2016 Centre County Gazette Football Preview

Centre County High Schools, Penn State, Eagles & Steelers Team Coverage

A special publication of THE CENTRE COUNTY

GAZETTE August 25, 2016

PAGE 2

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

GAZETTE THE CENTRE COUNTY

403 S. Allen St., State College, PA 16801 Phone: (814) 238-5051 Fax: (814) 238-3415 www.CentreCountyGazette.com

SALES MANAGER Amy Ansari ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Bill Donley, Vicki Gillette, Katie Myers BUSINESS MANAGER Aimee Aiello AD COORDINATOR Katie Myers STAFF WRITER G. Kerry Webster COPY EDITOR Andrea Ebeling GRAPHIC DESIGN Laura Specht, Beth Wood

PUBLISHER Rob Schmidt MANAGING EDITOR Chris Morelli CONTACT US: To submit news: editor@centrecountygazette.com Advertising: sales@centrecountygazette.com The Gazette is a weekly newspaper serving Centre County and is published

by Indiana Printing and Publishing Company. Reproduction of any portion of any issue is not permitted without written permission. The publisher reserves the right to edit or reject any advertisement for any reason.

CONTENTS: High School Previews 4 ... Bald Eagle Area 6 ... Bellefonte 8 ... Penns Valley 10 ... Philipsburg-Osceola 12 ... State College 16 ... St. Joseph’s

PSU Features 18 19 20 22

... Next man up ... Saquon Barkley ... Von Walker ... Big Ten schedule

Pro Previews 24 ... Philadelphia Eagles 26 ... Pittsburgh Steelers 29 ... NFL schedule

PAGE 3

Are you ready for some football?

It’s that time of year. Pumpkinrelated items have returned to store shelves, the back-to-school merchandise is picked over and area high school marching bands are rehearsing their routines.

Football is not far behind.

The start of the high school and college football seasons is just a few days away. Five of the six Centre County high schools kick off their seasons Friday, Aug. 26, while the Penn State Nittany Lions open the season Saturday, Sept. 3, against Kent State at Beaver Stadium.

The Gazette will be picking the best high school, college and pro contests each week.

You’ll also want to pick up a copy of the Gazette to check out the fourth year of “Gazette Gameday.” As in the past, we’ll preview that week’s Penn State game. In addition to stories and columns about the Nittany Lions, there will be statistics, depth charts, sched-

ules and more inside the special pullout section.

If you have any suggestions as to how we can improve our coverage, please email me at editor@ centrecountygazette.com.

In the pages that follow, you’ll find previews of Bald Eagle Area, Bellefonte, Penns Valley, Philipsburg-Osceola, State College and St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy.

There are stories about the Penn State Nittany Lions, who will be trying to build on last year’s 7-6 campaign. They’ll have to do so without quarterback Christian Hackenberg, who has departed for the NFL. And, you’ll find previews of the new-look Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are gunning for their seventh Lombardi Trophy.

Get ready for weekends filled with the pigskin. Football is back.

— Chris Morelli

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

Nagle leads Bald Eagle Area into battle

By PAT ROTHDEUTSCH sports@centrecountygazette.com

WINGATE — One thing new Bald Eagle Area football coach Jesse Nagle brings back to his alma mater as much as anything else is his unlimited enthusiasm.

Nagle will move over from being an assistant at State College High and take over his old team this year, and he can’t wait to get started.

“Definitely excited,” Nagle said, “and very pumped for the opportunity to lead these kids and try to get them back on a winning track. Trying to get them to believe inside and outside of football, in the classroom and in the transition to life.

“How we look at it is, what’s in the past is in the past. We are looking to completely revamp the program.

We don’t care what happened. It’s now. When we came in February, we started a new program and we are

going to run it the way we think it should be run and try to get these kids excited.”

Nagle comes in to take over a team that has had a very difficult recent past.

BEA was 1-9 in 2015 and finished losing its last eight games in a row.

The Eagles beat Philipsburg-Osceola in Week 2 and then played competitively against Penns Valley in a 32-20 loss the next week.

