Spartans, Paladins Prepare for Gridiron Battle

For the first time in school history, Paramus Catholic earned top billing in the Non Public Group 4 tournament run, ousting Don Bosco Prep from that position by just a handful of power points. At the same time, Paramus High School has once again made their way inth North 1 Group 4 action but will have a rough road ahead of the Spartans.

Guaranteed a spot in the playoffs, last week's win over Wayne Hills secured the Spartans (5-3) the sixth seed and a first round date on Friday, 7pm at Old Tappan (7-2) where the Golden Knights are seeded third.

For the past three years, the Spartans have not advanced past the semifinals and this year's squad is even hungrier than ever to deliver Coach Dan Sabella a state title. But first Tyler Smith, Brandon Sebahie, Matt Tozzi and Darius House will need to focus on the Golden Knights who are led by John Trainor, Garret Systma, Zach Frohlick, and Ben Davis.

The Spartans have allowed 162 points in eight games while Old Tappan has allowed 173 in nine.

By all of four powerpoints, the Paladins have made history this season with their 7-1 record and securing the top seed in Non-Public Group 4 action, edging ahead of Don Bosco Prep. Paramus Catholic will host Paul VI on Saturday, 1pm.

And while Jabrill Peppers may have the biggest stats for the team (891 yards and 12 TDs on just 93 carries), the team has taken an all-around approach to winning.

Steve Shanley is 72 for 120 passing attempts, having thrown over 1100 yards in eight games. Along with Peppers, Shanley has continually teamed up with Tyrone Washington (358 yards recieving) , Najee Clayton (276 yards recieving) and Keyon Washington (556 rushing yards).

Marquise Watson leads the defense with 84 tackles while Khilyni Kennedy has 37 tackles and leads with six sacks. Saleem Brightwell and James Colacci have combined for over 160 interception yards.

The Eagles (5-3) play an explosive offensive game, scoring 184 points in eight games and allowing 131, and it all starts with wide-receiver Zach Grant (25 catches for 373 yards and four TDs and 124 yards rushing) who can make or break a big play. But the Paladins will also have to keep an eye on Dior Hightower (154 rushing yards) and Matt McKeown (77 recieving yards). Quarterback Alec Vignola has thrown for 554 yards and is 40 for 53 on completions.

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