West Orange HS football players earn All-Area honors

WEST ORANGE – Despite a tough start to the season, the West Orange High School varsity football team showed a never-quit attitude.

After beginning 0-5, the Mountaineers managed to win three of their final five games to finish 3-7. WOHS defeated Bloomfield, East Orange Campus and Morristown.  

Under third-year head coach Jim Matsakis, the Mountaineers were led by several outstanding players. The following WOHS players have earned Worrall Media All-Area honors: junior running back/linebacker Michael Osuji, junior linebacker Christian Oneychi, senior wide receiver Malik Allen and senior defensive lineman Ibn Dawes.

Osuji rushed for more than 1,110 yards and six touchdowns, and was second on the team in tackles with 83.

Oneychi, a 6-foot-2, 210-pounder, was a force on defense, posting a team-high 97 tackles with six forced fumbles, six sacks and 11 quarterback pressures. He also blocked two kicks on special teams and was an offensive lineman.

Dawes, a 5-11, 210-pounder, also a defensive standout. The 5-11, 210-pound lineman had 61 tackles, including 17 tackles for a loss, with five sacks and six QB pressures.

The 6-foot-3, 170-pound Allen, a two-year starter, had 21 catches for 298 yards for the season. With Osuji and Oneychi leading the way, the Mountaineers hope to improve next season.