After that, however, it was all a downward spiral. The team scored just 33 points in its last seven games, and the season ended on a very sour note with a 43-7 loss to archrival Bellefonte.

The first order of business for Nagle and his staff seems to be to build up the Eagles’ ability to move the ball, something he is well aware of and planning to address.

“The philosophy offensively is we are going to spread people out,” Nagle said. “There’s no secret. You

TIM WEIGHT/For the Gazette

FIRST-YEAR head coach and Bald Eagle Area graduate Jesse Nagle talks to his squad during a recent practice at Bald Eagle Area High School.

That list starts with starting quarterback and leading rusher Tyler Kresovich.

Last season, Kresovich completed 64 of 140 passes for 746 yards and four touchdowns.

He also led the team in rushing with 318 yards on 115 attempts and scored another four touchdowns.

Kresovich does lose three of his top receivers from last

are going to see that Week 1.

“We are going to spread people out, and we are going to use out athletes. We have a lot of athletes and we are going to utilize every single one of them.

“We have a good group of young kids.”

Fortunately, the Eagles have a corral of experience skill-position players returning.

Bald Eagle Area High School Head coach

Jesse Nagle, first season Career record: 0-0

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AUGUST 25, 2016 season, but Derek Henry, Jacob Koleno, Ty Walker and running back Hunter Hockenberry all saw action and all are returning.

In the backfield, Hockenberry (273 yards) will complement Kresovich, and Henry, Tyler Heimbaugh and Andrew Dubbs will also be available.

Defensively, Nagle sees a speedy team that will have to concentrate on stopping its opponents’ biggest threat.

“Defensively, we are going to have good team speed,” he said, “and, again, we are going to utilize those athletes. We are going to try to shut down the other team’s No. 1, and then work from there.

“Up front, we are going to put our four biggest, strongest guys and hopefully let them wreck it and let our back-end speed guys control everybody.”

BEA will play three local teams to lead off its schedule this season. First up will be a visit from St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy on Friday, Aug. 26, and then a visit to

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

PAGE 5

TIM WEIGHT/For the Gazette

BALD EAGLE AREA will look a little different under first-year head coach Jesse Nagle. The Eagles are coming off a 1-9 campaign.

P-O the following Friday, Sept. 2. Penns Valley comes in Friday, Sept. 9, followed

by Chestnut Ridge on Friday, Sept. 16.

The rest of the season has home games against Tyrone (Sept. 30) and Clearfield

(Oct. 14) along with trips to Central (Sept. 23), Huntingdon (Oct. 7), Jersey Shore (Oct. 21), and Bellefonte (Oct. 28).

“I played here,” Nagle said. “I’ve been here. I see these kids, and I see how

passionate the community is about football. I thought that this is a great opportunity to have this group of kids and to change the atmosphere here. And hopefully lead this community in the right direction.”

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

Manning leads new-look Red Raiders

By PAT ROTHDEUTSCH sports@centrecountygazette.com

BELLEFONTE — The Bellefonte High School football team has been on a steady incline since coach Shanon Manning took over the helm in 2013.

The 2015 team, Manning’s third, finished with a record of just 3-7, yet there was no question that the level of play and physical presence of the team had dramatically improved.

There were close losses to solid teams like Jersey Shore (20-14), John Marshall (28-17) and Chestnut Ridge (20-14 in overtime), and three one-sided wins against the three other Mountain League teams in Centre County.

Now, entering 2016, the mood surrounding the Raiders is upbeat and the expectations are for another performance leap on the field.

“What I am proud of with

these kids,” Manning said, “is that we were resilient.

Going into Week 10, we may only have had two wins, but those kids were playing like we were going to the playoffs. It was the mindset of all of them.

“We had every opportunity to win six or seven last year, and those kids knew that. The could have folded but they didn’t. They played hard. Down the stretch, they played extremely hard. Our best week of practice all year was before our last game against BEA.” Entering the new season, nonetheless, there are some realities that may temper some of that Raider zeal.

One is the loss of senior running back Austin Jackson. Jackson was a huge piece of the Bellefonte offense, rushing 136 times for 1,027 yards and 11 touchdowns. In the 43-7 victory over Bald Eagle Area, Jackson ran for a season-high

TIM WEIGHT/For the Gazette

BELLEFONTE HEAD COACH Shanon Manning makes a point during a recent practice at Rogers Stadium. It’s Manning’s fourth season as the Red Raiders’ head coach.

return for his senior season, as will Dexter Gallishaw, Stephen Kutches and Jaiden Boone. So. there is some game experience there, but Jackson put up a lot of offense to replace.

Another loss from 2015 was starting quarterback Mark Armstrong. Even though Bellefonte did not throw very much — the

222 yards and scored two touchdowns. Jackson had three games total over 100 yards, and one of the keys to stopping Bellefonte was to control him. Only one team, however, Huntingdon, was able to keep him under 60 yards rushing.

Tyler Kreger, last year’s third-leading runner with 347 yards on 58 carries, will

Bellefonte Area High School Head coach

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

enced and talented defensive linemen coming back in Tanner Helms and Eli Lipscomb. They were both there last year and are both talented kids, and we have some other kids who have played.

“On the offensive line, though, we do not have one senior. We have some kids there, but we are young.

There’s no way around it. We only have eight seniors.”

In all, there is a definite expectation that the improvements will continue for the Raiders despite the large shoes they need to fill.

This team, however, will need to be present from the very beginning of the season. Jersey Shore will visit to open things Friday, Aug. 26, and then Bellefonte will

PAGE 7 play at Huntingdon (Sept. 2), Philipsburg-Osceola (Sept.

9), at Central Mountain (Sept. 16), at Tyrone (Sept.

23), at Clearfield (Sept. 30) and at Penns Valley (Oct. 7).

That’s five of its first seven games on the road against some of the top teams in the district.

The season finishes with three home games against Central (Oct. 14), Chestnut Ridge (Oct. 21), and BEA (Oct. 28).

“I think we’ve been so close,” Manning said, “and last year we were competitive in almost every game.

I think the mindset’s been established about where we are going. I think we’ve got good talent, and the kids are willing to lay it on the line.”

TIM WEIGHT/For the Gazette

THE BELLEFONTE Red Raiders will look a little different this season following the graduation of several key players.

Raiders threw for just fewer than 60 yards per game — Armstrong did complete 33 passes for 369 yards and five touchdowns.

According to Manning, there is a healthy competition going on to replace him.

“We are going to put the forward pass back at Bellefonte,” Manning said. “We have three quarterbacks right now, with Chase Gardner in the forefront right now. But we’ve also moved Tyler (Kreger) to get quarterback reps so we have some experience back there.

“As you know, Chase has

started three or four games in his career already, and Tyler we move there as an experienced guy. We are looking to run the quarterback more and we needed some experienced kids there to take a bit of a pounding.”

Both top receivers are also gone, Nick Jabco and Kellen Moss, but Tanner Helms and Cade Fortney will return.

Manning sees potential on both his offensive and defensive lines, although the offensive line will be very young.

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

Penns Valley hopes for a turn around

By PAT ROTHDEUTSCH sports@centrecountygazette.com

SPRING MILLS — Like all high school football teams every year, Penns Valley lost some very important players through graduation who will be difficult to replace.

One was Ben Alexander, the Ram’s No. 1 receiver and one of the most dangerous and successful return men in the county, if not the district.

Another was running back and linebacker Chase Collison, barely 5-foot-10 and just over 200 pounds, who was the team’s leading runner with 699 yards on the ground and five touchdowns.

There is a player returning, though, who can make up for — or at least ease the transition from — those losses, and he is two-year starting senior quarterback Andrew Tobias.

Tobias, statistically, was the area’s most effective

quarterback in 2015. He completed 102 of 192 passes for just under 1500 yards and 10 touchdowns.

In addition, he was the team’s second leading rusher (103 yards) and lent stability to the position by starting all 10 games.

As a junior, Tobias increasingly began to find his confidence as the season progressed, and he is widely expected to carry that success over to his senior season.

“I think that the growth at our quarterback position last year was important,” head coach Martin Tobias said.

“We can use that as kind of a springboard going into this season. There’s a quiet confidence there (with Andrew Tobias) that knowing what we have and the players around him knowing what he can do is a real comfort.

“Obviously, it’s a nice thing to have a returning starter like that who can take

Photo courtesy vjm Studios

THE 2016 Penns Valley Area High School football coaching staff.

Pictured, from left, are Kurt Troxell, head coach Martin Tobias, Rob Irwin and Tom Shearer. season, will be how we handle things along the offensive and defensive lines,” he said. “This year, going into the preseason and two-aday practices, we have the most experienced offensive and defensive lines returning that we’ve had in my 21 years coaching experience.

“It will be a return to ba-

charge in the huddle and set the tone.”

Andrew Tobias is not the only returning player to what will be very experienced team, and Martin Tobias noted especially the returning depth along the defensive and offensive lines.

“The key, like every other

Penns Valley High School Head coach

Martin Tobias, 21st season Career record: 86-115

Conference

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2015 Results 2-8

Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

2016 Schedule

at Marian Catholic CLEARFIELD at Bald Eagle Area at Central HUNTINGDON at P’burg-Osceola BELLEFONTE at Chestnut Ridge TYRONE COWANESQUE VALLEY

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AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

PAGE 9

Photo courtesy vjm Studios

THE PENNS VALLEY Area High School football team returns 17 letter winners for the 2016 season. Pictured, front row, from left, are Trevor Fleck, Andrew Tobias, Ryan Long, Christian Rudolph, Luke Snyder and Jared Bressler. Middle row, from left, are Cole Hess, Takoda Bubb, Jared Hurd, Colton Wenrick and Cameron Clark. Back row, from left, are Tristan Klinefelter, Sean McGowan, Justin Sands, Jacob Duffield, Matthew Tobias and Thomas Kauffman. sics for us. It’s is nice to handle things from a skill standpoint, but it all goes back to blocking, tackling and the fundamentals of the game.

That’s what we are going to emphasize. Moving the ball

at a steady pace and taking advantage of the opportunities that present themselves.”

The steady pace comment goes back to the loss of Alexander and his big-play

capabilities. With him gone, Martin Tobias said, the team will have to rely on a balanced, patient offense if it is to succeed.

“When you look at it,” he said, “we don’t necessarily

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

Mounties enter 2016 with new coach

By PAT ROTHDEUTSCH

sports@centrecountygazette.com

PHILIPSBURG — If something can possibly go wrong in a football game, it’s a safe bet that it has gone wrong for Philipsburg-Osceola sometime in the past three years.

The Mounties have lost 39 of their last 40 games and did not win a game in 2014 or 2015, with many of those losses coming via the mercy rule.

On top of that, the quarterback, four of the top five rushers and the top two receivers all graduated and will have to be replaced for the 2016 season.

Even through all of that bad news, however, there are shards of hope that the Mounties can begin to turn their fortunes around.

There is a new coach in 1987 P-O graduate Mike Mann, a new commitment to fundamental football and

improving numbers in the lower grades.

That all, somehow, has to start coming out on the field, and that starts with Mann.

Even though he was hired rather late after former coach Mike Soyster resigned, Mann has enthusiastically taken over the program.

“It’s been a whirlwind, it happened so late,” Mann said. “There haven’t been enough hours in the day to get everything done with the offense we are going to run, the defense we are going to run, the guys who are going to work for me, things like that. Trying to put together a staff. It was a little overwhelming at first, but it worked out.”

Even though there are substantial graduation losses from last season’s team, there are good numbers returning in 2016.

“I’m looking for mid30s,” Mann said about the size of his new team, “maybe

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FIRST-YEAR Philipsburg-Osceola head coach Mike Mann directs practice as the Mounties prepare for the 2016 season. as many as 40, depending on who comes out.”

The Mounties return 18 seniors and juniors, including quarterbacks Dan Slogosky and Brandon Anderson, second-leading running back Matt Johnson and eight receivers, including T.J. Thompson and Levi Hughes.

