District-3 Top 20: (Oct 29, 30 games 2021)
All are 6A unless marked otherwise, last week’s rank in parenthesis
1 Governor Mifflin 5A 7-0 (1)
For the second time this season Governor Mifflin’s had a game cancelled because of Covid-19. Last Friday’s game with Boone fell by the wayside as did the conference game with Reading October 2nd. If all goes well this final weekend of the regular season they’ll travel to Berks Catholic (6-3, 3-1), the other side of Reading, where a BC win would result in a 3 way tie with Exeter (6-3, 3-1) defeating Boone. Don’t hold your breath. Top rated and defending Single-A state champ Steel High losing to Big Spring last week reminds us anything can happen on any weekend in football. Still, it’s hard seeing any team in any classification beating Governor Mifflin. And that’s why they play the games and have the playoffs. Whatever happens this weekend, Governor Mifflin will have the top seed in the 5A field of 14 and get a bye.
2 Bishop McDevitt 4A 7-1 (3)
McDevitt moved into the two slot on the strength of another overwhelming win, demolishing Red Land 56-14. It was 49-7 at the half. It’s hard seeing a loss in their future with so many weapons. Defensively, they’ve matured into a strong unit allowing 56 points all year, 21 coming against LaSalle where only two scores were by the offense. RL was held to -8 rushing. Freshman quarterback Stone Saunders completed 8 of 12 passes for 202 yards with touchdown passes of 33, 54, and 48 yards. To date, he completed 69% for 1883 yards with 31 touchdown passes and no interceptions. Marquese Williams had 114 yards rushing and 3 touchdowns, bringing his totals to 991 yards and 12 touchdowns. Mario Easterly scored on 33 and 54-yard touchdown passes, finishing with 7 receptions for 121 yards. His season total is 33 receptions for 622 yards and 10 touchdowns. They finish the regular season at home Friday against Hershey (1-8, 1-5). Coming into games of Oct 22-23, they had the 3 seed in the 4A field of 10 in a tight race with #2 Berks Catholic and #1 Lampeter Strasburg for the top spot.
3 Central York 8-0 (2)
Central York finally got a challenge, going on the road to Dallastown where the Wildcats played them hard, down 14-6 at the half and 21-14 into the third quarter. Everyone knows about Penn State recruit Beau Pribula of Central York. But few know about Dtown’s Owen Strouse who completed 15 of 21 for 176 yards with a touchdown to Larry Johnson, another PSU recruit. Ominously, the Wildcats rolled out 252 yards passing and 116 rushing, mirroring Exeter’s big output week-1 in a 35-28 loss to Central York. There may be some cracks but the bottom line shows Central York defeating solid teams/programs like Exeter (6-3) 35-28, Cumberland Valley (4-5) 21-3, Hempfield (5-4) 35-21, Spring Grove (7-1) 48-17 and now Dallastown (5-4) 31-21. York High (7-1, 5-0) is next at Central (8-0, 5-0) Friday. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Central had the top seed in the 6A field of 8 with York at #4 and likely moving up with Central Dauphin losing to CD East.
4 Harrisburg 8-1 (4)
Harrisburg had another good game with State College last weekend. Nothing new about that with these two often locking horns in tight games. State may have come in with some attitude, fighting for a .500 season with a young group and remembering last year’s 41-6 loss. The year before that, SC won 21-6 and again in 2016 35-28. This one proved to be the best of the bunch, going into the fourth quarter tied up at 7 all. Harrisburg took a 15-7 lead on Mehki Hopkins 4-yard score before State put together a scoring drive late in the fourth quarter with quarterback Jack Morris punching it in from the 1-yard line with 6 seconds left. His 2-point conversion attempt fell incomplete with Harrisburg recovering the subsequent onside kick, then running out the clock for a 15-13 win. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Harrisburg had the 2 seed in the 6A field of 8 behind Central York. That’s where they’ll stay with a win at Chambersburg Friday unless York upsets Central York. Although State High is in the MP-Commonwealth, they are in District 6 where they will playoff with Williamsport, Altoona and Mifflin County.
5 Central Dauphin East 7-2 (5)
East combined a strong passing game with a solid ground game to befuddle sister school Central Dauphin 31-14. Tandem Qbs Terrence Jackson-Copney and Tony Powell were essentially unstoppable with Jackson-Copney completing 7 of 12 for 102 yards and Tony Powell good on 6 of 9 for 108 yards. Each had a touchdown toss. Mehki Flowers caught 9 for 84 yards and a score with Tymere Thornton snagging 3 for 80 yards and a score. The ground game was in the good hands of Marcel McDaniels who rushed for 178 yards, taking his season total to 1191 yards. CD was held to 130 rushing. East High finishes out at home against another Commonwealth foe playing Carlisle (6-3, 3-3) Friday. It’ll be a hard fought game with the Herd holding the 9th seed in a field of 8. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, East had the 5th seed.
6 York (William Penn) 7-1 (7)
York won their seventh straight game, routing Northeastern 58-14 to set up a showdown Friday with Central York for the York Adams-Division One title. With Central holding the top 6A seed and York at 4, the game has significant postseason implications. Against Northeastern, the Bearcats stars stood tall with running back Jahiem White rushing for 245 yards and 4 touchdowns and quarterback Sam Stoner completing 11 of 19 passes for 274 yards and 4 touchdowns. Jacquez Simmons had 3 receptions for 105 yards. All 3 were touchdowns. Since losing the opener to Governor Mifflin 55-6, York defeated their last seven opponents by an average score of 55-20. This included road wins at Coatesville 44-39 and Dallastown 36-20. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, York had the 4th seed in the field of 8 but could move up a notch with Central Dauphin losing last week.
