Preseason Top 10 High School Football Rankings

Southeastern Pennsylvania Football

Featuring District 1, 12 and the Inter Ac

Preseason Top 10 State Rankings

August 26, 2008

Ed Thomas                  

Hello everyone and welcome to this year’s Preseason Rankings of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s Top 10 teams along with a listing of the State’s Top Ten teams. I want to thank Mike Mayer and all the people at HavenFootball.net for having me with them this year. They have a great and comprehensive site so check it out for all the latest information. Last year we delved into a State Top 10 well into the season. This year we’re starting from the beginning to give all of you a broader perspective and opinion of the “big picture” through the weekly State Top 10 listings. To do this I had to shorten the Southeast PA Top 20 to a Top 10 format. There are just not that many hours in the day. So here we go, off on another quest to uncover as much information as we can for all of you over the course of what promises to be another exciting season of Pennsylvania High School Football.

Review and Preview:

AAAA In what has become a negative trend for Eastern teams, Western representative Pittsburgh Central Catholic (16-0) stunned a good Parkland team (15-1) 21-0 in the AAAA final. This marks the fourth consecutive year the West dominated or routed the East and first occasion where a team was shutout in a AAAA final. In 2006, Upper St. Clair beat Liberty 47-13 following McKeesport ’s 49-10 win over Liberty the year before. In 2004, Pittsburgh Central Catholic beat Neshaminy 49-14 so it has become something of a drought lately in terms of getting a win over these West teams. In last year’s game, Central Catholic controlled the line of scrimmage, holding the Trojans to 101 yards rushing. Meanwhile, they cranked out 220 yards on the ground (6.1ypc) and completed 11 of 15 passes for another 128 yards. The win is Central’s second championship in four years! Clearly, the Vikings have become a juggernaut, going 90-14 over the last eight years for a 87 % win percentage. It’s early but here’s a look at the teams that should make the most impact this year across the state beginning with the AAAA teams.

THE WEST, AAAA

(Districts, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10; Districts 4 and 5 have no AAAA teams)

District-7

Pittsburgh Central Catholic (16-0) Powerful Central Catholic had their ranks thinned with the graduation of all of last year’s key contributors including QB Tino Sunseri (1964py, 24-4 Td-Interception ratio), RB/DE Dan Vaughn (760ry, 191py, 99 tackles, 28 TFL, 13 sacks), leading receiver TE/DE Quentin Williams (443py, 89 tackles, 23 TFL, 9 sacks), RB Andrew Taglianetti (1164ry, 420py) and last year’s sophomore sensation, 6-2 195 pound running back Jeff Knox who scooted for 1243 yards then transferred to national power DeMatha in Hyattsville, MD. They return a few starters to the line including Stephon Mitchell, 6-1, 240 pounds and one of the best junior backs in Dom Timbers (injured last yr, 5-10 180). He’ll improve any line. Linebackers Mike Felker, 6-1, 193 and David Myers, 6-0, 185, their number four and five tacklers respectively return. Central is going to be good again but not as spectacular as last year where they scored 612 points. That’s 38 points a game. 2004’s title team got 574 or 36 points a game. The thing is, these people know how to put a team together as witnessed by their 52-4 won-loss over the last four years, three district titles the last five years, or, a deeper look going back to 2000 showing a 90-14 won-loss. Last year’s bunch was a senior laden team with all their skill back and 15 returning starters. They’ve lost a lot but this is Central Catholic with two gold medals in their trophy case since 2004 so the feeling here is they’ll put a representative team on the field.

Gateway (11-2) Here is the favorite out of the district to represent the West in Hershey. Despite heavy graduation losses, they return a strong nucleus of QB Robby Kalkstein, RB/LB Dorian Bell (130 tackles, 25 TFL, 11 sacks), WR/DB Corey Brown (20/470py, 34 tackles, 4 interceptions), OL/DL Mitchel Devall, a 6-2 290 pound junior, Colin Rodkey, a 6-4, 270 pound senior and Jack Charles, their 6-1, 300 pound senior DT. Gateway will have a huge line in 2008. Linebacking is their strength with the return of their leading tackler, LB/RB Dorian Bell (AP All State 1^st Team LB, 131, 12 sacks), a 6-1 215 senior; Delbert Tyler, last year’s sophomore surprise and # 4 tackler at 5-11, 195 and Brenden Stevens (53 tackles,12 sacks), a 6-2 235 pound senior. The secondary is loaded with Brian Williams, 5-6, 141, a senior with 59 tackles; Corey Brown (34 tackles, 4 picks) and Jeff Parrish, a 5-11 190 senior also with 34 tackles. Place kicker Ryan Lichtenstein returns. Remember (from last year’s write ups), Gateway lost in the WPIAL final to the state champ in a nail biting 35-34 overtime loss. It was a game that must go down as the definitive “Classic” playoff game in WPIAL history. Gateway rallied from a 15 point deficit, 28-13, with 1:05 left to play in the fourth quarter by scoring a touchdown and conversion, recovering an onside kick then scoring again on a hook-and-ladder play with one second left in regulation. There, the Gators converted a pass for the 2-point conversion to send the game into overtime. Talk about momentum! The Gators got the ball first in OT, scored, but ominously missed the extra point. Central got their turn, promptly scored and made the extra point, sending the Gators home to recover emotionally from a game lost, won, then lost again, all in 65 seconds. They may go home a little happier this year.

North Allegheny (11-1) Here’s another powerful entry this year with quarterback Mike Locke back for his senior year. Running back Mike Austin, a 5-9, 155 senior and both OT/DL Ryan Schlieper 6-6 280 and Mike Vuono, 6-3, 275 are back for their senior season. Josh Patten, a 6-3 220 senior, got good playing time and Ben Balzer, 6-3, 265 stood out as a sophomore. Last year’s freshman RB/DB Alex Papson (5-8, 165) rushed for 133yds on 9 carries against Upper St. Clair 5-8 165 and could be a surprise this year. As the second largest school in the district at 991 ( Butler is first at 1022), North Allegheny typically has little difficulty filling voids in the lineup.

Woodland Hills (3-7) Woody returns many from a team that was so down last year they went 0-5 at home. But they only returned one starter, Jim Jessel , 6-2, 295, the fewest in school history so look for a big rebound by the Wolverines this year. Division one recruit Cam Contreras, 6-3, 205 senior wide receiver and kick returned (36/610py) is back. They’ll have a line (graduated 3 OL/DL total). AP All State 2^nd Team DL Rich Gray, 6-2, 245, was a stand out as a sophomore last year at DL/FB. Graduated QB Joe Shaffo (85/131/1296py) is a big loss after coming out of nowhere to complete 65 % of his passes. They have a hot shot in sophomore Ronrei Lloyd, 6-3, 175 or John Yezovich but Shaffo’s production will be hard to replace. Running back’s Edgar Folks, Josh Powell and Charles Williams are back.

Penn Hills (6-5) did not extend Coach Neil Gordon’s contract despite a 156-72-2 record over 21 years. New Head Coach Ron Graham inherits a loaded team with many returning starters backed by experienced players in support so keep your eye on the Indians. They look strong with QB Tom Fulton 6-0 190 back for his third year as a starter. Dante Brown is a top recruit at wide receiver. At 6-5, 205 pounds, you’re not going to miss him in a crowd. The veteran linebacking corps headed by highly regarded AP All State 2^nd Team Don Mason, 6-2, 225 and supported by Ted Blakeman, 6-0, 200 and, Stephon Thompson, 6-1, 200 is strong. Nothing like senior backers. We’ll know about them early as they open at Gateway.

Bethel Park (7-4) With QB/DB Erik Olson, 6-3, 200 back for his senior year, Bethel Park should be strong again. He completed 88 of 147 passes last yards for 1438 yards. Joining him in the backfield is 215 pounds of pain in the form of running back Lyle Marsh, their 6-1 bruiser who ran for 980 yards despite missing considerable time with injuries. If he can stay healthy the Blackhawks will be a factor in the district.

Norwin (7-4) The Knights were a nice surprise last year putting up 313 points but allowing 176. They had close call losses to Bethel Park , Gateway and Central Catholic and now find themselves with wholesale losses of six wide receivers, two tight ends, their fullback and two other running backs. One was Tyler Urban, a 6-5, 245 pound fullback and defensive lineman. He was also AP 2^nd team defense and rushed for 510yds. He had 79 tackles as a DL. They graduated their top receiver/DB Mike Shanahan, 6-5, 200, (37/731py) and a pile of linemen. The big thing is they return QB Alex Dennison. He took control of the Gateway game completing 10 of 24 passes for 234 yards and is a big one at 6-3, 210 so if he gets any talent around him, the Knights will again be a difficult team to beat. Norwin moves to the Foothills Conference from the Great Southern Conference this year in the WPIAL’s biennial realignment. The good news, arch rival McKeesport moves with them.

Upper St. Clair (7-4) Looks interesting with Coach Render rebuilding to 7-4 after graduating 19 starters from the 2006 title team. They had a big playoff win against Shaler last year before losing by twelve to Gateway to enter this season with high hopes. Coach plugged in mostly seniors to the skill positions and almost all of them have graduated including QB Shane Brennan (96/166/1569, 58%), wide receivers Adam Chrissis (29/275ry, 34/626py), Dan Miller (20/460) and Rob Colditz (12/134). Running backs Oliver Hawk (93/105), Grant Serdy 6-1 215 (540ry) and Chris Engel (26/112) also graduated so they’re thin. TE/DE Steve Lias, 6-2, 205 pound senior returns (12/174) with 6-1,180 junior TE/LB Reed Affelbaum. They are high on last year’s number two QB Alex Park, a 6-0 185 pound junior who saw limited playing time. Because they are coached by Jim Render, you have to keep your eyes on these guys.

McKeesport (10-2) They graduate considerable talent from last year’s team but return another quick and athletic group that should make noise. That’s saying something knowing they are the smallest AAAA in the district at 545. They also have a great one at the head coaching position in Coach George Smith. Key to the Flexbone is the fullback position where they return Nico Price, a 5-10, 235 pound senior. Wingback Gabe Patterson, a 5-6, 160 pound senior (fast!) is also back along with the typical Tiger high octane blend of speed and power along both the defensive and offensive lines. Some of the returning and projected starters are Pat Ashcroft 6-0, 270; Carlos Brown 6-0, 230; Dana Brown, 6-0, 260; Ed Gooden, 5-9 235 and Bernard Emery, 6-5 294. Speed burner Parris Perdue is in the running for the quarterback spot at 5-11, 155 pounds. If they can fill that position well, especially with Nico back at fullback, lookout.

Pine Richland (10-2) Things are looking interesting for this former AAA stalwart with the return of 16 starters including two standout seniors in QB Vinny Nittoli, 6-0, 180 (78/148, 1478, 17tds) and RB Ian Hennessy 6-0, 180 (190/1574, 20tds) to a team that scored 430 points last year while allowing 130. Nittoli is a tough one, making AP All State 1^st Team as a linebacker! Their losses were to Knoch 25-20 and ultimate state champ Thomas Jefferson, 27-14. The biggest loss to graduation was along the lines where OL/DL Anthony DiPasquale, 6-2, 265, Center Mike Winsko, 6-3, 250 and OT Eric Schaude, 6-2, 290, graduate. Mike Felker 6-3, 220 and Brad Lalli, 6-3, 210, return with Adam Benson, a 6-2, 270 pounder and DT Alex Burton, 6-0, 305 pounds. With a 63-10 won-loss since 2002, the Rams are used to winning. In fact, they just missed gold in 2003 when they lost to Manheim Central (15-0) in the AAA final 39-38 in two overtime periods. The Barons were the bomb that year, beating Mid Penn AAAA Central Dauphin (6-4) 30-3 and AAAA Hempfield (7-3) 55-6 from the Lancaster-Lebanon LEague. If PR can manage line losses they’ll be a player. With the exception of a difficult opener at AAA power Montour, their most difficult opponents come to them, including Upper St. Clair in game two, North Hills in game five and North Allegheny in game seven.

Other teams to keep your eye on

Seneca Valley (6-4) Returns QB C.J. Brown, a 6-3, 190 pound senior who will be one of the top quarterbacks in the WPIAL this season. He threw for 2567 yards last year and returns his top receiver in WR/LB Matt Plautz. He is quite a target at 6-4, 220, catching 51 passes for 659 yards last year. Seneca’s six win mark last year exceeded their total number of wins from the previous four seasons, 2002 to 2006, where they went 5-32.

Shaler (6-4) The Titans benefited when Penn Hills released head coach Neil Gordon by hiring him initially as an assistant before elevating him to head coach. Eight return to the D which will have to hold the line as the offense rebuilds some key positions. Quarterback Rich Palso is back after completing 52 of 96 for 765 yards.

Mount Lebanon (4-5) is looking to rebound from last year while North Hills (4-6), Plum (2-8), Canon McMillan (4-6) and Kiski (5-5) look for a quarterback, particularly Kiski, who graduated one of the WPIAL’s top passers in Joshua Vick who completed 143 of 248 attempted passes for 2110 yards.

District-10

McDowell (6-5) is the only AAAA team remaining in the district with Cathedral Prep dropping to AAA this year. Running back A.J. Fenton will carry the load for the Trojans after gaining 1073 yards last year. Defensively they return three linebackers and three in the secondary.

District-5

Altoona (7-3) The Lions must rebuild after graduating their backfield and quarterback Jarryd Burkett (1335ry, 175py). A.J. Alexander (1011ry, 267py), AL Lewis (313ry, 190py) and Joe Mummert (201ry, 145py) all graduated. They also lost their number one receiver Tyler Futrell who totaled 608 yards passing. The backfield accounted for 2860 yards rushing and another 1385 passing. That suggests a rebuild but the Lions should never be taken lightly, especially at home. They’ll rebuild around their top defensive linemen Nick Soto, 6-4, 290.

State College (6-5) This could have a special season with Jamar Smack moving to the quarterback position and the Lions looking stacked at the skill spots. He rushed for 1212 yards last year. He’ll be joined in the backfield with last year’s impressive sophomore Alex Kenney who gained 521 yards on the ground and 288 on top. He’s a load of quickness and power at 5-11, 185 pounds. Their 6-0, 225 pound fullback Rob Stupar is back after rushing for 406 yards on 66 carries. Jake Reeder is back at tight end. He’s a 6-5, 232 pound force at DE as well. Emmitt Terrell (6-2, 232 pound) is back at DT along with LB Chance Gaines (5-10, 215), their number one tackler last year. Most of the secondary return. Last year’s roster showed a total of 132 bodies counting sophomores and up. Because of the talent and speed of this offense and good returns on the D side, they look ready for a run at it this year. This is going to be a hard team to defend.

District-3

Bishop McDevitt (9-3) The downtown Market Street gang leads a pack of powerful Mid Penn Conference teams looking to make some noise in the district (State College in D-5 as well) and beyond. McDevitt will move two year starting QB Kyle Koncar to wide out. They’re doing this because of a major talent that can’t be held down any longer in Matt Johnson, their 6-1, 190 pound promising sophomore quarterback. If that doesn’t work out, they’re stuck with a third year starting quarterback who threw for 1459 yards last year. If it does work, a strong receiver corps gets even stronger. Another talented super sophomore, Jameel Poteat, should step into the vacancy left by Mike Jones (1390ry, AP second team) but is getting competition from Central Dauphin East transfer Aaron Marks. FB Derrell Holland (51/524ry) also graduating. The O-Line graduated three but 6-1, 245, Vince Sullivan is back at OG with Ed Mera, a 6-5, 252 tackle. Terahje Gratkowski, 6-5, 255 is the returning tight end. Although McDevitt is a true AA playing up, they rarely have trouble along the lines. This year they have great talent on defense, having started four sophomores last year on the DL and at LB. 6-0, 230 Stephon Bell and Steve Mosey at 6-0 236 are quick and strong at DT. Division one prospect TE/DE Terahje Gratkowski, 6-5, 255 returns for his senior season. All their linebackers return from last year in juniors Jonathan Duckett, 6-0, 197, Fred Dietz, 6-0, 190, along with senior Dante Ushery at 6-1, 215. Three are gone from the secondary but this front should put good pressure on most opponents. They are young but extremely talented. This could be a special team if the sophomores aren’t their Achilles Heel.

Central Dauphin (8-4) Senior quarterback Justin Shirk (6-2, 215) can take comfort knowing what’s returning up front for the Rams this year. Check out these guys. Senior TE/DE Jack Lippert 6-4 220, OL’ers Sean Gordon, 6-1, 245, Tyler Dickerson, 6-3, 270, T.J. Englebright, 6-0, 262 and junior Artie Rowell, 6-3, 265 who was getting D1 looks as a sophomore. DE Jack Lippert is a division one prospect as well. CD played some talented sophomores last year, namely, running backs Colton Charles, 5-10, 175, Tyler Lee, 5-8, 170, FB/LBs  Kyle Wolfe, 6-1, 190 and Jarrett Brooks 5-8 190. The receiver corps is deep with seniors Reese Judge, 5-11, 155; Matt Snell, 6-0, 170 and Kyle Jackson, 6-0, 180. Senior Ian Isaac is a 6-1, 240 DT will help stabilize a defense that must tighten up from last year’s yield of 249 points. There is so much talent on this team. Let’s see if the Rams can get it together.   

Harrisburg (12-2) After going toe to toe with Central Catholic in last year’s west final and coming up short in a 14-6 loss despite holding them to ninety total yards of offense, the reigning district champ will have to rebuild after graduating their senior dominated team. Gone is the monster offensive line of Tyrell Stanbeck 6-4 340, Rodney Baltimore 6-2 300, Brandon Ware 6-5 340, Shane Ross 5-10 320 and Todd George 6-2 320. And they took huge hits in the line-backing corps. All eyes are fixed on Coach Chaump to see what he can do with this year’s group. You can be certain they’ll be large, aggressive and fast with an emphasis on swarming defense. Coach will field a competitive team.

