WARREN, Mich. —  The De La Salle Collegiate Pilots are one win away from their third MHSAA Division 2 football state championship in four years. And a large reason why has been the play of their defense. Through five games in this year's state playoffs, the Pilots have allowed a combined 43 points -- an average of just 8.6 points per contest. 

One of the team's biggest anchors on that side of the ball has been junior linebacker Will Beesley. Beesley led De La Salle during the regular season with 56 total tackles, including five tackles for loss. 

For his efforts, he was named to the Detroit Free Press' 2020 All-East first team. 

"It's a great honor, but I've got to give credit to my teammates and coaches for trusting me to make plays and putting me in that position," Beesley commented, in response to garnering the accolade. 

He also contributed five rushing touchdowns on the season. 

He's been a pleasure for DLS head man Dan Rohn to coach, and he offers the Purple and Gold an ample amount of value on both sides of the ball. 

"Will is a very athletic and physical football player. He allows us to do a lot of different things, and I think his best football is still in front of him," Rohn said. "I'm looking forward to working with him for another year."

Meanwhile, senior running back Brett Stanley, who scored the game-winning TD in the Pilots' 26-20 OT victory in the state semifinal round against Oak Park, junior offensive lineman Tevon Mixon, junior punter Michael Bucci and senior defensive back Tyler Gerling were named to the Free Press' All-East second team. 

And, sophomore defensive lineman Mason Muragin and senior defensive back JC Ford were honorable mentions. 

Beesley & Co. take on the Muskegon Mona Shores Sailors (11-0) in the Div. 2 final Friday at 1 p.m. EST at Ford Field. 

You can catch all the action LIVE at MHSAA.tv and on Fox Sports Detroit.

Watch the Video Below of Coach Dan Rohn and senior Will Beesley discussing a trip to Ford Finals for the D2 State Finals: