West Perry product Musa Smith churned out 83 yards on 22 carries with a touchdown to lead Baltimore to a season-ending 27-21 win over AFC North Division champion Pittsburgh on Sunday.
Here is a feature on Smith and teammate Cory Ross' big day.
Musa Smith's post-game press conference video.
Musa Smith's 2007 and season stat package.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Top dual meets this week
As the new year draws near, here's a list of some of best dual meets for the first week of 2008. It's a short week, but full of excitement.
Wednesday
Big Spring at Chambersburg -- The Bulldogs haven't lost a Mid-Penn Colonial dual meet this season. With wins over Cumberland Valley, Carlisle and Gettysburg, the Trojans might be the only team that could hand Big Spring a divisional loss this year.
Thursday
Carlisle at Mechanicsburg -- Sure, the Wildcats are winless in dual meets, but they've held their own in tournaments and have been in most of their meets. Heavyweight Danny Estricher, fresh off first-place finish in the Buckskin Classic, is one to watch for the maroon and gray.
Susquenita at Central Dauphin East -- The Panthers are an eyebrow-raising 7-1 in dual meets this season and 2-1 in the Commonwealth. Susquenita is 1-1 in the division. It's unlikely either will catch front-running Central Dauphin or second-place Lower Dauphin, but the winner will likely finish the year third.
Wednesday
Big Spring at Chambersburg -- The Bulldogs haven't lost a Mid-Penn Colonial dual meet this season. With wins over Cumberland Valley, Carlisle and Gettysburg, the Trojans might be the only team that could hand Big Spring a divisional loss this year.
Thursday
Carlisle at Mechanicsburg -- Sure, the Wildcats are winless in dual meets, but they've held their own in tournaments and have been in most of their meets. Heavyweight Danny Estricher, fresh off first-place finish in the Buckskin Classic, is one to watch for the maroon and gray.
Susquenita at Central Dauphin East -- The Panthers are an eyebrow-raising 7-1 in dual meets this season and 2-1 in the Commonwealth. Susquenita is 1-1 in the division. It's unlikely either will catch front-running Central Dauphin or second-place Lower Dauphin, but the winner will likely finish the year third.
Wilson brings gold home to Carlisle
Jayshon Wilson isn't your typical freshman.
He proved that Saturday night at West Mifflin High School by winning, in dominating fashion, the 135-pound weight class at the Steve DeAugustino Holiday Classic.
Wilson pinned three opponents in the first period, including his fall of Michael Kazalas in 1:35 to earn the top of the podium. The only win not via fall for Wilson was a technical fall of Daniel Duffy in the quarterfinals.
Wilson was named the tournament's Outstanding Wrestler and the Herd finished third, behind champion Bermudian Springs and runner-up Bethel Park.
He proved that Saturday night at West Mifflin High School by winning, in dominating fashion, the 135-pound weight class at the Steve DeAugustino Holiday Classic.
Wilson pinned three opponents in the first period, including his fall of Michael Kazalas in 1:35 to earn the top of the podium. The only win not via fall for Wilson was a technical fall of Daniel Duffy in the quarterfinals.
Wilson was named the tournament's Outstanding Wrestler and the Herd finished third, behind champion Bermudian Springs and runner-up Bethel Park.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Cedar Cliff pair relegated to consolation bracket
After an impressive run to the 2007 Powerade Christmas Tournament semifinal round at Canon-McMillan High School, Cedar Cliff grapplers Tom Heckman and Keith Dickey were bounced by the slimmest of margins.
At 171 pounds, Heckman dropped an 11-8 decision to Peter Huntley of Virginia's Colonial Forge High School.
In the 189 semifinal, Dickey's run ended with a tough 3-2 decision to Parkersburg (W. Va.) standout Andy Thomas.
In the sixth consolation round, Connellsville's Zach Benzio beat Dickey, 9-5, while Heckman earned a 7-6 win in overtime against Braden Carter, from Christianburg (Va.).
Heckman will face Shady Side Academy's Kurt Brendel, who pinned West Allegheny's Mark Vuono in 3:57, in the other sixth-round consolation matchup.
The consolation semifinals are set to begin at 5 p.m.
As it stands, Cedar Cliff is 22nd out of 42 teams with fellow Mid-Penn member Central Dauphin first.
Complete results can be found at the tournament's Web site.
At 171 pounds, Heckman dropped an 11-8 decision to Peter Huntley of Virginia's Colonial Forge High School.
In the 189 semifinal, Dickey's run ended with a tough 3-2 decision to Parkersburg (W. Va.) standout Andy Thomas.
In the sixth consolation round, Connellsville's Zach Benzio beat Dickey, 9-5, while Heckman earned a 7-6 win in overtime against Braden Carter, from Christianburg (Va.).
Heckman will face Shady Side Academy's Kurt Brendel, who pinned West Allegheny's Mark Vuono in 3:57, in the other sixth-round consolation matchup.
The consolation semifinals are set to begin at 5 p.m.
As it stands, Cedar Cliff is 22nd out of 42 teams with fellow Mid-Penn member Central Dauphin first.
Complete results can be found at the tournament's Web site.
Napoli reigns in Manheim
Cumberland Valley 145-pounder Joey Napoli beat Erie Cathedral Prep's Jamal Lyons, 10-1, to take home first place in the 2007 Manheim Tournament on Friday.
Napoli secured his spot in the final via two pins before routing Lyons for gold.
CV also had two silver medalists as Bryce Busler fell to Central Mountain's Andrew Alton, 3-2, in the 140-pound final and Tristan Warner dropped a tough 1-0 decision to Easton's Colin Dailey at 152.
CV placed a respectable fifth place out of 14 participating teams with 116 points. Easton took first with 198.5 followed by Reynolds with 192.5, Central Mountain with 185 and Lower Dauphin with 153.5.
For completed brackets, visit the Easton High School wrestling site.
Napoli secured his spot in the final via two pins before routing Lyons for gold.
CV also had two silver medalists as Bryce Busler fell to Central Mountain's Andrew Alton, 3-2, in the 140-pound final and Tristan Warner dropped a tough 1-0 decision to Easton's Colin Dailey at 152.
CV placed a respectable fifth place out of 14 participating teams with 116 points. Easton took first with 198.5 followed by Reynolds with 192.5, Central Mountain with 185 and Lower Dauphin with 153.5.
For completed brackets, visit the Easton High School wrestling site.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Locals garner state-wide praise
Area high school football players were represented fairly well over the Christmas holiday as five appeared on the Associated Press All-State teams.
Trinity junior offensive lineman Nick Kindler and teammate Ryan Skotnicki, a senior defensive lineman, received the highest praise with their first-team offensive and defensive selections, respectively.
In Class AAA a pair of Red Land teammates earned second-team honors. Defensive lineman Aubrey Moore was voted as an all-state selection for the second time -- last year Moore was on the first team -- and Chad Christen made his first showing on the state-wide list as a placekicker.
Northern running back Michael Davies earned second-team Class AAA offensive honors as the senior ran for 1,578 yards and 30 touchdowns. Davies' total was 372 yards more than Shippensburg's Ethan Naylor, who finished second in area rushing.
Two District 3 standouts were honored in their respective classifications as players of the year. Gettysburg quarterback Evan Lewis took the distinction in Class AAA while running back Jeremiah Young, who led Steelton-Highspire to the PIAA Class A title, was the Single-A Player of the Year.
Trinity junior offensive lineman Nick Kindler and teammate Ryan Skotnicki, a senior defensive lineman, received the highest praise with their first-team offensive and defensive selections, respectively.
In Class AAA a pair of Red Land teammates earned second-team honors. Defensive lineman Aubrey Moore was voted as an all-state selection for the second time -- last year Moore was on the first team -- and Chad Christen made his first showing on the state-wide list as a placekicker.
Northern running back Michael Davies earned second-team Class AAA offensive honors as the senior ran for 1,578 yards and 30 touchdowns. Davies' total was 372 yards more than Shippensburg's Ethan Naylor, who finished second in area rushing.
Two District 3 standouts were honored in their respective classifications as players of the year. Gettysburg quarterback Evan Lewis took the distinction in Class AAA while running back Jeremiah Young, who led Steelton-Highspire to the PIAA Class A title, was the Single-A Player of the Year.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
All-Sentinel football teams
If you're interested in the 2007 football all-star teams, make sure to check our Web site daily. The teams have been compiled and we hope to release the information sometime next week.
The night before the offensive and defensive teams will be announced in the print edition, the story of the respective player of the year will be published on our Web site.
For each team, we'll publish an individual photo of every first-team selection, complete with the player's year and stats. There has also been a second team selected for each side of the ball and a coach of the year.
Stay tuned.
The night before the offensive and defensive teams will be announced in the print edition, the story of the respective player of the year will be published on our Web site.
For each team, we'll publish an individual photo of every first-team selection, complete with the player's year and stats. There has also been a second team selected for each side of the ball and a coach of the year.
Stay tuned.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Carlisle trio impressive
Matt McCollum and Alex Crown at 112 and 119 pounds, respectively, took second place over the weekend at the Sheetz Holiday Classic Wrestling Tournament hosted by Penn Cambria High School.
McCollum and Crown each went 2-1.
Crown knocked off Bermudian Springs 2006 state qualifer Nick Blasone, 3-1, in overtime while McCollum posted a pair of wins via pin.
At 135 pounds freshman Jayshon Wilson lost his first match and won five straight before defaulting in the consolation final. Wilson finished fourth and is 10-2 on the year with seven pins.
McCollum and Crown each went 2-1.
Crown knocked off Bermudian Springs 2006 state qualifer Nick Blasone, 3-1, in overtime while McCollum posted a pair of wins via pin.
