2021 Preview: Upper Dauphin Trojans

Michael Bullock
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2021 Preview: Upper Dauphin Trojans

Coach: Kent Smeltz, 4th season (27-14)

Classification: 2A

League/division: Mid-Penn Liberty

2020 record: 2-5, 2-2 in the Mid-Penn Liberty

Postseason: Did not qualify

RETURNING LEADERS

Passing: Comp-Att, Yards, TDs

N/A

Rushing: Att-Yards, Avg, TDs

Christian Snyder: 76-555, 7.3, 4

Brady Morgan: 41-314, 7.7, 5

Aiden Wiest: 27-296, 11.0, 5

Receiving: Rec-Yards, Avg, TDs

Brady Morgan: 5-68, 13.6, 1

Christian Snyder: 4-92, 23.0, 1

Aiden Wiest: 4-56, 14.0, 0

Key returning players: Dillon Johns, sr, OL/DL; Chase Lentz, sr, OL/ILB; Colton Reed, sr, OL/DL; Christian Snyder, sr, RB/LB; Aiden Wiest, sr, RB/LB; Chase Grassmyer, jr, TE/DL; Alex Hepler, jr, RB/LB; Brady Morgan, jr, RB/DB; Peyton Wentzel, jr, OL/DL.

Outlook: While the departures of a sizable senior class that fueled the Trojans’ impressive run to Tri-Valley League and District 3 Class 2A championships, as well as a berth in states, injuries also took a bite out of Kent Smeltz’s club even before UD lined up for its regular-season opener. Hopefully, those setbacks won’t hinder the progress of a promising squad for a second straight year. Yet while Upper Dauphin is working with its third quarterback in as many seasons, Smeltz’s group features an experienced offensive line and several veteran backs capable of going yard on any down on running plays and with a quick flick to the flanks. Where the Trojans hope to improve is on the defensive side of the ball, particularly since UD struggled throughout 2020. If Smeltz’s bunch can get off to a strong start — UD will play its first three in Elizabethville — these guys could be right there at the end challenging for Liberty Division supremacy.

                                           Three Things to Know:

1. Offensive front must lead the way so several dimensions can get comfortable as quickly as possible: With an intriguing mix of experience and some size, offensive linemen such as Dillon Johns, Chase Lentz, Colton Reed and Peyton Wentzel need to be effective early so Smeltz’s Trojans can get the ground game functioning smoothly behind explosive backs such as Brady Morgan and Aiden Wiest can find cracks in the defense that will allow them to reach the second level and beyond. Christian Snyder is the third piece of UD’s running back puzzle, but he’s nursing a surgically repaired hand and the Trojans aren’t sure when he’ll be available. These guys have shown the ability to break off runs — Snyder, Morgan and Wiest averaged 7.3, 7.7 and 11.0 yards per carry, respectively, in 2020 — consistently. All three can catch the ball, too. “Our offensive line has been doing well,” said Smeltz, the former Line Mountain and Mansfield University standout. “We have a lot of returning starters there. We need to have a big year from them. … We definitely want to take advantage of that offensive line and be able to run the ball.” UD’s O-Line also is going to need to be effective in pass-blocking situations since the Trojans will debut first-year senior Wil Laskowski when they open against James Buchanan. “Obviously, we have a lot of inexperience there,” Smeltz added. “He’s a good athlete and he’s very smart — but he’s also very inexperienced.”

2. Smeltz hopes defensive unit returns to form: While the Trojans played from in front throughout the 2019 campaign, that wasn’t the case last season as UD encountered all sorts of problems trying to keep a lid on the opposition. So, obviously, Smeltz is trying to shore up the defensive side of the ball and limit opposing teams from keeping the sticks in motion while scoring drives unfold — long ones and quick ones. “No matter what level of football you’re playing, I believe the key is you’ve got to be able to stop the run,” Smeltz admitted. “Obviously, that’s a big emphasis for us. We want to put teams in 3rd-and-long. We took a step back last year with our defensive unit, so we’re hoping to show big improvement this year. Two years ago we led the (Tri-Valley) league in defense. That’s the expectation, that’s the standard and we certainly didn’t meet that standard last year. Hopefully, we’re going to be much improved.”

3. Laskowski’s crash course in quarterback play features a tutor that’s been there and done that — any number of times: Although Laskowski may be strapping on a helmet and shoulder pads for the first time at the varsity level, the 6-0, 170-pounder has been the Trojans’ starting lead guard on the Upper Dauphin basketball squad for several seasons. So, he’s been the guy with the ball in his hands frequently and that means making critical decisions repeatedly. And Smeltz believes Laskowski’s experience at the lead guard spot will translate nicely to the quarterback role on the football field. “His ballhandling skills are very good,” Smeltz stated. “His decision making is very good. All the things you would expect from a point guard in basketball is carrying over to football.” Laskowski’s also benefited from plenty of hands-on instruction from Tom Hain, the 70something UD alum who fronted the Trojan football long enough in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s to pocket 174 victories and nine Twin Valley Conference championships. Hain is charged with overseeing UD’s quarterbacks and defensive backs. Hain also spent plenty of winters in UD’s Foster Gymnasium, however, working alongside his former coach, Gordie Foster, before running the program for several seasons. “I’m fortunate to have Tom Hain on our coaching staff,” Smeltz admitted. “He’s a big part of Upper Dauphin’s tradition and history. He’s a real asset.”

2021 Preview: Susquenita Blackhawks

Michael Bullock
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2021 Preview: Susquenita Blackhawks

Coach: Augie Glass, 1st season

Classification: 2A

League/division: Mid-Penn Liberty

2020 record: 3-4, 2-2 in Mid-Penn Liberty

Postseason: Did not qualify

                                             RETURNING LEADERS

Passing: Comp-Att, Yards, TDs

Derek Gibney: 40-105, 729, 6

Rushing: Att-Yards, Avg, TDs

Derek Gibney: 93-344, 3.7, 8

Receiving: Rec-Yards, Avg, TDs

Bryce McKee: 16-262, 16.4, 2

Key returning players: Tyler Kurtz, sr, OT/NT; Derek Gibney, so, QB; Zach Keefe, jr, OG/DT; Tyler Fisher, sr, RB/OLB; Louie Frisenda, jr, TB/MLB; Mason Figard, jr, WR/OLB; Bryce McKee, so, WR/FS; Kamar Lewis, so, WR/TE/DL.

