LHAC Football Forecast Week Six.

I suffered an awful week going 3-3. That brings my season total to 22-8. I attended the Bishop McCort-Richland game. Richland did not put up the numbers, but showed a lot of grit and resolve in a close game. Bishop Guilfoyle sent shock waves throughout the conference by taking down the preseason favorites. Central Cambria and Bedford were able to pick up their first wins of the season. Week six is a big separation week for the league. Playoff races are starting to heat up, and every game becomes that much more important.

Bishop McCort (3-2) at Westmont (1-4) Saturday 2:00 Price Field

Gap Barbin #52

Note the time change, due to SAT's. Bishop McCort and Westmont are coming off disappointing week five losses. The Crimson Crushers controlled the clock and the tempo against a very good Richland team. They could not beat Richland if the game was played in the 30's or 40's, and McCort kept it 17-10. That can all be attributed to a good defense. Gap Barbin is perhaps the best defensive linemen in the conference and you pair him with two behemoth defensive tackles in Roman and Dorn to either side, McCort is tough to score upon. The defense has 16 total turnovers to its credit. The offense is another story. They have not been able to score points. Zaine Tomkowski leads a pretty good passing attack, but this team needs a more reliable running game. Dustin Belskey and Wyatt Jackson will need to have a big game this week against the Hilltoppers. Westmont lost a tough one to Bedford on the road last week 26-21. They will need to rally and get ready for a big rivalry showdown with the Crushers. Westmont's offense is run heavy, and Sam Curry,Lukas Kleinmeyer, and Liam Moran will need to have big games. Westmont has played in tight games the past three weeks,and they will look to keep it close with the Crushers.  Westmont's pass defense hurt them against Bedford's Luke Campbell. McCort's Jordan Spangler should look to have a big game, and I think he will. McCort has some offensive frustration they will get out. Westmont will play it close for a half.

Crimson Crushers 31 Hilltoppers 14

Forest Hills (2-3) at Central Cambria (1-4) Friday 7:00 Red Devil Stadium

Forest Hills will make the short trip to Ebensburg to try to right the ship. The Rangers have been dealing with the injury of sophomore quarterback, Joe Donoughe.  Jared Shope and Tyler Shima have been taking on the challenge of replacing him. Shawn Dell leads a good running game, but the passing game loses a thrower and a receiver when Shope plays QB. For the first time in decades the Rangers are dealing with depth issues. They need to get things together if they want a run at a AA playoff berth. Central Cambria is a struggling program themselves. The Devils were once a constant at the top of the LHAC,and for the third straight season it looks like they will miss the playoffs. Central Cambria picked up their first win on Friday, and will look to try to salvage this season. Will Seymour has been a pleasant surprise as a sophomore quarterback. He has been effective running the ball, and Tyler Gironda has run well also. The defense has been the biggest issue this season. Forest Hills still has weapons, and they still have playoff aspirations. I expect the Rangers to play like a team that is desperate for a win. 

Rangers 27 Red Devils 12

Bedford (1-4) at Johnstown (2-3) Friday 7:00 Trojan Stadium

Two playoff teams from a year ago are in serious trouble this season. Bedford was able to secure their first win of the season against Westmont. The first few games werw ugly, but the return of Aaron Henry from injury, and Luke Campbell deciding to play football has given this team a spark. Campbell was expected to be one of the best offensive players in the league, and has shown it in the two games he has played. Johnstown goes from one of the top passing games in the conference to one of the weakest ones. The quarterback situation has been jumbled, but expect Deion Moore and Wuanyai Mayo to see most of the snaps. Moore's versatility has lead him to be the Trojans' leading rusher. Terrell Jones, Jayvon Braxton, and Kareem Gibson all have big play ability. Johnstown just needs to show consistency on offense. It is taking them a little longer to get the kinks worked out. I look for Moore and Gibson to have big plays all over the field. Moore has become one of the most dangerous runners in the whole district. Johnstown should win this game heading into the city game with Bishop McCort.

Trojans 26 Bisons 14

Bishop Guilfoyle (4-1) at Bishop Carroll (0-5) Saturday 7:00 DeGol Field

Pat Irwin

Bishop Guilfoyle may be one of the most surprising 4-1 teams in the whole district. After a 1-9 2011 campaign, not a whole lot was expected in 2012. Lights out defense has changed the feeling. BG has held section one favorites, Cambria Heights, Forest Hills, and Penn Cambria to just 15 points. Brandon Chadbourn was injured last week, and his status going forward is unknwon. Pat Irwin stepped right in and led the team to a big win over Penn Cambria. Rossman and Kitt provide good running threats to this team. They still do not have a great offense, but the way this defense is playing, it does not matter. Bishop Carroll is now the only winless team in the league. They are incredibly young, and brighter days are ahead. This season's conclusion will be about gaining experience and trying to compete. The offense has had a good passing game with Davis Maruca. Marty Lessard has run the ball well. They are struggling so much on defense, that it will make it hard to win any games. BG should keep rolling....

