Grant Runs and Hides: Topple Trojans 38-12

Lights out.

That was the thought racing through many spectators mind’s as the Grant Generals seemed to pick apart the Trojans of Wilson High School in the first half last Friday night. It also may have been the thought on the brains of the hosting Trojans all night after their first offensive possession as the Generals delivered several hard hits to start the game.

After forcing a Wilson punt, quarterback Sam Davis lead the offense down the field and handed off to senior Mike Waters who took it 33 yards to open the scoring with 6:54 left in the first quarter.

The defense forced another Wilson punt, but Grant’s offense put itself in a hole by committing back-to-back penalties on what would have been 3rd down conversions. Davis dug the Generals out on try number three however, as he delivered what could only be described as a “perfect ball” to senior receiver Chris Lewis for an 80-yard touchdown to close out the first quarter.

The Local Bite: Lincoln Week

Well it’s that time of year again Grant nation. It’s time to play the boys from Lincoln. While I am new to the Grant vs Lincoln rivalry, I have my own distain for the Cardinals, which has me a little more amped up than normal.

From what I have heard over the last couple of days, this is a rivalry with no love lost between the teams. It should make for an amazing game as the Cards visit the Grant Bowl for the first time ever.

Speaking of the Grant Bowl, what an amazing place to watch a football game. The neighborhood setting, the enclosed field, and the surrounding attractions make it a special place to watch a football game. If you can look beyond the early start times and see it for what it is; the kick-off for varsity high school football each weekend in Oregon, then seeing a game here can be truly special.

Being that this is an early evening start (4:00 PM), getting a meal before the game will be challenging, but the proximity of the stadium to the Hollywood District downtown means you can get delicious food and still be at the game in time to see all of the action.

This week we’re bringing you three of our favorite options that will leave you satisfied, but also wanting to plan a return trip before the next home game.

The Blind Onion Pizza & Pub:

Located less than a block from the Bowl, this small pizza shop makes fresh hand-crafted pizzas each day, and offers 3 different sizes depending on your group size. The fast service enables patrons to take their order to go, which is beneficial for those who are in a hurry to catch the game. For those who are more of the night owl type, this is still a viable option as it is open until 11:00 PM each Friday and Saturday and has a bar with a flatscreen tv where you can watch highlights from around the state each Friday night.
Menu:
Blind Onion Menu
Hours:
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Location:
3345 NE Broadway Street

Atomic Pizza:

Another pizza joint, and further from the stadium, but some of the best pizza in town to go along with the option of getting a sandwich or dessert. The name isn’t a play on words, as the pizza can be on the spicy side, so be warned. A popular hang out for players after games, it’s best if you try to get your slice before or on the way to the game.
Hours:
11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location:
4144 NE Sandy Boulevard

Killer Burger:
Just as you might think when reading the name of the restaurant, these burgers are to die for. The atmosphere is great with excellent service to match. Make sure that you look thoroughly at the menu to avoid allergic reactions as there are some unique ingredients on each burger. Located within 10 minutes of the Grant Bowl, this is an excellent spot to get a great bite to eat before the game.
Hours:
11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location:
4644 NE Sandy Boulevard

That’s it for this week’s segment of “The Local Bite,” make sure to check back each week for great places to eat near the Generals next game. As always: GO GENERALS!

2014 PIL Predictions: Week 2

Well, last week was an alright one for me as I went 5-2 on predictions. Cleveland surprised a lot of people, and Westview avoided their usually predictable meltdown and stayed unbeaten.

This week there’s a great slate of games and we can’t wait to see how it all pans out!

PIL Games:

Benson (0-3) vs Jefferson (0-3):
After last week, this sets up more disappointment for the Techmen, especially with Jefferson losing unexpectedly to Cleveland. Look for Jefferson to be up big early as Benson is our early favorite to go 0-9. After how their head coaches chose to act last week in terms of clock management and the post game hand shake (both bush league) I feel no empathy for them.

I’ll take Jefferson: JHS 65 BHS 20

Lincoln (1-2) vs Cleveland (1-2):

Cleveland showed they might be a thorn in the sides of those who end up battling for the 3rd and 4th place positions in league this year with last week’s win. But this week, they will be facing John Duffy (700+ yards) in front of a raucous home crowd at Lincoln. The Cards will get to .500 this week without much of a challenge.