7 Central Dauphin 5-2 (6)
After ripping off five straight wins following the season opening loss at Wilson, including narrow wins the last two games against Carlisle 24-21 and Altoona 42-38, the Rams met their match, losing to arch rival Central Dauphin East 31-14. With a D yield of 26ppg, this is clearly not your typical Ram defense. But with a prolific offense averaging 37ppg coming in, their defensive shortcomings were masked. Against East, the defense was exposed, allowing 228 rush yards and 202 passing. East pressured them all night, allowing only 8 completions in 20 attempts by Qb Max Mosey. The ground game was stuffed as well, checked at 130 yards. Up next is another old nemesis in Cumberland Valley, as talented a 4-4 team as you’ll find in the district. This is often a tight game with 4 of the last 5 decided by 6, 1, 6 and 3 points. CV fighting for a .500 season only adds to this battle between East Shore and West Shore powers. Coming into games of Oct 22-23 CD had the 3rd seed in the 6A field of 8.
8 Wyomissing 3A 9-0 (8)
Wyomissing had another dominating win last week defeating Schuylkill Valley (2-7, 1-4) 49-0. They rushed for 292 yards with Drew Eisenhower leading the way on just 4 carries gaining 144 yards and a touchdown. He also had an 84-yard kickoff return. Quarterback Ben Zechman completed 3 of his 6 passes with 2 going for touchdowns of 5 and 12 yards. Schuylkill Valley was held to 75 yards of offense. They conclude the regular season at home against Conrad Weiser (6-2, 4-1). With CW’s high end dual threat quarterback Logan Klitsch heading an offense averaging 41ppg, the Scouts could be a problem. But they have no signature wins, whereas Wyo has that in spades with routs of Pottsville and Southern Columbia. They’ve nailed down the top seed in the 3A field of 8 regardless of Friday’s results.
9 Manheim Central 5A 8-1 (11)
The Barons are rolling now, winning their last 3 games by an average score of 47-7, including shutouts against Elizabethtown 42-0 last week and Conestoga Valley 63-0 the week before, giving them 4 shutouts for the year. They are currently at 3-1 in the LL-2, with Warwick (4-4, 2-1), a game behind Cocalico (6-3, 4-0) who they play Friday in Manheim. About last Friday’s game, Etown was manhandled, 366 total yards to 128, 38 on the ground. Jaden Weit ran for 86 yards on 16 carries with Qb Judd Novak gaining 44 rushing and throwing for 166. Owen Sensenig had 6 receptions for 92 yards. Cocalico might want to take this one off after beating MC last year 35-19. But, you’ve got to give them credit reversing a 2-3 start and winning their last 4 games, including last week’s upset of Warwick 27-21. Coming into games of Oct 22-23 the Barons had the 3rd seed in the 5A field of 14.
10 Manheim Township 6-3 (13)
Here’s another young group that is well regarded with 3 point losses to Dallastown, Harrisburg and Hempfield preventing them being 9-0. Look out next year, districts and beyond. Soph Qb Hayden Johnson was again making throws with 11 completions to 8 receivers going for 202 yards and 4 touchdowns. The ground effort featured a committee of 6 with Isaiah Jones leading the way on 11 carries for 67 yards. Together they had 235 on 34 carries. The win keeps them a game behind Wilson (6-3, 4-0) at 3-1. That’s where they play Friday against their big rival to decide the LL-1 and postseason issues. With Township holding the 7th seed and Wilson the 8th, this could be a play-in game with Carlisle nipping at their heels but tangling with CD East.
11 Exeter Township 5A 6-3 (14)
Exeter’s Eagles exploded all over Reading, scoring five times in the first quarter on the way to an easy 49-6 rout of the Knights. Leading back Eric Nangle scored on the first possession (64 yards) and again on their second possession (15 yards) ending the game with 3 carries for 80 yards. In between those scores DE Lucas Palange (6-2, 215) blocked a punt and returned it 10 yards for a score. The defense partied hard in this one with a fumble caused by defensive tackle Joey Reedy (6-4, 215) resulting in a 1-yard plunge by fullback/middle linebacker Ty Yocum (6-1, 220) moments later. This was followed by linebacker J.R. Strauss getting an 18 yard Pick 6. Nice work by the D! Phil Garretson and Cabraun Woody were also integral to the offense, Garretson getting a 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter and Cabraun Woody leading all runners with 68 yards and a score. The regular season comes to a close against Boone (5-3, 2-1, 5A) who currently hold the 10th seed. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Exeter had the 8th seed in the 5A field of 14.
12 Wilson 6-3 (15)
Surging Wilson won their fourth straight to remain atop the LL-1 at 4-0, a game ahead of Township (6-3, 3-1) who they play Friday at Wilson. Last week’s win was significant, defeating Hempfield in Landisville 28-21. That’s Wilson’s first signature road win of the season, coming against the team that beat Manheim Township the week before. With fullback Jadyn Jones now healthy, they are a different team. Jones dented the Black Knights for 140 yards and 2 scores after rushing for 175 the week before. Also contributing to the ground attack was quarterback Brad Hoffman who completed 5 of 8 passes for 50 yards while rushing for 132 yards on 17 carries. The week before saw him completed 6 of 11 passes for 56 yards, rushing for 195 yards on 14 carries. Shades of last year’s quarterback Kaleb Brown! This one was a battle royale, with the score knotted at 21 all with 3 minutes left in the game. No worries with Wilson going on a 78-yard drive, scoring in the final 3:18 of the game, then breaking up a Hail Mary in the end zone to seal it. Coming into last week’s games, Wilson had the 8th seed in the 6A field of 8.