Outlook: About to begin his first season fronting a high school football program, Augie Glass has overhauled a number of things and shifted a few players from one position to another as the former Harrisburg High assistant and alum quickly put his own stamp on the Susquenita program. And while Glass inherited some talented youngsters from predecessor Scott Acri — with varsity experience — he definitely is going to need his sophomore class to be productive since only a handful of seniors and juniors are being counted on to play leading roles for the Blackhawks. So, if those youngsters settle in quickly and perform as Glass believes they can, this program could make plenty of noise in the Mid-Penn Liberty and possibly contend. A quick start would add momentum and reinforce those remarkably positive preseason thoughts.

Three Things to Know:

1. Run-pass balance is the objective and Gibney will be at the helm: Hoping to establish a strong running game yet have the capability of striking from everywhere, Glass and offensive coordinator Myron Selby spent summer workouts installing their system while trying to speed the development of sophomore quarterback Derek Gibney. So far, so good. “We had to wipe his memory from last year in the triple option,” Glass admitted. “So, this summer it was important for him and everybody else to buy in early. It didn’t take long. He put in the extra work. He runs our offense. We’re actually OK with him to call plays. That’s how much he’s picked up and that’s how he gets all the guys lined up. He knows all the calls. He knows the protections. Now he just needs to perform. We’re definitely comfortable with him throwing the ball.” And Gibney’s throws could be targeted for backs such as Tyler Fisher and Louie Frisenda, or he could test the perimeter by chucking the ball toward receivers such as Bryce McKee, converted offensive lineman Mason Figard and Kamar Lewis. Stay tuned. “We definitely want to get them the ball. We basically want to make teams defend the whole field.”

2. As for the sophomores … : While Gibney, McKee and Lewis are just several parts of Susquenita’s promising present, they’re likely going to be cornerstone players as the Blackhawks move forward. At least, that’s what Glass has in mind. “I love it,” Glass said of a starting lineup that features two seniors and four juniors while the rest are primarily sophomores. “I feel blessed. I knew what I was coming into, for one. As a new coach, I was like, ‘Man, I actually have these kids for the next three seasons.’ That means they have time to adapt to the program, but the following year we’ll be even stronger because they already know it now.”

3. Leaving a lasting impression: While the Blackhawks will open the 2021 campaign with road dates at Elco and Liberty Division playmate Line Mountain, Glass believes the first seven outings can be labeled as tough games. So, he’s trying to impress upon his club how important consistency is — especially when it comes to intensity and 48-minute effort. It’s all part of his plan to construct a program that’s perennially at or near the top of the Mid-Penn Liberty. “Our motto is new level. We’re trying to get to a new level,” Glass said. “We’re trying to do something that school hasn’t done ever. We don’t have any banners. We don’t have any trophies. It’s all wrestling and field hockey. … They’ve picked up our program quick. They’re hungry. These kids are hungry to win.”

2021 Preview: Mechanicsburg Wildcats

Andy Sandrik
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2021 Preview: Mechanicsburg Wildcats

Coach: Anthony Rose

Classification: 5A

League/division: Mid-Penn Conference/ Colonial Division

2020 record: 9-1, 7-0 in Division

Postseason: Lost to Governor Mifflin, 68-14 in the District 3-5A Semifinal

RETURNING LEADERS:

Passing: Comp-Att., Yards, TD

Not available

Rushing: Att-Yards., Avg., TD

Not available

Receiving: Rec.-Yards, Avg., TD

Not available

KEY PLAYERS: 

Sam DeLuca, sr., TE-LB; Marlon Aristy, sr. OL-LB; RaShawn Early-Holton, sr., WR-DB; Sam Geraty, sr., OL-DL; Ben Grill, sr., OL-DL; Daniel Francis, sr., WR-LB; Glenn Robinson, sr., RB-LB; Talbot Reed-Jacquay, sr., OL-DL; Michael Jones, sr., OL-DL); Parker Sample, jr., RB-DB; Sage Thomas, jr., RB-LB; Jeff Lougee, so., QB; Seth Brubaker, jr., QB-DB.

OUTLOOK: We’ve seen it happen a thousand times before, where the teams with the uber-exceptional player crash and burn after graduation. But there seems to be a different air around the Mechanicsburg program following the loss of do-it-all quarterback Micah Brubaker. Yes, a big chunk of the playbook is now off the table, but the Wildcats are loaded in so many other places that it’s hard to see them falling off the pace they set last year. Mechanicsburg, sporting a 75-player roster, has a huge offensive line to complement a deep pool of returning skill players, while the defensive front seven gives the Wildcats plenty of pop go blow-for-blow against the toughest teams in the Colonial. Even if Mechanicsburg can fill just one of Brubaker’s shoes, that could very well be enough to propel the Wildcats to a playoff berth, and possibly a division title.
3 THINGS TO KNOW
1. Battle for QB1
Teams in the Colonial had to have taken a collective sigh of relief when dynamic QB Micah Brubaker took his final snaps for the Wildcats last season. Brubaker, now at Salisbury University, gave opposing defenses nightmares with his ability to run, throw, and improvise his way to a monster season. Brubaker is gone, but the QB cupboard at Mechanicsburg isn’t exactly empty. Three multi-sport athletes — Jeff Lougee, Seth Brubaker, and Tony Glinatsis — are battling to be Mechanicsburg’s signal-caller. Lougee, a 5-foot-11 and 165-pound sophomore, is a Duke baseball recruit and possesses the best deep-throw abilities, while junior Brubaker is a big and strong competitor at 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, who can bowl guys over. The good news for whoever wins the QB competition: A chance to throw to explosive senior RaShawn Early-Holton, one of the best WRs in the division. The bad news for opponents: The two guys who don’t win the starting QB spot will still be featured in the offense, likely as receivers. “Even with losing Micah, I think we can absorb that loss better than teams in the past,” Wildcats coach Anthony Rose said. “All three guys competing to be our QB are very athletic. One of them will emerge to be the leader, but the other two guys will still be essential pieces.”