At 135 pounds freshman Jayshon Wilson lost his first match and won five straight before defaulting in the consolation final. Wilson finished fourth and is 10-2 on the year with seven pins.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
PIAA Football Final Projections
Here are the MaxPreps picks for the 2007 PIAA state finals:
Class A
Serra Catholic 35, Steelton-Highspire 28
Class AAA
Thomas Jefferson 28, Garnet Valley 21
Class AA
Jeannette 38, Dunmore 20
Class AAAA
Pittsburgh Central Catholic 28, Parkland 21
Class A
Serra Catholic 35, Steelton-Highspire 28
Class AAA
Thomas Jefferson 28, Garnet Valley 21
Class AA
Jeannette 38, Dunmore 20
Class AAAA
Pittsburgh Central Catholic 28, Parkland 21
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Football correction
In my column that ran in Monday's edition outlining the history of the District 3-6 Class AAAA champion's performance in the Western Final, there was a factual error.
Bishop McDevitt running back LeSean McCoy was a junior in 2004 when the Crusaders lost to Pittsburgh Central Catholic, 44-0. The next season McCoy was a senior but was sidelined with an injury and didn't compete in McDevitt's 14-13 loss to McKeesport.
I apologize for the mistake.
Bishop McDevitt running back LeSean McCoy was a junior in 2004 when the Crusaders lost to Pittsburgh Central Catholic, 44-0. The next season McCoy was a senior but was sidelined with an injury and didn't compete in McDevitt's 14-13 loss to McKeesport.
I apologize for the mistake.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Carlisle wrestling rescheduled
The Waynesboro at Carlisle wrestling meet set for Wednesday at 7 p.m. has been postponed due to inclement weather and rescheduled for Thursday at 6 p.m. in the Swartz Gymnasium.
The Thundering Herd has a quick turnaround when they host the Carlisle Invitational on Friday and Saturday in the Gene Evans Gymnasium.
The Thundering Herd has a quick turnaround when they host the Carlisle Invitational on Friday and Saturday in the Gene Evans Gymnasium.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
PIAA Semifinal Predictions
In the first week of predicting state-wide games, MaxPreps went 12-4. There are now only four teams playing in each classification with this weekend’s winners advancing to their respective state championship games next weekend in Hershey.
The picks are once again in the order that the championships will be played.
PIAA Class A
Eastern final at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, Saturday, 1 p.m.
Bloomsburg 31, Steelton-Highspire 21
Western Final at Memorial Stadium in Clarion, Friday, 7 p.m.
Kane 26, Serra Catholic 24
PIAA Class AAA
Eastern Final at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, Friday, 7 p.m.
Garnet Valley 26, Lampeter-Strasburg 22
Western Final at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Erie, Friday, 7 p.m.
Thomas Jefferson 28, Erie Strong Vincent 26
PIAA Class AA
Eastern Final at Kemp Memorial Stadium in Shamokin, Saturday, 1 p.m.
Dumore 22, Loyalsock Twp. 21
Western Final at Thompson Stadium in Slippery Rock, Saturday, 1 p.m.
Jeannette 40, Wilmington 22
PIAA Class AAAA
Eastern Final at J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown, Saturday, noon
Parkland 21, Ridley 14
Western Final at Mansion Park Stadium in Altoona, Saturday, 1 p.m.
Pittsburgh Central Catholic 28, Harrisburg 27
The picks are once again in the order that the championships will be played.
PIAA Class A
Eastern final at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, Saturday, 1 p.m.
Bloomsburg 31, Steelton-Highspire 21
Western Final at Memorial Stadium in Clarion, Friday, 7 p.m.
Kane 26, Serra Catholic 24
PIAA Class AAA
Eastern Final at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, Friday, 7 p.m.
Garnet Valley 26, Lampeter-Strasburg 22
Western Final at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Erie, Friday, 7 p.m.
Thomas Jefferson 28, Erie Strong Vincent 26
PIAA Class AA
Eastern Final at Kemp Memorial Stadium in Shamokin, Saturday, 1 p.m.
Dumore 22, Loyalsock Twp. 21
Western Final at Thompson Stadium in Slippery Rock, Saturday, 1 p.m.
Jeannette 40, Wilmington 22
PIAA Class AAAA
Eastern Final at J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown, Saturday, noon
Parkland 21, Ridley 14
Western Final at Mansion Park Stadium in Altoona, Saturday, 1 p.m.
Pittsburgh Central Catholic 28, Harrisburg 27
Friday, November 30, 2007
Not this year
When the final two District 3 football trophies are handed out at Hersheypark Stadium -- AAA tonight, AAAA tomorrow -- there will not be a Sentinel area team bringing the hardware back to the West Shore.
This season marked only the second time since 2000 that at least one team in The Sentinel's coverage area failed to win a district football championship. The other instance was 2005.
Here's a list of local district champions since the turn of the century:
2007 -- none
2006 -- Red Land in Class AAA
2005 -- none
2004 -- Camp Hill in A
2003 -- Cumberland Valley in AAAA
2002 -- Camp Hill, Trinity in A and AA, respectively
2001 -- Camp Hill, Cumberland Valley in A and AAAA, respectively
2000 --Cumberland Valley in AAAA
This season marked only the second time since 2000 that at least one team in The Sentinel's coverage area failed to win a district football championship. The other instance was 2005.
Here's a list of local district champions since the turn of the century:
2007 -- none
2006 -- Red Land in Class AAA
2005 -- none
2004 -- Camp Hill in A
2003 -- Cumberland Valley in AAAA
2002 -- Camp Hill, Trinity in A and AA, respectively
2001 -- Camp Hill, Cumberland Valley in A and AAAA, respectively
2000 --Cumberland Valley in AAAA
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Carlisle Invitational
The Carlisle wrestling team will more than make up for being idle this weekend.
The Thundering Herd welcomes Mid-Penn Colonial Division rival Waynesboro to Swartz Gymnasium on Dec. 5 and hosts 16 other wrestling teams to Gene Evans Gymnasium two days later for the Carlisle Invitational.
The Invite gets underway Friday, Dec. 7 at 4:30 p.m. and resumes at 10:30 a.m. the next morning.
Mid-Penn participants include Big Spring, Boiling Springs, Chambersburg, Greencastle-Antrim, Hershey, Red Land, Shippensburg and Susquenita.
Here's a list of the other teams that will invade Carlisle High School next weekend:
Bermudian Springs
Cedar Crest
Conestoga Valley
Fairfield
Hollidaysburg
Northern Lebanon
Owen J. Roberts
West York
The Thundering Herd welcomes Mid-Penn Colonial Division rival Waynesboro to Swartz Gymnasium on Dec. 5 and hosts 16 other wrestling teams to Gene Evans Gymnasium two days later for the Carlisle Invitational.
The Invite gets underway Friday, Dec. 7 at 4:30 p.m. and resumes at 10:30 a.m. the next morning.
Mid-Penn participants include Big Spring, Boiling Springs, Chambersburg, Greencastle-Antrim, Hershey, Red Land, Shippensburg and Susquenita.
Here's a list of the other teams that will invade Carlisle High School next weekend:
Bermudian Springs
Cedar Crest
Conestoga Valley
Fairfield
Hollidaysburg
Northern Lebanon
Owen J. Roberts
West York
Cumberland Valley football schedule announced
Chapman Field isn't going to be used much in September.
Cumberland Valley's 2008 football schedule was posted on the CV Football Alumni Web site shortly after the Eagles' 33-30 loss to Muhlenberg in the District 3-6 Class AAAA first round, and the slate includes four straight road games beginning with a Sept. 12 trip to Altoona.
CV won't return to Chapman Field until Oct. 10 when rival Carlisle comes calling.
The game against Carlisle opens a season-ending four-game home stand for the Eagles. Harrisburg comes to 'The Chap' on Oct. 17 and Central Dauphin will be the guest on Senior Night two weeks later.
CV's home opener is Sept. 5 against Commonwealth opponent State College.
The Eagles travel to Red Lion on Aug. 31 for the season opener.
A complete schedule can be found here.
Cumberland Valley's 2008 football schedule was posted on the CV Football Alumni Web site shortly after the Eagles' 33-30 loss to Muhlenberg in the District 3-6 Class AAAA first round, and the slate includes four straight road games beginning with a Sept. 12 trip to Altoona.
CV won't return to Chapman Field until Oct. 10 when rival Carlisle comes calling.
The game against Carlisle opens a season-ending four-game home stand for the Eagles. Harrisburg comes to 'The Chap' on Oct. 17 and Central Dauphin will be the guest on Senior Night two weeks later.
CV's home opener is Sept. 5 against Commonwealth opponent State College.
The Eagles travel to Red Lion on Aug. 31 for the season opener.
A complete schedule can be found here.
PIAA Playoff Predictions
Here are the MaxPreps picks for the quarterfinal round of the PIAA playoffs. MaxPreps was a respectable 5-1 last week in the District 3 playoff predictions. For brackets and a playoff schedule, go to the PIAA Web site.
These picks are in the same order that the state championships will be played.
PIAA Class A
Quarterfinals
Steelton-Highspire 28, Bellwood-Antis 26
Bloomsburg 31, Marian Catholic 14
Kane 28, Mercyhurst Prep 14
Serra Catholic 40, North Star 21
PIAA Class AAA
Quarterfinals
Gettysburg 28, Lampeter-Strasburg 27
West Scranton 27, Garnet Valley 22
Erie Strong Vincent 28, Indian Valley 21
Thomas Jefferson 28, Selinsgrove 13
PIAA Class AA
Quarterfinals
Loyalsock Twp. 31, Delone Catholic 17
Lansdale Catholic 28, Dunmore 21
Wilmington 28, Bishop McCort 19
Jeannette 42, Karns City 22
PIAA Class AAAA
Quarterfinals
Parkland 28, George Washington 8
West Chester Henderson 21, Ridley 20
Pittsburgh Central Catholic 41, Erie Cathedral Prep 21
Harrisburg 31, Governor Mifflin 28
These picks are in the same order that the state championships will be played.
