District 3 Top 20 (Sept 16, 17, 2022)
(The number in parenthesis is last week’s rankings)
1 Bishop McDevitt 1-1 4A (2) Mid Penn-Keystone Division
McDevitt rose to the top spot as a result of dismantling LaSalle 56-7 (not a typo) and Harrisburg’s upset tho mild by Manheim Township 24-20. In a word McDevitt’s game with LaSalle was a rout, leading 42-7 at the half and totaling 460 yards of offense to LaSalle’s 112 by game’s end. The Explores were held to eight first downs, 64 yards rushing and 48 passing. McDevitt’s outstanding sophomore quarterback Stone Saunders completed 9 of 13 passes for 248 yards and 3 touchdowns. Running back Cyncir Bowers was the lead rusher and receiver at 116 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns with a 08 yards on 4 receptions for another score. Marquese Williams had 92 yards rushing with Tyshawn Russell having touchdowns of 55 and 57 yards on his two receptions. DT Dallas Davenport had a 48-yard Pick-6. Woeful Palmyra (1-2) who McDevitt beat last year 75-7 is next to kick off the Mid Penn-Keystone Division race.
2 Cumberland Valley 3-0 6A (3) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Cumberland Valley continued their run though a challenging road schedule defeating Spring Ford 28-16 last week in Royersford. The week before saw them beat Central York 35-3 in York. Rising start quarterback Isaac Sines was again in the spotlight completing 8 of 14 passes for 140 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 59 yards where he got two more touchdowns. Bryce Staretz ran for 50 yards and three scores with Griffin Hoffman pulling down four receptions for 66 yards. The Eagle D was held the Rams to 75 yards rushing. Mid Penn-Commonwealth action opens Friday at home against Central Dauphin East (2-1). It promises to be a good one with CV on the wrong end of last year’s 17-10 decision.
3 Manheim Township 2-1 6A (4) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 1
The Blue Streaks ascend to the three spot on the strength of a last second 24-20 road win at Harrisburg. Junior quarterback Hayden Johnson found Asher Wolfe in the back of the end zone from the 3-yard line with 4 seconds left in the game to pull it out. Johnson was unstoppable, completing 77% for 198 yards (27/35-1/1) with a balanced distribution to four receivers; Asher Wolfe caught 6 for 50 yards, Nick Palumbo with 4 for 57, London Kennel 5 for 29 and running back Nick Good catching 8 passes for 42 yards. Good also had 53 yards rushing. With the Streaks ranked 4th coming in, losing only to Cumberland Valley 31-27 at CV and loaded with return starters, the game had all the markings of a great one. Don’t be surprised to see these two again in districts. This week has them at Spring Ford (2-1) whose only loss was also to Cumberland Valley 28-16 last week. They too have a hot young quarterback in sophomore Matt Zollers (6-4, 205) who completed 22 of 40 for 190 yards last week against CV.
4 Harrisburg 1-1 6A (1) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Harrisburg dropped in the rankings after losing at home to Manheim Township 24-20 when quarterback Hayden Johnson connected with Asher Wolfe for a 3-yard toss with 4 seconds left on the clock. It was a tight game, with Township leading 10-6 at the half and 17-14 after the third quarter before falling behind 20-17 late in the fourth. The Cougars won the stat battle 348 to 258, holding the Streaks to 60-yards rushing. But they had no answer for Hayden Johnson who completed 77% of his passes for 198 yards. Credit the Streaks for blocking two punts and holding fullback Mahkai Hopkins to 58 rush yards on 20 carries. Quarterback Shawn Lee lit em up for 228 yards, completing 21 of 34 passes at 62% and rushing for two scores. But it wasn’t enough. The challenge this week will be as severe going to Carlisle to play the revived Thundering Herd (2-1), coming off a heartbreaking 54-47 loss to York last week. The Cougars won last year 34-14 but this is a whole other team that scores points by the bushels.
5 Wyomissing 3-0 3A (5) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 4
Seems like the Spartans should be advanced this week after another impressive win. But it was Trinity, a rebuilding Double-A program and a predictable rout of 35-14 with two fourth quarter scores making that so. Wyo eased up at 35-0 in the third quarter with nine backs getting touches. Charlie McIntyre had 162 yards rushing on only seven carries, scoring on 80, 14 and 3 yard runs with Drew Eisenhower at 79 yards on nine carries and two scores. Wyo’s massive and talented line, maybe the best in the district is bulldozing opponents behind returning lineman Jven Williams (6-5. 310, sr), Caleb Brewer (6-5, 280, jr), Pacen Ziegler (6-3, 265, sr) and a deep and talented backfield. There does not appear to be a loss on the schedule with Berks Catholic down and Cocalico and Lampeter Strasburg managing serious rebuilds. They’re at Berks Catholic (0-3) Friday in what is typically a bitter rivalry. Maybe the Saints come marching in. It’s not likely but you never know.
6 Central York 2-1 6A (7) York Adams, Division 1
Central York rebounded from a tough home loss to Cumberland Valley 35-33 with a road win against previously undefeated Hempfield (2-1) 30-20. Juelz Goff set the tone, scampering for an 80-yard touchdown on the first play from scrimmage, ending the night with 180 yards and 3 scores. Saxton Suchanic added a 90-yard Pick-6 in the fourth quarter to help put it away. At one point it appeared Central had it locked up, racing out to a 23-7 lead before Hempfield rallied with 13 fourth quarter points. Central’s defense held the Knights to 86 yards rushing. They op0en York Adams Conference action Friday at Spring Grove (2-1) whose coming off a 21-14 loss at home to undefeated and 10th ranked Shippensburg (3-0).
7 Carlisle 2-1 6A (6) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Carlisle dropped in the rankings but only a notch after a narrow 54-47 road loss at York High. Everyone knows York was much more than their 0-2 record given the nature of 4 and 2 point losses to Woodland Hills and Hempfield. This game showed the parity that again exists in the district with Harrisburg losing, and this one decided with 16 seconds left in the game. Carlisle racked up 484 total yards of offense in defeat! Although star running back Jeremiah Hargrove did not play, Jaqueece Morell stepped up with 20 carries for 175 yards rushing and a touchdown. Quarterback Louis Shank completed just 4 of 11 passes but for 123 yards and a touchdown. He rushed for 53 yards. Three other backs had just over 50 yards rushing. But York also gouged the Herd, pounding out 400 yards of offense themselves. And with 16 seconds left in the game, quarterback Sam Stoner of York topped off the 28 point fourth quarter comeback with an 8-yard flip to Jaheim White for the winning score. We’ll see if they have anything left playing at home against Harrisburg Friday night.
8 Wilson 2-1 6A (8) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 1
As expected, Wilson got an easy win defeating outmanned Martin Luther King High of Philadelphia 37-0. Still, it allowed first year starting quarterback Tommy Hunsicker to unwind, completing 11 of 18 passes for 108 yards and a touchdown toss while leading the team in rushing for 68 yards on 8 carries. Running back Cam Jones had 4 touchdowns on 9 carries for 48 yards. All totaled, Wilson outgained MLK 302 to 53. The game this week has them at Reading. The Knights opened with a 31-12 road loss at CD East in Harrisburg, followed by a win at Muhlenberg 33-20 and last week’s home win against Red Lion 42-35. Look out if anyone ever wakes up this sleeping giant up. They were putting good teams on the field not all that long ago and winning Section titles.
9 Exeter Township 3-0 5A (9) Lancaster-Lebanon Section 2
Once again Exeter has a boatload of talent that started the season red hot with three wins by an average score of 36-7. Keeping perspective shows the wins came against Boone (1-2), Boyertown (1-2) and West York (0-3). Last week’s opponent, West York, offered little competition, rushing for zero yardage. They passed for 158 yards, had 8 first downs and 14 penalties for 144 yards. Like Wilson against MLK, games like this at least allow the offense to get into a flow. First year starter Mason Rotelli benefited, completing 9 of 14 passes for 168 yards. Richie Karstien had two touchdowns rushing for 112 yards while PSU commit TE Joey Schlaffer had 103 yards on 3 receptions. This week’s opponent is Governor Mifflin (1-2) who is struggling. But they’ll likely remember the 31-28 loss to Exeter in the 5A District Final last year that stunned the district and state.
10 York-William Penn 1-2 6A (14) York-Adams Division 1
What a game this was with Carlisle and York arguably putting more quality athletes on the field than any team in the state last week, lighting the place up with 884 total yards of offense. West Virginia commit Jaheim White shined for the Bearcats rushing for 118 yards and 2 scores while snagging seven passes for 61 yards and three more touchdowns. Wide out David Wardle had seven receptions for 115 yards and two scores with Quentin Price pulling down five passes for 75 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Sam Stoner was nearly an unstoppable force, completing 19 of 29 passes for 250 yards and throwing six touchdowns, the last, an 8-yard toss to Jaheim White for the 54-47 win. York ended the game with 400 total yards of offense, 250 passing and 150 rushing as Carlisle stacked up 484, 124 passing, 360 rushing. It was a game of firsts with Carlisle getting their first loss of the season and York their first win. With the preseason behind them, York moves on to conference action where they’ll name it against 1-2 Northeastern.
11 Shippensburg 3-0 5A (10) Mid Penn-Colonial Division
The Greyhounds escaped previously unbeaten Spring Grove (2-1) at SG in a competitive 21-14 win. Statistically it was a draw, with turnovers deciding the game. Ship recovered a first quarter fumble at the Rocket’s 30 they converted for a score. In the third quarter, they stopped a Spring Grove drive with an interception at their 2-yard line before driving 98 yards for a score. Amari Kerr’s fourth quarter 10-yard score provided the final score. The Hounds once again escaped with a one dimensional attack led by Trae Kater’s 154 yards rushing and Diesel Koser’s 67. Quarterback Tucker Chamberlain completed 1 of 3 passes for 20 yards. They move on to the Mid Penn-Colonial opener at disappointing Northern who has lost two straight.
12 Steelton Highspire 1-1 1A (11) Mid Penn-Capital Division
In a somewhat familiar theme, Steel High once again could not fill a schedule vacancy last week. Too bad as they were willing to travel anywhere to play a game, especially after an embarrassing 39-18 loss to Westinghouse (3-0). Circumstance now has them on the road in the Mid Penn-Capital opener against Boiling Springs who will be fired up after their first loss of the season to Gettysburg 35-20. But the Rollers will be pumped as well remembering last year’s 29-28 loss to them. The Bubblers looked like good last year at 11-2 before going down hard to the Wyomissing 55-14 in the 3A district final.
13 Manheim Central 3-0 4A (12) Lancaster Lebanon Section 2
Manheim Central continued the rebuild that looks particularly strong offensively beating Cocalico 35-19, rolling out 440 total yards of offense. Quarterback Zac Hahn has been solid completing 14 of 24 passes for 290 yards and throwing 4 touchdown passes. Running backs Bryce Arnold rushed for 158 yards and a score on 30 carries while receivers Aaron Enterline and Bode Sopel had 118 and 70 yards respectively. Cocalico rushed for 332 rushing but was held to zero yards passing. Their bend but don’t break defense held the score to 19 points at 17.47 yards per point. Not bad. Susquehannock of the York-Adams League is next. They’re 2-1 against a schedule that has not prepared them for the Barons big and balanced attack.
14 Hempfield 2-1 6A (13) Lancaster Lebanon Section 1
The Black Knights lost for the first time last week in a non-conference game against Central York 30-20 at Hempfield. It was an exciting game with Central York outscoring them 17-13 in the fourth quarter to get the win. As mentioned above (#6), Central York set the tone when Juelz Goff went 80 yards on the first play from scrimmage for a touchdown. Jackson Landis’s third start did not match the previous week where he completed 12 of 18 passes for 174 yards against York. Here against CY he completed 18 of 35 for 194 yards, but threw a 90-yard Pick-6 in the fourth quarter. All their scores were short bursts of 1 and 5 yards with none coming through the air. Credit Central York with holding Grant Hoover to 53 yards rushing. Total yards went to Central York, 328 to 280. Conference action begins Friday for Hempfield against McCaskey (1-2) whose only win was in overtime against Bartram of the Philly Public League.
15 Central Dauphin East 2-1 6A (16) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
CD East rebounded from the 29-22 loss at Cedar Crest by dismantling Northeastern (1-2) of the York Adams League 34-7. It was 20-0 at the half. Quarterback Terrence Jackson Copney threw for 194 yards and three scores. He also had a Pick-6. Junior Xavier Armstrong had a strong game picking off two passes as the Panther’s shined on both sides of the ball. This week sees them in their toughest game to date at Cumberland Valley to open divisional play. CV is looking to get some here knowing East High ending their three game winning streak last year in a hard fought 17-10 slugfest. Look for the same here in CV’s first home game in three weeks.
16 Solanco 3-0 5A (17) Lancaster Lebanon Section 3
Solanco has been tearing it up so far, getting out to a great start with wins of note against Lampeter Strasburg and Cocalico. But the most revealing win may be last weeks against Penn Manor from the ‘large school’ LL-1. This one saw Penn Manor take a 26-14 lead into the fourth quarter (19-7 at the half), before Solanco’s Golden Mules battled back behind a strong ground game, scoring 15 while the D held PM scoreless. The Mules just pounded away behind Josiah Forren’s 128 yards and two touchdowns, Cole Harris’s 78 yards and a touchdown and quarterback Brody Mellinger rushing for 85 yards and a score on 25 carries. All totaled, 294 of their total yards came on the ground with Penn Manor getting 230 total yards. LL-3 action begins Friday at Ephrata (2-1) who like other LL-2 teams are either undefeated or 2-1 at this point, pumped with early season aspirations.
17 Lampeter Strasburg 2-1 4A (18) Lancaster-Lebanon Section 4
Here’s another team firing on all cylinders with big wins after the home opening loss to Solanco 40-35. Since then, they destroyed Penn Manor 35-0 and Kennard Dale 54-7 last week. They showed their typical balance throwing for 98 yards while relying on a strong ground game that generated 275 yards and six touchdowns. Quarterback Trent Wagner completed 9 of 16 passes for 98 yards and two touchdowns with Carson Coleman rushing for 138 yards and two scores. Jonathan Mellinger and Louis Malaesta added 78 and 55 each. Wide out Hunter Hildenbrand had 5 receptions for 63 yards and a touchdown plus a 47yards Pick-6 in the first quarter where LS blew out Kennard Dale 20-0. KD ended the game with 9 penalties for 181 yards and 82, repeat, 82 total yards of offense. Hard time in Kennard Dale who were 10-2 last year. The LL-4 opens Friday with the Pioneers traveling to Mount Joy to play 1-2 Donegal, a team they routed 55-0 last year.
18 Cedar Cliff 2-1 5A (20) Mid Penn-Keystone Division
The Colts are re-emerging on the district scene with sophomore quarterback Bennett Seacrest evidently replacing last year’s starting quarterback Ethan Dorrell after co-starting in the opener at Shippensburg. Seacrest was outstanding last week completing 13 of 15 passes for 160 yards and five touchdowns in a 44-0 rout of J.P. McCaskey. Seven backs had carries, led by Preston Dent with 92 yards in a balanced offense that churning out 170 yards on the ground. Carter Enders caught five passes for 90 yards with Nathan Luck and Daniel Schrader both getting 26 yards in receptions. JPM was held to 10 rush yards and 148 total yards. The Colts enter Keystone action Friday at home against winless Hershey. The Bears to date have shown no ability to handle a big attack like Cedar Cliff’s, losing last week to Dallastown 44-30 and to Gettysburg’s more conservative ground game 25-14 in the opener.
19 Cedar Crest 2-1 6A (15) Lancaster Lebanon Section 1
Cedar Crest took a tumble last week from 15 to 18 losing to Warwick 26-20. Unfortunately for the Falcons, Warwick’s veteran quarterback Jack Reed had his best game of the season completing 23 of 31 tosses for 260 yards and 3 touchdowns. Brendon Snyder was his primary catching 13 for 138 yards and three scores. It was a balanced attack with Colin Winters carrying 14 times for 94 yards. All totaled Warwick had 416 yards of offense. Warwick also shut down Cedar Crest’s running game to 35 yards on 23 carries. No one’s winning with those stats even with quarterback Jay Huber completing 21 of 30 passes (70%) for 232 yards and touchdowns of 8 and 18 yards. All in all, a 2-1 mark against non-league foes Lincoln, CD East and Warwick isn’t bad. LL-1 action starts Friday at Penn Manor whose coming off a bitter 29-26 loss to Solanco. Cedar Crest is almost in a ‘must win’ situation at 2-1 with Wilson, Hempfield and Manheim Township yet to come.
20 Central Dauphin 0-3 6A (19) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
How improbable is this seeing Central Dauphin at 0-3? And if there was a worthier team, they wouldn’t be ranked here! The Rams are in the midst of a major rebuild facing one of their tougher non-conference schedule in years against teams capable of winning districts. Central York and Wilson at 2-1 are in the thick of a District-3 dogfight alongside Cumberland Valley, Harrisburg, Manheim Township, even Carlisle, York and CD East. And if Coatesville isn’t the’ favorite to win District-One! Makes you wonder how bad CD can be losing 34-28 at Coatesville after Cville routed Pennsbury and Academy Park? But, they are prideful and well coached if not talented. Looking at the schedule, it’s hard finding more than a handful of wins. But who knows. Few expected them to battle Coatesville as they did. Conversely, it’s hard finding many challengers on Coatesville’s schedule. The Rams open Mid Penn-Commonwealth play Friday at home against Chambersburg who is a surprising 2-1 with renewed energy winning their last two games.
Mid Penn Conference teams not in District-3
State College 3-0 6A D6 Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
At Altoona 3-0. SC has some big guns. Enough to win by an average score of 40 to 16, get a 32-31 road win at Downingtown East and another one here at Altoona.
Altoona 3-0 6A D6 Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Home to State College 3-0. Let’s see what Altoona has after dusting off Hollidaysburg, Allderdice and Mifflin County by a combined score of 92-23.
Juniata 2-1 4A D6 Mid Penn-Liberty Division
Home to Newport 0-3. West Perry shut em out last week 24-0 with the Indians likely doing the same here,
Line Mountain 1-2 2A D4 Mid Penn-Liberty Division
Home to Marian Catholic 2-1. MC’s vet bunch probably too much for Line Mountain allowing 93 points through three games.
OTHERS……..
Mid Penn Conference
East Pennsboro 3-0 4A Mid-Penn Conference- Colonial Division
At Gettysburg 2-1. Haven’t played each other in over a decade and a tough call with the guys from Enola undefeated against a soft slate.
Greencastle Antrim 3-0 5A Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Home to Waynesboro 1-2. Greencastle is storming teams 116-20 combined vs decent teams and now playing their neighbor of 8 miles in 3rd straight home game.
West Perry 3-0 3A Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Home to Trinity 1-2. Trinity coming off blowout losses to Roman and Wyomissing vs Mustangs who’ve outscored opponents 114-12!
Gettysburg 2-1 5A Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Home to East Pennsboro 3-0. Been a while with Gettysburg rejoining the Mid Penn after a 9-year absence so no familiarity.
Lancaster Lebanon
(includes recently merged Berks Inter County League teams)
Reading 2-1 6A Lancaster Lebanon Section-1
Home to Wilson 2-1. Dawgs should roll but Reading put up 33 and 42 the last two which is unheard of from them. Have a solid QB (hoops star) that could make it interesting throwing and running.
Elizabethtown 3-0 5A Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
Home to Red Lion 2-1. Etown rolling, scoring 43, 50 and 41 in blowout wins but in unfamiliar role here hosting a York-Adams team that plays no defense but scores a lot of points behind a plodding monster line.
Warwick 1-2 5A Lancaster Lebanon Section-2
Home to Conestoga Valley 2-1. Jack Reed can pick you apart (23/31/260-74%, 3/0 last week) and Conestoga Valley is one dimensional; a heavy runner. Should get win #2 here before more stout comp in Manheim Central, Exeter and a weird road game at Souderton the 30th.
Ephrata 2-1 5A Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
Home to Solanco 3-0. Unheralded QB in Sam McCracken (45/74/752-61%-8/4) with solid running backs. Enough here to give the Mules and run for the money.
York Adams
South Western 3-0 5A York Adams, Division 1
Home to Dallastown 1-2. Dallastown is as much a surprise not being more as South Western is at being undefeated. But it’s Dtown so the Mustangs will be fired up at The Corral.
Spring Grove 2-1 5A York-Adams Division 1
Home to Central York 2-1. Spring Grove just lost the physical, pounding Greyhounds of Shippensburg 21-14 and now face the jackrabbits from Central York who are becoming scary good.
(The number in parenthesis is last week’s rankings)
1 Bishop McDevitt 1-1 4A (2) Mid Penn-Keystone Division
McDevitt rose to the top spot as a result of dismantling LaSalle 56-7 (not a typo) and Harrisburg’s upset tho mild by Manheim Township 24-20. In a word McDevitt’s game with LaSalle was a rout, leading 42-7 at the half and totaling 460 yards of offense to LaSalle’s 112 by game’s end. The Explores were held to eight first downs, 64 yards rushing and 48 passing. McDevitt’s outstanding sophomore quarterback Stone Saunders completed 9 of 13 passes for 248 yards and 3 touchdowns. Running back Cyncir Bowers was the lead rusher and receiver at 116 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns with a 08 yards on 4 receptions for another score. Marquese Williams had 92 yards rushing with Tyshawn Russell having touchdowns of 55 and 57 yards on his two receptions. DT Dallas Davenport had a 48-yard Pick-6. Woeful Palmyra (1-2) who McDevitt beat last year 75-7 is next to kick off the Mid Penn-Keystone Division race.
2 Cumberland Valley 3-0 6A (3) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Cumberland Valley continued their run though a challenging road schedule defeating Spring Ford 28-16 last week in Royersford. The week before saw them beat Central York 35-3 in York. Rising start quarterback Isaac Sines was again in the spotlight completing 8 of 14 passes for 140 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 59 yards where he got two more touchdowns. Bryce Staretz ran for 50 yards and three scores with Griffin Hoffman pulling down four receptions for 66 yards. The Eagle D was held the Rams to 75 yards rushing. Mid Penn-Commonwealth action opens Friday at home against Central Dauphin East (2-1). It promises to be a good one with CV on the wrong end of last year’s 17-10 decision.
3 Manheim Township 2-1 6A (4) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 1
The Blue Streaks ascend to the three spot on the strength of a last second 24-20 road win at Harrisburg. Junior quarterback Hayden Johnson found Asher Wolfe in the back of the end zone from the 3-yard line with 4 seconds left in the game to pull it out. Johnson was unstoppable, completing 77% for 198 yards (27/35-1/1) with a balanced distribution to four receivers; Asher Wolfe caught 6 for 50 yards, Nick Palumbo with 4 for 57, London Kennel 5 for 29 and running back Nick Good catching 8 passes for 42 yards. Good also had 53 yards rushing. With the Streaks ranked 4th coming in, losing only to Cumberland Valley 31-27 at CV and loaded with return starters, the game had all the markings of a great one. Don’t be surprised to see these two again in districts. This week has them at Spring Ford (2-1) whose only loss was also to Cumberland Valley 28-16 last week. They too have a hot young quarterback in sophomore Matt Zollers (6-4, 205) who completed 22 of 40 for 190 yards last week against CV.
4 Harrisburg 1-1 6A (1) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Harrisburg dropped in the rankings after losing at home to Manheim Township 24-20 when quarterback Hayden Johnson connected with Asher Wolfe for a 3-yard toss with 4 seconds left on the clock. It was a tight game, with Township leading 10-6 at the half and 17-14 after the third quarter before falling behind 20-17 late in the fourth. The Cougars won the stat battle 348 to 258, holding the Streaks to 60-yards rushing. But they had no answer for Hayden Johnson who completed 77% of his passes for 198 yards. Credit the Streaks for blocking two punts and holding fullback Mahkai Hopkins to 58 rush yards on 20 carries. Quarterback Shawn Lee lit em up for 228 yards, completing 21 of 34 passes at 62% and rushing for two scores. But it wasn’t enough. The challenge this week will be as severe going to Carlisle to play the revived Thundering Herd (2-1), coming off a heartbreaking 54-47 loss to York last week. The Cougars won last year 34-14 but this is a whole other team that scores points by the bushels.
5 Wyomissing 3-0 3A (5) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 4
Seems like the Spartans should be advanced this week after another impressive win. But it was Trinity, a rebuilding Double-A program and a predictable rout of 35-14 with two fourth quarter scores making that so. Wyo eased up at 35-0 in the third quarter with nine backs getting touches. Charlie McIntyre had 162 yards rushing on only seven carries, scoring on 80, 14 and 3 yard runs with Drew Eisenhower at 79 yards on nine carries and two scores. Wyo’s massive and talented line, maybe the best in the district is bulldozing opponents behind returning lineman Jven Williams (6-5. 310, sr), Caleb Brewer (6-5, 280, jr), Pacen Ziegler (6-3, 265, sr) and a deep and talented backfield. There does not appear to be a loss on the schedule with Berks Catholic down and Cocalico and Lampeter Strasburg managing serious rebuilds. They’re at Berks Catholic (0-3) Friday in what is typically a bitter rivalry. Maybe the Saints come marching in. It’s not likely but you never know.
6 Central York 2-1 6A (7) York Adams, Division 1
Central York rebounded from a tough home loss to Cumberland Valley 35-33 with a road win against previously undefeated Hempfield (2-1) 30-20. Juelz Goff set the tone, scampering for an 80-yard touchdown on the first play from scrimmage, ending the night with 180 yards and 3 scores. Saxton Suchanic added a 90-yard Pick-6 in the fourth quarter to help put it away. At one point it appeared Central had it locked up, racing out to a 23-7 lead before Hempfield rallied with 13 fourth quarter points. Central’s defense held the Knights to 86 yards rushing. They op0en York Adams Conference action Friday at Spring Grove (2-1) whose coming off a 21-14 loss at home to undefeated and 10th ranked Shippensburg (3-0).