William Penn ( York High, 10-2) The Bearcats of York High return quarterback Jordan Davis who completed 78 of 138 for 1767 yards. His Touchdown-Interception ratio was a gaudy 18-3! FB Brandon Walker (Class President!) is a threat at 5-11, 205 pounds and 609 yards rushing last year. But the show stopper is division one recruit Malik Generett, their 6-4, 210 pound wide receiver. So they have veterans on offense, a un-Bearcat like smaller, quick OL and a good looking linebacker group with the number one and two tacklers back in the form of FB/LB Brandon Walker (88Ts, 7 Sacks) and Wilfredo Martinez (57Ts, 2 sacks). This group is loaded with senior leadership and experienced players. Looks like York has the potential to equal or improve on last year’s season.   

Central York (7-4) York , also known as the White Rose City has another feline that could be on the prowl this year, the Central York Panthers. They also hail from the York-Adams League. If this bunch can shore up the D (allowed 197 points last year), they can be a force because the offense is veteran and talented. QB Brandon Workinger comes back off a solid junior season where he completed 98 of 185 passes for 1176 yards. That’s enough to be a threat knowing four of their five leading rushers return. Running back Parrish Fells, a 5-5, 135 pound water bug is back. He got 534 yards rushing on 91 carries and 8 receptions for 96 yards last year. Leading receiver Blaine Liggins, a 5-9, 155 pound blur is also back after catching 35 passes for 291 yards. Last year’s super sophomore, Kyle Baublitz, all 6-5, 248 pounds of him, returns to his tight end position and DL spot where he was the team’s top tackler with 123 stops. Three of the top five tacklers were from the secondary as a clue to those 197 points allowed last year. They open at home against a strong 10-2, AAA West York team. Central was the only team to beat their brethren from the West side in the regular season (23-19, opener) until Gettysburg beat them in the playoff’s second round 33-28. If they can again get past the super quick Bulldogs from West York in the opener, then Lower Dauphin the following week, they can put it on cruise control until the closer against York High, for all the roses.

Manheim Township (11-2) The Blue Streaks are from Lancaster, not the town of Manheim as many think and are a member of the Lancaster-Lebanon League. Wow, what a great team they had last year. They were doing serious damage on a nine game winning streak, coming off a 33-0 rout of Central Dauphin in the postseason when they fell to Governor Mifflin (12-2) in a rematch, 31-28, after beating the Mustangs in the regular season 34-31. Township scored 361 points while yielding a miserly 125 points last year, but graduated most of the OL and DL, notably, OG/DT Robert DeLaRosa, 6-3, 255; OT/DT Tim Farley 6-3, 285; OG/DT Frank Ranalli, 6-0, 275 and OT/DT 6-4, 270, Ben Stabler. They also lose 6-0, 230, NG Mike Gillespie. Two linebackers graduated, Doug Minnick, a 5-11, 230, ILB and Justin McCarthy, a 6-0, 190, OLB. Despite those losses, there is hope with the entire backfield returning. Lead back Dan Wertz rushed for 1419 yards while fullback Nick Sizemore got 406 yards. Number two receiver Matt Curcio returns after snagging 21 tosses for 192 yards. TE/DE Adam Bostick (6-1, 230) also returns. It’s doubtful they can replace last year’s stellar line. Those guys were good. But if they can rebuild to something respectable, not necessarily great, they’ve got enough offense and talent to put opposing defenses back on their heels. The number one tackler is ILB Nick Sizemore, a true headhunter. He returns along with DE Adam Bostic and most of the secondary. How about last year’s sophomore quarterback Jonathon Yuko (5-11, 180, 29/56/281) stepping up big in leadership to usher the Streaks to a fine campaign when senior Mark Mellinger (49/87/705) went down early in the year.

Wilson (9-4) Very often you’ll see this school listed as Wilson West Lawn or Wilson WL. The reason some do that is to distinguish them from the other Wilson of district eleven in Easton . Wilson had one of those teams last year that just didn’t quite get there. It was close but no cigar with losses to Warwick (9-2), Governor Mifflin (12-2), Manheim Twp (11-2) and Harrisburg (12-2). But they “turned on” the end of the year getting playoff road wins at Altoona 7-6 (no small feat) and York High 38-16 before losing narrowly at Harrisburg 17-14. That was no fluke, they could have beat the Cougars. A lot of that team graduated with the loss of their top three backs, their leading receiver and a number of quality linemen. They’ll be thin on the line but have Rodney Hill to build around, a 6-1 260 pound senior tackle. And they have two hard hitting senior linebackers in Pat Zerbe (6-2, 225) and Colton Weaver (6-0, 220). The D returns eight. On the other side they return Steve Huber under center, coming off a strong junior season that saw him complete 138 of 263 passes for 1653 yards. The 18-7 Td to Interception numbers aren’t too bad either. His number two target is back in Alex Fegley who can motor. Alex caught 38 passes for 388 yards last year as a 6-0, 150 pound junior. Dylan Stopper will be the featured back this year after carrying it 38 times last year for 153 yards.  He goes 6-1, 215 pounds. Looks like the Bulldogs have enough to challenge the pack for Lebanon-Lancaster League honors.

Muhlenberg (9-3) Reading ’s pride and joy are these blue and gold clad Muhls from the vastly improved Berks Inter County Conference. Other members include Governor Mifflin, AAA powers Pottsville (05, 06 state finalist) and Blue Mountain (D-11 champ 07), along with Conrad Weiser and another AAA on the rise, Daniel Boone. Things are looking up in Berks County . They’re looking up at Muhlenberg too where the Muhls have had some kick lately going 76-25 the last nine seasons. Although they graduate their top two backs and number one receiver, many experienced players return. The number three, five and six rushers are back with WR Brett Fox and Zak Kramer. Fox has good size at 6-2, 190 pounds and good hands after nabbing 38 throws last year for 495 yards. The big event is the return of last year’s surprise at quarterback, Nathan Daniels. Now a senior, Nathan (6-2, 180) completed 146 of 289 passes for 2285 yards. His Touchdown to Interception ratio was an impressive 22-6. The Muhls will again challenge in the Berks and make the playoffs.

Other teams to keep your eye on

Carlisle (2-8) Almost everyone is back from last year’s team to put the Thundering Herd in position for a real turnaround. With the tremendous history of football in Carlisle , losing is not an accepted option. Still, they’ve gone 3-17 the last two years.

Hempfield (4-6) Quirky team these Black Knights, hanging with Wilson (9-4) in defeat 21-14 and Manheim Township (11-2), losing 9-7, then getting dusted by Warwick (9-2) 35-7 and McDevitt (9-3) 40-0. For this year, quarterback Jarvis Cummings is back behind a veteran line anchored by Aidan Cadzow, 6-3, 290. Who knows, it may be “Knight Time” in Landisville with 22 letterman returning.

Governor Mifflin (12-2) This was a big, strong team (39PF, 18PA) last year that went on a eleven game tear after losing to rival Manheim Township the second game of the year. In an emotional, physical rematch in the playoffs, they edged Township 28-21, leaving them on “E” for Harrisburg who took them serious following the Wilson scare the week before (17-14) and routed the Mustangs 49-19. For this year, the loss of quarterback Sam Eagleson, running backs George Schmidt (1095ry, 93py) and Casey Casantini (483ry, 449py) totals out to 308 points scored and 4089 total yards of offense. Eagleson was a load at quarterback, running for 956 yards and throwing for 1013 yards. Following back to back 12-2 campaigns it appears the Mustangs of Shillington are in for a rebuilding season.

THE EAST, AAAA

(Districts 1, 2, 4, 11, 12)

District-1

North Penn (9-3) The Knights ended last season losing 3 of 5 after a 7-0 start but are still the early favorite out of the district with most of last year’s team back. Quarterback Justin Davey returns with almost all of last year’s skill players, especially running back Tyler Smith and wide receiver Ronnie Akins. If needed, they have a strong place kicker in Brandon McManus. Considering the youth on last year’s team, they had a heck of a year going 9-3, scoring 25 points per game on average and allowing 16. Not bad for a young team. Take away the 31-7 and 35-0 losses to Neshaminy and 41-27 loss to Central Bucks South and you’re looking at a team that scores 30 ppg and allows 10. The Suburban One League’s realignment has them in the Continental Conference this year so there is no Neshaminy or Pennsbury. Neither do they face what should be an improved Cardinal O’Hara team. CB South lost a lot so the Knights should show statistical and real improvement. Last season was the first year in the past six years they did not have a double digit win season. To do that this year they’ll have to be perfect, with ten regular season games scheduled. One thing for certain, you’ll know how good they are early with the opener in Bethlehem against Liberty , followed by a homer verses Lansdale Catholic then the big one against St. Joseph ’s Prep.

Neshaminy (11-2) This is Neshaminy, where they usually reload with wonderfully talented players. How else can you explain a 80-26 won loss the last nine year, a gold medal in 2001 and a silver medal in 2004. While they almost always have the bodies, they did graduate a lot including quarterback Justin Kenney, running backs Jason Ulmer and Joe Stemme, wide receivers Ian Capanna and Kevin Steinberg, linemen Blair Gower 6-2 278, Adrian Kiwewski 6-1 250, Dylan Waterbury 6-3 270 and Kyle Dunleavy 6-4 241. They also lost a decent linebacking corps of Ulmer, Stemme and Greg Martell. The OL returns Dan Shirley 6-3 257, TE Paul Carrezola 6-4 240 and at least two other experienced senior linemen. Dependable Quinlan Arnold returns to running back. If Coach Schmidt can patch together a defense and fill the quarterback position they’ll be a factor in the district. It’s Neshaminy but this is a pretty good sized rebuild where they’ll need to take care early, opening on the road at Souderton and Hatboro.

