District-3 Top 20: (Oct 8, 9 games 2021)
All are 6A unless marked otherwise, last week’s rank in parenthesis
1 Governor Mifflin 5A 5-0 (1)
The Governor Mifflin-Reading game was cancelled last Tuesday with covid concerns. Reading was 1-3 with consecutive losses to Academy Park (4-1) 41-6 and Owen J. Roberts (5-1) 39-6, both of District-1. Governor Mifflin had just routed Episcopal 49-26. They move on to the highly anticipated game at Exeter (4-2) in a Berks Inter-County Section-1 showdown. Both are 5A teams. With a balanced offense and real weapons throughout the lineup, Exeter could pose problems, especially with the home field. They average 43ppg with a defense allowing 14 against a quality schedule. But they lost two of their “quality” games, Central York 35-28 and Hempfield 17-14. Conversely, Governor Mifflin has all those attributes with more demonstrable wins against an even tougher slate defeating York 55-6, Wilson 42-14 (identical score as Exeter) and Harrisburg 49-13, averaging 50ppg and allowing 12. They also have Nicholas Singleton’s 1031 rush yards. Having last week off has to be an advantage this time of year. Plus they won 56-14 last year with a team that was nowhere near as versatile offensively as this year’s team. So while Exeter is a fine football team, Mifflin is head and shoulders above every other team in the district and perhaps the state.
2 Central York 5-0 (2)
You can believe South Western at 4-1 got Central York’s full focus in a York-Adams Division-1 game before the home crowd rooting for a return trip to the 6A final. Last year’s team went 10-1 before being routed by St. Joseph’s Prep in the final. This year’s Panther group reloaded as evidenced by lopsided scores showing them winning by an average score of 44-15. At the beginning of the year there was the usual talk they’d fall off having graduated a special senior class. We’ll see. South Western’s Mustang’s came up lame in this one, stunned 25-0 in the opening quarter then buried by the half down 39-0. The final score of 60-0 shows how thoroughly they were dominated with the Panther D stymying everything, allowing a mere 122 total yards of offense. Undefeated newcomer Spring Grove is next with a lot more weapons to test Central in another key York Adams-1 game.
3 Bishop McDevitt 4A 4-1 (3)
Like Central York, Bishop McDevitt had no problem getting a easy win against an overwhelmed opponent, jumping out to a 21-0 first quarter lead that ballooned to 47-0 by the half. Most of the team sat for the second half with McDevitt rolling all over Lower Dauphin (2-3) 66-7. Freshman quarterback Stone Saunders continued wowing people, throwing for 244 yards with 4 touchdowns, all in the first half. There is no question he is a special talent. Same for junior running back Marquese Williams with 143 yards on 5 carries, scoring on runs of 78, 12, and 53 yards, and a 34-yard touchdown reception, all in the first half. The Crusaders were all about big plays scoring on runs of 51, 53, 68 and 78 yards with Saunders connecting for scores of 34, 38, 51 and 66 yards. Kamil Foster had an 80-yard kickoff return. Always nice winning your division opener especially with division rival Cedar Cliff (5-1) coming in next. These two go at it like few division rivals. That the games will be intense and close is a given. Last year’s 40-28 McDevitt win was a wild one, with McDevitt outscoring the Colts 28-21 in the third quarter alone! Cedar Cliff took the two before that in 2019, 20-17 and 2018, 50-43, with McDevitt winning in 2017, 28-21 and 2016, 42-35.
4 Central Dauphin 3-1 (5)
Central Dauphin won the coin toss, opted to receive in their brash way before going on a methodical 77-yard drive with a 2-pt conversion setting the tone for a 22-0 first quarter lead. It was 28-7 by the half with the Rams cruising to a strong road win at State College 42-21. C-Net has a good video of the game for those interested. CD is still CD, running the ball, jet sweeps, handoffs supported by a surprise pass catching you off guard from duel threat Max Mosey, and sure handed receivers who had little trouble getting behind the defense. The O-Line is looking real good as they evolve into a typical CD team. Nothing spectacular; versatile running backs, sure handed receivers, a strong line and big physical defense. Boys being boys, State and CD almost got into it in the pregame. The 22-0 first quarter score put an end to that with Mosey getting three first quarter touchdowns, throwing for two, then punching one in from a yard out. He finished with 5 touchdowns. Next week presents another challenge in Carlisle (4-2) who shrugged off consecutive losses to Cumberland Valley and Harrisburg to defeat Chambersburg last week 34-7.
5 Central Dauphin East 5-1 (6)
The more these guys keep winning the harder it is to find a weakness. They’ve survived the early loss to injury of quarterback Tony Powell, now back, with junior quarterback Terrence Jackson-Copney stepping in to play like a veteran, throwing for 518 yards and four touchdowns. Their line play is a pleasant surprise knowing last year’s team went 0-6 with an offense averaging 5ppg! This year’s is at 25ppg. Except for PSU commit Mehki Flowers, the receiving corps is as underrated as the O-Line with Tymere Thornton (6-5, 215) and running back Marcel McDaniels who is a sure handed receiver. He is also perhaps the conference surprise at running back with 730 yards. With a defense allowing 85 total points against a schedule that includes Manheim Township, Warwick, Cedar Cliff, State College and Cumberland Valley, they are well tested. Last week saw them shutdown Cumberland Valley (3-3) 17-10, holding them to 182 total yards, 54 rushing, while they got 181 rushing behind McDaniel’s 108 plus 39 in receptions. One of the top games in central Pennsylvania occurs this week when East High and Harrisburg play. This will be the toughest opponent either one faced except Harrisburg who lost to Governor Mifflin 49-13. Both played Manheim Township with East High losing on a 27-yard field goal with 1:40 left in the game and Harrisburg defeating Township 20-17 in overtime, both games at Township. Toss it up!
6 Harrisburg 5-1 (7)
Harrisburg went to the locker room with a slim 7-0 lead at Altoona, in part due to a goal line stand that held the Mountain Lions at the 1-yard line as time expired. That had to deflate Altoona but seemed to awaken the Cougars who came out with a purpose, scoring 18 third quarter points and just having too much of everything for Altoona to keep track of. Junior quarterback Zakii Lewis (6-0, 185) making his third start in place of freshman Shawn Lee (5-11, 155) tore Toona up, completing 16 of 19 passes (!) for 180 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 40 yards on 5 carries for another score. Many of his passes went to Justin Cook who snagged 7 for 94 yards. Kyle Williams continues to impress as one of the top players in central PA, rushing for 76 yards on 6 attempts and catching 7 passes for 62 yards, bringing his season totals to 476 rushing, 418 passing. Fullback Mahkai Hopkins had 60 yards on 12 carries as Altoona focused on him. The D was outstanding, getting their first shutout of the year, holding Altoona to 182 yards. Division action continues Saturday when they host bitter rival CD East.
7 York (William Penn) 4-1 (8)
York got out to an early 14-0 lead at Dallastown only to see the Wildcats come back to knot the score with 1:25 left in the half. That’s when York’s Qb Sam Stoner found Ajani Cheshire for a 17-yard score in the back of the end zone, getting it just over the outstretched arm of a defender. A 2-pt conversion followed giving them a lead they never relinquished, going on to win 36-20. This was one of those games that’s tighter than the score with Dallastown completing 13 of 19 passes for 233 yards and rushing for 130 yards. While they have some great players, they don’t have Jaheim White who was the difference, rushing for 262 yards with 4 touchdowns. He’s finally getting looks plus a sideline invitationt from Coach Franklin to see Penn State beat Indiana last Saturday. What a thrill! His workout buddy from Dallastown Kenny White, joined him in the visit. That was a monster win for the Bearcats beating Dtown on the road to stay locked in a three way tie atop the York-Adams-1 with Central York (5-0, 2-0) and Spring Grove (5-0, 2-0). Division action continues with disappointing Red Lion (1-4) up next, coming to York.
8 Manheim Township 4-2 (9)
Manheim Township is looking good for the stretch run winning their last three games with a maturing young team that’s a few points away from 6-0, losing at Dallastown 41-38 and Harrisburg 20-17 in overtime. It all came together last week against Cedar Crest with sophomore quarterback Hayden Johnson completing 19 of 25 passes (76%) for 188 yards and 2 touchdowns. Good luck keeping up with their deep receiver corps that showed seven making receptions. Nick Good, another sophomore, rushed for 102 yards with a score with Isaiah Jones adding 68 yards and 2 scores. 413 total yards later it was all over with a comfortable 42-7 win, holding the Falcons to 188 yards. Penn Manor (4-2) is next. It looks like they may have peaked at Warwick three weeks ago in a 30-28, last second upset. Since then they eked out a 21-17 win at Solanco and were throttled at Wilson 40-6 last week.
9 Wyomissing 3A 6-0 (11)
Wyomissing brought Southern Columbia’s 65 game winning streak to a close, dismantling them on their home field 41-20. What’s strange about the game is it was rarely close. Amory Thompson started the scoring with a 41 yard Td run two minutes into the game. SC then tied it up when fullback Wes Barnes scored from 24 yards out. But the momentum shifted when Amory Thompson again scored on a 92-yard kickoff return following Barnes score. It got as bad as 24-6 in the second quarter before Southern’s Gavin Garcia returned a kickoff 82 yards, cutting the deficit to 24-14 on a 2-pt conversion. Six minutes later, Wyo’s Drew Eisenhower returned a fumble 82 yards opening the lead to 31-14 at the half. Wow, no one saw this coming! At that point, SC seemed out of the game emotionally. It didn’t help that quarterback Liam Klebon missed the game with an injury. Wyomissing pounded the ball all night, led by Charles McIntyre with 97 yards on 4 carries, Drew Eisenhower with 88 on 15 attempts and Thomas Grabowski at 55 yards on 15 carries. The team had 284 yards rushing to SC’s 166. While Wyomissing doesn’t take these wins for granted, they have carved out their own space in the Pennsylvania landscape with a state title in 2012 (16-0) and the silver medal last year. From their last title in 2012 through last week’s win in Catawissa, they’ve won 101 of 121 games. And with convincing wins against high end programs Pottsville (4A, 5-1) 42-14 and now Southern Columbia (2A 5-1), they appear ready for another run at the gold. Twin Valley (4-2, 2-1) is next looking to remain undefeated at home (3-0) against Wyo in their third straight road game.
10 Steelton Highspire 1A 5-0 (10)
Steelton Highspire got past rival Middletown in a lack luster game that was scoreless at the half. Daivin Pryor broke the stalemate with a third quarter 8 yard score followed by touchdowns from Alex Erby to Rell Ceasar and Jaieon Perry of 55 and 41 yards. A 5-yard strike to Tyrone Moore completed the scoring with Steel High winning 26-0. Mid Penn-Capital Division action continues Friday for the first of three consecutive road games taking them to Trinity (2A, 3-2), Camp Hill (1A, 3-3) and surprising Big Spring (4A 5-1) before the regular season closer at home against Boiling Springs (3A 5-1). They are currently on a 15 game winning streak with last year’s 10-0 campaign that secured their third PIAA state title in the last 14 years. The big question this season is how they’ll respond to a challenge knowing they had real grad losses and a transfer last year. While many will say Mehki Flowers transfer to CD East taking 1006 pass yards with him was the greatest loss, it may well prove to be the graduation of running back Odell Green’s 1549 yards. He could always be counted on to move the chains. Always. They don’t have that this year. Damien Hammonds’s 752 yards is also a loss at wide out. So the bottom line is out on the Rollers. The team that just jumped them this week in the rankings, Wyomissing, has clearly survived their grad losses with the big win at Southern Columbia last Friday.
11 Warwick 5A 3-3 (17)
Warwick put themselves in great shape to win the LL-2 again defeating Manheim Central in Manheim for the fourth straight year! The score of 35-28 shows a tight, competitive game. But when the stats stack up on your side 522 total yards to 253..!..and the turnovers and penalties are essentially non-existent, you know the win wasn’t a fluke. Key to their win was junior Jack Reed completing 31 of 40 passes for 355 yards and a touchdown. Christian Royer also had a big night rushing for 166 yards with wide out Cooper Eckert catching 14 passes for 124 yards and a score. Second half adjustments held Manheim scoreless. A look at Warwick’s schedule shows they could run out with consecutive home games against Elizabethtown (3-3) and Solanco (2-4) before finishing at Cocalico and Conestoga Valley, both 3-3.
12 Manheim Central 5A 5-1 (4)
Manheim Central plummeted in the rankings after losing at home to Warwick 35-28. Quarterback Judd Novak came in throwing at 60%, and was held to low numbers completing 8 of 15 for 77 yards. But he’s always exciting running the football, gaining 72 yards on 13 carries. Warwick denied him the deep ball, holding top receiver Owen Sensenig to 45 yards on 3 receptions. Justin Hefferman was as ever with 146 yards and a touchdown on 19 attempts. And hats off to Warwick’s D holding the Barons to 14 first downs and 253 total yards. Like Warwick, Manheim will probably run out, defeating Solanco and Conestoga Valley on the road, then finishing with Elizabethtown and Cocalico at home. It may be on the road vs Solanco but look for extreme intensity from MC coming off a loss knowing Solanco upset them last year 42-35.
13 Hempfield 4-2 (12)
Hempfield has it together now winning their last three games including wins over Exeter and at Warwick. Quarterback Cam Harbaugh had a big night in last week’s 41-6 win against J.P. McCaskey, completing 10 of 12 passes for 190 yards with touchdowns of 16, 72 and 34 yards. Wide receiver Thomas Minnich led all receivers with 112 yards and 2 scores on 5 receptions followed by Andy Garcia’s 62 yards and Adam Acker’s 42 yards. The aerial game was well distributed involving seven receivers. Stephen Katch and Evan Smith each had 72 yards rushing. JPM couldn’t get anything going with 121 total yards of offense. With parity taking its toll this year, all the races are WIDE open. The Lancaster Lebanon Section-1 (LL-1) shows Hempfield deadlocked with Wilson and Manheim Township at 1-0. And, they have yet to play each other meaning the LL won’t be decided until the end of the season.
14 Exeter Township 5A 4-2 (13)
Like many others in the Top 20 this time of year, Exeter’s offense is rounding into shape, putting big numbers on the scoreboard the last two weeks. Last week saw them walk all over poor Muhlenberg (0-6) 77-7. Don’t (didn’t) you hate it when the other guys return the opening kickoff for a touchdown. Bummer. This one was returned 92 yards and the rout was on. Compounding things, the Muhlies coughed up 2 fumbles and threw 3 interceptions. When it rains it pours. Muhlenberg must be soaked at this point being outscored 251 to 37! Flip that for Exeter who has been an offensive juggernaut the last two weeks, blanking West York 42-0 before Muhlenberg. Up next is the game that will determine the Berks Inter-County Conference-Section-1 championship when Governor Mifflin rolls into town Friday night. Exeter is one of the few teams in the district that has the weapons to go at the Mustangs. Some thought Harrisburg did. But no one has a back like Nick Singleton. Exeter has talented backs and receivers but not the versatility Mifflin has to score points off the Mid-Line Option/Passing offense.
15 Berks Catholic 4A 4-2 (14)
Berks Catholic bounced back the way you knew they would after the 37-7 loss to Malvern Prep by defeating Daniel Boone High 40-7. BC’s top back and kick returner Christian Cacchione got things rolling returning the opening kickoff 91 yards for the score. Quarterback Mitchel Gatz completed 8 of 9 passes for 180 and 3 touchdowns. Luke Hughes, their battering ram of a fullback at 6-3, 225 had his way getting 74 yards and a touchdown. Boone (3-3) came in hot, winning their last three by an average score of 34-14. But they caught the Saints at a bad time, off a loss and in a race for the Berks-2 with Exeter and Mifflin. Reading (1-3) is next where BC can again name the score.
16 Cedar Cliff 5A 5-1 (15)
Cedar Cliff got more than they bargained for last week against winless Hershey who came in looking more like a 6-0 team than the reverse. They had a 7-0 lead after the first quarter and were still in it at 7-7 in the fourth quarter before Cedar Cliff roused themselves with a 21 point fourth quarter to pull it out. But props to the Bears who played like it for much of the game before falling to the talented Colts. Running back Jontae Morris, who is back from a season ending injury in 2020 has been lights out, showing no side effects or hesitancy with some booming runs on the way to 887 yards through the Hershey game plus 13 touchdowns. He had 154 here. The new quarterback, junior Ethan Dorrell has thrown for 838 yards at 64% with 9 touchdowns and 1 interception. Trenten Smith may just be one of the conference’s best receivers with 34 catches for 496 yards. Now that the preliminaries are behind them it’s time to pay a visit across the river to Bishop McDevitt. As always, this is “the” Mid Penn-Keystone Division game for all the marbles.
17 Wilson 3-3 (18)
When you have a back like Jadyn Jones, there’s not much reason to throw the football. That was the case last Friday when he returned from injury. Who knows the full impact of his missing the Manheim Central game two weeks ago, a 24-21 loss. But he didn’t miss Penn Manor, rushing for 158 yards on 12 carries resulting in touchdowns of 2, 1 and 68 yards. Brother Cam added a 70-yard punt return for another six. Qb Brad Hoffman threw a few to keep the Comets honest completing 4 of 5 for 82 yards, with touchdowns of 18 and 9 yards to T.J. Flite. Penn Manor came in 4-1 including the 30-28 upset at Warwick. This obviously got Wilson’s attention. Catching Wilson after a loss didn’t help as the fired up Bulldogs rolled to an easy 40-6 win. J.P. McCaskey (2-4) is next followed by Cedar Crest (2-3) before getting down to business against Hempfield on the road then the closer at home against rival Manheim Township.
18 Cumberland Valley 3-3 (19)
Cumberland Valley rose in the ranking despite losing with the narrow 17-10 loss at Central Dauphin East. They really couldn’t do much against the East High D, but kept it close, holding the Panthers to 309 total yards. Quarterback Isaac Sines completed 12 of 25 passes for 130 yards against pressure most of the night, connecting with Griffin Huffman for a 11-yard score. Caden Pines led all receivers with 5 receptions for 61 yards. Knowing what Josh Oswalt did at Central York, you knew he’d bring CV around over time. The time is evidently now seeing where they are now relative to the embarrassing 35-7 season opening loss at Manheim Central. If this level of progress continues they’ll be in all their remaining games. This includes upcoming home games against State College Friday then Harrisburg before closing out on the road against Chambersburg and Central Dauphin.
19 Dallastown 6A 4-2 (16)
The Wildcats came up short hosting York High in a York-Adams division game, losing to the Bearcats 36-20. See the York write up above. Because Coach Ron Miller missed the game due to illness, defensive coordinator Paul Marick took his place. They were led by duel quarterbacks Dylan Lease who completed 8 of 11 for 192 yards and Owen Strouse who connected on 5 of 8 for 42 yards. Coleton Mahorney (91/473 seasonal) and Caleb Fox had 66 and 63 yards rushing respectively. But the star of the show was receiver Kenny Johnson (Temple, PSU) who caught 8 passes for 192 yards, leading the team in tackles with 9. To date he has 25 receptions for 477 yards. They're at 1-5 Dover Friday.
20 Spring Grove 5A 5-0 (20)
Spring Grove stayed undefeated with another easy win, this time defeating Dover 34-14. The week before saw them trounce Northeastern 60-14, then Northern 39-7 and West York 38-6 the weeks before that. The only competitive game they’ve had was the opener at Waynesboro (4-2), edging the Indians 25-20. With the preseason over and York-Adams-1 into week-3, things get a lot tougher playing Central York and Dallastown back to back before ending against Red Lion and South Western. The Central York game was a disaster last year losing 47-0. Penn State commit Beau Pribula threw for 267 yards and three touchdowns. They also dominated the running game with four additional rushing touchdowns ending the night with 495 yards of offense. It’s never good when you’re someone’s homecoming opponent. But they have some weapons, primarily Zyree Brooks with 740 rush yards and brother Tyree with 242.

