Top Season Openers across the Commonwealth (All Districts)
No time for more detail so here are some of the interesting games for Aug 28th featuring a range of competitive games, power teams, rivalries and ranked teams. All games are in the district that is home unless otherwise mentioned. Thought it’d be interesting to look at a few (40 some) of the teams from all twelve districts including smaller classifications. Couldn’t do entire state in depth so here’s some quick hits to enjoy. Apologies ahead of time for typos and hopefully no schedule changes.
District 1
Garnet Valley 6A 6-0 at Downingtown West 6A 2-3
What a great way to kick off the season with two of the premier teams in the western burbs lining up for what could be a preview of the district final. Both return good numbers that suggest they are at least on paper as good as anyone in the district. G-Val scored 49ppg last year….!....and allowed just 9. Dtown was decent at 26ppg with a strong defense allowing 13. Hard imaging these two in a defensive struggle but it could happen. Still sticking with April’s District-1 Top 10 post calling for North Penn (who said dahhh?), but these two look mighty good along with Coatesville as always.
Coatesville 6A 4-1 at Central Bucks West 6A 2-4
Coatesville established itself as a perennial power team while CB West hopes to reclaim lost glory with a team that seems headed in the right direction despite having their 5th losing season in the last 7 years. Both teams are young and talented with the Raiders probably in a better position (program wise) to pull off a tough road win, especially if West has not addressed last year’s defensive woes that allowed 30 points per game. Coatesville scored 30ppg despite their youth and only allowed 16. The Bucks will also have to improve on an offense that averaged 22ppg especially if the defense hasn’t tightened up just to keep up with Coatesville’s speedy group.
Archbishop Wood 6A 3-4 at Neshaminy 6A 5-1
This looks like a tall order for the Tribe tackling powerful Archbishop Wood especially with Wood coming off their first losing season in the last 18 years! I thought the Skins wasted a good team last year, disappearing against Pennridge in a 30-0 loss….at home? And Wood had that losing season in part because of a last minute contingency game with a better than advertised Bonner-Prendie team (4-0!), losing 38-25. This looks like a tough spot for Neshaminy but the 4-0 finish should give them some juice here in the opener.
Downingtown East 6A 2-3 at Pennridge 6A 7-1
Downingtown East lost a solid back in Stanley Bryant, but return Qb Jamy Jenkins (6-0, 175, jr), their top receiver Mike Giordano and running backs Josh Asante, Brayden McClain and Bo Horvat. Bryant’s injuries (missed Avon Grove and Coatesville) allowed others to get valuable playing time. Also back are TE/DE George Bousum (6-4, 240, jr) and OL Kyle Kacmar (6-7, 295, jr), giving them 6 full time starters back. They are loaded defensively, returning the entire line backing corps, two DBs, DE Bousum and DT Dante DAddezo (6-1, 240). Across the field, Pennridge’s strength should be a defense that returns two impressive LBs in Phil Picciotti (6-3, 230) and Logan McGowan (6-0, 200), plus OL/DLs Stephen Reutlinger (6-3, 270) and Danny Fish (6-2, 270). Many others got playing time including Brayden Landheer (5-10, 185) and Tyler Wetzel (5-10, 175, jr) in the secondary. They graduated the Qb (47%, 701, 5/6 ratio), four of their leading running backs and two of the leading receivers. Hard figuring but they averaged 29ppg against a representative schedule where they went 4-1 against Neshaminy, Abington, Coatesville, Souderton and Quakertown who had a combined record of 24-8. How did they lose to Souderton 31-17? Should be one interesting game.
Souderton 6A 7-1 at North Penn 6A 4-1
Continental champ Souderton (5-0) and co-National champ North Penn (4-1 with Skins) face off in a good one pitting the Knights explosive offense (42ppg) that looks like the best in the district against Souderton’s defense. NP returns Qb Ryan Zeltt (6-3, 185, jr, 34/62, 650, 9Tds, 55%, couldn’t find Pennsbury stats), Rb Khalani Eaton (5-11, 210, sr. 1038ry, 14 Tds) and wide out Levi Carroll (6-3, 195, sr.). From April Preseason Top 10: Souderton has good numbers returning, especially LBs Nick Curroto (5-11, 195, sr, 2nd Team OL/LB), Luke Pollack (5-11, 205, sr, 1st Team), CBs Shaun Purvy (5-10, 155, sr, 1st Team) and Elijah Goods (5-9, 150, sr, 2nd Team). The D should improve from last year’s that allowed 19ppg while defeating Qtown 28-23, Upper Dublin 28-7 at home and both Spring Ford 27-24 and Pennridge 31-17 on the road. That is….if they get reasonable production from the quarterback position. The D played well against quality. Lineman Adam Alfonsi (6-1, 265, sr) and Gabe Epps (6-3, 230, sr, 1st Team) are back. Most of the skill returns in RB Brayden Porter (612ry, 1st Team), WRs Shaun Purvy (283py), Bob Kyle (195py, 2nd Team), Sean McGoldrick (101ry, 53py) and OL Sean Barrera (5-7, 230). Tough road opener but Souderton is no slouch.
District 2
Delaware Valley 6A 5-2 vs Gateway 56A 5-1
Delaware Valley and Gateway scheduled a game at the 11th hour (8/23), to be played at Bald Eagle High School (Dist-6) just off I-80, 12 above State College. DV was a nice team last year losing to LaSalle 27-23 and Central York 49-27. They had a big offense scoring 35ppg and a defense that got them to 5 wins allowing 23ppg. Most of the point producers have graduated, leaving them with four linemen and a wide out. Defensively they return 5; 2 DLs, 2 LBs and a defensive back.
Gateway’s big news is Jeannette transfer Qb Brad Birch (1678, 28Tds, soph) and his brother senior Brett Birch (47 for 672 yards) at wide out. That will likely be a lethal compo again! They had whole sale grad losses but return key people at Center Baron Vowler (5-9, 240), OG Hunter Dow and another transfer in Matt Brooks (6-2, 275, C-Mac), I believe at tackle. Rb Derek Davis (754) is back and last year’s starting Qb Carsen Engleka (1054) who will play somewhere. Shaky info but believe it’s Aiden Smith (6-0, 185, sr) back at linebacker and Demetrius Harper. Chris Norton (6-1, 285) will also play on the lines (DT?). Dow, Brooks and Vowler likely translate to the DL. Once they figure each other out, Gateway has the tools to open things up in the 2nd half for a comfortable win.
Valley View 4A 3-2 at Dallas 4A 4-4
Solid District-2 quads that don’t play that often with Valley (44-14 last 5) in the Lackawanna Conference and Dallas (39-20) in the Wyoming Valley. Dallas’s 15-1 group in 2019 slugged them 29-7 then Imhotep 43-36 and Jersey Shore 56-28 before falling to TJ 46-7. Valley’s best was 2018 at 13-1 losing to Imhotep in the quarters 37-9. Valley has big returns and a monster OL (265, 260, 245, 235, 285) plus a 6-5 225 pound Qb in Adam Howanitz. Dallas is looking for a Qb but has a lot of bodies back and a veteran D-front with 2 Dbs. Should be a good one.
