CINCINNATI — Purcell Marian High School girls basketball coach Jamar Mosley spoke with gratitude Thursday afternoon, a day after winning his 100th career game.

Freshman guard Trinity Small scored 18 points - all on 3-pointers - as visiting Purcell Marian defeated Cincinnati Country Day 61-53 to capture the Miami Valley Conference Scarlet division title and Mosley's milestone win Wednesday night.

Freshman wing Dee Alexander added 16 points Wednesday night and has 469 points overall this season entering the likely regular-season finale at Norwood Saturday afternoon. Purcell Marian (18-1, 8-1 MVC Scarlet) made 13 shots from beyond the 3-point arc during Wednesday night's game.

Provided

Mosley has discussed all winter how enjoyable it's been to coach this team. On Wednesday night, it was a celebration of the team and a personal milestone. Mosley has a 100-25 record in his fifth season at Purcell Marian.

"Coaches don't win games without players," Mosley said. "I've just been blessed to have some incredible student-athletes to come through Purcell Marian while I've been there. Honestly, they've made my job a lot easier."

Purcell Marian athletic director DJ Dowdy said Mosley's 100th win is a significant accomplishment for the coach and his program.

"Over the past years, his staff and players have given their all every single day," Dowdy said. "I attribute most of Jamar's success to his attention to detail in his scouting reports, his intense practice and his overall structure as it pertains to how the program operates."

Purcell Marian, a 2021 Division III state semifinalist, has won three conference or division titles in the past five seasons.

Purcell Marian, the No. 1 seed in the Division III Cincinnati 2 sectional tournament, opens the postseason against Riverview East Feb. 10 at Fairfield.

Mosley continues to be very impressed by the entire team including several key freshmen who have helped Purcell Marian earn a 14-game win streak entering this weekend.

"I guess the greatest part of it is they all want to be coached," Mosley said. "If I'm not saying anything to them they're asking me. That just brings so much more joy to the game."

RELATED: Purcell Marian freshman Dee Alexander sets a single-game school record for points
RELATED: Freshman Cy'Aira Miller is an inspiration to the Purcell Marian girls basketball program

CINCINNATI — Mount Notre Dame senior combo guard KK Bransford, Winton Woods senior point guard Chance Gray and Mason senior center Kyla Oldacre were selected Tuesday afternoon to the McDonald's All-American Girls Game March 29 in Chicago.

The 2022 all-star game roster was announced during ESPN's "NBA Today" show. The game is at Wintrust Arena in Chicago on March 29 at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN2.

Bransford, Oldacre and Gray are three of only 24 players selected nationally to compete in the McDonald's All-American Girls Game. This is the first time Greater Cincinnati has had three players selected for the prestigious all-star game in a single year.

Bransford, a University of Notre Dame signee, is on the MaxPreps national player of the year watch list this month.

Bransford, who won the 2021 Ohio Ms. Basketball award, has helped to lead the Cougars (17-0) to 89 consecutive wins - the second most in Ohio High School Athletic Association history.

Bransford enters Tuesday night's game at St. Ursula with 1,984 career points which is 16 points away from joining the OHSAA record book for most career points (2,000 points minimum).

Gray, who is signed with the University of Oregon, is ranked the nation's No. 7 player overall in the 2022 class by ESPN.

Gray was a Division I first-team all-state selection as a junior. Gray has led Winton Woods to a 17-1 record including 15 consecutive wins.

Gray averages 25.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.6 steals and 3.2 assists. Gray is 27 points away from reaching the 2,000 points milestone.

Oldacre, a University of Miami (Fla.) signee, averages 13.9 points, 8.9 rebounds, 3.5 blocks, 1.9 steals and 1.4 assists this season for Mason (15-2).

Oldacre averaged 14.9 points, 9.1 rebounds and 3.2 blocks as a junior at Mason and was very impressive at Nike Nationals last year. The center totaled four double-digit games, including two 20-point outings in Augusta, Ga.

This is the first time a Greater Cincinnati player has been selected for the McDonald's All American Game since former Mason star Sammie Puisis was selected for the 2019 contest.

READING, Ohio — Mount Notre Dame High School basketball coach Dr. Scott Rogers won his 400th career game Saturday afternoon in the Cougars' 47-31 victory over visiting Cooper.

The milestone win allows Rogers to enter the Ohio High School Athletic Association state record book with 400 wins being a minimum requirement for the elite list.

Rogers has a 400-44 record in 19 seasons as a high school girls basketball head coach, according to MND athletic director Mark Schenkel.

Rogers, an Indian Hill resident, is the 47th girls basketball coach in state history to reach 400 career wins.

"The first thing that comes to mind is a lot of great, great players that just have embraced the culture of the program beginning with Mel's group," Rogers said in reference to former MND and University of Connecticut star Mel Thomas.

"It's still going, God bless them. They just have a passion for the program. We've had great coaches. (Assistant coaches) Sonny (Tudor) and Grayson (Fitzhugh) have been around a long time. That stability has really been phenomenal."

MND senior KK Bransford scored a game-high 23 points Saturday to lead the Cougars (17-0) who are winners of 89 consecutive games - the second most in OHSAA girls basketball history.

Rogers, 63, is in his 15th season overall at MND. He is in his second head coaching stint with the Cougars.

The two-time Kenyon College All-American shooting guard and 1980 Indiana Pacers draft selection also coached at Indian Hill from 2008 to 2011 before returning to MND in 2013.

MND, the reigning Division I state champion, has won eight state girls basketball championships - the most in OHSAA history.

Rogers has led the Cougars to five state titles under his head coaching direction including 2004, 2006, 2017, 2019 and 2021.

"I think the kids are what keeps him going," Schenkel said. "I think he enjoys being around the kids. I think he enjoys developing the kids to see how far they've come from when they enter our program to when they leave our program."

The Cougars also won state titles in 2007, 2008 and 2009 under then-coach Dante Harlan.

MND is next scheduled to play at St. Ursula in a Girls Greater Catholic League game Tuesday night.

RELATED: 'Faith, family and one big heart' is the focus of MND coach Dr. Scott Rogers
RELATED: Mount Notre Dame tied for second for most consecutive wins in Ohio girls hoops history

HAMILTON, Ohio — Hamilton High School announced Friday that all extracurricular activities including athletics are suspended through Jan. 23 due to significant concerns regarding staff and student illness.

"All practices, workouts and home and away events are canceled from today through 1/23," Hamilton athletic director Missy Harvey wrote in an email.

"At this time, we are planning to resume all events on 1/24. I am currently working on rescheduling as many events as possible that are canceled during this time frame."

Hamilton City Schools superintendent Michael Holbrook announced that the school district will convert to a remote learning model of instruction for students from Jan. 18 through Jan. 21 out of an abundance of caution and safety for staff and students.

The district said it closed Jan. 12 and Jan. 13 yet reported absences have continued to increase.

Hamilton, a Division I large-school classification of the Ohio High School Athletic Association, is a member of the Greater Miami Conference.

"Once makeup dates are scheduled, dates will be announced," the Hamilton High School athletic department said in a tweet. "We appreciate your patience as we work through this."