2. Built to Run
In a perfect world, Mechanicsburg would like to be the exception in the run-heavy Colonial as a squad that can both pound the rock and air the ball out with equal efficiency. But don’t be surprised if you see the Wildcats lean on the run a bit, while the team breaks in a new QB. That shouldn’t be a problem for Mechanicsburg, which has all the pieces in place to be among the Colonial’s best running teams. We’ll start in the trenches, where the returners bring back some big guys in Sam Geraty (6-2, 220), Ben Grill (5-10, 240), Talbot Reed-Jaquay (6-7, 335), and Jayden Connors, who wrestles at 220 for the Wildcats. Toss in 6-foot-6, 275-pound Mike Jones, who is back after missing last year to injury, and there should be some huge holes to run through for a quartet of RBs: Trevor Sample, Glenn Robinson, Sage Thomas, and Shahie Gardner. Sample brings an explosive element to the running attack, while Thomas gives Mechanicsburg a big and physical back. Robinson, Rose said, carries many of the same qualities as Sample and Thomas. “Yes, I think our running game could be a strength,” Rose said. “We’re going to be tested week in and week out, and I think our guys up front are up to the challenge.”

3. Hard-hitting defense
With only five returners on the defensive side of the ball, it’s fair to wonder whether Mechanicsburg can stop teams as effectively as last season. But if you ask Rose, this year’s defense is more about quality than quantity. The leader of the Wildcats ‘D’ will be linebacker Sam DeLuca, who’s certainly not afraid to make contact. “Sammy is a big kid who has worked hard in the weight room,” Rose said of his senior, who is listed at 6-1.5 feet and 210 pounds. “He’s an intelligent kid who relishes contact and one of the leaders of our defense. He’s an all-around great kid and we’re lucky to have him on our defense.” DeLuca is joined in the linebacking corps by Marlon Aristy, while up front Sam Geraty, Mike Jones, and Ben Grill have the ability wreak havoc in the backfield. Mechanicsburg is replacing its entire secondary, but Rose likes his chances with Seth Brubaker and RaShawn Early-Holton, who have both put in good camps. “It’s more about who we’ve got at what positions than guys coming back,” Rose said. “I’m pleased with the way the defense is coming together. We’re in a good position to have some success.”

2021 Preview: East Pennsboro Panthers

Andy Sandrik
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2021 Preview: East Pennsboro Panthers

Coach: John Denniston

Classification: 4A

League/division: Mid-Penn Conference – Colonial      

2020 record: 3-4  Division: 2-4

Postseason: Did not qualify

RETURNING LEADERS:

Passing: Comp-Att., Yards, TD

Keith Oates III: 3-6, 89, 1

Rushing: Att-Yards., Avg., TD

Sy Burgos: 75-711, 9.5, 10

Devin Shepherd: 86-438, 5.1, 3

Receiving: Rec.-Yards, Avg., TD

Joshua Wortherley: 6-102, 17, 1

Sy Burgos: 4-34, 8.5, 0

Key Players: 

Key Returning Players: Jaren Boles, sr., OL-DL; Sy Burgos, sr., RB-DB; Jacob Dien, OL-DL; Justin Moore, sr., OL-DL; Devin Shepherd, jr., RB-LB; Colton Yohe, jr., OL; Dakota Campbell, jr., WR-LB-K; Harrison Laman, sr., LB; Zeb Kalib, sr., FS; Josh Angelo, so., DE-OL; Joshua Worthersly, sr., WR-CB; Keith Oates III, so., QB.

OUTLOOK: It’s hard to argue against East Pennsboro being a legitimate contender in this division. The Panthers are big and strong in the trenches and possess perhaps the Colonial’s most explosive back in Sy Burgos. While some teams in the division have the talent in the trenches to hold serve with East Penn, matching up with the depth of the Panthers could be another issue altogether. East Penn’s roster has ballooned from 40 players last year to 50 this fall. This makes all the difference in the world for the Panthers, who can now afford to do things like build up special teams and give adequate rest breaks. After the loaded Colonial beats up on itself and teams become worn down, expect East Penn to be among the last squads standing.

3 THINGS TO KNOW
HUGE UP FRONT
If you’ve been following along with our previews of the Colonial up to this point, you may have noticed that many of the teams in this division have strength in the trenches. East Penn’s cast of bruisers up front — who average out to just over 6-foot-2 and 257 pounds — could be among the best in the division. The Panthers return four starters from the OL: Jaren Boles (6-5, 270), Jacob Dien (6-3, 260), Justin Moore (6-3, 260), and Colton Yohe (6-0, 245). Rounding out the big guys up front is Josh Angelo (6-1, 250), who makes the move to the line after playing fullback last year. “Offensive line will be a strength for us this year,” East Penn coach John Denniston said. “When I look at all the position groups through our program, this is the most solid group of guys we have. They’re a close unit, leaders, friends, good students, and extremely hard workers. These guys have been in the weight room four to five days per week during the offseason. That’s a good group to build your team around.” On the flip side of the ball, Denniston says that the defensive unit will also excel in the trenches, with several of the aforementioned linemen expected to pull two-way duty. He’s confident the group can stay fresh thanks to a capable group of reserves to rotate in and out of the fray, including sophomore Carter Stup (6-0, 290). “We’ve really built our team around our offensive and defensive lines,” Denniston said. “At the end of the day, games are still won and lost in the tackle box.”