Cards win big:LHS 47 CHS 17

Franklin (0-3) vs Roosevelt (1-2):

After getting hammered at Wilson last week, Franklin faces an even tougher test with Roosevelt getting Kimane Domena back from an ankle injury. This kid has serious stuff and is a match-up nightmare which will give Franklin fits on defense all night.

I’ll pick Roosevelt: RHS 35 FHS 6

Madison (0-3) vs La Grande(1-2):
The Senators get to get right at home with 4A La Grande making the trip to Portland. After struggling out of the gates, look for Madison to pick up their first win on the year.

Senators Win: MHS 28 LGHS 20

Wilson (1-2) vs Grant (1-2):
See yesterday’s post. GO GENERALS!

Game of Interest:

Sherwood (1-2) vs Lakeridge (2-1):

This will be a great match up in the TRL. Eric Doungy is going to be a D1 quarterback this time next year, and his spread offense going against the wing-t offense of the Bowmen will be especially intriguing. Look for the defense of Lakeridge to have their eyes, discipline, and emotions tested this week.

I’ll take Lakeridge: LHS 40 SHS 27

Game of the Week:

Parkrose (3-0) vs Sandy (2-1):
I don’t know much about the 5A this year, but I know that Parkrose has been putting up points at will, and I don’t think it will stop this week.

Parkrose: PHS 42 SHS 28

Week 4 Preview: Grant (1-2) at Wilson (1-2)

When: Friday, September 26th, 7 PM
Where: Wilson High School
Game Coverage:
Live Updates
Grant Football Twitter Page

Week 4 of the schedule brings an intriguing match-up to us as the Generals travel to Wilson High School. The Trojans are coming off of a 54-6 beat down of Franklin, and it seems their new turf field has brought a new-found swagger and tons of support from the surrounding community. Grant is looking to get on a role in the PIL after dismantling Benson last week, which sets up for what could be an all out war on the west side.

Wilson features a stout running game behind an above-average offensive line that allows for running back Sam Ketter to use his agility to create in open field situations. If the Generals hope to have a shot, they must do better against the run than they have so far this season. Expect for head coach Diallo Lewis and defensive coordinator Randy Heath to have Grant well prepared and ready to go when the lights go on this Friday.

For the Generals, it comes down to the offensive and defensive lines. If a win is going to be the outcome, it will be earned in the trenches this week. DeAngelo Penn, Caleb Weekly, and the rest of the defensive line have a tall task in stopping the running game of the Trojans, but if they do it will allow them much more of a chance for the defense to get off the field.

Defensively, Wilson is an aggressive bunch, lining up in a 4-2-5 the majority of the time. Blitzing linebackers should be expected on most plays, which means the offensive line needs to be on top of their game to keep Sam Davis upright for the night. Expect to see the Generals take advantage of Wilson’s aggressiveness early on to take control of the game.

With this being a big game in terms of taking control of the PIL race, look for both teams to be ready to play from the opening kick.

Grant Keys to Victory:

Defense Plays Big:
As the old saying goes: “offense wins games, defense wins championships.” By this I mean yes, the Generals could outscore teams this year if their offense is running how it’s designed. However, every team that gets to play late into November has a strong defense. Grant’s defense is loaded with athletes, and this is the week we will find out how they respond to a challenge. The defensive line and linebackers must show the ability to stop the run, and when the Trojans do start throwing the ball, the defensive backfield has to make plays on the ball.

Embrace the Chaos:
As previously stated, the new turf fields in the PIL have brought about a better support system for each school, and this, combined with the great setting of Wilson’s stadium, makes for some electric Friday nights.

Control Field Position:
As with any game, field position is of vital importance. Special teams play has to be better for Grant this week. If the Trojans are starting near midfield all night, the Generals could be in for a world of hurt defensively. Look for kicker Joey Kenney to have a big night and the kickoff team to be locked in after having a so-so performance last week.

Play General Football:
You hear this with every program, but all Grant needs to do is focus on playing their game, and the rest will fall into place. You can only control what you do on any given play, and remembering this will be key to having a successful week.

Prediction:

Grant +10:
Playing in what is shaping up to be the Game of the Week should give us a preview of how this year’s team will handle the big stage. I believe that this team has shown enough growth in the first few weeks of the season to be mature enough to focus on the job they have to do if they want to contend for a PIL championship.

The Local Bite: Wilson Week

Like any other football fanatic, I love taking in the atmosphere of a weekend of pigskin and all it has to offer, especially on a Friday night.

