One of the pressing issues on the minds of many NCAA Division I wrestling fans, is out of all of the 2020-2021 seniors, who will and who won't take advantage of having an extra season? Thus far there has been little to no actual answers given to us, so at this point all we can do is guess and speculate.
Now before I dive in on a team by team analysis of all the seniors, I want to clarify a few things.
I see no need to discuss seniors we already know for an absolute fact will be back next season. Seniors who took a redshirt in 2020-2021 like Evan Wick of Wisconsin are obviously coming back. Seniors who took an Olympic redshirt like Stevan Micic of Michigan are obviously coming back. This is common knowledge. No use of bringing it up. The point of this article is to talk about those we are unsure of.
Secondly, I'm not an insider. I'm nothing more than an enthusiastic fan who pays close attention to what's going on in NCAA wrestling. These are my thoughts. These are not verbatim. It's me simply taking what I know and applying it to make the best educated hypothesis that I can. So please, do not go running to a coach saying, "Stephen Stonebraker said..." I don't need that headache.
Lastly, this isn't going to include every single senior, only those I think would/could make an impact with their presence next year and those whose absence will be felt by the team if they do not return.
Now with that said, let's take a look at our seniors....
IOWA
The strong rumor and speculation, as good as fact as far as I'm concerned is that Iowa will return all five of their seniors. Good thing too, because they're going to need all five of them. It'll be tough enough with them to overcome Penn State for the 2022 title, it'll be impossible without them. Spencer Lee 1st @ 125, Austin DeSanto 3rd @ 133, Kaleb Young 7th @ 157, Alex Marinelli R12 @ 165 & Mike Kemerer 2nd @ 174.
Lee we already know looks to make history as the Hawks first ever four time NCAA champion. DeSanto is hungry for gold too. Young probably isn't happy with his 7th place finish. Kememer is going to do all he can to go out on top.
Now let's discuss Marinelli for a second. I gotta get on my soap box here for a second and go into detail of why this is why I don't put all of my emphasis of a wrestler's worth on the NCAA tournament. What if Marinelli didn't have another year? Look at all he's accomplished. Look at all of the top talent he's defeated. You can't hold this guy and think of him as only his seventh place finish as a sophomore. That is so unfair to someone as good as Marinelli. Midlands, BIG 10, he's won multiple titles at two of the toughest tournaments in NCAA wrestling. Don't get me wrong, I'm very happy that he has another go at it. I want to see him finally have the NCAA tournament he's capable of. But it gives you something to think about. He is a great wrestler who even if his career was said and done, STILL deserves to be remembered for the superb talent he is.
Ok, off soap box...
OKLAHOMA STATE
Here is where I have some questions. I think we'll see a mix of done and coming back here.
I do not see Kaid Brock coming back. With all of the injuries he has suffered, I would imagine he's done. In fact I may have even read or been told by someone that he is done. This leaves room for Kaden Gfeller and Dusty Hone to fight over his spot I would imagine.
As to Boo Lewallen, Wyatt Sheets, Dakota Geer and Austin Harris? John Smith has always stricken me as sorta difficult to figure out in these type of situations. I feel that in all circumstances, if it is even remotely questionable he's going to go with youth. He sees more value in giving a freshman or sophomore experience in the varsity position than he does letting an upperclassman have one last hurrah. So with that said, I think in a lot of these cases, it depends on who he has coming in.
PENN STATE
Nick Lee is coming back. I mean come one. You think he's gonna wanna miss the chance to lead the Nittany Lions in a quest to dethrone Iowa? No way. He's back. Bank on it.
VIRGINIA TECH
I would think that Korbin Myers would come back for another season. He's hungry to win an NCAA title & I think he'll make another go at it. Which leads me to Joey Prata. Prata has been a team player all of the way and I know for a fact that his presence in the room is one of the reasons why Myers improved so much over the years. With that said, I can see why Prata would call it a career and move on with his life. He's not cracking the varsity lineup with Myers at 133 and Latona at 125. He's not big enough for 141. Yet if I were to hear that Prata was gonna stick around for one more year just to help Myers and Latona get better, that wouldn't surprise me. He strikes me as the type that would do that.
NEBRASKA
The Cornhuskers have six seniors on this year's squad and with the way the NCAA tournament turned out, I think at least four if not five will return. The only one I don't see returning is Caleb Licking and that's mainly because I don't think he can beat out Kevon Davenport for the starting position and I think he knows that too.
Taylor Venz and Eric Schultz are coming back for sure. There's no way they end their careers on the disappointing notes they had at the NCAA tournament. Chad Red is coming back. He's thinking of ways to improve and get himself in the hunt for the NCAA title. As to Liam Cronin and Christian Lance? I can go either way on these two. Glad to see them back but if not, understandable.
NORTH CAROLINA STATE
I can see Nick Reenan calling it a career because I don't know if he can beat out Isaac Trumble for the starting spot at 197 lbs. I would think both the Bullards, Thomas and Daniel will be back because I imagine they both want to end their careers making AA at the same time. Hayden Hidlay to be in the room with his brother, earn his fourth AA and go for the NCAA title. As to Wilson? He's had two phenomenal bronze medal runs at the NCAA's thus far in his career. I'm sure he wouldn't mind a third, or to even trade bronze for a gold.
MICHIGAN
I'd like to think one of these years when Michigan has the horses to do so, they might realize it and make a run for the NCAA title. Yet I've been thinking that for nearly 25 years and winning a team title ironically seems like something that the Wolverines never concern themselves with. Why? I don't know. I guess maybe they forever want to be cemented as historically (talking the entire history of the NCAA DI existence) (they are objectively)the best team to never win a team title.
Kanen Storr is obviously the better pick between him and Cole Mattin, but Mattin is a decent replacement if Storr decides that he is done.
Massa is who I wonder about. After finishing third as a freshman at the NCAA's & then not placing as a sophomore or junior it has to feel good to finally make it back on the award stand. Yet I doubt fifth is where he saw himself. I can see him going both ways. Staying or leaving.
I'm pretty sure Myles Amine is gonna call it a career. 4th-3rd-3rd-3rd at the NCAA's, titles at the BIG 10's and CKLV, you can't argue that he's one of the best of all time to never win an NCAA title. A little heartbreaking, but his wrestling days will continue at the international level. Representing San Marino look for him to earn credentials at various competitions. European championships, & yes, I think he'll earn World and Olympic medals too. Be one of those guys who we say, "Won a World title, but not an NCAA title." An inspiration, much like Jamil Kelly.
MISSOURI
With the success of sensational freshman Rocky Elam, I'm pretty sure that both Canton Marriott & Wyatt Koelling who have been battling it out in the room for four years will call it quits. No doubt about it, battling with these two every day in the room had to have lead to Elam being as tough as he was, or so I would think.
ARIZONA STATE
It had to be a weird feeling in the gut of Anthony Valencia to watch a guy that he beat 7-1 for a PAC-12 title win the NCAA title. I was so happy to finally see A-Val break through and earn All American status. Was hoping it'd be higher than eighth but very happy to see him stand on that award stand. I think though that he'll be done. He just seems ready to be done in my opinion. Burned out and tired. I could be wrong and I'd LOVE to see him back, but he seems the type that has given his entire life to wrestling and now it's time to move on.
As to Corey Crooks? I'm not sure what to think here. I can see him going either way.
IOWA STATE
With the disappointing tournament he had, I would damn near call it a fact that Ian Parker will be back next season. With that noted, my heart goes out to Todd Small. Another grinder who unfortunately wasn't able to find a spot in the lineup. It's guys like him that often go unrecognized and unmentioned. His contribution to his team should be recognized.
It was never mentioned this year & everyone seemed to be hush, hush about it but Jaret Degen was NOT at all himself this season. I personally think it's because he's the type of wrestler that needs a full season to get going. I think he needs those 30 to 40 matches in a year. That's what I think it was, but I don't know. All I know is that you don't go from 3-2-3 at the BIG 12's contending for the BIG 12 title to struggling to place 4th. That just doesn't happen, unless something is wrong. I know I want to see Degen back, because he's so much better than his performance this season. I want to see him end on a high note.
Sam Colbray has me in question. I can see him coming back, I can see him calling it a day and giving the spot to Joel Shapiro. Hard to see.
