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Andy Shay’s Elite 11 Rankings After Week 1

Elite 11

Andy Shay

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August 25, 2025

Andy Shay’s Elite 11 Rankings After Week 1

Week 1 didn’t disappoint—unless you were an offense stuck in neutral. Defense ruled the day for some, while others lit up the scoreboard like it was Week 10. Our Elite 11 has already seen movement, upsets, and statement wins as we dive headfirst into the 2025 season.

11.	Cumberland Valley	0-1	8
Defense gets a helmet sticker for holding Manheim Township to seven points. Offense should be running extra hills and wind sprints as we speak.
10.	Manheim Township	1-0	11
Any win over a fellow Elite 11 squad is worth double on the quality points scale. Been a while since the winning team had seven points, but Blue Streaks defense blanked Cumberland Valley to claim a squeaker. Next up is another Elite 11 outfit.
9.	Exeter Township	1-0	10
Eagles claim the Pig Iron Trophy by clobbering Daniel Boone by 57 points. It was 64-0 at halftime. Impressive start.
8.	Conestoga Valley	1-0	9
Never hurts when your defense puts up a doughnut to start the season against a quality opponent. I love the intrigue in L-L Section 2 this season.
7.	Susquehanna Township	1-0	6
Only the score was close in the opener against a York County opponent. And Hanna won by four touchdowns. Superior QB play and big plays were the difference makers.
6.	Wyomissing	1-0	7
Hammered Southern Columbia by three touchdowns and came one point shy of a 50-burger. Yeah this team is going to be a problem for the lone haul.
5.	Bishop McDevitt	0-1	2
No worries about the struggles on offense those can be fixed, but the Crusaders defense getting pushed around and rolled for 27 points is a cause for concern. On deck No. 1 Harrisburg and McD is staring down the barrel of 0-2.
4.	Wilson	1-0	5
At the end of the day the result was obtained, but it was a tighter battle than it probably should have been. Bulldogs scoring 35 was telling and bodes well moving forward.
3.	State College	1-0	4
Workmanlike victory to open the season and the Little Lions had their 41 points and victory secured before shutting it down with 11 minutes to go. Impressive.
2.	Central York	1-0	3
In Beau you should trust, right. I mean I would never bet against the dude after the “game” he showed last year in terms of doing whatever it took. Yes there are some major playmakers that have moved on but overall, though, this is a squad with precious few questions that need answers.
1.	Harrisburg	1-0	1
Six touchdowns against a high quality outfit like Imhotep Charter is a warning sign to everyone. That’s a next level gear not often found in Week 1 on a level playing field.

Vote Now: Week 1 Mid-Penn Conference Player of the Week

Player of the Week

4thdownmagazine

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August 24, 2025

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Vote Now: Week 1 Mid-Penn Conference Player of the Week

Vote now for our 4th Down Magazine Mid-Penn Conference Player of the Week. Our poll will remain open until Wednesday evening at 11 p.m. Voting is allowed once every 30 minutes.

Editor’s note: We have implemented safeguards to prevent voting which falls outside the spirit of the rules in place. We reserve the right to block users who cast fraudulent votes.

Torin Evans, QB, Susquehanna Twp.: Torin Evans put the Indians offense on his back, dicing the South Western defense with precision—completing 22 of his 28 passes and piling up 268 passing yards and a pair of touchdowns en route to a 42-14 victory Friday night.

Trevin Arnold, QB, Newport: This was the start to the 2025 season that Newport needed, a 24-19 victory against Juniata Valley Friday night on their home turf. Arnold turned in a strong performance to fuel the victory with 162 yards through the air and a pair of touchdowns.

Evan Jutba, RB, West Perry: It didn’t take long for the Mustangs to find their new workhorse back, did it? Jutba made his presence known for Bob Boden’s crew Friday night, carrying the load with 23 carries, 266 yards and a pair of touchdowns in a 49-21 victory against Susquenita.

Grady Hope, RB, Big Spring: The Bulldogs might have entered Friday night’s game against Shippensburg as the underdogs, but Hope dispelled that perception, leading his team with 25 carries and 218 stripes. He reached paydirt twice in Big Spring’s 23-20 victory against Shippensburg in the annual Little Brown Jug game.

Elias Coke, WR, Harrisburg: They say stars shine brightest on the biggest stage. Story checks out. Against Imhotep Charter, Coke was nothing short of brilliant, hauling in seven receptions for 114 stripes and a pair of touchdowns as Harrisburg knocked off Imhotep, 40-26 Saturday.

Dantae Sheffey, RB, State College: The Little Lions welcomed back Sheffey this year after the dynamic back spent a year suiting up for Harrisburg. He wasted no time making his mark, rushing for 197 yards on 26 carries. He added a pair of touchdowns in a rout of Gateway, 41-14.

This poll has ended (since 2 months).

Trevin Arnold, QB, Newport:

70.61%

Grady Hope, RB, Big Spring:

18.14%

Evan Jutba, RB, West Perry:

6.36%

Elias Coke, WR, Harrisburg:

2.89%

Torin Evans, QB, Susquehanna Twp.:

2.00%

Dantae Sheffey, RB, State College:

0.00%

Results: Week 1 Picks and Predictions

Picks and Predictions

4thdownmagazine

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August 20, 2025

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September 22:

Cedar Crest 25, Lower Dauphin 21

Andy Shay: Lower Dauphin 27, Cedar Crest 20: Feels like a toss-up game at first glance. Falcons are coming off a season where they recorded first postseason win in a quarter century but lost some critical skill players and are thin up front. Falcons have less questions that need answered right now.

Adam Kulikowski: Lower Dauphin 33, Cedar Crest 21: Our 4th Down crew is bullish on LD’s prospects with QB Braeden Heckard back for another circuit.

Andy Sandrik: Lower Dauphin 21, Cedar Crest 13: Expect some ruffled feathers when Cedar Crest travels to LD for some PIAA-sanctioned Falcon-on-Falcon violence. The boys from Hummelstown return their starting QB, among other key players, and seem to have the edge in this one.

West Perry 49, Susquenita 21

Andy Shay: West Perry 34, Susquenita 14: Mustangs are still picking up the pieces after a hard fall in 2024. And WP lost its nearly 1,300-yard back, too. Blackhawks don’t have the parts required to make Mustangs sweat this one out.

Adam Kulikowski: West Perry 28, Susquenita 14: Judging this one based on which team is more equipped to plug in new pieces and execute in Week 1. That team to me is clearly in green and white.

Andy Sandrik: West Perry 42, Susquenita 7: The Mustangs are coming off a losing season, yes, but I don’t expect them to cede their dynastic control over Perry County any time soon.

Big Spring 23, Shippensburg 20

Andy Shay: Shippensburg 30, Big Spring 14: Greyhounds won 10 games a year ago and have more than enough key pieces still around to have some serious lofty expectations. Too big, too fast and too strong for the Bulldogs this early.

Adam Kulikowski: Shippensburg 37, Big Spring 14: 4th Down has high expectations for the Greyhounds again in 2025–just check out our season preview. Today, that talent shines even if the lights aren’t on yet.

Andy Sandrik: Shippensburg 28, Big Spring 12: The Greyhounds come into this season with a solid group of returners who still can’t play in their newly-built stadium, which won’t have lighting installed until at least mid-October. Big Spring, unfortunately, seems like it will be the one paying the price for this delay.

Line Mountain 38, Lewisburg 13

Andy Shay: Lewisburg 27, Line Mountain 24: The prohibitive favorite in the MPC Capital has a wicked tough opener against a Green Dragons squad that won 10 games a year ago and still has a defense that makes you earn it.

Adam Kulikowski: Line Mountain 21, Lewisburg 20: The Green Dragons will be breaking in a new QB while the Eagles return plenty of top talent. That opens the door for Line Mountain to get redemption from last year’s 26-23 loss.

Andy Sandrik: Line Mountain 24, Lewisburg 20: This game was a nail-biter last season, and although Line Mountain lost, I think the Eagles bring back enough All-Star talent to spring an upset over the Green Dragons this time around.

Allentown Central Catholic 19, Trinity 16

Andy Shay: Allentown Central Catholic 20, Trinity 13: Huge fan of the T-Rocks defense and the Vikings have a lot to prove offensively. However, Trinity offense is a huge question mark. Shamrocks offense finds some firepower early they win this one.

Adam Kulikowski: Allentown Central Catholic 28, Trinity 21: ACC’s dual threat quarterback Patrick Cahill offered glimpses of his versatility last year as a sophomore, registering 779 passing yards and 364 rushing yards. Look for an even bigger impact in ‘25.

Andy Sandrik: Trinity 17, Allentown Central Catholic 10: Just when we were ready to feel sorry for a “depleted” Trinity squad last preseason, the team rallied for a 9-3 campaign under the guidance of first-year coach Kevin Yarnevich. I have a feeling the ‘Rocks take another big step forward this fall, starting with a hard-earned win over ACC.

Palmyra 30, Lebanon 0

Andy Shay: Palmyra 32, Lebanon 12: Could be another tough year for the Cougars in the MPC Keystone, but this is a winnable game on every front. Take ‘em one at a time, right?

Adam Kulikowski: Palmyra 34, Lebanon 6: This is one match-up the Cougars have circled annually on their calendar. Time to take full advantage.

Andy Sandrik: Palmyra 28, Lebanon 7: The Cougars don’t want to miss out on what could be their most winnable game of the season. Cedars aiming for a fresh start after going 0-10 last fall.

Hershey 42, Milton Hershey 25

Andy Shay: Hershey 28, Milton Hershey 20: Little forced family fun to start the season with the Bean Bowl on tap in the town founded on chocolate. Trojans have more pieces to the puzzle that are known so a slight nod to the lads from Derry Township School District.

Adam Kulikowski: Hershey 37, Milton Hershey 33: Hershey QB Cam Sweeney enters the ‘25 circuit as a favorite to take home division MVP honors. Expect plenty of fireworks in this battle for the bean.

Andy Sandrik: Hershey 33, Milton Hershey 27: Expect electric play at QB with two dynamic athletes — Hershey’s Cam Sweeney and Milton Hershey’s Logan Jerry — slated to guide their teams.

Williams Valley 51, Upper Dauphin 0

Andy Shay: Williams Valley 36, Upper Dauphin 27: Vikings are regarded as one of the preseason 10 best teams in PIAA Class AA. Good enough to get my pick for Week 1.

Adam Kulikowski: Williams Valley 41, Upper Dauphin 30: Both teams have some quality pieces that will pay dividends throughout the season. Give the Week 1 edge to the Vikings in my book.

Andy Sandrik: Williams Valley 33, Upper Dauphin 24: No better way for the Trojans to prepare for their season in the Capital Division than with a high-powered tangle with their former TVL rival.