Wyoming Area 3A 5-3 at Hazleton 6A 4-3
WA is two years removed from a state title in 2019 beating Central Valley 21-14 with a 14-1 squad. They move up from the Wyoming Valley-2 Conference to the 1 to play a Hazleton team that showed a pulse going 4-3 last year. That’s progress with 3 non losing seasons the last 4 years after 7 straight losing seasons. Wyoming’s Spartans are always ready to play especially the last 5 years going 43-15. They return most of last year’s squad minus the quarterback, while Hazleton returns good skill but will have to rebuild the lines and find a quarterback. Coach Dennis Buchman enters his 2nd year as head coach.
Dunmore 2A 3-3 at Western Wayne 3A 5-1
Western Wayne (Lackawanna-2) will again be tough with most of last year’s team back that tied Valley View and Scranton Prep for the Lackawanna-2. That’s saying something! Coach Randy Wolff (33-19, 6th year) has turned the program around. Big returnees are Qb, Rb, athlete Caden Brungard (6-2, 185, Army) and TE Thomas Chernasky (6-5, 240, Delaware). Four return to the O-Line. D-2 perennial power Double-A Dunmore (LFC-3) will test them (47-14 last 5) with a lot back on D but missing power back Christian Buckley (132/1058, 6 games).
District 3
LaSalle 6A 5-1 at Bishop McDevitt 4A 6-0
McDevitt may be a 4A but can hold their own against any 6As in the state this year excepting St. Joseph’s Prep….maybe. But first they have to get past a solid LaSalle team while breaking in a freshman quarterback. LaSalle showed their stuff last year against Township in a tight 35-28 win. Sam Brown got loose for 4 Tds and 163 yards and returns for his senior year. This is a good measuring stick with much expected from both teams this season. After this one we’ll at least have a clue if LaSalle can challenge St. Joe’s and if McDevitt is ready for a deep run in the postseason.
Central Dauphin 6A 5-1 at Wilson 6A 6-1
This one pits two of the most successful teams in the state in a fierce district rivalry with CD at 98-27 and the Bulldogs at 105-21 the last 10 years. CD is reloading their skill except for Qb Max Mosey (990, 63%) while Wilson will likely rely on their great senior back Jadyn Jones (6-0, 220, 75/519). Wilson has some good stuff coming up making this a real tough one for the Rams to pull off. Both will be pumped with CD coming in off the Central York thrashing in the playoffs and Wilson feeling they were snubbed by the district playoff committee when not selected to replace Harrisburg (covid), allowing York to move to the final without playing a game.
Governor Mifflin 5A 8-1 at York 6A 7-1
The Mustangs still look like the best team in the district despite some real grad losses. We’ll find out Friday night when they face a loaded York team looking to make a statement….in York. Mifflin has the top back in the state in Nicholas Singleton (1303 in 9 games) while York also has a largely unheralded back in Jahiem White (5-9, 190) who rushed for 1332 yards….in 8 games! This one could be in the 50’s!
Central York 6A 10-1 at Exeter Township 5A 6-2
Central York won the 6A Silver Medal last year and is looking for more of the same with Qb Beau Pribula back; stats: 139-197-71%-1994yds, 33/5 ratio, 81 rush atps-556 yds. Exeter has a pile of bodies returning and a new Qb in Colin Payne who got time last year. They’re loaded and come in hot winning their last three games. Heck of a statement if Exeter takes this one.
CD East 6A 0-6 at Manheim Township 6A 5-2
With Middletown Qb transfer Tony Powell teaming with Steelton HIghspire’s transfer Mehki Flowers combining with 6-5 receiver Tymere Thornton, East could surprise many teams with their explosiveness. The opener against Township who also has their usual talent base headed by receiver Anthony Ivey (5-11, 180, 23-546p, 8 TDs, jr) returning for his senior year will prove to be a difficult test.
Conrad Weiser 4A 6-1 at Cocalico 4A 4-4
Weiser has one of the quieter success stories in the district in Qb Logan Klitsch, finishing with impressive stats at 83/140/1336/59%, Td-Pick ratio 15/3, and rushing for 428 and 10 Tds on 69 carries. And how about the Scouts having just one losing season in the last fourteen! Cocalico returns all four backs to their Flex bone; Anthony Bourassa (90/753ry), Steven Flinton (58/468ry, 14/353py), Brysen Flinton (14/201ry) and Austin Vang (16/77ry) plus South Carolina commit Ryan Brubaker (6-6, 285, sr) making them a tough test at home for the Scouts.
District 4
Berwick 4-1 1-5 at Southern Columbia 2A 12-0
It’s probably a good idea to run for cover anytime you see Berwick coming off a losing season such as this year after going 1-5, their first losing season in 14 years. Problem is the opponent is Southern Columbia whose coming off their fourth straight undefeated season (60-0) and fourth 2A state title in the last six years. That’s a tough road opener! But the Dawgs look loaded with QB Ben Knorr, his C, OT and TE plus entire secondary, DLs and DEs. Southern looks loaded offensively with all their backfield (Qb, Rb, Rb, Fb) and 8 total on that side. The D was thinned by graduation with 3 returning. Last year’s defense allowed 11ppg with a monster O averaging 50ppg. Look out Dawgs.
North Schuylkill 3A 8-0 at Mount Carmel 2A 2-4
The Spartans are loaded for bear again this year after going 8-0 and returning most of last year’s offense (44ppg) and defense (16ppg). Jake Hall threw for 1784 yards, Josh Cjowansky rushed for 1260 yards while their #1 and #2 receivers combined for 374 yards on 28 receptions. The O-Line averages 6-1, 267, D-Line 6.5, 290. MCA (2-4) lost most of their skill but return their Qb and a defense that played two 8th graders, two freshmen and two sophomores! North Schuylkill looks ready for a serious run at districts and beyond with this group. Caution: they’ve been eliminated in the postseason by 20 points or better in four of the last five seasons by Tamaqua once and Notre Dame on three occasions.
Bellefonte 4A 3-4 at Jersey Shore 4A 10-1
The Red Raiders are from the rugged District-6 that has some of the better smaller schools in the state. Teams like Bishop Guilfoyle, Bellwood Antis, Central in Martinsburg, Forest Hills, Richland Township and Tyrone. Bellefonte’s coming off a 4 year 31-13 run to face severe grad losses this season. But they do return Jamal Saunders (5-11, 190, jr) who motored for 516 yards in 7 games. They’ll need him and more against Jersey Shore’s quick defense that returns 8 starters or co-starters. Their big loss is on offense where Qb Branden Wheary graduated with his 2026 yards and 24/2 ratio and wide out Owen Andersen’s 717 yards. But two solid backs in Hayden Packer (48/197, #1 tackler at 82), Brady Jordan (45/326) plus Camden Hess who led the team in receptions at 921 yards returns. Bellefonte doesn’t have enough speed to keep up with JS who lost in last year’s 4A final to Thomas Jefferson 21-14 in the final seconds.
Wellsboro 2A 3-3 at Montoursville 3A 8-1
Wellsboro has it together with nine non-losing seasons and a 69-17 won-loss the last 8 years. Who’d ah thunk it!? So the Hornets have some sting to them and likely again this year with six back on both sides. Mountoursville is a another D4 powerhouse going 42-17 the last 5 years. If they can get/keep Rb Rocco Pulizzi (5-11, 195) healthy to team with Qb Maddix Darlena and wide out Isaiah Fenner, they’ll wreak havoc again in the Heartland-2 and roll over Wellsboro in the opener.
