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Written by: David Mika on Monday, January 7th, 2019. Follow David Mika on Twitter.
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Welcome to the official forum on high school football for the 2024 season.
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Time for predictions!
D2 Picks
– Northwestern Lehigh vs. Scranton Prep: Welcome to episode two of the series. It’s going to be a fun battle, especially with these two high powered offenses. As much as it’d be big for Prep to make it to the semis, Northwestern is the best 3A team in the state. I’ll take the Tigers 42-16, but I wouldn’t be shocked if it’s closer. Winner gets Danville or Bermudian Springs.
– Williams Valley vs. Riverside: Riverside has a very interesting opponent. Williams Valley is a truly competitive team that hasn’t made it this far in a bracket in a minute (or so I think). They can score a lot. So can Riverside. Unfortunately, I think this will be the last D2 notes of the season, as I’ll take D11’s Vikings in a 30-17 game. Winner gets Troy or Bedford.
Rest Of The State
3A: I think Avonworth squeaks past Central Valley. Hickory should get past Penn Cambria. Danville should have zero problem against Bermudian Springs. I’d be shocked if it’s a single digit game late.
– Danville 30, Bermudian 13
– Hickory 35, Penn Cambria 14
– Avonworth 28, Central Valley 27
2A: I’ll take South Park over Seton. 2A hasn’t been a strong class, but I’ll take an upset here. Troy will have an easy win & Central Clarion should beat Cambria Heights, but the latter game may be much closer than what I indicate. I just know CC scores & scores a lot.
– Troy 49, Bedford 8
– Central Clarion 42, Cambria Hts. 14
– South Park 24, SLS 20
1A: Told you Delone would beat Belmont, JC. They’ll get beat by a better Muncy team. Westy & BG will have a heck of a game. Expect it to be back & forth. I’ll take Westinghouse to all but lock up one half of an all-Allegheny final. I’ll take Port A over Wilmington, but wouldn’t be shocked if it was the other way around. Clairton should roll past Sieg & the Fort Cherry program, but I don’t think they’ll shut them out.
– Muncy 42, Delone 10
– Westy 27, Guilfoyle 24
– Port A 35, Wilmy 21
– Clairton 35, Fort Cherry 18
4A: Bonner will win over PJP, but I expect it to be one of those it’ll come down to the end type of games. Solehi will have a good battle against Juniata & they’ll make it to the final four. I’ll take Lampeter over Wyo. I think last to score wins. TJ should get past Clearfield without many issues.
– B-P 26, PJP 22
– Solehi 35, Juniata 19
– L-S 24, Wyo 23
– TJ 35, Clearfield 10
5A: Roman will easily beat the other H’burg. I think Delco squeaks past Rustin. McDevitt has been great & will beat a challenging Exeter team in a thriller. Peters will barely take down Pine-Richland, but I won’t be shocked if happens to be the inverse.
– Roman 39, Hollidaysburg 6
– Delco 22, Rustin 20
– McDevitt 30, Exeter Twp. 20
– Peters 23, P-R 19
6A: SJP until someone beats them. D’Town West is a strong team. I think they’ll take it over North Penn. PCC should beat SC, but I agree with Jeff about how they are capable of beating WPIAL champs. Harrisburg will be back in the state semis after beating Wilson.
– SJP 56, Parkland 14
– DTW 31, North Penn 16
– PCC 31, State High 15
– Harrisburg 34, WWL 20
Updated State Predictions
– 1A: Westinghouse over Clairton (Sleeper: Wilmington)
– 2A: Troy over Central Clarion (Sleeper: Williams Valley)
– 3A: Northwestern Lehigh over Avonworth (Sleeper: Hickory)
– 4A: Bonner over Thomas Jefferson (Sleeper: PJP)
– 5A: Roman over Peters (Sleeper: Delco)
– 6A: SJP over Harrisburg (Sleeper: State High)
A little surprised you don’t have at least 1 WPIAL winner among your championship picks, I guess the streak has to end some year, but the WPIAL has won at least 1 state title every year since 1992, which is the only year they were shut out in the history of the state playoffs. I think they win 2 and perhaps 3, as I’ve stated numerous times I really like Clairton and TJ, and also think the winner of the 5A game between Peters and PR has a pretty good shot as well, I don’t see the WPIAL winning in 2A/3A/6A.
Looks like I’m going to a game tomorrow night after all, as the PIAA changed the sites for 3 games in the western bracket due to the predicted snow storm tonight into tomorrow in the Alleghany mountains. Guilfoyle is now playing Westinghouse at Highlands instead of Johnstown, which is only 30 minutes for me right up the Alleghany river, so I’m going to that game tomorrow night. State College and PCC have been moved from Forest Hills to Mansion Park in Altoona, and the TJ -Clearfield game has been moved from Windber on Friday at 7pm to Mansion Park on Saturday at 1pm. Haven’t heard of any other games being moved at this time.
Here’s my thoughts on the WPIAL/Western Bracket this weekend
6A – not surprised PCC beat NA, very surprised they mercy ruled them, racing to a 31-0 halftime lead that swelled to 45-0 before NA tacked on a couple of late scores. PCC has gotten better during the season and is peaking at the right time. As recently as a week ago I thought State College had a good chance to beat the WPIAL winner, and they still might, but the way PCC is playing I think they beat SC, I’ll say 31-21.
I’ll also pick Harrisburg to beat Wilson in a close game, something like 28-21.
5A – I should have known better than to pick against Pine Richland in the semi-finals, they were very impressive against Bethel Park, scoring on a 39 yard pick six on the 2nd play of the game and never looked back in a 28-7 dominant win. Bethel has one of the highest scoring and most balanced offenses in the WPIAL and Pine just shut them down, they looked much sharper than when I saw them 6 weeks ago against Penn Hills. They are built similar to TJ, solid on the lines, punishing running attack led by Mac Miller, adequate passing game with dual threat QB, solid defense, excellent special teams and place kicker, who has made some 50+ yard field goals and virtually every kickoff is a touchback. I picked Peters Township before the playoffs, but based on what I saw last week I think Pine Richland wins 24-14, which would continue the WPIAL streak of no defending 5A champ repeating the following year
I like McDevitt to beat Exeter, setting up a tremendous game next week with Pine Richland
4A – TJ will roll over Clearfield, and LS will beat Wyomissing for the 2nd time in 4 weeks.
3A – Avonworth won the first matchup, I have a hunch Central Valley wins the rematch on Saturday in the third game of the quadruple header at Acrisure. In the other game Hickory and Penn Cambria should be very competitive, I thought Sharon would beat Hickory last week, but Hickory outlasted them, I’ll take Penn Cambria in a close one.
2A – Seton LaSalle rolled to a 27-0 halftime lead and beat Steel Valley 27-13, this should be a very good game against South Park, who is in the WPIAL title game for the first time since 2005, pretty evenly matched, I think Seton keeps their unbeaten streak going for another week. The other game has Central Clarion against Cambria Heights, both are undefeated, I like Central Clarion to win, then again I thought Cambria was going to lose to Richland last week!
1A – classic great offense in Fort Cherry against great defense in Clairton, who has outscored their 3 playoff opponents 134-0 thus far. Ft Cherry QB Matt Sieg became the 2nd QB in WPIAL history to both rush and pass for more than 4,000 yards in his career last week, joining Terelle Pryor of Jeanette, and he’s only a junior. Despite Ft Cherry having the best player on the field I really like Clairton in this game, the big question is can Fort Cherry get to 21 points, which is the total Clairton has given up in 13 games. I don’t think they do, as Clairton wins 26-14 in the opening game at Acrisure. In the other game Port Allegany has been rolling all year and that streak will continue this week against Wilmington, setting up a big showdown next week with Clairton.
In the other bracket I’m rooting for Westinghouse to set up a potential all Alleghany County state final, but I think Guilfoyle wins because of their advantage on the lines, this should be a very competitive, close game.
Jeff – Thank you for the detailed information on the Western teams and games. Great Stuff! I’ll add my two cents for the D3 Finals.
4A – LS vs Wyomissing: Friday 7pm at Warwick. Cold and windy forecast.
Plain and simple LS has the bigger team here. This Wyo team is not as strong as any of the last 5 years and moving from 3A to 4A makes a difference. Not sure if Justice Hardy is back for Wyo…… If so, he is the best player on the field. Howse has been a 2-way monster for LS and is a big kid with deceptive speed. I expect a low scoring close game.
LS 17-16 as Wyo goes for 2 late for the win and is stuffed.
5A – McDevitt vs Exeter: Friday 7pm @ Elco
Full disclosure as I am a big fan of this Exeter Team and especially Coach Bauer, who should be coaching at the college level. He took over a winless team about 12 years ago and they are now a perennial D3 contender. McDevitt does have the edge in the top tier talent but Exeter is being overlooked in their skill position kids. Not sure of the final score, but there will be a lot of points scored and leaning towards McDevitt to win…… However if it is close late Exeter will find a way to win.
6A – Wilson vs Harrisburg: Sat 1pm @ Exeter. Not quite as cold and windy as Friday night.
Quite a bit of history here:
2022 – H-burg 32-21 in the 1st round. Wilson was leading 14-12 at half. This ended up being the Championship game as no one else was close to H-burg the rest of the way.
2021 – H-burg 14-10 in the Championship. H-burg punts to Cam Jones with one minute remaining and he is about to turn the edge to go for a TD, when he is violently face-masked to bring him down and H-burg wins.
2020 – Covid Year. – H-burg ends Wilson season by playing 4 games in 11 days to qualify for playoffs and bump Wilson out of the playoffs…….. only to forfeit before playing their first game. District 3 Leaders did Wilson dirty here.
2019 – H-burg 33-29 in District Semifinal. Wilson has an un-timed down from the 5 to win the game, but the pass is incomplete.
2018 – H-burg 34-14 in District Semifinal. H-burg dominates.
2015 – District Semifinal – Wilson wins 55-7
2012 – District Final – Wilson wins 39-14
H-burg is again the favorite in this game and has Kevin Brown back who dominated in his return against MT last week. H-burg is strictly a running team and they are great at running the ball. They are lead by two JR eligible transfers in Messiah Mickens (Trinity & PSU commit) and Diontae Sheffy ( State College & Syracuse commit). His brother plays for State College. Against MT, Kevin Brown was utilized as a 6′ 5″ 270 lb Fullback for these two stud RB’s.
Wilson is run first but does throw as well. Wilson does not run inside much but relies more on off-tackle pitches and sweeps. Wilson continues to use un-balanced lines with 4 TE’s routinely and this has resulted in a bunch of broken coverages and big plays for them. And again…. Madyx Gruber and Michael Glover.
Harrisburg is the favorite and if they can bully ball effectively they will control the game and win…… BUT – If Wilson creates passing downs they will create turnovers and win this game. Until I’m proven wrong I am staying with my belief that this WIlson Team is very underrated.
Wilson 28-26 I’m the only guy in the state picking Wilson!
BTW……. Both of these teams have super strong under-classmen and will be in this same game again next year (Pending the bracket positions)
A week or so ago I posted a reply to a comment about home field in the playoffs. Saw the article below recently, and saw something over the weekend about this as well. Slight tweak the PIAA has done for this cycle with regards to the quarterfinal games. They are now at a midway neutral field for the quarter final state level playoff games, and not at the home field of the team on the top of the bracket like the past two year cycle. District level games will still be up to the districts for playing locations. District One still doing home field for the higher seeded team, while District 3 are using neutral sites.
https://d9and10sports.com/piaa-football-playoff-games-in-quarterfinals-semifinals-are-now-as-close-to-midway-between-schools-as-possible/
Thanks Kevin, when it reaches the state qtrs those games should def be at neutral sites so glad they are doing that.
Good. State games should be at neutral sites. They made the excuse during covid about venues but that’s 3-4 years ago now. Plenty of neutral sites available for state games. I know dist 11 reps the last few years made their voices heard about state games should be at neutral sites. Glad to see it happening again.
Well, I wouldn’t exactly call Exeter HS the midway pt for for the D3 6A final this Sat. It’s 10 mi. for Wilson and 70 mi for Harrisburg. D3 4A & 5A games between LS/Wyo and Exeter/Bishop McD are mutch more neutral.
That’s on D3 for choosing Exeter as the site, not the PIAA, the districts have control over all their playoff games. Too bad they still don’t play all the D3 games at Hershey, at least for the bigger classifications, like the WPIAL does at Acrisure, we have a quadruple header on Saturday starting at 11am.
The Harrisburg/Wilson game is still a district game, and not considered a PIAA state quarterfinal game. It’s still District 3’s call on location/venue.
The PIAA tries to make them midway, but there’s only so much they can do with sites willing to host games, PCC is playing State College at Forest Hills HS, which is closer to state college than Pittsburgh, same with Guilfoyle vs. Westinghouse at Johnstown HS, which is a lot closer to Altoona than Pittsburgh.
D2 Notes after a wild week.
The Winners
– 3A: Scranton Prep’s win over Wyoming Area was expected. I thought there’d be a little more scoring, but a win is a win. They get a tough Northwestern Lehigh team, who they played last year (& lost to). I don’t see them advancing to the semis.
– 2A: The only other team left (& only one who won a state inter-district round) is the Riverside Vikings. They had a tough affair against Lansdale Catholic, but it gives D2 back to back seasons with at least one win against PCL teams. They get Williams Valley who got revenge in their grudge match against Schuylkill Haven. This is a difficult game to pick. I can make a case for either of them. It’ll be a battle of the Vikings, any way you slice it.
Who has the better path to Mechanicsburg? Neither feel like a surefire path, but I’d like the 2A path better. Why? Scranton Prep would need to upset Northwestern Lehigh, & that’s a tall task, knowing they lost in this same round to the same team last year. They could beat Danville, if they were to meet up in the semifinals & would most certainly beat Bermudian Springs. As for Riverside, it depends on if Troy gets upset by Bedford (who upset Steel-High), assuming they get past Williams Valley. There is a better case for Riverside to go to the East final.
The Losers
– 1A: What do you get when you have two teams scoring almost 100 pts & combining for over 1,100 yards? This game. One of the more stunning upsets came from Muncy, as they defeated Trail 47-46 last night at the Scranton Memorial Stadium. I’m not sure if the game was televised or is on YouTube. If it is, you may wanna watch. This loss will guarantee Guilfoyle/Westinghouse a spot in the state final. Trail was the factor. Muncy should make it to the East final.
– 4A: PJP dominated Valley View. Another case of private school being miles better than public. The potential de-facto state title game comes next week with Bonner & PJP, most likely, or at least the Eastern representative because TJ is still alive.
– 5A: The best showing possible for Abington Heights. They had a back & forth battle with Hollidaysburg, but lost by one, 24-23. I think that’s a win for the Comets. Roman’s next on the ledger for the Golden Tigers. I’m going to go out on a limb & say they lose by a wide margin.
– 6A (for subregional sake): Yeah, RedditCFB would give this the Cobra Kai award. State College dominated Williamsport 75-12. I mean, even Southern couldn’t score that on Avonworth in 2019.
I said on here a couple of weeks ago the 4A final will be TJ against the winner of the PJP II – Bonner game, and nothing I’ve seen thus far has changed my opinion. I was at the TJ-McKeesport game last week and TJ was very impressive, they have the look of a state championship type team, big, strong offensive line and punishing running game with sophomore running back Tyler Eber, adequate passing attack to keep teams off balance, solid defense, and excellent special teams, particularly on blocking punts. TJ will crush Clearfield this week, I’m certain this is a huge step up in competition for them and they have not seen an offensive line anywhere close to as good as TJ’s all year, next week TJ will beat Lampeter-Strasburg in the western final, expect that to be a pretty competitive game but I like TJ’s chances.
Would love to go to the Guilfoyle-Westinghouse game if it wasn’t a 90 minute drive, plus the weather is supposed to be nasty, that should be a very good game.
Did any of you go to the SJP/Imhotep game?? I tried looking for ticket info beforehand and only found info via a link to online tickets on the Imhotep school website. That link had the game sold out. Saw some pics of the game, and there appeared to be a lot of empty seats. Worked out well by not wasting an afternoon and trip to NE Philly on a 42-0 drubbing, but just wondering if the game was indeed sold out, or did they cut off ticket sales??
Whenever a game is played at the NE Supersite if you enter on the Algon side by the baseball field you can walk behind the locker rooms & watch the game up on the hill (NW endzone) for free. I take my dog with me as he gets a good run in back there…
Kevin X, maybe the pics were from the 2nd half and Tep fans get a head start on the traffic. TEP fans never travel well, I would be surprised if a couple of hundred TEP fans were in attendance, I’m sure it was 90%+ SJP fans in attendance. I watched the TEP/Chester game and came away thinking that the SJP game would be a Mercy rule game which it was. What happens after next year when TEP is done with the 2 year moveup to 6A? Can they move back down to 5A? Very doubtful Tep will ever beat the Catholic League 6A champ in the City playoff.
No, they were all first half pics. Thought maybe just a late arriving crowd.
As far as Tep moving down…short answers, maybe, possibly, it depends……how’s that for conciseness??
Longer answer, based on how well I’ve been keeping up and understanding the competition formula/success factor rules, they received 1 success point by being throttled by Prep on Saturday. If they meet the same fate next year (hey, maybe by La Salle), one more point for a total of 2 for the current 2 year cycle. Believe the rule (not 100% on this), is that if a team got moved up, they can move back down if they have 0,1 or 2 “success points” in the two years and don’t meet the transfer threshold (was 3 over 2 years, think it is now 4 for football going forward).
My question is, if they meet both criteria for moving down, can they only move down one classification, back to 5A, or do they have a no strings attached get out of jail free card and can move down to whatever their enrollment classification might be in 2 years. They’ve been 3A enrollment classification recently.
Congratulations to Pope. John Paul too fast too strong. Too sophisticated for valley. Vit was men playing against boys. The only comment I can make is when you’re dominating like that. And on-site kick when you’re up 29 doesn’t come on.
So you kickoff per usual, but the opposing team commits a 15 yard penalty on said kick, and you get to re-kick from the opposing teams 45 yard line?? What’s the point drilling the kick into the end zone?? Plus you might (and they did) recover the kick, proceed to score, get the running clock going, get the game over with sooner, get a jump on your 2 hour plus ride home.
How about showing some discipline on the kickoff??
You know what?
I never thought of getting a score to the mercy rule and run in the clock out you’re correct. I really don’t have anything to b**** about as a coach but I was thinking I probably would have done the same thing.
PJP was def NOT trying run it up..The coach talked about how much respect the PJP staff had for Valley View before and after the game. It’s like you said they were just trying to finish up strong and advance to the next round.
In addition, the Late hits/Cheap shots were getting out of hand in the 3rd quarter, the refs called timeout and addressed the situation with both coaches. I have never seen Coach Reed run up the score on anyone, he wanted to get his team out of there before a player got hurt.
Harrisburg at Manheim Township –
I know many think this is a close game but I don’t think so – Two teams going in opposite directions……
MT was very overrated based on a hot start but I have seen them enough times to say their overall team speed is not great, and quite frankly they are not athletic enough to be considered a top 6A team. Clancy is an undersized fullback and can be stopped and if that occurs they can’t pass well enough against good teams. The OL are experienced Seniors but again do not have quick feet meaning Mickens and Brown (who will return from a foot injury) will run right past them. Lastly the emotional intelligence of the players and coaches is sub-par. Against Wilson and CV they must have had 20 personal fouls and unsportsmanlike conduct penalties (late hits, cheap shots etc…. not sure how there was not ejections). #22 Don Rodriquez has been out with a knee injury and #89 Larue did not play and was not on the sideline last week against CV – Not sure on the status of either.
Harrisburg has improved throughout the year and has at least 3 Power 5 players in Mickens, Brown and Coke. They do not have Sean Lee at QB to steady the ship but they do focus when needed. Coach Cal does not get a lot of credit, but there success since 2016 is unmatched for a Public School in the 5A – 6A classifications. MT will not stop Mickens or Coke consistently.
Harrisburg in a route – 35-14
Central York at Wilson –
Again most think this is a close game but I do not……
CY has once again dominated the YAIAA but needed a 28-27 win over Dallastown to continue their 38 game league winning streak. They also lost to MT 28-10 early in the year. CY has athletes and are led by JR QB Brooklyn Nace who although is very athletic he does not run the ball much ( He was the starting PG for their 6A state b-ball team last year). They also have a big back in Legend Johnson and a great receiver in Brendyn Smith. For their offense to be effective they must rely on screens and passes to the flat. Defensively they are undersized and struggle against the run. Also not a big fan of Yonchiuk as their Head Coach – He is a great QB coach, but I feel his game management hurts his teams in big games.
Wilson might be the most underrated big school in the state. Wilson did beat MT 34-16 and lost at Nazareth 35-31 on a fumble at the 1 in the last minute. They only play a handful of Seniors and were not picked very high by anyone. How did they get here? They did not have a definitive QB to start the year, but ended up selecting Madyx Gruber, who was their top WR / CB last year. To say he has been good would be an understatement. Their TE / LB group has been the strength of the team led by SO TE Michael Glover. And lastly their skill players are all very fast multi-sport athletes (Akings, Greer, Glover & Carpenter) who can all score from anywhere on the field. Their offense is multiple and forces the Safety’s and OLB’s to make quick decisions. I will be surprised if CY can stop their running game.
Wilson 28-7
H-Burg – MT
What I got wrong: The game was 14-14 at half so it was not as one sided as the final score. MT did play without #89 Larue, their biggest lineman and #5 Jacquez Cabral a starting CB for the 2nd straight playoff game – not sure why, but I do know neither was injured or on the sideline. #22 Rodriguez did play.
What I got correct: H-burg wore down MT and Mickens eventually controlled the game as H-burg only attempted 7 passes and ran for over 300 yards. MT could not run consistently and was not effective in the passing game. Kevin Brown did return and play full-time OL, and was dominant.
Penalties: H-burg 17 for 140yards and MT 10 for 110 yards (3rd straight game over 100 yards) It’s either being coached or condoned. Not sure about H-burg penalty history but their talent allowed them to overcome a lot of penalties.
CY at Wilson
What I got wrong: CY was able to limit Wilson’s running game. They have 5 dudes between 6′ 2″ and 6′ 5″ playing DE & LB who are fast and athletic as they come. I thought this was Yonchiuk’s best coaching job in a big game. Down 21-20 late 4th – If they stop Wilson on the last drive, they are going with the wind at their back and only need a field goal to win, while having Parker who already kicked 57 & 43 yard field goals.
What I got correct: Madyx Gruber, Madyx Gruber & Madyx Gruber – Was chased around all night and made many big plays as a QB and also an INT and return about 50 yards setting up another TD. Michael Glover, Michael Glover & Michael Glover – Every catch seemed to be a 3rd or 4th down for either a first down or TD. He sealed the game with a 60 yard catch down the sideline, where he stiff-armed a guy for 20 yards. He is a 15 year old Man Child! This play was created by confusion between the Safety & OLB in coverage. The overall game speed was as good as it gets for two Public Schools. Both of these teams are faster than H-Burg but not quite as powerful on the lines.
Early D3 Finals lines: H-Burg vs Wilson – H-Burg -6.5 O/U 47.5 / McDevitt vs Exeter – McDevitt -3.5 O/U 59.5 / LS vs Wyo – LS -6.5 O/U 39.5
Will provide my opinions on each game later this week.
The D3 finals should be interesting.
-4A Wyo/LS rematch. LS is tough, on both sides of the ball, and now that Wyo is playing up this year it will be harder for them. LS beat Wyo earlier this year, but beating them twice in the same year, might be a challenge. Upset special Wyo. 20-17
-5A Exeter/McD. Exeter has been playing good ball, but haven’t faced anyone near McD’s caliber. Stone Saunders and crew too much for Exeter. McD 31-20
6A Wilson/Harrisburg
WWL held a good Central York team to 3 pts. and 76 yds in the 2nd half last week. Plus they forced 3 TO’s. Wilson O is very balanced. 2200 yds passing and 2400 yds rushing, but with the weather calling for 25-30 mph on Sat., I think WWL passing game might be neutralized. I’m concerned that Wilson will be able to run the ball consistently against HB DL and speed. Altough Wilson run D is pretty stout. I think 3, D1 Penn St recruits might be too much to tame. Harrisburg in a war, 27-17
CY”S field goal kicker was something else! You don’t see HS kids kicking 57 yard field goals! We might see that kid in the pros someday. Gruber is special, Hburg has had Wilson’s number lately but Gruber finds a way to win, I think this game is a tossup. Looking forward to Exeter and McDevitt, should be a high scoring affair and the rematch between LS and Wyo, very tough to be a Wolfrum coached team twice in a season.
Dang dude, you nailed those two scores!!! 3 of 4 points spot on!!! Well done sir!!
Wilson West Lawn takes down a good Central York team, 28-20. Three big TO’s, by the Bulldogs D…next week Harrisburg
I went 17-3 last week on pa football news pros vs Joe’s to tie them for the best week and they didn’t even mention me and claimed only 3 people tied the pros but I was clearly the 4th. Creeps!!! Lol
When you say Harrisburg’s success since 2016 is unmatched by a public school in the 5A-6A classes I assume you mean just in D3 and not across the state. Hard to top Pine Richland with 3 state titles in that time frame, and they won with 2 different coaches.
Yes. PR has been great for the last 15 years and also one of the few Publics to beat the Evil Empire in 2017. I enjoyed that tremendously!!!! I was a huge Kasperowicz fan, but must admit he lost a little luster after he left PR or whatever happened there. The results have not followed him like I thought they would.
The Harrisburg reference was just more of a general statement and more specific to Coach Cal’s success with his longevity and the challenges of coaching that team. When high school coaches are discussed he is never mentioned. I believe they lost in the State Final in 2017, 2018 & 2022 losing to Philly Catholic Teams each time. Coaching in any wealthy suburban school district has many advantages to less fortunate districts.
I guess it really means what you consider success. Getting destroyed in any state title game you ever played in and when not making it to the state title game and getting beat by teams thought to be inferior early in the playoffs then your right, Harrisburg is unmatched. And for you to say manheim is undisciplined and inferior you must be that same Harrisburg lover from preseason this year. Manheim and Harrisburg have played back and forth games for 3 years now. Manheim lost once to a Wilson team who I think beats Manheim or Harrisburg. Somehow Harrisburg losing to Cumberland valley is a wash but Manheim beating them in a close game last week means there not playing well. Your love of Harrisburg clouds your vision
What game are you going to this weekend? Break down your game and who you think wins.
I am heading to Bethlehem vs. Southern Lehigh tonight and Friday checking out Roman Catholic vs. ES South…
I think the Beca vs. Southern Lehigh game will be close. Friday Roman Catholic should win easy.
Think I am just going to do a repeat of last Friday night, and do an evening of streaming. Worked out well last week. Numerous (free) good games I see available via Hudl and YouTube, so a lot of jumping around. Wait to tomorrow and take myself over to Northeast (Imhotep/SJP) for my in person weekend appearance.
Welp, so much for Plan A. The Imhotep/SJP game is sold out tomorrow afternoon. I was shut out, did not get a ticket earlier. Really no surprise there. Should have known better. So see if I can get my lazy butt off the couch and take the short ride over to North Penn @ CB South 2.0 tonight. I was at the first game, so saw both teams this year, rather see CB West, who I have not seen this year, at D-Town West, who I did see. Ugh, that hour ride down to D-Town just isn’t calling me at the moment.
Going to see Bethel Park vs. Pine Richland tomorrow night, I’ve seen both teams in person and I like Bethel to upset them, I don’t think PR has seen as balanced of an offense as BP has all year, expect a very close, competitive game. I saw the first game between Peters Township-USC, so that’s why I’m going to see Bethel-PR, as I stated earlier this week I think Peters wins the rematch.
On Saturday afternoon going to WPIAL 4A final between TJ and McKeesport, also have seen both of these teams a couple of times and I think TJ wears them down with their powerful O-line in the 2nd half and wins.
If southern Lehighs wr is out I think they struggle tonight, if he plays it will be a close game. All three d-11 championship games should be good games and I’m calling on parkland to make it a much closer game than a few weeks ago. I think district 1 and 3 will be loaded with good games. District 1 cb south and north Penn and district 3 Exeter and Conestoga valley will be a great game. Upset specials- Abington heights,Bedford and Parkland. Blowout games shamokin, state college, northwestern lehigh, Scranton prep, troy and Lackawanna trail and my nobody respects but they should start is Belmont charter
For those of you looking to make an initial comment and not a response to another, this is just a generic post you can respond to with your initial thoughts, comments, questions, etc. Really need to to get the sign in part at the top of the comments like before.
The floor is yours………
Wow upsets everywhere tonight none bigger than Juniata over shamokin
@ Irish, Foleman, other PJPII peeps (a throwback with the “@”)
What is the situation with the ineligible transfers for PJPII?? How many and how integral are they to the team?? Starters, key reserves, D1 talent?? Did they have to sit out for the two district games or beginning tomorrow as that game is an official PIAA state level game??
@ FrankG, Joneses, other SJPrep folks
I watch the the game Saturday on You Tube. Sounds like SJP keeps injury info close to the vest. Wondering in any of you have info on West and Roy going forward. Any other key players now, or still out?? Saw West in the first La Salle game, looked gimpy at times, in and out of the game. Don’t know if he was re-injured or initially injured in that game.
@ Kevin @ Foleman…….C Brubaker stepped down at Spring-Ford,could kind of seeing this coming.
It will be interesting to see which way SF goes-Internal-Jim Mich Jr? Or external. The Spring Ford Head Coaching job is a plum position, a huge school population wise, one of the top academic public schools in Pa, facilities second to none. I’m sure coaches are lining up for interviews.
Tough season to go out on. Wish him the best in his future endeavors, be it more high school football or anything else.
Kevin, there are a handful of players out due to the rule. Two players that were regulars. Starting two way linemen who is a very good high school player could be wrong on this but I would say more of a div 3 possibly 2 type player at college level. The other is a starting corner on defense. The rest are rotational/depth players. A freshman has replaced the lineman who is out on offense and a player who has rotated most of the yr replaced him on defense. The corner was replaced by a junior seeing regular playing time for the first time. It didnt really come into play so far since PJP won and pretty much dominated,will see what happens as the competition ramps up. I will say PJP has been playing real well since the narrow loss to Rustin,
4 transfer – 2 are starters one a two way lineman and the other a defensive back
I understand West wasn’t 100% even when he was playing. He got some kind of injury against St. Edward’s and had to come out of the Good Counsel game in, I think, the third quarter. They really could have used him toward the end of regulation in the first LaSalle game, but his injury earlier in that game put an end to his season–at least that’s what I’ve heard. Too bad because he was soo good last year. Anyone interested should look at what he did against Archbishop Spalding.
I don’t know about Roy, but I can’t imagine that, not having dressed for the LaSalle game (though he was on the sideline, as usual), he’ll be OK to play this week or next.
Thanks guys!!! Appreciate the info!!
State Observations & Picks. Small Schools today & Big Schools tomorrow.
1A Bracket
– D-IV: Muncy took down Line Mountain, who was a fairly high scoring team, 42-6. Nice win to bring the district crown back to Muncy. The NTL has a stranglehold in 1A, which isn’t surprising.
– D-I/III/XII: I’m very shocked to see Morrisville fall to Belmont. They were 4-5 heading in, while Morrisville was a 9-win team. They get the D3 champs. The D3 1A field was weak, but Delone & York Catholic had a fun little battle, with Delone picking up the 21-14 victory. I’m not sure how good Delone is, but I’d assume they roll past Belmont.
– D-V/VIII: Westinghouse finally plays this weekend. They get, D5 champ, Windber, who won 14-7 over NBC last weekend. This probably won’t be close, but I’d like to see what Windy can do against Westy.
– D-VI: Bishop Guilfoyle is back in the 1A final, dominating Claysburg-Kimmel. Meanwhile, Northern Cambria gets past Penns Manor to face them. I’m not 100% sure how good Northern Cambria is. This’ll be a difficult test for them.
– D-IX: Port A vs. Redbank final. It’s not surprising. Port A dominated Keystone, 57-14. Redbank looked to defend their crown, beating Union/A-CV, 31-13. I think this is the changing of the guard game, at least for ’24.
– D-X: Wilmington is back in a district final, beating Reynolds 49-14. Greenville & Cambridge Springs fought hard in a 27-26 win for Greenville. I think Wilmy is the better team here.
– WPIAL: Fort Cherry won a close one over a gritty Cornell team, 27-20. However, they get Jeannette, who’s looking to make the finals as the #13 seed. Joey Logano, the 2024 Cup Series champ would be proud (he was the #15 seed in their playoff). Meanwhile, a dominant two weeks for Clairton got them past Roch & Cali. They get Canevin, who got a good fight from South Side. I think the top seeds prevail here.
Predictions
– Delone 28, Belmont 16
– Westy 40, Windy 13
– BG 35, No. Cambria 13
– Port A 37, Redbank Valley 22
– Wilmy 44, Greenville 18
– Ft. Cherry 37, Jeannette 13
– Clairton 29, Canevin 21
– State Final Prediction: Westinghouse over Clairton
– Sleeper On Each Side: Lackawanna Trail, Wilmington
2A Bracket
– D-I/XII: Not surprising here, but Lansdale Catholic got past Bristol, but it was closer than I had envisioned, 35-17. They might give a good challenge to Riverside & just might beat them.
– D-XI: Battle of Colonial-Schuylkill Division 3 opponents, as Schuylkill Haven & Williams Valley get their grudge match. The Vikes had their only loss to them early this season. I think Haven repeats the midseason result & get Riverside/Lansdale Catholic.
– D-IV: All of PA is jumping for joy. Southern’s playoff dominance streak is over, as Troy looks to get two NTL District champions for the first time in ages. This wasn’t even close. I don’t think I’ve seen Southern lose that bad before. Warrior Run gets to the final, winning 43-20 over Towanda. Even I didn’t see that coming. Troy is the favorite in 2A. Maybe Central Clarion beats them, but how can you give a different team the edge?
– D-V: Bedford beats Berlin for the D-5 title, 18-0. Huge win for the LHAC squad & it might essentially lock out the ICC of a district title once again.
– D-III: Steel-High keeps “rolling” *ugh, even I hate that dad joke, & I’m a faux pa*. They beat Lancaster Catholic in a dominant performance. I expect the same here next week.
– WPIAL: Seton LaSalle took care of business over the other Riverside. So much for an all-Riverside final again. They get Steel Valley, who beat Western Beaver. South Park survived in a 19-9 win over Mohawk & Ellwood City squeaked by South Allegheny, 13-12. Two sides of the bracket, with two different types of quarterfinal wins. I think both will be close, & I’ll say they’ll go chalk.
– D-VI: Cambria Heights goes to a 2A final this time, winning 15-8 over Bellwood-Antis. As for their opponent, Richland got past Marion Center here. I think this will be a very entertaining battle.
– D-X: I mean, Farrell was going to win, even batting .500 in the regular season. They got past a nice Sharpsville team who I didn’t expect to make the final.
– D-VIII/IX: Central Clarion sat pretty last week. Their win over Karns City was a much closer game than I thought. I wonder how they’ll do in this one against Farrell. Farrell has lost three straight games in their first state round.
Predictions
– Sch. Haven 36, WV 28
– Troy 56, WR 14
– Steel-High 45, Bedford 14
– SLS 34, Steel Valley 14
– S. Park 24, Lincoln 20
– Richland 24, Cambria Hts 22
– Central Clarion 49, Farrell 28
– State Final Prediction: Troy over Central Clarion
– Sleeper On Each Side: Schuylkill Haven, Richland
3A Bracket
– D-XI: Northwestern Lehigh flat out dominated North Schuylkill to win the 3A crown for the 3rd straight time. They’re the class of the field in 3A.
– D-XII: Conwell-Egan returns to the state bracket, after a 24-12 win over Gratz. It’ll be interesting to see how they fare against Northwestern.
– D-III: Bermudian Springs can give us a 2nd YAIAA champion. They beat Berks Catholic 42-25. They’ll get Trinity, who took down Schuylkill Valley in a 20-17 OT thriller. I’m going to go with who I had in my postseason predictions & take the lower seed.
– D-IV: Danville won 35-10 over Montoursville. Not surprising, but very convincing. Lewisburg beat Mt. Carmel, who I originally had going all the way in preseason. This is not a rematch, surprisingly. I hope it’s a good game.
– D-X: So, Sharon & Hickory are on a crash course, again. It seems like we get this matchup almost every year. Both gave up 7 pts last week to their opponents. Sharon could be a good Western rep.
– D-VI: Penn Cambria took care of business in D-6 & won their first district title in program history, if I read correctly.
– D-V/VIII/IX: Penn Cambria gets Somerset, who beat Brockway in a 40-34 thriller. I’d think that Penn Cambria is the better team.
– WPIAL: The Final Four doesn’t shock me. Imani took down Highlands. Avonworth doubled up Beaver. Central Valley won 35-7 over Freeport. Elizabeth Forward won a shootout over North Catholic. My gut says top seeds prevail, but I feel these games will be fairly close.
Predictions
– NW Lehigh 42, CEC 7
– Trinity 23, Bermudian 19
– Danville 30, Lewisburg 15
– Sharon 24, Hickory 17
– Penn Cambria 38, Somerset 12
– Imani 34, Avonworth 24
– Cent. Valley 30, EF 27
– State Final Prediction: Northwestern Lehigh over Sharon
– Sleeper On Each Side: Danville, Imani
Big Schools. For the record, I had this done before all Thursday games.
4A Bracket
– D-XII: The Philly final is set. West Philadelphia faces Bonner-Prendie. We all know who’s winning this one.
– D-I: PJP dominated Montco, which is no surprise. Valley View will face them & that’ll be a test for the Cougars. I think PJP will be a sleeper in states.
– D-IV: It took 2 OT, but Shamokin had to work for it. A great 28-27 dub for the Indians over Shore. For those keeping track at home, that’s three different teams in three years, I believe.
– D-VI: Juniata finds a way to get here every year, & it’s no different after beating Bellefonte. Now, it’s the East bracket. Will Juniata finally get over the hump? I say nay nay.
– D-XI: Solehi vs. Becahi for the final in D-11. This is a nice matchup. We’ve seen Solehi beat teams like ES South & Whitehall for the title in years past. I’d say they have what it takes to beat Beca.
– WPIAL: TJ gives us a new state champion, as they beat the Quips. They get McKeesport in the WPIAL final. It’s been a few years since the Tigers got a WPIAL title. I think Cherpak’s squad is back in the running for a state title.
– D-VIII/IX: Clearfield’s back in the 4A state race. They won over USO 34-24.
– D-IX: General McLane shut out Meadville. I had Meadville at the beginning of the season, but it’s good to see a new opponent enter the state playoff race. I don’t think they get past Clearfield.
– D-III: A rematch of a late season affair brings us Lampeter-Strasburg vs. Twin Valley. Will Twin Valley get a chance at Wyo? We’ll see. Wyo won 42-14 over East Pennsboro. Meanwhile, their opponent won in a hockey, baseball, or other football score (5-3) over Eastern York. Top seeds make the final.
Predictions
– B-P 37, Bel Air 7
– Shamokin 35, Juniata 18
– Solehi 28, Becahi 16
– TJ 32, McK 20
– Clearfield 35, McLane 21
– L-S 33, TV 19
– Wyo 30, WY 7
– State Final Prediction: B-P over TJ
– Sleeper On Each Side: PJP II, Wyo
5A Bracket
– D-I: Delco won a close one over Marple-Newtown (21-14), which makes them the favorite. Why? Strath went down against Garnet Valley, 35-34. Meanwhile, Rustin dominated Chester (surprising result) & Upper Dub got an upset dub against Phoenixville. Give me the home teams here.
– D-XI: ES South squeaks past Whitehall, 21-17 in an easier D-11 bracket. No surprise here.
– D-XII: Roman dominated Frankford last week. I think they do it again.
– D-VI/VIII/IX/X: Hollidaysburg surprised me this year. They won their Week 10 rematch over DuBois & have a date with Abington Heights. I think we see the Golden Tigers survive to face Roman.
– D-III: Exeter Twownship finds a way. They upset the #1 New Oxford, 24-21. Huge win to set up the 5A Berks/L-L final, which is against Conestoga Valley. Mechanicsburg whooped Cocalico (expected closer) & McDevitt, unsurprisingly, did the same against Weiser. I think we get a #4 vs. #6 final.
– WPIAL: Pine-Richland DOMINATED Franklin Regional. They get Bethel Park, who defeated Woody in pretty solid fashion. USC won 24-3 over Penn Hills, while Peters beat Penn-Trafford. I think we get #1 vs. #3 here. No surprises.
Predictions
– Delco 23, Garnet Valley 21
– Rustin 34, UD 18
– Roman 48, ESS 7
– ‘Stoga Valley 30, Exeter Twp. 28
– McDevitt 33, Mechanicsburg 14
– P-R 20, BP 17
– Peters 24, USC 17
– State Final Prediction: Roman over McDevitt
– Sleeper On Each Side: Delco, Peters
6A Bracket
– D-I: CB South just dominates everyone, beating Plymouth-Whitemarsh 35-0. North Penn got a close win over Haverford. D’Town West dominated Owen J. Roberts. CB West won 35-21 over D’Town East. I think we keep the chalk into the finals.
– D-XII: The State Championship has been decided. SJP beat La Salle. Unless Imhotep has something to say, after barely squeaking past Abe Lincoln, it’s a formality as to who reps the East at Chapman.
– D-XI: Emmaus upsetting Easton came out of nowhere. That 20-19 win gives them a shot at rival Parkland in the final, who I believe they upset in Week 10. I say Parkland returns to states.
– WPIAL: Here we go! PCC vs. North A in the WPIAL final. No surprise, as the bracket was weak, with Seneca Valley & Mt. Lebo getting 14 pts in each game. PCC should take this.
– D-VI/X: State High seems to find their way here every year. They beat McDowell, who got the D-10 crown once again.
– D-III: Manheim Twp. barely squeaked past Cumberland Valley, 14-7. Harrisburg dominated Dallastown & will face them. Wilson won by the meme score over Cedar Crest. Central York flat out dominated CD East. I think we see an upset in one of the games.
