Hard work beats talent,
when talent doesn't work hard.....just a little foreshadowing!

Coatesville 13-1; Coach Matt Ortega has established himself as one of our state’s top coaches while lifting Coatesville in status as one of the best programs in the district and state. Being from his home area I’ll admit to a bias for Coach Ortega who was born in Steelton and graduated from Central Dauphin. To say that area is crazy about football, particularly those two schools is probably an understatement. Us natives are proud seeing one of our own doing well. Enough! Since his inaugural season in 2009, the program has rocketed in the district to become relevant in the state. People ask “how’s Coatesville lookin this year”….at least in the Harrisburg area they do and I suspect in other football savvy districts as well. Following an inaugural 5-5 season, the Red Raiders went 8-3, 9-3, 13-3, 9-2 and 13-1 last year, making the playoffs in Coach’s second year and going 9-5 in post season play since his arrival. Getting to the PIAA AAAA final in your fourth year is no small feat either, despite getting throttled by North Allegheny (16-0) 63-28. One thing you can bank on with a Coach Ortega team is a high octane offense that incorporates the passing game into a strong running attack. But, rest assured that defense will always be the first priority as it is with Coach McNamee at Central Dauphin (Ortega’s alma mater) where playing your best athletes on D is a forgone conclusion. Any points scored by the offense are bonus points. Defense and special teams, an old formul. With no fear throwing the forward pass it’s very exciting football as this area has come to see. Gotta throw some! From 2009 to the present, the Raiders averaged 21, 27, 34, 39, 30 and 35ppg last year. And anytime you get a point differential of 18, you’re going to see a team with a lot of wins. In Coatesville’s best years, 2012, going to the state final and last year going to the district final, their “margin” was 19 in 2012 and 18 last year. With few exceptions, that applies to any team. His last two years at York High (2007-2008, formally called William Penn), before coming to Coatesville saw the Bearcats go 10-2 consecutively, with an offense averaging 29 and 44 points per game. Here they played in the York Adams Interscholastic Athletic Association (YAIAA), mercifully called the York Adams with teams like Dallastown, Red Lion, Central York and South Western. Keep your eye on South Western’s Mustangs who will be lighting things up this year at “The Corral”.
Coming into this season, Coatesville’s losses while significant don’t appear fatal. The receiver corps is a wipe out with the graduation of five players who caught 197 total passes for 2587 yards, along with their best back in Jadan Hudson (5-11, 175), who had 208 carries for 1120 yards and 266 yards in receptions on 26 catches. The big news is the return of one of the most exciting players in this part of the state in quarterback Jordan Young (Temple). He and Council Rock North’s Brandon McIlwain (South Carolina) will give us some great highlights to watch this year! At 6-3, 215 pounds he is essentially a fullback with stats in support rushing for 669 yards on 147 attempts. Compounding things for defensive coordinators is his completion percentage of 64% (208/324) for 2720 yards. As a senior, his 20 to 8 Td to Pick ration should improve. Defensively, they lost a few losing DE Amir Ealey (6-4, 230, 46 stops, Syracuse), MLB Stephen Pawling (62-210, #1 at 94 tackles, Ship) and hard hitting safeties Jay Stocker (6-2, 195, 46 tops, Pitt) and Ricky Southcott (6-0, 185, 61 tackles). Had some nice corners too; Steve Pugh (5-10, 160, 27 tackles) and Ahkema Evans (5-10, 170, 31 stops, RI). DE Steve Lentz (6-3, 200, 44 tackles) is also gone. With an offense that gave it very little rest, a 17ppg averaging defense was pretty good stuff, especially in their conference. It should be pretty good stuff again with the return of senior DLs Javon Sampson (6-0, 255, 18 tackles), Nate Luvice (5-11, 285, 10 tackles), and tough NG Isaiah Hall (5-8, 200. jr, 16 stops). Linebacker Chris Jordan (6-0, 210, sr, 40 tackles) and DE Jelil Norman (6-2, 235, sr, 16 stops) return along with Kevin Kirk (5-11, 170, sr, 15 tackles). So, there is something to build on! And with the continued maturity of Jordan Young, opposing defenses better keep it honest. They’ll be favored to win the conference along with Downingtown East and be a force in the postseason.

Downingtown East 9-4; The Cougars bounced back in a big way last year, falling a game short of a double digit win season after finishing 4-6 the year before. Not bad against a schedule full of winners, nine to be exact out of thirteen teams played. West Chester East went 6-6. One of those losing teams was Roman Catholic (5-7) who lost to Downingtown 40-38 in ot and Coatesville by three, 24-21. Downingtown East’s losses came to Bishop Shanahan (8-4), 17-10, Coatesville (13-1), 15-9 then aagain 31-12 in the postseason and Haverford School (9-1) 54-26. You can make a strong case that those three losses came to teams enjoying their finest seasons, particularly Bishop Shanahan (8-4) with their most wins, best team (3rd winning season since the 2001 restart, 6-5, 7-4) and defense ever at 15ppg. Haverford School at 9-1 had their most wins, best offense and defense at 38ppg and 13ppg in over 25 years and they bring back a lot for 2015. Coatesville’s 2012 team which advanced to the state final edges last year’s district runner-up.
Coming into this season, the greatest loss for the Cougars is at quarterback where Andrew Hudson graduated along with their excellent wide-out Dan Chisena. Hudson threw for 1403 yards, completing 55% of his passes as Dan Chisena caught 25 passes for 434 yards. His extraordinary speed will be missed. Two months ago in Shippensburg (5/24/15) at the PIAA-AAA Track and Field Championship he won gold medals in the 100 meters, the 200 and also the 4 x 100 relay. But TE Cary Angeline (6-7, 235, sr, So Cal) returns after snagging 37 passes for 539 yards to lead the Cougars in receptions. As one of the top tight ends in the country, everyone was recruiting him. Jack Kincade (5-8, 175, sr) and Nick Alvado (5-9, 155, sr) return to the backfield. Whoever gets the nod under center, probably Saunders Healy (6-4, 180, sr) or Tom Walsh (5-10, 150, jr) and Bryce Lauletta (6-0, 175, so), will operate behind four veteran senior lineman; Michael Clark (6-7, 280, MD commit), Mike Rachlin (6-3, 260), Jay Ingram (6-2, 235) and tight end Cary Angeline (6-7, 235). Incidentally, Bryce Lauletta is the youngest brother of Trey (6-1, 200, three time All Conf) who played at Bucknell and Kyle (6-3, 210), a R/S Soph at Richmond, both at QB. Kyle threw for 5243 yards and 64 Td in two years. Bryce led the Marsh Creek Eagles (14-2) all the way to Disney in 2011 where they lost in the Junior Pee Wee Division II National Championship, The Pop Warner Super Bowl, to Port St. Lucie, FL (17-0), 12-8. Good seeing another Lauletta coming up through the ranks.
Defensively, they lost a few linebackers (Tyler Buban and Adam Stata) but return Brody Wilson (6-2, 230, sr). The D lost two good linemen in Thad Stevenson (6-2, 240) and Caleb Fell (6-3, 240) who will play at Colgate. DLs Pat Matte (5-10, 180, sr) and Chris Hartoonian (6-5, 260, sr) are back with CB Justin Cohen but Kevin DiStefano is gone from the Secondary. They don’t look as solid as last year when they returned six of their starting front seven but a good nucleus returns plus a powerful O-Line to control things on that side until the new quarterback settles in. If Downingtown finds a quarterback and they always do, they’ll be a force.

Mr O'Brien, I wouldn't be surprised of Penn State lands up to 75% of these kids.

Wood QB Anthony Russo has committed to Rutgers. Congratulations to a hard working player.

2014: District 1, Suburban One-Continental
League-Conference mini review-preview:

Quakertown 11-2; Nothing special about Quakertown’s offense that walked along at 24ppg but the D was special, allowing a twelve year low of 14ppg. The last time they reached that low also witnessed their last double digit win season, going 10-3 in 2002 while allowing 13ppg. So it was quite a year, running off nine straight wins until faltering at Central Bucks East (5-5), losing 35-21. Then they edged Pennridge 14-10 in districts before losing as the 4th seed to Downingtown East (9-4, 5th seed) in the second round. The Panthers ran into a defensive buzz saw in that one, losing 21-0 against a Cougar defense that could play some serious D when inspired, holding major local players like Rustin to 12, Coatesville to 15, Downingtown West to 14 and Henderson to 7. Should be an interesting look this year with last year’s Archbishop Wood transfer quarterback Tom Garlick (6-4, 185, sr) getting the nod after helping lead the Vikings to a AAA title in 2013 (13-2), defeating Harrisburg’s Bishop McDevitt (14-2) 22-10. He took over as the starting quarterback the year before as a frosh in the third week stepping in for Chris Rahill. That group went to the final as well, losing to a super Cathedral Prep (15-0) team 24-14. Prep had Damion Terry at QB who lettered as a R/S Frosh at Michigan State last year. Looking at the coming season with Garlick under center, running back Rob Burns (5-10, 175, sr) returning after rushing for 1352 yards plus their two leading receivers and a lot of the defense has things looking good but they’ll sorely miss their headhunting linebacker Hunter Nice.