PRESEASON MVP
While East Penn has the size and strength to match up with just about any team in the division, what may separate the Panthers from the pack is the player the Colonial’s coaches voted on as the preseason offensive MVP: Sy Burgos. The 5-foot-7, 175-pound Burgos was a hard man to track down as a junior RB last year, averaging nearly a first down per carry with 711 yards on 75 carries, to go along with 10 TDs. “We’ll line him up at tailback, slot, and X. He’s very, very fast and when you get the ball in his hands, he’ll make it happen,” Denniston said. “He’s explosive and shifty, you want to get the ball to him in open space.” Staying light on the feet could be a good strategy to contain Burgos, but not his backfield mate Devin Shepherd, a junior power back who measures up at 5-foot-11 and 190 pounds. “We view it as we have two terrific running backs,” Denniston said. “They have skills, vision, and don’t take big hits.”

NEW FACE AT QB
In the final game of the 2020 season, the Panthers inserted a freshman QB — Keith Oates III — to make the start. Oates completed 3 of 6 passes for 89 yards and a touchdown that game, and went to work in the offseason to improve his game. Denniston and Co. have been pleased with the progress, and the 6-foot, 200-pound Oates has been named the starter for this season. “Keith has great leadership abilities and is a very talented player,” Denniston said. “What we’re looking for in a QB is someone with a great game IQ, and the ability to lead and bring calmness and leadership into the huddle. We think should be well-suited for that.” Oates won the position over Dakota Campbell and Zeb Kalb, each of whom will still be active in the offense, likely to give Oates a pair of tall targets in the passing game.

2021 Preview: Lower Dauphin Falcons

Andy Sandrik
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2021 Preview: Lower Dauphin Falcons

Coach: Josh Borreli

Classification: 5A

League/division: Mid-Penn Conference/ Keystone Division

2020 record: 1-5, 1-4 in Division

Postseason: Did not qualify

RETURNING LEADERS:

Passing: Comp-Att., Yards, TD

Braden Landis: 12-35, 153, 0

Rushing: Att-Yards., Avg., TD

Ethan Miller: 55-242, 4.4, 3

Jacob Kauffman: 40-169, 4.2, 1

Receiving: Rec.-Yards, Avg., TD

Charlie Fortney: 3-77, 25.7, 0

Ryan Angerer: 7-76, 10.9, 0

Key Players: 

Key Returning Players: Braden Landis, sr., QB-DB; Ethan Miller, sr., RB-LB; Ryan Angerer, sr., TE-DE; Jacob Kauffman, sr. RB-DB; Blake Kelley, sr., OL; Tanner Webb, jr., OL; Max Klingensmith, sr., DB; Ty Millhimes, so., SS; Jaquan Murphy, sr., LB; Aiden Gingrich, sr., OLB; Charlie Fortney, jr., DB; Dan Scherer, sr., LB; Aaron Moyer, jr., OL-DL; Blake Kelley, sr., OL-DL.


OUTLOOK: Having the right players can make all the difference in the world, but sometimes having the right coaching staff in place can have just as much of an impact. Borreli has already proven himself as a skilled assistant at the college level, but he faces a unique challenge taking on a struggling high school program at LD. There is no recruiting for public high school football, nor are there depth charts that go four to five players deep. You have to work with what you have. The good news for Borreli is he does have some talent to work with. With a thin roster, though, success of the program will rely on the coaching staff’s ability to capitalize on the team’s strengths, while trying to disguise the weaknesses. The Keystone can be a meat-grinder, but if the Falcons can stay healthy, and if Borreli can pull the strings just right, there is plenty of reason to believe the team can improve upon last year’s 1-5 campaign.

3 THINGS TO KNOW
1. Falcon Pride
The Lower Dauphin football program was in a much different place when Josh Borreli took his turn as a Falcons player in the early 2000s. Borreli now begins his head-coaching journey with an LD team that hasn’t had a winning season since 2015. “The pride in being a Falcon is what brought me back, and I want to bring that back to the kids on the squad,” Borreli said. “I grew up in a time where LD was kind of a powerhouse team. We’re a blue-collar, hard-working school, but we haven’t had that aura out recently.” Turning a program around is no easy task, but Borreli brings with him a wealth of college coaching experience after stops at Lebanon Valley, Western New England, and most recently a four-year stint at Shippensburg. Similar to the college level, Borreli’s coaching staff includes at least one coach per football position. “I’m a big culture guy, to be honest, and the culture of of football, like how to create a team, is what draws me to the game,” Borreli said. “It all starts with our three foundational principles: Brotherhood. Integrity. Grit. … Success might not come overnight, but we can set the precedent this year for who we will be for years to come.”

2. Small in numbers, Big on skill
With 45 players on the roster, Borreli’s squad isn’t as deep as he’d like it to be, but there is enough talent returning for the Falcons to make an impact in the Keystone. Lower Dauphin returns its top playmakers in QB Braden Landis, as well as RBs Ethan Miller and Jake Kauffman, who combined to rush for 100 yards/game last season. Borreli likes what he sees from sophomore Ty Millhimes, who can both run and catch, and is excited to see what 6-foot-5 tight end Ryan Angerer can bring to the table in his senior year. Look for Charlie Fortney, a junior wide receiver, to ink his name into the stat sheets as well. If the offensive line — led by Aaron Moyer and Blake Kelley — can generate any push, LD should be able to put some points on the scoreboard this season. “We’re going for a balanced multiple attack, and being able to adjust from game to game will how good our offense actually is,” Borreli said. “We’d like to be able to run the football as well as use our assets in the passing game.”