PIAA Class A
Quarterfinals
Steelton-Highspire 28, Bellwood-Antis 26
Bloomsburg 31, Marian Catholic 14
Kane 28, Mercyhurst Prep 14
Serra Catholic 40, North Star 21
PIAA Class AAA
Quarterfinals
Gettysburg 28, Lampeter-Strasburg 27
West Scranton 27, Garnet Valley 22
Erie Strong Vincent 28, Indian Valley 21
Thomas Jefferson 28, Selinsgrove 13
PIAA Class AA
Quarterfinals
Loyalsock Twp. 31, Delone Catholic 17
Lansdale Catholic 28, Dunmore 21
Wilmington 28, Bishop McCort 19
Jeannette 42, Karns City 22
PIAA Class AAAA
Quarterfinals
Parkland 28, George Washington 8
West Chester Henderson 21, Ridley 20
Pittsburgh Central Catholic 41, Erie Cathedral Prep 21
Harrisburg 31, Governor Mifflin 28
Friday, November 23, 2007
District 3 playoff predictions
Here are the MaxPreps predictions for the third weekend of playoff football in District 3. The Class A score reflects the final score from the game played earlier today.
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Semifinals
Harrisburg 31, Wilson West Lawn 12
Governor Mifflin 31, Manheim Twp. 22
District 3 Class AAA
Semifinals
Gettysburg 27, Daniel Boone 19
Lampeter-Strasburg 22, Hershey 19
District 3 Class AA
Championship
Trinity 34, Delone Catholic 8
District 3 Class A
Championship
Steelton-Highspire 24, Millersburg 21 (final)
*-Due to a late update to this blog, the Class A championship was already completed when this was posted. If anyone was wondering, MaxPreps picked Steel-High to beat Millersburg, 28-21.
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Semifinals
Harrisburg 31, Wilson West Lawn 12
Governor Mifflin 31, Manheim Twp. 22
District 3 Class AAA
Semifinals
Gettysburg 27, Daniel Boone 19
Lampeter-Strasburg 22, Hershey 19
District 3 Class AA
Championship
Trinity 34, Delone Catholic 8
District 3 Class A
Championship
Steelton-Highspire 24, Millersburg 21 (final)
*-Due to a late update to this blog, the Class A championship was already completed when this was posted. If anyone was wondering, MaxPreps picked Steel-High to beat Millersburg, 28-21.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Some musts for some W's
As the wind howls outside, let's take a closer look at what the four remaining area teams have to do tonight -- besides cope with the high wind -- to be playing after Thanksgiving.
Red Land -- Skyler Hunt, Red Land's senior quarterback, needs to outplay Hershey ace Mike Wagner. In a game likely to be very defensive, a key throw in the second half may decide the winner. The other factor is both teams running games. Junior Rodriguez hit 99 yards two weeks ago against the Trojans and lineman Aubrey Moore has been involved in the jumbo package as a fullback of late.
Northern -- This one is easy. If the two-pronged rushing attack of Michael Davies and Bubba Smith gets on track early, the Polar Bears could make this look easy. The wind will make it difficult for Daniel Boone to throw -- something it loves to do -- effectively.
Trinity -- Outside of facing Lancaster Catholic, Milton Hershey is probably the worst draw Trinity could have gotten. The Spartans played an even game with Trinity in October and could do so again tonight. With Christian Kuntz' speed and Rod Trevino's ability to pound the ball into the line, the Shamrocks have the ability to keep the ball away Milton Hershey's explosive back, Donte Peeks. If it's close in the end, Ted Spinelli, who went 0-for-6 passing in the first encounter, will need to step up.
Camp Hill -- Tyler Shover. If the junior quarterback eclipses the 300-yard mark again this week, Camp Hill is going to win. Shover has weapons -- Jordan Weber, Trevor Polly -- but is a master at offensive coordinator Steve Shover's West Virginia offense. Steelton-Highspire will try to ride Jeremiah Young, one of the state's top running backs, to a win but it's going to be tough stopping Shover and that Lion offense.
What's next
The day after Thanksgiving brings two District 3 championship games to Hersheypark Stadium. The Camp Hill/Steelton-Highspire winner faces the Holy Name/Millersburg winner at 1 p.m. in the Class A final. In the nightcap at 7, Milton Hershey or Trinity will meet the winner of Delone Catholic/Lancaster Catholic for the Class AA title.
The AAA field heads into the semifinals next weekend with local teams on each side of the bracket. If Northern survives, it will welcome the winner of West York/Gettysburg to Bostic Field a week from today. Red Land, if it gets past Hershey, will be required to make travel plans if No. 2 seed Elizabethtown beats visiting Lampeter-Strasburg tonight. If L-S wins, the Pioneers will invade West Shore Stadium next Friday.
Both AAA semifinals are scheduled to start at 7.
Red Land -- Skyler Hunt, Red Land's senior quarterback, needs to outplay Hershey ace Mike Wagner. In a game likely to be very defensive, a key throw in the second half may decide the winner. The other factor is both teams running games. Junior Rodriguez hit 99 yards two weeks ago against the Trojans and lineman Aubrey Moore has been involved in the jumbo package as a fullback of late.
Northern -- This one is easy. If the two-pronged rushing attack of Michael Davies and Bubba Smith gets on track early, the Polar Bears could make this look easy. The wind will make it difficult for Daniel Boone to throw -- something it loves to do -- effectively.
Trinity -- Outside of facing Lancaster Catholic, Milton Hershey is probably the worst draw Trinity could have gotten. The Spartans played an even game with Trinity in October and could do so again tonight. With Christian Kuntz' speed and Rod Trevino's ability to pound the ball into the line, the Shamrocks have the ability to keep the ball away Milton Hershey's explosive back, Donte Peeks. If it's close in the end, Ted Spinelli, who went 0-for-6 passing in the first encounter, will need to step up.
Camp Hill -- Tyler Shover. If the junior quarterback eclipses the 300-yard mark again this week, Camp Hill is going to win. Shover has weapons -- Jordan Weber, Trevor Polly -- but is a master at offensive coordinator Steve Shover's West Virginia offense. Steelton-Highspire will try to ride Jeremiah Young, one of the state's top running backs, to a win but it's going to be tough stopping Shover and that Lion offense.
What's next
The day after Thanksgiving brings two District 3 championship games to Hersheypark Stadium. The Camp Hill/Steelton-Highspire winner faces the Holy Name/Millersburg winner at 1 p.m. in the Class A final. In the nightcap at 7, Milton Hershey or Trinity will meet the winner of Delone Catholic/Lancaster Catholic for the Class AA title.
The AAA field heads into the semifinals next weekend with local teams on each side of the bracket. If Northern survives, it will welcome the winner of West York/Gettysburg to Bostic Field a week from today. Red Land, if it gets past Hershey, will be required to make travel plans if No. 2 seed Elizabethtown beats visiting Lampeter-Strasburg tonight. If L-S wins, the Pioneers will invade West Shore Stadium next Friday.
Both AAA semifinals are scheduled to start at 7.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
District 3 playoff predictions
Here are the MaxPreps predictions for the second weekend of the District 3 football playoffs. Complete brackets, with results, can be found on the district’s Web site.
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Quarterfinals
Upper Bracket
Harrisburg 35, Muhlenberg 14
York William Penn 24, Wilson West Lawn 17
Lower Bracket
Manheim Twp. 24, Central Dauphin 17
Governor Mifflin 35, Bishop McDevitt 28
District 3 Class AAA
Quarterfinals
Upper Bracket
Northern 24, Daniel Boone 19
Gettysburg 38, West York 26
Lower Bracket
Elizabethtown 31, Lampeter-Strasburg 21
Red Land 19, Hershey 17
District 3 Class AA
Semifinals
Trinity 26, Milton Hershey 7
Lancaster Catholic 34, Delone Catholic 17
District 3 Class A
Semifinals
Millersburg 28, Reading Holy Name 14
Steelton-Highspire 22, Camp Hill 20
*-The only game that does not begin Friday at 7 p.m. is the Muhlenberg at Harrisburg game, which begins Saturday at 1.
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Quarterfinals
Upper Bracket
Harrisburg 35, Muhlenberg 14
York William Penn 24, Wilson West Lawn 17
Lower Bracket
Manheim Twp. 24, Central Dauphin 17
Governor Mifflin 35, Bishop McDevitt 28
District 3 Class AAA
Quarterfinals
Upper Bracket
Northern 24, Daniel Boone 19
Gettysburg 38, West York 26
Lower Bracket
Elizabethtown 31, Lampeter-Strasburg 21
Red Land 19, Hershey 17
District 3 Class AA
Semifinals
Trinity 26, Milton Hershey 7
Lancaster Catholic 34, Delone Catholic 17
District 3 Class A
Semifinals
Millersburg 28, Reading Holy Name 14
Steelton-Highspire 22, Camp Hill 20
*-The only game that does not begin Friday at 7 p.m. is the Muhlenberg at Harrisburg game, which begins Saturday at 1.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
District 3 playoff predictions
Here are the MaxPreps predictions for the first weekend of the District 3 playoffs. Complete brackets can be found here.
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
*Harrisburg 40, Lower Dauphin 3
Muhlenberg 24, Cumberland Valley 22
York William Penn 35, Dallastown 19
Altoona 21, Wilson West Lawn 14
Lower Bracket
Manheim Twp. 28, Red Lion 7
Central Dauphin 31, Warwick 22
Governor Mifflin 31, State College 21
*Bishop McDevitt 35, Central York 17
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
Northern 35, Hamburg 10
Daniel Boone 19, Greencastle-Antrim 10
Gettysburg 35, Northern Lebanon 14
West York 28, Solanco 17
Lower Bracket
Elizabethtown 38, Shippensburg 12
Lampeter-Strasburg 21, Conrad Weiser 20
Red Land 24, Manheim Central 14
Hershey 27, Cocalico 17
District 3 Class AA
Trinity 38, Littlestown 6
Wyomissing 22, Milton Hershey 21
Lancaster Catholic 34, Juniata 19
Columbia 31, Delone Catholic 21
District 3 Class A
Millersburg 42, Upper Dauphin 0
Halifax 34, Reading Holy Name 21
Steelton-Highspire 49, Fairfield 6Camp Hill 31, Reading Central Catholic 6
*Harrisburg hosts Lower Dauphin on Saturday at 1 p.m.; Bishop McDevitt hosts Central York at Landis Field on Saturday at 1.