Predictions
– CB South 35, North Penn 14
– D’town West 27, CB West 22
– SJP 35, Imhotep 20
– Parkland 27, Emmaus 21
– PCC 35, N. Allegheny 18
– H’burg 26, Manheim Twp. 20
– WWL 23, CY 16
– State Final Prediction: SJP over Harrisburg
– Sleeper On Each Side: CB South, State High
Curious as to why you think that the Emmaus win over Easton last week in D11 came out of nowhere? Emmaus’ only 2 losses have come in OT. When the teams played in week 5, Emmaus missed a chip shot FG on the last play of the game before losing in OT. They have been rolling with 7 straight wins including shutouts over Parkland in Week 10, 27-0 and Nazareth 35-0 in the first round of playoffs. Not saying your pick in tonight’s matchup is right or wrong but I don’t think people give enough credit to Emmaus. Tonight will be interesting however as Parkland goes for their 14th district 11 title while Emmaus is looking for their 1st.
Clairton’s defense has given up a total of 14 points in 12 games (the other 7 points allowed were a defensive TD), I would be shocked if Canevin scores 21 against them, I see Clairton winning this game very easily by at least 3 scores, I like Fort Cherry in the other game, although maybe closer than you predicted.
In 2A I’m not sold on Seton LaSalle, and Steel Valley has been rolling since they’ve gotten healthy, would not be surprised at all if Steel Valley wins this game, they were preseason #1 in the WPIAL for a reason, I do like South Park to beat Ellwood City and end their dream season.
Also like you’re 3A picks, Imani-Avonworth should be a very competitive game, I like Central Valley to win by at least 2 scores over EF
I suggest you get on max preps and look at Belmont charters season. This is a class a school that has played chester and other 5a and 6a schools. They have a win over executive education academy and frankly I’d be shocked if they lose to delone catholic.
Since the board was out of commission before the playoffs started I’ll make my state championship picks now, and we’ll see how many I get right, the WPIAL typically wins a couple each year, so I start by figuring out which classes the WPIAL has the best shot to win and go from there.
6A – SJP, biggest favorite in any class
5A – Peters Township, they will beat USC in the rematch this week and whoever wins the Pine Richland/Bethel game for the WPIAL title to become the first WPIAL team to repeat as 5A champs, then beat Bishop McDevitt in the western finals and Roman Catholic in the final, I have the least amount of confidence with this pick than any other class because there are a lot of very solid teams in 5A which IMO is the deepest class in the state.
4A TJ – I think they beat McKeesport this week and win a close game against Lampeter in the western finals and beat whichever catholic school comes out of the east (PJP II or Bonner)
3A – Northwestern Lehigh – last year’s runner up will win Gold this year, both Scranton Prep and Danville might give them a battle in the east, Sharon from D10 may beat the WPIAL winner in the western final.
2A – Troy now the favorite after ending Southern Columbia’s 7yr run, Steel High may give them a run for their money next week.
1A – Clairton, I’ve been touting them all year since I saw them dominate 2A Steel Valley in week 0, 9 shutouts in 12 games, giving up a total of 21 points, with 7 the most in any game. Lots of athletes and team speed and I don’t think there’s another team in the state in 1A that can keep up with them, they will handle Bishop Canevin this week and beat Fort Cherry next week, hoping for an all western pa final against Westinghouse, but I think Bishop Guilfoyle will win the eastern bracket, and Clairton gets revenge for losing twice in the state final to them last decade.
Belmont charter 20 delone catholic 14
Lackawanna trail 49 muncy 16
Troy 49 warrior run 7
Riverside 21 Lansdale Catholic 20
Schuylkill haven 28 Williams valley 26
Steel high 20 Bedford 14
Scranton prep 35 Wyoming area 7
Nw Lehigh 42 conwell Egan 14
Bermudian springs 24 Trinity 21
Danville 27 Lewisburg 13
Lampeter Strasburg 35 twin valley 20
Wyomissing 27 West York 6
Bonner prendie 27 West Philly 12
Pjp 33 valley view 14
Shamokin 56 Juniata 7
Bethlehem Catholic 27 southern Lehigh 14
Exeter 27 Conestoga valley 21
Bishop mcdevitt 34 Mechanicsburg 14
Springfield 35 garnet valley 27
Wc rustin 41 upper Dublin 14
Roman catholic 35 East Stroudsburg South 7
Abington heights 17 holidaysburg 14
State college 41 Williamsport 7
Harrisburg 26 Manheim 14
Wilson 24 central York 20
Cb south 20 north Penn 17
Cb West 16 Downingtown West 14
St Joe’s 28 Imhotep 12
Emmaus 17 parkland 14
Steel high has no chance against troy. Steel high is very much over rated. They lost to Juniata and played a close game with line mountain. I don’t necessarily think troy is unbeatable just not by steel high. St. Joes will not have an easy time the rest of the playoffs and they can lose each week if they dont play great. Manheim, Harrisburg, Emmaus, Wilson, any of 4 district one teams can all beat them. Lampeter Strasburg will be a tough out against anyone they play in 4a. I think mcdevitt will be tough. As far as Scranton prep and Danville, I think Danville has under performed for much of the season. And Danville scrimmaged North schuylkill while northwestern lehigh played them twice. The Danville scrimmage was competitive with Danville probably being slightly better than north Schuylkill, but not a big difference in talent. North schuylkill was not competitive against nw Lehigh either time they played. The second game was because of injuries with almost every offensive skill position player out but they still lost 49-7 the first game. I believe Scranton prep is better than Danville and would keep it closer than Danville would. Lackawanna trail will be tough to beat.
I think SJP rolls to another state title now that they got past LaSalle, I don’t see any team left in the field that will beat them, even if they have an “off” game, I think they beat Imhotep by at least 3 TDs this week, then handle the D11 winner next week, and D1 the following week, none of those schools will come within 2 TDs of Prep and will likely lose by a lot more. Would love to be wrong and see a public school beat them, I just don’t see it happening.
Lackawanna Trail against the winner of the Westinghouse-Guilfoyle game next week will be a great game in the Eastern Finals, but I’ll take the Westy-Guilfoyle winner in that game
Also agree LS and McDevitt will be tough outs in 4A and 5A, but I like the WPIAL winners to beat them, we’ll see
Took the week off due to the website having issues. Glad to see it fixed. To be fair, I probably would’ve went chalk on almost every pick this week. Let me give some D2 Notes & I’ll throw in state observations tomorrow, to make up for what I would’ve picked.
1A: Trail is back at the states level! They played a great game & dominated Tri-Valley. Honestly, expected this to be a little more competitive of a game, but that wasn’t the case. The Lions host Muncy at Scranton High. I’ll be interested to see if Muncy can keep up.
2A: It wasn’t just Southern Columbia who were the only 2A powers going down. Dunmore’s ‘24 campaign is over after a tough loss to Riverside. Riverside really showed their a-game against a program who’s been there before. They’ll get a good Lansdale Catholic team, who I don’t know much about, compared to other PCL names.
3A: Prep took care of business. We all saw it coming. However, I didn’t see the Wyoming Area upset of Western Wayne. I believe this was a revenge game, but game of the week it was, at least! A double OT thriller gave the Warriors a crack at Prep. It’s a shame to see WW go down. Just had a bad run over the last three weeks of their season.
4A: Valley View came, saw, & conquered. Dallas has been dethroned as district champs. We all can say VV is a sleeper to get to states. They’ll get PJP, which isn’t an easy out, but if they’re going to win, they gotta outperform the private schools in every facet.
5A: I would’ve got this wrong. DV & Abington had another thriller. For the first time in the six-class era, a District 2 champion doesn’t have DV in their name. The LFC Comets had one whale of a game & their reward is to play Hollidaysburg. I see this as the end of the road, but the Comets can do what Wallenpaupack didn’t, if they play a complete game.
6A: This was a revenge game. Billtown takes the Subregional title over Wilkes-Barre in another competitive game. Wilkes-Barre can at least crown themselves D2 champs. The Millionaires will have a tough, tough outing against State High next week. A Herculean upset will likely be needed if they want to move on.
Odds To Make State Final
1. Lack. Trail: Still needs to dethrone either Westinghouse or Guilfoyle. They’ll go the farthest, barring a gargantuan upset.
2. Riverside: It depends on if they match up well with likely Troy or Schuylkill Haven. An upset somewhere will help those odds. It’s not as tough as the below.
3. 3A Champ: Winner has to go through likely Northwestern Lehigh & Danville. Tall task, but they could be #2.
4. 4A Champ: Dallas winning would’ve put them at #3. Valley View needs complete games against PJP & Bonner. If they get two upsets, they’ll need to find ways to stymie Solehi/Beca or Shamokin
5. 5A Champ: Is anyone from outside of D1 going to challenge Roman?
6. 6A Champ: Williamsport technically counts in this. I don’t see them scoring much this week against State College. Then they’ll have to go through the WPIAL & District 3 champs, which are better.
Picks for next week
– Wyoming Area vs. Scranton Prep: It seems like this is a formality in 3A whenever both share a classification. Wyoming Area tends to compete against Prep, but Prep has been better. I’ll say this is close & show both of the offensive strengths, 35-27 Prep.
– Muncy vs. Lackawanna Trail: This will be a very interesting battle at the small school level. I don’t know too much about Muncy, but they have played tough all year long. Trail has been dominant in most of their games. Trail should dominate here. I’ll go 33-10 Trail.
– Riverside vs. Lansdale Catholic: This one is very interesting. Riverside has been strong, but Lansdale Catholic might be their best competition yet (it’s a PCL school). I’ll give Riverside the advantage in a close one, 27-23.
– Valley View vs. PJP: I think PJP is better suited for a state run than VV. I think the defense for the Cougars can hold their own, but for how long is the question. I’ll say PJP takes it, 36-20.
– Abington Heights vs. Hollidaysburg: The last time a D2 team played the Golden Tigers (Wallenpaupack), it was a shutout loss. Abington might be better suited than Paupack was. I don’t think AH can get past this team. The D6 champs have been a pleasant surprise for me. H’burg 35-10
– Williamsport vs. State College: The Little Lions seem to make it here every year. It’s no different this time. This program has a better pedigree than Williamsport. Billtown needs to play like Vandy did against Bama if they want a shot to win. State High will take this 42-10.
Winners Get
– 1A: Belmont Charter/Delone Catholic
– 2A: Schuylkll Haven/Williams Valley
– 3A: Northwestern Lehigh/Conwell-Egan
– 4A: Bonner-Prendie/West Philadelphia
– 5A: East Stroudsburg South/Roman
– 6A: PCC/North Allegheny
This is kind of cool, at least I think so, or for any of you looking for championship new blood, which I think there are quite a few of you out there. We are guaranteed of 5 new champions at all of the classifications with the exception of 6A (St. Joe Prep, imagine that). We still have 3 champions from last year that are still in the running for a championship, with two at another higher classification, Steelton Highspire, last years “A” champion, now bumper up to 2A, and Imhotep, last year’s 5A champion still alive (barely) at the 6A level. Thinking ‘Tep will be done next weekend.
Would be shocked if Tep beats SJP, their defense is really good and shut down LaSalle’s potent offense, I think Tep’s offense will have problems moving the ball consistently, not going out on a limb here but I don’t see any team beating SJP.
I watched the first half of the Imhotep/Lincoln game on-line before the LaSalle/SJP game (did not go, watched on-line). Kind of lackluster first half performance for ‘Tep, but still lead 19-7 at the half. Then I saw the final score, and went back the other night to watch the second half. Imhotep should have lost that game. Felt bad for the Lincoln kids. They really let that one slip away big time. End of 4th qtr short (and there is a lot there) …..Imhotep scored on the final play of the game from the one yard line to take the led and win the game.
So no, I don’t see Prep loosing to Imhotep, heck, may not even be that close. Maybe 35-7, 35-14. That match-up has been much anticipated for some time, just probably not the best year for the game. Last year would have been interesting.
PCC any chance (assuming they make the championship game) of beating Prep?? State College seems pretty strong as well.
PCC has no chance to beat SJP, and I doubt they will get to the final to find out, I wouldn’t be surprised if State College beats the WPIAL winner next week, whether it be PCC or NA, neither are nearly as good as last year, and State College is solid.
Mt. Carmel needs a coaching change. There head coach when put under pressure and every year in mid season turn to the most vanilla offense in the world. Every single year he does it. Your QB supposedly and from what I seen has a great arm but you not only take that away from him but you pull everyone in tight to the line and make it even more difficult to run. I dont know about you but the way to get a running game stopped to me always is stacking everyone at the line and when your offense makes it that much easier for you by not putting wr’s spread out at the line, your done. Sure you can run the ball down Milton’s throat but you can’t against the north Schuylkill, Danville, shamokin and lewisburgs of the world. North schuylkill made a Great turnaround with there season, congrats to them the future and next year looks bright but I still believe talent is left off the field too often. Jaden Meyer was a god send to the defense the second half of the year. An athlete that once again wally under used. Blitz, blitz, blitz never saw someone who refuses to put pressure on the QB. Almost everyone back on defense next year, there should be vast improvement.
Does anyone know how the home team is decided for states? Is it a certain district get a home game on a two yr basis,rather then every other yr? Looks like PJP is traveling to Valley View, I know Dallas from district 2 had home field last yr , was thinking district one may have it this yr but that doesn’t seem to be the case.
@ Irish1…yeah kinda sucks there….that last time in 4A where districts 1 & 2 met was 2021 where Shanahan had to go to AGAIN Valley View…….Why isnt PJP or a D1 site hosting this game??? What am I missing?
Think most of you guys already know this, but just recently the PIAA has been allowing the team on the top of the bracket for state level games (district games are left up to the districts to do what they want) to host a playoff game up until the state semi final games, which still appear to be all contested at neutral sites. This is if the PIAA has deemed the hosting team has a suitable facility (the big requirement is to have turf, then guessing other PIAA requirements have to do with seating, a fenced in gate, press box/area, parking, locker rooms/team rooms, handicap accessible, rest rooms, concessions area, etc.) and within certain travel parameters (not sure what they are). If those situations can’t be meet, then the “home” team (top of the bracket team) will host in a suitable facility somewhere in their district. Then the second year of the two year cycle, brackets remain the same, but teams/districts are just flipped. So my best bet is that District One 4A champion will “host” the District 2 champion next year. If it’s PJPII again, most likely the game will not be at PJPII (natural grass field), but somewhere like Norristown or Spring-Ford. How they came up with the top of bracket districts this year, no idea. I see that District One 5A and 6A hosted their respected state semi final games last year, and they get to host again this year.
If anyone has addition info on this, or corrections, please let us know.
Thanks for the info,just couldnt remember the last time a district one team in 4a played a home/game in own district. PJP will graduate alot of talent so next yr probably takes a step back. Either home or away still have to go out and get it done, just have a long bus trip. Did you go to the Lasalle -Prep game? What was the atmosphere like? I watched it on you tube.
Yes,thats what I thought Shanahan traveled up there a few yrs back and Bonner from district 12 went up there last yr. Still have to go out and win but its def nicer to have home field occasionally
Just the luck (or bad luck) of the draw.
No, I did not go to the LaS/SJP game. Was back and forth about going all week, but sat it out. Streamed the game like you. In fact, sat out Friday night as well. I was in some what of a coach potato mode this past weekend. Probably the right choice for Friday, as I saved my self an hour trip down to West Chester (plus gas and tolls) for the Rustin/Chester game. Watched the first half on-line from home. Bad case of fumblitis for Chester. So much for my D1 5A pick. Switched that game off at half and jumped around to other second half games, before settling for the 4th qtr and OT of the Garnet/Strath Haven game. That appeared to have been the Friday night D1 game of the week.
I would say valley view is about almost a 2 TD underdog against pjp. District 2 is wAy down this year. Its Lackawanna trail and Scranton prep and no one else. I really think nw Lehigh in 3a is the biggest favorite in any class. All other classes I think can come down to 4 teams who can win it all but I don’t see nw Lehigh losing.
I think SJP is the biggest favorite in any class and NW Lehigh might be the 2nd biggest, I really like their chances to win 3A.
WATCH LIVE: St. Joseph’s Prep (6-2) vs La Salle College HS (10-0) (November 9, 2024 at 1pm)
https://www.youtube.com/live/-K3CTyI0Yss
A wonderful evening last night and a very long time in coming. Both Southern Columbia and Aliquippa go down like Frazier. Can La Salle now complete this breath of fresh air weekend trifecta later today??
I was at the TJ -Quips game and TJ was very impressive, this looks like a typical Cherpak championship team and IMO they are the favorites to win 4A now. Great special teams blocking two punts deep in the Quips own territory, both resulted in TDs, it was 28-0 only 3 minutes into the 2nd quarter, excellent offensive line and great running back in sophomore Tyler Eber, they ran the ball down the Quips throats last night. Next up is McKeesport, they played in week 2 and the Port had a 28-7 halftime lead only to see TJ score 3 unanswered TDs in the 2nd half to tie 28-28 and then TJ won in OT. This should be another very competitive game but I like TJ’s offensive line to wear them down in the 2nd half, on defense TJ will need to contain sophomore running back Kemon Spell who has already committed to Penn State.
Regarding Troy, I said on here a few weeks ago this could be their year, I think they are the favorite to win 2A now, I don’t think any WPIAL team will beat them, that’s assuming the WPIAL winner beats the Farrell/Central Clarion/Richland winner in the Western Finals.
Jeff H, TJ will definitely have to go through a 3 game Juggernaut to earn the title, Mckeesport, District 3 champ which I believe will be Lampeter-Strasburg, who has 2 offensive/defensive tackles that go 315 and 290 and 4 linebackers who can all run and hit. On O they don’t do anything pretty but have an athletic QB who can really run. Then the Eastern Champ which is up in the air-Valley View-PJP-Bonner Prendie, all tough teams.
I totally agree they will have some tough competition to beat, this TJ team is reminiscent of their past state championship teams and I like their chances, if they play Lampeter in the western finals as expected that game will be a battle, I expect either PJP II or Bonner Prendie to win the east.
Won’t be easy but be nice to see LaSalle win.They could probably benefit from a larger venue for the game.
What can you tell me about Pope John Paul?What type of team are they passion?Camepassing team running team balani’d appreciate any information you could pass along
Left a comment farther down the page with how this site is right now its hard to tell where to put anything. PJP has become a much more balanced team over the course of the season. early in the yr they were more passing since they graduated an all state running back from last yr. They have a junior rb that has taken over and has done a nice job over the last several weeks. They are capable of breaking a big play from anywhere on the field with the speed they have at wide receiver. Alot will depend on what type of a night it is weather wise since they do need to be balanced with the run and the pass.
Finally will be some fresh faces late in playoffs and state championships.
Giving it a shot to see if it works! WPIAL big school preview/picks for tonight
6A – PCC will crush Seneca Valley again, and NA will beat Mt Lebanon, that game should be competitive for a while, but NA will win, they won the regular season game 28-21.
5A – #1 seed Pine Richland will roll over #9 Franklin Regional, their starting QB is back after injuring a shoulder in the next to last regular season game
#2 USC hosts Penn Hills, I think PH can be competitive for a half, but USC too physical and will wear them down and win by 2 TD’s
#3 Peters hosts Penn Trafford, who has won 7 games in a row since losing to Woodland Hills in September, PT will also keep it close for awhile, but Peters is better overall and will pull away in 2nd half
#4 Woodland Hills hosts #5 Bethel Park – I would like Woody’s chances better if their starting QB wasn’t out for the year, Bethel is really good and I expect them to win this game at the Wolvarena, hope I’m wrong!
4A – game of the night in the WPIAL and the game I am going to, #1 TJ vs. #4 Aliquippa, combined they have won 7 of last 8 WPIAL 4A titles, this should be a highly competitive game, can TJ bludgeon the Quips with their punishing rushing attack and keep Tikey Hayes and Quips offense off the field. The Quips are going for their 17th straight appearance in the WPIAL title game, I think TJ stops their incredible streak tonight in another classic, last time these 2 schools played was in 2020 WPIAL title game won by TJ 35-28 in OT.
#3 McKeesport vs. #7 Mars – McKeesport won the regular season game 28-7, Mars is playing better of late, including scoring 42 points in second half last week to shock Montour 48-42, I think McKeesport wins again but will likely be a bit closer than the first game.
I had to delete old comments…For some reason it was hanging up when it loaded. Should be okay.
Lackawa trail 55 tri valley 7
Schuylkill haven 34 ex education 19
Williams valley 27 pen argyl 21
Nw Lehigh 42 North schuylkill 17
Emmaus 21 Easton 14
Freedom 35 parkland 21
It’s time for the Holy War. La Salle vs St. Joe Prep. La Salle has made huge strides this year to be able to be in this position. The new coach and offensive schemes. The QB and his receivers. The defense. They will a team to be reckoned with for some time. BUT……………St. Joe’s should have won the first meeting and with that in mind I predict 24-20 St. Joe’s. It should be a heckava game!! See you at the Ale House!!!
Mmmmm, roast beef!!! You buying?? 🙂
Rooting for LaSalle but I too expect SJP will win the rematch, and I think your final score sounds about right, should be a great game, I’m going to try and watch some of it online tomorrow from the western part of the state on Bob Long sports.
Can I get a scouting report on Valley View, they will be playing PJP next week,PJP has been playing it’s best football the last several weeks and so far have overcome a few key losses to the transfere rule. That could come into play more as the competition continues to get tougher.
Valley View is basically a power running team. They have a big 230 pound. Fullback, add a 215 pound quarterback. And they pound a ball at you. They do have a quick back at tailback. But he hasn’t been a huge impact.
They’re not bad at throwing the ball. Quarterback’s got a strong Armand usually when they throw. It’s deep weaknessesdefensive line penalties. Penalties, penalties, they probably average about 10 to 12 penalties. A game. I would be surprised if they’re averaging over a 100 yd in penalties.
A game if they don’t beat themselvesthey can be a formidable opponent. They’re physical and they hit. I don’t know if they have the speed overall team speed. To match a team out of district one.
We are working on the error on the forum. I can view it on google chrome.
D2 Notes
1A
– Trail took down Nativity in the 1A Semis, 47-20, which is no surprise. Nativity couldn’t figure out the Wing-T
– That means they’ll face Tri-Valley, who shutout Marian.
– Next week will be a fun game. The winner of this has a legitimate chance to make the Eastern Semis. I think Trail has a better chance than T-V, but that’s just me.
2A
– I was right on the upset. Dunmore avenged a midseason loss, dominating Susquehanna in the first half, but winning (on the road), 47-34.
– Riverside rebounded nicely, beating Lakeland, 36-7. They’ll face Dunmore, who they beat in Week 1 (& will be a rematch in Week 1 again next year).
3A
– All status quo with Prep, Wyo Area, & Mid Valley.
– Western Wayne, however, escaped an upset bid & are limping into the semis, winning 7-0 over Berwick. Sean Owens became the difference maker on both sides of the football.
– Scranton Prep hosts Mid Valley, while Western Wayne hosts Wyoming Area. Both are rematches of games from earlier this season.
4A
– Dallas dominated Honesdale, 48-14. It wasn’t close.
– Valley View scored two second half TDs to defeat Crestwood, 21-14.
– This will be a rematch of last year’s 4A final.
5A: Neither game was close. Rematch of DV/Abington Heights next week.
6A
– Wilkes-Barre made easy work of Scranton, 35-7.
– Jamel Bailey was the difference maker for Williamsport, pulling off a 15-6 victory over Hazleton.
–
EC: None of these games were close. Congrats to Old Forge, Tamaqua, North Pocono, & Muhlenberg on their season-ending wins.
No changes to predictions & no changes to state pathways. However, I feel the winner of the 5A bracket in D2 will have a better chance against Hollidaysburg/DuBois, but that isn’t an easy task.
@ D two you do a lot of research What can you tell me about this?Pope john paul that valley view will be playing this week
PJP, is a well coached team with good speed at the skill positions. QB has thrown for over two thousands yds,their top player is wr/db who is a Villanova commit do it all type player who never comes off the field. The other wr is also quick and has been playing well. The running game has improved greatly over the course of the season. Up front they are led by two seniors who have played since their freshmen yr. They have decent size but their strength is their quickness. Schedule wise they beat 6a Perk Valley for league title, took 5a semi finalist West Chester Rustin to final seconds,that is their one loss.
Can I get a scouting report on Valley View, they will be playing PJP next week,PJP has been playing it’s best football the last several weeks and so far have overcome a few key losses to the transfere rule. That could come into play more as the competition continues to get tougher.
Irish Valley View is basically a power running game.
They have a decent sized offensive. Mine and I’ve got a 225 pound. Full back at 215 pounds quarterback, who handle most of the running. They also have a small tail back. Who runs a legitimate 43 defensively? If there’s a weakness with the tackles inside the middle linebacker is an Allstate player and I’m very strong. Secondary their biggest Achilles penalties penalties. They can get very undisciplined and really make some stupid mistakes.If they keep the mistakes down and don’t beat themselvesthey can be a formidable Opponent Look at them the thing that I like being a valley Is you fan Every.
Game besides the first , they found a way to win
Playoff Predictions. Somehow I’m able to post this. The forum page has been very buggy lately, where it does not respond, nor is usable on mobile. If only we had the reply part at the top again. I don’t know if it’s my long posts, the redesign of the forum page, or just my internet out in D2 country, but I’ve had a few issues trying to navigate this last week or so.
Anywho, D2 Picks: The common theme is crossovers in 3A to 6A. I’ll put up Small Schools tonight or tomorrow & Big Schools the following day, plus any interesting Non-PIAA showdowns.
1A
– #4 Nativity vs. #1 Lackawanna Trail: This might be the best overall game on the D2 playoff ledger. Steve Jervis & his Lions squad will give Nativity a taste of their Wing-T offense. The Green Wave will give it their all, but they’ll give the winner below a taste of the district title.
– #3 Marian vs. #2 Tri-Valley: Tri-Valley & Marian are coming in on opposite momentum wavelengths. Tri-Valley is coming off of two tough losses. Marian has come into the playoffs on a winning streak, which knocked out Old Forge. This is essentially for the District 11 1A championship, barring an upset. This is one of a few rematches in the District 2 brackets that we’re guaranteed to get this week.
2A
– #4 Lakeland vs. #1 Riverside: Speaking of rematches, this was a one-sided rematch from way back into Week 1. Riverside is coming off a tough loss to Trail, but they need to make sure it doesn’t linger into this week. It should be a cakewalk.
– #3 Dunmore vs. #2 Susquehanna: It’ll be a long bus ride, but Susquehanna is hosting their first home playoff game in ages against a Dunmore team that’s been on the up & up since the rematch in Week 4. It will come down to if Susquehanna is ready for the challenge. I’m not sure if the inexperience in the playoffs will be overcome. Give me Dunmore to get revenge, in a close affair.
3A
– #8 Tunkhannock vs. #1 Scranton Prep: Prep. Sharpie. Not much to take here. Tunkhannock just gets the test of playing a local power.
– #5 Lake-Lehman vs. #4 Mid Valley: Game of the Week #2 in the brackets. Lake-Lehman is no slouch. They gave Berwick, who played Mid Valley, a great fight & upset them. Mid Valley had an upset in Week 9, but rolled past Lakeland to share the LFC 2 crown. Mid Valley is going to be a sleeper, but it won’t be a true threat.
– #7 Berwick vs. #2 Western Wayne: This is one of the most surprising first round matchups, when we’re talking about seedings. Berwick should be a #5, but they didn’t have a good season. Western Wayne needs to keep up their momentum & not overlook a potential date with Wyoming Area.
– #6 Carbondale vs. #3 Wyoming Area: Carbondale is the story of the year. A perennial weak program in the last decade has their first winning season in a minute. Their biggest test will be against Wyoming Area. I don’t see an upset, but it’ll be exciting to see Carbondale play a former state champion in the first round. They gave Dunmore a good fight.
4A
– #4 Crestwood vs. #1 Valley View: A rematch of Week 2, but with teams on different wavelenghts. Valley View took this the last time, but Crestwood doesn’t have Shedlock. Big difference. It’ll not change the outcome. They’ll sweep the season series.
– #3 Honesdale vs. #2 Dallas: Remember when Honesdale had the best offense in the LFC? Well, they’re still a good team, but they’re going to have their hands full against Dallas. Expect a rematch in the district final.
5A
– #4 Wyoming Valley West vs. #1 Abington Heights: Abington Heights. Sharpie. Valley West should not be in the playoffs.
– #3 Pittston vs. #2 Delaware Valley: DV should roll past Pittston.
6A
– #4 Scranton vs. #1 Wilkes-Barre: Wilkes-Barre’s looked hit or miss all year. Scranton had such a hot start, but faded. This is not a remaatch, which is surprising. Give me the Pack!
– #3 Hazleton vs. #2 Williamsport: Billtown hosts a home playoff game after a nice Week 10 victory. The winner of this could get a rematch with Wilkes-Barre. Give me WBA as the D-2 champ & a rematch of that Week 10 game next week.
EC Games
– Holy Cross vs. Old Forge (1A/2A): All of the D-II/XI teams will play this weekend. This is a rematch of a few weeks ago, but Old Forge should take this. The difference between the Blue Devils & Crusaders is miles apart.
– Pequea Valley vs. Tamaqua (3A): This is a matchup that probably has never happened in any sport. If you’ve paid attention, Pequea Valley & Tamaqua have had recent struggles, but had parts of the season where they were up towards the top of their class power ratings. The Braves played a weaker non-league schedule. Tamaqua’s lost three straight over good opponents & were a 1-seed. Tamaqua is an infinitely better team than PV. They should control this.
– Hamburg vs. North Pocono (4A): North Pocono has put the scare into every opponent they’ve faced since the weak schedule to open the year. Hamburg has something in common with the Trojans. They started off hot & looked like a lock for the D3 playoffs. Not this year. Give me North Pocono, but I don’t think it’ll be close.
– Muhlenberg vs. Allen (5A/6A): You had one job, Dieruff! All joking aside, we get an Allentown vs. Reading showdown in the big school game. I don’t see this being close, but I’ll give it a close final score prediction for the sake of it.
Scores
– Trail 35, Nativity 18
– T-V 32, Marian 14
– Riverside 41, Lakeland 8
– Dunmore 26, Susq. 20
– Prep 63, Tunk 0
– MV 28, L-L 20
– WW 38, Berwick 21
– Wyo Area 38, C’dale 7
– VV 30, Crestwood 13
– Dallas 36, Honesdale 16
– AH 49, WVW 7
– DV 38, Pittston 12
– WBA 29, Scranton 14
– Billtown 24, Hazleton 20
– OF 42, Holy Cross 7
– Tamaqua 48, Pequea 6
– N Pocono 31, Hamburg 10
– Muhlenberg 28, Allen 14
Predicting D2 Champs: Sleeper In Parentheses
– 1A D-II/XI: Lack. Trail over Tri-Valley (Nativity)
– 2A: Riverside over Dunmore (Susquehanna)
– 3A: Scranton Prep over Western Wayne (Wyoming Area)
– 4A: Valley View over Dallas (Crestwood)
– 5A: DV over Abington Heights (Pittston)
– 6A: Wilkes-Barre over Scranton (Hazleton)
Best Chance To Make State Final In Hershey
1. 1A Champ: It’s only a matter of if Trail can get past the Westinghouse/Bishop Guilfoyle winner to make the final. Muncy/Line Mtn., D-I/III/XII might be cakewalks.
2. 2A Champ: Riverside, if they win districts, has a pretty straightforward path until they run into Troy (or 2023 Kansas City…I mean, Southern Columbia).
3. 3A Champ: Scranton Prep or Western Wayne (maybe Wyo Area) will have to get Neumann-Goretti (or even Conwell-Egan)-Northwestern Lehigh or Danville. This isn’t ideal, but we know what happened last year. What’s to say it can’t happen again?
4. 4A Champ: Valley View or Dallas has to play PJP, then Bonner. Good luck. It isn’t unreasonable, but I like the matchup. It just feels more challenging this year than last.
5. 5A Champ: Let’s face it. You’re playing ECP, most likely. If DV advances & it’s Hollidaysburg that’s the opponent, it’s a better game. Roman, Strath, Chester, Springfield Delco, Rustin & Garnet Valley aren’t the best opponents for a District 2 champ.
6. 6A Champ: I think the champion here will have a difficult time vs. State College or McDowell.
Mechanicsburg, not Hershey, of course!
District Champs Non-D2: Sleeper In Parentheses
1A
– D-IV: Line Mountain over Muncy (Canton)
– D-I/III/XII: Morrisville over Delone (Belmont)
– D-V/VIII: Westinghouse over Windber (North Star)
– D-VI: Bishop Guilfoyle over Northern Cambria (Claysburg-Kimmel)
– D-IX: Port Allegany over Redbank (Union/A-C)
– D-X: Wilmington over Cambridge Springs (Reynolds)
– WPIAL: Clairton over Fort Cherry (Bishop Canevin)
Predictions
District 4
– #1 Muncy 33, #4 Canton 20
– #2 Line Mtn. 34, #3 Montgomery 26
District 1/3/12
– D-1 Final: #1 Morrisville 46, #2 J’Town 22
– Belmont Charter: BYE
– #2 York Cath. vs. #1 Delone Cath.: BYE
District 5/8
– #1 Windber 44, #4 Conemaugh Twp. 7
– #2 NoBedCo 28, #3 Meyersdale 20
– Westinghouse: BYE
District 6
– #1 Guilfoyle 49, #8 JV 14
– #5 C-K 30, #4 Glendale 22
– #3 Moshannon Valley 40, #6 Penns Manor 18
– #2 N. Cambria 27, #7 Portage 8
District 9
– #4 Keystone 24, #5 Ridgway-J’burg 20
– #3 U/A-CV 30, #6 OE/OV 21
– #2 Redbank Valley 38, #7 Cameron Co. 13
– #1 Port Allegany: BYE
District 10
– #4 Reynolds 38, #5 Eisenhower 16
– #2 Greenville 30, #7 Lakeview 19
– #3 Camb. Springs 35, #6 Saegertown 14
– #1 Wilmington: BYE
WPIAL
– #1 Ft. Cherry 49, #16 Brentwood 0
– #8 Leechburg 27, #9 Cornell 24
– #4 Neshannock 30, #13 Jeannette 26
– #5 GCC 42, #12 Monessen 17
– #2 Clairton 35, #15 Roch 7
– #7 Laurel 29, #10 Cali. 22
– #3 Canevin 56, #14 Bentworth 0
– #6 J-M 44, #11 South Side 20
2A
– D-I/XII: Lansdale Catholic over Bristol (K-DuB)
– D-XI: Schuylkill Haven over Williams Valley (Executive)
– D-IV: Troy over Towanda (Southern Columbia)
– D-V: Berlin over Bedford (Chestnut Ridge)
– D-III: Steel-High over Upper Dauphin (Camp Hill)
– WPIAL: South Park over Seton LaSalle (Steel Valley)
– D-VI: Cambria Heights over Richland (Mt. Union)
– D-IX: Central Clarion over Karns City
– D-X: Farrell over Mercyhurst (Sharpsville)
Predictions
– District 1 Final: Bristol 59, NH-S 0
– District 12 Final: Lansdale Cath. 42, K-DuB 14
– District 8/9 Final: Central Clarion 58, Karns City 0
District 11
– #1 Schuylkill Haven 55, #8 Palisades 0
– #4 Minersville 32, #5 Executive 16
– #3 N. Lehigh 33, #6 Pen Argyl 24
– #2 Williams Valley 55, #7 Mahanoy 6
District 4
– #1 Troy 42, #8 S. Williamsport 7
– #4 SCA 49, #5 Hughesville 20
– #2 Towanda 33, #7 Bloomsburg 18
– #3 Sock 33, #6 WR 20
District 5
– #1 Bedford 28, #4 CR 20
– #2 Berlin 37, #3 N Star 14
District 3
– #1 Steel-High 49, #4 UDA 7
– #3 Lanc. Cath. 35, #3 Camp Hill 28
WPIAL
– #8 OLSH 38, #9 Riverside (7) 20
– #4 Steel Valley 20, #13 Washington 17
– #5 W. Beaver 35, #12 Carlynton 14
– #7 Mohawk 27, #10 Keystone Oaks 7
– #11 Waynesburg 30, #6 S. Allegheny 24
– #1 SLS, #2 S. Park, & #3 Ellwood: BYE
District 6
– #1 Cambria Heights 49, #8 McCort 20
– #5 B-A 30, #4 Riv. Valley 23
– #3 Mt. U 33, #6 Marion Center 14
– #2 Richland 38, #7 United Valley 14
District 10
– #1 Farrell 49, Seneca 0
– #2 Mercyhurst 34, #3 Sharpsville 19
3A
– D-XII: Neumann-Goretti over Gratz (Conwell-Egan)
– D-IV: Danville over Lewisburg (Mount Carmel)
– D-XI: Northwestern Lehigh over Notre Dame GP (North Schuylkill)
– D-III: Trinity over Bermudian Springs (West Perry)
– D-X: Sharon over Hickory (Corry)
– D-VI: Penn Cambria over Forest Hills (Central)
– D-V/VII/IX: Brockway over Somerset (St. Mary’s)
– WPIAL: Imani over Central Valley (Avonworth)
District 11
– #1 NW Lehigh 44, #4 Saucon 13
– #2 NDGP 35, #3 N. Schuylkill 31
District 12
– PCL Final: N-G 17, CEC 14
– PPL Final: Gratz 28, Future 9
District 3
– #5 Berks Cath. 33, #4 Biglerville 13
– #3 Schuylkill Valley 31, #6 Litt 17
– #1 Berm. Springs & #2 Trinity: BYE
District 4
– #4 Montoursville 28, #5 Mifflinburg 18
– #3 MCA 29, #6 Milton 14
– #1 Danville & #2 Lewisburg: BYE
District 10
– #1 Sharon 48, #8 Conneaut 7
– #4 Titusville 30, #5 Fairview 21
– #2 Hickory 37, #7 Slippery Rock 24
– #3 Corry 28, #6 Ft. LeBoeuf 12
District 6
– #1 Penn Cambria 23, #4 Central 19
– #2 Forest Hills 30, #3 Tyrone 16
District 9 Final: #1 Brockway 28, #2 St. Marys 13
Somerset: BYE
WPIAL
– #8 S’moreland 27, #9 Highlands 8
– #5 Avonworth 41, #12 G’burg-Salem 10
– #7 Freeport 26, #10 Mt. Pleasant 14
– #6 Deer Lakes 42, #11 N. Catholic 14
– #1 Imani, #2 Central Valley, #3 Eliz. Forward, & #4 Beaver: BYE
Small School State Championship Predictions
– 1A: Westinghouse over Clairton (Sleeper: Trail)
– 2A: Central Clarion over Troy (Sleeper: Schuylkill Haven)
– 3A: NW Lehigh over Imani (Sleeper: Danville)
4A
– D-I: PJP over Shanahan (Montco)
– D-XII: Bonner-Prendie over West Philly (Franklin)
– D-IV: Shamokin over Shore (Selinsgrove)
– D-VI: Juniata over Bellefonte (Greater Johnstown)
– D-XI: Solehi over ACC (Blue Mountain)
– D-III: Wyo over L-S (Twin Valley)
– D-VIII/IX: Clearfield over Punxsy (USO)
– D-X: Meadville over McLane (Oil City)
– WPIAL: Aliquippa over Montour (Thomas Jefferson)
District 12
– PPL: #2 Bel Air 21, #3 Boys Latin 14
– PPL: #1 Ben Franklin 26, #4 MLK 17
– PCL: #1 B-P 30, #4 Wood 7
– PCL: #2 Ryan 28, #3 O’Hara 14
District 1
– #1 PJP 53, #4 Lower Moreland 6
– #3 Shanahan 28, #2 Montco 10
District 4
– #1 Shamokin 56, #4 Athens 8
– #2 Shore 33, #3 Selinsgrove 20
District 6
– #2 Bellefonte 34, #3 GJ 0
– #1 Juniata: BYE
District 11
– #1 Solehi 49, #8 JT 9
– #4 ACC, #5 Pottsville 24
– #3 Becahi 42, #6 ES North 0
– #2 Blue Mtn. 35, #7 Lehighton 0
WPIAL
– #1 TJ 35, #8 WA 8
– #4 Quips 35, #5 Trinity 14
– #2 Montour 37, #7 Mars 13
– #3 McK 28, #6 BV 18
District 8/9
– #2 Punxsy 24, #3 USO 7
– Clearfield: BYE
District 10
– #2 Meadville 29, #3 OC 21
– McLane: BYE
District 3
– #9 Octorara 29, #8 ELCO 24
– #7 E Pennsboro 35, #10 Susquehannock 14
– #1 L-S, #2 Wyo, #3 W. York, #4 Susq. Twp, #5 Twin Valley & #6 E. York: BYE
5A
– D-XI: ES South over Whitehall (PM East)
– D-XII: Roman over Frankford (Father Judge)
– D-I: Strath over Chester (Rustin)
– D-III: McDevitt over Conestoga Valley (Mechanicsburg)
– D-VI/VIII/IX/X: ECP over Hollidaysburg (Allderdice)
– WPIAL: Peters over Bethel Park (P-R)
District 1
– #1 Delco 45, #16 Academy Pk. 15
– #9 M-N 24, #8 P’grove 20
– #4 Strath 33, #13 Penncrest 7
– #5 Garnet Valley 38, #12 Kennett 14
– #2 Rustin 49, #15 Oxford 7
– #7 Chester 41, #10 Upper Moreland 12
– #3 P’ville 28, #14 Upper Perk 10
District 11
– #1 ES South 44, #4 Pleasant Valley 7
– #2 Whitehall 49, #3 PM East 0
District 12
– PPL: #1 Frankford 35, #2 MNC 14
– PCL: #1 Roman 35, #2 All Rise 14
District 6/8/9/10
– #1 Hollidaysburg 35, #4 Allderdice 0
– #2 ECP 35, #3 DuBois 9
District 3
– #8 Exeter Twp. 37, #9 S. Western 13
– #5 Shipp 28, #12 Warwick 15
– #7 Cocalico 27, #10 Hershey 19
– #6 McDevitt 41, #11 Lower Dauphin 16
– #1 New Oxford, #2 Mechanicsburg, #3 Weiser, #4 Conestoga Valley: BYE
WPIAL
– #9 Franklin 28, #8 No. Hills 26
– #5 Bethel Pk. 31, #12 Latrobe 13
– #7 Penn Hills 35, #10 Moon 20
– #6 P-T 34, #11 So. Fayette 17
– #1 P-R, #2 USC, #3 Peters, #4 Woodland Hills: BYE
6A
– D-XI: Freedom over Easton (Nazareth)
– D-I: CB South over D’Town West (North Penn)
– D-XII: La Salle over Imhotep (SJP)
– D-VI/XI: State College over McDowell (Erie HS)
– WPIAL: North Allegheny over PCC (Mt. Lebo)
District 1
– #1 CB South 33, #16 S-F 16
– #9 Soudy 27, #8 P-W 24
– #4 North Penn 42, #13 Ridley 9
– #5 Haverford 28, #12 Q’Town 7
– #2 D’Town West 31, #15 C’ville 18
– #7 OJR 32, #10 Neshaminy 14
– #3 CB West 33, #14 P’bury 13
– #6 Perk Valley 28, #11 D’Town East 15
District 12
– PPL: #1 Imhotep 35, #4 G-Dub 7
– PPL: #3 Northeast 25, #2 Lincoln 21
– PCL: #1 LaSalle vs. #2 SJP: Next Week
District 111
– #1 Easton 50, #8 Stroudsburg 7
– #5 Naz 25, #4 Emmaus 20
– #3 Parkland 38, #6 Liberty 15
– #2 Freedom 28, #7 Northampton 18
District 6/8/9/10
– District 10: #1 McDowell 30, #2 Erie 17
– State College: BYE
District 3
– #8 Cumberland Valley 35, #9 Gov. Mifflin 7
– #7 Cedar Crest 29, #10 Hempfield 7
– #1: Manheim Twp, #2 Wilson West Lawn, #3 Central York, #4 H’burg, #5 Dallastown, & #6 CD East
State Champions (Large Schools)
– 4A: Bonner-Prendie over Wyomissing (Sleeper: Quips)
– 5A: Roman Catholic over Bishop McDevitt (Sleeper: Strath)
– 6A: La Salle over Imhotep (Sleeper: SJP)
– 6A (All Joking Aside): La Salle over Manheim Twp. (PCC)
Tonight at 7:30pm watch easternpafootball.com podcast as we breakdown each District. We have several guess on tonight…https://www.youtube.com/live/FWoqv5Tnlqw
After watching the PAC small schools dismantle the large schools-(except Perkiomen Valley) in the crossover games…….the top 4 large school teams were outscored 129-43, I don’t see the 3 PAC 6A schools in the D1 playoffs winning a game. Spring Ford and Owen J Roberts will get demolished and Perkiomen Valley doesn’t have much team speed on offense although they are a huge physical team. First time in a long time that the small school division was better than the large school division in the PAC
Scott Hagy, Wilson actually lucked out getting the #2 seed in the District 3 playoffs, they actually have an easier bracket than Manheim Township who will probably have to play 4th seed Harrisburgh in the semi’s. Central York will probably play Wilson in the other semi and CY hasn’t really done much in the playoffs, except when they had Bo Pribula.