Pennsbury (4-6) At the end of the day you’ve got to say that Pennsbury held up well last season after graduating forty seniors from the roster. Forty! To go 4-6 with one point losses to Glen Mills and Abington after losing that kind of leadership and talent from 2006’s 13-2 squad was an accomplishment. They played well in all of their losses except the Neshaminy game where they were routed 48-21. We could see quite a turnaround here with so many returning starters looking for payback. They do have some holes to fill, mainly along the lines where three OL and two DL are gone. Running backs Shakir Green and Matt Santicerma are gone but good looking junior Malcolme Perry returns (5-7 167, 451ry), TE/DL Steve Marck 6-4 240 who will be a force this year and two more linemen. QB Jack Westberg returns for his senior year. They return eight to the defense so both sides show a good core to provide the Falcons with every chance of success.

Garnet Valley (13-2) Garnet Valley joins the Central League this season after spending time in the Del-Val and SCCL before serving a year as an independent last year. They have a history of good football recently (two straight district titles) but especially the last two years where they’ve gone deep in the AAA playoffs at 11-2 in 2006 then 13-2 last year. In 06, they fell in the East semi to Pottsville . Last year they lost the state final to Thomas Jefferson so they are battle hardened. The question mark this year is at quarterback where they lost a great one in Eric Van Wyk. Eric completed 96 of 152 passes (63 %) for 1563 yards. He also rushed for 892 yards on 126 carries, a 7.1 yards per carry average so that’s a hole. Into it will go well regarded 6-0, 175 pound junior quarterback Mark McHugh. One of the best kept secrets in the district is running back Tim Keyser (5-11, 170, AP All State 1^st Team) who pounded out 1275 yards last year on 116 carries, an 11.0 ypc average. He also caught 42 passes for 801 yards. Running mate Jared Bonacquisti (6-0, 190) rushed for 891 yards on 157 attempts and caught 13 passes for 277 yards. 5-9, 160 pound Chris Palaio is back after gaining 277 yards on 55 attempts so they’re set at running back. Good luck defending Keyser and Bonacquisti. G-Val has a roster of over 80 and they played a lot of people giving them good depth. Marcellus Irving (5-9, 170), Pat Booth (6-0, 185) and John Skinner (5-0, 175) had a lot of carries. Number two receiver Paul Dunn is back after catching 18 passes last year for 282 yards. At 5-11, 155 pounds, he has breakaway speed. Three graduated from the offensive line, 6-3, 250 pound Sean Deardorf; 6-2, 220 Alex Portale and 5-11, 250 Jordan Annunziato. Connor Price at 6-2, 200 and Tim Putnam, 6-1, 235 return. They rotated so many linemen last year creating a plethora of experience to fill the voids, guys like Sean Breen, 5-8, 240 and Joe Avellino, 5-8 220. At least seven juniors top 200 so the numbers are there. Mike Fecile at 5-10, 205 will be the center. If that’s not enough, they can move Nicholas Garcia, 6-3, 315 and Sean Kershaw 6-0, 280 over from the DL. There is a sophomore linemen to watch from last year, 6-6, 240 pound DL Joe Cenatiempo who should impact as a junior this year. Two of four linebackers return, Luciano Perotti, 6-1, 175 and Drew Kravitz, 6-1, 240. So the Jags have enough coming back to be a serious contender for the Central League title and the playoffs.

Ridley (13-1) 2007 was the 2^nd year Ridley went through the regular season undefeated and deep into the playoffs. Back in 2006 the season ended with a tough loss to a Pennsbury team many felt were a shoe-in for Hershey. Then the 2007 Green Raider team showed more balance than previous editions and a defense that seemed just as fast and effective as the previous year. All that came to a halt in Allentown where Parkland beat the Raiders 35-21. Ridley certainly had their moments and did rally from a 21-7 half time deficit to knot it at 21 all with 10 and ½ minutes to play in the 4^th. Parkland responded with big play scores of 50 and 56 yards within 6 minutes of each other to salt it away. For the coming season they’ll need to rebuild the lines where Tony Agotsiotis, 5-9, 200, Mike King, 6-2, 240, Brian Traband, 5-11, 190, Dan DePrinzio 6-3 290, Ryan Eckenrode 6-2 275 and TE/LB Mike Gamble 6-2 195 graduate. Jim Kelly is back at 6-2, 220. Other losses include Steven Egee, one of the more athletic and strong armed quarterbacks they’ve had in years and Andrew Hodges, their battering ram at running back and linebacker. Those two will be sorely missed. They also lose linebacker Grag Marenic and a fine kicker in Ekrem Uysaler. The district one champ graduates one of their finest teams in years off back-to-back 13-1 seasons. Only five starters return, three from the secondary, a running back and offensive-defensive linemen. They haven’t had a losing season since 1955 but will find 2008 to be a challenging year. Having said that, there is this thing called the “Green Mystique” so don’t expect the Raiders to disappear. This year’s team will field another fast, swarming defense and they’ll find another kid with a gun to get it downfield.

Downingtown West (10-2) The Whippets may slow down a notch or two with the loss of quarterback Nolan Kearny, three linemen and most of their backs. But this is Downingtown, where solid football is a given. Senior linemen like Bobby Di Francesco, 6-0, 295; Andrew Gafney, 6-0, 235; Teddy Donnon, 6-3, 285 and Josh Delio 6-1, 225 will give Dtown a powerful presence. Seniors Josh Coulter, 6-2, 190r (TE/DE), Ryan Kendra, 6-4, 225 (TE/OLB) along with FB/OLB Andrew McLaughlin, 6-0, 205 return. A key returnee is Jared Heller, who gained 923 yards rushing, 228 yards in receptions and scored 21 touchdowns. Junior quarterback Brett Gillespie has grown to 6-2, 195 from 6-1, 170 and looks to move into the starting position after backing up Kearney last year. West was smaller last year than other years but quick as everyone knows who saw the CB South game. Their offense was so large at 38ppg average the D couldn’t catch their breath so they should improve from a 19 ppg yield with eight returning. With Heller as a threat every time he touches the ball and significant numbers back on both sides, Downingtown will be a tough out. Last year’s blow outs of 20, 21, 24, 32, 35, 36 and 42 points provided a lot of playing time to others. They’ll be a monster battle in Downingtown October 24^th when Coatesville comes to town.

Downingtown East (8-3) Since the split-up of Downingtown into East and West, East has had just one losing season, the year of the split in 2003. With the tremendous losses to graduation of last year’s dangerous team including a ton of senior leadership with thirty seniors graduating, it could be a long season for the Panthers. Quarterback Pete O’Connor is gone along with their top rusher and receiver, two linemen and the tight end.

Coatesville (5-5) Coatesville looks ready to return to the form of their 2004 and 2005 teams that went 11-1 in 04 and 8-3 in 05. The 04 team was strong and capable of going places when in the second round of the playoffs they found themselves with a surprising 20-3 3^rd quarter lead over Neshaminy. C.J. Gray made the Skins’ D look bad that game, rushing for 183 yards. It seems all that could stop Coatesville was Coatesville, and that’s what happened as they collapsed under the weight of defensive breakdowns and two key fumbles. Neshaminy scored the last 15 points of the game to prevail 23-20. This season they return another exciting weapon in junior quarterback Charles Green. As a sophomore, he passed for 815py, then ran for another 720 for a final tally of 1535 total yards. Another standout sophomore from last year is running back Joe Thomas, 6-0, 205. He totaled 431 yards on 71 attempts for a 6.1 ypc average. Stephan Allen and Deshaun London return as well. The Raiders return their number one, three and four rushers. Last year’s second leading rusher, Haneef Brake (697ry) graduated. They graduated some linemen but return 6-2, 270 pound Will Henson and Evander Wilson, another senior weighing in at 6-0, 270. Finding linemen at Coatesville is rarely an issue. All the linebackers return, Allen Erdman 6-0 210, Chris Norton 5-10 195 and Claude Norris 5-9 190, their top 3 tacklers and part timer Joe Thomas mentioned above. Another big sophomore (junior 08) got pt, TE/LB Jody Dodds 6-2 210. After nailing three of four field goals, the longest being 36 yards, Chris Massero returns for his senior season. They seem poised to make noise but face a tough opponent in their home opener against North Catholic. Then the Bears from Germantown are in. G-town looks overmatched in this one. The final non-conference game is against rival J.P. McCaskey ( Lancaster ), then, it’s on to conference play in the Ches-Mont.

Unionville (11-1) The population explosion in western Delaware County and Eastern Chester County explains Garnet Valley’s and Unionville’s rise from AAA to the AAAA ranks this year. Unionville has really turned their program around. After winning sixteen games from 1999 through 2004, they’ve gone 31-5 the last three years. It would be a mistake to say “yeah, that was against weak AAA opposition”, because if you see this team, they usually have good skill players and rugged linemen. That’s the issue this year having graduated quarterback Matt Carroll, their 6-3 218 pound quarterback (fullback, in terms of attitude) and a number of quality linemen, especially 6-4, 315, Steve Caputo and Dave Delaney, 6-3, 235. But this is Unionville where they grow them large. Senior linemen Greg Blue, 6-2, 270 and Travis Williams, 6-3, 278 will anchor another physical line. The new QB could be Matt Carroll’s brother Greg, who tossed it just as effectively as his brother in last year’s Interboro game.

