Max Preps has So Columbia ranked #2 Nationally and Richland # 25. McDevitt plays Richland Friday night in the AA quarterfinals YIKES !!! You never know

How did the high school football season go overall?
“We had a good year and finished at 10-3.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“I already started working out. My school has a winter track team and I plan to throw the shot. I am also going to throw shot and discus during spring track.”

What are you trying to improve on the most as a player?
“Everything.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We should be good again next year. We have some seniors in key positions graduating, but we were able to play a lot of kids this year and should be okay.”

Who do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule next season?
“It is tough to name just one. The Coal Bucket Rivalry game against Shamokin is always a tough one and so is Southern Columbia.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have been getting interest from a lot of schools from all levels.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I have been to Penn State and Temple.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Not really.”

How has the football season been going overall at this point?
“Our football season couldn’t be any better as we are one in a select group of teams still playing.”

How do you feel about your playoff draw?
“Very proud of my guys for sticking it out and corning to play every week.”

What will allow your team to reach their full potential?
“Playing up tempo and sticking to what we do best, getting in space.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“Yes, my play along with others has allowed us to still be playing today.”

How do you feel your team has played this fall?
“We have played very physical through the season and played up to our potential all year.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I would like to play football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I visited and have been in touch with Walsh and Toledo University.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I visited Walsh and Toledo.”

Do you have plans for game day trips this fall?
“Not yet.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college has always been Ohio State.”

How has the football season been going overall at this point?
“I would say football has been going great at this point, but we aren’t done yet.”

How do you feel about your playoff draw?
“Excited honestly. We’re in state playoffs.”

What will allow your team to reach their full potential?
“Right now, everyone’s healing from the amazing game.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“I would have to yes, but I’m far from done with the season. I still have games left in me.”

How do you feel your team has played this fall?
“I feel like we’ve been playing great, but we still have some things to fix just like any other team.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yeah, but whatever happens is God’s plan.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I like to keep that business to myself. I’m not the guy to go around and talk about colleges and how many colleges that I talk to.”

Do you have plans for game day trips this fall?
“We’ll have to see in the long future.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up I would have to say is Oregon because they have so many uniforms they could pick, but at the moment I’d have to say USC.”

How has the football season been going overall at this point?
“Football overall has been good. We came a long way, but now we got to finish hard.”

How do you feel about your playoff draw?
“I feel confident about out draw because I know what my team can do.”

What will allow your team to reach their full potential?
“We just have to play 100% every play and down and never give up until that 4th quarter buzzer rings.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“I'm beyond pleased with how I played this year because many people were doubting and now it's my time to shine.”

How do you feel your team has played this fall?
“I feel my team has played great. I feel as though if we keep playing hard, we're going far.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I want to play football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I don't have any colleges recruiting me, but I have one that's looking at me.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes, to Pitt.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes, Notre Dame.”

How did the high school football season go overall?
“There were a lot of ups and downs, but overall it was a really good representation of how to stay humble and wait for your chance.”

What are your plans now with sports and workouts?
“Private lifting until team lifting starts up and speed training.”

What are you trying to improve on the most as a player?
“Being vocal. I’m more of a lead by example type of person, but in the clutch, I’ll step up.”

How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We have the potential to make a run at states in my opinion. We have a lot of returning players.”

Who do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule next season?
“Most likely Peters Township. They were very talented this year and also have a lot of key players returning.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, my dream is to play college football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Buffalo, Michigan State, Kent State, Pitt, and Bowling Green.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I’d have to say Michigan State.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Michigan State and Central Michigan.”

Do you have plans for more trips soon?
“I will be at Kent State for a game visit and I’ll be at Buffalo for another game visit.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite 2 colleges growing up have always been Clemson and Michigan State.”

Find out what colleges are recruiting Taelen Brooks, Stephon Hall, Jawon Hall, Myles Walker, and Matt Kelley now!

......................................................................................................

Woodland Hills running back Taelen Brooks
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, my dream is to play college football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Buffalo, Michigan State, Kent State, Pitt, and Bowling Green.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I’d have to say Michigan State.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Michigan State and Central Michigan.”