I think the difference with a few of the teams from the small school division of the PAC mainly PJP and Phoenixville , maybe Pottsgrove too is they are more physical then the Spring- Fords and Owen Js. Spring-ford with their large enrollment and all hasn’t been a physical team up front on both sides of the ball in years. PJP with S Reed as head coach will always be a physical team even during years when they may not be that big. This yr they have decent size.
La Salle’s Jr. QB Gavin Sidwar is back on the market after decommitting from Rutgers. Wonder if some school will get a sweet haul with a Sidwar/Joey O’Brien deal. That connection was on fire yesterday.
Anybody know the status of Julian McFadden going forward?? Was fully dressed yesterday (maybe for the senior day photo op) but did not play. Available in two weeks for a certain game??
Final D2 Notes Of The Regular Season (By Class) + EC Talk
1A
– Congrats to Lackawanna Trail for locking up the D-2 1A title! Old Forge misses the playoffs entirely with their loss to Carbondale. They gave Riverside their only loss on the season. I mean, Trail was the odds-on favorite heading into the season, so it’s not a surprise.
– This is also a D-XI Subregional Note. Marian gave us a hard-fought upset to lock into the Subregional playoff with a 21-18 win over Nativity. With Tri-Valley losing to Schuylkill Haven, it meant Marian was close to hosting the #2 seed for the potential “District Championship” game.
– All six teams in the hunt, however, will be playing in Week 11. Old Forge hosts Holy Cross in the 1A/2A final. I don’t think it’s ever been solely two 1A schools under this new “small school division” format. They barely beat out North Penn-Mansfield (.334 to .3278) for the spot.
– Bracket: #1 Trail/#4 Nativity; #2 Tri-Valley/#3 Marian
– Winner Gets D-4 champ (Muncy/Canton; Line Mtn./Montgomery)
2A
– Riverside suffered their only loss to Trail this weekend, losing 42-20. It means no area teams finish undefeated for the first time in a few years. Unless you count Scranton Prep playing in-state programs.
– Susquehanna, Dunmore, & Lakeland officially locked their seeds heading into districts. The Sabers were the only team to win in their class this weekend.
– Holy Redeemer is one of three winless teams in District 2, after Midd-West snaps a very long losing streak. The other two will come soon.
– Bracket: #1 Riverside/#4 Lakeland; #2 Susq./Dunmore (Rematch)
– Winner Gets D-1/12 Champ (D-I: Bristol/New Hope; D-XII: K-Dub vs. Lansdale Catholic)
3A
– As expected, Scranton Prep held the #1, going perfect in LFC 1. They beat North Pocono 21-7, who gave fits to their opponents they lost to.
– Western Wayne held the #2 after dominating Dunmore on Thursday Night.
– No seeding changes in 3A, as Berwick, Carbondale, & Mid Valley won their games
– Hanover Area’s season ended with a big win in the Sans Souci Struggle, 16-14.
– Bracket: #1 Prep/#8 Tunk; #4 Mid Valley/#5 L-L; #2 WW/#7 Berwick; #3 Wyo Area/#6 C’dale
– Winner Gets D-XI Champ (NW Lehigh/Saucon; NDGP/NS) or D-XII Champ (PCL: CEC/N-G; PPL: Gratz/Future?)
4A
– Valley View eliminated Paupack with a 34-13 win. It was 20-13 at one point in the 3rd Quarter, but the Cougars found two scores late to avoid a potential rematch in Week 11. The Buckhorns season is now over, as they were not in the EC standings, although would’ve been a position to host the rematch of a thrilling Week 4 game.
– North Pocono eliminated themselves with a loss to Prep. However, they will survive one more week.
– Crestwood played one of the sloppiest first quarters you’ll ever see, but with Valley West being not that great, they turned it around. They locked up the #4.
– Who then is #3 playing Dallas? Honesdale. They leaped to #3 after a 34-20 win over West Scranton. The margin of 3rd & 4th was so razor thin that you couldn’t see it: .534168 to .534049. That’s right: the difference between playing Dallas or Valley View was .000119
– The EC meeting in 4A is set: North Pocono hosts Hamburg.
– Bracket: #1 VV/#4 Crestwood; #2 Dallas/#3 Honesdale
– Winner gets D-I Champ (PJP/Lower Moreland; Montco/Shanahan)
5A
– Both Abington Heights & DV won their games in convincing fashion. Abington Heights will host the rematch from six weeks ago in Week 12 (assuming both get past their easy semifinal games).
– WVW won the “Tank Bowl” for the #4 seed. They were up 7-6 after 12 minutes but were dominated in the rest of their game.
– West Scranton had a much better performance, putting 20 pts up on Honesdale, but saw their season end.
– Bracket: #1 AH/#4 WVW; #2 DV/#3 Pittston
– Winner Gets D-6/8/9/10 Champ (Hollidaysburg/Allderdice vs. Cathedral Prep/DuBois)
6A
– When was the last time all four teams in a bracket (that was already figured out before the season) have the same record, all at 5-5? Anyone? Probably never.
– Williamsport beat Wilkes-Barre at home, 34-20, which gave us more shuffles. All four teams had the #1 seed at some point this season, but Wilkes-Barre kept it with a loss.
– The Millionaires jumped to #2 with the win, meaning the chance of the District 2 champ being decided next week & a rematch in Week 12.
– Hazleton will travel to Williamsport next week, as the 3-seed
– Scranton started off hot, but fell to the #4 & play at Wilkes-Barre.
– Bracket: #1 WBA/#4 Scranton; #2 Billtown/#3 Hazleton
– Winner Gets D-6/10 Champion (McDowell/Erie; State College/Altoona)
EC (3A & 5A/6A)
– Tamaqua had such a perfect start in their season, but the consolation prize for the three losses is hosting the EC game against D-3’s Pequea Valley. Berks Catholic jumped up to the #5 seed, which is not a surprise. They had an easy schedule in the Berks/L-L Division they’re in. That means Salisbury did not do enough to solidfy a spot.
– Allen beat Dieruff. We would’ve been guaranteed a rematch in Week 11. However, Dieruff didn’t want to host. In fact, they opted out. The other J. Birney Crum tenant of William Allen hosts D-3 5A Muhlenberg instead. They barely beat out 6A D-3 foe Reading (.449 to ~.445), so Dieruff’s opt-out gave us a rare Reading vs. Allentown showdown & almost had the two city highs going at it.
In a perfect world, we’d have 32 team state brackets & better matchups, but we have an interesting mix of EC opponents with one rematch & the rest being D-II/XI vs. D-III showdowns.
Roman Catholic, one of the most talented teams that I’ve seen that can’t get out of its own way fast enough since (fill in the blank team coached by Albie Crosby).
Not backing off my pre season pick to win 5A in the east, really don’t see much completion in the eastern bracket until the 5A semi final against the District One winner, but may not be as smooth sailing for a state championship as I once thought. I’ll stay in my lane and leave the western 5A analysis to Jeff H.
Speaking of D1, Springfield Delco looked very impressive Friday night against Strath Haven. Really think its going to come down to them, WC Rustin, and still my pre season favorite, Chester. My two issues with Chester is that they may be the one team where having home field in District One is an actual advantage, and looking like they will be a #7 seed which will put them potentially/most likely on road for late round district games. Then again, playing on turf (their home field is natural grass) with their speed I don’t think is going to be much of a detriment. Other thing is their schedule. Two challenging games (Perk Val and Imhotep) and basically a slat full of glorified scrimmages. Will they be battle tested and ready for some actual completion??
WPIAL Playoff brackets as follows
6A – as expected PCC #1 hosting Seneca Valley #4, and #2 NA hosting #3 Mt Lebo, all get a week off with these games in 2 weeks
5A – a little surprising PR is #1 seed at 8-1 over 10-0 USC, I’ve seen both play and I think USC is better, but they valued PR’s tradition and win over PCC over the body of work of USC. I’m also surprised PR got the #1 seed in light of the questionable availability of their starting QB, as the WPIAL has been known to seed teams lower based on injuries to key players. Seeds as follows, top 4 have byes this week, then host quarterfinal games next week, next 4 seeds have home games this week.
#1 PR
#2 USC
#3 Peters
#4 Woodland Hills
#5 Bethel Park vs #12 Latrobe
#6 Penn Trafford vs. #11 South Fayette
#7 Penn Hills vs. #10 Moon
#8 North Hills vs. #9 Franklin Regional
In 4A, West Alleghany upsetting #1 Montour in OT last night scrambled the seedings and resulted in a 3 way tie for that conference, with tiebreakers Aliquippa was #1, West A #2 and Montour #3, as they all beat each other. So, all three qualified for the playoffs, but despite the loss the WPIAL selection committee surprisingly still placed Montour as the #2 seed ahead of the Quips and West A. In another shocker they seeded West A #8, here’s the bracket
#1 TJ vs. #8 West Alleghany
#2 Montour vs. #7 Mars – Montour the highest seeded wild card ever
#3 McKeesport vs. #6 Belle Vernon
#4 Aliquippa vs. # 5 Trinity
After Belle Vernon lost to Trinity last night it was a question of whether they or West Mifflin got the last wild card, BV was 4-4, and West Mifflin 5-5, common opponents were TJ and McKeesport and they both lost by the almost the same margin to both teams, BV got in on reputation, but surprised they got a #6 seed
If I was making the bracket here’s how I would have seeded
#1 TJ vs. #8 Mars
#2 Aliquippa vs. #7 Belle Vernon
#3 McKeesport vs. #6 West Alleghany
#4 Montour vs. #5 Trinity
Obviously the committee thought TJ and Montour were the 2 best teams so they seeded them to meet in the finals and not the semi-finals
3A – seedings were pretty much as expected after Beaver beat Avonworth last night to create a 3 way tie with those 2 and Central Valley in the toughest conference, which was reflected with those 3 all seeded in top 5
Top 4 seeds get byes, and then host a home game next week
#1 Imani Christian
#2 Central Valley – probably the first 5-5 team to be a #2 seed in WPIAL history, I’d have to research that, they did have a very tough schedule
#3 Elizabeth Forward
#4 Beaver
#5 Avonworth vs. # 12 Greensburg Salem
#6 Deer Lakes vs. #11 North Catholic
#7 Freeport vs. #10 Mt. Pleasant
#8 Southmoreland vs. #9 Highlands
2A – mild surprise 9-0 Ellwood City was seeded behind 9-1 South Park, top 3 seeds get byes, as follows
#1 Seton LaSalle
#2 South Park
#3 Ellwood City – first undefeated regular season since 1944
#4 Steel Valley vs. #13 Washington
#5 Western Beaver vs. #12 Carlynton (first playoff appearance since 2001, breaking the longest current streak in the WPIAL)
#6 South Alleghany vs. #11 Waynesburg
#7 Mohawk vs. #10 Keystone Oaks
#8 OLSH vs. #9 Riverside
1A as follows, no real surprises with the seedings
#1 Fort Cherry vs. #16 Brentwood
#2 Clairton vs. #15 Rochester
#3 Bishop Canevin vs. #14 Bentworth
#4 Neshannock vs. #13 Jeanette
#5 Greensburg Central Catholic vs. #12 Monessen
#6 Jefferson Morgan vs. #11 South Side – Jeff Morgan with first undefeated season and outright conference title since 1989
#7 Laurel vs. #10 California
#8 Leechburg vs. #9 Cornell
Predictions and analysis to follow later in the week, I’m going out a town for a few days to go Steelhead fishing!
Don’t ever allow old men to choose who and where high school or college athletes play in a tournament. Its the number one embarrassment in high school and college athletics. But also a team with a lot of losses has nothing to complain about when you lost an excessive amount, I don’t care about your schedule if you lose 4 times you shouldn’t be a high seed. Every year with March madness and now the wpial is going to flex there old men muscles and tell where high school kids play. You either go straight wins and losses seeding or a power rating system, power ratings don’t lie. Imagine an NFL team making the playoffs because they played a tougher schedule than a team with a worse record and an easier schedule, c’mon stop letting old men decide where these kids are playing. The selection committee have always turned my stomach sitting around for months thinking there gods deciding on the futures of some college kids. Its an embarrassment. When it’s all said an done the most important and what keeps people coming and interested is the product on the court and on the field, so why continue to allow the problem to keep creating the problems.
Wilson Bulldogs came through with a huge win over highly ranked Manheim Township on Township’s home turf. Not many picked them to win, but I thought they had a chance if they kept mistakes to a minimum. If not for a fumble in the end zone against Nazareth, they’s be unbeaten. Will be interesting to see them in District 3 playoffs as it looks like Township and Wilson are the top 6A teams at this point.
I agree that was an extremely impressive win for Wilson, don’t count out Harrisburg, those 3 are the top contenders IMO
In other D3 news what an unbelievable game between State College and McDevitt, with SC winning 58-55, I think SC could be a sleeper in the playoffs, I see them beating a very solid Erie McDowell in round of 16 and then giving the WPIAL winner all they can handle in the quarterfinals, with the winner of that game playing the D3 winner in the western final.
Pope John Paul 28-Perkiomen Valley 19 PJP wins the PAC Championship for the 2nd year in a row. PJP hit a huge long pass play late in the 3rd quarter to make it a 2 score game. I thought PV’S Huge offensive line would wear down PJP but they didn’t. PV is going to drop in the D1 6A rankings.
Phoenixville 24-Owen J Roberts 0 Just as I predicted, 1 loss Owen J, (now 2 losses) is a paper tiger, they are also going to drop in the D1 6A rankings.
I believe this is the 1st time in History that the top 2 crossover games in the PAC were won by the small school division
Wilson beat Manheim Township, looks like they will be the #1 seed in D3 6A
I suspect that even though Wilson knocked off Township they will not get the #1 Seed they deserve. The arcane power points system just might cause Township to edge out the Bulldogs.
PV double teamed B Reed PJPs top player all night and the receiver on the other side B DeAngelo just had a great game. Had seven or eight receptions and the two big plays of the game. After PV scores to start the second half he takes the kickoff back for a td and he also had the catch and run for the td to make it a two score game.
Big injury news for a couple of WPIAL 5A contenders, Woodland Hills junior and 3yr starting QB Cam Walter hurt his knee last week in the win against Franklin Regional and is out for the season. This is the 2nd year in a row he injured a knee in the penultimate game of the regular season, last year he tore his ACL against Pine Richland and subsequently missed the final game of the year against Penn Hills, who they subsequently lost to 26-21 on a last minute TD by Penn Hills that knocked Woody out of the playoffs. WH is likely the #4 seed in the playoffs and will have a first round bye, but I don’t see them advancing past the 2nd round without Walter, I feel bad for the kid and the team to endure this 2 years in a row.
Also, Pine Richland dual threat QB Aaron Strader hurt his shoulder last week, it was thought to be a broken clavicle, but X-rays were negative, he is still undergoing additional testing and is out tonight. PR will likely be the #2 seed in the playoffs and get a first round bye, giving him 3 weeks to heal, if he’s not at full strength PR could also lose in the 2nd round.
I’ll reserve my picks for WPIAL champions until next week after the brackets are announced, but it seems almost certain one of the South Hills team will win, be it Upper St. Clair, Peters, or Bethel Park. Those 2 play tonight and I will be there, with winner likely a #3 seed and loser #5, I have a hunch the winner of this game tonight will end up winning the WPIAL title, because the winner will only have to beat one of them in the playoffs, while the loser likely would have to beat both of them in back to back weeks if the seedings play out as expected.
Just passing a score along didn’t feel like scrolling to the bottom. PJP goes back to back in the PAC tops Perk Valley 28-19,in a game that featured several big plays.
Rest Of State Picks: I have every game that has playoff seeding/clinching implications (or assumed). EPA Stuff today. WPA tomorrow. EPA has Power Ratings for everyone not in D2, so you may want to follow along there to see what seeds could swap, if wins &/or unforeseen upsets happen.
D-10 stuff is under paywall & D9 is a big question mark. They might be best games of the week only.
Thursday Games
– Union/A-C Valley (9) vs. Reynolds (10): U/A-CV 24, Reynolds 15
– D12 6A Playoff: South Philadelphia vs. Northeast: N’east 32, South 12
District 11
– Nazareth vs. Easton: Naz 33, Easton 24
– Parkland vs. Emmaus: Parkland 34, Emmaus 20
– Freedom vs. Liberty: Freedom 24, Liberty 21
– Pleasant Valley vs. Stroudsburg: S’burg 46, PV 0
– ACC vs. Whitehall: ACC 27, Whitehall 17
– PM East vs. PM West: PME 23, PMW 13
– Becahi vs. Northampton: Northampton 23, Becahi 17
– Northwestern Lehigh vs. Southern Lehigh: NWL 36, Solehi 24
– Jim Thorpe vs. Lehighton: Lehighton 22, JT 15
– Williams Valley vs. Pine Grove: WV 58, PGA 0
– Shen. Valley vs. Mahanoy Area: Mahanoy 28, Shen Val 13
– Catasauqua vs. Palmerton: Catty 27, Palmerton 25
District 4
– Shamokin vs. Mount Carmel: Shamokin 37, MCA 17
– Selinsgrove vs. Danville: Danville 38, Selinsgrove 16
– Loyalsock vs. Montoursville: Sock 24, Montoursville 22
– Shikellamy vs. Southern Columbia: SCA 41, Shik 0
– Milton vs. Warrior Run: WR 36, Milton 16
– Mifflinburg vs. Lewisburg: Lewisburg 30, Mifflinburg 13
– Canton vs. Troy: Troy 37, Canton 17
– Muncy vs. Hughesville: Muncy 31, Hughesville 17
District 1 & PCL
– Souderton vs. Upper Dublin: UD 34, Soudy 17
– CB East vs. CB West: CBW 40, CBE 19
– North Penn vs. Abington: NP 55, Abington 6
– Plymouth-Whitemarsh vs. William Tennent: P-W 41, WT 13
– Pennsbury vs. Neshaminy: Neshaminy 34, P’bury 13
– Quakertown vs. Cheltenham: Q’Town 45, C’ham 8
– Pennridge vs. CB South: CBS 39, P’ridge 14
– Upper Moreland vs. Hatboro-Horsham: UM 41, H-H 14
– Wissahickon vs. Springfield Montco: Montco 32, Wissahickon 13
– Coatesville vs. Shanahan: Shanahan 33, Coatesville 28
– D’Town West vs. D’Town East: DTW 32, DTE 17
– Kennett vs. Oxford: Kennett 28, Oxford 17
– Owen J. Roberts vs. Phoenixville: OJR 32, P’ville 20
– Perkiomen Valley vs. PJP: PJP 27, PV 20
– Spring-Ford vs. Pottsgrove: P’Grove 23, S-F 20
– Methacton vs. Upper Perkiomen: UP 30, Methacton 12
– Norristown vs. Pottstown: Norry 29, Pottstown 7
– Springfield Delco vs. Strath Haven: Strath 34, Delco 22
– Haverford HS vs. Conestoga: HHS 49, ‘Stoga 7
– Ridley vs. Garnet Valley: GV 36, Ridley 14
– Radnor vs. Marple-Newtown: M-N 35, Radnor 13
– Penncrest vs. Harriton: P’crest 40, Harriton 0
– Bristol vs. Morrisville: Morrisville 27, Bristol 19
– Interboro vs. Academy Park: AP 28, I’boro 10
– Bonner-Prendie vs. St. Joe’s Prep: SJP 35, B-P 28
– Roman vs. La Salle: La Salle 35, Roman 24
District 3
– Mechanicsburg vs. Shippensburg: Ship 26, Mech 17
– Harrisburg vs. CD East: CDE 30, H’burg 27
– Milton Hershey vs. Susq. Township: Susq. Twp 41, MH 22
– Cumberland Valley vs. Cedar Cliff: Cliff 20, CV 13
– Central Dauphin vs. Chambersburg: C’burg 25, CD 13
– Hershey vs. Waynesboro: Hershey 36, W’boro 13
– Gettysburg vs. Lower Dauphin: LD 25, Gettysburg 16
– Trinity vs. Middletown: Trinity 42, Middie 17
– Newport vs. Steel-High: S-H 63, Newport 7
– Camp Hill vs. James Buchanan: CH 45, JB 17
– Lampeter-Strasburg vs. Wyomissing: Wyo 26, L-S 23
– Wilson vs. Manheim Twp.: MT 31, WWL 21
– Lancaster Catholic vs. Schuylkill Valley: LanCath 27, Skook Val 23
– Gov. Mifflin vs. Ephrata: Ephrata 24, GM 23
– Warwick vs. Manheim Central: Warwick 25, MC 20
– Exeter Twp. vs. Elizabethtown: ET 55, E’Town 7
– Twin Valley vs. Daniel Boone: TV 40, Boone 0
– Northern Lebanon vs. ELCO: ELCO 40, No. Leb. 7
– New Oxford vs. Eastern York: NO 28, EY 21
– William Penn vs. Central York: CY 39, Penn 17
– Dallastown vs. Red Lion: Dallastown 31, Red Lion 13
– Littlestown vs. Bermudian Springs: Berm. Spr. 32, Litt 14
– South Western: Spring Grove: S. W’ern 24, SGA 19
– Kennard-Dale vs. Susquehannock: Susquehannock 24, K-D 7
– West York vs. Dover: WY 44, Dover 6
Western PA
District 5/6
– Bishop Guilfoyle vs. Penn Cambria: BG 29, PC 17
– Bellefonte vs. Richland: Richland 31, Bellefonte 16
– Central (6) vs. Forest Hills: Central 26, FH 17
– Tyrone vs. Chestnut Ridge: CR 24, Tyrone 18
– Bellwood-Antis vs. McCort: B-A 26, McCort 20
– United Valley vs. Marion Center: UV 34, Mar. Ctr. 24
– River Valley vs. West Shamokin: RV 56, West Sham. 0
– Northern Cambria vs. Portage: NoCam 44, Portage 14
– Berlin-Brothersvalley vs. Moshannon Valley: BBros 42, Mosh. Val. 13
– Glendale vs. Northern Bedford: NBC 27, Glendale 15
– Claysburg-Kimmel vs. Everett: C-K 38, Everett 7
– Juniata Valley vs. Windber: Windy 32, JV 14
– North Star vs. West Branch: N Star 42, WB 7
District 9/10
– Port Allegany vs. Cameron County: Pt. A 34, CamCo 21
– Farrell vs. Cathedral Prep: ECP 28, Farrell 24
– Ft. LeBeouf vs. Mercyhurst Prep: MP 25, Ft. Leb 21
– Corry vs. Oil City: Corry 24, OC 17
– Fairview vs. Titusville: Titusville 28, Fairview 18
– Punxsutawney vs. Sharpsville: Punxsy 29, Sharpsville 16
WPIAL
– Seneca Valley vs. North Allegheny: NA 49, SV 21
– Canon-Mac vs. Central Catholic: PCC 42, C-M 21
– Norwin vs. Mt. Lebo: Lebo 27, Norwin 7
– Bethel Park vs. Peters Twp.: Peters 28, BP 26
– Penn-Trafford vs. Latrobe: P-T 24, GL 10
– Kiski Area vs. Woodland Hills: Woody 39, KA 17
– Plum vs. Penn Hills: PH 38, Plum 10
– North Hills vs. Central Valley: Cent. Val 29, NH 28
– South Fayette vs. Moon: SF 30, Moon 16
– West Allegheny vs. Montour: Montour 38, WA 17
– Aliquippa vs. Ambridge: Quips 40, ‘Bridge 14
– Belle Vernon vs. Trinity: BV 43, Trinity 26
– Hampton vs. West Mifflin: WM 28, Hamp. 14
– McKeesport vs. Knoch: McK 32, Knoch 8
– Imani vs. Freeport: ICA 35, Freeport 16
– Avonworth vs. Beaver: Avonworth 29, Beaver 21
– Southmoreland vs. Greensburg-Salem: S’moreland 24, G-S 23
– Hopewell vs. North Catholic: NC 26, Hopewell 17
– Burrell vs. Deer Lakes: DL 30, Burrell 15
– Eliz. Forward vs. Mt. Pleasant: EF 31, Mt. Pleas. 18
– Seton LaSalle vs. Washington: SLS 33, Prexies 14
– South Allegheny vs. Steel Valley: South A 28, Steel Val 25
– Riverside (7) vs. Mohawk: Mohawk 29, Riverside (7) 27
– New Brighton vs. Union Area: Union Area 33, New Brighton 14
– Sto-Rox vs. Waynesburg: WBG 45, Sto-Rox 8
– Charleroi vs. Carlynton: Carlynton 33, Charleroi 26
– Greensburg CC vs. Leechburg: L’burg 29, GCC 20
– Jeff.-Morgan vs. California: J-M 32, Cali 14
– Monessen vs. Cornell: Cornell 26, Monessen 22
– Laurel vs. Neshannock: Neshannock 29, Laurel 22
– South Side vs. Rochester: S Side 30, Roch 18
– Riverview vs. Jeannette: Jeannette 40, Riverview 10
– Clairton vs. Brentwood: Clairton 55, B’wood 7
– West Greene vs. Beth-Center: WG 37, B-C 10
– Bentworth vs. Avella: B’worth 20, Avella 9
– Carmichaels vs. Mapletown: Mikes 30, Maples 10
Crossovers/Non-PIAA
– Executive (11) vs. ANC: EE 44, ANC 7
– Bishop McDevitt (3) vs. State College (6): McD 35, SC 24
– Upper Dauphin (3) vs. Juniata (6): Juniata 27, UDA 17
– Clearfield (9) vs. Bedford (5): C’field 34, Bedford 16
– Belmont Charter (12) vs. Chester (1): Chester 43, Belmont 12
– Unionville (1) vs. Conrad Weiser (3): CW 37, U’ville 17
– Hollidaysburg (6) vs. DuBois (9): Hollidaysburg 32, DuBois 14
– St. Francis (NY) vs. McDowell (10): McDowell 28, St. Francis 26
– Penn Charter vs. Malvern Prep: WPC 28, MP 24
– SCHA vs. Haverford School: SCHA 33, HS 17
Playoffs (City & PPL)
– City League Final: Westy 49, Allderdice 14
– Frankford vs. Olney: F’ford 21, Olney 14
– Central (12) vs. Geo. Washington: GW 27, Central (12) 7
– Vaux Big Picture vs. KIPP-DuBois: K-Dub 20, Vaux 15
– Ben Franklin vs. Thomas Edison: Franklin 21, Edison 15
– Overbrook vs. Simon Gratz: Gratz 25, Overbrook 17
– Palumbo vs. Mastery Charter: AoP 29, MCNP 13
I like the vast majority of your WPIAL picks, but differ on a couple. I think Moon beats South Fayette at home tonight to clinch a wild card berth, SF may also get a wild card with a loss. I think Steel Valley will beat South Alleghany, they’ve been rolling the last 5 weeks since they’ve gotten healthy, and I think they have too much firepower for South Alleghany. I also wouldn’t be surprised if Bethel beats Peters Twp, now that top receiver and offensive threat Ryan Petras has 2 games under his belt after missing the first 7 due to injury I think BP might outscore them, should be a great game and looking forward to being there.
Wow, you are really tempting me to take some opposite picks in D1 and D3. I thought I learned my lesson, but……as of an example, CDE over Harrisburg?? Yikes, I’ll take the Cougars, and I wouldn’t be surprise they win in mercy rule fashion. I’ll think about going on the record with others for now.
And for a spread in a PCL game, I don’t doubt SJP will beat Bonner, but we may be talking another mercy rule game here. More than touchdown win for The Prep for sure.
Fair arguments by both of you.
– I think B-P can hold their own against Prep. They’ve looked like a tough out this year. I should’ve said 35-20 or something like that.
– I’ve doubted Easton all year, but I feel Naz has a good enough team to defeat Easton. Coin flip game, in my opinion.
– Bit of a risk taking CDE over Harrisburg, but it’s Week 10 & this is really the last true week to make a bold prediction.
I do think Bonner is a serious threat to win 4A, it will probably come down to them and PJP II in the eastern bracket, I just don’t think they can keep up with SJP. Regarding Easton, I think they have the advantage in the trenches against Nazareth, and that will be the difference as they will run the ball very effectively and shorten the game and keep Nazareth’s potent offense off the field, I was very impressed from what I read about Easton’s win over Freedom last week.
I agree with Kevin, SJP will beat Bonner at least as bad as they beat Roman last week which was by 4 TDs, I also think LaSalle beats Roman by 3 scores or more, and Harrisburg blows out CD East.
Another pick I disagree with is Nazareth over Easton, you’ve been picking against Easton consistently and they have been rolling since the opening season loss to CB West, I think they are too physical for Nazareth and win this game and the conference for the first time in a decade and could be the favorite to win D11 title.
I’d also take L-S over Wyomissing, that should be a great game, but I think L-S is a better team, we’ll see!
Ok, since last week of the regular season, I’ll take some swings (and hopefully not too many misses).
First, I’ll piggyback on what Jeff has stated, for the most part. Easton over Naz and L-S over Wyo. I do tho think, and maybe it’s just wishing thinking as well, since I am now planning on hitting up that game tomorrow afternoon, that the LaS/RC game will be closer than Jeff’s prediction, and lower scoring. I’ll go 28-14 La Salle.
As far as District One: S-F over Pottsgrove, Phoenixville over OJR, Coatesville over Shananhan, PV over PJPII, DTE over DTW, and the game for me tonight, SFDelco over SH.
One more, Inter-Ac style, Penn Carter is no way no how beating Malvern Prep.
Anyone headed out tonight, enjoy. Weather couldn’t be more perfect, at least in SEPA, for a late October Friday night game.
Yikes!!! More swings and misses for me than the Phillies had against the Mets!!!
Think the only D1 game I got right was the game I was at, SFDelco over SH. Haven is in trouble if Fisher is injured bad enough to be out going forward. Did not look good late in the game. If these D1 5A rankings/ratings become official as they are presented this morning (Chester still needs to play today, but not seeing that game affecting much), I will be getting my tix early for a potential Chester @ WC Rustin round 2 game in two week.
Mt. Carmel 28 shamokin 21
Tamaqua 20 blue mountain 7
Saucon valley 27 northern Lehigh 14
Pottsville 35 north Schuylkill 13
How about some credit to Wally Hall?? Masterclass.
if you’ve never been to a coal region football game, do yourself a favor and take a ride to the Silver Bowl Friday night to see Shamokin and Mt Carmel play for the Coal Bucket. The Indians are 9-0 for the first time since 1991 I believe and haven’t beat Mt. Carmel since 1995. MCA is 7-2 so Shamokin is coming in as a slight favorite, although they say you can throw the records out the window for this game. This game is always a big one but Fridays game has to be the most anticipated one in over 20 years with the Indians expecting to break the losing streak to MCA that has lasted a generation. I admittedly have never been to another HS rivalry game but the only one in PA I know of that has an atmosphere that can top this one is Easton/Phillipsburg. So get there early and stop by Mattucci’s or Hollywood Pizza before the game for some delicious eats, watch the parade down 3rd street and enjoy a good old coal region slugfest, you won’t regret it.
The final week of the regular season is upon us. I’m going to include as many implication games as I can my “10 to watch”. I’ll put in the rest of D2 this week, as a farewell to some teams. I think I’ve picked every school, save for Carbondale.
Before I post tomorrow, can you guys give me any good clinching scenarios for the state (D-1 5A/6A & WPIAL mainly). Maybe even D5, D9, or D10, if applicable.
– Scranton vs. Delaware Valley (LFC 1): The most on the line comes from this game. Scranton is in a situation where a Wilkes-Barre loss & a win jumps them to #1, but they also need to make sure they are in front of Hazleton for home field. DV needs Abington Heights to lose to jump to the #1 seed. Both are not favorable. A DV win might keep them at #2.
– Western Wayne vs. Dunmore (LFC 2): This is for the LFC 2 crown. WW had a rare stumble against a very gritty Mid Valley team to lose their undefeated status. Dunmore lost to Honesdale, but also ran the table in division play before losing. Winner gets at least a share of the crown, depending on what Mid Valley does.
– Old Forge vs. Carbondale (LFC 3): The biggest implication game of the week goes to Old Forge. This is a pure elimination game, win or lose. Carbondale has looked impressive in recent weeks, beating on the up & up Susquehanna team. Old Forge seems similar, when it comes to how they’ve played this year. This is a must win & I think they’ll take it. A Marian win knocks them out.
– Wilkes-Barre vs. Williamsport (WVC 1): Well, the game of the week is this one. It’d be a massive division game, if this was the old WVC. It’s massive in regards to the 6A race. A Williamsport loss will put them at #4. A WBA win seals the #1. Hazleton or Scranton has a puncher’s chance at a #1 with a WBA loss. I’d root for more chaos, but we’ll see Part II next week.
– Tunkhannock vs. Berwick (WVC 2): This game has implications for seeding purposes. Tunkhannock needs a win & Hanover Area loss to feel extra comfortable. Berwick winning might propel them over Carbondale. I think Berwick’s much better than Tunk & swaps seeds with Carbondale.
– Riverside vs. Lackawanna Trail (LFC HM): LFC Division 3 is on the line here. Riverside wants to stay as D2’s unbeaten program. Trail wants extra momentum & hope to become outright District II 1A champs. I think Riverside remains perfect. Both will be the #1 seed in their respective classes.
– Hazleton vs. Abington Heights (WVC HM): This game is diet Scranton/DV. Hazleton needs a win to lock up the #1 with a Wilkes-Barre loss. Abington needs a win to lock up the #1. I think Abington Heights will take it. Just hope it’s a good game. It stands alone on the schedule.
– Valley View vs. Wallenpaupack (D2 HM/EC Watch): So, Matt Nawrocki’s Wallenpaupack squad has the #3 seed in his rookie coaching campaign & they’re facing Valley View, who has nothing to play for. Does VV call off the dogs & prep for the playoffs, or do the Buckhorns have magic to upset? I can’t say this is a win for Paupack, so I think we’ll see Paupack eliminated. If this is a loss & Crestwood or Honesdale gets upset, it means we may get a chance to see a rematch in the first round. Also, it’s worth noting that this is the “EC Watch” game because it entirely affects the matchup, although Paupack isn’t in EC.
– Marian vs. Nativity (1A Subregional/EC Watch): You think the 4A games are huge? This 1A subregional battle is the difference between Trail getting a district now or next week. A win for Nativity has the chance to lock in Trail as the sole D2 team in the playoffs. A Marian loss puts Old Forge in with a win. I think we see a subregional final for both districts in Week 11. Marian will play in the EC game.
– Schuylkill Haven vs. Tri-Valley (1A Subregional): Now, let’s not count out Tri-Valley being in a spot to lock up home field. Haven comes to Hegins in a battle that could give Nativity the #2. Tri-Valley is in a very interesting spot, knowing they could host the D-XI A final or lose the chance at home field, depending on Nativity-Marian outcome. Give me Haven & Nativity hosting the D-11 final.
Farewell D2 Picks + Wyo Sem: Key Games On Top
– DV 38, Scranton 16
– WW 27, Dunmore 24
– OF 28, C’dale 13
– WBA 26, Billtown 14
– Berwick 38, Tunk 13
– Riverside 23, Trail 19
– AH 29, Hazleton 13
– VV 35, Paupack 7
– Nativity 25, Marian 21
– Haven 35, T-V 24
– Prep 31, NP 15
– Honesdale 49, West Scranton 0
– Crestwood 37, WVW 7
– Mid Valley 31, Lakeland 14
– Susq. 24, HC 13
– Wyoming Area 35, Pittston 16
– Dallas 42, L-L 15
– Hanover 22, GNA 16
– Midd-West 7, Redeemer 6
– Kiski 27, Sem 14
It’s hard to outline clinching scenarios for most classes in the WPIAL because there are both automatic qualifiers, and wild cards chosen by the selection committee, so you have to take some educated guesses as to which teams will be selected as wild cards, for now I’ll just outline classes 4A-6A, and if I have time later I’ll get to the lower 3 classes
6A – likely order of seeds is PCC #1, NA #2, Mt Lebo #3 and Seneca Valley #4. PCC has clinched #1, NA clinches #2 with win over Seneca Valley, Mt Lebo clinches #3 with win over winless Norwin and SV loss to NA and Canon Mac loss to PCC, Canon Mac needs to beat PCC to get into the playoffs…good luck with that!
5A – 8 teams have clinched spots, Woodland Hills, Penn Trafford and Franklin Regional, Upper St Clair, Peters Township and Bethel Park, and Pine Richland and North Hills, while Penn Hills will clinch the final automatic spot with win over Plum. The South Fayette-Moon winner will definitely be one of the wild cards, and the loser may get a wild card as well. The final wild card could be Gateway, Latrobe could sneak in with an upset over Penn Trafford, Kiski could do the same with an upset of Woodland Hills.
Here’s my playoff bracket as of now, making some assumptions for games tomorrow…in all brackets besides 6A not only does the selection committee pick the wildcards, they also seed the teams in each class
1) USC
2) Pine Richland
3) Peters Township/Bethel Park winner
4) Woodland Hills
5) Peters Township/Bethel Park loser
6) Penn Trafford
7) Penn Hills
8) North Hills
9) Franklin Regional
10) Moon/South Fayette winner
11) Moon/South Fayette loser
12) Gateway
4A – Montour, Aliquippa, TJ, McKeesport and Mars have clinched, Belle Vernon plays Trinity with the winner clinching and loser alive for a wild card, the other teams vying for the 2 wild card spots are West Mifflin and West Alleghany, My projected playoff bracket as of now
1) Montour
2) TJ
3) Aliquippa
4) McKeesport
5) Belle Vernon/Trinity winner
6) Mars
7) West Mifflin
8) Belle Vernon/Trinity loser
Thanks for the bigger class updates. I was missing some 6A games to pay attention to. I found the TribHSSN story for 1-3A, so I’ll go off of that. Didn’t even think to look there before I asked.
My alma mater, Northern Lehigh is having a very nice season. They were 3-7 last year after playing a tough schedule and starting a handful of freshman including the QB. This year in a more 2A-3A schedule, they have played well and are 7-2 with the sophomores coming along nicely. The only two loses were to Northwestern and Notre Dame who are both state ranked in 3A (albeit by a lot). They have taken care of all the 2A teams they have played. They might give saucon a game but I suspect they will lose and enter D11 2A at the 3 seed and host a playoff game. They may give D11 2A teams so fits like SH and Williams Valley. However, next two years they should be very good like the Northern teams of 2021 and 2022 as those good sophomores continue to grow.
I don’t think northern Lehigh will be near what they were two years ago anytime in the forceable future because they will not be in 1a and because your basing everything on there 7-2 record this year and I can tell you pen argyl, cattasaqua, palmerton, Palisades, Salisbury, Wilson, Bangor, Lehighton, Jim Thorpe are all terrible. So just because you play as a sophomore you automatically get better, not so Nw Lehigh will win the state championship this year but northern Lehigh could have lost 100-0 that game. Northern Lehigh got lucky two years ago being in 1a
I beg to differ. NL coach said last year this could be the best class he’s ever had (sophomores) and that’s saying something after that NL 2010 class. They also didn’t play Bangor or Jim Thorpe. Have you even watched them play. The QB (Smoyer, brother of the 2021 QB who set school records) and RB Frame (cousins of Nick and Matt) who played on the 2020-2022 teams. And they had a hell of a run in 2021 in AA (state semis) before the 2022 season. I would bet they will win districts next year in AA and watch this year.
What do you mean by “clinching scenarios?” Not sure what I can tell you in District One. 16 teams make the playoffs in both 6A and 5A, some possible games where teams may or may not get in, but thinking anyone above a 13 or 14 seed are in and are just jocking for seedings. I decided on the SFDelco @ Strath Haven game with one reason that game having more playoff implications. SH with with secures a No. 1 seed, not sure how far SFDelco can move up with a win. Too many moving parts across the district.
Kevin X,
Clinching scenarios meaning teams in the hunt to make the playoffs that might need a win to lock up, or right below the cutoff with a loss from someone above. D1’s system is the old “cumulative point” D-2 system, if I’m not mistaken, but with opponents factoring into the final total.
It could also be most important seeding switches. The difference between an #8/#9 is probably as important, to guarantee one more home field game.
Kind of what I thought, but like I said before, just too many unknowns and moving pieces to try to figure out. I tried in years past, and it was an exercise in futility. With that said tho, tow situation are interesting to me. Coatesville. When was the last time The ‘Ville did not make the District One playoffs?? If they beat Shanahan tonight, they are in. I was thinking tho if they loose, they may need help. But I now think they are safe even if they loose tonight, unless things really go haywire. I’ll let it play out. Perk Valley tonight even with a loss should remain in the top 8 and secure a first round home game. If they win, thinking they might jump North Penn and land a #4 seed. Not saying NP will lose tonight, as they have a one win Abington team, but the lack of bonus points may not be enough to keep NP at #4. Again, too many variables to consider. Either way, looking forward a few weeks, I’d love to see a potential #4/#5 PV/NP second round match-up at either school.
Decisions decisions….. Any help or suggestions with my weekend schedule……
Friday night: Blue Route south and back to Delco for Springfield Delco @ Strath Haven, or cross county to Perk Valley @ PJPII??
Saturday afternoon: Road trip to L-S @ Wyomissing or stay local for Roman @ La Salle??
Speaking of PV/PJPII, any one know what the protocol will be for admission for that game Friday night?? Saw they are selling tix on-line for that game, so in edition to new lights, do they now have a fence or some other physical perimeter?? Scanners in strategic locations around the premises scanning tickets?? Still charging for parking or each individual in the car as they enter the parking area?? I was last there early in the season (N-G game) and they were charging for parking only, no gate.
Last week at PJP they weren’t scanning from cars. Just park and then they had two spots where you show online ticket. No fencing right now so it’s basically the same as before as far as moving around.
Thanks Irish. I ended up calling over to PJP yesterday, and that is basically what they said, but not with much conviction. I also had some other questions that they could not answer. I don’t see how they can enforce people paying (and scanning) to watch that game in person. Too much open area and access points, isn’t there?? Anyways, a moot point tho, as last night my Friday night partner in crime and I decided on the SFDelco/SH game . More playoff implications, more interest in the upcoming District One 5A (and 6A) playoffs versus 4A, and we have not seen Springfield Delco in person yet this year (I have seen the other 3 teams, PJPII, PV and SH (twice)). We did see the SFDelco/SH game last year, and it was one of the best, if not the best game we saw in person last year. Hoping for a repeat Friday night.
PJP will def have to do more to kind of close things in more,that will probably come with the bleachers,press box etc that should be coming by next year. Cant really go wrong with either of your choices. Are you sure that getting a chance to see the Strath Haven band again wasnt the tipping point? I understand if it was,never seen them but heard they are one of the top bands around.
Not a tipping point, but a nice bonus for sure!! Also a chance to load up on weekend sandwiches at Phil and Jim’s!!
Question with PJP with all of their future potential upgrades. Any turf on their wish list?? I may of had that as my No. 1 priority. Granted, probably most expensive single item as well.
Eastern Conference Talk
1A/2A
– (#5, D-II/XI 1A) Old Forge would host (#9, D-IV 2A) Wyalusing Valley, if things stay the same.
– In The Hunt: (#4, D-II/XI A) Marian, (#8, D-IV 2A) South Williamsport, & (#7, D-IV 2A) Bloomsburg
– Rating: Marian (.437), OF (.434), Bloomsburg (.425), S. W’port (.405), WyVal (.391)
– Last Week: Marian beat Pine Grove, Old Forge lost to Riverside, SW lost to Montgomery, & Bloom lost to SCA
– This Week: OF plays at C’dale, Marian’s at Nativity, Bloomsburg travels to rival Central Columbia, S Williamsport goes to Northwest Area, Wyalusing goes to Towanda
What Happens
– A Marian win locks them into the subregional to play Trail. OF to EC 1A/2A game.
– An Old Forge & Marian loss forces them to play Trail in 1A D-2 final. Marian to EC game.
– If both win/lose, Marian most likely goes to subregional, with OF playing in EC game.
– As for D4 2A, Bloomsburg & South Williamsport lock in with a win, Wyalusing locks into EC with loss.
– If Wyalusing wins & either Bloom/SW loses (likely SW), the loser plays in EC game.
– If OF loses & either D4 team is ahead in the .400-.410 range, the D4 team hosts instead.
3A
– Currently (#5, D-XI) Saucon hosts (#7, D-III) Berks Catholic
– In The Hunt: (#4 D-XI) Tamaqua, (#6 D-XI) Salisbury, (D-III #10) Pequea Valley, & (D-XI #3) North Schuylkill (extreme outside chance)
– Rating: No. Schuylkill (.643), Tamaqua (.603), Saucon (.599), Berks (.507), Salisbury (.425), & Pequea Valley (.411)
– D3 Note: #6 Big Spring (.513) & #5 Biglerville (.511) play a role in this battle. BC is .502.
– Last Week: Saucon lost to Solehi, BC beat Hamburg, NS beat Lehighton, Tamaqua lost to NWL, Salisbury lost to Nolehi, Pequea lost to Lancaster Catholic, Big Spring beat Middletown, Biglerville lost to Littlestown.
– This Week: Saucon travels to Nolehi, Berks travels to Annville-Cleona, NS plays at Pottsville, Tamaqua hosts Blue Mtn., Salisbury hosts Palisades, Pequea Valley travels to Kutztown, Big Spring’s at East Pennsboro, Biglerville hosts York County Tech.
What Happens
– A D-11 team will host. NS & Tamaqua lock into their playoff with win. Saucon hosts.
– A Saucon win over NL & Tamaqua loss to BM locks Tamaqua into EC game & they host.
– A NS loss & Saucon & Tamaqua win likely drops them to EC game. They host.
– A BC loss to Annville-Cleona seals them into the EC game.
– A win & either Biglerville or Big Spring (likely the latter) puts Berks in the playoff, leading to either Salisbury or Pequea to be in, instead.
– If BC makes the playoff & Salisbury loses, Pequea goes to EC game.
– Regardless of the three bottom teams, they will travel to Saucon/Tamaqua/NS.
4A
– Currently, (#5 D-II) Crestwood vs. (#6 D-II) North Pocono
– In The Hunt: Honesdale (#4 D-II) & (#14 D-III) Hamburg
– Wallenpaupack (.530, #3 D-II) is not part of EC this season, surprisingly, but have a say
– Ratings: C’wood (.531), Honesdale (.522), N. Pocono (.497), Hamburg (.455)
– Last Week: Crestwood lost to Wilkes-Barre, North Pocono lost to DV, Honesdale beat Dunmore, Paupack beat Pittston, & Hamburg lost to Berks Catholic.
– This Week: Crestwood’s at Valley West, North Pocono hosts Scranton Prep, Honesdale plays at West Scranton, Paupack hosts Valley View, & Hamburg hosts Columbia.
What Happens
– See 4A D2 Playoff Talk for breakdown.
– Hamburg gets EC game IF Wallenpaupack misses playoff.
6A
– Currently, (#9 D-XI 5A) Dieruff vs. (#17 D-III 6A) Reading
– In The Hunt: (#21 D-III 5A) Muhlenberg, (#22 D-III 5A) Fleetwood, (#10 D-XI 6A) William Allen
– Ratings: Dieruff (.534), Reading (.469), Muhlenberg (.444), Fleetwood (.443), Allen (.424)
– Last Week: Dieruff lost to ACC, Reading lost to Oxford, Muhlenberg lost to Academy Park, Fleetwood lost to Solanco, & Allen lost to Emmaus.
– This Week: Dieruff hosts Allen, Reading’s at Hempfield, Muhlenberg’s at Conestoga Valley, & Fleetwood hosts Cocalico.
What Happens
– Dieruff is in. It’d take a miracle for them to overtake Stroudsburg/Northampton for the #8.
– Reading should stay put with a win.
– A Muhlenberg, Fleetwood, or Allen win most likely overtakes Reading if they lose.
First Picks Of Weekend (Non-D2/11 1A & D2 4A)
– Bloomsburg vs. Central Columbia: Bloom 32, CC Blue Jays 23
– South Williamsport vs. Northwest Area: SW 44, Northwest 6
– Wyalusing vs. Towanda: Towanda 42, WyVal 14
– Saucon vs. Northern Lehigh: Saucon 33, NL 21
– North Schuylkill vs. Pottsville: NS 28, Pottsville 20
– Blue Mountain vs. Tamaqua: BM 34, Tamaqua 21
– Palisades vs. Salisbury: Salisbury 29, ‘Sades 10
– Berks Catholic vs. Annville-Cleona: BC 31, A-C 14
– Pequea Valley vs. Kutztown: Pequea 35, Kutz 8
– Columbia vs. Hamburg: Hamburg 47, Columbia 7
– William Allen vs. Dieruff: Dieruff 24, Allen 20
– Reading vs. Hempfield: Hempfield 27, Reading 19
– Muhlenberg vs. Conestoga Valley: ‘Stoga Valley 42, Muhls 12
– Cocalico vs. Fleetwood: Cocalico 49, Fleetwood 14
Thats an awful lot of work into possible EC matchups. Especially as 90% of the teams noted have bigger goals. Its like filling out a Womens NIT bracket.
FWIW – Westinghouse is just “House” if you’re shortening it down.
You do have a point, Saul. I’ve always considered it the “NIT” of PIAA football. Not that there’s anything wrong with it. In fact, PIAA States should be 32, to let better teams in that 3-7 vs. 2-8.
I like “House” or “The House”, too, but the more I think about it, I think mine works because like the Bulldog mascot, a Westy is basically an abbreviation of another dog breed.
There’s not talk on here about La Salle College High or St. Joe. The name of this site is Eastern Pa. football. How can you talk about football in this part of the state without mentioning the two best football teams in the state. I know privates are a sore subject here but you can’t shut your eyes to reality. La Salle has a QB for the ages and a defense that is just plain good. And St. Joe is…….well……St. Joe!! The playoff game will determine everything. See you in Hershey!!
Quite simply: I do not care. They are boring to talk about. Everyone knows they are competing at a different level, it doesn’t matter to me which of them ultimately wins.
I’m from Pittsburgh and don’t think there are very many posters on this site that follow DI and D12/Catholic League very closely, with Kevin X being a notable exception, there are more from NE Pa, and D3 in the areas around Harrisburg. I do agree with you those are the 2 best teams in PA regardless of classification, and the winner of the rematch is a big favorite to win 6A. I predicted on this board back in August that LaSalle would dethrone SJP this year and win the state title, we’ll see if that comes to fruition, I knew they had a lot of talent returning and with a new coaching staff figured they would seriously challenge SJP, particularly in light of some of their major injuries to key players like Roy, and now others. I will say LaSalle could be susceptible to a letdown the following week against Imhotep if they beat Prep again, but if Prep wins the rematch I don’t see them losing to Tep.
I live in the district one area and have followed high school sports since the 70s, I think there are probably a good amount of people from here that probably just don’t post comments but I could be wrong. What is the high school football coverage like out west? I think one of the things that has hurt high school football in this area is the basic demise of the daily local newspapers. In my area the Norristown Times Herald and Pottstown Mercury used to have full sports staffs of really good writers who would have great previews and the full game stories for each game that week with box scores included. They would also have coaches roundtables where the coaches would talk about different things it was great. It really made the season feel special. Now those papers are all owned by the same company and they are a shell of what they once were. Often only a couple games have a full story since there is very little staff. This site is good but I’m sorry the Internet just isn’t the same. It was fun getting the paper the next day and reading about each game. I’m sure it’s probably much the same out in the western part of the state.
Fortunately we still have very good local media coverage of HS Football in Western PA, both the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and Tribune Review have full staffs that cover football and all other high school sports, and both papers provide very good overall coverage. KDKA radio broadcasts a game of the week every Friday night, and has a wrap up show following the game where they run down all the scores and have live reports from the marque matchups, its great to listen to driving home from whatever game I attended. There is also a game of the week on a smaller local TV network, and sometimes there are 2 games on different stations. All 3 local TV network affiliates also devote the last 15 minutes of their 11PM Friday night news to coverage and highlights of the HS games that night, and a couple of stations have helicopters that make appearances at a handful of games.
Probably correct, same thing here with Doylestown Intelligencer newspaper, among others. Central Bucks South, Central Bucks West, North Penn are pretty good football teams, CBW gave Easton their only loss, Souderton, Upper Dublin, Quakertown also pretty good. Pretty much listed the teams from the Old Bux-Mont league didn’t I.
Since 2009 (when Brooks was coach) SJP has had very good and sometimes great HS quarterbacks–with the exception of 2015. There was Mornhinweg between ’09 and ’11, Chris Martin in ’12 and ’13, Jack Clement in ’14, McCray in ’16 and ’17, McCord for the next three years, and then three years of Samaj Jones. Charlie Foulke came into this year as a sophomore with no varsity experience. He’s been OK, and I expect him to be very good the next two years, but he hasn’t played at the level McCord or Jones played at as sophomores. McCord had great poise in the pocket and had a strong and accurate arm. Jones was a dual threat from the start. Foulke’s biggest problems so far have been tendencies to force some throws into traffic and to panic a bit when under pressure. You saw examples of both problems against LaSalle, St. Edward’s, and Roman–though you also saw lots of potential in all three games. (I’m not convinced LaSalle’s Sidwar is in the class of McCord or Jones, but he’s very good and this is his third year. But despite the LaSalle advantage at QB, I think everyone would agree that SJP should have won the game earlier this month in regulation.)
As Jeff H mentioned, who’s injured and who’s back from injury will be very big factors in November. I’m assuming McFadden will be back for LaSalle and that West won’t be for SJP. That’s a huge loss for SJP. Look at what a healthy West did last year in many games, including the two against LaSalle. Hardy was out for the first game against LaSalle, but he’s back now for SJP. I’ve heard different things about Roy, but even if he’s back it’s hard to imagine he will be close to 100%.
And a prediction: given how the DBs on each team were playing in the first game, supporters of the losing team will be complaining about the referees after the next game.
No one talks about Prep or LaSalle as everyone knows whoever wins the Catholic League Championship……..and I have to go with Prep again…..will win the State Championship, no 6A Public or Private School for that matter in the State can beat either of those teams. I do have a question concerning Imhotep, if the make it to the CIty Championship game, and I don’t see any competition in the Public League 6A for them, after 2 years, can they move back down to 5A?
LaSalle is the real deal this year under new coach Gordan. Most folks on this site dont get to see either LaSalle or the Prep during the year and most likely dont care, which is understandable considering upstate schools are in lower classifications. Imhotep and Roman are also very talented teams. District 11 has several powerhouses in 6A. Although CB South is rated higher and are undefeated ,keep an eye on CB West with all everything Ryan Clemens.
Take cover there are about to be a barrage of negative comments coming your way from parts far and wide but particularly the northeast extension of the turnpike.
District 2 Football is very quiet. He picked against the “PREP” yet again and lost. He/she should join the bandwagon instead of hating on them.
P-R-E-P….PREP PREP PREP!!!!
His Valley View Cougars are playing Wyoming Valley West and the West Side Jr. Falcons every week.
Mechanicsburg
The bleachers on the left side of the field may or may not be considered Carlisle. Its pretty hard to argue with someone on LaSalle and st. Joes prep when they don’t even know where they play the state championships at. Hershey’s a good half hour away, Manheim will be in the right place. I had to post this here because it’s the only place today that they would let me reply to. Love the forum, very easy to navigate, never freezes up and it’s a hidden gem in the ————- sorry lost my thought after it froze up
You’ll forgive me JC. “See you in Hershey” was a saying for us Old Timers!!
Playoff Watch (Little 3-Word Game Action, too). I’ll rank these by most to least interesting. I’ll add these into three parts.
1. 1A (2018 Deja Vu): This is more chaotic than Wallenpaupack/Valley West in 2018, where it came down to the final day. The only difference here is that 4 teams are (potentially vying for 3 spots) & all of it happens in one day.
Recap/Scenarios
– Not a bad week for the 1A Subregional foes. Trail beat Holy Cross in a classic drubbing. Marian was the only other team with a win (over struggling Pine Grove), while Nativity lost to Schuylkill Haven (in a close one), as did Tri-Valley to Minersville & Old Forge to Riverside.
– We know Trail is in. They have home field. They have Riverside, who’s looking to run the table.
– Nativity is the #2, barely leading Tri-Valley by .498 to .496 (or via D-XI, T-V leads .497287 to .497205).
– Marian jumps to the #4, since they won & Old Forge lost. D2 has them up .440 to .437, while D-XI has them .437 to .434. I’m not sure which numbers are right.
– Next week: Old Forge plays at Carbondale & Tri-Valley hosts Haven in Hegins. The biggest game is the go or go-homer for Marian.
– What happens: A win for Marian clinches. A win for Old Forge knocks out Marian & forces a District 2 championship game up on Tunnel Hill. A Marian win over Nativity makes Trail the D2 champion & locks in Marian. Also, a Nativity win clinches D-11 home field, while a Tri-Valley win locks them into the #2 if Nativity loses, but could also get it by strength of record. A loss for T-V doesn’t rule them out of elimination, either. If they lose & Marian & OF win, it could come down to mere points. Oh, and the first team out has a legit chance to play in the EC 1A/2A game (& possibly host).
2. 4A (Four Way Chaos): You think they’d have the more intriguing case, but 1A trumps it due to just how much is on the line.
Recap/Scenarios
– Four teams for two spots, involving three divisions.
– Wallenpaupack jumps from #6 to #3 over a 2-7 Pittston. Honesdale stays at #4, dominating Dunmore. Crestwood drops from #3 to #5 after losing to Wilkes-Barre. North Pocono drops to #6 losing to DV, but they could’ve also won.
– Paupack leads with .530, Honesdale with .529, Crestwood with .526, & North Pocono with .493.
– Valley View & Dallas are locked into their spots. They can rest easy.
– Next Week: All host teams next week. Paupack plays Valley View, Honesdale has easy win vs. West Scranton, Crestwood plays Valley West, & North Pocono gets Prep.
– What Happens: Win & you’re in. Wallenpaupack will most likely lose to Valley View, so Honesdale & Crestwood control their own destiny. North Pocono upsetting Prep may also play a role. Loser of either North Pocono, Crestwood, & Honesdale will likely play in EC. A Wallenpaupack #4 seed also puts them in position to potentially have an all-LFC EC 4A game, but Hamburg seems to be heading there, too.
5. 3A (Some Potential Shuffling): 3A is all but locked but has a few interesting scenarios.
Recap/Scenarios
– My main focus is the battle for #6 & #7, but the #4/#5 & #8 seeds are still mathematically possible to have switches.
– Scranton Prep moves to #1 after beating Shore. Western Wayne’s loss to Mid Valley drops WW to #2 & jumps Mid Valley to #4. L-L goes to #5. Carbondale, Berwick, & Tunkhannock hold the final seeds.
– Carbondale leads Berwick .443 to .425 in the battle for the #6. Tunkhannock leads Hanover Area for the final seed .425 to .350. Mid Valley leads .582 to .540.
– Next Week: C’dale hosts OF, Berwick hosts Tunkhannock (very slim chance that seedings change), Hanover travels to GNA for the Sans Souci Struggle, L-L hosts Dallas & Mid Valley hosts Lakeland.
– What Happens: A Berwick win & Carbondale loss flips the spots. A Tunkhannock loss & Hanover Area win could eliminate Tunkhannock. Mid Valley win over Lakeland keeps home field, while an upset over Dallas puts L-L there. Less likely.
– Also, WW & Wyoming Area may flip spots. WW leads .725 to .693. WW travels to Dunmore, while Wyo Area travels across the Susquehanna to play Pittston. A WW loss moves the Warriors to the #2.
6. 2A (Might Need Upsets): This is the only class that’s locked up but needs a little Week 10 magic to offer a change. The #2-4 seeds could see a bit of shuffling, but the bottom two are more in focus.
Recap/Scenarios
– Dunmore & Lakeland are #3 & #4 but could jump/swap spots depending on outcomes.
– Susquehanna (.482) lost to C’dale, Dunmore (.449) lost to Honesdale, & Lakeland (.402) beat West Scranton
– Next Week: Susquehanna hosts Holy Cross, Dunmore hosts WW, & Lakeland goes to Mid Valley
– What Happens: A Susquehanna loss could jump Dunmore to the #2, A Dunmore loss & Lakeland upset can swap their seeds. They should be safely where they are.
If Marian loses and old forge loses, Marian Catholic is most likely in
3. 6A (Just As Advertised): The 6A race has been as entertaining as advertised. All four spots are still up for grabs, but all four teams make it. This should be #1, but there’s no suspense in who’s in & who’s out. That’s why it’s the #3.
Recap/Scenarios
– All four seeds are TBD. All four teams have a case to be 5-5, depending on how this weekend goes.
– Wilkes-Barre jumps to #1 after “upsetting” Crestwood, Hazleton got waxed by Dallas, Scranton lost to Abington Heights, & Williamsport lost to Hollidaysburg.
– WBA (.560), Hazleton (.545), Scranton (.538), & Williamsport (.490)
– Next Week: The most important game is Wilkes-Barre/Williamsport (@ STA). Hazleton gets an interleague showdown with Abington Heights & Scranton travels to DV.
– What Happens: The winner of WBA-Williamsport likely clinches a home field spot. A Millionaires loss keeps them at #4 & a Wilkes-Barre win locks the #1. Scranton & Hazleton can also get the #1 by a Wilkes-Barre loss & power rating points.
4. 5A (Bonafide Tank Bowl): UTree would be proud of this battle for the #4 seed. It’d be better if both teams played in Week 10 against one another & one was locked into the EC game, but that’s not the case. However, DV & Abington Heights have unfinished business, too. Let’s not forget about that.
Recap/Scenarios
– #1 & #2 can still be decided, but the main battle is the #4 seed.
– AH beat Scranton convincingly & DV also won over a gritty North Pocono squad. Valley West lost to VV & West Side lost to Lakeland.
– AH leads DV in the #1 seed battle .606 to .593.
– WVW leads WS .240 to .229 in the 5A race.
– Next Week: AH hosts Hazleton, DV hosts Scranton, West Scranton hosts Honesdale, & Valley West heads to Crestwood.
– What Happens: I expect things to stay the same. A loss for AH will give DV home field. An upset for either WVW/WS will lock them in. If not, it’ll go by power rating points.
D2 Notes for Week 9
1. Wildcat Woes (Upset Of The Week): Western Wayne is not perfect anymore. They lost in their worst performance of the season, 22-10. Mid Valley’s defense earns their flowers for this one. This also put the LFC Division II race in anarchy. Mid Valley, WW, & Dunmore will have a co-champion this season, as Dunmore/WW will decide one, alongside a MV win over Lakeland. To make matters worse, Prep took over the #1 seed heading into the final week. As Luke Combs sang, “When it rains, it pours”.
2. Carbondale’s Better Than Susquehanna?: Carbondale/Susquehanna is one of those matchups where you throw out the record books. I felt Susquehanna has had the better team, while Carbondale gave more teams fits. Little did I think the Chargers would take them down. A 22-12 win came to be, as the Sabers are now in a fight for home field with Dunmore.
3. WBA Upends Crestwood: All the Pack needed was a rally. They got one! Wilkes-Barre used some first catch magic (Achilles Fuentes had yet to make a reception) to be the difference maker, as they take down a Shedlock-less Crestwood. This loss made Crestwood’s game important next week & Wilkes-Barre’s battle just as much. 6A playoff seeding is all up in the air.
4. North Pocono Almost Did It AGAIN!: North Pocono is the boogeyman this year. You just can’t take them down easily. North Pocono had led for most of the first half, but only before DV struck. By the 4th Quarter, DV controlled the rest of the game & that’s that. North Pocono needs a win & help to make the 4A playoffs. They will be playing Scranton Prep. Don’t be surprised if they give them a fit.
5. Riverside Takes Down Pizzatown: In more laid back senses, Riverside came through & defeated their rival in a classic showdown. Chase Taddonio moved to 2nd all-time in Riverside history with career TDs, only trailing his coach, Harry Armstrong. Not much to say here, except this gives them momentum to try to share the LFC III title next week.
6. Extra Notables: This weekend’s theme was “Catch 22”, as Mid Valley, Carbondale, & Wallenpaupack won their games scoring 22 points. Nick Bradley put up some big numbers (309 yards & 4 TDs) in a 42-21 win for Abington Hts over Scranton. Wyoming Area shutout Nanticoke to seal WVC II.
Playoff talk coming tomorrow, with EC talk coming up Tuesday.
The final week coming with major playoff implications. In the PAC you have Perkiomen Valley and Pope John Paul playing for the championship. If PV loses they will drop in the D1 6A seedings, PJP will probably still stay as the #1 seed in D1 4A PV is a slight favorite as the small schools have only won twice in the history of the crossover playoffs with PJP winning last year. I see Phoenixville beating Owen J Roberts in the PAC crossover and Owen J Dropping, OJR played one strong opponent this year-PV and lost, they beat a lousy underperforming Spring Ford on a last second field goal yesterday. Phoenixville will win a game or 2 in the Very strong D1 5A playoffs.
I don’t think anyone in the state saw Lampeter Strasburg’s destroying Twin Valley. TV defensive line was no match for LS offensive line. Will try to get to the Wyo/LS game next saturday as the winner will get the #1 seed in D3 4A
Week 9 Across The State. If I missed anything, let me know. Also, curious to know D1/D12 clinching scenarios this week or next. Same for Western PA (D5/D6/D9/D10, especially). Also, this was made before all Thursday games took place.
Bonus D2-Related Picks & D-XI
– Dunmore vs. Honesdale: Dunmore 33, Honesdale 16
– Nativity vs. Schuylkill Haven: Haven 46, Nativity 22
– Easton vs. Freedom: Freedom 27, Easton 24
– Stroudsburg vs. ES South: ESS 23, S’burg 17
– Northampton vs. Nazareth: Naz 36, N’hampton 14
– Liberty vs. Becahi: Liberty 23, Becahi 21
– NW Lehigh vs. Tamaqua: NWL 44, Tamaqua 14
– Pottsville vs. Blue Mountain: Blue Mtn. 35, Pottsville 19
– Southern Lehigh vs. Saucon Valley: Solehi 38, Saucon 20
District 4
– Shamokin vs. Loyalsock: Shamokin 38, Sock 23
– South Williamsport vs. Montgomery: Monty 23, SW 14
– Wyalusing Valley vs. Hughesville: H’ville 20, WyVal 13
District 1
– CB South vs. Neshaminy: CBS 38, Nesh 13
– North Penn vs. CB West: North Penn 23, CBW 22
– Upper Moreland vs. Plymouth-Whitemarsh: UM 24, P-W 21
– Pottsgrove vs. Phoenixville: P’ville 29, P’grove 28
– Coatesville vs. D’Town West: DTW 25, C’ville 21
– Garnet Valley vs. Springfield Delco: Garnet 24, Delco 18
District 12
– Roman Catholic vs. St. Joe’s Prep: SJP 33, Roman 21
– Bonner-Prendie vs. Cardinal O’Hara: B-P 36, O’Hara 15
– Imhotep vs. Simon Gratz: Imhotep 45, Gratz 21
– George Washington vs. Central Phila.: GW 23, Central (12) 12
District 3
– Twin Valley vs. Lampeter-Strasburg: TV 29, L-S 25
– Conestoga Valley vs. Exeter Twp.: Exeter 27, ‘Stoga Valley 24
– Conrad Weiser vs. Cocalico: Cocalico 25, CW 19
– Hershey vs. Mechanicsburg: Mech. 31, Hershey 22
– Susquehanna Twp vs. Trinity: Trinity 36, Susq. Twp. 28
– Biglerville vs. Littlestown: Biglerville 29, Litt 17
District 5/6
– Windber vs. Northern Bedford: NoBedCo 33, Windy 20
– Richland vs. Chestnut Ridge: Richland 38, CR 17
– Central vs. Clearfield: Central 26, Clearfield 20
– Mount Union vs. Claysburg-Kimmel: Mt. U 40, C-K 17
– River Valley vs. Northern Cambria: NoCam 29, Riv. Val 20
District 9/10
– DuBois vs. Brockway: DuB 35, Brockway 15
– Redbank Valley vs. Central Clarion: CC 56, RV 21
– General McLane vs. Cathedral Prep: ECP 40, GM 19
– Sharpsville vs. Wilmington: Wilmy 34, Sharpsville 14
– Titusville vs. Sharon: Sharon 38, Titusville 20
WPIAL
– Pine-Richland vs. North Allegheny: NA 28, P-R 24
– Penn Hills vs. North Hills: NH 30, PH 23
– South Fayette vs. Bethel Park: BP 29, SF 21
– Woodland Hills vs. Franklin Regional: Woody 28, FR 26
– Aliquippa vs. Montour: Quips 34, Montour 24
– Moon vs. Upper St. Clair: USC 40, Moon 23
– Monessen vs. Bishop Canevin: Canevin 35, Monessen 13
City League Playoff
– #4 Perry vs. #1 Westinghouse: Westy 55, Perry 15
– #3 USO vs. #2 Allderdice: TA 32, USO 20
Crossover/Non-PIAA/First 8-Man Pick
– Line Mountain (4) vs. Camp Hill (3): LM 31, CH 29
– Belmont Charter (12) vs. Executive (11): EE 28, Belmont 16
– Archbishop Hoban (OH) vs. Central York (3): Hoban 38, CY 19
– McDowell (10) vs. Steubenville (OH): Steubenville 25, McDowell 23
– Erie (10) vs. Canisius (NY): Canisius 31, Erie 13
– Haverford School vs. Malvern Prep: Malvern 27, HS 24
– Springside Chestnut Hill vs. Germantown Acad.: SCHA 31, GA 17
– Delco Christian vs. Perkiomen (8-Man): DCC 42, Perk. 24
Don’t feel too bad Jersey shore you did what you can do with who you had as a public school Scranton prep has talent From five counties surrounding their private school district
Name the counties please. Last time someone mentioned someting like this St. Joe Prep was getting their talent from 4 states.
Would you like some cheese with that whine??? Give it a rest already. I don’t really care what happens in District 2, but I’m Scranton preps newest fan. Go Cavs!
Can you imagine these schools are your PIAA state football champions this year, ohhh the comments!!!
6A: LaSalle, SJP, or PCC
5A: Roman or McDevitt
4A: Bonner or PJPII
3A: Scranton Prep or Imani Chr.
2A: Seton-LaSalle
A: Bishop Guilfoyle
That is a distinct possibility, as that list of teams is very formidable top to bottom, however, I think the publics will win at least a couple, if not more. I do think the winner of the LaSalle vs SJP game is going to win 6A.
In 5A I think the D1 winner is going to give Roman all they can handle and perhaps beat them, I also like the WPIAL winner to beat McDevitt in the other semi-final, at this point I’m thinking D1 vs. WPIAL for 5A.
In 4A the WPIAL has 3 very good publics in Montour, TJ and Aliquippa, whoever emerges has a good chance to win a state title. I was out of town last weekend but heard Tikey Hayes got hurt again in the 2nd half of their 36-35 loss to Montour, if he’s not healthy for the playoffs the Quips won’t win the WPIAL without him.
In 3A if I had to pick a winner now I’d take Northwestern Lehigh, they lost in the final last year, and are crushing teams this year, I think they get past Scranton Prep and make the final again, Imani is very good and has several DI recruits, but they will be challenged in the WPIAL playoffs by Avonworth and Central Valley.
In 2A this may be Troy’s year, and South Park and Steel Valley are legit challengers to Seton LaSalle in the WPIAL playoffs.
In 1A Clairton has been on a roll all year with explosive offense and lockdown defense, I like their chances to win another state title, and perhaps avenge a prior loss to Bishop Guillfoyle, although BG has to get past Westinghouse in the eastern bracket first (yes, Westinghouse from Pittsburgh is in the eastern bracket!) Clairton also has to get past undefeated and defending runner-up Fort Cherry in the WPIAL final.
Ain’t that a kick in the head!!!
There might be a march on Harrisburg lead by a very angry group from District 2
I think going to Reddit and posting pa high school forums for a group would be better than coming on here. Its impossible to post something and many times hitler won’t post them anyway. The only thing you would be missing from the site is the game recap of mount Carmel every single week as one of the 6 games covered no matter who they play.
Northwestern Lehigh
Impressive The real deal!
This cannot be a more true statement. They have size, speed, discipline and great coaching.
I am honestly not sure I can see anyone beating them if they play their game. Obviously any can happen in 1 game with penalties, turnovers etc.
Danville has been less than impressive lately, Scranton Prep is a nice team but still not enough, Imani is the one team I think can provide some trouble with athletes.
not sure if you saw but Westinghouse had their entire team with the exception of 11 players, suspended for fighting in last week’s game. So they have to play their game this weekend with only 11 total players. Still expect them to win vs Perry but I doubt it will be 55 to 15 as you predict.
If Westinghouse played a football game with 11 total players and only 10 playing on defense, the piaa needs to look into this and the coaching staff, athletic directors and administration at that school all need to be fired. Your putting kids in danger in a dangerous sport when they are out in a position first off that they are not used to and they shouldn’t have been put in. Secondly if many on your team did something that brought a suspension like this shouldn’t forfeiting the season be in play when you have so much of your team not following your own rules. If you have 11 eligible players you don’t have enough to safely play a game. I know they won 68-0 but it don’t make it right to put your kids out there like that. The piaa needs to get involved in this. If all your starters get suspended you don’t deserve to play another game in the season. It sounds like a school who was more worried about winning a championship and new there was a way to slap there student athletes on the wrist for something they did wrong and still achieve there goals. Its an embarrassment to the school, it’s coaches and it’s administration and especially it’s athletic director.
Westinghouse ended up winning 68-0 while deciding to only use 10 players on defense. They kept a defensive linemen on the bench rotating them each series. During kickoffs they would kick the ball out of bounds to preserve energy. They would also use time outs every so often to get rest not necessarily to discuss strategy. Westinghouse definitely had a plan of action.
I didn’t realize that their team had that many suspensions.
I’ll drop it to 34-15. Still, it’s Westy vs. Perry. I wouldn’t expect it to be close.
Two Weeks To Go! Let’s look at the big games. I have a very full list this week. In fact, I had to put a subregional game & a D2 game in the State Picks because there are implications galore!
– Scranton Prep vs. Jersey Shore (LFC 1): While it’s a road game for the Cavs, it’s the biggest game in Div. 1 this weekend. Prep needs a win to possibly jump Western Wayne for the #1 seed in 3A. Shore just wants more momentum heading into the playoffs. I’ll take Shore in a pretty competitive game that should honestly be televised across the state.
– Mid Valley vs. Western Wayne (LFC 2): Mid Valley needs a win, but no one needs it more than (you’re reading this correctly) a 9-0 Wildcats squad. With Prep right on their heels, these last two weeks are super important. I think the Wildcats win, but Mid Valley might not be an easy out.
– Riverside vs. Old Forge (LFC 3): Cross Triboro rivals face off in Pizzatown this week. Old Forge is in desperate need of a win. Riverside almost had a troubling loss to C’dale. I think Riverside takes it, but Old Forge better play tough & hope Riverside had the same start as they did last week. Marian has a shot to overtake & force Trail to be district champs once again.
– Crestwood vs. Wilkes-Barre (WVC 1): Not many good games in the WVC, but this could be an important game in the 6A standings for Wilkes-Barre. A win here for Wilkes-Barre puts them in a good spot to be the #3. A loss holds them to the #4 seed, at least for one more week.
– Berwick vs. Selinsgrove (WVC 2): With WVC 2 teams being mid as can be, one crossover game does have an appeal. The Seals have looked a bit off this year, but are still a good team. If Wlikinson has one more good game out of this, then Berwick can upset. I don’t think lightning strikes twice this week.
– Abington Heights vs. Scranton (LFC HM): This LFC 1 game has important implications in 5A & 6A. Wins for both teams seriously help their cases at the #1 seed. Abington needs a win & some hope DV slips to a tough North Pocono team or Scranton next week. Scranton must win out to solidify the #1. Both the 5A & 6A battles have been more thrilling than we all thought. Give me the Comets to potentially control their destiny heading into Week 10.
– Wallenpaupack vs. Pittston (WVC HM): HUGE game for the Buckhorns, & borderline de-facto elimination game at that. Pittston has looked sneaky competitive, even in close losses. Paupack just hasn’t been competitive since their win vs. North Pocono. I think the losing streak ends here & Paupack survives one more week in the race.
– North Pocono vs. Delaware Valley (D2 HM): It was between Dunmore/Honesdale & this. I think there’s more on the line here. DV is clinging for dear life at the #1 in 5A. North Pocono needs a win to get closer to the 4A playoffs. DV is favored here, but don’t let it fool you: North Pocono dominated last week vs. Scranton & have put up fights with Valley View & Dallas. What’s to say lightning can’t strike twice? I won’t go that far.
– Minersville vs. Tri-Valley (1A Subregional): Best 1A D11 game this weekend is this one. While Marian has an easy win over Pine Grove & Nativity battles the ‘Canes, this has a potential to be important for seeding. Nativity & Tri-Valley are tightly knit at #2/#3. In the sense of the subregional, these two games are going to decide home field. I still think the Nativity-Marian game has more value, as it might be a “go or go home” game. Anywho, Minersville has looked great in a challenging 2A class. They should win over the Bulldogs, but I wouldn’t rule out a home win in Hegins.
– Williamsport vs. Hollidaysburg (6A Subregional): Who’da thunk it that Hollidaysburg would have wins over Shore & Selinsgrove in consecutive weeks. They absolutely annihilated Selinsgrove last week. That makes me wonder if this indie has what it takes to challenge the teams in their bracket. Williamsport needs to avoid going down early if they want to win this one. I think the Golden Tigers get to 8 wins. They get DuBois in Week 10, who isn’t a slouch in D9. A 8-2/9-1 Hollidaysburg team is not what I would’ve expected if you asked me before the season.
Scores
– Shore 26, Prep 21
– WW 35, Mid Valley 20
– Riverside 30, Pizzatown 18
– C’wood 24, WBA 14
– ‘Grove 34, Berwick 20
– AH 35, Scranton 13
– Paupack 23, Pittston 19
– DV 31, NP 20
– Minersville 39, T-V 18
– H’Burg 23, Billtown 13
Once again district 11 playoff games in two classes will be played on Thursday night this year. Whoever thought Thursday night football for high school was good is an idiot. It don’t make sense. And I have to post this here because my ability to post things on here is so awful I usually don’t waste my time. A comment was made about the fair ness of a Pottsville wrestler transferring and then coming back to his home school after two years and not being eligible. To bad !!!!!!! He shouldn’t have been able to wrestle at all He didn’t transfer to a school because his family moved or he had to find a better safer place for him. He transferred for wrestling thinking he was the best and when he want he went back to where he should have been all along. He wants to get mad about it get mad at your parents for letting you basically be a college student as a freshman in high school
It won’t end until public schools rise up and leave the piaa. They don’t need the piàa, the piaa needs them. Who would come up with a system for competitive balance in high school? Your two good you have to move up? This is high school!!!!! This isn’t the English premier soccer League. Let’s wake up and try and figure out how in a 3 year period faith Christian academy and bishop mccort could become head and shoulders better in wrestling than anyone in the greatest wrestling state for his wrestling in the country. Are you telling me that these two places are hot beds for wrestling over night lol. C’mon. Bishop mccort was already suspended for two years from wrestling in the piaa tournament. Bethlehem Catholic which is a triple AAA wrestling school and the best in pa in triple AAA cannot compete against either of these two schools. Nazareth which is a public school and who is probably the second best triple AAA school can’t compete against these schools. There has never been a time in the history of the piaa in pretty much any sport where a smaller classification school is head and shoulders better than the bigger schools. And it happened within a 2 to 3 year window. But this is the ultimate kick in the face and year where it will show it, faith Christian academy would be favored to win maybe all but 3 matches against Bethlehem Catholic, same goes for mccort. Is this because they miraculously have homegrown talent overnight in a sport like wrestling where you don’t just go out for the team in 7th grade and are a superstar. And to use Bethlehem Catholic as an example is sad in itself because they have stolen public schools talent as well, but they don’t have kids from north carolina transferring in like mccort has. I would really hope that public schools would just leave the piaa and the old eastern conference make a comeback. I do not like the aliquippa arguments on here because they recruit but my god the people they bring in compared to these wrestling teams is laughable. Its blatant in wrestling. Its blatant by mccort and faith Christian. And I don’t want to hear anything out of faith Christian about home grown talent because it’s even worse you àssembled kids at an earlier age to come to your school. Imagine starting to assemble kids at 7 and 8 years old to come to your school it’s almost criminal.