Chambersburg 27, Gettysburg 15

Andy Shay: Chambersburg 36, Gettysburg 14: Don’t look at the Trojans winning only four games a year ago and think that wasn’t a noteworthy season. The MPC Commonwealth is a gauntlet again these days. Warriors have a stud RB and next level lineman but it still won’t be enough against the experienced lads from Franklin County.

Adam Kulikowski: Gettysburg 27, Chambersburg 21: The Warriors simply couldn’t find consistency last year; getting off to a fast start against a Commonwealth team with a new head coach could provide the momentum needed to fully turn the page on ’24.

Andy Sandrik: Chambersburg 32, Gettysburg 15: This seems like a good spot for Chambersburg’s long-time assistant Gary Carter to pick up a win in his first game as head coach of the Trojans.

Middletown 13, Donegal 8

Andy Shay: Middletown 29, Donegal 7: Let’s just say this is a very, very favorable first bite of the apple for the Blue Raiders in 2025.

Adam Kulikowski: Middletown 33, Donegal 14: If the Blue Raiders come out on top as predicted by our crew, they will need to limit the damage done by Caiden Leaf—Donegal’s bruising game-change who is expected to slide into the back field this season.

Andy Sandrik: Middletown 24, Donegal 17: The Indians return their top passer, rusher, and receiver from last season, a group which pushed Middletown to overtime in 2024. This game could be closer than a lot of folks think.

Boiling Springs 35, Littlestown 13

Andy Shay: Littlestown 42, Boiling Springs 7: It will take some time for the pieces in South Middletown Township to be picked up and change course. Right now it’s a struggle to stay competitive for the Bubblers.

Adam Kulikowski: Littlestown 43, Boiling Springs 13: Littlestown coach Corey Brittle handed the reigns of the offense over to senior son Brody Bittle this year. This Week 1 match up seems to be the perfect opener to get acclimated to the role of QB1.

Andy Sandrik: Boiling Springs 24, Littlestown 20: The Bubblers, who hammered Littlestown in 2024, have enough talent to best the Bolts once again.

Lancaster Catholic 43, Camp Hill 7

Andy Shay: Lancaster Catholic 27, Camp Hill 22: Just not sure if the Lions have the horses to run with LC for 48 minutes. I do know Camp Hill will take their shots and get after it and if the Crusaders don’t counter the Lions are not afraid to win when they shouldn’t.

Adam Kulikowski: Lancaster Catholic 28, Camp Hill 14: Lions traditionally like to sling the rock—we’re about to learn what that looks like with the graduation of Drew Branstetter.

Andy Sandrik: Lancaster Catholic 34, Camp Hill 24: The Lions have a number of issues to address, the most important of which is finding a man to replace QB Drew Branstetter, now playing for Gettysburg College.

CD East 36, York 20

Andy Shay: CD East 23, York 20: New head coach and lots of rebuilding going on with the Panthers and level set opportunities won’t be something CDE sees many weeks. This is one where the playing field is fairly equal.

Adam Kulikowski: CD East 24, York 21: The Panthers face plenty of changes heading into the new campaign. Getting a Dub in Week 1 can do wonders for a program that is again evolving.

Andy Sandrik: York 30, CD East 23: This game has coin-flip written all over it, and my coin flipped in favor of the team from White Rose City.

Mechanicsburg 38, Carlisle 7

Andy Shay: Mechanicsburg 27, Carlisle 17: Wildcats are riding a regular season winning streak they want to keep rolling. And it should despite the questions that need answered at QB. T-Herd have some pop, but not enough overall to keep up over 48 minutes.

Adam Kulikowski: Mechanicsburg 32, Carlisle 24: This one comes down to who produces the better answers to the question marks they have entering Week 1. That team to me is the Wildcats.

Andy Sandrik: Mechanicsburg 42, Carlisle 21: The Wildcats lost some of the best talent in the Mid-Penn with the graduation of QB Eli Reider, RB Isaac Dollman, and WR Josh Smith, yet they return enough talent that I still see them as heavy favorites against Carlisle.

Central York 23, Central Dauphin 9

Andy Shay: Central York 27, Central Dauphin 17: There is zero expectation the Rams win this game. They are not close on the overall talent depth chart. However, they need to be competitive and make it a game and that will be the right step made.

Adam Kulikowski: Central York 34, Central Dauphin 20: Taking down York’s most elite program is no small feat. I need to see more from the Rams who figure to be on the upswing before making that gamble.

Andy Sandrik: Central York 28, Central Dauphin 14: It’s never easy, or smart, to pick against Central Dauphin, but smart money is on the Panthers, who have won their last four meetings over the Rams.

Hollidaysburg 34, Altoona 7

Andy Shay: Hollidaysburg 32, Altoona 14: Until the Mountain Lions show they have a next gear overall, it’s nearly impossible to lean their way.

Adam Kulikowski: Hollidaysburg 27, Altoona 24: I wouldn’t be surprised if Altoona walks away with the Week 1 victory in what figures to be a tight match up.

Andy Sandrik: Hollidaysburg 33, Altoona 17: Both squads have graduated their top skill players, but the Golden Tigers still deserve to be favored over Altoona, a squad coming off a one-win season.

Newport 24, Juniata Valley 19

Andy Shay: Juniata Valley 28, Newport 14: I do believe the offense will provide more pop for the Buffs this season, but not enough to close the gap with the Hornets.

Adam Kulikowski: Juniata Valley 31, Newport 14: The Buffalos boast an increased roster from recent years. How quickly that pays dividends is yet to be determined.

Andy Sandrik: Juniata Valley 28, Newport 12: I’m expecting an improved season from the Buffs, but they’ll have to play a really clean game to beat the Hornets, who won by four scores last fall.

Minersville 35, Halifax 13

Andy Shay: Minersville 39, Halifax 20: There will be more opportunities to show the progress the Wildcats are making and will make in 2025. Just not seeing it in this matchup.

Adam Kulikowski: Minersville 33, Halifax 6: Finding ways to slow the Battlin’ Miners could prove to be challenging for opponents in 2025.

Andy Sandrik: Minersville 35, Halifax 0: Miners’ QB Dante Carr will be looking to get off to a fast start against Halifax following a junior season that saw him throw for more than 1,700 yards and 22 TDs.

Spring Grove 34, Northern York 0

Andy Shay: Spring Grove 30, Northern York 28: Could go either way and like the key components for the Polar Bears on offense. Just very concerned about their defense. SG has lots of question marks as well.

Adam Kulikowski: Northern York 30, Spring Grove 14: The Bill ‘Milldawg’ Miller era concluded with another underwhelming season in 2024 in Dillsburg. Turning the page provides an opportunity for new energy and ideas from a long-time Mechanicsburg coach.

Andy Sandrik: Northern York 24, Spring Grove 21: The Jeff Costello era begins with a win in Dillsburg.

State College 41, Gateway 14

Andy Shay: State College 42, Gateway 14: There’s a gap the Gators need to close after getting spanked in this tilt a year ago. All I know is the Little Lions look better than the outfit of 12 months ago and that group was solid.

Adam Kulikowski: State College 23, Gateway 13: Elite programs in flux after a slew of graduations always find a way to replenish. The Little Lions are one of those teams that always seem to have the answers when the whistle blows.

Andy Sandrik: State College 17, Gateway 7: The Little Lions have graduated way too much talent to consider them as a contender in the Commonwealth Division, but they could sway my opinion with a rout over Gateway.

Waynesboro 27, Greencastle-Antrim 21

Andy Shay: Waynesboro 36, Greencastle-Antrim 13: All indicators are the Indians have more seasoning at the positions that move the scoreboard needle and the Blue Devils are looking for answers to questions at those spots.

Adam Kulikowski: Waynesboro 31, Greencastle-Antrim 24: This could be one of the best match ups on the Week 1 docket. In Week 1 as we all learn what each team truly possesses, this one is a true toss up.

Andy Sandrik: Greencastle-Antrim 30, Waynesboro 28: I could be leaning the wrong way on this one, but I like Greencastle’s Wing-T style of offense to get the job done against a Waynesboro team aiming to sort out its linebacking corps.

Juniata 18, Selingsgrove 7

Andy Shay: Juniata 27, Selinsgrove 7: Call me crazy but I think the Indians have the best player on the field on both sides of the ball. I’ve been wrong before, though – MANY times.

Adam Kulikowski: Selingsgrove 28, Juniata 14: Seals have a few more pieces to provide an offensive spark including senior wide out Gavin Bastian than their counterparts in Juniata.

Andy Sandrik: Selinsgrove 21, Juniata 7: I think Juniata has the defense to keep this game close, especially with Jasper Shepps patrolling the secondary, but I’m not yet sure where the Indians are going to get their points from this season.

Manheim Township 7, Cumberland Valley 0

Andy Shay: Cumberland Valley 28, Manheim Township 21: Remember this was NOT a competitive game a year ago up front. It was Varsity vs. JV. If that changes the Eagles fly. This might feel like an upset pick but it’s really not.

Adam Kulikowski: Cumberland Valley 27, Manheim Township 21: Preseason hype is just that until you prove it on the field. The Eagles have that opportunity ahead of them. Can they cash in?

Andy Sandrik: Cumberland Valley 21, Manheim Township 14: The Eagles are quietly being picked as the dark horse of the Commonwealth Division this season. A win over the powerful Blue Streaks would certainly add credibility to this prediction.

Red Land 17, Cedar Cliff 14

Andy Shay: Cedar Cliff 35, Red Land 14: More forced family fun as the mates from West Shore School District square off. Let’s be honest they are NOT mates. We all know that. Patriots have a new skipper, philosophy and not many horses in the stable. Cedar Cliff is simply miles ahead at this point.

Adam Kulikowski: Cedar Cliff 24, Red Land 14: The Colts have had the upper hand in this rivalry lately—and there’s no reason to think that changes in 2025.

Andy Sandrik: Cedar Cliff 28, Red Land 21: The Colts graduated their QB, while their top RB, Princeton “PJ” Dent, is now playing football for Harrisburg. Can Red Land close the distance on its rival?

Susquehanna Twp. 42, South Western 14

Andy Shay: Susquehanna Twp. 42, South Western 14: Speed is a killer and experience at the QB position shows up in spades for the Indians here.

Adam Kulikowski: Susquehanna Twp. 41, South Western 14: The Indians, under still-head-coach Joe Headen, possess all the weapons needed to make this a truly memorable season. That starts with taking care of business in Week 1.

Andy Sandrik: Susquehanna Twp. 30, South Western 13: The Tribe have all the tools to overwhelm the Mustangs in their home opener.

August 23:

James Buchanan 60, York County Tech 13

Andy Shay: James Buchanan 30, York County Tech 14: This used to be the one game and sometimes the ONLY game the Rockets would win in a season. That’s no longer the case.

Adam Kulikowski: James Buchanan 21, York County Tech 13: A year ago James Buchanan was a bit of a Cinderella story early. Can history repeat itself?

Andy Sandrik: James Buchanan 21, York County Tech 7: The Rockets might have the best player on the field in Christian Pine. That’s more than enough to make a difference against the Spartans.