The Hamilton at Colerain boys basketball conference game scheduled for Friday night has been postponed. Colerain athletic director Matt Stoinoff said the new date for the game will be confirmed next week.

Colerain does not have a new scheduled opponent for Friday night.

RELATED: Hamilton schools move to remote learning through Jan. 21
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WILMINGTON, Ohio — Wilmington High School named Ryan Evans Sr. its next head football coach Wednesday afternoon, pending board of education approval later this month.

"We are excited for Coach Evans to be the leader of our football program," Wilmington athletic director Troy Diels said. "Ryan's vision for the program as well as his passion are very clear and we feel he will make an immediate positive impact on our young men."

Evans would succeed Scott Killen as the Wilmington head coach. He has coached in a variety of roles around Southwest Ohio, including working as the co-defensive coordinator and defensive line coach at Monroe High School this past season.

"Wilmington has a rich history of football and I wanted to be the person to change the narrative," Evans said. "The administration, the community, parents and players all have the same vision and mission that me and my family have. My family and I are so excited to roll up our sleeves and get started."

Prior to that, Evans was an assistant head football coach, special teams coordinator and defensive line coach at Middletown. He was an assistant head coach and defensive line coach at Princeton from July 2014 to December 2018, and the special teams coordinator and outside linebackers coach at Middletown from July 2010 to November 2013.

Evans had several roles in the Winton Woods football program from 2004 to 2010. The Warriors were the Division II state champions in 2009. He also coached at Central State University as a student assistant defensive line coach from June 2006 to December 2007.

RELATED: Hughes High School football coach Chris Mobley is stepping down after six seasons

CANTON, Ohio — The Badin High School football team will have countless memories of the 2021 season.

The Rams completed their season as the Division III state runner-up Friday in a 21-14 loss to Chardon in front of 6,430 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton.

As Badin coach Nick Yordy gathered his team on the field for the last time this season, someone mentioned how Badin didn't lose but simply ran out of time.

The disappointment didn't subside, but perspective of a truly memorable season is of the utmost priority.

Badin was a regional champion and a Greater Catholic League Co-Ed champion for the fourth consecutive season.

"These 25 seniors — that's the reason why we're here," Yordy said. "I think these seniors have kind of shown the way over the past four years of what our expectations are, how to work in the off-season and having six extra weeks of the season with the whole team you know for those younger guys they know there is a challenge ahead of them and we're going to get to work and try to get back here."

Chardon senior running back Sean Carr scored on a 2-yard touchdown run with 1:05 left to lift the Hilltoppers (16-0) to their second straight D-III state title. Chardon is the first 16-0 team in Ohio High School Athletic Association history.

Badin (14-1) was in the state final for the first time since winning the state championship in 1990. The Rams made their fourth state final appearance overall (1990, 1980, 1978).

Chardon struck first when junior quarterback Alex Henry found senior Nathanel Sulka for a 36-yard touchdown pass connection with 7:40 left in the first quarter.

Badin tied the game late in the second quarter when senior running back Jack Walsh scored on a 3-yard touchdown run and senior Jackson Niesen added the extra point.

The Rams' touchdown was set up after Badin converted a fourth-and-6 three plays earlier in the drive. Walsh's 20-yard run set up the touchdown.

Chardon went ahead 14-7 with nine minutes left in the third quarter when sophomore Andrew Bruce scored on a 27-yard run.

Badin responded less than three minutes later when junior running back Carter Russo scored on a 6-yard touchdown run and Niesen's extra point tied the game at 14.

Walsh had 27 carries for 96 yards and a touchdown.

Defensively, senior linebacker Ely Emmons had 11 tackles. Senior defensive end TJ Hayes had nine tackles. Sophomore Carson Cheek and senior defensive lineman Logan Neu had eight tackles each.

Badin is 31-25 in 26 playoff appearances. This was the Rams’ ninth trip to the Final Four and the first since 1998.

Badin was the third Greater Cincinnati team to compete in the Ohio High School Athletic Association state football finals. Winton Woods (Division II) and Clinton-Massie (Division IV) won state titles.

RELATED: Clinton-Massie comes from behind to win state title
RELATED: Winton Woods wins Division II state football final

CANTON, Ohio — This Clinton-Massie state football championship won't ever be forgotten.

"Surreal," senior running back Colton Trampler said.

Clinton-Massie football coach Dan McSurley let the seniors decide whether to go for a two-point conversion with 45 seconds left and a state championship on the line early Friday afternoon.

"I think all the seniors said, 'Coach, let's win this thing,'" McSurley said.

Senior quarterback Kody Zantene pitched the ball to senior running back Carson Van Hoose who ran to the right and in the end zone for a two-point conversion that gave the Falcons a 29-28 win in the Division IV state final.

"My dad (Clinton-Massie assistant coach Jeskee Zantene) said he was watching a state championship game about four or five years ago and they won a state championship on that play and it was awesome," Clinton-Massie senior quarterback Kody Zantene said.

The Falcons (14-1), winners of 14 consecutive games, captured their third state football title in school history.

"It means so much to me," Clinton-Massie senior running back Colton Trampler said. "I think back to every second that we spent in the offseason working and just doing everything we could to try to get this win and this was always the dream. It has been since third grade. I could walk into that locker room right now. There is going to be tons of people laughing and crying. It's just so exciting that were able to get it done this year."

The Falcons trailed 28-7 with 5:23 left in the third quarter but never lost faith. Zantene scored on a 49-yard touchdown run nearly two minutes later.

Then, senior offensive lineman Garrett Vance recovered a fumble in the end zone to put the Falcons within seven points early in the fourth quarter. It was the first career touchdown for Vance.

"This feeling is great especially having the community here," Vance said. "It's the best feeling in the world."

Zantene rushed for a 1-yard touchdown run with 45 seconds left in the game.

The Falcons finished the game scoring 15 unanswered points in the third and fourth quarters. This was Clinton-Massie's third state title after winning back-to-back championships in 2012 and 2013.

"This was such a fitting end to these seniors and their whole career starting back in third grade," said McSurley, who earned his 250th win at Clinton-Massie. "It's an unbelievable group. I probably will never have another opportunity to coach a group of seniors like this the rest of my life. This will be without question go down in history as one of the greatest comeback victories in high school history. I'm just so pleased and so happy to be a part of it."

Trampler had 19 carries for 117 yards while Van Hoose had 15 carries for 102 yards and a touchdown in the first quarter. Zantene had seven carries for 91 yards and two touchdowns.

Defensively, Zantene had 12 tackles while junior defensive lineman Leyton Bell had 10 tackles.

WCPO: Winton Woods wins Division II state title

READING, Ohio — The Mount Notre Dame basketball team tied for second place for the most consecutive wins in Ohio High School Athletic Association girls basketball history Saturday night as the Cougars won their 74th consecutive game.

"That's pretty amazing," coach Dr. Scott Rogers said. "That's not something we even talk about. I think I've said this before — the kids are well aware of it. It's just not a focal point because a lot of players have been involved in that number. These players are worried about tomorrow night. It's one of those things that definitely when it's over I think we'll look back on it and say, 'Oh my gosh this was something you dream about it.'"

