| 11. | Steel-High | 0-0 | NR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The defending PIAA Class 1A champions are still loaded with a wicked combination of speed, power and explosiveness. QB Alex Erby will finish with a laundry list of records, RB Ronald Burnette is good for 1,000-plus rushing and that defensive front can take over a game. | ||||
| 10. | Wilson | 0-0 | NR | |
| Hard to ignore a program that hasn’t had a losing season since 1963. The Bulldogs bring back nine starters on offense, and their zone read scheme will be a well-oiled machine from the jump. Biggest question mark will be on defense where there are more questions than answers. | ||||
| 9. | Exeter Township | 0-0 | NR | |
| Nobody on the Elite 11 preseason roster was hit harder by graduation than the Eagles. They lost a cupboard of elite dudes who powered the magic carpet ride of 2022. Still think Exeter has enough coming back to stay relevant and part of the conversation, particularly up front where it matters. Skill positions on offense will be where the rubber meets the pavement. | ||||
| 8. | Wyomissing | 0-0 | NR | |
| When you run the Wing-T offense and you lose an FBS-level left tackle and more than 3,100 of your more than 4,600 rushing yards to a trio of graduates, the prospects of another deep playoff run should be slightly diminished. For 2023 the Spartans’ initial answer will come from a defense that is better than most. Don’t expect less from Wyo. | ||||
| 7. | Central York | 0-0 | NR | |
| The kingpin of York County has posted a 31-4 mark the last three seasons and clearly moved into the alpha dog class of big-school football in District 3. Heavy favorites in York-Adams 1, they will be tested early by the likes of Central Dauphin, Cumberland Valley and Hempfield. | ||||
| 6. | Cocalico | 0-0 | NR | |
| Nobody did a better rebuild on the fly in 2022 than the Eagles, who lost five games but still claimed the District 3 Class 5A title. And they have seven or eight regulars back on each side of the ball. A couple minor question marks need answers up front on offense, but the loss of two hammer leaders on defense will show up early. Clearly the class of Section 4. | ||||
| 5. | Manheim Central | 0-0 | NR | |
| Get ready for an offense that has all the tools to put up 40 points a game. The quartet of elite skill players will be a wrecking ball despite being among a group of solid clubs in Section 2. They have a couple open spots on the o-line, and the new linebackers will play catch-up for a bit with plenty of experience around them to help. High expectations for Dave Hahn’s group. | ||||
| 4. | Manheim Township | 0-0 | NR | |
| Navigated a tough start and played its best football when it mattered a year ago, and QB Hayden Johnson, who is approaching 5,000 career passing yards, is back to orchestrate the offense. At first glance the defense has more meat on the bone than you think, and that will help an offense that has very few questions at the skill positions but will be searching for answers along the OL | ||||
| 3. | State College | 0-0 | NR | |
| There was some turnover for the lads from up Route 322, but they have a replacement system in place for a ridiculously deep roster and it works. Sophomore RB D’Antae Sheffey eclipsed 1,700 yards in his first year of high school. That’s a good starting point. This defense will be elite in ‘23. Don’t say you haven’t been warned. | ||||
| 2. | Harrisburg | 0-0 | NR | |
| Expectations are high on the edge of Market Street. The evolution of QB Shawn Lee Jr. his first two seasons has been stunning to watch. This is Year 3 as QB1, and there’s another level or two in his tank for sure. Like fellow Commonwealth Division mate State College, the Cougars’ defense will be nothing short of elite from snap No. 1 of the season. | ||||
| 1. | Bishop McDevitt | 0-0 | NR | |
| For the defending PIAA Class 4A champions, it starts with 2022 Pennsylvania Gatorade Player of the Year Stone Saunders at quarterback. But McDevitt is oh-so-much more than the recent Kentucky commit. They arguably will have the fastest receiving corps in the state. And as a friendly reminder, remember that defense that took over big-time playoff games late in the state run to gold? Well, there are nine regulars back. | ||||
PA High School Football: Andy Shay’s Preseason Elite 11 Rankings
High school football season previews 2023: Mid-Penn Keystone predicted finish, players to watch and more
It might not last long, but for now there is a ray of hope for teams in the Mid-Penn Keystone Division hoping to catch up with Bishop McDevitt, a team which has had its offensive line absolutely gutted from graduation losses.
But the reality is the backups for the Crusaders are almost always good enough to start at any other school. And even if you can find a way to expose the new-look offensive line, they still have plenty of other game-breaking talents at other parts of the field to overwhelm even the most game teams in the Keystone.
It’s going to be a fun battle for second place between Cedar Cliff and Milton Hershey, with Lower Dauphin, Mifflin County and Hershey all looking to prove they belong in that tier. Red Land and Palmyra could have difficulty staying in games this fall, but there are some high-quality players on those squads who can set an example for the years to come.
It’s going to be a fun division to watch as all games not involving Bishop McDevitt should carry a certain level of unpredictability.
Predicted division standings: Bishop McDevitt, Cedar Cliff, Milton Hershey, Lower Dauphin, Mifflin County, Hershey, Red Land, Palmyra
Bishop McDevitt Crusaders
Predicted finish: 1st
Coach: Jeff Weachter
Record last season: 13-1, 7-0 Keystone (1st place)
Team outlook: For most schools, extraordinary graduation losses in the trenches can be backbreaking. But for defending state champ Bishop McDevitt — which lost the equivalent of an entire college offensive line with the departures of Riley Robell (James Madison), Gabe Arena (Virginia Tech), Kameron Zaengle (Edinboro), Dimitri Chacon (Bloomsburg), and Ethan Straining (Shippensburg) — it’s just a matter of reloading. McDevitt will have time for its new o-line to gel as it navigates through Keystone Division play, and if that mission is accomplished the Crusaders have the firepower to once again contend for a PIAA championship. It all starts behind center with junior quarterback Stone Saunders, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound gunslinger committed to Kentucky who threw for 3,583 yards and an obscene 54 touchdowns to go along with five interceptions. The majority of those passes will go to superhuman wide receiver Rico Scott, but look for Nevan Hopkins (6-foot, 185) and tight end Nick Slogik (6-5, 240) to have pass-catching duties ramped up this fall. Defensively, it’s going to be challenging for opponents to accomplish much of anything as the Crusaders return all-star linebackers Ty Kephart (6-foot, 195) and Maurice Barnes (6-2, 200), defensive backs Hopkins, Chase Regan (6-foot, 180), and Jaire Rawlison (5-10, 175), and defensive linemen Slogik and Dallas Davenport (6-foot, 260). Look for this edition of McDevitt to once again overwhelm the Keystone Division and make a deep run into the postseason, possibly concluding with another PIAA championship.
One player to watch: Rico Scott. We’ve been told the film on Scott is not, in fact, being played in fast-forward, rather that’s just how much blinding speed is possessed by the freakish 6-1, 190-pound senior receiver. As soon as Scott secures a pass, whether it’s in the flats or deep down the sideline, it’s a race to the end zone that the Alabama verbal commit almost always wins. Scott isn’t always tested by DBs at the high-school level, but when he is, he displays the great hands and athleticism to make plays under duress. His first move after the catch is enough to shake off the most well-prepared tackler. Last year Scott cashed in 66 receptions for 1,184 yards and 18 TDs. We’re excited, and maybe a little bit scared, to see the damage this dude does in the Keystone this fall.