Honorable Mention
All are 6A unless marked otherwise, last week’s rank in parenthesis
Mid Penn
Carlisle 4-2 (HM)
Carlisle’s defense (14ppg) has been a difference maker this year with two shutouts and last week’s 34-7 win against Chambersburg, holding the Trojans to 130 total yards. The way Central Dauphin looked last week in State College, they’ll need to bring that game with at least three scores to hang with the Rams at Landis.
Shippensburg 5A 6-0 (HM)
Shippensburg picked up right where they left off last year (4-3) winning their first 6 games this year after winning their last 4 games a year ago. And with three of their last four at home who knows, maybe they run out and get a very high seed. Northern (4-1) is next in Shippensburg.
Boiling Springs 3A 5-1 (HM)
Boiling Springs crushed everyone by a combined score of 256 to 31 except for Mechanicsburg (5A, 3-3) where they lost on a covid/cancellation related short week, 39-34. They’re at Big Spring (5-1, 1-0) Friday in a key Mid Penn-Capital game looking to break a tie with them and Steel High (5-0, 1-0) for first.
Lancaster-Lebanon
Cocalico 4A 3-3 (HM)
It’s exciting football watching Cocalico with a porous defense allowing 32ppg and Anthony Bourassa tearing up the LL with 1020 yards rushing. Never a dull moment. The opening schedule may have taken a toll with the home win against Conrad Weiser 36-21 followed by a gut wrenching 33-27 loss at Cedar Cliff. Then came the 56-0 loss to Governor Mifflin. CC and Mifflin are big, physical teams. Going 2-1 since then with Conestoga Valley and Elizabethtown next says 5-3 is reachable before finishing with Warwick and Manheim Central.
Lampeter Strasburg 4A 5-1 (HM)
Since losing at Warwick 45-22, LS reeled off 5 straight by an average score of 32 to 4. Fellow LL-3 Donegal (see below) is next in a key Section-3 game. LS is peeking now, with new quarterback Berkeley Wagner running the option near perfection, rushing for 460 yards and throwing for 814. Donegal plays good defense but will have trouble containing Wagner.
Donegal 4A 4-1 (NR)
Donegal has their work cut out for them traveling to Lampeter to play the Pioneers in a Section-3 game. LS beat them 42-0 last year with a 9-1 district championship team that lost to Jersey Shore 39-35 in the 4A semifinals. They’re not at that level but Qb Wagner has them playing at a higher than expected level. Across the field, Donegal has their option purring at 269 yards rushing a game but haven’t played a teams of LS’s caliber on the road.
York-Adams
Kennard Dale 4A 5-1 (HM)
Not a team most of us are familiar with but here they are winning their last 5 games having defeated a solid 4-2 New Oxford team last week 17-7. They have a strong back in Steven Lukes with 673 yards on 41 carries. That’s an eye popping 16.4 yards per carry. Micah Partee is also getting it down with 240 yards. They head to the battlefield Friday at Gettysburg (4-2, 3-0) for a stiff test for the top spot in the York-Adams-2 where KD is 2-0.
NOTE: Kennard Dale for the curious is way south of York right on the Maryland line, maybe 40-45 miles north of Baltimore. Roll out of bed you’re in Maryland.
Gettysburg 5A 4-2 (NR)
Hesitated putting Gburg in being my alma mater but they’re back to crushing people with smash mouth offense and suffocating defense after a 1-2 start that included a 3 overtime 55-49 loss to rival Waynesboro. The goal this year is to win the York-Adams-2 in their final year of participation. But the BIG NEWS is they’ll rejoin the Mid Penn next year after an 8 year stint in the YA. Until then, hopefully they’ll continue crushing people behind a sturdy line of Frankie Richardson 6-4 290 headed to Coastal Carolina, Trevor Gallagher 6-3 260, Connor Kayhoe 6-0 255, Grant DeFoe 6-1 265 and Dunn Kessel 6-3 270. Corn fed! Kennard Dale is up next in a game that will likely decide the YA-2. The KD Rams will test them.
Berks Inter County
Conrad Weiser 4A 4-2 (HM)
Give these guys a defense and look out! Conner Klitsch (6-3, 190, sr) is one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the state, throwing for 1357 yards with a 11/5 ratio at 65%, and rushing for 598 more yards and 5 touchdowns. He is a 3-year starter. Aanjay Feliciano is big time too, snagging 31 passes for 681 yards. But the D is porous at 29ppg with road losses at Cocalico in the opener, 36-21 and two weeks ago at Twin Valley (4-2), 37-34 in double overtime. They’re at 5-1 Hamburg Friday to straighten out the logjam of four teams in second place in the Berks-2 behind Wyommising.
Hamburg 3A 5-1 (NR)
The Hawks are something like the Weiser team they play Friday, putting up a lot of points at 34ppg and being too liberal on defense giving up 21 a game. They were routed at Wyomissing 47-7 in their only challenge of the season. But they’re veteran, returning three backs and the quarterback with some big boys up front. The next three are tough hombres playing Weiser (4-2) with Klitsch and company, Fleetwood (3-3) with their Villanova commit Qb Tanner Maddocks and Twin Valley (4-2) who’s doing something right with two overtime wins.

