| 11. | Exeter Township | 8-1 | NR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| We welcome the Eagles to the Elite 11 at this late juncture. Yeah they could easily be 9-0 and played No. 10 CV to a near draw. Plus they have postseason pedigree on their side. | ||||
| 10. | Conestoga Valley | 9-0 | 11 | |
| Down-to-the-wire win over fellow previously unbeaten Exeter Township by a single point. Yeah this is a historical season for the CV program. 10-0 regular season? | ||||
| 9. | Wyomissing | 8-1 | 8 | |
| Some would say the 31-7 final over Octorara isn’t your typical score when it comes to a Spartans victory. Make no mistake this was a quality win. No. 8 L-S is on deck to close the regular season. | ||||
| 8. | Lampeter-Strasburg | 9-0 | 10 | |
| Hello Pioneers. Yeah we see dropping 62 on once beaten Twin Valley. That would put L-S into the moving on up category. | ||||
| 7. | Dallastown | 8-1 | 7 | |
| Starting to lean on teams with some next level defense. Wildcats have surrendered only five touchdowns the last 12 quarters including one and only one in Week 9. | ||||
| 6. | Harrisburg | 7-2 | 6 | |
| Still think the Cougars might have a say in the Class 6A postseason party. Solid bounce back against CD winning by 20 after what can only be described as a bad loss. | ||||
| 5. | Wilson West Lawn | 8-1 | 5 | |
| Last two wins have been by a combined score of 114-7. The competition level has dipped. That’s gonna change this week with No. 1 Manheim Township on deck. | ||||
| 4. | Bishop McDevitt | 8-1 | 4 | |
| Nice balance offensively rolling up 47 points on one-loss CD East. Crusaders are not as powerful as in years gone by, but somehow they feel better equipped to handle what’s thrown their way. | ||||
| 3. | State College | 8-1 | 3 | |
| As expected the Little Lions crushed winless Carlisle. Love the McDevitt game is Week 10 for both teams. Great final test but SC is the clear favorite. | ||||
| 2. | Central York | 7-2 | 2 | |
| Maybe not as competitive as you might like, but when you step up and play a powerhouse like Archbishop Hoban you aren’t worried about just winning games. Not going to drop them, although I considered it still think they are a solid No. 2. | ||||
| 1. | Manheim Township | 9-0 | 1 | |
| Hey Penn Manor scored 14 on the Blue Streaks. That’s more than the previous four teams combined. Seriously, that’s how dominant MT has been. Wilson is about to feel the brunt of this extremely physical yet still athletic team | ||||
Andy Shay’s Elite 11 After Week 9
Eric F. Epler’s State High School Football Rankings: October 22
CLASS 6A
Rank – Team – District – Record — Result
1. La Salle College HS (12) — 9-0 — 1
2. St. Joseph’s Prep (12) — 5-2 — 2
3. Central Bucks South (1) — 9-0 — 3
4. Imhotep Charter (12) — 8-1 — 4
5. Manheim Township (3) — 9-0 — 6
6. State College (6) — 8-1 — 7
7. Pittsburgh CC (7) — 7-2 — 8
8. Easton Area (11) — 8-1 — 9
9. Wilson-West Lawn (3) — 8-1 — 10
10. Bethlehem Freedom (11) — 8-1 — 5
Teams to watch: Central Bucks West (1) 7-2, Downingtown West (1) 8-1, Harrisburg (3) 7-2, North Allegheny (7) 8-1, Parkland (11) 8-1.
CLASS 5A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Result
1. Chester (1) — 8-1 — 2
2. Strath Haven (1) — 9-0 — 3
3. Upper St. Clair (7) — 9-0 — 4
4. Pine-Richland (7) — 7-1 — 1
5. West Chester Rustin (1) — 8-1 — 5
6. Peters Township (7) — 8-1 — 6
7. Bishop McDevitt (3) — 8-1 — 7
8. Mechanicsburg (3) — 9-0 — 9
9. Roman Catholic (12) — 6-3 — 8
10. Hollidaysburg (6) — 8-1 — 10
Teams to watch: Bethel Park (7) 8-1, Conestoga Valley (3) 9-0, New Oxford (3) 9-0, Shippensburg (3) 9-0, Springfield-Delco (1) 8-1, Woodland Hills (7) 7-2.
CLASS 4A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Result
1. Thomas Jefferson (7) — 8-0 — 4
2. Wyomissing (3) — 8-1 — 2
3. Pope John Paul II (1) — 8-1 — 3
4. Lampeter-Strasburg (3) — 9-0 — 5
5. Montour (7) — 9-0 — 7
6. Shamokin (4) — 9-0 –6
7. Aliquippa (7) — 6-2 — 1
8. Bonner-Prendergast (12) – 6-1 –8
9. Clearfield (9) — 9-0 — 10
10. Southern Lehigh (11) — 8-1 — NR
Teams to watch: Dallas (2) 6-3, Eastern York (3) 8-1, Susquehanna Township (3) 7-2, Valley View (2) 8-1.
CLASS 3A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Result
1. Danville (4) — 9-0 — 1
2. Northwestern Lehigh (11) — 9-0 — 2
3. Scranton Prep (2) — 8-1 — 3
4. Imani Christian (7) — 9-0 — 4
5. Sharon (10) — 8-1 — 6
6. Notre Dame-Green Pond (11) — 8-1 — 7
7. Lewisburg (4) — 8-1 — 8
8. Mount Carmel (4) — 7-2 — 9
9. Hickory (10) — 8-1 — 10
10. Penn Cambria (6) — 9-0 — NR
Teams to watch: Avonworth (7) 7-2, Bermudian Springs (3) 8-1, Trinity (3) 7-2, Western Wayne (2) 8-1.
CLASS 2A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Result
1. Troy (4) — 9-0 — 1
2. Riverside (2) — 9-0 — 2
3. Central Clarion (9) — 9-0 — 3
4. Seton-LaSalle (7) — 9-0 — 4
5. Schuylkill Haven (11) — 8-1 — 5
6. Williams Valley (11) — 8-1 — 6
7. Cambria Heights (6) — 9-0 — 7
8. Ellwood City (7) — 8-0 — 8
9. South Park (7) — 8-1 — 9
10. Steelton-Highspire (3) — 7-2 — 10
Teams to watch: Farrell (10) 5-4, Mount Union (6) 8-1, Richland (6) 7-2, South Allegheny (7) 8-1.
