District 3 Top-20 (Oct 7, 8, 2022)
Projected district winners (Class, # in that class, # making playoffs)
6A (19)-8 Harrisburg 4-1
Looking real good up close and personal with 3 of remaining 4 games at home. But legit comp (see Top-10 6As) will make it a challenge getting out of the district, similar to District-1.
5A (26)-12 Exeter Township 6-0
Something of a surprise having graduated their best ever team that went 10-4. Tough games ahead at Hempfield (non-section) and Manheim Central, both on the road. The Manheim Central game 10/28 will decide the LL-2.
4A (23)-10 Bishop McDevitt 4-1
Don’t see anyone stopping this freight train but said the same thing last year about Governor Mifflin. They’ll win out in the soft Keystone division. If they stay healthy, look out!
3A (14)-6 Wyomissing 6-0
The season finale could be a challenge vs Lampeter Strasburg (5-1). But it’s in Wyomissing and will decide the LL-4.
2A (7)-4 Camp Hill 4-1
It’s a small but competitive group, making for a tight race between Annville Cleona (4-2), York Catholic (2-4), Camp Hill (4-1) and Delone Catholic (3-3).
1A (3)-2 Steelton Highspire 3-1
The only competition is between Halifax (1-6) and Fairfield (1-4) for the right to get swamped by Steelton.
(The number in parenthesis is last week’s rankings)
1 Bishop McDevitt 4-1 4A (1) Mid Penn-Keystone Division
Standout quarterback Stone Saunders completed 19 of 25 passes for 362 yards and 6 touchdowns in the first half alone on the way to a 68-22 rout of Milton Hershey. The score was 62-8 at the half. Saunders, who also ran for a score connected with Tyshawn Russell for 4 passes totaling 112 yards and a touchdown while tight end Nick Slogik (6-5, 240, jr) had 2 touchdowns. Marquese Williams had a stellar performance as well rushing for 108 yards and snagging 4 tosses for 104 yards, all touchdowns. Freshman Maurice Barnes (6-2, 195) took over in the second half, rushing for 80 yards and a score. Hershey (3-3, 3-0) who shares a piece of the Keystone lead with McDevitt and Lower Dauphin is next, coming in on a 3 game winning streak after losing their first 3 games.
2 Harrisburg 4-1 6A (2) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Harrisburg’s largely unheralded sophomore quarterback Shawn Lee picked Altoona apart, completing 11 of 18 passes for 289 yards with scoring tosses of 39, 26, 85, 33 and 56 yards. He also rushed for a 3-yard score. Mahkai Hopkins led all runners with 148 yards and a touchdown. Wide outs Kyle Williams got free for 124 yards in receptions and touchdowns of 85 and 33 yards on just 4 receptions while Amir Jones caught 2 passes for 64 yards. Harrisburg is coming together on both sides of the ball with an offense generating 524 yards and a defense allowing 88 yards in this one. They’re home Saturday against CD East who is battling a 3 game losing streak that includes a 45-14 loss to Cumberland Valley (5-1) and last week’s 42-14 loss to State College (6-0). No rest for the weary in the Mid Penn-Commonwealth!
3 Wyomissing 6-0 3A (3) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 4
The Spartans extended their winning streak to 31 regular season games, defeating Donegal last week 41-7. The win establishes a new record in Berks County, surpassing Wilson High who previously held the mark. Wyomissing followed their well-established format of pounding the ball relentlessly, rushing 44 times for 385 yards. The trio of running backs Matt Kramer (2 Tds), Drew Eisenhower (1 Td) and Charlie McIntyre (2 Tds) did the damage, getting 102, 92 and 87 yards rushing respectively. Ben Zechman was there when needed completing 3 of 4 passes for 75 yards and a touchdown. The D was lights out as usual, allowing 160 total yards. For the year, they’ve allowed 45 points and scored 3 shutouts. The win keeps them atop the LL-4 at 3-0, tied with Lampeter Strasburg. Cocalico (3-3) is next, coming in a game back.
4 Exeter Township 6-0 5A (4) Lancaster-Lebanon Section 2
Exeter’s retooled offense is purring now, averaging 43.2ppg with last week’s 47-7 win against Warwick. First year starter Mason Rotelli was perfect, completing 9 of 9 passes for 126 yards, with touchdowns of 11, 15 and 30 yards. He also ran for a 76-yard score in the first quarter to open the floodgates leading to a 41-0 half time score. Richie Karstein (6-1, 220) bulled his way to 124 yards and 2 scores on 11 carries, with Jacob Fost adding a 25-yards Pick-6. Muhlenberg (2-4) is next, coming off a 70- 0 pounding by LL-4 leader Manheim Central (6-0).