Dropped out
Boone 5A 3-3 (HM)
South Western 5A 4-2 (HM)
Octorara 4A 4-2 (HM)
Twin Valley 5A 4-2 (HM)
New Oxford 5A 4-2 (HM)

Pennsylvania high school football Week 6 rankings​

Published: 5:45 a.m.

La Salle College’s Alan Paturzo throws against Bishop McDevitt in their week 1 high school football game at Bishop McDevitt. The Explorers grabbed the top spot in Class 6A this week after taking down St. Joseph's Prep 28-21 Saturday at Franklin Field in Philadelphia. File photo. Sean Simmers |ssimmers@pennlive.com
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By Eric F. Epler | eepler@pennlive.com
Last week, a new Class 4A program took over the top spot. Now, two additional hard-charging programs grab No. 1 spots in PennLive’s updated Pa. high school football rankings.

Our updated rankings are sponsored by Renewal by Andersen of Central Pa. Teams are listed with district, record through Oct. 3, and previous ranking. NR-not ranked.

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State champs in every classification.
6A SJP
5A Imhotep
4A THomas Jefferson
3A central valley
2A Farrell
1A Steel high

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I'll write more later this weekend, but this was a good old fashioned slug-fest with West making the one big play when they needed it. Survived some first half miscues to outlast the Rams. Game came down to a 4th and 3, and the West backers, Mancini and Goldrick, shot through and stopped Picciotti dead in his tracks to seal the win.

Pennsbury's offense showed signs of life, sparked by the return of starting FB #24 Mulbah (missed first 5 games), but the defense once again provided little resistance in a 56-21 loss at CB East on Saturday afternoon. Mulbah rushed for two first-half TDs, but PHS trailed 35-14 at the break. CB East scored on its first five possessions (2 rush/3 pass), generating 279 yards of first-half total offense (121 rush/158 pass) on only 21 plays. Pennsbury picked up 152 yards of total offense (107 rush/45 pass) in the first half. The mercy-rule took effect midway through the third quarter after two quick CB East TDs, the second after an interception at the PHS 10. Each team scored once in the fourth quarter for a 56-21 final.

PHS final stats:
Rush: 40 for 194, 3 TDs
Pass: 9-14 for 126, 1 INT
Takeaway: Offense improved but still not good

CB East final stats:
Rush: 25 for 227, 4 TDs
Pass: 10-12 for 187, 4 TDs
Takeaway: Scored on 8 of 9 possessions, stopped only by halftime

How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“My football season is going very well so far.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“I feel like every week, I have been able to improve from the week before. There is still lots of work to do.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“Our team battles to the end during every game. We can be a very good team when everyone is giving 100% and doing their job, like we know they can.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“Everyone needs to just focus on doing their job, doing the scheme our coaches have set.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“We need to make the most of our opportunities and continue to battle on every play.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I would love to continue my athletic career in college. Would love to have the opportunity to play college football. “

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I haven’t really had any colleges recruiting me yet.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“N/a.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I haven’t made any “college trips” yet, but for years, every Saturday during football season, my dad and I would go to a college game somewhere, so I have been to many colleges in PA to see a game and just walk around the campus.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“I am planning some trips but nothing is finalized yet.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite colleges growing up were Penn State and Oregon.”

How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“Everything with the football has not been going as well. We lost a couple games but we bounced back to get our first win of the season.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“Yes I’ve been very pleased with how I played this season. It's going well and I keep improving my skill to do better as a QB.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“I feel as if my team didn’t play as a team but we figured out that everyone doesn’t need to be doing their own thing and we play like a team that wants to win now.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“I feel like my team needs to work on staying healthy so we can be ready come game day.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“[My goal] is to be healthy and ready to play the game of football and play it as a team.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I do want to play sports in college and that is football and baseball.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have no colleges recruiting me at the moment but I think IUP is.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I think IUP is recruiting me the hardest but I’m not 100 percent sure.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes I made one to Michigan but that was 2 years ago.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“No plans for game day trips.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up is Oklahoma.”

How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“Everything with the football season so far has been pretty good.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“So far this season I think I've been playing pretty good but there’s always room for improvement.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“So far our team has been doing pretty good. Always room for improvement and we’ve been improving every week.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“We can all improve on making dumb mistakes including me.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“Improving every week and treating every game like it’s our last.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I would like to play football or basketball in college. It depends on which one has a better offer.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“No college has been recruiting me.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“No school.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“No.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“It would be fun to attend a game-day trip.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“I really didn’t have a favorite college growing up..I really only knew about Alabama because my uncle went there to play football.”