District 5
Central 3A 8-1 at Chestnut Ridge 3A 7-3
The Scarlet Dragons were cruising until losing to Bedford in the 5/6/9 3A final 28-13. But things are looking even better this year in Martinsburg with the return of 9 players to both sides of the ball including the quarterback. Chestnut Ridge (5 straight District 5 titles) looks like they’ll compete again despite losing QB Logan Pfister who passed for 1554 yards and rushed for another 784. At 30ppg the offense wasn’t that prolific considering Pfister’s numbers. Freshman Qb Nate Whysong (6-1, 180) played in all games. And a lot of their skill returns plus almost all of the defense that should improve from 22ppg returns. They’re led by linebackers Daniel Moore, Luke Moore and Trevor Weyandt who had 96, 80 and 82 tackles respectively.
Berlin Brothersvalley 2A 8-1 at Meyersdale 2A 2-7
The Mountaineers are one of the top 2As in central PA (Somerset County) with a stellar won-loss of 95-25 over the last 10 years. They were smoking people by an average score of 46-6 (!) through the first 8 games until losing to Chestnut Ridge 21-17, blowing a 14-point 2nd quarter lead. They’re looking real thin this year with but 2 starters back on offense and 5 to the defense. But that 79% winning percentage saying they know how to reload. Meyersdale is looking to bounce back from a disappointing season after going 9-2 in 2019 and 51-35 since 2013 with almost a complete roster return for 2021. Big revenge factor with Berlin winning last year 48-7.
Southern Huntington 2A 5-0 at Northern Bedford 1A 7-2
Southern’s Rockets look like they’ll keep the streak going (had a forfeit loss) with 7 starters back on both sides of the ball that averaged 30ppg and allowed 10. Coach Betzel says they have good team speed. And with three winning seasons the last four years, they’re getting there at 24-13. Had four starting sophomores and freshman last year who should be more instinctive with a year behind them. They’ll need that at Northern Bedford who returns their entire O-Line and front seven on D. NB had a nice group last year losing to Bellwood Antis and Redbank Valley. No shame there and probably no improvement graduating all their skill people; Qb Thad Leidy (1440, 58%), top 2 running backs and 3 leading receivers. The D that is veteran will have to carry them and then some to approach the lofty #10 ranking giving them by a leading service!?
Bedford 3A 10-1 at Central Cambria 2A 4-3
Didn’t look like anyone was going to stop Bedford last year, reeling off ten straight before getting handled by Central Valley’s great team and ultimate state champ 49-20. The only team to hang with them was Double-A power Richland Twp (8-2, 27-20) who went on to lose to Southern Columbia in the quarterfinals 57-30. Qb Mercury Swaim (6-1, 195, 4-year starter) is back after a record setting season completing 58% for 1578 yards and rushing for 1141. Impressive kid! His principal running backs and receivers graduated but 7 starters/co-starters return to the D. Central Cambria is usually way down in the rankings going 14-46 (2014-2019) before last year’s 4-3 “breakout” season. Ian Little is back at quarterback (55%, 920) with Hobbs Dill (694ry) and some good ones on the DL in DE Reece Werner (6-3, 250) and DTs Tyler Sheldon (6-3, 290) and Isaac Belloma (5-10, 260).
District 6
Altoona 6A 4-3 at Hollidaysburg 5A 4-3
Lions had their first winning season since 2014 and only their second since 2007. Quite a drought for one of the former powers of the state. They surprised many last year winning District-6 by beating State College 22-21. With the graduation of QB Marcus Day (500py, 500ry) and most of the offense, the D will have to carry them early where 8 return. Hollidaysburg’s slate was wiped cleaner than Altoona’s with graduations losing most of their skill people and defense. But it will still be a good opener before a LARGE crowd when these two rivals get together post covid….we hope!
Tyrone 3A 6-2 at Bellwood Antis 2A 7-1
Tyrone had what looked like a special team last year rolling over teams until losing to Central 17-14 at Mansion Park in the playoffs and Bellwood Antis 29-16 in the annual Backyard Brawl. Winner gets the Brawl Trophy. Got to love it! These two rivals always open against each other, last year being different per Covid. Makes it all the more interesting having just played each other at the end of 2020. Tyrone graduates a good Qb in Brandon Lucas (1378py, 371ry) and their top rusher (502) and receiver (981). Three return to both sides. BA returns their quarterback Zach Pelligrine but lose Zack Mallon (1150ry). The D returns most of last year’s key players. Coach is high on the sophomore class.
Somerset 3A 2-5 at Richland Township 2A 8-2
Somerset tried running the triple option with little success averaging 19ppg but should improve on that in year #2. They were way too young last year playing an inordinate number of sophomores. But, they’re all back including the QB and their two leading running backs. The defense returns 10. Richland looks like they have a title team with a strong Qb in Kellan Stahl (55%, 1496), and all their leading running backs and receivers back. The defense returns a DL, 2 LBs and the entire secondary. Last year’s team lost in the quarterfinals to Southern Columbia 57-30, and look like they could make another deep run this year.
Bishop McCort 1A 1-7 at Forest Hills 2A 4-4
Bishop McCort combined with Bishop Carroll this year for a Catholic school co-op you’re seeing more and more of with numbers down at many schools, population shifts, etc. They’ve fallen off the last few after awesome teams in 16-17 that went 10-3 but couldn’t get past powerful Ligonier Valley. The Crimson Crushers use to live up to their name and may again with 5 starters returning on both sides including the Qb, 2 OLs and 2 WRs….plus a DL, 3 LBs and one to the secondary. Forest Hills looks to improve on .500 with everyone back except the quarterback (43%, 911, 7/8 ratio). They were pedestrian at 21ppg and porous on defense allowing 38ppg. So there is a ways to go yet! But it’s Forest Hills where they’re used to success with coach Justin Myers replacing legend Don Bailey (375-120-8 since 1974!) as only the 3rd coach in the history of Forest Hills High School. Myers is the Golden Tornadoes' all-time leading passer with 8,446 yards and their all-time leader in TD passes with 79. Look out Southern Columbia!?
District 7
Harrisburg 6A 4-0 at Pine Richland 5A 11-0
While Harrisburg rebuilds most its entire team, Pine Richland rebuilds a program with an entirely new coaching staff. Harrisburg will put a huge line out there and likely try to batter the Rams the entire game (new Qb) while showing some interesting looks with a veteran line backing corps behind a stout line. Offensively, they are a mystery much as Pine Richland is rather than doing guess work here. One thing is certain, if they come out of the game healthy, both will know a lot more about themselves and be better able to charter a course for the season, making it a very important game, win or lose, for both teams.
Imhotep 5A at Pittsburgh Central Catholic 6A 6-2
Imhotep comes in as possibly the top team in the state to show what they can do after a year’s layoff. Central Catholic has talent to match them spread throughout the lineup as always and returns a top lineman in Donovan Hinnish plus Qb Payton Wehner. Also got a key transfer in at WR. Like the game above, a lot of questions will be answered after this one.
Sto-Rox 2A 8-2 at Jeannette 1A 10-2
Sto Rox looks absolutely loaded with Qb Josh Jenkins (68 of 109 for 1,251 yards) back and receiver Jaymont Green-Miller (27 catches for 579 yards) and many starters while Jeannette has been staggered with grad losses and transfers. Numbers? Next man up only works so long!
