Team State Championship Matches: On Paper

Photo by Devin Anderson-Torrez (MLive)

Division 1

Outlook: Two of the best programs in state history - we have seen this story before. 6 times to be exact. This will be the 7th time these two storied programs have squared off in the finals since 2013. The Shamrocks hold a 4-2 advantage in previous state finals, and they will be favored heading into this one. Davison just came off a huge 31-31 win on criteria over #2 Brighton to become state finalists. They don't match up as well with the defending state champs, as DCC is ranked higher in at least 8 matches, and favored in a couple more. Davison is extremely tough though, especially through the middleweights. Expect them to pick up their fair share of points, starting with state champ Vaughn at 113lbs.

Prediction: Detroit CC +28

Division 2

Outlook: This is Fowlerville's first finals appearance since 1994 when they beat Lakeshore 28-25 in the state finals. That team was also led by Dan Coon. However, this is another beast in Lowell, who is coming off a 55-19 win over a very solid Three Rivers team. We like Fowlerville to pick up some wins and even bonus points up top, but it's going to be all Lowell through the lower weights. We expect Lowell to roll to their 12th straight state championship.

Prediction: Lowell +25

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Division 3

Outlook: Dundee has now won 7 straight D3 state championships, and we don't see how they don't make it #8 today. Dundee looks as good as they ever have, coming off a 72-0 throttling over #4 Allegan. Dundee has found something in their upperweights with Rocco Redmon making a massive jump from 165 to 215 for the team. He has been red hot since that move last month. Yale is extremely tough, especially down low, so we do expect Yale to be competitive. Unfortunately for them, it probably won't be enough when Dundee has 14 wrestlers ranked in the top-10.

Prediction: Dundee +42

Division 4

Outlook: Legendary coach Scott Marry is looking for his 12th state championship at Hudson, and he has his team wrestling as good as ever. Climax-Scotts/Martin has put together not only a fantastic season, but they're looking incredible in the tournament that has resulted in their first-ever appearance in the team state finals. They most likely won't have enough for this Hudson team that features 11 guys in the top-10 in D4. That said, CSM should win their fair share of matches, led by state champ Buell at 144.

Prediction: Hudson +28