South Jersey Showdown: Millville vs. Winslow in the Group 4 Semifinal

by NJ Athletics

When Millville (9-2) travels to face unbeaten Winslow (12-0) in the NJSIAA Group 4 Semifinal, all eyes will be on South Jersey’s biggest stars. This game features some of the top Division I football talent in the state, including Alabama commit Lotzeir Brooks, Wisconsin commit Cam Miller, and Iowa State commit Karon Brookins. It’s not just a playoff game—it’s a showcase of elite talent on both sides of the ball.

Season Recap

Millville Thunderbolts: Redemption Tour

Millville has been on a tear since their early-season loss to Winslow (35-7) in late September. The Thunderbolts are riding a four-game winning streak, outscoring their playoff opponents 150-13 over three games. Their offense is explosive, led by sophomore quarterback Robert O’Connor, who has thrown for 2,118 yards and 24 touchdowns.

Senior wide receiver Lotzeir Brooks, an Alabama commit, has been the centerpiece of their attack, tallying 1,159 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. On the ground, senior running back Jamal Wallace adds balance with 819 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns.

Defensively, Millville’s Shermar Collins and Jayden Jones anchor a tough unit that will need to slow down Winslow’s high-powered offense to have a shot at revenge.

Winslow Eagles: Undefeated and Unstoppable

Winslow is on a mission. At 12-0, the Eagles have dominated the competition, averaging 47 points per game while allowing only 8.3 points per contest. Sophomore quarterback Jalen Parker has been sensational, throwing for 2,558 yards and 40 touchdowns. He’s spreading the ball to a loaded receiving corps that includes Cam Miller (641 yards, 12 TDs) and Nyqir Helton (792 yards, 12 TDs).

On defense, Winslow brings the heat. Senior defensive lineman Rob Carstarphen and sophomore standout Ausar Heard have been disruptive forces, combining for over 190 tackles. The Eagles' secondary, led by Miller and NaKeem Powell, has accounted for 17 interceptions.

Winslow’s last meeting with Millville showed their defensive and offensive balance. Can they replicate that success under the playoff spotlight?

Head-to-Head History

Winslow and Millville have traded blows over the years:

  • September 27, 2024: Winslow won 35-7 with a dominant performance.
  • December 5, 2021: Millville edged Winslow 45-35 in a high-scoring affair.
  • November 2, 2018: Millville prevailed 44-28.

The stage is set for another chapter in their rivalry, with both teams fielding their strongest rosters in years.

Key Matchups

  1. Lotzeir Brooks vs. Winslow Secondary

    • Brooks is one of the most dangerous playmakers in the state, and his ability to stretch the field will be tested against Winslow’s ball-hawking secondary, featuring Powell (4 INTs) and Miller.

  2. Winslow Passing Attack vs. Millville Pass Rush

    • Parker has been nearly flawless, but Millville’s defensive line, led by Jones (57 tackles, 14 for loss), must apply consistent pressure to disrupt Winslow’s rhythm.

  3. Special Teams Impact

    • Winslow’s return game, led by Powell and Jayden Poteat, has produced multiple touchdowns this season. Field position could swing momentum in a close game.

Tale of the Tape

Statistic Millville Winslow
Points Per Game 39.6 47.2
Points Allowed Per Game 10.8 8.3
Passing Yards Per Game 192.5 213.2
Rushing Yards Per Game 148.2 127.6
Turnover Differential +9 +14

Keys to Victory

Millville

  1. Establish the Run: Wallace must have a big game to keep Winslow’s offense off the field.
  2. Protect O’Connor: Winslow’s defensive front is relentless. Millville’s offensive line must give their quarterback time to find Brooks.
  3. Win Big Plays: Millville needs explosive plays from Brooks and their defense to shift momentum.

Winslow

  1. Control the Tempo: With a balanced attack, the Eagles must dictate the pace early and force Millville to play catch-up.
  2. Defensive Discipline: Limiting Brooks and Wallace will go a long way in securing a victory.
  3. Capitalize on Special Teams: Winslow has been exceptional in flipping field position. Another big return could be a game-changer.

X-Factors

  • Millville: Lotzeir Brooks—The Alabama-bound wideout is a matchup nightmare and can turn any play into a touchdown.
  • Winslow: Jalen Parker—The sophomore quarterback’s poise under pressure could determine the outcome.

Why You Should Watch

This isn’t just a playoff game; it’s a showcase of future collegiate stars. From Brooks to Miller, the field will be packed with elite talent. With a spot in the state championship at stake, expect nothing less than a thrilling, hard-fought battle.

Set your alarms for Saturday at 1:00 PM—this one’s going to be special!

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