Clarkson North (ON) 27, Bishop McDevitt 7

Andy Shay: Bishop McDevitt 42, Clarkson North (ON) 7: Remember be nice to your friends north of the border and always remember that hate is a learned behavior. But what do I know other than McD is loaded and the other team is from Canada.

Adam Kulikowski: Bishop McDevitt 31, Clarkson North 28: While I consider myself an avid football fan, I’m not well version on my Canadian high school teams. But research tells me Clarkson hails from Mississauga, Ontario and runs an elite football program. Last year, these gents took on Imhotep Charter, falling 38-20 to the PA powerhouse program.

Andy Sandrik: Bishop McDevitt 38, Clarkson North 21: Canadian invader Clarkson North put up some points in a loss to PA power Imhotep Charter last season. Can the Chargers keep up with the defending PIAA Class 5A champion Crusaders?

Bethlehem Catholic 28, East Pennsboro 10

Andy Shay: Bethlehem Catholic 28, East Pennsboro 14: Love what the Panthers have at QB and they play tough on defense. But overall they have some major firepower to replace and not sure the Hawks help them find their way at a nice leisurely pace.

Adam Kulikowski: East Pennsboro 24, Bethlehem Catholic 20: Both teams enter Week 1 with plenty of question marks to answer. Give the nod to the Panthers in this opener.

Andy Sandrik: Bethlehem Catholic 20, East Pennsboro 7: Panthers appear to have a defense to stay competitive for a spell, but have too many holes to fill at the RB and WR positions to stick with BC for four full quarters.

Harrisburg 40, Imhotep Charter 26

Andy Shay: Harrisburg 28, Imhotep Charter 21: Two teams ranked in the Top 10 in Class 6A for the preseason state rankings. Cougars are higher of the two but that doesn’t mean squat in my book. I just love the matchup more than anything. Nobody loses an ounce of heavy hitter status based on the result.

Adam Kulikowski: Harrisburg 34, Imhotep Charter 33: Both teams are absolutely stacked with Division 1 talent—no shock there. I’ll side with the Coach Cal’s gents in a potential playoff preview.

Andy Sandrik: Imhotep Charter 28, Harrisburg 21: Historically, Harrisburg is at its most vulnerable in the early stages of the season. I’ll take Imhotep for that reason, but the Cougars are undoubtedly in for a monster campaign.

Mid-Penn Keystone: Preseason Records, Breakdowns, MVP and More

Keystone

Luke Brown

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August 20, 2025

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Another season of high school football season is upon us and it’s time to take a preseason look at the Mid-Penn Conference, specifically the Keystone division. Last season, Mechanicsburg put together a 10-0 regular season and was stopped in District 3 play by eventual state champion McDevitt, and Shippensburg made a run into the District 3 playoffs as well to cap off a successful season in the division.

COMMONWEALTH DIVISION PREVIEW

CAPITAL DIVISION PREVIEW

Preseason Keystone MVP: Cameron Sweeney, Hershey

The season that Cam Sweeney put together last year as a Hershey Trojan is nothing short of remarkable. First, he passed for over 800 yards and six touchdowns and ran for five more. Then, he was the leader on a Hershey basketball team that made an improbable run to the PIAA finals, drawing a remarkable hometown crowd to GIANT Center, right off Hersheypark Drive. Sweeney is a natural athlete, and that’s why he’s marked as the Keystone division’s preseason MVP.

Team-by-team Record Predictions

1. Shippensburg Greyhounds (9-1)

2024 Record: 10-2 | Head Coach: Eric Foust

The Greyhounds were undefeated going into their week 10 meeting with Mechanicsburg, which was the only stain on an otherwise-spotless regular season. Ship beat Warwick and lost to Conestoga Valley in the District 3 playoffs to finish their season at 10-2. Brady Maciejewski, the son of Shippensburg University football coach Mark Maciejewski, is back in the saddle as quarterback this season after a 795-yard passing season last year. Janye Statum, the Greyhounds leading rusher, is a key piece lost from last year, though. Statum put up 1,356 yards and 18 touchdowns. The big piece coming back is Mark Carothers with 12 touchdowns on the ground and 898 yards rushing last season. Carathors also caught 13 passes for 113 yards and a touchdown last year. Shippensburg should handle business in week one against Big Spring for the Little Brown Jug, before getting into divisional play.

2. Mechanicsburg Wildcats (8-2)

2024 Record: 11-1 | Head Coach: Dave Heckard

Mechanicsburg’s 2024 season will certainly go down as one of the top seasons in program history. From week one, they snapped a nine-year losing streak to Carlisle, then went on to win a District 3 playoff game against Cocalico, and lose in the District semifinals to the eventual state champions, McDevitt. It was the final season for wide receiver Josh Smith, who began high school as a basketball recruit, and ended up committing to Princeton for football. It was also the senior season for starting quarterback Eli Reider, who is now at Rochester Polytechnic Institute. His successor will likely be Noah Apple, who was 5 of 6 last year with 58 yards. The running game lost a big senior as well, with Isaac Dollman, who ran for 1,030 yards off 91 carries through an emotional season, having lost his father during week nine of the season. That trio – Dollman, Smith, Reider – will go down as one of the best to ever be Wildcats. Jack Deluca, who recently led Mechanicsburg to their first playoff win in boys lacrosse, will step up in a big role as a receiver this year for the team. This year, Carlisle’s Ken Millen Stadium will host the “Backyard Brawl,” and Mechanicsburg is predicted to get that win.

3. Hershey Trojans (8-2)

2024 Record: 7-4 | Head Coach: Mark Painter

After leading Hershey hoops to a PIAA runner-up finish last March, Cameron Sweeney is ready to return as quarterback of the football team, who now plays their games on campus as opposed to inside Hersheypark Stadium. Sweeney went 62/115 with 828 yards passing last season. What’s more though, is Sweeney’s run game, as he put up 1,116 yards rushing and ten touchdowns. The dual-threat quarterback will also have running Samir Edwards-Pace as an option on the ground and Grant Later in the air. The Trojans lost their first playoff game against Cocalico to finish 7-4 last year, but it’s completely reasonable to be high on the squad coming into this season. They’ll open the year against Milton Hershey, which should go in their favor.

4. Lower Dauphin Falcons (7-3)

2024 Record: 6-5 | Head Coach: Josh Borreli

It seems the Keystone division is full of returning quarterbacks, and the Lower Dauphin Falcons are no different. QB Braeden Heckard is back after an 849-yard junior season with seven touchdowns, seven interceptions. Hunter Strohm, a Mississippi State baseball commit, is also back for a final season after rushing for 383 yards and three touchdowns last year. LD faces fellow Falcons in Cedar Crest for their non-conference game before divisional play, where they could get hot and win three straight over Red Land, Northern and Mechanicsburg. It’s also quite possible for Lower Dauphin to win four straight to finish the regular season.

5. Gettysburg Warriors (6-4)

2024 Record: 4-6 | Head Coach: Matt Heiser

Gettysburg was sort of underwhelming in 2024, dropping their first game to Chambersburg and never truly recovering to get the season back on track. They beat Red Land, Northern, Palmyra and Mifflin County for their season last year, and are certainly looking to put together a season north of .500. They’ll need to use a new quarterback, though, after losing Brady Heiser to graduation last season, who’s now at PSAC school Shepherd. Leading rusher Preston Burnett is back, though. He ran for 1,116 yards and 10 touchdowns last year, and he’s running behind a Warriors offensive line that is returning four starters. It seems the squad will definitely be good enough to handle a lot of division teams, but won’t quite keep up with the top guys in the league. In my book, they start off 4-0 and lose some games from there.

6. Red Land Patriots (4-6)

2024 Record: 2-8 | Head Coach: Jaimie Thomas

In December, Jaimie Thomas was the color analyst for football state championships and doing some coaching work locally. Now, the McDevitt legend, who played college football at Maryland and spent time with the Indianapolis Colts, is the head man at Red Land. Last year, the team had three players take at least 30 snaps at quarterback, and they’re all returning this season for a senior season. Cason Hoffman, Michael Eshleman and Quinlin Shearer all are back for a senior year and add a viable threat as passers. The Patriots open the season against West Shore School District foe Cedar Cliff, and right now, it’s not hard to see them getting wins over Waynesboro, Palmyra, Mifflin County. Another win? It’s easy to see it happening, but difficult to pick the victim. For now, it’s Shippensburg, because football is chaos.

7. Northern Polar Bears (4-6)

2024 Record: 4-6 | Head Coach: Jeff Costello

It’s a new era for Northern as Jeff Costello takes over the program. Former head coach Bill Miller is now the offensive line coach at West York, and Northern. Grady Bonin is now in his senior season with the program, and will add on to last year’s 904 yard season, and a .527% completion rate. Bonin also extended plays on the run, scoring nine touchdowns rushing. The squad’s leading rusher is back as well, as Gabe Johnson will be building off his sophomore season last year that saw 12 touchdowns and 1,064 yards. In the winter, Johnson went on to all-state honors as a wrestler. Northern hosts Spring Grove to open the season, a game they lost 31-14 last season. It’s a pretty relentless schedule, so for now I can only see four wins. It’s very easy to see them grab some wins through the schedule.

8. Waynesboro Indians (3-7)

2024 Record: 4-6 | Head Coach: Mark Saunders

Senior Rayshawn Frazier-Hewitt returns for his senior season with the Indians this year, and they’ll look to advance on last year’s 4-6 record. Fraier-Hewitt passed for 1,357 yards last year and 13 touchdowns, while also taking six touchdowns to the house through his run game. The squad lost a good chunk of skill position players, though, losing Nathan and Hayden Nolan, as well as Bryan Benedict. Waynesboro pulled off a nice home win against rival Greencastle last year, and could do the same on the road in week one. Then, they should be able to take care of business against Palmyra and Mifflin County, at least, in the regular season.

9. Mifflin County Huskies (2-8)

2024 Record: 4-6 | Head Coach: Shane Breon

Mifflin County recently renovated their stadium, putting in turf, new lights, and all sorts of huge changes to the complex. Now, they’ll need to bring some excitement to the field on Friday nights as well. That’ll start with Central Mountain, whom they usually take care of in non-conference play. Their second predicted win comes against Palmyra in week six. Chase Hartung is returning as quarterback, after passing for 944 yards and seven touchdowns. Catching five of Hartung’s touchdown passes is returning receiver Landon Haigh, who tallied 457 receiving yards in the process. Mifflin County might be able to squeak out a few extra wins, and deliver inside a new stadium to compete a little bit more in the division.

10. Palmyra Cougars (1-9)

2024 Record: 1-9 | Head Coach: Chris Pavone

Palmyra will return their QB from last season, Roman Russek, still just a junior. They beat Lebanon 40-8 in week one last year, and should be able to handle the Cedars again in nonconference play. Keystone opponents will likely be tough for the squad, though. Running back Travis McDannell and receiver Braxtin Risser will be two names to watch as playmakers.

