Super Football Conference
United Red
BERGEN CATHOLIC
Coach: Vito Campanile, first season
2017 record: 10-2; Non-Public Group 4 champion
What to expect: Bergen Catholic enjoyed a magical run in 2017, winning nine in a row to end the season and claiming the school’s 17th recognized state championship. After that, there have been some changes, as Campanile comes back to Bergen County after a few years at Seton Hall Prep. But he is no stranger to the area, having coached at Bergen Tech and Westwood and won two public school sectional titles there. Plus, he probably has the old coach’s number (his brother Nunzio) in his phone.
Key players: Aeneas DiCosmo, sr., TE/DE; Jordan Morant, jr., DB; Tyler DeVera, sr., TE.
Forecast: The loss of McKenzie will hurt as the Crusaders were going to use him a lot. This will change what their approach might be on offense and force Boel to grow up a bit sooner than they might have liked, but it’s hard to see many teams matching the Crusaders athletic ability on defense. The Crusaders are still the favorite in Non-Public 4.
DON BOSCO
Coach: Mike Teel, second season
2017 record: 2-8
What to expect: Two wins were the fewest by any Don Bosco football team since 1994. And wow, the high school football world has changed a lot since then, with the Ironmen helping to lead the way. Don Bosco will count on improved play from junior quarterback Jahquill Batts and the speed and power of running back Jalen Berger. The offensive line is largely untested. The strength of this team will be its skill players, watch out for wide receiver Christian Dremel to have a good season.
Key players: Jalen Berger, jr., RB; Jahquill Batts, jr., QB; Travis Cepalia, sr., OT; Kyle Monangai, sr.,RB; Jonathan Alvarado, sr., LB
Forecast: The Ironmen need a big boost of confidence after losing fourth quarter leads in three games last season. A victory in the opener against Byrnes (S.C.) would do a lot for this program, but it’s still hard to find many easy wins on the schedule. However, next year, when there is an experienced offensive line and Berger is a senior, it could be the Ironmen’s year.
PARAMUS CATHOLIC
Coach: John Whitehead, fifth season (first of second stint)
2017 record: 5-6
What to expect: Things are different at Paramus Catholic, as the Paladins are now under the direction of Whitehead, who led the program a decade ago to moderate success. Every coach likes to say that their team is "young" right now, but when Whitehead says it, it’s true, the Paladins will rely a lot on sophom*ores at key positions. That’s not always a bad thing, talent is talent, speed is speed, whether a player is a sophom*ore or a senior. In fact, it may help these Paladins play loose and fast and not worry about the past.
Key players: Christian Abraham, soph., RB/DB; Christian Mahogany, sr., OL/DL; Tahshawn Brinson, sr., RB; Dorian Nowell, soph., QB; John Lyons III, sr., LB
Forecast: It always seems that when Paramus Catholic is expected to do well, things don’t pan out (look at 2015 when the Paladins were nationally ranked in preseason and finished 3-6, and last year), and then in years where not much is expected, they do big things. Well, this is certainly a year where not much is expected.
ST. JOSEPH REGIONAL
Coach: Augie Hoffmann, fifth season
2017 record: 8-4
What to expect:The Green Knights return a solid core on both the offensive and defensive lines. They will look to run the ball efficiently with a trio of running backs. Audric Estime, Te’rai Powelland Andre Johnsonwill handle the work load. Michael Alaimo is posed for a breakout season and can hurt you with his arm and his legs. Defensively, the Knights are stout down the middle with Notre Dame commit Howard Cross and senior two year starter Eric Stoeckel controlling the front. With a veteran linebacker grouplead by senior Matt Gibney, plus free safety and Rutgers commit Connor Grieco roaming the second and third levels, it should be tough for opponents to establish the run game.
Key players: Gavin Sharkey, sr.,WR; Luke Wypler, sr., OT; Audic Estime, soph., RB; Howard Cross, sr., DL; Smith Vilbert, sr., DE; Michael Alaimo, jr., QB.
Forecast: If the Green Knights put it all together, they could go all the way. About the only thing missing is a deep threat at wide receiver, but Sharkey is capable of filling that role. He’s already developed a nice rapport with Alaimo. Defensively, there’s some inexperience in spots, but it will be the same physical style that makes foes wither.
United White
DEPAUL
Coach: John McKenna, 14th season
2017 record: 8-3; Non-Public Group 3 champion
What to expect: The Spartans have been to five straight Non-Public Group 3 title games, winning four of them. They have become the premier program in the group. You could say they catch a break this year with St. Joseph moving up to Non-Public Group 4, but the Spartans would probably relish the challenge again. They’ll still meet in the regular season. DePaul doesn’t have the national reputation as its brother schools in North Jersey, but at home, we know the Spartans are legit.
Key players: Ta’Quan Roberson, sr., QB; Ronnie Hickman, sr., WR; Chris Conti, sr., LB/TE; Chazz Bryant, sr., RB
Forecast: It will be interesting to see how the Spartans replace the production of two-way leader Vinny DePalma, but this now officially becomes Roberson’s team. He’s the most experienced quarterback in the division, and the Penn State commitment has all the skills to lead the Spartans to another state title.
OTHERS
Delbarton,Pope John XXIII andSeton Hall Prep round out the division.
RANKINGS: Counting down North Jersey's top football teams
RECRUITING: Top NJ college football recruits to watch in 2018
Liberty Red
BERGEN TECH
Coach: Ryan Lynch, third season
2017 record: 0-9
What to expect: A veteran team, combined with a more merciful schedule, should enable the undersized Bulldogs to snap a losing streak that stands at 20. They will not face division rivals Ridgewood and Passaic Tech. The team returns at least seven starters to a pro-style offense and another seven to a 4-4 defense. Sophom*ore Evan Nicholas follows in his older brother’s footsteps at quarterback.
Key players: Kievon Banks, sr., RB/DB; Frank Gargiulo, jr., WR/DB; Brian Payerle, sr., OL/LB; Aboudi Rai, sr., WR/DB; Andrew Song, jr., TE/LB.
Forecast: Group 5 Bergen Tech likely will struggle against division rivals Clifton, Hackensack, Eastside and Kennedy, but can compete against Fort Lee, Dumont, Newark East Side and Sussex Tech.
CLIFTON
Coach: Ralph Cinque, fourth year
2017 record: 6-4
What to expect: Offensive leaders are back from a team that averaged 26 points per game. The Mustangs are built to run with bruising RB David Martinez, who finished with 1,434 yards on the ground last year. Dual-threat senior QB Armani Brinson returns and senior WR Devon Swasey provides a good option in the passing game. Cinque likes his team’s work ethic and believes the senior leadership is especially good.
Key players: Caleb Boneparte, so., CB; Devin Garcia, sr., OT; Eddie Maldonado, jr., LB; Jay Patel, sr., LB.
Forecast: This is the year that Clifton could do something special. With about 15 returning starters, the Mustangs are poised to take the next step after a few pedestrian seasons. Whether that includes their goal of a state title – the program’s first since 2006 – remains to be seen.
EASTSIDE
Coach: Tyrone Turner, second season
2017 record: 4-6
What to expect: The Ghosts are trending in the right direction after four wins in Year One under Turner, matching the program’s highest win total in six seasons.
Key players: The Ghosts are going through a youth movement. Sophom*ore Wymeir Reed is slated to take over as quarterback for the graduating Jah’miek Williams. Eastside will be as successful as its leaders, including junior RB/LB Albert Canty and senior TE/LB David Guzman.
