The Scoop-The 2007 Bishop McCort team is often overlooked when it comes to the great teams of the school's history, but take a look at the numbers and you won't overlook them again. Jordan DeFrances finished second in the state of Pennsylvania in passing yardage. He racked up 2,628 yards and 28 scores on a banner season for Bishop McCort offense. His favorite target, Matt Varga led the entire state in receiving yardage leading to a first team all state honors. This team was not always dominant, yet they always found a way. The passing game was out of this world, but nobody should overlook the running of Eric Lowry. He rushed for 1,300 yards and 17 touchdowns, and also caught 30 passes for another 5 scores. He was a true dual threat out of the backfield. The team lost an early one in absolute classic to Richland (shout-out to that team) 30-27, than rallied for eight straight wins. Along the way the Crushers proved to benefit from close games as DeFrances led a 98 yard drive under two minutes in a comeback win against Philipsburg-Osceola. The Crushers needed overtime to defeat a strong Shane McGregor-led Central Cambria team in the District Six Championship. McCort fell victims to District 10 power Wilmington in the State quarterfinals, although they were up 17-0 with the ball in that game.
The Stars-Matt Varga went on to First Team All State honors but did not pursue a college football career. Jordan DeFrances faced some stiff competition for all state honors (Terrelle Pryor) and he, too did not go on to play in college. Eric Lowry finished up this season with an equally as impressive 2008 season. He went on to play football at Robert Morris. Linebacker Anthony Caperelli also carried his career to Robert Morris. Mike Cruz started at Tight End and Defensive End for the Crushers and was recruited by the likes of the ACC and Big 12 before settling at Pitt, where he started for a season. Dane Domonkos(St. Francis), Josh Seidel (IUP), and Shane Rugg (Lehigh) were all key members of the team as sophomores and went to earn scholarships.
The Argument-The 2000's has certainly been kind to Bishop McCort. They have had plenty of teams with totally different identities. This 2007 team had plenty of talent, and the production shows. Matt Varga leading the state in receiving is an impressive stat that may not be reached by a player from the area for a while. The team had a lot to live up to from the 2006 season and they exceeded all expectations. McCort's offense in clutch situations is not something to be ignored. They had the stars, play makers, and role players to have a successful run. The 12-2 season was one to remember. The DeFrances-Varga connection made the highlights every week. This team played in two of the most memorable High School Football games I have ever attended in the Richland shootout and the Philipsburg-Osceola comeback. This team's passing offense is something I will always remember.
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