CLASS 1A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Result
1. Fort Cherry (7) — 9-0 — 1
2. Bishop Guilfoyle (6) — 9-0 — 2
3. Westinghouse (8) — 7-1 — 3
4. Clairton (7) — 9-0 — 4
5. Lackawanna Trail (2) — 8-1 — 5
6. Port Allegany (9) — 9-0 — 6
7. Neshannock (7) — 8-1 — 7
8. Muncy (4) — 8-1 — 8
9. Greenville (10) — 8-1 — 9
10. Bishop Canevin (7) — 6-2 — 10
Teams to watch: Cambridge Springs (10) 8-1, Delone Catholic (3) 7-2, Wilmington (10) 6-2, Winder (5) 7-2.
Sunday Morning Quarterback: Mechanicsburg navigates tragedy; Twp. wins a thriller and more
Life and tragedy sometimes intersect. We all know that is part of this journey during our time here.
That doesn’t make it easy at all.
Friday morning life tragedy rocked the undefeated Mechanicsburg football squad with a Week 9 home game with Hershey on deck.
Star running back Isaac Dollman’s father, Andrew, passed away suddenly Friday morning. I’m sure head coach Dave Heckard and his staff had a lot of choices and decisions to make in a short window.
This was not anything close to resembling a normal game day Friday.
The Wildcats played Hershey at John H. Frederick Field without Dollman and exploded for 35 first-half points on their way to a comfortable 42-21 victory that wasn’t as close as the final score.
Raw emotion and pain for a hurting teammate can go either way, and in this case the Wildcats used it as fuel to dominate a Trojans team that could never prepare for the scenario that unfolded.
After the game the entire Wildcats team and coaches went over to Dollman’s house and presented their grieving teammate with the game ball. It’s a memory that will stick with the young men and the adult men who were part of the experience.
Prayers for the Dollman family as they navigate this sudden and unexpected loss.
EXPLOSION AT COBO FIELD
The Colonial showdown between top dogs Trinity (still the best story of 2024 season) and Susquehanna Township lived up to the billing in every way and shape imaginable.
All I know is both clubs are playoff bound and will remember the ins and outs of this one come the second season because by all indicators this was a playoff game wrapped up in a regular season box.
Anyway, the final score was 40-34 Hanna Tribe coming out on top in double overtime. The lids came off this one the final 15 minutes and it was a heart attack waiting to happen for both teams during that wild final ride. Because late in the third quarter Trinity held a 19-7 lead. Nearly combined points later the Indians were celebrating.
You know it’s a great game when the biggest stars on each team showed up and made their star power known.
Hanna QB Torin Evans threw for nearly 200 yards and a couple scores plus pitched in a couple rushing TD’s. Tribe WR Lex Cyrus had five grabs for 80 yards and a TD. Trinity RB Christian Joy rushed for 162 yards and four touchdowns. You can’t ask for anything more than that.
As you put the final touches on the regular season and get ready for the playoff party, everything points to these clubs playing some of their best football right now. The outcome of this one mattered. I just have a hard time seeing how the T-Rocks really lost anything based on their performance.
MY 2 CENTS
Week 9 provided plenty of crazy results. For starters, how about one week after handing Harrisburg its first Commonwealth Division loss of the season, Cumberland Valley turns around and gets upset by Chambersburg. That is one wild six-day swing. … Camp Hill has been all over the map this season for a variety of good reasons. With only one win in its last four games, the Lions go out and edge Line Mountain 21-19 to restore a little order. Look, the Lions are capable of beating anybody on their schedule in a given week. And sometimes they feel like they could lose any given week. Why do I find that appealing? … Don’t look now but Milton Hershey has won three in a row to creep one game above .500 and travel to Roscoe Warner for a Week 10 clash with the Hanna Tribe. The Spartans dropped 58 on West Perry Friday night, and have scored a staggering 150 points over the last 12 quarters. A playoff spot will be on the line for Milton Hershey in the final regular season game. … Lower Dauphin has enjoyed an October pushback after a September swoon that saw the Falcons lose three consecutive games last month. LD has won three in a row and surrendered only one touchdown over its last 12 quarters with two shutouts – including 31-0 over Waynesboro in Week 9. They are squarely on the playoff bubble in Class 5A. Always helps when you get 198 yards and three touchdowns on the ground from your Homecoming King/RB.
Results: Week 9 Picks and Predictions
Friday, Oct. 18
Non-League
East Pennsboro 36, James Buchanan 0
Andy Shay: East Pennsboro 38, James Buchanan 14: Remember the Panthers started ice cold and were 0-2 while the Rockets were firing on all cylinders to start the season and didn’t lose the first month. That’s flipped as EP looks playoff bound with this victory.
Andy Sandrik: East Pennsboro 45, James Buchanan 21: Rockets are on a losing skid but they haven’t stopped punching. I think they’ll find the end zone in this game, just not nearly as often as the Panthers, who have grown exponentially over the course of this season.
Adam Kulikowski: East Pennsboro 45, James Buchanan 7: Panthers currently hold the No. 7 seed in the District 3-AAAA Power rankings–and no, Mr. Shay, it is not too early to look!
Commonwealth
Cedar Cliff 31, Altoona 20
Andy Shay: Altoona 27, Cedar Cliff 24: I know the Mountain Lions are a one-win team and the Colts have two more victories. Four of Altoona’s seven losses have been two or fewer scores. They are not easy to beat and I just feel they are ripe to get a second “W”.
Andy Sandrik: Cedar Cliff 30, Altoona 21: The Colts are coming off their best offensive performance in Commonwealth play. If they can recreate that effort in Mansion Park, they’ll come home winners.
Adam Kulikowski:Altoona 31, Cedar Cliff 24: My picks against Altoona recently have been berated by my Altoona-grad wife. And rightfully so! This one shouldn’t be.
Bishop McDevitt 41, Central Dauphin East 21
Andy Shay: Bishop McDevitt 32, CD East 14: Crusaders are taking care of their Commonwealth Division duties in workmanlike fashion in preparation for the playoffs. The Panthers first loss was an eye opener and revealing.