The defense will be an-

chored by 6-foot-2, 230pound Skyler Rebo, who will play both on the defensive and offensive line. He will be joined on the D-line by Bradley Dunkel, Jordan Smith and Matt Bordas, all of whom have starting experience.

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WEST BRANCH TYRONE at Bellefonte TYRONE at Chestnut Ridge PENNS VALLEY at Central HUNTINGDON at Clearfield ST. JOE’S

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

PAGE 11

G. KERRY WEBSTER/The Gazette

THE PHILIPSBURG-OSCEOLA Mounties return 15 letter winners to the 2016 squad. Pictured, front row, from left, are Jordan Smith, Landon McDonald, Levi Hughes, Brandon Anderson, Matt Johnson, Bubba Slogosky and Kyle Taylor. Back row, from left, are James Bryan, Noah Jeffries, Zhane Miller, Bradley Dunkel, Nick Keith, T.J. Thompson, Samuel Lansberry and Skylar Rebo. ball,” Mann said. “We have to block and run. We are going to run a power-slot offense, and we are going to run the ball first. And then we’ll work on the pass and on defense. Just straight-up tackling. Just fundamental football, and that’s what we are going to work on.”

Besides the seniors and juniors, there are 15 sophomores who will be moving

up, and Mann expects that there will be big roles for those younger players to fill.

“We have a young team,” Mann said. “With a young team, we can have a sound foundation to build on, so I’m looking forward to this year. I am going to have a lot of sophomores playing, so we’re young. These 10thgraders, we are going to rely a lot on them.”

The schedule is challenging, as usual, especially in the latter stages of September and October. The Mounties open at home against West Branch on Friday, Aug. 26, and then against BEA on Friday, Sept.

2. Bellefonte on Friday, Sept.

9, is the first road game, and that’s followed by a home date with always-tough Tyrone on Friday, Sept. 16.

There are then later games at Chestnut Ridge, Central and archrival Clearfield, with Penns Valley, Huntingdon and St. Joseph’s finishing up the home schedule.

“The kids are up,” Mann said, “so it’s been nice. I’ve had over 20 kids continuous for voluntary workouts, so they’re pretty excited. We are looking forward to see what happens.”

PAGE 12

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

Little Lions hope to reload this season

By G. KERRY WEBSTER kwebster@centrecountygazette.com

STATE COLLEGE — Despite losing 30 players to graduation, including 10 who are now playing at the college level, State College Area High School football coach Matt Lintal is confident about the Little Lions’ success in 2016. His roster returns the double-headed quarterback offense and league defensive MVP that helped paved the way to district gold in 2015, as well as a PIAA AAAA quarter-final round appearance.

“We think we’re ready to get over the hump,” said Lintal, who enters his third season with a 15-11 career record (9-4 in 2015). “I’m really excited about these guys.

We lost quite a few players to graduation, so we have some big shoes to fill, but these kids have really stepped it up. We have a great group of skills kids on both sides of the football, and of course, we have the returning defensive league MVP of our entire league.

G. KERRY WEBSTER/The Gazette

THE 2016 State College Area High School football coaching staff. Pictured, front row, from left, are John Stout, Mark Baney, Tyler Kaluza, Cory Raupers and Chris Russell. Back row, from left, are Diane Swauger, Dirk Grissinger, Maurince Freeman, head coach Matt Lintal, Mike Mazzara and Mike Snyder.

“We’re really excited about where we are at right now and where we are heading.”

State College Area High School Head coach

Matt Lintal, third season Career record: 15-11

Conference

Mid-Penn Conference

2015 Results 9-4

Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28 Nov. 4

2016 Schedule

at McCaskey at Hollidaysburg MIFFLIN COUNTY MECHANICSBURG at Carlisle CUMBERLAND VALLEY at Central Dauphin East HARRISBURG at Chambersburg CENTRAL DAUPHIN

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

Lintal said when fans come out to watch the Little Lions, they should continue to expect to see an up-tempo game, and perhaps a few things veteran fans may not recognize.