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
*Harrisburg 40, Lower Dauphin 3
Muhlenberg 24, Cumberland Valley 22
York William Penn 35, Dallastown 19
Altoona 21, Wilson West Lawn 14
Lower Bracket
Manheim Twp. 28, Red Lion 7
Central Dauphin 31, Warwick 22
Governor Mifflin 31, State College 21
*Bishop McDevitt 35, Central York 17
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
Northern 35, Hamburg 10
Daniel Boone 19, Greencastle-Antrim 10
Gettysburg 35, Northern Lebanon 14
West York 28, Solanco 17
Lower Bracket
Elizabethtown 38, Shippensburg 12
Lampeter-Strasburg 21, Conrad Weiser 20
Red Land 24, Manheim Central 14
Hershey 27, Cocalico 17
District 3 Class AA
Trinity 38, Littlestown 6
Wyomissing 22, Milton Hershey 21
Lancaster Catholic 34, Juniata 19
Columbia 31, Delone Catholic 21
District 3 Class A
Millersburg 42, Upper Dauphin 0
Halifax 34, Reading Holy Name 21
Steelton-Highspire 49, Fairfield 6Camp Hill 31, Reading Central Catholic 6
*Harrisburg hosts Lower Dauphin on Saturday at 1 p.m.; Bishop McDevitt hosts Central York at Landis Field on Saturday at 1.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Playoff preview week
In anticipation for the first week of the district playoffs, there will be a story regarding high school football in The Sentinel every day this week. The exception is Friday -- our paper hits newstands in the afternoon making it difficult for people to to read a preview or feature story so close to kick off.
Here's a schedule of what will run starting with Tuesday's edition. It's not too late to grab today's paper and check out the District 3 playoff breakdown and state playoff projections.
Tuesday: Statewide playoff notebook
Wednesday: Muhlenberg (9, 8-2) at Cumberland Valley (8, 7-3) game preview
Thursday: 'Football This Week' weekly tab
Here's a schedule of what will run starting with Tuesday's edition. It's not too late to grab today's paper and check out the District 3 playoff breakdown and state playoff projections.
Tuesday: Statewide playoff notebook
Wednesday: Muhlenberg (9, 8-2) at Cumberland Valley (8, 7-3) game preview
Thursday: 'Football This Week' weekly tab
District 3 playoff pairings
The brackets are finalized and action starts Friday night. The District 3 playoffs culminate on Nov. 23 for Class A and AA with 1 p.m. and 7 starts, respectively, at Hersheypark Stadium. A week later Class AAA takes the field at 7 p.m. and the 3-6 sub-region concludes a day later, also at 7 p.m.
All games begin Friday at 7 p.m. unless indicated
(seed, overall record in parenthesis)
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
Lower Dauphin (16, 6-4) at Harrisburg (1, 8-1), Saturday, 1
Muhlenberg (9, 8-2) at Cumberland Valley (8, 7-3)
Dallastown (13, 6-4) at York William Penn (4, 9-1)
Wilson West Lawn (12, 7-3) at Altoona (5, 8-2)
Lower Bracket
Red Lion (15, 6-4) at Manheim Twp. (2, 9-1)
Central Dauphin (10, 7-3) at Warwick (7, 9-1)
State College (14, 6-4) at Governor Mifflin (3, 9-1)
Central York (11, 7-3) vs. Bishop McDevitt (6, 8-2) at Landis Field, Saturday, 1
Class AAA
Upper Bracket
Hamburg (16, 7-3) at Northern (1, 10-0)
Daniel Boone (9, 7-3) at Greencastle-Antrim (8, 8-2)
Northern Lebanon (13, 7-3) at Gettysburg (4, 9-1)
Solanco (12, 7-3) at West York (5, 9-1)
Lower Bracket
Shippensburg (15, 7-3) at Elizabethtown (2, 9-1)
Conrad Weiser (10, 7-3) at Lampeter-Strasburg (7, 8-2)
Manheim Central (14, 6-4) at Red Land (3, 9-1)
Cocalico (11, 7-3) at Hershey (6, 8-2)
Class AA
Littlestown (8, 6-4) at Trinity (1, 10-0)
Milton Hershey (5, 7-3) vs. Wyomissing (4, 8-2) at Albright College
Juniata (7, 7-3) at Lancaster Catholic (2, 8-2)
Delone Catholic (6, 7-3) at Columbia (3, 8-2)
Class A
Upper Dauphin (8, 1-9) at Millersburg (1, 9-1)
Reading Holy Name (5, 6-4) at Halifax (4, 7-3)
Fairfield (7, 3-7) at Steelton-Highspire (2, 7-3)
Reading Central Catholic (6, 4-6) at Camp Hill (3, 7-3)
All games begin Friday at 7 p.m. unless indicated
(seed, overall record in parenthesis)
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
Lower Dauphin (16, 6-4) at Harrisburg (1, 8-1), Saturday, 1
Muhlenberg (9, 8-2) at Cumberland Valley (8, 7-3)
Dallastown (13, 6-4) at York William Penn (4, 9-1)
Wilson West Lawn (12, 7-3) at Altoona (5, 8-2)
Lower Bracket
Red Lion (15, 6-4) at Manheim Twp. (2, 9-1)
Central Dauphin (10, 7-3) at Warwick (7, 9-1)
State College (14, 6-4) at Governor Mifflin (3, 9-1)
Central York (11, 7-3) vs. Bishop McDevitt (6, 8-2) at Landis Field, Saturday, 1
Class AAA
Upper Bracket
Hamburg (16, 7-3) at Northern (1, 10-0)
Daniel Boone (9, 7-3) at Greencastle-Antrim (8, 8-2)
Northern Lebanon (13, 7-3) at Gettysburg (4, 9-1)
Solanco (12, 7-3) at West York (5, 9-1)
Lower Bracket
Shippensburg (15, 7-3) at Elizabethtown (2, 9-1)
Conrad Weiser (10, 7-3) at Lampeter-Strasburg (7, 8-2)
Manheim Central (14, 6-4) at Red Land (3, 9-1)
Cocalico (11, 7-3) at Hershey (6, 8-2)
Class AA
Littlestown (8, 6-4) at Trinity (1, 10-0)
Milton Hershey (5, 7-3) vs. Wyomissing (4, 8-2) at Albright College
Juniata (7, 7-3) at Lancaster Catholic (2, 8-2)
Delone Catholic (6, 7-3) at Columbia (3, 8-2)
Class A
Upper Dauphin (8, 1-9) at Millersburg (1, 9-1)
Reading Holy Name (5, 6-4) at Halifax (4, 7-3)
Fairfield (7, 3-7) at Steelton-Highspire (2, 7-3)
Reading Central Catholic (6, 4-6) at Camp Hill (3, 7-3)
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Week 10 recap
Susquenita is the only local team that didn’t play Friday night, the Blackhawks are at Kennard-Dale this afternoon. That said, I’m posting the Week 10 recap a day early to focus on the District 3 playoff pairings, which are expected to be released Sunday morning.
Biggest winners:
Northern – A 35-21 win over Shippensburg assured the Polar Bears of their fourth straight Mid-Penn Colonial title and, thanks to Elizabethtown’s loss to Cocalico, a top seed in the upcoming District 3-AAA playoffs. With Michael Davies and Bubba Smith running hard in the backfield and quarterback Jordan Rutherford playing his best ball of the year, Northern is going to be a tough out.
Red Land – The Patriots emerged from a physical war against Hershey victorious to stake their claim to a share of the Mid-Penn Keystone crown with Gettysburg. Junior Rodriguez (20 carries for 99 yards) led a Red Land attack that was focusing on the run in anticipation for the upcoming 3-AAA playoffs. Chad Christen booted two field goals – 42 and 22 yards – while all 13 Red Land points came off turnovers in the 10-point win.
Trinity – A Boiling Springs touchdown in the final minute foiled the Shamrocks’ bid for their seventh shutout and were the first points Trinity allowed at home. But the Shamrocks still polished off an unbeaten season and a Mid-Penn Capital championship with the 48-6 rout behind Rod Trevino's 127 yards and three touchdowns. Trinity also earned the top seed in the 3-AA playoffs.
Cumberland Valley – The Eagles will host a playoff game next week thanks their 41-7 win over Cedar Cliff and Muhlenberg’s 35-24 loss to Governor Mifflin. CV may need to rely on its home field advantage because either opponent – Central Dauphin or Muhlenberg – will pose a huge challenge.
Mechanicsburg – A frustrating season ended with a thrilling 28-21 win over Palmyra to snap a seven-game losing streak. It was a good, positive way to put an end to very emotional season at Memorial Park. Tarik Leftenant, a sophomore, scored on an 89-yard kickoff return, rushed for 189 yards on 22 carries and scored once on the ground. The future looks bright for Mechanicsburg.
Biggest losers:
Big Spring – Allowing 444 offensive yards in a 65-0 loss to East Pennsboro wasn’t the best way to follow up the program’s first win since 2004. The Bulldogs gave up 32 first-quarter points and allowed the Panthers to find the end zone 10 times. Blake Wheeler scored half of East Penn's touchdowns.
Boiling Springs – It was surprising to see the Bubblers blown out by Trinity. That’s not a good note to end a frustrating season on.
Biggest winners:
Northern – A 35-21 win over Shippensburg assured the Polar Bears of their fourth straight Mid-Penn Colonial title and, thanks to Elizabethtown’s loss to Cocalico, a top seed in the upcoming District 3-AAA playoffs. With Michael Davies and Bubba Smith running hard in the backfield and quarterback Jordan Rutherford playing his best ball of the year, Northern is going to be a tough out.
Red Land – The Patriots emerged from a physical war against Hershey victorious to stake their claim to a share of the Mid-Penn Keystone crown with Gettysburg. Junior Rodriguez (20 carries for 99 yards) led a Red Land attack that was focusing on the run in anticipation for the upcoming 3-AAA playoffs. Chad Christen booted two field goals – 42 and 22 yards – while all 13 Red Land points came off turnovers in the 10-point win.
Trinity – A Boiling Springs touchdown in the final minute foiled the Shamrocks’ bid for their seventh shutout and were the first points Trinity allowed at home. But the Shamrocks still polished off an unbeaten season and a Mid-Penn Capital championship with the 48-6 rout behind Rod Trevino's 127 yards and three touchdowns. Trinity also earned the top seed in the 3-AA playoffs.
