EXPLAINING OUR PICKS: The 4th Down Magazine crew picks all games involving Mid-Penn Conference teams, as well as Schuylkill-Colonial League games featuring former members of the now-defunct Twin Valley Conference. Now that we’re into playoff time, they’ve expanded to include all District 3 teams, as well as the local District 4, District 6 and District 11 programs. Then they’ll get really bold in the state semifinals and start picking games across the state. The predictions are meant for entertainment purposes only because, truth be told, these guys aren’t very bright. Three of them are former full-time sportswriters (dummies), and the other decided to start a high school football magazine despite the fact he already works a full-time job. But, dangit, they like to watch football, think about football, write about football, and eat. That last one isn’t related to picking football games unless you count the mustard on the keyboard. As always, enjoy, and don’t take it too seriously. Nobody here hates any program. Any perceived disrespect is a figment of your imagination. Except Sandrik, who absolutely DESPISES … (transmission interrupted) …

2022 STANDINGS DURING WEEK 13

Picker: Week 13 – Overall – Perfect Picks
Adam Kulikowski: 9-2 — 216-68 — 0
Andy Shay: 11-0 — 213-71 — 2
Geoff Morrow: 9-2 — 210-74 — 1
Andy Sandrik: 9-2 — 210-74 — 1

WEEK 3 PLAYOFF SCHEDULE

 * Records in parentheses after school name; District playoff seed in parentheses before school name in district playoff games; District and seed in parentheses before school name in PIAA playoff games; In scorelines, home team in all caps.

Friday, Nov. 18

PIAA CLASS 6A ROUND OF 16

STATE COLLEGE 57, McDowell 50 (3OT)

Andy Shay: State College 45, McDowell 14: Strictly by the numbers, this could be a shootout. The Trojans have posted more than 500 points this season, and the Little Lions are still unbeaten and full of firepower. McDowell’s weak schedule will show up in this one. State College’s defense has surrendered 21 or more points only once this season and that was to Downingtown East, a District 1 squad that is still playing. If this is a close game, it will be a surprise.

Geoff Morrow: State College 38, McDowell 14: The Trojans and Little Lions have met five times in the playoffs since 2014, with State High winning each, including 42-21 three seasons ago. The Erie crew plays an interesting, multi-state schedule, its only losses to highly ranked PA teams. Alas, State College is a highly ranked PA team.

Andy Sandrik: State College 44, McDowell 22: Just spent a few minutes watching Hudl film on SC freshman RB D’Antae Sheffey. Dude can start and stop on a dime and is just one of many weapons that makes this Little Lions team a special one.

Adam Kulikowski: State College 54, McDowell 21: The Little Lions are battle-tested and firing on all cylinders. That doesn’t bode well for a McDowell squad that hasn’t yet really faced the fire.  

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 6A SEMIFINALS

Manheim Township 42, HEMPFIELD 7

Andy Shay: Manheim Township 24, Hempfield 21: Playoff Revenge Tour continues for the Blue Streaks. Last week it was Cumberland Valley after falling to the Eagles in Week 1. Black Knights edged Township in Week 5. Expect another defensive battle.

Geoff Morrow: Hempfield 20, Manheim Township 17: The Blue Streaks might be the revenge-minded flashy pick, but it’s the Black Knights who’ve someknow charged under the radar despite their No. 1 seed. Hempfield used turnovers to build an early lead back in Week 5, and that defense has been playing pretty darn well recently. Another solid effort, and Hempfield’s first championship berth since 1984 is certainly possible.

Andy Sandrik: Manheim Township 23, Hempfield 17: The Streaks just finished avenging a regular-season loss to Cumberland Valley. And now Man Town has a chance to get back at the Black Knights, who secured a 17-14 win over the Streaks in Week 5.

Adam Kulikowski: Manheim Township 31, Hempfield 24: The Blue Streaks took a punch early from Cumberland Valley and never wavered. Mental makeup is huge in the playoffs, and this crew has the toughness that’s needed. 

Harrisburg 44, CENTRAL YORK 7

Andy Shay: Harrisburg 24, Central York 14: Pretty simple difference maker for me in this game is the Cougars’ defense is better than Central York’s D. Panthers’ only path to victory is to try to outscore Harrisburg, because surrendering nearly 24 points a game isn’t a winning defensive formula.

Geoff Morrow: Harrisburg 35, Central York 24: No doubt the Panthers are really good and have perfected winning close games, thanks in large part to intense battles with rival York. But if the Cougars bring their best, they’re the ones who dictate the outcome here. Harrisburg has also been lights out in its three Friday night games this season.

Andy Sandrik: Harrisburg 28, Central York 19: I don’t think this is a game where Central York can just stick to the script and win by putting a thousand points on the board. Harrisburg’s defense is too good for that.

Adam Kulikowski: Central York 31, Harrisburg 28: It took the Cougars a bit to warm up last week against Wilson. Panthers are more equipped to make the Cougars pay for another slow roll off the starting line. 

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 5A SEMIFINALS

Cocalico 32, SOLANCO 8

Andy Shay: Cocalico 27, Solanco 21: Not a bad loss on the Eagles’ docket among the four they have — including a setback to Solanco by 14 points in Week 2. It has been a magical ride for the Golden Mules, but this is where it ends. Cocalico has won five straight and defensively has made massive progress over the course of the season.

Geoff Morrow: Cocalico 23, Solanco 20: These L-L rivals have split their last four meetings, including the Mules’ 21-7 triumph in the regular season during the Eagles’ 3-4 start to the campaign. While Solanco has remained unscathed, I really like what Cocalico has done after that sluggish first seven weeks. It’s an angry, confident, battle-tested group, and I’m not betting against it.

Andy Sandrik: Solanco 28, Cocalico 21: It’s been 11 up, 11 down for the Golden Mules, with one of those wins coming over Cocalico. I think the No. 1 seed survives at least one more week.

Adam Kulikowski: Solanco 21, Cocalico 20: While both teams love to spread the rock around among a number of ball carriers, this 50-50 tilt will be decided by the big men in the trenches. 

EXETER TOWNSHIP 21, Northern York 7

Andy Shay: Exeter Township 42, Northern 14: Impressive run by the Polar Bears. Winning by 14 points last week must have felt like an easy win compared to how close Northern games down the stretch played out. Exeter Township is a different beast and something the Polar Bears haven’t seen this season in terms of firepower and pure blunt football force.