13 Hempfield 5-4 (12)
Hempfield battled long and hard as they’ve done all year but came up short again, losing at home to Wilson 28-21. See the Wilson write up above. Cam Harbaugh was sharp enough completing 15 of 27 passes for 281 yards. But you need a running game battling the big boys in any district and that’s where they’re lacking this year, mustering a paltry 25 yards on 21 attempts. Wilson’s D came to play! Too bad this group couldn’t parlay a running game with Cam Harbaugh’s skills. On the year he’s at 57% for 1564 yards with a 12/3 ratio. He’s also their leading rusher with 575 yards and 6 more touchdowns. Penn Manor (5-4, 1-3) is up next. Hempfield is still in the postseason hunt coming into the Wilson game with the 6th seed in the 6A field of 8 meaning they can’t slip up at Penn Manor.
14 Warwick 5A 4-4 (10)
Warwick had no answer for Cocalico’s Anthony Bourasso who ran at will, amassing 332 yards rushing in a key 27-21 win for the Eagles, a win that put them in sole possession of the LL-2 at 3-0. Warwick’s rush defense failed abysmally knowing the Eagles were an option offense. They attempted only two passes here while rushing for 395 yards. Warwick’s Jack Reed completed 15 of 28 passes for 202 yards with a touchdown and a pick. Christian Royer rushed for 110 yards while Cooper Eckert had 9 receptions for 142 yards. So the offense while not overwhelming was sufficient. The defense failed as it has at times this year allowing 27ppg coming into the game. That’s bad news taking on an option offense on the road featuring Anthony Bourasso’s 1725 rush yards. Conestoga Valley (3-6) is next at CV. Warwick is still a player in the postseason with the 6th seed in the 5A field of 14.
15 Cedar Cliff 5A 7-2 (16)
In a back and forth affair featuring two of the better running backs in the district, Cedar Cliff got their seventh win of the season defeating Milton Hershey 45-33. The Colts are having a good year knowing they lost key parts to graduation. The young quarterback, junior Ethan Dorrell (5-11, 170) has thrown for 1222 yards at 56% with a 13 to 5 ratio. He was 9 of 18 for 124 yards in this one. Jontae Morris rushed for 332 yards..!..taking his season total to 1484 yards. Wide out Trenten Smith rushed for 70 yards with 47 receiving. Milton Hershey’s Dion Bryant had 262 yards rushing; 1452 for year. Too bad MH doesn’t have more. The Colts move on to the regular season final at Mifflin County (0-9) where they will likely enhance or further secure the 7th seed currently held in the 5A field of 14.
16 Berks Catholic 4A 6-3 (17)
Berks Catholic ran out to a 28-0 half time lead on the way to an easy 42-6 win against winless Muhlenberg who dropped to 0-9. They had the Wing-T purring, rushing for 404 yards against a defense allowing 42ppg. Christian Cacchione had 125 yards on 8 carries while Josiah Jordan added 132 yards on 6 carries. They retained its position in the Berks-1 at 3-1, tied with Exeter. It’s always good getting another win under your belt with Governor Mifflin (7-0, 2-0) up next. The game is in Shillington on the South side where the Mustangs are probably chomping at the bit not having played since Oct 15th per a Covid-19 cancellation of the game with Boone. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, BC had the 2 seed in the 4A field of 10.
17 Steelton Highspire 1A 7-1 (9)
In a strange game that made no sense, Steel High fell behind in Newville to Big Spring at the very start and never recovered, going into the half down 23-7. They had 5 turnovers that stopped them throughout which seemed to influence and dishearten them looking at video. Their defense was non-existent, allowing the Bulldogs 295 yard rushing….?....with Dillon Wakefield (5-11, 215, sr) plowing over and through defenders for 152 yards and 3 touchdowns. Everyone got in on the fun with Logan Schmidt rushing for 88 yards and Eli Hasco getting 45. Qb Ethan Eisenberg completed 9 of 16 passes for 140 yards and 3 touchdowns. He also rushed for a score as the Bulldogs took down the defending 1A state champ, ending their 17 game winning streak with a stunning 49-14 win. Stunning! The win puts Big Spring at 3-1 in the Mid Penn-Capital, tied with Steel High, a game behind Boiling Springs (8-1, 4-0). Big Spring moves on to play Middletown (4-4, 2-2), while the Rollers try to recover against first place Boiling Springs (8-1, 4-0), a team that beat Big Spring three weeks ago 44-28. Steelton will be the top seed in the 1A field of 2 regardless of future game results.
18 Spring Grove 5A 7-1 18)
How about these Rockets winning their seventh straight game of the year? The run includes wins at Waynesboro (7-2) 25-20, at Northern (6-2) 39-7 and the surprising win at Dallastown two weeks ago, 28-21. With Spring Grove, you’re talking about a program that had three winning seasons the previous ten years, recording a 35-64 record. The difference this year is a running game, fueled by one of the top back in the district in Zyree Brooks. He was unstoppable last week against Red Lion, rushing for 248 yards on 17 carries, scoring on runs of 23, 24, 71 and 34 yards, taking his season total to 1586 yards. They are also playing decent defense in an offense oriented league (York Adams), allowing 17ppg. Minus the 48 allowed to Central York, they’re allowing 14ppg. That’s good stuff and has a lot to do with those road wins mentioned above. They’re at South Western in the season finale Friday looking to reach their highest win total since 2012 (8-4) and maintain or improve their 4th seed in the 5A field of 14.