High school football offers the unique ability to take in several different settings: from the busy downtown hustle, to the gradual shutdown of an entire small town on Friday afternoon, to the neighborhood school, it is quite the privilege to experience so many impressive venues.

With Portland having a large social and cultural impact on the state of Oregon, it makes for quite the experience for anyone looking to have an enjoyable weekend full of high school football.

One of my favorite things about Portland is all of the amazing food you can find around the city for cheap.

So, each Monday, I will be writing about the local food options that are available and close to wherever the Generals will be playing that week. Each restaurant will have its address, webpage, and contact info included so that you can find the best place to grab a bite before the Generals kick-off!

This week Grant is traveling to Wilson, which sits in the middle of upscale neighborhoods in the West Hills of Portland. Tucked right beside the school is tons of cheap, quality dining for the die hard Oregon high school football fan. We’ve selected four spots that we think are great food options whether you are catching the game by yourself, with friends, or with the whole family.

Taco City @ Hillsdale Food Park:
Literally across the street from Wilson’s football stadium, a quick bite to eat doesn’t get more convenient than this as Taco City serves up a wide variety of delicious Mexican food that you can pick up and eat on your walk to your seats. Make sure you time your visit wisely, as this place shuts down at 7:00 on the dot during the fall because the employees want to get to the Wilson game each week. Known for their large serving sizes, you won’t be disappointed in spending your money here.
Menu:
Taco City Menu
Hours:
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Location:
6238 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, Oregon 97239

Humdinger Drive-In:
A local burger joint that has been owned by the same couple since it opened in the 80’s, this has been a popular hang out for both Wilson students and local residents because of its throwback type of style. Limited seating indoors can make the wait for food a bit longer than other places, but the quality more than makes up for lost time. Some of the best burgers and fries that most don’t know about, and over 30 flavors of milkshakes, none of which can be constituted as a bad decision.
Menu:
Humdinger Menu
Hours:
10:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location:
8250 SW Barbur Blvd, Portland, OR 97219
Contact Info:
(503) 246-8132

Frack Burger:

Located just up the street from Humdinger Drive-In, Frack Burger is a fast growing burger shop that serves some of the best burgers and fries in town. This one is a favorite of mine because of the amazing appetizers: chili cheese fries, beer-battered onion rings, and home-made beef and bean chili are just some of the options this place offers. The best part of this dining choice is you could go either before or after the game as they are open until 11 PM each night of the week. This might be a better option than the Humdinger if you are eating with a group as there is plenty of seating available.
Menu:
Frack Burger Menu
Hours:
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Location:
On the corner of SW 30th Avenue & SW Barbur Boulevard
Contact Info:
503-245-5997
@frackburger

Noodles Restaurant:

A small Italian, family style restaurant, this gem is the farthest drive from the game (still only 10 minutes away), but has the best food on this list. While plenty of indoor and outdoor seating is available, it does get busy as this is a popular place for families to eat with Wilson, Jesuit, and Beaverton all being relatively close to the restaurant. As you can imagine with an Italian restaurant, some of the food can be a bit steeper in price, but it is worth the extra couple bucks for the type of food you are getting.
Menu:
Noodles Restaurant Menu
Hours:
11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Location:
6830 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Highway, Portland, OR 97225
Contact Info:
503 292-6480

That’s it for this week’s version of The Local Bite. If you know of any other great places to eat near the game this week, make sure to leave a comment letting us know! See you Friday Generals.

Grant dominates Benson in 59-19 rout: Recap

It didn’t take long for Grant to put the rest of the PIL on high alert Friday night, as they dominated all three phases of the game en route to a convincing 59-19 victory over Benson.

The Generals got another stellar performance from senior running back Michael Waters (three rushing touchdowns, two more on defense), a suffocating defensive performance, and used both to race out to a 52-0 halftime lead which proved insurmountable for the Techmen.

After getting a quick three-and-out to start the game, Waters put the Generals on the scoreboard by taking a toss play around the left end for a seven yard touchdown, the first of a flurry of big plays for the boys from Grant Park.

Four plays later, Waters found the end zone again as he scooped up a Benson fumble and returned it 21 yards to make the score 14-0 Grant before anyone had even blinked. From there, the Generals never looked back and it got ugly quick.

After the first of two interceptions thrown by Benson quarterback Robert Coleman, Davis hit senior receiver Chris Lewis for a 40 yard touchdown to make it 21-0.