Do you have plans for more trips soon?
“I will be at Kent State for a game visit and I’ll be at Buffalo for another game visit.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite 2 colleges growing up have always been Clemson and Michigan State.”

......................................................................................................

Central Valley wide receiver Stephon Hall
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I want to play football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I don't have any colleges recruiting me, but I have one that's looking at me.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes, to Pitt.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yes, Notre Dame.”

......................................................................................................

Central Valley athlete Jawon Hall
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yeah, but whatever happens is God’s plan.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I like to keep that business to myself. I’m not the guy to go around and talk about colleges and how many colleges that I talk to.”

Do you have plans for game day trips this fall?
“We’ll have to see in the long future.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up I would have to say is Oregon because they have so many uniforms they could pick, but at the moment I’d have to say USC.”

......................................................................................................

Central Valley defensive back Myles Walker
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I would like to play football in college.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I visited and have been in touch with Walsh and Toledo University.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I visited Walsh and Toledo.”

Do you have plans for game day trips this fall?
“Not yet.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college has always been Ohio State.”

......................................................................................................

Mount Carmel offensive tackle Matt Kelley
Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, football.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have been getting interest from a lot of schools from all levels.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I have been to Penn State and Temple.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Not really.”

......................................................................................................

PA Preps previews and predicts the winner for this championship game matchup now!

St. Joseph’s Prep vs. Central Dauphin

On St. Joseph’s Prep: It took overtime to get to this game, but St. Joseph’s Prep was able to take down a tough foe in Central Catholic during the semifinal round. This squad has spent the season playing a number of elite foes while boasting a wide array of Division I players. They remain the favorites heading into this matchup but must know they have to play their A game to win this showdown.

On Central Dauphin: A younger group at Central Dauphin has bounced back from a slow start on the season to make enough plays when it matters and to be in the Class 6A title game. Quarterback Max Mosey has been outstanding behind center despite being a sophomore and knows that he can count on Timmy Smith and Nick Chimienti to help him move the chains.

Prediction: St. Joseph’s Prep 35, Central Dauphin 30

Confidence in Prediction: Medium

----------

Add your picks in this thread now!

PA Preps previews and predicts the winner for this championship game matchup now!

Cheltenham vs. Archbishop Wood

On Cheltenham: The Panther offense has gone to another level in the playoffs with the jaw dropping numbers they have posted in 2019. Adonis Hunter, Jamir Barnes, and T.J. Harris have all posted all state type numbers and it has shown throughout the fall.

On Archbishop Wood: Many may have overlooked the Vikings following their 2-3 start but that didn't stop them from getting back to work and making a push to the title game. Their attack defensively has been critical to their winning ways and will be on full display with a championship in the balance.

Prediction: Archbishop Wood 31, Cheltenham 28

Confidence in Prediction: Low

----------

Add your picks in this thread now!

PA Preps previews and predicts the winner for this championship game matchup now!

Dallas vs. Thomas Jefferson

On Dallas: The balance of the Dallas offense has made this team very difficult to slow down and pushed them into the championship. Lenny Kelley has gone over the 2,300-yard rushing mark as a senior and has not been held under 100-yards all year long. Don't sleep on Michael Starbuck as well at quarterback.

On Thomas Jefferson: The success of the Jaguars this fall has hinged heavily on their dominance defensive attack. This group has allowed just two opponents to hit double digits all season long. Thomas Jefferson also has a number of playmakers offensively, but they have leaned heavily on their D to dominate.

Prediction: Thomas Jefferson 21, Dallas 15

Confidence in Prediction: Medium

----------

Add your picks in this thread now!

PA Preps previews and predicts the winner for this championship game matchup now!

Wyoming Area vs. Central Valley

On Wyoming Area: The duo of Darren Rodney and Dominic Deluca has guided the Warriors to a season to remember and an appearance in the title game. This group has lost just once this fall and been excellent during their postseason run.

On Central Valley: After a narrow win over Aliquippa, the Warriors were hitting on all cylinders in their 45-0 win over Bald Eagle Area during the semifinals. Ameer Dudley has been excellent at quarterback this fall and has been solid leading their attack offensively.

Prediction: Central Valley 27, Wyoming Area 24

Confidence in Prediction: Low

----------

Add your picks in this thread now!