Geoff Morrow: Exeter Township 40, Northern 20: Absolutely love what the Polar Bears have done this season, even though they’re impossible to predict (which is kind of what makes them so lovable). But this Eagles team is exceptional in various facets, and it would take an awful game by Exeter and a nearly flawless game by Northern for a P-Bears victory.

Andy Sandrik: Exeter Township 33, Northern 21: The Polar Bears will be happy to learn they are heavy underdogs this week, but even if they play at 120%, I’m not sure the pieces are there to hang with the Eagles for four full quarters. 

Adam Kulikowski: Exeter Township 35, Northern 23: Polar Bears fought for respect all season — and they got it. But all good rides do eventually come to an end, and this is the stop for the gents in purple and white. 

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 4A SEMIFINALS

BISHOP McDEVITT 47, Twin Valley 3

Andy Shay: Bishop McDevitt 49, Twin Valley 14: Points were plentiful for the Raiders down the stretch and were key to this run to the postseason and a victory over Milton Hershey in the opener. Welcome to the second round. This is your reward.

Geoff Morrow: Bishop McDevitt 48, Twin Valley 13: Longtime Middletown coach Brett Myers just directed the Raiders to the program’s first ever District 3 playoff victory last week vs. Milton Hershey, a McD division foe. The reward after the celebration ended is a chance at the Crusaders. This is a mismatch on paper, though it won’t be in terms of heart.

Andy Sandrik: Bishop McDevitt 52, Twin Valley 14: It’s easy to fall in love with McDevitt’s air attack and seemingly unstoppable offense, but the Crusaders have some dangerous cats on the other side of the ball who are allowing less than 10 points per game. Those could very well be the difference makers as McDevitt marches through the postseason.

Adam Kulikowski: Bishop McDevitt 55, Twin Valley 7: It’ll be after Thanksgiving before the Crusaders truly get a test. How remarkable is that?  

MANHEIM CENTRAL 42, Lampeter-Strasburg 6

Andy Shay: Manheim Central 24, Lampeter-Strasburg 21: Going chalk on this one. The Barons deserve to be the favorite, and I’m not prepared to pick against MC. That said, my football instincts tell me L-S is going to win this game. When it comes to this game, color me a hot mess! 

Geoff Morrow: Manheim Central 38, Lampeter-Strasburg 21: The Barons have literally played 75 District 3 playoff games in program history, and this is just the second time facing the Pioneers. Good news for L-S is it won that lone postseason meeting, 25-20 in 2010. Central, though, has won the last four regular-season battles, all by decisive scores.

Andy Sandrik: Lampeter-Strasburg 28, Manheim Central 20: Andy Shay might not trust his football instincts this week, so I’ll trust them instead. L-S is a monster that makes great teams look pedestrian, and that’s a good enough reason for me to take the Pioneers.

Adam Kulikowski: Manheim Central 31, Lampeter-Strasburg 30: This has all the makings of an instant classic. Impact players line both squads. This one won’t be given away by a mistake. So who steps up to be a difference maker in the biggest moment? 

PIAA CLASS 2A ROUND OF 16

TRINITY 24, West Catholic 0

Andy Shay: Trinity 49, West Catholic 14: Remember when the Shamrocks were struggling to find their identity and post wins on a consistent basis? They played some really, really tough competition. Looks like that rough stretch served its purpose. T-Rocks are en fuego right now.

Geoff Morrow: Trinity 34, West Catholic 14: The Burrs’ sub-.500 mark was built against larger schools, but this Philly squad has struggled to score against most opponents. Struggling to score is NOT a problem for Trinity, especially lately, as the ‘Rocks have netted 55-plus in three straight games.

Andy Sandrik: Trinity 55, West Catholic 20: Now that the Shamrocks are playing teams their own size, they’re averaging 50-plus points per contest in the postseason. Expect that trend to continue against the four-win Burrs.

Adam Kulikowski: Trinity 43, West Catholic 24: The Shamrocks’ ground attack right now is a force to be reckoned with. Their last six games they’ve posted: 200, 306, 231, 297, 288 and 485 yards on the ground. In each of those games, they’ve ripped off runs of at least 43 yards.

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 3A CHAMPIONSHIP

WYOMISSING 63, West Perry 7

Andy Shay: Wyomissing 49, West Perry 14: This Mustangs team will go down as one of the Top 5 in their rich program history. And this result will not change that one bit. The Spartans are big, strong, fast and supremely confident. Wyomissing hogs the ball, shortens the game and sucks the life out of the opposition. West Perry has firepower, but in this game that won’t matter.

Geoff Morrow: Wyomissing 42, West Perry 35: The unbeaten Spartans have won eight straight district playoff games and three straight D3 titles. Wyo is a machine. Meanwhile, the Mustangs have scored 108 points in two playoff games, including SIXTY-THREE against previously unbeaten Lancaster Catholic last week. I think this will be closer than most expect.

Andy Sandrik: Wyomissing 47, West Perry 24: No matter how many times and different ways I play this out in my mind, the result is still the same. This is one of the best WP teams in history, but these Spartans can bend steel with their bare hands.

Adam Kulikowski: Wyomissing 55, West Perry 28: This might end up on the Mustangs bulletin board — and if that fuels Bob Boden’s crew to the upset, we’ll pop a root beer in celebration. For all the reasons mentioned by the gents above, this is a big-time test on Wyomissing turf.

PIAA CLASS 1A ROUND OF 16

STEELTON-HIGHSPIRE 37, Windber 7

Andy Shay: Steel-High 35, Windber 14: Rollers have played and beaten better teams this season than Windber. Each squad has double-digit victories, but their paths to that spot have been against vastly different levels of competition. And that will be a factor in this one.

Geoff Morrow: Steel-High 49, Windber 20: Gotta respect what the Ramblers have done this season, including four straight shutouts entering this contest. However, they’ve not faced anything like this Steel-High outfit. That’s why I’m predicting the Rollers score as many points in this game as Windber has allowed to all other opponents combined this season.

Andy Sandrik: Steel-High 28, Windber 27: I might be accused of making a homer pick, going against Windber, which boasts the state’s third-best scoring defense and sixth-best scoring offense.

Adam Kulikowski: Steel-High 42, Windber 30: These are the moments the Rollers prepped for all season by facing a daunting schedule. Biggest test on tap? Limiting the damage senior Ramblers running back John Shuster inflicts on the ground. This gent has gashed opponents all season, racking up 2,613 stripes and a jaw-dropping 13.2 yards per carry. 

PIAA CLASS 4A ROUND OF 16

Meadville 27, Juniata 14

Andy Shay: Meadville 30, Juniata 21: These Bulldogs have too much horsepower for a defense even at the level of the Indians to handle. Don’t forget the Juniata offense isn’t high-powered — getting three touchdowns is a magic number for a good shot at victory. Just feels like a bad matchup for the champs of District 6.

Geoff Morrow: Juniata 33, Meadville 27: The Bulldogs haven’t really been challenged in a while, so who knows what to expect now that they’re facing a tough foe? These teams met last year in this spot, too, with Meadville using a 91-yard rushing TD in the closing minutes to win 34-27. That presents a legit revenge factor, too. Gimme the Indians in what feels like an upset to some, but not so much to me.

Andy Sandrik: Meadville 32, Juniata 24: Let’s assume for a second Juniata’s stalwart defense holds Meadville’s high-octane offense, which averages 51 points per game, to half of what the Bulldogs normally score. That still puts an awful lot of pressure on Juniata’s offense, which has only scored 30-plus three times this season. Adam Kulikowski: Meadville 20, Juniata 10: This has the makings of a defensive grudge match with Meadville yielding just under 10 points per game. How do the Indians find traction on offense? Step 1 will be stopping linebacker/running back Brady Walker, who has 10 sacks and 78 tackles to go along with 1,524 rushing yards.

CLASS 6A 

Rank – Team – District – Record — Previous 

1. St. Joseph’s Prep (12)         – 8-1 – 1 

2. Garnet Valley (1)                – 11-0 – 2 

3. State College (6)                 – 11-0 – 3 

4. North Allegheny (7)           — 10-1 – 5 

5. Harrisburg (3)                     — 8-2 – 6 

6. Central York (3)                 — 10-1 – 8 

7. Perkiomen Valley (1)         — 11-1 – 9 

8. Downingtown East (1)        — 9-3 – 10 

9. Bethlehem Freedom (11)    — 10-2 – NR 

10. Parkland (11)                    — 8-4 – NR 

Teams to watch: Central Bucks West (1) 8-4, Hempfield (3) 9-2, McDowell (10) 10-2, Manheim Township (3) 8-3, Pittsburgh C.C. (7) 7-4. 

CLASS 5A 

Rank – Team – District – Record — Previous 

1. Upper Dublin (1)                – 12-0 – 1 

2. Exeter Township (3)           – 11-0 – 2 

3. Imhotep Charter (12)          – 7-2 – 3 

4. Strath Haven (1)                 — 12-0 – 4 

5. Cathedral Prep (10)            — 8-2 – 6 

6. Roman Catholic (12)          — 8-2 – 8 

7. Solanco (3)                         — 11-0 – 7 

8. Upper St. Clair (7)              — 10-2 – 10 

9. Plymouth-Whitemarsh (1)  — 10-2 – NR 

10. Pine-Richland (7)             — 9-3 – NR 

Teams to watch: Cocalico (3) 8-4, Delaware Valley (2) 7-5, Northern York (3) 8-4, West Chester Rustin (1) 10-1, Whitehall (11) 7-5. 

CLASS 4A 

Rank – Team – District – Record — Previous 

1. Aliquippa (7)                      – 10-0 – 1 

2. Bishop McDevitt (3)           – 9-1 – 2 

3. Jersey Shore (4)                  – 12-0 – 3 

4. Meadville (10)                    — 11-1 – 4 

5. Central Valley (7)               – 10-1 – 5 

6. Manheim Central (3)          — 10-1 – 6 

7. McKeesport (7)                   – 11-1 – 7 

8. Bonner-Prendergast (12)    — 10-1 – NR 

9. Lampeter-Strasburg (3)      — 9-2 – 10 

10. Crestwood (2)                   — 11-1 – NR 

Teams to watch: Interboro (1) 10-2, Juniata (6) 8-3, Thomas Jefferson (7) 8-3, Twin Valley (3) 7-4, Valley View (2) 10-2. 

CLASS 3A 

Rank – Team – District – Record — Previous 

1. Wyomissing (3)                  – 11-0 – 1 

2. Danville (4)                         – 11-0 – 2 

3. Belle Vernon (7)                 – 8-2 – 3 

4. Loyalsock (4)                      — 11-1 – 4 

5. Avonworth (7)                    — 10-1 – 5 

6. Northwestern Lehigh (11)  — 10-2 – 9 

7. West Perry (3)                    — 11-1 – NR 

8. Freeport (7)                         — 10-1 – 10 

9. North Schuylkill (11)          — 10-2 – NR 

10. Central Martinsburg (6)    — 10-2 – NR 

Teams to watch: Clearfield (9) 8-3, Grove City (10) 8-3, Scranton Prep (2) 9-3, Slippery Rock (10) 7-4.  

CLASS 2A 

Rank – Team – District – Record — Previous 

1. Farrell (10)                          – 9-1 – 1 

2. Mount Carmel (4)               – 12-0 – 2 

3. Lakeland (2)                       – 12-0 – 4 

4. Steel Valley (7)                   — 10-0 – 5 

5. Beaver Falls (7)                  — 10-1 – 7 

6. Westinghouse (8)                — 11-0 – 8 

7. Sto-Rox (7)                         — 9-2 – 9 

8. Sharpsville (10)                  — 9-2 – NR 

9. Trinity (3)                           — 8-4 – NR 

10. Southern Columbia (4)     — 9-3 – NR 

Teams to watch: Bishop Guilfoyle (6) 9-3, Central Clarion (9) 10-1, Neshannock (7) 11-1, Penns Valley (6) 10-2. 

CLASS 1A 

Rank – Team – District – Record — Previous 

1. Canton (4)                           – 11-1 – 1 

2. Steelton-Highspire (3)        – 10-1 – 2 

3. Bishop Canevin (7)             – 11-1 – 3 

4. Reynolds (10)                     – 10-1 – 4 

5. Eisenhower (10)                 — 11-0 – 6 

6. Northern Lehigh (11)          — 11-1 – 7 

7. South Side Area (7)            — 11-1 – NR 

8. Penns Manor (6)                 — 11-1 – NR 

9. Port Allegany (9)                — 10-1 – NR 

10. Northern Cambria (6)       — 9-3 – NR 

Teams to watch: Brockway (9) 8-4, Lackawanna Trail (2) 8-4, Rochester (7) 7-4, Union Area (7) 9-3. 

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D’Antae Sheffey, fr., RB, State College: The Little Lions claimed yet another District 6 Class 6A title, beating Altoona 28-7 on Friday. Sheffey spearheaded the offensive charge, rushing 15 times for 176 yards (11.7 yards per carry) and three touchdowns of 9, 9 and 1 yards. 

Waylon Ehrenzeller, sr., RB, Juniata: Back after missing the last three regular-season games, Ehrenzeller provided all the juice needed to beat DuBois 17-7 in the District 6/9 Class 4A subregional Friday, scoring two second-half touchdowns and finished with 135 stripes on 21 carries. 

Jonathan Kauffman, sr., OL/DT, Juniata: The Juniata defense also came through in the subregional win, allowing just 78 rushing yards, forcing two interceptions and a fumble and sacking DuBois QB Trey Wingard five times. Kauffman was at the center of it (quite literally) with eight tackles and two sacks.

Ezeekai Thomas, sr., RB/DB, Carlisle: The Thundering Herd were knocked out of the District 3 Class 6A quarterfinals 30-14 by Hempfield. But Thomas provided a late-game highlight with a 90-yard pick-6. He also had two receptions for 24 yards.

Isaac Sines, sr., QB, Cumberland Valley: It’s the last hoorah for a POTW regular. Sines had a stellar game, rushing 23 times for 115 yards and going 22 of 29 for 231 passing yards, but the Eagles could not withstand Manheim Township in a 37-31 District 3 Class 6A quarterfinal loss. Sines threw TDs of 31 and 28 yards, ran in two from 3 and 6 yards out, connected on four extra points and nailed a 39-yard field goal.

JD Hunter, sr., RB, Cumberland Valley: Not often do two losing players get nominated, but we’ll make an exception for Hunter after he caught nine balls for 116 yards in a tight 37-31 loss to Manheim Township. His 28-yard TD in the third quarter gave the Eagles a 28-23 lead.

Cole Bartram, jr., RB/LB, Northern: While passing yards were tough to come by, Bartram found some hay on the ground. The junior churned out 140 yards and a 12-yard touchdown to give Northern a 20-7 win over New Oxford in the District 3 Class 5A quarterfinals. That wasn’t all. Bartram had a team-high 11 tackles (two TFLs) and a half a sack.

Stone Saunders, so., QB, Bishop McDevitt: Saunders and the Crusaders dismantled East Pennsboro 42-7 in the District 3 Class 4A quarterfinals. The sophomore tossed five first-half touchdowns and finished 14 of 20 for 350 yards. Those TDs covered 47, 62, 53, 55 and 7 yards. He’s now the McDevitt career passing touchdown leader with 86.

Marquese Williams, sr., RB, Bishop McDevitt: Saunders didn’t hog all the fun. Williams contributed with his hands and legs in the quarterfinal blowout, rushing for 82 yards and a 5-yard score and hauling in 62 receiving yards, including a 53-yard TD.

Dorian Smith, jr., RB, Susquehanna Township: ‘Hanna had little to celebrate in a 52-6 loss to Lampeter-Strasburg in the District 3 Class 5A quarterfinals, but Smith ripped off an 80-yard touchdown run in the second quarter for Township’s only score and finished with 100 stripes on eight attempts (plus a 6-yard reception).

Brad Hockenberry, so., RB, West Perry: The Mustangs set new program benchmarks with their 11th win and second playoff win in a season thanks to a run game that carved up Lancaster Catholic in a 63-20 District 3 Class 3A semifinal victory. Hockenberry rushed nine times for 129 yards and three scores covering 30, 44 and 19 yards.

District 6 Class 6A Championship State College 28, Altoona 7 Next Week: vs. Erie McDowell  PIAA Class 4A Round of 32 Juniata 17, DuBois 7 PIAA District 11 Class 1A Championship Northern Lehigh 40, Tri-Valley 15 PIAA District 3 Class 6A Quarterfinal Hempfield 30, Carlisle 14 Next week:  vs. Manheim Twp. Manheim Township 37, Cumberland Valley 31 Next Week: at Hempfield Central York 51, York 44 Next Week: Winner of Wilson vs. Harrisburg PIAA District 3 Class 5A Quarterfinals Cocalico 23, Gettysburg 13 Next Week:  Winner of Shippensburg vs. Solanco Northern York 20, New Oxford 7 Next Week: Winner of Dover vs. Exeter Township PIAA District 3 Class 4A Quarterfinals Bishop McDevitt 42, East Pennsboro 7 Next Week: vs. Twin Valley Twin Valley 43, Milton Hershey 29 Next Week: at Bishop McDevitt Manheim Central 63, York Suburban 14 Next Week:  vs. Lampeter-Strasburg Lampeter-Strasburg 52, Susquehanna Twp. 6 Next Week: at Manheim Central PIAA District 3 Class 3A Semifinals West Perry 63, Lancaster Catholic 20 Next Week:  Winner of Hamburg vs. Wyomissing

EXPLAINING OUR PICKS: The 4th Down Magazine crew picks all games involving Mid-Penn Conference teams, as well as Schuylkill-Colonial League games featuring former members of the now-defunct Twin Valley Conference. Now that we’re into playoff time, they’ve expanded to include all District 3 teams, as well as the local District 4, District 6 and District 11 programs. Then they’ll get really bold in the state semifinals and start picking games across the state. The predictions are meant for entertainment purposes only because, truth be told, these guys aren’t very bright. Three of them are former full-time sportswriters (dummies), and the other decided to start a high school football magazine despite the fact he already works a full-time job. But, dangit, they like to watch football, think about football, write about football, and eat. That last one isn’t related to picking football games unless you count the mustard on the keyboard. As always, enjoy, and don’t take it too seriously. Nobody here hates any program. Any perceived disrespect is a figment of your imagination. Except Sandrik, who absolutely DESPISES … (transmission interrupted) …

2022 STANDINGS DURING WEEK 12

Picker: Week 12 – Overall – Perfect Picks
Adam Kulikowski: 10-3 — 201-66 — 0
Andy Shay: 8-5 — 196-71 — 2
Andy Sandrik: 11-2 — 196-71 — 1
Geoff Morrow: 10-3 — 195-72 — 1

WEEK 2 PLAYOFF SCHEDULE

 * Records in parentheses after school name; District playoff seed in parentheses before school name in district playoff games; District and seed in parentheses before school name in PIAA playoff games; In scorelines, home team in all caps.

Thursday, Nov. 10

PIAA DISTRICT 6 CLASS 6A CHAMPIONSHIP

State College 28, Altoona 7

Andy Shay: State College 45, Altoona 14: The Little Lions are a powerhouse, and this result has nothing to do with a competitive Altoona squad not being worthy of playing for a title. The Mountain Lions are a respectable side but massively overmatched in this one.

Geoff Morrow: State College 40, Altoona 13: Wasn’t terribly close when they met in the regular season. Little Lions haven’t done anything since to cause concern. This is a really good team.

Andy Sandrik: State College 48, Altoona 14: I give all the credit to Altoona for scrapping all season, but there’s not enough gas left in that tank for the Mountain Lions to stay competitive with State College.

Adam Kulikowski: State College 43, Altoona 17: The undefeated Little Lions have a cupboard full of weapons to fuel a lengthy stay in the playoff bracket. A first-person view of SC running back D’Antae Sheffey is worth the price of a ticket to this tilt. 

PIAA CLASS 4A ROUND OF 32

Juniata 17, DuBOIS 7

Andy Shay: Juniata 24, DuBois 7: Getting two touchdowns on the board against these Indians has been a tall order. And that will be a difference-maker against the Beavers.

Geoff Morrow: Juniata 31, DuBois 14: Two things quickly jump out to me: 1. The Beavers have lost four of five entering this game; 2. Both teams played Clearfield, with the Indians winning by multiple scores while DuBois got smoked.

Andy Sandrik: Juniata 28, DuBois 10: If defense truly wins championships, give me Juniata to at least take this Round of 32 game. The Indians are allowing just 8.8 points per game this season. 

Adam Kulikowski: Juniata 34, DuBois 14: The Indians registered their second best rushing performance of the season last week against Susquenita with 270 stripes, the fifth time Juniata eclipsed the 200-yard mark. DuBois hasn’t yielded more than 100 yards on the ground since Week 8.

PIAA DISTRICT 11 CLASS 1A CHAMPIONSHIP

Northern Lehigh 40, Tri-Valley 15

Andy Shay: Tri-Valley 21, Northern Lehigh 20: This one could go either way. Tri-Valley getting the lead early will give them a big-time boost that will go a long way to getting across the finish line successfully.

Geoff Morrow: Northern Lehigh 23, Tri-Valley 20: A true “Bulldog” fight here, a pair of programs unfamiliar with each other but plenty familiar with high-stakes playoff battles. Northern Lehigh’s postseason success last year will have it feeling confident. T-V would really benefit from a strong start here.

Andy Sandrik: Tri-Valley 24, Northern Lehigh 21: Looking over the Northern Lehigh stat leaders, there are no superstars, but the Bulldogs are capable across the board. Tri-Valley can win, but solid execution of the game plan is a must.

Adam Kulikowski: Tri-Valley 28, Northern Lehigh 24: I’m having flashbacks to that wild Bulldogs matchup last year against Williams Valley in the downpour. TV handled the conditions with ease – and I expect another wet Slip ‘N Slide at midfield Friday night. 

Friday, Nov. 11

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 6A QUARTERFINALS

HEMPFIELD 30, Carlisle 14

Andy Shay: Hempfield 30, Carlisle 20: Here we go with the chase for big-school district supremacy, and it starts with a top seed vs. No. 8 seed game where the Thundering Herd — the No. 8 seed — have plenty of paths to victories. The depth of the Lancaster-Lebanon League will show up, though.

Geoff Morrow: Hempfield 19, Carlisle 14: For a No. 1 seed, the Black Knights are far from untouchable. The Herd have a legitimate chance to win their first playoff game since 2004. But they’ll need to win the turnover battle and take advantage of nearly every red zone trip. Can be done.

Andy Sandrik: Hempfield 28, Carlisle 13: I’m going to stick with the odds, here, but for a 1-seed vs. an 8-seed, this sure seems like it could be a toss-up game. 

Adam Kulikowski: Hempfield 27, Carlisle 20: The Thundering Herd enter postseason play riding a three-game winning streak — including a ‘dub against Cumberland Valley. That makes them a dangerous opponent for the District 3 Class 6A No. 1 seed. 

Manheim Township 37, CUMBERLAND VALLEY 31

Andy Shay: Cumberland Valley 13, Manheim Township 10: Not sure conditions will be ideal for a pass-happy game with the weather forecast. Running game and defense could be the deciding factors. Feels like the Eagles are better equipped for adverse conditions.

Geoff Morrow: Cumberland Valley 20, Manheim Township 18: All three previous meetings since 2017 — including Week 1 of this year — have been decided by six points or fewer. So don’t expect any runaways. I think the week off helps CV just a little bit more.

Andy Sandrik: Manheim Township 13, Cumberland Valley 10: It’s supposed to be quite a wet Friday. Will this still be a track meet in those conditions?

Adam Kulikowski: Manheim Township 27, Cumberland Valley 24: Township junior QB1 Hayden Johnson made serious strides during the second half of the season. After tossing interceptions in four straight contests early in the circuit, he hasn’t been picked off once in the final five matchups. Can the Eagles force Johnson into a mistake? Could be the key to moving on in the postseason. 

CENTRAL YORK 51, York 44

Andy Shay: Central York 34, York 30: Buckle up, this is going to be another wild ride for the Panthers and Bearcats. This one could go either way. Expect the fourth quarter to be full of drama.