Cumberland Valley – The Eagles will host a playoff game next week thanks their 41-7 win over Cedar Cliff and Muhlenberg’s 35-24 loss to Governor Mifflin. CV may need to rely on its home field advantage because either opponent – Central Dauphin or Muhlenberg – will pose a huge challenge.
Mechanicsburg – A frustrating season ended with a thrilling 28-21 win over Palmyra to snap a seven-game losing streak. It was a good, positive way to put an end to very emotional season at Memorial Park. Tarik Leftenant, a sophomore, scored on an 89-yard kickoff return, rushed for 189 yards on 22 carries and scored once on the ground. The future looks bright for Mechanicsburg.
Biggest losers:
Big Spring – Allowing 444 offensive yards in a 65-0 loss to East Pennsboro wasn’t the best way to follow up the program’s first win since 2004. The Bulldogs gave up 32 first-quarter points and allowed the Panthers to find the end zone 10 times. Blake Wheeler scored half of East Penn's touchdowns.
Boiling Springs – It was surprising to see the Bubblers blown out by Trinity. That’s not a good note to end a frustrating season on.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
District 3 playoff pairings after Week 9
The following is a glance at what the postseason playoff picture would be in District 3 if the season ended today. Rankings are courtesy of the Pennsylvania Football News and seeds are in parenthesis:
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Dallastown at (1) Harrisburg
(9) Cumberland Valley at (8) Muhlenberg
(12) State College at (5) Altoona
(13) Wilson West Lawn at (4) Governor Mifflin
Lower Bracket
(15) Lower Dauphin at (2) Manheim Twp.
(10) Central Dauphin at (7) Warwick
(11) Central York at (6) Bishop McDevitt
(14) Red Lion at (3) York High
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Northern Lebanon at (1) Elizabethtown
(9) Lampeter-Strasburg at (8) Greencastle-Antrim
(12) Shippensburg at (5) West York
(13) Cocalico at (4) Red Land
Lower Bracket
(15) Donegal at (2) Northern York
(10) Daniel Boone at (7) Conrad Weiser
(11) Solanco at (6) Gettysburg
(14) Manheim Central at (3) Hershey
District 3 Class AA
(8) Biglerville at (1) Trinity
(5) Milton Hershey at (4) Columbia
(6) Delone Catholic at (3) Wyomissing
(7) Juniata at (2) Lancaster Catholic
District 3 Class A
(8) Upper Dauphin at (1) Millersburg
(5) Reading Holy Name at (4) Halifax
(6) Reading Central Catholic at (3) Camp Hill
(7) Fairfield at (2) Steelton-Highspire
For complete rankings of every District 3 team and for all 12 PIAA districts, head to the PFN's Computer Rankings page.
*Final rankings and brackets are expected to be released late Sunday morning or early afternoon.
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Dallastown at (1) Harrisburg
(9) Cumberland Valley at (8) Muhlenberg
(12) State College at (5) Altoona
(13) Wilson West Lawn at (4) Governor Mifflin
Lower Bracket
(15) Lower Dauphin at (2) Manheim Twp.
(10) Central Dauphin at (7) Warwick
(11) Central York at (6) Bishop McDevitt
(14) Red Lion at (3) York High
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Northern Lebanon at (1) Elizabethtown
(9) Lampeter-Strasburg at (8) Greencastle-Antrim
(12) Shippensburg at (5) West York
(13) Cocalico at (4) Red Land
Lower Bracket
(15) Donegal at (2) Northern York
(10) Daniel Boone at (7) Conrad Weiser
(11) Solanco at (6) Gettysburg
(14) Manheim Central at (3) Hershey
District 3 Class AA
(8) Biglerville at (1) Trinity
(5) Milton Hershey at (4) Columbia
(6) Delone Catholic at (3) Wyomissing
(7) Juniata at (2) Lancaster Catholic
District 3 Class A
(8) Upper Dauphin at (1) Millersburg
(5) Reading Holy Name at (4) Halifax
(6) Reading Central Catholic at (3) Camp Hill
(7) Fairfield at (2) Steelton-Highspire
For complete rankings of every District 3 team and for all 12 PIAA districts, head to the PFN's Computer Rankings page.
*Final rankings and brackets are expected to be released late Sunday morning or early afternoon.
Week 10 predictions
Here’s an early afternoon post. These predictions weren’t done last night because of Internet problems on my personal computer. There are two extra games included in this week’s MaxPreps picks because we have only 10 local games. Harrisburg at State College is added for the reason that, if Harrisburg wins, it locks up its second straight Commonwealth title and another top seed in the District 3-6 subregional playoffs.
The other bonus game is Muhlenberg at Governor Mifflin, due to the impact is one will have on the 3-6 subregional. Muhlenberg is eighth, 80 points in front of Cumberland Valley, while Governor Mifflin is fourth. Potentially, a Mifflin win could move CV into the No. 8 seed, which would secure a game at Chapman Field next Friday. This game is also huge for the Inter-County League Section I, which Mifflin will win outright with a win. A loss and the Mustangs share it with Muhlenberg.
Here are this week’s picks thanks to MaxPreps:
Friday
Commonwealth
Bishop McDevitt 44, Carlisle 7
Cumberland Valley 34, Cedar Cliff 10
Harrisburg 28, State College 14
Keystone
Hershey 22, Red Land 20
Mechanicsburg 24, Palmyra 13
Colonial
East Pennsboro 41, Big Spring 12
Greencastle-Antrim 21, West Perry 12
Northern 38, Shippensburg 14
Capital
Milton Hershey 20, Camp Hill 10
Trinity 34, Boiling Springs 0
Inter-County League Section I
Governor Mifflin 35, Muhlenberg 21
Saturday
Nonconference
Kennard-Dale 22, Susquenita 20
*Remember, for The Sentinel's staff picks and a preview capsule of each local game, pick up a copy of this afternoon's edition.
The other bonus game is Muhlenberg at Governor Mifflin, due to the impact is one will have on the 3-6 subregional. Muhlenberg is eighth, 80 points in front of Cumberland Valley, while Governor Mifflin is fourth. Potentially, a Mifflin win could move CV into the No. 8 seed, which would secure a game at Chapman Field next Friday. This game is also huge for the Inter-County League Section I, which Mifflin will win outright with a win. A loss and the Mustangs share it with Muhlenberg.
Here are this week’s picks thanks to MaxPreps:
Friday
Commonwealth
Bishop McDevitt 44, Carlisle 7
Cumberland Valley 34, Cedar Cliff 10
Harrisburg 28, State College 14
Keystone
Hershey 22, Red Land 20
Mechanicsburg 24, Palmyra 13
Colonial
East Pennsboro 41, Big Spring 12
Greencastle-Antrim 21, West Perry 12
Northern 38, Shippensburg 14
Capital
Milton Hershey 20, Camp Hill 10
Trinity 34, Boiling Springs 0
Inter-County League Section I
Governor Mifflin 35, Muhlenberg 21
Saturday
Nonconference
Kennard-Dale 22, Susquenita 20
*Remember, for The Sentinel's staff picks and a preview capsule of each local game, pick up a copy of this afternoon's edition.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Week 9 recap
Once again, the weekend’s games aren’t completed due to heavy rain Friday. Cedar Cliff is playing today while three games are being played Monday. With the exception of those games, here’s a recap:
Biggest winners:
Big Spring – Mike Stoudt ran for a 3-yard touchdown in overtime and the Bulldogs held Susquenita out of the end zone to end a 30-game losing streak. The skid dated to 2004. The Bulldogs fought back from a 7-0 halftime deficit to win a game that, at least on paper, looked equal.
Trinity – If you count the Steelton-Highspire game as a road contest – Steel-High programs were sold and the gate was given to the Rollers after the game was moved to COBO Field thanks to the new surface at Memorial Field not being completed – Trinity had only one road shutout prior to its game at James Buchanan on Friday. Chalk up a second road shutout, via a 35-0 win, and the sixth in nine games for a streaking Shamrocks club.
Biggest losers
Cumberland Valley – Chris Jordan threw four interceptions and the Eagles offense never found its rhythm against a stout Harrisburg defense. The Cougars, at the expense of CV, may have cemented their status as team-to-beat in District 3-6 Class AAAA with an impressive 41-0 rout of the Eagles.
Red Land – The Patriots weren’t perfect in the regular season last year either. After a 40-7 loss to Gettysburg at home, Red Land coach Frank Gay will need to make sure his team understands that it still can compete for a district and state title, but not if it plays like it did Friday. Last year’s team ran off seven straight wins on its way to a District 3 title and a berth in the PIAA Class AAA semifinals after losing to Susquehanna Twp.
Boiling Springs – A 30-8 loss at home to Steelton-Highspire makes it virtually impossible for the Bubblers to make the playoffs. They’ll need to beat undefeated Trinity and get loads of help to earn the eighth and final seed.
Biggest winners:
Big Spring – Mike Stoudt ran for a 3-yard touchdown in overtime and the Bulldogs held Susquenita out of the end zone to end a 30-game losing streak. The skid dated to 2004. The Bulldogs fought back from a 7-0 halftime deficit to win a game that, at least on paper, looked equal.
Trinity – If you count the Steelton-Highspire game as a road contest – Steel-High programs were sold and the gate was given to the Rollers after the game was moved to COBO Field thanks to the new surface at Memorial Field not being completed – Trinity had only one road shutout prior to its game at James Buchanan on Friday. Chalk up a second road shutout, via a 35-0 win, and the sixth in nine games for a streaking Shamrocks club.
Biggest losers
Cumberland Valley – Chris Jordan threw four interceptions and the Eagles offense never found its rhythm against a stout Harrisburg defense. The Cougars, at the expense of CV, may have cemented their status as team-to-beat in District 3-6 Class AAAA with an impressive 41-0 rout of the Eagles.
Red Land – The Patriots weren’t perfect in the regular season last year either. After a 40-7 loss to Gettysburg at home, Red Land coach Frank Gay will need to make sure his team understands that it still can compete for a district and state title, but not if it plays like it did Friday. Last year’s team ran off seven straight wins on its way to a District 3 title and a berth in the PIAA Class AAA semifinals after losing to Susquehanna Twp.