Andy Shay’s Preseason Elite 11 Rankings

Elite 11

Andy Shay

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August 18, 2025

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11.	Manheim Township	0-0
This was a tough call. The Blue Streak swooned down the stretch a year ago and lost plenty. They have talent, but some old fashion high school football grit will be required. Hard not to have another Section 1 team in the opening Elite 11 of 2025.
10.	Exeter Township	0-0
You don’t graduate a 2,000 rusher and set expectations at the same level. The Eagles have some critical parts needed to make another run, though. That matters, too.
9.	Conestoga Valley	0-0
What a season QB Sawyer Esbenshade had a year ago and he’s back for another crack. That’s enough for me to get a Top 11 call. Part of what promises to be a wild Section 2 race with No. 10 in our Elite 11 having a say.
8.	Cumberland Valley	0-0
This feels like the year the Eagles can take flight over the course of 10 games. Yes the MPC Commonwealth will be a tough ask, but they have more answers than questions at the ready. Simply need to replace consistency with inconsistency and the roller coaster ride will be smoother. Talent is there.
7.	Wyomissing	0-0	7
Not often you can say the Spartans have some questions that need answered up front along the line. They do. How they improve up front will be key to next level success. Justice Hardy is the big name to know, but there are many more to choose from. Still dangerous.
6.	Susquehanna Township	0-0
Why do I feel long-time coach Joe Headen is sitting on a monster trying his best to temper the “real” expectations of this talented, speedy and strong-where-it-matters squad. It starts with QB Torin Evans and all that speed at his disposal. Keeping up week-to-week will be tough.
5.	Wilson West Lawn	0-0
Anybody who played 11 games at this level a year ago and brings back a dozen starters is a serious contender across the board. There are some gaps in key spots to plug, but overall the Bulldogs are the Section 1 squad to beat.
4.	State College	0-0
As one might expect, the Little Lions are loaded up front and that physical brand of football will be on full display. How about RB D’Ante Sheffey returning to the fold after a year in Harrisburg. That is a game changer in my book.
3.	Central York	0-0
When it comes to York County, the Panthers are the kingpin by a wide, wide margin. Not sure they face a real challenge and that insane winning streak should continue. Athletes are the calling card of this program and they have plenty.
2.	Bishop McDevitt	0-0
When it comes to talent, the Crusaders still have it in spades. New QB Sebastian Williams has plenty of help around him and McD defense will be a real force over the long haul.
1.	Harrisburg	0-0
The drive for five consecutive District 3 big-school crowns is very much alive and well. Cougars have FBS level talent with some experienced key pieces in the right spots.

Counting Down the Top 10 Players to Watch in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth Division

Andy Sandrik

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August 18, 2025

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Counting Down the Top 10 Players to Watch in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth Division

When tasked with determining the top players to watch in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth Division this fall, we came in with the best intentions to ensure this list doesn’t read like a combined roster for Harrisburg and Bishop McDevitt. There are, after all, eight other teams in the Commonwealth, often regarded as one of the toughest divisions in the PIAA.

You’ll have to forgive us. We have failed.

In our defense, the Cougars and Crusaders are both loaded to the gills with blue chip talent, including a handful of players that could someday be playing on Sundays. These two rosters include playmakers that have transferred in from within the division after having All-Star seasons for other programs.

At the risk of sounding like superfans for the Big Two schools in the Commonwealth, we present our list of the top players to watch in the division this fall. We will reveal two standouts per day, while also listing our Honorable Mention selections.

Stick with 4th Down Magazine as we continue to preview the upcoming season in the Mid-Penn Conference.

10. Matt Gaul, State College, OL

The graduated Michael Gaul, a linebacker now playing for Villanova, got so much attention last season that his “little” brother Matt somehow flew under the radar as an impactful sophomore on the offensive line.

Standing at 6-foot-2 and checking in at 280 pounds, the younger Gaul was a certified stud as State College’s starting LT last fall. Gaul’s strength resides in his abilities as a pass blocker, where he is a master of protecting the pocket. Trusted to ward off the most dangerous edge rusher on the opposition, often by himself, Gaul uses strength and footwork to keep defenders at bay. Gaul is also an asset in the run game, where he can make agile blocks in the open field and deliver crunching blows to interior defensive linemen. He was recognized by the Commonwealth as a Second Team selection on offense.

Gaul also lines up at nose guard on defense, where he expertly maneuvers through the chaos to power his way to the ballcarrier. He generates a lot of pressure right off the snap and demands double teams, which he can still break through. Last season Gaul totaled 17 tackles, including five tackles for loss and a sack, to go along with two QB hurries.

9. Nathan Carothers, Carlisle, OL

One of the scariest propositions for a defender in the Commonwealth Division is the 6-foot-2, 280-pound Carothers bursting out into the open field as a lead blocker with a full head of steam behind him.

What happens next is a powerful exchange that often results in a first down for the offense and a defender face-down in the turf, questioning all of the life decisions that have led him to this point. Carothers was named to the Commonwealth Division’s Second Team as an OL last fall and is the man Carlisle leans on to stay competitive in the brutal division gauntlet.

Carothers puts up some big numbers in the weight room for the bench (315), squat (600), and deadlift (600), and that certainly shows in the way he performs in the trenches. He’s an excellent man to run behind as he stays on his blocks and drives defenders several yards off the ball. With quick feet and athleticism, Carothers also does a sharp job as a pass blocker.

Carothers doubles as a playmaking defensive tackle whose forceful presence can flat out disrupt offensive series for the opponent. A hustler who doesn’t give up on a play, even if he’s chasing a speedy skill player, Carothers is strong enough to toss linemen aside and quick enough to power his way to the ballcarrier in the blink of an eye.

8. Tayvon Williamson, Harrisburg, OL

Very few high school linemen can match up with the sheer strength of the 6-foot-1, 285-pound Williamson, who upped his max in both the bench press (385) and squat (605) this offseason.

In the trenches, Williamson is a mobile block of granite whose presence allows Harrisburg to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. A First Team Commonwealth Division selection on the OL, Williamson plays at the LG and C positions, and he shines in both roles. Right from the snap, Williamson sets up with a low center of gravity and uses his aforementioned strength to plant defenders. An engaging, in-your-face blocker, Williamson is always pushing forward. He dishes out punishing blocks as a pulling guard, and frustrates opponents as a big-bodied pass blocker who protects the backfield much like a bouncer at the club.

Williamson is also dangerous on the defensive line, where he has great acceleration for a big man, and can power his way to the ballcarrier in a hurry. Last fall he racked up 41 tackles, including six tackles for loss and three sacks, to go along with two QB hurries and a pass defense.

7. Rick Brown, Harrisburg, LB

The 6-foot-1, 215-pound Brown comes into this season as one of the most feared LBs in the Mid-Penn after totaling 129 tackles as a sophomore last fall, including nine tackles for loss and a sack, to go along with an interception, caused fumble, and four pass defenses. He secured First Team Commonwealth Division defensive honors last season and is already fielding offers from Boston College, Pittsburgh, Syracuse, and Virginia.

Brown patrols the field from the MLB position, giving him an opportunity to make plays from anywhere on the gridiron. He is superb at reading plays, finding the hole, and plugging it. Brown excels at keeping the ballcarrier in front of him and bringing him down with minimal gains. Opposing blockers will take their best shots at Brown, but he has a way of angling to avoid the brunt of the blows and sneaking into the backfield much faster than anticipated.

With a steady motor and growing field awareness, look for Brown’s star to continue to rise over his upperclassman seasons.

6. Maurice Barnes, Bishop McDevitt, LB/RB

The college football world is buzzing for Barnes, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound ball of steel and electricity who nailed down First Team Commonwealth Division defensive honors as a junior LB last fall. Swarming and fast, Barnes lit up opposing offenses for 90 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks, to go along with two interceptions and five QB hurries. Programs like Michigan, Notre Dame, Penn State, and Pittsburgh have taken notice.

Barnes possesses potent speed, yes, but it’s his ability to create angles to close the distance on ballcarriers that makes him deadly. He has the power to blast through blockers twice his size and also the fleet of foot to drop back and provide sticky pass coverage. Barnes plays relentlessly, and if he builds a head of steam on his way to the runner, it can be devastating.

Barnes is also a playmaker on the offensive side of the ball, where he totaled 173 carries for 932 yards and eight TDs and caught 19 passes for 199 yards and two TDs last season. He has strong acceleration and often breaks through the first level — either by dodging the first defender or running him over altogether — before hitting max speed in the secondary.

5. Zack Brown, Bishop McDevitt, LB/TE

One of the top players in the Mid-Penn has taken his talents to the conference’s premier program at Bishop McDevitt.

The 6-foot-2, 225-pound Brown starred for CD East last fall and has nearly 20 college offers to his name, including from schools like Nebraska, Maryland, Pitt, and Iowa State. There’s a good reason for the college interest: Brown is a playmaker in every sense of the word.

He tormented opposing defenses in 2024 from his dual role as an LB and DE. Brown is fast and powerful and plays with a savage streak. He flys all over the field, creating a constant stream of highlight-reel material with piercing blitzes, athletic plays, and devastating hits that seperate the ball from the ballcarrier. Brown has the strength to bang with the big guys in the trenches and possesses the speed to cut down plays before they even have a chance to develop. The Commonwealth Division took notice last fall, naming Brown to the First Team on defense.

Brown was a Second Team selection on offense, where he was selected as a TE. Brown has good hands, a great leaping ability, and the muscle to overpower the majority of defenders that line up against him. Brown often splits out to WR, giving opponents yet another headache to plan for.

4. Elias Coke, Harrisburg, WR/DB

Harrisburg fans will be blessed with a fourth varsity season from Coke, a 6-foot-2, 198-pound playmaker, before he takes his talents to Rutgers next fall.

Coke is an X-Factor on the field no matter where he plays, and the Commonwealth Division recognized this last season by honoring the Cougars’ star with First Team selections as both a WR and DB.

He is an effortlessly fast receiver who seems to possess magnetic hands for the football. In a 2024 season where Coke totaled 50 catches for 968 yards and 10 TDs, he showcased superior athletic ability and routinely made circus catches look routine. Coke runs crisp routes, has exceptional field awareness, and can always be counted on to win 50-50 balls.

Coke was also a standout on the defensive side of the ball, where he rolled up 47 tackles and five interceptions last season, while also defending two passes. Competing in the secondary with the size of a LB, Coke hits the pads with a lot of pop, and is especially scary on blitzes. Few defenders can cash in on the chaos of a turnover like Coke, who piled up 203 yards just from interception returns last season.

3. Kevin Brown, Harrisburg, OL/DL

Brown, a 6-foot-5, 290-pound trench behemoth and Penn State recruit, is aiming to end his high school career with a bang after having his junior season ruined by a broken foot last fall.