Marauders 28 Huskies 0

Cambria Heights (3-2) at Penn Cambria (4-1) Friday 7:00

Cambria Heights is coming off a big program win over Forest Hills, and will look to have another big win. The Highlanders find themselves in the midst of a playoff race, and a win over Penn Cambria would go a long way to reaching the postseason. Cambria Heighs' offense is based with a solid running game fronted by Tyler Crawford. Crawford has 430 yards, Donnie Contorchick has 227, and Ben Myers has contributed 158. The passing game between quarterback Nathan Bearer and receiver Andrew Brawley has been effective throughout the season. The physical play with a strong running game should match up nicely with Penn Cambria. The Panthers boast a tough, physical defense lead by Mack Behe and Devin Lawhead. The two seniors are the heart and soul of this team. They are coming off a tough loss to Bishop Guilfoyle offensively, and they wil look to get back on track. Devin Lawhead and Justin Fuller have been the key guys in the running game. Mack Behe and Nathan Keagy are two big threats in the passing game. This team needs to put more emphasis on the offense. They were shut down by Guilfoyle for the most part, and mustered one big play. Penn Cambria needs to put together more solid drives, and finish them. This will be a really good battle. Both teams have a lot to prove, and both have plenty at stake in the playoff hunt. I like the home team.

Panthers 22 Highlanders 14

GAME OF THE WEEK

Richland (5-0) at Somerset (4-1) Friday 7:00

The 2011 edition of this game was a shootout won by Richland 49-36, and the offenses are in place to make 2012 another exciting game. Somerset enters this game as one of the surprises. They were thought to be better this season, but not this good. It all starts with one guy, and that is the quarterback, Tanner Stull. Stull has been nothing short of terrific this season for the Golden Eagles offense. Stull has thrown for 696 yards and 8 scores. He has also rushed for 428 yards and 7 touchdowns. Blake Faulkner and Matt Boyer team up and compliment Stull very well in the running game. The defense has been pretty good for the most part, but will need an outstanding performance to hold down the Richland Rams. The Rams were finally held down for a game, but do not expect that to last. The injury to Kyle Flick made people realize Tanner Solarczyk is one of the best backs in the league, if not THE best. Solarczyk has 683 and four touchdowns on the season. The passing game of Matt Shaffer and Nico Pecora is still one of the bets passing games around as well. Kyle Flick may be out this game, but Luke Shertzer proved that he can take on the role as the lad receiver/defensive back. He had a great game against Bishop McCort. Richland has the talent and experience in the trenches that should carry them to victory in this game. Josh Dinniny and company are a lot to deal with up front. Team that with a great offense, and the Rams have it all. Somerset will have a big enthusiastic crowd on hand, and they will make this thing interesting. The game last year was exciting, and the core of both teams are only juniors. This could shape up to be a really nice rivalry. Stull will make plays, so will Richland. If you get the chance, check this one out.

Rams 31 Golden Eagles 24

Pennsylvania High School Football Rankings Week Six.

AAAA

North Allegheny Coach Art Walker

1. North Allegheny 5-0 D7  Gateway

2. LaSalle College 5-0 D12 @ Father Judge

3. Upper St. Clair 5-0 D7 @Butler

4. Easton 5-0 D11 @Freedom

5.  St. Joe’s Prep 4-0 D12 @ Archbishop Wood

6.  Gateway 5-0 D7  North Allegheny

7. Central Dauphin 4-1 D3 @Mifflin County

8. Downingtown East 5-0 D1 @St Marks (De)

9.  Ridley 5-0 D1 @Garnet Valley

10. Central Bucks South 5-0 D1 5-0  @North pPenns

5 to Watch-CentralCatholic (4-1) Harrisburg (4-1) Delaware Valley (5-0) Scranton (5-0) Penn Manor 5-0

AAA

Erie Cathedral Prep QB Damion Terry

1. Bishop McDevitt 5-0 D3 @Hershey

2. Cathedral Prep 5-0 D10 McDowell

3. Montour 5-0 D7 @Chartiers Valley

4. Archbishop Wood 4-1 D12 @ St Joe’s Prep

5. Thomas Jefferson 5-0 D7 Laurel Highlands

6. Pottsgrove 5-0 D1 @ Methacton

7. Central Valley 4-1 D7 Moon

8. West York 5-0 D2 @Susquehanna

9. Mars 5-0 D7 Uniontown

10. Clearfield 5-0 D9 Bellefonte

5 to Watch-Manheim Central (4-1) Henderson (5-0) Slippery Rock (5-0) Franklin  Regional (4-1) Garden Spot

AA 

Aliquippa coach Michael Zmijanac

1. Aliquippa 5-0 D7 Freedom

2.  Imhotep Charter 5-0 D12  @Delaware Valley Charter

3.  South Fayette 5-0 D7 Quaker Valley

4. Wyomissing 5-0 D3 @Kutztown

5.  Washington 5-0 D7 Brownsville

6. Richland 5-0 D6 @ Somerset

7. Hickory 4-1 D10 Sharon

8. Beaver 5-0 D7 @ Riverside

9.  Berks Catholic 5-0 D3 Schuylkill Valley

10.  Jeannette 4-1 D7 Mt. Pleasant

5 to Watch-Grove City (4-1) Danville (4-0) Schuylkill Valley (5-0) Central (4-1) Corry (5-0)

A

Clairton Coach Tom Nola

1. Clairton 4-0 D7 @ Brentwood

2.  Southern Columbia 5-0 D2 @Selinsgrove

3.  Rochester 5-0 D7 Neshannock

4. Bellwood-Antis 5-0 D6 Everett

5. Sharpsville 5-0 D10 @ West Middlesex

6. Old Forge 5-0 D2 Montrose

7. Williams Valley 5-0 D11 Pine Grove

8. Port Allegheny 5-0 D9 Smethport

9. Curwensville 5-0 D9 @ Brockway

10. Dunmore 4-1 D2 Honesdale

5 to Watch-Berlin (5-0) Penns Manor (4-1) Monessen (4-1) Bishop Guilfoyle (4-1) Clarion (5-0)

Post Game Observations: Saturday 29. Richland-McCort.