3. Knowledge is Power
When you’re rolling with a small roster, it’s essential for the players on the field to know the situations and where to be. Versatility helps, too. Borreli believes his defense carries both of those qualities, with enough hybrid players to shift around the lineup as needed, and the smarts to use an expanded playbook. LD will be looking to Max Klingensmith, a senior safety, to provide the leadership for the defense. “Max is kind of what makes the whole wheel go round,” Borreli said. “He gets all our checks, keeps all our personnel in place, and he’s a guy that’s very, very talented, but has had injuries for the last two years. The Mid-Penn hasn’t gotten to see him yet, but he’s completely healthy now and ready to go.” Borreli says he’s looking forward to seeing what DE Ryan Angerer can do this fall, and that junior Aidyn Gingrich, listed as an OLB, provides some flexibility to the defense. He’s also high on “two guys that have been around for a few years” in CB Charlie Fortney and LB Jaquan Murphy. “I feel really strong about our defensive group, and think that our core defensive personnel is strong and very smart,” Borreli said. “We’re very versatile and that gives us a lot of flexibility to how we defend different types of personnel.”



2021 Preview: Williams Valley Vikings

Michael Bullock
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2021 Preview: Williams Valley Vikings

Coach: Tim Savage, 10th season (85-24)

Classification: 1A

League/division: Colonial-Schuylkill Blue

2020 record: 8-1, 6-0 in Schuylkill League

Postseason: Shared District 11-1A championship.

                                          RETURNING LEADERS

Passing: Comp-Att, Yards, TDs

Isaac Whiteash: 3-5, 19, 1

Rushing: Att-Yards, Avg, TDs

Alex Achenbach: 78-501, 6.4, 3

Hunter Wolfgang: 61-350, 5.7, 3

Logan Williard: 35-92, 2.6, 4

Receiving: Rec-Yards, Avg, TDs

Logan Williard: 11-162, 14.7, 2

Brady Evans: 9-244, 27.1, 3

Hunter Wolfgang: 7-188, 26.9, 1

Key returning players: Jackson Yoder, sr, LB/C; Owen Shoop, sr, OG/DT; Hunter Wolfgang, sr, WR/DE; Nic Joseph, sr, TB/DB; Ezi Hite, jr, OT/DE; Brady Evans, jr, WR/CB; Logan Williard, jr, FB/OLB; Alex Achenbach, so, TB/CB; Brayden Shadle, jr, OG/DT; Cruz Banda, jr, OL/DL; Isaac Whiteash, jr, QB/DB.

Outlook: Although Williams Valley has unleashed some potent attacks during the Tim Savage Era, the 2021 Vikings may be just as powerful even if the formula is somewhat different than some earlier squads. While Savage has had to revamp his backfield a bit, an experienced offensive front should make life a heck of a lot easier for the Vikings’ new quarterback. If that happens and Williams Valley’s offensive front takes control, Savage’s Vikings could climb consistently from the preseason No. 9 ranking that PennLive hung on the youngsters who live along U.S. 209. What’s neat is the Vikes will get tested within the Colonial-Schuylkill League’s Blue Division and even when Williams Valley takes on some of the programs in the potent White Division. Bottom line is there’s move than enough here to make a run at yet another 11-A crown and more.

Three Things to Know:

1. Big eaters up front should make life easier for revamped backfield: Buoyed by the return of all five starters up front — and for the second straight season at that — head coach Tim Savage knows his offensive line needs to control, take over and even dominate games so his high-octane attack can continue to hum smoothly. Center Jackson Yoder and guard Owen Shoop will start on the O-Line for the fourth consecutive year while juniors Ezi Hite, Brayden Shadle and Cruz Banda will begin their third seasons as starters. “If they can’t carry a team, it’s never gonna happen,” said Savage, whose front ranges in size from 180 pounds to 230 pounds. “It’s gonna be a really nice line for the skill guys to run behind and the quarterbacks to throw behind. They should have plenty of time. I’m excited for them. I keep saying that the multiple all-state kids aren’t present on the team, but I think we’ll have quite a few by the time the season’s over.” A half-dozen Williams Valley youngsters landed on all-state teams in 2020, but only LB/Return man Logan Williard and DE Hite return. QB Bryce Herb, TE Jesse Engle, DB Jake Herman and PK Collin Rafferty have graduated. “I’m excited for the year,” Savage added. “I don’t have the alpha male in a (Dylan) Rabuck or an Engle, but collectively it could be one of our best teams. I’m really high on them.”

2. Departures of Herb and Engle are being addressed and the early returns are favorable: While many small school football programs would be reeling after losing four-year regulars at key positions, but Savage remains optimistic — even though record-setting quarterback Bryce Herb and defensive stopper/elite receiver Jesse Engle have graduated and moved on. “No one’s trying to be Jesse,” Savage said. “What we have is more depth and more options. What we lose is that single star power, but we’ll compensate and surpass. There’s three options, because the guys in the back can run and catch it and then there are receivers that run good routes and make plays for us. Then we have a freshman tight end that we’re grooming to be the next Jesse.” As for Herb, the Vikings have their first true quarterback competition in several seasons as junior Isaac Whiteash and sophomore Alex Achenbach are angling for the starting nod. Whiteash saw some time a season ago, while Achenbach took over at tailback for the final two-thirds of Williams Valley’s season. “We’ve got different sets for different guys, so there’s a package for both and I’m so excited for that,” Savage added. “They’ve both been throwing the ball better each day. … They’ve both been picking it up.”

3. Numbers have Savage fired up, but so does his squad’s flexibility: Carrying a roster numbering 41 youngsters — “It’s the most I’ve ever had,” Savage said — has the remarkably candid skipper upbeat, so does the flexibility his offensive attack can put on the field in an effort to confound opposing defenses. In addition to the different looks his quarterback candidates can present, the presence of senior speedster Nic Joseph gives the Vikings a home-run threat at tailback. Achenbach is bigger and faster — he led Williams Valley in rushing a season ago — so he can get plugged in at tailback, while Logan Williard gives Savage’s bunch a dependable performer at fullback. All of them can run the ball and catch it, too. On the flanks, returning receivers Hunter Wolfgang and Brady Evans stand 6-4 yet they also can stretch the field. Quite simply, the Vikes have plenty of horsepower they can unleash while chasing Colonial-Schuylkill Blue and District 11 championships. “It’s by far the deepest group I’ve ever had,” Savage added. So, if everything plays out the way Savage has things scripted, beware.

2021 Preview: Steel-High Rollers

Adam Kulikowski
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2021 Preview: Steel-High Rollers

Coach: Andrew Erby

Classification: 1A

League/division: Mid-Penn Conference/Capital Division

2020 record: 10-0, 4-0

Postseason: Won the PIAA Class 1A championship, defeating Jeannette 32-20.

RETURNING LEADERS:

Passing: Comp-Att., Yards, TD

Alex Erby: NA-NA., 2,742, 35

Rushing: Att-Yards, Avg., TD

None

Receiving: Rec.-Yards, Avg., TD

Tyrone Moore: 42-600, 14.2, 8

KEY PLAYERS: Tyrone Moore, sr., WR-CB; Taeyon Bratton sr., FB-DT; Marlyn A. Davis, sr., OT; Daivin Pryor, sr., SS; Tyshaun Holland-Alli, jr., LB-DE; Alex Erby, so., QB; Andrew Erby, so., DT; Jaeion Perry, so., LB; Amair Williams, so., LB; Eugene Green, so., DE; Rell Ceasar Jr., so., FS.

OUTLOOK: Steel-High will look to run it back after winning the PIAA Class 1A championship in 2020. The men on Cottage Hill return eight of 11 starters on defense — a young unit that should take a step or two forward thanks to the reps gained last season. A stellar group of wideouts no longer don the blue and silver including Penn State recruit Mehki Flowers and Damein Hammonds, but with incoming sophomore Alex Erby under center, the new cast should be quick to hit their stride. A District 3 title and more is well within reach for the Rollers.

3 THINGS TO KNOW
1. Next-level D

Steel-High knew its defense would need time to settle in 2020 as green underclassmen comprised many of the starting positions. As that championship run progressed, this defense continued to clamp down, capped by strong performances in the semifinal and championship games in which the unit yielded 14 and 20 points, respectively. The Rollers should reap the benefits of that seasoning in 2021 and beyond with eight of 11 starters set to return. Eugene Green (23 tackles, 4 sacks) and the 6-foot-4, 275-pound sophomore Andrew Erby Jr. (43 tackles, 3 sacks) anchor the trenches while linebackers Jaeion Perry and Amari Williams combined to notch more than 140 tackles as freshmen. Daivin Pryor, the most seasoned veteran of the group as a senior leads the defense as an anchor in the secondary. “We’re going to make mistakes, but we want to learn from them and we spent a lot of time on how we can improve,” Steel-High coach Andrew Erby said. “We still feel like we haven’t reached our potential with so many young players coming back. … The defensive side of the ball has the potential to be our strength.”


2. Shuffling the skill positions

Many of the cats who fueled Steel-High’s high-octane offense in 2020 exited the program — Penn State recruit Mehki Flowers now calls CD East home, while All-State first-team selections Odell Greene and Damein Hammond turned their tassels after the COVID-altered 2020 campaign. That’s more than 3,400 yards of production combined. That opens the door for a new batch of playmakers to make their mark alongside Erby. Junior wideout Tyrone Moore, often an unsung player in Erby’s offense, returns after notching 600 yards and eight touchdowns last year. Sophomores Durrell Ceaser Jr. and Jaieon Perry will help round out the speedsters outside. Carlisle transfer Jakhai Noss will help comprise a revamped backfield that will also include Taeyon Bratton and Daivin Pryor. Noss, the 6-2, 205-pound junior, last played football two season ago, but Erby believes he’ll contribute to the Rollers success this year. “I like how he carries himself,” Erby said. “He fits our culture and is a hard-working kid. He’s a great fit for the program. He can run a little bit, he’s fast enough to run away from you but physical enough to run through you.”

3. Maturation of Alex Erby

Steel-High coach Andrew Erby is ready to take the cover off his Corvette  —that is he’s taking the restraints off his 6-4, 210-pound quarterback and son, Alex Erby. A year removed from a broken foot that limited Alex, Erby’s gunslinging son is ready to showcase his refined ability to throw on the run and become a true dual-threat passer. The Pa. Football Writers All-State selection filled the stat sheet with 2,742 passing yards and 35 touchdowns en route to the PIAA Class 1A title. Tutelage from former Cedar Cliff Colts standout Andrew Ford — a fellow lefty quarterback — helped to improve his footwork and build more mental toughness needed to compete at the highest level. “He worked hard at keeping his body lean,” Erby said of Alex’s offseason work. “We worked on his speed and agility, his mobility from the pocket, being able to throw on the run. That will be an added component to his game that will really take off for him as far as the team and college recruiting… He has all the tangibles to be a high-end quarterback.”

2021 Preview: Susquehanna Township Indians

Adam Kulikowski
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2021 Preview: Susquehanna Township Indians

Coach: Joe Headen

Classification: 3A

League/division: Mid-Penn Conference/Colonial Division

2020 record: 2-5, 1-5

Postseason: Did not qualify

RETURNING LEADERS:

Passing: Comp-Att., Yards, TD

Not available

Rushing: Att-Yards, Avg., TD

Not available

Receiving: Rec.-Yards, Avg., TD

Not available

KEY PLAYERS: Freeman Wilson, sr., OL-DL; Jamall Minifield, sr., OL-DL; Nazsair Porter-Bellamy, sr., RB-LB; Julio Enos, sr., DE; Milt Baltimore, sr., S; Javon White, jr., QB-FS; Razzay Bowles, jr., WR-LB; Ryan Nickel, jr., K-P-PK; Ryan McClain, so., WR-DB.

OUTLOOK: What this Indians team lacks in experience — 25 of their 50-man roster has never participated in a varsity snap — they make up in athleticism. How far that can carry the boys from Elmerton Avenue remains to be seen, but there are plenty of pieces to be excited about. One thing Joe Headen’s groups knows, however, is that they need to improve their red zone offense. During the COVID-altered 2020 campaign, the Indians converted just 17% of their red zone trips into points.