Council Rock North 6-5; Like Pennridge, Council Rock North had two distinct seasons. The first saw them get off to a 6-2 start. The second witnessed a 1-3 finish, losing their last three games to Quakertown, Council Rock South and Upper Dublin. In some ways the 42-40 loss to Truman (7-5) dropping them to 6-2, mimicked the season with North jumping out to a 20-7 lead, then allowing a 35 point comeback (28 over the middle quarters) by the suddenly potent Tiger attack. Special team’s failures converting a 2-pt conversion and a field goal iced it. Surprise, surprise, another team losing a game because of special teams! Two weeks later the D again disappeared against Quakertown, failing to hold on to a 26-7 lead in a losing 48-32 effort. 26-7 lead….at home! Had they held on, they would have improved to 7-2 with real momentum going into the game with the Hawks.
While they had little trouble scoring points at 32ppg, their highest year end average since the split, the defense was abysmal, allowing a walloping 30ppg! This was another record since the split. That really expressed itself against “quality” where they went 2-5 vs winning teams, beating Gratz (11-2) 40-25 and Perkiomen Valley (9-3) 29-27 while losing to Pennsbury (13-2), Truman (7-5), Quakertown (11-2), CR South (6-4) and Upper Dublin (11-2) by an average score of 47-27; teams with a 48-13 record. Coming into the season, North really didn’t have anyone to replace stellar lineman Sam Horbal (6-2, 230) and particularly Seamus Bishof (6-3, 280, IUP). This year sees them replacing 3 linemen from both the O-Line and D-Line. It’s not as bad as the 2013 season where they essentially replaced the entire defensive front since they return all their linebackers, but most of the secondary graduated. Offensively, they return South Carolina commit Brandon McIlwain under center. Most of the Big 10 recruited him including Wisconsin, Penn State, Ohio State, Maryland and Rutgers as well as a number of SEC schools like UT, Florida and Auburn. Also in the running were teams from the PAC-10 including UCLA, Cal and Arizona and Clemson and Miami from the ACC, etc, etc. At 6-1, 215 pounds, he was able to bull his way to 1027 yards rushing while completing 52% of his passes for 2018 yards. His Td/Pick ratio was 17/9. Speed back Chris Welde graduated (748ry) but not their leading receivers with Devon Bibbens and Tyler Nowmos back after catching 34 and 25 passes for 556 and 394 yards respectively. North should hit the ground running again with this offense and they’ll need to with an experienced and talented Perkiomen Valley team coming in for the opener looking for some payback from last year’s 29-27 loss in Collegeville.

Council Rock South 6-4; CR South had their first winning season in three years following the great run from 2010 through 2011 where they went 11-2 and 12-2 respectively. Last year’s 6-4 campaign came none to soon as it followed two dismal 2-8 seasons. They showed great gains in both offense and defense, improving their year-end average points scored from 18 to 26. Nice! And while the D was improved, it didn’t improve enough to get them in the playoffs, allowing 27ppg compared to 34ppg the year before. In defense of the Hawks, they were a young bunch (10 seniors on roster) pretty much laying everything on the shoulders of running back Vince Alimenti (+1000 yards) who has graduated. Not a bad place to lay it in their option offense where it’s all about the fullback, halfback and quarterback. Two thirds of that group return with quarterback Sean Stackhouse back for his senior season supported by a talented halfback in Brendan Patterson, also a senior. Most of the line returns (Joe Anderson, Joe Carter, Keith Reiser, Brenden Bell, Zach Blickley, TE Todd Murray). Solid two way lineman Connor Brunetti graduates. Alimenti is a big, big loss but with so many returning they should get past the six win level, making a run at Districts.

Truman 7-5; Here’s another great turnaround or a strong continuation of the preceding season going from a 5-6 mark, scoring and allowing 22ppg to a 7-5 record scoring 29ppg while allowing 21. Would you believe this team was 14 points removed from an undefeated regular season, 14 points, with losses coming to Upper Dublin 28-21, Council Rock South 16-14, Quakertown 24-21, Norristown 18-17 and Cheltenham 28-27. They did it with their best offense in over 18 years and an improved defense that was also their best since 2001’s 6-6 team that allowed 19ppg. 2001 was also the last time the Tigers came close to a winning season. The success should continue this year with a lot of last year’s team back, notably dual threat quarterback Mark Lopez, a 6-1, 190 pound senior who rushed for 1025 yards and passed for another 1080. Most of the running backs return who were also primary receivers so the offense is set. The D returns most of their linebackers and secondary including the number two and three tacklers, Tim Kenny-Schwartz (6-0, 230, sr, MLB) and Maurice Jackson (6-2, 210, sr, 77 tackles). Trysten Hunt (5-9, 215, 117 tackles, 752ry) who graduated was key to both sides of the ball as their leading tackler and running back. If they can reverse just two of last year’s narrow losses by playoff time (11/7/ last year) they’ll be 8-2 with a great seed!

I believe there is a 7 on 7 Thursday evening at Neshaminy with SJP, Imhotep and Wood taking part in it. Can anyone confirm this?

1. Parkland* 11-3; (6-2), District 11 Champion

Last Season: Entered the D11/2/4 subregional playoffs as the 7 seed after regular season losses to Easton and Whitehall. Rolled over Stroudsburg and Delaware Valley in the first two rounds to set up a rematch at Easton, where they knocked off the Rovers 13-10 in overtime thanks to special teams and defensive heroics. Receivers Jarey Elder and Kenny Yeboah combined for 103 catches, 1,495 yards, and 21 touchdowns to make for one of the best duos in the state.

State Playoffs: Dropped a 34-30 heartbreaker to eventual state champion St. Joseph’s Prep in state quarterfinals, despite a 283 yard, 4 touchdown performance from Devante Cross (who also ran for 96 yards). Ultimately could not slow down explosive plays from Olamadie Zaccheus and D’Andre Swift.

Standouts: Senior quarterback Devante Cross (6’2 185) enters his third year under center as Parkland’s all time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. He is a legitimate All State and 2,000/1,000 threat after throwing for 2,300 yards and 27 touchdowns and running for another 750 and 10 as a junior. He currently holds offers from Syracuse and Boston College. Senior wide receiver Kenny Yeboah tied a Parkland record with 13 touchdown catches last year. The 6’5 220 pound FCS recruit is a match up nightmare and joins Cross as the most potent pitch and catch combination in eastern Pennsylvania. Offensive/defensive tackle Noel Brouse has an ideal frame (6’6 270) and recently committed to Syracuse to play on the offensive line. He was an All EPC selection on defense in 2014 and is the D11’s premier two-way lineman.

Breakout Candidates: Junior tackle Patrick Ferry made 14 starts as a sophomore on the offensive line. The 6’3 315 pounder, who won a state title in powerlifting last spring, is textbook size and strength for a lineman. He needs to become a more consistent run blocker and improve his athleticism, but has the tools in his kit to be a Division I lineman. Jahan Worth, (5’11 215) a sophomore linebacker, is one of the premier underclassmen athletes in D11. Worth went 21-12 wrestling heavyweight as a 9th grader despite frequently weighing in at 195 pounds. Last spring, he won a state powerlifting title at 220 and was named the most outstanding underclassman of the meet. The physical tools are definitely there, and don’t be surprised if Worth is next in a long line of great Parkland linebacker. He also could challenge incumbent Nolan Ridgway for carries at running back.

Question Marks: Replacing kicker/punter Jake Bissell (Lafayette) will be huge for the Trojans. Bissell was one of the best kicking specialists in the state and gave Parkland a huge especial teams advantage.

Best Unit: Parkland’s offensive line should be the best in D11. Brouse and Ferry give them huge bookends, and they also return senior guard Billy Danko, (6’2 240). Sophomore Brody Boyer (6’2 250) finished second to Ferry at the state powerlifting meet and is the early favorite to take over as the other guard. Steve Feher (6’3 245) and Mitchell Powell (6’2 215) will battle out for the final spot. It’s not an overly big line by PCL or WPIAL standards, but it’s certainly elite size for D11. If they can get an infusion of nasty, particularly in the run game, they should dominate.

Coaching: Head Coach Jim Morgans, defensive coordinator Tim Moncman, and wide receivers coach Bret Comp have combined to win four state titles as head coaches and have been the head coach in eight PIAA Championship Games. Offensive coordinator Chris Kinnade won a state title as the OC at Allentown Central Catholic in 2010. And quarterbacks coach Jim Terwilliger, the presumed head coach in waiting, was a 4x Division II All American, the 2005 National Player of the Year, and holds 17 different NCAA passing records. Best staff in D11.

Expectations: Parkland is going for an unprecedented fourth straight District 11 4A title and are a heavy favorite to do so. They should be a top 5 team in Pennsylvania when preseason polls come out and are a threat to end District 11’s six year losing streak to the PCL in state playoffs.



2. Easton*: 12-2, (10-0) EPC South Champion

Last Season: Put together a dominant first 12 games, going undefeated and averaging 42.3 points and 322 yards rushing yards per game. Lost a heartbreaker in the D11 final to Parkland, 13-10 in OT. Held the Trojans to 95 yards of total offense and three first downs in a losing effort. Followed that with a loss to Phillipsburg (NJ), 19-15.