• The key to this win was clearly the running of Tanner Solarczyk.  All night long, Solarczyk was able to break arm tackles and have tons of yards after contact.  The Richland coaching staff reported to us that he came up with 186 yards. They were able to ride him in the second half to a victory. We thought Solarczyk was a good player, we had no idea he is this good.
• Richland's Kyle Flick was sorely missed. Obviously Flick was the leading receiver in the area going into the game. He also was a big time cover corner. He makes a difference, but Richland's depth and versatility made sure that would not be a problem. Luke Shertzer came up with huge plays on both sides of the ball, and Solarczyk took over the offense.
• It was good to see Dustin Belskey back out there for the Crushers. He was still not 100%, but McCort was happy to have his services running the ball. He will eventually be a two way player and help tremendously during the stretch run. 
• Fireworks and Football?   UPJ"s homecoming had a fireworks display throughout much of the third quarter of the game. The score was 3-3 at the time, and more fireworks were happening off the field, than on it.
• Atmosphere was outstanding. Both student sections were loud and proud. The stands were filled on either side. Standing room all around the track. 
• We are not sure the last time Richland beat Bishop McCort on their home field. Richland had two recent victories over Bishop McCort (07,11) and they were both at the Point Stadium. 
• Bishop McCort's lack of speed is unusual. For many years the Crushers had a breakaway threat whether it was Wilson,LaRue,Domonkos,Varga,Lewis, or Hawkins...They could bust a big play at any time.They do not have that breakaway threat with this team.  
• Richland's junior class is good. Shaffer,Pecora,Solarczyk, and Flick headline the talented junior class for Richland. They have big expectations for the rest of this season, and for next year.
• Both teams can make some good runs in the playoffs. Richland appears to be the favorite in AA, and Bishop McCort will benefit from these tight losses to Somerset and Richland come playoff time.

2014 Western Pennsylvania Recruiting.

            2014?  Already?   Yep. The 2013 recruiting class is far from over, but many programs are nearing the end process. Offers have been made and visits are happening. It is all up to the kid at this point. Most players that are uncommitted will wait until their high school seasons are over or until the official visits end. December-January is the final hurrah for recruiting classes, but it is also the start for the next recruiting cycle. Coaches can start making serious contact and that is when the class of 2014 will come to forefront.
           Pitt, Penn State, and Ohio State are the real true players in Western Pennsylvania these days. It is interesting because all three coaches are in their first year with the respective programs. The players do not know what each coach offers just yet. Penn State will be behind for quite some time, so Ohio State and Pitt should really take advantage of their opportunity to take control of the talent rich Pennsylvania pipeline.
             Paul Chryst and Urban Meyer are battling out to get the top un-committed prospects of 2013 still. Dorian Johnson and Robert Foster both have recently named "top threes" and Pitt and Ohio State made both cuts. This looks like it will be a trend for the foreseeable future. Obviously Meyer is eons ahead of Chryst is just about every coaching category, but Chryst has something nice building at Pitt. 2014 will feature a number of prospects that will attract national attention, and here is a look at some of the names to watch out for...

-Chandler Kincade QB Blackhawk HS- Kincade only has one offer, but the offer is from Pitt. Kincade committed to Todd Graham's staff last season, and recently re-affirmed that to Paul Chryst. Kincade has been receiving some local attention from the Tribune Review, and one article mentioned him as being compared to Dan Marino and Ben Roethlisberger. That is some pretty nice company to be mentioned with at only 16 years old. He has received interest from Michigan and Michigan State. Many other schools will come in to play for Kincade's services. I think he will stay with Pitt, and could be that quarterback Panther fans have longed for. I suspect he will be rated a top 250 prospect, perhaps even top 100. That will earn him 4 star rating from just about all the recruiting services.

-Dravon Henry S Aliquippa HS-The tiny little football factory has another elite prospect. Henry is likely to be a four star rated player, and another local prospect that could end up at Pitt. He already has earned offers from Pitt, Rutgers, Maryland, and WVU. I suspect more ACC and Big East teams to come calling. Henryis versatile and could play corner, safety, or even receiver in college.

-Montae Nicholson S Gateway HS-Nicholson will be the next great Gateway prospect. He has offers from Pitt, Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State, and WVU. Most of the Big Ten and ACC will take notice of Nicholson's skills. He will be a top 100 player, and may be good enough to garner 5 star ratings. He will be one of the most sought after Safetys for the 2014 recruiting class. Not sure where he will end up, but Pitt and Ohio State may be set for another year long battle.

-Justice Rawlins LB Monessen HS-Rawlins' older brother, Chavis, is committed to play ball at West Virginia. Justice may follow him there, but I get the sense he will try to be his own man. Pitt and Rutgers have offered. He will create noise throughout the country, and some SEC schools will come calling. He will be a four star player, and potential top 100 guy. He will get offers from big time Big Ten,SEC, and ACC teams, and it is too early to say where he will pick. I do not anticipate him going to Pitt, but stranger things have happened.

-Shai McKenzie RB/LB Washington HS-McKenzie has not garned a lot of attention just yet, but he will. Pitt and Toledo have offered, but I expect more BCS level teams to take interest. He should be a three star guy during the ranking process. He is a big guy at 6-0 210, and that is why teams could see him as a Linebacker. He could be a power back in some running schemes as well. I assume he will be a Pitt Panther when it is all said and done.

