Very possible we see the rubber match this year in the state final between Northwestern and Avonworth, although now that Aliquippa is back in 3A they may have something to say about that, hard to see anyone other than those 2 teams winning WPIAL 3A.

I believe Williams Valley graduated 12 seniors along with starting QB. I believe Marian returns majority of returning starters from last year including a D1 offer. I see more of a toss up between Tri Valley and Marian. Schuylkill media day is today. Interesting to see what the locals say.

First, welcome back. We know we are getting close to the 2026 season with D2 Fan back in the house.

But…….respect?? More like working the system, and all fun and games, until, if they even make it this far, getting their collective teeth kicked in by the District 4 champion.

I had to do a double take when I saw the updated numbers on the website. They looked at things like wear & tear in the playoffs & non-boundary schools not being a factor here.

Much respect to them. If they do damage in the postseason in a class that’s not as competitive as 1A (at least there), then what a payoff it’ll be.

Here are my initial thoughts based on last season and contributors who have graduated or are returning.

6A: Probably Parkland. Easton loses a lot. Nazareth loses their star RB. Whitehall has good pieces but not sure they have the depth to compete with the top dogs.
5A: Southern Lehigh’s class to lose even though they’re moving up from 4A, though PM East is on the rise.
4A: I expect ACCHS and Becahi to be good this year, but Blue Mtn also has the pieces to contend. NS is a wildcard with Tomtishen now at the helm.
3A: Hard to see anyone other than Northwestern on top. NDGP the only team I could see challenging.
2A: Schuylkill Haven are the favorites with Carr graduating from Minersville and WV back down to 1A. Northern Lehigh could challenge.
1A: Williams Valley are strong favorites moving back down to 1A. Tri-Valley is the most likely to pull the upset.

Northwestern Lehigh. I believe they return a good bit of production from last year.

That’s kind of weird,wonder what happened. DTE gets a home game and probably a relatively easy win. Not sure that’s always a good thing .

That’s why I said it was a stretch