2022 Football: post season quick hits by Districts....11, 2, 4.
Here’s a snapshot of District 2, 4 and 11 teams with no particular format, pulling what seemed interesting, district by district. Things like streaks, special players, upsets, new coaches, outstanding/disappointing seasons etc. I’ll post the other districts as I complete them. Enjoy and jump in with corrections and additions.
District-11
Eastern Pennsylvania Conference-South
Emmaus 6A 10-2, 9-1
Emmaus had another successful season with a talented team going 10-2. They had an exciting quarterback in Jake Fotta (2090-64%, 23/3). But he couldn’t make up for the lack of a consistent running game as shown in losses to Nazareth (9-2) 20-14 and Freedom (10-3) 27-26. As always, and in a dreaded rematch after beating Freedom 19-13 in the opener, the season ended with yet another playoff loss to Freedom (10-3) 27-26 on a failed two-point conversion to mark the sixth time in the last seven years this occurred. With a six-point loss at Nazareth and the 29-27 loss to Freedom, there’s a lot of room to imagine what might have been. For 2023, they’ll be without some major parts graduating Qb Fotta and their top two receivers Dylan Danville (1025) and Chase Fotta (542), plus the lead running back Tylik Jarvis with 822ry. The D loses DT EJ Boney (6-1, 265, 43 tackles), NG Carlos Koduah (6-0, 265, 17 stops), the No.1 tackler at linebacker Aidan Garrett (97 stops) and Tyler Ruddick (30 tackles), Elijah Fajardo (15 stops) and Tylik Jarvis (18 stops), also linebackers. The secondary took hits at safety in Ryan DeJohn (68 tackles) and Dylan Danville with 27 tackles at corner. They’ll rebuild the D with OL/DL’er Ben Mercado (6-2, 290), Mario Landino (6-4, 250) and John Wassel, the team’s second leading tackler at linebacker with 68.
Nazareth 6A 9-2, 9-1
Here’s one of the quieter success stories in the valley recently going 36-10 the last four years. They had it going last year with wins against Parkland, Central Catholic, Emmaus and Whitehall before Parkland got their pound of flesh in the playoffs 42-14 with Nazareth’s star quarterback Sonny Sasso sidelined with a hand injury. The two-year starter and wrestling star (Va Tech) kept opposing defenses on their heels with a 66% completion rate for 1975 yards, capped by a 21/2 Td/Pick ratio. Too bad he grads as they return quality receivers in Mason Kuehner (61-962) and Logan Hilarczyk plus running backs Jed Bendekovits (50-295) and Mason Kuehner (30-144) and great stuff up front in OT/DE Sean Kinney (6-3, 290). Last year’s defense gave up fewer points (172) than any team in the EPC-South. They return a core but will miss LBs Andrew Young and Collin Wells.
Freedom 6A 10-3, 8-2
Freedom is on quite a run getting ten wins or more the last two years and four out of the last five years for a won/loss of 43-12. But you still need to beat Parkland to get attention beyond the district and Freedom didn’t, losing 21-13 in the regular season and 35-10 in the district final. And that was with dual threat quarterback Ethan Neidig’s 1534 passing, 627 rushing and 21 total touchdowns! Running back Jalen Fletcher graduates with 1420 rush yards and 192 in receiving, although they return a number of experienced backs. Add in three of their top four receivers graduating and at least seven starters on defense making it look like a serious rebuild.
Parkland 6A 9-5, 6-4
Parkland recovered from a 2-3 start, going 7-2 to win the district, defeating Freedom 35-10 before losing to St. Joseph’s Prep in the quarterfinals 52-21. It appears they’ll field a strong team this year with the return of quarterback Luke Sprang (63%-2088, 18/8, 295ry-5Tds), the multi-talented Trey Trimba (1238ry-21Tds, 28/428py-5Tds), Marquez Wimberly (83/392), many experienced receivers and at least seven starters and co-starters from the defense. Freshman Marquez Wimberly (58 tackles) and Tykear Davis (14 tackles) got a lot of time last year as did sophomore Leo Dauberman (17 stops). It’s important to note in a league that isn’t afraid to throw the ball the number of grads in the secondary; FS Nate Urso (31 tackles), S Chase Kusko (45 stops), CB Mason Hollis (60), S Jack Harrison (51 tackles) and CB Nakhi Bullock (29 stops). That’s a lot of stops for a secondary. Other significant losses are at DT Nate Kemmerer (63 tackles) and their top tackler LB Victor Pagan with 87.
Whitehall 5A 8-6, 5-5
Whitehall won the district 5A title with dominating wins against Pleasant Valley (7-3) 49-14 then Southern Lehigh (9-3) 43-17 in the title game, followed by a 1st round win against Delaware Valley (7-6) 34-13 in States before falling to Imhotep (10-3) 55-7. For 2023, quarterback Trey Dogmanits (57%-2000, 22/14) returns with two of their leading receivers. The defense that has not been a strong suit the last six years was senior laden and will restructure. The big news is the retirement of four-year coach Matt Senneca (17-26, 2 district titles) with Andy Marino stepping in. Marino (pending 1/23 approval) was the Line Coach at Elon College and is a Neshaminy grad.
Allentown Central Catholic 4A 9-6, 5-5
Central Catholic recovered from a rocky 5-5 regular season before ‘turning on’ in the post season, advancing to the state semifinal. Quite a turnaround. They did it by thumping Bangor (7-4) 42-7, then escaping in the rematch with Bethlehem Catholic (6-6) 14-3, after losing to them 14-13 in ot two weeks before. Barring the road win at Parkland 21-14 Sept 10th, their most impressive win came at neutral site Williamsport against Jersey Shore’s best ever team (12-1) 38-31 in overtime in the opening round of States despite JS out rushing them 238 to 75. A 50-7 win against way overmatched Meadville (12-2) who you knew were in trouble losing earlier to McDowell 49-19, sent them to the semifinal. Here they were overwhelmed by Aliquippa (13-1) 31-10. 2023 sees the return of coach Rob Melosky (OC Central last two years) to guide another Lehigh Valley team after heading Freedom, Parkland Pocono Mountain East and Nazareth with a 96-67 record, winning a 4A state title at Parkland in 02. The retiring Tim McGorry headed Central for the last four years winning three consecutive 4A district titles.
Bethlehem Catholic 4A 6-6, 5-5
It’s hard times at Becahi who has not had a winning season since 2019’s 7-5 team. Since then they’ve gone 4-4, 2-7 and 6-6. The inability to win against quality opponents doomed them this year with a 2-6 log, getting wins against Whitehall 35-7 and Central Catholic 14-13ot, while losing to Emmaus, Nazareth, Parkland, Northampton and Freedom. They split with Central Catholic. That’s a tough slate with a combined won-loss of 76-31. It was a hard year for the Golden Hawks with coach Kyle Harris resigning seven games into the 2022 season and finishing with an interim coach. The new head coach is Tyler Ward, the former OC/Asst. Head Coach at Oak Mountain High in Birmingham, AL and Lehigh grad of 2014.
Easton 6A 3-8, 3-7
Head Coach Jeff Braido retired January 3rd following a six-year stint where the Red Rovers amassed a 37-30 record. Last season marked their second losing season in three years and first occasion where they missed the playoffs in the last 15 years. On the positive side, they went 4-1 against rival Phillipsburg-NJ. And following a 0-4 start, a 3-4 finish shows there was no give up despite tough losses. One came against Bethlehem Catholic 28-14 where they pounded Beca on the ground behind Aidan Hutchinson’s 205 yards only to throw three picks, one a 90-yard Pick-Six. Another loss was against rival Nazareth 35-28, where an Easton tipped pass was caught and run in by Narareth for the decisive score with 2:23 left in the game. Matt Senneca (PSU Qb 98-01) takes over after leading Whitehall the last four years to a 17-26 record and 5A district titles in 2020 and 2022.
Liberty 6A 2-8, 2-8
Liberty’s downward slide continues to worsen with defensive numbers at record lows. Last year’s team allowed a season ending average of 34ppg, second only (last 25 years plus) to 2020’s team that allowed 35 a game. 2022 also marked their seventh losing season in a row, accumulating a 20-49 record. Still, these guys battled through their first four games winning at Stroudsburg (6-5) 14-12 and losing competitively to Central Catholic by six, Whitehall by 11 and Bethlehem Catholic by five. Thereon, they went 1-5, losing by a combined score of 239 to 77. Looking at the not too distant past, this is the same school that went 123-59 from 2001-2015 with a 4A state title in 2008 (15-1) and two other finals appearances in 2005 (13-2) and 2006 (14-2).
Eastern Pennsylvania Conference-North
Northampton 6A 12-1
Northampton went 12-1 for the second straight year winning the EPC-North in coach John Toman’s second season at the helm! Once again, they fielded a huge offense averaging 42ppg with a defense that was their lowest of record (last 25 years) at 9ppg! Senior Qb Antonino Russo made an impression as a one-year starter at 66% for 1436 yards and a 16/5 ratio. That’s a significant loss. But it’s softened by the return of running back Caden Henritz’s 1436 rush yards and 7.0 ypc average. The Konkrete Kids have gone 43-12 the last five years to reverse a 9-year slump of losing seasons and record of 26-79! Before coming to Northampton, Coach Toman led Southern Lehigh to a 108-54 record from 2006 to 2019. Looks like there’s another legit program in the Valley.
Pleasant Valley 5A 7-4
The Bears got out to a good start at 5-0 before getting to the hard part of the schedule in losses to Parkland (9-5) 38-7, Northampton (12-1) 46-7 and Freedom (10-3) 49-0, setting the tone for their 2-4 finish. Still, the 7-4 mark was their first winning season since 2016’s 8-3 team, getting them to the playoffs where they were pummeled by Whitehall 49-14.
Stroudsburg 6A 6-5
The Mountaineers recorded their eleventh winning season of the last 12 years at 6-5 for a 3rd place finish in the division. The 6-5 record showed improvement over 2021’s 4-6 season although they still had trouble against winning teams losing to Northampton x2, Emmaus and Pleasant Valley by a combined score of 128-38.
Pocono Mountain West 5A 5-6
It was the same story at PM-West, losing to all the winning teams on their schedule; Northampton, Stroudsburg, Whitehall, Pleasant Valley and finally Southern Lehigh (9-3) 29-14 in the first round of States. The Panthers have had four winning seasons since the school split (East-West) in 2002.
East Stroudsburg South 5-A 4-6
Following a 3-1 start that included a 7-6 road loss at Pleasant Valley, the Cavaliers tanked, losing five of their remaining six games for their first losing season since 2016. 2021’s 9-4 district champ was a tough act to follow, graduating nine starters from the offense and eight from the D. That group averaged a record 40ppg.
Louis E. Dieruff 6A 3-7
Using records that go back to 2004, Dieruff recorded their 19th straight non-winning season, recording a 5-5 mark in 2013. Their wins came against Pocono Mountain East 40-10, East Stroudsburg North 50-6 and Allen 37-14.
Pocono Mountain East 5A 1-9
PM East’s last winning season was in 2003 where they logged a 6-5 record. Their ten year won-loss is 26-72 with one winning season the last 24 years of record.
William Allen 6A 1-9
Using records that go back to 2004, Allen recorded their 19th straight losing season with five winless seasons and eight, one-win seasons. The rare win this year came against East Stroudsburg North, 60-13.
East Stroudsburg North 4A 1-9
ES North won 14 games the last ten years while losing 82. Last season saw them score 65 points while allowing 537.
District-11 (other teams)
Southern Lehigh 5A 9-3
Southern Lehigh opened with a disappointing 42-28 loss at Quakertown before reeling off eight straight including a 29-28 win at Notre Dame (9-3). It was a young group that didn’t have it against Northwestern Lehigh, losing 45-7 and to Whitehall 43-17 in the 5A district final. But, a pile of bodies returns for 2023 including running back Cade Sawyer (1346), quarterback Christopher Fritts (39/67-513), three of their top four receivers and half the defense. The 9-3 campaign was a nice response to 2022’s 4-7 season, their first losing season since 2007. They’re a steady winner in the district.
Northwestern Lehigh 3A 11-3
The Tigers lost to rival Northern Lehigh in the second week 34-27, then went on a tear, beating good stuff from Southern Lehigh, Notre Dame and North Schuylkill before losing at South Philly’s Super Site (not!) to Neumann Goretti 38-6. By most standards, it was another successful season, their third double-digit winning season in the last four years. Their five year won-loss is 48-12. For 2023, they graduate Qb Cade Christopher (49%-799, 11/2, 245-1886ry!) but return Rb Dalton Clymer (238-1447) and their top three receivers with six from the defense.
Notre Dame 3A 9-3
Notre Dame fielded another high scoring offense last year that average a robust 44ppg. It was so proficient, it almost got them through the season unscathed except for the ‘Lehigh’ teams, losing to Southern Lehigh 29-28, Northern Lehigh 40-33 and Northwestern Lehigh 35-34. Even in defeat, they were right there, a point away in two games and a touchdown in the other. The loss to Northwestern Lehigh came in the district semifinal with Northwestern scoring the go ahead with 6:03 left in the fourth. Look out next year with essentially everyone returning from one of ND’s youngest teams, returning 2310 yards of passing and 2769 yards of rushing. Danny Darno is one of the keys, completing 179 of 266 throws for 67% and 2669 yards with a 33/7 ratio. He also rushed for 1180 yards and 18 more touchdowns.