MND defeated Crown Point (Ind.) 56-41 at Brownsburg High School Saturday night for the Cougars' 74th consecutive win.

That ties the old Pickerington High School (1991-94) for second place in state history. Pickerington High School split into Pickerington Central and Pickerington North in the early 2000s.

Millersburg West Holmes won 108 consecutive games from 1983-87 and is the state record-holder.

That state record list requires a minimum of 50 consecutive wins and the postseason is included for that particular category. (There is also a state record list for consecutive regular-season wins).

Senior KK Bransford scored 25 points against Crown Point (7-1), the reigning Indiana 4A state champion. Junior Taylor Stanley added 10 points for the Cougars (2-0), the reigning Ohio Division I state champion.

The Cougars play Gahanna Lincoln at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at Sycamore High School in the Ohio Girls Basketball Report's Journey to the Tourney.

MND started its current win streak Jan. 17, 2019 when it defeated host Mercy McAuley 60-58. MND's most recent loss was to Centerville (70-56) Jan. 14, 2019.

RELATED: Mount Notre Dame High School basketball team ranked No. 1 nationally after state title
RELATED: MND basketball star KK Bransford chooses Notre Dame

CINCINNATI — Four Greater Cincinnati high school football programs are in their respective state finals next week.

WINTON WOODS
In Ohio, Winton Woods (12-3) plays Akron Archbishop Hoban (11-3) at 7 p.m. Dec. 2 in the Division II state final at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton.

Winton Woods defeated Green 20-7 in a Division II state semifinal Friday night at Westerville Central.

The Warriors will make their third state final appearance, the first since finishing as state runner-up in 2017. Winton Woods won the 2009 Division II state title.

Winton Woods advances to state championship

CLINTON MASSIE
Badin (Division III) and Clinton-Massie (Division IV) will attempt to win their respective state titles on Dec. 3.

Clinton-Massie (13-1) plays Youngstown Ursuline (11-3) at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 3. The Falcons defeated Bloom-Carroll 24-21 in a Division IV state semifinal Friday night. The team is making its fourth state final appearance and the first since 2017, when it was a state runner-up. This would be their first state title since 2013.

Clinton-Massie overcomes early deficit to win in state semifinals

BADIN
Badin (14-0) plays Chardon (15-0) in a battle of undefeated teams in the Division III state final at 3 p.m. Dec. 3.

The Rams defeated Granville 14-0 in a Division III state semifinal Friday night. They are in the state final for the first time since 1990, when they won the Division III state championship. Their other appearances were in 1980 and 1978.

Badin's undefeated season continues

Moeller (11-4) completed its season as a Division I state semifinalist Friday night. Springfield defeated Moeller 22-21 to advance to the Division I state final.

BEECHWOOD
In Kentucky, Beechwood (14-0) plays Lexington Christian (14-0) in the 2A state final at 4 p.m. Dec. 3 at Kroger Field in Lexington.

Beechwood rolls to state championship game

The Tigers are going for their 16th state football title in program history. They defeated Lexington Christian 24-23 in the 2020 2A state final.

Ohio

State football finals at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium

Division II

Winton Woods (12-3) vs. Hoban (11-3), 7 p.m. Thursday (Dec. 2)

Division III

Badin (14-0) vs. Chardon (15-0), 3 p.m. Friday (Dec. 3)

Division IV

Clinton-Massie (13-1) vs. Youngstown Ursuline (11-3), 10:30 a.m. Friday (Dec. 3)

Kentucky

Friday, Dec. 3

2A state final at Kroger Field in Lexington

Beechwood (13-0) vs. Lexington Christian (13-0), 4 p.m.

MOUNT ORAB, Ohio — Western Brown junior quarterback Drew Novak is the fourth Ohio high school football player to throw for at least 5,000 yards in a season, according to information from the Ohio High School Athletic Association record book list.

Novak's 5,269 yards passing this season is sixth all-time in the OHSAA record book. Kenton's Benjamin Mauk (2002 and 2001) and Maty Mauk (2010 and 2011) accomplished the 5,000 yards mark twice.

"Drew had a phenomenal year," Western Brown football coach Nick Osborne said. "I think he is only going to get better as time goes on. We're excited for his future."

Novak completed this season with 5,269 yards passing and 56 touchdowns. He rushed for 1,202 yards and 21 touchdowns.

Novak's 56 passing touchdowns this season is ranked among the all-time best for most passing TDs in a season, according to the OHSAA record list.

Novak passed Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (Findlay High School) on Friday night. Roethlisberger threw for 54 touchdowns during the 1999 season.

Novak, ranked No. 1 nationally in passing yards this season by MaxPreps, will also be on the OHSAA's career passing yards list (9,924 yards) and career passing touchdowns (96 touchdowns) category.

He will also be on the OHSAA record book list for most passing touchdowns in a game (7) and most passing yards in a game (503 and 521).

Granville defeated Western Brown 57-49 Friday in the Division III, Region 11 final. Novak threw for 383 yards and four touchdowns. He rushed for 134 yards and two touchdowns.

It was the first regional final appearance for the Broncos (11-3).

Osborne said the community support had a significant impact on the program this year. He said "Bronco Nation" was in full effect from start to finish Friday night.

Osborne said the community truly congratulated the student-athletes and the program Friday night. The student-athletes and coaching staff enjoyed the memorable journey.

"Our kids never quit," Osborne said. "They fought every game. We lost three games this year by eight (points), seven and eight again so we were right in it. We were honestly five plays away from being 14-0 right now and playing in the final four. But, it's part of life. That's what I told them last night. You are going to win some in life, you are going to lose some. It's how you respond from here on out. I'm just real excited for the future of our program and the future of our seniors that left us last night."

Western Brown senior kicker Evan Grimes is tied for fifth on the OHSAA list for most extra points in a season (82).

Senior wide receiver Logan Campbell will enter the OHSAA record book list in career receptions (187), career receiving yards (2,584) and consecutive games with a reception (25).

Senior Dylan Novak will enter the OHSAA categories in consecutive games with a reception (22) and most receptions in a season (92).

The Broncos will also enter OHSAA categories for having 700 points as a team and a 50 points per game scoring average.

CINCINNATI — Purcell Marian freshman wing Dee Alexander set a girls basketball program single-game record for the most points and rebounds by a freshman in a 62-56 win at Milford Friday night.

Alexander scored 27 points and had 14 rebounds during the opening night of the Ohio high school girls basketball season.

Alexander, who is ranked one of the nation's top girls basketball players in the 2025 class, received several significant scholarship offers before starting the high school season.

The previous Purcell Marian girls basketball program record for most points by a freshman was held by Stormi Terrell who had 26 points in 2014 against Cincinnati College Preparatory Academy, according to Purcell Marian girls basketball coach Jamar Mosley.

The previous program record for most rebounds by a freshman was held by Kya Dukes who had 13 rebounds in 2016 against Cincinnati Country Day.