Gremmel is selfish and in wrestling that isn't a bad thing, that's a good thing. He eats wanting another AA medal like he eats his donuts, fiercely.
OHIO STATE
It was cool seeing Elijah Cleary in the varsity line up this season but between Quinn Kinner and Bryce Hepner, I highly doubt he'd crack it again in 2021-2022.
Also a quick shoutout to Gary Traub. I think even though the spot was clearly Tate Orndorff's, it should be recognized that Traub filled in as needed very nicely.
MINNESOTA
Boo Dryden I'm up in the air about but I think we will see Owen Webster back. You lose in the R12 match, that has to haunt you. I can't see him letting that haunt him the rest of his life if he has a chance to come back in 2021-2022 and go for it again.
CENTRAL MICHIGAN
Dresdon Simon I would think would be back for sure. He defeated Chad Red at the NCAA tournament and then had to watch Red make All American, while he finished one match shy. That has to sting. I would think little else would fire someone up as much as that would.
I also know that Matt Stencel has to be on fire right now too. NCAA wrestling fans at times can be some of the most cruel, critical and judgmental people on the planet. Yes, a lot at great people. I know a lot of them, but trust me, Stencel is aware of the scrutiny he's receiving. "Why did they seed him #3?" "This kid went 1-2? Who were they kidding?" I've read and heard it. I'm sure he has too. He WAS as good as third this season. That's WHY he was seeded that high. Gawd I would love for him to make a great come back next season and silence all of his critics. Man that would make my day. Hope to see him back.
As to Drew Hildebrandt? I can see him going either way. Landon Pelham? I think he'll be done. For one I'm not sure if he can beat Aaron Bolo out for the spot or not.
PITTSBURGH
Jake Wentzel had a great run at the NCAA tournament and finishes off the season as the NCAA runner-up in a match where outside of the Panther faithful the entire world was cheering for the other guy to win. That has to be difficult but my hat is off to this young man for his composure, focus and most of all the sportsmanship he displayed. Wrestlers are a different breed, and I can see him coming back wanting to win the NCAA title. Yet, if he doesn't, what a great career and what a great ending to a great career.
Gregg Harvey? Another one I'm not sure what to think of at the moment. Can see it going either way.
NORTH CAROLINA
No two ways about it, Kennedy Monday will be back. There's no way with the type of person he is and having Kenny Monday as a father that he calls it said and done. No way. He's earning that AA medal and that's all there is to it.
Pretty sure with Tony Ramos as a head coach, that both Josh McClure and Andrew Gunning make it back for the 2021-2022 season as well. Ramos wants the most for his student athletes & if they're given another chance, he'll have them make the most of it.
UTAH VALLEY
So very happy to see Demetrius Romero make All American! Was wanting so bad to see him in the NCAA finals, but what a rewarding experience it was to witness him hold a medal and stand on that award stand. This guy has been through Hell. First at Boise State his school drops the wrestling program and he's forced to transfer. Then he suffers some injuries that not everyone would've came back from. I can see with as banged up and sore as he is Romero calling it a career. If so, all the admiration and respect to him. If he does come back. I'll give you one guess who my favorite 2021-2022 wrestler is.
STANFORD
Ooh my blood boils when I think about this program. The miscarriage of justice these young men & their coaches endure because of the poor, unsubstantiated and selfish decisions of some such as Bernard Muir angers me beyond comprehension.
It's not fair at all to Requir Van De Merwe or to Nathan Traxler because even if they wanted an extra year, can they take it? Is that even an option for either one of them? To Transfer to another school and compete for another team? I don't even know if they'd be allowed to do that. Ah, what a crock. Seriously, what a crock. These athletes deserve better from their school.
RIDER
Jonathan Tropea finally made it to the NCAA tournament. I knew he had it in him and I was glad to see it happen for him. I can see him calling it good, or going for a second qualification.
Jesse Dellavecchia has put in his time. I can see him coming back for 2021-2022 but I can also see him calling it a career too. He had a great run at the NCAA's, including sticking the #1 seed. That's a great way to go out, but if he wants more, I welcome it.
Ethan Laird has unfinished business, and I think he'll come back in 2021-2022 to finish it.
Matt Correnti? I think he comes back too.
OKLAHOMA
Mason Naifeh is done. There's really no reason for him to come back as far as I'm concerned. I'd be very surprised if he does.
Justin Thomas on the other hand, I think it's damn near a guarantee he returns. This guy wants another BIG 12 title & he knows he's good enough to be an AA, so why not go for both?
MICHIGAN STATE
Very curious to see how the Spartans handle this extra year thing.
Jake Tucker I can see coming back but if he doesn't I think Caleb Fish will end up being a suitable replacement.
Drew Hughes I'm never sure what to make of. This guy is a mystery to me. Some days wrestles like he's out for blood, other days wrestles like he'd rather be out fishing. It's difficult to tell if he wants to be there or if he doesn't. We see him in 2021-2022, I guess that answers that question.
I think Christian Rebottaro will probably be done. For one I think once Chase Beard is back into form, I can't see him winning this wrestle-off, IF Beard is 100%.
NORTHWESTERN
Ryan Deakin is coming back. I'm pretty sure of it. He had his heart sat on winning an NCAA title & he STILL has his heart sat on winning an NCAA title. I will say though that I think Max Mayfield once he gets his shot will be a nice addition to the Wildcat team.
RUTGERS
They're all back. The mentality and attitude that the Scarlet Knights display? Yeah, they're back. Sebastian Rivera can't be satisfied with a 15-5 loss & a fourth place finish. Mike Van Brill after having a phenomenal performance at the BIG 10's & can't be happy about falling apart at the NCAA's. As to Christian Colucci? Well, this one I guess I'm not 100% positive about. Not sure how he matches up with Boone McDermott in the room. I'd say that is the difference maker.
NORTHERN ILLINOIS
Max Ihry has another year, might as well take it right?
LEHIGH
Do you remember what I said about Matt Stencel earlier in this article? You can apply the same logic to Jordan Wood. Although he didn't make All American this season, I still conclude that Wood was one of the best wrestlers at HWT this season. If he's back next season, I think he'll prove it. Not that anyone is stopping Gable Steveson, but maybe Stencel Vs Wood would be a good third place bout? Yes, I do think they're that good.
Jake Jakobsen back? I think so, the real question I have is between Brandon Paetzell and Luke Karam. Both are seniors, both are are the same weight. Do they both return and duke it out? Do they both call it a career? Does one say I'm done and the other say I'm back? Here's where I question.
NORTHERN COLORADO
Remember what I said about Jaret Degen earlier in this article? Well, may I say the exact same thing about Jacob Seely. A three time NCAA qualifier who did not qualify this season. He can't go out like this. He can't end it this way. Guy is way to good not to give it another go. Something was wrong with him as it was with Degen. As it was with Degen, I doubt we'll ever be given the scoop. Whatever, just hope he's back, cause he deserves a better end.
Alan Clothier I would think comes back too.
WISCONSIN
Chris Weiler didn't have the end he wanted to this season, so I think he'll make like a Terminator and be back.
PURDUE
The Tony Ersland Boilermaker Redemption. Sounds like the title of a movie doesn't it? Devin Schroder, Griffin Parriott & Max Lyon, you know damn good and well all three want another chance to redeem themselves. They'll take it.
BUCKNELL
Matt Kolonia is probably coming back which makes me have to mention Joey Gould. Gould is one of those guys that just was never able to get the engine going. I think he could've been NCAA qualification material, but I'm not sure what went wrong or what didn't go right for him.
NORTH DAKOTA STATE
Pretty sure Luke Weber will come back. He's got some unfinished business.
NORTHERN IOWA
Bit of a mystery here. I mean is Jake Holschlag ever gonna be 100% again? Return to the mat healthy and ready to kick some tail? If the answer to that question is yes, then I can see Keegan Moore calling it a career. If Holschlag is still out, then I think Moore might return.
Carter Isley I think is coming back. That selfish in a good way mentality is embodied no where better than in the room of Doug Schwab. If anyone knows selfish, even though Tom Brands coined the phrase, it might still belong to Schwab.
