As we are inching deep into both the Ontario Varsity Football League (OVFL) and Ontario Football Conference (OFC) regular season, postseason jockeying is already coming into play in several games this weekend.
With only a few weeks left in both seasons, the stakes remain high for all teams.
Here are a few key games to watch this weekend:
Photo credit: Paul Peggie
VARSITY:
OVFL:
LONDON JR. MUSTANGS @ ESSEX RAVENS (SATURDAY JUNE 25TH @ 7:00PM, UNIVERSITY OF WINDSOR ALUMNI STADIUM):
In a rematch of Week 1, the London Jr. Mustangs head into Windsor with revenge and redemption on their minds as the team faces Essex Ravens.
The Ravens came into TD Waterhouse Stadium and escaped with a 17-9 win.
Since then, the Jr Mustangs have won four straight games and found their offence, which was an issue in Week 1. The one-two punch of Brentyne AndersonBrown and Tazie Vang Bell have been lethal for opposing defences. Emerging starting pivot Jake Pow has found his groove recently.
Defensively, #CFC100 Daniel Valente and Tyler Hourie are expected to lead the way while Tyler Cejvan plays a significant role on special teams.
As for the Ravens, they have been inconsistent so far this season. The team does come into this contest on a high as the team got back in the win column after defeating SSM Sabrecats last week.
Offensively, Braden Braccio will carry the load. However, for the Ravens to have the Jr. Mustangs’ number again this season more offensive players need to step it up and contribute.
The Jr. Mustangs are peaking at just the right time and the offence is hitting on all cylinders. We think the visiting team is going to spoil the atmosphere in Windsor.
PREDICTION: London Jr. Mustangs 32, Essex Ravens 17
OFC:
TORONTO JR. ARGOS VS. SUDBURY GLADIATORS (SUNDAY JUNE 26TH @ 5:00PM):
A key battle between a pair of 3-1 teams, the Toronto Jr. Argos will host the Sudbury Gladiators.
The Jr. Argos hope defensive back Nicholas Cartagenise puts forth another solid performance as he did last week. Against Huronia, Cartagenise registered seven tackles, recorded two sacks, had a blocked kick, a knock down and caught an interception. For his efforts, he was selected as the OFC Week 4 Player of the Week.
Jonas Hatcher led the Jr Argos offence as he completed17 passes in 26 attempts for 313 yards last week. One thing to watch for is the offensive magic he creates this weekend with Jason Richards who amassed 146 yards on five receptions and scored a touchdown against the Stallions.
As for the Gladiators, pivot Chris Moutsatsos, Noah Skuske and Darcy Labelle are expected to carry the load on offence.
It’s going to be a close one in Toronto.
PREDICTION: Toronto Jr. Argos 24, Sudbury Gladiators 20
JUNIOR VARSITY:
OFC:
PETERBOROUGH WOLVERINES @ HURONIA STALLIONS (SATURDAY JUNE 25TH @ 2:00PM):
In Huronia on Saturday afternoon, this outcome of this contest could have implications down the road if tiebreakers are needed to determine playoff fates or seeding.
The Wolverines are hoping to play spoiler in Huronia and escape with a win. Keegan Crough will be the one to watch for on the Wolverines as he has been consistent throughout the 2016 season.
As for the Stallions, #CFCOPC Nicholas DeJesus looks to connect with Michael Tomczyk and Jalen Cooper, Justin Janicki, Dustin Pearson and Bradley Kitchikake throughout the game. Defensively, linebackers Owen MacLeod and Gavin Wallin as well as Jordan Travis on the secondary will play significant roles on Saturday to shut down the Wolverines.
PREDICTION: Peterborough Wolerines 20, Huronia Stallions 17
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