-Brenon Thrift LB Gateway-Thrift is another high level prospect from Gateway. He has offers from Pitt and WVU, and is already high on WVU. He is a big guy at 6-3 230 pounds, and could play as a defensive end in college. I'm sure other teams will offer, but some may back off if he chooses WVU early. I see him as a three star.

-Elijah Zeise S North Allegheny-Zeise has an early offer from Pitt, interesting because Zeise's dad is Paul Zeise. Paul Zeise is the usual Pitt beat writer, but has since moved positions to avoid a conflict of interest. I have a feeling Elijah will try to go somewhere else to be his own man. He may end up at Pitt, who knows. He should be a three star player and will earn some more recognition after the season. North Allegheny is the best team in Pennsylvania, which should bring more exposure.

-Mike Grimm OT Bethel Park-Grimm is huge and could end up being a big recruit as the process moves on. Pitt is the only team to offer, but the 6-7 315 frame should attract attention. He is the perfect size to be a Pitt offensive linemen. Chryst loves giant linemen, and Grimm fits the bill. I could see him climbing the charts to a four star player, but certainly a three star.

Many other names out there will make Western PA recruiting pretty special in 2014.....keep an eye on these guys...

-Brock Boxen DT Beaver Falls
-Brendan Blair CB Sto Rox
-Niko Thorpe LB Central Catholic
-Nate Stone LB Greensburg CC
-Ricky Rogers WR Gateway
-Tyree Spearman CB McDowell
-Anthony Davis DB Gateway

LHAC Football Forecast Week Five.

I went 4-2 in week four to bring my season total to 19-5. Westmont was able to pull off the upset on their home field on a Saturday afternoon. Somerset had such an emotional win in week three that they may have had a hangover from such a big win. Bishop Guilfoyle was able to go into Sidman and come away with a victory.Week five should be another great week, plenty of big games.

Bishop Carroll (0-4) at Central Cambria (0-4) Friday 7:00 Red Devil Stadium

Something has got to give. Both teams are struggling mightily and neither team have won a game yet. Bishop Carroll will make the short trip down the street in hopes of getting that first victory. The Huskies are allowing a concerning 33 points a game. They must get better on defense for them to have a chance. The offense has been off and on throughout September. They have a nice passing threat with David Maruca. He had a rough go at it against Penn Cambria last week, but has done well in his first year of starting. Central Cambria has had the same defensive woes, but the main concern is offense. The Red Devils have exactly six points in 16 quarters of football in 2012. That is the easiest explanation as to why they are 0-4. Will Seymour has had mixed results at quarterback. He is just a sophomore and is going through some growing pains. The running game has not helped out much either. Both of these teams have more talent than they are showing. They have new coaches, and things will eventually work out for both schools. Right now things look rough. I'm taking Bishop Carroll because they have shown more ability on offense early on in the season.

Huskies 16 Red Devils 8

Westmont (1-3) at Bedford (0-4) Friday 7:00

Liam Moran

Westmont may have pulled off the upset of the year to date. They shocked a very good Somerset squad, and will take some momentum into week five. Westmont has increasingly looked better in each game, and they will only improve. The team is buying into Coach Barron. They have some offensive weapons that are finally showing some comfort in the offense. Sam Curry and Lukas Kleinmeyer have done a great job as carrying the offense. Liam Moran is handling things well at quarterback.  They played Heights and Johnstown well, and finally got it together against Somerset. They need to continue to get better defensively, but they are heading in the right direction. Bedford is not playing well on defense. The lowest output they have allowed was 32 points, and they have to get better if they want to turn things around. They received a nice boost by getting Luke Campbell back on the team. He was Bedford's leading receiver last year and did not play the first three weeks. He adds another element and helps Aaron Henry out tremendously. Bedford has been getting better on offense, and they have some play makers now. This game involves two struggling teams, but they are going in different directions. Westmont is showing some signs of life, and I think they could pull off a big win Friday. They can not look ahead to Bishop McCort next week though.
Hilltoppers 23 Bisons 12

Forest Hills (2-2) at Cambria Heights (2-2) Friday 7:00

Both teams had aspirations for better starts to the 2012 season. The disappointing 2-2 starts should make this week five game even more meaningful. Forest Hills could be in some trouble if Joe Donoughe is out for any expanded amount of time. The sophomore quarterback has instantly turned into a key factor in the Ranger offense. He makes the passing game a little more reliable. Tyler Shima will take over at QB, and Shope will likely see some packages as well. Shope playing QB hurts the receivers. Doltyn Snedden has played well for Forest Hills, and Shawn Dell has been a good threat running and receiving. The key for Forest Hills is turnovers. They play great defense, but both in both losses this year, they have not taken care of the ball. Cambria Heights was supposed to finally turn the corner this season, and they have somewhat. They can beat the teams they are supposed to, but have yet to secure a signature win. If the Highlanders can take down Don Bailey and the Rangers, that would be more than a signature win. Heights has the physical running game that can keep them in any game. Contorchick, Myers, and Crawford are all reliable ball carriers. Nathan Bearer has the talent to be a good quarterback, he needs to show it. Brawley can stretch the field at receiver. This game pits two evenly matched teams. Both teams play pretty good defense. They both are coming off close losses to BG, so there should be a good understanding of each other. Forest Hills has some issues at QB, and they are not as deep as usual. I am going to take Cambria Heights. I think they can pound the ball on the ground, and open things when needed to. This will be a close, hard fought game.