PA Preps previews and predicts the winner for this championship game matchup now!

Southern Columbia vs. Avonworth

On Southern Columbia: The dynasty of Southern Columbia has continued in 2019 as they are now just one win away from another championship. Wide receiver Julian Fleming has proven to be one of the top players in the country and is surrounded by a number of other college level prospects.

On Avonworth: The Antelopes certainly don't get the publicity of their opponents and hope to use to shock the high school world. Jax Miller has been a man among boys during their undefeated run in 2019. He has racked up over 2,200-yards on the ground and is ready to move the chains once again in this showdown.

Prediction: Southern Columbia 42, Avonworth 27

Confidence in Prediction: High

----------

Add your picks in this thread now!

PA Preps previews and predicts the winner for this championship game matchup now!

Bishop Guilfoyle vs. Farrell

On Bishop Guilfoyle: The defensive dominance of the Marauders is a big reason they have tasted so much success during the course of the fall. The junior trio of Zach Mccloskey, Andrew Yanoshak, and Cameron Maloney have all went over the 100-tackle mark and their ability to make plays all over the field has taken this group to another level.

On Farrell: A slow 0-2 start out of the gate pushed Farrell to focus even more on the football field and the result has been 13-straight victories. The run game of the Steelers will be tested in a big way in this matchup. If Anthony Stallworth and Jaden Harrison can help their team control the football, taking home the championship may be in the cards for them.

Prediction: Farrell 22, Bishop Guilfoyle 20

Confidence in Prediction: Low

----------

Add your picks in this thread now!

Interested to hear prep faithful take on this game. Soup , any thoughts on PCC from over there?

prep wins in ot

wood wins

.

7-7 early in the 2nd. Can follow here:

https://mobile.twitter.com/toddrthorpe

at 7:30 ESPN, Ole Miss (4-7, 3-5) at Miss State (5-6, 2-5). Lousy records but some good, good players on both sides in SEC even at this level. M-St goes bowling with a win and heads could roll for the losing coach. Mimics Bama-Auburn, Mich-OSU in intensity and ramifications so it will be intense and a good fix for a Thursday night.

Only watched a little of the Hburg game, but CD looks somewhat similar to Cville on O without the large number of QB runs. Lots of Jet motion, lots of quick passes to the edge. Soph QB looks to be a good player, but the whole team looking to the sideline pre-snap is rough to watch.

On D, lots of pre-snap movement and very active bunch. It must work as they’re shutting down opponents.

Post results here. Not a fan, but WIP is covering the Quakertown-Pennridge game. I reluctantly post the link since that scumbag Eskin is involved.