How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“The football season isn’t going exactly how I liked with losing 3 games in a row. We worked so hard in the off-season and I believe we can turn this losing streak around with new adjustments to the team.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“For the most part yes but I do need to work on some of the little things like blocking and agility.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“I feel like our team has been playing great. We just need to stop making the little mistakes which gives the game away. I feel like myself and the leaders of the team can get on the team and make a great bounce back.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“We need to improve on offense by stopping our mistakes and giving the defense points. We have thrown a lot of picks and fumbled a lot and this is what leads to our losses. We are going to fix this by focusing on practice and acting like we are in a game situation.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“Our keys for the rest of the games are to come out strong straight from the beginning and let our defense get stops. This will allow our offense to put the points up on the board that we need.”

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I would love to play sports in college and I’ve been looking into sprint football which looks like a lot of fun. Any school I’d be interested in going to like Penn, Alderson Broaddus, or Navy.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“So far I don’t have any colleges recruiting me but I hope that changes soon.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“None so far.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“No, I haven't made any trips yet but I hope to take some soon.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“I would love to go to a game for college.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Growing up I loved Boise State because I lived there. I played on their field when I was younger and it made me love them even more.”

How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“It has been really good but there are a few mistakes that I want to fix for myself.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“I have been really pleased with how it’s going. We are doing really well and I am happy about that.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“We are playing really well but there are little mistakes that we need to fix.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“We need to improve by rallying to the ball and tackling.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“Work together and build more and better bonds.”

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

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I’ve been getting looked at by Kutztown, Lycoming and Washington and Jefferson.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Lycoming.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes I have, I went down to Kutztown.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“I am going down to Lycoming on the 2nd of October and then Washington and Jefferson on the 9th of October.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yeah I have always liked Alabama growing up.”

Find out what colleges are recruiting KC Robinson, Maddox Morrison, Trenten Smith, Branndon Pezzelle, and Tyler Wolfe now!


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

Q&A with Cedar Cliff tight end KC Robinson​

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

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I’ve been getting looked at by Kutztown, Lycoming and Washington and Jefferson.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“Lycoming.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes I have, I went down to Kutztown.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“I am going down to Lycoming on the 2nd of October and then Washington and Jefferson on the 9th of October.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Yeah I have always liked Alabama growing up.”


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

Q&A with Franklin Regional wide receiver Maddox Morrison​

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I would love to play sports in college and I’ve been looking into sprint football which looks like a lot of fun. Any school I’d be interested in going to like Penn, Alderson Broaddus, or Navy.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“So far I don’t have any colleges recruiting me but I hope that changes soon.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“None so far.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“No, I haven't made any trips yet but I hope to take some soon.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“I would love to go to a game for college.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“Growing up I loved Boise State because I lived there. I played on their field when I was younger and it made me love them even more.”


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

Q&A with Cedar Cliff wide receiver Trenten Smith​

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“Yes, I would like to play football or basketball in college. It depends on which one has a better offer.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“No college has been recruiting me.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“No school.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“No.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“It would be fun to attend a game-day trip.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“I really didn’t have a favorite college growing up..I really only knew about Alabama because my uncle went there to play football.”


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

Q&A with Central Catholic quarterback Branndon Pezzelle​

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I do want to play sports in college and that is football and baseball.”

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I have no colleges recruiting me at the moment but I think IUP is.”

What school is recruiting you the hardest?
“I think IUP is recruiting me the hardest but I’m not 100 percent sure.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“Yes I made one to Michigan but that was 2 years ago.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“No plans for game day trips.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite college growing up is Oklahoma.”


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

Q&A with Hazleton Area quarterback Tyler Wolfe​

Do you want to play sports in college? If so, which one?
“I would love to continue my athletic career in college. Would love to have the opportunity to play college football. “

What colleges have been recruiting you?
“I haven’t really had any colleges recruiting me yet.”

Have you made any college trips yet?
“I haven’t made any “college trips” yet, but for years, every Saturday during football season, my dad and I would go to a college game somewhere, so I have been to many colleges in PA to see a game and just walk around the campus.”

Do you have plans for game day trips?
“I am planning some trips but nothing is finalized yet.”

Did you have a favorite college growing up?
“My favorite colleges growing up were Penn State and Oregon.”


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

Find out what some of the top players in the state are saying about the football season now!

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


Q&A with Cedar Cliff tight end KC Robinson
How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“It has been really good but there are a few mistakes that I want to fix for myself.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“I have been really pleased with how it’s going. We are doing really well and I am happy about that.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“We are playing really well but there are little mistakes that we need to fix.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“We need to improve by rallying to the ball and tackling.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“Work together and build more and better bonds.”
......................................................................................................
Q&A with Franklin Regional wide receiver Maddox Morrison
How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“The football season isn’t going exactly how I liked with losing 3 games in a row. We worked so hard in the off-season and I believe we can turn this losing streak around with new adjustments to the team.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“For the most part yes but I do need to work on some of the little things like blocking and agility.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“I feel like our team has been playing great. We just need to stop making the little mistakes which gives the game away. I feel like myself and the leaders of the team can get on the team and make a great bounce back.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“We need to improve on offense by stopping our mistakes and giving the defense points. We have thrown a lot of picks and fumbled a lot and this is what leads to our losses. We are going to fix this by focusing on practice and acting like we are in a game situation.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“Our keys for the rest of the games are to come out strong straight from the beginning and let our defense get stops. This will allow our offense to put the points up on the board that we need.”
......................................................................................................
Q&A with Cedar Cliff wide receiver Trenten Smith
How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“Everything with the football season so far has been pretty good.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“So far this season I think I've been playing pretty good but there’s always room for improvement.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“So far our team has been doing pretty good. Always room for improvement and we’ve been improving every week.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“We can all improve on making dumb mistakes including me.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“Improving every week and treating every game like it’s our last.”
......................................................................................................
Q&A with Central Catholic quarterback Branndon Pezzelle
How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“Everything with the football has not been going as well. We lost a couple games but we bounced back to get our first win of the season.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“Yes I’ve been very pleased with how I played this season. It's going well and I keep improving my skill to do better as a QB.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“I feel as if my team didn’t play as a team but we figured out that everyone doesn’t need to be doing their own thing and we play like a team that wants to win now.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“I feel like my team needs to work on staying healthy so we can be ready come game day.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“[My goal] is to be healthy and ready to play the game of football and play it as a team.”
......................................................................................................
Q&A with Hazleton Area quarterback Tyler Wolfe
How has everything with the football season been going so far?
“My football season is going very well so far.”

Have you been pleased with how you have played this season?
“I feel like every week, I have been able to improve from the week before. There is still lots of work to do.”

How do you feel your team has played?
“Our team battles to the end during every game. We can be a very good team when everyone is giving 100% and doing their job, like we know they can.”

What do you feel your team can improve on?
“Everyone needs to just focus on doing their job, doing the scheme our coaches have set.”

What are the keys for your team being successful going forward?
“We need to make the most of our opportunities and continue to battle on every play.”
......................................................................................................

Well, considering how La Salle took care of McDonagh and the Prep being the Prep this weekend's game looks like a must see. Franklin Field. Crisp fall afternoon. Two teams that have something to prove (more La Salle than Prep). Defense could rule the day with Steinmetz working it. Get your popcorn!!

Wyomissing snaps their 93 regular season game winning streak and the 65 game winning streak beating SCA 41-20. Clairton still holds the record at 66.