Andy Sandrik: Bishop McDevitt 38, CD East 28: I think the Panthers match up a little better with McDevitt than they did with State College last week. It’s still going to be an uphill battle for East High.
Adam Kulikowski: Bishop McDevitt 44, CD East 23: Taking in the Panthers loss to State College last week provided a first-hand glimpse at the vulnerabilities of Lance Deane’s crew. Crusaders with D1-QB commit Stone Saunders are well equipped to challenge East’s air defense.
State College 60, Carlisle 0
Andy Shay: State College 49, Carlisle 0: Never like picking a team to get shut out, but just the way this cookie crumbles right now as my four eyes see it.
Andy Sandrik: State College 48, Carlisle 7: Every team in the Commonwealth has talent, but State College is showing once again what happens when you add depth to the equation.
Adam Kulikowski: State College 45, Carlisle 6: Little Lions aren’t afraid to sling the rock when they see weakness. Just ask CD East.
Harrisburg 27, Central Dauphin 7
Andy Shay: Harrisburg 21, Central Dauphin 7: Cougars are looking to rebound after getting bounced by Cumberland Valley at home a week ago. Rams are not easy to beat, but not sure they have enough offense in this matchup over 48 minutes.
Andy Sandrik: Harrisburg 28, Central Dauphin 7: Was the CV loss a wake up call for Harrisburg, or foreshadowing of things to come? Cougars will answer at least part of that question on Friday.
Adam Kulikowski: Harrisburg 28, Central Dauphin 14: How do the Cougars respond to being upset last week by Cumberland Valley? Sharps would say Harrisburg showcases their true colors.
Chambersburg 17, Cumberland Valley 10
Andy Shay: Cumberland Valley 27, Chambersburg 14: Here we go again with CV making a late season push to be part of the second season. Springing the upset of Harrisburg came out of left field kind of. Now it’s time to validate when you are the better team.
Andy Sandrik: Cumberland Valley 21, Chambersburg 18: Trojans have the athletes to put some points on the board. Their best path to victory will be playing from ahead against a CV squad whose offense was more opportunistic than explosive in a surprise win over Harrisburg.
Adam Kulikowski: Cumberland Valley 28, Chambersburg 21: CV forced four interceptions a week ago against Harrisburg. If the defense continues to win the turnover battle, the Eagles will fortify their hold on a 6A playoff seed.
Keystone
Gettysburg 47, Mifflin County 30
Andy Shay: Gettysburg 31, Mifflin County 27: This is my “on any given night game”. Why do I feel if these two teams played 10 times each might win five of those. Heads on my coin was Gettysburg.
Andy Sandrik: Mifflin County 21, Gettysburg 18: Huskies have allowed only 7.3 points per contest over their last three games. If they can find just a little bit of offense to go along with that defensive effort, they’ll have a really good shot to win.
Adam Kulikowski: Gettysburg 28, Mifflin County 27: I see this game as a toss up. Both teams have rolled through the 2024 circuit searching for consistency.
Mechanicsburg 42, Hershey 21
Andy Shay: Mechanicsburg 35, Hershey 14: All the Wildcats do is win games by three or more touchdowns every single week. Until that changes, I’m gonna ride the train. Wildcats are a complete team.
Andy Sandrik: Mechanicsburg 42, Hershey 19: I will watch any football team that streams its games free of charge on YouTube, like Mechanicsburg does. Bonus points if that team is also one of the best in the Mid-Penn, like Mechanicsburg is.
Adam Kulikowski: Mechanicsburg 32, Hershey 28: This just might be the biggest test of the year to date for the undefeated Wildcats–one I fully expect this crew to ace.
Lower Dauphin 31, Waynesboro 0
Andy Shay: Lower Dauphin 28, Waynesboro 26: This could be a wild one. Indians are struggling and the Falcons are playing better in recent weeks with back-to-back wins. Still a tight squeeze.
Andy Sandrik: Lower Dauphin 21, Waynesboro 7: I’m going with the LD defense, which has allowed just seven points over the last eight quarters.
Adam Kulikowski: Waynesboro 31, Lower Dauphin 28: Waynesboro is on a three-game skid, but make no mistake this is a dangerous team fully capable of knocking off the Falcons.
Shippensburg 28, Northern York 14
Andy Shay: Shippensburg 40, Northern York 14: Yeah the ‘Hounds have had a couple close shaves, but they have been extremely consistent offensively. That’s your difference maker here – more weapons.
Andy Sandrik: Shippensburg 42, Northern York 14: At the beginning of the year, we thought Ship was performing beyond its capabilities. Now as we approach the end of the regular season, the Greyhounds now look the part of contender.
Adam Kulikowski: Shippensburg 37, Northern York 26: The Greyhounds seemingly have found another gear offensively. That’s bad news for the Polar Bears.
Red Land 21, Palmyra 7
Andy Shay: Red Land 31, Palmyra 7: For what they lack in consistency, the Patriots have been explosive at times on a more level playing field. Expect some fireworks from Red Land in this one.
Andy Sandrik: Red Land 21, Palmyra 14: Brady Seyler has quietly racked up back-to-back 100-yard rushing weeks for the Patriots. Make it three straight for the senior RB.
Adam Kulikowski: Red Land 27, Palmyra 20: Cougars haven’t scored more than 14 points since their Week 1 victory while the Patriots have topped the 14-point mark just twice this season. So, of course, both will ‘light up’ the scoreboard this week.
Capital
Camp Hill 21, Line Mountain 19
Andy Shay: Line Mountain 39, Camp Hill 26: The better team is clearly Line Mountain. I just can’t let go of seeing the Lions as a dangerous squad to take out, though. Eagles are a solid favorite based on ‘24 results.
Andy Sandrik: Line Mountain 55, Camp Hill 40: If you have any players from these schools on your high school fantasy team, start them now!
Adam Kulikowski: Line Mountain 31, Camp Hill 20: Eagles present a stiff test to a Camp Hill squad that appears to be scuffling a bit down the stretch.