Other teams to keep your eye on

West Chester East (0-11) East High paid heavy dues last year playing a ton of young ones that are likely to come into this season with a purpose after a winless 07 campaign. Nearly everyone returns from a team that scored but 87 points while allowing 355.

Haverford (8-4) It was a breakout year for the Fords beating Strath Haven and winning eight games. With an even roster distribution of sixteen graduating seniors, they’ll be in good shape if they can find someone to replace FB Jeff Matteis.

Hatboro Horsham (8-3) Senior running backs Dan Schandein and Mike Borbrin return after strong seasons to give the Hatter’s punch. They haven’t had a losing season since 2001 so it’s a question of how well they fill the quarterback position.

Central Bucks East (6-4) East got off to a fast start last year, winning five of their first six games, before fading to 6-4.  They return a good core including quarterback Cory Klein, running backs Devon Passman , Adam Bitzer and fullback Cohen Long.  Senior wide receivers Brett Millar and Nick Miller also return.  There are a few holes to plug up front but this is an area the Patriots typically have little difficulty managing. East has a nice team.

Pennridge (3-9) The Rams young team graduated just 12 seniors and look primed for big improvement this year especially with senior quarterback Brad Herrman back after throwing for over 1500 yards. They ended on the upswing, winning their last two games. 

Glen Mills (9-3) With a running back like Bernard Pierce at Glen Mills, they’ll be tough to defend. He’s a 5-9, 200 pound muscle that gained 1342 yards rushing last year. A back like that behind the Bulls typical line spells trouble for most defenses. As always, if they can get a steady turnover free quarterback they’ll be fine.

District-2

Hazelton (11-2) All that separated Hazelton from a state finals appearance was a 16-14 loss to Parkland in the semifinal. For the coming season, key graduation losses could slow them from last year’s pace with the loss of QB Joe Kost, RB Nate Eachus (AP All State 1^st Team, 5-11 195, 2196ry, 28 tds, 115 stops), RB/LB Rich Matz 6-0 215 (110 stops), kicker Drew Orth, OL/DL Kyle Medvitz 6-1, 220; F.Deandrea, 6-1, 225 and OL/DT Gregg Hunter, 5-11, 225. But if last year’s juniors come through, they’ll field another strong line with Ryan Knight 6-1 271, Francisco Fabian 6-1 300, Rafael Marceese 5-10 220 joining starter Jon Koslop, 6-2, 245 for a nice front. Some of last year’s sophomores could impact as juniors as it’s a big class. The projected starter under center is last year’s number two QB Matt Drumheller 6-3, 190. Although conventional wisdom calls last year’s team a senior oriented team, thirteen sophomores and juniors played enough for four of those sophomores to get 40+ tackles, while six juniors got 28 to 48 stops. Other sophomores were instrumental to Hazelton’s success, players like WR/DB Chad Nicholas 6-2, 180 (15/235py), RB/LB A.J. Petrone 5-10, 175 (41/219ry, 41 tackles), OL/DL Matt Semanchik 5-11, 245 (42 tackles) and RB/LB Charlie Craig 6-0 180 (23 tackles). Last year’s juniors in the picture are OL/DE Brian Pavelko, 6-0, 200 (48 tackles) OL/DL Jon Koslop 6-2, 245 (43 tackles) and WR/DB Shane McKernan 6-2, 170 (6/145py). It’s doubtful anyone can replace the linebacking tandem of Eachus and Matz, but the Cougars look to have great potential with so much experience returning.    

Wyoming Valley West (10-2) With a name like Wyoming Valley West, it might be a good idea to tell you where they are located. They are in Wyoming County in Plymouth , Pennsylvania on the West bank of the Delaware , across the river from Wilkes-Barre . About these Spartans, they got to 10-2 last year with a young team and have the numbers to improve on that this year. They return most of their line including AP All State 2^nd Team Durrell Johnson, 6-4, 285; 6-0, 260, Matt Drevenak; 6-5, 270, Malcolm Bates; Tyler Cowman, 6-0, 270 and 5-10, 220, Mike Pretko. They looked off a step scrimmaging Harrisburg last year but in their defense, the Cougars were a quick bunch. They lose a good tailback in Matt Kolojejchick, but return senior quarterback Jack Crossin, 5-10, 170 and FB Dave Ryncavage, 6-1, 220. Coach George Curry (Berwick) has the makings of another good team. He’s done a nice job the last two years, rescuing a proud but floundering program and returning them to prominence in the district going 9-2 and 10-2 his first two years.

Scranton (6-4) The Knights return enough bodies to make for an interesting season. The quarterback, running backs and good size along the lines should have them competitive. They were close last year, losing 14-0 to Delaware Valley , 43-32 to West Scranton and to Wyoming Valley West, 21-15. They played serious D as well allowing 129 total points. The only breakdown came against potent West Scranton , where they allowed 43 points, or, 33.3 % of all points allowed last year. There is no shame in that knowing West Scranton (12-2) lost in the AAA quarterfinals (east semi) to Garnet Valley 27-22. In a district where Hazelton , Wyoming Valley West, and Abington Heights (AAA this year) usually rule, Scranton should make things interesting. Their last district title was in 2003 when they went 10-0 in the regular season before losing to Interboro (10-2) in the playoff’s first round, 27-13.

Other teams to keep your eye on

Delaware Valley (9-2) The Warriors graduate the QB but return their top back, two OL/DL in Chris Conklin (6-5, 285) and Chris Horner (6-3, 240), LB George Siracuse (6-0, 230) and five of their top six run stoppers.

District-12. Instead of the talk, now we’ll see who can walk it with Philly in the house. Welcome Philadelphia Catholic League to the PIAA.

Frankford (4-6) Last year was a rough one for the Pioneers who had to forfeit four games because of an ineligible player. The forfeits were wins against Dougherty, Dobbins, Germantown and Northeast. So instead of an 8-2 mark, it goes into the books as a 4-6 campaign, their first “losing” season in thirty nine years! They went 4-5-1 in 1968. What a tough break for a team coming into the season looking for a threepeat. For the coming season, they return quarterback Kalif Walker who completed 25 of 61 passes for 458 yards. Most of the backs graduated, including lead back Ervin Goodson (70/718ry), FB/LB Josh Burnett (32/179) and Chris Spence. Wide receiver Malik Ballard also graduated. Akeem Whipple got 390 yards on 65 carries and is back. Frankford always has the bodies but in the gray area known as senior leadership, things look hazy with the loss of twenty seven seniors.

George Washington (11-3) Last year’s district twelve champ has some holes to fill especially at quarterback where the big man, Clinton Granger (6-3, 235) graduated. He completed 65 of 133 throws for 1129 yards. Aaron Wilmer backed him up and got good playing time, completing 15 of 25 for 323 yards. The top two receivers graduated but they are well stocked at running back with the return of Kesson Christopher (84/535), James Johnson (79/676) and Omar Hunter (37/250). They’ll miss OL/DL Lawrence Williams (6-1, 265) and Danren Jones (6-1, 270) and a few other experienced linemen but will rebuild around OL/DL Sharif Floyd (6-2, 280). GW ended last year on a sour note, losing to Archbishop Ryan 26-14 in the regular season, then to Parkland in the playoffs, 44-12 suggesting they should come into 08 with real focus. 

St. Joseph ’s Prep (10-3) St. Joe’s graduated a pile of talent and as many of you know, that doesn’t mean much when it comes to this program who reload as well as anyone. They’ll need to do it quickly with a early and difficult slate of opponents. But first, about those graduation losses. They were significant, in that they essentially lost all their skill players including quarterback Aaron Hass (87/163/1430/21TDs/53%), running back Jamir Livingston (1390ry, 5.9 ypc), fullback Mike McCarthy (52/262ry), three leading wide outs and both tight ends accounting for 1354 yards passing. Defensively they lost two ends, one backer and three from the secondary. Despite those losses, they return what could be one of the better offensive lines in the state in Mike Pinccotti, 6-4, 285; Shawn Davis, 6-1, 255; Mark Arcdiancono, 6-5, 272, Seth Brtancourt, 6-6, 265 and Matt Dykan, 5-11, 231. The projected starter at QB is senior Mark Giubilato, 6-3, 225. Defensively, they return two linemen, a strong MLB in Mike Pereira (6-0, 230) and Mike Yeager to the secondary so there are questions marks on both sides. With their powerful and talented offensive line, new running backs and a new quarterback, the Hawks will likely start off conservatively. The season opener at Parkland , a serious AAAA contender from Allentown with more skill personnel returning, looks challenging to problematic. Because the Trojans also break in a new quarterback, this promises to be a tight match between two tradition rich schools. What an opener!

