The Cranes lead the all time series against Lutheran North 18-17 (stock photo)
The Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Cranes (5-1) (3-0) will face the Macomb Lutheran North Mustangs (3-3) (1-2) in a CHSL divisional game in week 7 action. The Cranes narrowly lead this series 18-17 all time.
Lutheran North comes into this game having achieved victories over Livonia Clarenceville 42-13, Madison Heights Bishop Foley 45-7, and Allen Park Cabrini 42-18. They have suffered defeats against Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard 43-14, Riverview Gabriel Richard 43-32, and Grosse Pointe Woods University Liggett.
In a game that has Prep Bowl and MHSAA playoff ramifications, Lutheran North must win to keep its hopes alive.
“Lutheran North has a potent offense that allows them to put up points in a hurry,” said Cranes head coach Joe D’Angelo. “They average almost 34 points a game; they can score at almost any time.”
The Mustangs need to win 2 out of the remaining 3 games to qualify for the MHSAA state playoffs. They also sit one game behind Riverview Gabriel Richard, having still a chance at the Catholic League Championship game in the Prep Bowl.
Either way, this game is crucial to their post season chances.
“We have had great battles with Lutheran North, and we expect a competitive contest this week”, said D’Angelo. “Our secondary will be tested.”
Sophomore QB Tyler Davey leads the Mustangs with great passing, as evident in his 320 yards against Allen Park Cabrini. Senior WR Joel Vandermeer, a 2016 All-League standout is the primary target at wide out.
The Cranes come into this game needing one more victory to qualify for the MHSAA playoffs for the 4th consecutive year. A victory over the Mustangs would also solidify a Catholic League Championship berth for the second year in a row.
With victories over Redford Union 35-0, Detroit University Prep 37-0, Royal Oak Shrine 42-7, Allen Park Cabrini 56-7, and Riverview Gabriel Richard 21-0, Cranbrook has just one loss on the year- an intense loss to Dearborn Divine Child 28-14.
“We have had a good solid season so far. We have executed well and we have seen growth in both our starters and our backups,” said Coach D’Angelo.
Senior QB Trevor McConnell has 15 TDs on the year and a QBR of 180.4. Senior RB Aaron Wiggins has averages 11 yards per carry and scored 7 TD’s so far. Junior WRs Kobi Russell and Torrell Williams average 19 yards and 16 yards per catch, respectively.
The Crane Defense has only allowed 7 points per game on average, with 5 interceptions and 6 sacks on the year.
“This will be a good matchup”, said D’ Angelo.
The game will be played at Macomb Lutheran North 16825 24 Mile Rd, Macomb, MI 48042. Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m.