November 11, 2011

Senior Chris Gomez and the Tigers are in the playoffs for the first time since 2001. (Photo: Jason Bernstein)

Memorial Tigers Photo Gallery

Meaningful football in November has been a foreign concept in West New York. But for the first time in a decade, Memorial is competing for the playoffs.

Led by a core of 17 seniors, the Tigers have overcome depth-compromising injuries to win five games under former Memorial standout Oscar Guerrero in his second year as head coach.

While the Tigers are ecstatic to be back in the playoffs, first round opponent Montclair was the last team it wanted to see on the other sideline. Considered by many to be the best public school squad in the state, the Mounties are a perfect 8-0 and have scored at least 35 points in every game this season.

Players to Watch for Memorial:
Bobby Bailey, QB
On a team full of seniors, this sophomore has emerged as the team's starting quarterback. Bailey, who took over the starting spot in September, has flashed his potential at the position. At no time was that more evident than against Union City when Bailey completed 6-of-9 passes for 210 yards and three touchdowns in a 25-22 defeat.

Chris Gomez, RB/S
Gomez has been a workhorse for the Tigers this season, rushing for 1,019 yards and 13 touchdowns. When Gomez scores, it usually comes in bunches as he found the end zone four times against Ferris and three times apiece in wins over Marist and Nazareth. For the Tigers to have a chance, it will need a huge performance from it's senior back.

Players to Watch for Montclair:
Khalif Herbin, QB
Quite possibly the most state's best offensive player, the 5-foot-7 Herbin has been unstoppable force this year. He has rushed for 1,298 yards and 27 touchdowns on just 99 carries this season. Herbin torched St. Peter's Prep for 212 yards and four scores in the opener and followed with 307 yards and six TDs vs West Orange. Herbin has also thrown for 519 yards.

Stephaun Marshall, RB/DB
This Temple-bound senior is proof Montclair is more than just a one-man squad. Marshall has rushed for 595 yards and eight touchdowns with 100+ yard games against Irvington and Belleville. The 6-foot-2, 195-pounder packs a punch at safety as he leads the team with 50 tackles, highlighted by 10 in a dominant performance over previously unbeaten East Orange.