Juniata 42, Halifax 0
Andy Shay: Juniata 48, Halifax 0: Whole stole the Juniata defense last week and made them look like a regular high school defense? That was an outlier in terms of body of work. Wildcats don’t have the horsepower to generate any consistent pressure.
Andy Sandrik: Juniata 49, Halifax 0: After getting smoked for a season-high 40 points last week, Juniata’s proud defense would like nothing more than to make an example out of somebody.
Adam Kulikowski: Juniata 45, Halifax 6: The winless Wildcats struggle to put points on the board. Juniata is not a team that you right that woe against.
Upper Dauphin 47, Newport 14
Andy Shay: Upper Dauphin 44, Newport 14: Did you know the Trojans have not only won three straight after bottoming out at 1-4, but UDA has scored 111 points over the last 12 quarters. The train has left the station.
Andy Sandrik: Upper Dauphin 43, Newport 14: We’ve always known UD can run the ball, but QB Aidan Bingaman throwing four TDs last week showed us there’s another dimension to this Trojans offense.
Adam Kulikowski: Upper Dauphin 34, Newport 21: The vibes in Newport have been trending up, but knocking off the Trojans presents a new level challenge.
Steelton-Highspire 49, Susquenita 0
Andy Shay: Steel-High 49, Susquenita 14: Once the pieces for this new-look Rollers outfit fell into place, it kind of looks the same as it ever was in some ways. Bad news for the Blackhawks.
Andy Sandrik: Steel-High 42, Susquenita 7: Rollers have found a new offensive gear during their three-game winning game streak. Not great news for a Susquenita squad still picking up the pieces after allowing 46 points last week.
Adam Kulikowski: Steel-High 45, Susquenita 14: Rollers enter this fray with a three-game winning streak and plenty of momentum to keep the good vibes going.
Colonial
Big Spring 37, Middletown 11
Andy Shay: Big Spring 35, Middletown 32: Recent form clearly favors Big Spring. This has all the markers of a wild one breaking out. Give me the Bulldogs and their recent form.
Andy Sandrik: Middletown 38, Big Spring 35: Middletown’s allowed over 39 points per contest during its three-game slide. Big Spring’s defense can relate after surrendering 70 last week. Should we expect a barn burner in Newville?
Adam Kulikowski: Big Spring 41, Middletown 38: Two straight clunkers give me pause picking the Blue Raiders. Bulldogs are winners of three of their last four.
Boiling Springs 15, Greencastle-Antrim 13
Andy Shay: Greencastle-Antrim 45, Boiling Springs 14: Did you see what the Blue Devils did to Juniata last week – dropping a 40-burger on the Indians’ vaunted defense for win No. 2. Yeah, give me G-A.
Andy Sandrik: Greencastle-Antrim 42, Boiling Springs 14: Anyone else shocked at how thoroughly the Blue Devils dispatched Juniata last week? There will be no postseason for Greencastle, so look for them to play the rest of their schedule like it’s the Super Bowl.
Adam Kulikowski: Greencastle-Antrim 43, Boiling Springs 13: Five of Greencastle-Antrims eight games have been decided by a one-score margin. This one will not be.
Milton Hershey 58, West Perry 37
Andy Shay: West Perry 30, Milton Hershey 20: Only the result was missing for West Perry to say they plugged some of the leaks in their 2024 ship. Losing to Trinity by a point is a tough pill to swallow, but beyond that they performed. The result will bear out the fruits of their labor this week.
Andy Sandrik: West Perry 28, Milton Hershey 17: The Mustangs were an extra point away from ending a losing streak against a contending Trinity team last week. I think WP gets over that hump this time.
Adam Kulikowski: West Perry 31, Milton Hershey 14: It’s been a tale of two halves for a Mustangs squad that rode a four-game winning streak before dropping four straight. The time is now for the Mustangs to find their footing again as they sit just outside the playoff cutline.
Susquehanna Township 40, Trinity 34 (2OT)
Andy Shay: Susquehanna Township 34, Trinity 32: Enjoy this one, folks. All the indicators of a barn burner are in full bloom. Don’t think for a second the T-Rocks don’t believe they are the better team. Hanna will have something to say about that.
Andy Sandrik: Susquehanna Township 28, Trinity 21: I’m easily swayed by big numbers, and the Tribe’s 70-point outburst against a respectable Big Spring squad was certainly a big number.
Adam Kulikowski: Susquehanna Township 35, Trinity 33: This just might be the most intriguing game on the docket this week with the battle for the Colonial division on the line. A win by Trinity and you can hand the division title to the Shamrocks. A win by Twp., and we’ll have to wait one more week to see how things shake out.
Eric F. Epler’s State High School Football Rankings: October 15
CLASS 6A
Rank – Team – District – Record — Previous
1. La Salle College HS (12) — 8-0 — 1
2. St. Joseph’s Prep (12) — 4-2 — 2
3. Central Bucks South (1) — 8-0 — 3
4. Imhotep Charter (12) — 7-1 — 4
5. Bethlehem Freedom (11) — 8-0 — 5
6. Manheim Township (3) — 8-0 — 6
7. State College (6) — 7-1 — 10
8. Pittsburgh CC (7) — 6-2 — 9
9. Easton Area (11) — 7-1 — NR
10. Wilson-West Lawn (3) — 7-1 — NR
Teams to watch: Central York (3) 7-1, Downingtown West (1) 7-1, McDowell (10) 6-2, North Allegheny (7) 7-1, North Penn (1) 7-1, Parkland (11) 7-1.
CLASS 5A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Previous
1. Pine-Richland (7) — 7-0 — 1
2. Chester (1) — 7-1 — 2
3. Strath Haven (1) — 8-0 — 3
4. Upper St. Clair (7) — 8-0 — 4
5. West Chester Rustin (1) — 7-1 — 5
6. Peters Township (7) — 7-1 — 6
7. Bishop McDevitt (3) — 7-1 — 7
8. Roman Catholic (12) — 6-2 — 9
9. Mechanicsburg (3) — 8-0 — 10
10. Hollidaysburg (6) — 7-1 — NR
Teams to watch: Bethel Park (7) 7-1, Exeter Township (3) 8-0, Garnet Valley (1) 7-1, New Oxford (3) 8-0, Shippensburg (3) 8-0, Springfield-Delco (1) 7-1.