Standouts: Defensive end David Simmons recorded seven and a half sacks despite missing five games with an ankle injury. The 6’3 senior has bulked up to 225 pounds in the offseason and if he retains his explosive first step, should be the best defensive player in D11. Quarterback Trey Durrah (5’10 170) had an up and down junior year, but returns with the most passing, rushing, and receiving yards (1,303, 337, 1) in the program. As the only returning skill player, the offense will lean heavily on his talents. Guard Ryan Greene was first team all EPC last fall. At 5’9 205 pounds, he’s built more like a fullback, but Easton loves to pull him on traps and sweeps. He’s also fast enough that he covers kicks on special teams.

Breakout Candidate: Junior cornerback Katrell Thompson (5’10 165) was a revelation after earning his way into the varsity lineup following the JV season. He made seven tackles and had a sack against Freedom in semis, then blanketed Kenny Yeboah, holding the Trojan star to one catch for four yards when the two were matched up, in the D11 title game. This year, Thompson enters not only as the #1 corner, but as the expected replacement for Shane Simpson (Towson) at running back.

Question Mark: Easton was ravaged by graduation at the skill positions, where as a team they return just 343 total yards (all rushing). It will be an open competition at receiver and tight end in camp. Look for a combination of experienced defensive players and a big and talented collection of sophomores to fill the roles. Trevor Storm, (6’6 185) is one to watch, as he has the height and athleticism (he’s a basketball standout) to make an impact in the passing game.

Best Unit: Easton’s defensive line will have pass rushers galore. Simmons is the best in the area, and Daloni Caldwell (6’3 200) showed real promise last year, making 37 tackles and forcing 3 fumbles after earning a spot in the lineup while Simmons was injured last season. Greene, Storm, and Isaiah Walker (6’3 190) also should be threats to quarterbacks coming off of the edge.

Coaching: Easton has more continuity on their staff than any program in D11. Steve Shiffert is back for his 23rd year on the sideline, and he won his 200th career game in their semifinal game against Freedom last season. Defensive coordinator Doug Powell and offensive/defensive line coach Scott Byrd have been with him every season and are two of the most highly respected assistants in D11.

Expectations: Expectations are always high at Easton, but there is definitely the feeling that 2014 was the program’s best shot in a while and they missed the brass ring. Finding a dependable pair of running backs and weapons at receiver are imperative. The defense is perpetually good, but will need to find quality replacements at defensive tackle, linebacker, and safety in order to get a fourth crack at knocking off Parkland.

EPC North

1. Pleasant Valley*: 6-5 (6-2)

Last Season: Started the season off by getting blown out by Easton, Bethlehem Catholic, and Whitehall, then put up a six game winning streak to qualify for subregional playoffs as the 8 seed. Came within seconds of shocking undefeated Stroudsburg in the regular season finale, which would have forced a 3 way tie for first in the EPC North. Dropped a 46-0 rematch with Easton in the first round of playoffs.

Standouts: Running back Austyn Borre (5’10 195) enters his senior year Pleasant Valley’s all time leader in every rushing category. He burst onto the scene as a freshman, rushing for 1,233 yards and followed that up with 1,146 yards as a sophomore. Injuries limited him to just seven games last season, but when healthy he is the guy at PV. He’s being recruited by Syracuse, Akron, Villanova, Bucknell, and Penn. Senior tight end/linebacker Brendan Kearns (6’2 225) was an All EPC North selection on defense last season and will be the main pass catching threat in Broadheadsville. Senior offensive/defensive lineman Matt Burke (6’2 195) was an All EPC North offensive tackle.

Question Marks: Pleasant Valley has been one of the better teams in the Pocono region of D11, but that has not translated into playoff success. There’s talent on this squad, but can they get over the hump and start beating teams from the Lehigh Valley?

Coaching: Pleasant Valley took a huge hit when Jim Terwilliger’s teaching position was furloughed, forcing him to resign as the football coach. In his short time at PV, he went 34-21 and made District playoffs three times in his four years. Terwilliger was replaced by Dave Pacchioni last season, who was promoted from defensive coordinator. Pacchioni did a good job rallying the troops after the 0-3 start and was certainly a successful assistant before taking over the program.

Expectations: Pleasant Valley and Stroudsburg will battle for the #2 spot in the EPC North behind Bethlehem Catholic. A full healthy season out of Borre will go a long way to PV reaching their goals.



2. Stroudsburg*: 10-1 (8-0)

Last Season: Stroudsburg pulled one of the bigger upsets in D11 when they knocked off Bethlehem Catholic in week 9 to win the inaugural EPC North crown. A 10-0 regular season earned them the #2 seed in the District 11/2/4 tournament, which came with a brutal darw of 7th seeded Parkland, who rather easily handled the Mounties. Running back Gerald Douglas led Pennsylvania’s 4A classification in rushing during the regular season with 1,856 yards and tallied 25 touchdowns on his way to being named EPC North Player of the Year.

Standouts: Quarterback Jake Jakobson (6’3 185) became the unexpected starter when Mike Nikorak chose to not play football his senior year and concentrate on his baseball career (Nikorak was drafted 27th overall by the Colorado Rockies, so good call). Jakobson threw for 1,173 yards and 17 touchdowns last season, in an offense that relied heavily on play action off of Douglas’s running ability. Jakobson will be asked to do more as a senior, but should be up to the challenge. Jakobson is also nationally ranked as a 182 pound wrestler and has committed to Lehigh. Wide receiver/safety Marcello Riccardi (6’0 180) was an all EPC North selection on defense last year. His touchdown catch between two defenders clinched their division title last season over Becahi. He will be Jakobson’s primary target this season. Junior offensive tackle Jack Williamson (6’4 255) was the primary road grader for Douglas last season. Stroudsburg likes to run right behind him out of their one back sets.

Question Marks: How well can they transition to life after Gerald Douglas? Douglas put up over 4,000 yards and scored 54 touchdowns in his career. That leaves a hole in any program. Stroudsburg wants to be run heavy, but may have to lean on their experience under center and at wide receiver until the picture becomes clearer in the backfield.

Coaching: Jim Miller is 19-4 in his first two seasons as the head coach at Stroudsburg.

Expectations: Stroudsburg expects nothing less than a repeat division title and another shot at the teams from the Lehigh Valley come playoff time. Of course, they’d love to avoid a first round match up with Parkland for the third straight year.



3. East Stroudsburg South: 4-7 (4-4)

Last Season: An uncharacteristically bad season for the Cavaliers. Suffered heavy graduation losses from the 2013 squad that went 10-0 in the regular season. Started 1-5, with a win over Pocono Mountain East being their only win around losses to Freedom, Easton, Stroudsburg, Bethlehem Catholic, and Pleasant Valley. Season ended on a sour note as well with a rivalry loss to East Stroudsburg North and a first round exit form the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Standouts: Junior quarterback Jeff Cirillo showed promise as a freshman in 2013, and was going to be the focal point of the offense last season. However, he battled injuries all season long, which submarined the Cavaliers season. Still, he managed to throw for 1,220 yards and 14 touchdowns, which he can build on with a healthy year. His major target will be senior wide receiver Gage Scott (5’11 175). Scott caught 23 balls for 276 yards and 3 touchdowns as ESS’s third receiver. On defense, senior linebacker Nick Delcorso (6’2 185) is their leading returning tackler after averaging 5.5 stops per game in 2014.

Question Marks: ESS has some huge bodies slated to see time up front, particularly junior Zach Timko (6’4 275) and freshman Josh Pustay (6’2 305). If there is some athleticism to go with that size up front, ESS may rebound quicker than anticipated.

Coaching: The dean of District 11 football coaches, Ed Christian has been the head coach at East Stroudsburg South (formerly just East Stroudsburg) for the past 34 seasons and he has been at the school for the past 47 seasons. Christian earned his 250th win last season and is one of only three active coaches with a District 11 4A title.

Expectations: ESS was 35-10 in MVC play from 2008 to 2013. They one of the two non EPC South school to win a D11 title in the 27 years of the tournament. 4-4 division records are not what they are used to up there. The goal is to knock of Stroudsburg and Pleasant Valley and challenge Bethlehem Catholic for the EPC North crown.

District 2

1. Wyoming Valley West*: 8-3 (7-1)

Last Season: Wyoming Valley West rode a wide open offense, led by record setting quarterback Brady Davidson to a second place finish in the Wyoming Valley Conference and their second consecutive subregional playoff berth. Lost to Delaware Valley in the first round of the D11/2/4 subregional.

Standouts: Senior tight end/defensive end LJ Wesneski (6’3 245) led WVW in receiving with 34 catches for 647 yards and 9 touchdowns last fall. Defensively, he led the team with eight sacks. Wesneski holds offers from Colgate, Delaware, Old Dominion, and interest from Penn State, Syracuse, and Temple. Complementing Wesneski is junior wide receiver Sean Judge (5’9 160) hauled in 33 passes for 513 yards and 9 scores as a sophomore and made 71 tackles last season from his safety position Also back is linebacker/fullback Billy Davidson (6’1 215), who led the team with 88 tackles and 10 tackles behind the line of scrimmage last season.

Breakout Candidate: Sophomore offensive/defensive lineman Chris Bleich is a 6'6 310 pound behemoth who saw time at defensive tackle last season as a freshman. With a year of varsity experience, conditioning, and maturity under his belt, expect him to blossom.