https://94wip.radio.com/94wip-turkey-bowl#//

Easton-Pburg TV will be on WFMZ @ 10:30

https://www.easternpafootball.com/news/2019-thanksgiving-day-schedule/

Central Dauphin 11-2, 210.06 vs Downingtown West 13-1, 209.37
The numbers says it’s a toss-up with a slight edge to Central Dauphin based on schedule difficulty and the defense shown against those teams. D-West rose 10 points but no further (some advantage playing at Coatesville Friday) as they continue allowing an inordinate amount of points. At some point, the offense may not be able to outscore a porous defense that in playoff games alone allowed Pennsbury 35, North Penn 31, Haverford 42 and Coatesville 36. Central Dauphin’s yields against teams that were all ranked was 21 to Wilson, 10 to Manheim Township, 14 to Harrisburg, 13 to State College, 21 to Township again in playoffs (before ot periods) and 20 to Harrisburg in the District-3 final. Most of CD’s quality opponents were away and are italicized. All of D-West’s games were home, making the game in Coatesville their first away game since Oct 25th at Avon Grove. CD’s offense is largely about sophomore quarterback Max Mosey (1886, 63%, 13/3 ratio), Tim Smith with 996 rush yards, 244 receiving and wide out Nick Chimiente with 994 yards. The O-Line is headed by seniors Chad Layton (OT, 6-2, 280, USAF), Bryce Thomas (OG, 6-5, 270, Temple), Ryan Hohenshelt (OG, 6-5, 250), TE Jackson Talbott (6-3, 225), Cam Sansoni (OG, 6-2, 235), and juniors Blaise Heshler (OT, 6-4, 285) and Nathan Mosey (C, 6-2, 235). Qb is rarely pressured. They’ll throw a pile of running backs and receivers at you, everyone staying fresh. Qb Mosey (6-0, 170) is quick, gets out of jams, can run. Nothing weak about the offense averaging 31 a game which is notable in this conference. It’s on defense and special teams where Central Dauphin stands out allowing 13ppg in all games played. D-Cord Sean Rosler has been there 14 years. The LBs are quick, not big; Elijah Vargas (5-8, 180) with 96 tackles and Pat Clark (5-10, 205) with 117 tackles plus Dan Ficca (5-10, 205) and Tim Smith (6-0, 195). Great athletes, very physical-active, fly to the ball, 16 fumbles recovered. I realize that’s often overstated but they pop you in the Mid Penn. The secondary has four veteran players with 19 (team) interceptions; Nick Chimiente (6-1, 180), Malachi Bowman (5-11, 165), Nick Sims (6-0, 175), Tyrese Fuller 6-3, 175. They stay fresh rotating bodies, like to blitz, often. DL/DE’s (often in 3-4) are various combos of Amir Walton (6-0, 215) and Marques Holton (6-0, 220), Jackson Talbott (6-3, 225), Bryce Thoman (6-5, 270) and NG Cameron Sansoni (6-2, 235). About Downingtown; as diverse and multiple as Downingtown is, they should be known for more than just Kansas State recruit Will Howard (2543, 274ry, 63%, 26/8 ratio) who gets most of the attention. Everyone can catch making them almost impossible to cover and Howard can run. Lead back Tariq Lewis has 29 receptions for 472 yards on top of his 1665 rush yards. Alex Rosano has 30 catches for 599 yards and 288 rushing while receivers Julian Williams has 710 yards in receptions and TE Sam Pelkisson 334 and 225 rushing. Max Hale has 274 rush yards. Sophomore Will Malmud has 234 rushing, 185 receiving. Simply put, they have a D1 quarterback throwing to a quality receiving corps with a good back. They score 45ppg, allow 23 in all games with a 50ppg to 36ppg average counting playoff games alone. Defensively, the front is their strength with DEs Sean Pelkisson (6-3, 225, sr) with 97 tackles and Max Hale (6-0, 190, sr) with 72 stops and NG Beau Bryant (6-2, 285, sr) with 46 tackles. Behind that is a lot of youth, four sophs in key roles including LBs Will Mahmud (6-1, 185, 53 stops), Heath Williams (5-10, 215, 27 tackles) and Nahsir Harris (5-10, 165, 18) plus safety Ryan Watters (6-0, 175, 53 stops). Other senior starters are LB Alex Rosano (5-11, 175, 33), and in the secondary, Tyriq Lewis (5-8, 160, 45), Marcus Gainer (5-11, 165, 48), Terrance Gainer (5-10, 165, 42) and Julian Williams (5-8, 165, 49).
CD is going to come after Howard who should be good enough to find gaps in their zone. Flip that to see this could be the best secondary Howard has faced, well experienced against Harry Kirk (62%, 2467, 24/5) of Manheim Township, Kaleb Brown (61%, 1430py, 773ry, 23/7) of Wilson, Brady Dorner (65%, 1708py, 439ry, 15/6) of State College, Harrisburg’s John McNeil and Brady Stumbaugh of Chambersburg. While not a monster offense like Downingtown’s, no one has pressured Mosey consistently per his shiftiness and the excellent line that protects him. It will be a first if that should happen. Special Teams and D could carry the day for CD unless Downingtown jumps them early, getting a 2-3 touchdown lead.