3 THINGS TO KNOW
1. From taking carries to taking snaps

Javon White is back at the position he knows best.White spent the 2020 season taking handoffs from quarterback Donald Leach after Headen’s crew penciled the incoming junior in as a lead back in the Indians attack — it’s what you do when you need to get one of your best athletes on the field. “Javon, I believe, he might be the best athlete in our building, and that says a lot,” Headen said. “I think the potential he has to affect the game not only offensively, but when we talk about defensively as well.” White is the prototypical dual-threat passer who will rely on his legs to wreak havoc on defenses as he matures in his ability to work through his progressions. “His ability to extend the play will be big,” Headen said. “Once he figures out at the high school level about the passing concepts, he will be a definite weapon against opposing defenses in our league.”


2. Weapons outside

A look at the Township roster won’t show many upperclassmen at wideout, but that doesn’t mean Headen’s group lacks experience. A talented group of pass catcher are poised to capitalize on the snaps they earned last year during a stop-and-start 2020 campaign. Juniors Ryan McClain (5-foot-9, 160) and Razay Bowles (5-10, 150) return for another circuit. Senior Middletown transfer Ny’zier Arango (6-3, 177) also will don the red and black when the season boots up Friday on the road against Kennett. At 6-3, Arango will provide the Indians with another physical receiver who has the ability to stretch the field. “He brings a whole different aspect that is going to complement what we are trying to do (on offense),” Headen said. “He has great length, is a great strider and a physical receiver who is going to add to our ability to take the top off the defense.”

3. Prospect watch

One of the most under-the-radar prospects in the Commonwealth resides on Elmerton Avenue where offensive lineman Jamall Minifield continues to hone his craft. The 6-6, 320-pound senior guard shed nearly 30 pounds to reach 320. The result? He’s moving better, and he’s showcasing better footwork. Headen believes the offseason efforts of the All-Mid-Penn linemen could pay off with a Division I offer. “They (colleges) are going to see a difference on film,” Headen said. “His ceiling is extremely high. Someone is going to get a kid that develops into something special when that opportunity comes.” Minifield and All-Conference compadre Freeman Wilson (6-2, 260) highlight what Headen called one of the deepest groups of linemen that have ever been in the program at Susquehanna Twp. — a group that runs 22 members deep.

2021 Preview: Cedar Cliff Colts

Adam Kulikowski
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2021 Preview: Cedar Cliff Colts

Coach: Colin Gillen

Classification: 5A

League/division: Mid-Penn Conference/Keystone   

2020 record: 4-4, 3-2

Postseason: Did not qualify

RETURNING LEADERS

Passing: Comp-Att., Yards, TD

Ethan Dorrell: 17-28, 148, 2

Rushing: Att-Yards, Avg., TD

Zackariah Little: 39-185, 4.7, 3

Ethan Dorrell: 18-53, 2.9, 1

Receiving: Rec.-Yards, Avg., TD

Trenten Smith: 30-310, 10.3, 3

Mark Paradine: 10-195, 19.5, 1

KEY PLAYERS: Trenten Smith, sr., WR-DB; KC Robinson, sr., TE-DL; Mark Paradine, sr., WR-DB; Gabe Kocher, sr., OL; Logan Heiple, sr., OL; Claude Godineaux, sr., OL-DL; Hunter Garced, sr., DL; Zackariah Little, sr., LB; Jontae Morris, sr., RB-DB; Alexander Sanders, sr., DL; Ethan Dorrell, jr., QB; Derek Witmer, jr., K-P.

OUTLOOK: There’s plenty to love about this Cedar Cliff team. Stout line play in the trenches, the return of the dynamic Jontae Morris from an ACL injury and firepower at the skill positions provide plenty of reasons to be bullish on the Colts. While we know winning the Keystone Division is always a challenge with perennial contender Bishop McDevitt in the fray, this is a team more than capable of staking their flag to the top of the hill when the dust settles on the regular season.

3 THINGS TO KNOW
1. Leader of the cavalry

After a season splitting reps with senior Gannon McMeans, incoming junior Ethan Dorrell returns to take over the starring role as QB1 in the Colts offense. The 5-foot-10, 155-pound general connected on 60% of his passing attempted (17-of-28, 148 yards) during the COVID-shortened 2020 circuit. He’ll have plenty of help from his mates on offense with Trenten Smith’s big-play abilities at wideout and a year of experience honing his route-running abilities, a pair of do-it-all tight ends in KC Robinson and Daniel Schraeder, plus a healthy Jontae Morris (more on him later) taking a share of the carries in the backfield. A stout line up front headlined by Claude Godineaux, Logan Heiple and Gabe Kocher should provide Dorrell with the time he needs to get comfortable in the pocket. “We’re very pleased with his development and his decision making,” Colts coach Collin Gillen said of Dorrell.” He’s a high-level thinker and has a lot of good knowledge of the game that he’s building. He’s just lacking experience that he needs to gain. He’s done a nice job being able to get through his progression. Last year being a young guy, it was tough to keep your eyes off the rush, and be able to negotiate the pocket and get through a progression. That’s typical of a young quarterback where if their first read isn’t there, they are looking to tuck it and run. Team camp and a full offseason of 7-on-7s and interactions with other team where he has been able to get in the pocket with some rush around him and get through progressions has been great for him.”