5 Cumberland Valley 5-1 6A (5) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Cumberland Valley survived a short turnaround playing a rare Thursday night game against Chambersburg where they prevailed 38-14. It was a difficult game, coming off a disappointing and physical encounter with Harrisburg that they lost 30-14. The Trojans were also questionable coming off their 18-7 loss to rival Carlisle. But at the end of the day, CV just has too many weapons, starting with quarterback Isaac Sines throwing for 58 yards, rushing for 32 and kicking a 32-yard field goal. The versatile JD Hunter rushed for 19 yards, caught a pass for 27 yards and had a 92-yards kickoff return. Big Bryce Staritz (6-1, 215) had 78 yards on 7 carries with Josh Wagenheim (5-10, 200) pounding it for 82 yards on 8 carries. The win keeps them in the division hunt, a game behind State College and Harrisburg, both 3-0, tied with rival Central Dauphin who they play Friday night at CD.
6 Central York 5-1 6A (6) York Adams, Division 1
No stats: Central York cruised to their fourth win in a row to defeat Dallastown 35-21 and remain in a tie atop the YA-1 with York High. No one’s comparing this group with the last few years that won 29 games from 2019 through last season (29-4), averaging 44ppg while allowing 14. But considering they graduated record setting quarterback Beau Pribula now at Penn State, they’re not doing bad, scoring 34ppg while allowing 22, off to a 5-1 start. Their only loss was to Cumberland Valley 35-33 so they’re right there. They play Northeastern (1-4), Red Lion (2-4) and Reading (2-4) where their stats will inflate to misleading levels before the showdown against York High at the end. That one will be at York where the final combined score could exceed 100.
7 York-William Penn 3-2 6A (7) York-Adams Division 1
York was idle last week but are now into the meat of the schedule playing Dallastown (3-3), Spring Grove (4-2, 5A), South Western (4-2, 5A) and Central York (5-1) in that order to decide the York-Adams-1 and post season positioning.
8 Wilson 5-1 6A (8) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 1
Wilson had little difficulty with Governor Mifflin in this, their 65th meeting, winning 32-14. The score doesn’t reflect the gap between these two with Wilson dominating total yards 374 to 208 in wet conditions. Once again, Cam Jones returned a punt for a score, taking it 29 yards for his fourth return of the year. He ended with 140 rush yards and touchdowns of 9 and 29 yards. Tommy Hunsicker was also strong, completing 7 of 12 passes for 114 yards with a touchdown pass and 68 rush yards on 10 carries. Edison Case had 5 receptions for 99 yards. The win keeps them tied with Hempfield in Section-1, a game up on Manheim Township. But that’ll be broken Friday when Hempfield comes in looking for revenge from last year’s 28-21 loss.
9 Hempfield 5-1 6A (9) Lancaster Lebanon Section 1
First year starter Jacob Landis looks to be rounding into form after completing 15 of 20 passes for 182 yards, leading a balanced offense that defeated Penn Manor 34-7. The stat board was even more impressive, winning 402 to 151 in total yards, holding the Comets to 32 yards rushing! Grant Hoover dominated, bursting through for 182 yards on 15 carries. Wide out Gabe Benjamin had touchdowns of 26 and 46 yards on 3 receptions for 78 yards with Deyvid Papepale getting a 24-yard scoop and score. Although they’ve already defeated York and Manheim Township, we’ll know even more about them in the next two weeks with a road game at Wilson (5-1) followed by a homer against Exeter (6-0).
10 Manheim Township 4-2 6A (10) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 1
Swamping JP McCaskey was probably just the tonic Township needed coming as it did after their 17-14 loss to Hempfield where they beat them everywhere but the scoreboard, topped off by a missed field goal as time expired. There was no such drama in this one where the Streaks settled it early, rolling up a 42-0 halftime lead before calling off the dogs. 526 total yards later, the scoreboard read 55-6 at the final whistle. They hit some highs and lows in this one, rushing for 428 yards with 3 running backs topping the 100-yard mark. Declan Clancy had 200 yards and 3 scores, Jack Fitzmaier had 114 yards on 15 carries and a score while Shymere Covington got 112 yards after 12 attempts and a touchdown. About the lows. They held the Red Tornado to 64 yards of offence; 47 passing, 17 rushing. The win keeps them a game behind Wilson and Hempfield at 2-1. Dangerous Cedar Crest (3-3) is next with 5 and 6 point losses keeping them from being in the thick of the division race. Crest will sling it if Jay Huber (56%, 978, 9/5 ratio) is healthy.
