Are you ready for some football?
Welcome to the official forum on high school football for the 2025 season.
During the off-season let’s talk about players, recruiting news, teams, and everything about high school football.
During the season each week let’s talk about match-ups and how teams did. Let us know what player(s) stood out each week.
1,631 Responses
My picks for this week:
1A:
Fort Cherry over Port Allegheny
Bishop Guilfoyle over Muncy
2A:
Central Clarion over South Park
Troy over Riverside
3A:
Avonworth over Penn Cambria
Northwestern Lehigh over Danville (saw this matchup coming from about week 4)
4A:
Thomas Jefferson over Lampeter-Strasburg
Bonner Prendie over Southern Lehigh
5A:
Pine Richland over Bishop McDevitt
Roman Catholic over WC Rustin
6A:
Pittsburgh Central Catholic over Harrisburg
SJP over Downingtown West
@MCA75 – hard to disagree with any of your picks, although I think Penn Cambria has a pretty good chance to beat Avonworth, and the Harrisburg-PCC game could go either way, would not be surprised if Harrisburg wins that game, numerous D1 recruits on both teams. Interesting that 4A-6A finals could have the WPIAL with 3 Allegheny County teams vs. the PCL.
It’s going to take a southern Lehigh (week 10) effort vs Northwestern for Danville to have a shot. Ironically enough, northwesterns biggest test so far is also playing in semis in 4A . I like Northwestern 28-14.
Northwestern 1st team defense has only given up 19 points since the district tournament started. Very impressive performance by that 3 front Meck,Huber, Reicher. Excellent @ all 3 levels. But really impressive in the trenches.
PCL and ChesMont a combined 5-0 tonight. Something has to give next weekend.
Having seen DWest and Rustin play this year I will be surprised if both of those teams don’t get blown out against SJP and Roman. We are talking District 1 football here. I think Bonner Prendie goes 3/3 for the Catholic League against the West winner. Not sure how much Lampeter will have left for TJ after a bruising overtime battle against Wyomissing. Went to the Wilson/Hburg game, it was evident from the get go that Hburg had the superior athletes. Speaking of athletes, Hburg Stud receiver Elias Coke was carted off the field at the end of the 3rd quarter while the Mercy rule was in affect. Why he was in there in the 1st place is a mystery. Highly doubtful he goes next week and if he can’t blame the Hburg coach.
Congrats to my alma mater Dtown West for beating some very good teams on the way to their District 1 chip and earning the right to be demolished by the perennial All Star team next week!
PJP just ran into a Bonnor team that was able to neutralize their speed with even more speed. Talented playmakers at rb and wr..QB plays bigger then his size. They lost to the two best teams in the state and beat two of the best teams in 4 and 5 a in PJP and Roman. It’s gonna take a very good team to beat them from the west they won’t be intimidated by anyone with the schedule they have played..As far as PJP they have a lot to be proud of.Win 12 games two straight PAC and district tiles they have established a very good program.
PIAA changing dates/times of some playoff games due to the weather. I was thinking of going to Westinghouse vs. Bishop Guilfoyle tonight at Highlands HS even though the weather is nasty, but I just saw on the PIAA website the game has been moved to tomorrow at 1pm at Farrell HS. This game has now been moved from Johnstown to Highlands (in Tarentum) to Farrell, which is really bizarre because Farrell is closer to Erie than either Pittsburgh or especially Altoona, that has to be well over a 2 hour bus ride for Guilfoyle. Now you have a school from Pittsburgh travelling over an hour north to play a team from 2 hours east, only in the geographically challenged minds of the PIAA executives does this make any sense whatsoever.
Also saw the Scranton Prep vs. NW Lehigh game has been moved to tomorrow night at 7pm at Berwick, and Bermudian Springs is playing Danville tomorrow at 1pm
Two District One Championship games (6A and 5A) free Youtube streams for you guys this evening……..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E7Uaj_79xg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_V0Vrlvjmw
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)
as a d2 fan i am surprised at riverside getting this far. i am happy and rooting for them,but when i watched them 3 times this year they won 2 of those games but were not very impressive in doing so. the competition in d2 AA not so good this year. nonetheless congratulation’s and beat Troy. As for scranton prep I just cannot root for them because of what I regard as unfair advantages that they have in awarding what are in essence hardship sports scholarships in addition to the no boundary lack of regulation.
Northwestern Lehigh what a well coach team! The entire team has bought into the expectations of that program. Every player has a role.
This was my 3rd time seeing them play this season and it has been a pleasure to see.
Brutal loss for Wyo tonight. Ran for 413 yds. Controlled the trenches all night. But a blocked ex pt late in the 4th kept the lead at 7 for Wyo, and gave LS a shot. LS converts on 4th & 9 with 53 seconds left makes the ex pt to tie it at 27. Then Wyo gets a fg blocked in OT..Mind-boggling loss. Don’t think Wyo has ever lost rushing for 415 yds.
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.
I agree Jeff. I think TJ beats L-S by 2 TDs, and will face Bonner in the finals. TJ is well balanced on both sides of the ball, and their offense is tough to defend, as they can both run & pass the ball. I also like TJ to win their 6th PIAA title, as they are (5-0) in PIAA Championship games. When they’ve gotten there, they’ve won. I like TJ by 10-14 over Bonner. We shall see.
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.