WYOMING
Sitting back watching the action, seeing guys achieve what you know you could've achieved has to have Cole Verner salivating at the mouth. He's a wolf on the prowl. He'll be back. I have no idea why Brian Andrews was disqualified at the NCAA's. Didn't see that match and haven't been able to confirm why. I can't see his career going down like that. Jaron Jensen I can see being done though.
KENT STATE
A second MAC title and a shot at his first AA? Yeah, Andrew McNally will take it.
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE
Danny Vega I'm up in the air about but I think Coleton Carlson may be done. For one, is he beating Tanner Cook in the wrestle-off? That's a question in so many of these situations. Can't forget about incoming freshmen and redshirt freshmen that are already there.
ARMY
I've asked this many times and have yet to receive an answer. At schools like Army, Navy, Air Force, VMI & The Citadel is this extra year thing even an option? I know that the military academies have a different set of rules. So maybe it isn't, I don't know.
If it is...I think Lane Peters will be back. I think he wants another go at it.
Where I question is at HWT with Bobby Heald. Does he continue to battle Ben Sullivan in the room? Or does he call it a career and allow Sullivan to enjoy his list season?
NAVY
Same questions apply here as they did for Army. Is this even an option? If so, I would think that if any of the six seniors plan on wrestling beyond college that if they have the option of learning under Cary Kolat for one more season, they'd take it. Logan Treastor, Aslan Kilic, Cody Trybus, Casey Cobb, Tanner Skidgel & Dean Caravela. Kolat has a good group of upperclassmen here.
AIR FORCE
And again, the question applies as it did for Army and Navy. Is this an option? If so, I can see both Lenny Peterson and Cody Surratt taking advantage of it.
CLARION
Greg Bulsak wants to be the guy to revamp the Eagle program. He'll be back and gunning for AA status.
EDINBORO
Ty Vath and Jon Spaulding both have the option. Anxious to see if they do or not.
VIRGINIA
Louie Hayes I can see calling it a career. He's been through the thick and thin of it all, a real team player and he ended his career on the high note of being an All American. I can see him being done but on the same hand if he thinks that the Cavaliers can contend for anything, such as an ACC title with his assistance I can see him coming back too. More about the team than himself.
Jay Aiello I think is coming back. Another guy with a chip on his shoulder. Something to prove.
CAMPBELL
After the b.s. that he endured at the NCAA tournament in one of the worst calls ever in the history of the NCAA DI tournament, there's no way Josh Heil doesn't return for the 2021-2022 season. There's no way. As to the rest of the seniors? Ben Barton, Austin Kraisser and Chris Kober? Maybe.
AMERICAN
If Gage Curry could sneak in another five years he would. He'll be back & as always he'll wrestle his best at the EIWA championships. Kizhan Clarke missed this season, so He'll be back and so did Tanner Harvey, so he'll be back too.
APPALACHIAN STATE
I think Cody Russell and Thomas Flitz will both be back. I'd be surprised if they weren't.
OREGON STATE
Devan Turner after winning the PAC-12 title has to be a bit disappointed in his performance at the NCAA's. Like many others the fact that he's getting a second chance won't be lost on him.
ILLINOIS
Dylan Duncan has been around for about ever and he has to be happy about his standout performance at the NCAA's. I mean wrestlers are a different breed. They always want as much as they can get. Yet this is NCAA DI wrestling. It's a grind. It's a lifestyle. It's all you know for five years of your life. I can see him wanting to be done too. IF he is, I think Danny Pucino fills in very nicely here.
FRESNO STATE
While not as publicized, I am every bit as upset about this discontinuation of this program as I am the other. I cannot believe how with a state as good in high school wrestling as what California is, that they don't provide more opportunities for the talent they produce. You do realize, and if you don't, I'll tell you....California would have 20 NCAA DI teams today if no program had ever been dropped. TWENTY! That's enough to field an entire conference with teams from California alone!!
But no, instead they have to drop, and drop and drop! The hair on my arms is standing straight up. Ooh, this makes me angry. And to think, what is a kid like D.J. Lloren supposed to do? Can he transfer? Does he have that option. Again, what a freakin' crock.
DREXEL
I have a feeling that when I go to study DI lineups in the 2029-2030 season, Parker Kropman will still be listed at 149 lbs or 157 lbs. Sheesh, this guy has been around forever. Might as well see him one more season.
INDIANA
Brock Hudkins will make the most of the extra year. After being hurt this season, he'll be back.
HOFSTRA
I already know Charles Small will be back because I read a Tweet from him earlier today. As to Greg Gaxiola & Ricky Stamm? I think they'll be back too. The only one I question is Sage Heller. With Ross McFarland also fighting for that spot, makes me wonder.
GEORGE MASON
I really, really hope to see Alex Madrigal back for 2021-2022. As far as I'm concerned I think he got completely shafted in not being awarded an at large bid in 2020 and he was out this season. Be awesome to see him totally kick in in 2021-2022.
LOCK HAVEN
I called Luke Werner one of the best to not qualify for the NCAA tournament more than once in his career. Want to see him finally do it. Might as well go for it.
MARYLAND
You wouldn't think so watching him this season, but honestly in a full year with a full season's worth of matches I think Jaron Smith is NCAA qualification material. I really do. Is he gonna come back for a 2021-2022 season? I don't know. The guys at Maryland don't seem real happy or into it at the moment. I can see him wanting to be done.
BAKERSFIELD
Based on everything I've read, especially due to the multitude of injuries he's endured, I'm 99.9999% positive Dom Ducharme is calling it a career. PAC-12 champ baby! Way to go on on a high note!
LITTLE ROCK
Paul Bianchi is the first NCAA DI qualifier in the history of the Trojan wrestling program. In my eyes that's already an accomplishment to forever cement in one's memory. I know Bianchi wants more than that though and I believe he'll go for it.
CHATTANOOGA
Maybe I ought to call upon the God George "Know it All" McIntyre to confirm here. I think Fabian Gutierrez will be back.
BUFFALO
Derek Spann didn't have the season he's capable of having. So I think he'll want a second chance.
OHIO
Coach Greenlee is a big fan of Mario Guillen, so I think he'll want him back in the room.
SACRED HEART
Two NCAA qualifiers this year!! WHOO! And ironically enough, both are seniors. Nick Palumbo and Joe Accousti. I imagine both wanna stick around and influence the younger members of the team. What John Clark has gone on is nothing short of spectacular. This program will only continue to improve.
PRINCETON
I would think it's a give-me that the IVY league seniors who missed out on the 2020-2021 season would for sure come back for 2021-2022. With that said. I expect to see Ty Agaisse.
COLUMBIA
Same as I said for Agaisse above, Lawrence Kosoy will be back.
CORNELL
Here I'm not so sure about. Love Hunter Richard and I've said before and I'm saying it now, I think he gives Yanni Diakomihalis a better match than most anyone else will anticipate. However, he's not beating him. So return for the season?
Then we have both Adam Santoro and Fredy Stroker who neither I see beating Yapoujian. Matter of fact, I think Stroker might already be done. I hate that his career ended up the way that it did. You can't say these types of things to people, because no matter how you word it they'll take it wrong, but I can remember meeting him and thinking this kid would be so much better off going DIII. He'd have more fun, he'd have more success. DI as far as I'm concerned wasn't for him. Am I making some mad by saying that? I'm sure I am, but it's how I feel. I much rather would've seen him kicking ass at Augsburg or Wartburg as one of their stars, than to have had the disappointing career he had.
Now Santoro I can see sticking around to battle it out with Yapoujian, but I can also see him calling it a day.
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There you have it. That's my thoughts on the seniors for next season. I'm curious to see how I do on my predictions. Honestly, I'd like to see them all back. I mean why not? If it was me or you or I, I think we'd take it. Did I really just say me or I? Ha!
Sunday, March 21, 2021
Let's Talk Seniors: Who Will & Who Won't Be Back
Sunday, March 14, 2021
Gone, Lost & Forgotten: Their Best = Lower Columbia
At one time the Red Devils of Lower Columbia had a wrestling program. Wasn't able to find a whole lot of information, but I was able to find out a little.
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| Brandon Jensen 167 lbs |
Jensen was an NJCAA All American in 1990 with a sixth place finish in 1990. He later became a body builder and ran a Floor covering business. He unfortunately passed away from a heart attack in 2015.
