By William Hathaway
This week in the sports world, the good news is that New York football teams are undefeated against teams without names. The bad news is they’re winless against everyone else.
The New York Giants went on the road and slipped by the Washington Football Team 23-20, winning the season series. For the first time, QB Daniel Jones did not turn over the ball. East Orange native Jabrill Peppers was a key player on defense, shutting down Washington’s offense. Big Blue will play the Eagles this weekend, still with a shot to win the woeful NFC East.
On the other hand, the New York Jets are still winless, losing at home to the New England Patriots 30-27. Former Jet kicker Nick Folk was the difference, hitting a 51-yard FG as time expired.
In college football action, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights took a tough 49-27 loss at #3 Ohio State. Still, this is far better than previous performances against the Buckeyes. Also, #4 Notre Dame beat #1 Clemson in a 47-40 double overtime classic. Now, Alabama sits atop the rankings.
The abbreviated New Jersey High School Football Season is winding down. West Side High School defeated Shabazz 54-14. Davion Sheppard went 9-14 passing for 146 yards in the win. The Orange Tornadoes defeated Belleville 23-14.
In other Essex County action, the East Orange Jaguars are now 4-2 on the season, coming off a tough loss to Ramapo 27-6. Irvington defeated Montclair 37-0, improving to 5-1 on the season. Finally, West Orange who won a conference championship this past weekend, with a 49-0 rout over Barringer. The Mountaineers are now 5-1 on the season.
There is a special playoff system to cap off the high school football season. However, that is up in the air due to spread of COVID-19. At the moment, the games have not been cancelled. However, NJ Governor Phil Murphy has put a halt on all to indoor interstate sports for Elementary Middle and High School students – but not college or professional sports or outdoor youth sports. Also, sports in Newark schools are on hold, as Mayor Ras Baraka has expanded restrictions due to the virus.