St. Joseph’s Prep 10-2, 219.86 vs Pitt Central Catholic 12-1, 208.81
Everyone except the numbers are calling for St. Joe’s to stomp the Vikings. Maybe the math is weighted too heavily to defense as it shows this as a competitive game. Shaky numbers not knowing who’s in and who’s out injury wise. Assume Qb Kyle McCord is out. Schedule difficulty has Hawks running away with it until plugging in Central Catholic’s defense. Looking critically at St. Joe’s, they left the door open a few times vs Northeast who wasn’t good enough to walk in, losing 43-26. Same with the 45-24 Nazareth win, maybe more so. Points are points so hats off to the Hawk defense and special teams who won the game with the offense doing just enough. They probably won’t see a rerun of Sahmir Hagans’s 52 and 48 yard punt returns for touchdowns or Anthony Rightley getting another 24 yard scoop and score as they move deeper into the tournament against better teams. Whether you hold to the adage “offense sells tickets, defense wins championships” (Paul Bryant), or the ancient strategic offensive principle of war that maintains “the best defense is a good offense”, you aren’t going to lose many games duplicating Hagans and Rightley’s performance. With SJP’s O-Line, Kolbe Burrell’s running and a cool sub running the show under center, the offense has been effective the last two games. Still, there were chinks in the armor in both games and neither had a defense approaching Central Catholic’s prowess. If they continue having to rally from 14-0 deficits, and rely on special teams and defense to score three touchdowns, Central Catholic is far better prepared as one of the state’s blue bloods with personnel, game and coaching experience on the Big Stage to take advantage. Qb scrambles and handoffs to Burrell may not suffice here. St. Joe’s results against Marietta (17-21), IMG 25-31, St. John’s (34-30) and LaSalle (44-13, 52-7) show what they are capable of at the top of their game with essentially last year’s team intact. Side note: Interesting LaSalle isn’t ranked in anyone’s Top 10 (Inquirer, Penn Live, PA FB News) as they come out with a 195.53 here and I thought were clearly a superior team. PCC showed what they could do last week beating State College (11-2) 24-21, holding them to 258 total yards. SC was similar to Downingtown West, having a diverse/multiple offense with wins against St. Augustine Prep-NJ (7-4) 20-17, (just lost to St. Peter Prep {10-1} 35-28 in the Non-Public Group 4 semifinal)….and Harrisburg (9-4) 21-6. The Vikings had 397 total yards of offense against State, 245 rushing, 152 passing, a team that came in averaging 36ppg, allowing 13 against a difficult schedule. This could get interesting with PCC’s defense and perhaps under rated offense against what has become a predictable St. Joe’s offense.

All classes are 6A and District 3 teams unless otherwise shown; Districts 3, 4, 5, 6, 9.

