Barrons 2013 New Reports!
2013 News Stories
IMPORTANT MESSAGE from 5QC President, Maureen Alcott-Comito
COMMUNITY NEWS - The Most Valuable Parents for 2013, Bonnie Smith and Gary Comito!
12-18-2013 WoodbridgeFootball.com
After a two year absence, President Maureen Alcott-Comito and the 5QC decided to bring WoodbridgeFootball.com back for 2013. With her guidance and the tireless help provided by Bonnie Smith and Gary Comito, the 2013 return was a huge success with over 5,000 visitors to the site during the 10 week season.
Gary Comito provided support with Sponsors, Important Communications, Statistics, and Coordinating Team events. Not a week went by that Gary wasn't on the phone with me for something.
Bonnie Smith spent countless hours of work for the web site. When Gary wasn't calling, Bonnie was. Among the most valuable things she provided were Document Preparation, and Photos, She not only walked the sideline on Gameday, but at all 5QC events snapping photos and then providing them for posting, She was my go to person with any issues that came up.
I never met either Bonnie or Gary before this year, but we have developed a great working relationship that I look forward to continuing. I thank them for all they did for the web site, and official name them the MVP's of the 2013 Season!
Athletic directors vote down proposal for state group football championships
Dec. 2, 2013 Written by Greg Tufaro and Steven Falk - Staff Writers
A New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) ballot proposal that would have allowed public schools to play for state group football championships was rejected Monday morning.
The vote by the state’s athletic directors was 183 “no” and 95 “yes,” with three abstentions.
A proposal from the Big North Conference to amend Article IX of the NJSIAA constitution, which prohibits state championships on the gridiron, failed to receive the required two-thirds votes from member schools who attended an annual business meeting at the Pines Manor in Edison.
As a result, a plan to play to group champions beginning in 2014, which the NJSIAA Executive Committee approved last month, must now be tabled for at least two more years, the required waiting period for a proposed constitutional amendment to be reintroduced.
An early start to football — which infringed upon summer vacation time for some — and a late close to the gridiron campaign — which infringed upon the start of the winter sports season for some — were among the key issues that led to the Big North Conference proposal’s failure.
New Jersey crowns group champions in every sport but football. The NJSIAA remains one of just two of the country’s 51 statewide athletic associations whose public schools do not play for group titles on the gridiron.
“I’m completely disappointed,” said Carteret head football coach Matt Yascko, whose Ramblers won sectional titles in 2007 and 2012. “The two times I was lucky enough to win a (sectional) championship, I would have loved to see how it played out.
“I wish that the state would have a chance to showcase some phenomenal matchups between the best teams at the end of the season. Who wouldn’t want to see Piscataway against — take your pick — say a Cherokee or a Shawnee?”
Athletics directors from across the state who attended Monday’s meeting were voting not only to amend Article IX but also on an executive committee-approved proposal to extend the playoffs, which would have been enacted beginning next fall had the constitution been ratified.
The plan to play to overall public school group champions allowed for nine regular-season games and maintained Thanksgiving Day rivalries. The plan extended the season, which would begin on Labor Day weekend in some instances, from 12 to 14 games for teams that reached the group finals. The plan called for the playoffs to conclude one week later and for nonplayoff qualifiers to play one consolation game.
Three rounds of public school playoffs will continue to culminate with the sectional finals on the first weekend in December.
A previous proposal to amend Article IX — which states in part that “no state championship ... shall be declared in football” — was defeated by 23 votes in December 2011.
Bob Kanaby, past executive director of the National Federation of High School Associations, who also served as the NJSIAA’s executive director from 1980 to 1993, has stated that the sentence labeling football as the only sport that can’t play for state championships was likely written when the association implemented the gridiron playoffs 40 years ago.
Neither Kanaby nor past NJSIAA officials, including former NJSIAA Assistant Director Jim Loper, have been able to fully explain exactly why Article IX was worded as such to prohibit group titles in football.
Woodbridge (27) at Millburn (41), NJSIAA Tournament Consolation Round - Football
By Star-Ledger on November 16, 2013 12:09 a.m.
Jared Harris had 17 carries for 155 yards and two touchdowns and passed for two scores to lead Millburn to a 41-27 victory over Woodbridge last night in Millburn.
Woodbridge drew to within 28-27 in the fourth quarter, but Gabe Greenberg returned a kickoff for a 76-yard TD and Harris rushed for a 20-yard TD to put the game out of reach.
Zack Weinstein finished with 14 carries for 108 yards and a score and had an interception in the fourth quarter. Zahneer Schuler rushed for three TDs for Woodbridge.
Woodbridge (6) at St. Joseph (Met.) (35) - Football
By Star-Ledger on November 08, 2013 10:25 p.m.
Matt Olivo rushed 13 times for 165 yards and two touchdowns and caught a 50-yard touchdown pass to lead St. Joseph of Metuchen to a 35-6 victory over Woodbridge, 35-6, last night in Woodbridge.
Olivo, who scored on runs of 60 and 20 to open the game, has scored at least one touchdown in 15 straight games for St. Joseph, which finished the regular season with a 9-0 record in just its third year of varsity football.
Quarterback Breein Tyree completed 3 of 7 passes for 107 yards and a touchdown. Marques Townes also scored for St. Joseph with a 40-yard run.
St. Joseph led, 21-0, after one quarter and 35-0 at the half.
St. Joseph finishes off 9-0 season with win
Nov. 8, 2013 11:37 PM Written by | Staff Report
Senior running back Matt Olivo carried nine times for 139 yards and two touchdowns to help the Greater Middlesex Conference White Division champion St. Joseph High School football team to a 35-6 vuctory over Woodbridge to complete the regular-season with an unblemished 9-0 record.
Olivo also caught a 50-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Breein Tyree as St. Joseph raced out to a 21-0 first-quarter lead and a 35-0 halftime advantage. Tyree, who scored on a 1-yard keeper, rushed for 95 yards and threw for 107 more.
Marques Townes scored on a 40-yard run for the Falcons, who will host a first-round Non-Public Group IV playoff game next weekend against an opponent to be determined.
“I think we have a lot of momentum,” St. Joseph coach Casey Ransone said. “I think our team has gotten better every single week, and that’s important. You know what’s coming with us. There’s nothing special about what we do. We line up and play smash-mouth football. The line is getting better and we are really jelling. I think we are peaking at the right time.”
The Barrons (2-7) scored their lone touchdown in the closing minute to avert a shutout.
Greg Tufaro's Week 9 High School Football Picks
The Home News Tribune November 8, 2013
St. Joseph (8-0) at Woodbridge (2-6): The Falcons clinched the White Division title with a victory at New Brunswick last weekend. Rookie head coach Casey Ransone will not allow his team to look ahead to next week’s Non-Public Group 3 home playoff game, likely against St. Augustine. Despite its six-game losing streak, Woodbridge can be formidable because of its solid line play. St. Joseph running back Matt Olivo remains the league’s leading rusher with 1,482 yards and 15 touchdowns.
St. Joseph 24-8.
John Haley's Week 9 High School Football Picks
The Star-Ledger November 8, 2013
St. Joseph (8-0) at Woodbridge (2-6): St. Joseph is just waiting to see who it plays in the Non-Public, Group 4 playoffs, but there's still plenty of incentive to keep an unbeaten season going. RB Matt Olivio keeps adding to the record books every time he touches the ball for St. Joseph, while Jake Stolzenberg, Joseph Papa and Marques Townes lead a stellar defense. Griffin Thomas has played well for Woodbridge.
St. Joseph, 28-7
Bishop Ahr tops Woodbridge
Nov. 2, 2013 Written by | Staff report
Bishop Ahr 26, Woodbridge 16: David Holder completed 11-of-20 passes for 156 yards and three touchdowns as Bishop Ahr improved to 3-5.
The Trojans overcame a 10-0 deficit early in the second quarter, scoring three touchdowns before the half to take a 19-10 lead.
Liam Glynn recovered a fumble in the end zone, Holder hit Kaysaan Neal on a 48 yard touchdown pass, and with 13 seconds left in the half Holder hit Michael Viggiano on an 8 yard pass.
Bishop Ahr added to its lead early in the third quarter when Holder and Viggiano connected again, this time on a 68 yard strike to take a 26-10 lead.
Zahneer Schuler threw a touchdown pass for Woodbridge (2-6) in the fourth quarter, while the Barrons got their early lead by recovering a fumble in the end zone and kicker Griffin Thomas connected on a field goal.
Bishop Ahr (26) at Woodbridge (16) - Football
By Star-Ledger on November 02, 2013 12:10 a.m.
With its potent running game held in check, Bishop Ahr went to the air and David Holder responded by completing 11 of 20 passes for 156 yards and three touchdowns in a 26-18 victory over Woodbridge last night in Woodbridge.
Bishop Ahr beat Woodbridge for the first time in six lifetime meetings.
Michael Viggiano caught three passes for 78 yards and two touchdowns for Bishop Ahr while Kaysaan Neal caught three balls for 53 yards and a touchdown. Bishop Ahr had 77 yards rushing.
Woodbridge led, 10-0, early in the second quarter, thanks to a fumble recovery for a touchdown in the first quarter, followed by a field goal by Griffin Thomas.
But Bishop Ahr would score 19 unanswered points in the second quarter for a 19-10 halftime lead. Liam Glynn recovered a fumble in the end zone, then Holder hit Neal with a 48-yard touchdown pass, followed by an eight-yard pass to Viggiano.
Bishop Ahr claimed a 26-10 lead after three quarters when Holder hit Viggiano with a 65-yard pass. Woodbridge closed out the scoring with a pass from quarterback Zahneer Schuler.
Greg Tufaro's Week 8 High School Football Picks
The Home News Tribune November 1, 2013
Bishop Ahr (2-5) at Woodbridge (2-5): No team has endured more heartbreak than Bishop Ahr, which has lost two games by a single point and also dropped an overtime decision. Bishop Ahr is the only team to outgain undefeated St. Joseph in yards from scrimmage (242-241), but still lost that game 20-10. After opening the season with consecutive wins, Woodbridge has lost five in a row, scoring a total of just two touchdowns in four of those setbacks.
Bishop Ahr 21-13.
John Haley's Week 8 High School Football Picks
The Star-Ledger November 1, 2013
Bishop Ahr (2-5) at Woodbridge (2-5): Bishop Ahr is one of the best 2-5 teams around as its defense is yielding 14 points per game, which made every game it played in a winnable one. The offense, which is capable, will look to improve on its 18 points per game total. Woodbridge is struggling after a 2-0 start, but a win could keep its slim playoff hopes alive in North Jersey, Section 2, Group 4. Woodbridge leads the all-time series, 5-0.
Bishop Ahr, 15-14
Defense, Roberts' offense helps J.F. Kennedy to shutout of Woodbridge
Oct. 26, 2013 Written by Dan Canova For NJ Press Media
ISELIN — For the second consecutive week, the J.F. Kennedy High School football team played suffocating defense and ran the ball with Anthony Roberts down the throats of its opponent.
And for the second straight week, Kennedy came out victorious, defeating Woodbridge 38-0.
For head coach Andrew Maurizio, it’s all about changing the perception of Kennedy football.
“After we lost to Ocean pretty badly, we came with a mindset that we didn’t like how we were perceived,” Maurizio said. “For the last three weeks, it was all about changing the perception of Kennedy High School and Kennedy football.”
The Mustangs, who are now 4-3, only allowed three first downs the entire game (two in the first quarter, and one in the fourth quarter), with less than 75 yards of total offense.
After a scoreless first quarter, Kennedy put up 20 in the seconmd quarter and from then on, it was ground and pound football with senior tailback Roberts, who gained 122 yards on 19 carries and scored three of Kennedy’s six touchdowns.
“He (Roberts) just runs hard,” Maurizio said. “He has very large ambitions. I always go up to Anthony and I say, ‘What play do you want to run?’ I always give him that option and he never fails to produce when he calls a play.”
Anthony’s younger brother, Andrew who happens to be the starting quarterback of the Mustangs, did well in Kennedy’s passing game. Andrew Roberts threw for 114 yards, completing 11 of 16 passes and threw an early fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Terrance Young, which sealed the game for Kennedy.
“We worked hard all week, we prepared for Woodbridge, and we executed well,” Andrew Roberts said. “Everybody doubts us. Woodbridge thought they were going to come out and win. We are a new team, new coaching staff, we got it done and we are just on a roll.”
“I tell them every day, win or lose, you have to ask yourself as a man, can you prepare with the same focus regardless of the situation,” Maurizio said. “One day they are all going to be fathers and husbands. You have to take care of your family regardless of all situations. Can you wake up every morning with the mindset of being better that day?
Next week, Kennedy will shift its attention toward South Plainfield, seeking a possible playoff berth.
“I think if we play exactly like we did tonight, we will be good,” Andrew Roberts said.
“If we execute this week, and practice hard all week I think we should be good.”
SCORING SUMMARY
JFK – Ant. Roberts 21-yard run (extra point good)
JFK – Wood 20-yard run (extra point good)
JFK – Ant. Roberts 4-yard run (extra point failed)
JFK – Ant. Roberts 6-yard run (two point conversion failed)
JFK – Allen 12-yard run (extra point failed)
JFK – And. Roberts 10-yard pass to Young (extra point failed)
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS
RUSHING: JFK– And Roberts 3-51, Ant Roberts 19-122, Wood 5-41 W–Maina 4-21, Muzzio 7-17, Lanier 3-15
PASSING: D– And Roberts 11-16-0-114. W– Fudge 1-3-1-10
RECEIVING: JFK– Ant. Roberts 2-8, Young 4-55, DeLeon 1-7, Oziegbe 5-44, W– Muzzio 1-10,
Woodbridge (0) at Iselin Kennedy (38) - Football
By Star-Ledger on October 25, 2013 10:34 p.m.
Anthony Roberts rushed 18 times for 145 yards and three touchdowns and Andrew Roberts completed 10 of 17 passes for 105 yards and a touchdown to lead Iselin Kennedy to a 38-0 victory over crosstown rival Woodbridge last night in Iselin.
Iselin Kennedy led, 14-0, after one quarter on a 20-yard run by Anthony Roberts and a 21-yard run by Brandon Wood. Iselin Kennedy would then go ahead, 26-0, at the half on a four-yard touchdown run by Roberts and a 12-yard run by Andrew Allen.
A 12-yard run by Roberts and an 11-yard pass from Andrew Roberts to Terrance Young concluded the scoring in the second half. Young caught three passes for 44 yards, Stepp Oziegbe caught four passes for 39 yards.
Iselin Kennedy has won its last three games, outscoring the opposition, 142-19. Woodbridge had won five in a row against its rival Iselin Kennedy and nine of out 10. Woodbrige leads the series, 21-9-1.
John Haley's Week 7 High School Football Picks
The Star-Ledger October 25, 2013
Woodbridge (2-4) at Iselin Kennedy (3-3): Woodbridge is a young team still feeling the effects of that youth. The Woodbridge defense is going to be put to the test as linemen Ryan Alcott and Morgan Opoku and back Xavier Atkinson have the task of trying to contain Iselin Kennedy's explosive RB Anthony Roberts, who has 392 yards and seven touchdowns in his last two games. Woodbridge leads the all-time series, 21-8-1 with five straight wins and nine of the last 10. After last playing in 1993, the series was renewed last season.
Woodbridge, 22-20
Greg Tufaro's Week 7 High School Football Picks
The Home News Tribune Oct. 24, 2013
Woodbridge (2-4) at J.F. Kennedy (3-3): After the ground game averaged 245 yards in season-opening wins over New Brunswick and Perth Amboy, Woodbridge’s offense has stalled. The Barrons, who switched from a Multiple I to the double wing, are mired in a four-game losing streak. Injuries have hobbled quarterback Zahneer Shuler. The Mustangs rely almost exclusively on running back Anthony Roberts, who has amassed 844 yards and a league-high 14 rushing touchdowns. Woodbridge’s run defense played better than the final score indicates in a 33-7 loss to Carteret last weekend. The Barrons would be eliminated from NJSIAA playoff contention with a loss.
J.F. Kennedy 19-16.
GMC FOOTBALL REALIGNMENT
Posted on October 24, 2013 by Greg Tufaro
The Greater Middlesex Conference has realigned its football divisions for the 2014 and 2015 seasons, according to league president Carl Buffalino.
North Brunswick will drop from the Red to the White Division and New Brunswick will move from the White to the Blue Division.
Cardinal McCarrick, which suspended its varsity program this season, will not play football in the GMC for the next two years.
The GMC and Shore Conference will continue their partnership regarding crossover games to help schools from both leagues fill open dates on their schedules.
Neither the Raiders nor the Zebras petitioned the GMC to be moved. The teams were dropped as a result of a realignment formula, which is predicated upon each school’s enrollment and win-loss record over the last three seasons.
New Brunswick, currently a Group IV school, is 0-6 this season. The Zebras have lost 34 of their last 35 games with the lone win against Perth Amboy, which is currently mired in a 15-game losing streak.
North Brunswick, another Group IV school which was moved to the Red Division after finishing 5-5 in the White Division in 2011, has gone 2-14 since the transition. The Raiders are currently 0-6.
The Zebras have been outscored 280-72 and the Raiders have been outscored 175-30 this season.