District-3 Top 20: (Oct 1,2 games 2021)
All are 6A unless marked otherwise, last week’s rank in parenthesis
1 Governor Mifflin 5A 5-0 (1)
Governor Mifflin took their undefeated team on the road to the Philadelphia area for a game against previously undefeated Episcopal Academy (3-1), giving the fans of southeastern PA a chance to see what all the hoopla surrounding the team was about. Their opponent at 60-25 the last nine years, 31-12 the last five years and 18-4 the last three years from the storied Inter-Academic League were certainly no slouch. Many felt it might be a competitive game. Unfortunately, they were a huge disappointment, putting up little resistance early on to be down 42-6 at the half! But, one of the top running backs in the country in Nicholas Singleton did not disappoint, by returning the opening kickoff 84 yards (!) before rushing for scores of 7, 20, 19, 55 and 60 yards, all in the first half. The game was no contest with Mifflin dominating 49-26. At least the fans in the southeast corner of the state had the opportunity to see what a generational player looks like. He ended the half with 290 yards on 13 carries. Full back Trey Rock added 82 yards rushing and at least a dozen tackles. With wins against York, Wilson, Harrisburg and now Episcopal, the only challenge left in the regular season is Exeter Township, seeing how Berks Catholic fell hard last week to Malvern Prep 39-7. Berks Inter-County Conference football action starts Friday in Shillington where the Mustangs host Reading (1-3).
2 Central York 4-0 (2)
Here’s another District-3 standout in quarterback Beau Pribula who like Nick Singleton has committed to Penn State. He was at the top of his game last week completing 17 of 21 passes (81%) for 338 yards and four touchdowns in a 68-21 rout of struggling Dover (1-4). Coach Gerry Yonchiuk sat his starters at the half leading 47-0. He was the Pennsylvania Football Writers 6A Coach of the Year in 2020. It’s probably obvious they have a fine group of receivers, in Imeire Manigault who caught 4 passes for 146 yards and a score, Parker Hines with 4 receptions for 70 yards and two scores and Treyhawn Smith who caught 6 passes for 93 yards. Pribula also ran for a score. They graduated a lot of talent but are surviving against the legitimate tests offered by Exeter winning 35-28, Cumberland Valley 21-3 and Hempfield winning 35-21. They’re home this week against South Western (4-1) who suddenly forgot how to play defense, allowing 47 and 35 points the last two outing. They also left their offense at home this year winning at New Oxford 14-7 before getting blown out at Dallastown 47-14.
3 Bishop McDevitt 4A 3-1 (3)
In yet another highlight-filled night, scoring 55, 75 and 63 points their last three games, Bishop McDevitt looked recovered from the season opening shock of losing to LaSalle in a 21-0 shutout. (Still not over that one!) And like Governor Mifflin and Central York above, this one was over early, outscoring Mifflin County 56-0 in the first half! Freshman quarterback Stone Saunders is showing why he’s the starter with a near perfect performance, completing 9 of 9 passes for 130 yards and 4 touchdowns. He had plenty of help from Marquese Williams rushing for 148 yards and a score on 11 carries. Cyncir Bowers added 120 yards on 4 carries and a touchdown. His 64-yard kickoff return in the first quarter followed by Jaire Rawlison’s 31-yard scoop and score on a fumble put MC in a 29-0 first quarter hole. Four more second quarter scores including Chase Regan’s 35-yard Pick-6 and Marquese Williams 68-yard scoot totally deflated the Huskies who fell to 0-5. McDevitt now plays Lower Dauphin (2-2) who’s coming off a 48-20 loss to Cedar Cliff.
4 Manheim Central 5A 5-0 (4)
In a game that pitted two of the historical powers of District-3 against one another, Manheim Central got a strong performance from the offense and defense to win their third consecutive road game, beating Wilson in West Lawn 24-21. The win showed that the Barons like Exeter, could pose a threat to Governor Mifflin’s assumed dominance in the district. Despite Manheim dominating statistically, the game was a tight affair, with Wilson up 14-10 at the half. But in the end, the Barons simply had more weapons, especially with fullback Jadyn Jones on the sidelines. Qb Judd Novak threw to five receivers for 130 yards with 3 touchdowns while rushing for 60 yards. He also threw three drive ending picks. Connor Caterbone’s 29-yard field goal in the second quarter was key. Manheim outdueled Wilson 288 yards to 142, holding them 98 yards on the ground. Passing stats showed Wilson completed 5 of 17 passes for 46 yards and threw 3 interceptions. That’s a bad day for any team and wholly out of character for a Wilson team. Speaking of uncharacteristic, Warwick (2-3) is up next in the LL-2 opener, coming in stunned, losing a last second home game to Penn Manor 30-28 two weeks ago and a 27-21 loss to Hempfield last week also at home.
5 Central Dauphin 2-1 (5)
Central Dauphin showed no ill effects coming off a two week covid pause to handle Chambersburg (2-3) 50-21. It was 50-7 at the end of the third quarter. For a team that is essentially replacing all their skill except quarterback, this was an impressive win after sitting the last two weeks then rolling out 484 yards of offense to Chambersburg’s 289. Max Mosey shook off the rust to complete 10 of 19 passes for 224 yards with 2 touchdown tosses, most of it going to Juice Selby who caught 8 throws for 190 yards and 2 touchdowns. The big guy Terrell English ran for 102 yards on 17 attempts. This is not a typical, vintage CD team. They have the big OL and good players as always but no standout/highlight reel player that the opponent has to be mindful of. State College (3-2) is next, coming off a 34-13 loss to CD’s sister School CD East.
6 Central Dauphin East 4-1 (7)
East High has moved from the ranks of the also-rans to a legit 6A contender in one season. Much of this is because first year coach Lance Deane has the players on the same page believing in themselves. The entire team has clearly bought in based on scores verses quality opponents, the way they fly around defensively and their demeanor on the sidelines. They went 6-20 the previous 3 years, averaging 13ppg and allowing 26. To date their average score is 26-15 against Township, Warwick, Cedar Cliff, Altoona and State College. Last week saw them hold SC to 206 total yards, 94 rushing and 12 first downs. The East High attack was as it been all year, balanced, pounded out 280 yards rushing and throwing for 168 more at 77%. Running back Marcel McDaniels blossomed this year, rushing for 212 yards with 2 scores and snagging 2 passes for 62 yards last week. And with quarterback Tony Powell recovering from injury, completing 3 of 5 for 60 yards, they now have two solid quarterbacks with Terrence Jackson-Copney completing 7 of 8 for 108 yards. Four star PSU commit Mehki Flowers had 4 receptions for 68 yards. Red hot Cumberland Valley (3-2) is next, coming in on a roll winning their last two after the loss to Central York.
7 Harrisburg 4-1 (8)
Harrisburg started slow, hanging on to a 13-7 half time lead before getting it together to dispatch combative Carlisle 34-14. A 21-point outburst in the second half allowed them to win convincingly. Leading the way was their big-play threat Kyle Williams, only a junior, rushing for 165 yards and a touchdown, and catching 8 passes for 84 yards with another score. Junior Zakii Lewis, once more filled in for the injured freshman Shawn Lee, completing 12 of 19 for 120 yards and 2 touchdowns. Others standing out were junior fullback/linebacker Mahkai Hopkins with 54 hard yards on 18 carries, Justin Cook catching 3 passes for 26 yards and a touchdown and Anthony Day with a 45 yard Pick 6. This team has a number of talented underclassman! Cougar teams of the past lived and died by the big play. But not this year’s edition that is far more diverse as demonstrated against Carlisle throwing for 120 yards and running for 238. They can beat you behind their massive O-Line, feeding fullback Hopkins (6-2, 230) as they did against Pine Richland and Township toward the end of overtime. But they always have the explosive Kyle Williams looking to break one or Justin Cook. And with the young quarterbacks coming around, they’re a handful. They’re at 3-2 Altoona Friday before the big one with longtime rival Central Dauphin East.
8 York (William Penn) 3-1 (6)
York City School District announced the game with Spring Grove last Friday was cancelled. A more recent tweet from the YCSD said the teams are working to reschedule the game later this season. This was a York-Adams conference game with York 3-1, 1-0 and SG undefeated at 4-0, 1-0. York will hopefully not cancel this week’s game at another conference power in Dallastown (4-1, 2-0). York High has two dynamic players in running back Jaheim White with 602 yards on 59 carries for a 10.2ypc average. The other is quarterback Sam Stoner who has completed 61% of his passes for 1044 yards with a 13/2 ratio. Nice! Their opponent this week has a few game breakers themselves, making this one of the most exciting and potentially highest scoring games in the district.
9 Manheim Township 3-2 (11)
Manheim Township won their second straight road game convincingly, beating Cocalico 48-21. Yielding 33ppg coming in, Cocalico had a porous defense. But they came out with a purpose on offense, fueled by lead backs Anthony Bourassa and Brycen Flinton. Both broke off 70 yarders, allowing them to keep pace with Township’s developing passing game. Hayden Johnson connected with fellow sophomore Landon Kennel (6-1, 190) for 53 and 24 yard strikes, and Anthony Ivey for a 19-yard score at the end of the quarter for a 21-14 lead. And that’s where it ended for Cocalico with Johnson throwing two more touchdowns to speedster Jake Laubach (5-10, 150, jr) and Isaiah Jones (5-10, 170, sr) of 27 and 53 yards respectively. Laubach also ran for a 14-yard score with yet another sophomore, Nick Good (5-11, 180) running in from the 43. Johnson finished with 290 yards, completing 13 of 15 passes with 5 going for touchdowns. Good was their leading rusher with 6 carries for 72 yards. Landon Kennel had 82 yards on 3 receptions. One thing that pops out about Township is how well they distribute, completing passes to eight receivers with six running backs getting carries beside the quarterback. Lancaster-Lebanon-1 schedule begins favorably for the Blue Streaks opening with three straight homers. Cedar Crest (2-2) is up first.
10 Steelton Highspire 1A 4-0 (10) Steel High could not find a replacement game after Upper Dauphin baled on the game per covid issues. If all goes well they’ll play a Saturday afternoon game against super rival Middletown (2-2) who’s coming off an 8-7 upset to Juniata (3-2, 4A), the same Juniata team Steelton beat two weeks ago 53-19!
11 Wyomissing 3A 5-0 (11)
Wyomissing had another walk-in-the -park last week, this time beating a heretofore competitive Fleetwood team now 2-3. They have a nice quarterback in Tanner Maddocks who will make Villanova happy but that’s all they had as the Spartans lit into them for a 35-0 halftime lead that ended in a 48-7 blow-out. Ten players had touches rushing for 344 yards, led by Amory Thompson with 88 yards, Drew Eisenhower’s 76 and Tommy Grabowski’s 48 yards. Fleetwood’s Maddocks was held to 76 passing and 22 rushing. Wyo travels to Catawissa Friday for one of the best matchup in the state playing the incomparable Southern Columbia Tigers (5-0, 2A). They’re loaded again with another Garcia brother the headliner with Gavin at 759 yards and 17 touchdowns. Brief background shows they’re the four time defending 2A champion with six consecutive finals appearances on a 93 regular season game winning streak. They also have a 65 game winning streak after mercy ruling Mount Carmel last week 40-14. Clairton holds the record at 66. They’ve been dealing with injuries recently with Qb Liam Klebon and running backs Braeden Wisloski and Wes Barnes nicked but serviceable. It may not be blood in the water (eg Wilson at 2-3) but there is coloration having snuck by Wyoming Area (4-1) Sept 9th 37-30. Got to hand it to them holding WA on the 1-yard line before driving 99 yards for the winning score with 3:12 left on the clock. Different names and faces but it’s still Southern football! Should be a good one.
12 Hempfield 3-2 (13)
Few teams in the district faced the schedule the Black Knights have playing Dallastown (4-1), a 28-21 win, Manheim Central (5-0), a 14-0 loss, Central York (4-0), a 35-21 loss then getting wins against Exeter (3-2) 17-14 and Warwick (2-3) last week 27-21. This was a complete win, outgaining Warwick 463 yard to 300 at Warwick. Cameron Harbaugh outdueled Warwick’s Colin Payne in a matchup of signal-callers accounting for 331 yards, 185 rushing and 146 passing with three rushing touchdowns and one passing. Because Qb Harbaugh is their top rusher this season at 410 yards, it was good seeing Stephen Katch (6-0, 195, jr) have a strong game, running for 86 yards on 15 carries. That aspect needs developed if Hempfield is to take the next step. This may come to fruition hosting McCaskey (2-3) Friday in the LL-1 opener then Cedar Crest (2-2) the following week.
13 Exeter Township 5A 3-2 (14)
Exeter got back in the win column after the heart breaking 17-14 loss at Hempfield by demolishing West York 42-0. They won about every way you can win a game with 4 picks, punts returned for scores, scoring on a blocked punt and 14 TFLs. Colin Payne has filled the bill at quarterback replacing Gavin McCusker by throwing for 838 yards and 8 Tds. He’s supported by a stable of running backs led by the underrated (should say under recruited) Eric Nangle at 502 yards, FB/LB Ty Yocum with 222, and speedsters Cabraun Woody and Messiah Robinson at 165 and 122 respectively. The receiver corps is top shelf with wide out Joey Schlaffer (6-6, 210, jr) with 17 receptions for 290 yards and TE/LB JR Straus (Villanova) with 14 for 282 yards. PSU TE Coach attended the Wilson game to check out Schlaffer who’s being sought by ASU, Cincy, Mich St, Md, Neb, Pitt, Tenn et al. Berks Section-1 action begins Friday night under the lights hosting Muhlenberg’s winless Muhls.
14 Cedar Cliff 5A 4-1 (17)
Cedar Cliff moved to 2-0 in the Mid Penn-Keystone defeating Lower Dauphin 48-20. A 28-7 half time lead followed by a 20-point outburst in the third quarter sealed it. The Colts have weapons in Jontae Morris rushing for 182 yards (4 Tds), Trenton Smith pulling in 5 receptions for 83 yards with a 62-yard kickoff return, and Ethan Dorrell completing 9 of 12 passes for 114 yards. They’re a handful. Any issues are on defense where they’re allowing 26ppg, putting them in harm’s way against teams like Central Dauphin East who shut them down 20-7 two weeks ago. Hershey (0-5) is next. With three shutouts, they are really struggling on offense and could be in real trouble against the high powered Colts who are averaging 36ppg counting the loss at CD East.
15 Dallastown 6A 4-1 (18)
After opening with a tight 28-21 loss at Hempfield, Dtown has gone on a tear. It began with a confidence building 41-38 win against Manheim Township followed by wins against Hershey 20-13, South Western 47-14 and Northeastern 46-14 where they moved into a four way tie with Central York, Spring Grove and York atop the York-Adams-1. Qb Dylan Lease had a good game, completing 11 of 19 passes for 176 yards and 2 touchdowns with good ground support from Coleton Mahorney gaining 148 yards with a score. Lease is in fact having a good year, completing 65% for 613 yards with 6 Tds and no picks. He also rushed for 248 yards. Up next is a critical game with high flying York (3-1) who had last week off per covid. They got blown out by Governor Mifflin but showed their mettle defeating Coatesville 44-39 at Coatesville. It’s doubtful either one will be able to stop the other suggesting a high scoring game with lots of big plays.
16 Berks Catholic 4A 3-2 (12)
BC was overwhelmed by a far better Malvern Prep (3-1) team who slowly wore them down with 308 yards on the ground. Isaiah Wright and Yaahdir Nash did most of the damage with 170 yards to lead it at the half 20-7. BC’s Christian Cacchione was neutralized by the big and talented Friar defense (linebackers!) as was Josiah Jordan who added 38 yards on 13 carries to Cacchione’s 58 yards. Looking at the remaining schedule, the good news is they won’t play a team anywhere near Malvern’s caliber for two weeks when they play Exeter, before the closer at home to Governor Mifflin. But, and it’s a legitimate but, Boone who’s up next has been playing good football, winning their last three games after losing to Wyomissing in the opener 41-14 then 19-10 at Twin Valley the following week. They are a veteran team with a surprising degree of physicality. JT Hogan can motor and RB/MLB A.J. Hoffer will bash you at 6-2 205, gaining 208 last week against Ephrata. This one’s at Boone where BC needs to bring it.
17 Warwick 5A 2-3 (15)
Warwick keeps coming up a little short, losing the close ones in an over the top competitive district. With teams like Warwick, Hempfield, Exeter, Dallastown, Central Dauphin, Wilson, Spring Grove and others, saying there is a lot of parity out there is a gross understatement. And because they’re all playing each other makes for one exciting and largely unpredictable season. Back to Warwick. They lost another close one, this time to Hempfield 27-21. They piled up some stats but not as much as Hempfield. Exeter’s Qb Jack Reed completed 15 of 26 passes for 240 yards, with touchdown throws of 56, 19 and 30 yards. No picks. He’s not the problem. In fact, he is special as a first year starter completing 57% for 1253 yards with a 10/1 ratio. The problem is the running game that apart from Christian Royer’s 498 yards is non-existent. They got 60 rushing vs Hempfield. This is on their home turf! And with a defense allowing 24ppg, they could be in for a long night at Manheim Central Friday. The Barons are the best balanced team in the district (908ry-960py) with one of the top defenses at 14ppg. This is a must win for Warwick who appear to be the last team on Manheim’s schedule who can beat them in the regular season. It’s an LL-2 game so look for both to go all out.
18 Wilson 2-3 (16)
Here’s another team in a tailspin like Warwick, losing 2 of their last 3 games, this time to Manheim Central in a nail biter, 24-21. As mentioned in the MC write up. the only place it was close was the scoreboard with the Barons physically dominating Wilson, holding them to 98 yards on the ground and 44 in the air. Completing 5 of 17 passes (29%) had to be demoralizing. An 86-yard kickoff return by Cam Jones early in the fourth narrowed the gap. But drive stopping turnovers, 3 picks and a fumble crushed any momentum Wilson had. Despite losing, a strong takeaway for the Bulldogs was their pass defense, intercepting 3 Judd Novak passes and limiting him to 8 completions on 21 passes for 130 yards. And they unquestionably missed fullback Jadyn Jones who did not play? With the next three games being Penn Manor (4-1), McCaskey ((2-3) and Cedar Crest (2-2), they should make a run, landing at 5-3 going into the Hempfield and Township games. Penn Manor could be a game although the Comets are likely banged up after the hard fought 21-17 win at Solanco where the Golden Mules battered them for 232 yards rushing on 50 carries.
19 Cumberland Valley 3-2 (20)
Cumberland Valley paid tribute to legendary coach Tim Rimpfel who died last Tuesday at the age of 73. He held head coaching positions at Cumberland Valley, Bishop McDevitt and Trinity. He was at Cumberland Valley from 1989 to 2012, where they made 19 postseason appearances, while winning nine District-3 championships. And he won the 4A state title in 1992 beating Upper St. Clair 28-14. Coach also headed things at his alma mater Bishop McDevitt from 1981 through 1987 and Trinity from 1977-1979. Over his 43 years leading these programs, he went 307-100-3. Many of his former players lined the sidelines dressed in red before the game in his honor. Two of his more famous players were Ricky Waters at McDevitt and Jon Richie at CV. About the game; Altoona had their moments, hanging in through the first half down 10-7. But like most teams in the MP-Commonwealth, they’re replacing many of their best players from the District-6 title team. This plagued them, losing two fumbles and having a Pick 6 in the fourth quarter when CV’s Max Wilken returned it 26 yards for their final score in a 27-14 win. Isaac Sines (5-11, 180, jr) had a productive game, completing 12 of 18 passes for 156 yards with 2 touchdowns. He also rushed for 60 yards on 14 carries and kicked two field goals of 35 yards each. Quite a game! JD Hunter was the go-to guy with 3 receptions for 43 yards and the recipient of Sines 6 and 35 yard touchdowns, plus 48 yards rushing. Next up is CD East at East where both are 2-0 in the division.
20 Spring Grove 5A 4-0 (HM)
York cancelled last week’s game with Spring Grove with covid concerns, denying us the opportunity to see more accurately where the Rockets stand in the District-3 hierarchy. But something special is going on in a program that has had three winning seasons the last 10 years. They return most of last year’s team (9-O, 8-D) that went 4-3, including the quarterback and two outstanding running backs in Zyree and brother Tyree Brooks. The entire O-Line is back. Zyree leads the York-Adams with 740 yards for a 11.0ypc average! Sophomore Cowan Ruhland (5-11, 175) has filled in beyond expectations for the injured Andrew Osmun (6-1, 200, jr), completing 20 of 29 passes (69%) for 274 yards with a 4/0 Td-Pick ratio. To date, they’re averaging 41ppg and allowing 12 with good team speed and depth. Of note they have two road wins beating Waynesboro (3-2) 25-20 and Northern (3-1) 39-7. This week’s opponent is Dover (1-4).