1 Central Dauphin (11-2, Mid Penn-Commonwealth)
Central Dauphin had a bye last week after winning the District-3 championship beating Harrisburg while their semifinal opponent Downingtown West was defeating Coatesville 48-36 to win the District-1 championship. The Rams are on a run, winning their last ten games since losing 10-7 at Manheim Township September 6th. The streak includes wins against State College (11-2) 34-13, Chambersburg (6-5) 28-23, Manheim Township (11-1) 35-34 2ot and Harrisburg (9-4) twice; 15-14 at their place, 27-20 at CD. State High, Township and Harrisburg were defeated on the road. The Whippets streak while not as long (5) is almost as impressive, winning those five by an average score of 48-30, with notable wins against North Penn (8-4) 40-31, Haverford (10-3) 49-42 and Coatesville (10-3) 48-36. That’s a lot of points allowed! At 32ppg in their last five games, CD has more than enough offense with a defense allowing 18ppg average. Downingtown lights it up, whereas CD sneaks up on you with special teams and defense, lulling you to sleep before the sophomore quarterback goes up top with a laser strike for six points. Should be a heck of a game! More on the game with the “by the numbers” write up.
2 State College (11-2, MP- Commonwealth, D6)
State College got off to a great start against Pittsburgh Central Catholic with Lokey Howell (4 receptions for 52 yds) returning the opening kickoff 94 yards for the score, followed by Dresyn Green (22 carries for 74 yds) 6 yard run for a 14-0 first quarter lead. Great start! But thereon it was all downhill with Central Catholic scoring on two second quarter touchdowns by quarterback Dom Pietro of 65 yards to Gannon Carothers, then again following a Brady Dorner fumble (7/17/90, 11/66 rushing)….also to Carothers from State’s 26 yard line on a fourth down play. You know it’s meant to be when Central Catholic beats you with the forward pass! They scored again on a fourth down conversion before SC tied it up early in the fourth at 21 a piece on a Dorner-Howell connection. Central Catholic then went on the game winning eight minute drive with Jonathan Opalko nailing a 37 yards field goal with 1:08 to go. Impressive! Pietro was 8 of 21 for 152 yards with Carothers collecting 3 for 128 yards and Ed Tillman rushing for 168 yards. Total yardage had CC up 397 to 258. State goes home after yet another loss to the WPIAL champ, their 11th in 12 tries since the PIAA playoffs were initiated in 1988. Talk about a hex. But that’s some kind of D-front for the Vikings who should be a difficult out for any team. The Vikings move on to the semifinal Saturday at 1 in Altoona’s Mansion Park Stadium against defending 6A champ St. Joseph’s Prep (10-2) who defeated Nazareth 45-24.
3 Harrisburg (9-4, MP-Commonwealth)……..season over
4 Manheim Township (11-1, Lancaster Lebanon-Section-1)……..season over
5 Wilson (10-2, LL-1)……..season over
6 Southern Columbia (14-0, 2A, D4, Heartland)
Like they’ve done all season, Southern Columbia built a huge lead at half time, 42-6, then cruised to another effortless win, their 46th straight by defeating previously unbeaten Upper Dauphin (12-1) at Selinsgrove. Unlike their other opponents to date, UDA reached out and touched them a few time, amassing 276 total yards (138 each) of offense. But it was never in doubt with SCA gaining 498 total yards (385r, 113p) in another mercy ruled 63-22 win, their 14th of the year. They move on to semifinal action again at Selinsgrove, Friday at 7 against undefeated Richland (13-0), who just defeated District-12’s Bishop McDevitt (7-7) 29-21. Statistically, Richland has one of the best small school defenses in the state, allowing 9ppg against a schedule including Bishop Guilfoyle (11-2), Ligonier Valley (12-1), Penns Valley (10-2), Chestnut Ridge (9-3) and Bedford (10-3). Their 3-4 is quick with a good NG in Connor Rager (6-2, 255, jr). Nice D-Front but odd as it sounds maybe a year away with 14 juniors and sophomores in starting roles who likely won’t physically stand up to the more mature SCA team.
7 Cocalico (11-2, 5A, LL-2)