7 Carlisle 2-1 6A (6) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Carlisle dropped in the rankings but only a notch after a narrow 54-47 road loss at York High. Everyone knows York was much more than their 0-2 record given the nature of 4 and 2 point losses to Woodland Hills and Hempfield. This game showed the parity that again exists in the district with Harrisburg losing, and this one decided with 16 seconds left in the game. Carlisle racked up 484 total yards of offense in defeat! Although star running back Jeremiah Hargrove did not play, Jaqueece Morell stepped up with 20 carries for 175 yards rushing and a touchdown. Quarterback Louis Shank completed just 4 of 11 passes but for 123 yards and a touchdown. He rushed for 53 yards. Three other backs had just over 50 yards rushing. But York also gouged the Herd, pounding out 400 yards of offense themselves. And with 16 seconds left in the game, quarterback Sam Stoner of York topped off the 28 point fourth quarter comeback with an 8-yard flip to Jaheim White for the winning score. We’ll see if they have anything left playing at home against Harrisburg Friday night.
8 Wilson 2-1 6A (8) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 1
As expected, Wilson got an easy win defeating outmanned Martin Luther King High of Philadelphia 37-0. Still, it allowed first year starting quarterback Tommy Hunsicker to unwind, completing 11 of 18 passes for 108 yards and a touchdown toss while leading the team in rushing for 68 yards on 8 carries. Running back Cam Jones had 4 touchdowns on 9 carries for 48 yards. All totaled, Wilson outgained MLK 302 to 53. The game this week has them at Reading. The Knights opened with a 31-12 road loss at CD East in Harrisburg, followed by a win at Muhlenberg 33-20 and last week’s home win against Red Lion 42-35. Look out if anyone ever wakes up this sleeping giant up. They were putting good teams on the field not all that long ago and winning Section titles.
9 Exeter Township 3-0 5A (9) Lancaster-Lebanon Section 2
Once again Exeter has a boatload of talent that started the season red hot with three wins by an average score of 36-7. Keeping perspective shows the wins came against Boone (1-2), Boyertown (1-2) and West York (0-3). Last week’s opponent, West York, offered little competition, rushing for zero yardage. They passed for 158 yards, had 8 first downs and 14 penalties for 144 yards. Like Wilson against MLK, games like this at least allow the offense to get into a flow. First year starter Mason Rotelli benefited, completing 9 of 14 passes for 168 yards. Richie Karstien had two touchdowns rushing for 112 yards while PSU commit TE Joey Schlaffer had 103 yards on 3 receptions. This week’s opponent is Governor Mifflin (1-2) who is struggling. But they’ll likely remember the 31-28 loss to Exeter in the 5A District Final last year that stunned the district and state.
10 York-William Penn 1-2 6A (14) York-Adams Division 1
What a game this was with Carlisle and York arguably putting more quality athletes on the field than any team in the state last week, lighting the place up with 884 total yards of offense. West Virginia commit Jaheim White shined for the Bearcats rushing for 118 yards and 2 scores while snagging seven passes for 61 yards and three more touchdowns. Wide out David Wardle had seven receptions for 115 yards and two scores with Quentin Price pulling down five passes for 75 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Sam Stoner was nearly an unstoppable force, completing 19 of 29 passes for 250 yards and throwing six touchdowns, the last, an 8-yard toss to Jaheim White for the 54-47 win. York ended the game with 400 total yards of offense, 250 passing and 150 rushing as Carlisle stacked up 484, 124 passing, 360 rushing. It was a game of firsts with Carlisle getting their first loss of the season and York their first win. With the preseason behind them, York moves on to conference action where they’ll name it against 1-2 Northeastern.
11 Shippensburg 3-0 5A (10) Mid Penn-Colonial Division
The Greyhounds escaped previously unbeaten Spring Grove (2-1) at SG in a competitive 21-14 win. Statistically it was a draw, with turnovers deciding the game. Ship recovered a first quarter fumble at the Rocket’s 30 they converted for a score. In the third quarter, they stopped a Spring Grove drive with an interception at their 2-yard line before driving 98 yards for a score. Amari Kerr’s fourth quarter 10-yard score provided the final score. The Hounds once again escaped with a one dimensional attack led by Trae Kater’s 154 yards rushing and Diesel Koser’s 67. Quarterback Tucker Chamberlain completed 1 of 3 passes for 20 yards. They move on to the Mid Penn-Colonial opener at disappointing Northern who has lost two straight.
12 Steelton Highspire 1-1 1A (11) Mid Penn-Capital Division
In a somewhat familiar theme, Steel High once again could not fill a schedule vacancy last week. Too bad as they were willing to travel anywhere to play a game, especially after an embarrassing 39-18 loss to Westinghouse (3-0). Circumstance now has them on the road in the Mid Penn-Capital opener against Boiling Springs who will be fired up after their first loss of the season to Gettysburg 35-20. But the Rollers will be pumped as well remembering last year’s 29-28 loss to them. The Bubblers looked like good last year at 11-2 before going down hard to the Wyomissing 55-14 in the 3A district final.
