Future Chippewas looking for state championships

It's the time of year when football championships are awarded, and several of Central Michigan's 2011 commitments are still alive in the chase for state championships. Look below for updates in the Chippewa commits who will be in playoff action this weekend.

Ithaca quarterback Alex Niznak

-The Yellowjackets stayed undefeated (12-0) with a 28-6 win over Montrose last weekend and they now have a date with Iron Mountain in the semi-finals. Niznak has been amazing in the playoff run, and the 6-foot-3 and 230 pound signal caller will face one of his toughest tests against Iron Mountain. The game is scheduled for 11:30AM on Saturday morning in Marquette (MI) at the Superior Dome.

Kaneland (IL) athlete Blake Serpa

-Kaneland is putting together their own stellar season as they have yet to lose a game all year and they are sure to be tested this week. Kaneland (12-0) will take on defending Class 5A state champion Montini Catholic (10-2) on Saturday night.

"This will be the first time in our school history that we will be hosting a semifinal game and that's just really exciting. The whole school and the town is really pumped up for sure. We just want to keep making one big step each week and we have two more steps left to take (before winning the Class 5A state title)" said Serpa.

Cardinal Gibbons (FL) safety Denzel Wimberly

-After winning four straight games to get themselves back on track, Cardinal Gibbons has now dropped two straight and they currently sit at 6-4 overall. This Friday Wimberly and his squad travel to Glades Central for a regional semifinal game.

* It's been a solid year for high school football in the Mount Pleasant area, and three area schools have a chance to make it to Ford Field. Ithaca, located just 20 miles away is the favorite on Division 6 while Mt. Pleasant (Division 3) and Mt. Pleasant Sacred Heart (Division 8) are both still alive. Mt. Pleasant will play perennial power East Grand Rapids this Friday at Ferris State University while Sacred Heart travels to the Superior Dome to take on Crystal Falls Forest Park.

* Several CMU prospects will also be in action this weekend:

ATH Ashton Gaines :Detroit Crockett vs. Williamston in D2

RB Marques Stevenson: Lake Orion vs. Detroit Cass Tech in D1

OL Bryan Bell: Lowell vs. Walled Lake Central in D2