Highlanders 20 Rangers 14

Johnstown (2-2) at Somerset (3-1) Friday 7:00

Somerset was poised to continue their undefeated season. They had the ball inside the Westmont five yard line with time running out. One score would seal the deal, but a fumble at the one stopped that from happening. Somerset has to deal with a disappointing loss, and not let that loss turn into two losses. They have the pieces to put that game in the rear view mirror. Tanner Stull has been nothing short of outstanding this season. He is the guy that runs the Somerset offense. Stull has thrown for six scores and ran for another five on the ground. He will be asked to have another big performance. Blake Faulker has been a big help to the Somerset rushing game. The defense has been pretty formidable as well. Johnstown has had to deal with some troubles early on in the season. They lost some players who quit on them this past week. An incident like that can go two opposite ways, but I think it will bring the remaining team members closer. They have shown some signs that they will be a dangerous team in the future. Deion Moore has been seeing snaps at quarterback, and his athleticism needs to be on the field. I will assume Johnstown will let Wuanyai Mayo and Jeremy Updyke see some chances as well. Terrell Jones, Kareem Gibson, and Jayvon Braxton have all touched the ball throughout the season and have responded well. It is clear Johnstown has talent, but inexperience is the biggest problem. I think Johnstown is setting up nicely for a big run in future seasons. This season is not done by any stretch of the imagination, and they still have plenty to play for. I think Johnstown can keep this thing close, but I am taking Somerset. Somerset was set up for a trap in Westmont. They had a huge win, and the Saturday afternoon threw off the rhythm. It happens, they will get the ship righted this week. 

Golden Eagles 34 Trojans 20

Penn Cambria (4-0) at Bishop Guilfoyle (3-1) Saturday 7:00 Mansion Park

This is a nice Saturday night treat. Penn Cambria was picked to win the league, and they are dong everything they can to do just that. They are 4-0, but it is a quiet 4-0. They do not put up giant numbers on offense, or have that one player putting up the stats. They play team football, and they are so well coached. The name of the Panthers' game is defense, and they are just surrendering 5 pints per game. The offense has been good, and the wealth has been spread. It seems every game there is a different guy scoring or taking the bulk of the carries. Jordan Fuller has been pretty good, but just about everyone else has been, too. Eckenrode and Tsikalas are doing a good job splitting the snaps at quarterback, and both bring different elements. They pose a challenge for anyone in the district. Bishop Guilfoyle will have to take the Penn Cambria challenge this week, and they may be up to the task. The Marauders have been a surprise 3-1 squad, and they have been using an opportunistic defense and some big plays on offense. The offense is fronted by the sophomore quarterback, Brandon Chadbourn. He has been a threat in the passing game, but also the running game. He is an innovator and can keep plays alive.Rossman is a good running back and aids in the rushing game. The Marauders have been scoring points, but holding two good teams like Forest Hills and Cambria Heights to 0 points has surprised some people. This game could be a defensive showdown. I like both teams, and both are realistic district champion contenders in their respective classes. I am taking Penn Cambria. They are deeper and more experienced. I am not counting on a lot of points, because that is not the style of either team. Should be a good one at Mansion Park Saturday night.

Panthers 21 Marauders 14 

GAME OF THE WEEK

Bishop McCort (3-1) at Richland (4-0) 7:00 Friday Herlinger Field

The LHAC has many long standing rivalries, but few have taken on the competitiveness that Richland-McCort has in the past five years. 2007 marked the first season Richland beat the Crushers in decades. That game went 30-27. The Crushers marked revenge in 2008 with an equally as exciting win, 38-34. 2009 saw a lopsided win for McCort 69-35, and the Crushers narrowly escaped in 2010 with a 16-14 game. Richland stormed back from being down 14 at halftime last season and won 35-28. The series has seen some really outstanding games, and 2012 could add to this rivalry's lore. 

Matt Shaffer

             Richland has been clicking all season long, and they are looking like a force to be reckoned with. They have been averaging 44 points per game through four weeks. Matt Shaffer has been putting on an aerial assault through four weeks. He has 703 yards and ten touchdowns. He has also contributed 169 rushing yards and three scores. Nico Pecora is the other quarterback, and has been impressive in his own right. Tanner Solarczyk has done great filling in for John Rizzo at running back. Solarczyk has 514 yards. The offense's star is the junior wide receiver, Kyle Flick. He has eight receiving touchdowns and stretches the field for the Richland offense. He was hurt in week four, and his status is unknown. Obviously his presence makes Richland's offense nearly unstoppable. The defense was the main question mark entering the season, but they have done pretty well early on in the season. They will be looking to put pressure on a pretty good McCort passing game. Zaine Tomkowski has thrown for 699 yards and five touchdowns. His favorite targets are Jordan Spangler and Luke DiFrancesco. They form as good as a 1-2 punch as any in the league at receiver. The running game has been inconsistent, but Wyatt Jackson has been playing well. The Crushers need to play better defense. They are holding teams for the most part, but they are allowing plenty of yards. Richland is a team that is going to punch it in, and they will need to limit it as much as possible. I have picked Richland all season long, and I don't see how I could change that pick now. They are clicking on all cylinders on offense. McCort can take down the Rams, but they need to finish drives on offense, and force some turnovers.  I think it will be a close battle. These games have been fun to watch the past couple seasons, I don't see why this one won't be either.