Cedar Cliff Colts
Predicted finish: 2nd
Coach: Colin Gillen
Record last season: 7-4, 5-2 Keystone (3rd place)
Team outlook: If there’s one team that has a chance to be competitive with feared Bishop McDevitt, at least in spots, it’s Cedar Cliff. The Colts bring back a treasure trove of senior all-star talent on defense, including LBs Nathan Lusk, Carter Enders and Michael Jones, and DBs in Julius Tirado, Taeon Abraham and Elijah Wilbourn. Whether you’re looking to run or pass, the Colts have got you covered. Offensively, junior QB Bennett Secrest (6-foot, 190) is back to lead the offense after accumulating 1,281 passing yards and 17 TDs last fall. He has already built a strong connection with WR Lusk (37 receptions, 458 yards, 6 TDs) and will be aided by the return of RB Jones (109 carries, 502 yards, 4 TDs) in the backfield. Cedar Cliff has a handful of quality linemen to replace, so look for Cooper Hambright (5-11, 220) and TE Enders to lead by example for the boys in the trenches. Also on the agenda for coach Colin Gillen and his staff is finding a replacement for Derek Witmer, who made a big impact on special teams as a First Team Keystone kicker and punter. With that said, there’s plenty of talent at Cedar Cliff, and we see no reason why the Colts can’t lock up that second-place position and maybe, just maybe, put a scare into the Crusaders.
One player to watch: Nathan Lusk. If the ball is aired out anywhere near the same continent as Lusk, there’s a good chance the sure-handed linebacker and wide receiver is going to come down with the ball. A 6-1, 190-pound footballer just brimming with athleticism, Lusk is looking to repeat the success of last fall, which landed him on the Keystone’s First Team for defense and Honorable Mention for offense. Lusk has the size and fundamentals of a solid linebacker, but it’s his presence as a ball-hawking defender that makes opponents think twice about running plays in his direction. He can split out to play cornerback as needed and knows how to time blitzes as well as anyone. On the offensive side of the ball, Lusk has made the habit of turning sure-to-be incomplete passes into acrobatic receptions. Even when a defender is draped all over him, Secrest has the confidence to throw in tight windows because Lusk repeatedly makes plays on passes that would be low-probability catches for most receivers. With Lusk on the field, you get the sense that Cedar Cliff will always have a chance to make the defensive stop or big conversion, even when facing a superior team.
Milton Hershey Spartans
Predicted finish: 3rd
Coach: Jeff Boger
Record last season: 6-5, 4-3 Keystone (4th place)
Team outlook: There are enough playmakers in the stable at Milton Hershey for the Spartans to put up some big numbers this season. Just how big those numbers get is largely dependent on projected starting QB Jason Burney, a southpaw senior who put up some decent numbers while backing up Kenny Emile last fall. Burney will have a couple of all-star receivers to throw to in Angel Roberts (6-foot, 180) and Mohamed Koroma (6-foot, 165) and will be joined in the backfield by senior running back Elijah Johnson, who earned Second Team honors in the Keystone in 2022. When considering Milton Hershey also brings back stud offensive linemen Noah Gibbs (5-11, 295) and Lany Brode (6-2, 280), it’s easy to envision the Spartans lighting up the scoreboard this fall. The defense will be led by senior linebacker Michael Blidi (6-2, 225), defensive back Kaden East (6-foot, 185) and strong safety Burney. We’re not sure if Milton Hershey has what it takes to spring an upset over Bishop McDevitt, but the Spartans should have plenty in the cupboard to give the rest of the Keystone problems.
One player to watch: Mohamed Koroma. Any time this dude gets his hands on the ball it’s like lightning in a bottle, and the coaches in the Keystone certainly noticed this last season when they voted Koroma a Second Team all-star as both a receiver and return specialist. Opponents would be wise to kick the ball to someone other than the 6-foot, 165-pound spark plug with great vision who seems to see the holes before they even open up. Of course, kicking away from Koroma won’t stop him from being the primary target on offense. Last year as a junior he caught 40 passes for 532 yards and eight TDs. Milton Hershey will do whatever it takes to get him the ball, even if it’s just tossing it to him in the flats and letting him work his magic. Even when the Spartans don’t call Koroma’s name, he stays engaged in his blocking assignments and doesn’t take plays off. With the ability to run precise routes and make sharp cuts, the speedy Koroma could be one of the breakout stars of the Keystone this fall.
Lower Dauphin Falcons
Predicted finish: 4th
Coach: Josh Borreli
Record last season: 4-6, 2-5 Keystone (6th place)
Team outlook: Slowly but surely under the college-style direction of coach Josh Borreli, Lower Dauphin is starting to regain some of the respect that once made the program feared throughout the Mid-Penn. Borreli has some tough assignments in front of him, like trying to replace the QB-WR combo of seniors Bryce and Charlie Fortney, but he has a hard-nosed RB in Ty Millhimes who will keep the chains moving all season. Defensively, the Falcons are returning nine starters, including all-star talent in LB Nathan Stuckey (6-foot, 180) and DBs Brandon Fritz (6-2, 180) and Wes Heagy (6-foot, 180). Our biggest concern about LD is size — the biggest man on the roster is 238 pounds, and the top returning lineman, all-star Connor Hassinger, checks in at 5-10 and 200 pounds. Staying healthy will be key, and if the Falcons can do that they are tough enough to win every 50-50 matchup the Keystone throws at them.
One player to watch: Ty Millhimes. After watching junior season film on Millhimes, we’re absolutely convinced this 6-2, 215-pound stud was born on the football field. Whether he’s shaking off defenders like practice pylons from his running back position, or wrecking plays when blitzing as an outside linebacker, or just taking kickoffs to the house, Millhimes certainly looks like he’s in his natural environment on the field. He’ll be most depended upon on offense, where his hands and speed make him a threat both as a runner and receiver. Millhimes carries so much muscle that opponents would be better off trying to tackle a bowling ball. Last year he accounted for more than 1,200 yards of offense and 17 total touchdowns. Defensively, look for Millhimes to be a leader. He is great at pursuit and creating angles and is a sure-handed tackler. Carrying the same hefty measurements as the offensive linemen that try to block him, Millhimes is an immovable object. He just maintains his ground, sheds his blocker and makes the tackle. Millhimes is a player that wants to be on the field every single play, and if his wish is granted this fall Lower Dauphin could have an even better season than expected.
Mifflin County Huskies
Predicted finish: 5th
Coach: Shane Breon
Record last season: 6-5, 4-3 Keystone (5th place)
Team outlook: After two years of winless football, Mifflin County rebounded in a big way last season with just its third winning campaign since the fall of 2011. Shane Breon was named the Keystone Coach of the Year for the Huskies, who return both experience and confidence for their Friday night scraps. Mifflin County has battle-tested studs at RB in Deakon Scheaffer and QB in Landon Eichhorn (1,580 yards, 17 TDs, 10 INTs), but the Huskies will need to find a way to fill the (oversized) shoes of graduated all-star linemen Ryan Stahl and Elijah Osborne if they’d like to see their playmakers continue to make plays. They have a two-way returning all-star in Parker Kearns, who racked up 82 tackles as a linebacker, while catching 22 passes for 340 yards and a touchdown as a wide receiver. The Huskies earned a lot of respect last season, but they will probably be seen as an underdog again in 2023. That would be a grave mistake for opponents, as they have the pieces in place to be competitive on a weekly basis.
One player to watch: Deakon Schaeffer. The Huskies will go as far as the speedy 5-7, 190-pound running back will take them. As a junior last season, Scheaffer piled up 1,058 yards on 192 carries (5.5 yards per carry) to go along with 10 TDs. When Scheaffer finds the hole, he slams on the turbo button to run away from defenders in the secondary. His speed — clocked at 4.55 in the 40-yard dash — is enough to make the opposition nervous, but it’s Schaeffer’s shiftiness that makes those opponents look like fools. It’s these qualities that make Scheaffer a dangerous kick returner and a big threat in the receiving game as a back who can catch passes in the flat or split out wide. Last fall Scheaffer caught 17 passes for 270 yards and four TDs. In order for Mifflin County to repeat its success from last season, it is going to need players who don’t give up on plays. Expect Scheaffer, always willing to churn his legs just to get that extra yard, to set that example.