After beating Cedar Cliff (10-3) 43-15 at Cedar Cliff (Camp Hill) in the regular season then again last week in Denver, it’s obvious the top seeded Eagles have the 2nd seeded Colt’s number! And that they’ve morphed into something special after the loss to Manheim Central 46-43 two months ago. Since then, they defeated Lampeter Strasburg (11-2) 41-13, who just won the District-3, 4A title, Governor Mifflin (8-4), the Berks-1 champ and Warwick (10-3) 21-13 of the well regarded LL-1. Holding the Colts to 136 total yards and seven first downs jumps out at you. This includes shutting down Jaheim Morris (2430 coming in) to 46 yards on 17 carries. Wow! Losing two of five fumble and a pick didn’t help. Cocalico’s economical attack of 7.04 ypp (317 total yards) was led by Qb Noah Palm’s 116 yards rushing, scoring on 1, 26 and 34 yard runs. Steven Flinton added 74 yards and a 59 yard scoring run with Austin Vang adding 56. Ronald Zalm had four yards on two carries, both touchdowns. This is their first title since 1994 as they move on to play District-1 champ Cheltenham (13-1) of the SOL-American Conference who just defeated Academy Park (11-3) 43-42. They’re led by quarterback Adonis Hunter (1892py-54%, 23/6 ratio, 350ry) and running back Jamir Barnes (1117 yds). But they won’t show Cocalico anything they haven’t already seen having played Cedar Cliff (8-4), Manheim Township (11-1), Manheim Central (9-3), Lampeter Strasburg (11-3) and Warwick (10-3). Conversely, Cheltenham hasn’t played a team including Plymouth Whitemarsh that approximates Cocalico’s Veer, or quarterback Noah Palm who passed for 1014 yards at 64% (9/2 ratio) and run for 1432 more with 33 touchdowns. The game is at Hershey Park Stadium Friday at 6.
8 Warwick (10-3, 5A, LL-1)……..season over
9 Manheim Central (9-3, 5A, LL-2)……..season over
10 Cedar Cliff (10-3, 5A, MP-Keystone)
Few expected Cedar Cliff’s season to end with yet another blowout loss to Cocalico 41-13, knowing they came into the game on a nine game win streak that included a 24-0 shutout of Exeter the week before. But all in all a nice season, winning the Mid Penn-Keystone for the second straight year as well as 10 games again while breaking in a new quarterback. Jaheim Morris graduates taking 2476 rush yards with him following his record setting season. Others return but none are of the once in a decade variety like Morris that influence the game each and every down.
11 Lampeter Strasburg (11-3, 4A, LL-2)
The Pioneers continue surprising with a 35-21 win at Berks Catholic to win their first District-3 title since 2007. Since the defeat by conference member Cocalico 41-13 five weeks ago, they’ve caught fire in the postseason, beating Elco (7-4) 34-7, top seeded York Suburban (10-1) 27-18, Bishop McDevitt (8-4) 30-27 and BC last week. This is heady stuff for LS and an 8th seed. They did it with an understated passing attack of first year starter Connor Nolt completing just 50% (84/169) for 1645 yards but for 19.58 yards per completion. Good stuff for a Spread/Wing-T! With a Td/Pick ratio of 16 to 3, they don’t self-destruct. The receiver corps is sure handed, led by Austin Stoltzfus (28/632, 6Tds) and Alex Knapp (24/410, 3 Tds). Beau Heyer (17-317) is a quiet threat with five touchdowns. Bryan McKim does the heavy lifting rushing for 1126 yards with dual threat Alex Knapp contributing 684 yards. All return in 2020 except McKim. Things ramp up in a major way Friday at 1 in Hollidaysburg against historic power Thomas Jefferson (14-0, Dist-7), who just defeated three time defending 4A state champ Cathedral Prep 28-13. They average 46ppg and allow 4 (60 total) with wins against Central Valley (12-1) 28-3, Belle Vernon (10-2) 41-7 and Cathedral Prep (11-3) last week. TJ is a machine, playing power football with one of the top OLs in the state; LT Michael Huber (6-0, 270), RT Mac Duda (6-4, 275), LG Jacob Krawczyk (6-4, 260) RG Logan Danielson (6-1, 265) and center Nick Trainor (6-0, 210). They are veteran in the backfield at quarterback with Shane Stump (6-1, 200, sr, 2384-58%, 33/1 ratio!) and running back Dylan Mallozzi (5-11, 185, sr, 1548) and at receiver with Danile Deabner (6-0, 180, sr, 44/950).
12 Wyomissing (12-1, 3A, Berks-2)
Wyomissing looked set for a deep run in States but Tamaqua (12-2, D-11) had other ideas, coming at them with a serious defense and running back that couldn’t be stopped. The defense kept Wyo’s offense out of the end zone, allowing Aiden Cirulli’s 35 yards filed goal and a fumble recovery in the end zone by NG Isiah Fernandez in the first half. That was it, with the Spartans finishing at 172 total offense and two turnovers. Nate Boyle led all rushers with 192 yards for Tamaqua who ending with 358 (192r, 165p) total yards of offense. Where was this team two months ago losing at home to Pottsville (11-3, 34-17), a team Wyo beat 31-17, and on the road to North Schuylkill (10-2, 27-18), before NS’s Qb Jaden Leiby suffered a serious neck injury. He is now out of ICU. For Tamaqua, Qb Brayden Knoblauch completed 10 of 18 passes for 165 yards. That, in conjunction with Boyle’s punishing runs and their defense was too much to overcome. They advance to the semifinal Friday at Wyoming Valley West HS in Kingston to play Wyoming Area (12-1) who defeated Montoursville (12-2) 43-27.