Boiling Springs – A 30-8 loss at home to Steelton-Highspire makes it virtually impossible for the Bubblers to make the playoffs. They’ll need to beat undefeated Trinity and get loads of help to earn the eighth and final seed.
Monday Night Lights 2
With more postponements this week, five area schools have yet to play as of Sunday afternoon. Here's the Monday football schedule:
Colonial Division
East Pennsboro at Northern, 7
Shippensburg at West Perry, 7
Capital Division
Waynesboro at Camp Hill, 6:30
Colonial Division
East Pennsboro at Northern, 7
Shippensburg at West Perry, 7
Capital Division
Waynesboro at Camp Hill, 6:30
Thursday, October 25, 2007
District 3 playoff pairings after Week 8
The following is a glance at what the District 3 football playoff pairings would be if the season ended today:
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Dallastown at (1) Harrisburg
(9) Muhlenberg at (8) Cumberland Valley
(12) Central York at (5) Altoona
(13) State College at (4) Governor Mifflin
Lower Bracket
(15) Red Lion at (2) York High
(10) Wilson West Lawn at (7) Warwick
(11) Central Dauphin at (6) Bishop McDevitt
(14) Lower Dauphin at (3) Manheim Twp.
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Spring Grove at (1) Elizabethtown
(9) Conrad Weiser at (8) Daniel Boone
(12) Manheim Central at (5) West York
(13) Northern Lebanon at (4) Hershey
Lower Bracket
(15) Cocalico at (2) Red Land
(10) Lampeter Strasburg at (7) Gettysburg
(11) Solanco at (6) Greencastle-Antrim
(14) Shippensburg at (3) Northern
District 3 Class AA
(8) Juniata at (1) Trinity
(5) Milton Hershey at (4) Wyomissing
(6) Delone Catholic at (3) Columbia
(7) Biglerville at (2) Lancaster Catholic
District 3 Class A
(8) Upper Dauphin at (1) Millersburg
(5) Reading Holy Name at (4) Camp Hill
(6) Reading Central Catholic at (3) Steelton-Highspire
(7) Fairfield at (2) Halifax
*For complete rankings of all 12 PIAA districts check out the computer rankings section thanks to the Pennsylvania Football News.
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Dallastown at (1) Harrisburg
(9) Muhlenberg at (8) Cumberland Valley
(12) Central York at (5) Altoona
(13) State College at (4) Governor Mifflin
Lower Bracket
(15) Red Lion at (2) York High
(10) Wilson West Lawn at (7) Warwick
(11) Central Dauphin at (6) Bishop McDevitt
(14) Lower Dauphin at (3) Manheim Twp.
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Spring Grove at (1) Elizabethtown
(9) Conrad Weiser at (8) Daniel Boone
(12) Manheim Central at (5) West York
(13) Northern Lebanon at (4) Hershey
Lower Bracket
(15) Cocalico at (2) Red Land
(10) Lampeter Strasburg at (7) Gettysburg
(11) Solanco at (6) Greencastle-Antrim
(14) Shippensburg at (3) Northern
District 3 Class AA
(8) Juniata at (1) Trinity
(5) Milton Hershey at (4) Wyomissing
(6) Delone Catholic at (3) Columbia
(7) Biglerville at (2) Lancaster Catholic
District 3 Class A
(8) Upper Dauphin at (1) Millersburg
(5) Reading Holy Name at (4) Camp Hill
(6) Reading Central Catholic at (3) Steelton-Highspire
(7) Fairfield at (2) Halifax
*For complete rankings of all 12 PIAA districts check out the computer rankings section thanks to the Pennsylvania Football News.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Week 9 predictions
Here are the MaxPreps picks for Week 9. For The Sentinel's staff picks and previews of each area game pick up a copy of Thursday's edition.
Friday
Commonwealth Division
Altoona 38, Carlisle 3
Keystone Division
Gettysburg 31, Red Land 27
Hershey 28, Mechanicsburg 12
Colonial Division
Northern 44, East Pennsboro 14
Shippensburg 22, West Perry 21
Susquenita 24, Big Spring 21
Capital Division
Camp Hill 17, Waynesboro 13
Steelton-Highspire 31, Boiling Springs 21
Trinity 48, James Buchanan 0
Saturday
Commonwealth Division
Bishop McDevitt 42, Cedar Cliff 7
Harrisburg 31, Cumberland Valley 17
Friday
Commonwealth Division
Altoona 38, Carlisle 3
Keystone Division
Gettysburg 31, Red Land 27
Hershey 28, Mechanicsburg 12
Colonial Division
Northern 44, East Pennsboro 14
Shippensburg 22, West Perry 21
Susquenita 24, Big Spring 21
Capital Division
Camp Hill 17, Waynesboro 13
Steelton-Highspire 31, Boiling Springs 21
Trinity 48, James Buchanan 0
Saturday
Commonwealth Division
Bishop McDevitt 42, Cedar Cliff 7
Harrisburg 31, Cumberland Valley 17
Monday, October 22, 2007
Sunday matinee fallout
Every week Red Land takes its opponents' best shot.
Sunday afternoon the Patriots stayed off the canvas after Mechanicsburg popped them in the mouth, showed their grit with an impressive 13-play touchdown drive to squelch the Wildcats' upset bid and walked out of Memorial Park Stadium with a 28-13 win.
Eight weeks into a season in which it is the hunted, Red Land is starting to feel the effect.
Wide receiver Kyle Otstot left the Sunday's game in the first quarter after spraining an ankle and running back Dan Yenger suffered what coach Frank Gay called a bruised lower back. Yenger was limited to defense and special teams after the second-quarter injury.
With the two-week main event that will determine the Mid-Penn Conference Keystone Division champion set to start Friday night, Red Land needs all four days between now and the time Gettysburg marches into West Shore Stadium on Friday to get healthy.
Gay said Otstot and Yenger will be back to full-time duties when the Patriots close the season with Gettysburg and a trip to Hershey.
Both teams, with one loss in the Mid-Penn Keystone Division, are nipping at Red Land's heels.
Here's a glance at the Keystone standings followed by remaining games for Red Land, Hershey, Gettysburg and Lower Dauphin:
Team Division W-L
Red Land 5-0
Hershey 4-1
Gettysburg 4-1
Lower Dauphin 4-1
Parenthesis represent team's record against other three division contenders; results are against same teams:
Red Land (1-0)
Gettysburg
at Hershey
Results
at Lower Dauphin, W 27-7
Hershey (1-1)
Mechanicsburg
Red Land
Results
at Gettysburg, W 42-35 (OT)
vs. Lower Dauphin at Milton Hershey, L 14-20
Gettysburg (0-1)
at Red Land
Lower Dauphin
Results
vs. Hershey, L 35-42 (OT)
Lower Dauphin (1-1)
at Middletown
at Gettysburg
Results
vs. Red Land, L 7-27
vs. Hershey at Milton Hershey, W 20-14
Sunday afternoon the Patriots stayed off the canvas after Mechanicsburg popped them in the mouth, showed their grit with an impressive 13-play touchdown drive to squelch the Wildcats' upset bid and walked out of Memorial Park Stadium with a 28-13 win.
Eight weeks into a season in which it is the hunted, Red Land is starting to feel the effect.
Wide receiver Kyle Otstot left the Sunday's game in the first quarter after spraining an ankle and running back Dan Yenger suffered what coach Frank Gay called a bruised lower back. Yenger was limited to defense and special teams after the second-quarter injury.
With the two-week main event that will determine the Mid-Penn Conference Keystone Division champion set to start Friday night, Red Land needs all four days between now and the time Gettysburg marches into West Shore Stadium on Friday to get healthy.
Gay said Otstot and Yenger will be back to full-time duties when the Patriots close the season with Gettysburg and a trip to Hershey.
Both teams, with one loss in the Mid-Penn Keystone Division, are nipping at Red Land's heels.
Here's a glance at the Keystone standings followed by remaining games for Red Land, Hershey, Gettysburg and Lower Dauphin:
Team Division W-L
Red Land 5-0
Hershey 4-1
Gettysburg 4-1
Lower Dauphin 4-1
Parenthesis represent team's record against other three division contenders; results are against same teams:
Red Land (1-0)
Gettysburg
at Hershey
Results
at Lower Dauphin, W 27-7
Hershey (1-1)
Mechanicsburg
Red Land
Results
at Gettysburg, W 42-35 (OT)
vs. Lower Dauphin at Milton Hershey, L 14-20
Gettysburg (0-1)
at Red Land
Lower Dauphin
Results
vs. Hershey, L 35-42 (OT)
Lower Dauphin (1-1)
at Middletown
at Gettysburg
Results
vs. Red Land, L 7-27
vs. Hershey at Milton Hershey, W 20-14
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Week 8 recap
The three games that have yet to be played throw a wrench into a complete Week 8 recap. Figuring the favorites -- Red Land, Boiling Springs and Cumberland Valley -- all win, here's how the eighth week turned out:
Biggest winners:
Trinity -- Rod Trevino's touchdown run with 1:00 to play gave the Shamrocks a 7-0 win over Milton Hershey and most likely the Mid-Penn Capital Division title. Plus, battling not only Milton Hershey but the elements as well, Trinity proved it can deal with adversity.
East Pennsboro -- It's doubtful the Panthers will be seeing the postseason this year but any time one can knock off a rival, it's good for the program. West Perry had little answer for the two-headed rushing attack of Tyler Rivera and John Hostetler, who accounted for all three East Penn scores in a 21-14 win.
Susquenita -- Sure, the Blackhawks were shut out for the fourth time this year in a 42-0 loss to Northern, but the future is bright. Games remain at Big Spring and Kennard Dale, teams with a cumulative 1-15 record.
Biggest losers:
Shippensburg -- After a promising start, the Greyhounds continue to slide in the District 3 Class AAA rankings. The latest setback -- a 27-7 loss to Greencastle-Antrim -- will make it tough for Shippensburg to host a playoff game. With games remaining at a steadily improving West Perry team and at Colonial Division monster Northern, coach Eric Foust has his work cut out for him to avoid a season-ending, four-game losing streak.