Cardinal O’Hara (6-6) Cardinal O’Hara will try to rebound from a two year slide that’s seen them fall from a combined 20-4 won-loss level of the 04 and 05 seasons, to a 3-8 outing in 2006, followed by last year’s 6-6 campaign. They have the personnel in place to resurrect the program if they can just keep the quarterback healthy. QB Tom Savage got everyone’s attention his sophomore season throwing for 1472 yards. Injuries abbreviated last year where he threw for 809 yards. He’s surrounded by a good cast this year with four of his linemen back, along with the versatile running back Corey Brown who rushed for 1020 yards and caught 15 passes for 226 yards. Billy Morgan also returns at wide receiver. Defensively they return two tackles, two linebackers and three to the secondary. The schedule provides for a good start with a home opener against Archbishop Carroll followed by three consecutive road games at Germantown , Haverford School and Monsignor Bonner.   

Father Judge (9-3) Judge will field a good team this year but they’ll miss last year’s Red Division MVP Andrew McHale, who rushed for 1380 yards. Also gone is quarterback Paul Volpe who completed 56 % of his passes for 1266 yards. That’s a lot of firepower to replace. Whoever lands at the QB position will have plenty of sure handed targets with wide receiver Tom Ryan (33/586), Adam Nowak (26/421) and tight end Ryan Langdon returning. Running back Rob Harris (77/356) returns with three linemen. Last year’s defense was a good one, allowing a superb 9.6 points per game. This year’s should be stingy as well where eight veterans or experienced players return.

Other teams to keep your eye on

Roman Catholic (12-2) It’s not the fall of the Roman Empire but the walls were weakened with the loss of defensive tackle Jewhan Edwards ( Minnesota ), safety Nick Moody (FSU) and quarterback Chris Johnson (Nova). The defending Red Division Champ always have the athletes but should be diminished with the loss of those three.

District-11   

Parkland (15-1) Parkland looks very strong again despite losing record setting QB John Laub, most of their running backs and three linemen.  They return a lot of talent, especially along the lines and in the receiver corps where division AP 1^st Team Jaleel Clark, 6-4, 205 is back at wide receiver. TE/DE Sam Zaccaro is back at 6-5, 245 so they are set there. Half back Daryl Herod 5-10, 205 returns to run behind another typical Trojan line featuring OL/DE Clint Miller, 6-3, 220 (AP 1^st Team DL led team in tackles), OL/DT Matt Frederick, 6-1, 250 and OL/DE Ian Tomcho, 6-1, 245. Check out last year’s junior class of linemen; Eric Troutman 6-0, 235; Connor McKenna, 6-1, 250; Grant Mauger, 6-0, 250; Nathan Warnke, 6-0, 235 and Len Teutonico, 5-10, 245. The battle for the starting quarterback position is between seniors Sean Keiper, 5-9, 175 and Allen Nist, 6-0, 175 with the big junior, Matt Smith, 6-3, 175, in the wings. Pete Bross heads an experienced and talented defense from his linebacking spot where he got 98 stops last year. Parkland ’s defense allowed 132 points all year so it’s a show stopper, befitting a team that is capable of a return trip to Hershey. They return eight. Last year’s team lost in the final to Pittsburgh Central Catholic 21-0. This year’s team opens at home to St. Joseph ’s Prep, then, it’s on to Liberty and Easton . It’s early but this looks like the team to beat in the East.

Liberty (10-2) Liberty lost a lot of skill players, notably RB/DB Ahkeem Smith, (901ry-192py), WR/DB Joey Orlando (26/473) and Justin Rivera (16/261) who represent their top three receivers. They also graduated three starters from the line. However, tight end Horvin Lattimer is back, 6-0, 230 along with linemen Levi Brown, 6-3, 315 and Al Puhols, 6-1, 240. More good news sees the return of junior QB Anthony Gonzalez, 6-2, 183. Anthony started as a sophomore last year and performed well, completing 61 of 110 passes for 1062 yards. His touchdown to interception ratio was14 to 6, and he rushed for another 465 yards. That was quite a year for a sophomore at a big time school. Most of the running backs return, although Ahkeem Smith is a loss. RB Brandon Brader (5-7 150) ran for 523 yards on 52 carries with Ryan Muhl (5-7, 165) getting 145 yards on 35 attempts. Junior Malik Smith had eight attempts for 113 yards. The Canes have a lot of speed in the backfield and seem to always fill skill positions in need. Levi Braxton (6-4, 220) is back to anchor one of the DE positions. Horvin Lattimer has the other. Two defensive linemen return. If they fill voids in the OL, they’ll challenge Parkland for district honors.

Emmaus (7-4) The Hornets return a veteran team of eight starters to both sides. These guys were close last year, and with so few graduating from a team that lost by one point to Easton , seven and seventeen to Parkland and fourteen to Liberty , they should be a threat this year in the district. They graduated ten seniors so they are loaded. Last year’s offense was low octane at twenty three points a game. But that’s all it needed to be with a defense allowing just nine points a game. This is not a huge team but they have a lot of speed and all kinds of skill returning to field one of the best teams in the district. A win against a “name” team would go a long way in elevating them to the next level.

Freedom (9-3) Freedom came out of nowhere last year to win nine games with an offense scoring 30 points per game and a D allowing 13 ppg. They graduated the quarterback, a few running backs and three linemen but will again be strong up front where a number of good looking linemen from last year’s junior class fill in. That’s good, because they also got a solid transfer from Bethlehem Catholic in Eddie Mateo (5-9, 185, senior) who rushed for 1175 yards last season. If they can find a quarterback, they have the backs and enough on the lines to pull a upset or two and influence things in the district.

Other teams to keep your eye on

Easton (8-4) Easton took some hits to graduation, especially with all purpose RB/DB Jarred Holley (389ry/217py), who split time with QB Zach Somogyi under center. Other talented players like running back Gary Fish (121/843), TE/DE Keenan Walls, OL/DL Colin White and Nick Marzuoli graduated. They had one of their larger lines last year so they lose some bulk up front. This certainly looks like a rebuilding year but isn’t Easton almost always there with a representative team? So don’t count them out.

Whitehall (8-4) QB Jim Lahue is back with most of last year’s young team that started four sophomores on defense. On the surface, 8-4 looks good. A deeper look shows the Zephyr’s four losses were routs to the most difficult teams on their schedule; Liberty 41-9, Freedom 28-6, Emmaus 28-0 and Parkland 31-0 so there is a lot of work to do. 

East Stroudsburg South (8-4) The Cavs discovered a fine sophomore last year in LB Sam Bergen (6-0, 205) who will lead another decent defense that must hold things in place until a QB is found to replace Zack Frederick (870py, 376ry) and their tailback Anthony Davis who ran for 1505 yards.

AAA Here’s another powerhouse from the fabled WPIAL or district seven to rival Pittsburgh Central Catholic’s accomplishments mentioned earlier. Over the last eight years, Thomas Jefferson’s won-loss is a sterling 96-13, a 88 % win percentage. Like Central Catholic, Thomas Jefferson (16-0) won their second state title in four years by defeating a “game” but overmatched Garnet Valley group 28-3. TJ held Garnet Valley to 208 total yards of offense while they generated 468. Garnet Valley ended last season at 13-2. Both teams return key players but they’ll be no rematch as G-Val has moved up to AAAA for the next two years. With the population surge in western Delaware County , they will not likely see AAA again. Talk about domination, the win by TJ is the fourth straight by the West and sixth title in the last seven years! It’s all cyclical but it seems the “ Big School ” (4A, 3A) Tide has turned in favor of the West. Ok, let’s take a look at some of the movers and shakers around the state in the AAA classification starting out west.

THE WEST, AAA

(Districts 3, 7, 8, 9, 10; District 5 has no AAA teams)

District-7

Thomas Jefferson (16-0) They are loaded again with the return of running back Brian Baldridge who went down in game one and quarterback Ty Wehner who was out from the eighth week on. Three linemen, division one talent AP All Star 2^nd Team TE Brock Decicco, three of five top tacklers and at least 8 starters or experienced players return to the D. TJ has enough to make another run on Hershey.

Montour (12-1) Most of team returns (12 graduated) although they lost fullback Christian Wilson (6-4, 235), the number two back in the WPIAL who rushed for 2021 yards. One of the top quarterbacks in the West is back in Edgar Banks (6-0, 180, senior) who passed for 1235 yards and rushed for 878. The athletic Banks made 1^st Team AP All State as a DB last year. His top receiver is back. The Spartans will challenge again.

Chartiers Valley (8-3) Big graduation losses, especially OL/DL Eric Kush (6-4, 245) but they return first team All Big-7 Conference all purpose player Santino Coury (5-8, 180),  who ran for 409 yards caught 12 passes for 101 yards, returned punts and took a few snaps under center. Don’t count the Colts out. This is a nice program.

Knoch (9-3) They lose quarterback Zach Gross (59%, 1211py, 14-4 TD-Int) and their top receiver but return a good one in running back Tim McNerney (AP 1^st Team, 5-8, 180 senior) who rushed for 1750 yards and had 24 scores last year. The Knights of Saxonburg look light along the lines but will still be a dangerous team.

West Allegheny (6-5) Remember these guys? They came up short against Strath Haven in the AAA final two straight years, 1999 and 2000, losing 21-7 in 1999 and 31-28 in 2000 before beating Strath Haven in the 2001 final 28-13. After last year’s rocky 1-4 start, they finished up strong, going 5-1. That’s good but they need to replace their quarterback and top running back. Otherwise, they have decent numbers returning.