Strange times we live in today. Not only do I agree with Jc’s post, but not twice, but on all 3 points that were made. So what is the deal with D11’s Thursday night playoff games?? Officials shortage?? Desire to spread the games out?? Schools requested to play on Thursday or some kind of conflicts?? If ref shortage, there is your indication that there are too many teams making the district playoffs. Friday night and Saturday should be sufficient to get all playoff games played if a reasonable and common sense number of teams are in the playoffs. Yes, I’m kind of done scrolling to the bottom of the forum to make an initial post. Much easier just to reply to a random post for one to make their own initial post. Third, I’m also just about done with the transfer issues. Still trying to figure out the different transfer rules for completion formula purposes and post season eligibility. Two simple solutions, get rid of the transfer clause in the competition formula (except I believe the PIAA is on the verge of requiring 4 transfers (up from 3) plus 7 competition points (up from 6) for football to be moved up a classification) (or even more simple, just get rid of the completion formula all together, as least the way we know it today or tomorrow if those changes take effect), and a zero tolerance transfer rule for playoff eligibility, if you were on a different team/roster the previous year in said sport, anywhere, you are ineligible for the state playoffs in that same sport. The districts and leagues can do their own thing as far as transfer eligibility in their respects playoffs. I know this may sound harsh, but it takes all of the shenanigan’s and BS out of the process. Guess the lawyers would be against it.
Id like to know how the piaa considers whether it’s for athletics or not for the transfer when a public school has a boundary and I would think would have to produce a lot of evidence over a Catholic or private school who doesn’t have boundaries and could just say hey it’s a better opportunity and safer for my son or daughter in this environment. Its like public schools are on uneven grounds from top to bottom in every aspect of the argument. How can a competitive balance and transfer rule exist in one sport but not others? There are 22 starting positions plus special teams players in football that make transfers less of a huge deal in football. In wrestling there are 13 weight classes that each class contributes greatly. 4 transfers in football could amount to really nothing in the context of a football game and season but in wrestling 4 transfers can bring you a powerhouse. But yet there is no competitive balànce and transfer rule there. This should let you know what’s happening super 32’s is probably the biggest high school off season wrestling tournament in the country class as bishop mccort had 2 champions and placed at least 4 other kids in the top 8 faith Christian academy had at least two champions and I think around 4 kids in the top 8. That’s unheard of, it’s unheard of. 4 of the 13 best high school wrestlers in the country go to two tiny schools in class as wrestling. Yeah piaa it’s an even playing field and your doing your job lol
As far as I know arent players who transfere ineligible for the state playoffs already. I thought any player who transferes after their freshman yr cant play in the postseason. No expert on all these different rules,but i thought that was what went into effect several yrs ago.
No expert on this matter myself, but last I understood it depends on the individual situation. If the transfer was deemed an “athletic transfer” whatever the heck that means, then you are ineligible. If deemed for, I’m guessing, any other reason, you’re good to go in the post season. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen football and basketball players at one school one year, then in another school the next year, and some are playing in the post season, others are not. And I believe the eligibility is determined at the district level. So different districts can come across similar situations but have two different views. If there are disagreements with your verdict, then you can appeal to the PIAA at the state level, or just go grab yourself a lawyer and take it to court. Now maybe the PIAA tightened the screws on the transfer rules recently, to something more akin of what I suggested above, I don’t know.
PJP will play first ever Friday night football game vs Upper Merion this Friday. Could be hosting PV at night the following Friday which would be fun.
How’d the game go?? All went well with their first on campus game under the lights?? Are they going to host PV Friday night?? Any idea how they are charging for games?? I was only there once this year, early in the season for the N-G game (Labor Day weekend). They were charging for parking like they have been in the past, but people just walked into the game or found a good spot on the hill on the visitors side. No way way they could prevent people from watching in person and charging unless they quickly put up a fence.
D2 Playoffs & EC Updates
– 1A sees a switch with Tri-Valley jumping to the #2 after a Nativity loss. The way it looks now, with #1 LT, #2 T-V, #3 Nativity, & #4 OF is what the seeds will be. It’ll go by district, then by subregion final. If Trail is D2 champ, they host Marian (but only if they jump Pizzatown). Marian has Pine Grove & an important game vs. Nativity. Nativity isn’t entirely out of the woods, either, as they have “The Haven” next week (my subregional pick). Tri-Valley is leading .535 to .528, which, but have the better schedule (Minersville & Schuylkill Haven). Holy Cross will need a lot of help. The EC race is kind of up for grabs, still.
– 2A seeding is all but locked. Susquehanna & Dunmore might battle for the #2, but with Susquehanna’s schedule being more favorable (Carbondale & Cross to Honesdale & WW), I think nothing changes with it. Dunmore’s best chance for the #2 is winning out & getting power rating pts via strength of schedule.
– 3A: Western Wayne is playing great football, but the Power Rating margin over Prep got tighter. WW won over 2-6 Lakeland, while Prep won over 5-3 Mid Valley. WW leads .791 to .767. The Wildcats have Mid Valley & Dunmore to go. Prep has Shore & North Pocono. Prep losing to Shore probably locks up the #1. A win over them will make Week 10 more important than expected. Mid Valley & Lake-Lehman flipped around seeds #4 & #5 this week. Sparty leads .547 to .536. WW & Lakeland are Mid Valley’s final two opponents, while L-L has Hanover Area & Dallas. Don’t be shocked if they flip, then flip again. Either team will get the final home seed. Carbondale & Tunkhannock may have a spirited battle for the #7, but I’ll address next week what’s needed.
– 4A: Dallas’ win over Crestwood all but locks up the #2, but an upset from Hazleton or Lake-Lehman may change things. Big switches in the #4. North Pocono needed a win (& a win badly) over Scranton. They jump Honesdale & freefalling Paupack & now have a decent lead over both. The Trojans (.521) lead Honesdale (.498) & Paupack (.496). The #4 seed should change at least once more by season’s end. North Pocono has DV & Prep to end the season. Honesdale has Dunmore & West Scranton. Paupack has Pittston & Valley View. Honesdale has the edge, since they have winnable games. North Pocono may be out of luck, but possibly helped by power rating points due to strength of schedule. Paupack may have a better SOS, due to Stroudsburg & possibly similar record ES North. Either NP or Honesdale will go to EC. Paupack isn’t in it, I think.
– 5A: Well, maybe DV isn’t safe from the #1. They lost to Valley View, while AH got past Paupack. That means DV leads .567 to .561 heading into the final weeks. DV has North Pocono & Scranton, while LFC’s Comets have Scranton & Hazleton. It may come down to strength of schedule points, which favors DV, but a shocking loss to LFC opponents opens things up. As for the “Tank Bowl” of the #4 seed, West Side has the lead .252 to .235. WS gets 2-6 Lakeland & 4-4 Honesdale. WVW gets Valley View & Crestwood. Expect this to go down to the wire.
– 6A: Scranton getting upset shakes things up! Hazleton beat Pittston & leads .574 to .558. Hazleton gets Dallas & Abington Hts, while Scranton has Abington Hts & DV. Billtown lost to 3A Berwick, which hurt them a lot & drops them to the #4. WBA gets Crestwood, while Billtown goes to, surprising D6 foe, Hollidaysburg. They play each other Week 10, so the battle might go down to the final game.
Eastern Conference
1A/2A
– Matchup: Wyalusing Valley (#9 in D4 D2) @ Marian (#5 in D2/11 1A).
– Potentials: Holy Cross (#6 in D2/11 1A) & North Penn-Mansfield (#10 in D2 2A) have very super slim chances if either of the above lose out & the next listed teams are locked in. Old Forge (#4 in D2/11 1A), South Williamsport (#8 in D4 2A), & Bloomsburg (#7 in D4 2A).
3A
– Matchup: Salisbury (#6 in D11) vs. Tamaqua (#5 in D11)
– Potentials: Pequea Valley (#10 in D3), Berks Catholic (#6 in D3), Saucon Valley (#4 in D11), & North Schuylkill (#3 in D3)
4A
– Matchup: Hamburg (#13 in D3) vs. Honesdale (#5 in D2)
– Potentials: North Pocono (#4 in D2) has shot, if they’re left out of the race.
5A/6A
– Matchup: Dieruff (#9 in D11 6A) vs. Reading (#16 in D3 6A)
– Potentials: Muhlenberg (#20 in D3 5A), Fleetwood (#21 in D3 5A), Governor Mifflin (#9 in D3 6A), & William Allen (#10 in D11 6A)
EC Games To Watch
– Hughesville vs. Wyalusing Valley
– Pine Grove vs. Marian
– Old Forge vs. Riverside
– Southern Columbia vs. Bloomsburg
– South Williamsport vs. Montgomery
– Cowanesque Valley vs. North Penn-Mansfield
– Salisbury vs. Northern Lehigh
– Northwestern Lehigh vs. Tamaqua
– Southern Lehigh vs. Saucon Valley
– Lehighton vs. North Schuylkill
– Honesdale vs. Dunmore
– North Pocono vs. Delaware Valley
– Hamburg vs. Berks Catholic
– Dieruff vs. Allentown Central Catholic
– Reading vs. Oxford Area (1)
– Muhlenberg vs. Academy Park (1)
– Fleetwood vs. Solanco
– Elizabethtown vs. Gov. Mifflin
Also, if I may, can I ask for any playoff clinching scenarios for the next few weeks in D-1/12, D-5/6, D-9/10, & WPIAL, if there are any to watch? Curious to follow along with other seeding battles.
So many teams make the playoffs in the WPIAL, particularly the lower classes, so it’s hard to go through all the scenarios, for now I’ll just focus on 4A-6A because they are more straightforward
In the WPIAL only conference records count for automatic qualifiers, the overall record only comes in the play for wild cards selected by the WPIAL selection committee
6A – 4 teams make the playoffs (out of 7 total), PCC is #1, NA is #2, right now Seneca Valley is third at 3-1 in the conference, but they still play PCC and NA, so barring a big upset they will finish 3-3 but still likely make the playoffs. Hempfield is fourth at 2-3, they play Mt Lebo who is 1-3 this week in an elimination game, if Lebo wins they play winless Norwin next week and clinch a spot with 2 wins. Canon Mac is also 1-3, they play winless Norwin this week, then finish with PCC, they need to win both to have a chance to sneak in.
5A – 12 teams make the playoffs, the top 3 in each conference are guaranteed, plus 3 wild cards selected by the committee. In the north PR has clinched the conference at 4-0, North Hills also has clinched at 3-1, they play 2-1 Penn Hills this week, with winner clinching 2nd. If Penn Hills loses they need to beat 2-6 Plum next week to clinch third. The other teams in this conference are bad (Fox Chapel/Shaler), and it’s unlikely Plum will get a wild card if they lose as expected to Penn Hills next week, so probably only top 3 from this conference make it and no wild cards.
In the South USC has clinched, Peters and Bethel are tied for 2nd, assuming both win this week they play next week for 2nd/3rd place. Both Moon and South Fayette are 1-2, Moon plays USC, while South Fayette plays Bethel, they play next week, with the winner clinching fourth and almost certain wild card selection, loser finishes fifth and have to hope they get selected as the final wildcard, if either of them pull an upset this week that would more than likely clinch at least a wild card spot.
In the east Woodland Hills is first at 4-0, followed by Franklin and Penn Trafford at 3-1. Woody plays at Franklin this week, a win clinches the conference, a loss means a likely 3 way tie for the conference title, with all of them beating each other. Gateway and Kiski next at 2-3, Gateway plays Latrobe who has been decimated with injuries, so that’s a likely win which would probably clinch a wild card for them, while Kiski plays Woodland Hills next week. Kiski also plays Plum in a nonconference game this week, if they beat Plum and upset Woodland Hills it will come down to Kiski and the loser of South Fayette/Moon for the final wild card, as Gateway has the tiebreaker by beating Kiski.
4A – 8 teams make the playoffs, top 2 in each conference, plus 2 wild cards selected by the committee. Aliquippa travels to Montour this week in a huge showdown, winner clinches the conference and likely #1 seed in playoffs, loser will finish second. West Allegheny is third at 2-1, with Blackhawk next at 2-2, they play this week in a de facto elimination game, with winner still alive for a wild card
TJ has clinched their conference and will almost certainly be #2 seed in playoffs behind Aliquippa/Montour winner, Belle Vernon and Trinity are tied for 2nd at 2-1, they play next week with the winner clinching, and loser alive for a wild card
In the other conference McKeesport is in first, they clinch with a win over hapless Indiana tomorrow, Mars and Knoch currently tied for 2nd, but Mars beat them earlier so they have the tiebreaker and will likely finish second, Knoch plays McKeesport next week and might need to win to have a shot at a wild card.
D2 I like your in-depth coverage well done
What is your opinion? I think they should change the name of the eastern conference championship game because ever since 1988 when the state championship took its place now incurrent years when the eastern conference has been watered down for teams that have mediocre seasons for all of those Teams that won The title before 1988 this is truly a disrespect to what they have earned having to win all of those games to reach the Eastern conference game
The title before 1988 this is truly a disrespect to what they have earned having to win all of those games to reach the Eastern conference game also
Best of luck to the Bulldogs of Jersey shore go get them Show them whose house they are in go dogs go !
With the regular season winding down, I will never get used to that happening on or before Halloween. Anyway a quick look ahead to the District One playoffs. The 6A field appears to have several good teams this year but perhaps no standout team. One team that could be make an under the radar run is PW. They have been playing good football with perhaps their best performance coming in a narrow loss to Manheim Township. With PW being one of the smaller 6A teams depth could be a problem but if anyone overlooks them they could end up paying the price for it. In 5A we have probably the most wide open field, I would probably give the nod to Strath haven but wouldnt be surprised if anyone of a handful of other teams ends up winning it In 4A despite only having 4 teams the field is probably overall the best its been in a while. PJP is playing very well, has improved week to week and has been running the football much better in recent weeks. That improved running game will get a stiff test in a few weeks when they meet Perk Valley for the Pac Title. As has been mentioned here before PJP will be missing several players in the playoffs due to the transfere rule,the two main ones would be a very good two way lineman and a talented corner along with a couple of rotational players. Maybe cause the game was played on Thursday night but Shanahans upset win over Downingtown West doesnt seem to have gotten much mention. Shanahan has been playing well since losing big to PJP a few weeks back and could be dangerous along with Springfield Montco a team that has been rolling along before getting handled pretty good by PW last week.
One rule that should be changed is that if a player transfers out of a non PIAA school, they should be eligible for the playoffs. This rule is hurting both Public and Private schools. A few years ago a wrestler who grew up in the Pottsville youth wrestling program wrestled for Blair Academy for 2 years, he transferred back to his hometown Public School-(Pottsville) and was ruled ineligible to wrestle in the PIAA playoffs. In my opinion…..and many others, That was totally unfair to the kid. Malvern Prep has had several athletes who went through the Public grade school and CYO programs transfer out to both Public and Private schools where they were ruled ineligible. District 1 has to get its head out of the sand, they are only hurting the kids.
One rule change the PIAA should make is if a player transfers out of a non PIAA school to a PIAA school, they should be eligible for the playoffs. This archaic rule has hurt both Public and Private schools. If a kid never played in the PIAA in HS, then who did it hurt? A wrestler from Pottsville who grew up in their system wrestled for powerhouse Blair Academy-(Non PIAA) for 2 years he transferred back to Pottsville and was ruled ineligible for the State Playoffs. That’s BS. Several Kids that recently have transferred out of Malvern Prep to both Public and Private schools have been ruled ineligible by District 1. D1 is not doing themselves any favors by not letting these kids play.
I agree totally,I get what they were trying to stop as far as mid season transferes and the like,but PJP has the linemen who came over from Malvern Prep ,thats a big loss at playoff time. feel bad for the player also. I know everyone concerned knew the rule going in but there should be some exceptions. Not every case is the same.
I don’t think anyone outside of Cumberland Valley thought they would upset Harrisburg on Saturday and spoil their homecoming. I watched some of the replay on PCNC yesterday and wasn’t all that impressed with Harrisburg. Any of you guys that follow D3 at that game? Seems to me from this side of the state Manheim Township is definitely the favorite to win D3 6A and perhaps avenge their heartbreaking loss in the D3 final last year to Harrisburg. MT’s game against Wilson next week will tell a lot about both teams chances for winning the district title.
Hi Jeff, I watched the game and the game definitely didnt go the way Harrisburg wanted. 4 interceptions (2 on tipped balls) and a shanked punt certainly helped CV. Harrisburg outgained CV by 335 to 120 in yards and still had an opportunity with less than 2 minutes to win the game. Harrisburg’s Defense is playing very well right now and did a good job all game keeping this game close to steal away all things considered. Gotta remember, Harrisburg is playing without 3 Power 5 D1 players that were projected to be in their lineup this season (Lee, Brown, Sheffey) and Harrisburg has a converted WR playing QB so there are growing pains but he is getting comfortable in the role, but due to lack of gametime experience at the position still makes some WR playing QB mistakes. Brown is projected to come back within next 2 weeks and Sheffey might be back this week. I am intrigued to see how this team looks at full strength, especially on the OL because Brown is a difference maker (and on DL too).
Thanks for that report, I was not aware Harrisburg had a couple of key players out with injuries, hopefully they return in time for the playoffs. The converted QB had been playing pretty well the last several games, it’s understandable he had a bad game as he continues to learn on the job and go through some growing pains.
Shamokin looked shaky against Lewisburg. Do we think they finally beat MCA? Will be a great game, a must see dare I say.
I only saw the first half of Shamokin vs Lewisburg but I thought they looked pretty solid.
The whole town of Shamokin will be all fired up with the Indians likely coming in at 9-0 ready to take the Coal Bucket back for the first time in 29 years.
I don’t remember this game being this anticipated since 2002 when both teams came in at 3-0. Hopefully the weather is decent, it should be a great atmosphere.
These are the kind of games I always used to bring in friends from out of the area to see.
@MCA75 I am happy for Shamokin and elated by the hype-build as we approach the Oct 25 Coal Bucket Classic. I have no horse in this race but it’s just really cool to see this once-lauded classic match-up of two historic rivals become relevant again. Growing up, the history of this rivalry was constantly spoken of in almost hushed, reverent tones (particularly during those awesome 70s summers @ The Grove). It’s great for the area and great for D4 (and great for Pennsyltucky!). I wish I could be there to simply observe the two fanbases going nuts for their boys. I hope it’s a well-played, close game, and I hope the respective fanbases have some good ol’ Friday Night Lights fun.
The second half was a battle, Lewisburg had a chance to win it for sure. I agree though, should be great!
D2 Notes: Week 8 Edition. There isn’t much, but I’ll go in-depth with playoffs. A little later than I wanted to send it, but it’ll do. Playoff part coming after this goes up on the forum.
1. North Pocono Stuns Scranton: The most shocking result of the weekend came from the Trojans of North Pocono. A very convincing 21-3 dub over Scranton put them in the lead of the 4A final playoff battle. The next two weeks will be against DV & Prep, respectively, so a couple more upsets could put them in a very solid position to make the playoffs.
2. VV Powers Past DV: This was a close game. Well, for a half or so. Valley View took control & keep their hot streak going, winning 35-25. DV did challenge late, but the Cougars were the much better team. Valley View is essentially locking up the #1 seed, while DV is trying to fight to be the #1 seed.
3. Ty’Meere Wilkinson Legacy Game: In 100+ years of Berwick, no one had the night he had. 28 Carries for 365 rushing yards & 4 TDs. That’s a school record in yards. He single-handedly helped CJ Curry get a massive win against Williamsport. Two of those TDs were 56 & 55 yards, respectively. If the Monday Night Football crew awarded a HIMMY award for District 2, it’d go to him.
4. Not Your Average Chargers: Carbondale ALMOST stunned another powerhouse. Riverside moves to 8-0 in a 19-14 dub over Carbondale. This came a few weeks before losing 7-6 in Bucktown. There was a stretch of the game where the Chargers led, but mainly because Riverside looks uncharacteristic & unprepared on offense. Carbondale is in a 3-team sandwich for one of the final three spots. With Susquehanna & Old Forge left, they must try to see if they can knock off one more team to be at .500.
5. WVC Positives: Malique Campbell ran for 281 yards in a Hanover Are win over CMVT, a 14-point comeback in the final 3:43 led Hazleton to win over Pittston, & Wyo Area clinched the WVC 2 with a win over Lake-Lehman.
D2.
The valley views win over Delaware Valley was a great job by the Valley View coaching staff. They came up with a tremendous game plan. And his Delaware valley with something they didn’t expect. By the time they adjusted to it Valley View changed it up again, but here’s the problem.
Valley View at a chance. To go up in that game probably 35 to 10 and their lack of discipline again. With a stupid unsportsman like penalty. God Delaware Valley back in the game. They better clean it up or they’re not gonna go too far in the play offs. I’m sure the value coaches have gotta be frustrated out of their b******* That’s been going on in the last 3 weeks. I’m so happy to change your mind. You’re gonna love living here so we’re not accepted.
Wyomissing 34-Twin Valley 24 Great Game! Wyo’s ground and pound offense kept TV’S high powered offense of the field enough to secure the win. Wyo hit 2 key pass plays in the game that led to scores. Wouldn’t be surprised to see these 2 meet up again in D3 Championship game although undefeated Lampeter-Strasburg might have something to say about that. LS meets Twin Valley next week then Wyo the next week. LS has a huge offensive line although I don’t think they have the athletes that Wyo and TV have, we soon shall see.
It was great game!! Glad I mad the trek out to the countryside. Worth the trip. First time at TV. Thought Wyo was literally going to run away with the game early, their running game was a machine. But TV just kept grinding and coming back, just couldn’t catch and overtake them. Give them credit. TV has a real nice dual threat QB. Impressed with both his wheels and arm. Wyo’s pass D seemed a little suspect to me at times. Penalties didn’t help their cause either. Does seems inevitably that these two will meet up again sometime in November.
Article on Penn Live from earlier this week that I thought might be of interest to those of you who hate the online only ticket purchase option like I do
Accepting cash for entry to school events may become a requirement in Pa.
Only having cash to pay for a ticket to a school-sponsored activity would no longer stop anyone from gaining entry under legislation that passed the state Senate on Monday.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Chris Dush, would require schools to accept cash as an optional means of buying a ticket to any school-sponsored activities including sporting events sanctioned by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association.
The bill, which passed by a 47-1 vote, now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration in the waning days of the 2023-24 legislative session that ends Nov. 30.
“Many Pennsylvania schools now refuse to accept cash as a form of payment into school-sponsored concerts, plays and athletic events,” Dush said in a statement. “While the mandatory cashless option is much more convenient for some and greatly streamlines the accounting process at the ticket office, for the elderly and others living on fixed incomes, it can make routine attendance at school-sponsored activities much more difficult or impossible.”
His bill was amended in the Senate Education Committee to allow schools to refuse exceeding large denomination bills when entry only costs a low amount such as a $100 bill for admission that costs a dollar.
In the committee, Sen. Lindsey Williams, D-Allegheny County, said she would support the bill despite her preference to defer to local control.
“I’ve also heard about more and more schools requiring families to buy tickets online and I’m concerned what it means for students whose family rely on cash,” she said. “We shouldn’t be putting up barriers for parents and families who want to watch their kids play and support their education.”
The sole dissenting vote on cast on the Senate floor came from Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill, R-York County, who could not be reached for comment.
Nice reporting!!! You may have a new career 🙂 Let’s tho see how far it gets thru the muck of Harrisburg, but a good sign nonetheless less. I going to do some of my own digging into this proposal. Probably contact my local state reps about this as well. I have spoken to them in the recent past in a related and more general topic of cashless transaction (and credit card fees) in all PA state businesses. I directed them to them current laws in NJ and Mass for an easy boilerplate for legislation. Got the yeah, that makes a lot of sense, we’ll look into it, and then………….crickets.
For the record Twin Valley did take cash, and appeared, only cash. I didn’t see anyone using scanning devices of peoples phones or paper printouts.
Thanks for that info,thats great,I hope it passes. I went to a game last week where they had the option to pay at the gate,but their school website didn’t mention it,so I had already paid online.
Anyone know if they take cash at Twin Valley or did they jump on the on-line only ticketing bandwagon. Didn’t see any info about tickets either way on their website.
Week 8 in NEPA Football Has Arrived. Will put state picks under replies later.
– Delaware Valley vs. Valley View (LFC 1): The big boys are playing here. This game will decide the #2 team in Division 1. Delaware Valley & Valley View have righted the ship since the Scranton Prep games. Which has the advantage? Give me Valley View in a close one, although some NEPA prognosticators favor DV.
– Lakeland vs. Western Wayne (LFC 2): A bit of a wild card here. Lakeland gave Honesdale a legit fight last week & proved that they aren’t an easy out in the division. Western Wayne needs to be careful in this showdown. I think the Wildcats roll past the Chiefs, but they need to make sure they win their games to avoid Scranton Prep stealing the #1 seed away.
– Susquehanna vs. Lackawanna Trail (LFC 3): Susquehanna gave Riverside a scare two weeks ago. Last week was a statement win over Old Forge. Can they take two out of three powers in the league? I doubt it, but Susquehanna is a tough out in this division. They’re only beginning to become a stronger team in the LFC’s small school ranks. A win here for the Sabers would arguably be the biggest in program history.
– Dallas vs. Crestwood (WVC 1): This matchup aged well. It seemed like neither would have luck heading into division play, but both have found much needed momentum. Dallas has their starting QB. Crestwood does not. It might be enough of a difference, but I think Dallas prevails either way & gets one step closer to claiming the division.
– Lake-Lehman vs. Wyoming Area (WVC 2): Division crown is on the line in this one. Lake-Lehman is improved, but needs to keep up in the race for a first round home game, especially with the matchup below. The Wyoming Area offense can score, so it’ll be hard for the Black Knights defense to carry them.
– Mid Valley vs. Scranton Prep (LFC HM): Mid Valley isn’t favored here, but they really could throw a wrench in the 3A battles with a game against the Cavaliers. Prep should take this in a blowout.
– Berwick vs. Williamsport (WVC HM): This would be a subregional game to watch, but we’re in a very important showdown for the 6A race. The Millionaires would be favored in this showdown, but Berwick does play them tough. Is CJ Curry’s team ready to pull off some magic against a 6A D2 favorite? Time will tell, but I don’t see it.
– Scranton vs. North Pocono (D2 HM): This & Paupack/Abington Hts. are equal. I think more is on the line here, especially with Scranton being at #1 & North Pocono needing all the help they can get. I’ll say Scranton keeps up in the 6A battle, while North Pocono fights to stay in the EC race.
– Hamburg vs. Schuylkill Valley (EC Game To Watch?): Let’s add in an important game in the EC rankings in the final few weeks. It might be solely “Hamburg Watch”, if I’m being honest, due to 4A being the only surefire battle. Hamburg is the one team that’ll have a major say as to who might be part of the 4A Eastern Conference race. Hamburg comes in at 5-2, while Schuylkill Valley comes in at 6-1. I think I’ll go with the better record team & see where it all stacks up these final two weeks. Hamburg going to Districts would open up a spot for somebody.
– Minersville vs. Nativity (Subregional): The gauntlet for Nativity ends this weekend. The Green Wave need to make sure they find a way to keep home field advantage in 1A. It won’t come easy against the Battlin’ Miners. They’ll take a loss here, but their most important subregional game is Week 10: One I’ll have a pick for!
Scores
– VV 20, DV 19
– WW 38, Lakeland 14
– LT 34, Susq. 14
– Dallas 26, Crestwood 22
– Wyo Area 49, L-L 14
– Prep 41, Mid Valley 12
– Billtown 21, Berwick 17
– Scranton 31, N Pocono 14
– SV 26, Hamburg 23
– Minersville 32, Nativity 17
State Picks. If I missed anything, I’ll throw in a few more!
District 4
– Danville vs. Loyalsock: Danville 42, Sock 17
– Lewisburg vs. Shamokin: Shamokin 35, L’burg 14
– Montoursville vs. Southern Columbia: SCA 24, Montoursville 21
– Muncy vs. South Williamsport: Muncy 20, SW 14
District 11
– Easton vs. Liberty: Easton 28, Liberty 27
– Nazareth vs. Becahi: Naz 32, Becahi 20
– North Schuylkill vs. Blue Mountain: NS 38, BM 19
District 1
– Downingtown East vs. Coatesville: DTE 33, C’ville 17
– Shanahan vs. Downingtown West: DTW 30, Shanahan 21
– Ridley vs. Haverford HS: HHS 25, Ridley 21
– Springfield Montco vs. Plymouth Whitemarsh: P-W 26, Montco 17
– Jenkintown vs. Morrisville: M’ville 37, J’town 24
District 12
– Northeast vs. Lincoln: Northeast 29, Lincoln 14
– Overbrook vs. KIPP-DuBois: K-DuB 16, Overbrook 10
– La Salle vs. Bonner-Prendie: La Salle 37, B-P 20
District 3
– Wyomissing vs. Twin Valley: Wyo 33, TV 21
– State College (6) vs. CD East (3): SC 24, CDE 14
– Camp Hill vs. Steel-High: S-H 31, CH 13
– West York vs. New Oxford: WY 24, NO 22
– Littlestown vs. Delone Catholic: Litt 23, Delone 20
District 5/6
– Bedford vs. Central (6): Central 37, Bedford 21
– Berlin-Brothersvalley vs. Windber: B-Bros 34, Windy 19
– Northern Bedford vs. North Star: NBC 30, N Star 23
– Marion Center vs. River Valley: River Valley 27, Marion Ctr 20
District 9/10
– Brockway vs. Union/A-C Valley: U/A-C 31, Brockway 22
– Punxsutawney vs. Central Clairon: CC 52, Punxsy 14
– Meadville vs. McLane: GM 33, Meadville 23
– Corry vs. Fairview: Fairview 22, Corry 20
– Sharpsville vs. Farrell: Farrell 24, Sharpsville 21
WPIAL City
– South Fayette vs. Peters Twp.: Peters 34, SF 29
– USC vs. Bethel Park: USC 28, BP 25
– Franklin Reg. vs. Penn-Trafford: FR 27, P-T 21
– Gateway vs. Woodland Hills: Woody 24, Gateway 20
– Latrobe vs. Pine-Richland: P-R 41, Latrobe 23
– Deer Lakes vs. Imani: ICA 37, Deer Lakes 13
– Neshannock vs. South Side: Nesh 20, SS 17
– Clairton vs. Leechburg: Clairton 36, Leechburg 20
– Fort Cherry vs. Bishop Canevin: FC 35, Canevin 28
– USO vs. Westinghouse: Westy 38, USO 15
Crossover & Non-PIAA
– Selinsgrove (4) vs. Hollidaysburg (6): ‘Grove 30, Hollidaysburg 14
– Richland (6) vs. Clearfield (9): Clearfield 31, Richland 17
– Austintown Fitch (OH) vs. McDowell (10): McDowell 23, Fitch 19
– Benedictine (OH) vs. Cathedral Prep: ECP 24, Benedictine 14
– Penn Charter vs. Springside Chestnut Hill: WPC 33, SCHA 21
– Germantown vs. Haverford School: GA 30, HS 24
I agree with almost all of your WPIAL picks, so I’ll just add some notes on a few of the key games tonight
USC vs. Bethel Park – huge game with both teams 7-0, Bethel has the highest scoring offense in the WPIAL averaging over 50 points/game, while USC has one of the best defenses, giving up 7 points or less in 5 of their 7 games thus far. If USC wins they have the inside track to win the conference and be either a #1 or #2 seed in the playoffs, if Bethel wins that sets up a big showdown with Peters Township the last game of the season, I said several weeks ago on this board I could see all 3 of those teams beating each other and ending in a 3 way tie for the conference title. The X factor tonight could be Ryan Petras for Bethel Park, he was their leading receiver last year and is going to Princeton to play both football and baseball, he’s been out all year due to shoulder surgery and this is his first game back. I think USC has the advantage in the trenches and that will be the difference, should be a great game and I’ll be there.
Franklin Regional vs. Penn Trafford – both teams will make the playoffs, if Franklin wins it sets up a game next week against Woodland Hills for the conference title as both teams are undefeated in conference play, if PT wins and Franklin beats Woody next week at home there could be a 3 way tie for the conference title, winner of the conference is likely #3 seed in the playoffs and would have a first round bye. PT is playing much better the last 3 weeks since their loss to Woodland Hills and surprisingly dominated Gateway last week, I like PT’s chances to win a close game, I’d flip the score you predicted.
Clairton vs. Leechburg – both teams undefeated and have high powered offenses, with both averaging well over 40 points/game, Clairton has the 2nd highest scoring offense in the WPIAL and Leechburg is 3rd. The difference is Clairton has 6 straight shutouts and has not given up a defensive TD all year, I think Leechburg will break their shutout streak, but Clairton wins by 3 TDs, as they have dominated this series.
Fort Cherry vs. Bishop Canevin – Ft Cherry’s toughest test to date, these 2 teams played a barn burner last year, with Ft Cherry prevailing 48-41, both of these teams average 40+ points/game, expect another high scoring affair tonight with Ft Cherry winning.
I want to survey my fellow forum members & also give a note here for Dave (I’ll email, if you want more details).
Has anyone been having issues with using this forum page on mobile devices, like on Safari or other browsers? It’s almost unusable for me. It’s very slow & it also doesn’t help with the comment section being at the bottom (which I saw will be fixed). It could also be a problem on my end with the mediocre internet service in the woods of NEPA, so it could be a me problem.
I have trouble using my phone as well and my phone uses safari. It takes a long time to load and sometimes will send me back to the top when I scroll and reloads without me actually reloading it.
@D2 Fan you don’t think one of the D11 teams will make the 3A Eastern Conference? One of Tamaqua, Saucon Valley, and North Schuylkill is probably on the outside looking in. Maybe they will turn down the invite?
Well I really don’t see north Schuylkill keeping it close against blue mountain and they can lose to Pottsville as well. Until they fix and get someone who knows something about defense there in trouble. From junior high to varsity they have all offense and no defense. Its a product of the coach and his defensive staff and the way they practice.
You beat me to it, JCo! I was about to ask around about the playoff in 3A D11 because before today, I assumed it was 8 teams. I assume it’s a Round of 16 bye then?
I’d say the lone team out will make it. My bet is North Schuylkill makes districts over Saucon. Tamaqua seems safe.
Also, wishful thinking from me about CMVT making it to that game. They opted out of the EC playoff game. Shik & Athens are right there in D4 4A, as well.
A D2 note for EC: Paupack isn’t a member in this cycle (or I’m just missing it for some reason). Surprising to me, since they always are in the race if they aren’t in the playoff fight. That means North Pocono/Honesdale would be the team or (less likely), the matchup.
I believe the D11 3A champ plays the D12 3A champ in the round of 16. Winner plays the D2 3A champ in the quarters. Thus is the harsh nature of the math; D11 has 9 3A teams and D2 has 10.
Really surprised about how close MCA played Danville. Should have won the game honestly, a couple sketchy penalties and Darrah’s usual play calling cost them the game. Will be interesting to see how the D4 AAA playoffs shake out. Past two years MCA has beaten Southern in the regular season and gotten blown out in the playoffs. Could see a very hungry MCA team back in Danville in five weeks
I wouldnt look past mifflinburg, if they get in at 5-5 danville may not make week 2
Danville smoked Mifflinburg the first time they played. Also, as of last week (can’t find the power rankings on the D4 website), Lewisburg was #1 in AAA. I know they play a weaker schedule. If Mifflinburg plays Lewisburg round one, I agree, Mifflinburg will see week 2 of the playoffs.
We will find out. Lewisburg and Mifflinburg play for the little brown jug in week 10. Lewisburg also has Shamokin this week which will show how good both shamokin and Lewisburg are at this point.
D2 Notes for the Week 7 Games
1. Game Of the Week (Honesdale vs. Lakeland): Lakeland/Honesdale didn’t disappoint, especially if you like your games wild. Honesdale won a thriller at Chapman Lake, 41-40 over Lakeland. The game was fairly high scoring in the first half (Honesdale up 28-21). Lakeland got two quick TDs, including a kickoff return to start. Honesdale took the lead back in the 4th & sealed it with a late TD. However, Lakeland scored a TD to at least try the onside, but Honesdale persevered & won. Honesdale needs this win to keep up in the 4A race. They’re in contention with a very favorable schedule.
2. Susquehanna Is Legit: Is Susquehanna County starting to look more competitive in football? It looks like the Sabers have turned into a hidden gem team in the area after taking care of business over a down Old Forge team. I almost picked Susquehanna, but I always felt Old Forge was better. Susquehanna is legit & could play spoiler in the 2A race. They have Trail next week to finish the three-team gauntlet & get Carbondale & Holy Cross to finish. The crazy part is that Weston Yannone didn’t have the spotlight all game, like he has this year. It was William Marcy, their RB. Weston Yannone is a sophomore & he’s put the Sabers in a territory a lot of NEPA hasn’t seen in at least two decades. Keep an eye out for him.
3. Prep Staves Off Abington: While albeit sloppy, Prep held onto a 27-21 over the LFC Comets. Prep got a huge lead early, but Abington Heights chipped away, bit by bit. However, the close score did not get to indicate what the game entirely was. Abington Heights is batting under .500 on the year & have a very important Thursday Nighter vs. Paupack, which will determine the Buckhorns fate & also possibly put Abington in a spot to keep DV close, if they slip up.
4. VV/NP Too Close For Comfort: North Pocono is gritty! They found a way to put a scare to Valley View & Dallas in consecutive weeks. However, this was much closer. Valley View & North Pocono seemed to flip momentum in the first half, but the Cougars were able to extend their lead in the 2nd half. But North Pocono was able to take advantage of great field position to get it within 7 late, but it was too late.
5. Dunmore Upsets Mid Valley: Mid Valley’s the latest upset victim in D2, as a down Dunmore team has put up 3 consecutive wins after getting off the schneid, rather quickly. Dunmore had a nice, early lead, but Sparty had plans to come back. An important win to likely lock up the #3 for Dunmore, but a win that puts Mid Valley in danger of not hosting a home game. More on that later.
6. And 4: I went a disappointing 6-4 this week. I almost changed to Susquehanna, but I went off of past history. I should’ve also known better by picking Crestwood over Hazleton. I was due for a stinker week in my local picks. The other two would’ve been picked again.
7. Montrose Finally Wins: It’s been a while, but Montrose got a nice little shutout over Redeemer, 13-0, on Friday Night. This is a win for both teams, who needed to play a competitive game after being a part of many stinkers in recent weeks.
Playoff Battles To Watch
– 1A: It’s still Old Forge vs. Marian in the battle for 1A Subregional. OF (3-4, .434) is ahead of Marian (4-3, .420). Holy Cross is behind the 8-ball but will be eliminated due to the gauntlet with Old Forge, Trail, & Susquehanna to end the year. Old Forge has Cross, Riverside, & Carbondale to go. Marian has Williams Valley, Pine Grove, & Nativity left. It’ll be too close to call.
– 2A: I think all four will stay the same. Susq./Dunmore may battle for #2, but I feel the head-to-head will lock things up.
– 3A: I’ll say it. I’m not counting Scranton Prep out of the #1 seed. An 0.810 for Western Wayne & a .764 for Scranton Prep are the ratings. The stronger schedule goes to Prep. They’ll have a home game with Mid Valley next week & trips to Shore & Moscow to end the year. WW hosts Lakeland & Mid Valley & travel to Bucktown. I thought the road would run through Lake Ariel/South Canaan, but it might have to go through Prep’s “neutral site”.
– 3A HM: Lake-Lehman & Mid Valley are in a TIGHT battle for home field. They’re separated by a measly few pts (.564 for L-L & .553 for Mid Valley). L-L has Wyoming Area, Hanover Area, & the Old Shoe Rivalry to go. Mid Valley gets Prep & WW in back to back games before hosting Lakeland. Expect this to get crazy. Both are in equally difficult positions.
– 4A: Wallenpaupack is in free fall after leading the class after Week 4. They hold onto the #4 by a slim margin. Honesdale has a favorable schedule, with GNA, Dunmore, & West Scranton to go. The Purple & White have road games at Abington Hts, Pittston, & a home game vs. Valley View to end. Not easy. North Pocono needs an upset, somewhere, against Scranton, DV, & Prep to have a shot. I expect the two to miss out to be the Eastern Conference game in 4A, but CMVT & Hamburg are also in interesting spot. Will also this next week after Hamburg/Skook Valley (Spoiler: A state pick).
5A: Abington Heights & DV might have a chance to battle for the #1. As for WVW & West Side, we’re still on a race for best 0-10 record. A battle more enticing than when the Jets attempted to tank with the Jaguars for Trevor Lawrence. West Side has Dunmore, Lakeland, & Honesdale to go. WVW has Wilkes-Barre, VV, & Crestwood. WVW might get the last spot due to strength of schedule. A 13-8 combined record for WVW, as the Invaders’ opponents have an 8-13 record. Might be close. Maybe an upset somewhere puts it all in chaotic territories.
6A: Scranton retakes the lead after beating Paupack. Billtown stays at #2. Hazleton is close by at #3, & by close, I mean (.559 to .552). WBA needs a bit of help to try for #4. Scranton travels to North Pocono, Millionaires travel to Crispin Field, Hazleton hosts Pittston, & Wilkes-Barre plays “rival” WVW. All four should win, which’ll keep things closely contested for another week.
EC Games (if we had 7-week seasons)
– 1A/2A: Holy Cross vs. Marian (Palisades with an outside chance)
– 3A: Pequea Valley vs. Berks Catholic (I think, but Big Spring is also close by if one of them isn’t)
– 4A: Honesdale vs. North Pocono (Hamburg, Paupack, & CMVT are last seeds in & might be in the race, or swaps with Honesdale/NP).
– 5A/6A: Governor Mifflin vs. Dieruff (Muhlenberg is in it, & so is Reading, I think).
Prep’s HC Roken had a Pete Carroll moment and it cost his team a win. I don’t get coaching any more, SJP has a stud field goal kicker, your QB takes the snap, runs a few yards to the left, time out, kick a field goal and game over. I doubt any 6A teams in the State could defeat either of these teams so the Catholic League final will be the de facto State Championship. What are the odds that St Joe Prep and Southern Columbia lose on the same weekend? I should have played the lottery on Saturday.
Southern has lost 4 times this season so far and may lose next week again. They’ll end with either 5 or 6 losses and no district title.
