By Joe Stokes
The 2008 high school season has reached week eight and it is time to think playoffs for many top ranked teams on Ed Thomas’ Southeastern Pa Top Ten. Other than Malvern Prep all these squads look ready for a PIAA post season push. Although Malvern is ranked number two they are not members of the PIAA and will not be part of the second season.
Last weeks Central League clash between undefeated Ridley and upstart Penncrest made for some great football action. The game lived up to expectations as the Penncrest Lions roared in an exciting 26-19 come from behind win over the Green Raiders. Lion Quarterback Matt Atkinson passed for 163 yards and rushed for 80 to set the tone in this contest. This marks the third fourth quarter comeback this season for this up and coming Penncrest team.
Over the last two seasons a little bit of observation and a lot of luck have allowed this writer a prediction record of 105-36. This season is has been a little tough but a 25-10 prediction record going into the eighth week is fine given how competitive these teams have become this season.
Last weekend North Penn, Garnet Valley, Neshaminy and Chester all won as predicted while the Penncrest win over Ridley denied this writer a perfect week.
Plenty of great matches again this week. Penncrest travels to Upper Darby and the Lions have plenty to play for in this contest. The Royals defeated Penncrest last season and the Lions are now just one game behind Garnet Valley in the Central League Championship race. Should not underestimate Upper Darby’s running attack but won’t pick against Penncrest.again this week.
Prediction: Penncrest 34 Upper Darby 20
The North Penn Knights are 7-0 and just keep rolling through their opponents so far this year. The Souderton Indians will not be up to the task this week and the Knights will continue on their quest for an undefeated season.
Prediction: North Penn 41 Souderton 17
The Philadelphia Catholic League may well have the best game of the weekend. The St Joe Prep Hawks would love to knock off undefeated Cardinal O’Hara. The Prep will be too much for the Lions and an upset is in the making in this contest.
Prediction: St. Joseph Prep 28 Cardinal O’Hara 18
Here is the rest of the fearless forecast:
Prediction: Haverford 28 Springfield 27
Prediction: Chester 28 Glen Mills 14
