CMass Playoff Notebook: State Semifinal Preview

After shocking Central Mass and winning the D2 Central title, upstart Fitchburg is just one game away from Gillette. (Click to enlarge)

By Joe Parello (@HerewegoJoe)

Four Central Mass squads scored sectional championship wins Friday, and each now sits just one game away from a state championship game at Gillette Stadium.

Here is a look back at each team's big win, and a look forward to what they'll need to do to continue their journey.

Division 2

Central Mass Champ: Fitchburg

Next Step: State Semifinal vs Longmeadow at Doyle Field in Leominster. Saturday at 2 pm

Fitchburg is the greatest Cinderella in the state this year, after beginning the season 0-4, then rattling off six wins in a row against the likes of St. John's (Shrewsbury), Wachusett and Leominster in last weekend's D2 Central final.

It's hard for me to believe this team struggled out of the gate after watching the Red Raiders' defense stymie Leominster at every turn, and running back Alex Marrero batter his way to over 100 yards and a score against the Blue Devils.

Postgame Blog: Northbridge's LaChapelle Sets MA Wins Record in Ram Rout

Jake Wood (32) and Koby Schofer (12) give Northbridge one of the most talented and versatile backfields in the state.

By Joe Parello (@HerewegoJoe)

Behind big days from his grandson Koby Schofer and classmate Jake Wood, long time Northbridge head coach Ken LaChapelle became the winningest high school football coach in Massachusetts history.

A quick reminder that this is only a blog of my rambling thoughts on the game. If you'd like to see my complete video report of LaChapelle's historic night, click here to view it on ESPN Boston. Now, let's move onto win No. 324 in Whitinsville.

Postgame Blog: Bishop Fenwick Rolls in Division 5 Final

Bishop Fenwick after their Division 5 Super Bowl win.

By Joe Parello  @HerewegoJoe

What had the look of an intriguing Division 5 championship game quickly turned into a route as Bishop Fenwick toppled Northbridge 28-0.

The loss ended a season of resilience from the Rams, who battled back from a 1-2 start to capture a Central Mass crown, and punched their ticket to Gillette Stadium with a dramatic last-minute win over Hoosac Valley two weeks ago.

For Bishop Fenwick, it was a day of respect rightfully earned. The Crusaders proved they are in a class of their own in Division 5, and their physicality on both sides of the ball was simply too much for the Rams.