11 Manheim Central 6-0 4A (11) Lancaster Lebanon Section 2
Manheim Central remained undefeated with another in a long line of blow-outs, this time walloping Muhlenberg (2-4) 70-0. Central is rolling now, winning their games by an average score of 50-14 against an unchallenging schedule. It will be interesting seeing how they handle adversity. They led the poor Muhlies 55-0 at the half with quarterback Zac Hahn completing 11 of 14 passes for 250 yards, throwing touchdowns of 1, 17, 4 and 67 yards. Bode Sipel with 104 yards and Aaron Enterline with 86 were the lead receivers. Running back Brycen Arnold has turned into a force with 112 yards and touchdowns of 43, 6, 1 and 45 yards, bringing his season total to 918 yards (9 yds per carry) and 14 touchdowns. Muhlenberg was held to 114 total yards, fumbling 3 times and throwing 2 interceptions. Winless Lebanon is next.
12 Steelton Highspire 3-1 1A (12) Mid Penn-Capital Division
Steel High was idle last week allowing for good prep against Camp Hill (5-1) who’s coming off a lackluster 10-7 win against Susquenita (2-4). Camp Hill’s only loss was to Big Spring (2-4) 16-6, the same team Steelton beat two weeks ago 61-7.
13 Solanco 6-0 5A (13) Lancaster Lebanon Section 3
Solanco got a test at Twin Valley (Elverson-Morgantown) who recovered from a 19-3 halftime deficit to make a game of it before going down in a well fought 32-25 loss. T-Val had a balanced attack (162r, 151p), but the Golden Mules were more, pounding it for 384 yards on 59 painful, painful for TV, carries. Cole Harris led the offense with 138 yards with Elijah Cunningham getting 106 plus 41 more in receptions. Josiah Forren added 74 rush yards on 11 carries. Undefeated Elizabethtown at 6-0 is next in a key LL-3 game of unbeatens. They’ll bring one of the more balanced attacks in the LL with a red hot duel threat quarterback supported by a solid cast of running backs and receivers. This should be one of the most exciting games in Lancaster County with absolute opposites going at it in a game that could decide the Section outcome. This is Solanco’s best start since 2015’s 11-2 team that won their first 9 games.
14 Lampeter Strasburg 5-1 4A (15) Lancaster-Lebanon Section 4
The Pioneers had no trouble overwhelming rebuilding Octorara leading 42-0 at the half, then easing up for a 49-13 Secion-4 win. 9 running backs got touches with the defense dominating, allowing 88 yards of offense and 5 first downs. At the same time, Octorara was generous at home, fumbling 3 times and losing 2, plus throwing an interception. Linebacker Drexton Frank probably put the nail in it in the opening quarter with a 20-yard scoop and score providing a 21-0 lead. The win was their fifth straight, keeping them abreast of Wyomissing in the Section-4 race. Rejuvenated Berks Catholic (2-4) off to one of their worst starts ever, put it together the last two weeks and could be a challenge here.
15 West Perry 6-0 3A (16) Mid Penn-Capital Division
West Perry is off to the races this year, storming teams by an average score of 43-9! Last week saw the versatile Marcus Quaker complete 3 passes for 77 yards and 2 touchdowns while rushing for 107 yards, scoring on runs of 4, 34, 2 and 14 yards. Trent Herrera as always was crushing people, rushing for 154 yards on 18 carries. Ian Goodling took care of things up top with 2 receptions for 2 scores totaling 78 yards. That’s quite a threesome they have there, accounting for 416 of their 488 total yards. Big Spring (2-4) is next at West Perry.
16 Elizabethtown 6-0 5A (18) Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
After 13 years of sub-par football with 3 winning seasons and a record of 43-86, Elizabethtown has to qualify as the biggest surprise in the district. While they are not always overwhelming, eg, last week’s 26-13 win against 1-5 Boone, they have dangerous parts at all level of the offense. The big 3 are quarterback Josh Rudy at 71% for 1595 yards with a 15/2 ratio and 204 rush yards; running back Logan Lentz with 839 yards and 14 Tds, a tough out at 5-9 200 lbs; Braden Cummings catching 30 passes for 880 yards and Brady Beault at 354 yards on 21 receptions. Cade Capello has 30 receptions for 334 yards and 128 rushing. First year coach Keith Stokes brings an impressive resume with stints as Coatesville, Township, McCaskey et al, plus a CFL background after graduating from East Carolina. A resume like that say the man and the Bears are legit, capable of giving Solanco a severe test for the LL-3 lead.
