Number 7 in North Jersey Public School Football Countdown

Last year’s record: 11-1, North 1 Group 3 champion

Last year’s final ranking: number 2

Rear View Mirror: Golden Hawks missed a perfect season by dropping just one point Three point loss to RamapoThey later avenged this defeat by defeating the Raiders 28-7 at MetLife in the regional championship game. Key? David EstevezHe is perhaps the best player to ever wear a River Dell jersey, providing over 7,000 yards of offense over the last two seasons.

FULL LIST: North Jersey’s Top 20 public school football teams countdown

Looking to the Future: With Estevez departing, eight starters return on offense and six on defense. There is a conflict between players who received a significant amount of time last year for open slots. The Hawks also gained momentum with the return of Cole Murrell, who missed all but the opener in 2017 after leading the team in 2016. Three-year starters Jack Racine (WR), David Fletcher (RB) and Griffin Milgram (OL-DL) form the core that will face an eight-game schedule that will feature seven playoff teams starting in 2017. The biggest questions will be in the trenches, where there are offensive and two defensive players. graduated. Jack Gillies is an experienced player who can make a big difference.

Bold Prediction: There could be an early bump in the road for the Golden Hawks with the strong schedule, but the transition from Estevez could be solidified by October as they routinely play 35 or more players in games. Look for River Dell to make another strong run to defend their postseason crown.