What a game !!!!! Prep should have kicked the field goal at the end of regulation. What was coach Roken thinking ?? Gordan outcoached Roken for sure this game. Both teams are super tough ,big ,fast and talented. Rematch should be another classic. IMO Prep should have run the ball more with 2 stud RBS.
Yes, they have two stud runners but both were unavailable because of injury late in the game. West left the game in the second quarter, I think. Obviously, they’re also missing Roy (who would make the pass rush much better) and Hardy, who was supposed to be their #1 receiver this year and who was their main and very effective kick blocker last year. Not sure who else is out injured. I have no idea who will be back in a month’s time. They’re in big trouble if both runners are out. I doubt Roy makes it back, and even if he does, he probably won’t be 100%.
I know LaSalle has some injuries too, including the fellow whose arm or shoulder seemed to be in a sling at the end of the game.
The Prep had some good chances to score in the first half. As is often the case, they wound up paying for not coming away with points. They need to decide to what extent they actually want to use the very good placekicker they have. Good to see Roken say the loss is on him.
Like I said, I’m OK with $10
That game turned out to be worth every penny of the ticket and processing surcharge and then some! Sounds like it was an amazing game with a boneheaded decision by coach Roken at the end of regulation. Hopefully the rematch is another instant classic, I have a hunch SJP wins, although I’d like to see LaSalle knock them off as would most of the rest of the state. I agree these are the top 2 teams in the state and winner of the rematch is a big favorite to win 6A, assuming they can manage to beat Imhotep the following week, which won’t be an easy task coming off another emotional game against an arch rival.
And then some!!! Yes, I don’t think anyone gets that call at the end of regulation by Prep. Totally ridiculous. Roken must of had Prep by 4 is my only explanation.
Also saw a pretty good game in its own right the night before in North Penn @ CB South. Would not be surprised if 2 of the 4 teams that I saw this past weekend meet-up in the PIAA 6A semi finals.
Good Lord La Salle
What a game. 4 overtimes and win it on a tip pass for a 2 point conversion.
Even after sleeping on it, I’m still trying to process what I witnessed with my own two eyes last night.
I’d hate to be the instigator of a heated conversation, but there might be positive news on the separate playoffs front. This might be a step in the right direction for those who have been wishfully hoping for a change.
https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/highschool/2024/10/04/piaa-public-private-catholic-schools-separate-playoffs-legislature/stories/202410040107
A D4 Note From D2 Fan
Upset of the Year award goes to Mifflinburg, as they stunned Southern Columbia’s homecoming crowd tonight, 34-26. Could Southern finish at .500 (or below, if complete chaos happens)? Montoursville, Bloomsburg, & Shikellamy are left on the schedule.
This is Troy & Warrior Run’s year to pounce in D4. We might not even see a home playoff game in Catawissa this year, which is a stunner amongst stunners.
watching the scranton area football becomes increasingly frustrating watching scranton prep become the dominant team in the area as they are able to recruit players from all across the area while the competition is limited in the players available to them. Not only that,but similar to college football with NIL payments to players, prep and other catholic schools pay players by having their tuition covered by various benefactors. no surprise at the results with such an unlevel playing field.
Most of us knew that this was going to be a challenging year for Southern. They lost every skill position player last year to graduation and only returned 1 LB and a few lineman. When the schedule came out I saw losses to Wyomissing, Mt. Carmel, Danville and said they’d be 7-3 at best. I wouldn’t say Mifflinburg was upset of the year (upset yes) because they are probably the best 2-5 team in the state. Losses by 1 to Loyalsock and 1 to Mt. Carmel, 7 to Montoursville and 8 to Holidaysburg. They’ve been competitive in all but 1 of their losses and are getting better. Unfortunately Southern is going the opposite way which is unusual for Roth not to get his players to improve by this point in the year. Southern may lose to Montoursville next week at this rate. I see them meeting up with Troy, hopefully in the district final, but they have to end of the 2 or 3 seed and 2 is probably out of the question but 3 is a possibility if they beat Montoursville. 5-5 won’t get them a 3 seed. Troy will probably beat them by 2-3 scores.
Very fair point. I would’ve thought they’d reloaded to be on a path to 8-2, not 5-6 wins. I expected the losses to Wyo & assumed they’d split Danville & MCA, but this was shocking to me. It wouldn’t shock me if they lose to Montoursville.
I’d say this year’s Mifflinburg team might be the PA equivalent of the LA Chargers. Best 2-5 team is fairly accurate. They’re losing many close games this year.
@ D2. Your presiction for the La Salle/Prep game is a little one sided. St. Joe is not the same team as last year and neither is La Salle. LSs QB is lighting up the sky with his passing and their defense is very much improved to the point that 41 points by St. Joe really isn’t in the cards. St. Joe is still a powerhouse but not as they were in the past. Not predicting a La Salle win but I wouldn’t at all surprised.
I agree with you Paul, I expect this to be a very close game as I think LaSalle has closed the gap significantly with SJP this year, I give SJP a slight edge but would not be surprised if LaSalle wins, the real question is who wins the rematch next month when it counts. And the winner of the rematch gets Imhotep in the D12 final.
LaSalle has a legitimate chance to win the game IMO. It should be a super match up.
Donegal (a 4A school) gets on their bus at halftime and goes home?? Forfeits at halftime?? 4 shutouts in only 8 games?? 3, maybe 4 mercy rule games?? And this isn’t even the first week of the playoffs, this was just last night in PA high school football. Fairfield (D3) done for the year, KC (D10) probably not far behind them. @ D2 Fan, we have our work cut out if we are going to fix this.
I don’t know how you fix it. Football is a brutal sport, if your program isn’t in good shape, you will get crushed, regardless of if you are 1A or 6A. We really should have more leagues that arrange their divisions by strength, rather than pure enrollment, but the good teams wouldn’t like having a tougher road to the playoffs, which means we have to endure mercy rule game after mercy rule game.
You know what, JCo…
This is the way it should be. I made my District 2 co-op divisions a while back that went by strength & size & feel there can be a happy medium. Some conferences should attempt it. I feel like California did something recently to add a bit of competitive balance in all of the CIF leagues (don’t quote me on it. CalPreps had a long soliloquy about it). I don’t know if it has had any affect, but I think it could work.
EPC technically had it for a few years & it seemed like it didn’t affect the South that much. 6A was wide open in D11 playoffs.
Kevin, you’re so right!
I think a lot of these struggling teams would benefit from a more independent schedule. Fairfield, Kennedy, Shenandoah & Panther Valley, & Wilson Area moving to independent would help. Even the Allens & Dieruffs of the world would. Montrose & Redeemer are playing a game tonight as two indies. How huge it’ll be for both programs to have a signature win can’t really be stated. I might’ve chosen Redeemer, but I hope both teams find it as a win for their program.
CMVT really turned the corner flipping to an indie. They need one more win to get to at/above .500 probably for the first time in ages. They hadn’t gone 4-1 since 2000. It isn’t crazy to say they could tonight at Cow Valley. They have Hanover, Redeemer, & Bucktail left to possibly be 7-3, best case running the table to 8-2. They may play Shore or Shamokin in the playoffs, which I think wouldn’t be ideal (an EC game vs. Paupack, North Pocono, or Honesdale could be lopsided, but much less compared to districts). No one outside of me is seeing this & I commend the school for taking that massive leap. Other programs there should, too. More flexibility might help & they’re not terribly far from a few D2 & D11 teams that might fare very similarly.
Maybe 8-man would help a lot of these teams who struggle year in & year out. I feel if they can set up an 8-man class & 4-5 11-man classes, it could work. The best & middling 1A/2A teams (most 3A teams, too) would stay 11-man, while teams that struggle to field teams (or get mercy ruled every week) might benefit to play like teams in 8-man. You might be able to get 50 schools participating, as well as those that left the PIAA in football. I can think of at least 20 that would make the switch (or would be mergers).
I also wish there was a way to allow for more independent & freelance play in any sport, rather than just be forced to play in a conference you have no competitive reason to be in. Look at the EPC in non-football & basketball. The Pocono schools struggle so much to win anything, & even Allentown. When was the last time ES North or Allen had a winning record in anything not basketball-related? I don’t know because it’s been that long. It’d be next to impossible for the PIAA to just break up the leagues & traditions, because football is borderline a religion in PA (just nowhere close to the levels in Texas & the Deep South). However, if there was a way to offer more flexibility to help the struggling find at least a competitive balance that fits them, it can help.
The other thing that could work, especially for weaker teams, is to allow voluntary movements down a class or two. Would Montrose work better as a true 1A? Would Greater Johnstown benefit going indie & playing 2A? It might make Aliquippa want to go back to their “3A roots”, too. What about Butler or the various 5A/6A teams we never talk about here (Harriton, York Tech, etc.)?
PIAA should take notice & more people should jump on the bandwagon involving this conversation!
I’ll get back to this topic at some point hopefully. I think it really needs addressing, but I don’t think anyone else really cares, especially the powers that be. Guess they have bigger fish to fry as they say.
I get the point you’re trying to make about the EPC, but… just last year, ES North had a winning record in boys’ cross country, and Allen was exactly .500 in boys’ soccer. It’s hard but not impossible.
In most sports, it just isn’t worthwhile to athletic departments to have to bus teams all over in order to play independent. Programs aren’t really *forced* into conferences, it’s simply the most economical decision to do so more often than not. Football is a different animal because of the resources required simply to sustain the program, you NEED the numbers in order to make it work.
Rest Of State’s Picks. If I missed a good one, I’ll throw it in later.
District 4
– Mount Carmel vs. Danville: Danville 42, MCA 20
– Loyalsock vs. Warrior Run: Sock 28, WR 17
– Towanda vs. Athens: Towanda 36, Athens 14
District 11
– Freedom vs. Becahi: Freedom 37, Beca 19
– Nazareth vs. Liberty: Naz 34, Liberty 22
– Northampton vs. Easton: Easton 21, N’hampton 17
– Pottsville vs. NW Lehigh: NW Lehigh 34, Pottsville 13
– Tamaqua vs. Southern Lehigh: Solehi 44, Tamaqua 21
District 1
– North Penn vs. CB South: CBS 30, NP 21
– Springfield Delco vs. Haverford: Delco 29, HHS 22
– PJP vs. Pottsgrove: PJP 49, P’grove 10
– Spring-Ford vs. Perk Valley: Perk Val 28, S-F 17
– Rustin vs. Downingtown East: Rustin 30, DTE 21
– Quakertown vs. Upper Dublin: UD 35, Q’Town 16
District 12
– Bonner-Prendie vs. Father Judge: B-P 28, FJ 12
– Arch. Ryan vs. Lansdale Catholic: LC 33, Ryan 14
– Cardinal O’Hara vs. Roman Catholic: Roman 37, O’Hara 13
– St. Joe’s Prep vs. La Salle: SJP 41, La Salle 24
– Imhotep vs. Northeast: IC 34, Northeast 7
District 3
– McDevitt vs. Cumberland Valley: McD 38, CV 9
– Steel-High vs. James Buchanan: S-H 56, JB 10
– Cocalico vs. Ephrata: Cocalico 29, Ephrata 17
– Conrad Weiser vs. Garden Spot: Weiser 30, GS 27
– Manheim Twp vs. Cedar Crest: MT 34, Crest 13
– Biglerville vs. York Catholic: YC 20, Biglerville 14
District 5/6
– Penn Cambria vs. Chestnut Ridge: PC 44, CR 21
– Bellwood-Antis vs. Guilfoyle: BG 43, B-A 14
– Glendale vs. Claysburg-Kimmel: G’dale 23, C-K 13
– Northern Cambria vs. Penns Manor: NoCam 26, PM 18
WPIAL/City
– Penn Hills vs. Pine-Richland: P-R 24, PH 23
– Penn-Trafford vs. Gateway: P-T 27, Gateway 21
– USC vs. South Fayette: USC 38, SF 14
– New Castle vs. Montour: Montour 36, NC 21
– Beaver vs. Deer Lakes: Beaver 30, DL 23
– Lincoln vs. Western Beaver: WB 39, Lincoln 13
– South Park vs. OLSH: SP 39, OLSH 14
– Cornell vs. Fort Cherry: FC 45, Cornell 13
– Jeannette vs. Greensburg CC: Jeannette 25, GCC 23
– Allderdice vs. USO: TA 17, USO 14
District 9/10
– Brockway vs. Central Clarion: CC 49, Brockway 10
– Karns City vs. Redbank Valley: RV 43, KC 14
– McDowell vs. Cathedral Prep: ECP 37, McDowell 23
– Sharon vs. Grove City: Sharon 31, GC 12
– Hickory vs. Titusville: Hickory 33, Titusville 13
Non-PIAA/Crossover + D2 Pick Bonuses
– Conwell-Egan (12) vs. Executive (11): EE 20, CEC 14
– KIPP-DuBois (12) vs. Morrisville (1): Morrisville 38, K-DuB 14
– Middletown (3) vs. Line Mountain (4): Line Mtn 34, Middletown 13
– Jersey Shore (4) vs. Hollidaysburg (6): Shore 38, H’burg 17
– Delaware Valley (2) vs. LI Lutheran (NY): DV 27, LIL 17
– North Pocono vs. Valley View: VV 31, NP 18
I’ve decided to adjust SJP. I’ll go 30-24 in favor of SJP.
Four hidden gems & Jeff’s picks I’ll add for the heck of it.
– Peters vs. Moon: Peters 37, Moon 16
– Central Dauphin vs. CD East: CDE 20, CD 17
– South Philly vs. Palumbo: South 17, AoP 13
– West York vs. South Western: WY 39, S W’ern 13
– ANC vs. Peddie (NJ): Peddie 35, ANC 10
OK, after a week off, do I step back in it and take a shot at some opposite thoughts on your Philly area predictions?? Oh what the heck, just for fun…….
I’ll take North Penn over CB South this evening. Also D-Town East over Rustin. My minor upset special. I agree with Paul above, not seeing SJP putting up 41 on LaSalle tomorrow. I’ll go 28-14 The Prep.
Dang, oh for two in my two local predictions for tonight. At least both game were only decided by one score. NP just couldn’t get anything going on offense this evening. Held to 2 Field goals. Had a chance tho right into the final minute. At this point, I kind of hope to go 0-3 on my predictions 🙂
Like all of your WPIAL picks except Penn Trafford over Gateway, I think Gateway wins that game, they have a very good freshman QB who threw for over 400 yards last week, he missed most of their first 4 games with various injuries, I’ll pick Gateway 34-21. This is always an interesting game, as PT’s head coach John Ruane teaches at Gateway HS and has some of the Gateway players as students.
South Fayette is 6-0 but haven’t played anyone of note, unless USC has a big letdown after their win over Peters last week I see them winning this game fairly easily like you predicted.
A little surprised with your pick of Western Beaver over undefeated Ellwood City, I too like Western in that game, they have beaten Ellwood three straight times, and their QB threw for well over 300 yards against them last year, I don’t think they will win by as big of margin as you predicted but I like them to give Ellwood City their first loss.
An important game you didn’t predict is Peters taking on Moon, will be interesting to see how Peters responds after getting bullied and pushed around by USC, Moon is a very solid team and took Bethel Park to the limit last week, I think Peters gets back on track and wins by a couple of scores.
I have some games for Week 7 to watch! One D2 game goes to the the States Picks because of a crossover showdown. Also, I don’t think Inter-Ac plays this week, so it adds one to the mix.
– Abington Heights vs. Scranton Prep (LFC 1): The Comets & Cavs are two division rivals who face off in a thriller this weekend. Prep is dominant, but the Comets want to play spoiler. Seeing how close the Comets lost to DV as DV did to Prep (within one score), there’s a chance this could be a spoiler game, but I don’t see it.
– Dunmore vs. Mid Valley (LFC 2): The roles have been reversed. Dunmore is not great, but on the up & up. Mid Valley has a legit team in 3A. This game could throw a monkey wrench in 2A & 3A seeding, if Mid Valley loses. I think Sparty takes it. They’re better this year.
– Old Forge vs. Susquehanna (LFC 3): If the Sabers want to lock up the #2 in 2A, they have to beat a down Old Forge team. If Old Forge wants to sniff the playoffs in 1A, this is a must-win. Looking at last week, I don’t think the Sabers are ready, but they showed promise.
– Hazleton vs. Crestwood (WVC 1): Implications galore out in Mountain Top. Hazleton needs this win to challenge Scranton for the 6A #1 seed. A Shedlock-less Crestwood needs to win to battle North Pocono & Honesdale (plus Wallenpaupack) in a contested 4A bubble battle. I’ll go with Hazleton here, since I’m a believer in positive momentum.
– Tunkhannock vs. Lake-Lehman (WVC 2): The Tigers take the trip down Route 29 to face a Lake-Lehman team in a game that can affect seeding in 3A. Lake-Lehman seems comfy at #5, yet if things go south, could drop to #6. An upset helps Tunkhannock challenge for the #7 at bare minimum. I think Lake-Lehman will hold their own, but this is an interesting matchup.
– Scranton vs. Wallenpaupack (LFC HM): A very important game for both teams. Both are on their own losing skids & need this to help their playoff chances. Scranton looks to be better than Paupack, but we shall see if the Purple & White has an upset in them. It’s not likely, so I’ll go with Scranton.
– Pittston vs. Wilkes-Barre (WVC HM): Not too many good WVC games, especially when there are 6 (at the least, any given week). This is potentially a game that can give momentum to the winner. I’ll use past history & say Wilkes-Barre is better.
– Holy Redeemer vs. Montrose (D2 HM): I’ll give love to two teams in the HM section & dedicate this week’s entry to two indies looking to improve. Montrose & Redeemer seem to have taken a step up, but not enough to be very competitive. I’ll give Redeemer the nod in a low-scoring affair. VV-NP would be my pick here, but it has equal implications to Scranton/Paupack.
– Marian vs. Schuylkill Haven (1A Subregion): This subregional has so much left to decide. When the great teams like Haven & Williams Valley play these 1A teams, it has implications galore! I think this goes to Haven, but if Marian can keep up, it’d help their confidence.
– Williamsport vs. Shamokin (6A Subregion): Honestly, this game might not be close, but the Valley City schools are rooting for Shamokin in this one. If it’s a loss for all of them, it’ll help in the long run. Williamsport could use the opponent power rating points, even if it’s two classes lower. Shamokin might run the table & they seem to have “it” this year.
Scores
– Prep 31, AH 21
– Mid Valley 34, Dunmore 14
– OF 26, Susq. 16
– Hazleton 24, Crestwood 13
– L-L 35, Tunk 14
– Scranton 28, Paupack 10
– WBA 23, Pittston 19
– Redeemer 12, Montrose 7
– Haven 38, Marian 13
– Shamokin 38, Billtown 14
Predictions for Danville & MCA this weekend? I’ve got the Ironmen 27 MCA 14. Danville & Southern game could have been a lot closer without costly mistakes from the Tigers.
I think Danville by 2 scores is a solid prediction but I think it might be higher scoring. Danville offense looks impressive. Hoping its closer but time will tell.
MCA’s defense was not very good the 1st 3 games but they seemed to improve the last 3.
I haven’t heard whether MCA’s all state RB is lost for the season with a knee injury or still has a chance to return. The offense has put some points on the board in 5 out of 6 games so far this year, but having him back healthy would definitely help in games like this and down the stretch.
Mt. Carmel has no chance.
Hearing about the Southern Columbia conversation makes me think of something.
Is this the widest open that 2A (or Southern’s class) has been in recent memory? I’m looking at PennLive’s Top 10 & HMs & I can make a case for most of these schools.
1. Troy: Has not missed a beat from last year. They should’ve won D4 2A last year. This is the best chance for a NTL team to get to the finals, maybe ever.
2. Riverside: Feasted on a weak schedule, but they can score & seem to have a good defense. They have to play Trail in Week 10. Important game!
3. Central Clarion: This team scores like 60 pts a game & seems to play great defense. If a high-powered offense runs the table to Mechanicsburg, the Eastern rep better have a good defense or keep up!
4. Seton LaSalle: They’re a private school, so they’d have a good chance. I think they might be WPIAL 2A favorites.
5. Schuylkill Haven: While I think they give up a lot of points (see 72-52), they have a solid offense.
6. Williams Valley: They’re always a tough out. I wouldn’t doubt them winning districts, then making a serious run.
7. Cambria Heights: I forgot they were 2A. They were always a tough out in 1A & I think they can do the same here.
8. Lincoln Ellwood City: They have as good of a chance of winning WPIAL 2A, too.
9. Richland: Richland seems to always be there. This could be their best chance, especially since D6 does not play in the East.
10. South Park: I might agree about them being 2nd best in WPIAL 2A, too.
– Camp Hill might have too many teams to jump.
– Sharpsville looks to be D10 favorite in this class, but does Farrell come back to life?
– Steel-High is down & I expected a bit more. They still look good, but with Alex Erby at Navy, it’s not the same.
– South Allegheny could be a sleeper. We saw a #10 seed win WPIAL 2A recently, if I’m not mistaken.
– Warrior Run could be an ultimate spoiler in D4. I don’t think many of us saw that coming heading into this year.
A couple of things… What makes you say Troy should’ve won the district title last year? D6 has played in the East for 2A over the past several years did something change this cycle. I tried to look for this years brackets under 2024 but it still shows 2023 bracket and district 6 was in the east because Southern played Bald Eagle Area. This is the first time that 2A has been wide open since Southern moved up to 2A. I do think that Troy will win D4 and possibly go to the state final. Southern may end up 5-5 but can only be 6-4 at best. They’ll end up with a 3-6 seed. They need to either be 3 or 6 to avoid a matchup with Troy in the semifinals. Troy beats Southern by 2-3 scores easily this year.
You are correct, Beaver Falls was a #10 seed last year, and beat 4 higher seeded teams to win the WPIAL title with a 14-12 upset over Steel Valley in the final. I agree a lower seed could make a run again this year in WPIAL 2A as there doesn’t appear to be any great teams.
IMO Southern Columbia is still the team to beat until someone knocks them off in the playoffs, the regular season doesn’t matter, especially when losing to a couple of very good 3A/4A teams, a lot of people thought Troy would beat them last year and we know how that turned out. With that being said I agree 2A seems pretty wide open this year and there are a number of teams that have a shot.
Is the era of Southern Columbia dominance over? Is the transfer portal in Catawissa no longer operational? Haven’t watched a Tiger team this discombobulated in forever.
They lost a ton to graduation. All 3 rbs from last year, 2 WR, QB graduated which means corners/safety graduated. I think 1 returning LB, a few on the offensive and defensive line. I agree this year Troy probably beats them by a few scores. Enough with the transfer/recruiting. Although I’ll get it out of the way yes they have 3 transfers from central and people will be in an uproar because they will acquire 0 success points this year and not enough success points next year to make them move up to AAA. All the other years they easily had the success points but not the transfers now timing wise they have the transfers but not the success points.
“Enough with the transfers/recruiting. They have three transfers from Central.” That’s hilarious.
And Danville has a RB from Berwick….
They are a decent team but definitely not on par with other Southern teams from the last few years, even those with a few losses. They are also young and played a tough schedule. I don’t see them getting past Troy this year either.
In years past they prob would have poached Shamokin’s talented young QB but now look at the Indians at 6-0.
They sure look like they won’t win an 8th straight but I made the mistake two years ago when they were 7-3 and said they wouldn’t win a 6th straight. They will reload if they don’t win it all this year. But this year they are very beatable in AA. Troy probably beats them by a few scores in the playoffs.
Ok Southern lost to Wyomissing and to a good Danville team.. The loss to Mt. Carmel could have gone either way. I think they can beat Troy. Southern keeps shooting themselves in the foot with fumbles and dumb penalties. Roth said this would be rebuild year. I expect a good rest of the year and another match up with Troy with the same result as last year
@ Kevin X, I dont think anyone was saying high school football would never be the same because the Eagles were playing on a Friday night, I know I wasnt saying that. My point was just the greed of the NFL in general,and that they used to respect that Fridays were for the high schools . Nothing matters to the NFL anymore they can do what the want and they do. As far as attendence goes the philly suburbs still hold their own especially if there is a good matchup. large student sections have become a common thing these days, however I dont think we see the more consistent good size crowds as say the 70s,80s anymore.Making people jump thru hops to buy a 5 dollar ticket certainly wont help, but thats not going away. The crowds and atmospheres at some of the playoff games, at least the ones I have been to havent really lived up to what I thought when District playoffs in football became the thing. Ive been to thanksgiving day games where the atmosphere and crowds were ten times better,but again those are long gone.
Rest of the state, I was 39-16 & 48-17 overall. What did I observe. I won’t go too much into things.
– The favorites in 5A all went down, from what I saw. I’m not concerned about Roman, Peters, & Rustin, but it’s definitely a defining loss for the season against good teams. They should be able to rebound.
– I didn’t do well with WPIAL picks, but PCC & USC were ones I’m not surprised about getting wrong. I felt both were “go either way” games. South Park over Washington was interesting. I’ll have to keep an eye out for them.
– Danville obliterated Southern Columbia. My MCA prediction might’ve become a lost cause, but Danville seems to be a legit threat to win it all.
– Farrell seems to have turned the corner, beating Wilmington. I’d assume these are the two who will go after the 2A crown.
– So, Corry & McLane. Am I missing something about them?
– Shamokin just might run the table. Wow. They are impressive.
– Back to Bonner, are they the favorites to play in the 4A title game in the East? I’d say so. I wouldn’t be shocked if Bonner lost to a public school like Shamokin or Southern Lehigh in the East final. You’d have to assume D1/D12 4A winner reps the East, or half of the East Final.
Danville and Northwestern Lehigh look especially tough in AAA. Was not expecting NWL to dominate NS like that. Expect these 2 to meet around week 13.
South Park is very good and definitely has a chance to win WPIAL 2A, as of now Seton LaSalle is undefeated and #1 in the WPIAL, followed by undefeated Elwood City, I’m not sold on them yet as they’ve played weaker competition, right now I would have South Park ranked #2 in WPIAL behind Seton. Wash High is down this year, they were exposed by Waynesburg a few weeks ago, and since then Waynesburg has gotten blown out by better teams the last few weeks, including getting crushed by Seton on Friday.
Speaking of Peters, they travel to a very good Moon team this week, who lost a barn burner to Bethel Park last week 45-36, in a game that went back and forth Moon took a 36-33 lead with a little over 2 minutes to go, then Bethel went on an 81 yard drive and scored the winning TD with 4 seconds left in the game, the final score was deceiving as Bethel added a pick 6 on the last play. USC dominated Peters in the trenches and that was the most surprising thing about that game to me, and did a great job of shutting down Peters high scoring offense, as QB Nolan DiLucia was under constant pressure all night.
My D2 Notes For Week 6. I was 9-1, just missing Wilkes-Barre over Hazleton.
1. Saturday Showcase In Clarks Summit: You have to give it to DV for spoiling us with a great showdown in divisional play. Only this time it’s a winning outcome. A tough hard fought victory over Abington Heights might not put them in the lead in 5A, but it surely helped prove that they’re still the king of D2 5A until further notice.
2. North Pocono Gives Dallas A Scare: There’s an old saying that everyone’s entitled to one good scare at Halloween, but North Pocono was willing to give Dallas a good scare a month earlier. That was the case in Friday’s game. It seemed like the moment Dallas gained momentum in the game, North Pocono had found ways to fight back. This was a good test for both of the 4A foes & it wouldn’t shock me if we get a rematch, if things go a certain way.
3. Crestwood Squeaks Past Pittston: Seeing Crestwood without their starting QB, Jaden Shedlock, for the remainder of the year is worrisome, especially against divisional competition, however they seem to have not missed a beat, as they came through in a tough battle over the Patriots. It was a neck & neck game, but Lincoln Bibla put together a quality game to set them over the top. This was a game I think I could’ve put in my picks (Citzen’s Voice made it their game of the week, actually). I just have a system with a bigger emphasis on games that might are playoff implication worthy.
4. Valley View Stock Keeps Rising, Scranton’s Is Falling: We all know that Lackawanna Division 1 is a gauntlet & we learned a bit about how close Valley View & Scranton are in the league. Scranton’s early undefeated record has a mirage-y feel to it, since most games were against weaker opponents. Losses to Prep & the Cougars set them back. They are a more middle of the road team for the time being. As for Valley View, it feels like they’ve turned the corner after a demoralizing loss to Prep. The Cougars are in a great position for the 1-seed & I could see them as district favorites. It wouldn’t surprise me if Week 13 sees a rep from the Archbald area.
5. The Tale Of LFC 3: I still have a question or two about this division. Friday gave us a bit of an idea of who might be a sleeper. Let’s start with the 1A battle. I think we see that Trail is as good as they’ve been. Old Forge? Well, it’s a down year for them, but I give them an incomplete grade in division play. Back to back dominations by Western Wayne & Trail put them on the bubble for the playoff. They’re the last team in, but they need to be very careful. Riverside & Susquehanna are on the ledger in coming weeks, with the latter playing next week. Speaking of which, the first half looked to be dominated by the Vikes & demoralizing for the Sabers, but Susquehanna became resilient & chipped away to get back to even. It wasn’t enough, but I wonder if they can defeat Old Forge. I’ll leave it on the table (spoiler: one of next week’s picks). Trail is far out of the question. Carbondale & Holy Cross’ games were predictable & I think we know exactly what we get out of those two. They feasted on the indies. We won’t see them compete for the division, but who knows what happens. It seems like District 2 has had more twists than a M. Night movie.
6. Playoffs/EC Battles
1A: Lackawanna Trail & Nativity seem to have their spots locked in & may stay 1-2. Trail still has Riverside to go & that could affect things in a few weeks. Nativity has yet to play Schuylkill Haven or Minersville, which absolutely can help or hurt them! Tri-Valley & Old Forge will battle for the #4, but Marian is right there in a great spot if Old Forge stumbles. None of the three have an easy schedule & it might come down to Marian vs. Nativity in Week 10 as a de facto elimination game for Marian. I think the loser will play Holy Cross in the EC, but a D4 or D11 team could sneak into the race, if they’re on a run. I seriously doubt that, however.
2A: We know the teams in the running. Riverside probably gets to 9 wins & locks up the #1 seed. I think Susquehanna holds the #2, even with the tough teams to go. Dunmore probably takes the #3, due to the win, while the loser (Lakeland) gets the #4. It may come down to power rating points, which’ll depend on who played who. Dunmore has the edge there, I would believe.
3A: Barring total chaos, Western Wayne will get the #1 & run the table. Scranton Prep should find their way to the #2. Wyoming Area & Mid Valley are in a race for the #3 seed, the former having the easier schedule. Depending on divisional play, Lake-Lehman might be a lock for #5. The big question is spots 6-8. Tunkhannock locked themselves in by winning over Hanover Area. It’d take a lot to change that. The question is, how will Berwick & Carbondale do, & what seed will they get? I feel Berwick has the easy road & should get the #6. Carbondale & Tunkhannock can flip/flop & that settles the playoff.
4A: Valley View seems to have locked up the #1, but they still have DV to go. Dallas jumped up to the #2 with their win over North Pocono. This is the part that gets very, very interesting. We have Paupack currently at #3, but on a losing skid at the moment & no signs on the schedule to really turn it around. Crestwood is #4 & even without their QB, the division is weak enough to at least lock themselves in. The two are actually really close apart (.541 to .538). North Pocono has a loss to Paupack in Week 4. It might loom large. But don’t look now, Honesdale possibly has the best chance to get in but are #6. How? The LFC 2, outside of Mid Valley & Western Wayne is not competitive. Assuming Wallenpaupack loses out or gets a win over Pittston & North Pocono loses out each week. I think Crestwood & Honesdale lock in & we get an epic rematch for the EC 4A game, assuming Hamburg’s in the D3 playoffs (feels likely). This is the same class that came down to the last game to figure out the final 8-team field. It may happen again.
5A: I think the seeding is set for #1 to #3. All we have left is DV flipping spots with AH. Pittston is seems to be stuck in the #3 spot. West Scranton & Valley West are in a race to see who has the strongest winless schedule (both are closer & closer to being 0-10). I think West Scranton gets the nod, but WVW isn’t fully out of this yet.
6A: Well, don’t look now. With both Scranton & Williamsport losing in consecutive weeks, there is now a threat of Hazleton making the battle for the #1 much more appealing. In fact, it caused a shakeup. Hazleton stole the lead after winning convincingly over Wilkes-Barre. I think all three are in a tight battle from here to the end. Don’t forget that Williamsport does have to still play Wilkes-Barre & it’s also worth noting that the Millionaires have a head to head over Hazleton, if power ratings do come down to the wire that might help them (plus a stronger schedule, if it means anything). As for Wilkes-Barre, a win or two & more struggling from the Big 3 may make the #1 seed completely wide open, but it’s fairly unlikely. I said in the preseason how I felt this was going to be that way, but I never expected things to get this tight or this chaotic.
EC
– 1A/2A: Barring chaos, the two that miss out on the 1A Subregional will play here. I don’t think the D4 & D11 2As are close. There’d have to be opt outs from district play.
– 3A: District 2 vs. District 11 here. Montrose, Hanover Area, & Pine Grove are in a similar position. I’m not sure who gets it, but the EC battle here is not intriguing, yet also tightly contested. I’d make a big school & small school class for this year, just to add flavor, but if you had 3A, I’d assume it’s an even-ish matchup with Montrose & Pine Grove. You might even argue Pequea Valley finds a way to be a part of this & the team with higher rating pts matches up with them in a competitive-ish game.
– 4A: I think it’ll be between the trio of North Pocono, Honesdale, & Wallenpaupack with a combination of the three being the game. My gut also says it might be part two at the Lake. It wouldn’t be shocking to say that it also could include CMVT, which opens up a big can of worms. I assume they have some sort of chance to play in this because I think they’d prefer to go with that game than lose 56-0 to Shamokin or any 4A team. Wilson Area & Jim Thorpe would need anarchy. We also have to keep an eye on Hamburg, because of who makes Top 10 in D4 4A.
– 5A/6A: I believe it comes down to whoever misses D11 6A. That likely goes to Dieruff, PM West, & Allen. That trio will at least be worthy of a representative.
State observations coming soon.
I don’t think you will see Pine Grove in the 3A Eastern Conference game. Only 4 teams from District 11 make the playoffs so there will be a lot of candidates before you get down to Pine Grove.
@Foleman, Also impressive for Bonner Prendie was their win over the Haverford School. At least the score suggests it was a comfortable win.
You’re right that at least in eastern PA crowds for high school football are small compared to OH, FL, and TX but maybe not in comparison to attendance in most places around the country. I’ve travelled around upstate NY and New England where high school football seems to get very little attention. Same for the upper Midwest, according to friends.
Interesting that in the Philly area, none of the colleges has drawn many fans–even when they’ve had good teams, e.g. Villanova, even when they won a national championship, and Temple when they were pretty good maybe 10 years ago. Hard to believe that Penn once routinely drew 30,000 or more, but that was before pro football took hold.
Phillys not a football town….it’s an Eagles town. Aside from the birds, the appetite is tepid at best. Go up to the LV or coal country & youll see good crowds.
True, an Eagles town. And Phillies, and pro sports in general, as is just about every other major city in the country. This is what these small towns have, high school sports, with the exception of towns with a big college presence (State College/Penn State). It’s fairly easy to understand. And the blanket idea of small crowds, or not as good as atmosphere for games in the Philly area is ludicrous. Yes, Philly city proper games have issues (many) but District One for the most part is doing just fine thank you. Even a few Fridays ago when we were being told by some that high school football will never be the same when the Eagles played on Friday night. I was down in Ridley, 90% capacity with a great atmosphere, you’d never known there was an Eagles game being played that night. Other games that I have attended (granted they were cherry picked for better match-ups) this year and in years past have been very well attended. The issue maybe with the Q-Town game that was mentioned was that the weather, for the first time this year on a Friday night, was iffy at best and Q-Town has a nice free YouTube stream of their home games. I will be going to two games this weekend in the Philly ‘burbs, and outside to the annual P-Burg/Easton and DTW/DTE games (and maybe a few other hard core rivalry games), I expect these two games to have the best crowds and atmosphere of any games in eastern PA this season.
Just to clarify or stand corrected, I don’t know if the mention of the Q-Town/Soudy game and attendance figs are tied together or that just led to a general observation that attendance for HS football games in eastern PA pale in comparison to these select areas of the country where it is a late summer/fall Friday night Rite of Passion or simply compared to local game attendance in a bygone era. Anyways, the mention did give me reason to check out the replay of the game on YouTube one evening this week 🙂
Looks Like Bonner Prendie is the 4A favorite in the East after their win over Roman Catholic, PJP, if they make it past Springfield won’t have several starters available due to the transfer rule. Michael Smoll, the Souderton game is what makes HS football great! I wish more people were interested, I don’t know why in Texas, Florida and in Ohio, they get several thousand in attendance and in PA many top schools get a hundred people in attendance, mostly friends and family. 5A in District 1 will be one of the most competitive playoff races in PIAA History! I have seen Rustin and Chester this year, Rustin has a better defense, Chester a better offense, if they meet up, Rustin will have a chip on its shoulder as they feel they should have beaten Chester last year.
Ditto for WPIAL 5A, the depth this year is outstanding, there are going to be some big time heavyweight battles in the district playoffs. There are 19 teams in the WPIAL in 5A, and only 3 are really bad, a few are mediocre, and you have at least 10 teams that are good to excellent, the quarterfinals will likely have 8 of the top 15 teams in the state in 5A.
I agree Bonner is a threat in 4A and I could see them getting to the state final to likely play the WPIAL winner.
Go to a southern Columbia game, go to a Mt. Carmel game, go to a north Schuylkill game. The attendance is great. Philly people don’t care about attending a hs football game because they might get shot or in st. Joe’s case the families may live a few states away. Speak for your own area on attendence if you don’t know. When the locals know the kids they support the kids.
When I was in Scranton last fall, people in the area told me that, on average, attendance at hs football games was way down from where it was a decade or two ago. Maybe they were wrong and maybe there are other parts of eastern PA where that isn’t true. My friends in Schuylkill County say attendance isn’t nearly what it was decades ago, but their memories may be playing tricks on them.
Certainly we hear lots from District 1 fans that attendance is down quite a bit. As for District 12, public league teams never drew many, with the exception of a school like Frankford when they had pretty good teams. But their crowds were never more than so-so, except when they played North Catholic. Has IMHOTEP ever had more than 500 of its own fans at a game? PCL games have sometimes been well-attended. I remember being at several SJP games at Plymouth-Whitemarsh and at Villanova where there were well over 5,000 people. Good crowds for some games at Northeast too over the years. But the lack of a regular home field and the history of changing times and locations–this year being no exception–has really hit attendance hard. Upper Dublin (where they play LaSalle next Saturday night) is probably an hour’s drive from where most Prep families live–and none of them live “a few states away.” One thing for sure: there will be lots of LaSalle fans there.
And to be frank: people generally aren’t very inclined to go to a game that isn’t likely to be competitive, and there have been lots of lopsided SJP games over the last many years. But it seems there are more lopsided games generally. Certainly a quick scan of the scores on this site would suggest that’s the case.
MCA attendance has taken a hit over the years with the population decline of the area and since we started live streaming the games but is still generally pretty good. Especially with big games like NS, Southern and Shamokin. I lived in the Philly suburbs for almost 30 years and can count on one hand how many times someone brought up the subject of HS football. In the coal region and similar areas it is a main topic of conversation.
Tune into to the Coal Bucket rivalry game week 10 to see a large and raucous crowd.
As technology advances, artificial intelligence is becoming more integrated into various aspects of sports. How could AI impact player assessments, coaching strategies, and game tactics in high school football? Will this lead to a more competitive environment, or could it create an uneven playing field for smaller programs?”,
“refusal
Hooois ahhhcaresis?
Never saw a HS team run the 2-minute drill better than Quakertown last week in defeating Souderton 35-34 last week. Down 28-0 after 1 quarter, down 34-15 at Halftime, kept chipping away. Got the ball back with 17 seconds left, at the 19-yard line with no timeouts, and proceeded to go 81 yards to win the game on the final play. 1st play 16 yd out, then personal foul for hitting the receiver, well out of bounds, next play 41 yd, heaven help us to the 10 yd line with 3 seconds left. The impressive part was no confusion, Quakertown went down, got everyone set, as the refs set the ball and chains, they immediately spiked the ball. Next play a 10 yd TD for the win. For a HS team to not lose their composure, get everyone lined up & ready, while the refs set the ball & chains for play, was truly outstanding coaching and awareness of the Quakertown Offense. Kudos on a great win!
As college football continues to evolve, could a radical overhaul of the playoff system lead to a more equitable and exciting championship? What innovative formats or structures could be implemented to better serve players, fans, and the integrity of the game?”,
“refusal
Gotta love it!!! The top 3 5A teams in the state per Penn Live all go down in defeat. Does this make Chester #1 in 5A??
I was at the USC vs. Peters game and USC was pretty impressive, they dominated Peters in the trenches, great O-Line and D-Line, and punishing rushing attack, their weakness is a mediocre passing attack, as they had 0 yards passing against Peters. USC also has a very good kicker and punter and excellent special teams. I have not seen Pine Richland yet but plan on seeing them this week against resurgent Penn Hills.
I thought Roman was the favorite going into the season, but their loss against DeMatha last week was much worse than I expected, and then they got beat by Bonner, who is definitely a threat in 4A, is Roman dealing with injuries, or anyone know what’s going on, seems like the wheels have come off the last few games.
What about Strath Haven over Chester, Haven had an impressive win against Garnet Valley a few weeks ago.
Roman will be fine. I do understand they are dealing with some key injuries. Not very concerned about going on the road and getting throttled by the current #26 team in the country. The 5A PIAA bracket for the first 3 weeks will basically be bye weeks for them. First test will probably be Cathedral Prep in the quarters. Guess you would know more about them this year.
What do you mean by “Strath Haven over Chester?” Still like Chester to win D1 5A. Strath Haven had a little bit of an unexpected tussle with Marple this past Friday.
I meant in terms of current state rankings, Haven is undefeated, while Chester has a close loss to Imhotep, I was wondering how you thought those schools compared. I did see the Marple score last week and was surprised the game was that close, possible letdown after their big win over Garnet Valley?