13 Manheim Central 3-0 4A (12) Lancaster Lebanon Section 2
Manheim Central continued the rebuild that looks particularly strong offensively beating Cocalico 35-19, rolling out 440 total yards of offense. Quarterback Zac Hahn has been solid completing 14 of 24 passes for 290 yards and throwing 4 touchdown passes. Running backs Bryce Arnold rushed for 158 yards and a score on 30 carries while receivers Aaron Enterline and Bode Sopel had 118 and 70 yards respectively. Cocalico rushed for 332 rushing but was held to zero yards passing. Their bend but don’t break defense held the score to 19 points at 17.47 yards per point. Not bad. Susquehannock of the York-Adams League is next. They’re 2-1 against a schedule that has not prepared them for the Barons big and balanced attack.
14 Hempfield 2-1 6A (13) Lancaster Lebanon Section 1
The Black Knights lost for the first time last week in a non-conference game against Central York 30-20 at Hempfield. It was an exciting game with Central York outscoring them 17-13 in the fourth quarter to get the win. As mentioned above (#6), Central York set the tone when Juelz Goff went 80 yards on the first play from scrimmage for a touchdown. Jackson Landis’s third start did not match the previous week where he completed 12 of 18 passes for 174 yards against York. Here against CY he completed 18 of 35 for 194 yards, but threw a 90-yard Pick-6 in the fourth quarter. All their scores were short bursts of 1 and 5 yards with none coming through the air. Credit Central York with holding Grant Hoover to 53 yards rushing. Total yards went to Central York, 328 to 280. Conference action begins Friday for Hempfield against McCaskey (1-2) whose only win was in overtime against Bartram of the Philly Public League.
15 Central Dauphin East 2-1 6A (16) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
CD East rebounded from the 29-22 loss at Cedar Crest by dismantling Northeastern (1-2) of the York Adams League 34-7. It was 20-0 at the half. Quarterback Terrence Jackson Copney threw for 194 yards and three scores. He also had a Pick-6. Junior Xavier Armstrong had a strong game picking off two passes as the Panther’s shined on both sides of the ball. This week sees them in their toughest game to date at Cumberland Valley to open divisional play. CV is looking to get some here knowing East High ending their three game winning streak last year in a hard fought 17-10 slugfest. Look for the same here in CV’s first home game in three weeks.
16 Solanco 3-0 5A (17) Lancaster Lebanon Section 3
Solanco has been tearing it up so far, getting out to a great start with wins of note against Lampeter Strasburg and Cocalico. But the most revealing win may be last weeks against Penn Manor from the ‘large school’ LL-1. This one saw Penn Manor take a 26-14 lead into the fourth quarter (19-7 at the half), before Solanco’s Golden Mules battled back behind a strong ground game, scoring 15 while the D held PM scoreless. The Mules just pounded away behind Josiah Forren’s 128 yards and two touchdowns, Cole Harris’s 78 yards and a touchdown and quarterback Brody Mellinger rushing for 85 yards and a score on 25 carries. All totaled, 294 of their total yards came on the ground with Penn Manor getting 230 total yards. LL-3 action begins Friday at Ephrata (2-1) who like other LL-2 teams are either undefeated or 2-1 at this point, pumped with early season aspirations.
17 Lampeter Strasburg 2-1 4A (18) Lancaster-Lebanon Section 4
Here’s another team firing on all cylinders with big wins after the home opening loss to Solanco 40-35. Since then, they destroyed Penn Manor 35-0 and Kennard Dale 54-7 last week. They showed their typical balance throwing for 98 yards while relying on a strong ground game that generated 275 yards and six touchdowns. Quarterback Trent Wagner completed 9 of 16 passes for 98 yards and two touchdowns with Carson Coleman rushing for 138 yards and two scores. Jonathan Mellinger and Louis Malaesta added 78 and 55 each. Wide out Hunter Hildenbrand had 5 receptions for 63 yards and a touchdown plus a 47yards Pick-6 in the first quarter where LS blew out Kennard Dale 20-0. KD ended the game with 9 penalties for 181 yards and 82, repeat, 82 total yards of offense. Hard time in Kennard Dale who were 10-2 last year. The LL-4 opens Friday with the Pioneers traveling to Mount Joy to play 1-2 Donegal, a team they routed 55-0 last year.
18 Cedar Cliff 2-1 5A (20) Mid Penn-Keystone Division
The Colts are re-emerging on the district scene with sophomore quarterback Bennett Seacrest evidently replacing last year’s starting quarterback Ethan Dorrell after co-starting in the opener at Shippensburg. Seacrest was outstanding last week completing 13 of 15 passes for 160 yards and five touchdowns in a 44-0 rout of J.P. McCaskey. Seven backs had carries, led by Preston Dent with 92 yards in a balanced offense that churning out 170 yards on the ground. Carter Enders caught five passes for 90 yards with Nathan Luck and Daniel Schrader both getting 26 yards in receptions. JPM was held to 10 rush yards and 148 total yards. The Colts enter Keystone action Friday at home against winless Hershey. The Bears to date have shown no ability to handle a big attack like Cedar Cliff’s, losing last week to Dallastown 44-30 and to Gettysburg’s more conservative ground game 25-14 in the opener.
