williams, Prime Events | Mike Frankel, JSZ | Nery Rodriguez, JSZ | Tom Horak, Max Preps/NJ Advance Media | Big Central Gridiron | Andrew Koob, NJ Advance Media | Shawn Brown, 247 Sports | Scott Faytok, NJ Advance Media | Jon Jones, Max Preps | Simeon Pincus, Gannett | Pat Rice, PJR Sports Report | Mike Pavlichko, Central Jersey Sports Radio | Ken Bradley, JSZ | Sean Miller, NJ Advance Media | Korbid Thompson, King James Radio | Bob Badders, Shore Sports Network | Marcus Borden, Gannett | Mark Trible, Glory Days | Todderick Hunt, NJ Advance Media | Pat Lanni, NJ Advance Media | James Mooney, JSZ | Steve Bassin, Gannett | Darron Wallace, JSZ | Chris Melvin, Asbury Park Press | Joe Zedalis, NJ Advance Media 2021 JSZ Zoneman Balloting 123 coaches and media members cast their vote for New Jersey's Player of the Year. 3 points for a first-place vote, 2 points for a 2nd, 1 point for a 3rd. Name High School 1st 2nd 3rd Total LeQuint AllenMillville341715151 Tommy AmanwkaaHillsborough242719146 Davison Igbinosun Union232324139 JoJo BermudezCedar Creek112227104 Steve AngeliBergen Catholic15151691 Alex BrownRed Bank Catholic12131173 Q'Yaeir PriceDePaul Catholic46933 2021 JSZ All-Zone Non-Public Offense QuarterbackRunning BackWide Receiver Tight EndOffensive LineZoneman FinalistsPrep Player of the Year Jalin Butler, Donovan CatholicNunes Bukula IV, Donovan CatholicJahmeer Cartagena, St. Joseph AcademyChristian Carti, Bergen CatholicChase Bisontis, Don Bosco PrepLeQuint Allen, MillvilleJacob Allen, Hun Jaden Craig, Seton Hall PrepRyan Butler, Bergen CatholicSantino Correa, Bergen CatholicDom Brogna, Bergen CatholicTommy Amankwaa, Hillsborough Robert "Champ" Long, St. Peter's PrepRonnie Heath, Don Bosco PrepKyree Drake, Donovan CatholicVince Carpenter, Red Bank CatholicSteve Angeli, Bergen Catholic Ja'son Prevard, St. Joseph AcademySam Slade, St. Peter's PrepNick Dunneman, Seton Hall PrepCaron McNair, Donovan CatholicJoJo Bermudez, Cedar Creek AJ Rodriguez, DePaul CatholicMyles Thomason, Seton Hall PrepMarshawn Ferguson, DePaul CatholicChris Moreno, Don Bosco PrepAlex Brown, Red Bank Catholic Kanye Udoh, St. Augustine PrepZion Fowler, St. Peter's PrepAndre Oben, St. Peter's PrepDavison Igbinosun, Union Nasir Hill, St. Augustine PrepTaj White, Hudson CatholicQ'Yaeir Price, DePaul Catholic Elijah Steward, Holy Spirit Jon Wyatt, St. Thomas Aquinas 2021 JSZ All-Zone Non-Public Defense Defensive LineLinebackerDefensive BackSpecial Teams Alex Bauman, Red Bank CatholicChris Chasia, DePaul CatholicJayden Bellamy, Bergen CatholicGiancarlo Carbonaro, Bergen Catholic Pat Caughey, DelbartonRajahn Cooper, Red Bank CatholicJayden Bonsu, St. Peter's PrepNick Conforti, Seton Hall Prep Denis Jaquez, St. Augustine PrepJackson Dowd, Seton Hall PrepEdward Conoran, DePaul CatholicLogan Rager, Bergen Catholic Jayson Jenkins, Notre DameMike Francisco, Holy SpiritJaeden Gould, Bergen Catholic Sydir Mitchell, Bergen CatholicTimmy Hinspeter, Don Bosco PrepJahqir Haley, St. Joseph Academy Jimmy Mullen, St. Joe-MontvaleMalachi Mercer, Bergen CatholicAvery Powell, St. Peter's Prep DJ Samuels, Bergen CatholicJake Smiechowski, St. Joe-MontvalePete Schuh, St. Joe-Montvale Brady Small, St. Augustine PrepKenny Selby, St. Augustine Prep 2021 JSZ All-Zone Public Offense QuarterbackRunning BackWide ReceiverTight EndOffensive Line Enzo Arjona, Northern HighlandsCharlie Barth, New ProvidenceLotzeir Brooks, MillvilleWill Dixon, HillsboroughDieurnest Collin, East Orange Hamas Duren, Winslow Twp.Harry Boland, CaldwellJaimen Bryant, SomervilleMatt Fries, Cranford Jack Grusser, RamapoBrandon Boria, CherokeeMichael Estremera, Woodrow WilsonNelson Monegro, Union City Devin Kargman, Woodrow WilsonSteven Burkhardt, GloucesterAnthony Johnson, Burlington Twp.Cole Skinner, Point Pleasant Boro Raeden Oliver, East OrangeJa'Quan Howard, Cedar CreekMichael Marinelli, Cedar GroveChristian Smith, Rumson-Fair Haven Danny Veenstra, RamseyColin Murray, CranfordTravis Osterhout, Jefferson Twp.Dan Volpe, Colts Neck Matt Welsey, ShawneeNaz'sir Oglesby, Woodrow WilsonBenny Robinson, RamapoTyler Williams, Clifton Damon Phillips, East OrangeTrey Simmons, Winslow Twp. Famah Toure, Irvington 2021 JSZ All-Zone Public Defense Defensive LineLinebackerDefensive BackKicker/Punter Justin Evans-Jenkins, IrvingtonZion Cheeks, Penns GroveAvery Cohen, ShawneeJai Patel, South Brunswick Kenny Fletcher, DelranBobby Hahn, HaddonfieldChris Corbo, West Essex Mike Gray, Ocean CityTurner Inge, WilliamstownWill Gallagher, Cranford Jahsin Jacobs, Paterson EastsideJohn Lista, Rumson-Fair HavenJessiah Gildersleeve, Salem Charlie Johnson, Northern HighlandsKyle Louis, East OrangeQuiyon McMillan, Nottingham Aiden Moriarity, Rumson-Fair HavenDamir McCrary, Woodrow WilsonAdon Shuler, Irvington Ahmad Nalls, East OrangeEmeril Mitchell, Winslow Twp.Donovan Swasey, Clifton Jaydan Wright, MillvilleStefano Montella, West MorrisCurtis Whiting, Hackensack CJ Resto, Cedar Creek Dylan Snee, Ramapo Meet The 2021 Zoneman Trophy Finalists LeQuint Allen, Millville RB The face of Millville football boasted an incredible level of physicality and athleticism throughout the entire 2021 season. LeQuint Allen ran wild against defenses from the start of the year in Ocean City until the end at Rutgers University, where the Thunderbolts capped off a 12-1 season with a South Group 4 Regional Championship. He rushed for 1,901 yards on 229 carries and found the endzone 23 times. Allen is committed to Syracuse University. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the profile: Tommy Amankwaa, Hillsborough ATH Tommy Amankwaa was one of the most improved players in the entire state of New Jersey from his junior to senior seasons. Amankwaa was a true swiss army knife weapon for the Raiders. On offense, he tallied 99 total touches for 1,726 scrimmage yards and a combined 27 touchdowns as Hillsborough put together a perfect 13-0 season. His red-hot play this season earned him an offer from Rutgers – he verbally committed to the Scarlet Knights soon after. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the profile: Steve Angeli, Bergen Catholic QB Steve Angeli’s legacy at Bergen Catholic is undeniable after a historic season in Oradell. Angeli led the Crusaders to a perfect 12-0 season, a Non-Public A championship, and a top-five national ranking in 2021. The Crusaders’ signal-caller brought his game to a new level this season after throwing for 1,709 yards and 15 touchdowns in one of the toughest conferences in the entire country. Angeli, a natural leader and an Under Armour All-American, graduates high school in December and will be enrolled at Notre Dame after the New Year. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the profile: JoJo Bermudez, Cedar Creek WR A true speedster and the definition of a deep threat, JoJo Bermudez was a game-breaking talent for Cedar Creek in 2021. Bermudez hauled in an unsightly 91 catches for 1,662 yards and 14 touchdowns for the Pirates. Bermudez dominated defensive backfields all season long and helped Cedar Creek to a perfect 13-0 season. His blazing start to the regular season caught the eyes of coaches from Cincinnati, as he is now verbally committed to the Bearcats. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the profile: Alex Brown, Red Bank Catholic QB Alex Brown’s story throughout the 2021 postseason is well documented and will be talked about for years to come on Broad Street. Following the death of his mother, Brown delivered 12 touchdowns and no turnovers in the Caseys’ three-game playoff run to win the Non-Public B championship. The Bucknell commit ultimately threw for 1,817 yards and 22 touchdown passes with 519 rushing yards and 10 touchdown runs in his lone season at Red Bank Catholic. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the profile: Davison Igbinosun, Union ATH There are no arguments here: Davison Igbinosun is one of the most dynamic players in the entire state of New Jersey. Igbinosun was a hawking defensive back and a devastating weapon on offense for the Farmers in his final high school year. He was the top receiver and rusher for the Farmers’ offense and notched 74 tackles and three interceptions on defense. Union’s season had an unceremonious ending, but that doesn’t take away from the impact he had in a 9-2 season in Union County. Q’yaier Price, DePaul Catholic DE One of the state’s most unblockable defensive forces finished off a senior season with some eye-popping numbers. Price compiled 35.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks for the 9-3 Spartans in 2021. He led the way for a defense that didn’t allow a touchdown for a five-game stretch at the beginning of the season and who eventually made it to the Non-Public B title game. Price flipped commitments from Syracuse to Rutgers after emerging as one of New Jersey’s top edge defender talents during the 2021 season. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the profile: 2021 JSZ Football Plays of the Year The top plays captured by JSZ cameras were on display each week for the Top Play Belt. Our year-end plays of the year featured six winners that went head to head for the final Top Play Belt of the 2021 season:
NJ Football Stars Make it Official; JSZ 2021 Signing Day Coverage
Wednesday marks the start of the early signing period for HS seniors to sign their national letters of intent. JSZ has coverage from Irvington, plus updates from around the Garden State! Justin Evans-Jenkins Commits to Nebraska! With the way college recruiting goes nowadays, there are hardly any surprises left on Early Signing Day. However, that wasn’t the case in Irvington as two-way powerhouse Justin Evans-Jenkins made noise on Wednesday by announcing his commitment to the University of Nebraska. Evans-Jenkins was the leader for Irvington on and off the field during the championship season. He was a stalwart on the offensive and defensive lines, and is set be the first student in Irvington history to ever graduate high school early. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story on Nebraska’s newest offensive line recruit: Denis Jaquez | St. Augustine | Syracuse Another future star from Jersey is headed to the 3️⃣1️⃣5️⃣.Welcome to your city, @jaquez_denis pic.twitter.com/HTQgij6FIA— Syracuse Football (@CuseFootball) December 15, 2021 Steve Angeli | Bergen Catholic | Notre Dame From Bergen Catholic High School to Notre Dame, here comes 𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗩𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗘𝗟𝗜@SteveAngeli_125 | #IrishRising22 pic.twitter.com/XiY4SGdwK9— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) December 15, 2021 Devin Kargman | Woodrow Wilson | Kent State Keeping the QB tradition strong with this gunslinger from Jersey!💪 @DevinKargman#AlphaSquad22🐺 | #FlashFAST⚡️| #BeTheAlpha🦅 pic.twitter.com/42lAcCNyLs— Kent State Football (@KentStFootball) December 15, 2021 Q’Yaeir Price | DePaul Catholic | Rutgers The Big North ➡️ RUWelcome, @QyaeirPriceDp pic.twitter.com/ZR4PCotyc3— Rutgers Football (@RFootball) December 15, 2021 JoJo Bermudez | Cedar Creek | Cincinnati 🚨 🆂🅸🅶🅽🅴🅳 🚨JoJo Bermudez // @jojobermudez3▪️ Wide Receiver▪️ Egg Harbor City, NJ#Bearcats | #CinCityPride22 pic.twitter.com/e1im0D5mTC— Cincinnati Football (@GoBearcatsFB) December 15, 2021 LeQuint Allen | Millville | Syracuse The Gatorade Player of the Year from Jersey is officially h🍊me.Welcome to 'Cuse, @jrlequint pic.twitter.com/Do16bosDLg— Syracuse Football (@CuseFootball) December 15, 2021 Jacob Allen | The Hun School | Rutgers Jersey Tough 🪓 Welcome to the F.A.M.I.L.Y. Jacob‼️@JacobAllen_79 | #CHOP pic.twitter.com/7X3uSdFiqp— Rutgers Football (@RFootball) December 15, 2021 Jayden Bellamy | Bergen Catholic | Notre Dame From Bergen Catholic High School to Notre Dame, here comes 𝗝𝗔𝗬𝗗𝗘𝗡 𝗕𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗠𝗬@jaydenknows_ | #IrishRising22 pic.twitter.com/CO9Jc0b0zJ— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) December 15, 2021 Donovan Leary | Timber Creek | Illinois .