Geoff Morrow: Central York 40, York 35: Folks at the Daily Record and Dispatch must be loving this. These rivals just met in Week 10, with the Panthers escaping with a 41-36 triumph. Was anybody saving anything special for a potential playoff meeting? We’ll see. Central has won four straight in the series.

Andy Sandrik: York 36, Central York 33: After playing within five points of CY in Week 10, the Bearcats know they belong on the field with the Panthers, who have all the pressure in this game.

Adam Kulikowski: Central York 45, York 41: This high-octane tilt might be one of the finest on the docket this week. Weather could play a huge role in this one with heavy rain on tap Friday night.  

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 5A QUARTERFINALS

Cocalico 23, GETTYSBURG 13

Andy Shay: Gettysburg 21, Cocalico 17: I know the Eagles are on a red-hot roll and have been flattening teams the last month or so. Gettysburg is comfortable in its own skin and will not be rattled by a test at this level.

Geoff Morrow: Cocalico 26, Gettysburg 18: Of concern to me as a predictor: The Warriors have lost eight straight playoff games, last winning one in 2007. Meanwhile, the Eagles are fresh off a dominating performance last week and are flying around carefree right now. All pressure is on the hosts.

Andy Sandrik: Cocalico 32, Gettysburg 24: The Eagles have been smoking teams since their 3-4 start. Even if the offense sputters, Cocalico’s defense has been allowing just 6.5 points per contest during its four-game winning streak.

Adam Kulikowski: Gettysburg 24, Cocalico 21: Call me the contrarian, but I believe this is the year the Warriors break that playoff victory drought. Just a hunch. 

Northern York 20, NEW OXFORD 7

Andy Shay: New Oxford 27, Northern 21: Just what the Polar Bears want: the underdog role in the postseason. If New Oxford fails to show up with its ‘A’ game, the Colonials will certainly go down. Northern believes it has put together a winning formula.

Geoff Morrow: New Oxford 23, Northern 20: Again, the Polar Bears are intensely difficult to predict, which I’m sure they love. The Colonials, meanwhile, have been pretty good but are certainly beatable. They’ve won six straight against PA opponents, though, so I’m riding the hot hand.

Andy Sandrik: Northern 28, New Oxford 27: There’s no good reason for me to make this pick other than the Polar Bears play out of their minds when they’re the team that’s expected to lose.

Adam Kulikowski: Northern 25, New Oxford 23: I’m doubling down on my Polar Bears wager after cashing in last week as the lone crony to pick Northern. 

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 4A QUARTERFINALS

BISHOP McDEVITT 42, East Pennsboro 7

Andy Shay: Bishop McDevitt 56, East Pennsboro 0: Another layup game for the Crusaders. Bigger tests are coming down the pipe in these playoffs, but this isn’t one of them. The Panthers are massively overmatched.

Geoff Morrow: Bishop McDevitt 58, East Pennsboro 7: Heck of a job – and a pretty surprising result – by the Panthers to not only snap a five-game losing streak last week but to do it in dominating fashion against Kennard-Dale. However, this is a different universe this week.

Andy Sandrik: Bishop McDevitt 55, East Pennsboro 7: I know Michigan is all over McDevitt QB Stone Saunders and that he’s just a high school sophomore, but I’m pretty sure he could start for Penn State this weekend and lead the Lions to victory over Maryland.

Adam Kulikowski: Bishop McDevitt 64, East Pennsboro 7: Crusaders simply have an abundance of firepower that might not be matched until the bus rolls into Cumberland Valley for the PIAA finals. 

TWIN VALLEY 43, Milton Hershey 29

Andy Shay: Milton Hershey 27, Twin Valley 20: Spartans are certainly capable of this result, but they have to keep the game within reach heading into the later stages in order to make this happen. If Twin Valley strikes big early, it might run away and hide. Toss-up game!

Geoff Morrow: Milton Hershey 21, Twin Valley 14: Credit to the Raiders for a second straight District 3 playoff appearance (last year was their first ever). But this is definitely a winnable game for the visiting Spartans, assuming they put Week 10’s decisive loss to Cedar Cliff appropriately in the rearview.

Andy Sandrik: Twin Valley 28, Milton Hershey 21: Football teams aren’t the only ones pursuing postseason glory. Catching up to Kulikowski in the pick ‘em standings starts with a TV victory.

Adam Kulikowski: Milton Hershey 21, Twin Valley 17: Spartans, if you needed any extra motivation to win Friday night, keeping Team K ahead of my run-for-8-hours-straight-for-charity friend, Andy Sandrik, should be just the extra juice you needed. All jokes aside, give the Sandman some props: He trotted nearly 33 miles last weekend to raise funds for Extra Life Hershey. 

MANHEIM CENTRAL 63, York Suburban 14

Andy Shay: Manheim Central 38, York Suburban 20: The diversity and balance for the Barons’ offensive will keep Trojans off balance all game, and being able to focus on one dimension defensively will free the Central defense to fly around.

Geoff Morrow: Manheim Central 40, York Suburban 21: A monumental – and, frankly, jaw-dropping – performance by Trojans RB Mike Bentivegna (12 carries, 382 yards, 6 TDs) last week vs. Donegal. Will be interesting to see how the Barons decide to defend this guy. 

Andy Sandrik: Manheim Central 38, York Suburban 24: Goodness gracious, how are you supposed to defend these Barons? QB Zac Hahn has a 25-to-4 TD-to-INT ratio, while RB Brycen Arnold averages 9.1 yards a pop.

Adam Kulikowski: Manheim Central 41, York Suburban 24: Barons have a Swiss Army of weapons equipped to combat any weather issues or defense the Trojans throw at them. 

LAMPETER-STRASBURG 52, Susquehanna Township 6

Andy Shay: Lampeter-Strasburg 28, Susquehanna Township 21: Tough draw for the ‘Hanna Tribe, who went from zero wins a year ago to a No. 6 seed in the playoffs. Arriving at the next level ahead of schedule will show against a postseason stud in the Pioneers.

Geoff Morrow: Lampeter-Strasburg 27, Susquehanna Township 23: Welcome back to the playoffs, ‘Hanna! Though it’s only been since 2019 since the Indians have been here, it’s felt longer with a couple of trying seasons in between. L-S, which finds another gear in the postseason (8-1 over its last nine District 3 playoff games), provides a great test for Joe Headen’s crew.