CLASS 4A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Previous
1. Aliquippa (7) — 6-1 — 2
2. Wyomissing (3) — 7-1 — 4
3. Pope John Paul II (1) — 7-1 — 3
4. Thomas Jefferson (7) — 7-0 — 5
5. Lampeter-Strasburg (3) — 8-0 — 7
6. Shamokin (4) — 8-0 — 8
7. Montour (7) — 8-0 — 9
8. Bonner-Prendergast (12) – 5-1 — 6
9. Twin Valley (3) — 7-1 — 1
10. Clearfield (9) — 8-0 — 10
Teams to watch: Bishop Shanahan (1) 7-1, General McLane (10) 7-1, Jersey Shore (4) 6-2, Southern Lehigh (11) 7-1, Susquehanna Township (3) 7-1.
CLASS 3A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Previous
1. Danville (4) — 8-0 — 1
2. Northwestern Lehigh (11) — 8-0 — 2
3. Scranton Prep (2) — 7-1 — 3
4. Imani Christian (7) — 8-0 — 4
5. Western Wayne (2) — 8-0 — 5
6. Sharon (10) — 7-1 — 7
7. Notre Dame-Green Pond (11) — 7-1 — 8
8. Lewisburg (4) — 7-1 — 6
9. Mount Carmel (4) — 6-2 — 9
10. Hickory (10) — 7-1 — 10
Teams to watch: Avonworth (7) 6-2, Bermudian Springs (3) 7-1, Penn Cambria (6) 8-0, Trinity (3) 7-1.
CLASS 2A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Previous
1. Troy (4) — 8-0 — 1
2. Riverside (2) — 8-0 — 2
3. Central Clarion (9) — 8-0 — 3
4. Seton-LaSalle (7) — 8-0 — 4
5. Schuylkill Haven (11) — 7-1 — 5
6. Williams Valley (11) — 7-1 — 6
7. Cambria Heights (6) — 8-0 — 7
8. Ellwood City (7) — 7-0 — 8
9. South Park (7) — 7-1 — 10
10. Steelton-Highspire (3) — 6-2 — NR
Teams to watch: Farrell (10) 4-4, Mount Union (6) 7-1, Richland (6) 6-2, River Valley (6) 7-1, South Allegheny (7) 7-1.
CLASS 1A
Rank – Team – District – Record – Previous
1. Fort Cherry (7) — 8-0 — 1
2. Bishop Guilfoyle (6) — 8-0 — 2
3. Westinghouse (8) — 6-1 — 3
4. Clairton (7) — 8-0 — 4
5. Lackawanna Trail (2) — 7-1 — 5
6. Port Allegany (9) — 8-0 –6
7. Neshannock (7) — 7-1 — 8
8. Muncy (4) — 7-1 — 9
9. Greenville (10) — 7-1 — 10
10. Bishop Canevin (7) — 5-2 — 7
Teams to watch: Cambridge Springs (10) 7-1, Line Mountain (4) 6-2, Monessen (7) 7-1, Northern Bedford (5) 7-1.
Andy Shay’s Elite 11 Rankings After Week 8
| 11. | Exeter Township | 8-1 | NR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| We welcome the Eagles to the Elite 11 at this late juncture. Yeah they could easily be 9-0 and played No. 10 CV to a near draw. Plus they have postseason pedigree on their side. | ||||
| 10. | Conestoga Valley | 9-0 | 11 | |
| Down-to-the-wire win over fellow previously unbeaten Exeter Township by a single point. Yeah this is a historical season for the CV program. 10-0 regular season? | ||||
| 9. | Wyomissing | 8-1 | 8 | |
| Some would say the 31-7 final over Octorara isn’t your typical score when it comes to a Spartans victory. Make no mistake this was a quality win. No. 8 L-S is on deck to close the regular season. | ||||
| 8. | Lampeter-Strasburg | 9-0 | 10 | |
| Hello Pioneers. Yeah we see dropping 62 on once beaten Twin Valley. That would put L-S into the moving on up category. | ||||
| 7. | Dallastown | 8-1 | 7 | |
| Starting to lean on teams with some next level defense. Wildcats have surrendered only five touchdowns the last 12 quarters including one and only one in Week 9. | ||||
| 6. | Harrisburg | 7-2 | 6 | |
| Still think the Cougars might have a say in the Class 6A postseason party. Solid bounce back against CD winning by 20 after what can only be described as a bad loss. | ||||
| 5. | Wilson West Lawn | 8-1 | 5 | |
| Last two wins have been by a combined score of 114-7. The competition level has dipped. That’s gonna change this week with No. 1 Manheim Township on deck. | ||||
| 4. | Bishop McDevitt | 8-1 | 4 | |
| Nice balance offensively rolling up 47 points on one-loss CD East. Crusaders are not as powerful as in years gone by, but somehow they feel better equipped to handle what’s thrown their way. | ||||
| 3. | State College | 8-1 | 3 | |
| As expected the Little Lions crushed winless Carlisle. Love the McDevitt game is Week 10 for both teams. Great final test but SC is the clear favorite. | ||||
| 2. | Central York | 7-2 | 2 | |
| Maybe not as competitive as you might like, but when you step up and play a powerhouse like Archbishop Hoban you aren’t worried about just winning games. Not going to drop them, although I considered it still think they are a solid No. 2. | ||||
| 1. | Manheim Township | 9-0 | 1 | |
| Hey Penn Manor scored 14 on the Blue Streaks. That’s more than the previous four teams combined. Seriously, that’s how dominant MT has been. Wilson is about to feel the brunt of this extremely physical yet still athletic team | ||||
Sunday Morning QB: Trinity continues to impress; Keystone set to come down to Week 10 matchup; three to watch in the Commonwealth and more
At this point the story of the 2024 season, no matter how it plays out in terms of the end, lands on the Catholic school in Shiremanstown – Trinity.
We all know what this program endured during the offseason with the coaching staff, losses to graduation and key players opting to transfer. The fact this team is 7-1 speaks volumes about interim head coach Kevin Yarnevich, his staff and most importantly the players.