@D_leary2, the No. 9 player in New Jersey is on his way. #Illini x #famILLy pic.twitter.com/TTlDSycZbV— Illinois Football (@IlliniFootball) December 15, 2021 Kenny Fletcher | Delran | Rutgers The best in NJ stay in NJ, as #Rutgers inks 4️⃣🌟 South Jersey DE Kenny Fletcher.@KennyFletcher20 | @CoachLucas74 | @DelranAthletics 🔗: https://t.co/UILupF54Jo pic.twitter.com/GLEyzqpSuw— Rutgers Scarlet Knights | TheKnightReport.Net (@RutgersRivals) December 15, 2021 Jaeden Gould | Bergen Catholic | Nebraska Roll the tape.@jaedengould5#GBRXXII pic.twitter.com/BDuUBe29ke— Nebraska Football (@HuskerFBNation) December 15, 2021 Turner Inge | Williamstown | Villanova Welcome to #NovaNation, @TurnerInge5‼️#TapTheRock #GoNova✌️ pic.twitter.com/JgveE89l5X— Villanova Football (@NovaFootball) December 15, 2021 Gavin Kennedy | St. Augustine | Bucknell Pork Roll 🐷 and Pancakes 🥞OL Gavin Kennedy (@gkennedy_72) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD22 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/34nbIEk5nA— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 15, 2021 Charlie Sasso, Wall and Damir McCrary, Woodrow Wilson | Monmouth Continuing the trend of New Jersey standouts on the defensive side of the ball, up next is @MccraryDamir – the South Jersey Defensive Player of the Year WelcoⓂ️me to the nest! pic.twitter.com/9dHYZkxBUN— Monmouth Football (@MUHawksFB) December 15, 2021 Jaden Wimberly | St. Joe’s (Mont.) | Lehigh Welcome to the #AirShow! @wimberly_jaden is a playmaker!! Welcome to the family! #2FLY2GETHER #BeGreat pic.twitter.com/VU7Q6RcmZM— Lehigh Football (@LehighFootball) December 15, 2021
Bergen Catholic Star Jaeden Gould Picks Nebraska!
The world of college football recruiting can be harsh sometimes, and Jaeden Gould can say he knows that all too well. Gould, a four-star defensive back from Bergen Catholic, was committed to the University of Southern California. After the Trojans changed coaching staffs and brought in Lincoln Reilly to lead the program, Gould rescinded his committment. That led to a two-week gauntlet of being recruited again and that search ended with Gould committing to the University of Nebraska on the eve of Early Signing Day. Gould made switch from cornerback to safety for his senior year and ended the season with a career high four interceptions. He was a leader on a tenacious Crusaders team that went 12-0 season and won the Non-Public A State Championship. The 6’2, 190 pound defensive standout is now Lincoln-bound and joins a Cornhusker team with former NJ stars like Mikai Gbayor (Irvington) and Rahmir Johnson (Bergen Catholic) on the roster. Check out his senior season highlight reel below!
Meet the 2021 JSZ Zoneman Trophy Finalists
Jersey Sports Zone is excited to formally announce the seven finalists for the 2021 Zoneman Trophy — JSZ’s high school football player of the year in New Jersey. The winner will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 16. Watch all seven features from our team of multimedia journalists to learn more about New Jersey’s top football honor! The History of the Zoneman Trophy 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, South Carolina. 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 Las Vegas Raiders wide receivers Hunter Renfrow, who caught the game-winning TD pass for Clemson in the 2016 National Championship game along with Bryan Edwards. 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 Fifth Annual Zoneman Trophy. Previous Zoneman Trophy Winners: 2017: Ashante Worthy, Freehold Boro QB 2018: Jalahn Dabney, Somerville QB 2019: Fadil Diggs, Woodrow Wilson DL/WR | Texas A&M 2020: Audric Estime, St. Joe’s (Mont.) RB | Notre Dame The Zoneman Trophy Balloting The 2021 Zoneman Trophy will be voted on by coaches from each conference in the state (SFC, WJFL, NJIC, Big Central and Shore) as well as Jersey Sports Zone’s staff of multimedia journalists and other credentialed media around the state. Each ballot includes a first-place vote (three points), second place vote (two points) and a third place vote (one point). We are honored to announce the 2021 Zoneman Trophy Finalists in alphabetical order! Meet The 2021 Zoneman Trophy Finalists LeQuint Allen, Millville RB The face of Millville football boasted an incredible level of physicality and athleticism throughout the entire 2021 season. LeQuint Allen ran wild against defenses from the start of the year in Ocean City until the end at Rutgers University, where the Thunderbolts capped off a 12-1 season with a South Group 4 Regional Championship. He rushed for 1,901 yards on 229 carries and found the endzone 23 times. Allen is committed to Syracuse University. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the profile: Tommy Amankwaa, Hillsborough ATH Tommy Amankwaa was one of the most improved players in the entire state of New Jersey from his junior to senior seasons. Amankwaa was a true swiss army knife weapon for the Raiders. On offense, he tallied 99 total touches for 1,726 scrimmage yards and a combined 27 touchdowns as Hillsborough put together a perfect 13-0 season. His red-hot play this season earned him an offer from Rutgers – he verbally committed to the Scarlet Knights soon after. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the profile: Steve Angeli, Bergen Catholic QB Steve Angeli’s legacy at Bergen Catholic is undeniable after a historic season in Oradell. Angeli led the Crusaders to a perfect 12-0 season, a Non-Public A championship and a top-five national ranking in 2021. The Crusaders’ signal caller brought his game to a new level this season after throwing for 1,709 yards and 15 touchdowns in one of the toughest conferences in the entire country. Angeli, a natural leader and an Under Armour All-American, graduates high school in December and will be enrolled at Notre Dame after the New Year. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the profile: JoJo Bermudez, Cedar Creek WR A true speedster and the definition of a deep threat, JoJo Bermudez was a game-breaking talent for Cedar Creek in 2021. Bermudez hauled in an unsightly 91 catches for 1,662 yards and 14 touchdowns for the Pirates. Bermudez dominated defensive backfields all season long and helped Cedar Creek to a perfect 13-0 season. His blazing start to the regular season caught the eyes of coaches from Cincinnati, as he is now verbally committed to the Bearcats. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the profile: Alex Brown, Red Bank Catholic QB Alex Brown’s story throughout the 2021 postseason is well documented and will be talked about for years to come on Broad Street. Following the death of his mother, Brown delivered 12 touchdowns and no turnovers in the Caseys’ three-game playoff run to win the Non-Public B championship. The Bucknell commit ultimately threw for 1,817 yards and 22 touchdown passes with 519 rushing yards and 10 touchdown runs in his lone season at Red Bank Catholic. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the profile: Davison Igbinosun, Union ATH There’s no arguments here: Davison Igbinosun is one of the most dynamic players in the entire state of New Jersey. Igbinosun was a hawking defensive back and a devastating weapon on offense for the Farmers in his final high school year. He was the top reciever and rusher for the Farmers’ offense and notched 74 tackles and three interceptions on defense. Union’s season had an unceremonious ending, but that doesn’t take away from the impact he had in a 9-2 season in Union County. Q’yaier Price, DePaul Catholic DE One of the state’s most unblockable defensive forces finished off a senior season with some eye-popping numbers. Price compiled 35.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks for the 9-3 Spartans in 2021. He led the way for a defense that didn’t allow a touchdown for a five-game stretch in the beginning of the season and who eventually made it to the Non-Public B title game. Price flipped commitments from Syracuse to Rutgers after emerging as one of New Jersey’s top edge defender talents during the 2021 season. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the profile:
Vote now for JSZ 2021 Football Play of Year !
The six category winners from this week’s Plays of the Year go head to head to claim the last JSZ Top Play Belt of the Year. Voting is open NOW through Monday at 12 noon Thanks to everyone who voted this week for JSZ’s Football Plays of the Year. Our six category winners will go head to head for the top play captured by JSZ cameras. The winner of this poll will receive the final JSZ Top Play Belt of 2021. The polls are open NOW through Monday at 12 noon. Watch our six winners below and scroll down to cast your vote.
Vote on JSZ Football Plays of the Year!
Jersey Sports Zone shot hundreds of hours of football this year, and our cameras captured dozens of tremendous plays. Now we want you to vote on the best plays of the year! The Categories: TD Run of the Year | TD Pass of the Year | Defensive TD of the Year | Special Teams TD of the Year | Sack of the Year | Clutch Play of the Year Watch each of the highlight reels below, and then vote on your favorites as much as you’d like. Our polls close on Friday at noon. After that, we’ll put the winners of each of our six polls in one final poll to determine the overall play of the year! TD Run of the Year TD Pass of the Year Defensive TD of the Year Special Teams TD of the Year Sack of the Year Clutch Play of the Year
Watch Sunday 12.5 JSZ Championship Football Highlights
Three more regional championships are up for grabs on the final day of the New Jersey high school football season as JSZ continues its championship coverage at Rutgers University! Millville 45 Winslow Twp. 35 | South-Central Group 4 Regional Championship The Thunderbolts outlasted the Eagles in the final game of the 2021 New Jersey football season at Rutgers. Syracuse commit LeQuint Allen went out with a bang, finishing with over 300 all-purpose yards a touchdown. Millville QB Nate Allen threw three TD passes and rushed for a score, while Ti-yon Cephas had a pair of TD catches for the Bolts (12-1). Hamas Duren threw two touchdown passes and rushed for three scores for Winslow (9-4) in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction: East Orange 30 Clifton 24 (3OT) | North Group 5 Regional Championship Ahmad Nalls scored a controversial 100-yard touchdown in the third overtime period to give East Orange (13-0) a perfect season. On 4th and goal from the 1-yard line, Clifton QB Kyle Vellis had the ball taken away from him by Nalls who initially thought the play was dead but proceeded to take off the length of the field. The Mustangs felt that Vellis broke the plane prior to the strip. The play went to video replay and was not overturned. The Jaguars got a 4-yard TD pass from Raden Oliver to Joshua Richards with :19 left to force overtime. Oliver and Richards hooked up again in the second overtime before Clifton tied the game at 24 on a 3-yard TD run by Bryan Feliciano. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has all the twists and turns from a fantastic championship football game at Rutgers: Salem 34 Woodbury 8 | South-Central Group 1 Regional Championship The Rams capped off an incredible 2021 season by dominating the previously-unbeaten Thundering Herd to capture the first regional championship in program history. Jessiah Gildersleeve rushed for 113 yards and two touchdowns in the win for Salem (11-2). Defensively, the Rams racked up eight sacks and two interceptions, relentlessly shutting down the Thundering Herd. JaBron Solomon had a 65-yard punt return touchdown in the loss for Woodbury (12-1). JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights and reaction from SHI Stadium: JSZ’s championship coverage is made possible by OceanFirst Bank.