“We’re going to be balanced, and we want to establish the run, but we’re still going to throw the ball,” said Lintal. “We’re excited to have quite a bit of experience and leadership coming back. I think we’re going to be able to expand some things and do a little more.

We’re going to put a bit more on the kids this season.”

Leading the offense will be the double-headed threat of quarterbacks Tyler Snyder, a senior, and Drew Friberg, a junior. Both quarterbacks played in every game last season. Snyder threw for more than 1,000 yards and Friberg’s total surpassed 500 yards.

“Both of these guys are extremely talented kids,” said Lintal. “They kind of have a different skill set, a little bit, but both are very productive.”

He said Snyder uses a quick release and smart approach to the find success as a signal caller.

“He understands the game and is a student of the game,” said Lintal. “He’s in my room all the time watching film and wanting to learn more about the game. He’s a young man we expect to be a coach some day. He loves the game and strategizing with the Xs and Os. He really gets the big picture of the game.”

Friberg is a standout basketball player at State High.

His height gives him an advantage over most teams.

“He brings his 6-6 frame to the field so he can really see things clearly,” said Lintal. “He has tremendous anticipation skills and is really good at taking care of the ball.”

When in passing situations, the Little Lions will look to wideouts junior Brandon Clark and returning starter senior Noah Woods. “(Clark) is a big, 6-4 kid State High, Page 14

AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

PAGE 13

G. KERRY WEBSTER/The Gazette

THE 2016 State College Area High School football team. Pictured, front row, from left, are Paul Olivett, Ian Barr, Kyle Engle, Tristen Lyons, Aziz Salamy and Mason Mellott. Middle row, from left, are Robert Nachtman, Drew Friberg, Pete Haffner, Peyton Edwards, Jackson Heasley, Donovan Brown and Joshua Ruffner. Back row, from left, are Erik Swanson, William Swope, Brandon Clark, Mark Wess, Kam’ron Walker, Tyler Snyder, Noah Woods and Drew Linnes.

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that can jump out of the gym. He has tremendous ball skills, too. He can do just about anything on the field,” said Lintal. “(Woods) is a track guy that can fly. He can take the top off anything.”

Erik Swanson, a senior, didn’t start last year; however, he played in several games when State High needed to use a two tightend set. Lintal said he is expecting big things from Swanson, as well as from a new face, sophomore Cohen Russell, at the interior slot position. “(Russell) isn’t that big, but he’s quick,” Lintal said.

Junior Tristen Lyons will handle the bulk of the carries out of the Little Lions’ backfield. He stepped last season when starter, and now graduated, Jordan Mishler was hurt. He racked up more than 500 rushing yards in 2015, including a 227-yard game against Central Dauphin East.

“He’s a kid that can really pick up the slack,” said Lintal. “He has put on some really good weight and muscle in the off-season. He’s going to be a very durable back for us.”

The question on offense is up-front. Just one starter returns in senior Noah Woods. “(Woods) is going to need to step up and lead this group this year,” said Lintal.

AUGUST 25, 2016 “He’s a big kid at 6-6, 270 pounds, but he’s an athletic kid with a hard work ethic. I think a lot of guy on the line will be inspired by him.”

Defensively, Lintal feels his team will match up with any team on the schedule.

“Our linebacker experience is tremendous and our interior defensive line is all back, as are a couple kids in the secondary,” he said. “We had a great defense last year, and I think we can do even better this year.”

Leading the group will be linebacker Pete Haffner, a senior who was tabbed as the Mid-Penn Conference defensive MVP last season. “(Haffner) is a tremendous leader and a kid that just has a nose for the game and for the football,” said Lintal. “He’s tough, and hard-nosed and physically intimidating. Him, with the other returning inside linebacker, Josh Ruffner, makes for a formidable duo.”

Kam’ron Walker and Drew Linnes, both seniors, will anchor the defensive line. Lintal said Walker is a leader in many different ways for the team, and will bring a dominating and physical presence up front.

Linnes, a wrestler, is lightning quick.