Blackhawk (7-3) The Cougars will be strong along the lines but have to learn how to win the close ones with a one point loss to Trinity and a two point loss to Highlands preventing a 9-1 outing.

Highlands (8-3) Struggled with the big boys last year losing to Pine-Richland 35-0, Knoch 41-13 in the regular season and again in the postseason 28-7. QB Jeff Sinclair (6-2, 185) is back for his senior year after throwing for 1314 yards last year.

New Castle (6-4) QB Michael Bongivengo is back after rushing for 700 yards and passing for 526. You’ve got to love these double-threat quarterbacks. Their top back and receiver return and a bunch of juniors who got playing time as sophomores. They’ll miss NG Anthony D’Ambrosia (5-9, 260) and DT David Dovidio (6-1, 250) but had good size in last year’s sophomore and junior classes.

Uniontown (2-7) Raiders look interesting with their quarterback, number two running back and top three receivers back. Doug Sanner (6-1, 170 senior) completed 93 of 165 passes (56%) for 1633 yards and rushed for another 230 yards. There are losses on the lines but like New Castle above, they have big ones coming up and good return talent at linebacker and the secondary.

Franklin Regional (5-5) Really improved down the stretch last year to enter the season with momentum. They return their big quarterback Anthony Vendemia (6-2, 205 senior) who threw for 1388 yards last year, most of their running backs but graduated all their receivers. Number one stopper LB Jesse Samek (6-2, 205) is back with the number three tackler DT Mario Lodovico (5-10, 225). The lines look good and they are deep at linebacker. They should be improved with the loss of only thirteen graduates and could surprise this year.

District-9

Clearfield (7-4) The Bison have rebuilding to do on the lines but return an exciting quarterback in Jarrin Campman (6-0, 175, senior) who threw for 1382 yards and rushed for 532 more. Jarrin made the AP’s 2^nd Team at DB last year so he’s quite an athlete. Isiah Morgan is back at running back (6-0, 205) and wide receiver Tre Campman who caught 22 passes for 254 yards last season.

Other teams to keep your eye on

Bradford (8-3) The defending district champ returns QB Tyler Grandy but graduate 2476 yards of rushing. Steve Reinhardt, a 6-3, 260 pound AP 2^nd Team tackle will be there to lead the way for the new running backs. 

St. Mary’s (8-4) Gave powerful Karns City a fight before losing 23-13. Also lost to Clearfield and Bradford but return their quarterback.

District-10

Grove City (9-2) The Eagles look stacked with most of last year’s team returning. Quarterback Mike Burk is back after throwing for 938 yards, 11 scores and only three interceptions. Chris Clark’s 1425 rush yards will be missed but Dwayne Martin will fill in after gaining 259 yards last year and snagging 17 throws for 415 yards. Grove City is up from AA this year but return a veteran team so look for them to compete.

Strong Vincent (11-3) Vincent’s high octane offense (37ppg last year) should be productive again with the return of eight starters including their athletic quarterback/D-back Deonte Flemming (5-10, 170, senior) and D.J. Barney (6-4, 180, senior). Deonte made 1^st Team AP selection last year in the secondary. Most of the backs return plus their top receiver. There are some holes on defense but this offense should help cover early in the season.

Cathedral Prep (9-3) The Ramblers are down from AAAA classification this year, where they won three straight district crowns and should do well with the return of both quarterbacks, their top receiver and most of their backs. Lead back Akeem Satterfield graduated after rushing for 1678 yards. All that didn’t prevent opponents scoring 19 ppg against Prep so that’s where the emphasis needs to be for them to compete at any level.

District-3

District-3 moves to the West brackets this year. Most of the established powers and those new to stardom last year took big hits to graduation.

Lampeter-Strasburg (12-3) The district champ graduated most of last year’s outstanding team with only the FB/LB, RB/LB, OG and OT/DT returning. Junior Christian Delrocini (6-0, 180) will step in to the vacant quarterback position.

West York (10-2) Could be something special here. West York’s only losses last year were to Central York (7-4), 23-19 in the first game of the season and Gettysburg (12-2), 33-28 in the AAA playoff’s second round. Simply put, these guys are loaded with nine back of D and eight returning to the other side. Last year’s team was a productive one offensively, cranking out 424 points. The D got pushed around some allowing 213 points. Except for the two losses, they made up for that with great speed. They can fly. The starting quarterback graduated, but his back up, junior Alex George (6-2, 175), got experience last year. Top back Brandon Real, a 5-8, 157 pound rocket ran for 1374 yards last year. Top receiver Nate Jacobs, another rocket at 5-10, 170 caught 33 passes for 703 yards, a 21.3 yards per catch average. Returning to the DL is Brant Sower, a 6-2, 230 senior; Junior Ramos, 5-10, 235, junior; Jordan Reinhart, their 6-3, 220 DE/TE and Blake Campbell on the other end at 6-0, 180. Some of the linebackers go 5-10, 180 and 5-8, 180. This team is about speed and is good enough to make a run for the district crown.    

Manheim Central (6-5) Played a lot of youth last year making the Barons a veteran bunch heading into 2008. The quarterback along with most of the running backs returns. Only fourteen seniors graduated and with other teams having severe graduation losses, this may be the year Central returns to the top of the district.

Conrad Weiser (7-4) The Scouts need to rebuild the lines but return their skill people along with the quarterback, top receiver and top rusher back. Last year’s sophomore Codie Butler (5-9, 200) turned some heads gaining 1077 on 165 carries.

Daniel Boone (9-4) The Blazers return most of last year’s team and seem to get better each year under the guidance of Coach Dave Bodolus. After a 2-9 start in 2002, they’ve gone 6-5, 8-3, 8-3, 10-2 and 9-4 last year. They’re 35-12 the last four years and 18-12 in the same period against teams ending the season above .500.

Other teams to keep your eye on

Northern (11-1) The Polar Bears are always there but graduated huge numbers throughout the roster from another strong group. The biggest loss is Mike Davis, their bulldozing 6-1, 228 pound fullback who rushed for 1376 yards.

Elizabethtown (10-2) E-town surprised a lot of people last year and return quarterback Kyle McNeil (6-3, 185, senior) along with seven other starters. Trouble is, that’s the returns for both sides so they’re depleted. One of the key D returnees is DT Alex Kirchner (6-0, 220), who terrorized opposing offenses with 12 TFL’s, 2 sacks and 71 tackles; good stuff for a DT. The Bears are one of those in between teams that can effect the overall meaning they should be exciting.

Gettysburg (12-2) Lost record setting quarterback Evan Lewis and both lines. Justin Jones returns to his LB spot as the number one tackler with 123 stops. At tailback, he rushed for 1096 yards. Tyler White returns at linebacker as the number two tackler with 94 stops so the Cupboard isn’t bare but it is sparse.

Hershey (10-3) Chocolate Town had a sweet team last year, upsetting Gettysburg in the regular season with a no huddle, hurry-up offense, then advancing to the second round where Lampeter Strasburg beat them 17-7. They graduated their quarterback, all the backs and receivers but bring back last year’s sophomore quarterback Jake Campbell (5-11, 180 as a soph) who got playing time.

Mechanicsburg (3-7) The Wildcats lost games by 3 points to Middletown (4-6), 6 points to AAAA Lower Dauphin (6-5), 7 points to Susquehanna Twp (5-5), 7 points to Northern (11-1) and 13 points to Hershey (10-3). Excepting the Middletown loss, that’s a slate of strong teams. Middletown caught them coming off a 28-21 effort against Northern. Some of my insane relatives back that way tell me the Wildcats are going to roar in 2008. They should be improved. We’ll see if they roar.

Susquehanna Township (5-5) The Indians lost running back Gabriel Oliver and DE/LB Ashton Bruno (6-2, 240) to graduation. The return of junior quarterback Ben Dupree will have a settling effect on the team as this guy can break it from anywhere.

THE EAST, AAA

Upper Merion (1-9) With the loss of only eight seniors in Coach Joe Powell’s second season after building Archbishop Wood into a power, you’ve got to think good things are going to happen in King of Prussia . The losses were by an average score of 36-9, while their only win came against American Conference champ Wissahickon, 22-21. Let’s see if they can build on that with nearly the entire team returning.

Upper Moreland (5-4) The Bears return quarterback Mike Rosenbaum (60% completion rate), RB Chris Smallwood, who got 700 yards rushing last year and most of the line. Like the Vikings above, almost everyone returns.

Interboro (8-3) Quarterback Jim McMenamin and both running backs, Dave Gillen and Zach Bradford, are back with division one talent at wide receiver in Shawn Krautzel. But there are two big holes to fill on the line with Brian Margetich (6-1, 290) and Ian Hecksher (6-1, 275) moving on. The line looks to be a problem this year.

Strath Haven (8-3) The Panther’s lost a number of running backs and their quarterback but return experienced backs and the starting FB/LB David Alyanakian (5-11, 232), their top run stuffer and number two stopper DE/OT Joe D’Aurizio (6-1, 240). Two others return to the lines, OT/DE Mike Varga (5-11, 235) and C/NG Forrie Miller (5-11, 210). Running back should be no problem for the Panthers this year with Lonnie Richardson, Shane Kennedy and Dixon Speaker back and good looking sophomores and juniors moving up. Like last year, they’ll start a new quarterback.