Watch Saturday 12.4 JSZ Championship Football Highlights
The final weekend of the New Jersey high school football season is upon us, and JSZ has you covered with wall-to-wall coverage of the Regional Championships at Rutgers University! Haddonfield 28 Pt. Pleasant Boro 27 | South-Central Group 2 Regional Championship The Bulldogs erased an early 14-0 deficit, and needed to hang on in the closing moments to defeat the Panthers for the South-Central Group 2 regional championship. Carson Wolff and Bobby Hahn each scored a pair of touchdowns for Haddonfield (10-3), with Wolff scoring the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter. Charlie Vitale scored two touchdowns to pace the ground attack for Point Pleasant Boro (10-2). JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights and reaction from SHI Stadium: Hillsborough 28 Kingsway 7 | South-Central Group 5 Regional Championship Hillsborough (13-0) capped off the 2021 football season not only undefeated, but South Jersey, Group 5 Champions following their 28-7 victory over Kingsway. After a scoreless first quarter, Hillsborough put 21 unanswered points on the board heading into halftime thanks to a touchdown from Tyler Michinard and a pair of scores from Rutgers commit Tommy Amankwaa. Kingsway would score to open the third quarter before quarterback Jay Mazuera picked up a rushing touchdown to accompany his two previous passing TD’s. Raiders Head Coach Kevin Carty Jr. picked up career win 100 as Rutgers Head Coach Greg Schiano was in attendance to watch Tommy Amankwaa who ended the evening with 240 all purpose yards. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights and postgame reaction from SHI Stadium: Irvington 19 Northern Highlands 14 | North Group 4 Regional Championship Irvington saved one of its best – if not the best – defensive performances for the right time of the season. The Blue Knights defense caused havoc all game long and collected 12 sacks in a dominant performance to win the North Group 4 Regional Championship. Trailing 14-13 in the fourth quarter, Trenton Jones scored a 61-yard touchdown to put Irvington (11-2) in front for good against Northern Highlands (12-1). JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from SHI Stadium: Cedar Creek 35 Woodrow Wilson 34 | South-Central Group 3 Regional Championship The Pirates battle back from an early 22-0 deficit, and hung on with a goal line stand in the final seconds to complete a perfect season. J.C. Landicini threw five touchdown passes in the win for Creek (13-0). Zac Ricci had a pair of TD grabs in the win, while JoJo Bermudez, Ja’Quan Howard and Elijah Smalls also had touchdown catches for the Pirates. Devin Kargman threw two TD passes and rushed for a pair of scores in the loss for the Tigers (9-3). Mike Estremera had a TD catch, an interception and a kickoff return TD for Wilson in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction from a thrilling nightcap at Rutgers: JSZ’s championship coverage is made possible by OceanFirst Bank.
Is Bergen Catholic’s 2021 Team the Best Ever in NJ History?
It’s a question worth asking but ultimately never have a true answer: Are the 2021 Bergen Catholic Crusaders the greatest team in New Jersey history? Ask any of the leaders on this year’s team, and they’ll say they’re deserving of that honor. Bergen Catholic capped off its 12-0 season Saturday by winning the 2021 Non-Public A championship, but the work for this title began years ago and was brought to fruition by a larger-than-life head coach. JSZ’s Jay Cook covered Bergen Catholic all season long and provides an inside look at what made these Crusaders so special: Jersey Sports Zone’s season-long coverage of Bergen Catholic was made possible by Rothman Orthopaedics.
Watch Saturday 11.27 JSZ Championship Highlights
Jersey Sports Zone’s trip to MetLife Stadium for state championship football continues as we have two more title games on the menu for you. Check out our championship coverage from 11.27 below! Bergen Catholic 28 Don Bosco 7 | Non-Public A Final The Crusaders fell behind 7-0 in the first before scoring 28 unanswered points to cap off a perfect 12-0 season and the undisputed #1 ranking in New Jersey high school football. Saeed St. Fleur and Ryan Butler combined for 265 yards rushing and Steve Angeli threw a TD pass in his final high school football game. The Crusaders tied the game at 7 on Jayden Bellamy’s TD catch and took the lead on Ryan Butler’s second-quarter TD run. DJ Samuels upped the lead to 21-7 in the third quarter and Butler closed out the scoring with a 45-yard run. JSZ’s Jay Cook and Rich Chrampanis have the highlights and post-game reaction from MetLife Stadium: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Bergen Catholic is brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedic Caldwell 42 Jefferson 21 | North Group 2 Final Caldwell (12-0) made program history by becoming the first Chiefs team to finish with 12 wins following their 42-21 victory over Jefferson (7-6) for the North Jersey, Group 2 Regional Championship. The game looked all but over in the first half as Caldwell jumped out to a 20-0 lead in the second quarter. Jefferson, missing starting quarterback Boston College commit Peter Delaportas due to injury, rallied back on two passing scores from Eric Garv to Theo Fisher to trail 20-14 in the third. However, two fourth-quarter touchdowns from Pat Capozzoli and Harry Boland put the game out of reach late. Capozzoli ended the day with 106 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns, Boland had 134 total yards of offense, two rushing touchdowns, a receiving score, and two interceptions on defense. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights and post-game reaction from MetLife Stadium: Jersey Sports Zone’s state championship football coverage is proudly presented by OceanFirst Bank. JSZ has partnered with OceanFirst Bank to bring you the best boys/girls highlights from around New Jersey.
