In 2009 LaSalle College defeated State College 24-7 to become the first Philadelphia Catholic League team to win a PIAA state title. In 2010 North Allegheny defeated the Explorers, shutting them out 21-0.
This year’s version is geared up to make another run to Hershey. The Explorers bring in a record of 11-1 and their only loss of the season was to New Jersey power Bergan Catholic.
LaSalle was idle last week. The Explorers captured their third straight District 12 title defeating George Washington 41-7.
Up next for LaSalle is Nazareth Area who defeated Easton Area 28-14 for the District 11 Class 4A title. The winner will take on the District one champ next week.
But it starts first with LaSalle’s big offensive line. Paving the way for the running game are lineman Patrick Hoffman (6-4, 265), Matt Maginnis (6-3, 215), Dan Wasylenko (6-2, 245) and Connor Kerrigan (6-4, 260). LaSalle’s running attack is led by Tim Wade who has rushed for 1,365 yards on 233 carries and 19 touchdowns.
Handing the ball off to Wade is quarterback Matt Magarity. Magarity has passed for 1,391 yards and 21 touchdowns and he can do it with his legs too, rushing for 407.
When Magarity is not handing off to Wade he has two targets to throw to. Colin Buckley has 524 yards receiving and Sean Coleman has 584 yards and seven scores.
On defense Coleman has five interceptions at safety. Mike Eife and Dillion Smith round out the linebackers with leader Sean Burke.
Can LaSalle make it three straight trips to Hershey? We will find out this Saturday afternoon at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium.
Note: Stats provided by TedSilary.com
