The 2023 MHSAA Football Tourney

FULL OF EXCITEMENT AND LOADS OF TALENT

*HARPER WOODS head coach ROD ODEN releases a holler after his son JACOB ODEN'S interception

vs. Carelton Airport.*

Urban Sports Legends coverage of The 2023 MHSAA state playoffs has been filled with lots of action and loads of talented players. Some teams have been dominating their opponents all season, while others have hit their stride in the post season. Rivals have met to decide which team will move on. Players stepping up their game, coaches planning and adjusting, all playing on the edge of dreams to play for a championship at Ford Field.

FIRST ROUND

University of Detroit Jesuit defeated Warren Mott 47-14. UDJ was lead by Elijah Dotson who put on a show both sides of the ball. Receptions, picks, and a legendary BEAST MODE run for a touchdown.

*#11 ELIJAH DOTSON on a tightrope.*

SECOND ROUND

Detroit Southeastern defeated city champ Detroit Denby in the first round to earn a home game at 3030 Fairview St. to play Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard.

The Jungleers rebounded from mistakes in the first half. Behind by 2pts with just seconds left in the game SE lined up for Julian Liddell to attempt a 40yd field goal for the win. Kick was blocked. Holder Antonio Mayo recovered the ball and pitched to Liddell who runs for winning touchdown. Final score 26-22

Congrats to SE head coach Courtney Dinkins.

SECOND ROUND

Southfield A&T battled rival Detroit Cass Tech. in a replay of season opener. CT was looking to avenge that loss and SA&T was marching for a state championship. Game was filled with D-I athletes. Southfield's senior QB Isaiah Marshall was the difference in the game. Not just running and passing, he is a savvy leader. SA&T defeated CT 36-25. This could be the year for Isaiah and his dad head coach Aaron Marshall. * #8 Isaiah Marshall on the Tightrope.*

THIRD ROUND

The atmosphere in River Rouge was stunning as a fireworks display ushered in the crowd. Two strong football programs River Rouge vs. Detroit King go to battle. RR junior QB McKale McDowell brought his team back to tie the game, but it was freshman QB Darryl Flemister III who lead King to a 20-19 victory in OT.

*Freshman QB Darryl Flemister III making big plays for King.*

THIRD ROUND

After Harper Woods drove down the brand new field and fumbled near the goal line, Carelton Airport drove back to score. The Woods didn't blink. They just went to work. HW's team combines speed, power, and great coaching. Too many weapons for CA to fight. Harper Woods wins 46-19.

*That's HW RB #2 Colby Bailey taking off for long touchdown run as coaches look on.*

FOURTH ROUND

Perfect weather for mid-November football. Harper Woods is peaking going to this semi-final vs. Goodrich, who gave them a strong challenge. HW senior QB Stephone Buford made big plays with his arm and feet. Senior DB Jacob Oden had another pick to seal the 35-24 victory. Job is not done yet. The Woods advance to play defending champs Grand Rapids South Christian at Ford Field.

*HW QB #12 Stephone Buford running down the sideline.*