Rams 38 Crimson Crushers 28

Pennsylvania HS Football Rankings Week Five

AAAA

Patrick Kugler OL North Allegheny

1. North Allegheny 4-0 D7  Butler.

2. LaSalle College 4-0 D12 @ Archbishop Ryan

3. Upper St. Clair 4-0 D7 Baldwin

4. Easton 4-0 D11 Emmaus

5.  St. Joe’s Prep 3-0 D12 @ Roman Catholic

6.  Gateway 4-0 D7  @ Hempfield

7. Central Dauphin 3-1 D3 State College

8. Downingtown East 4-0 D1 Avon Grove

9.  Central Catholic 4-0 D7  Seneca Valley

10. Ridley 4-0 D1 Harriton

5 to Watch-McDowell (2-2) CB South (4-0) Harrisburg (3-1) Delaware Valley (4-0) Scranton (4-0)

AAA

Alec Werner Bishop McDevitt QB

1. Bishop McDevitt 4-0 D3 Susquehanna Township

2. Cathedral Prep 4-0 D10 Ursuline (OH)

3. Montour 4-0 D7 Ambridge

4. Archbishop Wood 3-1 D12 @ Cardinal O’Hara

5. Valley View 4-0 D2 Scranton

6. Thomas Jefferson 4-0 D7 East Stroudsburg

7. Pottsgrove 4-0 D1 Spring Ford

8. Central Valley 3-1 D7 West Allegheny

9. Lancaster Catholic 3-1 D3 @Penn Manor

10. Knoch 4-0 D7  @Hampton

5 to Watch-Berwick (3-1) Clearfield (4-0) Selinsgrove (4-0) Manheim Central (3-1)Cardinal O’Hara (3-1)

AA

Donovan Cobb Aliquippa LB

1. Aliquippa 4-0 D7 @Mohawk

2.  Imhotep Charter 4-0 D12  School of the Future

3.  South Fayette 4-0 D7 @Seton LaSalle

4. Wyomissing 4-0 D3 Pleasant Valley

5.  Washington 4-0 D7 Jeannette

6. Jeannette 4-0 D7 @ Washington

7. Richland 4-0 D6 Bishop McCort

8. Seton LaSalle 4-0 D7 South Fayette

9.  Pen Argyl 4-0 D11 @Southern Lehigh

10. Hickory 3-1 D10 @Titusville

5 to Watch-Grove City (3-1) Penn  Cambria (4-0) Beaver (4-0) Berks Catholic (4-0) Danville (4-0)

A

Terrish Webb Clairton WR

1. Clairton 4-0 D7 Fort Cherry

2.  Southern Columbia 4-0 D2 Muncy

3.  Rochester 4-0 D7 Western Beaver

4. Bellwood-Antis 4-0 D6 Mt. Union

5. Sharpsville 4-0 D10 @ Farrell

6. Old Forge 4-0 D2 @ Riverside

7. Williams Valley 4-0 D11 Halifax

8. Port Allegheny 4-0 D9 Otto-Eldred

9. Curwensville 4-0 D9 Kane

10. Dunmore 3-1 D2 @ Holy Cross

5 to Watch-Monessen (3-1) Berlin (4-0) Penns Manor (3-1) Bishop Canevin (4-0)  Lackawanna Trail (4-0)

Clairton vs. Monessen Thursday Night Football.

            The Clairton Bears are the three time defending state champions in class A. They have a 50 game winning streak, and they will be putting it on the line Thursday night. They will travel to Monessen to take on the Greyhounds in what figures to be one of the biggest games of the Pennsylvania high school football season. Root Sports Pittsburgh will be covering the game live at 7:30.

            

  Clairton comes into this week as the consensus number one ranked team in class A on just about everyone's board. Monessen has some intriguing athletes and is ranked among the top ten teams in the state as well. This game will feature some pretty special players.  Clairton is led by four star recruit, Tyler Boyd. Boyd has been a key player for the Bears since his sophomore season. He serves as the Clairton running back, but is seen as a wide receiver/athlete at the college level. Boyd boasts offers from national programs like Wisconsin, West Virginia, Virginia Tech, Notre Dame, and Michigan State among close to 20 others. Clairton also features Pitt commitment, Titus Howard. He plays receiver/defensive back for the Bears, and will play defensive back for the Panthers. Clairton's Terrish Webb is another future division one athlete that has committed to Kent State. He figures to be a slot receiver in college.These three athletes push the Clairton offense. They only have 34 kids on their roster, but many underclassmen figure to receive college interest as well.

         

Monessen will have their hands full with all the athletes of Clairton, but they are not short on skill themselves. The Greyhounds are one of the few single A programs across the state that can match up athletically with Clairton. Monessen is led by senior quarterback, Chavis Rawlins. Rawlins is committed to West Virginia as a dual threat quarterback. He held offers from Georgia Tech, Nebraska, Tennessee, and Virginia among many others. He leads the Greyhounds in passing, rushing, and scoring. He will need to have a monster performance to out dual Clairton. The other star for Monessen is Rawlins' younger brother, Justice.  Hustice is a junior and will likely be another big time recruit. He already holds offers from Pitt and Rutgers, and has seen interest from programs like Ohio State and Michigan. 

        

 This is a monster game in the class A race. It is packed with story lines and division one athletes. It is very much reminiscent of the battles Aliquippa and Beaver Falls typically put on for small schools. Clairton is going for a fifth straight WPIAL championship, and a fourth straight PIAA championship.  Monessen is looking to take down the Bears' unbelievable winning streak. This will be a very passionate game and expect plenty of big plays. I am going to take Clairton to keep rolling. There have been teams during this winning streak that had D1 talent and athletes, but Clairton has yet to stumble yet.  Make sure you tune in for this game on Thursday night. It will be sure to be exciting. 