Best Unit: It is an excellent group of pass catchers, with Wesneski, Judge, and senior Devon Weidman (6’0 175) who caught 34 passes for 644 yards and 6 touchdowns. Davidson was fantastic last season, but it was also his only year as a starter after replacing current Lehigh sophomore Michael Bauer. The transition to a new guy will be eased by the talent he has catching the football.

Coaching: Pat Keating enters his seventh season at Wyoming Valley West after replacing the legendary George Curry in 2009. Keating has gone 48-20 and crafted the Warriors into the most consistent of the 4A programs in District 2.

Expectations: Wyoming Valley West has been knocking on the door of subregional success recently, but hasn't quite been able to break through. Another playoff appearance is very much within their grasp, particularly with all of the weapons returning.



2. Scranton: 7-4 (6-1)

Last Season: Scranton started strong with record breaking running back Jake McCarthy (Virginia – baseball) rushing for a staggering 1,730 yards and 30 touchdowns in the first seven games of the season. However, a broken ankle took their season off the rails, as back to back losses to Delaware Valley and Wyoming Valley West knocked them out of subregional playoff contention. They then lost to Emmaus in the opening round of the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Standouts: Defensive tackle Niko Bush (6’2 305) is one of the most dominant run stoppers in northeast Pennsylvania. Bush plus the middle and can get to the quarterback. He’ll also be a factor on the offensive line in 2015. Junior Jake Watts (6’3 225) filled in admirably for McCarthy post injury, rushing for 561 yards and 6 touchdowns on 94 carries. He’s going to be the man this season, and is a big physical runner who fits the mold of Scranton running backs.

Breakout Candidate: Senior wide receiver John Marichak (6’2 195) has the size and speed to be a factor in the passing game. With such potent running game, Scranton did not put it in the air much in 2014, but Marichak will be a key to a more balanced attack.

Question Mark: Breaking in a new quarterback is always a tall task, and Scranton does not have an immediate, no doubt replacement for 2015.

Best Unit: Scranton is big up front, with linemen Bush, Len Floyd (6’1 265), Nasir Muhammad (6’0 270), and tight end Dylan Granahan (6’4 220) all back. That certainly makes life easy on whoever replaces McCarthy, particularly if it’s Watts, who is big enough to run through linebackers and d-backs.

Coaching: Head coach Mike Marichek enters his 8th season the Scranton sidelines with a career record of 46-30.

Expectations: Things went up in smoke with McCarthy’s injury last season. Scranton has been a consistent winner, but has not been able to beat the teams from the Lehigh Valley come playoff time. Qualifying for the subregional and winning at least a game is the goal.



3. Delaware Valley*: 10-2 (7-0) Lackawanna Conference Champions

Last Season: Lost to Parkland in the D11/2/4 subregional semifinal. Only regular season loss was their season opener in Florida. Got massive seasons out of running back Lex Rosario (1,700 yard and 25 touchdowns – West Chester), tight end/defensive end Connor Lutz (Delaware), and first team all state linebacker Matt Wagner. Regular season game with Wyoming Valley West was a game of the year candidate, a 43-35 barnburner that featured a 373 yard game from Rosario.

Standouts: The offensive load looks to fall on senior running back Austin Cernek (5’11 185). Cernek was the second option last year, rushing for 608 yards and two scores. He also was their rush linebacker, making 43 tackles and leading all returnees with 6 sacks. Cernak can really fly and is gone if he gets a crease. If his physicality is improved, he’ll replace Rosario nicely. Defensively, cornerback Dylan Kelly burst onto the scene as a freshman, leading the team with 4 interceptions and making 45 tackles as a 5’8 150 pound 9th grader.

Breakout Candidate: Kelly wasn’t the only freshman to see significant snaps in 2014. Tight end/defensive end Brendan Heaney (6’3 240) is already built like a man. He made 32 tackles as a 9th grader, and will be a more significant part of the offense and defense in 2015.

Question Mark: So much of the offense was dependent on Rosario last season and how they replace him will be critical.

Best Unit: The defensive line brings back Heaney and Lorenzo Curto (5’10 195) who both were key contributors in 2014. They like to play three down linemen with Curto as a stand up pass rusher, so solid play out of the tackle spots could take this group from good to great.

Coaching: Head coach Keith Olsommer was an All Big Ten tight end at Penn State who passed up the opportunity to sign with the Baltimore Ravens to take over Del Val, a program that was 6-77 since the school opened in 1992. Olsommer built the program from the ground up, capturing his first winning season in 2002 and not looking back. Last year, Olsommer won his 100th career game , and enters this year with a career record of 106-79

Expectations: Del Val was hit hard by graduation, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. Still, a manageable early season schedule and some maturing young talent makes the subregional playoffs a very attainable goal.

District 1: SOL
Upper Dublin 11-2; The Cards had a nice hand last year, playing it all the way out to the district semifinal where they lost to Pennsbury 25-14. If there were ever any doubters they probably stepped to the side following the previous two weeks where they rocked Council Rock North (6-5) 48-14 then toppled the Golden Knights of Rustin decisively, 41-23. Not that anyone was paying attention but the road wins at the very top of the season against Coconut Creek and Truman said they had enough team speed-athleticism to stay with many if not most D1 teams. But could they bang with the big boys? The 34-28 home win against Plymouth Whitemarsh (7-3) suggested they could against that huge O-line (avg-269) and good runing back in Nafeese Nasir. But it wasn’t an overwhelming win. Then again, the Colonials were likely the best seven win team to miss the postseason with Truman a close second. So while Pennsbury got all the acolades, deservedly so, the Cards were none the less a legitimate team, proving as much by putting the Falcons in a rare 14 to 13 half time hole. The second half saw the Cardinal defense battered from the unrelenting blows of running back Charles Snorweah who was unstoppable, rushing for 298 yards in 48 carries. Still, it was a historic year for Upper Dublin, setting a school record with 11 wins. This season could witness their breaking that record with nearly the entire team returning. Senior quarterback Ryan Stover (6-4, 200) is back after completing 161 of 244 passes for 2187 yards. That’s 66% with a Td/Pick ratio of 21/9. Four of his five leading receivers are back with RB Kaleif Lee (5-10, 190, sr) who gained 1057 yards last year and caught 12 passes for 138 yards. Most of the D returns led by their top three tacklers, LBs Henry Winebrake (6-0, 220, sr, 105 tackles), Stacey Gardner (5-10, 205, sr, 91 tackles) and SS Evan Scott (6-0, 170, sr, 63 tackles). DEs Will Derr (6-4, 120, sr) and Kane O’Connor (6-3, 220, sr) return with most of the secondary. The team doesn’t have a lot of size-bulk and will miss NG Tamir Bailey (5-10, 225, 25 stops). Last year’s production was again large, averaging 35ppg, the same as the previous year. The D was also improved at 17ppg over 18ppg in 2013. With this year’s returns, they should at least meet those levels. The schedule looks manageable with three straight homers; Delaware Valley (10-2, Milford), Truman (7-5) and Abington (6-5). The Warriors are doing some major rebuilding but Truman and Abington come in with veteran, senior quarterbacks in dangerous Mark Lopez for Truman and David Kretschman for the Ghosts. If they can get past those three unscathed, they’ll go undefeated.
Upper Moreland 8-4; Upper Moreland continued their inconsistent ways by having a winning season followed by a losing season. Their season ending records since 2008 have been as follow; 11-2, 5-6, 8-4, 2-10, 7-5, 5-7 and last year’s 8-4 season making the outlook appear bleak for the coming season! They began the season on a 4-0 run until the loss at Cheltenham (6-6), 28-21. Subsequent losses to Plymouth Whitemarsh 33-20, Upper Dublin 28-7 and the 25-20 squeaker past Springfield Township (6-7-AA), a tough little deuce playing with the big boys said this wasn’t the year for big things, despite having a solid back in Tyler Whitmore (6-0, 195) who rushed for 1948 yards, a force at tackle in Connor Dolan (6-5, 275, jr) and a sprinkling of good players throughout the lineup, egs….DE Ryan Norton (6-1, 215, jr), TE/P Colton Hooker (6-0, 195, sr) and DL Isaiah Williams (6-1, 225, sr). QB Josh Abrams also graduated after completing 67 of 114 passes for 1166 yards, a 59% completion rate. He rushed for 452 yards on 78 carries. The AAA district postseason saw them run into a Bishop Shanahan (8-4, 3rd seed) team that except for the Downingtown East win, played their best game of the season taking down the 6th seeded Golden Bears, 37-7. Interesting to note their 29ppg average on offense was the best since the 2001 10-1 team that scored 36 a game. Too bad they couldn’t match that offense with a defense that was mediocre at best allowing 21ppg., especially with a back like Whitmore.
Plymouth Whitemarsh 7-3; The Colonials put another offense out there that once again had no difficulty scoring points. Going from 2013 back to 2010, the production has been impressive, scoring 31, 30, 29 and 27ppg. Last year’s averaged 29ppg. The won/loss over that period was 38-15. They began last season the same way they did the previous year, losing their first two games. Last year witnessed their losing to Souderton (?, 4-6) 21-14 and Abington (6-5), 23-8. In the preceding season that produced an 8-3 campaign, they opened with losses to Perkiomen Valley (10-2) 33-0 and Abington (10-4) 34-12, giving them bad starts in both years. Although they recovered last year, winning seven of the last eight, they missed the playoffs. They went 8-1 the previous year after those opening losses, making the playoffs but getting crushed by Central Bucks West (9-3) in the first round, 50-36. The year before they were eliminated by Neshaminy in the first round 42-21. In 2011 they lost to Central Bucks South 49-24 so when they do get to the postseason, the results have been disappointing. Given the results culminating in 8-3 and 7-3 seasons (and beyond) suggests a less than difficult schedule. This is borne out looking at year-end records of teams played following the 0-2 openings each year. 2013’s team played against teams with a 51-48 combined record while last year’s team played opponents with a cumulative record of 42-52. A win is a win but as we all know, a won/loss rarely tells all. The Colonials will enter this season with enough weapons to again field a productive offense with the return of quarterback Anthony Mirabile (5-10, 180, sr, 24/39/300), running back Nafeese Nasir (5-9, 175, sr, 157/1262ry) and fullback Jake Winterbottom (5-11, 190, sr, 109/769), who did a good job replacing Jose Mora-Vega. Considering the unsettled nature of the quarterback position, things turned out well. Mirabile started in the Abington game when senior Noah Allanoff went down with an injury. He shared some time with Jimmy Rodgers (23/38/329py, 229ry) until Rodgers essentially took over by the Upper Moreland game in week six until the end of the year. The problem this season is that apart from TE Luke Mascio (6-2, 220, sr), the entire line that took over some games graduated. Gone are Virginia signee LT Ryan Bischoff (6-5, 305), RT Joe DeSanto (6-3, 270, the Archbishop Carroll transfer, West Chester U), OGs Brett Highland (6-0, 240, Ursinus College) and Steve Kovacic (6-1, 275, Wilkes Univ) and Center Anthony Casselli (5-11, 250, Albright). To avoid a third straight 0-2 start, they need to get out the gate well, with a new OL, on the road against a experienced Souderton team and Abington group who may not be cooperative to that agenda.
Wissahickon 2-8; With non-losing seasons (two .500 seasons) nine of the last eleven years, last year came as a surprise, garnering only two wins, Philadelphia Central and Springfield-Montco. Following the Springfield win they were sitting on a 2-1 mark. Thereon, things went south after the loss to Plymouth Whitemarsh. Should say the bottom fell out with the Trojans finishing out on a six game losing streak by a combined score of 180-71. The offense was small at 19ppg, (second lowest in twelve years) with minimal support from the D that allowed 25ppg. Injuries, particularly to running back Josh Smith (knee) against PW (missed next vs UD), hobbling him for the rest of the season combining with inconsistency under center with Mike Marino (5-9, 160, sr) giving way to then sophomore Mike Schoenleber (5-9, 170) against Cheltenham in game #8 set the stage. Last year’s returning starters to the OL graduated, Jason Casio (5-11, 215), Kyle Stein (6-1, 185) and Drew Bright-Bailey (6-0, 285) and the workhorse combo at running back in Josh Smith and Josh Trunk. This year’s schedule mimics last, with one big exception, they have three consecutive road games following the opener at home to Philadelphia Central; Norristown, Souderton and Springfield. Then they have Plymouth Whitemarsh and Upper Dublin back-to-back. All totaled, they’ll face eight veteran quarterbacks, and struggle to avoid a second consecutive losing season.