Forecast: Eastside hopes to slip into the Group 5 playoffs for the first time as the Ghosts hope to end a 10-year playoff drought. Eastside have lost its last four Thanksgiving matchups with rival Kennedy, increasing the Kennedy lead in the all-time series to 44-42-7.
KENNEDY
Coach:Ronald Jackson, 15th season
2017 record:6-4
What to expect:The Knights have been inching closer to their first state playoff berth since 2012 and were inches away last year, missing thepostseason by half a power point. That should be motivation enough for a team that brings back plenty of young talent.
Key players:Dual-threat QB Evelon Babbs combined for more than 750 total yards rushing and passing last fall and will have fellow senior Calvin Clyburn alongside in the backfield. Senior Jayden Cornish (111 tackles) leads the defensive secondary, while Jahmall Readus is in the middle of the linebacker group, and Jaysen Triunfer is a cornerstone on the defensive and offensive lines.
Forecast:With 11 sophom*ores expected to start for the Knights, success may not be immediate, but there is an good chance it can be sustained for the next couple of years.
HACKENSACK
Coach: Benjie Wimberly, seventh season
2017 record: 4-6
What to expect: They aren’t used to losing seasons at Hackensack, and the Comets 4-6 record was Wimberly’s first losing record at the school and his first since his 1995 Paterson Catholic squad went 2-7. Behind the scenes, the coaches knew there were going to be some struggles as a promising sophom*ore class was thrown into the fire, but the Comets couldn’t sustain the momentum of a season-opening win over Eastside and were outmatched by long-time rivals Ridgewood and Passaic Tech. Wimberly is clearly confident in this group, having added Paramus Catholic and Hudson Catholic to the schedule. He wants to get this group in the playoffs.
Key players: Jordan Wimberly, jr., WR/DB; Tymere Robinson, jr., RB/LB; Isaiah Buster, jr., WR/DB; Robert Walker, jr., OL/DL.
Forecast: It will come down to consistency and the play up front. Clearly, the Comets have talent at the skill positions – Jordan Wimberly has outstanding hands and speed – but the line has to work together to open holes and give the quarterbacks time.
PASSAIC TECH
Coach: Matt Demarest, seventh season
2017 record: 8-2
What to expect: The Bulldogs will feature a solid 4-3 defense, and a veteran offensive line that should pave the way for another winning season and playoff bid. They will again run a multiple attack, and have a stable of running backs, including seniors Ray Clark, Zyaire White and Courtney Herbert. The top receiver is junior Jaheim McGuire. They have a quarterback competition between juniors Gabe Balevski and Jayden Hunt.
Key players: Jared Johnson, jr., OL/DL; Jayden Johnson, jr., OL/DL; Adrian Malave, sr., OL/DL; Neimar Santouse, sr., DB; Isaiah Willis, sr., OL/DL.
Forecast: Passaic Tech, No. 8 in the NorthJersey.com Public Top 25, will post a winning season, vie for the Liberty Red Division title, and might make a deep run in the North Group 5 playoffs.
RIDGEWOOD
Coach: Chuck Johnson, 35th season
2017 record: 8-3
What to expect: With the entire offensive line coming back, along with the return of fullback Will Cardew from an ACL tear in last year’s opener, there is plenty of optimism. Will Mollihan spent the past three seasons with the varsity and now takes over at QB. How wellRidgewood replaces the entire defensive secondary will be a key, along with the outside linebacker spots, where graduation stripped two defensive leaders.James Hogan (PK) and Pat Luby (punter) once again provide a strong special teams edge.
Key players: Will Mollihan, sr., QB; Will Cardew, sr., FB: Dylan Black, sr., RG; David Kleiman, sr., RB/LB; Luke Simpson, sr., TE/LB; Michael Breiter, sr., LB.
Forecast: This Maroons team will be able to score points; just how well they keep teams off the scoreboard will determine just how far they can go.A healthy Ridgewood can make a deep run in the North 1, Group 5 playoffs.
Liberty White
PASSAIC
Coach: William Widener, third season
2017 record: 5-5
What to expect: The Indians went from two wins to five wins in Widener’s second season and appear to be a program on the rise. They had all off-season to build on their finish last year, which included an overtime victory over Edison and a hard-fought win over Clifton on Thanksgiving. A big key for the Indians will be to stay healthy. Joshua Velasquez was having a big year throwing the ball when he was lost for the year in Week Four and Naquan Smith, an anchor on the lines, suffered a knee injury the following week and was lost for the season.
Key players: Kervin Coleman, sr., MLB; Antrell Monroe, soph., WR/DB; Joshua Velasquez, sr., QB; Naquan Smith, sr., OL/DL; Mariano McGaskey, sr., RB/DB.
Forecast: The Indians have shifted divisions in the Super Football Conference and their schedule is tough early with Union City and East Orange the first two weeks. Should the Indians win both, or earn a split, it sets up nicely for them to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2009.
OTHERS
Passaic will compete with Bayonne,Dickinson,Kearny,Memorial (West New York), North Bergen andUnion City in this division.
Freedom Red
FAIR LAWN
Coach:Rob Gentile, third season
2017 record:3-7
What to expect:Many coaches will say they have young rosters, but Gentile means it. Of the39 playerson the roster, 24 are freshmen and sophom*ores. The Cutters do return four, two-way starters, whowill help lead the way while five or six sophom*ores start on defense and two or three will start on offense. Fair Lawn finished 0-4 in the Freedom Blue last season before moving over to this division along with Indian Hills.
Key players:Brian Colca, sr., QB; Matthew Galitz, soph., OL/DL; Kyle Irby-Mason, jr., FB/OL/DL; Michael Lantigua, sr., RB/DB; John Radice, sr., OL/DL.
Forecast:As far as competing for a playoff berth, the Cutters probably are a year away. How they finish in the division will depend upon how quickly the youngsters develop, but regardless of record, the underclassmen will gain valuable experience for the future.
INDIAN HILLS
Coach:David Schuman, second season
2017 record:1-9
What to expect:If anyone can turn around the Braves, it’s Schuman, who took the Palisades Park/Leonia co-op from not having enough players to field a team in 2009 to a sectional final three years later. He already has attracted two prospects from other sports, senior Henry Poliandro (basketball) and junior Matt O’Blake (hockey), and Poliandro competed with sophom*ore Carson Alnor in the preseason for the QB spot.
Key players: Kenny Fazio, jr., WR/DB; Adrian Gosa, sr., RB/LB; Kevin Heins, sr., OL/DL; Matt O’Blake, jr., TE/LB; Dylan Pietropaolo, sr., OL/P.
Forecast: Numbers at Indian Hills are up, and it should not be long before the win total is, too. Schuman likes to field fast, physical teams, and as long as the Braves can follow that formula, success should come sooner rather than later.
PASSAIC VALLEY
Coach: Chet Parlavecchio, ninth season (fourth of second stint)
2017 record: 6-3
What to expect: The Hornets have increased their win total each season under Parlavecchio and last year’s 6-3 slate marked their best of this decade. This group has good chemistry and speed. Junior Gio Giovatto shows promise at running back and junior receiver Brandon Timothy is a deep threat. A line that includes sophom*ore C/G Jason Gordon and junior Kevin Douglass must be rebuilt.
Key players: Michael Bariso, sr., OL/LB; Jeremy Eppler, sr., OL/DL; Matthew Jaeger, sr., TE/DL; Antwan Rogers, sr., CB/DB; Bryan Taylor, jr., QB.
Forecast: If Bryan Taylor or fellow junior Alex Martin emerges at quarterback, Passaic Valley can enjoy a winning season in the Freedom Red Division and vie for a North Group 4 bid.