17 Gettysburg 5-1 5A (19) Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Gettysburg survived a stiff challenge from the reigning MP-Colonial champ Shippensburg Greyhounds, winning 17-14 on a 19-yard field goal by Jermaine Gondwe, a 5-6, 130lb junior, at the final horn. The game was a mess with off and on downpours throughout the region making for a sloppy field, essentially bringing the game to a halt by the end of the first quarter tied at 14 apiece. Warrior Field is low ground at the foot of East Cemetery Hill which played a prominent role in the Battle of Gettysburg. North Carolinians and the famous Louisiana Tigers crossed the same fields in a rare night attack July 2nd, 1863. Next up is a road trip verses Waynesboro (2-4) who beat them last year 55-49 in 3 overtimes at Gettysburg.
18 Garden Spot 5-1 5A (20) Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
Garden Spot out of New Holland is quietly having their best season since 2012’s 10-1 team that went 10-0 before losing to Manheim Central. They’ve had two winning seasons since then. Last week’s 24-21 win at Ephrata showed they could beat a decent team on the road while overcoming a deficit, down 14-7 at the half and 21-14 entering the fourth quarter. Quarterback Kye Harting gave them an edge with his running ability, leading the team with 135 yards, one, a 54-yard touchdown. He also completed 10 of 16 passes for 96 yards. But kicker Nick Gleeson was the difference, nailing a 33-yard field goal with 4:06 to go. Blake Weaver had a big night too, rushing for 126 yards. But the biggest thrill came when lineman Tyler Hurst (5-10, 220) powered in from the 3-yard line in the third quarter. The D was a major factor in the win, holding Ephrata to 49 yards rushing. Feisty Twin Valley (3-3) is next, bringing their undefeated road record with them.
19 South Western 4-2 5A (NR) York Adams, Division 1
South Western (Hanover) is the best 4-2 team in York County, perhaps beyond, knowing their losses came against Dallastown 20-13 in a mild upset in Hanover, and on the road against Central York 30-28. Other games were won by an average score of 30-6, helped in part by last week’s 20-0 road win against Red Lion. Quarterback Maxwell Misensale was accurate enough considering conditions completing 11 of 19 passes for 105 yards. Reliable Cohen Bull netted 88 yards on 11 carries. Like most games across south central Pennsylvania last week, this one was affected by intermittent downpours and occasional wind gusts that kept offenses ‘small’; South Western ending with 266 total yards, Red Lion 176. With the Mustangs back to their winning ways, look for a big crowd at The Corral Friday night against West York’s 1-5 fading Bulldogs.
20 Central Dauphin 2-4 6A (NR) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Since getting destroyed in the opener at Central York 36-19, Central Dauphin has been ‘right there’ in their losses to Wilson 17-10, at Coatesville 34-28 and at State College 19-8 before breaking through last week at Carlisle in a big way, winning 42-14. Carlisle’s score just 44 seconds into the game lite a match that saw the Rams explode for 42 points while holding the Herd to just one more touchdown. It’s impressive they’ve been able to tread water while breaking in a new quarterback in Travis Linn who replaced the starter two games ago. He threw a 32-yard touchdown to David Chase then ran for a 22-yard score. Chase ended with 98 yards and 2 scores on 12 carries while Devin Shepherd had another strong game, rushing for 144 yards, with touchdowns of 25 and 3 yards on 16 carries. The grind continues Friday against bitter rival Cumberland Valley in a classic ‘East Shore vs West Shore’ battle between these historic south central PA powerhouses. Forget CD’s record. CV better come ready to play.
Mid Penn Conference teams not in District-3
State College 6-0 6A D6 Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Home to Carlisle 3-3
Altoona 4-2 6A D6 Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
At Chambersburg 2-4
Mifflin County 4-2 6A D6 Mid Penn-Keystone Division
At Milton Hershey 2-3
Juniata 5-1 4A D6 Mid Penn-Liberty Division
At Boiling Springs 2-4
Line Mountain 3-3 2A D4 Mid Penn-Liberty Division
At Halifax 1-5
OTHERS
Mid Penn Conference
Lower Dauphin 4-2 5A (NR) Mid Penn-Keystone Division
Home to Cedar Cliff 3-3
Carlisle 3-3 6A (14) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
At State College 6-0
Shippensburg 4-2 5A (17) Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Home to Mechanicsburg 2-4
Lancaster Lebanon
Hamburg 5-1 3A Lancaster Lebanon Section-5
At Pequea Valley 1-5
Lancaster Catholic 6-0 3A Lancaster Lebanon Section-5
At Annville Cleona 4-2
Twin Valley 3-3 4A Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
At Garden Spot 5-1
Ephrata 3-3 5A Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
Home to Fleetwood 2-4
York Adams
Dallastown 3-3 6A York Adams, Division 1
At York High 4-1
New Oxford 5-1 5A York Adams, Division 2
Home to Kennard Dale 3-3
Spring Grove 4-2 5A York Adams, Division 1
Home to Red Lion 2-4
Projected district winners (Class, # in that class, # making playoffs)
6A (19)-8 Harrisburg 4-1
Looking real good up close and personal with 3 of remaining 4 games at home. But legit comp (see Top-10 6As) will make it a challenge getting out of the district, similar to District-1.
