Avon Prepares for New Challenge in Division II State Semifinal vs. Walsh Jesuit
Defending state champion Avon is headed back to the Division II state semifinals — but this time, the Eagles get a new opponent. After facing Akron Hoban in six of the last seven state semis, Avon will meet 11-1 Walsh Jesuit on Nov. 28 at the University of Akron with another trip to Canton on the line.
Head coach Mike Elder said the unfamiliar matchup brings excitement and a different set of challenges.
“We felt like we knew Akron Hoban,” Elder said. “Walsh presents different challenges… there is a lot of excitement in playing a new quality opponent.”
Walsh Jesuit Scouting Report
Walsh brings an 11-1 record, their only loss coming to Hoban in Week 7 — a setback the Warriors avenged decisively with a 35-7 win in the regional final.
Offensively, Walsh is more balanced than Hoban. They mix coverages defensively and feature several high-end playmakers:
- RB Marty Tobin — First-team all-district, 1,755 rushing yards, 18 TDs, no fumbles behind a strong line led by Ohio commit Colton Crosley.
- QB David Terosky — Dual-threat leader with 1,374 passing yards and 19 TDs.
- WR Milan Parris — A 6-5, four-star Miami commit with 45 catches, 731 yards, and 11 TDs, capable of stretching the field in single coverage.
Elder said stopping the run remains priority No. 1:
“You have to squash the run… If you do not stop the run, you are in trouble.”
Walsh’s defense is headlined by standout athletes, including Bowling Green commit Caden Carter, Ohio commit James Brewer III, Toledo commit Grant Blascak, and first-team all-district lineman Dario Jeras.
Avon’s Path & Focus
Avon earned its semifinal berth after a 36-19 win over Medina Highland. Despite the victory, Elder was blunt: the Eagles must clean up their four offensive fumbles — all fortunately recovered.
“I always say that you have to be lucky and good,” Elder said. “If we don’t recover those fumbles, Highland is playing and we are not.”
Game Info
Division II State Semifinal
Avon (12-1) vs. Walsh Jesuit (11-1)
When: Nov. 28, 7 p.m.
Where: InfoCision Stadium, University of Akron
Road to the Semis:
- Avon: Def. Olmsted Falls 46-13, Wadsworth 42-21, Highland 36-19
- Walsh: Def. Nordonia 49-18, Austintown-Fitch 42-21, Akron Hoban 35-7
The winner advances to the Division II state championship in Canton’s Tom Benson Stadium on Dec. 4 against the Anderson–Big Walnut winner.
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