Winning the Colonial Division title would still be a major upset should the Shamrocks pull it off. They are unbeaten in the division and play one-loss Susquehanna Township this week. Nothing like a tasty Week 9 division game with so much on the line.
Trinity pulled out a narrow one-point victory over West Perry in Week 8, and how they won this game is hard to figure out. But when the cards are falling your way, wins sometimes just happen.
West Perry, who had been struggling but gave the T-Rocks their very best shot, hit for two touchdowns covering 80 or more yards by stud RB Brad Hockenberry. The Mustangs also recovered a fumble in the end zone in the fourth quarter. I mean that to me screams West Perry win.
A missed PAT after the final touchdown was the final margin on the scoreboard, but remember the Trinity defense made that one-point cushion stand up for more than nine minutes.
Susquehanna Township will have a say in deciding how the Colonial Division plays out. And you can bet the Indians want a piece of the pie. They are in fine form after hanging 70 on Big Spring and will challenge Trinity’s defense in a new and unique way.
To me it doesn’t matter whether Trinity wins the Colonial title outright or shares the crown. What they have accomplished this season under extreme change and upheaval is simply remarkable.
KEYSTONE COLLISION COURSE
Eight up and eight down for Shippensburg and Mechanicsburg as they stay on course for a promising Week 10 showdown for the Keystone crown. The Wildcats continue to impress with all eight of their victories coming by 21 or more points. Shippensburg has faced two close shaves, Lower Dauphin and Waynesboro, but navigated each of those stern challenges to stay unbeaten.
Mechanicsburg has the tougher Week 9 opponent with Hershey on deck. Shippensburg will face Northern York. I still think both these clubs will be unbeaten when they square off to close out the regular season.
In a solid Week 8 victory over previously mentioned Waynesboro by 22 points, Mechanicsburg went for 350-plus yards on the ground and controlled every aspect of the game. Isaac Dollman had 197 yards rushing with a pair of INT’s on defense and QB Eli Reider added another 151 yards on the ground. Wildcats are tough to wrangle and slow down.
THREE COMMONWEALTH HAMMERS
As the chase for the big-school division narrows, it’s pretty clear there are three teams in legitimitate contention for the title – Harrisburg, Bishop McDevitt and State College.
What about CD East you ask? Good for the Panthers getting to 7-0 before the meat of their schedule with narrow wins over Cumberland Valley and rival Central Dauphin. Those victories matter – a LOT.
Week 8 was the litmus test with State College paying a visit to the Speedway and the result was a 55-17 thrashing by the visiting Little Lions. And the Panthers still have to play Harrisburg and McDevitt. Hard to see East as part of the championship equation. On one level, finishing 7-3 would still be overperforming based on realistic expectations in my book.
Harrisburg, McDevitt and State College each have one loss. Feels like another Commonwealth crown for the Cougars from my seat in the press box.
MY 2 CENTS
Looking at how the final couple weeks shake out, Line Mountain, Steel-High and Juniata look to be on course to share the Capital title this season with one division loss each. Steel-High reaching that pinnacle in 2024 says a lot considering the cliff the Rollers started at after winning a PIAA championship a year ago. … It’s safe now, there are eight games in the books. You can start looking at the District 3 Power Rankings and start crunching the numbers. I won’t peek for the first time until later in the week, but you have the license to start the madness in the chase for playoff spots. … My performance of the week goes to Upper Dauphin QB Aidan Bingaman, who threw for 201 yards against Susquenita in a 46-14 win. He completed only nine passes and four of those went for touchdowns. That’s a stunning average of 22.3 yards per completion.
Results: Week 8 Picks and Predictions
Name; Week 7; Overall
Andy Sandrik: 14-5; 112-33
Andy Shay: 14-5; 109-36
Adam Kulikowski: 15-4; 106-39
Thursday, Oct. 10
Colonial
Milton Hershey 62, Boiling Springs 27
Andy Shay: Milton Hershey 32, Boiling Springs 21: Spartans are 2-2 in their last four games and have found some more offense to lean on to help a defense that gives up yards and points. Bubblers’ struggles are all around.
Andy Sandrik: Milton Hershey 35, Boiling Springs 14: The Bubblers have raised their scoring average in recent weeks, but continue to give up points in bulk. I’m not sure that trend stops this week.
Adam Kulikowski: Milton Hershey 45, Boiling Springs 7: Spartans possess a few more weapons to utilize as we enter the stretch run of the season.
Friday, Oct. 11
Non-League
Greencastle-Antrim 40, Juniata 21
Andy Shay: Juniata 31, Greencastle-Antrim 7: Only three touchdowns surrendered the last four games and 62 total points allowed this season. Give me the Juniata defense, please.
Andy Sandrik: Juniata 14, Greencastle-Antrim 0: Has any team in the Mid-Penn had a more heartbreaking season than Greencastle this fall? The Blue Devils have been competitive almost every week, but only have one win to show for it.
Adam Kulikowski: Juniata 24, Greencastle-Antrim 21: Blue Devils have shown that they are a tough out each week. No solace there, however.
Commonwealth
Altoona 21, Chambersburg 14
Andy Shay: Chambersburg 22, Altoona 14: Several close calls for the Mountain Lions, but the bottom line is they are still without a victory. Chambersburg has three wins and is looking to make it three straight for the Trojans. Won’t be easy, though.
Andy Sandrik: Chambersburg 28, Altoona 14: I trust Chambersburg a little bit more than the Mountain Lions, who have been shut out four times in seven games this fall.
Adam Kulikowski: Chambersburg 31, Altoona 21: Both teams have had shining moments this year including the Mountain Lions taking a playoff-bound Bishop McDevitt squad to the wire. Key match ups favor the home squad.
Bishop McDevitt 28, Central Dauphin 10
Andy Shay: Bishop McDevitt 28, Central Dauphin 7: Despite a 2-5 record, the Rams have proven themselves as a tough team to beat. Nearly upset rival CD East undefeated apple cart last week. Crusaders have to pay attention to details with this team. Talent gap heavily favors McD offense.
Andy Sandrik: Bishop McDevitt 38, Central Dauphin 14: With all due respect to the steadily-improving Rams, they’re going to have matchup problems all over the field against the star-studded Crusaders.