5A (26)-12 Exeter Township 6-0
Something of a surprise having graduated their best ever team that went 10-4. Tough games ahead at Hempfield (non-section) and Manheim Central, both on the road. The Manheim Central game 10/28 will decide the LL-2.
4A (23)-10 Bishop McDevitt 4-1
Don’t see anyone stopping this freight train but said the same thing last year about Governor Mifflin. They’ll win out in the soft Keystone division. If they stay healthy, look out!
3A (14)-6 Wyomissing 6-0
The season finale could be a challenge vs Lampeter Strasburg (5-1). But it’s in Wyomissing and will decide the LL-4.
2A (7)-4 Camp Hill 4-1
It’s a small but competitive group, making for a tight race between Annville Cleona (4-2), York Catholic (2-4), Camp Hill (4-1) and Delone Catholic (3-3).
1A (3)-2 Steelton Highspire 3-1
The only competition is between Halifax (1-6) and Fairfield (1-4) for the right to get swamped by Steelton.
(The number in parenthesis is last week’s rankings)
1 Bishop McDevitt 4-1 4A (1) Mid Penn-Keystone Division
Standout quarterback Stone Saunders completed 19 of 25 passes for 362 yards and 6 touchdowns in the first half alone on the way to a 68-22 rout of Milton Hershey. The score was 62-8 at the half. Saunders, who also ran for a score connected with Tyshawn Russell for 4 passes totaling 112 yards and a touchdown while tight end Nick Slogik (6-5, 240, jr) had 2 touchdowns. Marquese Williams had a stellar performance as well rushing for 108 yards and snagging 4 tosses for 104 yards, all touchdowns. Freshman Maurice Barnes (6-2, 195) took over in the second half, rushing for 80 yards and a score. Hershey (3-3, 3-0) who shares a piece of the Keystone lead with McDevitt and Lower Dauphin is next, coming in on a 3 game winning streak after losing their first 3 games.
2 Harrisburg 4-1 6A (2) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Harrisburg’s largely unheralded sophomore quarterback Shawn Lee picked Altoona apart, completing 11 of 18 passes for 289 yards with scoring tosses of 39, 26, 85, 33 and 56 yards. He also rushed for a 3-yard score. Mahkai Hopkins led all runners with 148 yards and a touchdown. Wide outs Kyle Williams got free for 124 yards in receptions and touchdowns of 85 and 33 yards on just 4 receptions while Amir Jones caught 2 passes for 64 yards. Harrisburg is coming together on both sides of the ball with an offense generating 524 yards and a defense allowing 88 yards in this one. They’re home Saturday against CD East who is battling a 3 game losing streak that includes a 45-14 loss to Cumberland Valley (5-1) and last week’s 42-14 loss to State College (6-0). No rest for the weary in the Mid Penn-Commonwealth!
3 Wyomissing 6-0 3A (3) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 4
The Spartans extended their winning streak to 31 regular season games, defeating Donegal last week 41-7. The win establishes a new record in Berks County, surpassing Wilson High who previously held the mark. Wyomissing followed their well-established format of pounding the ball relentlessly, rushing 44 times for 385 yards. The trio of running backs Matt Kramer (2 Tds), Drew Eisenhower (1 Td) and Charlie McIntyre (2 Tds) did the damage, getting 102, 92 and 87 yards rushing respectively. Ben Zechman was there when needed completing 3 of 4 passes for 75 yards and a touchdown. The D was lights out as usual, allowing 160 total yards. For the year, they’ve allowed 45 points and scored 3 shutouts. The win keeps them atop the LL-4 at 3-0, tied with Lampeter Strasburg. Cocalico (3-3) is next, coming in a game back.
4 Exeter Township 6-0 5A (4) Lancaster-Lebanon Section 2
Exeter’s retooled offense is purring now, averaging 43.2ppg with last week’s 47-7 win against Warwick. First year starter Mason Rotelli was perfect, completing 9 of 9 passes for 126 yards, with touchdowns of 11, 15 and 30 yards. He also ran for a 76-yard score in the first quarter to open the floodgates leading to a 41-0 half time score. Richie Karstein (6-1, 220) bulled his way to 124 yards and 2 scores on 11 carries, with Jacob Fost adding a 25-yards Pick-6. Muhlenberg (2-4) is next, coming off a 70- 0 pounding by LL-4 leader Manheim Central (6-0).