“It looks like we’re going to have some new faces at the defensive end positions,” said Lintal. “We have some State High, Page 28

AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

PAGE 15

Get Ready For

GAME DAY

Be sure to pick up The Centre County Gazette for Gazette Gameday every week during football season.

It’s your weekly comprehensive guide to Penn State football — featuring rosters, depth charts, statistics, schedules and standings.

PAGE 16

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

St. Joe’s looks to build on two-win season

By MICHAEL D. KRESOVICH correspondent@centrecountygazette.com

BOALSBURG — Despite lack of numbers once again for the St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy Wolves, a new coaching staff looks to turn around a two-win team from last fall.

St. Joseph’s hired Steve Guthoff in the spring. He took the job with two main intentions: turning around a football program and building character in young men.

“I’ve always wanted to see a successful Catholic high school in State College,” Guthoff said.

Veteran coach John Franco joins the staff as well, and experience is a word very familiar to the two coaches. Between

St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy Head coach

Steve Guthoff, first season Career record: 0-0

TIM WEIGHT/For the Gazette

VETERAN COACH Steve Guthoff takes over the St. Joe’s football program. The program is in its fourth season.

Conference Independent

2015 Results 2-8

Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 23 Oct. 7 Oct. 15 Oct. 21 Oct. 29 Nov. 4

2016 Schedule

at Bald Eagle Area FAIRFIELD at Perkiomen BUCKTAIL HALIFAX at Columbia Montour Vo-Tech NATIVITY BVM at P’burg-Osceola at Line Mountain

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

them, they have 60 years of coaching experience.

St. Joe’s went 2-8 last season, winning their first and last games. It was the second consecutive season in a row the Wolves won just two games. Winning four games during the inaugural 2013 season, the Wolves since then haven’t been able to achieve that level of success.

The Wolves’ numbers have been down the past few seasons in terms of people going out for the team, but Guthoff is determined to not let that affect his team this season.

“What happens sometimes with numbers is that you don’t have people challenging for positions, but that’s not an issue.

We found others to fight for positions,” he said.

In the past few seasons, St. Joe’s has had to play their players on both sides of the ball and even special teams, too.

During the Wolves’ summer camp training, the players have learned an entirely new offense, as well as new schemes.

Guthoff likes the mood of his players during practice thus far.

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AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

“Everybody’s working and they’re beginning to understand and embrace the expectations in terms of culture; they know they are going to work hard. It’s a bunch of guys that want to make a difference here at St. Joe’s,” he said.

In addition to a new coaching staff and the departure of five starting seniors on the offensive side of the ball, the Wolves have to get used to a new starting quarterback. Junior Brendan Robinson will take snaps under center this fall. He saw some action last season.

It was a busy offseason for the St. Joe’s football program. Shortly after hiring a new staff, a former player made history, too.

Charles Ross, who played wide receiver for the Wolves for three seasons, is the first St. Joe’s player to play college football. Ross is playing Division III football at Allegheny College.

The Wolves open up their 2016 season Friday, Aug. 26, when they visit Bald Eagle Area. It is the first meeting between the two schools.

“This is David and Goliath,” Guthoff said about the enrollment difference between the two schools.

Guthoff said his players are not backing down to anyone; they want to be competitive in every game that they play.

“We are gonna try to represent St. Joseph’s and play as tough as we can,” he said.

PAGE 17

TIM WEIGHT/For the Gazette

ST. JOE’S will be trying to overcome a lack of numbers this year. The Wolves open the season Aug. 26, traveling to Bald Eagle Area.

Go Wolves!

SAINT JOE’S BEGINS A NEW ERA under the leadership of veteran coaches Steve Guthoff and John Franco. Guthoff boasts over 31 years of experience coaching high school and collegiate football, including Penn State. Franco brings with him a wealth of knowledge from his 38 years of coaching high school football, 31 as a head coach, seven as an assistant coach, and one year in college at IUP.

Faith, Scholarship, Leadership, Service Learn more about Saint Joseph’s Catholic Academy.