Adam Kulikowski: Bishop McDevitt 31, Central Dauphin 14: Finding enough firepower to keep up with the Crusaders is a tall task for any team. Rams are no exception.
Cedar Cliff 41, Carlisle 13
Andy Shay: Cedar Cliff 20, Carlisle 17: After a hot start it has been a rough ride for the Colts in the Commonwealth Division. If Carlisle is still a hungry team to get win No. 1 they have a real shot because this playing field is more level.
Andy Sandrik: Cedar Cliff 24, Carlisle 7: I’d love to pick my backyard team to spring the upset here, but Carlisle is averaging 5.4 points per game. If the Colts put up 20 points, I think that’s more than enough to win.
Adam Kulikowski: Cedar Cliff 21, Carlisle 7: There’s no better time than the present for the Colts to snap that five game slide.
State College 55, Central Dauphin East 16
Andy Shay: State College 21, CD East 14: And so begins the stretch where the rubber meets the road for the undefeated Panthers from CD East. Not sure they have the depth to hang with the Little Lions.
Andy Sandrik: State College 23, CD East 21: The Panthers are now entering the gauntlet of their season. State College is a little more battle-tested and has the numbers to wear down CD East, but make no mistake, Lance Deane’s squad has been looking forward to this battle and is eager for the challenge.
Adam Kulikowski: CD East 31, State College 28: When is the last time the Panthers have opened a season with eight straight victories? Asking for a friend. Whether or not CD East stays undefeated, this is quickly becoming one of those seasons you remember for a long time.
Keystone
Gettysburg 42, Palmyra 14
Andy Shay: Gettysburg 20, Palmyra 13: Couple of squads who have endured their fair share of time on the struggle bus. Warriors find a way to get the victory here.
Andy Sandrik: Gettysburg 28, Palmyra 14: Gettysburg seems to have a little bit more in the cupboard, but it wouldn’t surprise me if this game evolved into a barnburner.
Adam Kulikowski: Gettysburg 35, Palmyra 20: Both teams struggle to stop opponents, so one should expect this one to feature some fireworks. Give the edge to the Warriors who possess the more experienced cats.
Lower Dauphin 9, Mifflin County 7
Andy Shay: Lower Dauphin 26, Mifflin County 19: Couple of three-win teams looking to make a late season push to the next level. Feels like the Falcons have figured out a few things offensively at this point.
Andy Sandrik: Lower Dauphin 33, Mifflin County 14: My preseason pick of LD winning the Keystone was a bust, but the Falcons still have a team that can make a run for the postseason.
Adam Kulikowski: Mifflin County 28, Lower Dauphin 21: Huskies are playing their best football of the season, riding a two game winning streak. This one is decided late.
Mechanicsburg 35, Waynesboro 13
Andy Shay: Mechanicsburg 35, Waynesboro 14: The undefeated Wildcats have not had a game decided by fewer than 21 points this season in seven outings. That is not an accident.
Andy Sandrik: Mechanicsburg 44, Waynesboro 7: The Wildcats were finally challenged last week when they were locked in a 14-all contest with Northern. How did they respond? By scoring 28 unanswered points and turning the nail-biter into yet another blowout victory.
Adam Kulikowski: Mechanicsburg 38, Waynesboro 14: Eli Reider has quietly been one of the finest quarterbacks in the Mid-Penn Conference, completing 71 percent of his passes and tossing just one interception.
Shippensburg 42, Red Land 0
Andy Shay: Shippensburg 42, Red Land 7: This has been a mild surprise run by the Greyhounds, but they are looking more and more like a championship quality team with each passing week.
Andy Sandrik: Shippensburg 35, Red Land 14: Big win for the Patriots over Hershey last week, but stopping this Shippensburg rushing attack will be no easy task.
Adam Kulikowski: Shippensburg 41, Red Land 13: Cheers to the Patriots who knocked off a quality club in Hershey last week. Just not sure the Patriots have the pieces to replicate that effort against the Greyhounds.
Capital
Steelton-Highspire 37, Camp Hill 14
Andy Shay: Steelton-Highspire 30, Camp Hill 28: Bottom line is the Rollers do not have a bad loss on their schedule and this Rollers squad has been consistent week to week. Lions have been up and down, but are easily capable of winning this one.
Andy Sandrik: Steelton-Highspire 33, Camp Hill 21: Lions QB Drew Branstetter and Co. can put points up on anybody, but I’ll still trust the Rollers’ defense over a Camp Hill “D” that has been especially susceptible in recent weeks.
Adam Kulikowski: Steelton-Highspire 37, Camp Hill 21: Lions are entering Week 8 with injuries at some key positions while the Rollers are finding their stride.
Newport 42, Halifax 7
Andy Shay: Newport 20, Halifax 14: I expect this to be a close one, but the Buffaloes have found a way to get a victory against Milton Hershey two weeks ago and the winless Wildcats still aren’t sure they can win and that matters.
Andy Sandrik: Newport 14, Halifax 12: Both of these teams have made strides this season. I think the Buffs have the “been there, done that” winning advantage, but I’m also impressed with how the Halifax defense has played over the last three games. Coin flip?
Adam Kulikowski: Newport 28, Halifax 7: Zach Bates, the elusive running back for the Buffs is the most dynamic weapon on the field. If the Wildcats can contain him, they should be in this match up–however, that’s a big if.
Line Mountain 59, James Buchanan 17
Andy Shay: Line Mountain 37, James Buchanan 13: Only one game separates these clubs in terms of their overall records. Don’t be fooled, though, LM is clearly the stronger squad and will show that.
Andy Sandrik: Line Mountain 49, James Buchanan 14: Too many weapons on the LM side for this game to be close, plus the Eagles seem to have found another gear since that loss to Steel-High in Week 6.
Adam Kulikowski: Line Mountain 44, James Buchanan 13: Rockets have had their moments this season, but in this one the Eagles are the superior squad.
Upper Dauphin 46, Susquenita 14
Andy Shay: Upper Dauphin 33, Susquenita 20: Not sure you can say the Trojans own a loss that doesn’t belong and they beat Camp Hill a week ago. That kind of momentum matters.