Allderdice 6A 4-3 at North Allegheny 6A 6-1
Dragons are trying to make a move scheduling Steubenville OH, Altoona, Kiski and now NA! Probably overreached as did with Steubenville but, no pain no gain! Good year to jump NA graduating their Qb most of their LBs and a pile of lineman. But, with a 97-21 10-year record and 43-11 the last 5, whose worried about the Tigers replacing losses?
District 8
Westinghouse 2A 7-0 at Imani Academy 1A 2-5
There’s a major upgrade going on at Westinghouse at 7-0 last year and 8-4 the year before while Imani Christian Academy has gone south, from a program that was beating Clairton and losing to Jeannette’s state championhip team in 2017 (ICA went 11-3) 35-34 to a team winning 2 games the last two years.
Brashear 5A 2-4 at St. Vincent Pallotti-Md 2-1
The Bulls have struggled going 14-28 the last five years in a district that is now dominated by Westinghouse and Allderdice. But they return 9 to both sides so let’s see what they do. Pallotti’s Panthers of the MIAA are WAY out of bounds for the Bulls winning the conference in 14, 16 and 19 (47-26 last 6) against a far tougher slate in the MIAA; Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Asso.
District 9
Karns City 2A 6-3 at Girard 3A 2-4
The Gremlins return a deep team that could make a run this year off of last year’s young team. They aren’t what they use to be going 53-13 from 2011 to 2015 but still field competitive teams at 35-22 the last 5 years. Super young last year with 3 soph starters at the skill positions including Qb. Half the D is back. Coach says Girard will have a good line and good team speed. And with 1, 4, 7 and 7 point losses, they were more than last year’s 2-6 record and an upset waiting to happen if KC’s young bunch doesn’t bring it. It’s enough of a hike at 2 hours for some stiff legs!
Redbank Valley 1A 2-4 at Keystone 1A 4-2
Redbank returns a bunch led by junior Qb Cam Wagner (409, 57%) and Gunner Morgianti (494, 55%), their top 2 receivers and 8 to the D; two that were freshman and two that were sophomores last year. With a line coming in at 6-1 262, they’ll do damage with any team speed. And because Redbank is also in D9 South Small School Division, Keystone has to go through them to get anywhere. That was a no-go last year losing 26-0 and looks like a difficult one again this year.
District 10
Erie 6A 1-5 at Cathedral Prep 5A 7-3
Erie has a new coach in Andre Henderson (former DC) and Farrell Qb transfer Denzel Driver (shown as receiver last year, not starter) and a solid nucleus back while Cathedral returns most of last year’s young team that got to the 5A final from a weak field, losing to Pine Richland 48-7. Michael Parks (938ry) is back with a new Qb tho replacing Tamar Sample (6-3, 215, 43%, 674py, 441ry) shouldn’t be insurmountable at ECP.
Ursuline-OH 7-3 at Hickory 3A 9-1
Hickory won their 7th District-10 championship in the last 10 years but graduated their outstanding Qb Michael Henwood (2133py, 945ry), a 3-year starter. But with seven returning to both sides, they should be in the hunt again for another district title. Ursuline-Youngstown is an established power from Ohio returning most of last year’s team including 4-year starting Qb Brady Shannon (63%, 1342). This is a BIG step up for Hickory knowing Ursuline beat Mooney and Austintown-Fitch last year. It’s the opener for Hickory but not Ursuline who beat Bishop Hartley last week 62-58 with Qb Shannon throwing for 276 yards and 5 Tds and running for 118 and a score for 394 total yards.
District 11
Selinsgrove 4A 4-4 at Pottsville 4A 6-2
The Seals look to be in trouble here replacing their Qb and lines against a solid Pottsville team that returns Qb Jazce Carabell-Snowell (51%, 892, 7/4 ratio), Rb Travonai Davis (5-9, 180, sr, 525ry) and I believe 7 on defense. Pottsville has emerged from a 4-year slump after going 9-32 from 2012 thru 2015 to go 37-19 the last five years. Unfortunately, the Seals have stagnated at .500, going 5-7, 7-5 and 4-4 the last three years following an 80-38 run the preceding nine years that included a state title in 2009 (16-0).
Quakertown 6A 5-3 at Southern Lehigh 5A 5-2
The Panthers were a young group last year in a lot of positions meaning they return quarterback Will Steich (5-11, 160, sr, 56%, 1135, 16/2, 1st Team Continental), RB/CB Tyler Woodman (5-9, 175, sr, 69/430, 1st Team) and Zach Fondl (6-0, 180, sr, 22/330, 2nd Team). Nice core plus OL/DL Fred Retter (6-2, 235, sr) and OL Anthony Schiller (6-2, 260, sr). Southern returns a great D core but was wiped out on the other side. As comparison, last year’s team played a scrappy Whitehall (5-3) team close, losing 42-34 and will likely be stubborn here against Quakertown.
Emmaus 6A 5-1 at Stroudsburg 6A 4-1
Hornets return 7 to both sides (just lost Qb Jake Fotta to a ACL) most of O-Line and their receivers. With Fotta they would have been in good shape for a serious run this year. But now? Easton ruined their perfect season last year when Emmaus’s turnovers and special team’s failures allowed two kick-offs returned for touchdowns, plus a late pick of a Jake Fotta pass inside the 10 with 13 ticks left on the clock. Almost all return for Stroudsburg to see if the Mountaineers can go with the big boys from the EPC-Lehigh even without Fotta.
Notre Dame 3A 7-1 at Saucon Valley 4A 2-3
Notre Dame lost a ton of players but return Qb Colin Quintano and a experienced receiver corps. And they’ve been wildly successful the last 6 years going 54-15! Saucon Valley returns almost everyone including Qb Dante Mahaffey but will play a harder schedule with the Schuylkill League (Pottsville, Blue Mountain, Lehighton) joining the Colonial this year. Plus they have extra incentive coming off a rare losing season, their first since 2012.
District 12
Roman Catholic 6A 1-4 at Neumann Goretti 3A 3-1
Roman returns most of their line with 3 receivers plus DE Malachi Kea (6-2, 250) and DT Sameir Speights (6-2, 280) to secure the D while Neumann returns much of their skill including Qb Matqui Adams but look thin on returning lineman. Seems incredible saying Roman is coming off their 9th consecutive losing season while the Saints scored 3 winning campaigns the last 4 years with two 11-1 seasons.
Northeast 6A 5-1 at St. Joseph Hammonton 7-3
The Vikings were close last year going 4-1 with a 22-20 win against Neumann Goretti and a tough 22-8 loss to Imhotep in Spring Ball. The score was 8-0 ICS entering the 4th quarter, (didn’t seem that close). Northeast lost a lot on the offensive side but return all of the DL. And they haven’t had trouble replacing losses over the years if their 59-14 record means anything. St. Joseph’s returns Qb Ja’son Prevard (59%, 397), their 2nd and 3rd leading rushers (622 and 354 yards), their top 3 receivers and half the D. The Wildcats play serious football with a 45-10 won-loss the last 5 years, suggesting this game will be tight and divulge as much as Harrisburg vs Pine and Imhotep vs Central Catholic will.