Another quick turnover gave Grant the ball inside Techmen territory and Waters capitalized by scoring from ten yards out to make 28-0.

After two more scoring drives, Waters finished off his night with a 77 yard pick-six to put any hope Benson had of making the contest competitive to rest.

“We were extremely focused coming into this game after what had happened the last two weeks, we really wanted to start off league the right way,” said senior quarterback Sam Davis, who went 5 of 11 for 114 yards with two touchdowns before being pulled at halftime with the game already wrapped up. Davis, who said the Generals “let the rest of the league know that we’re going to be a tough match-up all year,” was poised and in control all night. Had it not been for a couple untimely dropped passes, the General’s signal caller could very well have helped Grant make the score even more lop-sided.

The Grant defense also flexed its collective muscles at times on Friday night, harassing Benson’s offense throughout the game forcing six turnovers and scoring two defensive touchdowns.

Sophomore linebacker Daniel Green led the way with eight tackles, while also intercepting quarterback Robert Coleman twice.

“It’s nice to be on the other side of one of these games,” said Green, who looked like a man possessed at times, showing why many think of him as a possible D1 talent already.

After halftime, both teams were content to run the ball and milk the clock with the outcome already decided. A meaningless touchdown run by Coleman cut Grant’s lead to 59-19 as time expired.

Next up for the Generals is a tough road match-up with Wilson, who dismantled Franklin last week and is looking to make a name for themselves among the PIL elite.

We will be there to cover the game and bring you an in-depth look at what could be the Game of the Week.

2014 PIL Predictions: Week 1

Each Wednesday during the Fall I find myself in limbo, I can feel game day approaching but it still feels so far away. So, since there’s still 5 days until I start classes again, and currently all Sportscenter wants to talk about is Adrian Peterson, why not over-analyze the upcoming week of games for the members of the PIL?

We will be doing this each Wednesday throughout the PIL season and through the playoffs as long as the PIL is involved. We will also make a pick on what we feel is an intriguing match-up in the area, as well as the state game of the week as decided by The Oregonian. Feel free to leave your comments, thoughts on picks, or your own picks for the week with your name and we’ll keep track throughout the year. Enough of the small talk, let’s make some picks!

PIL Games:

Wilson (0-2) over Franklin (0-2) (at Franklin):

Both teams limp into this game coming off of consecutive losses to 5A teams. As a result of that, both will be hungry to break through in the win column, which could make for a heated contest on the West side. Wilson’s offense is led by senior running back Sam Ketter, who is averaging 136 yards/game so far this year. Junior Jack Dixon is the Trojans signal caller and looks to lead the team in what should be a big-game atmosphere with the dedication of a new turf field and it being the first home game of the year.

For the Quakers, their offense starts and stops with their quarterback, junior Max Hawkins. In the Cleveland jamboree at the beginning of the year, Hawkins made defenders look like they were on skates multiple times and showed the ability to hit a wide open receiver. If Franklin wants to win this game, it’ll have to be in a shoot out as the defense has shown little ability to make a stop.

I’ll take Wilson: WHS 35 FHS 14

Jefferson (0-2) over Cleveland (0-2) (at Cleveland):
Jefferson is coming into this game with something to prove as they feel underrated in the new-look PIL. Senior QB Brandon Flake leads the Demos into league play hoping to earn an automatic berth into the state tournament by finishing in the top 4 in the standings.

Cleveland is lead by senior quarterback Scott Brant. The Warriors will be trying to start a resurgence among their community to gain support for their team. Cleveland has one of the better settings to watch a football game in the PIL so it should be a great opening week for both teams.

Give me Jeff: JHS 31 CHS 17

Roosevelt (0-2) over Madison (0-2) (at Madison):
Roosevelt looks to assert their dominance of the PIL at the 6A level after winning a league title last year in 5A. They are lead by quarterback Kimane Domena, a legit D1 prospect that is a threat with his arm and legs. Based on what this kid accomplished last season, it’s safe to say that Madison is in for a world of hurt this week.

I’ve got Roosevelt: RHS 45 MHS 14

West Salem (2-0) over Lincoln (1-1) (at West Salem): f
West Salem’s offense is just too powerful for Lincoln to keep up with. the Cards will have to get off to a fast start if they stand any chance against the Titans.

West Salem, BIG: WSHS 49 LHS 28

Grant (0-2) over Benson (0-2) (at Marshall):
Don’t need to go into too much detail as I gave my preview of this game yesterday. I picked Grant, I’ll pick Grant every week.