Following are the division breakdowns for the next two-year cycle:
Red: East Brunswick, Edison, Monroe, Old Bridge, Piscataway, Sayreville, South Brunswick, J.P. Stevens.
White: Bishop Ahr, Carteret, Colonia, North Brunswick, Perth Amboy, J.F. Kennedy, St. Joseph, South Plainfield, Woodridge.
Blue: Dunellen, Highland Park, Metuchen, Middlesex, New Brunswick, South River, Spotswood.
HS FOOTBALL: Baccarella gets offensive, carries Carteret past Woodbridge
Oct. 19, 2013 7:19 PM Written by Greg Tufaro @MyCJ_Sports
WOODBRIDGE — As a penetrating defensive tackle, Cory Baccarella spends so much time in opposing teams’ backfields, one gets the impression he wants to carry the ball.
Seldom used as a fullback, Baccarella got his chance to carry the load Saturday, largely due to an injury to tailback Terell Merricks, who watched his teammate rush for 101 yards and three touchdowns on 29 carries – all career-highs – as a vastly improved Carteret High School football team rolled to a 33-7 victory over Woodbridge at Priscoe Stadium.
“We had planned to use (Baccarella) as a fullback some and get him a carry or two each game,” Carteret head coach Matt Yascko said. “When the Merricks kid got hurt, that opened the door for him. We had to get somebody in there who could run the ball, and he’s just gotten better and better the more touches he gets.
“He’s tough to bring down. He’s a big, thick kid. When Terell gets back – which he will shortly – it will be a nice complement to have the speed guy and the power guy and hopefully that’s something we can ride for a while.”
In reverting to its old smash-mouth style of football, Carteret spoiled the homecoming of Woodbridge’s 1993 state championship team, which was honored in a 20th anniversary pregame ceremony.
The Barrons (2-4), who have dropped four straight after averaging 245 rushing yards in a pair of season-opening wins, mustered just 138 yards of total offense, 79 of which came through the air and 68 of which came in the final three minutes.
Carteret did not allow an offensive touchdown and its defense got on the scoreboard when safety Isaiah Castillo returned an interception 104 yards for a score with a minute remaining.
Facing Woodbridge’s newly installed double wing, the Ramblers did not divert from their base 4-3 defense, but disguised it as a 6-3 by pinching the cornerbacks, essentially stuffing the box with nine players to negate the run.
The front four of Cory Guzman, Javier Gonzalez, Sam Kamara and Baccarella allowed Carteret’s linebackers to make plays from behind against a completely balanced formation in which it is difficult to identify the rusher.
Woodbridge’s lone touchdown came on Griffin Thomas’ 30-yard interception return off a tipped pass from quarterback Nelson Baez, whose individual progress is a big reason for Carteret’s turnaround.
“I do a lot of individual work with him on defensive days and I think it’s starting to pay off,” Yascko said of Baez, who also had a career day, completing 7 of 13 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown.
“I can’t say enough about the effort that Nelson puts in every day. He comes ready to work and is always willing to listen. He’s a true student of the game. He missed last year because of an injury so I think earlier in the year he was kind of playing like a sophomore. But he’s growing in (the position). This is five varsity games now, and you see his ability and he’s getting better and better and hopefully he’s peaking at the right time.”
The defending Central Group II champion Ramblers (3-2), who have won three of their last four, looked like a completely different team than the one which scored just one offensive touchdown in a 23-14 season-opening loss to St. Joseph.
Surprisingly, the Ramblers rolled up 265 yards from scrimmage without Merricks, who left the game when he re-aggravated an Achilles heel injury early in the first quarter.
After Thomas knotted the score at 7-7 with seven minutes left in the third quarter, Baez rebounded, throwing a perfectly executed 32-yard screen pass for a touchdown to Charles Faulkner.
Baccarella put the game out of reach, scoring on each of Carteret’s next two possessions with runs of 13 and 4 yards. His first touchdown, a 2-yard plunge with 3:05 left in the first half, came after the Ramblers made a huge defensive stop on fourth-and-inches from the Woodbridge 31 yard line.
As the game progressed, Baccarella appeared to get stronger, often carrying the pile for short-yardage gains that kept alive scoring drives.
“Coach just let me keep powering the ball,” Baccarella said. “Our tailback was hurt. I knew I had to step into some shoes and take care of my team and be a captain and do what I have to do for my team.”
Carteret (33) at Woodbridge (7) - Football
By Star-Ledger on October 19, 2013 9:46 p.m.
Cory Baccarella rushed 29 times for 101 yards and scored three touchdowns to lead Carteret to a 33-7 victory over Woodbridge yesterday in Woodbridge.
Quarterback Nelson Baez was 7 of 14 for 122 yards and a touchdown, while Isaiah Castillo delivered the final blow with a 104-yard interception return.
Carteret led 19-7 after three quarters before Baccarella scored twice in the fourth quarter followed by Castillo's big run.
Carteret led 7-0 at the half after Baccarella capped a drive in the opening quarter with a two-yard run. Woodbridge tied the game at 7-7 in the third quarter when Griffin Thomas scored on a 38-yard interception return.
But Carteret would strike twice before the end of the quarter to claim a 19-7 lead _ a 32-yard pass to Charles Faulkner and a 13-yard run by Baccarella, who added a four-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.
Faulkner (3-41), Hassan Williams (2-37) and Brandon Gilder (1-31) combined on six catches for 109 yards.
In a rivalry dating back to the 1920s, Woodbridge leads, 27-25-4.
Greg Tufaro's Week 6 High School Football Picks
The Home News Tribune Oct. 17, 2013
Carteret (2-2) at Woodbridge (2-3), 1 p.m.: The Barrons, who recently scrapped their multiple I formation in favor of the rare double wing, hope the new offense can help them snap a three-game losing streak. Those defeats were against teams with a combined13-1 record. Carteret, with a bye week, had some extra time to prepare for Woodbridge’s new look. The Ramblers finally got their own running game on track with a 45-14 victory over winless New Brunswick on Oct. 4. Woodbridge’s offensive line will be the difference.
Woodbridge 19-15.
John Haley's Week 6 High School Football Picks
The Star-Ledger October 17, 2013
Carteret (2-2) at Woodbridge (2-3) (Saturday): Carteret and defenders Cory Baccarella, Charles Faulkner and Brandon Gilder had two weeks to prepare for Woodbridge and its new double-wing attack led by backs Joe Muzzio and Ian Maina. In a series that dates to the 1920s, Woodbridge leads, 27-24-4.
Woodbridge (7) at Colonia (21) - Football
Star-Ledger on October 11, 2013 10:46 p.m.
By John Haley/For The Star-Ledger
Quarterback Tenni Adewusi runs the show, the offensive line blocks, Sam Pero churns out the yards and Elijah Williams makes big plays.
That's been the winning formula for Colonia (4-1) this year, especially in games involving Woodbridge Township teams.
Adewusi rushed nine times for 44 yards and completed 7 of 12 passes for 81 yards, while Pero rushed 25 times for 159 yards and three touchdowns to improve his season total to 808 yards and nine scores.
But a key interception by Williams with 3:35 remaining led to a 21-7 Colonia victory in Colonia last night. In a series played continually since 1967, Colonia leads, 24-19-4.
Colonia claimed a 14-7 lead with 1:34 left in the third quarter when Pero capped an 86-yard drive with a 1-yard handoff to the left side on third-and-goal. Adewusi was 4-for-4 on the drive for 55 yards, including a 30-yard pass to Raul Cardona in the left flat.
Woodbridge, running the unique double-wing attack which features pitches and misdirection plays, then drove 63 yards to the Woodbridge 6, but a high toss to the halfback could not be handled and Colonia's Jimmy Becker recovered.
Woodbridge (2-3) had one last chance when it got the ball back on its own 33 following a punt with 3:35 left in the game.
But on first down, Williams, a transfer from Rahway, picked off a pass by Woodbridge quarterback Michael Croteau, who was playing for injured starter Zahneer Schuler. Williams returned it 22 yards to the Woodbridge 13. Pero scored four plays later from the 6 to seal it.
In a victory on opening night over Iselin Kennedy, another township team, Williams changed the game with a long punt return for a touchdown.
"He's been making big plays for us all year,'' Colonia coach Tom Roarty said. "I can't say enough about Isiah, Sam, the offensive line and our defense. Woodbridge is big, they moved the ball, but we made stops and big plays.''
Colonia finished with 296 total yards to 232 for Woodbridge, but more importantly, Colonia won the turnover battle, 2-0. Joe Muzzio rushed 16 times for 88 yards to lead Woodbridge, Ian Maina had 15 for 66.
Woodbrige came out and scored on the sixth play of the game. Fooling Colonia with a quick inside handoff to fullback Brad Rayborn, he busted it up the middle for a 43-yard touchdown.
It became a defensive struggle from there as the teams punted three times each until Colonia took over on its own 20 with 7:00 left in the half.
Colonia then controlled things when Pero ran five times during an 80-yard drive, which he capped with a 38-yard burst to the right side.
"Woodbridge is a big team, so our line had to get used to it,'' said Pero. "But they figured it out and we got it going.''
Pero's 3 TD runs boost Colonia
Oct. 11, 2013 11:11 PM Written by Dan Canova For NJ Press Media
The Colonia High Schoolo football team rode three Sam Pero touchdowns to a 21-7 victory over Woodbridge Friday night at Colonia High School.
The Patriots were able to hold Woodbridge to only seven first-quarter points by creating turnovers, and making key defensive stops.
“I thought our defense did a good job,” Patriots head coach Tom Roarty said. “That’s a tough offense to defend. They got a big offensive line, they run hard, and we just had to win first downs and get off the field.”
Colonia’s offense started and ended with the hard running of Pero. Pero had 21 carries for 148 yards and scored all three touchdowns for the Patriots.
“He’s our guy,” Roarty said. “We’re going to ride him until he can’t take it. I can’t say enough about Sam (Pero). He’s a rock.”
Like Roarty, Pero was satisfied with his defense’s performance, after only allowing the early 1st quarter touchdown. From then on out, Pero put the team on his back, and carried Colonia to a victory.
“The line does their job, and the quarterback made the right reads,” Pero said. “It means a lot knowing coach trusted me carrying the ball.”
After allowing the first touchdown of the game, the Patriots went on a 21-0 run, scoring a touchdown in each of the remaining quarters left in the game. Woodbridge gained all of their yards on the ground, unable to complete a pass, which made them very one-dimensional and much easier to defend.
Next week, the Patriots take on South Plainfield.
“We’re going to have to fix the mistakes,” Roarty said. “We hurt ourselves in the first half with some penalties. We can’t do that. South Plainfield is a very good team, they score a lot of points. We are going to have to play a very good game.”
SCORING SUMMARY
W – Rayborn 40 yard run (extra point good)C – Pero 36 yard run (extra point good)
C – Pero 1 yard run (extra point good)
C – Pero 6 yard run (extra point good)
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS
RUSHING: C– Pero 21-148. W–Maina 16-62, Muzzio 12-79, Rayborn 2-46, Opoku 2-14
PASSING: C– Adewusi 7-12-0-108
RECEIVING: C– Pero 1-37, Napoleon 3-18, Barneys 2-14, Cardona 2-39
John Haley's Week 5 High School Football Picks
The Star-Ledger October 11, 2013
Woodbridge (2-2) at Colonia (3-1): With Colonia installing lights in 2012, this place is going to be jam packed as this intense, township rivalry will take place for the 47th straight year. Woodbridge, led by LB Brad Rayborn and defensive linemen Manny Santiago and Ryan Alcott, will have its hands full against a potent offense which is averaging 376.8 yards per game behind the legs of Sam Pero and the arm of Tenni Adewusi. Will Woodbridge unveil its new double-wing attack? Although Woodbridge has won the last four meetings (Correction - Woodbridge won in '08, 09', 10', and 11', Colonia won in 12'), Colonia leads the series, 23-19-4.
Colonia, 27-21
Greg Tufaro's Week 5 High School Football Picks
The Home News Tribune Oct. 10, 2013
Woodbridge (2-2) at Colonia (3-1): The Barrons allowed 20-unanswered second quarter points and saw a 14-7 lead quickly evaporate against South Plainfield’s explosive offense in their second consecutive defeat. After being slowed in a shutout loss to Monroe the previous week, Woodbridge RB Ian Maina (151 rushing yards) got back on track, though, against the Tigers. Colonia rebounded from a 16-7 loss to White Division leading St. Joseph with consecutive lopsided victories, outscoring New Brunswick and Perth Amboy by a combined 88-20 margin. Colonia’s Tenni Adewusi has completed 24 of 35 passes for 416 yards with six TD and one interception for a phenomenal 136 QB rating.
Colonia 19-16.
Woodbridge-Colonia to battle for the 47th straight season
By John Haley/For The Star-Ledger
on October 10, 2013 10:31 p.m.
Colonia and Woodbridge will meet for the 47th straight season on Friday.
With Colonia installing lights last season and last season's game being held in Woodbridge, Colonia will host the game under the lights for the first time at CHS.
After double and triple checking for accuracy, I came up with Colonia holding a 23-19-4 advantage.
"It's not Michigan-Ohio State, but it's up there, said Colonia Athletic Director Benny LaSala, who was the Colonia head coach from 1996-2012. "It's a real big deal in this town, it's one of the most intense rivalries I've been around. It's even more intense when it's played in the meaningful time of year.
"For a lot of kids, it's their last game in the rivalry so it's something they can brag about for years. In any sport, any time it's Colonia, Woodbridge and Kennedy playing each other, the kids gets extra pumped up.''
Added Billy Nyers, a Woodbridge graduate who never played in the series because of injury but who coached in it 10 times: "It's a natural, intense rivalry becuase all the kids know each other. They all played Pop Warner together or against each other and it just makes the game so intense. It's a great thing for the schools and the town.''
RIVALRY NOTES:
The longest winning streak for each team is 5 and they followed each other.
Woodbridge won five straight from 1991 to 1995, then Colonia won five in a row from 1996-2000. During that streak, Colonia averaged 42.0 points per game.
Two of Colonia's three coaches who have coached in this rivalry played for Woodbridge _ Joe Martino, who graduated in 1956 and Patsy Barbato, who graduated in 1955.
Woodbridge coach Bill Nyers(Jody Somers/The Star-Ledger)
In the 1980 game, Barbato coached against his two sons who both played for Woodbridge that season, Michael and Patrick.
Woodbridge has recorded six shutouts, the last one coming in 2003.
Colonia has four shutouts, the last one coming in 1982.
Most points scored by Woodbridge: 42 in 2010.
Most points scored by Colonia: 55 in 1999. Colonia also scored 49 in 1996.
Most points scored by the two teams: 81 in 1996 when Woodbridge won 49-32. (Correction - Colonia won in 1996)
In 1969, the two teams played to a 0-0 tie. That cost Woodbridge a perfect season as the Barrons finished 8-0-1.
The series began in the first season of Colonia football in 1967 with Colonia winning 12-7.
Colonia has had three coaches throughout the series _ Joe Martino 1967-1976, Patsy Barbato 1977-1995 and Benny LaSala from 1996-2012. Colonia's rookie head coach Tom Roarty will be coaching in his first Colonia-Woodbridge game.
Woodbridge has had six coaches _ Sam Lupo 1967-1972, Frank Capraro 1973-1987, Mike Cilento 1988-1992, Frank Bender 1993, Billy Nyers 1994-2002 and 2012-present and Brian Russo 2003-2011
The different coaching matchups:
Sam Lupo vs. Joe Martino, 1967-1972
Frank Capraro vs. Joe Martino 1973-1976
Frank Capraro vs. Patsy Barbato 1977-1987
Mike Cilento vs. Patsy Barbato 1988-1992
Frank Bender vs. Patsy Barbato 1993
Billy Nyers vs. Patsy Barbato 1994-1995
Billy Nyers vs. Benny LaSala 1996-2002 and in 2012
Brian Russo vs. Benny LaSala 2003-2011
Note: Thanks to Woodbridge Township's amazing high school sports historian Nick Sardone.
COLONIA-WOODBRIDGE
(Colonia leads, 23-19-4)
1967: Colonia 12-7
1968: Woodbridge 33-13
1969: Tie 0-0
1970: Woodbridge 21-0
1971: Woodbridge 32-7
1972: Colonia 7-0
1973: Colonia 7-0
1974: Woodbridge 8-7
1975: Colonia 14-7
1976: Woodbridge 14-7
1977: Colonia 27-7
1978: Colonia 7-0
1979: Colonia 7-6
1980: Tie 13-13
1981: Tie 0-0
1982: Colonia 21-0
1983: Woodbridge 6-0
1984: Colonia 18-7
1985: Colonia 28-13
1986: Colonia 13-6
1987: Tie 14-14
1988: Colonia 21-7
1989: Colonia 24-7
1990: Colonia 28-7
1991: Woodbridge 20-0
1992: Woodbridge 35-0
1993: Woodbridge 14-13
1994: Woodbridge 28-6
1995: Woodbridge 12-0
1996: Colonia 49-32
1997: Colonia 42-35
1998: Colonia 41-13
1999: Colonia 55-20
2000: Colonia 14-13
2001: Woodbridge 35-13
2002: Woodbridge 27-22
2003: Woodbridge 17-0
2004: Woodbridge 14-8
2005: Colonia 42-20
2006: Colonia 20-18
2007: Colonia 28-13
2008: Woodbridge 14-12
2009: Woodbridge 19-6
2010: Woodbridge 42-6
2011: Woodbridge 23-19
2012: Colonia 28-21
South Plainfield scores 27 unanswered points to pull away
Oct. 5, 2013 Written by Todd Cohen | For NJ Press Media
SOUTH PLAINFIELD — Faced with a 14-7 deficit and several sloppy offensive plays, the South Plainfield offense dusted itself off and let out a flurry of points.