Big Spring -- A 38-7 loss to a winless Chambersburg team that hadn't won on the road since 2004 is rather unsettling. Still, there's light at the end of the tunnel because that 30-game losing streak has to end some time.
Biggest winners:
Trinity -- Rod Trevino's touchdown run with 1:00 to play gave the Shamrocks a 7-0 win over Milton Hershey and most likely the Mid-Penn Capital Division title. Plus, battling not only Milton Hershey but the elements as well, Trinity proved it can deal with adversity.
East Pennsboro -- It's doubtful the Panthers will be seeing the postseason this year but any time one can knock off a rival, it's good for the program. West Perry had little answer for the two-headed rushing attack of Tyler Rivera and John Hostetler, who accounted for all three East Penn scores in a 21-14 win.
Susquenita -- Sure, the Blackhawks were shut out for the fourth time this year in a 42-0 loss to Northern, but the future is bright. Games remain at Big Spring and Kennard Dale, teams with a cumulative 1-15 record.
Biggest losers:
Shippensburg -- After a promising start, the Greyhounds continue to slide in the District 3 Class AAA rankings. The latest setback -- a 27-7 loss to Greencastle-Antrim -- will make it tough for Shippensburg to host a playoff game. With games remaining at a steadily improving West Perry team and at Colonial Division monster Northern, coach Eric Foust has his work cut out for him to avoid a season-ending, four-game losing streak.
Big Spring -- A 38-7 loss to a winless Chambersburg team that hadn't won on the road since 2004 is rather unsettling. Still, there's light at the end of the tunnel because that 30-game losing streak has to end some time.
Sunday and Monday Night Lights
Here it is Sunday morning and Week 8 still isn't complete. We have four local teams -- two play each other -- ready to go after bad weather forced postponements Friday. Here is our remaining schedule:
Sunday
Keystone Division
Red Land at Mechanicsburg, 4
Monday
Capital Division
Boiling Springs at Waynesboro, 5:30
Nonconference
Cumberland Valley at Avon Grove, 5
Sunday
Keystone Division
Red Land at Mechanicsburg, 4
Monday
Capital Division
Boiling Springs at Waynesboro, 5:30
Nonconference
Cumberland Valley at Avon Grove, 5
Thursday, October 18, 2007
District 3 playoff pairings after Week 7
The following is a glance at what the District 3 playoff pairings would be if the season ended today:
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Central Dauphin East at (1) Harrisburg
(9) Muhlenberg at (8) Cumberland Valley
(12) Red Lion at (5) York High
(13) Central Dauphin at (4) Governor Mifflin
Lower Bracket
(15) State College at (2) Altoona
(10) Central York at (7) Bishop McDevitt
(11) Wilson West Lawn at (6) Warwick
(14) Lower Dauphin at (3) Manheim Twp.
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Cocalico at (1) Elizabethtown
(9) Northern Lebanon at (8) Daniel Boone
(12) Shippensburg at (5) West York
(13) Maheim Central at (4) Hershey
Lower Bracket
(15) Spring Grove at (2) Red Land
(10) Conrad Weiser at (7) Greencastle-Antrim
(11) Lampeter-Strasburg at (6) Gettysburg
(14) Solanco at (3) Northern York
District 3 Class AA
(8) Littlestown at (1) Trinity
(5) Wyomissing at (4) Milton Hershey
(6) Delone Catholic at (3) Lancaster Catholic
(7) Middletown at (2) Columbia
District 3 Class A
(8) Hanover at (1) Millersburg
(5) Steelton-Highspire at (4) Reading Holy Name
(6) Reading Central Catholic at (3) Camp Hill
(7) Fairfield at (2) Halifax
*For complete power rankings for all 12 PIAA districts check out the Pennsylvania Football News' computer rankings section.
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Central Dauphin East at (1) Harrisburg
(9) Muhlenberg at (8) Cumberland Valley
(12) Red Lion at (5) York High
(13) Central Dauphin at (4) Governor Mifflin
Lower Bracket
(15) State College at (2) Altoona
(10) Central York at (7) Bishop McDevitt
(11) Wilson West Lawn at (6) Warwick
(14) Lower Dauphin at (3) Manheim Twp.
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Cocalico at (1) Elizabethtown
(9) Northern Lebanon at (8) Daniel Boone
(12) Shippensburg at (5) West York
(13) Maheim Central at (4) Hershey
Lower Bracket
(15) Spring Grove at (2) Red Land
(10) Conrad Weiser at (7) Greencastle-Antrim
(11) Lampeter-Strasburg at (6) Gettysburg
(14) Solanco at (3) Northern York
District 3 Class AA
(8) Littlestown at (1) Trinity
(5) Wyomissing at (4) Milton Hershey
(6) Delone Catholic at (3) Lancaster Catholic
(7) Middletown at (2) Columbia
District 3 Class A
(8) Hanover at (1) Millersburg
(5) Steelton-Highspire at (4) Reading Holy Name
(6) Reading Central Catholic at (3) Camp Hill
(7) Fairfield at (2) Halifax
*For complete power rankings for all 12 PIAA districts check out the Pennsylvania Football News' computer rankings section.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Week 8 predictions
Here are the MaxPreps picks for area teams this week with the Altoona at Bishop McDevitt game thrown in to make it an even 12. Remember, these do not reflect The Sentinel's outlook on each matchup. For our staff selections and a breakdown of each game, pick up a copy of The Sentinel on Thursday.
Friday
Commonwealth Division
Central Dauphin 35, Carlisle 14
Harrisburg 44, Cedar Cliff 3
Keystone Division
Red Land 28, Mechanicsburg 12
Colonial Division
East Pennsboro 27, West Perry 22
Greencastle-Antrim 21, Shippensburg 17
Northern 55, Susquenita 3
Capital Division
Boiling Springs 21, Waynesboro 14
Trinity 28, Milton Hershey 10
Nondivision
Chambersburg 34, Big Spring 17
Nonconference
Cumberland Valley 28, Avon Grove 8
Saturday
Commonwealth Division
Altoona 24, Bishop McDevitt 22
Capital Division
Camp Hill 27, Scotland 3
Friday
Commonwealth Division
Central Dauphin 35, Carlisle 14
Harrisburg 44, Cedar Cliff 3
Keystone Division
Red Land 28, Mechanicsburg 12
Colonial Division
East Pennsboro 27, West Perry 22
Greencastle-Antrim 21, Shippensburg 17
Northern 55, Susquenita 3
Capital Division
Boiling Springs 21, Waynesboro 14
Trinity 28, Milton Hershey 10
Nondivision
Chambersburg 34, Big Spring 17
Nonconference
Cumberland Valley 28, Avon Grove 8
Saturday
Commonwealth Division
Altoona 24, Bishop McDevitt 22
Capital Division
Camp Hill 27, Scotland 3
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
A rankings clarification
If you're like me you probably checked out the District 3-6 Class AAAA standings and had one question pop in your head. How can Harrisburg, with 700 power points, retain its top seed despite having less points than four other teams?
Well, it's rather complicated so here's the scaled-down version. To be fair to teams like Harrisburg and West Perry, who play only nine games, seeds are determined by a team's average points. In this case, because Harrisburg plays a relatively tough schedule in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, the Cougars remain in first thanks to earning an average of 116 points per week.
If it weren't for Tom Elling of the Pennsylvania Football News having the patience to explain that to me, I'd probably still be sitting here scratching a hole in my head.
This week's football tab: Pick up a copy of The Sentinel on Thursday afternoon to read about some of the area's top kickers, how Cumberland Valley plans to bounce back from its loss to Central Dauphin East, previews of all 11 area high school games, the area leaderboard and our staff picks.
Well, it's rather complicated so here's the scaled-down version. To be fair to teams like Harrisburg and West Perry, who play only nine games, seeds are determined by a team's average points. In this case, because Harrisburg plays a relatively tough schedule in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, the Cougars remain in first thanks to earning an average of 116 points per week.
If it weren't for Tom Elling of the Pennsylvania Football News having the patience to explain that to me, I'd probably still be sitting here scratching a hole in my head.
This week's football tab: Pick up a copy of The Sentinel on Thursday afternoon to read about some of the area's top kickers, how Cumberland Valley plans to bounce back from its loss to Central Dauphin East, previews of all 11 area high school games, the area leaderboard and our staff picks.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Week 7 recap
Before any district standings come out Monday, lets take a quick look at how Week 7 shook out:
Biggest winners:
Trinity -- Behind 95 yards, a touchdown and an interception from Christian Kuntz, the Shamrocks ended Camp Hill's four-game winning streak and spoiled the Lions' homecoming. It was Trinity's fourth shutout in seven games and solidified its spot atop the District 3 Class AA standings.
Carlisle -- If nothing more, the Thundering Herd gained some confidence thanks to running back Kahlil Bunce's game-winning touchdown in the fourth quarter to beat Chambersburg, 21-14. A win on the road in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth is something coach Brett Ickes can build on in the future.
Biggest losers:
Cumberland Valley -- The Eagles survived a killer September with one loss, which set the table for a good playoff seed with winnable October games. Somehow CV lost, 21-16, on homecoming to Central Dauphin East. CV, which was No. 5 in the District 3-6 Class AAAA standings before Friday, may have kissed a home playoff game goodbye with that loss.
Red Land -- Sure, the Patriots won, but they needed a Skyler Hunt 3-yard touchdown run with 1:45 to play to break a 14-14 tie. This against Susquehanna Twp., which is now 3-4. The Indians laid a blueprint for how to stop Red Land's pass-happy attack -- the team only threw for 33 yards. The good news for the Patriots is that they ran for 243 yards, led by Dan Yenger's 191, but they'll need a more balanced offense to make it out of District 3 next month.
Shippensburg -- Some coaches say a loss can be a good thing. Maybe the Greyhounds' 45-21 loss to Bangor Pius X on Friday will inspire Shippensburg to rebound and make a run at a Colonial Division title. Remember, the Greyhounds still have Greencastle-Antrim and Northern on the schedule, so the Pius loss should be an easy one to brush off.