Hershey Trojans
Predicted finish: 6th
Coach: Mark Painter
Record last season: 5-5, 5-2 Keystone (2nd place)
Team outlook: Graduation losses always hurt, but when you lose a player like Marcus Sweeney — a lock-down defensive back, acrobatic receiver and superior return specialist — it almost feels like you’ve lost five or six players. Sweeney is just one player the Trojans need to go on without; they also need to replace their starting quarterback. They are turning to Sweeney’s younger brother, sophomore Cameron Sweeney, to take on that role. We don’t know what kind of arm the younger Sweeney has just yet, but we can confirm his legs work just fine and could be key in keeping plays alive while he learns the position. Look for Angel Cabrera, a 6-foot, 230-pound battering ram of a running back, to get a healthy amount of carries after totaling 111 for 625 yards and eight TDs last fall. Cabrera is nearly as large as the two returning all-star linemen opening holes for him: Tucker Valoczki (6-3, 240) and Cory Schaffer (6-2, 225). On the defensive side, the linebacking corps will be led by returning all-stars Cabrera and junior Sean Elliott (6-foot, 215). Hershey has the pieces to have a nice season, but execution from the new players at key positions will likely be what determines whether the Trojans have a winning or losing season.
One player to watch: Cameron Sweeney. Whether it’s fair or not, heavy expectations will be placed on the 6-foot, 155-pound Sweeney, just because of his last name. For that, the sophomore can thank his older brother Marcus, who nailed down First Team Keystone honors at three different positions in his final year at Hershey. Luckily, the younger Sweeney is more than just a name. As a freshman getting playing time at cornerback, Sweeney showed that he wasn’t intimidated by playing with the older kids. He has the speed to stick like glue on receivers, the size to play physical and the height to make plays on the ball. How will these skills translate on the other side of the ball, where Sweeney will be taking on the role of QB? Well, we’re just as curious as you, and that’s one of the many reasons we’ve selected Sweeney as our player to watch.
Red Land Patriots
Predicted finish: 7th
Coach: Eric Depew
Record last season: 2-8, 1-6 Keystone (7th place)
Team outlook: After taking lumps in the Keystone Division for several years, Red Land has a solid group of seniors that just might be able to reverse the losing trend. The Patriots will be led up front by a couple of all-star offensive tackles in Addison Janovich (6-1, 265) and Anthony McCutcheon (6-foot, 266) who will pave the way for wrecking ball RB Colton Hoffman. Throw in some blocking and pass-catching from Second Team Keystone tight end Bryce Phillips, and it’s easy to envision the Patriots generating some push this season. Hoffman, Phillips and Janovich will pull double-duty on defense, with DB Anthony Shay also returning to make life miserable for opponents. The Patriots might not have the firepower to keep up with a lot of teams in the Keystone, but they have the size to ensure, at the very least, they won’t be pushed around.
One player to watch: Colton Hoffman. It’s hard to find a player who is both slippery and seeks out contact, but the 6-foot, 215-pound Hoffman sure seems to fit the bill. Give the physical RB a running head start and there’s very little that can stop him. Hoffman is willing to lower his head and deliver the kill shot on would-be tacklers, and when the rest of the defense swarms him he repeatedly finds ways to hop away from the scrum and get to daylight. Hoffman’s qualities also translate to the defensive side of the ball, where he mans the middle linebacker position. He’s elusive and rarely takes on full blocks from the opposition before laying the wood on the ball carrier. Hoffman is more than a heat-seeking missile. He has a great knack for reading plays and knows when to stay home and cover the pass. Last year Hoffman was an Honorable Mention selection in the Keystone at both positions. That stock could rise significantly this fall.
Palmyra Cougars
Predicted finish: 8th
Coach: Chris Pavone
Record last season: 1-9, 0-7 Keystone Division (8th place)
Team outlook: Life in the Keystone Division hasn’t been easy in recent years for Palmyra, which will be searching for its first winning record since the 2018 season. While the Cougars do return eight starters on each side of the ball, Friday nights at Buck Swank Stadium will be a little harder to navigate without the services of junior RB Juan Figueroa, who transferred to Bishop McDevitt this season. Palmyra will be breaking in a new QB this fall, but on-the-job training should be a little easier for the signal-caller with the return of WRs Keagan Kleinfelter (19 catches, 115 yards, 2 TDs) and Kadan Readinger (16 catches, 233 yards), and a duo of offensive linemen in Andrew Manning and Kadin Jones. Defensively, Palmyra has a few returning all-stars in DL Manning, LBs Kyle Koennecke and Jones, and DB Kleinfelter — who combined for more than 240 tackles last season. There’s plenty of experience on the field for the Cougars, but only time will tell if that will be enough to stay competitive with the big dogs in the Keystone.
One player to watch: Kadin Jones. If Palmyra hopes to earn a few wins in the Keystone this season, the Cougars will need a few hard-nosed athletes to set the tone on the field. Enter the 5-11, 195-pound Jones, a middle linebacker and center who stays tough year-round by also competing in wrestling and lacrosse. An Honorable Mention selection on both sides of the football last year, Jones accounted for 97 tackles, including seven TFLs. Palmyra knows the middle of the field is safe with Jones on patrol, as he doesn’t get fooled on play calls and can cover the run and pass with equal precision. Look for Jones, a specialist in the fundamentals of tackling, to set a shining example for the young players with his textbook technique.
High school football season previews 2023: Mid-Penn Liberty predicted finish, players to watch and more
Even though the Mid-Penn Conference’s far-flung Liberty Division featured outright champions each of the past two seasons — Juniata in 2021 and Upper Dauphin last season — this time around the seven-team scrap for league supremacy may be tighter than it’s been since many of these programs called the Tri-Valley League home.
Even back as far as the Twin Valley Conference.
So, dig in, pay attention and make sure to raise your voice a few octaves when your favorite team begins its quest for a Liberty crown and hopefully a berth in a panoramic postseason picture.
Predicted order of finish: Line Mountain, Juniata, Susquenita, Upper Dauphin, Newport, Halifax, James Buchanan
Line Mountain Eagles
Predicted finish: 1st
Coach: Brandon Carson
Record last season: 4-7, 3-3 Liberty
Team outlook: Line Mountain has 10 players back on defense and nine on offense from a season ago when a daunting non-league slate put Brandon Carson’s club in an early 0-3 hole. But this group is still climbing the developmental ladder even though it sports experience just about everywhere. While feature back Ian Bates will draw plenty of attention after becoming the first Line Mountain sophomore to rush for more than 1,000 yards, carries will be available for Nolan Baumert, Chandon Maurer, Quinn Dunkelberger and freshman Noah Ringes. Sophomore quarterback Kaiden Maurer also returns, and he’ll have targets available, with classmate Max Johnson likely to find the ball coming his way often — especially early. A veteran front featuring Colby Rebuck, Kohen Shingara and Jackson Kauwell has enough size to move defenders and protect Maurer. On the defensive side, Carson really wants to get after people up front, at the second level and across the secondary. If these Eagles can build early confidence — Athens, Danville, Tri-Valley and Middletown make up the non-league slate — look out once league play begins to unfold. These guys really want a league title and a home date in the District 4 Class 2A playoffs.
One player to watch: Ian Bates. A threat to go yard any time he latches on to the football, Bates’ season really began to take shape before September ended — especially with the dependable Baumert out with an ankle injury. When it came to a close, he gained a sophomore record 1,219 yards and scored 15 touchdowns running the ball. Bates also hauled in a team-high 16 receptions and yet another score. Add everything up and you’ll understand why the diminutive youngster with the high-octane chassis was tagged the Liberty’s Offensive Player of the Year. Bates, however, also held his own in the secondary by making 39 tackles, picking off one pass and causing one fumble. He’s also a threat on special teams.
