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Plenty players stand out in Walled Lake Western football's playoff win

By By Tom Lang, Special to Detroit Free Press, 11/14/16, 9:30AM EST

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Walled Lake Western’s skill players – and the offensive line – showed up in full force Saturday to crush Fenton, 61-21, for the Division 2 regional crown and a date with undefeated Lowell next weekend in the state semifinals.

“Our offensive line was key, really protecting our quarterback,” said Western coach Mike Zdebski. “I think the line had an outstanding game and it all started right there. And I think we have the best set of skill kids in the state. And when things are clicking they are awfully tough.”

The offensive line is anchored by Purdue recruit Robert Hudson (6-foot-8, 305 pounds) at left tackle. Hudson was also moved to the defensive line later in the season to add more beef in the trenches.

RelatedMore scores from this weekend’s regional finals

Michigan State recruit Cody White scored two touchdowns Saturday but also was in at defensive back and helped clamp down on Fenton’s potent passing game. White scored on a 40-yard run and a 5-yard slant pass reception, yet his presence opened up the offense with more options.

“Obviously, as a commit to Michigan State, he can do a lot of great things,” said Western quarterback Johnny Tracy. “He runs the ball and you saw him throw the ball about 70 yards (incomplete). He catches the ball great and the run afterwards, he does everything.

“But having a player like him draws a lot of attention and opens up things for our other athletes who can make some great plays too.”

Wide receiver Justin Thomas scored on touchdown receptions of 7 and 42 yards while Kameron Ford ran 43 yards after a catch to score in the first half. Thanks to his receivers, Tracy finished the game 14-for-21 and 251 yards.

“It was a great team win; we were just firing on all cylinders today,” Tracy said, and then added about Thomas: “Ever since I transferred to Western back in January, he’s been one of my best friends, and having that chemistry on and off the field is great.”

No. 1-ranked Western is 11-1, the lone loss coming on a forfeit to start the season.

“There is no over confidence going to play Lowell,” Zdebski said about Western’s next playoff opponent. “Those guys are good. We are 0-2 in the semifinals against them and they have another great team this year. They are well coached and they’ll be well prepared. We’ll have our hands full.”

 

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