"It may have been the best game I've ever been a part of."

Those are the words of Mike Gill, one half of the broadcast team that had the opportunity to call Friday night's football classic between Absegami and Atlantic City. The Vikings rallied to overcome a 17-point 4th quarter deficit, and advanced in the Group V State Playoff Tournament with a 34-30 postseason win. It's Atlantic City's second win in as many weeks against the Braves, after winning in Galloway 33-25 to close out the regular season.

Mike Gill shared his thoughts on one of the wildest games this season, including the turning point that put the Vikings over the top. He also comments on why Atlantic City had every reason to fold after Hurricane Sandy, and how they refused to give in despite tremendous pressure.

And while they get to celebrate the incredible comeback victory, it's right back to work for the Vikings, especially with what could be the most difficult part of their season looming.

Philadelphia Inquirer high school sports reporter Phil Anastasia joined us on the South Jersey Sports Report to break down Atlantic City's playoff win. We also look ahead to one of their most important Thanksgiving games in years, followed by a huge road playoff matchup with top-seeded Williamstown only eight days later.

We also check in with South Jersey Hall of Fame sports reporter Tom Williams for his take on Atlantic City's stunning push through adversity, and what other local rivalries will take center stage in South Jersey as Thanksgiving nears.

Two local football teams will be playing in their first playoff games in school history before the turkey hits the table. One squad features one of the best running backs in South Jersey; the other still doesn't have a blemish on their 2012 record.

The undefeated Cedar Creek Pirates are the No. 2 seed in the Group II State Playoffs, and will be favored in their upcoming matchup with visiting Cinnaminson. Quarterback Damon Mitchell reveals his team's mindset entering their first ever postseason game, and why they won't overlook any opponent in their hunt for a state title.

And football isn't the only sport ready to crown a few champions. One local high school soccer team is on the cusp of capturing Group IV's biggest prize, and they'll have the chance to earn it on their home field in Galloway.

The Absegami Braves boys punched their ticket to the state title game after avenging last season's playoff loss to Cherokee, and stunning Cherry Hill East with a golden goal in overtime. Coach Bill Rose explains what it took for his boys to defend home-field, and how his team is preparing for a pivotal "1-vs.-2" showdown.

New Jersey's premier college football team in back in the Top 25 rankings, despite having their perfect season spoiled just a few weeks ago. SNY Rutgers beat writer Matt Sugam has the inside report on the Scarlet Knights' narrow victory over Army, and explains why a conference road game against Cincinnati will pose a much bigger threat. He also gives his case for Rutgers winning a Big East title, and what their chances would be in a BCS bowl game.

 

Listen to this week's show:

Phil Anastasia, Philly Inquirer high school sports reporter

Damon Mitchell, Cedar Creek Pirates quarterback

Mike Gill, 97.3 ESPN-FM personality

Matt Sugam, SNY Rutgers beat reporter

Bill Rose, Absegami boys soccer coach

Tom Williams, South Jersey Hall of Fame sports reporter

 

We’d also like to congratulate the South Jersey Athlete of the Week:

Emily DeMarco

Field Hockey, St. Joe's

The senior tallied her 39th goal of the season while leading the Wildcats to a South Jersey Group I Field Hockey Championship. She also fired sveral shots on net that resulted in scoring deflections.

It’s all right here, on The South Jersey Sports Report. Listen every Saturday, 9-11 a.m. on 97.3 ESPN-FM or 973espn.com

Follow Tyler Donohue on Twitter @SouthJerzSports.

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