Gone, Lost & Forgotten: Their Best = Gray's Harbor
One of the few NCWA teams recognized and supported by their school, the Chokers of Grays Harbor Community College at one time had a varsity wrestling program that competed at the NJCAA level.
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| Mike Hogaboam 177 lbs |
A member of the junior Olympic team, Hogaboam won an NJCAA title for the Chokers in 1981. He continued his career at Central Washington.
Gone, Lost & Forgotten: Their Best = Big Bend
The Vikings of Big Bend dropped their wrestling program after the 1994-1995 season.
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| Jon Lane 152 lbs |
Lane won a NJCAA title for the Vikings in 1967. He later became mayor of Moses Lake.
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| Bob Owens |
This one is a bit of a mystery. Bob Owens was a NJCAA All American for the Vikings in 1971 with a third place finish. There was a professional wrestler from the northwest, born in 1951 who worked for the Portland territory. Big Bob Owens. Same guy? Don't know.
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| Larry Paul 191 lbs |
Paul won a NJCAA title for the Vikings in 1968
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| Terry Dawes |
A two time NJCAA All American, Dawes was fourth in 1968 before winning a NJCAA title in 1969. He finished off his career at Central Washington.
| |
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| Duane Zamora 165 lbs |
Zamora was an NJCAA All American with a fourth place finish
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| Carl Zamora 142 lbs |
A graduate of Moses Lake High school, Zamora was a three time Washington High School state runner-up. He would also take runner-up honors for the Vikings in 1990 at the NJCAA championships.
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| George Hara 118 lbs |
A graduate of Moses Lake High School, Hara was fourth-second-champion during his final three years of high school. Competing for the Vikings he was fourth at the 1982 NJCAA championships and a runner-up in 1983. He finished off his career at Wyoming. He later coached at Big Bend as well as at Moses Lake High school.
Gone, Lost & Forgotten: Their Best = Yakima Valley
The Yaks of Yakima Valley formally known as the Indians, dropped their wrestling program after the 2011-2012 season.
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| Rich Herzog |
Herzog was an NJCAA All American for the Yaks in 1993 where he finished in third place. His daughter Raina was a state champion for Cottage Grove HighSchool.
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| Seth Elwood 190 lbs |
A member of the Rhinos Wrestling club throughout his youth, Elwood was an NJCAA All American in 1993 with a sixth place finish.
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| Brent Rotondo 142 lbs |
A graduate of Olympic High School where he was also a member of the school choir, Rotondo made NJCAA All American honors twice for Yakima Valley. He was sixth in 1994 and seventh in 1995. Post graduation, he went on to continue his collegiate wrestling career at Central Washington where he placed eighth at the 1997 NAIA championships. He later coached at Union Titon Wrestling Club. His son Ethan wrestled at Wisconsin.
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| Matt Ballard 142 lbs |
Wednesday, March 10, 2021
JT#1's Final NCAA Division I Predictions = 2021
125 lbs
1. Spencer Lee Iowa (1)
2. Taylor LaMont Utah Valley (7)
3. Devin Schroder Purdue (9)
4. Michael DeAugustino Northwestern (12)
5. Sam Latona Virginia Tech (2)
6. Dylan Ragusin Michigan (11)
7. RayVon Foley Michigan State (8)
8. Malik Heinselman Ohio State (10)
R12 Eric Barnett Wisconsin (10)
R12 Brody Teske Northern Iowa (5)
R12 Trevor Mastrogiovanni Oklahoma State (21)
R12 Drew Hildebrandt Central Michigan (4)
133 lbs
1. Mickey Phillippi Pittsburgh (5)
2. Roman Bravo Young Penn State (2)
3. Daton Fix Oklahoma State (1)
4. Austin DeSanto Iowa (4)
5. Korbin Myers Virginia Tech (5)
6. Louie Hayes Virginia (1)
7. Michael McGee Arizona State (9)
8. Devan Turner Oregon State (16)
R12 Jacob Allen Navy (27)
R12 Matt Schmitt Missouri (6)
R12 Lucas Byrd Illinois (7)
R12 Chance Rich Bakersfield (19)
141 lbs
1. Jaydin Eierman Iowa (1)
2. Nick Lee Penn State (2)
3. Sebastian Rivera Northwestern (3)
4. Zach Sherman North Carolina (10)
5. Chad Red Nebraska (8)
6. Tariq Wilson North Carolina State (4)
7. Dom Demas Oklahoma (5)
8. Cole Matthews Pittsburgh (16)
R12 Ian Parker Iowa State (7)
R12 Grant Willits Oregon State (12)
R12 Real Woods Stanford (21)
R12 Cody Trybus Navy (11)
149 lbs
1. Austin O'Connor North Carolina (2)
2. Sammy Sasso Ohio State (1)
3. Boo Lewallen Oklahoma State (4)
4. Jarrett Degen Iowa State (18)
5. Griffin Parriott Purdue (15)
6. Jimmy Hoffman Lehigh (22)
7. Jaden Abas Stanford (8)
8. Jonathan Milner Appalachian State (7)
R12 Max Murin Iowa (12)
R12 Josh Finesilver Duke (27)
R12 Mitch Moore Oklahoma (13)
R12 Brock Mauller Missouri (3)
157 lbs
1. Ryan Deakin Northwestern (1)
2. Hayden Hidlay North Carolina State (2)
3. David Carr Iowa State (3)
4. Kaleb Young Iowa (4)
5. Brayton Lee Minnesota (6)
6. Jesse Dellavecchia Rider (4)
7. Justin Thomas Oklahoma (10)
8. Will Lewan Michigan (14)
R12 Jarrett Jacques Missouri (7)
R12 Parker Kropman Drexel (25)
R12 Hunter Willits Oregon State (13)
R12 Markus Hartman Army (31)
165 lbs
1. Alex Marinelli Iowa (1)
2. Anthony Valencia Arizona State (2)
3. Shane Griffith Stanford (8)
4. Mekhi Lewis Virginia Tech (4)
5. Jake Wentzel Pittsburgh (3)
6. Jake Keating Virginia (12)
7. Zach Hartman Bucknell (5)
8. Thomas Bullard North Carolina State (17)
R12 Travis Wittlake Oklahoma State (10)
R12 Keegan O'Toole Missouri (6)
R12 Ethan Smith Ohio State (7)
R12 Kennedy Monday North Carolina (22)
174 lbs
1. Michael Kemerer Iowa (1)
2. Demetrius Romero Utah Valley (2)
3. Mikey Labriola Nebraska (4)
4. Logan Massa Michigan (5)
5. Carter Starocci Penn State (3)
6. Daniel Bullard North Carolina State (8)
7. D.J. Washington Indiana (9)
8. Bernie Truax Cal Poly (12)
R12 Dustin Plott Oklahoma State (18)
R12 Kaleb Romero Ohio State (18)
R12 Jacob Oliver Edinboro (21)
R12 Andrew McNalley Kent State (6)
184 lbs
1. Trent Hidlay North Carolina State (2)
2. Aaron Brooks Penn State (1)
3. Taylor Venz Nebraska (8)
4. Parker Keckeisen Northern Iowa (4)
5. Louie DePrez Binghamton (3)
6. Dakota Geer Oklahoma State (11)
7. Hunter Bolen Virginia Tech (5)
8. Nelson Brands Iowa (12)
R12 Britt Wilson Northern Illinois (7)
R12 Zac Braunagel Illinois (19)
R12 Tate Samuelson Wyoming (10)
R12 Max Lyon Purdue (16)
197 lbs
1. Myles Amine Michigan (1)
2. Eric Schultz Nebraska (2)
3. Jacob Warner Iowa (5)
4. A.J. Ferrari Oklahoma State (4)
5. Tanner Sloan South Dakota State (13)
6. Jay Aiello Virginia (11)
7. Stephen Buchanan Wyoming (8)
8. Noah Adams West Virginia (9)
R12 Cam Caffey Michigan State (10)
R12 Nino Bonaccorsi Pittsburgh (6)
R12 Jake Woodley Oklahoma (26)
R12 Kordell Norfleet Arizona State (3)
HWT
1. Gable Steveson Minnesota (1)
2. Mason Parris Michigan (2)
3. Matt Stencel Central Michigan (3)
4. Tony Cassioppi Iowa (5)
5. Jordan Wood Lehigh (8)
6. Ethan Laird Rider (7)
7. Cohlton Schultz Arizona State (4)
8. Zach Elam Missouri (11)
R12 Deonte Wilson North Carolina State (10)
R12 Trent Hidlay Wisconsin (14)
R12 Brian Andrews Wyoming (13)
R12 Greg Kerkvliet Penn State (9)
Tuesday, March 9, 2021
2021: Best Not To Qualify for NCAA DI Championships
First off let's make a few things clear. This will only be representing those who DID compete this season. So while my heart breaks for the EIWA wrestlers from the teams that did not compete this season, they will not be included in this list. If you care to discuss those wrestlers from those teams, I wrote a previous blog that you can view here https://johnnythompsonnum1.blogspot.com/2021/02/2020-2021-ivy-league-what-would-have.html
I also am specifically speaking to this year's performances. Not last years or any previous years. Huge fan of Jacob Seely of Northern Colorado, but he did not have the best year. I hope he returns for the 2021-2022 season and totally redeems himself. Talent wise, he's good enough to be an All American. I can say that for other guys this season as well. Kaden Gfeller and Wyatt Sheets both of Oklahoma State. Both noteworthy in the past and hopefully redemptions of the future.
