Dick Gallagher presents his observations after the 2017 high school football championship games:
Class D
Red Dragons’ tackling left a lot to be desired throughout the game. Cambridge was more physical and dominated the trenches as evident by out-gaining the Red Dragons 443 yards to 245 yards. Curt Fischer’s squad also missed several opportunities on offense to score points. Stars of the game were Nick Fabrizio and Zak Trim. Outstanding season for the Red Dragons finishing 11-2.
Class A
West Seneca West won the state title with their defense led by Liam Scheuer, Mike Glisnki, Bryan Ball, and Brad Claycomb. Their receivers Juston Johnson, Jesse Broad, Kyle Haettich, Luke Wilhem and Matt Myers, sparked the Indians to the championship. Congratulations to Indian nation, coaches, and fans for an outstanding season.
State Catholic Championship
Canisius led 14-9 at the half over Stepinic but the Crusaders’ depth, domination of the line, and overall play on both sides of the ball by Atrilleon Williams was too much for Canisius. Stars for the game included QB Jayce Johnson and WR RJ Brandon. The Crusaders finished 8-4 for the season.
Class AA
Troy out-gained Lancaster 448 yards to 263 yards including only 96 yards rushing. The Legends were beat by a better team and had no answer for RB Joey Ward, Dev Holmes, and Joe Casale who was 16 of 20 passes for 234 yards, 2 touchdowns, and rushed for a touchdown. What contributed to the Legend’s loss was only completing 1 of 8 3rd down conversions and poor tackling throughout the contest. Mansell, Andreesen, Damiani, and Beetow were MVPs for the Legends who finished 12-1 for the season.