WAYNE HILLS
Coach:Wayne Demikoff, sixth season
2017 record:7-4
What to expect:With this program, it's usually a championship contender, and this year should be no exception. Wayne Hills has not endured a losing season since 1988 and had just three .500 seasons in that span. Nemesis NV/Old Tappan, which dealt the Patriots two of their losses last season, remains on the schedule but is no longer a divisional opponent.
Key players:Jaaron Hayek, sr., WR/S;Ben Kurzur, sr., OL/LB;Charles Njoku, sr., WR;Bence Polgar, sr.,OT;Anthony Puntolillo, sr., FB/LB; Joe Rondi, sr., OT/DL.
Forecast:Wayne Hills will be in the hunt for its 10th sectional title. The offense should be especially potent, led by Bergen Catholic/Verona transfer Tom Sharkey at QB and the duo of tailbacks Michael Joyce and Joe Mongelli running behind Puntolillo and a solid O-line.
WAYNE VALLEY
Coach: Roger Kotlarz, fifth season
2017 record: 1-9
What to expect: Wayne Valley is significantly more experienced than last year when they only had nine seniors on the roster. This season’s schedule is front-loaded with the Indians opening at Pennsylvania power Spring Ford before returning to New Jersey for a Week 2 matchup across town against rivals Wayne Hills. A fast start will set an early tone and will give the Indians confidence the rest of the way.
Key players: Nick Trani, sr., RB(640 rush yards, 207 receiving yards, 81 passing yards, nine total TD in 2017); Elijah Lugo, jr., RB/KR; Greg Fox, sr., DL (37 tackles);David Trinidad, sr., DL (36 tackles);Ian Lancelotti, jr., DL (23 tackles);Sam Bumbaco, sr., DB (70 tackles); Nick Duncan, sr., DB (57 tackles).
Forecast: If Wayne Valley can avoid a slow start and at least get a split in its first two games, then it should significantly improve on last year’s one-win campaign. Expect the Indians to finish with a winning record and fight for a late playoff push.
WEST MILFORD
Coach: Steve Maslanek, first season
2017 record: 3-7
What to expect: West Milford shouldn't need much timeto get acclimated with Maslanek, who is no stranger to the program and familiar with the team operations having served as the Highlanders’ defensive coordinator since 2008. A strong finish to 2017 serves as motivation and encouragement for West Milford, whichreturns several experienced players at key positions.
Key players: Zack Milko, sr., QB (88-of-172,1,210 yards, 13 TD;63 carries, 447 yards, five TD);Ryan Coyle, sr., WR (45 catches, 696 yards, six TD); Dan DiMinno, sr., TE(34 catches, 418 yards, six TD).Ray Gorny, sr., DE/LB (68 tackles, fivesacks); Sean Kuhn, sr., DE/LB (52 tackles).
Forecast: The Highlanders are expected to showimprovement and exceed last year’s three wins. The nine regular-season opponents they’ll face this season were a combined 37-55 in 2017, giving West Milford a realistic shot at finishing well above .500 and qualifying for the Group 3 playoffs for the first time since 2015.
Patriot Red
BERGENFIELD
Coach: Rob Violante, eighth season
2017 record: 6-4
What to expect: The Bears have shifted divisions from the Patriot Gold to the Patriot Red. So instead of River Dell and Pascack Valley, the Bears now get NV/Old Tappan and Ramapo. Whew. Almost unnoticed, Violante (who has the second longest tenure of any football coach in school history) has restored the Bergenfield program to a high level. The Bears, once an afterthought, play hard and get the most out of their talent. They have been in the playoffs four years in a row, the longest streak of that nature in school history, but they haven’t won a playoff game since winning a sectional title in 1987. That’s this year’s stated goal.
Key players: Joel Martinez, sr. WR/DB; Jeff Munoz, sr. OL/DL; Zyaire White, sr. C/DT; Angel Jimenez, sr. RB/DB; Jake Kradenski jr. LB/WR
Forecast: Bergenfield has 14 starters back, and Violante thinks his program is ready to take the next step. He has a lot of experience returning. Martinez is a three-year starter. White is a three-year starter. Kradenski started as a freshman, so he’s been around, too. Sophom*ore QB John Gallagher is a promising prospect. The schedule is tough, but so are the Bears.
NORTHERN HIGHLANDS
Coach: Keith Migliorino, thirdseason
2017 record: 6-4
What to expect:The Highlanders' strength lies up front. Both theoffensive and defensive lines are ripe with experience and talent, led by All-Bergen County guard Luke Larkin. The hope is that starting seven sophom*ores last season, primarily at the skill positions, will allow the team to hit the ground running, which it will have to do in order to navigate a demanding early schedule.
Key players:Riley Haab, sr., OL/DL;Ed Iannelli, sr., RB/LB; Luke Larkin, sr., OG/DL; Liam Roy, sr., CB;Anthony Sciuto, sr., OL/DT;Francis Walsh, sr., OL/DL.
Forecast:Two 2017 sectional finalists, NV/Old Tappan and Ramapo, are on the docket in the first four games, as is a trip to Canton, Ohio to face Clifton. In the fifth game, Northern Highlands faces West Morris, which knocked it out of last year's playoffs. If the Highlanders can emerge from that stretch above .500, they'll be well on the way to the postseason.
NV/OLD TAPPAN
Coach: Brian Dunn, 19th season
2017 record: 12-0;North 1, Group 4 champion
What to expect: The Golden Knights won’t rest on their laurels. Brian Dunn isn’t much on sayings or slogans, and he won’t even bring up what happened last year (or in 2015) when the Golden Knights went unbeaten. He feels like the players know what has to be done, and last year should only be a reminder of the high level of play they should expect. First they have to put the work in. NV/Old Tappan only brings back a handful of starters on both sides of the ball, but it’s enough to retain the core attitudes of what has made them successful.
Key players: Andrew Dippolito, sr., QB; Jackson Downey, sr., DL; Chris D’Amico, RB/DL; Pat Passalacqua, jr., OL; John Lohrer, sr., WR.
Forecast: Dippolito was a standout this summer during 7-on-7s and seems to move well in the pocket. Lohrer is one of the best players in North Jersey and look for the Golden Knights to try to get him the ball a lot. The Golden Knights will start the season having earned everyone’s respect, no one should be surprised if they’re still on top at the end.
RAMAPO
Coach: Drew Gibbs, 18th season
2017 record:9-3
What to expect:The offensive line took a big hit with four of five starters graduating. The lone returnee is centerGrant Cotugno, so the anchor is in place as well as the player to whom he'll be snapping the ball, AJ Wingfield. Experienced skill players are plentiful and fast, which is just what the Green Raiders like to have in their up-tempo offense. Defensively, the linebacking corps is stacked with five returning, and the secondary has been bolstered by Isaiah Savitt, a transfer from Ohio.
Key players:Max Baker, sr., WR/DB; Noah Baker, sr., WR/DB; Mike Connor, sr., OL/LB;Luke Ragone, sr., RB/LB; AJ Wingfield, sr., QB; Matt Wingfield, sr., WR/LB.
Forecast:If the lines get up to speed as quickly as Ramapo hopes, watch out. This team has the look of a title contender as it goes in search of its 11th sectional crown in the playoff era (1974-present).
TEANECK
Coach: Harold Clark, fourth season
2017 record: 4-6
What to expect: The program is suffering from low turnout – less than 30 total players, and 18 are seniors. There is talent and athleticism, but depth will be a problem for a team that last season qualified for the North 1, Group 3 playoffs. Senior Courtney Perry will start at quarterback in the spread attack. The lines are thin and senior Jaylen Ware is among the two-way linemen.