19 Shippensburg 5A 9-0 (19)
Shippensburg is one of the best kept secrets in the state, going 115-47 (71%) from 2007 through last week’s game. They’re at it again this year doing a good job replacing 3-year starting quarterback Eric Manning who threw for 1835 yards in a ground oriented offense. The new starter, Junior Tucker Chamberlin has thrown for 930 yards at 58%, well supported by running backs Amari Kerr, Traevon Kater Nathan Bean and Diesel Koser. Kater had 88 yards last week on 11 carries while Kerr finished with 92 on 12 carries in a 21-6 win against East Pennsboro. The win puts them at 6-0 atop the Mid Penn-Colonial, ahead of Waynesboro (7-2, 5-1) and Northern (6-2, 4-1). The defense that returned good numbers from last season is headed by Minnesota recruit DE Anthony Smith (6-7, 275). This year they’ve allowed 9ppg, making them a tough nut to crack with their ground game. They end the regular season at home against Greencastle-Antrim (4-5, 2-4) where they currently hold the 2nd seed in the 5A field of 14.
20 Lampeter Strasburg 4A 8-1 (20)
The Pioneers won their eighth game powering over Ephrata 68-7. These guys are cranking it now, scoring 42, 42, 55, 50 and 63 points the last 5 games, winning by an average score of 41-7! They’re a run centric team that will zing it as necessary with Berkeley Wagner completing 67 passes at 55% for 1122 yards. He has a 12-6 Td/Pick ratio. At 620 rush yards with 6 more touchdowns, he is their leading rusher with great support by Giovanni Malatesta at 472 yards and Jonathan Mellinger at 312 for the season. Each have 7 rushing scores. They had a field day against Ephrata, rushing for 384 yards with QB Wagner at 74yards, Malatesta at 73 and Payton Cunningham at 60 yards. 9 running backs had carries. The defense played shutdown football holding Ephrata to 77 total yards. Their lead back Andre Weidman who came in with 1223 rush yards was held to 24. Barring a major upset by Lebanon (0-9) Friday, LS will lock down another LL-3 title and enter the post season as the top seed in the 4A field of 10.
21 Dallastown 5-4
They’re fading fast losing 3 of the last 4 including last week’s 31-21 loss to Central York. Will finish at Red Lion (5A 2-6) Friday who is not seeded. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Dtown had the 10th seed in the 6A field of 8.
22 Cocalico 4A 6-3
Nice bounce by Cocalico winning their last 4 after a 2-3 start. But they finish at 8-1 Manheim Central who has played well all year barring the home loss to Warwick. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Cocalico had the 4th seed in the 4A field of 10.
23 Cumberland Valley 4-5
Cumberland Valley has been a tough out except for Manheim Central and Harrisburg where they were simply outmanned. But they’re getting there with close call losses to Central York, CD East and State College. They’re home to Central Dauphin and could pull the upset. Been that kind of year. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, CV had the 12th seed in the 6A field of 8.
24 Carlisle 6-3
Three point losses to Cumberland Valley and Central Dauphin keep them from 8-1. Have a tough one at 7-2 CD East Friday but maybe they catch them coming down from the Central Dauphin game. East is more but it could get dicey. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Carlisle had the 9 seed in the 6A field of 8.
25 Kennard Dale 4A 8-1
The Rams are on an 8 game winning streak after the season opening loss to Octorara (7-2, 4A) 18-16. They close out at Eastern York (4A 2-7) where they can name it. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, KD had the 7th seed in the 4A field of 10.
26 Conrad Weiser 5A 7-2
Won four straight since the ot loss to Twin Valley (5A, 6-3). Tough closer at top seeded Wyomissing (3A 9-0). Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Weiser had the 5th seed in the 5A field of 14
27 Boiling Springs 3A 8-1
The Bubblers should be undefeated but for a short notice covid replacement game at Mechanicsburg (5A, 5-4) where they lost 39-34. They close at 1A top seed Steel High where the Rollers will be in rare form after getting upset by Big Spring last week. Still, the Bubblers are a mean group. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, they had the 2nd seed in the 3A field of 8.
28 Big Spring 4A 7-2
Monster win last week upsetting Steelton Highspire after previous losses to Shippensburg 34-14 and Boiling Springs 44-28. Better hadn’t ease up too much at Middletown (3A 4-4) who had the 7th seed in a field of 8 last week. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Big Spring had the 8 seed in the field of 10.
29 Northern York 4A 6-2
Tough bunch here who always fight you tooth and nail, all the way back when I was in school. Tagged Susquehanna Twp last week 35-0 and are home for another war with Waynesboro (5A 7-2 5th seed) Friday in Dillsburg. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, the Polar Bears had the 6th seed in the 4A field of 10
30 Waynesboro 5A 7-2
Won their last 4 including 21-20 last week against Mechanicsburg in prep for annual battle at Northern Friday. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Waynesboro had the 5th seed in the 5A field of 14
TIE
Upper Dauphin 2A 7-1
The Trojans have been taking care of business blasting a dangerous Fleetwood (5-4) team last week 46-29 at Fleetwood. Only loss is to Juniata (4A, 7-2) from District-6. Look for a big win Friday against Newport (2A, 2-6), launching them into the postseason on a 7 game winning streak. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, UDA had the 3rd seed in the 2A field of 4.