No time for more detail so here are some of the interesting games for Aug 28th featuring a range of competitive games, power teams, rivalries and ranked teams. All games are in the district that is home unless otherwise mentioned. Thought it’d be interesting to look at a few (40 some) of the teams from all twelve districts including smaller classifications. Couldn’t do entire state in depth so here’s some quick hits to enjoy. Apologies ahead of time for typos and hopefully no schedule changes.
District 1
Garnet Valley 6A 6-0 at Downingtown West 6A 2-3
What a great way to kick off the season with two of the premier teams in the western burbs lining up for what could be a preview of the district final. Both return good numbers that suggest they are at least on paper as good as anyone in the district. G-Val scored 49ppg last year….!....and allowed just 9. Dtown was decent at 26ppg with a strong defense allowing 13. Hard imaging these two in a defensive struggle but it could happen. Still sticking with April’s District-1 Top 10 post calling for North Penn (who said dahhh?), but these two look mighty good along with Coatesville as always.
Coatesville 6A 4-1 at Central Bucks West 6A 2-4
Coatesville established itself as a perennial power team while CB West hopes to reclaim lost glory with a team that seems headed in the right direction despite having their 5th losing season in the last 7 years. Both teams are young and talented with the Raiders probably in a better position (program wise) to pull off a tough road win, especially if West has not addressed last year’s defensive woes that allowed 30 points per game. Coatesville scored 30ppg despite their youth and only allowed 16. The Bucks will also have to improve on an offense that averaged 22ppg especially if the defense hasn’t tightened up just to keep up with Coatesville’s speedy group.
Archbishop Wood 6A 3-4 at Neshaminy 6A 5-1
This looks like a tall order for the Tribe tackling powerful Archbishop Wood especially with Wood coming off their first losing season in the last 18 years! I thought the Skins wasted a good team last year, disappearing against Pennridge in a 30-0 loss….at home? And Wood had that losing season in part because of a last minute contingency game with a better than advertised Bonner-Prendie team (4-0!), losing 38-25. This looks like a tough spot for Neshaminy but the 4-0 finish should give them some juice here in the opener.
Downingtown East 6A 2-3 at Pennridge 6A 7-1
Downingtown East lost a solid back in Stanley Bryant, but return Qb Jamy Jenkins (6-0, 175, jr), their top receiver Mike Giordano and running backs Josh Asante, Brayden McClain and Bo Horvat. Bryant’s injuries (missed Avon Grove and Coatesville) allowed others to get valuable playing time. Also back are TE/DE George Bousum (6-4, 240, jr) and OL Kyle Kacmar (6-7, 295, jr), giving them 6 full time starters back. They are loaded defensively, returning the entire line backing corps, two DBs, DE Bousum and DT Dante DAddezo (6-1, 240). Across the field, Pennridge’s strength should be a defense that returns two impressive LBs in Phil Picciotti (6-3, 230) and Logan McGowan (6-0, 200), plus OL/DLs Stephen Reutlinger (6-3, 270) and Danny Fish (6-2, 270). Many others got playing time including Brayden Landheer (5-10, 185) and Tyler Wetzel (5-10, 175, jr) in the secondary. They graduated the Qb (47%, 701, 5/6 ratio), four of their leading running backs and two of the leading receivers. Hard figuring but they averaged 29ppg against a representative schedule where they went 4-1 against Neshaminy, Abington, Coatesville, Souderton and Quakertown who had a combined record of 24-8. How did they lose to Souderton 31-17? Should be one interesting game.
Souderton 6A 7-1 at North Penn 6A 4-1
Continental champ Souderton (5-0) and co-National champ North Penn (4-1 with Skins) face off in a good one pitting the Knights explosive offense (42ppg) that looks like the best in the district against Souderton’s defense. NP returns Qb Ryan Zeltt (6-3, 185, jr, 34/62, 650, 9Tds, 55%, couldn’t find Pennsbury stats), Rb Khalani Eaton (5-11, 210, sr. 1038ry, 14 Tds) and wide out Levi Carroll (6-3, 195, sr.). From April Preseason Top 10: Souderton has good numbers returning, especially LBs Nick Curroto (5-11, 195, sr, 2nd Team OL/LB), Luke Pollack (5-11, 205, sr, 1st Team), CBs Shaun Purvy (5-10, 155, sr, 1st Team) and Elijah Goods (5-9, 150, sr, 2nd Team). The D should improve from last year’s that allowed 19ppg while defeating Qtown 28-23, Upper Dublin 28-7 at home and both Spring Ford 27-24 and Pennridge 31-17 on the road. That is….if they get reasonable production from the quarterback position. The D played well against quality. Lineman Adam Alfonsi (6-1, 265, sr) and Gabe Epps (6-3, 230, sr, 1st Team) are back. Most of the skill returns in RB Brayden Porter (612ry, 1st Team), WRs Shaun Purvy (283py), Bob Kyle (195py, 2nd Team), Sean McGoldrick (101ry, 53py) and OL Sean Barrera (5-7, 230). Tough road opener but Souderton is no slouch.
District 2
Delaware Valley 6A 5-2 vs Gateway 56A 5-1
Delaware Valley and Gateway scheduled a game at the 11th hour (8/23), to be played at Bald Eagle High School (Dist-6) just off I-80, 12 above State College. DV was a nice team last year losing to LaSalle 27-23 and Central York 49-27. They had a big offense scoring 35ppg and a defense that got them to 5 wins allowing 23ppg. Most of the point producers have graduated, leaving them with four linemen and a wide out. Defensively they return 5; 2 DLs, 2 LBs and a defensive back.
Gateway’s big news is Jeannette transfer Qb Brad Birch (1678, 28Tds, soph) and his brother senior Brett Birch (47 for 672 yards) at wide out. That will likely be a lethal compo again! They had whole sale grad losses but return key people at Center Baron Vowler (5-9, 240), OG Hunter Dow and another transfer in Matt Brooks (6-2, 275, C-Mac), I believe at tackle. Rb Derek Davis (754) is back and last year’s starting Qb Carsen Engleka (1054) who will play somewhere. Shaky info but believe it’s Aiden Smith (6-0, 185, sr) back at linebacker and Demetrius Harper. Chris Norton (6-1, 285) will also play on the lines (DT?). Dow, Brooks and Vowler likely translate to the DL. Once they figure each other out, Gateway has the tools to open things up in the 2nd half for a comfortable win.
Valley View 4A 3-2 at Dallas 4A 4-4
Solid District-2 quads that don’t play that often with Valley (44-14 last 5) in the Lackawanna Conference and Dallas (39-20) in the Wyoming Valley. Dallas’s 15-1 group in 2019 slugged them 29-7 then Imhotep 43-36 and Jersey Shore 56-28 before falling to TJ 46-7. Valley’s best was 2018 at 13-1 losing to Imhotep in the quarters 37-9. Valley has big returns and a monster OL (265, 260, 245, 235, 285) plus a 6-5 225 pound Qb in Adam Howanitz. Dallas is looking for a Qb but has a lot of bodies back and a veteran D-front with 2 Dbs. Should be a good one.