Andy Sandrik: Upper Dauphin 38, Susquenita 10: I’ll have whatever Caleb Snyder’s having. He put up some some dude-like numbers — 44 carries, 338 yards, 4 TDs — in Upper Dauphin’s win over Camp Hill last week.
Adam Kulikowski: Upper Dauphin 45, Susquenita 14: ‘Nita is averaging less than 10 points per game through Week 7. That’s tough sledding against an Upper Dauphin crew who has plenty of weapons to light up the scoreboard.
Colonial
Susquehanna Township 70, Big Spring 27
Andy Shay: Susquehanna Township 28, Big Spring 14: Two straight victories by a touchdown each time shows what the Indians are made of. Bulldogs provide a physical challenge, see how Hanna handles that.
Andy Sandrik: Susquehanna Township 33, Big Spring 18: Tribe QB Torin Evans is averaging more than 250 passing yards a game and has thrown 18 TDs against two interceptions. Could he be in for another big game this week?
Adam Kulikowski: Susquehanna Township 41, Big Spring 30: Bulldogs promise to provide a physical challenge to the Indians. I see coach Joe Headen’s crew taking advantage of earlier adversity this season have his gents ready for the battle.
Trinity 27, West Perry 26
Andy Shay: Trinity 31, West Perry 14: If you had Trinity at 6-1 entering this game on your bingo card, congrats you are smarter than us all. T-Rocks are gaining momentum week to week, too. The bottom has fallen out on the Mustangs and they are scrambling to pick up the pieces right now.
Andy Sandrik: Trinity 28, West Perry 21: Trinity sure seems like it’s on track to nail down its first win against WP since 2015.
Adam Kulikowski: Trinity 35, West Perry 21: The Mustangs haven’t scored more than 14 points in a game since mid-September. Where did the offense go?
Saturday, Oct. 12
Commonwealth
Cumberland Valley 24, Harrisburg 21
Andy Shay: Harrisburg 28, Cumberland Valley 7: Eagles have lost three of their last four games and that is not the kind of tag you want to have on your luggage when you visit Market Street in Harrisburg to visit the Cougars.
Andy Sandrik: Harrisburg 24, Cumberland Valley 10: Harrisburg is not the team you want to see after three straight losses. CV has the defense to keep it close, but if the Eagles get discouraged this game could get ugly.
Adam Kulikowski: Harrisburg 31, Cumberland Valley 7: You know Josh Oswalt’s teams will never lay down, but the weapons each bring into this battle are not the same.
Keystone
Hershey 42, Northern York 7
Andy Shay: Hershey 20, Northern 17: Still trying to figure out what happened to the Trojans last week in that upset loss to Red Land. Hey the Polar Bears have to feel like they have a shot now.
Andy Sandrik: Northern 21, Hershey 14: Give the Polar Bears some credit, they made seemingly-invincible Mechanicsburg work for it last week. This most certainly seems like a winnable game for Northern after Hershey’s mystifying loss to Red Land.
Adam Kulikowski: Hershey 28, Northern 21: Trojans stumbled last week against Red Land. I’m betting on a rebound performance from a club that had previously won four straight.
Colonial
East Pennsboro 42, Middletown 17
Andy Shay: East Pennsboro 21, Middletown 14: Shake off last week and move forward if you are the Panthers. They’ve been playing some solid ball. Don’t bring your best to the table and Middletown will gladly add another loss to your column. Blue Raiders are NOT easy to beat.
Andy Sandrik: East Pennsboro 28, Middletown 21: Four wins over the last five games for the Panthers, with that loss coming to Susquehanna Township last week. I think EP still has enough momentum for a bounce back win, here.
Adam Kulikowski: East Pennsboro 33, Middletown 21: After a sluggish start to the season, the Panthers are rolling as winners of four of their last five games. Middletown is no easy out, however.
Andy Shay’s Elite 11 Rankings after Week 7
| 11. | Conestoga Valley | 7-0 | 11 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| For the first time this season CV surrendered more than two touchdowns in a game. Tight fixture against Governor Mifflin was expected. | ||||
| 10. | Twin Valley | 7-0 | 10 | |
| Head into titanic matchup with No. 9 Wyomissing with back-to-back shutouts by the defense. Feels like TV is the clear favorite against Wyomissing. | ||||
| 9. | Wyomissing | 6-1 | 9 | |
| Every time one in the last decade of these big conference games creeps into view for the Spartans, they pretty much obliterate the opposition in convincing fashion. That won’t be the case this time. | ||||
| 8. | Lampeter-Strasburg | 7-0 | 8 | |
| Four straight games where the Pioneers offense has scored at least 44 points. Still two big games against fellow Elite 11 squads to close the season, but L-S is trending for sure. | ||||
| 7. | Dallastown | 6-1 | 6 | |
| Came back after a brutal loss and somehow found a way to edge past William Penn and not make the loss to Central York knock the wheels off their bus. Wasn’t exactly a strong response by Wildcats so they drop a spot. | ||||
| 6. | Wilson West Lawn | 6-1 | 7 | |
| What you can see below the surface is the Bulldogs offense building and getting a little better with each passing week. They are becoming more dynamic. | ||||
| 5. | Bishop McDevitt | 6-1 | 5 | |
| Put in an all-around impressive Week 7 performance against a so-so Cumberland Valley squad. When the defense plays well this team gets much tougher to beat. | ||||
| 4. | State College | 6-1 | 4 | |
| Granted the grind has weakened first-year Commonwealth member Cedar Cliff, but the Little Lions winning by 38 over the Colts and posting a shutout grabs your attention. | ||||
| 3. | Central York | 6-1 | 3 | |
| Very nice response by the Panthers after getting pushed to the limit the week before. They were always going to beat Northeastern easily and comfortably, but they played with a renewed purpose and dropped 63 on the Bobcats. | ||||
| 2. | Harrisburg | 6-1 | 2 | |
| Cougars have settled in after facing wave after wave on the adversity the first few weeks of the season. Seems all is quiet on Market Street, but we know that’s just the calm before the storm. Playing balanced football. | ||||
| 1. | Manheim Township | 7-0 | 1 | |
| I’m very confident Cedar Crest extremely well last week in its matchup with the Blue Streaks. And Manheim Township won the game by 25 points. That’s revealing. | ||||