To be honest, I feel that this year everyone that is going to the NCAA championships should be going and that everyone staying home, should be staying home. Nevertheless there are a few I'd like to mention.
 |
| Luke Warner 125 lbs LOCK HAVEN |
My heart goes out to Warner who was simply a victim of circumstance. For reasons that were completely out of his control, he missed the entire season and came into the MAC championships without having wrestled a single match. All things considered he went 4-2 and captured fifth place. There's no doubt in my mind, had he wrestled a full season he would've been an NCAA qualifier. Here's to hopefully him taking another year next season and seeing himself among the 33 qualifiers.
 |
| Dylan Ryder 125 lbs HOFSTRA |
This poor kid just cannot catch a break. 2019, 2020 & now 2021 I am writing about him being one of the best wrestlers to not qualify for the NCAA championships. That's three years in a row, that as far as I'm concerned he was one win shy of qualification. I'm almost positive that at the EIWA championships if he could've turned a 4-3 loss to Gage Curry of American into a win, he'd be going to the dance. I think what really hurt him was an ugly 14-4 loss to Micah Roes of Binghamton. With a full season, I think he would've gotten in this year. Here's to 2022 finally being a good year for him.
 |
| Cody Phippen 125 lbs AIR FORCE |
He looked fairly solid this season. A 12-4 record, where he simply needs to take some of his close losses and turn them into wins. Lost twice to Oklahoma State's Trevor Mastrogiovanni by close margins, 2-1 & 6-4 sudden victory. Also lost to West Virginia's Killian Cardinale 3-1. He learns to win these close matches, he's going to be tough. Real tough. Honestly with a seventh place finish at the BIG 12's I could've seen him selected as an at large, but understand and accept that he wasn't.
 |
| Chris Sandoval 141 lbs NORTHERN COLORADO |
What kept Sandoval out of the NCAA tournament this year was his 3-2 loss to Dylan Droegemueller of North Dakota State at the BIG 12 championships. If he would've won that match, I believe he'd be an NCAA qualifier this season. A 10-4 record, among his wins is one over NCAA qualifier Chase Zollman of Wyoming. He should qualify for the NCAA championships in his next two tries (if of course he takes the extra year.)
 |
| Dazjon Casto 165 lbs THE CITADEL |
Casto is an example of too little too late. Finally wrestled like he was capable at the Southern Conference championships, making the finals with a semi-final 6-3 victory of Will Formato of Appalachian State who defeated him 3-1 sudden victory earlier in the season. He then dropped a tight 3-2 decision to Andrew Nicholson of Chattanooga in the finals. I'm not crazy that the NCAA took both Formato who took third and Rod Mosley of Gardner Webb who took fourth over Casto but I can understand why they did. Mosley defeated Casto 6-1 earlier this season.
The deal with Casto is that he's a good wrestler. He has a solid offense full of quickness, finesse and technique. He lacks that little extra something though. Not sure if it's confidence or what it is, but something is holding him back. Is it fear? I don't know. What I do know is that he is so much better than what the rankers want to give him credit for. He's so much better than he sometimes wrestles. The thing is though as Tom Brands once said best, "He has to earn it." He has two (or one depending on whether he takes it or not. I'm not sure if that's even a possibility at a military school like The Citadel) more chances to make it happen. He obviously has the tools to be a Southern Conference champion. Like to see him end on that high note.
 |
| Gavin Hoffman 197 lbs OHIO STATE |
Laugh if you want, roll your eyes if you must, but I honestly believe Gavin Hoffman of Ohio State has the tools to one day be an NCAA champion. Yes, you read that right. I'm saying that a guy who wasn't the varsity starter in 2020 and who failed to qualify for the NCAA championships in 2021, could one day be an NCAA champion. So many of his losses this year have been nail bitters. He lost 3-2 to Billy Janzer of Rutgers, Thomas Penola of Purdue and Cam Caffey of Michigan. Not to mention, he took #1 Myles Amine of Michigan, who many feel will win this year's title to a 8-5 decision and he held #3 Eric Schultz of Nebraska, who many feel will meet Amine in the finals to a 2-0 decision.
I think the future is very bright for Hoffman, who all things considered should have three seasons of eligibility left on his resume. I think he was too big for 184, too small for HWT and that 197 is the right fit for him. Puts on a bit more muscle between now and next October, while working on both his escaping skills as well as his riding skills and I think we'll see one of the most improved wrestlers of the 2021-2022 season.
Sunday, March 7, 2021
Gone, Lost and Forgotten: NAIA Gorriaran Award Winners by School
PORTLAND STATE
Rick Sanders 1965
CENTRAL WASHINGTON
Lamoin Merkley 1967
Lamoin Merkley 1968
Kit Shaw 1974
NEBRASKA-OMAHA
Roy Washington 1970
Mel Washington 1971
WAYNE STATE (NEB)
Ken Monroe 1973
EASTERN WASHINGTON
Lanny Davidson 1975
Mike Reed 1977
TAYLOR
Glenn Geurin 1976
CALIFORNIA OF PENNSYLVANIA
Bill DePaoli 1979
GRAND VALLEY STATE
Ron Essink 1980
CARSON NEWMAN
Jeff Bedard 1992
TEIKYO WESTMAR
Travis Dewalt 1995
Friday, March 5, 2021
2021 BIG 10 Preview
 |
| 125 lbs |
As good as #1 Spencer Lee of Iowa is, it makes you question if the rest of the field is weak or if he's really just that good. I assure you, the answer is Spencer Lee is just that good. Such a tough wrestler, not only do I think he can pin his way through the BIG 10 tournament. I think he can do so never seeing beyond the first period.
The real fight here will be in the battles for second and third. Parity up the Wahoo, this will be all out chaos. Based on seeding, #5 Rayvon Foley of Michigan and #8 Michael DeAugustino will have to settle for an at best third as they will both face Lee along the way.
Being seeded #2 surely didn't do Nebraska's Liam Cronin any favors. In the quarterfinals he'll have either #7 Devin Schroder of Purdue or #10 Justin Cardani of Illinois. He's 2-1 Vs Schroder who is likely to way out do his seed and while he squeaked by Cardani 4-3 earlier this, and it was Cardani who won three meetings between the two last season. There is definitely reason to believe there could be a huge upset here.
Watching #3 Malik Heinselman of Ohio State perform this past three seasons has been a real treat. He's one of the most aggressive wrestlers I've witnessed over the past years & it's rewarding to see someone so relentless have success. He does at times get over excited as to where most of the points scored against him are off of counters. I knew once he harnessed enough discipline to make his attacks crisper, that he'd have more success with that. I think he's in great shape to make the finals. Easier said than done of course.
The top seven are allocated here, but I feel pretty confident that with at large bids eight will advance to the NCAA tournament. Depending on where Cardani finishes, maybe even nine.
 |
| 133 lbs |
#1 Roman Bravo Young of Penn State Vs #2 Austin DeSanto of Iowa has been a rematch that fans on both sides of the aisle have long awaited. No reason why this match shouldn't take place and we can finally put to bed any and all hypothesis as the actuality will be determined on the mat.