Purcell Marian (1-0), a Division III state semifinalist this past March, scored 60 of its 62 points from freshmen Friday night. The team started five freshmen.

Freshman guard Trinity Small scored 15 points and had 10 rebounds. She played all 32 minutes Friday night.

Freshman point guard Ky'Aira Miller scored 14 points to go along with six rebounds, four steals and two assists.

"I was highly satisfied with the effort we gave, with the execution," Mosley said. "I think last year we averaged 40 points. We had 62 points in our first game against a really good team."

Purcell Marian next plays Columbus Africentric Early College Nov. 27 and Newark Nov. 28 in the Ohio Girls Basketball Report's Journey to the Tourney at Sycamore High School.

MASON, Ohio — Big Moe is back.

The Moeller High School football team defeated Lakota West 21-17 in a Division I, Region 4 final Friday in front of 4,300 at Atrium Stadium.

Moeller (11-3) advances to play Springfield (12-1) in a state semifinal Nov. 26 at a neutral location to be announced Sunday. This is Moeller's first regional title since 2014 and 17th trip to the state semifinals in the storied history of the program.

"It means the world to those kids," Moeller coach Mark Elder said.

Moeller, the winner of nine state titles, put recent adversity in the rearview mirror. The Crusaders had a 3-6 record in 2020 and 2-8 record in 2019, but the 2021 Crusaders are different. Moeller was the No. 1 seed in Region 4 and defeated four consecutive Greater Miami Conference opponents to reach the state Final Four.

Dyer: Moeller defies odds as regional champs

RELATED: Coverage of local high school football quarterfinal action

"It's crazy," Moeller senior quarterback Noah Geselbracht said. "Nobody expected us to be in this spot. You look at the beginning of the season and everyone predicted us to be 5-5, 4-6, maybe second round of the playoffs and that's it. This group of seniors, we've been doing this since we were freshmen. This is what we've been working for. It feels great."

The Crusaders were confident this past summer in Elder's second season as head coach at Moeller.

"You know at Moeller there is a lot of high expectations and that senior class before this year won five games in two years," Elder said. "It's hard to walk the hallways when there is an expectation level like that. They believed in themselves and they believed in each other. Worked their tails all offseason, all preseason. I couldn't be more proud of a group of young men than these guys."

Moeller proved to be one of the state's elite teams with a rugged regular-season schedule that included back-to-back overtime wins over Cleveland St. Ignatius and Lakewood St. Edward in October.

"That just prepared us," said Geselbracht, who was 14-of-20 passing for two touchdowns. "We were ready for big moments like this."

The Crusaders were led by several players Friday night including sophomore running back Jordan Marshall who rushed for 123 yards and a fourth-quarter touchdown that helped Moeller rally from a three-point deficit.

Marshall also caught a touchdown pass. Senior wide receiver Brandon White had two receptions for 63 yards.

Lakota West (11-2) completed its season as a regional runner-up for a second straight year.

"It's a tough one," Lakota West coach Tom Bolden said. "I feel for these kids. I feel for the seniors. Great group of kids. Special group."

RELATED: Lakota West senior linebacker Aden Miller is 'what you want in a football player'

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP, Ohio — Junior KC Spears rushed for 228 yards on eight carries and scored five touchdowns as Winton Woods defeated La Salle 42-25 in a Division II, Region 8 semifinal Friday night at Lakota East.

"KC is a phenomenal player," Winton Woods coach Chad Murphy said. "He is just so versatile. He plays quarterback, wide receiver, running back, punter and holder on point-after attempts."

Spears had a 94-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter. He had an 83-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. He also caught a pass, punted, and returned punts Friday night.

Winton Woods (10-3) advances to play Piqua (12-0) in the Division II, Region 8 final Nov. 19 at a neutral location to be announced Sunday.

Friday night was the second straight upset in the regional tournament for Winton Woods.

Last week, Winton Woods, the No. 7 seed, defeated No. 1 seed and previously undefeated Kings 31-21 Nov. 5. This time, Winton Woods defeated No. 6 La Salle.

Winton Woods is making its sixth regional final appearance in program history, according to the Winton Woods athletic department.

"I'm so happy for them," Murphy said. "I liked the fact that we just kept the pedal to the metal."

Winton Woods had 399 yards of total offense including 341 yards rushing. The Winton Woods defense limited La Salle to just 87 yards rushing.

Winton Woods senior Tyrek Spikes had 21 carries for 104 yards.

"He's just a phenomenal young man," Murphy said earlier this week. "He's a phenomenal player. Just dynamic as they get."

Defensively, senior defensive lineman Jay'ron Gibson had eight tackles. Senior linebacker Jeremiah Anderson had seven tackles while senior defensive back Quentin Jenkins Jr. had six tackles.

Junior defensive backs Jermaine Mathews and Cameron Calhoun each had interceptions.

"Our defense has been so solid, so consistent most of the year," Murphy told WCPO earlier this week. "Offensively I've felt like we've really come along here the last few weeks probably mid-season. I just felt like we've put it all together finally and I feel like when we're hitting on all cylinders we're a pretty good football team."

Friday night was a rematch of a Week 2 game that La Salle won at home 21-7 Aug. 27. La Salle won the 2020 regional final matchup over Winton Woods.

SHARONVILLE, Ohio — Lakota West senior running back Cameron Goode was a bit worried on the sideline down the stretch of Friday night's Division I regional semifinal.

The Firebirds remembered a narrow loss to the Bombers in the 2020 regional final. This time, in the regional semifinal, history would not repeat itself.

Goode scored a fourth-quarter touchdown and junior Tyler Bohn made two field goals (32 and 38 yards) as the Firebirds defeated the Bombers 12-2 at Princeton High School.

Lakota West (11-1) plays Moeller (10-3) in a Division I regional final Nov. 19 at a neutral location to be determined later.

"We know we had to grind to get to where we are now," said Goode, who rushed for 106 yards. "And then we've got three more games and we've got to finish."

Junior quarterback Mitch Bolden rushed for 82 yards and the Firebirds led 6-0 at halftime after the field goals.

The Lakota West defense had three interceptions, two by junior Joshua Fussell. Senior Jyaire Brown had an interception in the second quarter. Junior Malik Hartford had a team-leading 10 tackles while senior Aden Miller had seven tackles. Sophomore Elijah Davis had six tackles.

"I tell you we've got something really special going on in West Chester up at Lakota West," Lakota West coach Tom Bolden said. "I'm telling you right now. In three years where we're at right now, a big statement win like this I couldn't be any more proud of these kids, this community. I mean everything."

The Firebirds lost to host St. Xavier 31-14 in the season opener Aug. 20 but these teams were much different after 12 weeks.

"We played there," Bolden said. "We just got healthier, we got better. These kids believe, this community believes. We aren't done yet obviously but it's a big step."

The Bombers completed a memorable season. St. X captured the Greater Catholic League South division title outright for a second straight season.

St. X was ranked No. 10 nationally in late September and started the season with a six-game win streak. Bombers running back Charles Kellom rushed for 121 yards and completed the season with 1,443 yards and 29 touchdowns overall, according to St. X football statistician Kelby Siler.

