The Saginaw-area football landscape is heating up as three local teams, Heritage, Frankenmuth, and Millington, have advanced to the regional final/quarterfinal games. These squads are vying for a coveted spot in the Thanksgiving weekend showdown at Ford Field, the site of the state semifinals.

Saginaw-Area Squads Poised for Postseason Glory

Division 2: Heritage Hawks Seek Semifinal Breakthrough

The Heritage Hawks (8-3) are set to face off against the East Lansing Trojans (8-3) in a highly anticipated Division 2 regional final matchup. Heritage, led by junior quarterback Connor Greif, who has amassed over 1,400 passing yards and 21 total touchdowns, is aiming to make program history by reaching the semifinals for the first time. The Hawks' offensive line is anchored by Ethan Kraatz, a Bowling Green commit, who will be crucial in containing East Lansing's star tailback, Jace Clarizio, a Michigan State University recruit.East Lansing, with its experienced quarterback Ben Fletcher, will be a formidable opponent, having reached the semifinals three times in the past, including a state championship in 1991. The Trojans' path to the regional final has been paved with victories over Milford and Dexter, showcasing their offensive firepower. However, Heritage's defense, led by Kraatz, will be tasked with slowing down Clarizio and the East Lansing offense.This matchup promises to be a thrilling clash of two talented teams, each seeking to advance to the state semifinals and potentially earn a trip to Ford Field.

Division 5: Frankenmuth Eagles Aim to Soar Past Gladwin

In the Division 5 regional final, the undefeated Frankenmuth Eagles (11-0) will host the Gladwin Flying G's (8-3) in a rematch of their regular-season finale, which Frankenmuth won 41-14.Frankenmuth, led by the dominant offensive line and defensive tackle Derrick Simmons, a Michigan State commit, has been a force to be reckoned with this season. The Eagles' balanced offense, which has amassed over 3,000 rushing yards, will look to overwhelm the Gladwin defense. Hagan Wascher, a key contributor for Frankenmuth, will be a player to watch, having made an impact in both the running and passing game.Gladwin, however, boasts a versatile playmaker in Donald "Trace" Corlew, who has excelled as a receiver, runner, and return specialist. Corlew's ability to make plays in multiple facets of the game will be crucial in keeping the Flying G's within striking distance. Lineman Matthew Lechner will also be a key factor in Gladwin's defensive efforts to slow down the Frankenmuth juggernaut.This rematch promises to be a thrilling clash, as Gladwin seeks redemption and Frankenmuth aims to continue its undefeated march towards a potential state championship appearance.

Division 7: Millington Cardinals Clash with Pewamo-Westphalia Pirates

In the Division 7 regional final, the undefeated Millington Cardinals (10-0) will host the Pewamo-Westphalia Pirates (9-2) in a highly anticipated showdown.Millington, led by the dynamic duo of running back Dallas Walsh and quarterback Truk Terbush, has been a dominant force this season, averaging over 44 points per game. Walsh, the Cardinals' career rushing and scoring leader, will be a focal point of the Millington offense, while Terbush's passing prowess will keep the defense honest. Defensive lineman Brevin Hendricks, with 11 tackles for loss and 9 sacks, will be a key contributor on the other side of the ball.Pewamo-Westphalia, a perennial powerhouse in Division 7, boasts a balanced offensive attack led by the Thelen brothers, Eli and Braylon, who combined for over 200 rushing yards in their quarterfinal victory over Ithaca. The Pirates' defense, anchored by the kicking of Kevin Hafner, will be tasked with slowing down the high-powered Millington offense.This matchup pits two well-coached and talented teams against each other, with the winner earning a spot in the state semifinals and a chance to play for a championship at Ford Field.As the regional final/quarterfinal games approach, the Saginaw-area football community eagerly awaits the outcome of these thrilling matchups. The Heritage Hawks, Frankenmuth Eagles, and Millington Cardinals are poised to carry the banner for the region, with their sights set on a Thanksgiving weekend trip to the state's premier football stage.