When Brown is playing at 100 percent, he is one of the most intimidating and impactful players in the Mid-Penn. Possessing the strength of a bodybuilder and the speed of a sprinter, he is a sight to behold on the football field, no matter what position he’s playing.

Brown’s future as a college player is likely on the offensive line, where he overpowers defenders to the point of embarassment. He’s been known to drive defenders — and we can’t state enough that we’re not exaggerating — dozens of yards down the field on a single play. Brown is freakishly strong and can rag-doll 300-pound men, while his athleticism enables him to connect on crushing blocks in the open field.

Brown boasts similar traits when he plays on the defensive line. He has the power to not just break through double teams, but overwhelm them altogether. And when he breaks into the backfield, it can be a terrifying scene as Brown has the wheels to chase down even the fastest of skill players.

2. Tyler Merrill, Cumberland Valley, OL

You might not believe your eyes when you see Merrill go to work in the trenches, with the “Big Oak” taking on the appearance of a grown man playing with his action figures.

The 6-foot-5, 315-pound Notre Dame recruit, a First Team Commonwealth Division selection as an OL, is hilariously strong, to the point where you actually feel sorry for the defenders repeatedly getting plastered to the turf. The senior tackle is simply overhwhelming at his position and when he puts his hands on players wearing the opposite jersey, they go flying. Merrill was credited with 16 pancake blocks in 2024, a stat that seems to have been grossly under-reported after reviewing his film.

Merrill is a superior pass blocker who will be frequently called upon to individually match up with the nastiest defender on the opposing squad. Don’t be surprised when he makes it look easy.

1. Messiah Mickens, Harrisburg, DE/RB

There may not be a more dynamic player in all of the Mid-Penn Conference than Mickens, a 5-foot-10, 185-pound Penn State recruit who showcased his blue chip potential on both sides of the ball last fall.

Mickens was named the Commonwealth Division’s Defensive Player of the Year after an unbelievable junior campaign at DE that saw him terrorize the division with 81 tackles, including 39 tackles for loss and 16.5 sacks, to go along with 21 QB hurries, two caused fumbles, one fumble recovery, and two passes defended. Mickens is an undersized man in the trenches, but when watching his film, you’d swear that he is bigger and stronger than the titans he bumps heads with on a weekly basis. He attacks like a rabid tiger and is powerful enough to quite literally send blockers flying through the air. Once Mickens breaks into the backfield with his fiery pursuit, ballcarriers are no longer running for yardage, they’re running for their lives.

Mickens has made just as much of a name for himself on offense, where he was selected First Team Commonwealth selection at RB after rushing 155 times for 1,214 yards and 21 TDs. Averaging nearly eight yards per carry in the black-and-blue Commonwealth is a difficult proposition, but Mickens makes it look easy. With Mickens’ great acceleration, superb cuts, and the ability to quickly shift gears to max speed, opponents look like they’re running in slow motion. He not only excels at finding the holes and hitting them hard, he’s also a dangerous cutback runner who can transform broken plays into highlights.

Honorable Mention: Aiden Grella (Bishop McDevitt, K), Logan Wuckovich (Altoona, LB, 6-1, 210), Sincere Jackson (CD East, LB, 6-2, 180), Noah Ewell (Harrisburg, LB, 5-9, 200), Jontai Quick (Bishop McDevitt, WR, 5-9), Nazir Jones Davis (Bishop McDevitt, RB, 6-0, 179), Ish Palmer (Bishop McDevitt, WR, 5-6), Princeton “PJ” Dent (Harrisburg, RB, 6-0, 190), Quincy Smith (State College, DE, 6-2, 217), Chris Thompson (Bishop McDevitt, OL/DL, 5-11, 250), Isaac Hodgson (Central Dauphin, LB, 5-10, 182), Trayce Brennan (State College, LB/TE, 6-0, 205), Will Kocher (Cedar Cliff, LB, 6-1, 220), Hank Lustig (State College, DB, 5-9, 155), Trays Walker (Harrisburg, DB, 6-0), Liam Fuller (Bishop McDevitt, TE/DE, 6-0, 225), Ja’Kye Logan (Bishop McDevitt, OL, 6-3, 325), Josh Gillen (Cedar Cliff, OL, 6-1, 250), Jude Slover (Bishop McDevitt, C, 6-2, 245), Brody Pines (Cumberland Valley, RB, 6-2, 195).

Counting Down the Top 10 Players to Watch in the Keystone Division

Andy Sandrik

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August 18, 2025

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If you’re a fan of trench warfare, bone-crunching hits, and just violence in general, look no further than the Mid-Penn Keystone Division to get your fix this fall.

With giants battling for the line of scrimmage and heat-seeking linebackers who need just one play to alter the entire course of a game, the Keystone is projected to dish out more than its fair share of bumps, bruises, and blue-collar play in 2025.

It was not easy, but we’ve narrowed down our Top 10 players from the Keystone to watch this fall, including multiple selections from defending division champion Mechanicsburg.

This week we will reveal two standouts per day, while also listing our Honorable Mention selections. Stick with 4th Down Magazine as we continue to preview the upcoming Mid-Penn Conference Season.

10. Jack DeLuca, Mechanicsburg, LB/WR

Mechanicsburg is delighted to bring back the the 6-foot-1, 175-pound DeLuca, who nailed down Keystone Division First Team honors as an LB and was an Honorable Mention selection as a WR last fall.

DeLuca, who doubles as a star player for the Wildcats lacrosse squad, is a physical presence on the defensive side of the ball. He plays mostly a free safety role for Mechanicsburg and is a hustler who excels at keeping the ball in front of him. Often the last line of defense for the Wildcats, DeLuca is good at nipping a big play in the bud with his ability to establish a low center of gravity and execute fundamental tackles.

Look for DeLuca to take on a bigger role for the offense after hauling in 18 catches for 181 yards and a TD last fall.

9. Noah Garvin, Shippensburg, DL

It’s not every day when you see a 6-foot-2, 275-pound behemoth lining up as a placekicker, but Garvin has taken over the job often reserved for the most squirrelly, soccer-playing member of the team.

It’s a sight to see — Garvin has a strong leg on kickoffs and converted 10 of 12 extra points last fall — but once his kicking duties are handled, he grabs his lunch pail and goes to work in the trenches as a nose guard. A hulking presence on the defensive line, Garvin was named a Keystone Division First Teamer last fall.

To put it quite simply, the country-strong Garvin is an absolute ox in the middle of the defensive front. He’s a hard man to move, and when opponents assign double teams, Garvin takes on the appearance of a father playing roughhouse games with his children. It’s important for opposing offenses to steer the ball away from Garvin, who needs just one hand — maybe even just a few fingers — to drag down ballcarriers.

Garvin will be working hard during his final high school season to play, and perhaps kick, his way on to a college roster.

8. Hunter Strohm, Lower Dauphin, MLB/TE

If the whole baseball thing — Strohm is committed to play Division I at Mississippi State — doesn’t work out, there are plenty of schools that would be honored to have the 6-foot-1, 205-pound stud on their football roster.

Strohm was a beastly presence in Lower Dauphin’s linebacking corps last fall and garnered Second Team honors from the Keystone Division after stacking up 112 tackles, including 20 tackles for loss and one sack, to go along with two QB hurries, two caused fumbles, and one pass defense. A high-motor player who packs a big punch, Strohm is a relentless pursuer of the ball who relishes in delivering crushing tackles.

Strohm is also a force on the offensive side of the ball, where is listed as a TE, but often tasked with running the ball. A bruising runner, Strohm registered 83 carries for 383 yards and three TDs in 2024.

7. Hunter Stoak, Lower Dauphin, DL/OL

When the 6-foot-2, 280-pound Stoak lines up as a DT, opponents are forced to make an important choice: Should they assign double or triple teams to cancel out Lower Dauphin’s big man?

A Keystone Division Second Team selection on the DL last fall, Stoak racked up 25 tackles, including four tackles for loss and two sacks. Those numbers may seem light, but his value in the trenches can’t be overstated when considering the amount of resources the competition must expend just to keep Stoak at bay. He chews up a lot of real estate on the line of scrimmage, allowing the linebackers to have open paths to the ballcarrier.

Stoak is also Lower Dauphin’s starter at LT, earning Honorable Mention honors from the Keystone for his efforts. He is a powerful presence on the line who is at his best when he can make crushing down blocks on unsuspecting defenders to open up the run game. With loads of strength and solid foot speed, Stoak is often the man tasked with neutralizing the other team’s top pass rusher. He seems to enjoy the grind of battling titans in the trenches, something he also does as the heavyweight for the Falcons wrestling squad.

6. Matteo Cangialosi, Lower Dauphin, DL/TE

Opponents would be wise to track where the versatile Cangialosi is lining up at all times. That’s because the 6-foot-2, 230-pound Cangialosi is a potent two-way player who can do damage in a variety of ways.

He was named a Keystone Division First Teamer as a DL following a junior campaign that saw him rack up 42 tackles, including 8.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks, to go along with two interceptions, two QB hurries, and one fumble recovery. Cangialosi is a disruptive player who can make plays as both a DE and OLB. His supreme athleticism, coupled with a knack for getting his hands on the football, makes him a force to be reckoned with.

Cangialosi was named to the Keystone’s Second Team as a TE, but his job description on the field fits that of a fullback, where he often lines up to deliver crushing lead blocks in the run game. Cangialosi makes for a good safety valve as a pass-catcher in the flats, where he is hard to bring down in the open field.

5. Jimmy DeWire, Mechanicsburg, OL/DL

There are few things more demoralizing for a defensive lineman than seeing DeWire — a 6-foot-2, 270-pound powerhouse who recorded more than 30 pancake blocks last season — lining up on the other side.

DeWire is a fast, powerful, and overhwleming presence on the line. A Sacred Heart commit who can play any position on the OL, including long snapper, DeWire is a superb run blocker who regularly drives defenders directly into the dirt. He takes a lot of pride in violently holding his block until the whistle, even when he’s far from the play.

Boasting quick feet, DeWire is a stud in the pass-blocking game and did not allow a single sack or QB pressure last fall. For his efforts on the OL, DeWire was named Second Team All-State and honored as a First Teamer in the Keystone.

DeWire doubles as a DT for the Wildcats and was named Second Team in the Keystone in 2024.

4. Preston Burnett, Gettysburg, RB/Returner

After beefing up 20 pounds in the offseason, Gettysburg’s all-time leading rusher is primed and ready for a monster senior season.

The 5-foot-10, 203-pound Burnett — who has piled up nearly 2,800 rushing yards over his three-year career for the Warriors — earned dual selections to the Keystone Division’s Second Team as an RB and returner last fall. He rushed 174 times for 1,116 yards, averaging 6.4 yards per carry and scoring 10 TDs.