The Bombers had several other standouts this entire season including senior quarterback Brogan McCaughey and multiple other GCL South all-stars.

This was the third time that St. X and Lakota West played in the past 15 games.

"They played better tonight," St. X coach Steve Specht said. "They're a good football team, that defense of theirs is special, but I thought ours was too. I think our kids played hard."

Find more high school football scores here.

WEST CHESTER TWP., Ohio — Lakota West senior linebacker Aden Miller exemplifies what it means to be a captain for the Firebirds this season.

"I honestly think he's probably he's one of the most underrated high school football players here in Cincinnati," Lakota West coach Tom Bolden said. "He's a 5-foot-11 mike backer [middle linebacker] that if he was probably two to three inches taller he'd probably have multiple D-I scholarship offers."

Miller, a three-year starter, has a team-leading 80 tackles (44 solo) for the Firebirds (10-1) who play St. Xavier (10-2) in a Division I regional semifinal Friday night at Princeton.

Lakota West is meeting St. X for a second time this season after the Bombers won 31-14 at home in the season opener Aug. 20.

"Man, I can't wait," Miller said. "I don't even know how to put it into words. Like I'm extremely excited. It's probably the biggest game of my life considering it could be my last but I don't plan on it being my last so been up all night thinking about it."

The Firebirds don't have to say much around practice this week in order to be motivated. They know about the task ahead of them and what's at stake for the program.

St. X defeated Lakota West 10-7 in the 2020 regional final before the Bombers went on to win the Division I state title.

The Firebirds have waited for another opportunity to play St. X in the regional tournament.

"We just know we need to handle business or we're done," Miller said. "Especially on my level because I don't have that many offers so I know that this really could be my last chance of playing football so I know what I got to do."

Jenny Walters Photography

Miller, 17, would like to play football at an NCAA Division I or II level. He'd like to earn a degree in kinesiology or exercise science and eventually become a physical therapist.

Bolden said a college program would benefit from having Miller in its program.

Miller has improved the Lakota West program by being a student-athlete who is a leader in the classroom, weight room and football field, Bolden said.

"He does everything you ask," Bolden said. "In the weight room, in the off-season, in the weight room during the season. He is strong. I mean it's impressive what he can do in the weight room. He's explosive. He never gets hurt, he never complains. He's just that guy."

Miller said he's grateful to be a captain with some of the most talented football players in the state and the nation.

That includes All-American Bowl commitments Jyaire Brown (defensive back/wide receiver) and Tegra Tshabola (offensive lineman) — both of whom are Ohio State verbal commitments — along senior defensive back/wide receiver Alex Afari (Kentucky), senior offensive lineman Lathan McComis and senior defensive lineman Bryan Henderson (Buffalo).

The chemistry among Miller and his teammates has been significant. That coincides with a family connection within the Lakota West football program. His elder brother, 2013 graduate Adam Miller, played defensive line for the Firebirds and is an avid follower of the team.

"It's been a fun season," Aden Miller said. "Just taking it one step at a time enjoying my last year. It's meant a lot to me in my life."

MOUNT ORAB, Ohio — Western Brown junior quarterback Drew Novak moved up to No. 11 on the state's all-time single season passing yards list Friday night and surpassed Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow in that high school football statistical category.

Novak has thrown for 4,466 yards and 50 touchdowns this season. He entered Friday night as the nation's top passing yards leader, according to MaxPreps.

Novak passed Burrow, an Athens High School product, on the Ohio High School Athletic Association record list for most passing yards in a season Friday night.

Burrow threw for 4,437 yards during his senior season at Athens High School in 2014, when he was named Ohio Mr. Football.

Novak, who is visiting Iowa State University today, was 28-of-42 passing for 343 yards and five touchdowns in the Broncos' 50-20 win over visiting Bellefontaine in a Division III, Region 11 quarterfinal Friday night.

Novak rushed 12 times for 111 yards, too. He has rushed 994 yards and 17 touchdowns overall this year.

Novak's 50 touchdown passes is also on the OHSAA list for most TD passes in a season.

Novak is No. 15 all-time in Ohio for most career passing yards (9,121) and is on the state list for most career passing touchdowns (90).

Western Brown coach Nick Osborne said Novak and the Broncos don't dwell on the stats, but the program is grateful for the recognition.

"It's cool for him and cool for the program," Osborne said.

"Kind of getting the Western Brown name out there again like it used to be. I think Drew is handling it really, really well and the kids are handling it well. Drew is just a very humble kid. He's a true leader and he doesn't care about the spotlight."

This is the first time the Western Brown football team has advanced to the third round of the playoffs, according to Osborne.

Western Brown (10-2) plays Jackson (10-2) in a Region 11 semifinal Nov. 12 at a neutral site. Western Brown defeated Jackson 33-28 on Sept. 10.

The Broncos persevered Friday night to reach the regional semifinals.

Western Brown trailed 20-14 at the end of the first quarter Friday night, but the Broncos scored 28 unanswered points in the second and third quarters.

The defense really played well after the first quarter, led by several players, Osborne said.

Other offensive leaders included junior Zachery Chisman who caught two touchdown passes and rushed for two scores. Senior Dylan Novak, Drew's brother, had seven receptions for 71 yards.

"To be able to come away with a 30-point victory in the second round is something special for our kids," Osborne said. "They've worked hard for it and it just shows you their hard work and their dedication they put in this offseason."

NORWOOD, Ohio — The Moeller High School football team scored 28 unanswered points Friday night en route to a 35-7 win over Fairfield in a Division I, Region quarterfinal.

"Just proud of the guys," Moeller coach Mark Elder said. "We came into this season internally we had a lot of high expectations. We knew that we were capable of being a good team. We've done a good job. We just got to keep it rolling."

Moeller (9-3) advances to play Princeton (11-1) in a regional semifinal at a neutral site Nov. 12. It is the first meeting between Moeller and Princeton since Week 1 of 2008.

Princeton (11-1) defeated visiting Sycamore 37-35 Friday night. Princeton senior quarterback Mekhi Lynn threw for 208 yards and a touchdown and rushed for 107 yards and three touchdowns.

Sophomore TJ Engleman had four receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown. Senior linebacker AJ Nunley and senior defensive back Maceo Powell had nine tackles each for the Vikings, who have won eight consecutive games.

Princeton led by 16 with 5:12 left (37-21) but the Aviators mounted a furious comeback and closed the gap to two points with 35 seconds left before Princeton sealed the win.

There was far less drama at Shea Stadium Friday night.

Moeller led 21-0 at halftime Friday night and went up 28-0 after sophomore running back Jordan Marshall scored on a 36-yard touchdown run on the third play of the third quarter.

Marshall had three touchdowns and rushed for 135 yards Friday night.

"He's been phenomenal," Elder said. "He's a really talented young man and he's the best kid in the world."

His 42-yard touchdown from senior quarterback Noah Geselbracht's screen pass helped to give the Crusaders a 21-0 lead at halftime.

"That was a huge play for us obviously because that was right before half to make that a three-score ballgame," Elder said.