Quarterback Kyle Moroney threw four touchdown passes as the Tigers erupted for 27 consecutive points over the second and third quarters in a 40-21 victory over Woodbridge Friday night.
The win puts South Plainfield at 3-0 for the first time in 31 years.
The Tigers used a mix of Moroney’s arm (10 of 18 for 251 yards) and running back Roemello Monroe’s legs (120 yards rushing, 2 TDs) to overpower Woodbridge with several huge gainers.
Woodbridge (2-2) appeared to be in control early, converting a forced fumble and touchdown on a quarterback sneak by Zahneer Shuler into a one-score lead. To add to South Plainfield’s problems, Moroney was wrapped up for a 6-yard loss on a sack. But the Tigers’ fortunes changed on the ensuing play. Moroney had only seconds to unload a pass to Kyle Dickerson that evolved into an 80-yard touchdown to put South Plainfield within one point at 14-13.
South Plainfield linebacker John Chillemi used a leg tackle to force Woodbridge into a turnover on downs on the Barrons’ next offensive series and once again South Plainfield used its quick-strike attack for its second lead of the contest. Monroe went 65 yards and outraced the Woodbridge defense for a 19-14 Tigers advantage with 6:54 left in the first half.
“We started to get our momentum going and just started running our offense the way we know we can do it,” Moroney said.
For South Plainfield, this marks the third straight game that they piled up at least 33 points in a game.
“We’re trying to start our own history here,” South Plainfield coach Gary Cassio said on his record-breaking start. “I’m excited about our start but we’re taking it one game at a time.”
Even when one of his top targets (Jason Lee) went down with an injury, Moroney was able to locate varsity newcomer Trey Martinez, who had three catches for 114 yards and a touchdown.
“It’s a great feeling to start off like this,” Moroney said. “We’re going to continue putting up good numbers and keep doing this.”
Jared Agee had two interceptions to guide the Tigers defense, while Ian Maina had a game-high 151 yards rushing for Woodbridge.
Woodbridge 14 0 0 7 — 21
South Plainfield 7 20 7 6 — 40
INDIVIDUAL SCORING
First Quarter
S-Lee 11 pass from Moroney (Garcia kick)
W-Martin 34 pass from Shuler (Thomas kick)
W-Shuler 1 run (Thomas kick)
Second Quarter
S-Dickerson 80 pass from Moroney (kick failed)
S-Monroe 65 run (kick failed)
S-Dickerson 3 pass from Moroney (Monroe run)
Third Quarter
S-Martinez 19 pass from Moroney (Garcia kick)
Fourth Quarter
W-Maina 16 run (Thomas kick)
S-Monroe 8 run (pass failed)
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS
RUSHING: W-Maina 21-151, Shuler 13-60, Muzzio 4-9, Rayborn 3-9; S-Monroe 14-120, Waldrop 2-10, Moroney 3-(-10), Gonzalez 2-(-2), Cone 2-(-6), Agee 1-4.
PASSING: W-Shuler 6-15-2-93; S-Moroney 10-18-0-251.
RECEIVING: W-Lanier 2-45, Smith 2-12, Martin 1-34, Muzzio 1-2; S-Martinez 3-114, Monroe 3-37, Dickerson 2-84, Lee 2-16.
Woodbridge (21) at South Plainfield (40) - Football
By Star-Ledger on October 04, 2013 10:52 p.m.
Senior quarterback Kyle Moroney threw four touchdown passes for the second straight week and South Plainfield earned its first 3-0 start since 1982 by fighting from behind to beat Woodbridge, 40-21, last night in South Plainfield.
Moroney put South Plainfield ahead 7-0 in the first quarter by hitting Jason Lee with an 11-yard TD pass, but Woodbridge would claim a 14-7 lead after the first period on a 35-yard pass from quarterback Zahneer Schuler and a 1-yard touchdown run.
But South Plainfield would go on to score 26 unanswered points, including 20 in the second quarter to claim a 27-14 halftime lead.
Big plays were the theme as Moroney hit Kyle Dickerson with an 80-yard touchdown pass, followed by a 65-yard tuchdown run by Roemello Monroe. Dickerson added a 3-yard TD pass by Moroney to cap the half.
Moroney began the third quarter with an 18-yard TD pass to Trey Martinez for a 33-14 lead. The two teams then exchanged scores, with Monroe scoring from 8 yards out for South Plainfield.
Woodbridge leads the all-time series, which was renewed last year for the first time 1977, 5-4.
Greg Tufaro's Week 4 High School Football Picks
The Home News Tribune Oct. 4, 2013
Woodbridge (2-1) at No. 10 South Plainfield (2-0): Woodbridge’s vaunted running game (290-yard average over the first two contests) came to a screeching halt in last weekend’s 49-0 loss to Monroe. South Plainfield, meanwhile, took to the air for an impressive win over defending White Division champion Carteret, the school’s third victory over the Ramblers in the past 20 years. Quarterback Kyle Moroney is the division’s leading passer (310 yards), but the Tigers can run the ball, as well, with bruising back Roemello Monroe (269 yards). Woodbridge has completed just five passes this fall, but backs Ian Mania and Joe Muzzio have combined to rush for 475 yards.
South Plainfield 18-16.
John Haley's Week 4 High School Football Picks
The Star-Ledger October 4, 2013
Woodbridge (2-1) at South Plainfield (2-0): South Plainfield’s front line of Brian Schillaci, Sam Persad, Lucio Avelar, Xavier Wilson and Sean Cullen allowed QB Kyle Moroney to have a 250-yard passing day against Carteret last week. Defensive players for Woodbridge, including Elon and Cam Capers, Manny Santiago and Griffin Thomas will have to prevent that. South Plainfield is going for its first 3-0 start since 1982. Woodbridge, which renewed its series with South Plainfield last year for the first time since 1977, leads the all-time series, 5-3.
South Plainfield, 15-13
Football: Monroe handles Woodbridge, 49-0
By John Haley/For The Star-Ledger
September 27, 2013 9:58 p.m.
It's obvious by the final score of 49-0 that Monroe dominated Woodbridge in every phase of the game Friday night in Monroe, but it all started with field position.
With Woodbridge beginning six of its eight first half drives from its own 20 or further back, Monroe took advantage of its defense, special teams, and a balanced offense working constantly with a short field. The result was a 43-0 halftime lead.
Monroe, a Greater Middlesex Conference, Red Division affiliate, racked up 192 yards in the first half, while holding White Division member Woodbridge to 28 total yards and two first downs. After three quarters, Monroe had 274 yards to 21 for Woodbridge and a 49-0 lead.
"Field position was the key,'' Monroe coach Chris Beagan said. "When the field gets tilted like that, it can get out of hand. My offensive coordinator was joking with me that he wasn't getting to call any plays.''
Akeer Franklin racked up 116 yards on 11 carries and two touchdowns, he returned a kickoff 65 yards for a touchdown and intercepted a pass -- all in the first half to account for his game totals. Quarterback Stephen Karoly was 3 of 7 passing for 44 yards with TD strikes of 11 yards to Cameron Coleman and 14 to David Betancur. Karoly also ran in a touchdown.
Beginning the game on its own 20, Woodbridge was whistled for holding on the first play. Monroe wound up taking over after a punt, on the Woodbridge 48. Seven plays later, on 3rd-and-10 from the Woodbridge 11, a scrambling Karoly found Coleman cutting across in the end zone.
Woodbridge began its next drive at its own 4 after a long kickoff by Schreiber was rolling close to the goal line before Woodbridge picked it up. After a four-yard gain to the eight, a Woodbridge back was hit by Nick Marinelli. When the back spun back the other way, he was swarmed by several tacklers in the end zone for a safety.
"Our defense was outstanding,'' said Beagan, whose defense had sacks recorded by Chase Santiago, Kyle Volkmann and Anthony Giudice.
On the free kick which followed, Franklin showed off his speed and power for a 65-yard touchdown. It never got any better for Woodbridge.
"We have a lot to work on, we're certainly going to meet many more challenges in the Red Division, but we're happy about where we're at,'' Beagan said.
Monroe 49 - Woodbridge 0
9-27-2013 Staff Report - The Home News Tribune
Stephen Karoly completed touchdown passes of 14 and 11 yards to David Betancur and Cameron Coleman, respectively. He also ran for a score. Woodbridge was outgained 274 to 21 in total yards from scrimmage.