I think #3 Sammy Alvarez of Rutgers is definitely our bronze medalist here, while Lucas Byrd of Illinois the #4 seed does look to be his consolation finals opponent. It is spots 5-8, that I think might rearrange a bit once the actual wrestling goes down.
The top seven here are allocated for NCAA qualification, although I think as long as #8 Jordan Decatur of Ohio State finishes in eighth place, he puts himself in contention for an at large bid. He places higher than seventh, knocking a #5, #6 or #7 seed into the eighth place spot, it's more likely that the eighth placer does indeed qualify for the NCAA tournament.
 |
| 141 lbs |
Many are calling this weight class a three man race, but I feel that it is a four. Personally I am looking forward to #1 Jaydin Eierman of Iowa Vs #4 Chad Red of Nebraska part two in the semi-finals. In the dual, Red wrestled well on his feet but looked to have trouble against Eierman's phenomenal mat wrestling. I think Red can give himself a real shot here, if he's able to keep this match on the feet.
With that said, even making it to the semi's to face Eierman will be quite the journey. Right off the bat he has #13 Colin Valdiviez of Northwestern, who I feel could be the monkey-wrench throughout this bracket. Valdiviez took Red to a two point match when they met earlier this season. It is also important to note that Valdiviez is much more of a tournament wrestler than he is a duel wrestling. I think this year's BIG 10's could more than reflect that statement.
Right after Valdiviez, Red will then face #5 Dylan Duncan of Illinois in the quarter-finals. Another tough matchup for the Husker, as he barely squeaked by Duncan 4-3 earlier this season.
On the other side of the bracket, #2 Nick Lee of Penn State Vs #3 Sebastian Rivera of Rutgers looks to be another exciting semi-final. Rivera seemed to come out of nowhere last season in route to a BIG 10 title at 133 lbs. Neither should have trouble making the semi-finals.
Six spots have been allocated for NCAA qualification and While I think the first five places are spoken for it is that sixth place spot I think that is up for grabs.
I've already mentioned the threat that I think Valdiviez could be and then there is also #7 Dylan D'Emilio of Ohio State, #8 Drew Mattin of Michigan and #9 Parker Filius of Purdue. Filius strikes me as the one to not know quite what to make of. Both Duncan and D'Emilio had there way with him on the mat, but both Polanco and surprisingly Rivera had close matches with him. If he can wrestle Rivera to a 7-6 match, I think it's feasible that he could place as high as sixth.
 |
| 149 lbs |
#1 Sammy Sasso of Ohio State is most certainly our forerunner for a title here, although I do think he'll have two challenges along the way. #4 Yahya Thomas of Northwestern could give him a scare in teh semi-finals. When the two met last season, Thomas took Sasso into the tiebreakers before dropping a 5-4 decision.
The #2 Max Murin of Iowa Vs the #3 Griffin Parriott of Purdue in what should be our other semi-final will also be an exciting match. Murin has been an exceptional case for the Hawkeyes as usually the black & gold faithful are not as patient as they have been with Murin. He's put his nose to the grind and continuously improved among those who have questioned his ability. He's earned the #2 seed.
The top five here are allocated for NCAA qualification but I can see as many as eight or even nine qualifying here. A bit of parity and matches that could go the other way to what they were in the duel will make this an interesting weight class.
 |
| 157 lbs |
With as dominant as Spencer Lee has been at 125 lbs, it overshadows how dominant #1 Ryan Deakin of Northwestern has been at 157 lbs. While the O.W. looks to already be in the hands of Lee, breathing down his neck is Deakin. Whether it's #2 Kaleb Young of Iowa or #3 Brayton Lee of Minnesota, I think Deakin wins handedly in the finals.
A lot of close matches that I think should make fourth through eighth place very interesting. #7 Chase Saldate of Michigan State interest me as two of his four losses have been very close. A one point loss to Lee and a sudden victory loss to #4 Kendall Coleman.
I'm particularly anxious to see #9 Elijah Cleary of Ohio State. Against the field he brings in five losses, but all five losses have been very close matches. If he can turn those losses into wins, he could go rather far throughout the tournament on the back side of the bracket. Needs to defeat #8 Garrett Model who defeated him 3-2 earlier this season, take his loss to #1 Deakin in the quarterfinals and then work his way through the consolation in what should be winnable matches.
 |
| 165 lbs |
With Wisconsin's Evan Wick not wrestling this season, little to nothing stands in the way of #1 Alex Marinelli of Iowa claiming his third BIG 10 title. Finals opponent looks to be either #2 Danny Braunagel of Illinois or #3 Ethan Smith of Ohio State. The last the two met, Braunagel slipped away with a 5-4 victory. Smith in many instances has been overlooked throughout the first couple seasons of his career. While a third place showing would in itself be notable, upsetting Braunagel & making the finals I think would open up a few more eyes that often seem to over look him.
The NCAA has allotted seven spots for NCAA qualification here, but I think this weight class will end up taking eight with one at large bid. #8 Michigan State's Jake Tucker can be down right tough when he needs to be. It will as is with Cleary at 157 lbs need to be proven through the consolation bracket, but placing higher than eighth is more than doable for the seasoned Spartan.
 |
| 174 lbs |
If I had to pick the toughest weight class....and I mean that not only in the BIG 10 but in all Division I conferences, it would be this one. This weight class if tough. Every match, from beginning to end will be worth watching. I know the Hawkeye faithful want to believe that #1 Mike Kemerer already has this one in the bag, but he doesn't. Every match should be wrestled as if it is the finals, but in a lot of ways it could be.
First round will see #8 Jared Krattiger of Wisconsin Vs #9 Jake Allar of Minnesota. This one ended 5-3 when the two met earlier this season. We'll also see #5 D.J. Washington of Indiana take on #12 Emil Soehnlen of Purdue. On Paper looks to be an easy match for Washington, but so many of Soehnlen's losses this season have been by a single point. Could end up being a pretty decent match on the mat. #7 Kaleb Romero of Ohio State should once again handle #11 D.J. Shannon of Illinois and you would think with the way #10 Drew Hughes of Michigan State has been wrestling that #7 Jackson Turley of Rutgers will do no less than a 10 point major decision. Nevertheless somehow or another Hughes was able to secure a victory over Soehnlen so that makes me wonder.
Quarter-finals is where it could get really interesting. #1 Kemerer will have either #8 Krattiger or #9 Allar. For sure a winnable match that should spell bonus points for the Hawkeye who already majored Allar 12-3 earlier this season.
If Washington does indeed get past Soehnlen, then he has #4 Logan Massa of Michigan. Massa was able to pin Washington at the tail end of the third period in their meeting earlier this season. Should prove to be a better match here in the Quarters.
#3 Carter Starocci of Penn State takes on what is likely to be #7 Kaleb Romero of Ohio State. He wasn't easy to get past the first time in a 2-1 tiebreaker. He'll prove every bit as difficult if not harder here.
That moves us to potential Semi-finals matches.
#1 Kemerer Vs either #4 Massa or #5 Washington. I think it posses in Kemerer's favor to face Washington here. Kemerer is a capitalizer, one who waits for his opponent to make a mistake and then capitalize upon it. I think a young Washington is more likely to make those rookie mistakes than a seasoned veteran like Massa.
On the other side of the bracket looks to be #2 Mikey Labriola of Nebraska Vs #3 Starrocci, unless Starocci gets knocked off by Romero, which I repeat, has probability to it. Labriola Vs Starocci seems to me to at least on paper be a very fun match. Both are so creative and innovative within their wrestling. Labriola flows like water out on the mat, seeming to have an answer to most anything anyone tries on him. Starocci is like lightining, able to strike anywhere at any moment. Hope to see this match happen. It'll be fun.
Finals here is going to be great regardless of what it is. #1 Kemerer Vs #2 Labriola or #3 Starocci. Hell it might even be #6 Romero, who only lost 3-1 to Kemerer in the duel.
Might instead be #4 Massa instead of #1 Kemerer or maybe even #5 Washington.