Others:
Octorara 4A 7-2 10th seed; at Northern Lebanon 3A 4-5
Columbia 2A 7-1 2nd seed; home Pequea Valley 3A 1-7
Donegal 4A 6-2 9th seed; home Garden Spot 4A 3-5
Middletown 3A 4-4 7th seed; home Big Spring 4A 7-2
Gettysburg 2A 6-3 15th seed; home Twin Valley 5A 6-3
York Catholic 2A 7-0 1st seed; home York Tech 6A 0-8
All are 6A unless marked otherwise, last week’s rank in parenthesis
1 Governor Mifflin 5A 7-0 (1)
For the second time this season Governor Mifflin’s had a game cancelled because of Covid-19. Last Friday’s game with Boone fell by the wayside as did the conference game with Reading October 2nd. If all goes well this final weekend of the regular season they’ll travel to Berks Catholic (6-3, 3-1), the other side of Reading, where a BC win would result in a 3 way tie with Exeter (6-3, 3-1) defeating Boone. Don’t hold your breath. Top rated and defending Single-A state champ Steel High losing to Big Spring last week reminds us anything can happen on any weekend in football. Still, it’s hard seeing any team in any classification beating Governor Mifflin. And that’s why they play the games and have the playoffs. Whatever happens this weekend, Governor Mifflin will have the top seed in the 5A field of 14 and get a bye.
2 Bishop McDevitt 4A 7-1 (3)
McDevitt moved into the two slot on the strength of another overwhelming win, demolishing Red Land 56-14. It was 49-7 at the half. It’s hard seeing a loss in their future with so many weapons. Defensively, they’ve matured into a strong unit allowing 56 points all year, 21 coming against LaSalle where only two scores were by the offense. RL was held to -8 rushing. Freshman quarterback Stone Saunders completed 8 of 12 passes for 202 yards with touchdown passes of 33, 54, and 48 yards. To date, he completed 69% for 1883 yards with 31 touchdown passes and no interceptions. Marquese Williams had 114 yards rushing and 3 touchdowns, bringing his totals to 991 yards and 12 touchdowns. Mario Easterly scored on 33 and 54-yard touchdown passes, finishing with 7 receptions for 121 yards. His season total is 33 receptions for 622 yards and 10 touchdowns. They finish the regular season at home Friday against Hershey (1-8, 1-5). Coming into games of Oct 22-23, they had the 3 seed in the 4A field of 10 in a tight race with #2 Berks Catholic and #1 Lampeter Strasburg for the top spot.
3 Central York 8-0 (2)
Central York finally got a challenge, going on the road to Dallastown where the Wildcats played them hard, down 14-6 at the half and 21-14 into the third quarter. Everyone knows about Penn State recruit Beau Pribula of Central York. But few know about Dtown’s Owen Strouse who completed 15 of 21 for 176 yards with a touchdown to Larry Johnson, another PSU recruit. Ominously, the Wildcats rolled out 252 yards passing and 116 rushing, mirroring Exeter’s big output week-1 in a 35-28 loss to Central York. There may be some cracks but the bottom line shows Central York defeating solid teams/programs like Exeter (6-3) 35-28, Cumberland Valley (4-5) 21-3, Hempfield (5-4) 35-21, Spring Grove (7-1) 48-17 and now Dallastown (5-4) 31-21. York High (7-1, 5-0) is next at Central (8-0, 5-0) Friday. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Central had the top seed in the 6A field of 8 with York at #4 and likely moving up with Central Dauphin losing to CD East.
4 Harrisburg 8-1 (4)
Harrisburg had another good game with State College last weekend. Nothing new about that with these two often locking horns in tight games. State may have come in with some attitude, fighting for a .500 season with a young group and remembering last year’s 41-6 loss. The year before that, SC won 21-6 and again in 2016 35-28. This one proved to be the best of the bunch, going into the fourth quarter tied up at 7 all. Harrisburg took a 15-7 lead on Mehki Hopkins 4-yard score before State put together a scoring drive late in the fourth quarter with quarterback Jack Morris punching it in from the 1-yard line with 6 seconds left. His 2-point conversion attempt fell incomplete with Harrisburg recovering the subsequent onside kick, then running out the clock for a 15-13 win. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Harrisburg had the 2 seed in the 6A field of 8 behind Central York. That’s where they’ll stay with a win at Chambersburg Friday unless York upsets Central York. Although State High is in the MP-Commonwealth, they are in District 6 where they will playoff with Williamsport, Altoona and Mifflin County.
5 Central Dauphin East 7-2 (5)
East combined a strong passing game with a solid ground game to befuddle sister school Central Dauphin 31-14. Tandem Qbs Terrence Jackson-Copney and Tony Powell were essentially unstoppable with Jackson-Copney completing 7 of 12 for 102 yards and Tony Powell good on 6 of 9 for 108 yards. Each had a touchdown toss. Mehki Flowers caught 9 for 84 yards and a score with Tymere Thornton snagging 3 for 80 yards and a score. The ground game was in the good hands of Marcel McDaniels who rushed for 178 yards, taking his season total to 1191 yards. CD was held to 130 rushing. East High finishes out at home against another Commonwealth foe playing Carlisle (6-3, 3-3) Friday. It’ll be a hard fought game with the Herd holding the 9th seed in a field of 8. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, East had the 5th seed.
6 York (William Penn) 7-1 (7)
York won their seventh straight game, routing Northeastern 58-14 to set up a showdown Friday with Central York for the York Adams-Division One title. With Central holding the top 6A seed and York at 4, the game has significant postseason implications. Against Northeastern, the Bearcats stars stood tall with running back Jahiem White rushing for 245 yards and 4 touchdowns and quarterback Sam Stoner completing 11 of 19 passes for 274 yards and 4 touchdowns. Jacquez Simmons had 3 receptions for 105 yards. All 3 were touchdowns. Since losing the opener to Governor Mifflin 55-6, York defeated their last seven opponents by an average score of 55-20. This included road wins at Coatesville 44-39 and Dallastown 36-20. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, York had the 4th seed in the field of 8 but could move up a notch with Central Dauphin losing last week.
