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I've been remiss in not posting more information this year, so I've decided to do a brief catchup on the area teams. One overall theme: the Jackson area teams overall seem to be a bit down this year. Some traditionally good squads are a bit down, giving some others a chance to shine.

A couple of surprise teams have popped up after 3 weeks. Parma Jackson County Western (3-0) in undefeated after three weeks for the first time since 1975. The Panthers have had a relatively easy schedule so far, but with their conference, the SMAA, being a bit down this year, they still have a shot at 6 wins and their first playoff appearance ever. Frankly, I'm pulling for these guys to make it happen.

Concord is also a surprise at 3-0, as they just broke their 35 game losing streak last year. A new coach and a new attitude, along with a compliant schedule, have propelled the Jackets. Can they make the playoffs? Time will tell. The Big 8 is down somewhat, so I wouldn't rule them out just yet, but the tough part of the schedule is yet to come.

On the bad side of the surprise ledger is Hillsdale, who is now 0-3. The Hornets have had a run of tremendous success over the last 5 years, so being winless is definitely shocking. Their 30 game conference winning streak just came to an end at the hands of Stockbridge (3-0). Hillsdale did suffer a major setback when they lost QB Curby prior to the start of the season, which has really hurt their game. Still, they should have enough talent to break into the win column, and I would not be surprised to see them run the table and make the playoffs. Leslie (0-3), a finalist last year, is struggling mightily this year. 2009 may see the return of Brooklyn Columbia Central (2-1) to the playoffs. The winner of the Jackson County Western vs. BCC game should have a good chance to see the playoffs.

The Jackson County based teams in the Cascades are struggling, with Vandercook Lake (2-1) maybe the best of a down bunch. Vandy just lost their first game to Michigan Center (1-2), which was a bit of a shock until you realize Vandy sat several kids for disciplinary reasons. Grass Lake (1-2) has been very good the last several years, but they appear slightly down also. East Jackson (2-1) has been better than normal, but given the balance of their schedule, it will be tough sledding to break .500. Napoleon (0-3) and Hanover Horton (0-3) may have to wait until they face each other on October 16 to get a win between the two of them.

Jackson High (2-1) looks to be a playoff type squad, as the CAAC Blue really only has one dominant squad in Holt. If Jackson's defense can hold up, they should be a good candidate for 6-3. Any slip up will leave them on the outside looking in at 5-4.

Jackson Lumen Christi (2-1) has a ton of talent back, but found the going difficult in week 1 versus Portage Northern, turning the ball over 3 times in a loss. JLC should be a solid contender in Division 5, and look for their game vs. Marshall in two weeks to be a really good contest.