Grant: GHS 45 BHS 7

Interesting Game in Area:

Southridge (1-1) over Westview (2-0) (at Southridge):
While this use to be a marquee match-up in the metro league, Westview had fallen out of the top teams in the league, but they look to be back this year with two impressive victories already.

Southridge comes off of a strong offensive performance against Lincoln, and is looking to grab ahold of the top Metro spot this year in what seems to be a down year in the league. While Westview should be favored, I can tell you from personal experience that Southridge isn’t the easiest place to travel too. Strange auras seem to fill the air each fall in Beaverton and it leads to crazy Friday nights for those visiting the Skyhawks.

Give me Southridge: SRHS 31 WHS 21

Oregonian Game of the Week:

#2 Tigard (2-0) over Sherwood (1-1) (at Tigard):
After seeing both of these teams play against Grant the last two weeks, it’s easy to see why The Oregonian chose them as Game of the Week. Tigard comes into the game rolling on offense as they have scored at will the first two weeks of the season. If they continue to dominate on the offensive side of the ball, we could see them playing in December for the first time in over a decade.

Sherwood comes into the game after blasting Grant 61-21 last week and looking to make a statement in the TRL this year. Both offense and defense will have to play sharp as there is little room for error against the Tigers. If this were at Sherwood it would be a different story, but Tigard at home, with those fans? I have to pick them.

Tigard: THS 35 SHS 21

Game 3 Preview: Grant (0-2) @ Benson (0-2)

When: Friday, September 19th, 7 PM
Where: Marshall High School
Grant Game Coverage

It’s week 3 of the season for the Grant Generals, which means we all get the chance to see a new look PIL and the renewal of an old-time rivalry game featuring teams with contrasting styles between their programs. Grant is coming off of a disappointing non-league performance, but is focused on the second part of their season with the start of league play this week.

Coming into the 2014 PIL season, many questions about the Generals depth and size have been asked, but early season predictions still have them as a front runner to contend for a 25th PIL title. The Generals feature three or four kids with the potential to play football at the next level, and the sooner they start playing like the highly touted prospects they are, the faster this team will be firing on all cylinders.

Before we can seriously start talking about a league title however, the focus must be on this week’s opponent, Benson. Coach Anthony Stoudamire has faced an uphill battle since taking over the program in 2012, and it doesn’t seem like there’s any relief in sight for the coach who’s gone 3-26 in his time calling the shots for the Techmen. Benson is looking to rebound after being thumped twice in the preseason by Lincoln High of Washington and Scapoose. The Techman are hoping a little home field advantage will help them with a visit from the Generals looming.

On offense, the Techmen are a traditional pro-set team that likes to run the ball to control the clock. While they aren’t particularly strong up front, they do have a talented running back in Nathan Houston-Poe that will outrun a defense that isn’t disciplined in technique and assignment football. Also standouts for Benson are wide receivers Anthony Ross and Noah Terry that can make people miss in the open field and turn short pass plays into big chunks of yards.

On the other side of the ball, Benson likes to line up in a 3-4 and blitz A LOT. It seems that on every play a different 5 or 6 guys are trying to get after the quarterback. However this does mean that there will be a lot of one-on-one match ups to exploit for General’s senior quarterback Sam Davis. If last week’s strong second half against a stout defense like Sherwood is any indication, Davis should have a pretty easy time lighting up the scoreboard against the subpar Techman defense that has given up 52 points a game so far this year.

For Benson, beating Grant in what is technically a home game (being played at Marshall High School) would be the type of victory needed to turn around a struggling program, and if the Generals don’t dominate from the start, things could get interested as the night goes on. It will be a fun Friday night to kick off the rebirth of the PIL.

Grant Keys to Victory:

Show up ready to play:
The last two weeks have been similar story lines for Grant. They have come out and appeared unfocused and confused on their assignments at times, which has lead to early holes that they can’t climb out of. In order to avoid falling behind early and having to play catch up the rest of the game, the team has to dominate from the opening whistle.

Execute Your Assignment:
There is a saying painted on the locker room wall of my former college football team that reads: “No “S” on the chest.” This means that nobody on the team has to be Superman and make every play, as usually when this happens it results in blown assignments and explosive, game-changing plays for the opponent. If the Generals can focus solely on executing their assignment on every play, the rest will take care of itself.