Key players: Russell Adams, jr., LB; Bryan Barnes, jr., LB; Jaden Coffie, sr., WR/CB; Marlique Gatson, sr., WR/DB; Emilio Vasquez, sr., C/DL.
Forecast: The program’s future is unclear, and Clark said Teaneck may have to combine with another school in 2019 to stay afloat. “As sad as it may sound,” Clark said, “this may be our last Thanksgiving game against Hackensack.”
TENAFLY
Coach: Peter Toale, second season
2017 record: 1-9
What to expect: The Tigers return six starters on offense and defense, though there are fewer than 30 varsity players. The Wing-T, pro-style attack features a 1,000-yard rusher in senior RB Nick Distaulo. Juniors Daniel Laparra and Jeremy Abramowitz also will be at RB. Senior AJ De La Rosa shifts from receiver to QB. The line will include seniors Zach Williams and Isaac Berman and junior Luke Amicucci.
Key players: Isaac Berman, sr., OL/DL; AJ De La Rosa, sr., QB/LB; Nick Distaulo, sr., RB/LB; Daniel Laparra, sr., RB/LB; Zach Williams, sr., OL/DL.
Forecast: Tenafly must play better defense and overcome a small roster to win multiple games. “Being that we have limited numbers,” Toale said, “we have to make sure our players understand and know their responsibilities at multiple positions.”
Patriot Gold
CLIFFSIDE PARK
Coach: Tom Mandile, second season
2017 record: 3-6
What to expect: Mandile approached the job with realistic expectations and the Red Raiders responded by notching their most wins in a season since 2009. Now we see what they can do for an encore. Cliffside Park graduated a huge senior class, so there is some inexperience up front, but quarterback Antonio Diperi has started for three years, and there are some talented running backs in the program. Right now, the strength of this team is the skill players and the back end of the defense.
Key players: Antonio Diperi, sr., QB; Justin Chevalier, jr., WR/DB; Miquelauqel Ruiz, sr., WR/DB
Forecast: The Red Raiders' schedule in the Super Football Conference is still formidable, and last year they were shut out four times. Getting three wins again would be impressive and something to build on going forward.
DWIGHT MORROW
Coach: Sean O’Connor, third season
2017 record: 5-5
What to expect: It’s been back-to-back 5-5 seasons for O’Connor with the Maroon Raiders, and last year, the momentum of a 3-0 start didn’t carry through. This will be a real young team with as many as seven sophom*ores starting on both sides of the ball. New quarterback Jalen Hoyel is the brother of graduated four-year starter Andrew Jones. O’Connor thinks he’s a natural leader. There’s always talent on the roster. Jihad Edmond has multiple offers on the table, he can take over a game.
Key players: Jihad Edmond, sr., TE/DE; Hector LeBron, jr., OL; Joel Richardson, jr., MLB; Jalen Hoyel, soph., QB.
Forecast: Line play is usually a concern for the Maroon Raiders, but O’Connor has four returning starters there, and he said that there’s a lot of competition at the skill spots. O’Connor believes that the Maroon Raiders have enough pieces to be successful. One thing is for sure, they don’t want to finish 5-5 again.
NV/DEMAREST
Coach: Tony Mottola, 10th season
2017 record: 9-2
What to expect: Last season the Norsem*n had their best record and probably best team in Mottola’s tenure with sensational quarterback Austin Albericci at the controls of a powerful offense that was a late drive away from reaching the sectional final. The Norsem*n graduated 22 seniors, so its depth and talent level have taken a hit, but Mottola feels like there is some young talent ready to produce and likes the leadership that has emerged in the preseason. Watch for Jack Mottola to become one of the more talked about players in the Class of 2020.
Key players: Jack Mottola, jr., TE/LB; Joe Argenziano, sr., QB, Thomas Reilly, sr., RB/LB; Max Langsam, sr., OL/DL.
Forecast: The Norsem*n will probably take a step back after the last few years, but don’t be surprised in they are in the playoff hunt late in the season.
PARAMUS
Coach:Joe Sabella, second season
2017 record:3-7
What to expect:The Spartans qualified for last year's playoffs in spite of a losing record, and their final two setbacks were against eventual North 1, Group 3 champ River Dell, including their state opener. For the second year in a row, Paramus has moved one of its skill players to the offensive line, with Matt Amato (seven rush TD) making the switch from fullback. Junior Trevor Bopp returns atQB after starting the final three games of 2017.
Key players:Matt Amato, sr., OG/LB;Brandon Del Colle, jr., TE/LB;Josh Ferro, sr., OL/DL;Kyle Jacob, sr., RB/FS;Justin McKeon, sr., slot/DB.
Forecast:After deeming last season's mark "not acceptable,"Sabella is confident that the Spartans can rediscover the success they experienced in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
PASCACK VALLEY
Coach: Len Cusumano, third season
2017 record: 2-8
What to expect: The bad news for Pascack Valley is that it’s coming off its worst season in a long time. The good news is,the Indians bring back eightstarters on both sides and developed young leaders throughrebuilding. Senior Charlie Looes is a standout pass rusher, while seniors Stephen Soravilla and Michael Garay areother leading tacklers. The Indians are working out their passing game with QBs Stephen Begen and Jake DeMilia in the mix, and they have a promising set of runners to ease the pressure. Junior RBs Jake Williams and Mike Gulino are both back after productive years on the ground.
Key players: Andrew Demboski, sr., OL/DL; James Della Pesca, jr., TE/LB; Jake Ciocca, jr., WR/DB; Andrew Martinez, jr.; WR/DB.
Forecast: Despite a challenging schedule, the Indians are capable of getting a much better record, particularly if they can throw the ball.
RIDGEFIELD PARK
Coach: Dan Sabella, first year
2017 record: 4-6
What to expect: Big changes are happening on and off the field.Sabella comes over from Paramus Catholic and wants to bring an up-tempo style and blue-collar mindset to his new team. The Scarlets must rebuild the lineup after graduating its QB and most other starters. Senior John Perez will be the quarterback after winning a three-man race in camp. Senior RB Erik Rodriguez is the new feature back.
Key players: Joe Occhipinti, jr., FB/DL; Sammy Soto, jr. RB/LB; Logan Martinez, jr., LB; Joel Minaya, sr. OL/DL.
Forecast: Ridgefield Park can be a playoff team despite experiencing some growing pains. The Scarlets stay somewhere around .500 after going an even 26-26 over their last five seasons.
RIVER DELL
Coach: D.J. Nimphius, 15th season
2017 record: 12-0;North 1, Group 3 champion
What to expect: The Golden Hawks graduatedperhaps the best player to ever wear their uniform,David Estevez.One player won’t replace him, butrather, River Dell will count on the depth it builds annually by playing 35 or more players every game in crucial situations.A run-pass balance will be essential for the Golden Hawks, who, despite eightreturning starters on offense and six on defense, will be most green on thelines.
Key players: Jack Racine, sr., WR; Griffin Milgram, sr., OL/DL; David Fltecher, sr., RB; Cole Murrell, sr., LB; Mike Sirico, jr., WR; Jack Gillies, jr., PK.
Forecast: Tradition and depth will prevail for the Golden Hawks, who should once again be a prominent figure in the North 1, Group 3 playoffs.
American Red
DUMONT
Coach: Rick Burd, second year
2017 record: 5-5
What to expect: The Huskies have a good shot at a winning record, despite going 11 years in a row without one. The defense shaped up nicely last season, holding eight opponents to 20-or-fewer points, and won't have to change too much. Third-year starting QB Jake Vietri directs the offense and will have senior WR Jacob Berrocal as a primary target.