Henderson (12-2) The Warriors drop to AAA this year but have tremendous losses on the O side with the quarterback, and two running backs accounting for 4,126 yards of production. Most of the line and seven of their top eleven tacklers graduated. They return two two-way linemen, three linebackers and a cornerback to give them a solid look on defense until they find an offense.

Other teams to keep your eye on

Phoenixville (8-4) Lose the quarterback and top receiver but return a line and many other starters.

Upper Perkiomen (8-4) Upper Perk graduates Cody Flemming (1176ry) but return eight to the D.

Pottsgrove (11-3) Graduate 2763 yards of offense (QB, RB) and four from the line but they’re are high on incoming young talent including last year’s freshmen running back Marka Polamalu (5-11, 175) and Terrell Chestnut (6-0, 170 ) who may be the new quarterback after receiving honors as a AP All State 1^st Team selection at DB.

District-2

West Scranton (12-2) Defending district champ West Scranton (two consecutive titles) lost their quarterback Matt McGloin and tight end Hubie Graham but return a good line, led by division one prospect 6-7, 280 Eric Shrive (AP 1^st Team and top rated PA prospect), Rob Eisenhart, 6-0, 255 and Zack Fox, 6-1, 295. Shawn Bodtman (6-0, 205) is back after gaining 1452 yards rushing last year. Garnet Valley stopped them in the semi final last year but they’ll be strong again in 2008.

Berwick (9-3) Lose QB Gordon Law but have his back up Nick Troxell (6-2, 185, senior) back with the top three receivers. Both speed and power return in the backfield where they’ll run behind a good line.

Other teams to keep your eye on

Abington Heights (6-5) Quarterback Mike Dargatis graduates along with the top two receivers but the Comets seem to always be in the hunt.

Wyoming (10-2) Warriors lose their top four backs and number one receiver but return quarterback Pete Adonizio who split time last year.

District-4 (Moves to the East brackets this year)

Selinsgrove (11-3) The Seals return four starters to the offense. But this is Selinsgrove where winning is a given as evidenced by four consecutive district titles. Last year’s 11-3 record was their worst in five years! Their five year won-loss is 56-10, meaning they expect to win and likely will. They are counting on a big junior quarterback, Corey Briggs (6-3, 205) to win the QB spot. Whoever wins the running back spots will motor behind a typical and large Selinsgrove line.

District-6

All four of last season’s most successful teams, Bellefonte, Indian Valley , Johnstown and Hollidaysburg lost their quarterback to graduation. That’s not a death blow but it is compounded by all four losing significant production from the running back position.

Hollidaysburg (9-3) The Golden Tigers look to be in the best shape of all with ten of their leading fifteen tacklers returning along with number two QB Brandyn Ott (6-2, 195, senior) and three of the four leading receivers. Still, the loss of quarterback Pat Smith (6-5, 210) who threw for 1544 yards is significant. The leading three running backs graduate as well meaning it’s up to a defense that allowed 18ppg last year to be a bulwark until the offense develops.

Bellefonte (7-4) The Raiders are looking for a new quarterback with Ryan Poorman gone. He passed for 1147 yards. The leading running back graduated as well along with 20 other seniors.

Indian Valley (11-3) It looks like a long season in the valley for the district champ with QB Jarrett Kratzer out of the picture. He threw for 1936 yards and had a 18-8 touchdown to interception ratio. That will be missed! So will three backs that ran for 2401 yards. Thad Rosenberry led the Warriors with 1173 yards.

Johnstown (7-3) The Trojans lost their QB but more importantly, one of the best backs seen in years, Antwuan Reed, who rambled for 1955 yards last year.

District-11

Blue Mountain (8-5) Defending district champ Blue Mountain needs to replace at least two good linemen in Matt Stankiewitch (6-4, 299) and Travis Spotts (6-2, 266) as well as find a new quarterback and running back with the departure of QB Pat Killian and RB Dillon Englert. A repeat will be difficult.    

Wilson (7-4) Wilson is up from the AA ranks the next two years but has to be one of the early favorite with eighteen starters back. They’ve got a keeper at quarterback in Tyler Smith (6-3, 198) who threw for 1925 yards and 20 Td strikes. Last year’s super young team graduated just 10 seniors so they are loaded.

Pottsville (5-6) Following three consecutive seasons that saw the Crimson Tide go 10-2, 13-2 and 13-3 from 2004 through 2006 and reach the final in back to back appearances (2005, 2006), the bottom feel out last year as the Tide had a losing season. One of the bright spots was the performance of sophomore Jeremy Hoke (5-11, 175) who rushed for 1107 yards on 175 carries. Another sophomore, Eric Leymeister (6-1, 200) took care of short yardage getting 359 yards on 86 carries. You know Pottsville almost always has a line. This year is no different so if they can find a replacement for graduated quarterback Nick Schafer, they’ll be fine.

Bethlehem Catholic (4-6) This was a team that was so close last year with a 16-13 loss to Freedom, a 10-6 loss to Emmaus and a 21-20 loss to Whitehall. Incredibly, they beat Liberty 28-14 to get bragging rights in Bethlehem for the year. What a year. This season has already started off poorly when running back Eddie Mateo (1175ry) transferred to Freedom. But they do have eight returning starters to the D that will have to hold the line until the offense gets onboard.

Northwestern Lehigh (7-5) Northwestern started last year on a roll, going 5-1 before nose diving in for a 2-4 finish. They’ll probably get off to a slow start this year, finding someone to replace running back Ben Clymer who rushed for 1162 yards and caught 20 passes for 295 yards. The other back, Jake Bennett, gained 646 yards on 87 attempts and also caught 16 tosses for 159 yards, so they lose their top running backs and top receivers. QB Kyle Stelmack (6-1, 170, senior) who passed for 1104 yards will be looking for some help in the backfield with those two gone.

District -12

North Catholic (6-6) Right, it’s properly called Northeast Catholic but no one calls it by that name, not even the alumni. The Falcons will fly high in 08 if they can find someone to take over for running back Terrell Oglesby. Terrell gained 1214 yards last year on 207 carries. The good news is the return of quarterback Dennis Logue who has started since his freshman year. The 6-1, 205 pound senior completed 73 of 166 passes last season for 996 yards. His top four receivers are back, notably Mike Scott who caught 31 passes for 378 yards. They have good size up front allowing them to slug it out with the likes of Coatesville (et al) who they open with August 29^th. But the critical date could be October 25^th for the PCL closer at Archbishop Wood.

Archbishop Wood (9-3) Wood has a team that could go either way. Despite having a monster OT/DT in Adam Citko, (6-5, 305) the rest of the line looks extremely thin. And they lost their Blue Division MVP FB/LB Bob DeLucas (142/1088). Add to that quarterback Mike Cattolico graduating to see that things are up in the air. If a line materializes, they’ll have a running game with Sean Cunningham and Nick Devine returning. Sean carried 75 times for 525 yards, a 7.0ypc average. Nick carried it 68 times for 466 yards, a 6.9ypc average. There are a lot of concerns with this group and a lot of tradition to get them through it. Sean McCartney will start at quarterback

Lansdale Catholic (12-2) Lansdale had a huge attack last year, scoring 535 points while  allowing 212. They have very few losses but did lose quarterback Shane Pinzka and the top two receivers. The new quarterback will be last year’s prized running back John Howell. John ran for 2100 yards last year on 211 carries or, 10 yards per carry! With so many starters back, even in their first trip through the Catholic League, the Crusaders should do well. There are only two PCL road games, at Conwell Egan and Archbishop Wood. So the schedule is favorable with six home games. North Catholic and non-conference opponents Downingtown East and Upper Moreland all come to Lansdale .

AA Last year’s final provided our last high school look at the marvelous Terrelle Pryor, Jeannette’s 6-6, 225 pounds of incomparable quarterback and prized recruit of the Ohio State Buckeyes. In the state final against Dunmore (14-2), he rushed for 209 yards and completed three of four passes for 83 yards. In total, he accounted for five touchdowns; three rushing, one passing and a scoring reception for six more. The final score of 49-21 allowed Jeannette to finish the year at 16-0. No one has ever scored 49 points in a Double-A final before Jeannette. So after coming close in 2006 against Wilson , the Jays returned to the final to win their first PIAA title.

THE WEST, AA

(Districts 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) District-8 has no team that stand out at this early date.

District-5

North Star (9-3) Remember the 1987 movie Wall Street, where, along with Bud Fox (Charlie Sheen) and the unforgettable Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas), the small airline Blue Star took off to become a hot stock and excellent buy? You might find that analogous to small school North Star, an unknown, just up from Single-A, who return almost everyone from last year’s undervalued district champ. Realistically, with Jeannette, Aliquippa , Greensburg Central Catholic and Wilmington around, who thinks about District-5, let alone North Star when plotting this year’s power brokers out west? Then again, how many teams return everyone from a team that started four juniors and seven sophomores on defense? The sophomores included NG Josh Zerfoss (5-10, 350, whose getting around him?), DT Tyler Ulery (5-11, 215) LB Tony Maust (5-7, 190), LB Andrew Darr (5-8, 160,) DE Mike Knisley (6-0, 165) and DE Richie Meechleib (5-10, 190). Another impressive player is their future QB and current pt DB Alijah Petrilla at 6-3,