Control the line of scrimmage:
The Generals could have a field day with the offensive line of Benson, which should make life pretty miserable for quarterback Robert Coleman and the rest of the Techmen backfield. On the offensive side, all Sam Davis needs is the O-line to give him time to find a one-on-one match up and the Generals will bleed it dry. This will be the most important key of the day as Grant has yet to control the line of scrimmage this season.

Live in the moment:
You’re only guaranteed so many opportunities to play high school football, and every time you step on the field it’s special. Many college and NFL players would tell you they would trade all the fame and money in the world to strap it up on Friday night one more time. So Grant must focus on the here and now, on playing each play as a unit.

Prediction:

Generals +28:
I’m expecting Grant to have some frustration to take out on Benson after being run off the field the last two weeks, and a feeling it won’t be pretty for the Techmen. The resurgence of the PIL has been long awaited, and Grant has a chance to make an emphatic statement by taking care of business on Friday.

What Has Happened to the PIL?

As we prepare to open the 2014 PIL season this week, the Portland-Metro community has several different topics on their minds. Will Roosevelt’s recent
success in 5A translate to wins at Oregon’s highest level of football? Will Benson be able to turn around their dismal 3-26 record over the last three years? Will Grant and Lincoln return to making deep playoff runs as we were accustomed to seeing over the majority of the last decade?

However, one question looms larger after the first two weeks of Oregon high school football; what is going on with the PIL lately?

Take a moment to reminisce on some of the talented high school football stars to come and go from the PIL over the last 15 years.

Names like Conner Kavanaugh, Kenneth Acker, Ndamukong Suh, and Alex Green come to mind. To the close observer, even names such as the Colasurdo brothers, John Sheffield, and Daniel Halverson bring back great memories.

We think of heroic single game performances like Michael Johnson having 17 tackles in Lincoln’s state championship loss to Jesuit, or of Paris Penn shredding defenses for the better part of three seasons.

Amazing battles between Grant and Lincoln with PIL championship implications on the line sear our brains with lasting images. Franticly played playoff games such as Wilson’s 2003 showdown with eventual state champions Tigard and, as previously mentioned, Lincoln’s epic battle with Jesuit for the 2005 state title in what many consider the best championship game in Oregon’s history. This is the PIL that was feared throughout the state at times.

Fast forward to present day and what are we left with? Over the last 5 years the league has shifted from having two teams playing in the quarterfinals in 2009, to only having two actual Portland-based teams in the league in 2011, to now; a league that went 1-17 in non-league play and is desperately trying to stay relevant in what is starting to turn into a high school football hot-bed in the state of Oregon.

Can this poor performance be chalked up to schools scheduling some of the tougher teams in the state? In the cases of Roosevelt and Grant, the answer is yes as both teams have played a top ten team in the first two weeks. If you glance at the rest of the league, the numbers start to look downright embarrassing.

Wilson has scored a combined 7 points against two 5A opponents. Cleveland has been blown out by Century and Aloha, not exactly who comes to mind when thinking of the Metro League elite. On average, PIL defenses have given up 42.3 points a game, while putting up a subpar 14.8 points a game on offense. If you exclude Lincoln, the only team in the league with a win this season, those numbers get even worse on both sides of the ball, at 44.8 and 12.3, respectively.

While it is inevitable that teams such as Lincoln, Grant, and Roosevelt will find their form (and by virtue of having to play other PIL teams, wins) it is self-destructive for these teams to ignore the fact that they are slipping towards the bottom of the state in terms of fielding competitive rosters. If there isn’t a resurgence of popularity in downtown Portland high school football, these numbers will continue to dwindle.

The PIL has some of the most unique and intriguing settings in the entire state to watch a football game, and some up and coming talent to try and change the ways of recent league memory. If these schools are able to combine their community and their teams to grow together, we could be looking at some serious growth in talent and competitiveness among the state’s elite.

Who says a PIL team can’t have sustained success like teams such as Lake Oswego, Sheldon, Jesuit, and Central Catholic? In many cases, it isn’t always the facilities or number of players on a team that results in on field success, but rather the attitude of the team and the community surrounding each school. A never back down, take on all comers approach has been what has hardened these powerhouses into what they are today.

Every school should be taking notes on the way these teams approach a game, how they seem solely focused on making themselves better no matter who their competition is during any given week. It is a fact ladies and gentlemen, that competition breeds excellence, and the sooner the PIL finds this out, the sooner they can return to the glory days of old.