Juniata Indians
Predicted finish: 2nd
Coach: Kurt Condo
Record last season: 8-4, 5-1 Liberty
Team outlook: Juniata’s program may graduate key performers every year, but Kurt Condo’s squad typically has more than enough talent — and the requisite numbers — to put competitive sides on the field every fall. And this year is no different. So while the Indians’ early opponents may find themselves trying to figure out who’s going to carry the football or plug a gap on the defensive line, Condo and his experienced staff will shake some youngsters who’ve spent the past season or two in the shadows and turn them into prime-time performers. One player everyone already knows about is sophomore Jasper Shepps, who likely will move into the quarterback position after spending his first varsity season catching passes and chasing down receivers. And since Shepps led the Indians in receiving in 2022, his understanding of the Juniata passing game should help him make a smooth transition. Plus, having burly back Seth Laub ready to churn out sizable chunks of yardage in the run game and as a receiver will bump Shepps’ comfort level. While replacing Liberty Defensive Player of the Year Jonathan Kauffman will be next to impossible, Lane Peiper appears to be the heir apparent after starting his first two seasons. Although unable to defend their 2021 Liberty title, Condo’s Indians made their third straight appearance in the PIAA Class 4A state tournament after winning their third District 6/9 championship. Rarely an easy out.
One player to watch: Seth Laub. Dependable throughout his varsity career, Laub’s productivity in the backfield and at linebacker figures to increase in his final high school season since he’s a load at 220-or-so pounds. While Laub last season ran for 468 yards, he averaged more than 6 yards per carry and scored five times. He also caught six passes, scoring once. Where he figures to really thrive is defensively, especially since his 65 stops ranked him behind only Kauffman and Peiper and earned him a second-team All-Liberty selection at linebacker. Need more? The kid also can punt the football.
Susquenita Blackhawks
Predicted finish: 3rd
Coach: Rick Gibney
Record last season: 5-5, 4-2 Liberty
Team outlook: Although the Blackhawks have been somewhat enigmatic since a sizable group of seniors entered the varsity scene as freshmen, perhaps this is the season when those puzzling losses become victories and ‘Nita finally finds a way to squeeze into postseason play. Then again, one never knows how playing for a third head coach in four seasons will impact what happens on the playing surface. Nonetheless, it wouldn’t be a surprise if first-year skipper Rick Gibney — a former Blachawks QB — turns his quarterback-playing son, Derek, loose during the latter’s final high school campaign. Derek Gibney stands 6-foot-4, weighs 230 pounds and has the ability to thread a pass through a keyhole and the mobility to run away from a quality rush. Susquenita also returns a bunch of targets — Derek Gibney’s twin brother, Drew, Blaise Swancer and Athan Robinson on the flanks, Kamar Lewis at tight end and Bryce McKee out of the backfield — so if there’s time to throw these guys have people capable of making plays. In fact, spread sets might be ‘Nita’s favored alignment when on offense. If these guys can ring up points, then a defensive unit that will feature many of these same players may only need to stop the other guys two or three times to gain a savory result. These guys have the talent to make things happen, but do they have the confidence needed to contend for a crown?
One player to watch: Derek Gibney. Poised to start behind center for the fourth consecutive season — he also plays defensive end and punts — the powerfully built Gibney has all the prerequisites needed to be able to throw the ball all over the yard. And with a strong right arm, terrific feet and more than enough foot speed to make him difficult to catch and bring down, the 6-4, 230-pounder may be ready to lead the Blackhawks to the top of the Liberty table. And there isn’t a Liberty defensive coordinator that’s not leery of finding a way to slow Gibney & Co. down. In fact, each and every one of them will exhale deeply once they’ve watched the clock run out and hear the horn sounding — hopefully with a victory tucked away. What’s interesting about Gibney is his ambidexterity. No one would be surprised to see him make a throw with his left arm, particularly since he punts with his left foot.
Upper Dauphin Trojans
Predicted finish: 4th
Coach: Kent Smeltz
Record last season: 8-3, 6-0 Liberty
Team outlook: Although picking Kent Smeltz’s squad to finish in the middle of a remarkably competitive Liberty Division pack might be surprising to many, the Trojans did watch a sizable senior class (16) march off in the spring with their diplomas in hand. And those departures are a lot to overcome, particularly since that group featured some talented linemen and a productive array of skill people. Nonetheless, these guys will be tough to take out regardless of the players on the field and won’t yield their 2022 crown without a heated scrap or two. While UDA may need some time to iron out its offensive front and ground game, Smeltz believes junior quarterback Aidan Bingaman is ready to shoulder whatever load necessary to keep the Trojans relevant and firmly in the Liberty title chase. Several other players to keep an eye on include junior running back/defensive end Caleb Snyder, tight end/inside linebacker Tegan Engle and two-way back Tyler Erdley. Dangerous group.
One player to watch: Aidan Bingaman. Although Smeltz has admitted Bingaman encountered his share of struggles at the start of the 2022 campaign, he was pleased how the talented youngster absorbed instruction throughout the season and began to grow more comfortable with each game. Standing 6-1 and checking in at about 180 pounds, Bingaman, who also plays d-end and punts, corralled a second-team all-star nod last season after completing nearly 58% of his passes while throwing for 1,264 yards and 15 touchdowns. What’s important to note is Bingaman, a drop-back passer not likely to run all that much, was only intercepted three times while attempting just more than 150 throws. Fast forwarding to 2023 — and yet another season under the tutelage of UDA quarterback guru Tom Hain — Bingaman may need to spread the ball around until some of his youthful receiving corps grows accustomed to Friday night’s excessively bright lights. He’s not Randy Martz nor Todd Gittings yet — they were some of Hain’s top-notch QBs in the 1970s — but Smeltz is genuinely upbeat about how good Bingaman can be before his Trojans career comes to a close.
Newport Buffaloes
Predicted finish: 5th
Coach: Todd Rothermel
Record last season: 2-8, 2-4 Liberty
Team outlook: Following several difficult seasons — and some frustrating setbacks — Todd Rothermel’s Buffaloes are hoping to regain their swagger and return to the top of the Liberty standings. And if his old-school approach works — strong play along both fronts is a staple — the ‘Port may be able to surprise a few people along the way. Especially after the Buffs closed the 2022 season with consecutive victories over Halifax and James Buchanan. Obviously, we’ll see what happens once the season begins to unfold. What we do know about Rothermel-coached squads is they will compete hard against everyone they play. What we don’t know is which of the Buffaloes will emerge from the Katchmer Field shadows and step up to the level that’s expected of those front-line players under Friday night’s bright lights.
One player to watch: Zach Bellis. If Newport popped players off an assembly line somewhere beneath Buffalo Mountain, the remarkably competitive Bellis (sr., OL/LB) would fit a fiery profile dating back to Rothermel’s coaching days at Line Mountain. While the 6-1, 200-pound Bellis was a warrior in the middle of the Buffs’ offensive front last season, he really stood out defensively while leading the ‘Port with 71 tackles — including 10 ½ behind the line of scrimmage. Bellis also registered one quarterback sack, posted four QB hurries, recovered a pair of fumbles, swiped one pass and blocked four kicks. In other words, the football seems to find this the honorable mention all-league choice (on both sides of the ball) so he can make whatever play is necessary to thwart a scoring drive. Terrific player who many opponents will try to avoid by scheming plays away from wherever he sets up.
Halifax Wildcats
Predicted finish: 6th
Coach: Roy Wall
Record last season: 1-9, 0-6 Liberty
Team outlook: Whether Roy Wall opts to adopt the Navy Spread attack he utilized so effectively during his decade-plus at neighboring Millersburg remains to be seen, but Halifax’s first-year skipper does have some skill people who can make plays — if time permits everything to unfold the way it’s drawn up. Yes, Wall has returned to the Susquehanna River’s east bank, stepping into a difficult position left vacant when Earl Mosley retired. If Wall can surround his skill players with linemen capable of occupying defenders long enough to enable runners to get to the second level, then the ‘Cats may be able to move the ball consistently. In sophomore Teegan Carroll and senior Mason Enders, Halifax has quarterbacks who can throw the football. And with the likes of Peter Ranck and Landon Areford, the ‘Cats have talented youngsters capable of breaking open in the secondary and making catches. Then, there’s senior back Isaac Miller — a do-everything type who can run and catch — who just might thrive in a Navy Spread that emphasizes fullback play. Stay tuned.