7 Central Dauphin 5-2 (6)
After ripping off five straight wins following the season opening loss at Wilson, including narrow wins the last two games against Carlisle 24-21 and Altoona 42-38, the Rams met their match, losing to arch rival Central Dauphin East 31-14. With a D yield of 26ppg, this is clearly not your typical Ram defense. But with a prolific offense averaging 37ppg coming in, their defensive shortcomings were masked. Against East, the defense was exposed, allowing 228 rush yards and 202 passing. East pressured them all night, allowing only 8 completions in 20 attempts by Qb Max Mosey. The ground game was stuffed as well, checked at 130 yards. Up next is another old nemesis in Cumberland Valley, as talented a 4-4 team as you’ll find in the district. This is often a tight game with 4 of the last 5 decided by 6, 1, 6 and 3 points. CV fighting for a .500 season only adds to this battle between East Shore and West Shore powers. Coming into games of Oct 22-23 CD had the 3rd seed in the 6A field of 8.
8 Wyomissing 3A 9-0 (8)
Wyomissing had another dominating win last week defeating Schuylkill Valley (2-7, 1-4) 49-0. They rushed for 292 yards with Drew Eisenhower leading the way on just 4 carries gaining 144 yards and a touchdown. He also had an 84-yard kickoff return. Quarterback Ben Zechman completed 3 of his 6 passes with 2 going for touchdowns of 5 and 12 yards. Schuylkill Valley was held to 75 yards of offense. They conclude the regular season at home against Conrad Weiser (6-2, 4-1). With CW’s high end dual threat quarterback Logan Klitsch heading an offense averaging 41ppg, the Scouts could be a problem. But they have no signature wins, whereas Wyo has that in spades with routs of Pottsville and Southern Columbia. They’ve nailed down the top seed in the 3A field of 8 regardless of Friday’s results.
9 Manheim Central 5A 8-1 (11)
The Barons are rolling now, winning their last 3 games by an average score of 47-7, including shutouts against Elizabethtown 42-0 last week and Conestoga Valley 63-0 the week before, giving them 4 shutouts for the year. They are currently at 3-1 in the LL-2, with Warwick (4-4, 2-1), a game behind Cocalico (6-3, 4-0) who they play Friday in Manheim. About last Friday’s game, Etown was manhandled, 366 total yards to 128, 38 on the ground. Jaden Weit ran for 86 yards on 16 carries with Qb Judd Novak gaining 44 rushing and throwing for 166. Owen Sensenig had 6 receptions for 92 yards. Cocalico might want to take this one off after beating MC last year 35-19. But, you’ve got to give them credit reversing a 2-3 start and winning their last 4 games, including last week’s upset of Warwick 27-21. Coming into games of Oct 22-23 the Barons had the 3rd seed in the 5A field of 14.
10 Manheim Township 6-3 (13)
Here’s another young group that is well regarded with 3 point losses to Dallastown, Harrisburg and Hempfield preventing them being 9-0. Look out next year, districts and beyond. Soph Qb Hayden Johnson was again making throws with 11 completions to 8 receivers going for 202 yards and 4 touchdowns. The ground effort featured a committee of 6 with Isaiah Jones leading the way on 11 carries for 67 yards. Together they had 235 on 34 carries. The win keeps them a game behind Wilson (6-3, 4-0) at 3-1. That’s where they play Friday against their big rival to decide the LL-1 and postseason issues. With Township holding the 7th seed and Wilson the 8th, this could be a play-in game with Carlisle nipping at their heels but tangling with CD East.
11 Exeter Township 5A 6-3 (14)
Exeter’s Eagles exploded all over Reading, scoring five times in the first quarter on the way to an easy 49-6 rout of the Knights. Leading back Eric Nangle scored on the first possession (64 yards) and again on their second possession (15 yards) ending the game with 3 carries for 80 yards. In between those scores DE Lucas Palange (6-2, 215) blocked a punt and returned it 10 yards for a score. The defense partied hard in this one with a fumble caused by defensive tackle Joey Reedy (6-4, 215) resulting in a 1-yard plunge by fullback/middle linebacker Ty Yocum (6-1, 220) moments later. This was followed by linebacker J.R. Strauss getting an 18 yard Pick 6. Nice work by the D! Phil Garretson and Cabraun Woody were also integral to the offense, Garretson getting a 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter and Cabraun Woody leading all runners with 68 yards and a score. The regular season comes to a close against Boone (5-3, 2-1, 5A) who currently hold the 10th seed. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Exeter had the 8th seed in the 5A field of 14.
12 Wilson 6-3 (15)
Surging Wilson won their fourth straight to remain atop the LL-1 at 4-0, a game ahead of Township (6-3, 3-1) who they play Friday at Wilson. Last week’s win was significant, defeating Hempfield in Landisville 28-21. That’s Wilson’s first signature road win of the season, coming against the team that beat Manheim Township the week before. With fullback Jadyn Jones now healthy, they are a different team. Jones dented the Black Knights for 140 yards and 2 scores after rushing for 175 the week before. Also contributing to the ground attack was quarterback Brad Hoffman who completed 5 of 8 passes for 50 yards while rushing for 132 yards on 17 carries. The week before saw him completed 6 of 11 passes for 56 yards, rushing for 195 yards on 14 carries. Shades of last year’s quarterback Kaleb Brown! This one was a battle royale, with the score knotted at 21 all with 3 minutes left in the game. No worries with Wilson going on a 78-yard drive, scoring in the final 3:18 of the game, then breaking up a Hail Mary in the end zone to seal it. Coming into last week’s games, Wilson had the 8th seed in the 6A field of 8.