The Barrons trailed 43-0 at the half. Kyle Volkman closed out Monroe’s scoring with a 1-yard run in the third quarter.
Woodbridge entered the game as one of the Greater Middlesex Conference’s top rushing teams, having averaged nearly 300 yards on the ground.
Greg Tufaro's Week 3 High School Football Picks
The Home News Tribune Sep. 26, 2013
No. 2 Monroe (2-0) at No. 9 Woodbridge (2-0): The Barrons, who have attempted just seven passes this season, run well behind a formidable offensive line. RB Joe Muzzio, who sat out last weekend’s win over New Brunswick with an injury, returns. Ian Maina rushed for a season-high 187 yards and two TDs in Muzzio’s absence. The Falcons may have the league’s most balanced offense with some diverse play-calling that suits its personnel. Dynamic Akeer Franklin of Monroe is simply one of the league’s most electrifying players, while QB Stephen Karoly, who benefits from sure-handed WR David Betancur, leads the conference with 239 passing yards and 4 TDs.
Monroe 26-13.
John Haley's Week 3 High School Football Picks
The Star-Ledger September 26 2013
Woodbridge has an entire pre-season and two regular-season games under its belt, but the moment of truth is now here.
Not that one game is going to define a season, especially a non-division game during Week 3. But after playing against and beating two teams struggling in the Greater Middlesex Conference, the Barrons will host Monroe (2-0) at Nick Priscoe Field on Friday night at 7
“I’m extremely excited,’’ said Woodbridge coach Bill Nyers, whose club from the White Division has beaten Perth Amboy and New Brunswick by identical scores of 41-12. “This game should really tell us where we’re at. We had some tough scrimmages, we got roughed up at times, but we did some really good things, too. And we’re happy the way we’ve played in our first two games. Anytime you can start at 2-0, you have to be pleased.’’
Although the Woodbridge roster has close to 80 players, only five started the entire 2012 season, while a handful of others started at some point or played part-time.
The strength of this team is size up front, where guards Cam Capers (6-0, 280 pounds) and Mike Cyriaks (6-0, 220), tackles Elon Capers (6-3, 310) and Manny Santiago (6-1, 290) and center Eddie Concitis (5-10, 215) combine for 1,315 pounds, or 263 per man.
“Yes, size is the strength of this team,’’ said Nyers. “But Monroe is very big too, which is another reason I’m really looking forward to this game. It will be beef against beef in the trenches.’’
The skill spots for Woodbridge are all new, with the exception of running back Joe Muzzio (5-10, 165). When Muzzio could not play against New Brunswick because of injury, sophomore Ian Maina (5-8, 160) stepped in and rushed for 187 yards on 25 carries and two touchdowns to give him a two-game total of 37 carries for 269 yards and three touchdowns. Muzzio will be ready Friday night, according to Nyers.
Zahneer Schuler, a 6-0, 215-pound junior who saw some varsity time at running back last year, has shifted to quarterback. Shuler has become an elusive runner, while Nyers feels he has the potential to emerge into a competent thrower as well, making him a dual threat. Schuler has three rushing touchdowns and two passing so far.
Wideouts Tyler Smith, Nate Lanier, Matt Opoku and Griffin Thomas can all catch the ball, while Percy Martin (210 pounds) Anthony Woods (240) and Ryan Alcott (170) provide depth at tight end.
The Woodbridge defense will be put to the test against a balanced Monroe team from the Red Division. Junior quarterback Stephen Karoly is efficient at running the spread offense for Monroe because he can pass (239 yards, four TDs), run or hand off to Akeer Franklin, who has 330 yards and five touchdowns in two games.
“They look very good on film,’’ said Nyers. “Franklin is a very effective back in that offense and their quarterback is very comfortable back there.’’
The Woodbridge defense will be led by ends Alcott and Nat Opoku, tackle Morgan Opoku, linebackers Martin, Xavier Atkinson and Brad Rayborn and the secondary of Thomas, Smith, Lanier and Anthony Tavares.
“We’re very young,’’ said Nyers. “Our goal is very simple right now and that is just to get better each week. And this is certainly going to be a big test.’’
Monroe, 28-20.
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK: Rushers carry load for GMC White Division
Sep. 23, 2013 Written by Greg Tufaro @MyCJ_Sports
Most high school football teams run the ball more than they throw it, but the disparity of rushing to passing plays in the Greater Middlesex Conference White Division is extraordinary.
With the exception of Bishop Ahr, the only member of the nine-school division to have passed for more yards than it has rushed in a game this season, teams are clearly giving ball carriers the bulk of the work.
Nearly 82 percent of all the plays called (472 of 580) in division games this season —again, excluding Bishop Ahr — have been on the ground.
The division’s other eight teams have combined to complete 38 of 124 passes for 599 yards and to rush 472 times for 2,483 yards in a total of 14 games (Carteret’s Brandon Gilder had a 95-yard touchdown reception to account for one sixth of those passing yards on a single play).
Five schools — St. Joseph, Woodbridge, J.F. Kennedy, New Brunswick, South Plainfield and Perth Amboy — have combined to complete fewer passes (20) in a total of 10 games than Monroe quarterback Stephen Karoly has attempted (21) in two Red Division contests (and the Falcons are averaging 36 rushes per game).
Monroe, interestingly, faces Woodbridge on Friday in the lone GMC crossover game of the season. It pits the run-oriented Barrons (92 rushes, seven passes) against a Falcon offense that appears to be one of the league’s most balanced.
“Defenses go into the game with a mind-set of stopping the run,” Monroe head coach Chris Beagan said. “Offensively, if your team is running the ball successfully, you are not going to put the ball in the air. From all I can tell, (the Barrons) have been very successful running the ball. I don’t usually look at that as a sign they can’t throw. They just haven’t had to.”
Woodbridge has used its run game to steamroll two winless opponents — Perth Amboy and New Brunswick — by the same 41-12 score.
Maina Woodbridge Roll New Brunswick
Posting Date: September 21 2013
Plainfield Sports News - Augustine Dashiell
WOODBRIDGE (NJ) – Sophomore Ian Maina rushed for 216 yards and two scores as Woodbridge opened their home schedule with a 41-12 victory over New Brunswick at Priscoe Field.
Maina sprinted 60 yards with his first carry of the game and capped that drive with a seven-yard sweep around right end. After a botched punt, Maina found his way into the end zone again this time on a 12-yard burst.
New Brunswick (0-2) relied heavily on sophomore tailback Maurice French (109 yards) but penalties and missed chances (three first half turnovers) thwarted drives when the Zebras moved the ball. Behind Maina, Woodbridge moved the ball and pushed their lead to three scores on a one-yard sneak by quarterback Zahneer Schuler.
Griffin Thomas broke the game open with an electrifying 66-yard punt return touchdown before Schuler closed out the first half scoring with a touchdown toss to Tyler Smith.
“We are very young,” New Brunswick coach, Castor Losada said after the game. “One thing I can say is we didn’t quit, we played hard in the second half and saw some things go our way.”
Woodbridge (2-0) hosts Monroe Friday while New Brunswick travels to Colonia.
COMMUNITY NEWS
09-20-2013 WoodbridgeFootball.com
Attention 1993 State Champion Barrons! We would like to honor the '93 team at our home game against Carteret on Saturday October 19th .
We will be starting with breakfast in the cafeteria followed by the game at 1:00 with introduction of the '93 team!!!
Call (732) 602-8602 to register if you can attend! Hope to see everyone there!
New Brunswick (12) at Woodbridge (41) - Football
By Star-Ledger on September 20, 2013 10:42 p.m
Ian Maina posted touchdown runs of 7 and 11 yards to lead Woodbridge to a 41-12 victory over New Brunswick at Woodbridge.
Griffin Thomas had a 60-yard punt return for Woodbridge. Nathan Lanier ran for 22 yards and one touchdown for Woodbridge.
Maina carries Woodbridge past New Brunswick
Sep. 20, 2013 10:07 PM Written by | Staff Report
Sophomore running back Ian Maina, filling in for injured starter Joe Muzzio, rushed for more than 100 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Woodbridge High School football team to a 41-12 victory over New Brunswick on Friday night.
Quarterback Zahneer Shuler had a 1-yard scoring plunge and a 22-yard touchdown pass for the Barrons (2-0). Nathan Lanier, another sophomore back, had a 22-yard touchdown jaunt.
Griffin Thomas, who returned a punt 60 yards for Woodbridge’s fourth touchdown, helped the Barrons build a 34-0 halftime lead.
Muzzio, the team’s leading rusher in a season-opening win over New Brunswick, is expected to return to action next week. Maina stepped up in his absence.
