Tigers' Season Comes Down To Crucial Mentor Game

The season comes down to a single game for Twinsburg Friday night. And that game will be played against none other than Ohio's top-ranked Division I team, the unbeaten Mentor Cardinals.

The Tigers, ranked 14th in the Division I, Region 2 computer poll, need to pull off a big upset to have any chance at the post-season playoffs. Mentor is unbeaten and ranked 34th by ESPN in its national rankings.

"Everything is on the line," said Twinsburg head coach Joe Schiavone, whose team takes a 6-3 overall mark into the regular season finale. "A lot of computer points and a share of the Valley Division title."

A big game is even bigger when you consider how the Cardinals have been lighting up the scoreboard against all foes this season. Many thought Mentor would have its hands full with Solon, a team the Cardinals beat by 24 points.

"We always prepare to win regardless of who we are playing," said Schiavone. "We're going to go about our routine as we always do."

The Tigers rebounded from their heartbreaking overtime loss to Solon with a commanding 37-7 win at Medina last week. The offense was once again led by quarterback Jalen Washington and running back John Barton while the defense played a solid overall game.

Barton increased his season touchdown total to 30 and he has now run for 1,164 yards in addition to gaining another 480 yards in pass receptions. Washington has thrown for 1,491 yards and 10 touchdowns and has one of the best quarterback ratings in Northeast Ohio.

"Our kids responded very well last week," said Schiavone."I was proud of their effort. I think the kids rebound faster than the coaches do."

Twinsburg's defense will have its hands full Friday night. Mentor quarterback Mitch Trubisky threw for 259 yards and three touchdowns in a 38-7 rout of Strongsville last week and the Cardinals' five-receiver set has been virtually unstoppable all season long.

"We have very similar offenses but the tempo Mentor plays at is something we will have to adjust to," said Schiavone. "Everything runs through their quarterback, he's a highly talented athlete. We have to put our players in positions to make plays on defense."

It will be just the fourth home game of the season for the Tigers, who will get to play six home contests next year. "It's always good to play at home," said Schiavone.

Schiavone and his team knew they were up against a tough schedule before the start of the season. It gets even tougher Friday night.