Players to watch: Matthew Stewart, jr., RB/LB; Peyton Leuck, sr., WR/DB; Joseph Carabillo, jr., WR/DB; Lucas Nallen, jr., OL/LB; Vincent Mazzilli, sr., OL/DL.
Forecast: A breakout year is certainly possible. Dumont expects to make the playoffs and play well in its division. Burd likes his dedicated sophom*ore class, which should deepen the roster.
FORT LEE
Coach: Bill Straub, eighth season (third of second stint)
2017 record: 5-5
What to expect: The Bridgemen rebounded from a four-game losing streak to finish at .500. Despite not recreating the success of the 2016 team, Fort Lee still had one of its highest scoring offenses in team history last fall.
Key players: Senior Ely George returns following a terrific rushing season as a junior, rushing for over 1,000 yards.George will be a workhorse for Fort Lee as the running back made a habit of 100-yard games last year, including a 203-yard effort against Marist.
Forecast: Fort Lee moves to the American Red division of the Super Football Conference, giving the Bridgemen a tougher path to the playoffs. A youngsquad will look to surprise in a tough division and earn just its second playoff berth in 33 years.
LAKELAND
Coach: Tom McCormack, ninth season (fourth of second stint)
2017 record: 10-2
What to expect: Last year's North 1, Group 2 runner-up looks to reestablish its running game after losing All-Passaic standout and leading scorer Kelvin Gonzalez (156 carries, 1,355 yards, 17 TD) to graduation. The Wanaque school will spread out its offense and will combine its running and passing games to keep teams off balance and guessing.
Key players: Michael McKay, sr., QB (50 carries, 443 yards, fourTD); Anthony Tanner, sr., RB (76 carries, 532 yards, fiveTD);Ryan Sullivan, sr., RB;Ray Schmitt, jr., RB; Jude Padovano, jr., RB; Jake Harkey, sr., OL(6-foot-6, 330 pounds);Chris McCormack, sr., OL(6-3, 250); JC Mertz, sr., OL (6-1, 180).
Forecast: The Lancers’ production is expected to be down compared to last year with Gonzalez no longer in the backfield. Putting up points might be a struggle after they averaged nearly 28 per game in 2017. There’s an outside shot that Lakeland can qualify for the postseason, but a bump up to Group 3 this fall presents a stiffer challenge.
MAHWAH
Coach: Chris Diaz, second season
2017 record: 4-6
What to expect: The training wheels are off at Mahwah. The Thunderbirds were forced to rebuild last year after winning back-to-back state titles, but shouldn’t be overlooked this season. Diaz still doesn’t have many seniors, but believes the offensive line will be better and the skill positions are a strength. Junior QB Kyle Teel has the arm to be effective as he works alongside RB Ryan Cabrera and WR Davin Johnson.
Key players:Joseph Batavia, sr., OL/DL; Mark Pierro, jr., OL/DL; Christian Ash, jr., OL/DL; Scott Tremblay, jr., WR/DB.
Forecast: Getting more wins and more playoff success in certainly possible, even if Mahwah can’t go back to the championship level just yet. In the end, the Thunderbirds go as far as their juniors can take them.
PASCACK HILLS
Coach: Brooks Alexander, 18th season
2017 record: 6-4
What to expect: The Cowboys were one of the biggest surprises of 2017, racing out to a 4-1 start and getting their first victory over Mahwah since 1998. This year’s team will be young, and yes, you can use the "R" word – rebuilding – as there will be some new faces in a lot of spots. Alexander is never shy about giving his opinions on his team and the state of North Jersey football, so when he says his team’s work ethic has been strong, you can believe it. Finishing with a winning record would be a proof that this team jelled quickly.
Key players: Nick Kostantas, sr., RB/LB; Tyler Deppert sr., RB/DB; Aiden Snell, sr., RB/DB; Gabriel Velez, jr., QB/DB; Chris Centeno, jr., OL/DL.
Forecast: The Cowboys haven’t won a playoff game since 1979, one of the longest streaks in North Jersey, but Alexander’s teams always play smart and find a way to make things hard on opponents.
RAMSEY
Coach: Anthony Petrock, third season
2017 record: 4-6
What to expect:A typical Ramsey team plays hard despite a relatively small roster, and the 2018 squad fits the mold. Seniors comprise half of the 32-man unit, and many were starters on last year's state-playoff team. Quarterback Cooper Mandel is in his third varsity season, and kicker Rafael Zurita nailed the winning field goal against Pascack Hills that helped boost the Rams into the postseason.
Key players:Vinny Bernier, sr., OL/DL; John Hillman, sr., OL/DL; Stephen Lowery, sr., FB/LB; Cooper Mandel, sr., QB/OLB.
Forecast:Avoiding injuries is paramount when depth is at a premium, and if the Rams can stay healthy, they should challenge for the playoffs again.
WESTWOOD
Coach: Dennis Hard, fourth season
2017 record: 9-2
What to expect: The Cardinals have produced back-to-back nine-win seasons but must face a tougher schedule. They are talented at the skill positions, featuring senior TE/RB Steve Riedel and senior RB/WR Christian Maiz. Senior Anthony Corrubia takes over at quarterback. Senior Benny Dahdah, a running back-turned-guard, is part of a line that must be rebuilt and also will include Luke Rekucki.
Key players: Anthony Corrubia, sr., QB/DB; Benny Dahdah, sr., OL/DL; Christian Maiz, sr., DB/WR/RB; Oladipo Amusan, sr., OL/DL; Steve Riedel, sr., LB/RB/TE.
Forecast: Westwood, if its line jells, will challenge Lakeland for the title in the American Red Division and make a run in the North Group 2 playoffs.
NJIC North
*Division winners will meet for overall championship
Colonial Division
GARFIELD
Coach:Jeff DeVito, seventh season
2017 record:4-5
What to expect:The Boilermakers have 13 returnees, six on offense and seven on defense. Most of the offensive experience is in the running game, where Daryel Garcia scored three touchdowns andAshonmir McElveen averaged better than 5.5 yards per carry. On the outside, junior Nakie Graham is the top returning receiver (17 catches, 174 yards, three TD) and classmateKacper Szuberski was second on the team in tackles (60) at defensive back last fall.
Key players:Charles Davis, jr., OG/DE; Brian Fernandez, sr., WR/DB; Daryel Garcia, sr., HB/CB; Jay Hawes, jr., QB; Ashonmir McElveen, sr., FB/OLB; Gabe Quiles, sr., OT/DT.
Forecast:Garfield opens the season against next-door neighbor Lodi, a team it has beaten four straight times head-to-head. Another good showing could help set the course for 2018.
GLEN ROCK
Coach: Jim Kurz, 10th season
2017 record: 4-5
What to expect: The primary goal for the Panthers is to be competitive week in and week out. The road to victory will follow.With five starters back on both offense and defense, there is plenty of competition for playing time.With a multiple-front defense, Glen Rock willcount onPierce Tuttle and Steve Bilbao to fortify the front seven.On offense, the Panthers will continue to use a spread offense, and Kurz is expecting Justin Douenias to add spark to the wide receiving corps.
Key players: Ashton Dalessio, sr., WR/LB; Pierce Tuttle, sr., OT/DL; Steve Bilbao, sr., RB/LB; Justin Douenias, sr., PK/P; Greg Schlett, jr., QB/DB.
Forecast: The Panthers will strive to be competitive in the NJIC as well as in Group 2. If the offense jells quickly and they can pick up a couple of wins out of the gate, the postseason is within reach.