5 Cumberland Valley 5-1 6A (5) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Cumberland Valley survived a short turnaround playing a rare Thursday night game against Chambersburg where they prevailed 38-14. It was a difficult game, coming off a disappointing and physical encounter with Harrisburg that they lost 30-14. The Trojans were also questionable coming off their 18-7 loss to rival Carlisle. But at the end of the day, CV just has too many weapons, starting with quarterback Isaac Sines throwing for 58 yards, rushing for 32 and kicking a 32-yard field goal. The versatile JD Hunter rushed for 19 yards, caught a pass for 27 yards and had a 92-yards kickoff return. Big Bryce Staritz (6-1, 215) had 78 yards on 7 carries with Josh Wagenheim (5-10, 200) pounding it for 82 yards on 8 carries. The win keeps them in the division hunt, a game behind State College and Harrisburg, both 3-0, tied with rival Central Dauphin who they play Friday night at CD.
6 Central York 5-1 6A (6) York Adams, Division 1
No stats: Central York cruised to their fourth win in a row to defeat Dallastown 35-21 and remain in a tie atop the YA-1 with York High. No one’s comparing this group with the last few years that won 29 games from 2019 through last season (29-4), averaging 44ppg while allowing 14. But considering they graduated record setting quarterback Beau Pribula now at Penn State, they’re not doing bad, scoring 34ppg while allowing 22, off to a 5-1 start. Their only loss was to Cumberland Valley 35-33 so they’re right there. They play Northeastern (1-4), Red Lion (2-4) and Reading (2-4) where their stats will inflate to misleading levels before the showdown against York High at the end. That one will be at York where the final combined score could exceed 100.
7 York-William Penn 3-2 6A (7) York-Adams Division 1
York was idle last week but are now into the meat of the schedule playing Dallastown (3-3), Spring Grove (4-2, 5A), South Western (4-2, 5A) and Central York (5-1) in that order to decide the York-Adams-1 and post season positioning.
8 Wilson 5-1 6A (8) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 1
Wilson had little difficulty with Governor Mifflin in this, their 65th meeting, winning 32-14. The score doesn’t reflect the gap between these two with Wilson dominating total yards 374 to 208 in wet conditions. Once again, Cam Jones returned a punt for a score, taking it 29 yards for his fourth return of the year. He ended with 140 rush yards and touchdowns of 9 and 29 yards. Tommy Hunsicker was also strong, completing 7 of 12 passes for 114 yards with a touchdown pass and 68 rush yards on 10 carries. Edison Case had 5 receptions for 99 yards. The win keeps them tied with Hempfield in Section-1, a game up on Manheim Township. But that’ll be broken Friday when Hempfield comes in looking for revenge from last year’s 28-21 loss.
9 Hempfield 5-1 6A (9) Lancaster Lebanon Section 1
First year starter Jacob Landis looks to be rounding into form after completing 15 of 20 passes for 182 yards, leading a balanced offense that defeated Penn Manor 34-7. The stat board was even more impressive, winning 402 to 151 in total yards, holding the Comets to 32 yards rushing! Grant Hoover dominated, bursting through for 182 yards on 15 carries. Wide out Gabe Benjamin had touchdowns of 26 and 46 yards on 3 receptions for 78 yards with Deyvid Papepale getting a 24-yard scoop and score. Although they’ve already defeated York and Manheim Township, we’ll know even more about them in the next two weeks with a road game at Wilson (5-1) followed by a homer against Exeter (6-0).
10 Manheim Township 4-2 6A (10) Lancaster Lebanon League, Section 1
Swamping JP McCaskey was probably just the tonic Township needed coming as it did after their 17-14 loss to Hempfield where they beat them everywhere but the scoreboard, topped off by a missed field goal as time expired. There was no such drama in this one where the Streaks settled it early, rolling up a 42-0 halftime lead before calling off the dogs. 526 total yards later, the scoreboard read 55-6 at the final whistle. They hit some highs and lows in this one, rushing for 428 yards with 3 running backs topping the 100-yard mark. Declan Clancy had 200 yards and 3 scores, Jack Fitzmaier had 114 yards on 15 carries and a score while Shymere Covington got 112 yards after 12 attempts and a touchdown. About the lows. They held the Red Tornado to 64 yards of offence; 47 passing, 17 rushing. The win keeps them a game behind Wilson and Hempfield at 2-1. Dangerous Cedar Crest (3-3) is next with 5 and 6 point losses keeping them from being in the thick of the division race. Crest will sling it if Jay Huber (56%, 978, 9/5 ratio) is healthy.