One player to watch: Isaac Miller. Anyone who happened to glance at Halifax’s defensive statistics a season ago and wondered if there was a misprint somewhere next to Miller’s name, the answer was and is no. The 6-foot, 190-pound senior who plays ‘backer and running back was all over the field a year ago, particularly when the Wildcats were trying to get the football back, totaling 157 tackles from his inside linebacker position. While seven of those stops just happened to occur behind the line of scrimmage, Miller also posted one quarterback sack and recovered a pair of fumbles. No wonder he landed a first-team defensive nod on the Liberty Division’s all-league contingent. Miller also led Halifax in rushing in 2022, collecting 511 yards and six touchdowns while averaging more than six yards per pop. He also caught six passes out of the backfield, posting another TD.
James Buchanan Rockets
Predicted finish: 7th
Coach: Cliff Pine
Record last season: 3-7, 1-5 Liberty
Team outlook: While Cliff Pine’s Rockets lifted off quickly by winning three of their first four games — JB toppled York Tech, Clear Spring (Maryland) and Halifax, but lost to Biglerville — they were unable to maintain their early momentum against the Liberty’s stronger adversaries. Unfortunately for JB, some significant graduation losses may slow their progress in 2023, even as Pine wheels into his fourth season fronting the program. Skill people such as John Stoner, Alex Beeler and Spencer Line have exhausted their eligibility and will not be available on Friday nights — unless they’ve been added to Pine’s staff or help out by taking tickets. So, we’ll see what happens as 2023 plays out.
One player to watch: Jacob Frey. Since the senior rarely left the field, JB’s 48-minute man spent most nights trying to make plays all over the field — whether at running back, linebacker or returning kicks. And at least one opposing coach said after a game during Frey’s sophomore season, “I’d love to have him on my team.” Well, JB isn’t about to let him escape Franklin County because they need him to run, catch and pass out the water bottles during timeouts whenever the Rockets have the ball. Heck, he might even spend time during the run-up to some game taping his defensive teammates’ ankles — and that’s before he spends the rest of the night pursuing ballcarriers, receivers and kick returners. A quality player who was recognized last season as a second-team all-star on both sides of the ball. If JB hopes to upend a Liberty opponent or two, they’ll need this guy to shoulder a sizable portion of the load.
High school football season previews 2023: Mid-Penn Colonial predicted finish, players to watch and more
Perhaps in football more than any other sport, it’s experience and growth from the heat of battle under the stadium lights that can give a team a considerable edge over the competition.
But this year in the Mid-Penn Colonial Division, almost every team is dealing with considerable graduation losses. Every team except for Susquehanna Township and East Pennsboro, that is. Both rosters are chock-full of returning all-star talent that could very well shake up the division.
Call us crazy for picking last year’s fifth- and eighth-place teams to finish 1-2, but after a thorough roster review of all eight teams in the Colonial, we believe it would be crazy for us not to make this call. The path to the crown will not be easy, however, as we expect teams like Northern and Shippensburg to play the “media disrespect” card all the way to the postseason.
Buckle up — it’s going to be yet another wild ride in the black-and-blue Colonial Division.
Predicted division standings: Susquehanna Township, East Pennsboro, Northern, Shippensburg, Gettysburg, Mechanicsburg, Greencastle-Antrim, Waynesboro
Susquehanna Township Indians
Predicted finish: 1st
Coach: Joe Headen
Record last season: 6-5, 4-3 Colonial (5th place)
Team outlook: The Wendy’s fast food franchise has already patented the slogan, “We’ve got the beef,” but those words can certainly be used to describe the wealth of size possessed by Susquehanna Township this fall. The Indians have a stable of linemen that would make even teams in the Commonwealth Division envious. And these aren’t just run-of-the-mill big men, either. Among the returning talent in the trenches is a laundry list of linemen who earned all-star accolades last fall, including blue-chip recruit Aubrey Carter (6-foot-3, 270), Mason Lubold (6-foot, 255), Jayden Riley (5-9, 240), Isaiah Riley (6-1, 210), PJ Wilson (6-3, 270), and Yendor Mack (6-1, 250). Look for Hanna’s size advantage to pay immediate dividends in a Colonial Division that is almost always won by the team who can best control the line of scrimmage. Throw in returning sophomore quarterback Torrin Evans (6-foot, 160) and a blue-chip wide receiver in Lex Cyrus (5-11, 165), and it’s easy to see why the Indians should be considered a contender this fall.
One player to watch: Aubrey Carter. It was tempting for us to pick Cyrus, a rare talent at wide receiver who has just as many college offers as he does touchdowns, but we here at 4th Down Magazine have a soft spot in our hearts for big men like Carter, a 6-3, 275-pound man who earned both defensive and offensive all-star recognition last fall. Often right in the middle of the trenches, Carter has the firepower to explode through a double team, and also has the speed to make opposing QBs run for their lives. On the offensive side of the ball, Carter is primarily an overpowering blocker at TE who can blaze a path for the running game or give his QB as much time as he needs to complete a pass. Already with interest from Navy, Miami (Ohio), Connecticut and several others, Carter seems destined to play at the next level, so enjoy his talents now while you can still afford the game tickets.
East Pennsboro Panthers
Predicted finish: 2nd
Coach: John Denniston
Record last season: 5-7, 1-6 Colonial (8th place)
Team outlook: If there was ever a season for East Pennsboro to move up the pecking order in the Colonial Division, this one is it. The Panthers return eight starters on defense and eight starters on offense, including four of five offensive linemen and a quarterback in Keith Oates III with three seasons of varsity experience under his belt. Running back Aaron Angelo is back and is a threat both running (149 carries, 747 yards, 6 touchdowns) and catching (13 receptions, 237 yards, 4 TDs) the football. Defensively, it will be difficult for opponents to overcome beasts in the trenches like Josh Angelo and Colin Benoist, and if they do, they’ll have to contend with a linebacking group led by Oates and a secondary that includes a pair of all-stars in Breckin Swope and Paul Sanderson. It’s no secret that many teams in the Colonial are dealing with heavy graduation losses, so the division is up for grabs if the Panthers decide they want it.
One player to watch: Josh Angelo. Checking in at 6-foot and 240 pounds, with a smoking-fast 40-yard dash time of 4.67 seconds, East Pennsboro’s stud defensive end is the embodiment of the cliche “bigger, stronger, faster.” There are very few offensive tackles, if any, in the Colonial Division that can stand up to Angelo without the help of double-teams. Not only can Angelo overpower the bigger boys in the trenches, he can also use his speed advantage to quickly accelerate his way to the quarterback. Angelo was a monster as a junior last fall, accumulating 62 solo tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks to go along with six pass deflections, one punt block, one caused fumble and two fumble recoveries. The bad news for opponents is that keying in on Angelo is not exactly a great option, as that would open up more opportunities for fellow down lineman Benoist, who racked up 13 TFLs and seven sacks of his own last year. Any way you look at it, opponents will have to always be aware of where No. 71 is on the field.
Northern Polar Bears
Predicted finish: 3rd
Coach: Bill Miller
Record last season: 8-5, 5-2 Colonial (2nd place)
Team outlook: Over the years, many media outlets have tried, and failed, to identify when exactly the Polar Bears will be due for a “rebuilding” year. It’s been eight consecutive winning seasons for the boys in Dillsburg, who always seem to find a way to plow forward, even after losing irreplaceable talent to graduation almost every fall. This fall is no exception as, once again, Northern has a lot of holes to fill with the graduation of all-star players all across the field. It’s tempting to once again bet against the Polar Bears, but we wouldn’t recommend it. While Northern has to break in a new quarterback and a fresh crop of wide receivers, senior running back Cole Bartram is back from a 1,600-yard rushing season, and he’ll be running behind all-star center Spencer Siegel. Defensively, linebackers Bartram and Magarrin Macke combine to bring back more than 230 tackles, 19 tackles for loss and four sacks. The Polar Bears will be green at several positions this season, but if they can rally behind their stud players and mature as the season progresses, they’ll be a tough out every week.
