What would it mean for Parkland to win the game?
In the Class 4A championship game Parkland is 1-1. In 2007 they lost to PCC 21-0 and in 2002 defeated Woodland Hills 34-12. If Parkland wins they win their second PIAA Class 4A state title and the first one for a District 11 team since Allentown Central Catholic won in 2010.
Keys of the game:
On offense they need to control the ball and that doesn’t mean running it either. Parkland can use their height advantage at wide receiver and a short passing attack. Devante needs to run the ball if their running game will have any success. That will help Digirolamo’s running attack. Look for Ridgway to get some carries and change up the offense. Another key is how much time will Cross have passing the ball. The offensive line needs to be physical and block well.
On defense you have two of the best Class 4A defenses in the state. Parkland is giving up 11.6 and PCC is giving up only 8.3 points in the playoffs.
The name of the game for Parkland is stop the short passing attack and running game. They can’t afford to have Jones break free in open space. Parkland is playing at a high level and needs to be physical and create turnovers.
This one should be a close game and special teams or turnovers may decide who is this year Class 4A champion.
Here’s a breakdown of Parkland’s projected starters (In bold) in the Class 3A PIAA State Championship game.
Quarterback
Sr. Devante Cross 6-2, 185
Coach said, ”He is an outstanding competitor and the best dual threat quarterback I have coached in 44 years.” Cross can beat you with his legs and throwing the ball. He is very calm in the pocket and makes good decision. Parkland needs Cross to protect the ball and run 10 to 15 carries. They can change things up and put Nolan Ridgway in at the wildcat. Ridgway adds another dimension to the quarterback position. Cross will move to receiver when Ridgway is in for the wildcat.
Running backs
Sr. Erik Digirolamo 5-9, 185
Digirolamo is one of the captains. He is a powerful runner that likes to run you over. He is going to Lehigh for Lacrosse. He is a good blocker and is physical. Cross is a key to the running game. For Parkland to be successful they need Cross to run the ball well and you will see Ridgway in the back field. Ridgway has good speed.
Offensive Lineman
C Jr. Alex Vanwoert 5-10,210; RT Sr. Steven Feher 6-5, 265; RG Jr. Andrew Parry 5-11, 230; LG Jr. Patrick Ferry 6-3, 315; LT Sr. Noel Brouse 6-5, 265
Brouse is the leader on the offensive line. Brouse and Ferry have the most experience and both started every game last year for the Trojans. They protect Cross and give him time to make the throws. They say if you are good up front you have a shot. They are intelligent and physical and good blockers.
Wide receivers
Sr. Kenny Yeboah 6-5, 220; Sr. Nolan Ridgway 6-1, 185; Jr. Zach Bross 6-4, 190; Sr. Zack Post 6-4, 212
The first guy in is Post when they go big. Yeboah is the main target for Cross. His size has been a problem for teams to defend this year. I don’t see that changing in this game. Look for Yeboah and company to have a big game against the PCC secondary. Carrick Panella will see some action. If they are doubling up Yeboah look for Bross to have a big game Saturday night.
Defensive linemen
So. Jahan Worth 5-11, 210; Jr. DJ Hohman 5-10, 190; Sr. Noel Brouse 6-5, 265; Jr. Palmer Kerch
Parkland needs to rely on their quickness on the defensive line. They are undersized compared to PCC offensive line. Brouse can match up with his size and strength. They need help to penetrate and stop the PCC running attack.
Linebackers
Sr. Marios Delis 5-10, 195; Jr. Frank Guida 5-9, 175; Sr. Erik Digirolamo 5-9, 185
If the running backs break free the Trojans linebackers must tackle well and these kids do that. They have to be physical and create turnovers.
Secondary
Jr. Zach Bross 6-4, 190; CB Sr. Kenny Yeboah 6-5, 220; CB Sr. Devante Cross 6-2, 185; CB Sr. Nolan Ridgway 6-1, 185; Jr. Ethan Imler 6-1, 175
One of Parkland’s strengths is the secondary. They have size, hard hitters and speed. They are tough to throw deep against.
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