GAMEDAY: A Rare 2-Way Hornet, Griffin Stars on Both Sides of the Ball

It’s no secret that MJ Griffin is a special athlete. Griffin, the Hornet senior, was heavily recruited by NCAA Division 1 football programs, finally settling on Temple. Griffin is a 6’1, 180-pound player with great speed and leaping ability. He’s also got great hands and playmaking ability.

But while Saline has talented Division 1 athletes in the past, Griffin is the first Hornet to regularly play defense and offense in the Joe Palka era. 

Last year, he was a defensive star at corner. This year, he’s playing safety and receiver. Griffin embraces his new job.

“I love it! I’ve been doing it all my life so it’s not new to me. I’m glad coach Palka believes in me like that,” Griffin said. “I know I can help the team win and however they use me on offense, I’m fine with it. I’m a playmaker!”

Palka agrees.

“He’s physically tough and mental-ly tough. He’s in great condition and he can handle it when we put more on his plate,” Palka said. “MJ is a playmaker. Every once in a while you get a special athlete. MJ is certainly one of those guys.”

Meet MJ Griffin

Parents: Aliya and Ryan Griffin

Year: Senior

Position: Safety/Receiver

Years on Varsity: 4 (including two at Belleville)

What do you love most about Friday nights at Hornet Stadium? The sunset over the stadium.

What’s your favorite football moment of the week? Practice.

Pregame Individual drills.

Scouting Report: I’m smart, fast physical and very versatile.

Game day mentality: Ruthless.

Who’s the most underrated player on the team? Connor Terech.

Funniest player on the team? Me. LOL!

Favorite Song? Ambitions of a Rider

Favorite ice cream: Chocolate

Favorite subject? Science

Other sports: Track

College plans? Playing football at Temple University.

More News from Saline

• Youth Art Classes Offered Through Saline Community Education The Artist League is offering three classes this winter through Saline Community Education - Mural Making, Magical Doors in Clay and Playing with Paint on a Gelli Plate.
• BASKETBALL: Saline Uses 14-Point 3rd Quarter Run to Blow Past Dexter In a crucial early-season matchup, the Hornets rode a 14-point third-quarter run to victory over Dexter, 56-39.