Geselbracht was 12-of-18 passing for 168 yards and two touchdowns.

Junior wide receiver Tennel Bryant had four receptions for 56 yards and a touchdown. Geselbracht had 168 passing yards and two touchdowns.

Defensively, junior defensive back Matthew Seliga had a team-high six tackles. Junior linebacker Joseph Ginnetti had 5.5 tackles. Senior defensive back Colin Berry and sophomore linebacker Alex French had interceptions.

Friday's Division I regional quarterfinal game between Fairfield and Moeller was be the fourth meeting between the schools and the first game in the series since 2001.

Fairfield had won four consecutive games entering Friday night. Fairfield completed the season with a 6-5 record.

ST. BERNARD, Ohio — Roger Bacon High School boys basketball coach Brian Neal will step down at the conclusion of the coming 2021-2022 season, the school announced on Tuesday.

Neal has a 236-161 career record at Roger Bacon entering his 17th season as head coach. He has the most coaching wins in program history.

Roger Bacon opens its inaugural season as a member of the Miami Valley Conference with a non-conference game at Hughes on Nov. 26 (7:30 p.m. tipoff).

Neal was an assistant coach under the late Bill Brewer for the 2002 state title team. This season will also mark the 20th anniversary of the 2002 state championship victory over LeBron James and St. Vincent – St. Mary. Commemorations are planned at Roger Bacon during the 2021-22 season.

This season will also be particularly special for Neal and his wife, Dr. Amy Neal, as their son, Andrew, is a senior guard for the Spartans. Their daughter, Libby, is a freshman at Roger Bacon.

“I have been a part of the Roger Bacon high school basketball program every day since I was 14," Brian Neal said in a release.

"I am now almost 50. In that time I have grown from being a student, to an alum, to a coach and a teacher. The sideline at Fogarty Center has been my home away from home since 1991. It is where I have been able to watch hundreds of young student-athletes mature into leaders, forge friendship bonds that will last a lifetime, and learn the sacrifices it takes to fulfill their potential. They have my unending respect for pouring themselves out for their teammates and their school, and my eternal gratitude for giving me the ride of my life, and while I have been incredibly blessed to be the head coach of a successful program, any success attached to my name is only possible because of the dedication of the players and coaches I have been blessed to work with."

Neal plans to continue his roles as chair of the mathematics department and teacher at Roger Bacon.

"He enjoys his teaching job," Rossi said. "He is a great math teacher. So I think when you're in a situation like that and you have a coaching responsibility to go along with that - I think that just helps."

Neal became the boys basketball program's all-time coaching wins leader in January 2016 when he earned his 171st career win and surpassed the late Bill Brewer (170 wins).

Neal, who started as the Roger Bacon head coach in the 2005-06 season, has earned numerous awards including the Associated Press Division III coach of the year honor in 2013. He was named a Greater Catholic League coach of the year eight times.

The Spartans won eight league titles, 10 sectional titles, seven district titles and three regional championships under Neal. Roger Bacon was the Division III state runner-up in 2017.

Roger Bacon athletic director Steve Rossi said Neal is very organized during the season and has been able to adapt as a head coach over the years with the personnel in his program.

"His ability to remain focused during the season and he's just put together a process for himself and the program that has created success," Rossi said. "...He has an ability to welcome in new groups of athletes and students."

Neal was an assistant coach on Roger Bacon's 2002 state championship team that famously defeated LeBron James and Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary 71-63 in the Division II state final at Value City Arena in Columbus.

The son of Roger Bacon’s iconic marching band and music director Wesley Neal, Brian Neal grew up in the hallways of the school and graduated in 1990.

As a student, Neal met his wife, Dr. Amy Neal ('93), and played basketball for Spartans legend Jim Rice.

After beginning his post-college career in corporate America, Neal decided he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps, becoming a math teacher, and returning to his alma mater to teach and coach.

Neal's first stint as an assistant was with his former coach, Jim Rice. He worked for Rice for one year before Rice retired from coaching. He was then hired to work with the Roger Bacon girls basketball program and head coach Tom Singleton.

During the 1994 season the team finished as the Division II state runner-up, and in 1995 earned a 28-0 record, claiming the Division II state championship.

Neal moved back over to the boys side with Brewer, and was an assistant coach when the Spartans made history in 2002 with a state title for the ages.

"The one thing about Brian is that since 1994 he's been part of every significant basketball victory boys and girls at Bacon," Rossi said.

CINCINNATI — Elder High School football coach Doug Ramsey won his 200th career game during a Division I, Region 4 first-round playoff game Friday as the host Panthers defeated Colerain 55-48 in triple overtime.

Ramsey entered the Ohio High School Athletic Association records for the most coaching wins in Ohio.

Ramsey has a record of 200-93 since becoming the Elder head coach in 1997. He led the Panthers to back-to-back Division I state titles in 2002 and 2003 and two other state finals (2019, 2008).

He was presented the game ball by longtime assistant coach Craig James on the rain-soaked field Friday night.

"I told (the team), 'Could you guys have made it a little easier,'" Ramsey said. "What a way to get to 200 right? You know a game like that playing against a really good team...we just kept fighting."

Elder senior Drew Ramsey, Doug's son, scored four touchdowns and surpassed 100 receptions this season.

"It means everything," Drew Ramsey said of the milestone. "I'm glad I was here when he could do it. My brother [Peyton] is coaching. The whole family is around so it's really special."

Senior wide receiver Andrew Harp had three touchdown receptions including one in the fourth quarter, another in overtime and his third in the second overtime for the Panthers (6-5), who advance to play at St. Xavier (9-2) in a Division I, Region 4 quarterfinal Nov. 5.

Colerain (5-6) was led by sophomore quarterback Zae Jennings who rushed for five touchdowns including a 92-yarder, a 76-yarder and a 56-yard score.

He is the first Colerain player to score five touchdowns in a game since September 2018.

"Zae had a hell of a night and so did a lot of our kids," Colerain coach Shawn Cutright said. "They gave it their all and left it on the field. What more can a coach ask from their players. We will wake up tomorrow and be better men with the effort and attitude we have in the game tonight."

Former Colerain quarterback Deante Smith-Moore - then a senior - rushed for five touchdowns against visiting Princeton Sept. 7, 2018, according to the GMC website.

Colerain led 20-6 with 8:32 left in the second quarter but the Panthers rallied to tie the game at 20 at halftime. A dramatic second half saw the game tied at 34 at the end of regulation. Elder's defense stopped Colerain on fourth down in the third overtime to seal the victory.

"I tell these guys once we get to the playoffs it's one and done," Doug Ramsey said. "You don't think about anything else."

Ramsey discussed with WCPO this past summer about the significance of coaching Elder football while the program has had a strong connection to his family. He has coached three sons in the program including Tanner, Peyton and current senior Drew.

Peyton Ramsey was coaching from the press box for the Panthers on Friday night.

"I remember being a part of the 150th [win]," Peyton Ramsey said. "I remember coming around as a kid. We're talking this week it probably feels like a lot more than 200 — at least it feels like it. This place is special. It means a lot to our family and to do it in this kind of fashion is something special."

New York Giants tight end Kyle Rudolph, a 2008 Elder graduate, said Ramsey has impacted countless lives.

"As I'm sure Doug will say, it's a true testament to all the great players who've played for him and all the coaches who've coached with him, but it all starts at the top with Elder Football," Rudolph said. "The consistency he's shown for almost three decades is second to none."

Rudolph remembers going to an Elder football camp as a kid and idolizing all the players at the time.

The U.S. Army All-American football player was also a basketball standout and said he enjoyed playing both sports. Ramsey was always supportive of Rudolph being a multi-sport athlete.

"Now as a former player who's closing in on 15 years since my last season there, being able to watch the countless lives he's continued to impact as the head football coach, it's amazing," Rudolph said.

Dallas Cowboys long snapper Jake McQuaide, a 2006 Elder graduate, said Ramsey is all about the game of football and the student-athletes.

"Coach Ramsey has done an incredible job leading the program at Elder," McQuaide told WCPO. "The Elder fan base loves its Panthers. There are two sides to that coin though. As the head coach, you have tons of support to lean on, but you also have thousands of people critiquing your every move. Coach Ramsey has done a great job maximizing the former and minimizing the latter. He makes sure to keep it about the kids."

Elder athletic director Kevin Espelage said Ramsey's impact is remarkable in 25 years as a head coach. Ramsey was an assistant for several years prior to that.

"Like most good coaches, Doug will probably defer a lot of the credit to his players, past and present, and coaches and parents," Espelage said. "But Doug Ramsey is a great coach and even better father, husband and a tremendous teacher. Yes, the credit for 200 wins should be dispersed to all involved but Doug Ramsey is the 'face of the franchise' so to speak. His impact goes beyond just the 200 wins, four state title game appearances and two state titles."

Kevin Welch

Former Elder athletic director Dave Dabbelt hired Ramsey as the head coach in 1997. Dabbelt, who was the Elder athletic director from 1990 to 2017, said Ramsey's legacy goes beyond the success on the field.

"To me the key thing is he's always cared about all the kids," Dabbelt said. "It's not just the starters, it's not just the studs — it's all of them. It creates to me a great team atmosphere, a good feeling within the community. I think that's the piece that's gone well."

CINCINNATI — Taft High School football coach Tyler Williams held the Cincinnati Metro Athletic Conference championship plaque near the sideline Friday night and started the joyous celebration with his team.

"It's a special moment for my team, for my community, for my family," Williams said late Friday night.

"It's been a great, great journey with these young men right now. We dealt with a lot of adversity throughout this whole regular season, he said, adding, "Just seeing these young men continue to fight each and every day and continue to overcome the adversity that we had been faced with – it's been amazing to watch them grow as a team."

Taft defeated Woodward 34-20 Friday night to capture the CMAC Red division title in the first season for Williams as the Taft head coach.

"Coach Tyler continues to build on the football tradition here at Taft," Taft athletic director Romell Salone said.

"The kids have adjusted and are buying into what he is teaching on and off the field. Our kids are building life relationships and lessons and are really looking forward to the playoffs with hopes to build on the history."

The Senators (7-2, 5-0 CMAC) are projected to be the No. 1 seed in Division V, Region 20, according to Joe Eitel.

The Senators are projected to host No. 16 seed Madeira (4-6) in the first round at 7 p.m. Oct. 30. The Ohio High School Athletic Association plans to officially announce the playoff pairings Sunday afternoon.

Williams, a former Colerain High School star who played at the University of Akron and professionally in the Indoor Football League (IFL), was named the Taft coach in February.

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Williams was an assistant coach at Colerain and St. Xavier prior to Taft. His quick success at Taft this season is not a surprise to St. X head coach Steve Specht.

"Tyler has an innate ability to connect with kids and hold them to a higher standard," Specht said. "He's just scratching the surface. He'll be a great one."

Williams said the expectation this preseason was that winning the CMAC title is a "mandatory" step during the season for the program.

"We're winning it with structure, we're winning it with discipline, we're winning it with class," Williams said.

Taft had to overcome multiple injuries this season leading to the conference title, but Williams has emphasized a next player up mantra for the team to get stronger overall.

Williams mentioned multiple players who played well Friday night including junior running back Gavin Crawford, who had an estimated 200-plus yards rushing and five touchdowns.

Defensively, senior linebacker Everett Brown had a key interception. Senior Jakeim Sullivan has six interceptions this season while senior Keyandre Larry has eight interceptions.

Williams said his message to the team entering the playoffs this weekend is to stay patient before the official announcement on the pairings is made by the OHSAA on Sunday.

"Our kids are definitely putting themselves in a position to make a great run in the playoffs," Williams said.

WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP, Ohio — While the Ohio high school football playoffs do not start until next week, the atmosphere said otherwise Friday night at Firebird Stadium.

Lakota West defeated Lakota East 34-7 to win its second straight Greater Miami Conference title in a sold-out stadium of 5,000 fans, renewing the district rivalry that started in 1998. The Firebirds lead the overall series 16-9, including a 14-9 regular-season record.

"What more can you ask for?" Lakota West coach Tom Bolden said. "A chance for sole possession in the league, playing your district rival."

The Firebirds led 10-0 at halftime after senior Jyaire Brown's 50-yard interception return with 50 seconds left in the second quarter set up a 15-yard touchdown pass connection from junior quarterback Mitch Bolden to junior wide receiver Trent Lloyd.

Junior kicker Tyler Bohn made a 33-yard field goal on the Firebirds' opening drive of the first quarter.

The Firebirds excelled in all three phases in the second half.

Lakota West (8-1) went ahead 17-0 early in the third quarter after junior Malik Hartford blocked a Thunderhawks' punt and senior Alex Afari returned it 30 yards for a touchdown. Afari had a game-high 11 tackles Friday night.

The Firebirds took a 24-0 lead about six minutes later when Mitch Bolden found Lloyd for the second touchdown pass connection of the night. Bolden, the son of Tom Bolden, said the GMC title is very significant for the Firebirds.

"We're building a great tradition here," Mitch Bolden said. "It's something nice."

Bohn made his second field goal of the night early in the fourth quarter to give the Firebirds a 27-7 lead.

Senior running back Cameron Goode scored on a 67-yard touchdown run with 5:23 left, and senior Hannah Duncan's third extra point of the night gave the Firebirds a 34-7 lead. Goode had 11 carries for 107 yards.

"This was definitely a statement game to show everybody in the playoffs we're going to play hard every game," Goode said.

Lakota West entered Friday night as the No. 3 seed in the Division I, Region 4 computer points standings and will likely host a first-round game next week. Lakota East (7-3) will also likely host a first-round game next week, according to Joe Eitel.

The Thunderhawks scored on a 6-yard run by junior quarterback TJ Kathman late in the third quarter. Senior linebacker Charlie Kenrich had a team-high seven tackles, according to game statistics.

Ohio's 2020 high school football season will be comprised of just six games beginning Aug. 24 with every team eligible for the playoffs, according to a message from the Ohio High School Athletic Association's interim executive director, Bob Goldring, on Friday.

If the plan is approved by Gov. Mike DeWine, all teams will enter the playoffs beginning Oct. 9, and state championship games will be played no later than Nov. 21.

"Schools also will be afforded the opportunity to play 10 total regular-season contests — whether they continue regular-season games after they are eliminated from the playoffs or should they decide not to enter the playoffs — as long as they complete their season by November 14," Goldring's announcement read.

OHSAA's board approved the measure unanimously Friday.

“To both ensure we can offer students the opportunity to participate in education‐based athletes but do so with their best interests in mind, we believe this modified plan offers a positive solution by addressing many of the concerns of our member schools,” said Jeff Cassella, president of the OHSAA Board of Directors and athletic administrator at Mentor High School. “Those that are able to start their seasons on time will be able to do so. Those that are starting later can still have a season. Add in the option of all schools entering the playoffs and the possibility of schools still being able to play 10 regular-season contests, and this plan is helpful to virtually all of our schools.”

In a recent OHSAA membership survey, the highest number of responses to one of the questions posed of superintendents, principals and athletic administrators indicated that nearly 60% (890 of 1,498 respondents) favored reducing the regular season and maintaining full OHSAA tournaments, or maintaining the full regular season and maintaining full OHSAA tournaments.

In 2020, the number of playoff rounds will be dependent upon the number of schools entering the playoffs in each division. Schools eliminated from the OHSAA playoffs or that choose not to enter the OHSAA playoffs will have the option to schedule additional regular-season contests through Nov. 14, with a maximum of 10 regular-season contests permitted.

Here's what the 2020 season will look like:

• Regular season Week 1: Week of Aug. 24
• Regular season Week 2: Week of Aug. 31
• Regular season Week 3: Week of Sept. 7
• Regular season Week 4: Week of Sept. 14
• Regular season Week 5: Week of Sept. 21
• Regular season Week 6: Week of Sept. 28
• Playoffs begin Friday, Oct. 9
• State finals end no later than Saturday, Nov. 21

Read more in the viewer below:

20200807 Administrator Update by WCPO Web Team on Scribd

KINGS MILLS, Ohio — The Kings High School football team clinched at least a share of the Eastern Cincinnati Conference title Friday night with a 35-21 win against Turpin.

But the undefeated Knights don't plan on resting on the accomplishment anytime soon.

"Our first goal is to win the ECC title. But after that we want to go as far as we possibly can and make history at Kings," Kings junior quarterback Will Kocher said.

Kocher threw three touchdown passes and scored on a 69-yard touchdown run on the second play of the third quarter. Kings, which had 380 yards of total offense, entered Friday night as the No. 2-ranked team in the Division II, Region 8 computer points standings.

"I think to win and be in the position that we are in going into Week 10 is a great testament to what these kids have done all offseason," Kings coach Alex Garvin said.

"I'm so proud of them and these coaches have done so much work to put us in this position. It just means everything."

Kings, 9-0 for the first time since 2014, scored 28 unanswered points after it trailed 7-0 after the first quarter.

Kocher found junior wide receiver Michael Mussari for the first of two touchdown passes (42 and 70 yards) to help tie the game late in the second quarter.

Two minutes later, Kocher connected with senior wide receiver Andy Bauman for a 36-yard score to help give the Knights a 14-7 halftime lead.

Kocher opened the third quarter with a quarterback keeper. Then, he ran 69 yards for a touchdown to help give Kings a 21-7 lead.

Senior kicker Ryan Sylski recovered his own onside kick, and that helped to set up senior running back Max Sannella's 6-yard touchdown run to give the Knights a 28-7 lead at the nine-minute mark of the third quarter.

Turpin, ranked No. 9 in the Division II, Region 8 computer points standings entering Friday, closed the gap when senior running back Keenan Alcalde – the ECC's leading rusher – scored on an 18-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter.

However, Kocher connected with Mussari on a 70-yard touchdown pass a short time later to help give Kings a 35-14 advantage.

Turpin made things interesting late in the game after senior wide receiver Ryan McDole's 23-yard touchdown reception.

Turpin recovered an onside kick, but Kings junior Jake Cameron's interception helped to seal the game for the Knights (9-0, 7-0 ECC), who conclude the regular season at Little Miami Oct. 22.

Turpin (6-3, 4-3 ECC) plays host to district rival Anderson (7-2, 6-1) Oct. 22.

ANDERSON TOWNSHIP, Ohio — There were plenty of smiles to start homecoming weekend in front of the bleachers at Charles L. Brown Stadium Friday night.

Anderson rallied from an eight-point deficit with eight minutes remaining to defeat Winton Woods 28-21 in an Eastern Cincinnati Conference football showdown.

"It was remarkable how our kids came back," Anderson coach Evan Dreyer said.

It was Anderson's first win over Winton Woods since 2009, according to Dreyer.

"It was the most fun I've ever had playing a game," Anderson senior wide receiver Evan Upchurch said.

"The energy from our team and the energy from their team - it just added up and it was a great game."

Upchurch was part of a two-point conversion play when he threw the football to junior quarterback Griffin Scalf in the end zone to tie the game at 21 with 6:47 left.

"That is just Evan Upchurch and Griffin Scalf having some fun before and after practice," said Dreyer. "They wanted to run it and it was really, really cool as a coach to see those guys succeed."

Scalf connected with junior wide receiver Santos Alvarez for a 29-yard touchdown pass a play earlier to close the gap on the Warriors' lead.

After the two-point conversion, Anderson senior linebacker Casey O'Toole recovered the onside kick to give the Raptors another scoring opportunity.

The Raptors converted a fourth down from the Warriors' 12-yard line and three plays later Scalf eluded two defenders to find senior tight end Brody Foley in the end zone for a 5-yard touchdown pass connection with under two minutes left.

"He's a big target," Scalf said of Foley. "Just throw it up and he goes and gets it."

Foley, who is verbally committed to the University of Tennessee, said he saw Scalf look away and he found an open space in the end zone.

"It was a great play by him and a great play by our offense," said Foley, who also scored a first-half touchdown.

The Anderson defense was strong on the Warriors' final drive to seal the victory.

"I've been here six years now and the curse of beating Winton Woods," Dreyer said. "They're a great ball club. (Coach) Chad Murphy took over and it's one of those things to get over a little bit of a hump as we head toward the last three games. It's going to be really, really crucial to finish these three games strong as we end ECC play and head toward the playoffs in November."

Foley said he won't soon forget Friday night's game.

"It's amazing," Foley said. "It's a great feeling. I love coming out here every Friday with my boys and playing. It's special at home, it's homecoming, the fans are all out. It's an awesome feeling."

Anderson senior kicker Hayden Brooke had two field goals - including a 38-yarder and 29-yarder to help the Raptors (5-2, 4-1 ECC), who play at Milford Oct. 8.

Winton Woods senior running back Tyrek Spikes scored two rushing touchdowns and senior wide receiver Tai'je Frazier scored on a 48-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter for the Warriors (4-3, 3-2 ECC), who play at Turpin Oct. 8.