Regarding Erie Cathedral Prep, they lost by 2 TD’s to a decent but not great St Francis of NY last week, I don’t think they are much of a threat to Roman assuming Roman is healthy come the playoffs.
My District One 5A top 5…….drum roll please……..1. Chester, 2. West Chester Rustin, 3. Strath Haven, 4. Garnet Valley, 5. Springfield Delco. The sneaky team in all of this fun chaos……..Penncrest.
Chester has a QB that can do a lot of things. SH has a running game.
The last few weeks have been nice as I’ve been able to pay cash at the gate at both TJ and Penn Hills. Cash at the gate is also an option at USC tonight, but I expect that game to be sold out so for convenience I decided to buy a ticket online ahead of time to make sure I got in, and much to my surprise there was no service charge included, just $5 for a ticket through the USC athletic dept website. So, if a wealthy suburban school district like Upper St Clair can offer online tickets without a service charge, why can’t other schools do the same thing. I’m not a USC fan and usually root against them, but I applaud them for giving fans the option of either online or cash at the gate, and no service charge for online tickets.
Meant to bring up a similar situation I had last week at Strath Haven. Yes, they are one of many District One schools transitioning to on-line ticketing only, but at least they held the line for a $5 ticket, and like you, I was surprised that there were no service charges or added fees. Also, like you mentioned, there is the one situation that I’m OK with the on-line ticketing only (still want a cash option at the gate regardless, even if it’s just one booth selling tix), is for games that may potentially sell out. This will be my situation Saturday night for the St. Joe Prep/LaSalle game at Upper Dublin. Unfortunately, the tix are not $5 w/o a service fee, but $10 and almost a $2 service fee. Oddly, I’m somewhat OK with that, for a game of that magnitude, it should be worth it.
If this what we need to accept for attending games going forward, one thing I would like to see (in addition to the one cash booth option mentioned above) is an option to pay via PayPal and/or some other third party payment option instead of having to enter you credit card info for each transaction (I have not come across this option so far in my ticket buying experience). I’ve seen options of making an account when purchasing tix, but not interested in that nor do I know if that would solve the issue for me. Like you, I jump around to different games/venues, so that option I’m guessing is more for people going events at the same school.
I totally agree the SJP vs. LaSalle game is worth $12 this year, may not be worth it every year, but I am anticipating a very competitive game that could go either way this weekend, these may be the 2 best 6A teams in the state.
Apologies for not keeping up on my end with state observations or D2 playoffs. Might as well break it down after this week is done (I’m still willing to share non-D2 observations, if there’s interest). Last week, I was 9-1 in D2, 47-16 in states (56-17 overall). Here are my predictions & highlight games across the state for Week 6. This is a sneakier week for games. The best games are the best, but there are some teams I don’t normally throw in on a regular basis. Also, if I missed anything, I’d be willing to prognosticate it.
For the record, I had this ready before Westinghouse played. I got distracted by the NFL.
District 4
– Southern Columbia vs. Danville: Danville 35, SCA 21
– Shamokin vs. Selinsgrove: Shamokin 24, ‘Grove 23
– Loyalsock vs. Lewisburg: Sock 25, Lewisburg 24
– Muncy vs. Montgomery: Muncy 31, Monty 20
District 11
– Freedom vs. ES South: Freedom 35, ES South 10
– Stroudsburg vs. Easton: Easton 38, S’burg 14
– Northwestern vs. North Schuylkill: NW Lehigh 34, NS 19
– Northern Lehigh vs. NDGP: NDGP 38, NL 24
– Williams Valley vs. Sch. Haven: WV 39, Haven 27
District 1
– Nehsaminy vs. CB West: CBW 30, Nesh 20
– D’town West vs. Rustin: DTW 26, Rustin 22
– Strath vs. Marple-Newtown: SH 36, M-N 24
– PJP vs. Upper Perkiomen: PJP 49, UP 8
– Norristown vs. OJR: OJR 31, Norry 15
– Springfield (Montco) vs. Upper Moreland: UM 27, Montco 19
– Shoutout to Upper Perk for having a rare winning record at this point.
District 12
– La Salle vs. O’Hara: La Salle 38, O’Hara 13
– Roman vs. Bonner-Prendie: Roman 33, B-P 25
– Father Judge vs. SJP: SJP 38, All Rise 20
– Edison vs. Kipp-DuBois: K-Dub 20, Edison 10
District 3
– Cumberland Valley vs. CD East: CDE 31, CV 24
– Central York vs. Dallastown: CY 39, Dallastown 23
– East Pennsboro vs. West Perry: WP 34, EP 25
– Ephrata vs. Exeter Twp.: ET 41, Eph 22
– Eastern York vs. West York: WY 34, EY 27
– Biglerville vs. Bermudian Springs: Berm. Springs 29, Biglerville 17
District 5/6
– Berlin vs. Meyersdale: B-Bros 33, Meyersdale 24
– Conemaugh Twp vs. Penns Manor: PM 34, Cone. Twp. 20
– Northern Cambria vs. Marion Center: NoCam 33, Marion Ctr 23
– Glendale vs. Mt. Union: Mt. U 30, Glendale 19
District 9/10
– Central Clarion vs. Karns City: CC 48, KC 13
– McLane vs. Ft. LeBoeuf: Ft. Leb 20, GM 13
– Corry vs. Mercyhurst Prep: Mercy 33, Corry 11
– Sharon vs. Meadville: Sharon 28, Meadville 23
– Reynolds vs. Cambridge Springs: CS 35, Reynolds 13
– Wilmington vs. Farrell: Wilmy 29, Farrell 26
WPIAL/City
– North Allegheny vs. Central Catholic: NA 35, PCC 21
– Peters vs. USC: Peters 36, USC 21
– Moon vs. Bethel Park: BP 28, Moon 24
– Latrobe vs. Woodland Hills: WH 24, GL 23
– New Castle vs. Aliquippa: Quips 37, NC 10
– Belle Vernon vs. Thomas Jefferson: TJ 28, BV 19
– Central Valley vs. Avonworth: Cent. Val. 28, Avonworth 27
– South Park vs. Washington: Prexies 40, S. Park 14
– Jeannette vs. Clairton: Clairton 36, Jeannette 23
– Monessen vs. South Side: SS 30, Mon 22
– Chartiers-Houston vs. Canevin: Canevin 30, C-H 17
– Westinghouse vs. Allderdice: Westy 31, TA 12
Crossover/Non-PIAA
– Central Dauphin (3) vs. State College (6): State 34, CD 18
– Line Mountain (4) vs. Steel-High (3): S-H 33, Line Mtn. 24
– Hollidaysburg vs. Fort Hill (MD): H’burg 26, Fort Hill 24
– Hickory (10) vs. McKinley (OH): Hickory 28, McKinley 20
– Villa Angela/St. Joseph (OH) vs. McDowell (10): McDowell 25, VA/St. Joe 23
– Cath. Prep (10) vs. St. Francis (NY): ECP 27, St. Francis 24
– Malvern Prep vs. Gonzaga (DC): Malvern 31, Gonzaga 25
– Lawrenceville (NJ) vs. Springside Chestnut Hill: L’ville NJ 30, SCHA 16
I agree with most of your WPIAL picks, but I’ll differ with a few, I think PCC beats NA tonight, just like they did in the regular season last year, some polls have NA #2 or #3 in the state in 6A, which in my opinion is way off and based on reputation, they are barely in the top 10 and not nearly as good as their state runner-up team last year.
I think South Park beats Washington, and if they lose it will be a lot closer than what you predicted, I think this is a 1 score type of game. I will also be shocked if Jeanette scores 23 points against Clairton’s defense, Jeanette was shut out last week by Leechburg, and there’s a good possibility they get mercy ruled and perhaps shut out again by Clairton’s dominant defense.
I am going to the Peters vs. USC game, that should be a slugfest, I’ll pick Peters in a close one, but would not be surprised at all if USC upsets them, they are going for win #500 in school history, which is not too bad considering they started playing football in 1958.
Here’s a mid-season WPIAL report for those that have in interest in what’s going on in the western part of the state
6A – NA plays PCC this week at Baldwin, winner will be the #1 seen in district playoffs, loser will be #2, every other team in 6A is mediocre or worse, it would take a stunning upset in the playoffs for NA not to play PCC for the WPIAL title for the third year in a row, I think the WPIAL winner loses to the District 3 winner this year in the state semi-finals.
5A – it starts getting real this week in 5A, with Peters Township travelling to Upper St Clair. In the eastern conference Woodland Hills travels to Latrobe, I think those 2 schools and Franklin Regional will battle for the conference title, Franklin beat Latrobe 3-0 a couple of weeks ago, so they have a leg up in the conference standings. Pine Richland and a resurgent Penn Hills are by far the best teams in the north. Peters is the favorite to repeat, but the WPIAL 5A this year is a gauntlet, and their conference is brutal, with the top 5 teams a combined 23-1 in the first half of the season (Peters, USC, Bethel and South Fayette are undefeated and Moon is 3-1, now they get to all start beating up on each other).
4A – Aliquippa had won 29 games in a row against WPIAL opponents dating to week 2 in 2021 against Central Valley, ironically both teams that year went on to win state titles. The Quips are still the favorite, but as I mentioned in an earlier post they are not as good as the last few years, and I don’t think they win the WPIAL without RB Tikey Hayes at full strength.
3A – preseason WPIAL and state #1 Central Valley lost 3 tough games to open the season against quality 4A opponents, but have since won 2 in a row against 3A schools, they have a big conference game this week against Avonworth, I think CV will win that game, and stamp themselves as co-favorites with Imani Christian, who is voluntarily playing up to 3A this cycle
2A – Seton LaSalle has emerged as the best team thus far, lot of balance in this class, and no great teams, district playoffs could be pretty wide open, I doubt the WPIAL 2A winner gets to the state final, Seton plays at Waynesburg this week, who upset Washington a few weeks ago before getting handled by Steel Valley last week.
1A – Clairton is rolling this year, their defense has been dominant and has not given up an offensive TD, with 4 straight shutouts after beating preseason 2A #1 Steel Valley 30-7 in their opening game, SV scored on a fumble recovery for the only points Clairton has allowed thus far, so they are giving up an absurd 1.2 points/game through 5 games. Defending champion Fort Cherry is also rolling, and all state QB Matt Sieg got the cast off his throwing hand last week and had a big night passing against previously undefeated Monessen, sure seems like these 2 teams are headed for a showdown in the WPIAL final, and winner will be a definite threat to win 1A state title.
Danville vs. Southern this week…should be a decent game.
Have to think that Danville wins by at least two scores.
Is Shamokin for real this year? Not sure if Jersey Shore is as good as they have been in recent years. An away test at Sealinsgrove should be a good test for them. Have to think the coal bucket could be changing hands after nearly 30 years.
Southern Columbia is not very good offensively. They may get mercy ruled. Selingsgrove is nowhere near as good as jersey shore. I can see shamokin mercy ruling them.
Yeah definitely could see those two scenarios playing out.
You can post a new comment, is at the bottom of the page. I will ask to have them move that to the top of all the post. New theme and we are working through some bugs.
Cool, thanks. That would be most helpful and appreciated. If the forum is still a work in progress and being tweaked, one thought……..
I do like the new direct reply option, but is there a way to move those replies to the top of the forum?? Put them (and the corresponding thread being responded to) in a time stamped reverse chronological order with any new posts?? If you reply to a comment a few days old or longer, good chance it will be buried down in the body of the forum, and probably not be seen or read.
Let me see if we can do that. The site looks much better on phones.
Ahhh, the phone peeps. 99.5% of the time that I am on the website and forum I’m on my MacBook.
Me too…..LOL
The second half of the season starts…now. D2 has some good games this week. Here’s my mix.
– Delaware Valley vs. Abington Heights (LFC 1): You can’t beat this game on Saturday. DV is looking to get win #2 on the year, but Abington Heights wants to go 4-2. I expect DV to take this, but “The Pit” hosts a team that can better challenge them than in recent years.
– Dunmore vs. Lakeland (LFC 2): How is this a marquee division game? Well, if Dunmore wins, they might have a puncher’s chance at the #2 or #3. It’s not an easy path, but winning this game goes a long way to the tight 2A seeding battle that needs to be sorted. You don’t want to play Riverside in the semis. I’ll go with Dunmore, as they get another helpful win to add more & more momentum.
– Susquehanna vs. Riverside (LFC 3): Riverside & Susquehanna are #1 & #2 in D2 2A. The Vikes have had a fairly easy schedule. Susquehanna just has one loss to Western Wayne & wins over teams like Lakeland & Dunmore. A win here for the Vikes shows they’re best in 2A (which they are). A Saber win throws the entire classification landscape & puts a potential fourth challenger for a division crown, although I don’t believe Old Forge is up to either’s level. Vikes win fairly convincingly, but I wouldn’t be at all shocked if this is close.
– Wilkes-Barre vs. Hazleton (WVC 1): Risky game to put here, but we have a delight of a playoff impact game here, when it comes to the 6A battle. Although Hazleton is ahead in power rankings, Wilkes-Barre can catch up in WVC 1 play. I think the Pack will take it here, but a win for Hazleton means there is a chance at the #2 seed (& possibly the #1) in what could be a slightly wide open battle.
– Berwick vs. Wyoming Area (WVC 2): This isn’t the headliner matchup we all thought it could be. Curry got a big first win last week against Hanover Area. I don’t see win #2 here, but if Berwick can play with the Warriors on their turf, that’s a win!
– Valley View vs. Scranton (LFC HM): Sure, both have better records than the feature, but the game I chose for LFC 1 has bigger implications in the 5A race. This is more for divisional seeding’s sake. You can assume this battle is for #3 & 4 in LFC I. Valley View looks to be better. Scranton got humbled, to say the least. Expect it to be tight, but the Cougars are the better team.
– Tunkhannock vs. Hanover Area (@ Wilkes-Barre) (WVC HM): Ridicule me all you want for featuring two nobodies, but this game has more importance due to seeding. Somehow, Montrose is #8 (ineligible) but you expect these two to play for #8 seed. Neither team has a true statement to tell. I think Tunk gets win #2, but this is a 1-star game on paper. Playoff deciding games mean more to me than 2-3 vs. 3-2 with no purpose (Crestwood/Pittston) for both teams (Crestwood only positions in 4A).
– Lackawanna Trail vs. Old Forge (D2 HM): A quality showdown out in Pizzatown, but it might not be as marquee level as I hoped it’d be. Trail was kept honest by Mid Valley last week, while Old Forge wants to forget whatever last week was. A win for Trail means a healthy lead in the #1 seed race. A loss may make the battle with Nativity that much more challenging. A win for Old Forge helps their case for the playoff, while a loss might give Marian the shot in the arm it needs to have a chance. Trail looks like the better team here.
– Marian Catholic vs. Minersville (1A Subregion): While Old Forge & Trail are playing their subregion implication game, Marian is playing theirs, but in a strength of schedule sense. The Colts travel to Minersville in a game that will easily impact the race. An Old Forge loss means Marian jumps with a win. I don’t see it, but this is a game to keep a very close eye on. Nativity & Tri-Valley have valley cakewalks with games against Shenandoah & Panther respectively.
– Williamsport vs. Jersey Shore (6A Subregion): Next door neighbors meet up for the first time in a bit. Shore hosts the Millionaires in a game they might need to win in order to keep the #1 seed over Scranton & their LFC 1 gauntlet schedule. Shore takes this, but if Williamsport does what they did to the Seals, then pay more attention to them in districts.
Scores
– DV 31, AH 16
– Dunmore 28, Lakeland 20
– Riverside 35, Susq. 13
– WBA 23, Hazleton 16
– Wyo Area 42, Berwick 17
– VV 29, Scranton 20
– Tunk 40, Hanover Area 6
– Trail 35, OF 17
– Minersville 33, Marian 12
– Shore 34, Billtown 14
How do you post a new/initial comment/post instead of a reply??
Some D2 Notes, as we reach the halfway point. There isn’t much to talk about.
1. Back To Regularly Scheduled Programming: DV got their first win over rival Wallenpaupack. Paupack made it a game in the first half, but they have nothing for DV. Same story, different year. I’d make a case for Game of the Week next week being DV/Abington Heights at “The Pit”, but it’s likely VV/Scranton. Paupack has Prep next week & I expect more of the same for the Purple & White.
2. Susq./Lakeland: Susquehanna makes a statement in the 2A race, defeating Dunmore & Lakeland in the same season. I don’t believe this has happened, & if it hasn’t, it has to be have been since the ’90s. The Sabers may not be a quality team compared to area small school powerhouses, but this is a great run out of them. If they play spoiler to Riverside soon, then all bets are off.
3. Underappreciated WVC Game: I’ll take flak for it. I should’ve given Dallas/Pittston more love. This was a game that Dallas might’ve been lucky to escape from. They haven’t looked anywhere close to the #1 team in the 4A bracket & they escaped in a 30-22 dub. Dallas has a showdown with North Pocono, which should go in the Mounties’ favor.
4. We Almost Saw Rarified Air: Carbondale led against Dunmore for most of the game, but in the end, we saw the hopes & dreams of a rare win for the Chargers go away in the 4th. Giving credit where it’s due. They kept Bucktown honest. C’dale gets a sure win against Montrose next week but has a gauntlet & a half to end the season.
5. Subregional Results Matter: Scranton gets very lucky, even with a loss. While they got destroyed by Prep, Williamsport came close to upsetting Selinsgrove. Both are going to be in quite the battle for the #1 seed. Tri-Valley lost to Williams Valley, which means they could be in a very precarious situation come playoff time in 1A. Marian & Nativity won their games, while Old Forge got destroyed in Wayne County. These battles are far from over.
6. Blowout City, USA: It’s an epidemic that’ll never be completely eradicated, but we need to talk about high school blowouts. The closest game was 1 pt between (checks notes) Dunmore & Carbondale (7-6). The next closest? Pittston/Dallas at 8 (only other game within a TD). 3rd? Susq./Lakeland & CMVT/Cross by 10. Mid Valley/Trail was within 2 scores. I combined all 17 games in D2 & saw that the total margin of victory by all the teams was 471 pts. That means teams won by an average of 27.7 pts this week. Take away the within 10 pt games (1, 8, 10, 10) & it would be a borderline mercy rule. 5 games were decided by more than 40 pts. Times like these are where I wish football would solely be independent to where you play teams that match up to your strengths & have at least 2-3 games against your rivals, just to keep common opponents together. There has to be a way to fix this. It doesn’t help anyone. It doesn’t help Montrose to play Riverside, as does Berwick/Hanover (or Selinsgrove/Central Mtn, who put up at least 70 in that one).
I’ll have some state observations later & maybe dissect D2 playoff battles at the halfway point this week.
Another been meaning to situation to reply. Your comments on the blowouts. Couldn’t agree more. One of my pet peeves with PA high school football (and some other high school sports, mainly girls basketball). What to do about them, good question. Maybe I’ll follow-up with a thought or 2 later this week.
Marian lost
I looked at the wrong team &/or game. My bad.
@ District 2 Football – I am a public school guy and always root for a public school against a private, regardless of which schools are playing, with that being said I am adamantly opposed to splitting publics and privates into separate conferences and playoffs. I have not seen anyone propose a solution that would be workable statewide, because there are not enough private schools is most state districts to form their own conference. I am certain the WPIAL would be against splitting publics and privates because it would not be practical for all the member schools.
You whine and complain about Scranton Prep and all their advantages, but they are irrelevant statewide, having never made a state final, let alone won a state title. You seem to think the public schools “own” all the kids in their district with your ridiculous suggestion of players wearing their “home” district helmets, last time I checked this was still a free country and parents are allowed to send their children to whatever school they think is best, for both academics and sports, period. This subject gets beat to death every year on this board, and I think most of us are tired of the same old complaints, why don’t you put your time and effort into coming up with a solution and propose it to the PIAA instead of just bitching about how unfair they system is.
Maryland does it very easily. Private school states and public school states. Doesn’t take a genius to figure out. Why should an all-star team be able to play against kids that are living in the same area. Open your eyes
Maryland is a much smaller state, so travel at playoff time is less of an issue. Also. I’m not sure if separating publics and non-publics has done anything to even the playing field. Year in and year out, the top teams in the state seem to be the non-publics, as is the case in Jersey. Because of the difference in the quality of public and non-public teams it seems the latter can much more attention in Jersey.
PA isn’t the only state that combines public and non-publics. Ohio does as, I think, Florida does as well. My impression is that people in both states are happy with the situation.
Would you still be as keen on separating public schools and non-public schools if it weren’t for SJP? What about schools like Imhotep which can draw from the whole of Philly?
Yes for sure, I look back to the days of Mount Carmel in AA where they made the state quarters only to lose to Lancaster Catholic which was essentially a Lancaster county all-star team.
Last year every champion 2/6 champions were a private school (Imhotep, SJP). I understand the situation with Aliquippa having to move up due to transfers, success, while still being a public school.
I have no issue with a kid going to a private school, by all means it is their choice, and will quite frankly prepare them better if they want to play in college. However, I don’t understand how anyone can view it as fair when a team who has to draw from within the kids who live in a certain area compared to a team that can essentially recruit the kids that come to their school.
I seem to remember Mt Carmel won quite a few state titles back in the 90’s and early 2000’s, and other than District 12 (Philadelphia) catholic/private schools were part of the PIAA playoffs at that time. Yes, Lancaster and West Catholic won 3 in a row from 2009-2011, with LC winning in 09/11, and West lost a 2 OT thriller to Wilmington in 2008, so for a 4yr stretch the Catholic schools dominated 2A. Since then there has been exactly 1 catholic school to make the 2A final, and that was Serra Catholic in 2020 who got crushed by Southern Columbia. Outside of SJP history has proven that the best public schools can compete with and beat the best catholic schools in most classifications.
MCA lost to LC in ’08 and ’11 in the State playoffs with 2 pretty good teams. Had to go through both LC and West Catholic in the AA playoffs at the time.
In my opinion the distinction can be simple. If a school is operated by a public school district, then it qualifies as a public school for the purposes of playoffs. If not, then it qualifies as a non-public school. Though charter schools are “public”, they are not operated by the School District of Philadelphia, so they would compete in the non-public bracket.
Could it make the difference between public and non-public schools? Perhaps, it might. But you would have schools competing against other schools that are operating under the same limitations as them, so you could see more year-to-year variance (especially at the top level of the public bracket). Plus, you could interpret this as the non-public schools being able to reach their full potential if the PIAA stops trying to cram them in with everyone else.
@D2 Fan – I see you picked against Easton again this week, they are rolling after their opening week loss to CB West and I think they keep it going tonight and beat Emmaus
As for your WPIAL picks I agree with almost all of them, although I really like Central Valley to beat Beaver at home, now that CV is playing schools their own size I see them running the table and going into the playoffs on a 7 game winning streak, they still may be the team to beat in the WPIAL 3A, along with Imani Christian.
I’m going to see Aliquippa vs. Penn Hills, I don’t think that game will be as close as you predicted, I’ll take the Quips 34-14, the other game I was considering tonight was UCS vs. McKeesport, but I saw McKeesport play already and I’m going to USC vs. Peters Township next week
One intriguing game you didn’t mention is 4-0 South Fayette vs. Belle Vernon, South Fayette has not played anyone of note yet, and they are kinda flying under the radar in 5A, if they beat Belle Vernon and then hapless Baldwin they will be 6-0 heading into the gauntlet in 2 weeks when they play USC, Peters and Bethel Park in 3 straight weeks.
@ D2 Fan
Since I believe I regained my District One credibility with picking Perk Valley over Coatesville last week, I am going to take Garnet Valley to hang the first loss of the year on Strath Haven, in a battle of Delco unbeatens. Ironically, that is the game that I will be at tonight. Only halfway thru the regular season and 3 trips down to Delco for me already this year for games. Can I find a Suburban One game please?? Looks like North Penn and CB South are on an unbeaten collision course in a match-up in a few weeks.
And for an honorable mention pick, I’ll take Haverford to beat Marple Newtown. Less conviction with this pick.
@ Frank G
Thanks for the info. Hoping the RC/SJP game will be at Norristown, basically for selfish reasons, Norristown in fairly convenient for me. Wissahickon works even better, where I see that a handful of PCL games are being played at this year as well.
You missed on your Garnet Valley pick as bad as I did with my pick of Aliquippa to beat Penn Hills by 3 scores! Penn Hills has improved significantly since I saw them in a week 1 loss to Woodland Hills in the game that was suspended in the fourth quarter due to a shooting outside the Wolvarena.
Speaking of Aliquippa, they looked very flat against Penn Hills, and the offense clearly missed all state RB Tikey Hayes, who sat out his 2nd game in a row with a strained hamstring. The game was scoreless until Penn Hills scored a TD on the last play of the first half to take a 7-0 lead, which increased to 21-0 at the end of the third quarter before the Quips mounted a comeback in fourth. This Aliquippa team is not as good as the last few years, and I don’t think they will win the WPIAL, let alone a state title, without Hayes at full strength, and even then TJ and Montour will give them a run. I haven’t seen Montour in person, but I have seen TJ and I think they match up well this year with the Quips, particularly if Hayes is hampered by his hamstring injury. The Quips numbers are down this year, they dressed at most 40 players against Penn Hills, as good of a program that they have I don’t think they could withstand the rigors of playing WPIAL 5A opponents every week and would would lose the war of attrition by the end of the season.
@ Jeff H
Indeed I did!!! Funny, Garnet received the opening kickoff, and I’ve seen this quite often at all levels of football, that the team that gets the opening kickoff marches right down the field for a TD, then the offense goes into hibernation until late in the game, doesn’t score until the 4th qtr., if at all. Yep, game turned into the “James Fisher Show.” See article above. Saved a little District One face with my honorable mention pick. Think I’ll sit this weekend out with any predictions and just enjoy another live battle of undefeated teams tomorrow night with D-Town West visiting WC Rustin.
@ Frank G
Saw that the SJP/Roman game will be at Franklin Field. Also saw that the SJP/LaSalle game has been moved from Norristown to Upper Dublin.
Prediction
Scranton public High School ( 24 )
Scranton Preparatory Catholic High School
From a Try- County Region Area ( 20 )
Final
Bit of an upset on the mountain Thursday night as ES North took down PM West 22-18. West is down this year, dealing with graduations and injuries, but still great progress for an North program that hasn’t won more than 1 game in a season since 2016. They have scored double-digits in every game so far, and the defense is starting to catch up. 8 of the 10 teams in D11 4A qualify for the playoffs, so North is very much in playoff contention.
I just listened to a high school football game where I must assume the starting QB and his back up were injured but I can’t know for sure because they never mentioned it ,just that new qb’s were in. The starter only accounted for about 7 touchdowns and probably close to 500 total yards so you think maybe they would mention something. Why even cover a game
@D3 and whoever
Listen I get it lots of you support a private school
And your point of view is definitely different
But from my side of the fence why is it so bad to want change when private schools have such a greater athletic advantage because of taking them from all over their geographical region rather than a public school who has to use the athletes that they have how is that so hard to understand everybody is saying that I am nonsensical. How can you not understand what I’m trying to say, is it because you support the private schools most likely
To be honest, if they don’t want to play in their own league, they should send all the student athletes back to their public schools where they are from to play sports that solves everything if they are just there for academical purposes
It’s a win-win situation
If they don’t want to do that, at least have them identify the players from their school districts and ware their public school helmets where they would have played just like they do in the dream game and all star games that would be great just to see exactly where they drained all the talent from
@Maynard Plumm
Hey, to be very honest, I do not ever root against any athlete, even if they are from a private school
And that I answer no, I did not root against
The one and only Gmac representing Scranton well and the rest of the region I think he did great at Syracuse and is doing great as a coach. If he still is, I don’t keep up with basketball too much.
But like I said, I don’t root against the athletes, no matter the school
I just think change is definitely overdue. In the way things are run. I’m not even gonna get into it but that’s how I feel and many others do as well The only difference is their afraid to speak up because of Being chastised because of it.
To your respective school I hope you have a good rest of your season and beyond
@ MAYNARD PLUMM
Finally a gentlemen who recognizes and understands what this is truly about. Thank You so much for your intelligence and providing an amazing perspective on this situation.
@Maynard Plumm & D3 Fan – very well stated gentlemen, thank you
Rest Of State Picks For Week 5. I think I’ve got all of the intriguing games. A lot there this week, since I saw a lot of 4-0s & 3-1s going head-to-head.
District 11
– Nazareth vs. Parkland: Naz 23, Parkland 19
– Easton vs. Emmaus: Emmaus 28, Easton 19
– Northampton vs. Whitehall: N’hampton 20, Whitehall 16
– ACC vs. Becahi: Becahi 20, ACC 16
– Liberty vs. Dieruff: Liberty 24, Dieruff 7
– Tamaqua vs. Salisbury: Tamaqua 36, Salisbury 10
– Notre Dame vs. Catasauqua: NDGP 38, Catty 10
– Schuylkill Haven vs. Minersville: SH 35, Minersville 12
District 4
– Lewisburg vs. Warrior Run: WR 26, Lewisburg 14
– Montoursville vs. Mount Carmel: MCA 35, Montoursville 13
– Montgomery vs. Canton: Canton 28, Montgomery 6
District 1/12
– CB West vs. CB South: CBS 27, CBW 23
– Pennridge vs. North Penn: NP 31, Pennridge 22
– Perk Valley vs. OJR: Perk 30, OJR 7
– Shanahan vs. Unionville: U’ville 35, Shanahan 25
– Phoenixville vs. PJP: PJP 37, P’ville 14
– Strath Haven vs. Garnet Valley: Strath 29, GV 24
– Ridley vs. Springfield Delco: Delco 33, Ridley 19
– Haverford HS vs. Marple-Newtown: M-N 29, HHS 17
– Lower Moreland vs. Springfield Montco: Montco 31, LM 19
District 12
– Palumbo vs. Frankford: Frankford 20, AoP 15
– Simon Gratz vs. Northeast: N’east 27, Gratz 26
– Arch. Wood vs. Neumann-Goretti: N-G 21, Wood 14
District 3
– Harrisburg vs. Cedar Cliff: H’burg 30, Cedar Cliff 21
– Cumberland Valley vs. Central Dauphin: CD 27, CV 23
– Susq. Twp. vs. Steel-High: S-H 35, Susq. Twp. 33
– Warwick vs. Cocalico: Cocalico 30, Warwick 17
– Manheim Central vs. Conrad Weiser: MC 34, CW 18
– West York vs. Kennard-Dale: West York 37, K-D 17
– Upper Dauphin (3) vs. Line Mountain (4): LM 26, UDA 18
District 5/6
– Bedford vs. Chestnut Ridge: CR 27, Bedford 20
– NoBedCo vs. Berlin: Berlin 29, NBC 21
– Windber vs. North Star: Windy 31, NS 16
– Cambria Heights vs. Northern Cambria: NoCam 21, CH 13
– Central vs. Guilfoyle: BG 21, Central 18
WPIAL/City
– Aliquippa vs. Penn Hills: Quips 24, PH 20
– Beaver vs. Central Valley: Beaver 28, CenVal 22
– Franklin Reg. vs. Gateway: FR 27, Gateway 24
– Peters vs. West A: Peters 34, West A 12
– USC vs. McKeesport: USC 34, McK 24
– South Park vs. South Allegheny: SP 35, SA 27
– Waynesburg vs. Steel Valley: Steel Val 28, WBG 19
– Canevin vs. Cornell: Canevin 28, Cornell 7
– Carlynton vs. Seton LaSalle: SLS 35, Carlynton 10
– Fort Cherry vs. Monessen: FC 39, Mon 14
– Leechburg vs. Jeannette: Jeannette 28, Leechburg 12
– USO vs. Perry: USO 17, Perry 14
District 9/10
– Karns City vs. Punxsutawney: Punxsy 28, KC 15
– Union/A-C vs. Port A: Port A 44, U/A-C 22
– Cameron Co. vs. Otto-Eldred: CamCo 37, O-E/OV 19
– McDowell vs. Meadville: McDowell 33, Meadville 24
– Hickory vs. Erie: Hickory 30, Erie 16
– Farrell vs. Sharon: Sharon 25, Farrell 23
– Fort LeBeouf vs. Grove City: GC 32, FL 20
– Lakeview vs. Reynolds: Lakeview 20, Reynolds 15
– General McLane vs. Corry: GM 25, Corry 17
Crossovers
– Westinghouse (8) vs. Butler (7): Westy 42, Butler 8
– Juniata (6) vs. Camp Hill (3): Juniata 31, Camp Hill 22
– Canisius (NY) vs. ECP (10): ECP 24, Canisius 23
– Haverford School vs. Bonner-Prendie (12): HS 24, B-P 23
– Episcopal vs. La Salle (12): La Salle 34, Episcopal 22
– DeMatha (MD) vs. Roman (12): DeMatha 30, Roman 27
– St. Joe’s (12) vs. Our Lady Of Good Counsel (MD): SJP 38, OLGC 23
Lastly, what would’ve been my WVC 1 & WVC 2 picks this week, if they were more intriguing.
– Dallas vs. Pittston (WVC 1): Dallas 34, Pittston 14
– Wyoming Area vs. Tunkhannock (WVC 2): Wyo Area 49, Tunk 6
@ Maynard Plumm….@ D 3 Fan……THANKYOU
D2 Football
Honest question – because you seem like you’ve been around NEPA for a while. Did you also root against Gerry McNamara back when he was at Hannon?
D2 Football
“people that send their student athletes there thinking that will get more recognition and more attention”
Or, perhaps, people that send their STUDENT athletes there (to a private school) think those private schools can offer better academic opportunities, or just better opportunities in general, than their academically underperforming home public district. Maybe these parents want more for their STUDENT athletes than their home public district can provide. Maybe, just maybe, some parents still want religion incorporated into their childrens education. Not everyone who attends a private school goes there for the athletics. I don’t have kids, but if I did, I would never send them to Wyoming Valley West or Wilkes-Barre Area or Hazleton Areas, for multiple reasons I won’t get into here. I can assure you, none of those reasons are related to athletics. But I get it, you want to go back to the 1950’s and 1960’s where the Catholic schools had their own leagues and their own basketball state championships. Those days are over. They will never return. You should stop living in the past and maybe just embrace the better competition.
@ District 2 Football
You are exhausting, Public vs Private blah blah blah. When are you actually going to spit facts on quality football rather than public vs private nonsense?
Your analysis of 750 vs 340 is beyond delusional. I am a Berks Catholic Alum and D3 has superior football in the state of PA. Everyone is so sick and tired of the public vs private debate,until the PIAA changes it everyone must deal with it.
@ DV WARRIOR
First, I would like to say good luck the rest of your season. I think you guys could pull this together
I know every time I had an opportunity to chat with Keith he is such a humble head coach with great coaching abilities
But now what you were saying about you guys having 750
Male student athletes
VS them who have 340
Look at it this way it’s like going to a food pantry at Thanksgiving
You truly don’t know what kind of food is going to be in that brown bag
So good comparison to them vs the rest is simply this
The average team is like going into a food pantry pick up line and like I said, you truly don’t know what you’re going to get. You could get a whole bunch of peanut butter or yams and boxes stuffing that goes really well with a Thanksgiving dinner
Now to the average school in those 750 bags there might be a whole Lot of peanut butter and then you have a surprise and you have a whole lot of turkey yams, etc
With them they get to the store and they can pick what they want so their bags are always going to be what they want. There will be NO peanut butter on their plates.
You get what I mean in layman’s terms
All I’m saying is because they are not restricted because they are private. They can go literally wherever they want reach out to people that send their student athletes there thinking that will get more recognition and more attention. It’s just a complete racket I’m so over it. It’s disgusting.
And what I think is more disgusting is the average Joe’s who support them from the public realm it’s wild I will never understand it
The old saying goes if you can’t beat them join them
Well, not for this guy never ever
Week 5 in NEPA Football has a nice mix of games, mostly out of one league. I have 10 involving District 2 (or will have an impact on D2 standings)
– Scranton Prep vs. Scranton (LFC 1): We have a battle of 4-0 vs. 3-1 in the Electric City. Scranton Prep almost looked ahead to this game last week, with a close win over DV. Scranton just rides with momentum. I think both teams will end the night with the same record, but this game will prove if Scranton is actually legit.
– Old Forge vs. Western Wayne (LFC 2): I have a feeling this game will be sneaky good. This game will be a challenge for Old Forge, but also possibly a trap for Western Wayne. I don’t think they fall for it, but I’m hoping it’s at least close.
– Mid Valley vs. Lackawanna Trail (LFC 3): Game of the week in LFC 3 has to be this one! Trail looks super strong this year, but Mid Valley has a quietly underrated team. This is a trap game for Trail, but they should prevail up on Tunnel Hill.
– Hanover Area vs. Berwick (WVC Game Of The Week): I’m only giving the WVC one game this week, when it comes to my area picks. No divisions or honorable mentions (in fact, this would’ve been one if we had some competitive games). The schedule is repugnant. There are no games with competitive matchups. This game has seeding implications, as Hanover Area & Berwick are #8 & #9 respectively. CJ Curry gets win #1 but I feel for the league. They need some competition.
– Lakeland vs. Susquehanna (LFC HM): This game has implications. The winner of this might have the #2 seed locked up in 2A. The Sabers are a quality 3-1, even with a weak schedule. The & 1? To Western Wayne. They have the LFC gauntlet trio immediately after. Lakeland started 2-0, but lost the last two. Both are separated by nearly .04 power rating pts in 2A. Every win counts here. The edge in both will go to a good story in Susquehanna.
– Abington Heights vs. North Pocono (D2 HM): This is an overlooked game in D2. The Comets are solid & their loss last week was not surprising. North Pocono is coming off of a heartbreaker on the shores of Lake Wally. The Comets will take one on the road.
– Wallenpaupack vs. Delaware Valley (Rivalry): I had a slight feeling Paupack would end up at 3-1 at this stage of the season (at least be 2-2), but the Buckhorns have surprised me with gritty play that could make them a tough out. Meanwhile, DV has a chip on their shoulder. This won’t be close, but if we’re on a potential 3rd upset watch in a row, then Chartiers-Houston, We Have A Problem…or Liftoff (see what I did there?)
– Holy Cross vs. Col-Mont Vo-Tech (Give Some Respect): This game would not have been included if it wasn’t for the lack of WVC games. Let’s start with Holy Cross. They are a nice 2-2, as they’ve won the games they should’ve won & lost the ones they did. CMVT, on the other hand is a surprising 3-1. Keep in mind that they’re playing the worst teams in the state on an indie schedule. Wins against Shenandoah Valley, Montrose, & Renaissance Academy (who still hasn’t won a game all-time) & a loss to a decent Morrisville team have shaped their season, thus far. This is the second of four games in D2 territory for the Rams. I think Holy Cross takes this, but don’t be surprised if their winnable schedule puts them in a shocking conversation about the 4A (yes, you read it right) EC game. They’d need tons of help to do so, however.
– Selinsgrove vs. Williamsport (D4 6A): It’s good to feature a Billtown game for once! The Millionaires are in a race for home field advantage with Scranton. They, like the Knights, get a challenge against Selinsgrove. The Seals are batting .500, with two great losses (Twin Valley & Shore) to their resume. I think Williamsport gets their first true challenge this weekend. They have a mini-gauntlet with Shore & Shamokin up next. I might throw in more 6A implication games soon, but I won’t pick them to win this week.
– Tri-Valley vs. Williams Valley (D1 1A): Anyone interested in another rivalry game? These two are the class of the field in that area of Schuylkill, Dauphin, & Northumberland Counties every year, it seems. Tri-Valley suffered its first loss last week, while the Vikes have won two close games, but are perfect at 4-0. I think the team from Tower City (or Williamstown) stays perfect, but Tri-Valley needs to be careful. Marian & Nativity have two gimmes (Panther Valley & Mahanoy, respectively) & I’d expect more shuffling in the standings at the halfway point.
Scores
– Scr Prep 28, Scranton 14
– WW 31, Pizzatown 17
– Trail 24, Mid Valley 20
– Berwick 35, Hanover Area 8
– Susq. 20, Lakeland 12
– AH 30, NP 14
– DV 41, Paupack 13
– Holy Cross 26, CMVT 15
– ‘Grove 35, Billtown 6
– WV 34, T-V 20
@ DV Warrior
As someone who’s from that area, thank you for bringing up that it’s a rivalry. I feel like there are many people who forget that.
I feel like, although it’s been traditionally (in the Olsommer era) one-sided, there is a decent rivalry between the two (& especially overall in a lot of sports. I’d say the Buckhorns true rival is Honesdale, but it’s right up there.
I’m curious to see how a Matt Nawrocki led team goes up against a division power. This is his first big test as a coach. The last two games have been comebacks & gritty second half kind of games. I’m curious to see what it’ll be like against the strong competition.
@DISTRICT 2 FOOTBALL
We also played Jersey Shore and SP. Honestly there is no comparison between the two. JS is a talented football team with great tradition but SP seems to be in a different class. I guess we will see as they play late October.
Looking forward to facing off against the talented Buckhorns with weekend, always a great rivalry as I have attended this game for many man years.
@ DISTRICT 2 FOOTBALL
I disagree with your statement on SP. We have 750 boys in our school compared to SP’s 340 and they beat us. We double them in size and let me tell you they bring a physical brand of football with them. I love the LFC division 1, has all the ingredients of old school, old fashioned football (what this area needs).
Good Luck to all District 2 teams this weekend as we need to all stick together en route to district championships.
@ SP IMPORTS
I didn’t forget anybody , I only mentioned the teams that truly matter .
I don’t give much thought to the scoop and gather teams .
Get talent from a 4 to 5 block range from Importville and we will revisit this conversation. Let’s see how potent your arrogance is.
Hahahaha not today buddy
Good day
@Jc: Well, I guess you had to grow up there and spend a significant amount of your summers from ages 8-20 there to get it. A good-natured pun based upon this author’s teenage memories.