North Schuylkill 3A 10-3
The Spartans had another successful season hitting double digits in the win column for the fourth time in five years. Truth be told, it was the 2022 team that was ‘the’ team at 11-2 and one of their finest that blew through the schedule barring the double overtime loss at Pottsville (8-3) 20-12, winning Districts averaging 40ppg before losing to Neumann Goretti 26-21 in States. 2022’s team was a notch or two below that, losing to Mount Carmel 25-17 in the home opener then at Notre Dame 36-24 and in the district final to Northwestern Lehigh 34-14. They lost key personnel from the 21 team. But a typical NS line of four vets at 6-0 320, 6-2 265, 6-3 240 and 6-1 275 kept them competitive. 2023 will likely shake out as most years do in Ashland not having had a losing season since 2007. With a record of 140-37 since then, you know they’ll field good stuff to again be one of the top Triple-As in the district.
Northern Lehigh 1A 12-2
Historically going back 20 years, Northern Lehigh has always been a winner, logging a 128-40 slate from 1999 through 2012. It all came together in 2003 going 14-0 to reach the 2A State Final where they lost to Aliquippa (14-1) 32-27. From 2013 through 2017, they stumbled to 17-36. But they turned that around following 2017’s 0-10 season with a 5-5 outing and have been winning ever since. The last two seasons saw them back to their old ways going 11-4 and 12-2 last year. That group won Districts then barely lost to Steelton Highspire (13-1) 42-35 in the quarterfinals at Steelton. Tough playing the ultimate state champ on his own field! But it was a senior laden team that will have to replace the outstanding Nick Frame and his 1243 pass yards and 12 touchdowns, and 1106 rush yards and 11 Tds. The Bulldogs were special in 2022. Good as any Single-A in the state.
District-2 (selected teams)
Here’s a short take on the movers and shakers of Pennsylvania’s northeastern teams, some of which have faded. By Class, descending from 6A.
Hazleton 6A 8-3
Good seeing the Cougars back after a bad slump from 2010 through 2016 going 19-52! Since then they’ve gone 35-29, with a 2-8 season in 2019 dragging that down. They lost to the established or recent powers against Dallas 42-20 and Crestwood 35-14. Freedom ended their season with a 38-0 thumping in the playoffs. Back-to-back eight win seasons may have laid the foundation necessary for the coming season knowing it’s a full rebuild of offense and defense of a senior laden team.
Delaware Valley 5A 8-6
Class act here that survived a 1-3 start to win districts with a 7-3 finish before losing to Whitehall in States. They have not had a losing season since 2009. Both Qbs are back for 2023 with some skill and a good core. One thing about Del Val, they’ll get out of town and play people with last year’s schedule showing the opener at Mosley, Florida, a 24-23 loss, followed by a road loss at Harrisburg 32-3 and a home loss to Downingtown East 28-20. Coach Keith Olsommer, a Penn State grad, isn’t unafraid to play anyone, anytime, anywhere. His record is 170-99 (99-22). Excluding his first three years at 1-9, 0-10 and 3-8 getting establishing a culture, he’s 166-72, 70%.
Wyoming Valley West 5A 0-10
Hard imagining this team went from 154-70 from 1999 through 2018 without a losing season, to an 8-win team over the last four years with 39 losses, topped by last year’s winless campaign. Their average points per game of 11 is the lowest of record (1999) as is the yield of 37ppg. It was quite a fall with last year’s team held to 14 or less points in eight of their ten games, while the defense allowing 38 or more points in seven of their games.
Crestwood 4A 14-2
Crestwood popped out of nowhere in 2022 with a strong group that tore through the district and into the postseason with only their seventh winning season in the last 24 years. Beating Valley View in the opener got your attention only to leave you confused the following week losing to another district bad ass in Dallas 35-14. But from thereon they were ‘lights out’, going on a 12 game rampage while winning by an average score of 52-11. A second win over Valley 12-7 then Bonner 21-14 put them against Bishop McDevitt in the state semifinal where they were defeated 35-0. Replacing graduated Noah Schultz’s 2576 rush yards is the issue for 2023. But they return their starting freshman quarterback plus good experienced on the D.
Dallas 4A 9-3
Here’s one of the premier 4As in the district with a long history of success and only three losing seasons going back to 1999. With a 54-17 record the last six years, they’ve been a player in districts and the postseason. After thrashing Crestwood in the second week, they got to 6-0 before the upset at old rival Berwick (5-7) who played their best game of the year in a 39-22 win. A loss at Wilkes Barre (6-5) 35-7 (?) 2 weeks later showed the defense that was veteran was not performing at last year’s level (16ppg) in allowing 21ppg by year’s end. They were also breaking in a sophomore Qb. A 31-14 loss at Valley View brought the season to a close and the career of running back Parker Bolestra (6-0, 210, Stonybrook) who had 2421 on 239 carries last season.
Valley View 4A 10-3
Here’s one of the most successful programs in the district particularly the last six years compiling a 59-14 mark! They come from the Scranton area that plays serious football with nearby Dunmore and Old Forge fielding power annually. This year’s team looked strong but was upended in the opener by Crestwood (14-2) from Mountain Top 20-7, and again in States 12-7. VV enters 2023 looking like a full rebuild with the Qb and leading backs and receivers graduating.
Berwick 4A 5-7
The glitter and glam that was once the Berwick program has faded to a few blips at best on the radar the last few years with the Dawgs going 1-5 in the Covid season, rebounding to a weak 7-5 with a negative PF-PA average of 14-20, and last year’s 5-7 team. They started with strong, competitive games against two of the top teams in the district losing to Southern Columbia 42-27 and Valley View 24-21, then upsetting Dallas 39-22 before collapsing against powerful Danville 35-0, Crestwood x2 56-14 and 56-21 and Hazleton 20-0. It was a largely veteran team with a first year coach in Mike Bennett. Coach is a hometown guys who played on two title teams so we’ll see how it goes in year #2.
Wyoming Area 4A 5-6
Wyoming Area fell to 5-6 last year after winning the 3A state title in 2019 with a 14-1 team that beat Central Valley (13-1) 21-14. They are often in the 4A hunt fielding quality teams with a 58-23 record the last seven years. Last year’s team struggled with finding a quarterback, starting three sophomores and a junior throughout the season. But they found running backs with junior Aaron Crossley (5-11, 205) getting 2115 yards and soph Mike Crane (5-10, 175) at 588. Most of the team returns for 2023 so look for them to regain their more typical position as a district challenger and force in the postseason.