Wyoming Area 3A 5-3 at Hazleton 6A 4-3
WA is two years removed from a state title in 2019 beating Central Valley 21-14 with a 14-1 squad. They move up from the Wyoming Valley-2 Conference to the 1 to play a Hazleton team that showed a pulse going 4-3 last year. That’s progress with 3 non losing seasons the last 4 years after 7 straight losing seasons. Wyoming’s Spartans are always ready to play especially the last 5 years going 43-15. They return most of last year’s squad minus the quarterback, while Hazleton returns good skill but will have to rebuild the lines and find a quarterback. Coach Dennis Buchman enters his 2nd year as head coach.
Dunmore 2A 3-3 at Western Wayne 3A 5-1
Western Wayne (Lackawanna-2) will again be tough with most of last year’s team back that tied Valley View and Scranton Prep for the Lackawanna-2. That’s saying something! Coach Randy Wolff (33-19, 6th year) has turned the program around. Big returnees are Qb, Rb, athlete Caden Brungard (6-2, 185, Army) and TE Thomas Chernasky (6-5, 240, Delaware). Four return to the O-Line. D-2 perennial power Double-A Dunmore (LFC-3) will test them (47-14 last 5) with a lot back on D but missing power back Christian Buckley (132/1058, 6 games).
District 3
LaSalle 6A 5-1 at Bishop McDevitt 4A 6-0
McDevitt may be a 4A but can hold their own against any 6As in the state this year excepting St. Joseph’s Prep….maybe. But first they have to get past a solid LaSalle team while breaking in a freshman quarterback. LaSalle showed their stuff last year against Township in a tight 35-28 win. Sam Brown got loose for 4 Tds and 163 yards and returns for his senior year. This is a good measuring stick with much expected from both teams this season. After this one we’ll at least have a clue if LaSalle can challenge St. Joe’s and if McDevitt is ready for a deep run in the postseason.
Central Dauphin 6A 5-1 at Wilson 6A 6-1
This one pits two of the most successful teams in the state in a fierce district rivalry with CD at 98-27 and the Bulldogs at 105-21 the last 10 years. CD is reloading their skill except for Qb Max Mosey (990, 63%) while Wilson will likely rely on their great senior back Jadyn Jones (6-0, 220, 75/519). Wilson has some good stuff coming up making this a real tough one for the Rams to pull off. Both will be pumped with CD coming in off the Central York thrashing in the playoffs and Wilson feeling they were snubbed by the district playoff committee when not selected to replace Harrisburg (covid), allowing York to move to the final without playing a game.
Governor Mifflin 5A 8-1 at York 6A 7-1
The Mustangs still look like the best team in the district despite some real grad losses. We’ll find out Friday night when they face a loaded York team looking to make a statement….in York. Mifflin has the top back in the state in Nicholas Singleton (1303 in 9 games) while York also has a largely unheralded back in Jahiem White (5-9, 190) who rushed for 1332 yards….in 8 games! This one could be in the 50’s!
Central York 6A 10-1 at Exeter Township 5A 6-2
Central York won the 6A Silver Medal last year and is looking for more of the same with Qb Beau Pribula back; stats: 139-197-71%-1994yds, 33/5 ratio, 81 rush atps-556 yds. Exeter has a pile of bodies returning and a new Qb in Colin Payne who got time last year. They’re loaded and come in hot winning their last three games. Heck of a statement if Exeter takes this one.
CD East 6A 0-6 at Manheim Township 6A 5-2
With Middletown Qb transfer Tony Powell teaming with Steelton HIghspire’s transfer Mehki Flowers combining with 6-5 receiver Tymere Thornton, East could surprise many teams with their explosiveness. The opener against Township who also has their usual talent base headed by receiver Anthony Ivey (5-11, 180, 23-546p, 8 TDs, jr) returning for his senior year will prove to be a difficult test.
Conrad Weiser 4A 6-1 at Cocalico 4A 4-4
Weiser has one of the quieter success stories in the district in Qb Logan Klitsch, finishing with impressive stats at 83/140/1336/59%, Td-Pick ratio 15/3, and rushing for 428 and 10 Tds on 69 carries. And how about the Scouts having just one losing season in the last fourteen! Cocalico returns all four backs to their Flex bone; Anthony Bourassa (90/753ry), Steven Flinton (58/468ry, 14/353py), Brysen Flinton (14/201ry) and Austin Vang (16/77ry) plus South Carolina commit Ryan Brubaker (6-6, 285, sr) making them a tough test at home for the Scouts.
District 4
Berwick 4-1 1-5 at Southern Columbia 2A 12-0
It’s probably a good idea to run for cover anytime you see Berwick coming off a losing season such as this year after going 1-5, their first losing season in 14 years. Problem is the opponent is Southern Columbia whose coming off their fourth straight undefeated season (60-0) and fourth 2A state title in the last six years. That’s a tough road opener! But the Dawgs look loaded with QB Ben Knorr, his C, OT and TE plus entire secondary, DLs and DEs. Southern looks loaded offensively with all their backfield (Qb, Rb, Rb, Fb) and 8 total on that side. The D was thinned by graduation with 3 returning. Last year’s defense allowed 11ppg with a monster O averaging 50ppg. Look out Dawgs.
North Schuylkill 3A 8-0 at Mount Carmel 2A 2-4
The Spartans are loaded for bear again this year after going 8-0 and returning most of last year’s offense (44ppg) and defense (16ppg). Jake Hall threw for 1784 yards, Josh Cjowansky rushed for 1260 yards while their #1 and #2 receivers combined for 374 yards on 28 receptions. The O-Line averages 6-1, 267, D-Line 6.5, 290. MCA (2-4) lost most of their skill but return their Qb and a defense that played two 8th graders, two freshmen and two sophomores! North Schuylkill looks ready for a serious run at districts and beyond with this group. Caution: they’ve been eliminated in the postseason by 20 points or better in four of the last five seasons by Tamaqua once and Notre Dame on three occasions.
Bellefonte 4A 3-4 at Jersey Shore 4A 10-1
The Red Raiders are from the rugged District-6 that has some of the better smaller schools in the state. Teams like Bishop Guilfoyle, Bellwood Antis, Central in Martinsburg, Forest Hills, Richland Township and Tyrone. Bellefonte’s coming off a 4 year 31-13 run to face severe grad losses this season. But they do return Jamal Saunders (5-11, 190, jr) who motored for 516 yards in 7 games. They’ll need him and more against Jersey Shore’s quick defense that returns 8 starters or co-starters. Their big loss is on offense where Qb Branden Wheary graduated with his 2026 yards and 24/2 ratio and wide out Owen Andersen’s 717 yards. But two solid backs in Hayden Packer (48/197, #1 tackler at 82), Brady Jordan (45/326) plus Camden Hess who led the team in receptions at 921 yards returns. Bellefonte doesn’t have enough speed to keep up with JS who lost in last year’s 4A final to Thomas Jefferson 21-14 in the final seconds.
Wellsboro 2A 3-3 at Montoursville 3A 8-1
Wellsboro has it together with nine non-losing seasons and a 69-17 won-loss the last 8 years. Who’d ah thunk it!? So the Hornets have some sting to them and likely again this year with six back on both sides. Mountoursville is a another D4 powerhouse going 42-17 the last 5 years. If they can get/keep Rb Rocco Pulizzi (5-11, 195) healthy to team with Qb Maddix Darlena and wide out Isaiah Fenner, they’ll wreak havoc again in the Heartland-2 and roll over Wellsboro in the opener.