HS Football Rankings: Week Four.

This will be a new feature I will be doing weekly.  I waited until week four to let things settle from the first couple of games. Check back every Wednesday for the D6 Sports Network State Rankings!

D6 Sports Network State Rankings.

AAAA

Mack Leftwich North Allegheny Quarterback

1.  North Allegheny     3-0   D7     @Pine Richland.                               

2.  LaSalle College      3-0   D12    @Malvern Prep

3.  Upper St. Clair       3-0    D7          Penn Hills

4.  Easton                     3-0    D11        @Allentown Central Catholic

5.  St. Joe's Prep         3-0    D12       @Roman Catholic

6. Gateway                  3-0     D7          Altoona

7. Central Dauphin      2-1   D3          @Chambersburg

8. Downingtown East  3-0  D1       @ Coatesville

9. Pittsburgh C.C.       3-0 D7         @Fox Chapel

10. Ridley                   3-0   D1             @Strath Haven

5 to Watch-State College (3-0) McDowell (2-1) CB South (3-0) Wilson (3-0) Garnet Valley (3-0)

AAA

Bishop McDevitt WR Brian Lamelle

1.  Bishop McDevitt      3-0  D3  Mechanicsburg

2.  Cathedral Prep          3-0   D10   @ St. Francis (NY)

3.  Montour                    3-0    D7   @ New Castle

4.  Archbishop Wood     2-1   D12   @ West Catholic

5.  Berwick                     3-0   D2      @ Wyoming Valley West

6.  Valley View               3-0   D2      E. Stroudsburg North

7.  Thomas Jefferson     3-0   D7       @ Trinity

8.  Pottsgrove                 3-0   D1       Boyertown

9.  Central Valley           2-1   D7      @ Blackhawk

10. Lancaster Catholic   2-1  D3       Manheim Township

5 to Watch-Clearfield (3-0) Selinsgrove (3-0)  Knoch (3-0)  Manheim Central (2-1) Cardinal O'Hara (2-1)

AA

Aliquippa Athlete Dravon Henry

1. Aliquippa                 3-0     D7      @ New Brighton

2. Imhotep Charter       3-0    D12     @ Springside Chestnut Hill Academy

3. South Fayette           3-0    D7       @ Burgettstown

4. Wyomissing              3-0   D3         Blue Mountain

5. Washington              3-0   D7           @ Yough

6. Grove City          3-0     D10            @ Hickor

7. Mt. Carmel          2-1    D4              Loyalsock

8. Jeannette                3-0    D7           @ Brownsville

9.  Beaver Falls           3-0   D7           @ Beaver Area

10. Richland               3-0    D6          Great Johnstown

5 to Watch-Penn Cambria (3-0) Seton LaSalle (3-0) Central Columbia (3-0) Pen Argyl (3-0) Danville (3-0)

A

Clairton RB Tyler Boyd

1. Clairton                    3-0    D7    @ Monessen

2. Southern Columbia  3-0   D2     @ South Williamsport  

3. Dunmore                  3-0   D2       @ Old Forge

4. Rochester               3-0    D7      South Side Beaver

5.  Bellwood-Antis      3-0     D6      Juniata Valley

6.  Sharpsville            3-0     D10     @ Kennedy Catholic

7.  Old Forge             3-0      D2      Dunmore 

8.  Monessen             3-0     D7      Clairton

9.  Williams Valley    3-0     D11   @ Line Mountain

10. Port Allegheny     3-0    D9     @ Coudersport

5 to Watch- Berlin (3-0) Curwensville (3-0) Penns Manor (2-1) Line Mountain (3-0) Bishop Canevin (3-0)

LHAC Football Forecast Week Four.

I went 4-2 last week in my LHAC picks. That gives me a 15-3 record on the season. I was wrong on the Bishop McCort game. I picked the Crushers, but knew Somerset had the athletes to beat them. Somerset is a very good team, and they could be setting themselves up for a real special season. The other game I missed was Bishop Guilfoyle knocking off Cambria Heights. Guilfoyle is a young and very talented ball club, they can make some real noise this year.  Week 4 has some very interesting games and it should be another exciting week.

Bedford (0-3) at Bishop McCort (2-1) Friday 7:00 Point Stadium

Bedford has been a real struggling ball club early on in the season. They are coming off a drubbing by the hands of Richland 62-14. Bedford is allowing over 45 points per game through three weeks. They will benefit from Aaron Henry being back in the lineup. The senior quarterback is supposed to be a key player for Bedford, and he did return a kickoff last week. Bedford will need to play a mistake free game against McCort. I am sure they will try a run oriented game that will help them control the clock. McCort escaped with a win in Bedford last season, and hold a four game winning streak in the series. The Crushers are coming off a tough loss in Somerset. They are not doing very well on offense through three weeks. They are having trouble putting points on the board. Zaine Tomkowski has been able to do well when given time in the pocket. He has 470 yards and 4 touchdowns through three weeks. Wyatt Jackson has been running well, and has turned into a key play maker for the offense.  This defense held down some explosive offenses, but they still need to get better. I like McCort, and they should win this game. Bedford is going through a down season, and McCort should be able to have their way.