Scranton Prep 3A 9-4
Here’s one of the premier 3As in the state, especially since the arrival of head coach Terry Gallagher in 2016 going 72-14. With Scranton High at 31-41 and West Scranton at 16-52 in the same period, I’m guessing most of the area talent goes to Prep! This year’s team was extremely young starting a sophomore quarterback in Louis Paris who rushed for 857 and passed for 1008 yards. Rb Quenten Palermo (5-10, 185, jr) also returns after rushing for 1133 yards plus other backs and leading receivers. Most of the D returns. Early season losses to rival Scranton (8-4) 21-9 and Double-A bad ass Lakeland (11-1) 41-14, said they’re not ready for prime time. But the year ending loss to Neumann Goretti (11-4) 22-14, the one-point loser to Belle Vernon in the 3A final, shows how far they progressed.
Lakeland 2A 12-1
The Chiefs are one of the ‘players’ in the districts small school hierarchy. Last year’s outstanding veteran team was cruising along at 12-0 with impressive wins against Scranton Prep 41-14, Old Forge 47-20, Dunmore 55-14 and 20-14 in postseason before stumbling against Executive Education Academy (8-4) 42-15. Ex Ed from Allentown is in their second year of playing football. Lakeland looks to rebuild from one of their very best teams that averaged 42ppg and allowed 15 while graduating a +2000-yard quarterback, a +1000-yard rusher and their top two receivers.
Dunmore 2A 8-4
The Bucks dropped off the last few years recording a 24-19 mark from 2019 through last year after going 141-24 the previous 11 years. Legendary coach Jack Henzes retired following the 2018 season, winning 444 games in a career that spanned 52 years; 47 at Dunmore. His teams were among the best in the state with the 444-win total placing him second in the state behind the late George Curry of Berwick. The Bucks won the single-A title in 1989 beating Keystone 57-18 with Silver Medal runner-up trophies in 2007, 2012 and 2014, losing to Jeannette, Clairton and South Fayette respectively. Kevin McHale has headed the program since the 2019 season.
Old Forge 1A 7-4
Here’s another Scranton area power of the first order going 93-24 the last ten years with a Silver Medal in 2013 losing to North Catholic in overtime 15-14, and to Bishop Gilfoyle in the 2015 semifinal. Last year’s team fell short, losing to quality teams like Dunmore (8-4) 43-25, Lakeland (12-1) 47-20, Western Wayne (9-3) 35-7 and Lackawanna Trail (8-5) in a rematch-revenge game in overtime, 24-21 on a 29-yard field goal. How often is that scenario repeated across the state! They’ll rebuild for 2023 losing dual threat Qb James Sobol (1385py, 326ry), multi-talented Casey Holtzman (258ry, 568py), their other two leading receivers and some large bodies up front.
District-4 (selected teams)
Williamsport 6A 5-6
Threw in the Millionaires since they’re the only 6A in the district. They’ve never had sustained success but have surprised from time to time with exciting teams. Last year was not one of them in coach Mike Pearson’s first season losing to all the winning teams on the schedule by the average score of 42-14. Teams with a combined record of 49-14; State College, Dallas, Crestwood, Wilkes Barre, Hazleton.
Jersey Shore 4A 12-2
Now here’s a program, with only three losses the last three years and a 96-42 record since 2012 when Tom Gravish took over as HC. This followed a run of 13 losing seasons going back to 1999. To date, they’ve won seven district title since his arrival. The 2021 team at 14-1 stands out, losing in the semifinal to Aliquippa. But last years was a true ‘title team, with a balanced senior laden team that scored 54ppg and a D that allowed 9ppg. But they ran into an Allentown Central Catholic team looking for pay back from the previous year’s 20-7 loss to these same Bulldogs and got it, going overtime for the 38-31 win.
Selinsgrove 4A 9-3
The Seals may be emerging from a three-year slump (16-16, 2018-2020) if the last two years mean anything with an 8-4 record in 2021 and 9-3 last year. They’re not at the level of teams in the 2000s that were powerhouses, going 114-21 for the decade, bringing home Gold in 2009 at 16-0 with a 10-7 win against Manheim Central. But the team that looks like it will take the field in 2023 is experienced with most of their skill returning and the defense.
Danville 3A 12-1
Danville fielded their best team of record last year taking down strong teams including Loyalsock Township (11-2) twice and Southern Columbia (13-3) before falling to Wyomissing (13-1) 21-19 in the quarterfinal in Danville. They’ve had a great coach the last three years in Mike Brennan who led five other schools, notably Mount Carmel where he won two state titles. It was surprising to just hear he retired after a 25-year career in coaching compiling a 162-115 record. The Ironmen will rebuild after graduating most of last year’s team that set record for offense and defense scoring on average 47ppg and allowing six.
Loyalsock Township 3A 11-2
You knew the Lancers were solid in week-one traveling to Reading to defeat Berks Catholic 34-21. While not one of BC’s strongest at 5-6, it was prophetic with their going on to beat Southern Columbia (13-3) 27-10 and a solid squad from Troy (9-3, 2A) 36-35 on a missed two-point conversion at Troy. Danville was their nemesis, losing 14-7 in the regular season and 41-20 in the playoffs. Qb Tyler Gee (62%, 2627py, 27/8, 586ry) returns with his top receiver Jalen Andrews (1161yds). Davion Hill graduated with 1876 rush yards but most of the D returns to keep ‘Sock’ in the mix as always for 2023.
Montoursville 3A 4-7
The Warriors slumped off the last two years at 4-7 last year and 7-6 the year before. But at 82-41 the last ten years, they’re often a factor in the district. They faced a brutal schedule this year including Troy, Danville, Jersey Shore, Southern and Loyalsock who combined for a 57-10 record. But they return their quarterback and at least seven starters to the defense that was overwhelmed last year allowing 31ppg.
Southern Columbia 2A 13-3
Southern Columbia Area recovered from a 5-3 start to win their next eight games and claim their sixth-consecutive 2A State championship and 13th state crown with a 37-22 win over previously undefeated Westinghouse (14-1) out of District-8. Westinghouse came in with a powerful resume having defeated Steel High 39-18, Berlin Brothersvalley 59-7, Central Clarion 44-8, Farrell 34-6 and Steel Valley 26-7; teams with a combined record of 56-7 by an average score of 40-9. Saw them at Steelton and didn’t think anyone would beat them! But, credit SCA and staff for recovering from a rocky start to beat Troy, Mount Carmel, Bishop Guilfoyle and Trinity in the playoffs by an average score of 45-18.
Mount Carmel 2A 12-1
Unlike Southern, Mount Carmel got off to a fast start with wins against perennial powers North Schuylkill 25-17, Dunmore 42-14 and Southern Columbia 35-21 before running into the Tigers again in the postseason for another rematch-revenge-rival game where they were pummeled 48-14. Were it not for Southern Columbia, it’d likely be about MCA with their 42-10 record since 2018 (10-3, 10-3, 10-3, 12-1) excluding covid’s 2-4 season. They may have been eclipsed by Southern but remain one of the great Pennsylvania stories with state titles in 1994, 96, 98, 2000 and 2002, and a runner-up silver medal in 1999.