One player to watch: Cole Bartram. While Northern lost some great players to graduation, the Polar Bears should consider themselves lucky to still have Bartram — a 5-11, 195-pound sledgehammer of a running back and linebacker — in their ranks. He is already considered one of the baddest men in Pennsylvania after finishing as the PIAA Class 3A runner-up at 189 pounds in wrestling last winter and is committed to wrestle at Lock Haven. Look for Bartram, a First Team Colonial Division selection on both sides of the ball, to be a workhorse for the offense. A downhill runner, he seeks out contact and is a battering ram at the line of scrimmage. Solid fundamentals and group tackling are a must to bring down Bartram, who will make a fool out of any defender going for haphazard arm tackles. On the defensive side of the ball, he has an uncanny ability to diagnose the play, slip away from potential blockers and put himself in position to make the tackle before the play even has a chance to pick up steam.
Shippensburg Greyhounds
Predicted finish: 4th
Coach: Eric Foust
Record last season: 8-4, 4-3 Colonial (3rd place)
Team outlook: Colonial Division titles have become the norm in Greyhounds Country, but last fall was a break from the trend. Did that discourage the kids from coming out this season? Not a chance. While the 151 players listed on Ship’s MaxPreps roster certainly seems like an inaccuracy, it’s clear that players have a strong belief and investment in the program. And it’s going to take all the dedication coach Eric Foust and his staff can squeeze out of this group for the ‘Hounds to have a successful season, considering Shippensburg has the unenviable task of replacing its top passer, receiver and running back. Even with all of the uncertainty, though, there’s something that tells us things will turn out just fine for Shippensburg, which has made 12 postseason appearances in the last 14 seasons.
One player to watch: Landon Carbaugh. We’re still waiting on news of college offers for the senior, a 6-2, 270-pound offensive lineman who snagged Second Team honors in the Colonial Division last fall. In the meantime, we’ll just sit back and enjoy the destructive nature of Shippensburg’s starting left tackle. Carbaugh has a great initial pop when he bursts out of his stance and is even more effective when he has time to gather momentum during a trap play. With all of the Greyhounds’ major skill players lost to graduation, this season is going to come down to the guys up front like Carbaugh. The more power that can be manufactured in the trenches, the easier it will be for Ship’s new cast of skill players to build confidence and make plays.
Gettysburg Warriors
Predicted finish: 5th
Coach: Matt Heiser
Record last season: 8-3, 6-1 Colonial (1st place)
Team outlook: Against the predictions of all the experts, the invaders from the York-Adams League made a big impression in their return to the Mid-Penn Conference last fall. The Warriors ran roughshod over the Colonial Division, winning all but one divisional game to capture the crown. In the process, they piled up a whopping 18 Colonial all-star selections. But now it’s time for Gettysburg to face the bad news: Only one of those all-stars is back for the 2023 season. Young talent will have to emerge, and develop fast, if the Warriors want to have any chance of defending their division title.
One player to watch: Brady Heiser. In a Colonial Division that is built almost exclusively around running the football, Gettysburg is home to the division’s deadliest quarterback. The 6-1, 200-pound signal-caller is going into his third season as the team’s QB and is coming off a 2022 campaign where he accounted for 19 TDs and more than 2,000 passing yards, an effort that earned himself a spot as a First Team division all-star. What makes Heiser dangerous is his ability to scan the field and make quick and accurate decisions. He possesses a deep-ball ability to stretch the field, and when opponents commit their resources toward stopping the pass, that’s when Heiser can do damage with his feet, either from scrambling or designed run plays like the option. While Heiser has yet to receive an official college offer, he has already received messages of “good luck” on Twitter from the Penn and Dartmouth football programs.
Mechanicsburg Wildcats
Predicted finish: 6th
Coach: Anthony Rose
Record last season: 4-6, 4-3 Colonial (4th place)
Team outlook: Mechanicsburg’s streak of three consecutive winning seasons came to an end with last year’s four-win campaign. The Wildcats would like nothing more than to get back on track this fall, but their work will certainly be cut out for them as they are tasked with replacing talent all across the field. That includes finding a man to fill the shoes of Sage Thomas, a linebacker who was named the Colonial’s Defensive Player of the Year last season. There are a handful of returning players, including two-way all-star Justin Bardo (linebacker/interior lineman), defensive back Josh Smith, and starting quarterback Jeffrey Lougee. If the Wildcats can get some plays and leadership from this small core group, they could be a player in a Colonial Division where several teams are also adjusting to significant lineup turnover.
One player to watch: Jeffrey Lougee. Mechanicsburg has lost as much talent to graduation as anybody in the Colonial Division, but the good news for the Wildcats is they are bringing back Lougee, one of the division’s most experienced returning quarterbacks. The 6-foot, 175-pound Lougee, committed to play college baseball for the Duke Blue Devils, slings the football with the zip of a fireballing pitcher. Lougee is just as deadly on his feet. He has the speed to scramble and a large enough frame to lower his shoulder and punish linebackers and defensive linemen. Named an Honorable Mention “athlete” in the Colonial last season, Lougee doubles as a playmaking cornerback with big hops and the wheels to go step-for-step with opposing receivers.
Greencastle-Antrim Blue Devils
Predicted finish: 7th
Coach: Devin McCauley
Record last season: 5-7, 1-6 Colonial (8th place)
Team outlook: Forgive us if we’re starting to sound like a broken record, but Greencastle-Antrim is yet another team in the Colonial Division that was hit with severe graduation losses. Among the players in the rear-view mirror is running back Tavon Cooper, the Colonial’s Offensive Player of the Year, who gave everything he had to help carry the Blue Devils to a five-win season. Repeating, or even surpassing, that level of success will require the “next man up” at multiple positions to bring intensity to the table. The Blue Devils do return a pair of defensive all-stars in lineman Parker Funk (6-1, 245) and linebacker Logan Shifflett (5-11, 185) and their leadership will be very crucial to how well their unit can hold serve against the bruisers of the Colonial. Greencastle also returns starting QB Logan Alvey (6-foot, 170), so the cupboard isn’t completely bare, but rising talent will have to develop fast if the Blue Devils hope to be players in the division.
One player to watch: Parker Funk. One second. That’s the maximum amount of time that most opponents have to stop the 6-1, 245-pound down lineman. Funk explodes out his three-point stance exceptionally fast, uses his arms to create space between himself and the blocker and then takes advantage of that separation to slip off and make plays. Watch his highlight film with the sound on, and you’ll hear several collective gasps from the crowd pitying the QBs that were left crunched up in his wake. Funk doubles as a star on the offensive line, and when his number is called upon for the trap block, he has a history of pancake-blocking would-be tacklers into the shadow realm. It could be a tough year for Greencastle in the Colonial, but regardless, Funk will very likely look the part of a man playing amongst the boys.
Waynesboro Indians
Predicted finish position: 8th
Coach: Mark Saunders
Record last season: 3-7, 2-5 Colonial (7th place)
Team outlook: After a brief stint as Chambersburg’s head coach that ended in 2015, Saunders gets another chance to lead a program, this time at Waynesboro. Saunders’ coaching skills will certainly be put to the test as the Indians return just one all-star — place kicker Andrew Soffe — from last year’s three-win season. The key for the Indians will be to identify their playmakers and put them in position to make plays and build confidence. Of course that’s easier said than done in a Colonial Division that isn’t exactly known for being kind to young and rebuilding squads. This season could very well be a baptism under fire for the boys in the ‘Boro, who will have to grind hard to stay competitive this fall.
One player to watch: Alex Torbica. Last season as a sophomore Torbica got some valuable varsity reps, and Waynesboro is hoping that experience will pay dividends this season for the 6-5, 195-pound tight end. Not only is Torbica a tall target, he also has soft hands to collect the ball and is willing to mix it up as a blocker in the running game. With the Indians set to break in a new quarterback this fall, Torbica could very well become that “safety blanket” receiver for Waynesboro in short-yardage passing situations.