District 1: SOL

Hatboro Horsham 3-9; The Hatter faithful had to be disappointed seeing their team suffer a seventh consecutive losing season. What happened to the program that produced a 41-19 mark from 2003 through 2007? Last year’s team was barely competitive with a defense that didn’t give them a chance, allowing 42, 41, 40, 37, 35 and 34 points in six of their nine losses. All totaled, they allowed an average of 30ppg by year’s end. The wins came against AAA Upper Merion 34-18, Wissahickon 28-14 and Cheltenham 35-27. A 1-5 home record pretty much says it all. But all is not lost with the return of a fine quarterback in Casey Walsh (5-10, 160, sr…3rd team All SOL-Am Conf) who threw for just over 2000 yards. His totals with the Wissahickon and West Chester East games missing are 136 completions on 231 attempts for 1808 yards. And at 59% completion rate, that’s at least a lower case “wow” considering the team he played on. You don’t have to see film to know on a 3-9 team averaging 19ppg and allowing 30, he was hounded in most games, making his completion percentage that much more impressive. So, let’s make that an upper case WOW after all! Also, a lot of experience returns to the backfield plus TE Luke Gehihaus (6-1, 230, sr) and senior OL’er Nick Schuck (5-10, 245). Still, they took some hits with RB/DL Jeff Peronace, RB/LB Joe Albano, RB/LB Ryan Fitzpatrick ,WR/LB Charlie Obrecht and DLs Luke Kwon and Darian Khounxay graduating. The schedule mirrors last year’s meaning they have another difficult start opening at Pennridge and Quakertown, followed by the home opener against Lansdale Catholic. Upper Moreland, Upper Merion, Springfield and Wissahickon follow. Those last three look like toss-ups or a lean to the Hatters with Upper Moreland greatly diminished. Lansdale Catholic lost quarterback Joe Pinzka but return good stuff in running back Ryan Quigley (PCL-AA MVP, RB/FS), who rushed for 859 yards on 113 carries with over 300 yards in receptions and 7 interceptions at FS. Running backs Marlen Fenstermacher and Matt Casee also return, giving LC the look of a tough home opener. The schedule ends like it begins with stiff competition in Plymouth Whitemarsh and Upper Dublin, back to back, then Cheltenham.
Cheltenham 6-6; For the second consecutive year Cheltenham avoided a losing season by hitting the .500 mark with a 6-6 record. Considering the offense only gave them 16ppg on average to work with, the 18ppg D yield wasn’t all that bad. In fact, it was a 14 point upgrade from the year before. Too bad the offense couldn’t keep pace falling from 28 to 16ppg. Many of the key parts of that underrated defense graduated including DL/OL Jared Applegate (6-0, 220), DT/OG Francis Marinho (6-0, 230), SOL-All Am Conf 1st Teamer Jack Gordon (5-10, 215) at linebacker and OG along with fellow backers John Francois (5-10, 180) and Antonio Mumford (5-11, 185). Also gone are DE/TE Jamill Milligan-Bates (6-1, 210), OL Andrew Zevin (6-2, 225), P/PK Gene Han and SOL-1st Team All Am-Conf running back Gerg Morris, a four year starter. The bright spot is the return of quarterback Branden Mack (6-5, 205, sr). Branden was moved from receiver to QB last year and has a strong arm. Wide-out 2nd Team SOL-All Am Conf Matt Toszi (5-10, 180, sr) also returns. The schedule is favorable if it’s ever favorable playing Quakertown, Upper Dublin or Plymouth Whitemarsh the last few years if only because all three come to Wyncote. Many of last year’s games could have gone either way, in particular, Upper Moreland, Wissahickon, Hatboro and Truman, suggesting any issues rebuilding the lines, the defense and finding a back to replace Morris could see them drop below .500. Looking at these results measured against this year’s returns says things are precarious, that a “tipping point” (back to back 6-6 seasons) could be near.
Springfield 6-7; All things considered the Spartans are holding their own as a AA competing in a big school conference like the Suburban One-American. Gone are the days of playing Jenkintown, Morrisville and New Hope-Solebury since leaving the Bicentennial League. In their place are teams like Plymouth Whitemarsh, Upper Dublin and Upper Moreland. Against the likes of these and others they’ve improved from 2012’s inaugural year of 1-6 to 3-4 the following and 2-5 last year with wins coming against Norristown twice, Upper Merion twice, Hatboro and Upper Moreland once each. The games against UM’s Golden Bears are some of the best games anywhere in the SOL with UM winning last year 25-20, losing the year before 18-16 and beating the Spartans in 2012, 17-14. Great games! This year’s team made history by winning the District-1 Double A title, beating Bristol (9-4) 15-14 before losing to District-12 champ Neumann Gorette (9-4) 32-7. The Saints went on to lose to state power Dunmore (14-2) out of District-2, 30-18. The Bucks then beat state power Wyomissing (13-2, 2012 16-0, 2A champ) 23-21 before losing to South Fayette (16-0, D-7), 28-16. Back to Springfield who graduated some valuable merchandise, namely quarterback Chris Stone (6-2, 170, 749py, 650ry) who returned after missing all of last year with an injury. Chris was also conference 1st teamer as a punter. RB/LB Martin Worgan (5-11, 190, 836ry) also graduates with DE/OG 1st Teamer (DE) Louis Hasse (6-2, 200) and OG Martin Vido (6-1, 240 honorable mention). Returning starters Brett Righter (6-0, 180, sr, 3rd team RB), WR George Baughan (5-11, 160, jr, honorable mention) and DL Nick Gajdos (5-9, 235, sr, honorable mention) will help with the rebuild. With only seven seniors graduating, the rebuild is largely an effort to fill the positions vacated by QB Stone, RB Worgan and DE Hasse.
Upper Merion 2-9; Upper Merion’s woes continued for the sixth straight year with another difficult season, giving them a 11-51 record from 2009 through last year. This includes back-to-back 0-10 outings in 2010 and 2011. While they’ve had intermittent problems scoring points, averaging 13ppg last year, they’ve consistently faltered on the defensive side, allowing 34, 38, 36, 31 and 32ppg since 2010. It’s not like there isn’t talent on the teams! Quarterback Isaiah Graham-Mobley is a dual threat and tough out at 6-2, 195 (476py, 442ry, sr) but throws way too many picks with a ratio of 4 to 8. Shannon Cunnard (5-8, 175, sr) is a tough little back, rushing for 998 yards, as is Kyle Smith (5-10, 190, sr, 28/122ry). As shown above, the defense is nearly non-exixtent, making porous sound like an understatement. Maybe things will improve with a few key seniors returning, namely linebackers Noah Stribrny (6-1, 190, sr, 29 tackles) and Kyle Smith at 27 stops, along with OL/DL Marcus Elliot (6-1, 250, sr, 15 tackles) and Tony Zevallos (6-0, 240, 22 tackles). Elliot is a legit lineman and Cunnard gets the tough yardage making it a head scratcher when reviewing 33 point losses to Cheltenham, 36 to Upper Moreland, 20 to AA Springfield and 21 to Norristown. The Norristown loss makes you wonder if they’d win a game in the Continental or National. It was a few years back but not that far when they were winning 45 of 60 games from 2000 through 2004 with impressive seasons going 8-4, 9-3, 11-1, 7-4 and 10-3 in 2004.