Here’s a snapshot of District 2, 4 and 11 teams with no particular format, pulling what seemed interesting, district by district. Things like streaks, special players, upsets, new coaches, outstanding/disappointing seasons etc. I’ll post the other districts as I complete them. Enjoy and jump in with corrections and additions.
District-11
Eastern Pennsylvania Conference-South
Emmaus 6A 10-2, 9-1
Emmaus had another successful season with a talented team going 10-2. They had an exciting quarterback in Jake Fotta (2090-64%, 23/3). But he couldn’t make up for the lack of a consistent running game as shown in losses to Nazareth (9-2) 20-14 and Freedom (10-3) 27-26. As always, and in a dreaded rematch after beating Freedom 19-13 in the opener, the season ended with yet another playoff loss to Freedom (10-3) 27-26 on a failed two-point conversion to mark the sixth time in the last seven years this occurred. With a six-point loss at Nazareth and the 29-27 loss to Freedom, there’s a lot of room to imagine what might have been. For 2023, they’ll be without some major parts graduating Qb Fotta and their top two receivers Dylan Danville (1025) and Chase Fotta (542), plus the lead running back Tylik Jarvis with 822ry. The D loses DT EJ Boney (6-1, 265, 43 tackles), NG Carlos Koduah (6-0, 265, 17 stops), the No.1 tackler at linebacker Aidan Garrett (97 stops) and Tyler Ruddick (30 tackles), Elijah Fajardo (15 stops) and Tylik Jarvis (18 stops), also linebackers. The secondary took hits at safety in Ryan DeJohn (68 tackles) and Dylan Danville with 27 tackles at corner. They’ll rebuild the D with OL/DL’er Ben Mercado (6-2, 290), Mario Landino (6-4, 250) and John Wassel, the team’s second leading tackler at linebacker with 68.
Nazareth 6A 9-2, 9-1
Here’s one of the quieter success stories in the valley recently going 36-10 the last four years. They had it going last year with wins against Parkland, Central Catholic, Emmaus and Whitehall before Parkland got their pound of flesh in the playoffs 42-14 with Nazareth’s star quarterback Sonny Sasso sidelined with a hand injury. The two-year starter and wrestling star (Va Tech) kept opposing defenses on their heels with a 66% completion rate for 1975 yards, capped by a 21/2 Td/Pick ratio. Too bad he grads as they return quality receivers in Mason Kuehner (61-962) and Logan Hilarczyk plus running backs Jed Bendekovits (50-295) and Mason Kuehner (30-144) and great stuff up front in OT/DE Sean Kinney (6-3, 290). Last year’s defense gave up fewer points (172) than any team in the EPC-South. They return a core but will miss LBs Andrew Young and Collin Wells.
Freedom 6A 10-3, 8-2
Freedom is on quite a run getting ten wins or more the last two years and four out of the last five years for a won/loss of 43-12. But you still need to beat Parkland to get attention beyond the district and Freedom didn’t, losing 21-13 in the regular season and 35-10 in the district final. And that was with dual threat quarterback Ethan Neidig’s 1534 passing, 627 rushing and 21 total touchdowns! Running back Jalen Fletcher graduates with 1420 rush yards and 192 in receiving, although they return a number of experienced backs. Add in three of their top four receivers graduating and at least seven starters on defense making it look like a serious rebuild.
Parkland 6A 9-5, 6-4
Parkland recovered from a 2-3 start, going 7-2 to win the district, defeating Freedom 35-10 before losing to St. Joseph’s Prep in the quarterfinals 52-21. It appears they’ll field a strong team this year with the return of quarterback Luke Sprang (63%-2088, 18/8, 295ry-5Tds), the multi-talented Trey Trimba (1238ry-21Tds, 28/428py-5Tds), Marquez Wimberly (83/392), many experienced receivers and at least seven starters and co-starters from the defense. Freshman Marquez Wimberly (58 tackles) and Tykear Davis (14 tackles) got a lot of time last year as did sophomore Leo Dauberman (17 stops). It’s important to note in a league that isn’t afraid to throw the ball the number of grads in the secondary; FS Nate Urso (31 tackles), S Chase Kusko (45 stops), CB Mason Hollis (60), S Jack Harrison (51 tackles) and CB Nakhi Bullock (29 stops). That’s a lot of stops for a secondary. Other significant losses are at DT Nate Kemmerer (63 tackles) and their top tackler LB Victor Pagan with 87.
Whitehall 5A 8-6, 5-5
Whitehall won the district 5A title with dominating wins against Pleasant Valley (7-3) 49-14 then Southern Lehigh (9-3) 43-17 in the title game, followed by a 1st round win against Delaware Valley (7-6) 34-13 in States before falling to Imhotep (10-3) 55-7. For 2023, quarterback Trey Dogmanits (57%-2000, 22/14) returns with two of their leading receivers. The defense that has not been a strong suit the last six years was senior laden and will restructure. The big news is the retirement of four-year coach Matt Senneca (17-26, 2 district titles) with Andy Marino stepping in. Marino (pending 1/23 approval) was the Line Coach at Elon College and is a Neshaminy grad.
Allentown Central Catholic 4A 9-6, 5-5
Central Catholic recovered from a rocky 5-5 regular season before ‘turning on’ in the post season, advancing to the state semifinal. Quite a turnaround. They did it by thumping Bangor (7-4) 42-7, then escaping in the rematch with Bethlehem Catholic (6-6) 14-3, after losing to them 14-13 in ot two weeks before. Barring the road win at Parkland 21-14 Sept 10th, their most impressive win came at neutral site Williamsport against Jersey Shore’s best ever team (12-1) 38-31 in overtime in the opening round of States despite JS out rushing them 238 to 75. A 50-7 win against way overmatched Meadville (12-2) who you knew were in trouble losing earlier to McDowell 49-19, sent them to the semifinal. Here they were overwhelmed by Aliquippa (13-1) 31-10. 2023 sees the return of coach Rob Melosky (OC Central last two years) to guide another Lehigh Valley team after heading Freedom, Parkland Pocono Mountain East and Nazareth with a 96-67 record, winning a 4A state title at Parkland in 02. The retiring Tim McGorry headed Central for the last four years winning three consecutive 4A district titles.
Bethlehem Catholic 4A 6-6, 5-5
It’s hard times at Becahi who has not had a winning season since 2019’s 7-5 team. Since then they’ve gone 4-4, 2-7 and 6-6. The inability to win against quality opponents doomed them this year with a 2-6 log, getting wins against Whitehall 35-7 and Central Catholic 14-13ot, while losing to Emmaus, Nazareth, Parkland, Northampton and Freedom. They split with Central Catholic. That’s a tough slate with a combined won-loss of 76-31. It was a hard year for the Golden Hawks with coach Kyle Harris resigning seven games into the 2022 season and finishing with an interim coach. The new head coach is Tyler Ward, the former OC/Asst. Head Coach at Oak Mountain High in Birmingham, AL and Lehigh grad of 2014.