13 Hempfield 5-4 (12)
Hempfield battled long and hard as they’ve done all year but came up short again, losing at home to Wilson 28-21. See the Wilson write up above. Cam Harbaugh was sharp enough completing 15 of 27 passes for 281 yards. But you need a running game battling the big boys in any district and that’s where they’re lacking this year, mustering a paltry 25 yards on 21 attempts. Wilson’s D came to play! Too bad this group couldn’t parlay a running game with Cam Harbaugh’s skills. On the year he’s at 57% for 1564 yards with a 12/3 ratio. He’s also their leading rusher with 575 yards and 6 more touchdowns. Penn Manor (5-4, 1-3) is up next. Hempfield is still in the postseason hunt coming into the Wilson game with the 6th seed in the 6A field of 8 meaning they can’t slip up at Penn Manor.
14 Warwick 5A 4-4 (10)
Warwick had no answer for Cocalico’s Anthony Bourasso who ran at will, amassing 332 yards rushing in a key 27-21 win for the Eagles, a win that put them in sole possession of the LL-2 at 3-0. Warwick’s rush defense failed abysmally knowing the Eagles were an option offense. They attempted only two passes here while rushing for 395 yards. Warwick’s Jack Reed completed 15 of 28 passes for 202 yards with a touchdown and a pick. Christian Royer rushed for 110 yards while Cooper Eckert had 9 receptions for 142 yards. So the offense while not overwhelming was sufficient. The defense failed as it has at times this year allowing 27ppg coming into the game. That’s bad news taking on an option offense on the road featuring Anthony Bourasso’s 1725 rush yards. Conestoga Valley (3-6) is next at CV. Warwick is still a player in the postseason with the 6th seed in the 5A field of 14.
15 Cedar Cliff 5A 7-2 (16)
In a back and forth affair featuring two of the better running backs in the district, Cedar Cliff got their seventh win of the season defeating Milton Hershey 45-33. The Colts are having a good year knowing they lost key parts to graduation. The young quarterback, junior Ethan Dorrell (5-11, 170) has thrown for 1222 yards at 56% with a 13 to 5 ratio. He was 9 of 18 for 124 yards in this one. Jontae Morris rushed for 332 yards..!..taking his season total to 1484 yards. Wide out Trenten Smith rushed for 70 yards with 47 receiving. Milton Hershey’s Dion Bryant had 262 yards rushing; 1452 for year. Too bad MH doesn’t have more. The Colts move on to the regular season final at Mifflin County (0-9) where they will likely enhance or further secure the 7th seed currently held in the 5A field of 14.
16 Berks Catholic 4A 6-3 (17)
Berks Catholic ran out to a 28-0 half time lead on the way to an easy 42-6 win against winless Muhlenberg who dropped to 0-9. They had the Wing-T purring, rushing for 404 yards against a defense allowing 42ppg. Christian Cacchione had 125 yards on 8 carries while Josiah Jordan added 132 yards on 6 carries. They retained its position in the Berks-1 at 3-1, tied with Exeter. It’s always good getting another win under your belt with Governor Mifflin (7-0, 2-0) up next. The game is in Shillington on the South side where the Mustangs are probably chomping at the bit not having played since Oct 15th per a Covid-19 cancellation of the game with Boone. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, BC had the 2 seed in the 4A field of 10.
17 Steelton Highspire 1A 7-1 (9)
In a strange game that made no sense, Steel High fell behind in Newville to Big Spring at the very start and never recovered, going into the half down 23-7. They had 5 turnovers that stopped them throughout which seemed to influence and dishearten them looking at video. Their defense was non-existent, allowing the Bulldogs 295 yard rushing….?....with Dillon Wakefield (5-11, 215, sr) plowing over and through defenders for 152 yards and 3 touchdowns. Everyone got in on the fun with Logan Schmidt rushing for 88 yards and Eli Hasco getting 45. Qb Ethan Eisenberg completed 9 of 16 passes for 140 yards and 3 touchdowns. He also rushed for a score as the Bulldogs took down the defending 1A state champ, ending their 17 game winning streak with a stunning 49-14 win. Stunning! The win puts Big Spring at 3-1 in the Mid Penn-Capital, tied with Steel High, a game behind Boiling Springs (8-1, 4-0). Big Spring moves on to play Middletown (4-4, 2-2), while the Rollers try to recover against first place Boiling Springs (8-1, 4-0), a team that beat Big Spring three weeks ago 44-28. Steelton will be the top seed in the 1A field of 2 regardless of future game results.
18 Spring Grove 5A 7-1 18)
How about these Rockets winning their seventh straight game of the year? The run includes wins at Waynesboro (7-2) 25-20, at Northern (6-2) 39-7 and the surprising win at Dallastown two weeks ago, 28-21. With Spring Grove, you’re talking about a program that had three winning seasons the previous ten years, recording a 35-64 record. The difference this year is a running game, fueled by one of the top back in the district in Zyree Brooks. He was unstoppable last week against Red Lion, rushing for 248 yards on 17 carries, scoring on runs of 23, 24, 71 and 34 yards, taking his season total to 1586 yards. They are also playing decent defense in an offense oriented league (York Adams), allowing 17ppg. Minus the 48 allowed to Central York, they’re allowing 14ppg. That’s good stuff and has a lot to do with those road wins mentioned above. They’re at South Western in the season finale Friday looking to reach their highest win total since 2012 (8-4) and maintain or improve their 4th seed in the 5A field of 14.