I'm seeing on easternpafootball.com that Ridley currently has an open date for Week 2 on 9/11; but I'm also hearing rumblings that that date could be filled by Springfield in a non-league capacity. Can anyone confirm this? Speed, looking in your direction.

If true, I'm not sure how I feel about this move. So the Central League goes to 8 league games to allow teams to schedule more non-conference games, and then you fill that void by scheduling a AAA opponent from your own league (which would count as a non-league game)? I guess its nice to keep the "rivalry" alive since they haven't played in the past few years; but I think Ridley could've gotten a bit more creative with the scheduling.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/23/us/south-carolina-confederate-flag-dylann-roof.html?_r=0
Didn't realize it was this easy to solve our country's racial issues? All this time I thought it was complex!

Several PA players crack the initial #Rivals250 for the 2017 class. Click here for the article.

There's a good number of kids from Western PA on the initial #Rivals250 for 2017 class list.

will come from the WPIAL and the City league this year??

2014: District 1, Suburban One-Continental
League-Conference mini review-preview:

Central Bucks West 2-7; Things don’t get much worse than last year for the Bucks who forfeited their last two games for alleged hazing issues where no formal charges were brought! Even without those games, West was having one of their historically worst years with an anemic offense lurching along at 19ppg. The defense was equally weak, allowing 27ppg. Really sad thinking where this program was not all that long ago. This unit harkened back to the period between 2005 and 2009 where they won a total of 11 games (11 games….CB West!) while losing 40. In truth, they graduated a decent offensive team in 2013 that went 9-3 before losing to Perkiomen Valley in the second round. At 31ppg, that was a balanced and strong offense, fueled by running back Marvin Todd (6-1, 190, 1335ry) and three underrated, sure-handed receivers in Joe Ramos, Mark Claudelli and Corey Schott. They combined for 1256 yards of receptions on 83 catches their senior year after snagging 100 receptions the previous year for 1053 yards. That was a nice group. QB John Fitz (6-1, 195) wasn’t bad either throwing for 1520 yards (53%) with a 16-10 Td/Pick ratio. But a sieve like defense gave early signs of trouble that manifested itself in the debacle that was Perkiomen Valley, a 60-20 loss. Last year’s group followed suit allowing 27ppg. But the light at the end of the tunnel, not really knowing how long the tunnel is, particularly with a new head coach, could be a decent multi-threat quarterback returning in Eddie Shields (5-11, 185, sr) who passed for 637 yards and rushed for another 338 in that shortened season. Getting off to a good start should again be difficult with another respectable non-conference slate of Central Bucks South, a tough opening for both given the rivalry, Souderton, who may be the SOL surprise this year and Pennridge, always a tough out.

Central Bucks East 5-5; A .500 season isn’t much to get excited about until realizing it’s the closest East has come to a winning season since 2007’s 6-4 campaign. They did this with an offense scoring 21ppg and a D that wasn’t anything to write home about at 24ppg. Still, they won two road games then pulled the shocker with the regular season ending upset of previously undefeated Quakertown 35-21. Maybe we should key off that win for the coming season knowing the Pats were on something of a roll with a healthy team, especially with the return of running back Alex Gibson. Alex began the season as the starter but missed the next four games, Pennridge, Central Bucks South, Council Rock North and Council Rock South (0-4), returning for William Tennent week six. With his return, the 1-4 start was reversed as the Pats finished with flair, going 4-1. It was here where Gibson got his 652 rushing yards over the course of four games with CB West a forfeit. Pretty decent comp too, including Truman and Quakertown. Also, starting quarterback Connor O’Keefe (6-2, 210, 49/94/689, 52%, 2/4 ratio) went out the fourth week of the season and did not return. He graduated. Jack Lamb (6-0, 200) came in for CR North week four to finish out as the starter. He returns for his senior season after completing 45 of 87 passes for 576 yards. He rushed for 324 yards. He’ll be throwing to his leading receiver from last year, Alex Gibson (who else?), who caught 14 passes for 182 yards. Can’t wait to see him get a full season under his belt! So things should improve with Lamb and Gibson’s return. Many other experienced running backs and receivers return along with half the defense to set the Pats up pretty good for the coming season. The schedule is favorable allowing for a good start with three of their first four games in Doylestown; Cheltenham, CB South and CR North, with Pennridge on the road week two.

Tennent 5-6; Tennent showed tremendous gains last year on both sides of the ball that barely showed up in the win column. The offense improved from 14ppg to 28 (!), as the defense improved from 29 to 20. Four narrow losses prevented a 9-2 season….(9-2..Tennent!), losing to Mastery Charter 21-13, CB East 15-13, CR South 46-41 and Quakertown 21-14. Talk about snake bit! You got to win the close ones but wow; it took a lot of class to keep it together with losses like that. Like Truman, what a tough out these guys were. Remember they thought they lost their quarterback, senior Nikolas “Nik” Banks (5-11, 180, ankle) in game #4 against Quakertown for the season. Nik (Albright College) was no small loss given he was the leading passer and rusher. So it was a welcome surprise when he came back two games later against Central Bucks East to finish out the season. Probably underrated at his position with 841 pass yard (51/100, 11-4 ratio) and 929 rush yards on 119 carries in eight games. He’s a big loss plus Colin Herbert who filled in for him (Qtown, CRN) also graduated. Otherwise they’re set at the skill positions with running backs Dan Costello (5-8, 170, sr, 112/715), Derek Finley (5-11, 190, sr, 47/196) and Tyler Lynch (5-9, 165, jr, 10/117) back. Their top receiver also return in John Ryan (6-4, 185, sr, 32/614, Continental 1st team WR) who was once projected at quarterback. They lost some beef along the OL and DL in Corey Shriver (6-3, 300, Del Val U, Continental 1st team OL), Angel Santiago (6-1, 225, Continental 2nd team DL), Ryheem Powell (6-1, 225) and James Ruegner (6-2, 280). Looking at those narrow losses says that was a sneaky, capable team last year that got much of their impetus from quarterback Nik Banks. If they can just approximate him and replace a few wide bodies up front, no small task as they ran the ball well, they’ll be in the hunt with good stuff returning at running back and wide out. At the end of the day, kudos to the team and staff for hanging in there through all those tough losses to end the season on a 3-1 run.

Norristown 4-7; Norristown started the year strong beating Upper Merion 27-6 then Wissahickon 14-13, both on the road, before getting rolled over by Plymouth Whitemarsh’s mammoth OL, losing 35-6. They rallied for a 28-27 overtime win against Central Bucks West, then lost five straight before beating Truman 18-17. Rival Methacton beat them in the finale 38-10. By every measurable, it was a bad year. But compared to the previous two where they went 1-10 then 0-11, it was a significant reversal of fortunes, especially knowing they had a very young team. With only 13 seniors graduating, the Eagles could improve another few games to say 6-4….and sneak into the playoffs. Right, but the beer down. Two teams made the postseason last year with similar records, Council Rock North the 11th seed and Downingtown West, the 15th seed. 7-3 then almost guarantees you a spot in districts. Wouldn’t that be something, making the postseason then leaving for the Pioneer Athletic Conference’s Liberty Division (Big Schools) for the 2016-2017 season, joining Perkiomen Valley, Spring Ford, Methacton, Boyertown and OJ Roberts. Better buckle up as teams like Perk Val and Spring Ford will knock their socks off. Methacton already does! Not sure if the idiom “jumping from the frying pan into the fire” applies but it’s sure hard seeing where they’ve helped themselves, given changing demographics. The schedule is challenging, playing four of their first five games on the road, in all cases against teams they struggled with last year. They open at Methacton who beat them 38-10, then Wissahickon at home who they beat 14-13. Plymouth Whitemarsh had no trouble with them, winning 35-6 and it took overtime to beat Central Bucks West 28-27. The fifth game of the year this season is against Quakertown who won handily last year, 34-6. They’ll at least have all those bodies back from last year especially quarterback Desmond Gorski (6-0, 185, sr, 31/77/299) and running backs Corey Davenport and Khalif Sinclaire who combined had 93 carries for 536 yards. Regardless of those returning starters, they’ll still need a major makeover on both sides of the ball for any improvement knowing they’ve allowed 25, 28, 30 and 29ppg last four years while the offense limped along at 20, 10, 13 and 14ppg the last four years. Bottom line, don’t be surprised to see the Eagles swoop down on some unsuspecting prey for an upset along the way if they survive games at the top of the schedule.