11 Manheim Central 6-0 4A (11) Lancaster Lebanon Section 2
Manheim Central remained undefeated with another in a long line of blow-outs, this time walloping Muhlenberg (2-4) 70-0. Central is rolling now, winning their games by an average score of 50-14 against an unchallenging schedule. It will be interesting seeing how they handle adversity. They led the poor Muhlies 55-0 at the half with quarterback Zac Hahn completing 11 of 14 passes for 250 yards, throwing touchdowns of 1, 17, 4 and 67 yards. Bode Sipel with 104 yards and Aaron Enterline with 86 were the lead receivers. Running back Brycen Arnold has turned into a force with 112 yards and touchdowns of 43, 6, 1 and 45 yards, bringing his season total to 918 yards (9 yds per carry) and 14 touchdowns. Muhlenberg was held to 114 total yards, fumbling 3 times and throwing 2 interceptions. Winless Lebanon is next.
12 Steelton Highspire 3-1 1A (12) Mid Penn-Capital Division
Steel High was idle last week allowing for good prep against Camp Hill (5-1) who’s coming off a lackluster 10-7 win against Susquenita (2-4). Camp Hill’s only loss was to Big Spring (2-4) 16-6, the same team Steelton beat two weeks ago 61-7.
13 Solanco 6-0 5A (13) Lancaster Lebanon Section 3
Solanco got a test at Twin Valley (Elverson-Morgantown) who recovered from a 19-3 halftime deficit to make a game of it before going down in a well fought 32-25 loss. T-Val had a balanced attack (162r, 151p), but the Golden Mules were more, pounding it for 384 yards on 59 painful, painful for TV, carries. Cole Harris led the offense with 138 yards with Elijah Cunningham getting 106 plus 41 more in receptions. Josiah Forren added 74 rush yards on 11 carries. Undefeated Elizabethtown at 6-0 is next in a key LL-3 game of unbeatens. They’ll bring one of the more balanced attacks in the LL with a red hot duel threat quarterback supported by a solid cast of running backs and receivers. This should be one of the most exciting games in Lancaster County with absolute opposites going at it in a game that could decide the Section outcome. This is Solanco’s best start since 2015’s 11-2 team that won their first 9 games.
14 Lampeter Strasburg 5-1 4A (15) Lancaster-Lebanon Section 4
The Pioneers had no trouble overwhelming rebuilding Octorara leading 42-0 at the half, then easing up for a 49-13 Secion-4 win. 9 running backs got touches with the defense dominating, allowing 88 yards of offense and 5 first downs. At the same time, Octorara was generous at home, fumbling 3 times and losing 2, plus throwing an interception. Linebacker Drexton Frank probably put the nail in it in the opening quarter with a 20-yard scoop and score providing a 21-0 lead. The win was their fifth straight, keeping them abreast of Wyomissing in the Section-4 race. Rejuvenated Berks Catholic (2-4) off to one of their worst starts ever, put it together the last two weeks and could be a challenge here.
15 West Perry 6-0 3A (16) Mid Penn-Capital Division
West Perry is off to the races this year, storming teams by an average score of 43-9! Last week saw the versatile Marcus Quaker complete 3 passes for 77 yards and 2 touchdowns while rushing for 107 yards, scoring on runs of 4, 34, 2 and 14 yards. Trent Herrera as always was crushing people, rushing for 154 yards on 18 carries. Ian Goodling took care of things up top with 2 receptions for 2 scores totaling 78 yards. That’s quite a threesome they have there, accounting for 416 of their 488 total yards. Big Spring (2-4) is next at West Perry.
16 Elizabethtown 6-0 5A (18) Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
After 13 years of sub-par football with 3 winning seasons and a record of 43-86, Elizabethtown has to qualify as the biggest surprise in the district. While they are not always overwhelming, eg, last week’s 26-13 win against 1-5 Boone, they have dangerous parts at all level of the offense. The big 3 are quarterback Josh Rudy at 71% for 1595 yards with a 15/2 ratio and 204 rush yards; running back Logan Lentz with 839 yards and 14 Tds, a tough out at 5-9 200 lbs; Braden Cummings catching 30 passes for 880 yards and Brady Beault at 354 yards on 21 receptions. Cade Capello has 30 receptions for 334 yards and 128 rushing. First year coach Keith Stokes brings an impressive resume with stints as Coatesville, Township, McCaskey et al, plus a CFL background after graduating from East Carolina. A resume like that say the man and the Bears are legit, capable of giving Solanco a severe test for the LL-3 lead.
17 Gettysburg 5-1 5A (19) Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Gettysburg survived a stiff challenge from the reigning MP-Colonial champ Shippensburg Greyhounds, winning 17-14 on a 19-yard field goal by Jermaine Gondwe, a 5-6, 130lb junior, at the final horn. The game was a mess with off and on downpours throughout the region making for a sloppy field, essentially bringing the game to a halt by the end of the first quarter tied at 14 apiece. Warrior Field is low ground at the foot of East Cemetery Hill which played a prominent role in the Battle of Gettysburg. North Carolinians and the famous Louisiana Tigers crossed the same fields in a rare night attack July 2nd, 1863. Next up is a road trip verses Waynesboro (2-4) who beat them last year 55-49 in 3 overtimes at Gettysburg.