Honorable Mention
All are 6A unless marked otherwise, last week’s rank in parenthesis
Mid Penn
Carlisle 3-2 (HM) home to Chambersburg 2-3
Both are coming off consecutive losses and it’s an old, old rivalry. Their first game was 106 years ago, making it the longest running series in District-3. Carlisle has more this year but the Trojans who are talented but young will battle. The Herd is real close to 4-1 with a 27-24 loss to Cumberland Valley two weeks ago. Division rivalry games are the best!
Shippensburg 5A 5-0 (HM) at Mechanicsburg 5A 3-2
Last year’s 8-1 Mechanicsburg team blew out the Greyhounds 35-20. This year’s Mechburg team is coming off a mild upset by West Perry to balance out Ship’s emotion in one of the most balanced divisions in the district, the Mid Penn-Colonial. The Hounds are 3-0 on the road but Mechanicsburg is their most difficult game to date.
Boiling Springs 3A 4-1 (HM) home to Trinity 2A 3-1
Trinity’s Shamrocks will be feisty but Bubblers are more, especially at home. The Rocks were no comp last year losing 42-0. And the Bubblers want to remove the bad taste of a 39-34 home loss to 5A Mechanicsburg two weeks ago on the final play. Trinity will not be able to keep up with their big offense that averages 50 points per game.
Lancaster-Lebanon
Octorara 4A 4-1 (HM) home to Columbia 2A 3-1
This is the conference opener in the LL-4 with two big offenses. Octorara at 42ppg behind a great running game, 265 yards per game, with the Crimson Tide gone airborne at 316 yards per game! Robert Footman is a duel threat for Columbia but Weston Stoltzfus can also tuck it and run.
Cocalico 4A 2-3 (HM) home to Solanco 5A 2-3
Don’t get too comfortable for this one that will be over in a flash with both teams running option offenses. Cocalico has Anthony Bourassa, one of the top running backs in the LL with 866 yards. But they have a porous defense allowing 36ppg. Anthony will probably break a few but the Solanco Mules play enough defense to keep it interesting.
Lampeter Strasburg 4A 4-1 (HM) at Lancaster Catholic 3A 3-2
Lampeter Strasburg won four straight games since losing at Warwick 45-22, winning by an average score of 30-4. The gold and purple gang from Catholic will give a good account of themselves early before succumbing to LS’s size and depth, wearing down as the game goes on.
Penn Manor 4-1 (HM) home to Wilson 2-3
Penn Manor is playing winning football the last three weeks making them a far cry from the team that bottomed out against Lampeter Strasburg week-2, losing 31-0. But this is a tough assignment playing a fired up Wilson team off a tough loss to Manheim Central last week 24-21. Wilson should throttle their option attack since there is little pass threat to go with it.
Donegal 4A 4-1 (NR) home to Garden Spot 4A 1-4
Here’s another hot team reeling off four straight since the season opening loss to rival Elizabethtown (3-2, 5A), 5 miles down 230. Since then they beat quality teams Columbia then ELCO last week. After three straight road games they’re home and will likely give the folks of Mt. Joy a win hosting 1-4 Garden Spot.
York-Adams
New Oxford 5A 4-1 (HM) at Kennard Dale 4A 4-1
This is a big game for both who are tied in first place atop the York-Adams-2. The Colonials pride themselves on defense with three shutouts already while the KD Rams are explosive at 38 ppg but also play solid D allowing 10ppg. KD will have a big loud crowd coming home from three straight road games.
South Western 5A 4-1 (HM) at Central York 4-0
Seeing some cracks in the armor with the South Western Mustangs getting routed at Dallastown 47-14 two weeks ago and barely escaping winless Red Lion last week 42-35. Allowing 82 points their last two games suggests injuries or other that will get them in big trouble Friday night at Central York.
Kennard Dale 4A 4-1 (NR) home to New Oxford 5A 4-1
This program is showing signs going 22-20 since 2017 with three straight winning seasons after a 7-63 run from 2010 through 2016, including three winless seasons. This is one of KD’s biggest games in years and a tough one for New Oxford.
Berks Inter County
Twin Valley 5A 4-1 at Fleetwood 5A 2-3
Twin Valley is rolling after beating a good Conrad Weiser team 37-34 in double overtime, staying in a tie with Wyomissing in the Berks-2. They’ll need to repeat that effort at Fleetwood who’s coming off their second straight loss. Dangerous spot for TV with Fleetwood better than the 2-3 record might suggest.
Conrad Weiser 4A 3-2 (HM) home to Schuylkill Valley 3A 2-3
No shame losing to Twin Valley in double overtime, coming off strong wins over Fleetwood and ELCO. They’ll get back in the win column Friday against Schuylkill Valley (2-3) who won their second straight game under first year coach Bruce Harbach.
Boone 5A 3-2 home to Berks Catholic 4A 3-2
Boone won their last three games putting them in good shape for the Berks-1 opener against Berks Catholic who’s coming off a 37-7 loss to Malvern Prep. BC won last year 40-7, and it’s doubtful Boone closed the gap that much. But they still look capable and definitely have some talent.
Dropped out
East Pennsboro 4A 3-2 (HM)
Ephrata 5A 3-2 (HM)
Mechanicsburg 5A 3-2 (HM)