District 5
Central 3A 8-1 at Chestnut Ridge 3A 7-3
The Scarlet Dragons were cruising until losing to Bedford in the 5/6/9 3A final 28-13. But things are looking even better this year in Martinsburg with the return of 9 players to both sides of the ball including the quarterback. Chestnut Ridge (5 straight District 5 titles) looks like they’ll compete again despite losing QB Logan Pfister who passed for 1554 yards and rushed for another 784. At 30ppg the offense wasn’t that prolific considering Pfister’s numbers. Freshman Qb Nate Whysong (6-1, 180) played in all games. And a lot of their skill returns plus almost all of the defense that should improve from 22ppg returns. They’re led by linebackers Daniel Moore, Luke Moore and Trevor Weyandt who had 96, 80 and 82 tackles respectively.
Berlin Brothersvalley 2A 8-1 at Meyersdale 2A 2-7
The Mountaineers are one of the top 2As in central PA (Somerset County) with a stellar won-loss of 95-25 over the last 10 years. They were smoking people by an average score of 46-6 (!) through the first 8 games until losing to Chestnut Ridge 21-17, blowing a 14-point 2nd quarter lead. They’re looking real thin this year with but 2 starters back on offense and 5 to the defense. But that 79% winning percentage saying they know how to reload. Meyersdale is looking to bounce back from a disappointing season after going 9-2 in 2019 and 51-35 since 2013 with almost a complete roster return for 2021. Big revenge factor with Berlin winning last year 48-7.
Southern Huntington 2A 5-0 at Northern Bedford 1A 7-2
Southern’s Rockets look like they’ll keep the streak going (had a forfeit loss) with 7 starters back on both sides of the ball that averaged 30ppg and allowed 10. Coach Betzel says they have good team speed. And with three winning seasons the last four years, they’re getting there at 24-13. Had four starting sophomores and freshman last year who should be more instinctive with a year behind them. They’ll need that at Northern Bedford who returns their entire O-Line and front seven on D. NB had a nice group last year losing to Bellwood Antis and Redbank Valley. No shame there and probably no improvement graduating all their skill people; Qb Thad Leidy (1440, 58%), top 2 running backs and 3 leading receivers. The D that is veteran will have to carry them and then some to approach the lofty #10 ranking giving them by a leading service!?
Bedford 3A 10-1 at Central Cambria 2A 4-3
Didn’t look like anyone was going to stop Bedford last year, reeling off ten straight before getting handled by Central Valley’s great team and ultimate state champ 49-20. The only team to hang with them was Double-A power Richland Twp (8-2, 27-20) who went on to lose to Southern Columbia in the quarterfinals 57-30. Qb Mercury Swaim (6-1, 195, 4-year starter) is back after a record setting season completing 58% for 1578 yards and rushing for 1141. Impressive kid! His principal running backs and receivers graduated but 7 starters/co-starters return to the D. Central Cambria is usually way down in the rankings going 14-46 (2014-2019) before last year’s 4-3 “breakout” season. Ian Little is back at quarterback (55%, 920) with Hobbs Dill (694ry) and some good ones on the DL in DE Reece Werner (6-3, 250) and DTs Tyler Sheldon (6-3, 290) and Isaac Belloma (5-10, 260).
District 6
Altoona 6A 4-3 at Hollidaysburg 5A 4-3
Lions had their first winning season since 2014 and only their second since 2007. Quite a drought for one of the former powers of the state. They surprised many last year winning District-6 by beating State College 22-21. With the graduation of QB Marcus Day (500py, 500ry) and most of the offense, the D will have to carry them early where 8 return. Hollidaysburg’s slate was wiped cleaner than Altoona’s with graduations losing most of their skill people and defense. But it will still be a good opener before a LARGE crowd when these two rivals get together post covid….we hope!
Tyrone 3A 6-2 at Bellwood Antis 2A 7-1
Tyrone had what looked like a special team last year rolling over teams until losing to Central 17-14 at Mansion Park in the playoffs and Bellwood Antis 29-16 in the annual Backyard Brawl. Winner gets the Brawl Trophy. Got to love it! These two rivals always open against each other, last year being different per Covid. Makes it all the more interesting having just played each other at the end of 2020. Tyrone graduates a good Qb in Brandon Lucas (1378py, 371ry) and their top rusher (502) and receiver (981). Three return to both sides. BA returns their quarterback Zach Pelligrine but lose Zack Mallon (1150ry). The D returns most of last year’s key players. Coach is high on the sophomore class.
Somerset 3A 2-5 at Richland Township 2A 8-2
Somerset tried running the triple option with little success averaging 19ppg but should improve on that in year #2. They were way too young last year playing an inordinate number of sophomores. But, they’re all back including the QB and their two leading running backs. The defense returns 10. Richland looks like they have a title team with a strong Qb in Kellan Stahl (55%, 1496), and all their leading running backs and receivers back. The defense returns a DL, 2 LBs and the entire secondary. Last year’s team lost in the quarterfinals to Southern Columbia 57-30, and look like they could make another deep run this year.
Bishop McCort 1A 1-7 at Forest Hills 2A 4-4
Bishop McCort combined with Bishop Carroll this year for a Catholic school co-op you’re seeing more and more of with numbers down at many schools, population shifts, etc. They’ve fallen off the last few after awesome teams in 16-17 that went 10-3 but couldn’t get past powerful Ligonier Valley. The Crimson Crushers use to live up to their name and may again with 5 starters returning on both sides including the Qb, 2 OLs and 2 WRs….plus a DL, 3 LBs and one to the secondary. Forest Hills looks to improve on .500 with everyone back except the quarterback (43%, 911, 7/8 ratio). They were pedestrian at 21ppg and porous on defense allowing 38ppg. So there is a ways to go yet! But it’s Forest Hills where they’re used to success with coach Justin Myers replacing legend Don Bailey (375-120-8 since 1974!) as only the 3rd coach in the history of Forest Hills High School. Myers is the Golden Tornadoes' all-time leading passer with 8,446 yards and their all-time leader in TD passes with 79. Look out Southern Columbia!?
District 7
Harrisburg 6A 4-0 at Pine Richland 5A 11-0
While Harrisburg rebuilds most its entire team, Pine Richland rebuilds a program with an entirely new coaching staff. Harrisburg will put a huge line out there and likely try to batter the Rams the entire game (new Qb) while showing some interesting looks with a veteran line backing corps behind a stout line. Offensively, they are a mystery much as Pine Richland is rather than doing guess work here. One thing is certain, if they come out of the game healthy, both will know a lot more about themselves and be better able to charter a course for the season, making it a very important game, win or lose, for both teams.
Imhotep 5A at Pittsburgh Central Catholic 6A 6-2
Imhotep comes in as possibly the top team in the state to show what they can do after a year’s layoff. Central Catholic has talent to match them spread throughout the lineup as always and returns a top lineman in Donovan Hinnish plus Qb Payton Wehner. Also got a key transfer in at WR. Like the game above, a lot of questions will be answered after this one.
Sto-Rox 2A 8-2 at Jeannette 1A 10-2
Sto Rox looks absolutely loaded with Qb Josh Jenkins (68 of 109 for 1,251 yards) back and receiver Jaymont Green-Miller (27 catches for 579 yards) and many starters while Jeannette has been staggered with grad losses and transfers. Numbers? Next man up only works so long!