Burnett is a patient runner who has an excellent sense for sensing the hole and accelerating through it. He excels at shifting gears and speeds and is powerful enough to run between the tackles. Burnett boasts a superb top speed, which makes him especially deadly as a kick returner, where he’s always a threat to take the ball to paydirt.

With Gettysburg set to break in a new QB this season, look for the Warriors to lean on Burnett to fuel the offensive attack.

3. Cam Sweeney, Hershey, Athlete

Whether Sweeney’s starring on the football field or the basketball court — where he guided the Trojans on a storybook run to the PIAA Class 3A title game last winter — the 6-foot-3, 185-pound is a must-watch attraction in the realm of high school athletics, and likely beyond.

Hershey’s starting QB was electric with the ball in his hands and combined for nearly 2,000 rushing and passing yards in 2024, earning Keystone Division First Team honors as an athlete in the process. Sweeney possesses a big burst, breakaway speed, and can zig and zag through would-be tacklers like they’re going in slow motion.

Sweeney ran 113 times last season, either on designed or improvised plays, and averaged 9.9 yards per carry. His presence as a runner forces defenders to hesitate, which not only makes them more susceptible to play fakes, but also gives his receivers better opportunities to get open.

Sweeney’s abilities also shine through on the other side of the ball as a free safety, where he totaled 35 tackles and two interceptions, while defending three passes last season.

2. Drake Dawson, Mechanicsburg, DE/TE

Expect a solid season on the gridiron from the 6-foot-2, 225-pound Dawson — a Keystone Division First Team selection on both sides of the ball — as he makes a final push to improve his college stock.

Dawson’s biggest strength is his versatility. One moment, you’ll see him dueling with beasts in the trenches and the next moment he’ll be splitting out wide to test his skills against the speedsters in the secondary. It’s just a typical Friday night for the well-rounded Dawson.

Dawson is a steady pass-rushing DE who registered 65 tackles last season, including 16 tackles for loss and seven sacks, to go along with one interception. He excels at fighting off blockers and finding the ballcarrier, even when opponents throw out double teams.

Dawson plays TE on offense and has proven he can dish out punishing blocks and make contested catches in tight coverage. More than a glorified lineman, Dawson possesses the height and the hops to win 50-50 balls and has a nice burst once he gets the ball in his hands. He will be aiming to improve upon last year’s receiving numbers: 17 catches, 241 yards, three TDs.

1. Collin Stare, Mechanicsburg, DT/G

Central Michigan won the Collin Stare sweepstakes, but for one more season the Wildcats get to enjoy the services of the 6-foot-2, 240-pound wrecking ball, a DL who nailed down All-State honors while also securing Keystone Division Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Whether he’s lining up at the DT or DE positions, Stare is quick off the snap of the ball and can destroy plays before they even have a chance to begin. The powerful Stare, who benches 335 pounds, is a scary presence on the line. He has the power to forcefully detach from blockers and the speed to rapidly converge upon the ballcarrier. To top it off, Stare plays with a violent streak and hits like a truck.

Last season Stare racked up 63 tackles, incuding 20.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks, to go along with 26 QB pressures. He put up these numbers in spite of playing in just 35 of 48 quarters for the Wildcats.

Stare was also a First Team Keystone selection on offense, where he steamrolled opponents as a guard. Stare plays mean, loves to make pancake blocks, and is athletic enough to make impactful blocks in open space.

Honorable Mention: Bryan Maduena (Hershey, DB), Drew Freeland (Mechanicsburg, LB, 6-0, 205), Benton Celius (Gettysburg, DB, 6-2, 175), Grant Later (Hershey, DB), Ethan Castillo (Hershey, C), Ayden Foust (Shippensburg, OL, 6-0, 235), Xavier Smith (Palmyra, LB, 6-1, 215), Drake Wagner (Shippensburg, OL, 6-0, 260), Devin Driscoll (Red Land, OL), Grady Bonin (Northern, QB, 5-10, 180), Gabe Johnson (Northern, RB, 5-11, 180), Landon Haigh (Mifflin County, WR, 6-0, 175).

Mid-Penn Capital: Preseason Records, Breakdowns, MVP and More

Luke Brown

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August 15, 2025

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Another season of high school football season is upon us and it’s time to take a preseason look at the Mid-Penn Conference, specifically the Capital division. Last season, Steel-High lost in the PIAA first round to Bedford after winning a District 3 2A title and Juniata won the District 6 4A championship and made a run into the state quarterfinals.

COMMONWEALTH DIVISION PREVIEW

Preseason Capital MVP: Jasper Shepps, Juniata

Shepps is the only returning wide receiver from last year’s Mid-Penn all first team offense, and he’s primed to put up a season that may contend for a Mid-Penn Capital MVP in November. Last season, he caught 55 passes for 933 yards and 14 touchdowns, by far the leading pass-catcher on Juniata’s team.

Team-by-team Record Predictions

1. Line Mountain Eagles (9-1)

2024 Record: 8-4 | Head Coach: Brandon Carson

The Eagles only dropped two Capital division games in 2024, to Steel-High and a confusing loss to Camp Hill. In the playoffs, they dropped the PIAA District 4 1A title game to Muncy, a team they’re familiar with through preseason scrimmages. They’ll face Muncy in their Saturday scrimmage again this season. Kaiden Maurer is back in the saddle for the Eagles, after a junior season that saw him throw for 2,219 yards off 129 completions. Only Susquehanna Township’s Torin Evans threw for more yards out of returning passers in the Mid-Penn. Maurer also ran for nine touchdowns last year and 356 yards, proving to be a do-it-all guy on the offense. Maurer’s top target, Dalton Schadel, is also back for a senior season in 2025. He caught 28 passes for 651 yards and 10 TD’s last year, a mark that makes him the fourth top returning pass-catcher, and second top in the division. Line Mountain kicks off the season with Lewisburg in non-conference, and it’s hard to see them losing more than two division games. The tough ones will come against Juniata and Steel-High, and I see them splitting the two with one win and one loss.

2. Juniata Indians (8-2)

2024 Record: 9-4 | Head Coach: Kurt Condo

As mentioned, Jasper Shepps is in for a really big final season as the top wide receiver in the division, and one of the best in the Mid-Penn Conference. The Indians continue to run into Selinsgrove each year, and will again for their non-conference game in week one. Last year, the Indians claimed a District 6 4A championship win and beat Shamokin Area in a PIAA playoff game. They were beaten in the state quarterfinals by Southern Lehigh, led by Penn State commit Andrew Olesh. Wyatt Ehrenzeller graduated last year after a memorable career with the Indians, and they’ll likely turn to junior Jason Condo this season, who saw limited action at quarterback last season. For Juniata to lose more than one divisional game this season is tough to see, and the other predicted loss comes in week one to a Selinsgrove team that Juniata desperately wants to beat.

3. Steel-High Rollers (7-2)

2024 Record: 10-3 | Head Coach: Andrew Erby

Steel-High’s season will be an interesting one, considering they won’t play a single game in Steelton all year. The state of 113-year-old War Veterans Memorial Field is condemnable, therefore they won’t get to play on home field all year. If there’s one program that can manage, though, it’s the Andrew Erby-led Rollers, who’ve battled adversity before seasons before and gone on to continue writing history for one of the top small-school programs the state has ever seen. This year, they’ll play home games at Roscoe Warner Field, West Shore Stadium, Rocco Ortenzio Field and Landis Field to get every game in. Last year, the Rollers went 10-3 and claimed another District 3 title, this time in 2A. That shot Steel-High into the PIAA first round, where Bedford claimed a 24-15 win over the team, and finished their season at 10-3. It was their first year without legendary Steel-High passer Alex Erby – now at Navy – and they were successful in using Yahmir Ceaser as his replacement, who’s now playing defensive back at Lock Haven. The team will have to turn to another quarterback in 2025 in front of a nine-game schedule that includes a non-conference game against Susquehanna Township. The Rollers will also get an extra week to wait into their season, not playing until August 28 against Juniata. It was hard to tell last year where Steel-High stacks up and it is again now, but one thing was made clear last season, and that’s that Andrew Erby always has a plan.

4. Upper Dauphin Trojans (6-4)

2024 Record: 5-6 | Head Coach: Tim Savage

The Trojans took a 20-point loss in the semifinals of last year’s District 3 2A semifinals to Steel-High, and are looking to make another push into the postseason yet again. Aidan Bingaman graduated after a 1,300+ yard passing year last season, and it’ll likely be a year for Alfonso Santiago to step up. Fortunately, Isaac Jackson and Eoghan Savage are returning as receivers, who combined for over 500 yards receiving last year and six touchdowns. Running back Carter Dreibelbis returns as well, after scoring four touchdowns on the ground. He’ll be stepping in for Caleb Snyder, a top rusher in UDA’s program, and the man who put up 18 touchdowns on the ground last season. The Trojans open the season at Williams Valley again this season and are predicted to open up 2-0, but a tough stretch of West Perry, Steel-High and Line Mountain will make or break the season in weeks three, four and five.

5. James Buchanan Rockets (6-4)

2024 Record: 4-6 | Head Coach: Cliff Pine

Christian Pine will be a name to watch this season as a returning receiver, and there’s a plethora of offensive weapons that are coming back from what seemed to be a young and inexperienced squad that tallied four wins last year. If those young pieces from last season can become more developed and ready this season, JB could be in shape for a leap to a record north of .500. The Rockets started 4-1 last season with wins over York County Tech, Susquenita, Newport and Halifax. The back half was rough, losing five in a row. The squad will look to turn some backstretch losses into wins to finish the season this year, and potentially enter in the postseason.

6. Susquenita Blackhawks (3-7)

2024 Record: 2-8 | Head Coach: Joe Chrismer

Susquenita returns junior Rex Wilson at quarterback for a Susquenita squad that is looking to improve upon last year’s two-win record. He threw 103 completions off 216 attempts last season, tallying 1,242 yards in the process. One of his targets, Jacob Brown comes back as well after leading the team in rushers and and is the top returning air threat as well. The Blackhawks squeaked out wins over Newport and Halifax last year, and they might be able to add Camp Hill to a list of wins this year.

7. Camp Hill Lions (2-8)

2024 Record: 6-5 | Head Coach: Tim Bigelow

The Lions met up with Lancaster Catholic more than any other team last year, catching the Crusaders in a week one, double overtime loss and a 27-20 loss in the District 3 2A semifinals. Now, Drew Branstetter – now at Gettysburg College – hands the reigns of quarterback to junior Colby Luther, who is ready to prove himself as Camp Hill’s next passer. Branstetter took over midway through his freshman year and was QB1 since then, so it’s reasonable to expect the transition under center to be a big move. The Lions will host Lancaster Catholic in week one at Siebert Park, then get into conference play against Big Spring. Two seniors, AJ Serdar and MA Scaringi will be difference makers this season, Serdar as a running back and Scaringi as a linebacker. The two threats at wide receiver will be junior Owen Grove and senior Jax Hale, a transfer from Upper Dauphin. It’s not far-fetched to say the Lions can squeak a few more wins out of their schedule, it’s just not easy to see where they come. For now, it’s Halifax and Newport.