Erie cathedral prep takes on McDowell and belle Vernon takes on laurel Highlands. All 4 teams are 5-0. I know the ecp/ McDowall game will be sold out in a couple days and will be standing room only. Hopefully they stream both games online.

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A little late to the party with Harrisburg and CD East and last week or the week before moving LaSalle up but at least they got there.​

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Pennsylvania high school football Week 5 rankings​

Updated: 6:28 a.m. | Published: 5:35 a.m.

Manheim Central's Logan Hostetter catches a pass against Cumberland Valley in week 1 of high school football on August 28, 2021. The Barons improved to 5-0 last week and were bumped in No. 6 in the latest Class 5A rankings. Vicki Vellios Briner | Special to PennLiveVicki Vellios Briner | Special to PennLive
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By Eric F. Epler | eepler@pennlive.com
We have a new No. 1 in Class 4A after Belle Vernon knocked off Thomas Jefferson in a tight WPIAL clash over the weekend. One class below, the 3A Top 10 remained in place after all earned lopsided victories during the fifth week of the regular season.

PennLive’s updated state rankings, sponored by Renewal by Andersen of Central Pa., are below. Teams are listed with district, record through Sept. 27, and previous ranking. NR-not ranked

Senior Quarterback Alan Paturzo threw for four touchdown passes to lead the unbeaten Explorers (5-0) to a surprisingly easy 38-14 triumph over the host Eagles of The McDonogh School. Here’s how the game went down:

La Salle would receive the opening kickoff, and Amir Anderson took the ball from the 2 to the McDonogh 48 on a great return that started the momentum for the Blue and Gold. Sam Brown gained 4 yards up the middle. On play action, Paturzo rolled right and swung a pass to EJ Wentz, who rolled to the 34 for a first down. Ryan Moore, the wildcat wonder, ran for 3 yards on an option keeper up left tackle. On a hard count, Paturzo got the Eagles to jump offsides. Moore, in pistol depth, ran up right tackle for 10 yards and a first down at the McDonogh 21. Paturzo tried his own option keeper, but was stopped for no gain. On play action, Paturzo found Moore on the right sideline for a gain to the 10 and a first and goal. Moore threw out of the wildcat, swinging a pass to Brown on the left side to the 2-yard line. Brown was then stopped for no gain on third and goal, but La Salle was called for its first, but not last, holding penalty of the game. With third and goal at the 14, Paturzo looked right, but threw a screen to the left to Wentz, who followed his blockers and rammed into the end zone for a 14-yard score. Santi Sturla booted the extra point, and the Explorers broke on top with a 7-0 lead on a definitive drive, with 7:53 left in the opening quarter.

Sturla’s kickoff found the end zone. McDonogh came out throwing, as Senior QB Kaden Martin, a southpaw, hit Jefferson Exinor on the left side for 6 yards, with stop by LB Sean McFadden. Powerback Stefan Egbe took a pitch left and gained 4 yards and a first down, with Brennen Miller on the tackle. Scatback Chase Green got nine up the middle, as Darold Dengohe and Kevin Hawley combined on the hit. Martin’s pass in the right flat was jumped by Anderson, who, if he didn’t muff the catch, would have scored easily. On third and one at the 39, Egbe bounced out to the right side for a first down at the Eagle 49, as Sam Ross brought him down. Martin dropped back, and with plenty of time, tossed a bomb to a wide-open Exinor, who dropped the ball. It wouldn’t have mattered, because the Eagles were called for holding, bringing the ball back to their own 34. Martin tried the left side for just a yard, as Hawley and Abdul Carter took him to the turf. Martin was then sacked for a five-yard loss by soph DL Kieran Campbell, the beneficiary of a blitz by fellow soph Matt Wills. On third and 29, Martin scrambled left and threw incomplete, as the coverage blanketed his receivers. Punter Sam Asplen had his kick roll dead on the La Salle 25, as the Eagle drive fizzled with 3:28 left in the first stanza. But the Explorers were hit for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after the punt, and would start their drive on their own 13.

Brown got 4 yards up left guard. Paturzo, on play action, was bumped as he threw the ball, and DB Luke Miller intercepted the ball on a leap at the La Salle 36. With lots of time, Martin threw deep into the end zone to Exinor, but the pass was broken up by junior DB Del Jackson. Egbe tried the middle for 2 yards, as Wills made a nice ankle tackle. McDonogh was then hit for a procedure penalty, and faced a third and 13 at the La Salle 39. Martin threw to WR Preston Howard on the right side for 10 yards, but the Eagles were hit for another holding call. On third and 25 at the McDonogh 49, Martin scrambled up the middle for just two yards, as Wills and Dengohe brought him down. Asplen’s punt bounced to Moore on the 19, who brought the ball out to the 29, one tackler away from going the distance, with 8 seconds left in the first.

Paturzo swung a pass out to the right to Moore for a first down at the Explorer 44, as the first quarter ended with La Salle on top, 7-0. Moore then bootlegged to the McDonogh 38, but La Salle was flagged for holding again; however, the Eagles were hit with a personal foul, which offset the Explorer infraction, as the officials enjoyed seeing their yellow flags parachute down in the slight wind. Brown patiently went off right guard for 7 yards. Stevie “Energy” Davis came in and found a good hole up the middle, and pinballed outside to the McDonogh 28 for a first down. Davis gained a yard on a sweep right. Brown went in motion to the left, and Paturzo swung a pass to him, and Brown got a first down at the Eagle 17. Wildcat Moore optioned his way through right guard for three. Brown then burst through a big hole up left tackle for a first and goal at the three. Brown did the rest, powering up left guard and struggling into the end zone for a three-yard TD. Sturla banged home the extra point, and La Salle now led, 14-0, with 8:45 left in the half.

Sturla intentionally popped up the kickoff down the left sideline, but the ball bounced out of bounds, and McDonogh would take over on their own 35. Egbe got two up the middle, with stop by Campbell and Hawley. Martin avoided a rush and tossed to Malachi Jones for a first down at midfield, with tackle by Dengohe. And, La Salle was flagged for roughing the passer, so the Eagles were set up at the Explorer 35. Egbe swept the left side for two yards, as Hawley made the stop. Green was stopped for no gain up the middle on a bearhug by Dengohe. On third and 8 at the La Salle 33, Martin’s pass over the middle to Exinor was overthrown. On fourth down, Martin scrambled, and threw too low to Exinor, as the downfield coverage was excellent, and La Salle would take over on downs, with 5:20 left in the second period.