18 Garden Spot 5-1 5A (20) Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
Garden Spot out of New Holland is quietly having their best season since 2012’s 10-1 team that went 10-0 before losing to Manheim Central. They’ve had two winning seasons since then. Last week’s 24-21 win at Ephrata showed they could beat a decent team on the road while overcoming a deficit, down 14-7 at the half and 21-14 entering the fourth quarter. Quarterback Kye Harting gave them an edge with his running ability, leading the team with 135 yards, one, a 54-yard touchdown. He also completed 10 of 16 passes for 96 yards. But kicker Nick Gleeson was the difference, nailing a 33-yard field goal with 4:06 to go. Blake Weaver had a big night too, rushing for 126 yards. But the biggest thrill came when lineman Tyler Hurst (5-10, 220) powered in from the 3-yard line in the third quarter. The D was a major factor in the win, holding Ephrata to 49 yards rushing. Feisty Twin Valley (3-3) is next, bringing their undefeated road record with them.
19 South Western 4-2 5A (NR) York Adams, Division 1
South Western (Hanover) is the best 4-2 team in York County, perhaps beyond, knowing their losses came against Dallastown 20-13 in a mild upset in Hanover, and on the road against Central York 30-28. Other games were won by an average score of 30-6, helped in part by last week’s 20-0 road win against Red Lion. Quarterback Maxwell Misensale was accurate enough considering conditions completing 11 of 19 passes for 105 yards. Reliable Cohen Bull netted 88 yards on 11 carries. Like most games across south central Pennsylvania last week, this one was affected by intermittent downpours and occasional wind gusts that kept offenses ‘small’; South Western ending with 266 total yards, Red Lion 176. With the Mustangs back to their winning ways, look for a big crowd at The Corral Friday night against West York’s 1-5 fading Bulldogs.
20 Central Dauphin 2-4 6A (NR) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Since getting destroyed in the opener at Central York 36-19, Central Dauphin has been ‘right there’ in their losses to Wilson 17-10, at Coatesville 34-28 and at State College 19-8 before breaking through last week at Carlisle in a big way, winning 42-14. Carlisle’s score just 44 seconds into the game lite a match that saw the Rams explode for 42 points while holding the Herd to just one more touchdown. It’s impressive they’ve been able to tread water while breaking in a new quarterback in Travis Linn who replaced the starter two games ago. He threw a 32-yard touchdown to David Chase then ran for a 22-yard score. Chase ended with 98 yards and 2 scores on 12 carries while Devin Shepherd had another strong game, rushing for 144 yards, with touchdowns of 25 and 3 yards on 16 carries. The grind continues Friday against bitter rival Cumberland Valley in a classic ‘East Shore vs West Shore’ battle between these historic south central PA powerhouses. Forget CD’s record. CV better come ready to play.
Mid Penn Conference teams not in District-3
State College 6-0 6A D6 Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
Home to Carlisle 3-3
Altoona 4-2 6A D6 Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
At Chambersburg 2-4
Mifflin County 4-2 6A D6 Mid Penn-Keystone Division
At Milton Hershey 2-3
Juniata 5-1 4A D6 Mid Penn-Liberty Division
At Boiling Springs 2-4
Line Mountain 3-3 2A D4 Mid Penn-Liberty Division
At Halifax 1-5
OTHERS
Mid Penn Conference
Lower Dauphin 4-2 5A (NR) Mid Penn-Keystone Division
Home to Cedar Cliff 3-3
Carlisle 3-3 6A (14) Mid Penn-Commonwealth Division
At State College 6-0
Shippensburg 4-2 5A (17) Mid Penn-Colonial Division
Home to Mechanicsburg 2-4
Lancaster Lebanon
Hamburg 5-1 3A Lancaster Lebanon Section-5
At Pequea Valley 1-5
Lancaster Catholic 6-0 3A Lancaster Lebanon Section-5
At Annville Cleona 4-2
Twin Valley 3-3 4A Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
At Garden Spot 5-1
Ephrata 3-3 5A Lancaster Lebanon Section-3
Home to Fleetwood 2-4
York Adams
Dallastown 3-3 6A York Adams, Division 1
At York High 4-1
New Oxford 5-1 5A York Adams, Division 2
Home to Kennard Dale 3-3
Spring Grove 4-2 5A York Adams, Division 1
Home to Red Lion 2-4
Last edited:
