Scouting the Eagles
The Milton Eagles have qualified for the postseason for the 13th time in 14 years. The Eagles won the Class 7A state title a year ago and have won 20 consecutive games entering the postseason. Milton is averaging 40.9 points per game and is allowing 11 points per game. The Eagles are averaging 238.9 yards per game through the air and 177.6 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Luke Nickel has thrown for 2,312 yards and 24-TDs. His top receivers this season have been C.J. Wiley (40 receptions, 680 yards, 8-TDs), Ethan Barbour, (33 receptions, 648 yards, 7-TDs) and Tristen Payne, (34 receptions, 495 yards, 5-TDs.). Meanwhile, T.J. Lester has led the ground game with 1,037 yards and 17-TDs. On the other side of the ball, Hayden Tumminia leads the defense with 87 Total Tackles, including 8 tackles for loss. The Eagles have sacked opposing quarterback 28 times and have forced, 11 turnovers. Milton has defeated six playoff teams this season.
Scouting the Wolverines
The Woodstock Wolverines are back in the postseason for the first time since 2017. It has been a banner year for the Wolverines, winning seven games, also for the first time since the 2017 season. Woodstock is averaging 28.9 points per game while the defense is allowing 18.9 points per game. Balance has been the name of the game for the upstart Wolverines as they area averaging 193.3 yards per game through the air and 179.7 yards per game on the ground. Senior back Isaiah Payton has rushed for 1,039 yards and 11-TDs on the year. Meanwhile, sophomore quarterback Graham Burmeister has thrown for 1,892 yards and 14-TDs. Chase Colina is the leading receiver for the Wolverines with 48 receptions for 486 yards and 5-TDs. Drew Burmeister and the aforementioned Payton have combined to catch 50 passes for 783 yards and 5-TDs. Defensively, Drew Burmeister and Copper Price have both notched over 100 tackles on the season. The Wolverines have sacked opposing quarterbacks 24 times with Price leading the way with a team best, 8. Woodstock has forced 13 turnovers. The Wolverines have not defeated a playoff team this season.
Pundit's Pick
The Milton Eagles are a Top-5 football team in the country. So for Woodstock to pul the ultimate David vs Goliath victory, the Wolverines offensive line will have to be able to set the table for the ground game. If they can open up running lanes and give Graham Burmeister time to throw, this game could get interesting. While we believe that’s possible, it’s not probable. We like Milton by 29.
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