Biggest winners:
Trinity -- Behind 95 yards, a touchdown and an interception from Christian Kuntz, the Shamrocks ended Camp Hill's four-game winning streak and spoiled the Lions' homecoming. It was Trinity's fourth shutout in seven games and solidified its spot atop the District 3 Class AA standings.
Carlisle -- If nothing more, the Thundering Herd gained some confidence thanks to running back Kahlil Bunce's game-winning touchdown in the fourth quarter to beat Chambersburg, 21-14. A win on the road in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth is something coach Brett Ickes can build on in the future.
Biggest losers:
Cumberland Valley -- The Eagles survived a killer September with one loss, which set the table for a good playoff seed with winnable October games. Somehow CV lost, 21-16, on homecoming to Central Dauphin East. CV, which was No. 5 in the District 3-6 Class AAAA standings before Friday, may have kissed a home playoff game goodbye with that loss.
Red Land -- Sure, the Patriots won, but they needed a Skyler Hunt 3-yard touchdown run with 1:45 to play to break a 14-14 tie. This against Susquehanna Twp., which is now 3-4. The Indians laid a blueprint for how to stop Red Land's pass-happy attack -- the team only threw for 33 yards. The good news for the Patriots is that they ran for 243 yards, led by Dan Yenger's 191, but they'll need a more balanced offense to make it out of District 3 next month.
Shippensburg -- Some coaches say a loss can be a good thing. Maybe the Greyhounds' 45-21 loss to Bangor Pius X on Friday will inspire Shippensburg to rebound and make a run at a Colonial Division title. Remember, the Greyhounds still have Greencastle-Antrim and Northern on the schedule, so the Pius loss should be an easy one to brush off.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
What's in a Muhl?
If you take a close look at the District 3-6 Class AAAA power points you'll notice one thing: Every team has at least one loss except Muhlenberg.
So why are the Muhls the whole way down at No. 8 in the district standings? It's simple. Muhlenberg plays only two AAAA schools. Competing in the Inter-County League Section I, the Muhls' only AAAA league opponent is Governor Mifflin. The other AAAA team Muhlenberg played was Boyertown, which has one win.
Throw in a game against winless Susquenita, a AA team, and it's easy to see why Muhlenberg is eighth.
That's not to say Muhlenberg isn't good. The Muhls have outscored their opponents 243-53 but a 21-20 win over Blue Mountain raises red flags. If you're going to play smaller schools, no matter how good they are, you have to beat them convincingly, if for nothing more than respect.
One thing Muhlenberg does well, outside of playing tough, hard-nosed defense, is moving the ball threw the air. Nathan Daniels has 12 touchdowns to three interceptions and has thrown for 1,127 yards.
Daniels' favorite target is senior Vaughn Carraway, who has 13 total touchdowns.
If the numbers aren't simply a product of inferior competition, the Muhls could cause serious problems for one of the traditional powers in the postseason. Defense, coupled with a potent offense, is nothing to sneeze at.
So why are the Muhls the whole way down at No. 8 in the district standings? It's simple. Muhlenberg plays only two AAAA schools. Competing in the Inter-County League Section I, the Muhls' only AAAA league opponent is Governor Mifflin. The other AAAA team Muhlenberg played was Boyertown, which has one win.
Throw in a game against winless Susquenita, a AA team, and it's easy to see why Muhlenberg is eighth.
That's not to say Muhlenberg isn't good. The Muhls have outscored their opponents 243-53 but a 21-20 win over Blue Mountain raises red flags. If you're going to play smaller schools, no matter how good they are, you have to beat them convincingly, if for nothing more than respect.
One thing Muhlenberg does well, outside of playing tough, hard-nosed defense, is moving the ball threw the air. Nathan Daniels has 12 touchdowns to three interceptions and has thrown for 1,127 yards.
Daniels' favorite target is senior Vaughn Carraway, who has 13 total touchdowns.
If the numbers aren't simply a product of inferior competition, the Muhls could cause serious problems for one of the traditional powers in the postseason. Defense, coupled with a potent offense, is nothing to sneeze at.
District 3 playoff pairings after Week 6
District 3-6 Class AAAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Lower Dauphin at (1) Harrisburg
(9) Warwick at (8) Muhlenberg
(12) Red Lion at (5) Cumberland Valley
(13) Central Dauphin at (4) Manheim Twp.
Lower Bracket
(15) State College at (2) Altoona
(10) Central York at (7) York William Penn
(14) Hempfield at (3) Bishop McDevitt
(11) Wilson West Lawn at (6) Governor Mifflin
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Solanco at (1) Elizabethtown
(9) Shippensburg at (8) Gettysburg
(12) Lampeter Strasburg at (5) West York
(13) Hamburg at (4) Northern
Lower Bracket
(15) Conrad Weiser at (2) Hershey
(10) Greencastle-Antrim at (7) Daniel Boone
(14) Manheim Central at (3) Red Land
(11) Spring Grove at (6) Northern Lebanon
District 3 Class AA
(8) Littlestown at (1) Trinity
(5) Wyomissing at (4) Columbia
(7) Middletown at (2) Lancaster Catholic
(6) Delone Catholic at (3) Milton Hershey
District 3 Class A
(8) Hanover at (1) Millersburg
(5) Reading Central Catholic at (4) Steelton-Highspire
(7) Fairfield at (2) Halifax
(6) Reading Holy Name at (3) Camp Hill
*These pairings will change after each week. Thanks to the Pennsylvania Football News for the computer rankings.
Upper Bracket
(16) Lower Dauphin at (1) Harrisburg
(9) Warwick at (8) Muhlenberg
(12) Red Lion at (5) Cumberland Valley
(13) Central Dauphin at (4) Manheim Twp.
Lower Bracket
(15) State College at (2) Altoona
(10) Central York at (7) York William Penn
(14) Hempfield at (3) Bishop McDevitt
(11) Wilson West Lawn at (6) Governor Mifflin
District 3 Class AAA
Upper Bracket
(16) Solanco at (1) Elizabethtown
(9) Shippensburg at (8) Gettysburg
(12) Lampeter Strasburg at (5) West York
(13) Hamburg at (4) Northern
Lower Bracket
(15) Conrad Weiser at (2) Hershey
(10) Greencastle-Antrim at (7) Daniel Boone
(14) Manheim Central at (3) Red Land
(11) Spring Grove at (6) Northern Lebanon
District 3 Class AA
(8) Littlestown at (1) Trinity
(5) Wyomissing at (4) Columbia
(7) Middletown at (2) Lancaster Catholic
(6) Delone Catholic at (3) Milton Hershey
District 3 Class A
(8) Hanover at (1) Millersburg
(5) Reading Central Catholic at (4) Steelton-Highspire
(7) Fairfield at (2) Halifax
(6) Reading Holy Name at (3) Camp Hill
*These pairings will change after each week. Thanks to the Pennsylvania Football News for the computer rankings.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Week 7 predictions
In the middle of each week MaxPreps offers predictions on high school football games throughout the country via its pregame feature. Remember, these are not my picks. You can find breakdowns of each game and our staff selections in our weekly football tab, which comes out each Thursday. Here are this week's predictions for the teams we cover courtesy of MaxPreps:
Friday night
Commonwealth
Altoona 35, Cedar Cliff 6
Carlisle 28, Chambersburg 21
Cumberland Valley 35, Central Dauphin East 14
Keystone
Gettysburg 34, Mechanicsburg 10
Red Land 34, Susquehanna Twp. 17
Colonial
Greencastle-Antrim 28, East Pennsboro 17
Northern 56, Big Spring 3
West Perry 34, Susquenita 7
Capital
Boiling Springs 31, James Buchanan 7
Saturday afternoon
Capital
Trinity 35, Camp Hill 3
*No prediction was available for Pius X at Shippensburg
Friday night
Commonwealth
Altoona 35, Cedar Cliff 6
Carlisle 28, Chambersburg 21
Cumberland Valley 35, Central Dauphin East 14
Keystone
Gettysburg 34, Mechanicsburg 10
Red Land 34, Susquehanna Twp. 17
Colonial
Greencastle-Antrim 28, East Pennsboro 17
Northern 56, Big Spring 3
West Perry 34, Susquenita 7
Capital
Boiling Springs 31, James Buchanan 7
Saturday afternoon
Capital
Trinity 35, Camp Hill 3
*No prediction was available for Pius X at Shippensburg
Introduction
As the football and baseball prep writer (and possibly wrestling, but winter beats haven't been determined yet) for The Sentinel in Carlisle, Pa., I'm starting this blog to offer tidbits of interesting information that I normally can't fit into our print edition.
Through the middle to end of December I'll be posting mainly about high school football. With the change to winter sports I will be focusing on wrestling. After the snow melts you can come hear to read about prep baseball on the West Shore.
We're an afternoon daily that covers 15 high schools. Bible Baptist is our only school without a football team. The following schools are in our coverage area:
Bible Baptist Bobcats
Big Spring Bulldogs
Boiling Springs Bubblers
Camp Hill Lions
Carlisle Thundering Herd
Cedar Cliff Colts
Cumberland Valley Eagles
East Pennsboro Panthers
Mechanicsburg Wildcats
Northern York Polar Bears
Red Land Patriots
Shippensburg Greyhounds
Susquenita Blackhawks
Trinity Shamrocks
West Perry Mustangs
Through the middle to end of December I'll be posting mainly about high school football. With the change to winter sports I will be focusing on wrestling. After the snow melts you can come hear to read about prep baseball on the West Shore.
We're an afternoon daily that covers 15 high schools. Bible Baptist is our only school without a football team. The following schools are in our coverage area:
Bible Baptist Bobcats
Big Spring Bulldogs
Boiling Springs Bubblers
Camp Hill Lions
Carlisle Thundering Herd
Cedar Cliff Colts
Cumberland Valley Eagles
East Pennsboro Panthers
Mechanicsburg Wildcats
Northern York Polar Bears
Red Land Patriots
Shippensburg Greyhounds
Susquenita Blackhawks
Trinity Shamrocks
West Perry Mustangs
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