Standout Playoff Performers From the Semi-Finals

[player_tooltip player_id='1097477' first='Jake' last='Blum'] has been Mainland's go-to receiver all season, and he delivered again in their semifinal victory against Somerville. He kicked things off in the first half with a 43-yard touchdown up the right sideline, showcasing his ability to stretch the field. Blum made several contested catches throughout the game, using his physicality and focus to secure the ball in traffic. However, his most significant moment came in overtime. After a Mainland touchdown, quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='855776' first='John' last='Franchini'] found Blum in the end zone for a game-winning two-point conversion, sealing the victory and sending Mainland to the state finals. [player_tooltip player_id='1097477' first='Jake' last='Blum']'s consistent production and clutch performance made him the game's standout player.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/MikeKinneyHS/status/1860160052960563357 </div></figure>       [player_tooltip player_id='995084' first='Brenden' last='Pacheco'] gave everything he had in his final game for Somerville, delivering his best performance as a high school quarterback. He showcased his complete skill set, excelling as a passer and a runner. Through the air, Pacheco went 19-for-34 for 232 yards and three touchdowns, showing accuracy at all field levels. He added nine carries for 40 yards and a rushing touchdown on the ground. His ability to push the ball downfield and use his legs as a weapon demonstrated his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback. While his effort wasn't enough to secure the win, Pacheco's performance was a fitting cap to his impressive career.        [player_tooltip player_id='284069' first='Najee' last='Calhoun'] led Bergen Catholic's rushing attack in a thrilling overtime win against St. Joe's Regional. He carried the ball 19 times for 107 yards and a touchdown, with his game-winning score sealing the victory. Najee's impact was undeniable, showcasing his blend of speed, physicality, and red-zone efficiency. His transition from Donovan Catholic to Bergen Catholic has been seamless, and this game highlighted his ability to be a difference-maker on the biggest stage. Calhoun's performance was pivotal in propelling Bergen Catholic to the win and advancing to the state finals.   <a href="https://twitter.com/JSZ_Sports/status/1860433921923547261">https://twitter.com/JSZ_Sports/status/1860433921923547261</a>       [player_tooltip player_id='525275' first='Dominic' last='Campanile'] played a crucial role in Bergen Catholic's semifinal win, stepping up as a runner when it mattered most. He carried the ball 20 times for 41 yards and scored two crucial touchdowns. While his rushing totals may not jump off the stat sheet, the designed quarterback runs in the second half opened up the offense and led to pivotal moments. Dominic's two scores were part of a three-touchdown streak that secured the victory for Bergen Catholic. His ability to take on the responsibility as a runner demonstrated his toughness and versatility under pressure.       [player_tooltip player_id='396564' first='Nolan' last='James'] Jr. put on a clinic in DePaul Catholic's semifinal win over Holy Spirit, solidifying why he's one of the most sought-after players in the country. The senior running back, who recently committed to Notre Dame, showcased his dual-threat ability. As a receiver, he hauled in three catches for 56 yards and two touchdowns, tying for the team lead in receiving scores. On the ground, he was dominant, racking up 155 yards on 21 carries and adding another touchdown. Nolan's performance demonstrated why he's a strong Player of the Year candidate. He has consistently been the focal point of DePaul's offense, delivering in every game phase.