Dre Rooks of Atlantic City High School showcased a renewed attitude in the Vikings’ 50-13 victory over Absegami on Friday. The senior running back rushed for 164 yards and a touchdown, adding to the team’s offensive firepower alongside quarterback Joe Lyons and wide receiver Sah’nye Degraffenreidt.
Rooks admitted to having a poor attitude last year, but he has worked hard to improve and contribute positively to the team this season. He acknowledged the support of his coach, Keenan Wright, and his teammates in helping him find his groove on the field.
Cedar Creek High School’s offense has been a standout in South Jersey this season. The Pirates, with a perfect 3-0 record, are averaging an impressive 41.7 points per game. Senior quarterback Billy Smith has been a key contributor, throwing for 783 yards and nine touchdowns with just one interception. Sophomore running back Aamir Dunbar has also been instrumental, rushing for 407 yards. Senior wide receiver Alim Parks has caught 15 passes for 295 yards and five touchdowns.
Fans attending the upcoming Mainland Regional at Atlantic City game on Friday should come prepared with bug spray, as the pesky no-see-ums were out in full force during the Vikings’ game against Absegami.
Each week, The Press selects four Most Valuable Players (MVPs) based on the previous weekend’s performances. This week’s MVPs include Kemun Council from Egg Harbor Township, Mike Zarfati from Middle Township, Emir Hicks from Holy Spirit, and Mike Frawley from Pinelands Regional.
In recruiting news, Pedro Reyes, a junior wide receiver/defensive back from Absegami, made his debut for the Braves and has been offered scholarships by Duke, Maryland, and North Carolina. Meanwhile, Jayden Jones, a sophomore defensive end from Millville, received a scholarship offer from Syracuse after visiting the school’s New York campus. Michigan and Penn State have also extended offers to Jones.
Notable victories from last week’s games include Atlantic City’s 50-13 win over Absegami, Egg Harbor Township’s 50-23 victory over Bridgeton, and Holy Spirit’s dominant 42-8 win against St. Joseph Academy.
Looking ahead to this weekend’s games, the highly anticipated matchup between Mainland Regional and Atlantic City takes center stage as two undefeated teams go head-to-head. Millville will face off against St. Augustine Prep in a game expected to showcase strong defensive performances. Pinelands will host Central Regional for their home opener, while Holy Spirit will travel to Washington Township, and Absegami will meet Egg Harbor Township.
In other news, the Toms River North football team retains its top spot in The Press’ Elite 11 ranking, with Millville close behind at number two. Mainland Regional, Donovan Catholic, Shawnee, Atlantic City, St. Augustine, Cherokee, Winslow Township, Delsea Regional, and Cedar Creek complete the top 11.
As the high school football season progresses, players and teams continue to make headlines with their performances on the field. The energy and excitement surrounding the sport are palpable, and fans eagerly anticipate each week’s matchups, with top teams aiming to maintain their undefeated records and underdogs striving for victories that could shake up the rankings.