@ district 2 football
Did you forget someone in the AAA state rankings? hahahahahah
@ Kevin X
I’m assuming SJP-Roman will be at Norristown since it’s an SJP home game and all their other home games are at Norristown this year. Of course it’s possible there’s a conflict with a Norristown game or event in which case they’ll have to do something along the lines of what they did last year against Judge when the Prep used Conwell-Egan as a home field.
SJP remains a big question mark for this year. They had a disastrous second quarter against St. Edward’s which scored all 35 of its points within about eight minutes. Erasmus Hall looked a good bit weaker than the Erasmus team the Prep beat (by just a TD) two years ago. I’m sure the Prep had a game lined up for last weekend but the opponent must have bailed–last year at this time the Prep had already played IMG, St. Peter’s, Lakeland, and Bosco (NJ). Good Counsel (MD), SJP’s opponent on Friday, has already lost a couple of games, including one against DePaul of NJ (not traditionally an especially strong team), so it’s very possible we won’t get a good sense of how good SJP is until they play LaSalle in early October.
If SJP stays reasonably healthy, I think they’re still the clear favorites when they play Roman or LaSalle. But they’re quite inexperienced in a few places (e.g., offensive line, defensive secondary and have less depth than usual, so two or three key injuries could have a big impact. I know that sounds like a cop-out, but with Roy out they really need Sacco, Smith, and Haskell in good form. Same for West.
I don’t quite get the battle of or for Knoebels thing. Knoebels is in elysburg, the middle of the southern school district. Its like saying it’s the battle for mattucis in the middle of Mt. Carmel. I don’t get it???
@ Jeff H
Short answer, realistic, sure, why not. If there was a year to do it, this is it. Will they, who knows. I do look forward to being at all 3 of this games (LaSalle/Roman being the third). I tho can’t speak for SJP, their body of work this year has only consisted of two games. There are others who frequent this forum (Frank G and Joneses (spelling??) come to mind first, that probably have a much better view on SJP than me (which is very little at this point). As far as RC and LaSalle, I’d give the edge to LaSalle for winning against SJP. QB and receiving core, special teams and disciple.
Ironic that Malvern Prep lost to both LaSalle and Roman by the identical 21-17 score.
Anyone know where the Roman/SJP game will be played week 9??
Just had to say it’s definitely nice to see
Western Wayne Ranked #5 for AAA
such a great story for a school that was riddled with hard roads in football just a short seven years ago going backwards, they were more known for their marching band. That is amazing and still is.
Great job Wildcats
Also, it’s great to see representing district 2
Lackawanna Trail
And also Riverside #2 in AA
Although I think Mid Valley was snubbed
They are playing some really good football
At least they could’ve been honorable mention
Again, congratulations to all of these teams that make district 2 proud
It’s nice that we have a good amount of teams in the state rankings
Good luck to all of these teams
@D2 Fan: You are correct. MCA now has naming dibs on the Twister, the Flyer and the Haunted House. The Battle for Knoebels* has been won by the Tornadoes and to the victor go the spoils.
I had forgotten that MCA is now in 3A so they will not meet later for the D4 2A title. So to them, I tip my hat.
I think the Danville v Southern game will be a real humdinger. ‘Tucky
*Btdubs, I’m gonna hafta trademark that. 🙂
So mount Carmel had to cancel there football season a few years ago, a few years before that there pee wee and mini teams were thrown out of the tri county youth football league because of the actions of there coaches and now to present day where a parent is fighting a coach in yet another youth league they are apart of. They are supposed to be the winningest program in pa.
@D2 Fan – that was a pretty big upset last week by Waynesburg, I don’t think anyone saw that coming, they will make the playoffs but I don’t think they are a serious contender, they play at Steel Valley this week and if they can hang with them I may change my mind. Another feel good story in 2A is South Alleghany, who is 4-0 for the first time since 1977 after beating OLSH last week 23-7. They play a very solid South Park team this week and Steel Valley next month so we’ll have a better idea on South A. in a few weeks. I will say 2A is down this year in the WPIAL so the district playoffs may be pretty wide open and a lower seed could make a run because of the parity and lack of great teams.
Regarding Belle Vernon, people outside of the WPIAL have overrated them all year, based on the last 2 years in 3A. They are at best the 5th best 4A team in the WPIAL, behind the Quips, TJ, Montour and McKeesport. Speaking of McKeesport they have a huge nonconference game this week against USC, even if they lose as expected I think they run the table the rest of the way and head into the playoffs at 6-4 and could make some noise, only 8 teams make the 4A playoffs this year, and the winner enters the state playoffs in the quarterfinals, the last few cycles 4A entered in the semi-finals.
@D2 fan
I wouldn’t be surprised if Shamokin is 9-0 going into the MCA game and ends up winning the Coal Bucket for the first time since 1995.
@Kevin X – curious of your opinion on Roman and LaSalle as compared to SJP, do you think either has a realistic chance to beat them next month? I have thought since preseason that Roman was the team to beat in 5A now that Imhotep has been moved to 6A, and LaSalle would seriously challenge SJP, nothing I’ve read or seen has changed my opinion thus far, but wondering what your thoughts are on both teams after having seen them in person.
Some in-state observations.
– Thinking about Zollers & his injury. Hoping for a speedy recovery. You have to hate it for the kid.
– I clearly didn’t expect Mount Carmel/Southern to be an Iowa game. What a hard-fought win for the Red Tornadoes. The Battle Of Knoebels’ only game goes to MCA. The only thing missing is to have Twister renamed to include Mount Carmel.
– La Salle is them! They soundly beat Haverford School. I think we’ll be seeing La Salle be absolute contenders for states this year. Roman, speaking of which, really played well against Malvern Prep.
– I should’ve listened about East St. Louis. Oh well. Again, I’m no savant on STL football.
– I thought North Schuylkill would’ve given Solehi a much better fight. I truly think they’ll have a legitimate say in who advances to states. It may be them, but it may also be one of the two from the EPC Catholic duo.
– How about Liberty this year? BASD Stadium has two good teams this year. I don’t remember the last time they were undefeated up to this point, but I’m liking what I’m seeing!
– Jeff H. can answer my question: Is Waynesburg a legit contender in 2A WPIAL? Very impressed with their win over Washington.
– McKeesport got a nice win over BV. Surprised the score was what it was.
– Close, close call for P-R, as they beat North Hills 29-24.
– I got my Heartland picks wrong, but we should be impressed with how Shamokin upset Jersey Shore. They had a difficult early schedule & it may’ve caught up to them. They should have a few laughers coming up. Don’t count out Shamokin to challenge for the #1 seed in 4A.
– Is Conestoga Valley a contender in D3 5A? They seem to be rolling this season & Ephrata seems to have taken a step back.
– Lastly, congrats to Greater Johnstown for breaking a 43-game losing streak against Central Cambria. Hope this can be the first of many more to come!
Overall, if you like following along with picks. 9-1 in my area, but in-state wasn’t good: 47-16 in the rest of the state. 56-17 is good, but I made some noticeable whiffs. I whiffed on D9 & D10, which are my weakest areas, outside of the good teams. I should’ve kept my DuBois pick, but shootout games are outcomes I can’t get mad at missing. Same goes for games like SCA/MCA & Latrobe/FR.
I also realized how I could’ve thrown out the extra 3 D1/12 games to get to get to a more even number. Oh well. I’ll maybe throw my HMs in the WVC in my “state picks” instead for Week 5. I’m foreshadowing because the slate is atrocious this week in that league. 7 Lackawanna, 1 WVC, & Williamsport, & the 1A Subregional are my picks this week. The only good game is a battle for 8/9 that won’t be close.
@ Cavalier
Congratulations on your Preparatory bunch Narrowly escaping
0-4 Delaware Valley 28-25
Not much reason to celebrate too hard
And if not, Scranton, I am quite sure Jersey shore will be ready ! ! !
And whom so ever it is that beats your bunch, I will be exuberantly happy for that team.
I will end it there because I have to filter what I say just to be polite to eastern PA football and to David
@ DISTRICT 2 FOOTBALL
What is your Scranton prediction this week? Your 17-14 Del Val prediction was spot on…Great Job!! You must be at practice every day with the football team!!
Keep hating on them boys…We comin Scranton!
PCL Red 2, Inter-Ac 0, in my two in person games this weekend. I did make it down to Haverford yesterday afternoon. A good call. Just about a perfect day to get out and take in a game. Maybe a tad too warm for mid September football game?? Not complaining, I’ll just think about this game when I’m freezing my tushy off in late November. Anyways, a great atmosphere at Haverford in a unique setting. A shout out to both the Malvern Prep and Haverford student sections. A little different vibe with two all boys student sections. Heavy on the testosterone. Game was closer than the 34-6 final score, as it was only 14-3 at halftime, and 14-6 at the end of the 3rd qtr. LaSalle scored early in the 4th and a couple of more times late in the game. Haverford just couldn’t get their offense kick started against a stingy LaSalle D. Can arguably say that I saw two of the best, if not the best, junior QBs in PA in RC’s Beals and LaSalle’s Sidwar this weekend.
Looking forward to later in the season when the teams swap opponents, with LaSalle/Roman Catholic and Malvern Prep/Haverford games.
Also, an on-line ticketing free weekend!! Actually, no cash needed either!!!
Any Zollers injury update?? Hoping for the best, expecting, unfortunately the you know what.
Kevin X…Once I hear back from the coach I will let you know. It’s heartbreaking to see a player get hurt.
D2 Notes After Week 4. Not a whole lot. It was status quo.
1. Prep Spoils A Del Val Homecoming: I didn’t get to watch or follow along, but this game looked like a fun one. Prep outlasted DV, 28-25, in a thriller that puts DV in an 0-4 hole once again. I’d be afraid if I’m Paupack next week. They’re going to blow the doors off of them, to gain confidence.
2. Dallas Is Off The Schneid: It didn’t come easy, but Dallas is in the win column after another battle. Dallas was trailing heading 14-0 early in the game & I had to question if Dallas is just having that kind of year. Dallas took out frustrations & seemed to be in control late, but the fourth quarter made it feel like a slugfest. They won 41-33. The easy part of their schedule is coming up, with Pittston, North Pocono, & WVW before Crestwood, who might actually be the one challenger in WVC 1.
3. A Signature Win: New Paupack coach Matt Nawrocki got a signature win last night by beating his alma mater of North Pocono in a bit of fourth quarter heroics. Trailing 14-7 at half, it felt like Paupack was going to continue their LFC 1 losing streak. A late TD by Paupack was the difference on offense, but the defense was the side that sealed it, as they had a goal line stand on 4th & 1 at the 5 to win it. Paupack keeps their #1 seed, at least for another week, but the schedule gets much harder, as they have in-county rival DV & Prep in back to back games. I don’t see them being a top tier team in 4A. They have a young team with senior playmakers, but they aren’t ready for primetime yet. I’d be beyond shocked if they pulled it off next week.
4. WVC/LFC Struggles: I read somewhere that the WVC had a combined 9 wins heading into this week. I said how the league is very weak this year, but we’re now in conference play for most teams, so that’ll help out a lot. However, I deep dove into the crossover games to really show how the LFC is dominant. LFC teams won all but two games against the WVC: Hazleton over now 0-4 West Scranton & Wyoming Area over Lakeland. That makes me wonder: Is there a need in the next cycle for any crossovers in other leagues for the WVC to be better challengers? This feels a bit like some of the EPC talk we’ve had, but we’re talking about an entire league one-upping the other like it’s the Big Ten & the MAC. It seems like a regular occurrence these days up my way. Who knows? We could see a shift in 2025 & this point then becomes moot.
5. Back To Western Wayne: A great win for the Wildcats, as they shut out Crestwood, 21-0. There is something really brewing in South Canaan & I think they are in great position to be the #1 seed & run the table heading into the playoffs. Old Forge comes to town next week, which they should beat. After that, I’m only slightly concerned about a Week 9 tilt against Mid Valley, but I think if there’s a team that can challenge Prep, WW might have a better chance than in years past.
I was 9-1 this week on area picks. I missed the subregional game of the week, as Nativity took down Tri-Valley. Shakes up the 1A leaderboard a bunch. I might give a super early look at the playoffs in each class, if there’s any interest. If not, I’ll have to look at the rest of the state & see what was interesting this weekend.
@Jc The team is North Schuylkill. Those numbers are the points given up in their first 4 games.
Blue 30, 35,29,36 hutt, hutt hike. My trivia question is what team would use this cadence and why? Winner gets a $50 gift certificate for Long John silvers in shamokin
@Mark d
I absolutely agree with you Abington Heights has definitely come along way from just a few short years ago when They had some rough years before those years. They were very dominant. Always back-and-forth with Valley View that is for sure But now clearly seems they are back
And that I say I’m very happy for them and also Valley View to continue to be strong It just makes the area a lot more competitive Moving forward in states
Speaking of going through some rough years Dunmore Is definitely having one of those years being 0-4 Now They will definitely have to regroup and rebuild. It’s so strange. I don’t think I’ve ever remembered that happening to the Bucks At least in recent history The same goes for Lakeland Last year they went 1-9 And now they are 2-2 Trying to get back on track with lots of freshman and sophomores filling the roster
It’s crazy to think Years back in AA It was always Lakeland or Dunmore in the championship game I remember reading Donnie Collins article from the Scranton Times saying that
Lakeland and Dunmore were the two most winning small school programs in the area and now it seems they are both gathering their bearings. I am confident they were both regain Their winning ways
It’s also strange seeing Dallas go through the same drought
And as we all know in recent conversations, look at Archbishop Wood also Berwick is 0-4
It’s definitely strange for sure .
On the flip side of things look at Western Wayne a team that had 3 consecutive seasons going 0-10 and just not competitive at all to now are a powerful football machine
SO HAPPY for them and their community
And also Mid Valley on average a middle of the road team with 2 championships in their school history and now they are still undefeated GREAT JOB SPARTANS
This should be an awesome display of power in the AAA
District playoffs with SCRANTON PREP- MID VALLEY
and WESTERN WAYNE all having strong performance seasons
Good luck to all
@ Foleman sorry to hear about the Spring- Ford QB I was at the game but left before that. That’s such a tough break for a great player. You are right lots of drops by SF. Thought West QB looked good throwing and also running.
@ District 2 football. Yeah, it was a nice win. I’ll tell you what is a good old-fashioned. Big 11 game. They were hitting one of the more physical high school games I’ve seen in a long time Abington’s a tough team. No, it’s one of those games where it’s a shame either team had to lose. I think valley views gonna get better every week once they get that tailback Going into the offenseitl, make a big difference And right now the defense is hustling and hits hard. Warning teams down the road though Abington’s gonna be a tough out.They’re physical that quarterback throws a great ball.He’s on the money with it all the time
@Mark d
Congrats to the Cougars on beating a solid
Abington Heights team .
V V is back to their winning ways ,
I think Valley View is a strong contender for districts
Sad news out of Royersford, Springford QB Matt Zollers was carted off the field by ambulance after a sack with 5 minutes to go in the 4th quarter in their game with Downingtown West. The tackle happened right in front of me, his foot did a complete 360, I hope I’m wrong but it looked like his ankle was completely broken. Poor kid, it looks like his season is over. SF was trailing 21-12, SF receivers dropped several passes, a couple of those throws were TD’S, SF called a bizarre behind the back QB handoff to a RB on 1st and goal from DTW 2 yard line which led to a fumble. What looked like one of the top teams in District 1, at least on paper, is now 1-3 and now without the best player in the area.
District 2 Football , I just want to give you one correction Is valley view twenty eight abington heights Fourteen
Five more picks, plus two switches. Greater St. Louis football is not an area I know well, so I’ll use the info given to my advantage, but I’m keeping the pick. The other game is a D9 tilt that I felt was wrong. Thanks to Jeff for reminding me of some extra games. I kinda half asked my research & missed out on some good games out west.
Bonus 5
– Belle Vernon vs. McKeesport: BV 33, McK 14
– Avonworth vs. Thomas Jefferson: TJ 38, Avonworth 20
– West Philadelphia vs. Father Judge: All Rise 30, Bel Air 14
– Haverford HS vs. William Tennent: HHS 23, Tennent 15
– Conwell-Egan vs. Lansdale Catholic: LC 30, CEC 19
Quick Switches
– Same score, but Karns City over DuBois.
– Imhotep 31, ESTL 24
Everyone picking winners and losers of the games reminds me how tough it can be to know who is good and who isnt early in the season these days, when everything is so rushed with the high school football season. Gone are the days of a full preseason camp along with at least two scrimmages many times three. CB West is a good example they open the season with a win over Easton a win that is looking better each week,but then lose to a Souderton team that lost to Spring-Ford in the opener the same Spring-Ford team that was mauled by Easton. But if the modern version of the high school football season means more games where the outcome isnt easy to know ahead of time I can live it. Enjoy Friday night lights everyone.
@D2 Fan – I agree with all of your WPIAL picks, although I do think the Quips will beat Mars by a lot more than 10 points, Mars is not as good as I anticipated. One thing to note is All State RD Tikey Hayes is questionable tonight, but they have a D1 backup running back to replace him, and I don’t think they will miss a beat, I see the Quips winning this game by at least 3 scores and maybe more.
You did miss a couple of intriguing matchups, in 4A Belle Vernon travels to winless McKeesport (which is hard to believe given their recent success), after blowing a 28-7 halftime lead last week against TJ I think McKeesport gets their first win tonight, if they don’t they are staring at an 0-5 start because next week they play Upper St Clair who is rolling. Speaking of TJ they host 3A Avonworth, who jumped to a 14-0 lead last week against the Quips before losing 46-20, I think this game will be a lot closer than their game against Aliquippa but I see TJ winning 31-21.
I agree with JCo and Kevin X, I think the Imhotep vs. East St Louis game is a tossup that could go either way but I like East St. Louis to win a close one, and I think Easton beats Becahi by a couple of TDs
East St. Louis is no joke. I would be shocked if that game was a blowout in Imhotep’s favor. I think that’s a loss for Imhotep.
I would also take Easton over Becahi, but can’t disagree with any of your other D11 predictions.
@ D2 Fan
Mmmm, hard to find much, if anything, to disagree with you on your SEPA picks this week. Maybe I’m just still a little salty over my Spring-Ford pick last week 🙂 But we’ll go on the record with two thoughts. I don’t see Imhotep beating East St. Louis by 4 scores. In fact, I’m going to take East St. Louis to outright win that game. If you the #1 ranked team in Illinois by MaxPreps (Yeah, I know, it’s MaxPreps) and travel half way across the country to north Philly, you aren’t doing that in anticipation of a four score beatdown. If they don’t win, it will at least be a two score game or less. And this one maybe is a little bit of an upset special, as I’ll take Perk Valley to trip up Coatesville this evening.
PCL/Inter-Ac double header for me this weekend. Roman at Malvern Prep tonight, and going to try to make it down to the LaSalle/Haverford tilt tomorrow afternoon in maybe one last tee shirt, shorts, and sunscreen game.
My predictions For this week
DISCLAIMER ALERT for the following !
The thoughts or views there within are solely of mine
District 2 Football NOT those of District 2 ,
Thank you .
Mid Valley 21
Honesdale 17
Mount Carmel 17
Southern Columbia 12
Lackawanna Trail 48
Dunmore
Jersey shore 23
Shamokin 21
Abington Heights 28
Valley View 12
Delaware Valley 17
Scranton Prep 14
Rest of the State’s Best Games. I didn’t expect to have this much, but there are some good games across the state. D11 & D1 are loaded. Please note that my Thursday predictions were made before game time.
District 11
– Bethlehem Catholic vs. Easton: Beca 29, Easton 19
– Emmaus vs. Stroudsburg: Emmaus 42, S’burg 13
– Freedom vs. Nazareth: Freedom 27, Naz 26
– Northampton vs. Liberty: N’hampton 21, Liberty 19
– North Schuylkill vs. Southern Lehigh: Solehi 34, NS 27
– Northwestern Lehigh vs. Blue Mountain: NWL 33, BM 14
– Saucon Valley vs. NDGP: NDGP 34, Saucon 7
– Minersville vs. Williams Valley: WV 28, Minersville 14
District 4
– Southern Columbia vs. Mount Carmel: SCA 35, MCA 21
– Shamokin vs. Jersey Shore: Shore 35, Shamokin 13
– Athens vs. Troy: Troy 34, Athens 12
District 1/12
– CB South vs. CB East: CBS 32, CBE 17
– Coatesville vs. Perk Valley: C’ville 28, Perk Valley 14
– D’Town West vs. Spring-Ford: DTW 34, S-F 21
– Neshaminy vs. North Penn: NP 31, Nesh 18
– Norristown vs. Rustin: WCR 35, Norry 21
– OJR vs. Avon Grove: OJR 21, AG 13
– Pennsbury vs. Pennridge: P’bury 31, Pennridge 14
– PJP vs. Shanahan: PJP 33, Shanahan 19
– Radnor vs. Strath Haven: Strath 31, Radnor 19
– Frankford vs. Ben Franklin: Franklin 23, Frankford 16
District 3
– Cedar Cliff vs. McDevitt: McD 28, CC 22
– Susq. Twp. vs. West Perry: West Perry 31, Susq. Twp. 21
– Central York vs. Spring Grove: CY 30, SGA 14
– Conestoga Valley vs. Ephrata: Eph 34, C’stoga Valley 24
– Exeter Twp vs. Governor Mifflin: Exeter 33, GM 13
– Garden Spot vs. Cocalico: Cocalico 26, GS 19
– Dallastown vs. South Western: SW 24, D’Town 14
– Biglerville vs. Delone: Delone 32, Biglerville 8
District 5/6
– Penn Cambria vs. Bedford: PC 33, Bedford 14
– Windber vs. Meyersdale: Windy 22, M’dale 13
– Everett vs. Northern Bedford: NBC 21, Everett 14
– Bellwood-Antis vs. Central: Central 28, B-A 17
District 9/10
– DuBois vs. Karns City: DuB 22, KC 17
– Port Allegany vs. Brockway: PA 37, Brockway 14
– Erie vs. McDowell: McDowell 22, Erie 7
– Sharon vs. Hickory: Hickory 27, Sharon 23
– Reynolds vs. Sharpsville: Reynolds 26, Sharpsville 17
WPIAL/City
– Woodland Hills vs. Penn-Trafford: WH 30, P-T 19
– North Hills vs. Pine-Richland: P-R 33, NH 17
– Greater Latrobe vs. Franklin Reg.: GL 35, FR 24
– Mars vs. Aliquippa: Quips 34, Mars 24
– West Mifflin vs. Bethel Park: BP 38, WM 13
– Chartiers-Houston vs. Ft. Cherry: FC 23, C-H 11
– Greensburg CC vs. Clairton: Clairton 36, GCC 14
– Waynesburg vs. Washington: Prexies 25, WBG 13
– Knoch vs. Montour: Montour 35, Knoch 13
– Westinghouse vs. Perry: Westy 45, Perry 0
Non-PIAA/Crossover
– Simon Gratz (12) vs. Executive (11): EE 20, Gratz 7
– Manheim Twp. (3) vs. Plymouth-Whitemarsh (1): MT 33, P-W 15
– State College (6) vs. Cumberland Valley (3): SC 35, CV 18
– Butler (7) vs. Hollidaysburg (6): H’burg 26, Butler 14
– Allderdice (8) vs. Uniontown (7): U’town 16, Allderdice 15
– Germantown Acad. vs. Northeast (12): GA 30, N’east 13
– Roman Catholic (12) vs. Malvern Prep: Roman 29, Malvern 20
– La Salle (12) vs. Haverford: La Salle 35, Haverford 20
– East St. Louis (IL) vs. Imhotep (12): Imhotep 42, ESTL 13
– Hill vs. Episcopal: EA 29, Hill 19
@ Kevin X & Irish 1 – as a band parent for 6 years while both of my kids were in the marching band I wholeheartedly agree a good band or bands definitely add to the atmosphere at the game, not just with the halftime shows, but also all the stand tunes they play during the game to hype up the crowd. I was the drum major my senior year of high school of a very good marching band with a very bad football team, so we often had fans leave after they saw the band at halftime because the game wasn’t going so well, I think we won a total of 4 games during my 3 years in the marching band!
@ Kevin X …a great band or bands can add so much to the atmosphere of a Friday night. Have always heard Strath Haven has one of the best,and Liberty has a good one. I believe Easton has a large band also.
Tucky – Southern rolls past the Tornadoes. It’s a great day to have a great day
JC berwick right now. It just seems to be a football team who’s lost. I don’t know what you could say about them. I really don’t know what kind of type of offense he’s running. It’s not working even 5 years ago if you told me. The burwick could be 0_3 and scored 14 points in 3 games. I would ask what you were smoking
Is everybody ready for the Battle for Knoebels?! Southern v Mt Carmel this Fri! May the best men win.
Jeff H, you are correct, a few of those Wood Powerhouses were the best team in the State regardless of Classification, they crushed all comers in the playoffs. I remember watching them beat McDevitt 52-0 in the final, they could have scored 75 points if they wanted to. I knew something was going South over there during Woods last Championship when they beat a loaded Cheltenham team on the last play of the game in the 5A final, they only had 30 kids on the team, many Class A schools have more players than that.
@ D2 Fan
Watch the DTE/S-F game on YouTube the other night. Wow, S-F literally fumbled that game away. Poor kid (QB Zoellers) is going to get himself killed behind that OL. Both that game and the Rustin/PJPII games were would of, could of, should of type of games. My more incorrect prediction with those two games were that I had the margin of victory larger than what they were.
I don’t know how many points a band is worth, but I do know I’d attend a Strath Haven/Bethlehem Liberty game just for the band performances. Probably be a good game as well.
To continue the Wood article nitpicking, Wood is not a 4A school by enrollment, per the current PIAA enrollment figs, they are a 3A school by enrollment. Don’t know if they are voluntarily playing up to 4A, the PCL or D12 is having a say in it, or if it’s a residual effect from being caught up in the PIAA competition formula that has restrictions on teams moving back down after being forced to “play-up.”
I might be a little stitious on this upcoming Friday The 13th in HSFB! Time to make predictions.
– Scranton Prep vs. DV (LFC 1): Prep has their two biggest division games to start. Meanwhile, DV gets to finally play Lackawanna League opponents. DV starting 0-4 is unfamiliar territory in the Olsommer era. I think we see that on Homecoming Saturday (which honestly should be the following week vs. Paupack instead).
– Mid Valley vs. Honesdale (LFC 2): The only in-division showdown is in Honesdale. A very good team in Mid Valley will take on an improved Honesdale team. While Western Wayne is dominating, this will show us who is #2 in division 2. I think Sparty is better.
– Lake-Lehman vs. Riverside (LFC 3): This is a crossover game we should look at. The team from the Back Mountain travels to Taylor where they’ll be an underdog. However, Riverside shouldn’t overlook the Black Knights, either. They’re a quiet 2-1. The Vikes should prevail in this one.
– Wilkes-Barre vs. Dallas (WVC 1): I like a good game to potentially determine the division. However, I won’t say the winner of this will. Wilkes-Barre looks to break their two-game skid after a Whitehall dub in Week 1. Dallas just feels off & I don’t know why. They’ve played two close games & lost a toughie to Abington Heights. I’ll say Dallas bounces back, but I’m far from confident.
– Hazleton vs. Berwick (WVC 2): There just aren’t good games in the WVC this week. This brings back an old divisional rivalry that seems to always be great. I think Berwick gives CJ Curry his first win here.
– Abington Heights vs. Valley View (LFC HM): The Comets & the Cougars have always been tough outs in the gauntlet known as LFC 1. Want to be 2nd or 3rd best? Put yourself in position by winning here & maybe you’ll be second best if you steal a game somewhere else or if DV slips. Valley View seems to have shaken the rust off after a beatdown in Week 1. Abington Heights seems to be in a rhythm. I’ll go with the Cougars but expect this to go either way.
– Western Wayne vs. Crestwood (WVC HM): The crossover game to watch is this. Crestwood is a team that can play anyone tough. Western Wayne has a schedule that they can run the table with, given they win here. CalPreps favors the Wildcats. I think they’re playing better but expect this to be tight.
– North Pocono vs. Wallenpaupack (D2 HM): If you told me that these would be the top 2 in the D2 4A race heading into Week 4, I’d think you’d be crazy. Paupack leads the way, after two wins against opponents they’ve historically (recently) done well against. North Pocono’s schedule has been weak, with a combined 1 win to their opponent’s names. These two teams could be the teams battling for the 4-seed heading into November, or at least the Eastern Conference game. Paupack is favored by CalPreps. I don’t know if they’re ready to take the next step, but their defense last week makes me more confident.
– Scranton vs. West Scranton (Rivalry): One more highlight in the week, but both teams are on opposite wavelengths. The undefeated Knights play the winless Invaders for the Battle Of The Bell. Scranton looks like a threat in LFC 1 this year & might actually pose a threat to the four playing each other this week. This is a tune-up game before a big division test next week. Scranton goes 4-0 & it won’t be close.
– Nativity vs. Tri-Valley (Subregional): I’ll give 3-0 Williamsport their flowers next week. This is a very important game between #1 & #4 in the 1A race. Tri-Valley is rolling through the competition, but it’s not surprising. Nativity lost a tough game against Williams Valley but give them credit. They fought until the end. The Bulldogs look to be a solid favorite here & I’ll have to agree.
Scores
– Scranton Prep 28, DV 20
– Mid Valley 27, Honesdale 12
– Riverside 38, L-L 8
– Dallas 21, WBA 17
– Berwick 26, Hazleton 16
– VV 26, AH 22
– Western Wayne 23, Crestwood 19
– Paupack 20, North Pocono 17
– Scranton 42, West Scranton 6
– Tri-Valley 34, Nativity 14
@ Foleman – Not to nitpick but the writer of this article must not be very familiar with the PIAA playoffs and classifications, otherwise he would have known that Wood won 3 3A state titles in the 4 class era prior to 2016, and another 3 from 2016-2019 in 5A, they didn’t dominate 5A for a decade because the classification hasn’t been around that long. It is stunning how that program totally imploded after winning their last title in 2019, they certainly lost the arms race with SJP, Roman and LaSalle.
@Jc
CJ Curry will be a tremendous coach. I believe Berwick will get better each week and ultimately surprise people in weeks 8-10. Congrats to Valley View on a hard faught win at Wilkes Barre. I am looking forward to the matchup with Abington Heights this week, two programs playing well with confidence.
Dave Armstrong has resigned as the Head Coach of Archbishop Wood. What once was one of the Premier Football Programs in the State-6 5A Championships from 2011 to 2019 is now a team that is averaging a few wins per year. Armstrong cited “Personal Reasons” His record was 2-22 in 2+ years at Wood. I believe the final straw was Bonner/Prendie beating Wood 62-14 last week. Word has it that parents of Wood players were livid at the coaching and culture within the program, Wood had to cancel a few games in 2022 due to lack of players. Several coaching changes and player transfers didn’t help either. I have heard that the Wood administration is no longer putting an emphasis on the football program and has placed an emphasis on basketball. Being around successful and not so successful private school football programs for many years, you need 2 things in place in order to be successful-A good coach and administration buy in. Wood had several top notch coaches for several years, 2 of them are now coaching in college plus they had the backing from the administration during their run. Article below:
https://www.phillyburbs.com/story/sports/high-school/football/2024/09/10/archbishop-wood-football-coach-dave-armstrong-resigns-archbishop-piaa-bucks-county-high-school-pa/75163948007/
Ok only positives. Each week I’ll mention a team and give me a positive reaction. Berwicks offense? Positive thoughts?
I forgot to mention while I am in ( J.U.G 😉
From Eastern PA Football I wish all of you a great rest of your season.
Thank you David. I love this site and the blog. You do everyone a great service. Thanks for what you do.
@everyone
First of all, don’t blame David Mika he has always been an
Outstanding person .
All those posts that I put were directed absolutely at the coaching staff not the athletes I have said that before
And also the administration of the PIAA
Please never say anything negative about David again
I take full responsibility
And I apologize if I offended anybody
I will stand on the sidelines anymore quietly
Peace be with you
Hey, district 2 football let it go already. You’re making a whole area look stupid.
JCo – I think Schuylkill Haven is going to come out a clear favorite after some more weeks are played. I think they have a good shot to make a legit run this year. Might be a bold prediction but I think they meet Southern in the eastern final
David Mika
Pleas stop putting up these hateful posts. I am baffled as to why you let D2 Football verbally attack KIDS and then call everyone at Scranton Prep pricks, multiple times. I have been reading this blog since its inception, and I have never seen you allow these types of posts. Why are you giving D2 Football a pass? I had a post not put up last season where I was critical of Wilkes-Barre Area coach Zero Cinti. it was no where near as hateful as what you allow D2 Football to post.
Maynard, I told my staff to stop posting these type of post.
There are too many comments in here about Scranton Prep and North Schuylkill. Please give it a rest already.
After Week 3 is when I think the contenders really start emerging. It’s early but SJP and La Salle clearly appear to be the top two teams in 6A. Not sure if La Salle can pull off the upset but it seems much more possible this year than past years. I suspect the best public 6A will come out of D3 between Manheim Twp and Harrisburg, Manheim has looked the part but Harrisburg has two very solid wins after their opening day stinker. I expect both to run the table and meet in the D3 title game again, which hopefully lives up to last year’s classic.
I’m most familiar with D11 so a quick look at each class:
6A – Liberty has been a nice surprise but I think Freedom is the top dog here. Big showdown with Nazareth this week, but Freedom has been very impressive and I think they come out on top. Can’t rule out Parkland turning it on come playoff time but they’ve got some work to do I think.
5A – Idk how they got away with not having a subregional, but all 4 teams will make the playoffs and both PV and PM East look terrible. Whitehall has been bad too, though injuries have played some part as Carter Troxell is a big loss, he should come back before the season’s done. ES South is the clear favorite and has performed well, but the bracket pairs the D11 champ with the D12 champ and beating Roman is a long shot, so don’t expect much from D11 at the 5A level.
4A – The Catholics usually run this class, but Blue Mountain has looked very good and Southern Lehigh has dropped down, so this will be a tougher road than normal. Whoever advances will have earned it.
3A – There are several solid teams here, but it would be shocking if anyone other than Northwestern wins this. They are legitimate state title contenders.
2A – A really interesting mix with no clear favorite yet. Williams Valley, Schuylkill Haven, Northern Lehigh, Minersville, Catasauqua, and Executive all have arguments. Schuylkill Haven is my pick right now, they hung with Blue Mountain and have destroyed their last two opponents. They play Minersville and Williams Valley later this month so we will learn more soon.
1A – Now a subregional with D2, which is shaping up to be lots of fun. Tri-Valley vs. Nativity is a big clash this week, but I feel like Lackawanna Trail would be my current pick of the group.
I agree….Moving forward. If you don’t like a program and can’t say anything good…..DON’T
@D2 Fan – Imani is voluntarily playing up to 3A for this cycle, they are 2A by enrollment but playing 3A, as they have a few Power 4 recruits, they are definitely a threat to win WPIAL 3A, and would be big favorites if they were still in 2A, very impressive win last week over a solid Beaver team.
TJ had a big time comeback last week over McKeesport, they trailed 28-7 at half after taking a 7-0 lead in the first quarter, then shut out McKeesport in the 2nd half, and won in OT when they held them to a field goal and then scored a TD.
Clairton may win 1A, I think it will be them and Ft Cherry in WPIAL final, although as you mentioned South Side Beaver is very good, as is Neshannock who is now back in 1A after being in 2A the last several cycles.
All 3 South Hills teams are very good, MaxPreps has them all in the top 6 in the state, that might be a stretch but they are all top 10, USC and Bethel have destroyed everyone they have played, and so has Peters, those games are going to be absolute battles. An under the radar team in 5A is Latrobe, they have 2 big time recruits, including LB/RB Alex Tatsch who is going to Penn State to play linebacker, he’s also an excellent HS running back and ran for 251 yard and 4 TDs last week against Norwin, I think Latrobe wins their conference (which includes Penn Trafford, Gateway, and Woodland Hills) and gets a #2 or #3 seed in WPIAL 5A playoffs, they play at Pine Richland in week 7 in a nonconference game that will have an impact on seeding for the playoffs.
@ District 2 Football.
You are a coward, you can hate on Scranton Prep all you want but in reality your nothing but a coward. Literally you sit behind a computer and spew BS constantly towards young men who are trying to achieve success in life. You are a disgruntled loser who never amounted to anything in life. You and your fake family who supposedly attended Scranton prep, get a life because obviously you don’t have one.
@ D2 Fan, The Rustin-PJP game was basically even, the final score was the result of PJP fumbling a crazy desperation lateral play in the endzone with a few seconds left. PJP missed on a two point conversion attempt with a minute left. Rustin has a veteran tough team that runs the wing t offense.They should be a major factor in 5A,probably right behind Garnet Valley. PJP has a different type team this year with the gradution of an all state running back and an all american offensive lineman they are relying on throwing the ball, They have a talented wide receiver who is headed to Villanova next yr along with some other speedy wideouts. They have a tough game in a few weeks with Phoenixville one of their big rivals. If they stay healthy they should get thru District one 4A. Would have to develope some balance with the running game to move forward after that. They have enough talent to do that and are well coached. Bonner- Prendie in District 12 is really good again.
Early prediction that actually could happen
Delaware Valley 17
Scranton Prep 14
Delaware Valley is 0-3 but only to out of conference solid teams and out of state
Scranton 30
Scranton Prep 21
Scranton is on a mission this year outstanding skill players and a massive line that can move
@ FG hey dad , mom said stop pretending to be someone else and defending your coaching and come to bed
I heard he wears his Shenandoah valley uniform to bed the night before games. Pads and all.
You’re asking for a death sentence if you do that. He’ll throw you through the goalpost from the 20
Correction: I was 6-4 this week with D2 area picks. I somehow skipped over a few losses. I’m having a very bad year as a prognosticator. So bad that I was eliminated from a survivor pool in Week 1 this year. I guess I’m not as knowledgeable as I make myself out to be. Or maybe D2 is that chaotic this year (honestly, chaos is good for HS Football).
Everywhere else, better, but I whiffed on District 3 this week. I was 39-11, which might be one of my best out of state weeks yet. 45-15 (83.3%) is much better this week, but I feel I can improve.
Some observations on other state games
– How is Troy compared to Southern this year? They defeated a big school last week & dominated a decent South Billtown team. Just want to gauge 2A a little more.
– East Stroudsburg South might’ve became 5A favorites in D11 after a nice win over Whitehall. Wins over Abington Hts & the Zephs are great for their season resume.
– How about Line Mountain? Impressive win over a competitive Juniata team.
– Garnet Valley looks great this year & I think they’ll spoil the party for a few good 5A teams.
– PJP suffered an interesting loss to Rustin this week, but Kevin X was right.
– CD East beats Cedar Cliff in a close fight. Got that wrong, but that’s a good win there.
– L-S defeated Cocalico this weekend & it was quite a solid game for them. These wins go a long way to show how tough of an out they’ll be in the playoffs.
– Garden Spot beat a good Ephrata team this weekend. I think they could make a case to be an interesting team in D3 5A.
– Port A came out & possibly put up a Scorigami on Redbank Valley. This could be a year McKean County shows up in 1A States. I’ll give them credit there. Doubted them because of recent history.
– Another good win for TJ over McKeesport. They look like a threat to dethrone the Quips.
– I also really like the win for Belle Vernon over Central Valley. Heard it came down to the end.
– Can you say defense? Harrisburg won 7-6 over State College in one of those defensive battles. I’d bet weather had a bit to do with it.
– Chester played Imhotep, #3 in PA on MaxPreps in quite the battle. This is impressive & if only both were 5A this year.
– Farrell is 0-3 to start the year? That is, in a word, shocking. Tough schedule, at the least, but am I missing something?
Now to respond back after forgetting all week,
@ Kevin X: I wish I had Strath game there. I would’ve gone with Strath Haven if I had remembered. I kind of overlooked the other opponent. For future reference, how many points is the band worth? LOL. I kid. Their running game seems to be solid. Wish I saw your Rustin mention. I think what you said was right. I know little to nothing about the smaller C-M teams, so it’s always a guess for me. I’ll look into them a bit more as the season goes along. You were off on Spring-Ford, but what a quality win for DTE. Something about the Cougars that made me pick them.
@ Foleman: Thank you for sharing info about Twin Valley. I’m impressed with how well they’ve played these last few seasons. They were sort of irrelevant (at least from a casual state football follower) before then, but it’s good to see that program becoming something. I’d have to agree that they might not be at Wyo (or even L-S’ level, but I’ll pay attention to those games.
@ Jeff H: I know I’m a week late. I had things written out, but Labor Day happened & I forgot. I was off on a few Week 2 picks. I sort of went with last season’s success with those. That 5A race out there is going to be so fun to watch, as well. Didn’t realize how close those South Hills teams are to each other in the class rankings. You’re right about TJ being back. It’s good to see. Somehow, I completely forgot ICA was 3A. Thanks for the reminder. Lastly, I think Clairton might be the challenger in 1A this year. I can’t count out Canevin & South Side, but Clairton winning would be good. It’s been a minute since they won in 1A.
Well forest gump id tell wally to try holding onto the ball for 48 minutes because his defensive coordinator is offensive. Id tell him if they go for 2 you try and stop them and id tell him your even shorter and heavier in person.
Not even close to Frackville haha.
How would you defend Southern Lehigh and Olesh this week? I’m hoping Wally sees this and puts your plan into place.
Had a very nice Friday night down in Delco. Close game for most of the first half, then Strath Haven started to turn it on. Very nice crowd at the game as well. I did not see any NFL/Eagles effect on attendance whatsoever. Curious to know if you attended a game Friday night, was it a ghost town with no wait at the concession stands and rest rooms as some were predicting?? I understand there was some weather issues in the western part of the state, more interested in reports from the eastern part of the state.
Would not be surprised if come November I’ll be paying more attention to the District One 5A playoffs versus 6A. Chester, Rustin, Strath Haven, Springfield Delco and new kid to the 5A club, Garnet Valley……..be some difficult choices on games to attend.
One more thing, the Strath Haven band still rocks!!! They are worth the price of admission alone.
I think we should trade frackville to Shenandoah for the heights, William Penn, lower and upper shaft and lost creek.
Go Mountaineers