Andy Sandrik: Lampeter-Strasburg 33, Susquehanna Township 21: It doesn’t matter the sport, Lampeter-Strasburg is where Mid-Penn dreams go to die. I’ve seen it happen many times decades ago writing for the Sentinel and Patriot, and I think it happens against these Indians, too.

Adam Kulikowski: Lampeter-Strasburg 29, Susquehanna Township 27: A storybook season for the Indians closes on the road against L-S. But this season was a resounding success for Joe Headen’s crew. 

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 3A SEMIFINALS

West Perry 63, LANCASTER CATHOLIC 20

Andy Shay: West Perry 31, Lancaster Catholic 20: You have to respect the Crusaders’ undefeated season on merit. But once the game kicks off, the Mustangs will look to push the pace and make this a track meet. It’s what they do well.

Geoff Morrow: West Perry 29, Lancaster Catholic 19: While the Crusaders bring an unbeaten mark into the postseason, it feels to me like the Mustangs have faced – and mostly passed with flying colors – a few more tests this season, including a fairly definitive takedown of Schuylkill Valley last week. West Perry has never won two straight playoff games, though. Does that change Friday night?

Andy Sandrik: West Perry 30, Lancaster Catholic 24: It blows my mind that my alma mater is one win away from a berth in the district championship game. It’s also not a surprise, though, after QB Marcus Quaker and Co. spent countless hours in the offseason becoming a well-oiled machine. 

Adam Kulikowski: West Perry 43, Lancaster Catholic 20: The Mustangs are not afraid to punch you in the mouth. That physical brand of football combined with the offensive weapons at Bob Boden’s disposal will make West Perry a tough out. 

Saturday, Nov. 12

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 6A QUARTERFINALS

(6) Wilson (8-2) at (3) Harrisburg (7-2), 1

Andy Shay: Harrisburg 20, Wilson 14: I expect a lot of defense and heavy hitting inside the trenches right from the opening possession. Wilson is a squad that improves more than most over the course of a season, but the clearly more talented squad is the Cougars. Mistakes in this one will be magnified.

Geoff Morrow: Harrisburg 21, Wilson 17: Don’t look surprised, but the Bulldogs are bouncing with excitement now that we’re into the second season. However, they’ve struggled in recent playoff meetings vs. the Cougars (0-3 since 2018, including a 14-10 loss last year). Manheim Township and State College figured out how to beat Harrisburg at Severance Field this year, so it can be done. Points could be at a premium yet again.

Andy Sandrik: Harrisburg 28, Wilson 13: Harrisburg seems a touch more susceptible than in years past, but these Cougars are still loaded and can still make quality teams like Wilson look bad.

Adam Kulikowski: Harrisburg 31, Wilson 20: Cougars have the weapons (enter stage right, Kyle Williams) to make the game-breaking plays needed to advance in the playoffs. 

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 3A SEMIFINALS

(4) Hamburg (9-2) at (1) Wyomissing (10-0), 1

Andy Shay: Wyomissing 49, Hamburg 7: Going with the vintage Spartans score in this one. Anything else would be a surprise. Hamburg won’t have much say in the outcome in this one because Wyomissing has a standard of play it generally has no trouble reaching.

Geoff Morrow: Wyomissing 53, Hamburg 7: No offense to the Hawks, who have now won two District 3 playoff games over the past two seasons after having ZERO wins on their postseason résumé entering 2021. But nobody knows the Spartans’ dominance quite like Hamburg, which has seen it close up for decades.

Andy Sandrik: Wyomissing 50, Hamburg 10: I’ll throw the Hawks a bone and say they score more than Wyomissing’s 6.9 points allowed per game. Aside from that, I’m not sure Hamburg can keep this game competitive.

Adam Kulikowski: Wyomissing 45, Hamburg 14: Slowing down the Spartans’ Wing-T attack is a task no one to date has accomplished successfully.

PIAA CLASS 1A ROUND OF 32

(3-1) Steelton-Highspire (9-1) vs. (12-1) Belmont Charter (7-3), at Germantown Super Site, 5

Andy Shay: Steel-High 55, Belmont Charter 13: The gap between for the Rollers at this level is bigger than you can measure based on any record. Steel-High overwhelms less-equipped teams, and the Tigers don’t have enough horsepower to keep up.

Geoff Morrow: Steel-High 60, Belmont Charter 20: It’s just the second season for the Tigers out of Philadelphia, and both have been pretty successful in terms of win-loss record. But last year’s slate also included a 61-6 regular-season loss to the Rollers, so…

Andy Sandrik: Steel-High 60, Belmont Charter 21: After beating up on a Capital Division full of bigger schools, Steel-High continues its trek through the small-school postseason ready to break every PIAA record there is.

Adam Kulikowski: Steel-High 65, Belmont Charter 14: The Rollers right now are simply sparring with their opponents as they await the heavyweight bouts later in the postseason.

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 5A QUARTERFINALS

(8) Shippensburg (8-3) at (1) Solanco (10-0), 6

Andy Shay: Solanco 26, Shippensburg 20: Nothing seems to shake the Golden Mules, and they have an experienced team that is built to take the best shot of the opposition and still find a way to prevail. It’s their time.

Geoff Morrow: Solanco 27, Shippensburg 21: Half of the Golden Mules’ 10 wins have been within a single score, which tells you two things: 1. They know how to win the close ones; 2. They’re susceptible to an upset against a foe that comes correct with a dynamite game plan. Will that be the Greyhounds? Maybe!

Andy Sandrik: Shippensburg 24, Solanco 20: Shippensburg has enough horses in its RB stable to slow the game down and stay within reach. This is somewhat of an upset pick, as I still think the ‘Hounds will need a big defensive play or two to turn the tide.

Adam Kulikowski: Solanco 33, Shippensburg 27: The Golden Mules possess four ‘backs with 500 or more yards on the turf this season. On what could be a rainy evening, their fierce running game could be the ticket to another week of practice. 

(7) Dover (9-2) at (2) Exeter Township (10-0), 7

Andy Shay: Exeter Township 42, Dover 14: The Eagles are the best team in this bracket and have a depth of weapons that Dover isn’t built to slow down enough to keep pace.