8. Newport Buffaloes (1-9)

2024 Record: 2-8 | Head Coach: Todd Rothermel

The Buffaloes edged out a surprising win over Milton Hershey and beat Halifax last season, and are bringing back quarterback Trevin Arnold for his senior year this season. Whenever Newport can grab a win in their schedule, it’ll come as Rothermel’s 100th of his career at Newport, and it seems they may be able to beat Halifax again this year. It seems they’ll be led in the ground game, with a duo of running backs – Landon Cigic and Dalton Kratzer – leading the way. The Buffaloes open the year hosting Juniata Valley.

9. Halifax Wildcats (0-10)

2024 Record: 0-10 | Head Coach: Ben Carroll

Halifax will turn to Ben Carroll to lead the program in 2025, and they hope for a few wins in the new season. Ryder Tobias will take over as Halifax’s quarterback this season. Halifax opened their season with Minersville, and will host the Battlin’ Miners again in week one. Halifax’s closest game was their 7-0 loss versus Camp Hill, so they may turn to that road game this season as a potential chance to win.

Counting down the Top 10 Players to watch in the Mid-Penn Colonial Division

Colonial

Andy Sandrik

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August 14, 2025

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Individual talent doesn’t always equate to team success, but it’s hard to bet against the sheer number of talented individuals the Susquehanna Township Tribe are projected to bring to the high school gridiron this fall.

We’ve been tasked with determining the Top 10 players to watch in the Colonial Division this season, and even with the graduation of the division’s Defensive Player of the Year in Ka’seemh Singleton Brown, we find ourself with a list just chock full of ‘Hanna stars.

How many Tribe standouts made it into our Top 10? That’s for you to find out in the week to come as we reveal two standouts to watch in the Colonial each day. Stick with 4th Down Magazine as we continue to preview the upcoming Mid-Penn Conference season.

10. George Hartwick, Middletown, LB

With the 5-foot-10, 190-pound Hartwick patrolling from the middle LB position for Middletown, the high-motor Colonial Division Second Teamer had an opportunity to impact the game on every snap last fall, and he often did.

Compiling 87 tackles to go along with a caused fumble and a pass defense in 2024, Hartwick plays with aggression and brings the wood. He excels at reading plays and making contact at the line of scrimmage with solid, fundamental tackles. Hartwick isn’t an LB that can be picked on in the passing game, either, as he can hold his own in one-on-one coverage and snag down receivers with shoestring tackles. Hustle is a trademark of Hartwick’s game, as is playing until the whistle.

Hartwick doubles as a long snapper, where he boasts a fast and clean release.

9. Turner Barlup, East Pennsboro, QB

It’s difficult to find film on the 5-foot-10, 170-pound Barlup, but the numbers do a fine job of telling the story of his breakout season as a junior QB last fall.

A Colonial Division Honorable Mention selection, Barlup had an accurate campaign in his first full season as the signal caller for the Panthers, completing 68 percent of his passes (93 of 136) for 1,458 yards, 14 TDs, and two interceptions.

Wearing the No. 13 and projected to have a talented corps of receivers at his disposal, Barlup will be eager to prove that his standout 2024 season was no stroke of luck.

8. Steph Malette, Susquehanna Township, DB

Malette earned the respect of his opponents in the Colonial Division last season, with the 5-foot-6, 140-pound sparkplug nailing down a First Team spot on the division’s defensive All-Star squad.

Manning both the free and strong safety positions, Malette can cover a lot of ground in a hurry and excels at creating angles to cut down ballcarriers. He hustled around the field for 60 tackles last fall. Possessing the hops to jump through a ceiling, Malette forces QBs to think twice about throwing in his direction after a 2024 season that saw him defend five passes and register an interception.

Look for Malette to have an even bigger impact as a junior this season, with increasing responsibilities as a returner, special teams, and RB.

7. Jarrett Kern, Susquehanna Township, WR

Kern, a 6-foot-1, 190-pound speedster, enters his senior season as the No. 1 receiver for a ‘Hanna offense guided by one of the top QBs in all of the Mid-Penn Conference: Torin Evans.

That means Kern will have more opportunities than ever to make plays, and judging by the film we’ve seen, he could very well have a breakout season after hauling in 45 catches for 601 yards and eight TDs last fall. A Second Team selection to the All-Colonial Division squad in 2024, Kern brings plenty of speed to the table with a time of 4.6 seconds in the 40-yard dash.

His speed, coupled with solid acceleration and sharp route-running, make him a threat both in the slot and out wide. Kern’s skill set is rounded out with hands that can make catches out of position, and a phsyical style of blocking that can absolutely punish DBs.

The stage is set for Kern to have a monster final season on the high school gridiron, and could very well improve his stock in college recruitment, where he’s generated interest from several Division I programs but has received just one offer, from Akron.

6. Samuel Mulbah, Trinity, DL

Size, speed, and power: Mulbah, a UMass commit, has it all.

The 6-foot-3, 255-pound DL is a game-wrecker in the trenches who generates such a push that he can disrupt a play from the very start. Mulbah is strong enough to weather the storm of a double team and needs just one hand, if that, to pull down a ballcarrier in the midst of the chaos.

Even as opponents dedicate their best resources toward neutralizing Mulbah, he can still use his length to bat down passes and often breaks through the line, anyway. Boasting a 40-yard dash time of 4.86 seconds, Mulbah can power his way to the backfield in a hurry. In a junior season that concluded with a selection to the Colonial Division Second Team, Mulbah totaled 43 tackles, including 12 tackles for loss and three sacks, to go along with a fumble recovery.

5. Jayden Riley, Susquehanna Township, DL

Susquehanna Township has its own version of William “Refrigerator” Perry — with perhaps a touch of Jerome Bettis — in the 5-foot-11, 280-pound Riley, who totaled an absurd five TDs on just eight carries for seven yards last fall.

While we could go on and on about Riley’s adventures as a primarily blocking fullback, it was his work on the defensive line that earned him a First Team selection on the Colonial Division All-Star squad. Speedy and strong with a good sense of the backfield, Riley’s not just there to chew up space for the LBs to make plays, he’s talented enough to split double teams and gobble up runners all on his own. Riley has enough power to overwhelm most blockers at the high school level, and has a knack for making plays on the ball after recording two fumble recoveries and two pass defenses last fall. He added 58 tackles, including six tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks, to go along with four QB hurries.

Playing on what could be an elite defense for the Tribe, look for continued defensive production from Riley, and maybe even a goal-line TD or two.

4. Marcus Yeager, Trinity, DL/TE

It’s been a fast rise up the ranks for the 6-foot-3, 225-pound Yeager, a Richmond commit who just started playing football two years ago.

It not only take brains — which Yeager has plenty of with a 3.8 GPA and membership in the National Honor Society — to pick up the varsity game at such a fast pace, it also takes some talent. Yeager put his skills on full display last fall, with the junior earning a First Team selection in the Colonial Division as a DE and Second Team honors as a TE.

Yeager is a force on the defensive side of the ball who has such a quick burst that he often appears to know the snap count better than the man assigned to block him. A steady attacker, Yeager excels at keeping blockers at bay with extended arms and using his height advantage to read the play in front of him. Once he’s made his read, Yeager has the strength to simply discard his blocker to one side or another and finish the job, whether that requires making a tackle or deploying his leaping skills to bat down passes. The Shamrocks stud compiled 57 tackles last season, including four sacks, and recovered a fumble.

On the offensive side of the ball, it’s imperative for opposing defenses to identify where Yeager is on the field. He’s a monster blocker as a TE, who also showed flashes as a pass catcher with 22 catches for 289 yards and two TDs. Yeager can also split out to wide receiver, where in open space he can juke away defenders or just overwhelm them altogether.

3. Logan Jerry, Milton Hershey, Athlete

Jerry electrified as a sophomore last fall, with the 5-foot-10, 155-pound QB averaging 15.6 yards per carry to establish himself as one of the biggest home run threats in the Colonial Division.

Boasting superior acceleration combined with runaway speed, Jerry can zip through smallest of openings and quickly leave defenders in the rear view mirror. He totaled 985 yards and 14 TDs on just 63 carries in 2024, with the slippery back shaking off would-be tacklers and making them look foolish with his ability to make sharp cuts.

A First Team selection in the Colonial as an athlete, Jerry showed some potential as a signal caller last year, completing 24 of 56 passes for 316 yards and four TDs, against one interception. As a cornerback, Jerry posted 20 tackles, including a sack, and caused a fumble.

If Jerry can continue to develop as a QB this fall, he has the potential to be a contender for Player of the Year honors in the Colonial.

2. Yendor Mack, Susquehanna Township, DL/OL

What happens when you combine an unstoppable force with an immovable object? Well, you get something like Yendor Mack, a 6-foot-3, 295-pound trench warrior who is committed to play at UMass next season.

Mack can plug into any spot on the offensive and defensive lines and the Colonial Division recognized this, naming Mack a First Teamer on both sides of the ball.

Mack plays like a man among boys and when he competes on the offensive line, it’s almost unfair the advantage he has by knowing the snap count. With overwhelming strength, Mack has made a habit out of steamrolling the opposition, while his quick feet enable him to neutralize even the most relentless of pass rushers.

Mack is just as effective on defense, where he often lines up on all fours before taking souls in the trenches. Last season he he racked up 76 tackles last fall, including four tackles for loss and one sack, to go along with one QB hurry and one pass defense. Even with double teams, it’s difficult to maintain a block on Mack, who can rip a man to the ground or send him flying into the air.

1. Torin Evans, Susquehanna Township, QB

You’d be hard-pressed to find another athlete in the Mid-Penn with a more accurate nickname than Susquehanna Township’s Torin “TD” Evans, a 6-foot-1, 175-pound QB who has accounted for 66 touchdowns — 51 passing and 15 rushing — over the course of his career.

He was named the Colonial Division’s Offensive Player of the Year as a junior last fall after completing 64 percent of his passes (168 of 264) for 2,562 yards, 29 TDs, and four INTs. Also an effective runner, Evans registered 55 carries for 357 yards and eight TDs last season.

Evans, a southpaw with a strong arm and an easy-throwing motion, loves to vertically stretch the field with the deep ball. He excels when he can stand tall in the pocket, identify openings, and deliver smooth strikes. With that said, Evans is most exciting to watch under pressure, when he uses his legs to buy more time or pick up positive rushing yardage. Like Harry Houdini, Evans has a knack for escaping the jaws of certain disaster.

Evans, who runs the 40-yard dash in 4.58 seconds, is a slippery runner who has excellent instincts as a ballcarrier and is smart enough to slide to avoid taking damage.

With Evans running the show, ‘Hanna will have a chance to win every time it steps on the field in 2025.