“He was the workhorse,” Woodbridge assistant coach Brian Casey said. “He got the majority of carries. It was like he didn’t miss a beat. Tonight was his night to mature, and he did.”
For the second straight game, Woodbridge received stellar play from its offensive line.
Greg Tufaro's Week 2 H.S. Football picks
The Home News Tribune Sep. 20, 2013
New Brunswick at Woodbridge: RB Maurice French showed potential in a season opening loss to South Plainfield, but the Zebras need more balance on offense. Woodbridge received 193 rushing yards from Joe Muzzio in a 41-12 win over Perth Amboy. Last year’s meeting was scoreless at halftime.
Woodbridge 30-12.
Middlesex County High School picks Week 2
By John Haley For The Star-Ledger September 20, 2013
New Brunswick (0-1) at Woodbridge (1-0): Maurice French is an emerging RB for New Brunswick. The word out of Woodbridge is that the offensive and defensive lines are not only gigantic, but talented, led by 6-3, 300-pound Elon Capers, 5-11, 275-pound Manny Santiago, 5-11, 270-pound Cam Capers and 6-1, 260-pound Morgan Opoku. A rivalry which was renewed last year for the first time since 1969 is all tied up at 13-13.
Woodbridge, 26-13
MILESTONE GAME FOR NYERS
09-19-2013 Charles McDevitt - WoodbridgeFootball.com
WOODBRIDGE - On Friday, September 20 at 7pm, Bill Nyers will be on the sidelines as the head coach for the 2013 Woodbridge Football program, as the Barrons welcome the New Brunswick Football team into Nick Priscoe Stadium.
A milestone for Coach Nyers will be recorded when the game begins. It will be the 100th game he will be leading his team as the head coach at Woodbridge High School. In the 90 year history of Woodbridge Football, only two other head coaches reached this milestone.
From 1935 – 1949, and then again from 1953 – 1962, coaching legend Nick Priscoe controlled the reigns of the Woodbridge Football program. During that 25 year period, Priscoe won 121 of the 221 games he was the head coach, and had .588 winning percentage. He leads the WHS record book in most seasons, most games played, and most wins as the head coach.
From 1973 – 1987, Frank Capraro was the Barrons head coach. He compiled a record of 15 seasons, 140 games, and 80 wins. Capraro also has a winning percentage of .600. No coach with more than two season has a higher percentage. His achievements place him second in the Woodbridge Football program record books.
With the 2013 season underway, Coach Nyers has begun his 11th season as the Barrons head coach. His first stretch was 1994 – 2002, where he compiled a 49 – 38 – 1, .563 winning percentage. In 1997, he guided the Barrons to their ninth State Championship. Currently, his 2012 – 2013 seasons have produced a 7 – 4, .636 winning percentage. Last week’s win at Perth Amboy was his 56 overall win in 99 games played. Overall, his record is 56 – 42 – 1. Nyers is among some very good company. He now stands in the record book at third position in seasons as head coach, games played, and wins as head coach. And his .571 winning percentage places him fourth for all coaches with 3 or more season.
Friday’s game for Nyers and his team is fast approaching. Mark your calendars and be sure to attend. Remember, you are the 12th man and your voices provide motivation to the players and staff. Its time to place win number 57, along with game 100 into the record book of the Woodbridge Football program.
Woodbridge builds big lead, rolls over Perth Amboy
Sep. 14, 2013 Written by Ken Weingartner for NJ Press Media
PERTH AMBOY — Bill Nyers was happy with what went well in Woodbridge High’s 41-12 season opening football win at Perth Amboy on Friday night, but even more pleased by what happened went things went wrong.
The Barrons held a 27-0 lead after Zahneer Schuler’s 50-yard touchdown pass to Percy Martin with 8:16 to go in the third quarter, but then saw Perth Amboy score twice in the next three minutes to make it 27-12. Woodbridge, though, responded with a 10-play, 73-yard drive to regain control.
“We were doing a good job and then we shot ourselves in the foot a few times and let them back in the game,” Nyers said. “But we’re very young; there are only about six kids out there that played a year ago. So the thing I was happy about, I liked their composure when things started changing a little bit.
“They kept their composure, so that was a good thing.”
Woodbridge was led by its rushing attack, which is probably not a surprise considering the Barrons possess an offensive line considered one of the best in the Greater Middlesex Conference White Division.
Senior Joe Muzzio had 183 yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries and sophomore Ian Maina added 98 yards and one TD on 13 hauls. Junior quarterback Schuler contributed 57 yards on nine carries and scored twice in addition to his big-play completion to Martin.
“The guys blocked real well up front and we got a couple good plays by our running backs,” Nyers said. “That’s something we’ve got to continue to work on. It all starts up front with those guys.”
Woodbridge scored on its first two possessions, with Maina capping a nine-play, 65-yard drive with a 12-yard run for the first TD and Muzzio ending an eight-play, 41-yard march with a 4-yard run for the second.
Muzzio, who had 90 yards in the first half, helped make it 21-0 with a 9-yard run just prior to halftime.
The Barrons outgained Perth Amboy, 211-20, in the first half.
After Schuler’s TD pass got Woodbridge started in the second half, the Panthers came to life. Dennis Sutton’s 28-yard kick return gave Perth Amboy the ball near midfield and Julio Medina, who split time at quarterback with Tristan Rock, followed with a 31-yard run on a broken play.
Two Woodbridge penalties moved the ball nearer the end zone and Medina capped the drive with a 2-yard run.
Less than 90 seconds later, the Panthers were celebrating another touchdown. Manny Saucedo picked up a fumble and returned it 57 yards for a score, cutting Perth Amboy’s deficit to 27-12 with 5:05 to play in the third quarter.
Woodbridge answered with its long drive that ended with Schuler’s 8-yard run on the first play of the fourth period.
Later in the quarter, the Barrons saw a chance to add to their lead thwarted by a fumble at Perth Amboy’s 4-yard-line, but Brad Rayborn’s interception helped set up Schuler’s second TD, this time on a 2-yard run.
“For the first game, it was alright,” Nyers said. “The kids played hard, but we’ve got to work on some things as well. We’ve got to learn to finish.”
Woodbridge (41) at Perth Amboy (12) - Football
By Star-Ledger on September 13, 2013 10:32 p.m.
The offense paved the way for four rushing touchdowns and a passing score for Woodbridge as it downed Perth Amboy, 41-12, in Perth Amboy.
Joe Muzzio ran for two touchdowns, Ian Maima and Zahneer Shuler each had scoring runs of their own and Percy Martin-Oguike hauled in a 70-yard touchdown pass as Perth Amboy opened up a 34-0 lead in the third quarter.
Julio Medino then scored on a 3-yard run and Manny Saucedo added a 56-yard fumble return for a touchdown to pull Perth Amboy to within 34-12 before Shuler capped the Woodbridge scoring with his second touchdown run of the night.
Greg Tufaro's Week 1 H.S. football picks
Sep. 11, 2013
Woodbridge at Perth Amboy, 7 p.m.: The Panthers have an athletic quarterback and depth at running back, thus they have become a read option team. Woodbridge boasts one of the White Division’s top offensive lines, from which running backs Joe Muzzio and Zahner Shuler will benefit.
Woodbridge 19-14.
WOODBRIDGE: Barrons have the horses
Sep. 11, 2013 11:28 PM
Written by Greg Tufaro @ My CJ Sports
After finding itself in a scoreless halftime deadlock with a New Brunswick team that was mired in one of the state’s longest losing streaks, Woodbridge altered its offensive philosophy and found a go-to running back in the process.
The Barrons, operating out of the Power I, rode the sturdy legs of running back Joe Muzzio, who has a penchant for grinding out tough yardage between the tackles, and reeled off 30 unanswered points in a shutout victory over the winless Zebras.
Muzzio’s breakout performance – he rushed for more than 100 yards for the first time in his career – set the tone for the remainder of the season as Woodbridge, which graduated more key players than any Greater Middlesex Conference squad, still managed a return trip to the NJSIAA playoffs.
“In that locker room at halftime,” Muzzio explained, “we were going crazy. We couldn’t believe what was going on. We put in the (Power I) package and started gaining yardage left and right. I proved myself a lot to Coach (Bill) Nyers. He just found out that I like to run the ball between the tackles.”
With Muzzio and the more fleet-of-foot Zahneer Shuler both returning, Woodbridge should feature a solid inside-outside running game behind what has to be regarded as one of the White Division’s top offensive lines.
Incumbent starters Cameron Capers, Elon Capers and Manny Santiago form the nucleus of a strong and sizable line. The trio averages 270 pounds. Muzzio credits any success he had last season to his line and blocking backs.
“I’ve known all of them for a very long time,” Muzzio said of his linemen, all of whom he went to middle school with. “I’ve seen them get very big and I got happy as life went on because I knew they were going to be blocking for me.”
Nyers, who previously coached at Woodbridge for an eight-year run that culminated with the school’s last sectional title in 1997, returned days before the start of training camp last year after predecessor Brian Russo was promoted to an administrative post.
The offense, once predicted upon the strong and accurate arm of quarterback Kyle Anderson and Nyers’ son Anthony, the school’s all-time leading receiver, underwent a massive overhaul. Nyers installed a run-oriented multiple wing that benefitted Muzzio.
“Joe is just a tough high school football player,” Nyers said. “He’s a good straight ahead runner. I like his tenacity.”
The Barrons, who have three players competing to replace the graduated James Rueb at quarterback, will rely on their ground attack until the signal callers develop.
Nyers said he will ride the hot hand out of the backfield. For much of last season, that was Muzzio, whose importance escalated as team-leading rusher Daquan Bailey battled injuries throughout the year.
Woodbridge rushed for 1,835 yards and 16 touchdowns, more than doubling the output of its passing game, which generated 649 yards and just three scores.
About the Barrons
Coach: Bill Nyers, second season (6-4).
Assistants: Ron Hilliard (assistant head coach, line); Kevin Coleman (defensive coordinator); Michael Carbone (defensive backs, receivers, strength and conditioning); Jason Ali (running backs, outside linebackers); Joe Liquori (freshman); Brian Casey (freshman).
Stadium: Nicholas A. Priscoe Field (turf).
Colors: Black and red.
Classification: North 2 Group IV.
Offensive formation: Muiltiple wing.
Defensive formation: Multiple 40.
2012 record: 6-4 overall, 6-2 GMC White.
2012 results: Perth Amboy 21-0 (W); New Brunswick 30-0 (W); Monroe 28-0 (L); South Plainfield 10-7 (W); Colonia 28-21 (L); Carteret 33-12 (L); J.F. Kennedy 27-6 (W); Bishop Ahr 17-14 (W); St. Joseph 23-7 (W); Sayreville 31-6 (L).
2013 schedule: Sept. 13 at Perth Amboy, 7 p.m.; Sept. 20 New Brunswick, 7 p.m.; Sept. 27 Monroe, 7 p.m.; Oct. 4 at South Plainfield, 7 p.m.; Oct. 11 at Colonia, 7 p.m.; Oct. 19 Carteret, 1 p.m.; Oct. 25 at J.F. Kennedy, 7 p.m.; Nov. 1 Bishop Ahr, 7 p.m.; Nov. 8 St. Joseph, 7 p.m.
THE SKINNY: Returning starters: Griffin Thomas (Sr., WR-DB, 6-0, 155); Joe Muzzio (Sr., RB-LB, 5-9, 165); Percy Martin (Jr., TE-LB, 6-0, 185); Brad Rayborn (Sr., 5-10, 160); Cameron Capers (Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 260); Manny Santiago (Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 270); Elon Capers (Jr., OL-DL, 6-1, 290).
Key losses: Dequan Bailey (RB-DB); Robert Martinez (WR/K-CB); Mika Graham (TE-DE); James Rueb (QB-LB); Jesse Lammers (FB-LB); Joe Vargas (RB-LB); Jihad Kinsey (TE-DL); Carlos Class (C-DL).
Top newcomers: Ian Meina (So. RB, 5-8, 160); Edward Cincitus (Jr., C, 5-10, 165); Ryan Alcott (Jr., TE-LB, 6-2, 185); Nicholas Figueroa (Jr., TE, 6-0, 210); Morgan Opoku (Sr., DL, 6-2, 260); Tyler Smith (Jr., WR, 6-0, 160); Anthony Taveras (Jr., WR-CB, 5-8, 140).
Revealing the Middlesex County Football Top 10
By John Haley/For The Star-Ledger
on September 11, 2013 11:12 p.m.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY TOP 10
(Last year's record in parenthesis)
1. SAYREVILLE (12-0): With so many key players graduated from its state championship team in 2011 and no Division I signees on the roster for the first time in a while, all Sayreville did in 2012 was run the table toward its third straight Central Jersey, Group 4 crown and its first unbeaten season since the 1940’s. There’s plenty back not think the Bombers can do it again, this time in Central Jersey 5.
2. PISCATAWAY (8-3): The Chiefs had their hearts broken last season when two more yards against Elizabeth in the final minute would have wrapped up a third straight North 2, Group 4 title. So this club will be on a mission. So much was lost from last year, but the last time this storied program lost as much talent, it won a state crown.
3. SOUTH BRUNSWICK (10-2): The Vikings captured their first sectional title in its 52-year history under first-year head coach Joe Goerge. So much was lost from last year’s club, but like Sayreville and Piscataway, talent, structure and coaching will keep things rolling at a high level.
4. CARTERET (12-0): Like most teams in the GMC, the Ramblers lost a ton. How can the backfield of Tyler Rodriguez, Jerod Johnson and Naji Johnson possibly be replaced? There is always talent in Carteret and coach Matt Yascko has a way of maximizing it.
5. EDISON (4-6): The Eagles return a lot from last year’s club, which qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2000. Edison had many shining moments last year and should be able to put plenty of points on the board with skill kids and linemen back in the fold. Edison’s problem is that it opens the season against No. 1, 2 and 3.
6. OLD BRIDGE (8-3): The Knights recorded their first winning season and first playoff appearance since 2005 and won its first playoff game since 2003. The school lost a whole lot, but coach Anthony Lanzafama’s program seems to be in place. Like Edison, Old Bridge opens up with No's 1-2-3.
7. COLONIA (9-2): Colonia turned in one of the best seasons in school history. Most of the top players are gone and a rookie coach (Tom Roarty) is taking over, but the three levels of teams combined to finish 25-2 (the JV’s and Freshmen were both 8-0), so watch out for some of that young talent to emerge.
8. MONROE (3-7): The Falcons may have finished 3-7, but they gave some of the big boys boys all they could handle and, with so much talent returning, they want to be one of the big boys.
9. WOODBRIDGE (6-4): The Barrons lost a whole lot to graduation, but the line play is solid. So, if some of the young skill kids can step up, Woodbridge is optimistic.
10. ST. JOSEPH (5-5): Rookie coach Casey Ransone inherits a young team mixed in with experience. With Matt Olivo on the field accompanied by a potentially strong line, the Falcons will look to be competitive in every game.
Middlesex County football picks, Week 1
By John Haley/For The Star-Ledger
on September 11, 2013 11:12 p.m.
Woodbridge at Perth Amboy (Friday): While several newcomers will be asked to step up at the skill spots, Woodbridge will hang its hat in the trenches where Cameron Capers, Elon Capers, Manny Santiago, Ryan Alcott and Morgan Opoku do their thing. Perth Amboy is also young overall, yet experienced in the trenches with Cameron Crisco, Chris Marquez, Chris Hunt, Brandon Bahamondes and Oliver Hernandez, among others, returning.
Woodbridge 26-12
MIDDLESEX COUNTY TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEWS
By John Haley / For The Star-Ledger
September 02, 2013 10:02 p.m.
WOODBRIDGE
Offense: The team lost several key skill position players, although the experienced Joe Muzzio returns at halfback. The good news is that linemen Cameron Capers (280), Elon Capers (310) and Manny Santiago (290) all return. The offense welcomes in junior quarterback Mike Croteau (5-10, 160), wide receiver Tyler Smith and tight end Ryan Alcott (6-2, 170).
Defense: Only junior linebacker Percy Martin (205) and senior lineman Morgan Opoku (275) return from a solid defensive unit. Head coach Bill Nyers said he is also counting on Alcott, a linebacker, among others.
COMMUNITY NEWS
08-16-1013 WoodbridgeFootball.com
WHS Football players receive proclamation from Mayor McCormac for the participation in the Relay For Life event held in June. Head Coach Bill Nyers, a cancer survivor himself, said he was extremely proud of all his players and made it a memorable day for him.
COMMUNITY NEWS
08-16-2013 WoodbridgeFootball.com
WHS Football players, Coach Nyers and Coach Liquori attended the 2013 Autisum Walk at Matthew Jago School earlier this year. All the players helped out by working the rides, serving drinks, snacks and walking with he children. It was a great day for the coaches, players and parents who helped.
Barron pride, Community pride!!!!!!!
Woodbridge High School Football - Woodbridge, New Jersey
www.WoodbridgeFootball.com - Launched 01-01-2003
Web site designed, maintained and contents solely authorized by McDevitt Enterprises ® - © 2013
This page was last updated on: August 12, 2017
News Reports
August 11, 2017
WoodbridgeFootball.com, its FB page, and its Twitter page are closed.
Best of luck for a successful season!