Easton 6A 3-8, 3-7
Head Coach Jeff Braido retired January 3rd following a six-year stint where the Red Rovers amassed a 37-30 record. Last season marked their second losing season in three years and first occasion where they missed the playoffs in the last 15 years. On the positive side, they went 4-1 against rival Phillipsburg-NJ. And following a 0-4 start, a 3-4 finish shows there was no give up despite tough losses. One came against Bethlehem Catholic 28-14 where they pounded Beca on the ground behind Aidan Hutchinson’s 205 yards only to throw three picks, one a 90-yard Pick-Six. Another loss was against rival Nazareth 35-28, where an Easton tipped pass was caught and run in by Narareth for the decisive score with 2:23 left in the game. Matt Senneca (PSU Qb 98-01) takes over after leading Whitehall the last four years to a 17-26 record and 5A district titles in 2020 and 2022.
Liberty 6A 2-8, 2-8
Liberty’s downward slide continues to worsen with defensive numbers at record lows. Last year’s team allowed a season ending average of 34ppg, second only (last 25 years plus) to 2020’s team that allowed 35 a game. 2022 also marked their seventh losing season in a row, accumulating a 20-49 record. Still, these guys battled through their first four games winning at Stroudsburg (6-5) 14-12 and losing competitively to Central Catholic by six, Whitehall by 11 and Bethlehem Catholic by five. Thereon, they went 1-5, losing by a combined score of 239 to 77. Looking at the not too distant past, this is the same school that went 123-59 from 2001-2015 with a 4A state title in 2008 (15-1) and two other finals appearances in 2005 (13-2) and 2006 (14-2).
Eastern Pennsylvania Conference-North
Northampton 6A 12-1
Northampton went 12-1 for the second straight year winning the EPC-North in coach John Toman’s second season at the helm! Once again, they fielded a huge offense averaging 42ppg with a defense that was their lowest of record (last 25 years) at 9ppg! Senior Qb Antonino Russo made an impression as a one-year starter at 66% for 1436 yards and a 16/5 ratio. That’s a significant loss. But it’s softened by the return of running back Caden Henritz’s 1436 rush yards and 7.0 ypc average. The Konkrete Kids have gone 43-12 the last five years to reverse a 9-year slump of losing seasons and record of 26-79! Before coming to Northampton, Coach Toman led Southern Lehigh to a 108-54 record from 2006 to 2019. Looks like there’s another legit program in the Valley.
Pleasant Valley 5A 7-4
The Bears got out to a good start at 5-0 before getting to the hard part of the schedule in losses to Parkland (9-5) 38-7, Northampton (12-1) 46-7 and Freedom (10-3) 49-0, setting the tone for their 2-4 finish. Still, the 7-4 mark was their first winning season since 2016’s 8-3 team, getting them to the playoffs where they were pummeled by Whitehall 49-14.
Stroudsburg 6A 6-5
The Mountaineers recorded their eleventh winning season of the last 12 years at 6-5 for a 3rd place finish in the division. The 6-5 record showed improvement over 2021’s 4-6 season although they still had trouble against winning teams losing to Northampton x2, Emmaus and Pleasant Valley by a combined score of 128-38.
Pocono Mountain West 5A 5-6
It was the same story at PM-West, losing to all the winning teams on their schedule; Northampton, Stroudsburg, Whitehall, Pleasant Valley and finally Southern Lehigh (9-3) 29-14 in the first round of States. The Panthers have had four winning seasons since the school split (East-West) in 2002.
East Stroudsburg South 5-A 4-6
Following a 3-1 start that included a 7-6 road loss at Pleasant Valley, the Cavaliers tanked, losing five of their remaining six games for their first losing season since 2016. 2021’s 9-4 district champ was a tough act to follow, graduating nine starters from the offense and eight from the D. That group averaged a record 40ppg.
Louis E. Dieruff 6A 3-7
Using records that go back to 2004, Dieruff recorded their 19th straight non-winning season, recording a 5-5 mark in 2013. Their wins came against Pocono Mountain East 40-10, East Stroudsburg North 50-6 and Allen 37-14.
Pocono Mountain East 5A 1-9
PM East’s last winning season was in 2003 where they logged a 6-5 record. Their ten year won-loss is 26-72 with one winning season the last 24 years of record.
William Allen 6A 1-9
Using records that go back to 2004, Allen recorded their 19th straight losing season with five winless seasons and eight, one-win seasons. The rare win this year came against East Stroudsburg North, 60-13.
East Stroudsburg North 4A 1-9
ES North won 14 games the last ten years while losing 82. Last season saw them score 65 points while allowing 537.
District-11 (other teams)
Southern Lehigh 5A 9-3
Southern Lehigh opened with a disappointing 42-28 loss at Quakertown before reeling off eight straight including a 29-28 win at Notre Dame (9-3). It was a young group that didn’t have it against Northwestern Lehigh, losing 45-7 and to Whitehall 43-17 in the 5A district final. But, a pile of bodies returns for 2023 including running back Cade Sawyer (1346), quarterback Christopher Fritts (39/67-513), three of their top four receivers and half the defense. The 9-3 campaign was a nice response to 2022’s 4-7 season, their first losing season since 2007. They’re a steady winner in the district.
Northwestern Lehigh 3A 11-3
The Tigers lost to rival Northern Lehigh in the second week 34-27, then went on a tear, beating good stuff from Southern Lehigh, Notre Dame and North Schuylkill before losing at South Philly’s Super Site (not!) to Neumann Goretti 38-6. By most standards, it was another successful season, their third double-digit winning season in the last four years. Their five year won-loss is 48-12. For 2023, they graduate Qb Cade Christopher (49%-799, 11/2, 245-1886ry!) but return Rb Dalton Clymer (238-1447) and their top three receivers with six from the defense.
Notre Dame 3A 9-3
Notre Dame fielded another high scoring offense last year that average a robust 44ppg. It was so proficient, it almost got them through the season unscathed except for the ‘Lehigh’ teams, losing to Southern Lehigh 29-28, Northern Lehigh 40-33 and Northwestern Lehigh 35-34. Even in defeat, they were right there, a point away in two games and a touchdown in the other. The loss to Northwestern Lehigh came in the district semifinal with Northwestern scoring the go ahead with 6:03 left in the fourth. Look out next year with essentially everyone returning from one of ND’s youngest teams, returning 2310 yards of passing and 2769 yards of rushing. Danny Darno is one of the keys, completing 179 of 266 throws for 67% and 2669 yards with a 33/7 ratio. He also rushed for 1180 yards and 18 more touchdowns.