Man this weight class is tough. 7 Allocations here, but I think they'll take more. Really depends on how the rest of the bracket unfolds.
 |
| 184 lbs |
Trying to make sense of this weight class is about to put me in the looney bin. While I think that #1 Aaron Brooks of Penn State has established himself as the forerunner, the rest of the bracket is a convoluted mess of parity that would drive anyone mad.
For starters the #10 seed has wins over the #7 and the #2 seeds! The #7 Seed defeated the #3 seed. So on and so forth, it is pandemonium.
As to what's going to happen? I think you could get in Doc Brown's time machine and redo the events of tomorrow and Sunday till the end of time and never come up with the same results twice. This truly is anyone's ball game.
If anyone wants to make the case that wrestling is a mental game, this is the weight class to use as an example.
#9 Nelson Brands of Iowa demolished #6 Taylor Venz in a very convincing 13-4 major decision. Yet he lost to #8 Zac Braunagel of Illinois 3-1 s.v. and Venz turned around and majored Braunagel 12-1. Speaking specifically to Brands, of all things that could happen to him over the weekend, a victory over Braunagel might be the best. He has to get out of his own head when he wrestles him. That's essential.
Seeing that this weight class could shape up a million different ways, there's no way that they only take the six allotted to the NCAA tournament. If anything I see as many as four at large bids for a total of 10 qualifiers. Upsets will happen like mad and there's a good chance that someone will beat someone on the championship side of the bracket and then lose to them on the consolation side of the bracket. In fact, I say that happens more at 184 lbs, than it does any other weight class in the BIG 10.
 |
| 197 lbs |
Ah, back to sanity. Not that I necessarily think that seeds will hold up here, because I don't. I think A lot could happen here in the hunt for a BIG 10 title. A lot of the matches between these guys have been close. A lot of 1 & 2 pointers that could have gone either way.
If seeds do hold up #1 Eric Schultz of Nebraska Vs #4 Cam Caffey of Michigan State should be an interesting rematch. The Husker edged the Spartan 6-5 earlier this season. Every bit as interesting will be #2 Myles Amine of Michigan against #3 Jacob Warner of Iowa. That match hasn't happened yet this season, but I can't help but think it'll be another nail biter.
This weight class only has the top five allocated for the NCAA tournament, but it wouldn't surprise me at all to see some at large bids being given away. I think #9 Gavin Hoffman of Ohio State may be the guy to keep an eye on here. Many of his losses to the higher seeded wrestlers have been close. Matches that could have been won.
 |
| HWT |
Fans have long awaited to see if there is anyone left in NCAA DI wrestling that can even remotely challenge #1 Gable Steveson of Minnesota. Many believe that if there is anyone that can do it, it is #2 Mason Parris of Michigan. Personally I also believe that Central Michigan's Matt Stencel can also give both a run for their money, but that's a different discussion for a different day. Steveson thinks of himself as invincible, an already crowned king. Parris perhaps the one to dethrone. Only one will stand in the #1 spot come Sunday night.
A lot of wrestling fans are already really big on #7 Greg Kerkvliet, but I wanna see him compete against the rest of the field before I'm sold. He'll be tested soon enough in the Quarters against Parris.
As to the rest of the weight class, I think Cassioppi holds his seed and finishes third here, although I do think that if anyone challenges him for that bronze medal it'll be #6 Trent Hillger of Wisconsin. He hasn't wrestled as well as I thought he would this season, but I still have high expectations for him. I think there is a good chance that he and Cassioppi could meet twice. Once in the quarterfinals and then again in the Consolation finals. I don't think either one will be able to beat the other two times in a row.
A lot of
Wednesday, March 3, 2021
2021 BIG 12 PREVIEW
 |
| 125 lbs |
With only four allocations, the fight here to earn one will be an all out war. Not only do you have the eight seeded wrestlers competing for one of those four spots, you also have at least two if not three unseeded wrestlers who will be competing as well. I don't think that Wyoming's Cole Verner will be wrestling in this tournament because he hasn't wrestled all season. However if he is going to compete, he most certainly needs mentioned as he not only poses a threat at qualification, he poses a threat towards the title.
Brody Teske of Northern Iowa has more than proven himself as a Panther. After some struggle to find the right fit, it's obvious that Cedar Falls is "home." Most impressive among his victories this season is his 6-0 upending of #3 seed Trevor Mastrogiovanni of Oklahoma State. I swear after Piccininni graduated John Smith told his staff to go out and find another 125 lbs'er whose name is impossible to spell and pronouce. Nevertheless I myself debated whether to give the #2 to Taylor LaMont of Utah Valley or to him. Looks like the seeding committee gave the nod to LaMont. Seniority and experience over the true freshman. Should be an exciting semi-final, IF it happens.
If you look over the matches provided above, there's been a bit of parity and a lot of close 1-2 point matches. This gives testimony to the hypothesis that the seeds are not likely to hold up.
#4 Killian Cardinale of West Virginia has some nice victories this season, but his 3-1 loss to #8 Mason Naifeh of Oklahoma does show his susceptibility to a loss. It'd be nice to see him do well here, considering that Old Dominion left him high and dry when they unremorsefully cut the program. Speaking of Naifeh, although he has kept many of his losses close this season, Cardinale is his only victory on the season. As these tournaments are often a war of attrition, I think this poses well for one of the unseeded wrestlers to knock him out of his spot.
#6 Cody Phippen of Air Force I think could be the wrestler to watch here. When he showed up at the tail end of last season, I thought with the way he wrestled at the BIG 12's he might end up replacing Sid Flores as the Falcons starter. Indeed he has. He took Teske into a wild 13-11 match.
Lastly I think Iowa State would've been safe going with Alex Mackall as much as they are going with Kysen Terukina. In fact with Mackall's only loss being a close 6-4 decision to Teske, seeding wise, considering last year's results were used, they might have been better off going with Mackall. Nevertheless, Terukina should have a decent showing. It's not often we see wrestlers from Hawaii. It adds a bit of excitement when we do.
Overall with at large bids, I think it highly depends on who places where, but I can see as many as seven NCAA qualifiers.
 |
| 133 lbs |
Another tough, tough weight class where ten wrestlers will fight for only four allocations. To think how much tougher this weight class would be if Iowa State's Austin Gomez wasn't out. Or what if NCAA DI wrestling was like the NAIA. If that were the case, Reece Witcraft would be entered too. Testimony to the toughness that is DI wrestling and further testimony to why I make such a big deal out of all of the programs we've lost. Some find it a waste of time. Something to make light of, but I'd rather have these programs back. Reinstated. The more programs we have, the less we see talent sit as backups. Maybe I'm wrong about that, but numbers games often play out that way.
Off that tangent and back on topic, it's clear, cut and dry that #1 Daton Fix of Oklahoma State owns this weight class. It's the rest of it that's going to be a barnburner. The parity here makes it difficult to determine exactly what will happen. What I will say is that unseeded Haiden Drury of Fresno State stands a good chance at getting on the podium in my opinion. Love to see him do really well as sorta of a "up your's" to a school that has already told him that they don't value him or his accomplishments. It's sad, depressing and frankly pathetic that after all of the hard work that was put into reinstating the Bulldog program, that they turn around and discontinue it again.
With that said, I refuse to believe that U.S. Kyle Biscoglia of Northern Iowa doesn't finish in the top eight here. Matter of fact, I think he'll finish a lot higher than eighth place, but the idea of him not placing at all is unfathomable to me. He stuck #3 Zach Price of South Dakota State earlier this season and had a long 6-5 tiebreaker loss to #7 Redding.
As to how may qualifiers once you add in the at large bids? Again, upsets will determine that and of course you have to look at all of the other conferences. I say as many as 10 here. Wishful thinking, but this weight class is tough.
 |
| 141 lbs |
As I look this weight class over my heart goes out to Iowa State's Todd Small. He's worked hard to find his spot among the Cyclone lineup but with as tough as it is, he'll sit this BIG XII tournament out. Personally I feel that Iowa State would've been just as well off with him as they are with Redding at 133 lbs. Nevertheless not questioning their decision, simply making a case for Small. Another tough backup.
In this case we only have three allocations. I think realistically it's a fight among seven wrestlers, but history tells me that it is unwise to overlook and write off three other capable wrestlers.