Flashback for some of you "older" timers..

Fran Murphy, PA H.O.F. Mont. Co. chapter football coach passed away this week. Was the head coach of Upper Merion high school during it's glory years of the early '70's. Lead by the QB/WR duo of Bobby Baker and Bobby Thomas, reset the passing/receiving records for the state of Pennsylvania. I believe Baker held the passing records (high school 10-12 during that era) until broken by the Brett Gordon led LaSalle teams of the late '90's, and those eclipsed since then.

Coach Murphy was the head coach of the Big 33 squad that defeated Ohio 21-19 in the 1973 contest, again led by Baker and Thomas. Excerpt of game link below, also interesting the names of players that starred on the '73 and '74 PA squads.

A great coach, a better man!! R.I.P. Coach Murph, we will all miss you...


August 10, 1974


Jimmy Cefalo’s 20-yard run early in the final quarter carried Pennsylvania Big 33 to a 14-7 victory

over Ohio.

Cefalo shared the spotlight with Joe Montana, Mickey Shuler, Rich Fisher and Steve Geise.

Montana, who would later take the 49ers to the Super Bowl, completed 11 of the 24 passes for

167 yards. His chief targets were Shuler, with five catches for 74 yards, and Geise, with four for 59.

There was no score in the first quarter, with Pennsylvania’s Matt Bahr missing a 48-yard field

goal. In the second period, Montana passed 30 yards to Geise at the two. Fisher, who gained 60 yards on 18 carries,

took it in for the score. But Bahr’s kick was blocked.

Ohio went 72 yards on eight plays, with Jeff Logan scoring on a sweep from the 12. Chris Dennis added the point

to give Ohio a 7-6 lead at the half.

Montana was intercepted in the end zone in the third quarter. Early in the final period, Cefalo picked up a first

down at the Ohio 39 on a fourth down gamble. Shuler then made a circus catch of a Montana pass at the 25. Two plays

later, Cefalo burst through a big hole and went into the end zone untouched. QB Eddie Smith ran the option for two

points. Randy Sidler had two late interceptions and the game ended with Pennsylvania on the Ohio four.

August 18, 1973

Upper Merion's pass-catch combination of Bob Baker to Bob Thomas overshadowed Tony

Dorsett's running as Pennsylvania defeated Ohio, 21-19, at Hershey.

Baker completed 19 of 23 passes for 171 yards and two touchdowns in one of the finest passing

parades in Big 33 history.

Thomas had nine catches for 94 yards and two TDs. He opened the scoring on an 11-yard pass

to complete an 83-yard drive after the opening kickoff. Carson Long's kick was blocked.

Pennsylvania made it 14-0 later in the first period. This time Baker passed 18 yards to Thomas. Andy Sefter ran for

the two points.

John Crow's recovery of a Baker fumble at the Pennsy 20 set up a three-yard run by Jimmy Harrell. The kick was

wide, making it 14-6 at the half.

Dorsett caught two passes for 35 yards and Tony Melchiorre banged over from a yard out to put Pennsy up by 21-6

in the third period.

Scott Chrislip fell on a punt that was blocked by Ohio teammate Darrius Edwards in the fourth quarter. Later in the

period, Jim Walton got a high snap on a punt and was tackled on his own four. Jim Bolden scored from the three.

Dorsett rushed for 61 yards on 16 carries and caught four passes for 54 yards.

2014: District 1, Suburban One-National
League-Conference mini review-preview:

Thought I’d take a shot at some reviews and assessments of teams in the SOL. American and Continental Conferences to follow. Early and all so bear with me for lack of information or any errors which I hope will be few. Here we go!

Neshaminy 4-6; Neshaminy had their first losing season since 2003 (3-7) in the midst of replacing a lot of bodies from the previous year and breaking in a new coach in Mike Frederick with the retirement of Coach Schmidt before last season. Coach Schmidt had a 20 year career at Heartbreak Ridge finishing with a 161-66 record. Frederick’s subsequent resignation after a year at the helm allowed longtime assistant Steve Wilmot to step in. See the following link for more.
http://www.neshaminyfootball.com/
A less than friendly schedule in the re-aligned SOL-National coupled with non-conference games against Gonzaga (10-3) and Downingtown West (6-5) didn’t help. Still, the defending District-1 AAAA champs had their moments with a talented young team and a senior running back in D’Andre Pollard (5-8, 180, 169/1292ry, Villanova). Pollard set the school all time record the year before gaining 2929 yards on 328 carries to break Jamar Brittingham’s mark of 2585 set in 2000. The toughest loss that prevented a 5-5 outing last year came at home against North Penn. Here the Skins saw their two game winning streak and chances of making the playoffs come to an end with a 17-13 loss on a 1-yd keeper by quarterback Jake Bevans with 19 seconds left on the clock. Four weeks earlier, they lost a tough one to an inspired bunch of Rams, 21-14, playing their first game at Helman Field before a packed house. Excepting Super Storm Sandy in 2012, this was also the first time Pennridge played a home game not at legendary Poppy Yoder Field. Bottom line for the Skins, they fielded their worst offense in 11 years, averaging 21ppg. At 22ppg average yield, they also fielded their worst defense in over 20 years. But a pile of returning bodies, almost the entire offense, belated continuity in the coaching staff and an experienced quarterback should help improve numbers on both sides of the line and get the Tribe right back in the thick of things.

Pennsbury 13-2; Opposite Neshaminy above, the Falcons fielded one of their more powerful teams in years, winning districts while advancing to the state semifinal against St. Joseph’s Prep (11-3). They last reached the semis in 2006, losing to Dan Persa (Northwestern) led Liberty in four overtime periods, 45-38. Against St. Joe’s, a scoreless 1st quarter preceded a 27-0 outburst as the Hawk dominated, winning 37-7. It was still a heck of a year with the Falcons fielding one of their deepest teams in years and most prolific offense at 38ppg. In fact it’s been quite a three year run averaging 30, 39 and 38ppg, resulting in 9-3, 10-2 and 13-2 campaigns. Should mention the D that was right there as well allowing 14, 13 and 15ppg over the same period. Running back Charles Snorweah (Rutgers) set multiple school records including single season rushing, 2805, career rushing, 4997, single season Tds, 39, Career Tds, 72 and a few Bucks County records. Raheem Thompson and Victor Delgado with over 1500 rush yards between them have also graduated, wiping out the backfield except for QB Alley. QB Mike Alley (6-4, 215, sr) RB/LBs Daulton Hose (6-0, 180, sr) and Chris Rupprecht (6-0, 215, se) plus TE Vinnie Ratamess (6-3, 210, sr) and OT Maurice Stukes (6-7, 340, jr, got time as a soph) also return. But the line is essentially gone from tackle to tackle including RT Sam Raywood (6-3, 360), LG Austin O’Neill (6-2, 265), C Mason Hourier (6-0, 260), LT Brandon Pabon (6-1, 330) and RG Brendon Hogin (6-0, 235). The Falcons had some graduations but don’t think the cupboard is bare, especially one that returns seven players who started as juniors on defense last year including the entire small but super quick defensive line; DTs Jeremiah Wells (5-9, 200, sr), Nick Paragano (6-1, 275, sr) and Joe Mauer (5-10, 195, sr) with DEs Jack Kenney (6-0, 220, sr) and junior Makhi Butler (6-2, 215) also returning. LBs Luke Snyder (6-0, 195, sr, 102 tackles) and Daulton Hose return plus LB/S Greg Lichtenstein (6-0, 175, sr). Robert Daly (5-11, 175, sr) is the sole returnee to the secondary unless Lichtenstein starts at SS. The schedule is tough but it’s tough for everyone in the National this year with all members returning a starter at quarterback except Central Bucks South. The non-conf games against CR North, CR South and LaSalle all return a starting QB except the Explorers. The conference schedule is favorable with Souderton, Abington, North Penn and Neshaminy all coming to them suggesting they’ll be right in it again this year.

North Penn 7-4; North Penn’s offense stagnated for the third straight year at 26ppg, remembering this is a team that typically fields offenses scoring at least 30-some points per game. Also, the defense fell off the chart last year allowing 21ppg! The year before was 22, with 2012’s edition allowing 18ppg. So while it’s a combination of declines on both side of the ball, it has been more about their inability to stop people than scoring points. Who said pass defense? They were breaking in a new quarterback last year but many thought they’d be more with Nyfease West toting the rock behind a largely veteran, definitely senior offensive line including tackles Frank Tranzilli (6-2, 275) and Andrew Thomas (6-2, 245), guards Nick Argento (6-2, 290) and Ryan Nowicki (6-0, 250), plus tight end Colby Beck (6-2, 210). It didn’t work out that way but at least they return an experienced quarterback in Jake Bevan (5-9, 160, sr, 39/68/595-4/3-Td/Pick) and running back West (5-11, 190, sr, 976ry). RBs Nick Isabella (6-0, 200, sr, 696ry), Justin Ostopowicz (5-8, 190, sr, 267ry) and Elgin Horton (5-8, 170, jr) also return giving them a nice look in the backfield. You assume a school the size of North Penn can at least field a competent line. They’ll definitely need it, opening with LaSalle at home. Then things get dicey hitting the road for three straight against West Catholic, Downingtown East and Pennridge.