North Schuylkill 3A 10-3
The Spartans had another successful season hitting double digits in the win column for the fourth time in five years. Truth be told, it was the 2022 team that was ‘the’ team at 11-2 and one of their finest that blew through the schedule barring the double overtime loss at Pottsville (8-3) 20-12, winning Districts averaging 40ppg before losing to Neumann Goretti 26-21 in States. 2022’s team was a notch or two below that, losing to Mount Carmel 25-17 in the home opener then at Notre Dame 36-24 and in the district final to Northwestern Lehigh 34-14. They lost key personnel from the 21 team. But a typical NS line of four vets at 6-0 320, 6-2 265, 6-3 240 and 6-1 275 kept them competitive. 2023 will likely shake out as most years do in Ashland not having had a losing season since 2007. With a record of 140-37 since then, you know they’ll field good stuff to again be one of the top Triple-As in the district.
Northern Lehigh 1A 12-2
Historically going back 20 years, Northern Lehigh has always been a winner, logging a 128-40 slate from 1999 through 2012. It all came together in 2003 going 14-0 to reach the 2A State Final where they lost to Aliquippa (14-1) 32-27. From 2013 through 2017, they stumbled to 17-36. But they turned that around following 2017’s 0-10 season with a 5-5 outing and have been winning ever since. The last two seasons saw them back to their old ways going 11-4 and 12-2 last year. That group won Districts then barely lost to Steelton Highspire (13-1) 42-35 in the quarterfinals at Steelton. Tough playing the ultimate state champ on his own field! But it was a senior laden team that will have to replace the outstanding Nick Frame and his 1243 pass yards and 12 touchdowns, and 1106 rush yards and 11 Tds. The Bulldogs were special in 2022. Good as any Single-A in the state.
District-2 (selected teams)
Here’s a short take on the movers and shakers of Pennsylvania’s northeastern teams, some of which have faded. By Class, descending from 6A.
Hazleton 6A 8-3
Good seeing the Cougars back after a bad slump from 2010 through 2016 going 19-52! Since then they’ve gone 35-29, with a 2-8 season in 2019 dragging that down. They lost to the established or recent powers against Dallas 42-20 and Crestwood 35-14. Freedom ended their season with a 38-0 thumping in the playoffs. Back-to-back eight win seasons may have laid the foundation necessary for the coming season knowing it’s a full rebuild of offense and defense of a senior laden team.
Delaware Valley 5A 8-6
Class act here that survived a 1-3 start to win districts with a 7-3 finish before losing to Whitehall in States. They have not had a losing season since 2009. Both Qbs are back for 2023 with some skill and a good core. One thing about Del Val, they’ll get out of town and play people with last year’s schedule showing the opener at Mosley, Florida, a 24-23 loss, followed by a road loss at Harrisburg 32-3 and a home loss to Downingtown East 28-20. Coach Keith Olsommer, a Penn State grad, isn’t unafraid to play anyone, anytime, anywhere. His record is 170-99 (99-22). Excluding his first three years at 1-9, 0-10 and 3-8 getting establishing a culture, he’s 166-72, 70%.
Wyoming Valley West 5A 0-10
Hard imagining this team went from 154-70 from 1999 through 2018 without a losing season, to an 8-win team over the last four years with 39 losses, topped by last year’s winless campaign. Their average points per game of 11 is the lowest of record (1999) as is the yield of 37ppg. It was quite a fall with last year’s team held to 14 or less points in eight of their ten games, while the defense allowing 38 or more points in seven of their games.
Crestwood 4A 14-2
Crestwood popped out of nowhere in 2022 with a strong group that tore through the district and into the postseason with only their seventh winning season in the last 24 years. Beating Valley View in the opener got your attention only to leave you confused the following week losing to another district bad ass in Dallas 35-14. But from thereon they were ‘lights out’, going on a 12 game rampage while winning by an average score of 52-11. A second win over Valley 12-7 then Bonner 21-14 put them against Bishop McDevitt in the state semifinal where they were defeated 35-0. Replacing graduated Noah Schultz’s 2576 rush yards is the issue for 2023. But they return their starting freshman quarterback plus good experienced on the D.
Dallas 4A 9-3
Here’s one of the premier 4As in the district with a long history of success and only three losing seasons going back to 1999. With a 54-17 record the last six years, they’ve been a player in districts and the postseason. After thrashing Crestwood in the second week, they got to 6-0 before the upset at old rival Berwick (5-7) who played their best game of the year in a 39-22 win. A loss at Wilkes Barre (6-5) 35-7 (?) 2 weeks later showed the defense that was veteran was not performing at last year’s level (16ppg) in allowing 21ppg by year’s end. They were also breaking in a sophomore Qb. A 31-14 loss at Valley View brought the season to a close and the career of running back Parker Bolestra (6-0, 210, Stonybrook) who had 2421 on 239 carries last season.
Valley View 4A 10-3
Here’s one of the most successful programs in the district particularly the last six years compiling a 59-14 mark! They come from the Scranton area that plays serious football with nearby Dunmore and Old Forge fielding power annually. This year’s team looked strong but was upended in the opener by Crestwood (14-2) from Mountain Top 20-7, and again in States 12-7. VV enters 2023 looking like a full rebuild with the Qb and leading backs and receivers graduating.
Berwick 4A 5-7
The glitter and glam that was once the Berwick program has faded to a few blips at best on the radar the last few years with the Dawgs going 1-5 in the Covid season, rebounding to a weak 7-5 with a negative PF-PA average of 14-20, and last year’s 5-7 team. They started with strong, competitive games against two of the top teams in the district losing to Southern Columbia 42-27 and Valley View 24-21, then upsetting Dallas 39-22 before collapsing against powerful Danville 35-0, Crestwood x2 56-14 and 56-21 and Hazleton 20-0. It was a largely veteran team with a first year coach in Mike Bennett. Coach is a hometown guys who played on two title teams so we’ll see how it goes in year #2.
Wyoming Area 4A 5-6
Wyoming Area fell to 5-6 last year after winning the 3A state title in 2019 with a 14-1 team that beat Central Valley (13-1) 21-14. They are often in the 4A hunt fielding quality teams with a 58-23 record the last seven years. Last year’s team struggled with finding a quarterback, starting three sophomores and a junior throughout the season. But they found running backs with junior Aaron Crossley (5-11, 205) getting 2115 yards and soph Mike Crane (5-10, 175) at 588. Most of the team returns for 2023 so look for them to regain their more typical position as a district challenger and force in the postseason.