19 Cedar Crest 2-1 6A (15) Lancaster Lebanon Section 1
Cedar Crest took a tumble last week from 15 to 18 losing to Warwick 26-20. Unfortunately for the Falcons, Warwick’s veteran quarterback Jack Reed had his best game of the season completing 23 of 31 tosses for 260 yards and 3 touchdowns. Brendon Snyder was his primary catching 13 for 138 yards and three scores. It was a balanced attack with Colin Winters carrying 14 times for 94 yards. All totaled Warwick had 416 yards of offense. Warwick also shut down Cedar Crest’s running game to 35 yards on 23 carries. No one’s winning with those stats even with quarterback Jay Huber completing 21 of 30 passes (70%) for 232 yards and touchdowns of 8 and 18 yards. All in all, a 2-1 mark against non-league foes Lincoln, CD East and Warwick isn’t bad. LL-1 action starts Friday at Penn Manor whose coming off a bitter 29-26 loss to Solanco. Cedar Crest is almost in a ‘must win’ situation at 2-1 with Wilson, Hempfield and Manheim Township yet to come.
20 Central Dauphin 0-3 6A (19) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
How improbable is this seeing Central Dauphin at 0-3? And if there was a worthier team, they wouldn’t be ranked here! The Rams are in the midst of a major rebuild facing one of their tougher non-conference schedule in years against teams capable of winning districts. Central York and Wilson at 2-1 are in the thick of a District-3 dogfight alongside Cumberland Valley, Harrisburg, Manheim Township, even Carlisle, York and CD East. And if Coatesville isn’t the’ favorite to win District-One! Makes you wonder how bad CD can be losing 34-28 at Coatesville after Cville routed Pennsbury and Academy Park? But, they are prideful and well coached if not talented. Looking at the schedule, it’s hard finding more than a handful of wins. But who knows. Few expected them to battle Coatesville as they did. Conversely, it’s hard finding many challengers on Coatesville’s schedule. The Rams open Mid Penn-Commonwealth play Friday at home against Chambersburg who is a surprising 2-1 with renewed energy winning their last two games.
Mid Penn Conference teams not in District-3
State College 3-0 6A D6 Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
At Altoona 3-0. SC has some big guns. Enough to win by an average score of 40 to 16, get a 32-31 road win at Downingtown East and another one here at Altoona.
Altoona 3-0 6A D6 Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Home to State College 3-0. Let’s see what Altoona has after dusting off Hollidaysburg, Allderdice and Mifflin County by a combined score of 92-23.
Juniata 2-1 4A D6 Mid Penn-Liberty Division
Home to Newport 0-3. West Perry shut em out last week 24-0 with the Indians likely doing the same here,
Line Mountain 1-2 2A D4 Mid Penn-Liberty Division
Home to Marian Catholic 2-1. MC’s vet bunch probably too much for Line Mountain allowing 93 points through three games.
OTHERS……..
Mid Penn Conference
East Pennsboro 3-0 4A Mid-Penn Conference- Colonial Division
At Gettysburg 2-1. Haven’t played each other in over a decade and a tough call with the guys from Enola undefeated against a soft slate.
Greencastle Antrim 3-0 5A Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Home to Waynesboro 1-2. Greencastle is storming teams 116-20 combined vs decent teams and now playing their neighbor of 8 miles in 3rd straight home game.
West Perry 3-0 3A Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Home to Trinity 1-2. Trinity coming off blowout losses to Roman and Wyomissing vs Mustangs who’ve outscored opponents 114-12!
Gettysburg 2-1 5A Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Home to East Pennsboro 3-0. Been a while with Gettysburg rejoining the Mid Penn after a 9-year absence so no familiarity.
Lancaster Lebanon
(includes recently merged Berks Inter County League teams)
Reading 2-1 6A Lancaster Lebanon Section-1
Home to Wilson 2-1. Dawgs should roll but Reading put up 33 and 42 the last two which is unheard of from them. Have a solid QB (hoops star) that could make it interesting throwing and running.
Elizabethtown 3-0 5A Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
Home to Red Lion 2-1. Etown rolling, scoring 43, 50 and 41 in blowout wins but in unfamiliar role here hosting a York-Adams team that plays no defense but scores a lot of points behind a plodding monster line.
Warwick 1-2 5A Lancaster Lebanon Section-2
Home to Conestoga Valley 2-1. Jack Reed can pick you apart (23/31/260-74%, 3/0 last week) and Conestoga Valley is one dimensional; a heavy runner. Should get win #2 here before more stout comp in Manheim Central, Exeter and a weird road game at Souderton the 30th.
Ephrata 2-1 5A Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
Home to Solanco 3-0. Unheralded QB in Sam McCracken (45/74/752-61%-8/4) with solid running backs. Enough here to give the Mules and run for the money.
York Adams
South Western 3-0 5A York Adams, Division 1
Home to Dallastown 1-2. Dallastown is as much a surprise not being more as South Western is at being undefeated. But it’s Dtown so the Mustangs will be fired up at The Corral.
Spring Grove 2-1 5A York-Adams Division 1
Home to Central York 2-1. Spring Grove just lost the physical, pounding Greyhounds of Shippensburg 21-14 and now face the jackrabbits from Central York who are becoming scary good.