LODI
Coach: Mark Maggio, second season
2017 record: 4-5
What to expect: Lodi bounced back from an 0-3 start and nearly had a winning season. The Rams hope to keep the momentum going from the last three weeks of last season, when Lodi outscored its opponents by a combined total of 123-7.
Key players: Quarterback Kyle Leach returns for his senior season after a 1,000-yard season in the air and 17 touchdown passes. Lodi will have to find a replacement for the departed Carlos Pepin, who caught 13 of those touchdowns last season.
Forecast: Lodi hasn’t been to the postseason since 2013 and will hope to return this fall. The young Rams will have difficulty contending in both the NJIC Colonial and North, Group 2 with defending champion Rutherford.
MANCHESTER REGIONAL
Coach: Rande Roca, 17th season (seventh of second stint)
2017 record: 8-3
What to expect: The Falcons were hands down the biggest surprise of the 2017 football season, finishing with their most wins in a season since 1996 and recording the school’s first playoff victory. The last time the school had back-to-back winning seasons was 1995 and 1996. The good news is there are still plenty of holdovers from last year, Roca brings back six starters on offense and defense.
Key players: David Boucher, jr., QB/DB; Shasmar Hughes, sr., RB/LB; Kristian Kaca, sr., WR/DB; Dustin Lewicki, sr., OL/DL.
Forecast: Manchester doesn’t do anything fancy on offense, but the Falcons use the speed they have to get outside and make plays. Defensively, they like to be physical. There’s enough talent left here to believe that last year was not just a fluke. But no one will see Manchester as a pushover anymore, so they will have to be prepared for team’s best efforts.
PALISADES PARK/LEONIA
Coach:Chris Kulcsar, first season
2017 record:0-9
What to expect:Kulcsar, a former NV/Demarest standout lineman, becomes the Tigers' fifth coach in six seasons. He'll try to help them bounce back from being outscored by an average of 34-8 a year ago. The coach has anabundance of young skill players at his disposal and said that if they can learn to play instinctually rather than over-thinking, "this team has the ability to make strides forward and erase the thought of last year."
Key players:Dennis Bajanov, jr., OL/LB (5-10, 205); Leo Driotez, so., QB/DB (5-9, 160); Roman Gil, sr., WR/LB (6-0, 175); Julio Mancilla, sr., OL/DL (5-10, 235); Eric Marson, sr., OL/DL (5-9, 260); Nate Meano, jr., OL/LB (5-8, 195).
Forecast:With only seven seniors on the roster and just one, Gil, at a skill position, patience will be key as Palisades Park/Leonia develops its bevy of underclassmen.
RUTHERFORD
Coach:Andy Howell, ninth season
2017 record:11-0;North 2, Group 2 champion
What to expect:As they did last year, the Bulldogs anticipate using a variety of running backs and slot-backs to move the ball. Five different players attempted at least one pass last fall, though the majority went to returning signal-caller Kyle Russell (77-of-125, 1,017 yards, 16 TD). The defense got contributions from many sources, including sack leader Regan Landrigan (7½).
Key players:Lawson Fisher, sr., OL/DL; Owen Meister, jr., WR/CB/P; Abellany Mendez, sr., RB/DB; Kyle Russell, sr., QB/S.
Forecast:Rutherford has won three straight Colonial Division titles. It added the NJIC tournament championship as well as the sectional crown last season, so Howell knows, "we will not be under the radar and sneak up on anybody now. Our opponents will be gunning for us, and I think we’re embracing this challenge." With that attitude, the Bulldogs should defend at least one of their titles.
WALDWICK/MIDLAND PARK
Coach:Greg Gruzdis, ninth season
2017 record:5-4
What to expect:The Warriors have reached the playoffs in five of the past six years, and their five straight winning seasons equal the longest stretch either school has enjoyed in its history. Gruzdis (52-29 record) does well reloading rather than rebuilding, and the challenge will be to do the same after graduating seven all-division players, each of whom started on both sides of the ball. The front lines were hit hardest and will rely upon third-year varsity regularKai Della Penna for stability.
Key players:Kai Della Penna, jr., OL/DL; Chris Hunt, sr., OT/DE; Ethan Kucharski, jr., QB/DB; Harry Parker, sr., SE/RB/DB; Sam Rossnagel, sr., RB/LB.
Forecast:Waldwick/Midland Park has a few morequestion marks entering the season than it's hadin recent years, so only time will tell if the co-op can get back to the playoffs. "We don’t have a lot of depth, but I think we put a good 11 out there," Gruzdis said.
Liberty Division
ELMWOOD PARK
Coach: Tom Mulligan, fifth season
2017 record: 1-8
What to expect: The Crusaders have only recorded two victories in the last three seasons, but the overall health of the program and attitude have not declined. Mulligan still has a big roster and he believes the players are hungry to get better. The Crusaders have returners coming back on both sides of the ball and the win over Palisades Park/Leonia in the last game of the season served as excellent motivation in the off-season.
Key players: Eddie Alfieri, jr., RB/DB; Joseph Leto, jr., QB/DB; Harold Martinez, soph., OL/DL.
Forecast: Mulligan has worked very hard to promote his program and the positive gains made so it’s hard not to root for him and the Crusaders, but their schedule is loaded. Look for some progress though. Two wins would be a nice sign of progress, a handful more games that are close in the second half would be even better.
HARRISON
Coach:Dan Hicks, first season
2017 record:1-7
What to expect:The Blue Tide experienced a slight down-tickafter ending a 26-year playoff drought in 2016. Now, the teamturns to the 26-year-old alum Hicks as its fifth coach in seven seasons. Harrison's roster is also quite young, with freshmen (10) outnumbering seniors (eight). Mateo DeSosa is heading into his fourth varsity season on defense, and all-division tight end Paul Mobus made the switch to offensive line.
Key players:Ray Chico, sr., WR/DB; Mateo DeSosa, jr., QB/DB/K; Paul Mobus, sr., OL/DE; Mike Oeckel, sr., WR/OLB; Elvin Pina, sr., OL/DL; Landor Vallejo, sr., RB/ILB.
Forecast:Much is new at Harrison, right down the updated logo that harkens back to the XFL's Hitmen. If the Blue Tide can work through growing pains to stay in the playoff hunt, it must contend with the NJSIAA's realigned South section.
HAWTHORNE
Coach:John Passero, 18th season
2017 record:5-4
What to expect:The Bears have strung together three straight winning seasons. They missed the playoffs in hotly-contested Group 2 each of the past two years, but Passero likes that his team has experienced success. "That has driven them to have a great off-season," he said. "The battles forthe spots left from graduation have been intense all summer." Four all-division selections lead the way.
Key players:JaydonD’Errico, sr., RB/LB (All-Liberty 2nd team);JalenPalmer, jr.,RB/DB (2nd team);TJ Palmer, sr., QB/FS (1st team);MikeRenzo, sr., RB/LB (2nd team).
Forecast:One of Hawthorne's late-season victories was against sectional semifinalist Manchester, which ended a three-game skid and started a two-game win streak. The Bears are hoping that momentum will carry over.
LYNDHURST
Coach: Rich Tuero, fifth season
2017 record: 5-4
What to expect: The Golden Bears snuck into the playoffs as the eighth seed in North 2, Group 2 last season thanks to a tiebreaker. Lyndhurst began the year 3-1 and will need another strong start like that to contend in the NJIC Liberty.
Key players: Junior RB Piotr Partyla made an immediate impact for Lyndhurst after transferring from the closing Queen of Peace. Partyla, the former quarterback, rushed for 772 yards and 14 touchdowns in his season as a tailback. Senior Jeff Grasso returns to lead the Golden Bear defense after consecutive seasons with at least 100 tackles.