Scranton Prep 3A 9-4
Here’s one of the premier 3As in the state, especially since the arrival of head coach Terry Gallagher in 2016 going 72-14. With Scranton High at 31-41 and West Scranton at 16-52 in the same period, I’m guessing most of the area talent goes to Prep! This year’s team was extremely young starting a sophomore quarterback in Louis Paris who rushed for 857 and passed for 1008 yards. Rb Quenten Palermo (5-10, 185, jr) also returns after rushing for 1133 yards plus other backs and leading receivers. Most of the D returns. Early season losses to rival Scranton (8-4) 21-9 and Double-A bad ass Lakeland (11-1) 41-14, said they’re not ready for prime time. But the year ending loss to Neumann Goretti (11-4) 22-14, the one-point loser to Belle Vernon in the 3A final, shows how far they progressed.
Lakeland 2A 12-1
The Chiefs are one of the ‘players’ in the districts small school hierarchy. Last year’s outstanding veteran team was cruising along at 12-0 with impressive wins against Scranton Prep 41-14, Old Forge 47-20, Dunmore 55-14 and 20-14 in postseason before stumbling against Executive Education Academy (8-4) 42-15. Ex Ed from Allentown is in their second year of playing football. Lakeland looks to rebuild from one of their very best teams that averaged 42ppg and allowed 15 while graduating a +2000-yard quarterback, a +1000-yard rusher and their top two receivers.
Dunmore 2A 8-4
The Bucks dropped off the last few years recording a 24-19 mark from 2019 through last year after going 141-24 the previous 11 years. Legendary coach Jack Henzes retired following the 2018 season, winning 444 games in a career that spanned 52 years; 47 at Dunmore. His teams were among the best in the state with the 444-win total placing him second in the state behind the late George Curry of Berwick. The Bucks won the single-A title in 1989 beating Keystone 57-18 with Silver Medal runner-up trophies in 2007, 2012 and 2014, losing to Jeannette, Clairton and South Fayette respectively. Kevin McHale has headed the program since the 2019 season.
Old Forge 1A 7-4
Here’s another Scranton area power of the first order going 93-24 the last ten years with a Silver Medal in 2013 losing to North Catholic in overtime 15-14, and to Bishop Gilfoyle in the 2015 semifinal. Last year’s team fell short, losing to quality teams like Dunmore (8-4) 43-25, Lakeland (12-1) 47-20, Western Wayne (9-3) 35-7 and Lackawanna Trail (8-5) in a rematch-revenge game in overtime, 24-21 on a 29-yard field goal. How often is that scenario repeated across the state! They’ll rebuild for 2023 losing dual threat Qb James Sobol (1385py, 326ry), multi-talented Casey Holtzman (258ry, 568py), their other two leading receivers and some large bodies up front.
District-4 (selected teams)
Williamsport 6A 5-6
Threw in the Millionaires since they’re the only 6A in the district. They’ve never had sustained success but have surprised from time to time with exciting teams. Last year was not one of them in coach Mike Pearson’s first season losing to all the winning teams on the schedule by the average score of 42-14. Teams with a combined record of 49-14; State College, Dallas, Crestwood, Wilkes Barre, Hazleton.
Jersey Shore 4A 12-2
Now here’s a program, with only three losses the last three years and a 96-42 record since 2012 when Tom Gravish took over as HC. This followed a run of 13 losing seasons going back to 1999. To date, they’ve won seven district title since his arrival. The 2021 team at 14-1 stands out, losing in the semifinal to Aliquippa. But last years was a true ‘title team, with a balanced senior laden team that scored 54ppg and a D that allowed 9ppg. But they ran into an Allentown Central Catholic team looking for pay back from the previous year’s 20-7 loss to these same Bulldogs and got it, going overtime for the 38-31 win.
Selinsgrove 4A 9-3
The Seals may be emerging from a three-year slump (16-16, 2018-2020) if the last two years mean anything with an 8-4 record in 2021 and 9-3 last year. They’re not at the level of teams in the 2000s that were powerhouses, going 114-21 for the decade, bringing home Gold in 2009 at 16-0 with a 10-7 win against Manheim Central. But the team that looks like it will take the field in 2023 is experienced with most of their skill returning and the defense.
Danville 3A 12-1
Danville fielded their best team of record last year taking down strong teams including Loyalsock Township (11-2) twice and Southern Columbia (13-3) before falling to Wyomissing (13-1) 21-19 in the quarterfinal in Danville. They’ve had a great coach the last three years in Mike Brennan who led five other schools, notably Mount Carmel where he won two state titles. It was surprising to just hear he retired after a 25-year career in coaching compiling a 162-115 record. The Ironmen will rebuild after graduating most of last year’s team that set record for offense and defense scoring on average 47ppg and allowing six.
Loyalsock Township 3A 11-2
You knew the Lancers were solid in week-one traveling to Reading to defeat Berks Catholic 34-21. While not one of BC’s strongest at 5-6, it was prophetic with their going on to beat Southern Columbia (13-3) 27-10 and a solid squad from Troy (9-3, 2A) 36-35 on a missed two-point conversion at Troy. Danville was their nemesis, losing 14-7 in the regular season and 41-20 in the playoffs. Qb Tyler Gee (62%, 2627py, 27/8, 586ry) returns with his top receiver Jalen Andrews (1161yds). Davion Hill graduated with 1876 rush yards but most of the D returns to keep ‘Sock’ in the mix as always for 2023.
Montoursville 3A 4-7
The Warriors slumped off the last two years at 4-7 last year and 7-6 the year before. But at 82-41 the last ten years, they’re often a factor in the district. They faced a brutal schedule this year including Troy, Danville, Jersey Shore, Southern and Loyalsock who combined for a 57-10 record. But they return their quarterback and at least seven starters to the defense that was overwhelmed last year allowing 31ppg.
Southern Columbia 2A 13-3
Southern Columbia Area recovered from a 5-3 start to win their next eight games and claim their sixth-consecutive 2A State championship and 13th state crown with a 37-22 win over previously undefeated Westinghouse (14-1) out of District-8. Westinghouse came in with a powerful resume having defeated Steel High 39-18, Berlin Brothersvalley 59-7, Central Clarion 44-8, Farrell 34-6 and Steel Valley 26-7; teams with a combined record of 56-7 by an average score of 40-9. Saw them at Steelton and didn’t think anyone would beat them! But, credit SCA and staff for recovering from a rocky start to beat Troy, Mount Carmel, Bishop Guilfoyle and Trinity in the playoffs by an average score of 45-18.
Mount Carmel 2A 12-1
Unlike Southern, Mount Carmel got off to a fast start with wins against perennial powers North Schuylkill 25-17, Dunmore 42-14 and Southern Columbia 35-21 before running into the Tigers again in the postseason for another rematch-revenge-rival game where they were pummeled 48-14. Were it not for Southern Columbia, it’d likely be about MCA with their 42-10 record since 2018 (10-3, 10-3, 10-3, 12-1) excluding covid’s 2-4 season. They may have been eclipsed by Southern but remain one of the great Pennsylvania stories with state titles in 1994, 96, 98, 2000 and 2002, and a runner-up silver medal in 1999.