Crimson Crushers 38 Bisons 7

Bishop Carroll (0-3) at Penn Cambria (3-0) Friday 7:00

Bishop Carroll has had a brutal stretch to open 2012, and it will not get any easier this week. The Huskies are a young team with just two seniors on the roster, and they have done some nice things this season. The quarterback play of David Maruca has been a pleasant surprise. He has moved the ball very well for Carroll, and will only get better. Dane Woo is averaging an astounding 32 yards a catch, and is Maruca's favorite target.  The rushing game is a work in progress, but Marty Lessard is the lead man. The defense has been the trouble for Carroll. They need to sure up, and give the offense a chance. Penn Cambria is using its strong defense and versatile and deep offense to win games early this season. They are outscoring opponents 108-7 so far in the 2012 campaign. The offense is lead by a host of running backs like Justin Fuller, Devin Lawhead, and James Mardula. They are another team that is using a two quarterbacks effectively, with Chad Tsikalas and Brendan Eckenrode. Nathan Keagy and Mac Behe are two good targets in the passing game. This Penn Cambria team is deep and complete. They should be able to use their depth and physical prowess to win this week. 

Panthers 35 Huskies 0  

Somerset (3-0) at Westmont (0-3) Saturday 1:00 Price Field

Westmont has improved each game since the week one blowout loss to Forest Hills. The Hilltoppers are playing with more confidence on offense and they are getting comfortable with the new coaching staff. The Hilltoppers played a spirited game on Friday and nearly pulled off the upset of Johnstown. They will look to carry that effort into this week's game against Somerset.  Westmont's Sam Curry has been having a great season so far. He put on a workhorse effort against Johnstown and carried the ball 37 times for 193 yards. He will continue to get a heavy dosage of carries against Somerset.  The Golden Eagles are a team that is flying high. They had an emotional victory over Bishop McCort, and they are off to a 3-0 start for the first time since the mid 90's. They are led by one of the true rising stars in the area in Tanner Stull. He has 424 passing yards and 5 touchdowns passing the ball, and he has rushed for 294 yards and 5 touchdowns. He is as dangerous as anyone in the conference. The offense relies on his play making ability, and they will go as far as he takes them. I am taking Somerset in this one, and I believe the Eagles will start the season 4-0.

Golden Eagles 29 Hilltoppers 10

Central Cambria (0-3) at Cambria Heights (1-2) Friday 7:00

Central Cambria is coming off a rough loss to their rivals, Penn Cambria. They failed to register 100 yards of offense and bring plenty of questions coming into week four. Central Cambria has had some success throwing the ball early on in the season with sophomore quarterback, Will Seymour.  The running game has yet to find a go to guy. Gironda and Baurer have seen most of the action. They have only scored six points through three games. The Red Devils need to find a way to sustain drives and put points on the board. Cambria Heights was everyone's surprise pick this season, but they have started slow. The running game has had some success with Tyler Crawford, Donnie Contorchick, and Ben Myers. They were expected to play better against Guilfoyle, but could only muster 7 points. They have the talent and skill to come out and make a run at the playoffs. I expect them to rebound this week and take care of business over Central Cambria

Highlanders 25 Red Devils 6

Johnstown (2-1) at Richland (3-0) Friday 7:00 Herlinger Field

Johnstown has come on strong the past two weeks after opening the season with a loss. They are starting to find an identity on offense, and the defense is getting better. Deion Moore is becoming the go to player they need. He is starting to throw the ball a little bit, giving Johnstown a nice dual threat option. He torched Westmont for 164 yards running the ball last week, and will be asked to do the same this week. Jayvon Braxton and Terrell Jones have run the ball very well also. They still need to establish a more consistent passing game, but Johnstown is starting to use their speed to their advantage, and might be able to score some points with Richland. They are going to have a whale of a time trying to stop Richland. The Rams' offense is running like a well oiled machine already. The two quarterbacks are racking up the yardage. Shaffer has 531 yards and 7 tochdowns, and Pecora has 247 yards and 4 touchdowns. Tanner Solarczyk fronts a strong ground game with 360 yards and six touchdowns. This offense has balance and explosiveness and they are clicking. They will be tough for anyone to stop. I can see Johnstown playing with Richland for a while, but I do not see them slowing down Richland too much. This offense is special.

Rams 45 Trojans 21

GAME OF THE WEEK

Bishop Guilfoyle (2-1) at Forest Hills (2-1) Friday 7:00 G.H. Miller Field

This is a hard game to judge. We have seen some pretty special things from Bishop Guilfoyle early in the season. They have a quarterback that is going to be a great player, if you don't believe me watch this. Brandon Chadbourn has a special ability to scramble and run. He has the ability to keep his team in games, and make plays using all means necessary. He has 319 yards and three touchdowns throwing the football, and another 219 on the ground. Cody Rossman has been a nice compliment in the running attack as well. The defense has played well at times, and kept a physical Cambria Heights team to just 7 points. They will another good defensive performance and a outstanding game by Chadbourn. Forest Hills has been rolling on offense, and they are led by another special sophomore quarterback themselves. Joe Donoughe looks to eb the next great Forest Hills quarterback. He has already thrown for 545 yards, and he has pretty good escape ability as well. Shawn Dell has been a reliable running back, and is a good threat out of the backfield. The two leading receivers, Doltyn Snedden and Jared Shope have been great and form a real lethal duo. They have a good offense, and like usual the defense is outstanding. They have only allowed 10 points on the season. This game has some real good athletes on both sides, and it should be full of some big plays. I am taking the Rangers. I have seen them live, and they look like a real championship contender.

Rangers 27 Marauders 16