The finals is slated to be #1 Ian Parker of Iowa State Vs #2 Dom Demas of Oklahoma, but I do not see that being etched in stone. Demas didn't exactly take the world by storm in a tight 3-2 victory over #3 Carlson, who needed sudden victory himself to defeat #7 Droegemueller of North Dakota State.
It'd make my day to see #4 D.J. Lloren upset his way into the finals. Another middle finger to Fresno State in their unremorseful decision to cut the Bulldog wrestling program. Not a great probability. Loren over Parker in what could be our semi-final is a very tall order.
As the rest of the weight class unfolds I imagine some are rolling their eyes and taking a few cheap shots at ole Johnnythompsonnum1 for including West Virginia's Caleb Rea in this discussion. Based on this year's results of an 0-5 record, which includes an 11-0 throttling at the hands of #8 Chase Zollman of Wyoming, I can't say I blame them. However, keep in mind that Rea won 17 matches last season. Among them #6 Sandoval, #3 Carlson, damn near teching #5 Peterson 14-2 and sticking #2 Dom Demas.
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| 149 lbs |
Most certainly more straight forward here than at the previous five weights. 149 lbs takes the top four in allocations but it is almost a given that there will be an at large bid for a fifth qualifier. Matter of fact #5 Jarrett Degen of Iowa State stands a darkhorse chance at walking out the BIG 12 champion. He's been third here twice, along with one second, so making the finals is a possibility. He'd have to knock off #1 Boo Lewallen of Oklahoma State in order to get there, which is doable. Lewallen has pinned Degen in the past, but Degen has taken him into sudden victory as well.
As To the rest of the weight class, it'll be a battle between #2 Andrew Alirez of Northern Colorado, #3 Mitch Moore of Oklahoma and #4 Triston Lara of Northern Iowa.
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| 157 lbs |
A couple of takeaways from this weight class. First and foremost I believe that #1 David Carr of Iowa State can make a run at the NCAA title this season. With that said I do believe that #2 Justin Thomas of Oklahoma will give him a decent match in the BIG 12 finals. Carr defeated Thomas 4-0 earlier this season, but I believe with the adjustments Thomas will make it'll make for a tighter match.
I'll be interested to see if #3 Jared Franek of North Dakota State can defeat #4 Cade DeVos of South Dakota State for a third time this season. They say when matches are that close, it's hard to beat someone three times in a row.
I'd hate to think that #5 Jacob Wright of Wyoming would stay home for the second time in his career. He barely missed out on NCAA qualification two years ago as a freshman at Fresno State. Yet with the BIG 12 only having two allocations here, I think he's going to almost have to out wrestle his fifth seed.
Lastly, I wouldn't glance over #6 Wyatt Sheets of Oklahoma State. I've been referring to him as "Box of Chocolates" Wyatt Sheets for quite some time now for good reason. There's the Wyatt Sheets that got his rear handed to him 13-5 by Thomas & then there's the Wyatt Sheets that gave Thomas a scare in a 4-3 tiebreaker. If you look over Sheet's career, these examples are abundant. There's the Sheets that could upset his way to the finals and there's the Sheets that will finish in sixth place. It all depends on which one shows up to wrestle.
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| 165 lbs |
History repeats itself as we see another Cowboy in the long illustrious tradition of Oklahoma State wrestling take the #1 seed. Travis Wittlake has looked tough this year and should walk out as this year's champion. As to his opponent in the finals? The semi-final between #2 Peyton Hall of West Virginia and #3 Cole Moody of Wyoming should prove to be a good one. In a "could've gone either way" match, Hall edged Moody 7-6 earlier this season.
As to the rest of the weight class? Their are four allocations here and as far as I'm concerned that fourth place spot is up for grabs. The real monkey wrench in all of his could be Northern Iowa's Austin Yant. He's only wrestled once this season, hence the low #7 seed. Based on capabilities though, he is as good as fourth.
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| 174 lbs |
First things first, I'm not sure why Anthony Mantalvo of Oklahoma State wasn't seeded. I imagine that he will NOT be wrestling in the BIG 12 tournament & I'm going to treat the situation as if he's not.
With that out of the way, I am glad to see Demetrius Romero of Utah Valley wrestling as well as he has been this season. A career full of setbacks and injuries, it's rewarding to see him doing as well as he has. I think many have already slated their ideas for who will be this year's NCAA champion, but whether anyone agrees with me or not, I do think Romero belongs in the discussion. I feel sometimes he wrestles a bit too conservatively and I'd like to see him open up a bit more. The guy has an excellent offense, which I believe is capable of penetrating anyone's defense. That includes Starocci, Masa, Labriola, Washington and yes, even Kemerer.
As to the rest of the weight class, I think the fight for the other two allocations will be absolute chaos and I'm pretty sure at least a couple if not a few at large bids will be awarded here when it is all said and done.
Who I am most anxious to watch here is #8 Anthony Mantanona of Oklahoma. He was looking good last year. All American caliber. I was hoping to see him really take the wrestling world by storm and improve even more than he did last season. It's been difficult watching him wrestle this season, losing matches he was more than capable of winning. His 7-4 victory over #3 Dustin Plott of Oklahoma State has shed light on the situation though. Given a glimmer of hope. He wrestles like he is capable of, I don't see him defeating Romero, but I think he can beat anyone else in the weight class.
Look for Julien Broderson of Iowa State, who goes in without a seed to knock someone off for a place on the award stand.
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| 184 lbs |
I've been following NCAA Division I wrestling for twenty seasons now and while Northern Iowa has had some good freshmen, I have to conclude that #1 seed Parker Keckeisen is the best that I have ever seen. I think winning a BIG 12 title will be anything but easy. He has yet to wrestle #2 Tate Samuelson of Wyoming and both of his matches versus #3 Dakota Geer of Oklahoma State and #4 Alan Clothier of Northern Colorado have been close.
Only three allocations here, but I'd be shocked if less than five once at large bids are factored in aren't sent to the NCAA tournament.
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| 197 lbs |
This is a fun weight class. Of all of the BIG 12 weight classes this is the one I look forward to the most. I think it is a three, maybe even a four man battle for the title. #4 A.J. Ferrari of Oklahoma State vs #5 Jake Woodley of Oklahoma will determine who faces #1 Tanner Sloan of South Dakota State in what should be the semi-finals. Ferrari has defeated Woodley twice this season, but defeating someone of Woodley's caliber three times in a row will be a challenge.
Speaking of defeating someone three times in a row, #2 Stephen Buchanan of Wyoming seems to have #3 Noah Adams of West Virginia's number this year. They've been close, but Buchanan has came out on top in two exciting matches. It's likely to be our other semi-final. It'll be a good one.
Then of course #6 Sam Colbray of Iowa State fits in here somewhere as well. Only four allocations, a likelihood of at least six qualifications after at large bids are factored in.
The guy to watch here is unseeded Jacob Seely of Northern Colorado. I realize that among a 13-1 loss to Adams and a 7-2 loss to Buchanan he was also pinned by Air Force's Kayne Hutchison. Perhaps I'm wrong, but I feel that was nothing more than a fluke. He was eighth two years ago and fourth last season. He's also defeated both Adams and Buchanan in the past as well. While I'm not certain of NCAA qualification, I am very confident that somewhere between sixth and eighth, maybe even higher he finds his way onto the award stand.
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| HWT |
I'm anxious to see if Iowa State's Gannon Gremmel can hold on to his #1 seed and wrestle his way through a fairly tough BIG 12 tournament to a title. Conditioning seems to be a bit of a weakness for Gremmel, which makes him better suited for a one on one duel vs the grueling grind of a tournament. Being the #1 seed, he should find himself easily enough in the semis. He needed a tiebreaker to get past #4 Josh Heindselman of Oklahoma the last time the two met.
It'll be interesting to see how #3 Brian Andrews of Wyoming shapes up against the rest of the field. A semi-final between him and #2 Carter Isley of Northern Iowa should be a good one.
In a Weight class that has four allocations, look for #7 Brandon Metz of North Dakota State to outdo his seed. Had some slipups in getting pinned twice this season when he shouldn't have, but he did keep it close in a 2-0 loss to Gremmel. Wouldn't be surprised at all to see him pull off a couple of upsets.
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