2. Running-by-committee

Cedar Cliff leaned heavily on its lead back over the last three years, with their main ball carrier toting the rock 150 (Jamir Reynolds-Vasquez, 2020), 365 (Jaheim Morris, 2019) and 273 (Morris, 2018) carries. And who could blame Gillen and crew for leaning on their heavy hitters when two of your top three rushers in school history rolled through the halls of Cedar Cliff over the last five years. Expect that workload to be spread out more evenly, however, in 2021. Jontae Morris returns after a devastating ACL injury in Week 1 of the 2020 season derailed what could have been a breakout season for the 5-10, 160-pound senior. “It was huge,” Gillen said of the loss of Morris last season. “It was devastating for us. He had two touches before he went out. One was a touchdown, the other was a 15-year gain on a swing pass. We had guys that were able to step in, but Reynolds-Vasquez becomes the full-time starting tail back and also was our starting safety.” The double duty, Gillen said, somewhat wore Reynolds-Vasquez out near the end of the season. Keeping Morris, who is perhaps the Colts’ best home-run threat and a key contributor on defense, fresh will be key Cedar Cliff making a deep run in the playoffs. He’ll have plenty of help carrying the load in the backfield with Zack Little, Ricardo Harmon — who Gillen described as a hammer between the tackles and a physical punisher in the Jerome Bettis (former Pittsburgh Steelers running back) mold — and Mikey Jones mixing in.


3. A defense to be excited about

The excitement in Gillen’s voice was evident as the conversation turned to the Colts defense. And why not? That Morris lad we mentioned above — Gillen called him a lockdown corner and one of the best he has coached thanks to a blend of technique, aggressiveness and physicality. His mate on the other hash, Trenten Smith, will also be a strong contributor in coverage. A pair of quick studies, Elijah Wilbourn and Mikey Jones, project to be starters at the safety positions as sophomores. Jones’ ability to play in on the run and also in coverage could be a key to the Colts defensive becoming a dominant unit. “The years that we have been very good defensively are the years that we have a kid that we are able to play the run in and be physical in the box but also play back on a hash and play half-field coverage,” Gillen said. “Kids like Brennan Quigley and Trysten McDonald were. He (Jones) is cut from that mold.” Opponents won’t find a break up front, either with Robinson (6-1, 220), Hunter Garced (6-3, 235), Alexander Sanders (6-2, 250) and Godineaux (6-2, 310) up front wreaking havoc. “Our defensive line is exceptional,” Gillen said. “Those four guys are legit. They are going to give a lot of people some fits in the run game and also the pass rush, so we are extremely excited about those guys.”

2021 Preview: Trinity Shamrocks

Andy Sandrik
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2021 Preview: Trinity Shamrocks

Coach: Jordan Hill

Classification: 2A

League/division: Mid-Penn Conference/Capital

2020 record: 0-7, 0-3

Postseason: Did not qualify

RETURNING LEADERS

Passing: Comp-Att., Yards, TD

Cooper Manley: 23-68, 262, 2

Rushing: Att-Yards., Avg., TD

Tyler Rossi: 69-420, 6.1, 3

Cole Cappawana: 20-67, 3.4, 0

Receiving: Rec.-Yards, Avg., TD

Maximillian Schlager: 29-503, 17.3, 5

Tyler Rossi: 16-117, 11.5, 1

KEY PLAYERS: Jason Wewer, sr., WR-LB; Ryan Dalton, sr., OL; Tyler Rossi, sr., RB; Max Schlager, jr., WR-LB; Cole Cappawana, so., WR-CB; Luke Britten, so., OL; Santanna Young, fr., WR-CB

OUTLOOK: Spend five minutes chatting with Hill, and you just might forget you’re talking to an ex-NFL player. He enjoys talking about his players and coaching philosophies and is eager to soak up any football knowledge he can acquire. Under Hill, practices at Trinity have become games within the game, so to speak, with players pushing each other to the limit to win every drill. It’s going to take that kind of a competitive attitude for the Shamrocks to have a puncher’s chance in the Capital, where they could very well be the underdog in every division game they play. Keep a close eye on freshman cornerback and wide receiver Santanna Young. Quick development from the youngster could very well hasten the turnaround process for the Shamrocks, who are looking to snap a 10-game losing streak that dates back to 2019.

3 THINGS TO KNOW
1. Name recognition
Who is the most recognizable player on the Trinity sidelines? Well, that would be the team’s new head coach: Jordan Hill. He was an all-state defensive tackle for Steel-High and an all-Big Ten selection for Penn State before winning a Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks in a five-year NFL career derailed by injuries. Since being named to lead the Shamrocks’ program in February, Hill and his coaching staff have been quickly embraced by the players, many of whom grew up watching him play. Could the name recognition be a draw for the once-great Trinity program, which is seeking its first winning season since 2012? Well, considering there are already 55 players out for this season, we’ll say maybe. “I could definitely see it as a plus, but I wouldn’t say for someone to come here just for me,” Hill said. “Take a look at what this place offers, the culture and the whole school. This is a place where kids want to be.”

2. Bonds of Steel
Hill is, through and through, a Steel-High guy. He can only smile and laugh knowing that fate would have him leading the once-hated Shamrocks, who went 1-3 against Hill’s Rollers from 2005-2008. “I thought about that when I was making my decision,” Hill said. “Ten years ago I would have never told you this would be my first head coaching job. But six months into this thing, I’m glad for the decision I made.” Hill is joined on the sidelines by several others from the Steel-High circle, including Jordan Smith, Jordan Milberry, Kevin Yarnevich and Jeremiah Young. Emotion and nostalgia should be high when the defending 1A state champion Rollers visit COBO Field on Oct. 8. “The Capital is a strong division, and obviously, my alma mater is the top dog. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Hill said. “It’s the place where I’m from, and I want to see them be successful no matter what. But as long as we’re in that division, I’m hoping they finish second.”

3. A “Young” star
To have a chance to win in the competitive Capital, Trinity will be looking for a promising freshman — Santanna Young — to make plays for the Shamrocks this season. He is the nephew of the aforementioned Jeremiah Young, Trinity’s RBs coach, who in 2008-09 became Pennsylvania’s all-time leading rusher with over 9,000 career yards. Young, listed as a 6-foot, 180-pound cornerback and wide receiver, possesses the speed, size and hands you’d normally see on an upperclassman. Look for Young to start both ways and make an impact. “He is going to be a guy that is very influential to the program right away,” Hill said. “I think he’s going to be a very good corner, and like any young guy, he’s going to want the ball. We need him to learn what it takes to be a good football player, and we hope he steps up to the plate.”

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