Honorable Mention: Josh Nengite (Susquehanna Township, LB, 6-3, 193), Noah Shifflett (Greencastle-Antrim, LB, 5-10, 180), Jasani Brown (Susquehanna Township, DB, 6-3, 175), Raj Collotia (East Pennsboro, K, 5-10, 210), Mason Boyer (Trinity, QB), Rakhi Seville (Susquehanna Township, RB, 5-9, 175), Maddox Jarzynski (Trinity, WR, 6-3), Dameon Reese (Trinity, DL, 6-3, 300), Luis Roman (Middletown, DB, 6-0, 190), Adam Yoder (West Perry, DB), Landen Mayer (Big Spring, K), Nickayus Zenon (Middletown, WR, 5-10, 172), Luke Serino (Trinity, OL, 6-1, 210), Mason Mellott (Greencastle-Antrim, OL, 5-10, 210), Henry Ridgley (East Pennsboro, OL, 5-11, 240), Christian Harter (East Pennsboro, C, 5-11, 230).

Counting down the Top 10 Players to watch in the Mid-Penn Capital Division

Capital

Andy Sandrik

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August 11, 2025

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Defense and trench warfare will rule the day in the Mid-Penn Capital Division this fall. That’s the impression that we get after poring through stats and film on our way to determining the Top 10 players to watch in the division this season.

Our list includes powerful giants and relentless monsters, all with the ability to wreck a game. Just one offensive specialist, an All-State QB, cracked into the Top 10.

We’ll take a closer look at these players–two per day–as well a few Honorable Mention selections, as part of our breakdown of the Capital Division. Stick with 4th Down Magazine in the days to come as we continue to analyze the remaining three divisions in the Mid-Penn.

10. M.A. Scaringi, Camp Hill, OLB/FB

When you live in the weight room, like the 6-foot, 200-pound Scaringi does, you can do some pretty remarkable things on the football field, like Scaringi has.

Power, acceleration, and keen field awareness are the senior’s strengths when he plays the OLB position. A “play to the whistle” kind of player, Scaringi can muscle down just about any opponent when he gets his arms wrapped around them. The Capital Division took notice of Scaringi’s big 2024 season, honoring him with a Second Team selection for his 101-tackle campaign.

Offensively, Camp Hill will be counting on Scaringi to once again produce from the backfield, where he churned out more than 700 combined rushing and receiving yards with five TDs last fall. Scaringi has soft hands and make the same basket catches as a WR, and he deploys a rumbling running style that can blast right through would-be solo tacklers.

9. Isaac Jackson, Upper Dauphin, DB/WR/Returner

Lighting in a bottle. That’s what Upper Dauphin has in Jackson, a 5-foot-10, 160-pound junior who was named a Capital Division All-Star on offense, defense, and as a returner for his electric play on the field last fall.

His incendiary speed, coupled with an ability to cut on a dime, fueled a season that saw him average 26.7 yards per catch after hauling in 18 receptions for 480 yards and five TDs. Jackson has a good sense of the ball under the stadium lights and has the hops to win jump balls, whether he’s playing on offense or defense.

He is a sticky DB whose presence alone can make a QB think twice about lofting a ball toward his side of the field, where he secured 33 tackles and two interceptions last season. Jackson was also a home run threat in the return game, where he averaged 25.2 yards as a kick returner.

8. Jackson Kauwell, Line Mountain, OL

The 6-foot-1, 270-pound Kauwell got to live the lineman’s dream last fall when we pulled in an interception from his DT position and returned it more than 60 yards on his way to the end zone.

It’s flashes like these that make us wonder if the powerful and athletic Kauwell can someday live out another dream: Making a college roster.

Kauwell, entering his fourth year as a starter on Line Mountain’s OL, came into his own last season, landing a spot on the Capital Division’s First Team offense. Heavy-handed with natural power, skills honed by his service as a heavyweight on the Eagles’ wrestling squad, Kauwell is no easy assignment for any lineman in the division.

If Kauwell can unleashed his angry side in 2025, he could be in for a breakout senior season.

7. Karson Engle, Upper Dauphin, OL/DT

If you’re facing off in the trenches against Engle, a 6-foot-4, 290-pound terror of a left tackle, get used to spending the majority of the game with your back on the ground.

Engle was cooking as a sophomore last fall, with the big man simply steamrolling nearly every opposing defender put in front of him. He generates a powerful drive right from the snap of the ball, and once Engle builds momentum, he leaves bodies in his wake.

His pass blocking is effective almost to the point of hilarity, with Engle frequently taking on the appearance of an adult warding off a flailing child.

Engle also came into his own as a DT last fall, piling up 27 tackles, including six tackles for loss and two sacks.

6. Kaiden Maurer, Line Mountain, QB

Following a big junior season that saw Maurer — a 6-foot-2, 180-pound QB — set school records for single-season (29) and career (53) passing TDs, Line Mountain’s signal caller could be in for his most productive campaign yet.

Named to the Pa. Football Writers’ All-State Team and as a Second Team selection in the Capital Division, Maurer threw for more than 2,000 yards last fall, and ran for nine scores. His experience shows in the way he plays the position, with Maurer keeping his sharp eyes downfield and delivering strikes with a quick release and a nice, easy spiral.

Left with time in the pocket, Maurer can pick a defense apart, which forces the opposition to apply pressure with blitzes. That’s not a good idea, either, as Maurer can deliver strong throws from out of position when he’s under duress.

His ability to run adds another wrinkle to an offense that promises to create major headaches for defenses. Maurer ran 68 times last season, averaging 5.2 yards per carry.

5. Angel Luciano, Steel-High, LB/WR

Steel-High couldn’t ask for a better man to lead its defense this season than Luciano, a violent 6-foot-3, 225-pound MLB and edge-rush DE who nailed down First Team honors in the Colonial last fall.

The senior has a knack for recognizing where the ball is going, and with that ability to see a play develop, Luciano is able to put himself in a position to wreck it. He is a dangerous blitzer who, on his path to the ballcarrier, can shake off blockers or simply blow past them untouched. With the speed to stick with wideouts and the strength to manhandle them, Luciano is equally deadly at defending the pass, enforcing a toll on any receiver left hanging out to dry.

Like many players on Steel-High’s roster, Luciano plays both ways. As a receiver, was named to the Colonial’s Second Team last fall.

4. Semaj Evans, Steel-High, DL/OG

There was some concern about how Steel-High’s new-look squad would react following the 2023 season, which featured a state championship and the graduation of the greatest senior class in school history. As it turned out, the closing of one era opened the door for a new one: The reign of Semaj Evans, a 6-foot-3, 255-pound lineman who earned Capital Division First Team nods on both sides of the ball as a sophomore last fall.

With the strength to split double teams and the speed to chase down fleeing ballcarriers, coupled with a relentless style of play, Evans’ presence on the defensive line has been known to cause panic in opposing backfields. On offense Evans mans the guard position, and while he is a solid pass protector, he especially excels at obliterating unsuspecting defenders on trap plays.

With two seasons of varsity ball still remaining for Evans, look for the Rollers to stay relevant in the Mid-Penn for years to come.

3. Eoghan Savage, Upper Dauphin, DE/TE

Very few players have a surname that perfectly aligns with their play on the field, but it clicks perfectly for Savage, a 6-foot-3, 235-pound monster who has been torturing opposing high school linemen since he was a freshman.

Whether he’s lining up at DE, his primary position, or in the very middle of the trenches at nose tackle, Savage excels at wreaking havoc. Equipped with a large frame, coupled with long, strong arms, Savage can quickly disengage from blocks and scoop up nearby ballcarriers. This process often results in opponents getting tossed around like rag dolls, or being flat out pancaked. To put this all into perspective, Savage has totaled 108 tackles over his career with 39 of those being recorded for a loss, including 13 sacks.

On the other side of the ball as a TE/WR, Savage recorded 11 catches for 141 yards and a TD last season. While his ability to catch passes is a plus, his blocking is what puts fear into the hearts of opponents. We feel especially sorry for the defensive backs trying to survive the blocks from Savage, a PIAA wrestling qualifier at heavyweight.

. Jasper Shepps, Juniata, DB/WR/Returner/Punter

It’s hard for us to believe that a player like Shepps, a 6-foot-1, 180-pound athlete who can do just about anything he wants on a football field, doesn’t have more college offers than he has.

Shepps is at his deadliest on the defensive side of the ball, where he’s pulled down 23 interceptions over his first three seasons on the high school gridiron. Shepps can match up with the top opposing receiver, if asked, or he can patrol the deep end of the field as a safety, just daring the QB to put the ball up for grabs.

Whether he’s playing defense or offense, Shepps has a good sense for the ball and the length to reach up and haul it in. As a receiver, Shepps has a knack for finding the soft spot in the defense, coupled with an ability to beat double teams and make off-balance catches in traffic. Over the course of his career, he’s registered 146 catches for 2,805 yards and 30 TDs.

Arm tackles won’t work against the shifty Shepps, also a dangerous return man who averaged 21.4 yards on kickoff returns and 8.9 yards on punt returns. Shepps can also impact the game as a punter, a position that saw him average 37 yards a pop last fall.

1. Max Johnson, Line Mountain, DL/TE

We think Maxim is a cooler first name than Max, but who are we to argue with the 6-foot-4, 200-pound beast from Herndon?

Johnson was the most terrifying man in the Capital last fall, with the rangy DE securing the nod as the division’s Defensive Player of the Year after rolling up 81 tackles, 16 sacks, 16 QB hurries, and four caused fumbles, to go along with five passes defended. This breakout season, of course, was nothing new for Johnson, who’s totaled 36.5 sacks over his first three seasons on the high school gridiron.

Johnson wields a potent combination of power and quickness, and his ability to attack from both the left and right sides make him a matchup nightmare for opponents. Johnson often finds himself in the backfield almost as soon as the ball is snapped, either running past the offensive lineman tasked with blocking him or picking up the poor soul and using him as a weapon to disrupt the QB.

Johnson’s length, which he uses to bat down passes at the line of scrimmage, made him an asset on the other side of the ball at TE. He had the best offensive season of his career last season, hauling in 27 catches for 383 yards and five TDs. It goes without saying that Johnson has the potential to put up even bigger numbers in his final season of high ball.

Honorable Mention: Bryce Harlon (Juniata, OL, 5-10, 215), Jackson Kauwell (Line Mountain, OL, 6-0, 260), Quann Padgett (Steel-High, DL/OL, 6-3, 236), Teegan Carroll (Halifax, LB/QB, 6-2, 195), Ni’Shaun Ward-McMullen (Steel-High, LB/RB, 6-2, 220), Dalton Schadel (Line Mountain, WR, 5-9, 160), Dylan Vadasz (Newport, OL, 6-0, 230), Braiden McCartney (Upper Dauphin, OL, 6-3, 240), AJ Serdar (Camp Hill, RB, 6-1, 195), Zach Bates (Newport, QB/K, 6-1, 190).