Abington 6-5; Things were looking up for the Ghosts last year, starting out 3-0 with what we now know was a strong win against Upper Dublin in the third game of the year, winning 27-20. For the most part, that was their zenith, with things going south the next four games but particularly at Neshaminy where a 1st quarter pick-6 denied Abington who came back to within three points at 21-18 with four minutes left in the game but couldn’t get any closer, losing to the Skins by that score. Losses to Pennsbury 34-7, Pennridge 35-22 and Central Bucks South 23-7 followed. A 3-1 finish got them above .500 for the tenth straight year but they saw a big drop off in offense, falling from 30ppg in 2013 to 21 last year. The D stayed locked in place at 19 where it has been for the last three years. And the bottom dropped out in the win column as well, plummeting from 10 to 6, their lowest number of wins since 2004. The fall dropped them out of the postseason for the first time since 2007. They do return a veteran, senior quarterback in David Kretschman (6-0, 175) with a few receivers and running backs from last year but they’ll miss receiver Jordan Neely and running back Juawine Sowell.

2014istrict 1, Suburban One-National
League-Conference mini review-preview

Pennridge 7-5; Like a number of teams, Pennridge had two distinct seasons last year. The first saw them get out the gate with a 5-1 record, losing to North Penn 47-22 then beating sub-par but still dangerous Neshaminy 21-14 and Abington 35-22. They allowed a lot of points but a W is a W and it was a strong start. The other 3 wins came against Hatboro, Central Bucks East and Central Bucks West by a combined score of 105 to 47. All totaled, the Rams allowed 130 points, or 26ppg!....yet got to 5-1. They finished the regular season going 2-2, losing to Central Bucks South 28-21 before edging Souderton 28-20. Talk about a bad draw….getting rival Quakertown in the postseason’s first round where they lost 14-10. The Panthers also took the traditional Thanksgiving Day game 8-7. All in all, the offense was there, at least enough of it was at 26ppg, especially with a back like Joe Unangst (2092ry) who allowed them to just ram it down opponents throats. Let’s hear it for what has to be called an unheralded line. Good job by the trenchmen! The D was their nemesis, allowing 21ppg, their highest yield since 2008’s 6-6 team that allowed 27ppg. I guess the big question is who will be the next featured back with the graduation of Joe Unangst? Before him came the great years of Mike Class, cranking out 1512, 2416 and 1779 yards rushing from his sophomore year in 2011 through his senior year, becoming their all-time leading rusher. Before that was Jesse Knepp with two unspectacular but solid years. So the Rams have had a nice run of backs coming through the school especially the last four years. One thing for sure, big Joe Hirsch (6-2, 240, sr) will be there to open things up behind at least three senior starters from last year’s line; center Luke Basquill (6-0, 215), guard Mark Funk (6-1, 255) and tight end Kurt Weist (6-1, 230). Devon Balmer (5-11, 190, sr) returns under center, having completed 36 of 65 passes for 388 yards with a decent 7/2 Td-Pick ratio. Many experienced backs return to run behind what should be another typical Ram line. The D looks strong at LB and in the secondary with a few holes to fill up front.

Central Bucks South 7-4; Central Bucks South and Pennridge shared a similar beginning last year with both starting the season hot with great running backs. Pennridge had Joe Unangst while the Titans had Josh Adams (1688ry, Norte Dame). Like the Rams, South had no trouble scoring points, averaging 36ppg during the 7-1 start. Also like the Rams, they shared the tendency to allow a lot of points, with an average yield of 22 through the first 8 games including 47 to Coatesville, 36 to Neshaminy and 27 to North Penn. Nothing easy playing in last year’s reconfigured National Conference! Trying Coatesville on for size in a non-conference affair didn’t work out well either losing 47-34 but mega kudos to the Titans for taking them on. Got some nicks and dents along the road defeating North Penn, Neshaminy, Abington and Pennridge on consecutive weekends that may have taken their toll the following week, losing to Pennsbury 55-7. That’s where it all unraveled, after the 7-1 start. Thereon they lost to Pennsbury, Souderton 14-10 (?) and had nothing verses Garnet Valley (saw that one), losing 35-14 in the first round. At 29ppg, the O rarely let them down and is typically a Titan hallmark. From 2010 through last year, they averaged 30, 41, 37, 24 and 29ppg. Having a back like Josh Adams (1618ry-Notre Dame) fueled the offense enough to open things up for quarterback Kevin Witchey to have a stellar year, throwing for 1586 yards while completing 60% of his passes. The problem in Warrington has historically been defense. Since the inception of the school in 2004, they have allowed under 20ppg (year ending average) once. Since the great 2007 team that went 11-1 featuring running back Eric Reynolds’s 2842 rush yard (lost to DT West 45-38, 1st rd.), they’ve allowed 25, 27, 34, 26, 16, 30 and 26ppg. As William said, “there’s the rub”. With so many back on defense, maybe this is the year they get it together with their top two tacklers returning in linebackers Nate Norris (6-1, 220, sr, 82 stops) and Luke Kohler (5-10, 195, sr, 81stops) along with five other starters for a total of 339 stops.

Bensalem 0-11; The Owls suffered their tenth consecutive losing season with last year’s winless outing that saw them fall off the charts in terms of production. Looking at points scored and points allowed alone, they averaged a historical low, scoring 7ppg, or 79 total points, with a defense to match that allowed an eye popping 46ppg or 501 points! How bad are things you ask? Archbishop Wood went 14-1 last year while the Owls took 6 years to get that many wins, going 14-48 from 2009 through last year. Getting back to the positive, very few graduated from last year’s team that was extremely young with at least 4 sophomores and 3 freshman getting time. They’ll at least have experience on their side coming into the season with senior QB Kenny O’Donnell back. He split time with graduated Devonte Porter last year. And the non-conference slate is not as daunting with Wissahickon, Central Bucks East and Penn Wood replacing Truman, Council Rock South and Ryan. They shouldn’t go winless this year.

Souderton 4-6; The Indians (can I say that?) showed some improvement last year winning two more games than the year before and improving the D by 5ppg, allowing 26 a game. The offense stayed at the previous year’s level scoring 17. Still, it was their second straight losing season following a run of four winning seasons and eight over the last nine years. So, they’re in something of a funk. A weird home loss to Central Bucks West (2-8, 2 forfeits) 34-19 in the second game of the year following the season opening 21-14 road win at Plymouth Whitemarsh prevented a 5-5 season. It’s high school football and all but beating the Colonials and losing to the Bucks doesn’t go on the same resume. If they can find some size along the lines and there is some big stuff coming up, they should show marked improvement with the return of significant numbers from last season. Despite some blow-outs there was no give up with this group, losing a tough one in their next to last game of the season at Pennridge 28-20, then beating Central Bucks South in the final, 14-10. Probably sounds too optimistic but with last year’s strong junior class and a good sophomore class moving up, Souderton could surprise, especially seeing how strong they finished against the Pennridge and Central Bucks South.

Prince smith from father judge transfers to Imhotep they just keep loading up

Played for a smaller Quad A school in late 80's in western PA....Never remember any players, coaches or parents worrying size when our school graduated 369 and we played teams that graduated 700-800 back then....We wanted to play the biggest/best and traveled to so....Our best vs their best who cares how many they pooled from...Not sure when the belly aching started....When you are a dedicated competitive player or coach you will play anyone on any day, even when you are over matched you don't know it and shouldn't know it...

liberals will still be unhappy. Can't wait to watch this unfold. Most liberals are unhappy, unsettled, mal-adjusted, etc., by nature and just aren't going to be able to use this to bring happiness to their world, at least for the long term. Expect big celebrations this weekend, but then it's back to reality. Clarification: not necessarily talking about gay people/couples, more so the activists who will continue to push and use this politically. Look at obama, who was against gay marriage, or so he said, but now is for it. Same for Hillary.

Let's see how this plays out with regard to liberals trying to make the Catholic Church perform gay marriages. With the Pope Francis in power, getting this to happen might not be as difficult as some think.

The most pissed off group among all of the democratic-voting block must be the muslims. This is going to be especially hard on them, but they don't have to worry about the liberals forcing them to perform gay marriages in mosques, as the initial target will be the Catholic Church. Afterall, Ahmadinejad said that "in Iran, we do not have this phenomenon (gay people)."

For the low-information crowd, over 30 people were killed today in three separate muslim terrorist attacks (some on other muslims), but no mention of this from obama. And one of the attacks involved ISIS crashing through the gate of an Air Products (headquartered in Allentown, PA) facility in France and beheading one person. This is the same ISIS that obama called the JV team.

The first I can remember someone from this part of PA heading out to play for the Trojans. Good luck Cary!

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports...n_East_tight_end_Angeline_commits_to_USC.html

We had a terrific wind system blow thru at 6; tornados-straight line winds here in Delaware County-Ridley Twp (behind Ridley High) and out at least to Middletown-Media area around Linvilla Orchards off of Rt-352 along Edgemont Ave. Many trees down, 200,000 without power per PECO. Friend living behind orchard says 40% of trees are down in his development, so many they can't get out. Super fast moving system, blew thru in 10 minutes. Hope everyone is ok.