13 Berks Catholic (8-5, 4A, Berks-2)
Like Wyomissing, Berks Catholic who is also from the Berks-2 took a tumble to a team from the same conference that beat Wyo, the Lancaster-Lebanon-Section 2, falling to Lampeter Strasburg 35-21 at BC! A lot of similarities here with BC unable to generate much against the Pioneers, with but 172 total yards of offense and nine first downs. A major issue was 12 penalties for 76 yards, plus Bryan McKim now back and healthy for LS, gaining 125 yards on 18 carries. The Saints hung, battling to a 21-21 tie through the third with two late scores putting it away for Strasburg. BC’s Abdul MacFoy had a strong game rushing for 124 yards on 25 carries but that was it. Speedsters Colby Newton and Nolan Larkin were bottled up, held to 40 and 20 yards. The 8-4 season marked their lowest win total since the merger of Reading Central Catholic and Reading Holy Name in 2011.
14 Milton Hershey (10-2, 4A, MP-Capital)……..season over
15 Middletown (10-2, 3A, MP-Colonial)……..season over
Didn’t have some of Middletown’s stats last week to show running back Jose Lopez (5-9, 190) completed his career with a record 6182 career yards (1693 this year) with offers from Dartmouth and Georgetown. As impressive was their three year run to the 3A title game, losing in 2016, 2017 and 2018 with a record of 14-1, 14-1 and 13-2 in each of those respective years. What a run the last four years going 51-6 with three Silver Medals. They’ll miss Lopez next year but will field another potent team to compete for Mid Penn-Capital honors, battling the ever present Rollers of Steelton Highspire, but not Milton Hershey and their sophomore phenom running back Dion Bryant (5-8, 180, so) who move to the Keystone Conference.
16 Bishop McDevitt (8-4, 4A, MP-Keystone)……..season over
17 Exeter Township (9-4, 5A, Berks-1)……..season over
18 Susquehanna Township (7-4, 4A, MP-Keystone)……..season over. Moves from the Keystone to the MP-Colonial next year
19 Central York (9-2, York Adams-1)……..season over
20 Chambersburg (6-5, MP-Commonwealth)……..season over
Honorable Mention:
Richland (13-0, 2A, D6) beat Bishop McDevitt of Wyncote (7-7, D12) 29-21 in the 2A quarterfinal at Chambersburg HS. Play Southern Columbia (14-0, D4) in the semifinal at Selinsgrove HS Friday at 7.
Jersey Shore (11-3, 4A, D4, Heartland) beat Pottsville (11-3, D11) 42-35 in the 4A semifinal at Danville HS. Play Dallas (14-0, D2) in the 4A semifinal at Danville HS, Friday at 6.
Montoursville (12-2, 3A, D4, Heartland) lost 43-27 to Wyoming Area (12-1, D2) in the 3A quarterfinal at Wyoming Valley West HS in Kingston.
Upper Dauphin (12-1, 2A, Tri Valley) lost 63-22 to Southern Columbia (14-0, 2A, D4) in the 2A quarterfinal at Selinsgrove HS. NOTE: UDA will join the Mid Penn Conference with the rest of the Tri Valley League (TVL) in 2020 for the rebirth of the Liberty Division, mostly comprised of District-3 teams; Halifax, Juniata (D6), Line Mountain (D4), Newport, Susquenita and James Buchanan (D6), giving the sprawling Mid Penn Conference five divisions and 37 teams. Classification breakdown: 9-6A, 10-5A, 8-4A, 3-3A, 6-2A, 1-1A. Certainly is an aptly named conference!
Governor Mifflin (8-4, 5A, Berks-1)….season over
Gettysburg (8-3, 4A, YA-2)….season over
York Suburban (10-1, 4A, YA-2)….season over
Lancaster Catholic (10-2, 3A, LL-3)….season over
Mount Carmel (10-3, 2A, D4, Heartland)….season over
Cedar Crest (7-4, LL-1)….season over
Cumberland Valley (5-6, MP-Commonwealth)….season over
Shippensburg (11-1, 5A, MP-Colonial)….season over

Yahoo’s Pete Thamel is reporting that former LaSalle QB Chris Ferguson, currently at Maine, is entering the transfer portal, with the intention of playing at the FBS level. Thamel notes that Ferguson is an NFL prospect and led the Black Bears to the FCS Final Four last year, but has missed most of 2019 with a foot injury suffered in week 6. He will be eligible right away as a graduate transfer and has one year of eligibility.