Watch Friday 11.26 JSZ Championship Highlights
The final stage of New Jersey high school football is here and the Jersey Sports Zone team has all the highlights of the first day of Regional and State Championships at MetLife Stadium plus an incredible finish from a sectional title game in Allendale. Red Bank Catholic 13 DePaul 8 | Non-Public B State Championship Alex Brown’s 2-yard TD run in the third quarter proved to be the game-winning score and the Caseys defense delivered an incredible performance to cement a state title at MetLife Stadium. Brown opened the scoring with a 33-yard TD pass to Najih Rahman on the opening drive of the game. DePaul got a safety in the first on a blocked punt and opened the second half with a drive capped off by a Tyler Brown 11-yard TD run to take an 8-7 lead. DePaul drove the ball to the RBC 30-yard line in the final seconds but Brown broke up the final pass in the end zone to seal the deal. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from East Rutherford: Northern Highlands 35 Ramapo 30 | North 1 Group 4 Sectional Championship Was this the North Jersey Game of the Year? Over 5,000 people packed into the stands around Northern Highlands’ football field would all likely agree. A back-and-forth game featuring two of New Jersey’s most explosive teams gave us one of the most incredible finishes of the 2021 season. Trailing 30-28 with 66 seconds left in regulation, Highlanders QB Enzo Arjona orchestrated a game-winning drive, capped off with a 15-yard touchdown pass to Kyle Major to secure the second sectional title for Northern Highlands in the last three years. The game was emotional from start to finish as the late Ramapo HC Drew Gibbs was honored just 10 days after his sudden passing. JSZ’s Jay Cook has all the highlights and reaction: Cedar Grove 13 Park Ridge 12 | North Group 1 Regional Championship Both Cedar Grove (11-1) and Park Ridge (10-1) score on their first drives but the first half finished 6-6 as it was quiet from there. The defense of Cedar Grove buckled down and halted Park Ridge on two goal-line stands. A long catch and run by Patch McCarthy set up the game-winning touchdown pass from Alfonso Lombardi to Nick Iannacone with under a minute left as the PAT from Chris Babcock gave the Panthers the one-point lead. Michael Marinelli had a receiving touchdown and interception for Cedar Grove in the win. Matthew Manning had two touchdowns for Park Ridge. JSZ’s Ken Bradley has the highlights from MetLife Stadium: West Morris 53 Cranford 14 | North Group 3 Regional Championship West Morris (10-3) denied Cranford (12-1) an undefeated season as the Wolfpack claimed the North Jersey, Group 3 Regional Championship. Two opening touchdowns put West Morris ahead by five after the first quarter. They would tack on two more scores in the second quarter to lead 26-7 at halftime. The second half belonged to the Wolfpack defense as they forced a turnover on the opening kick off and Vinnie Desiderio returned an interception for a 40-yard touchdown. Quarterback Trevor Hillier and running back Noah Turner both finished the night with three touchdowns. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights and post-game reaction from MetLife Stadium: JSZ’s championship coverage is made possible by OceanFirst Bank
Watch Thursday 11.25 JSZ Thanksgiving Football Highlights
We’ve got three games for the entire JSZ audience thanks to the support of our great sponsors. Happy Thanksgiving from everyone at Jersey Sports Zone! Easton (PA) 7 Phillipsburg 3 One of the longest played games in the entire United States, the Stateliners and Red Rovers went head to head for the 114th matchup. A scoreless first half saw three interceptions and a blocked field goal. Matt D’onofrio drilled a field goal to get the first points on the board and Philipsburg the lead but a forced fumble was recovered by Easton late in the fourth quarter. This setup the lone touchdown of the game, a pass from Cole Transue to Marcus Williams which won the Red Rovers the game. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the highlights from Lafayette College: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Phillipsburg is brought to you by the Garnet Booster Club Woodrow Wilson 28 Camden 12 The Tigers beat the crosstown rival Panthers to keep the Whip Wilson Turkey Bowl trophy on the east side of Camden. The Wilson defense finished with five interceptions, including two from Julius Dominguez and two from Paul Medley. Devin Kargman threw a pair of touchdown passes in the win, while Naz’sir Oglesby rushed for two TDs for the Tigers (9-2). Luis Ward threw a pair of TD passes for Camden (5-5) in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Farnham Park: Coverage of Camden is made possible by Cooper University Health Care. Long Branch 29 Red Bank Regional 14 Christian Rodriguez connected with Sekou Kamau on a 25-yard TD pass in the 4th quarter to break a 14-14 tie and Shamar Williams clinched the win with a pick-six in the final game of Dan George’s coaching career. George wraps up a 23-year career leading the Green Wave to three sectional titles and a regional championship. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the 98th Thanksgiving showdown between Long Branch and RBR: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Long Branch is brought to you by OceanFirst Bank.
Watch Thursday 11.25 JSZ All-Access Thanksgiving Football Highlights
Happy Thanksgiving from JSZ! We have a full menu of rivalry games for our subscribers. Grab your JSZ All-Access Pass to watch all of the action! Middletown South 27 Middletown North 6 Middletown South’s vaunted defense delivered another impressive performance to close out the 2021 season. A pick-six from Jake Czwakiel, two additional interceptions and […] To access this post, you must purchase an All Access Pass. You can log in here or purchase an All Access Pass here. Become an All Access Pass Holder. You will be redirected to login or purchase page.
Tyler Michinard of Hillsborough Wins JSZ Playoff Top Play
Hillsborough’s undefeated run this season isn’t over yet as the Raiders (12-0) take on Kingsway (8-4) in the South, Group 5 State Final at Rutgers University on 12/4. Leading up to the big game Hillsborough got a lift from running back Tyler Michinard’s 155 yard, seven touchdown performance in the Central Jersey, Group 5 Semifinals as the Raiders defeated Williamstown 49-14. Michinard kicked the game off with a dazzling 34 yard touchdown in which he kept his balance to erupt the crowd with the opening drive score. The fans have spoken and he is JSZ’s Playoff Top Play Winner! Watch his ceremony below:
Watch Wednesday 11.24 JSZ All-Access Thanksgiving Football Highlights
We have a pair of Thanksgiving eve matchups for our subscribers. Grab your JSZ All-Access Pass to watch highlights from St. Joseph Academy/Winslow Twp. and Middle Twp./Lower Cape May! Middle Township 21 Lower Cape May 8 The Panthers won the Anchor Bowl trophy and the WJFL United Division championship with a victory over the rival […] To access this post, you must purchase an All Access Pass. You can log in here or purchase an All Access Pass here. Become an All Access Pass Holder. You will be redirected to login or purchase page.
Watch Saturday 11.20 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
We’ve got three great games for the entire JSZ audience thanks to our friends at Rothman Orthopaedics and Cooper University Health Care. Watch Bergen Catholic and St. Peter’s Prep in the Non-Public “A” state semifinal, Rutherford hosting Jefferson Township in the North 2 Group 2 championship, and Winslow taking on Shawnee in the Central Group 4 final! Bergen Catholic 35 St. Peter’s Prep 10 | Non-Public “A” Semifinal The Crusaders are that much closer to cementing their 2021 legacy. A trio of touchdowns from Notre Dame QB commit Steve Angeli (two rushing, one passing) led Bergen Catholic (11-0) to another impressive win over a fellow North Jersey power. Princeton-bound running back Ryan Butler made program history while the Crusaders’ defense grabbed three interceptions to stop St. Peter’s Prep (8-4). The win sets up a massive showdown in the Non-Public “A” final between Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Bergen Catholic is being brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics Jefferson Township 28 Rutherford 7 | North 2 Group 2 Final Erik Garv threw three touchdown passes coming in after an injury to starting quarterback Peter Delaportas to lead the Falcons to its first sectional title in 2008. Rutherford scored on the opening drive and Delaportas suffered a shoulder injury late in the first quarter. Garv, who was the starting QB last year at Jefferson, came on in relief and threw two second-quarter touchdowns to Travis Osterhout to give Jefferson a 14-7 lead at the half. Theo Fisher and Jason Eisele added fourth-quarter TD’s to give the #6 seed an improbable title. Jefferson will face unbeaten Caldwell on Nov. 27 at 11 am at MetLife Stadium. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights and post-game reaction: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Rutherford is being brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics. Winslow Twp. 34 Shawnee 22 | Central Group 4 Final Trey Thorpe rushed for 179 yards and four touchdowns to lead the Eagles to the first sectional championship in program history. Hamas Duren also threw a TD pass to Trey Simmons in the victory for Winlsow (9-2). Matt Welsey threw a touchdown pass and rushed for a pair of scores for the Renegades (7-4) in the loss. Winslow advances to face Millville in a regional championship game at Rutgers on December 5th. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction: Coverage of Shawnee is made possible by Cooper University Health Care.
Watch Saturday 11.20 JSZ All-Access Playoff Football Highlights
Public sectional championship weekend continues with terrific games all over the state. Enjoy the highlights! Salem 13 Paulsboro 12 | Group 1 Central Final The Rams held on to beat the Red Raiders for their first sectional championship since 1983. Nate Robbins kicked the go-ahead field goal with four minutes remaining, before Paulsboro missed a […] To access this post, you must purchase an All Access Pass. You can log in here or purchase an All Access Pass here. Become an All Access Pass Holder. You will be redirected to login or purchase page.
Watch Friday 11.19 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
Sectional championship action on the public side and state semifinal action on the non-public side make for a tremendous night of football in the Garden State! Millville 40 Ocean City 3 | Group 4 South Final The Thunderbolts dominated on both sides of the ball to capture their first sectional title since 2016, and just their second title since 1975. Syracuse commit LeQuint Allen rushed for 136 yards and two touchdowns, while Nate Robbins threw three TD passes in the victory for Millville (10-1). Solomon Massey-Kent and Keyan German both had sacks to help lead a stingy Bolts defense. Ocean City falls to (11-1). JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction from historic Wheaton Field: The Game of the Week is brought to you by OceanFirst Bank. Pt. Pleasant Boro 32 Willingboro 8 | Group 2 South Final Call them old-fashioned but the well-oiled machine of Pt. Boro’s (10-1) triple option has been a nightmare for opponents this season. Though Willingboro (8-4) got out to an early one-score lead after a 38-yard run from Bryson Bright, the Panthers stuck to their game plan and dominated the rest of the game. Junior Tyler Gordon scored three times on the night with two rushing touchdowns and an interception returned for a score, while senior quarterback Charlie Vitale threw for one touchdown and ran for another. Running back Jake Croce surpassed the 1000 yard mark on the ground for the season. Pt. Boro advances to play Haddonfield in the regional final. JSZ’s Ken Bradley has the highlights from Pt. Pleasant: JSZ’s Coverage of Pt Pleasant Boro is made possible by Ocean First Bank.
Watch Friday 11.19 JSZ All-Access Playoff Football Highlights
We have a mix of public sectional finals and non-public semifinals for our subscribers. Grab your JSZ All-Access Pass to watch all of the action from a busy Friday night on the gridiron! Woodrow Wilson 28 Rumson-Fair Haven 6 | Central Jersey Group 3 Final Naz’sir Oglesby had 152 yards rushing including two fourth-quarter TD […] To access this post, you must purchase an All Access Pass. You can log in here or purchase an All Access Pass here. Become an All Access Pass Holder. You will be redirected to login or purchase page.
Beloved Ramapo Football Coach Drew Gibbs, 59, Passes Suddenly
Longtime Ramapo football Coach Drew Gibbs passed away Tuesday morning after emergency surgery following an aortic tear in his heart. Gibbs was 59 years old. According to various media reports, Gibbs experienced chest pains during Monday’s practice and was taken to Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. A subsequent CT scan found the tear. He passed Tuesday after complications. A true staple of the North Jersey high school football community, Gibbs was the face and lifeblood of Ramapo football for 21 seasons. During that time, he won seven sectional titles and a pair of North Group 3 regional championships. “Drew’s competitive spirit and determination to succeed never compromised his unmatched level of integrity,” said John Jacob, commissioner of the New Jersey Football Coaches Association, in a statement. Ramapo is 10-1 this season and is in the midst of preparing for the North 1 Group 4 sectional final against top-seeded and undefeated Northern Highlands on Friday. No announcements have been made about any changes to that game. Gibbs compiled an impressive career record of 183-51 as head coach at Ramapo. From 2018 to 2020, the Raiders won 27 consecutive games across a pair of 13-0 seasons. He’s helped send dozens of players to the college ranks and coached future NFL players such as Chris Hogan and Blake Costanzo. Remembering Ramapo’s Drew Gibbs | In Memoriam Tribute Drew Gibbs and Ramapo Football | JSZ Archives
Bermudez Commits to Cincinnati
Cedar Creek senior JoJo Bermudez is one of the most dynamic players in the Garden State. The Pirates standout de-committed from Rutgers back in August to weigh his college options. In the end, his decision came down to sticking with the Scarlet Knights, or picking Cincinnati. Bermudez went with the Bearcats, during a ceremony in front of dozens of friends and family members in his hometown of Egg Harbor City. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the story:
Union football not ready for season to end after forced state playoff forfeit
Covid-19 has changed the sports world over the last two years and the state of New Jersey is no stranger to its affects. After dropping their season opener, Union (9-2) went on a nine game win streak and earned top seed in the North Jersey Section 2, Group 5 state playoff bracket. Hours before their semifinal match up with fifth seed Patterson East Side, the Farmers got the news that school officials forfeited the game after some players tested positive for Covid. The following Monday four star recruit and the New Jersey’s top ranked player, Davison Igbinosun helped organize a peaceful walk-out demonstration in hopes of getting the ruling changed. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the story from Union:
Watch Sunday 11.14 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
Two Non-Public A state playoff games were postponed to Sunday after thunderstorms rolled through New Jersey on Saturday. JSZ brings you highlights from both of those games! Bergen Catholic 35 Donovan Catholic 7 | Non-Public A Quarterfinal The Griffins drove over 300 miles round-trip over two days to play the No. 1 ranked team in New Jersey. Top-seeded Bergen Catholic (10-0) held a 14-7 lead on eighth-seeded Donovan Catholic before thunder and lightning stopped the game with 2:22 left in the second quarter. The action resumed Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and Bergen Catholic stepped on the gas and never looked back. Ryan Butler scored four total touchdowns and DJ Samuels broke the program’s all-time career sack record in the win. Bergen Catholic will host St. Peter’s Prep in the Non-Public A semifinal next Saturday. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights and reaction from Oradell: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Bergen Catholic is brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics. Don Bosco Prep 31 St. Joe’s (Mont.) 7 | Non-Public A Quarterfinal Ronnie Heath had 240 yards rushing on 22 carries with four touchdowns to give the Ironmen a playoff quarterfinal win that took two days. The game resumed late in the first quarter on Sunday with Bosco’s defense making a stop on 4th near midfield. Heath had a pair of second-quarter TD runs and added two more scores in the third quarter to put the game away. 6th seed Don Bosco will travel to 2nd seed St. Augustine Prep this Friday night for a spot in the Non-Public “A” state championship. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from Montvale: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of St. Joe-Montvale is brought to you by Rothman Orthopaedics.