Allderdice 6A 4-3 at North Allegheny 6A 6-1
Dragons are trying to make a move scheduling Steubenville OH, Altoona, Kiski and now NA! Probably overreached as did with Steubenville but, no pain no gain! Good year to jump NA graduating their Qb most of their LBs and a pile of lineman. But, with a 97-21 10-year record and 43-11 the last 5, whose worried about the Tigers replacing losses?
District 8
Westinghouse 2A 7-0 at Imani Academy 1A 2-5
There’s a major upgrade going on at Westinghouse at 7-0 last year and 8-4 the year before while Imani Christian Academy has gone south, from a program that was beating Clairton and losing to Jeannette’s state championhip team in 2017 (ICA went 11-3) 35-34 to a team winning 2 games the last two years.
Brashear 5A 2-4 at St. Vincent Pallotti-Md 2-1
The Bulls have struggled going 14-28 the last five years in a district that is now dominated by Westinghouse and Allderdice. But they return 9 to both sides so let’s see what they do. Pallotti’s Panthers of the MIAA are WAY out of bounds for the Bulls winning the conference in 14, 16 and 19 (47-26 last 6) against a far tougher slate in the MIAA; Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Asso.
District 9
Karns City 2A 6-3 at Girard 3A 2-4
The Gremlins return a deep team that could make a run this year off of last year’s young team. They aren’t what they use to be going 53-13 from 2011 to 2015 but still field competitive teams at 35-22 the last 5 years. Super young last year with 3 soph starters at the skill positions including Qb. Half the D is back. Coach says Girard will have a good line and good team speed. And with 1, 4, 7 and 7 point losses, they were more than last year’s 2-6 record and an upset waiting to happen if KC’s young bunch doesn’t bring it. It’s enough of a hike at 2 hours for some stiff legs!
Redbank Valley 1A 2-4 at Keystone 1A 4-2
Redbank returns a bunch led by junior Qb Cam Wagner (409, 57%) and Gunner Morgianti (494, 55%), their top 2 receivers and 8 to the D; two that were freshman and two that were sophomores last year. With a line coming in at 6-1 262, they’ll do damage with any team speed. And because Redbank is also in D9 South Small School Division, Keystone has to go through them to get anywhere. That was a no-go last year losing 26-0 and looks like a difficult one again this year.
District 10
Erie 6A 1-5 at Cathedral Prep 5A 7-3
Erie has a new coach in Andre Henderson (former DC) and Farrell Qb transfer Denzel Driver (shown as receiver last year, not starter) and a solid nucleus back while Cathedral returns most of last year’s young team that got to the 5A final from a weak field, losing to Pine Richland 48-7. Michael Parks (938ry) is back with a new Qb tho replacing Tamar Sample (6-3, 215, 43%, 674py, 441ry) shouldn’t be insurmountable at ECP.
Ursuline-OH 7-3 at Hickory 3A 9-1
Hickory won their 7th District-10 championship in the last 10 years but graduated their outstanding Qb Michael Henwood (2133py, 945ry), a 3-year starter. But with seven returning to both sides, they should be in the hunt again for another district title. Ursuline-Youngstown is an established power from Ohio returning most of last year’s team including 4-year starting Qb Brady Shannon (63%, 1342). This is a BIG step up for Hickory knowing Ursuline beat Mooney and Austintown-Fitch last year. It’s the opener for Hickory but not Ursuline who beat Bishop Hartley last week 62-58 with Qb Shannon throwing for 276 yards and 5 Tds and running for 118 and a score for 394 total yards.
District 11
Selinsgrove 4A 4-4 at Pottsville 4A 6-2
The Seals look to be in trouble here replacing their Qb and lines against a solid Pottsville team that returns Qb Jazce Carabell-Snowell (51%, 892, 7/4 ratio), Rb Travonai Davis (5-9, 180, sr, 525ry) and I believe 7 on defense. Pottsville has emerged from a 4-year slump after going 9-32 from 2012 thru 2015 to go 37-19 the last five years. Unfortunately, the Seals have stagnated at .500, going 5-7, 7-5 and 4-4 the last three years following an 80-38 run the preceding nine years that included a state title in 2009 (16-0).
Quakertown 6A 5-3 at Southern Lehigh 5A 5-2
The Panthers were a young group last year in a lot of positions meaning they return quarterback Will Steich (5-11, 160, sr, 56%, 1135, 16/2, 1st Team Continental), RB/CB Tyler Woodman (5-9, 175, sr, 69/430, 1st Team) and Zach Fondl (6-0, 180, sr, 22/330, 2nd Team). Nice core plus OL/DL Fred Retter (6-2, 235, sr) and OL Anthony Schiller (6-2, 260, sr). Southern returns a great D core but was wiped out on the other side. As comparison, last year’s team played a scrappy Whitehall (5-3) team close, losing 42-34 and will likely be stubborn here against Quakertown.
Emmaus 6A 5-1 at Stroudsburg 6A 4-1
Hornets return 7 to both sides (just lost Qb Jake Fotta to a ACL) most of O-Line and their receivers. With Fotta they would have been in good shape for a serious run this year. But now? Easton ruined their perfect season last year when Emmaus’s turnovers and special team’s failures allowed two kick-offs returned for touchdowns, plus a late pick of a Jake Fotta pass inside the 10 with 13 ticks left on the clock. Almost all return for Stroudsburg to see if the Mountaineers can go with the big boys from the EPC-Lehigh even without Fotta.
Notre Dame 3A 7-1 at Saucon Valley 4A 2-3
Notre Dame lost a ton of players but return Qb Colin Quintano and a experienced receiver corps. And they’ve been wildly successful the last 6 years going 54-15! Saucon Valley returns almost everyone including Qb Dante Mahaffey but will play a harder schedule with the Schuylkill League (Pottsville, Blue Mountain, Lehighton) joining the Colonial this year. Plus they have extra incentive coming off a rare losing season, their first since 2012.
District 12
Roman Catholic 6A 1-4 at Neumann Goretti 3A 3-1
Roman returns most of their line with 3 receivers plus DE Malachi Kea (6-2, 250) and DT Sameir Speights (6-2, 280) to secure the D while Neumann returns much of their skill including Qb Matqui Adams but look thin on returning lineman. Seems incredible saying Roman is coming off their 9th consecutive losing season while the Saints scored 3 winning campaigns the last 4 years with two 11-1 seasons.
Northeast 6A 5-1 at St. Joseph Hammonton 7-3
The Vikings were close last year going 4-1 with a 22-20 win against Neumann Goretti and a tough 22-8 loss to Imhotep in Spring Ball. The score was 8-0 ICS entering the 4th quarter, (didn’t seem that close). Northeast lost a lot on the offensive side but return all of the DL. And they haven’t had trouble replacing losses over the years if their 59-14 record means anything. St. Joseph’s returns Qb Ja’son Prevard (59%, 397), their 2nd and 3rd leading rushers (622 and 354 yards), their top 3 receivers and half the D. The Wildcats play serious football with a 45-10 won-loss the last 5 years, suggesting this game will be tight and divulge as much as Harrisburg vs Pine and Imhotep vs Central Catholic will.