Paturzo, whose passes won’t register on the radar gun, but are extremely accurate and catchable, feathered a deep pass up the middle to Moore, who outreached two defenders for a first down at the McDonogh 30. Brown went off the right side, bounced to the outside, and got another first down at the McDonogh 13. Wentz was stopped for no gain up right guard. Wildcat Moore optioned up the middle, again for no gain. On third and 10 at the 13, Paturzo scrambled up the middle, for, you guessed it, no gain. Sturla came on and boomed a 30-yard field goal, and La Salle had a 17-0 lead, with 2:53 left in the half.

Sturla’s kickoff to the 4 was returned to the 23, with tackles by Colin Dunlap and Dom Martin. On play action, Kaden Martin hit Exinor on a look in for a first down at the 34. Martin tossed left to Howard, who went out of bounds after a gain of 6. Egbe went up left tackle for first down at the McDonogh 45, with Dengohe on the stop. Martin scrambled, ran over Wills, and got out of bounds on the La Salle 36, and the Explorers were slammed for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, and the Eagles were in business at the La Salle 21, as La Salle called time out to regain their composure, with 1:23 left in the half.

Keeping McDonogh off the board at the end of the half would keep the momentum from turning, as the Eagles would also be receiving the second-half kickoff. Martin ran an option keeper to the left, and got out of bounds on the 14 for 7 yards. Martin threw a post over the middle to Howard that missed, but La Salle was called for a phantom interference call, and the Eagles had a first and goal at the 8. Martin ran an option keeper up the middle for 2 yards, stopped by Hawley, who has done a great job replacing the injured Chris Thompson. Martin then threw a slant to Howard over the middle for a 6-yard touchdown. The point after by Drew Marcin was good, and McDonogh got on the board to trail 17-7, with 52 seconds left in the half.

It would be prudent for La Salle to just run out the clock and go to the locker room with a 10-point lead, and avoid any potential mistake. Marcin’s kickoff to the 16 was returned by Sean McFadden to the La Salle 30. On play action, Paturzo threw to Nole Henry on the left side for 10 yards, but (you guessed it), the Explorers were called for holding, prompting a call from the stands to outfit the linemen with mittens. On first and 14 at the La Salle 26, the Explorers would not run out the clock. Paturzo dropped back to pass, leaning right, while Brown ran a wheel route down the left sideline. Paturzo used his touch to hit Brown in stride at about the La Salle 40. There were two Eagles defenders about 10 yards ahead of Brown. It was a mismatch. Brown dodged past the first defender, juked past the second, and outran a third defender coming from the other side for a 74-yard touchdown, a lightning bolt of a score. After a false start, Sturla made good on the extra point, and La Salle regained their 17-point lead, 24-7, with 23 seconds left in the half.

Sturla then experimented with another popup kickoff, caught by Angelo Cooper, who was hit immediately, but the bad-boy Explorers were flagged for a face mask penalty, and McDonogh would start on their own 48, with time running out in the half. Martin flared a pass to Egbe, who was tackled out of bounds by Dengohe for 2 yards, with 13 seconds left. Martin threw over the middle to Exinor, who made a leaping catch at the La Salle 28, with 8 seconds left. Martin fired deep left to Howard, who made the catch but came down out of bounds. With one second left, Marcin tried a 45-yard field goal, but was wide left, and the Explorers took a 24-7 lead into the locker room (actually the tennis courts behind the visiting stands).

La Salle seemed to be able to do anything they wanted on offense, and the defense for the most part was bottling up the rather bland Eagle offense. But now it was time to shut down the McDonogh offense, as they would receive the second-half kickoff.

Sturla lined up to blast the second half kickoff, and made his third attempt at the popup kick. The ball was muffed by McDonogh along the left sideline, and Matt Mitchell of La Salle devoured it at the 28, and La Salle wouldn’t have to worry about any third quarter momentum by the Eagles. Moore ran an option keeper for3 yards. Brown was stopped for no gain, setting up a third and 7 at the 25. Paturzo then “touched” a deep out on the right side to Henry for a first down and goal at the Eagle 9. Paturzo ran a keeper up right tackle for 3 yards. Moore did the same up the middle for two. On third and goal at the 3, with a jumbo 7-man line formation, Davis gained just one up the middle. On fourth and goal at the two, Paturzo rolled right, with blockers ahead of him, stopped, and threw back left to Henry for a two-yard touchdown. This play is an “old chestnut” in the La Salle playbook, and it, along with Sturla’s PAT, sent La Salle to a 31-7 lead, with 8:28 left in the third quarter.

Sturla’s conventional kickoff to the 6 was returned by Exinor to the 24, with tackle by Wills and Dom Martin. Egbe ran up the middle, broke free, and went outside to the La Salle 19 before being stopped by Brennen Miller. Egbe got three more up the middle, as Abdul Carter and Dengohe combined on the hit. Green slanted off right tackle for a first and goal at the La Salle 5, as Jackson stopped him. On play action, Martin threw to Howard in the left flat, but the ball was dropped. Egbe was stopped for no gain up the middle by Dengohe and Daniel Ford. On third and goal at the 5, Martin connected with Howard on the left, but McFadden kept him from scoring at the 2. On fourth down, Martin ran an option keeper, but was smothered for a two-yard loss by a blitzing Carter and McFadden, and the Explorers would takeover, with 5:24 left in the third stanza.

Sam Brown went up right tackle for 8 yards. Brown swept the left side for 5, but, more laundry, and the holding penalty on La Salle moved them back to their 7. Dom Martin spelled Brown, and went up right tackle for 10 yards and a first down. Martin swept the right side for 6. On play action, Paturzo found Martin up the middle for a first down at the 35. And, miraculously, McDonogh this time was flagged for a personal foul, as penalties proved to be the biggest ground gainer in this game. At midfield, Stevie Davis gained 3 up right tackle. In a trips left formation, Wentz got one up the middle. On third and 6 at the McDonogh 46, Paturzo flared a pass on the left side to Wentz for 3 yards, but La Salle was called for holding. Paturzo then screened right to Wentz, who fought his way to the Eagle 44, setting up a fourth and 4. Moore was back in the game at wildcat, but surprised many with a quick kick, that bounded into the end zone for a touchback, with 11 seconds left in the third quarter.

Egbe gained 3 up the middle, as Carter and Dengohe brought him down, and the third quarter ended with La Salle comfortably on top, 31-7. Ebge swept the right side, but was pushed out of bounds for no gain by McFadden. On third and 7 at the 23, a pass down the right side to Demitrius Smith was incomplete, as Amir Anderson had him blanketed. Asplen’s punt to the La Salle 39 was returned by Moore to the 45, with 11:17 left in the game.

On play action, Paturzo rolled right, with Wentz providing the blocking, and threw down the right side to the sticky-fingered Moore for a first down at the McDonogh 26. Dom Martin went off the right side, made some dance moves, and stepped out of bounds at the Eagle 9 for a first and goal. Moore ran an option keeper for two yards off left tackle. Moore then passed off an option over the middle, but the pass was low. On third and goal at the 7, Paturzo threw to Ryan Sorge at the right flag for a 7-yard touchdown, Paturzo’s fourth touchdown pass of the game. Sturla did his thing, and the Blue and Gold now led, 38-7, with 10:17 left in the affair.

Sturla’s kick bounded into the end zone. Egbe ran for 3 up the middle, as Tim Fiedler and Cole Kozlowski combined on the tackle. Martin avoided two tackles, but was sacked for an 11-yard loss by the rampaging Dengohe. On third and 18 at the 12, Martin threw a flare on the right side to Howard, who dragged tacklers to the 29, setting up a fourth and 1. During the snap count, Howard suddenly went under center, but he fumbled the snap, and La Salle would take over on the Eagle 28.

Senior Connor Mehlmann came in at quarterback, and handed off to Davis, who found a hole up the middle for a first down at the 16. Davis was stuffed up right guard for no gain. Davis stepped left, then countered right for 5 yards. On third and five at the 11, Mehlmann stumbled on his drop, and was unbalanced when he made a pass into the right flat. The pass was intercepted by Egbe, who outraced the La Salle pursuit for an 84-yard touchdown. Asplen’s extra point was good, and the Eagles got a gift touchdown to make the score 38-14, with 5:25 left in the game.

Asplen’s ground ball kickoff was taken by Mitchell, who ran out of bounds at the La Salle 27. Davis went up right guard for a yard, then lost one off right tackle. On third and 10 at the 27, Mehlmann kept the ball up the middle for 4 yards. Sturla then came on for his first punt of the day, and the punt was muffed at the Eagle 27, but recovered by McDonogh, with 2:59 left in the game.

Martin’s pass over the middle to Exinor was overthrown. Martin was then sacked for a four-yard loss by Fiedler and Lukas Donahue. On third and 14 at the 23, Martin threw deep to Kayden Harris, but the pass was overthrown, with Mitchell on the coverage. Asplen’s punt was fair-caught by Sorge at the La Salle 44, with 1:52 left in the game.

Dunlap was hit immediately for a 1-yard loss. Davis gained 6 yards up right guard. Junior Zach Bache came in at quarterback, and ran an option keeper up the middle for no gain in the game’s final play. La Salle ran their record to 5-0 with a convincing 38-14 victory over the Eagles of The McDonogh School.

Notes
This team continues to surprise, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Alan Paturzo is becoming much more accurate with his throws, and the line is offering him fine protection. The offensive backfield is four-deep with Brown, Davis, Martin, and Wentz, sounding like a law firm but they can pound the rock. The ubiquitous Swiss army knife Moore can help out anywhere on the field, and the wide receivers Henry and Sorge are stepping up as well.

The defense has an energy and enthusiasm as they grow into a unit. The defensive backs are doing a great job with an aggressiveness that dares opponents to throw. Brown, Thompson (when healthy) and Dengohe are marauders near the line of scrimmage and in the backfield.

Who would have imagined at the start of the season that La Salle would be 5-0 with this difficult non-league schedule? Well, they are, and they have great momentum going into the St. Joseph’s Prep game this coming Saturday at 3 PM at Franklin Field. This should be a classic.