Forecast: Tuero has turned Lyndhurst around in large part due to early season success. Strong showings at home against Hawthorne and at Secaucus will set the tone for the rest of the season for the Golden Bears.
NEW MILFORD
Coach: Bill Wilde, 14th year
2017 record: 8-2
What to expect: Coach Bill Wilde said his team has turned the page on last year’s bizarre ending, a playoff loss when refs called off a miracle last-play touchdown. Now the Knights are eyeing another division title and believe they have the quarterback to contend. Senior Brian Mackey gets his chance after waiting his turn and at 6-foot-3, appears to have the tools to succeed. He’ll have a nice safety blanket in RB Bart Nativo, who goes for another 1,000-yard season, and will be surrounded by seniors in the lineup.
Key players:Elian Valdivia, sr., WR/CB; Tyler Picinic, sr., WR; Alex Heinemann, sr., OG/DT; Emmett McElroy, sr., OT/DE; Alex Molina, sr., RB/LB.
Forecast: Don’t expect any regression for the Knights, whose speed and athleticism will take them far. New Milford is on the short list of Group 1 contenders.
POMPTON LAKES
Coach: Scott Mahoney, 14th season
2017 record: 8-3
What to expect: Pompton Lakes is a young team with a combined 36 freshmen and sophom*ores on the roster and only six seniors. The Cardinals, who wentall the way to the North 1, Group 1 state final last December, could have some early growing pains, but like last season, they’ll improve as the season goes on.
Key players: Senior running back Frankie Negrini is again expected to carry the load after rushing for 1,790 yards on 209 carries and 26 TDin 2017. Senior wide receiver and three-year starter John Tanis (13 catches, 161 yards, two TD) is a deep threat, along with junior tight end PJ Latora (11 catches, 169 yards). Senior two-way lineman Ryan Presta is back for his third season and teams with junior lineman Kyle Kleinot.
Forecast: With untested sophom*ore quarterback Mike Eberhart running the offense this fall, expect Pompton Lakes to lean on Negrini while the passing game evolves. By midseason, the Cardinals should be firing on all cylinders with a return trip to the sectional final in reach.
SECAUCUS
Coach: Charlie Voorhees, 20th season
2017 record: 2-6
What to expect: Secaucus was full of young talent last season and 2018 is no different. Only five combined wins in the past three seasons hasn’t been ideal, but Voorhees, also the athletic director, has built a solid core of young players as a Group 1 school.
Key players: Despite a lack of success in the standings, the Patriots have developed a solid group of lineman among the best in the entire NJIC. That line took a major blow last October when center and captain Hunter Pein suffered an injury that required Tommy John surgery. With Pein’s senior season status still up in the air, it is the biggest question mark for a team that didn’t lose. Also watch out forRaequan Andrews, sr., RB.
Forecast: It has been five years since a winning season happened in Secaucus. Earlycontests against Lyndhurst and at Pompton Lakes will test the Patriots, but overall improvement for the team is on the horizon.
NJIC South
*Division winners will meet for overall championship
Meadowlands Division
BECTON
Coach: Jack Maher, fourth season
2017 record: 5-4
What to expect: The Wildcats have to replace four starters on the offensive line (including Monmouth freshman Greg Anderson) and all three starters on the defensive front. The Wildcats always have a good offensive scheme, and Nick Monahan doesn’t get a lot of attention but he’s as tough a runner as there is in North Jersey. New quarterback Michael Renta has a good arm and understanding of the offense. The Wildcats had a rough preseason, however, losing a week because of a team-wide virus.
Key players: Nick Monahan, sr. RB/LB; Michael Failla, jr. WR/DB; Michael Renta, jr. QB/DB, Jeff Marques, sr. WR/DB; Al Benameur, jr. WR/DB
Forecast: Becton is coming off a pretty good off-season (illnesses aside) and the schedule sets up nicely for the Wildcats to work through some kinks. Hasbrouck Heights is still the team to beat in the division, but the Wildcats might match up with them as well as anyone else in the league.
BUTLER
Coach: Jason Luciani, sixth season
2017 record: 6-4
What to expect: Butler moves to the NJIC, which is comprised of mostly Bergen County Schools, after spending the last few years in the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC), made up of schools from Morris and Sussex Counties. The shift to a smaller-school conference could work in the Bulldogs’ favor, as they’ll face schools that went a combined 21-25 in 2017, which also includes perennial power and defending North 1, Group 1 championHasbrouck Heights (10-1).
Key players: Senior running back Sean Centinaro returns for his fourth season and is within 800 yards of breaking the school’s all-time rushing record of 2,612 yards. Junior quarterback Evan Smith gets his first start after serving in a backup role last fall, while senior wide receiver/defensive back Derrick Timpinaro is a top target (17 catches, 243 yards, four TD).
Forecast: The Bulldogs will lean on the versatile Centinaro to keep them in most games. Although they haven't reachedthe playoffs since 2013, they’ll have a shotwhile playing an all-new schedule againstsimilar teams. However, as Butler has experienced in the past playing a Group 1 schedule, a few slip-ups in the early going can squash any playoff hopes.
CRESSKILL
Coach: Kevin Quinn, fifth season
2017 record: 4-5
What to expect: Three straight losses to end the season last fall gave the Cougars its first losing season under Quinn. Cresskill must replace key seniors such as quarterback Mike Ferrara and linebacker Tyler Pinnel.
Key players: Seniors Jack Morgan and Jacob Hamburger lead a Cougar defense that, aside from Hasbrouck Heights, has not allowed an opponent to score over 21 points in the last two seasons. Senior Max Gentile is one of the best lineman in the conference and will be vital as Cresskill looks to develop more skill position players.
Forecast: The Cougars missed the playoffs last season for the first time this decade and should return in 2018 under the new playoff format. Cresskill will look to dethrone Hasbrouck Heights atop the NJIC Meadowlands and reach the conference playoffs for the first time ever.
HASBROUCK HEIGHTS
Coach: Nick Delcalzo, 34th season
2017 record: 10-1; North 1, Group 1 champion
What to expect: Hasbrouck Heights is a force to be reckoned with, having won league and section titles in the last two years. With the production from explosive senior WR Jasiah Purdie and passing from first-year starter Spencer Lee, the Aviators should remain in contention for more hardware. Delcalzo will need to groom new defensive playmakers though with the loss of two middle linebackers and parts of the line.
Key players: Michael Lohrmann, sr., G/DT; Will Vera, sr., LB/DE; Michael Robertson, jr., RB/LB, Ian Rinke, sr., WR/DB; Anthony Marino, sr., OT/DT.
Forecast: The Aviators haven't had a losing season in 25 years and shouldn't be in danger of snapping that streak. Purdie is one of the most dangerous weapons in North Jersey, so the offense will look to get him touches however possible. If the defense can replicate last year's numbers with five starters back, the team will be in good shape.
NORTH ARLINGTON
Coach: Paul Savage, second season
2017 record: 0-8
What to expect: The Vikings carry a 14-game losing streak. Their spread offense returns 10 starters, including their starting line: seniors Dante Andrews, Jose Gongora and Kenan Kimil, junior Jeremiah Mercado and Pete Ziakos. Senior Will Cruz is a three-year starter at QB. They return nine defensive starters, including senior LB Steven Bello and senior DBs Jayden Martinez and Val Boyko.
Key players: Ryan Clifford, sr., TE/LB; Will Cruz, sr., QB/DB; Alvaro Gongora, jr., RB/LB; Karim Wahby, sr., Athlete/DB; Joe Witt, so., WR/DB; Zach Young, sr., WR.
Forecast: Group 1 North Arlington is among the most experienced teams in the NJIC and should break through with a couple of wins. “We’re looking to see how much of that experience from last year benefits us,” Savage said.
SADDLE BROOK
Coach: Leo Ciappina, 11th season
2017 record: 2-7
What to expect:The Falcons have not had to endure many long rebuilding stretches during Ciappina's tenure. They qualified for the playoffs three straight years from 2010-12 and again from 2014-16. Starting another postseason streak will be tricky after graduating 11 seniors, but Saddle Brook has a strong-armed quarterback inKevin Daly and a solid running game led byJakub Dmitruk.
Key players:Kevin Daly, sr., QB/DB;Jakub Dmitruk, sr., RB/DB; Dante Guzman, jr., RB/DB; Dean Setticase, sr., OL/DL.
Forecast:While it may be a challenging season for the Falcons, there should be numerous opportunities for young players– including six freshmen– to develop and gain on-the-job experience.
OTHERS
Ridgefield dropped its program during the preseason, leaving the Meadowlands with six teams.
Patriot Division
BOGOTA
Coach: Brian Appleton, first season
2017 record: 2-6
What to expect: A former Indian Hills assistant coach, Appleton returns to a program that he won a sectional title with in 2005 as a standout lineman. The Bucs have not won more than two games in a season since its last playoff appearance in 2014.
Key players: Senior quarterback Andrew Miller showed flashes late last season with six touchdown passes, including five against North Arlington, and four rushing touchdowns in the final two weeks. Senior Andrew Franco and sophom*ore Ashanti Caviness lead a defense that must improve after averaging over 36 points per game allowed.
Forecast: Bogota is in a rebuild this year as Appleton hopes to recreate the winning culture he experienced under former Bogota coach Dan Sabella, who continued his success at Paramus Catholic before taking over at Ridgefield Park in the off-season.
EMERSON
Coach: Nick Calandrino, fourth season
2017 record: 8-2
What to expect: The Cavos will be a contender and may be the favorites to win the NJIC Patriot Division this season. They bring back the core of a playoff team from last year and one of North Jersey’s top running backs in Ryan Shaw. The offensive line is a great unit, Calandrino said they only gave up three sacks all last season and have a combined 70 starts between them. Nick Castrovillari had 10 sacks last season. Of course, the biggest fear at any small school is injuries, although Calandrino feels this team is versatile and has some depth.
Key players: Ryan Shaw, sr. RB/LB; Nick Castrovillari, sr. OL/DL; Peter Durocher, sr. QB; Nico Savino, sr. TE/LB, Adam Gildea, sr. OL/DL; Zach Marck, sr. RB/LB; Nick Peterson, sr. OL/DL
Forecast: Emerson is set up for a nice run in the NJIC and in the North, Group 1. It's still a team with something to prove after being upset by Pompton Lakes in the playoffs last year, and Shaw is expected to make an impact on both sides of the ball. We will probably be talking about the Cavos into November.
PARK RIDGE
Coach: Tom Curry, Jr., fourth season
2017 record: 5-4
What to expect: The Owls hope to contend in the NJIC Patriot, where they can contend with the likes of Wallington and Emerson. Park Ridge has had four straight winning seasons, three of which have come under Curry. North, Group 1 is one of the tightest sections in the state and Park Ridge is among those contenders.
Key players: Junior QB/RB Vince Pinto took first team honors in the NJIC Patriot by rushing for 1,122 yards as a sophom*ore. Pinto remains surrounded by weapons on offense, including seniors Zach Lewis and Marcus Raman.
Forecast: The Owls reached the playoffs for the third straight year in 2017, but still couldn’t end their nine-year playoff win drought. Park Ridge nearly upset second-seeded Wallington after trailing, 29-0, in the third quarter, but the comeback fell short, 29-27. Could this be the year that Park Ridge finally wins a playoff game? The talent is there.
ST. MARY
Coach: Mike Coyne, second season
2017 record: 5-5
What to expect: Coyne promised a return to old school St. Mary football when he took over and he delivered on his promise as the Gaels relied on a solid ground game to post a 5-5 mark and a playoff spot. That’s a good foundation for the Gaels to build on this year. Coyne said he has around 30 players on the roster and feels like this team is more unified than last year, now that they are used to him and his expectations. There are just five seniors, but Coyne said his team is not rebuilding, that it has talent.
Key players: Chris Buchta, sr. DE/OT; Tommy Truberg, sr. OL/DL; Dave Tarallo, jr. RB; Matt Toman, jr. QB
Forecast: Toman, a transfer from Secaucus, will likely have to sit out the first 30 days of the season to be eligible. He will be a difference maker for the Gaels on both sides of the ball. If he can’t play, St. Mary will rely on Tarallo and the running game to make noise in the NJIC. We have been waiting for the Gaels to break out for the last few years – they haven’t won a playoff game since 2014 – and this could be the team.
WALLINGTON
Coach: Barry Blauvelt, 10th season
2017 record: 7-3
What to expect: The Panthers raced out to a 6-0 start and reached the NJIC playoffs as the division champion before losing to Hasbrouck Heights. It was one of those years where a lot of things came together. The good news is that there’s a strong senior class back, led by quarterback David Backo, and he has a top wide receiver to throw to in Zaheir Mitchell. Blauvelt is underrated as a coach.He finds a way to utilize the talent that he has:if it means throwing the ball 50 times, he will do that, or running 50 times a game. He does have some holes to fill up front, and that could be a problem, especially early.
Key players: David Backo, sr. DB/QB; Zaheir Mitchell, jr. DB/WR; Patrick Kaczor, sr. DL/RB; Robert Fabijanczuk, jr. DL/OL
Forecast: If Wallington can piece together the line, they have the skill players to win the division title again.But if things don’t jell up front, it could be a long year.
WEEHAWKEN
Coach:Nick DeStefano, second season
2017 record:2-6
What to expect:The Indians had six players garner all-division recognition last fall, and all did so as underclassmen, including All-Patriot first team DB Jimmy Lopez. The senior made a splash at quarterback as well, logging almost as many rushing yards (643) as passing yards (673). Backfield mate Jaden Rodriguez is also a multi-faceted talent who led Weehawken in rushing touchdowns (five) and receiving (25 catches, 354 yards, two TD).
Key players:Michael Fitzgerald, sr., C/DL; Rex f*ckuda, sr., TE; Jimmy Lopez, sr., QB/DB; Derek Mejia, so., WR/CB; Jaden Rodriguez, sr., RB/FS; Juan Jose Santos, so., OG/DE.
Forecast:The offense has playmaking ability, and if the Indians are to improve, they will need the defense to reach the same level.
WOOD-RIDGE
Coach:Charlie Trentacosti, sixth season
2017 record:4-5
What to expect:Last year, it was a bit of irony. The Blue Devils had their first sub-.500 mark since 2014 but reached the state playoffs for the first time since 2006. This fall, Wood-Ridge must find a successor to star QB/DB Mike Giancaspro and linemen to step up alongside senior RT Drew Tomat. There were three main players taking snaps in the preseason, led by senior Joe Casella with senior Dante Milne and freshman Nino Iacovino.
Key players:Jake Colon, sr., WR/LB; Eric Drotos, sr., DE; Johnoi Martin, sr., WR/LB/DB; Jake Reiter, jr., MLB; Drew Tomat, sr., OT/DE; Evan West, sr., WR/SS.
Forecast:As one of the smallest schools in North Jersey, Wood-Ridge is used to playing the underdog role and typically thrives in it. The Blue Devils hope to do so again and compete for the division title.