Watch Saturday 11.13 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
East Orange 14 West Orange 0 | Group 5 North 1 Semifinal (1) East Orange (10-0) defeated rival (4) West Orange (7-4) 14-0 to advance to the North Jersey, Section 1, Group 5 Final. The game halted by lightning didn’t see a score until the fourth quarter when Pittsburgh University commit Kyle Louis returned a 70 yard touchdown. The Jaguars in search of their first Sectional Title since 2007 will take on (3) Passaic Tech (8-3) in the Championship. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights from Paul Robeson Stadium: Jersey Sports Zone is excited to partner with OceanFirst Bank to bring you a Game of the Week in both boys and girls sports all year long. Each week, we’ll pick a boys and girls game in different sports involving teams located near Ocean First Bank locations and provide highlights and post-game reaction to showcase great action from around the state. Thanks to OceanFirst Bank for shining the spotlight on great high school athletes from their hometowns!
Watch Saturday 11.13 JSZ All-Access Playoff Football Highlights
Cedar Creek 27 Somerville 0 | Group 3 South Semifinal The Pirates dominated to stay undefeated and earn a spot in a sectional championship game. Ja’Quan Howard rushed for over 200 yards and two touchdowns in the victory for Creek (11-0). JC Landicini threw TD passes to JoJo Bermudez and Elijah Smalls. On defense, Smalls […] To access this post, you must purchase an All Access Pass. You can log in here or purchase an All Access Pass here. Become an All Access Pass Holder. You will be redirected to login or purchase page.
Watch Friday 11.12 JSZ Playoff Football Highlights
Jersey Sports Zone has four big state playoff matchups for our entire audience thanks to the support of our great sponsors! Watch Seton Hall Prep/St. Peter’s, Ocean City/Long Branch, Williamstown/Hillsborough and New Providence/Point Pleasant Boro NOW! St. Peter’s Prep 21 Seton Hall Prep 20 | Non-Public A Quarterfinal The Marauders and Pirates again delivered a classic game in their relatively newly-charged rivalry. Sam Slade rushed for 203 yards and a touchdown to pace St. Peter’s Prep (8-3) to a win over Seton Hall Prep (7-4). Maryland commit Champ Long contributed a rushing touchdown and a passing touchdown, which went for 67 yards to Pitt commit Zion Fowler. This is now the third straight game between these two programs that’s been decided by a single point. St. Peter’s Prep advances to face the winner of Saturday’s game between Bergen Catholic and Donovan Catholic in the Non-Public A semifinals next weekend: JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights and reaction from Caven Point in Jersey City: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of all Seton Hall Prep athletics is brought to you by “One on One with Steve Adubato.” Ocean City 45 Long Branch 10 | Group 4 South Semifinal The Raiders rolled past the Green Wave and into a sectional title game. Sean Mazzitelli and Jacob Wilson combined for over 160 yards rushing and three touchdowns. Riley Gunnels rushed for a pair of TDs and threw for a score for OC (11-0). On defense, Mazzitelli had an interception, while Zach Holt had a pair of sacks. Christian Rodriguez rushed for a touchdown for Long Branch (7-2) in the loss. Ocean City advances to face Millville in the final next week. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction: Coverage of Long Branch is made possible by OceanFirst Bank. Hillsborough 49 Williamstown 14 | Group 5 Central Semifinal (1) Hillsborough (11-0) defeated (5) Williamstown (5-6) 49-14 to advance to the Central Jersey, Group 5 Championship. From the opening drive, Hillsborough asserted their dominance as the Raiders led 21-0 after the first quarter and eventually 42-14 at halftime. All of Hillsborough’s points came from running back Tyler Michinard as the senior ended the evening with seven touchdowns. The Raiders will host (3) North Brunswick (8-3) whom they beat 41-0 earlier in the season, for the Central Jersey, Group 5 Title. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Hillsborough coverage. Point Pleasant Boro 28 New Providence 7 | Group 2 South Semifinal Point Boro (1) hosted New Providence (5) in a battle of two strong rushing attacks. Both teams scored on their first possession as Charlie Vitale was the first to find the end zone. He was soon matched by Charlie Barth of new Providence to tie it at 7-7, but it was the Panthers the rest of the way. Vitale would finish with 82 yards on 12 carries with two touchdowns. Matt Oliphant and Jake Croce both scored once for Point Boro, who is set to take on Willingboro next weekend in the South Jersey Group 2 sectional title game. JSZ’s Ken Bradley has the highlights: Coverage of Point Pleasant Boro is made possible by Ocean First Bank!
Watch Friday 11.12 JSZ All-Access Playoff Football Highlights
The New Jersey state playoffs resumed on Friday and JSZ had its cameras all over the Garden State. Grab your JSZ All-Access Pass to watch all of the action! Millville 50 Pennsauken 15 | South Group 4 Semifinal The top-seeded Thunderbolts punched their ticket to the sectional finals for the first time since 2016 with […] To access this post, you must purchase an All Access Pass. You can log in here or purchase an All Access Pass here. Become an All Access Pass Holder. You will be redirected to login or purchase page.