Geoff Morrow: Exeter Township 38, Dover 14: Another convocation of Eagles flying high right now. Despite its No. 2 seed, I think most view Exeter as the favorite in the whole District 3 Class 5A field.

Andy Sandrik: Exeter Township 35, Dover 10: Keep an eye on Exeter’s Joey Schlaffer. The dude is a 6-foot-6 wrecking ball with some nice hands. He’s also comfortable running the ball, where he averages 22.4 yards per pop, usually after taking a direct snap. 

Adam Kulikowski: Exeter Township 41, Dover 7: Eagles have yielded just 11 points per game this season. That’s one stingy defense capable of shutting down the Dover attack. 

PIAA DISTRICT 3 CLASS 2A CHAMPIONSHIP

(3) Trinity (7-4) at (1) Annville-Cleona (8-3), 7

Andy Shay: Trinity 28, Annville-Cleona 21: The T-Rocks will have to earn this one and play well. They’ve faced some hammers this season and are playing their best football right now. That attacking defense will set the tone.

Geoff Morrow: Trinity 27, Annville-Cleona 21: There’s some great sports psychology potential here. Both teams probably feel a bit underappreciated, the Shamrocks because of their early season lumps and A-C because – well, it’s the No. 1 seed playing at home, and people keep picking against it. So long as Trinity doesn’t bus into Lebanon County expecting a gift-wrapped trophy, I think the momentum it brings is enough to claim the program’s first title since 2010.

Andy Sandrik: Trinity 28, Annville-Cleona 20: I’ve been underselling Trinity all season. It’s time to acknowledge that the ‘Rocks will be a major threat in this 2A bracket. Adam Kulikowski: Trinity 34, Annville-Cleona 21: I know Annville-Cleona is the No. 1 seed, but to me it feels like the underdog in this tilt.

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Alex Erby, jr., QB, Steel-High: It wasn’t really a fair fight against Fairfield, a 62-6 win for the District 3 Class 1A championship, but Erby still shined. The signal caller completed 13 of 15 passes for 325 yards and four touchdowns, including two to the next player on the list and one apiece to Da’Quan McCraw and Jaeion Perry. 

Durell Ceasar, jr., WR/KR, Steel-High: The guy who benefited most from Erby’s right arm was Ceasar, who caught six passes and turned them into 170 yards and two touchdowns against Fairfield. Caesar also returned a punt 60 yards for a score. 

Amari Williams, jr., OLB, Steel-High: Williams racked up an absurd six sacks Saturday afternoon. Yeah, it came against an overmatched Fairfield for the D3 Class 1A crown in a blowout, but when’s the last time you heard of ANYONE recording six sacks? 

Messiah Mickens, fr., RB, Trinity: The No. 3 Shamrocks ran Delone Catholic out of the District 3 Class 2A semifinals 56-17, with Mickens the one doing the honors. The freshman averaged nearly 14 yards a carry, rushing 11 times for 141 yards and four touchdowns of 60, 6, 5 and 15 yards. He also snagged two passes for 47 stripes. 

Caleb Wray, jr., QB, Trinity: Wray was a tidy 10 of 12 for 198 yards and three touchdowns, guiding Trinity to a blowout semifinal win (the first Trinity playoff win since 2011) over the Squires to set up a district championship appearance. His TDs covered 13, 59 and 15 yards.

Marcus Quaker, jr., QB, West Perry: The AOTW’s season-long regular was at it again during a 45-21 win over Schuylkill Valley in the District 3 Class 3A semifinals, rushing 12 times for 152 yards and two scores (15 and 64 yards). He also completed 6 of 10 passes for 98 yards and a 21-yard TD. 

Keith Oates, jr., QB/LB, East Pennsboro: The Panthers romped Kennard-Dale 43-0 in the District 3 Class 3A quarterfinals. Oates did a little of everything in the win, tossing 28- and 16-yard TDs during a 23-point EP second quarter and finishing with 135 yards on 7-of-12 passing. He ran eight times for 23 yards and had five tackles, one for a loss.

Spencer Siegel, jr., DE, Northern: Siegel is credited with the game-saving blocked extra point, the difference in a tight 21-20 win over South Western in the District 3 Class 5A first round. Siegel was plenty busy for a defense that allowed just 79 rushing yards, stacking up 10 tackles and two sacks.

Mason Yohn, sr., WR/DB/K/P, Northern: Yohn’s two touchdown receptions in the first half, covering 14 and 49 yards, were vital in the Polar Bears’ upset win Friday. He finished with three catches for 70 yards, added two tackles on defense, drilled three extra points and averaged a stellar 45.9 yards on seven punts, downing five inside the 20.

Trae Kater, sr., RB/DB, Shippensburg: The Greyhounds exacted some revenge and advanced to the District 3 Class 5A quarterfinals with a 32-14 win over Cedar Cliff. Kater had a rare double-double, 100 yards rushing and 100 more receiving. Kater ran 11 times for 125 stripes and a 53 TD, and he caught five balls for 108 yards and a 40 TD.

Amari Kerr, sr., RB/DB, Shippensburg: The other half of a two-headed rushing attack that carved up the Colts for 269 yards and three scores, Kerr churned out 110 stripes and a 12-yard first-quarter TD on just 12 carries. He also had a 17-yard reception. 

Alex Yost, sr., RB, Altoona: The Mountain Lions survived Mifflin County 31-24 in the District 6 Class 6A semifinals, with Yost producing a tough 28 carries, 143 yards and touchdown runs of 2 and 8 yards, the last of which won the game with 34 seconds left.

Julian Hazelwood, fr., RB, Altoona: Yost provided the veteran leadership and Hazelwood provided promise, rushing 12 times for 130 yards and a 14-yard score early in Altoona’s playoff win over a feisty Huskies side. Altoona totaled 340 rushing yards.

Ian Bates, so., RB/DB, Line Mountain: While the Eagles were blown out by perennial state hammer Southern Columbia 69-6, Bates accounted for 165 offensive yards in the losing effort. While the 5-7, 155-pounder scrambled for 119 rushing yards on 26 carries, he also caught two passes for 46 yards – including a 35-yarder on a wheel route that he had to accelerate to get to before carrying the ball over the goal line.