Eric F. Epler’s State High School Football Preseason Rankings
Pennsylvania’s 2023 high school football preseason rankings
CLASS 6A
Rank – Team – District – ’22 record – Previous rank
1. St. Joseph’s Prep (12) 12-1 1
2. Pittsburgh C.C. (7) 7-5 NR
3. Garnet Valley (1) 13-1 4
4. North Allegheny (7) 11-2 5
5. Parkland (11) 9-5 6
6. Harrisburg (3) 11-3 2
7. State College (6) 13-1 3
8. Central Bucks West (1) 9-5 9
9. Nazareth (11) 9-2 NR
10. Coatesville (1) 8-2 HM
CLASS 5A
Rank – Team – District – ’22 record – Previous rank
1. Imhotep Charter (12) 10-3 2
2. Pine-Richland (7) 13-3 1
3. Gateway (7) 7-4 NR
4. Cathedral Prep (10) 8-3 6
5. West Chester Rustin (1) 11-2 7
6. Cocalico (3) 10-5 4
7. Delaware Valley (2) 7-6 NR
8. Penn Hills (7) 5-5 NR
9. Strath Haven (1) 12-1 8
10. Roman Catholic (12) 8-3 9
CLASS 4A
Rank – Team – District – ’22 record – Previous rank
1. Bishop McDevitt (3) 13-1 1
2. Aliquippa (7) 13-1 2
3. Thomas Jefferson (7) 8-4 HM
4. Manheim Central (3) 11-2 9
5. Pope John Paul II (1) 10-2 NR
6. Allentown C.C. (11) 9-5 5
7. McKeesport (7) 11-2 8
8. Bonner-Prendergast (12) 11-2 10
9. Jersey Shore (4) 12-1 3
10. Selinsgrove (4) 9-3 NR
CLASS 3A
Rank – Team – District – ’22 record – Previous rank
1. Belle Vernon (7) 12-2 1
2. Wyomissing (3) 13-1 3
3. Neumann-Goretti (12) 10-4 2
4. Loyalsock (4) 11-2 8
5. North Schuylkill (11) 10-3 9
6. Grove City (10) 9-4 HM
7. Notre Dame-GP (11) 9-3 10
8. Scranton Prep (2) 9-4 NR
9. West Perry (3) 11-2 HM
10. Avonworth (7) 11-2 6
CLASS 2A
Rank – Team – District – ’22 record – Previous rank
1. Southern Columbia (4) 13-3 1
2. Farrell (10) 10-2 7
3. Dunmore (2) 8-4 NR
4. Beaver Falls (7) 11-2 5
5. Trinity (3) 10-5 6
6. Westinghouse (8) 14-1 2
7. Steel Valley (7) 12-1 3
8. Richland (6) 11-1 HM
9. Central Clarion (9) 10-2 HM
10. Executive Education (11) 8-4 10
CLASS 1A
Rank – Team – District – ’22 record – Previous rank
1. Steelton-Highspire (3) 14-1 1
2. Bishop Canevin (7) 12-2 7
3. Canton (4) 12-2 2
4. Northern Bedford (5) 11-1 NR
5. Union Area (7) 12-4 3
6. Lackawanna Trail (2) 8-5 NR
7. Northern Lehigh (11) 12-1 5
8. Muncy (4) 10-1 9
9. Brockway (9) 8-5 HM
10. Clairton (7) 6-6 NR
2022 Pa. Football Writers’ Class 2A All-State Team
2022 Pa. Football Writers’ Class 2A All-State Team " title="2022 Pa. Football Writers’ Class 2A All-State Team " />
OFFENSE
Quarterback
Keyshawn Morsillo, Westinghouse – 6-2, 188 senior
Dominico Spataro, Lakeland – 5-9, 190 senior
Cruce Brookins, Steel Valley – 6-2, 185 senior
Nate Myers, Southern Huntingdon – 6-0, 210 senior
Josh Jenkins, Sto-Rox – 6-3, 180 senior
Running Back
Braeden Wisloski, Southern Columbia – 5-11, 185 senior
Phoenix Music, Annville-Cleona – 5-7, 180 senior
Khalil Taylor, Westinghouse – 5-11, 170 senior
Alex Achenbach, Williams Valley – 5-10, 170 junior
Evan McCracken, Richland – 5-9, 180 junior
Wide Receiver
Sincere Smith, Westinghouse – 6-0, 185 senior
Reese Gaughan, Riverside-Taylor – 6-0, 180 junior
Garen Levis, Sharpsville – 6-1, 185 senior
Damian Tyminski, Pen Argyl – 6-2, 200 junior
Tight End
Lacota Dippre, Lakeland – 6-4, 240 senior
Offensive Line
Chris Treshock, Southern Columbia – 6-2, 285 senior
Anthony Jackson, Farrell – 6-5, 320 senior
Adam Wormuth, Lakeland – 6-4, 290 senior
Greg Smith, Steel Valley – 6-5, 315 senior
Colin Smith, Ligonier Valley – 6-0, 260 senior
Athlete
Kylon Wilson, Farrell – 5-9, 175 senior
Karson Kiesewetter, Bishop Guilfoyle – 6-0, 185 senior
Caullin Summers, Sharpsville – 5-10, 155 junior
DEFENSE
Defensive Line
Anthony Cioffari, Bishop Guilfoyle – 6-3, 215 senior
Matt Scicchitano, Mount Carmel – 6-4, 275 senior
Tyler Arnold, Southern Columbia – 6-2, 200 senior
Donte Taylor, Westinghouse – 5-11, 295 senior
Malachi Owens, Farrell – 6-4, 230 senior
Jayzen Flint, West Catholic – 6-4, 225 junior
Linebacker
Dominic Ferrerolf, Southern Columbia – 6-1, 205 sophomore
Jordan Nichols, Richland – 6-1, 190 senior
Mason Hoppes, Hughesville – 6-2, 210 senior
Wes Barnes, Southern Columbia – 5-9, 180 senior
Max Schlager, Trinity-Camp Hill – 6-1, 190 senior
Ryan Miller, Seneca – 6-0, 190 senior
Defensive Back
Aiden Barlett, Hughesville – 6-0, 180 junior
Noah Peterson, Brookville – 6-0, 165 senior
Pace Prosser, Berlin Brothersvalley – 6-1, 176 junior
Amil Way, Trinity-Camp Hill – 6-0, 185 sophomore
Garrett Varano, Mount Carmel – 5-11, 175 senior
Athlete
Luke Parise, Camp Hill – 6-1, 190 senior
Aidan Myers, Schuylkill Haven – 5-11, 195 junior
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Braeden Wisloski, Southern Columbia
COACH OF THE YEAR: Donta Green, Westinghouse
2022 Pa. Football Writers’ Class 3A All-State Team
2022 Pa. Football Writers’ Class 3A All-State Team " title="2022 Pa. Football Writers’ Class 3A All-State Team " />
OFFENSE
Quarterback
Jeff Hoenstine, Central – 5-10, 175 senior
Tyler Gee, Loyalsock – 5-11, 180 junior
Matt Machalik, Palmerton – 6-1, 190 junior
Danny Darno, Notre Dame-Green Pond – 6-2, 185 junior
Zach Gordon, Danville – 6-0, 185 senior
Running Back
Davion Hill, Loyalsock – 6-2, 215 senior
Ethen Knox, Oil City – 6-1, 190 junior
Quinton Martin, Belle Vernon – 6-3, 205 junior
Dominic Giuffre, Schuylkill Valley – 5-11, 165 junior
Wide Receiver
Eli Lingenfelter, Central – 6-1, 180 senior
Carson Persing, Danville – 5-9, 170 senior
Jaylen Andrews, Loyalsock – 6-2, 180 junior
Jaevon Parker, Lancaster Catholic – 6-0, 170 senior
Joey Flail, North Schuylkill – 6-0, 190 junior
Tight End
Peyton Faulkner, Avonworth – 6-4, 230 senior
Ross Gampe, Tyrone – 6-4, 225 senior
Offensive Line
J’ven Williams, Wyomissing – 6-5, 290 senior
Nick Krahe, Harbor Creek – 6-5, 290 senior
Cam Crocker, Oil City – 6-5, 285 senior
Ian Hornberger, Loyalsock – 6-5, 305 senior
Declan Aikens, Danville – 6-2, 270 senior
Peyton Wetzel, Upper Dauphin – 6-3, 265 senior
Athlete
Cade Christopher, Northwestern Lehigh – 6-0, 170 senior
Garrett Harrold, Penn Cambria – 6-4, 200 senior
Ty Brown-Stauffer, Danville – 5-10, 205 senior
DEFENSE
Defensive Line
Noah Rosahac, Jim Thorpe – 6-5, 260 junior
Jason Clark, Central – 5-11, 200 senior
Steve Macheska, Belle Vernon – 6-4, 240 senior
Isaac Samsel, Clearfield – 5-8, 215 senior
Charlie Meehlieb, Elizabeth Forward – 6-4, 225 junior