19 Shippensburg 5A 9-0 (19)
Shippensburg is one of the best kept secrets in the state, going 115-47 (71%) from 2007 through last week’s game. They’re at it again this year doing a good job replacing 3-year starting quarterback Eric Manning who threw for 1835 yards in a ground oriented offense. The new starter, Junior Tucker Chamberlin has thrown for 930 yards at 58%, well supported by running backs Amari Kerr, Traevon Kater Nathan Bean and Diesel Koser. Kater had 88 yards last week on 11 carries while Kerr finished with 92 on 12 carries in a 21-6 win against East Pennsboro. The win puts them at 6-0 atop the Mid Penn-Colonial, ahead of Waynesboro (7-2, 5-1) and Northern (6-2, 4-1). The defense that returned good numbers from last season is headed by Minnesota recruit DE Anthony Smith (6-7, 275). This year they’ve allowed 9ppg, making them a tough nut to crack with their ground game. They end the regular season at home against Greencastle-Antrim (4-5, 2-4) where they currently hold the 2nd seed in the 5A field of 14.
20 Lampeter Strasburg 4A 8-1 (20)
The Pioneers won their eighth game powering over Ephrata 68-7. These guys are cranking it now, scoring 42, 42, 55, 50 and 63 points the last 5 games, winning by an average score of 41-7! They’re a run centric team that will zing it as necessary with Berkeley Wagner completing 67 passes at 55% for 1122 yards. He has a 12-6 Td/Pick ratio. At 620 rush yards with 6 more touchdowns, he is their leading rusher with great support by Giovanni Malatesta at 472 yards and Jonathan Mellinger at 312 for the season. Each have 7 rushing scores. They had a field day against Ephrata, rushing for 384 yards with QB Wagner at 74yards, Malatesta at 73 and Payton Cunningham at 60 yards. 9 running backs had carries. The defense played shutdown football holding Ephrata to 77 total yards. Their lead back Andre Weidman who came in with 1223 rush yards was held to 24. Barring a major upset by Lebanon (0-9) Friday, LS will lock down another LL-3 title and enter the post season as the top seed in the 4A field of 10.
21 Dallastown 5-4
They’re fading fast losing 3 of the last 4 including last week’s 31-21 loss to Central York. Will finish at Red Lion (5A 2-6) Friday who is not seeded. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Dtown had the 10th seed in the 6A field of 8.
22 Cocalico 4A 6-3
Nice bounce by Cocalico winning their last 4 after a 2-3 start. But they finish at 8-1 Manheim Central who has played well all year barring the home loss to Warwick. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Cocalico had the 4th seed in the 4A field of 10.
23 Cumberland Valley 4-5
Cumberland Valley has been a tough out except for Manheim Central and Harrisburg where they were simply outmanned. But they’re getting there with close call losses to Central York, CD East and State College. They’re home to Central Dauphin and could pull the upset. Been that kind of year. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, CV had the 12th seed in the 6A field of 8.
24 Carlisle 6-3
Three point losses to Cumberland Valley and Central Dauphin keep them from 8-1. Have a tough one at 7-2 CD East Friday but maybe they catch them coming down from the Central Dauphin game. East is more but it could get dicey. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Carlisle had the 9 seed in the 6A field of 8.
25 Kennard Dale 4A 8-1
The Rams are on an 8 game winning streak after the season opening loss to Octorara (7-2, 4A) 18-16. They close out at Eastern York (4A 2-7) where they can name it. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, KD had the 7th seed in the 4A field of 10.
26 Conrad Weiser 5A 7-2
Won four straight since the ot loss to Twin Valley (5A, 6-3). Tough closer at top seeded Wyomissing (3A 9-0). Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Weiser had the 5th seed in the 5A field of 14
27 Boiling Springs 3A 8-1
The Bubblers should be undefeated but for a short notice covid replacement game at Mechanicsburg (5A, 5-4) where they lost 39-34. They close at 1A top seed Steel High where the Rollers will be in rare form after getting upset by Big Spring last week. Still, the Bubblers are a mean group. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, they had the 2nd seed in the 3A field of 8.
28 Big Spring 4A 7-2
Monster win last week upsetting Steelton Highspire after previous losses to Shippensburg 34-14 and Boiling Springs 44-28. Better hadn’t ease up too much at Middletown (3A 4-4) who had the 7th seed in a field of 8 last week. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Big Spring had the 8 seed in the field of 10.
29 Northern York 4A 6-2
Tough bunch here who always fight you tooth and nail, all the way back when I was in school. Tagged Susquehanna Twp last week 35-0 and are home for another war with Waynesboro (5A 7-2 5th seed) Friday in Dillsburg. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, the Polar Bears had the 6th seed in the 4A field of 10
30 Waynesboro 5A 7-2
Won their last 4 including 21-20 last week against Mechanicsburg in prep for annual battle at Northern Friday. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, Waynesboro had the 5th seed in the 5A field of 14
TIE
Upper Dauphin 2A 7-1
The Trojans have been taking care of business blasting a dangerous Fleetwood (5-4) team last week 46-29 at Fleetwood. Only loss is to Juniata (4A, 7-2) from District-6. Look for a big win Friday against Newport (2A, 2-6), launching them into the postseason on a 7 game winning streak. Coming into games of Oct 22-23, UDA had the 3rd seed in the 2A field of 4.
Others:
Octorara 4A 7-2 10th seed; at Northern Lebanon 3A 4-5
Columbia 2A 7-1 2nd seed; home Pequea Valley 3A 1-7
Donegal 4A 6-2 9th seed; home Garden Spot 4A 3-5
Middletown 3A 4-4 7th seed; home Big Spring 4A 7-2
Gettysburg 2A 6-3 15th seed; home Twin Valley 5A 6-3
York Catholic 2A 7-0 1st seed; home York Tech 6A 0-8
