Sept. 14: No. 21 Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, N.J.) at St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.)
Don Bosco Prep and St. Thomas Aquinas have been the top end-of-the-season teams for four years now.
Photo by Vincent Carchietta
The Don Bosco Ironmen boast
the nation's second-longest winning streak (46 games) and have won two of the last three national championships. However, they lost heavily from 2011 through graduation and transfers, returning just three starters on each side of the ball.
Still, highly successful coach Greg Toal will produce another winner and could spring a few surprises. He will rely on a stout defensive line paced by end
Al-Quadin Muhammad. The offensive line also will continue to be a strength, although it has a few holes to fill. Three players are vying for the starting quarterback position.
Aquinas does return eight offensive and four defensive starters from last year's 10-3 team. They will have their No. 1 player at most positions as they attempt to climb back into state title contention after winning their last Class 5A championship in 2010.
Ohio State University recruit
Joey Bosa, a 6-5, 275-pound senior who plays end and tackle, will anchor an outstanding defense. He will get great support from juniors
Anthony Moten (6-3, 235) and
Eddie Curry (6-1, 230), as well as senior
Lance Virgil (6-2, 200).
Aquinas and Don Bosco have accounted for the last four national championships, but will be meeting for the first time.