Linebacker
Mason Raup, Danville – 6-0, 190 senior
Hunter Smith, Central – 6-2, 210 junior
Ryker Jones, Wyomissing – 6-0, 190 junior
Dainn Vassallo, Notre Dame-Green Pond – 6-2, 225 junior
Matt Kramer, Wyomissing – 6-1, 215 senior
Defensive Back
Josiah Jordan, Berks Catholic – 6-0, 170 senior
Adam LaCarte, Belle Vernon – 6-1, 185 junior
Drew Eisenhower, Wyomissing – 5-10, 190 senior
Khari Reid, Neumann-Goretti – 5-8, 160 junior
Specialist
Gavin Mentzer , North Schuylkill – 6-0, 190 sophomore
Athlete
Shawn Battle, Neumann-Goretti – 5-11, 187 senior
Ian Goodling, West Perry – 6-0, 170 junior
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Jeff Hoenstine, Central
COACH OF THE YEAR: Matt Humbert, Belle Vernon
2022 Pa. Football Writers’ Class 1A All-State Team
OFFENSE
Quarterback
Alex Erby, Steel-High – 6-4, 205, junior
Braylon Thomas, Union Area – 6-2, 180 junior
Dan McGarry, Curwensville – 5-10, 175 senior
Nehemiah Azeem, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart – 5-9, 175 senior
Running Back
Jalen Wagner, Reynolds – 6-1, 190 senior
John Shuster, Windber – 5-11, 190 senior
Landan Stevenson, Mapletown – 5-10, 180 senior
Riley Parker, Canton – 6-0, 190 senior
Ronald Burnette, Steel-High – 5-10, 180 junior
Wide Receiver
Ross Eyer, Muncy – 6-4, 185 senior
Xavier Nelson, Bishop Canevin – 5-8, 160 senior
Haydin McLaughlin, Reynolds – 6-0, 190 senior
Tight End
Austyn Smyth, Northern Lehigh – 6-3, 200 senior
Offensive Line
Andrew Erby Jr., Steel-High – 6-4, 275 junior
Mason Nelson, Canton – 6-2, 290 senior
Jackson VanNorman, Northern Lehigh – 6-1, 250 junior
Nate Leksell, Reynolds – 6-0, 255 senior
David Sanchez, Mahanoy Area – 6-1, 290 senior
Tyreese Washington-Law, Clairton – 5-10, 240 senior
Athlete
Branson Eyer, Muncy – 6-1, 175 senior
Nick Frame, Northern Lehigh – 6-2, 180 senior
DEFENSE
Defensive Line
AJ Jimenez, Northern Lehigh – 6-1, 215 senior
Eugene Green, Steel-High – 6-2, 215 junior
Britton Spangle, Glendale – 5-10, 215 senior
Jesse Rodino, Marian Catholic – 6-3, 210 junior
Jacob Scheib, Tri-Valley – 5-11, 210 senior
Linebacker
Hayden Ward, Canton – 5-11, 165 senior
Jason Shuda, Muncy – 6-1, 220 senior
Ben Manley, Mahanoy Area – 6-2, 225 senior
Cody Dumm, Northern Cambria – 5-9, 180 senior
Ethan Karpowich, Northern Lehigh – 6-1, 225 senior
Reece Huntzinger, Tri-Valley – 5-10, 170 senior
Defensive Back
Brock Polinsky, Minersville – 5-11, 165 senior
Colm McGroarty, Mahanoy Area – 5-9, 155 junior
Tanner Trybus, Cambria Heights – 5-11, 170 senior
Jason Cross, Bishop Canevin – 6-0, 165 junior
Jaeion Perry, Steel-High – 6-1, 175 junior
Specialist
Bailey Ferguson, Canton – 6-0, 170 senior
Athlete
Weston Bellows, Canton – 5-10, 190 senior
Mitchell Tingley, Lakeview – 5-7, 185 junior
Tyler Biggans, West Branch – 5-10, 200 junior
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Alex Erby, Steel-High
COACH OF THE YEAR: Andrew Erby, Steel-High
Vote Now: Mid-Penn Player of the Week for the PIAA State Championships Sponsored by Crown Trophy of Harrisburg
Ronald Burnette, jr., RB, Steel-High: Burnette spun the scoreboard three times, willing the Rollers to their second PIAA championship in three years. He ran for scores of 3, 1 and 19 yards in a 22-8 win over Union Area for the Class 1A title, finishing with 28 carries for 122 yards.
Jaeion Perry, jr., WR/DB, Steel-High: Perry didn’t find the end zone this week in the state championship, but he was Alex Erby’s favorite target by far and shredded Union for 120 stripes on seven receptions. Perry also added a late interception on defense and ran three times for 6 yards.
Marquis Beasley, sr., OL/DL, Steel-High: Props to a defense that held Union to just eight points (two of them by way of safety). Beasley devoured quarterback Braylon Thomas for three sacks and helped the Rollers’ D hold Union to just 159 total yards.
Riley Robell, sr., DL, Bishop McDevitt: Robell dominated in a game McDevitt owned from start to finish for a 41-18 PIAA Class 4A championship victory over Aliquippa. Robell forced two fumbles and led a defense that allowed a paltry 135 total offensive yards (18 of them passing) to avenge last year’s loss.
Marquese Williams, sr., RB, Bishop McDevitt: The defense was stellar, but the Crusaders’ offense didn’t have much trouble scoring. Williams led that charge, racking up 129 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries. His TD came from 2 yards out in the fourth quarter.
Tyshawn Russell, sr., WR, Bishop McDevitt: There may not be such a thing as a perfect game in football, but Russell came about as close as one player can get. The game-breaker caught four of six targets and all of them ended with points. Russell finished with 121 yards and scored on receptions of 70, 12, 28 and 11 yards to stake McD to a 34-6 lead that was never remotely challenged.
Stone Saunders, so., QB, Bishop McDevitt: Sure, Saunders tossed three picks – including one returned for a late touchdown, albeit in garbage time – but he was still largely impressive with 167 yards and five touchdowns (four to the man above) on 10 of 16 passing. His non-Russell TD toss went to Rico Scott for 12 yards.
Kyle Williams Jr., sr., RB, Harrisburg: The Cougars fell to St. Joseph’s Prep 42-7, but Williams managed to do some damage against the Philadelphia powerhouse. The senior ran for 43 yards on 16 carries and caught all six passes thrown his way for 98 stripes. One of those receptions he took 66 yards for ‘Burg’s lone TD in the fourth quarter.
4th Down Magazine Player of the Week Sponsored by Crown Trophy of Harrisburg: Kyle Williams Jr.
It’s not often you see a running back rip off 250-plus yards in a state semifinal.
But that’s what Kyle Williams Jr. did last week, shredding State College for 263 of them, plus four touchdowns, to send Harrisburg to the PIAA Class 6A championship game. The performance also won Williams 4th Down Magazine’s Athlete of the Week honors.
The senior earned 281 of a total 391 votes during the week, beating second-place Ronald Burnette (Steel-High, 62) handily.
Williams and the Cougars played in the state championship at Cumberland Valley High School on Saturday.