Call (814) 808-6118 or visit us online at www.stjoeacad.org or www.facebook.com/stjoeacad

Date Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 23 Oct. 7

2016 Schedule

Opponent Bald Eagle Area High School Fairfield High School Perkiomen School Bucktail High School Halifax High School *Homecoming Oct. 14 Columbia-Montour Vo-Tech Oct. 21 Nativity BVM Oct. 29 Philipsburg-Osceola High School Nov. 4 Line Mountain High School

Location Away (7 p.m.)

Memorial Field (7 p.m.)

Away (4 p.m.)

Bishop Guilfoyle (7 p.m.)

Bishop Guilfoyle (7 p.m.)

Away (7 p.m.)

Bishop Guilfoyle (7 p.m.)

Away (1 p.m.)

Away (7 p.m.)

PAGE 18

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Next man up

AUGUST 25, 2016

Penn State looks to replace Hackenberg

By MICHAEL D. KRESOVICH correspondent@centrecountygazette.com

UNIVERSITY PARK — After losing three-year starter Christian Hackenberg to the NFL draft this past spring, and the addition of a new offensive coordinator, the Nittany Lions enter 2016 trying to find their new quarterback.

For the past three off seasons, there was no question of who would be the signal caller. Simply put, it was Hackenberg’s job.

This year, things change.

Trace McSorley looks to be in control of the battle heading into camp.

McSorley appeared in seven games last year for the Nittany Lions. After Hackenberg went down in the TaxSlayer Bowl against Georgia, McSorley tossed two touchdowns. The 6-foot, 201-pound quarterback from Ashburn,Va., led his high school team to four state championships, winning three of them.

During the course of his high school career, he racked up more than 12,000 yards of total offense and 150 touchdowns.

Penn State head coach James Franklin has not named a starter yet. McSorley knows the job is up for grabs.

“I’ve got to just keep working hard, trying to prove myself every day,” McSorley said.

AT PENN STATE, IT’S TIME FOR A CHANGE

“I think obviously every program in the country and every NFL program would love to have a returning starter for the next 20 years. That’s not how it works,” Franklin said.

Tommy Stevens is battling with McSorley for the quarterback job as the Nittany Lions enter camp. Stevens is redshirt sophomore. The only action fans have seen from Stevens was in the Blue-White Game. In the annual spring tilt, Stevens completed 10 of 17 for 100 yards.

“I think Trace (McSorley), like I mentioned before, has done some really nice things. But I think Tommy (Stevens) also has shown a tremendous ability as well,” Franklin said.

A new quarterback isn’t the only thing that will be fresh to this offense. This offseason, Joe Moorhead was named Penn State’s offense coordinator. Known for his up-tempo spread offense, Moorhead spent four years as head coach at Fordham.

Penn State

Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 22 Oct. 29 Nov. 5 Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 26

2016 Schedule

KENT STATE at Pitt TEMPLE at Michigan MINNESOTA MARYLAND OHIO STATE at Purdue IOWA at Indiana at Rutgers MICHIGAN STATE

3:30 p.m.

Noon Noon TBA TBA Noon 8 p.m.

TBA 7:30 p.m.

TBA 8 p.m.

TBA

TIM WEIGHT/Gazette file photo

TRACE McSORELY is the frontrunner for the starting quarterback job at Penn State, though head coach James Franklin has not named a starter.

SIZE VERSUS SPEED

That is what Penn State is dealing with now. Stevens has the height advantage, but McSorley’s accuracy and mobility gives him an edge as well.

Moorhead is anxious to see this offense in action, no matter who is at quarterback. Penn State has something special in terms of talent coming this fall to Happy Valley, he said.

“We don’t just have talent, we have depth and talent,” Moorhead said.

The trio of wideouts return with Chris Godwin, Saeed Blacknall and last season’s Big 10 leading receiver, Daesean Hamilton. Brandon Polk, Deandre Hopkins and Juwan Johnson will look to make plays to at wideout this fall.

At running back, Saquon Barkley returns as the starter after a breakout season, and incoming freshman Miles Sanders has a lot of hype surrounding him as well.

Tommy Stevens is ready to see this high-powered offense in action.

“I think the beauty of this offense is the options it gives us,” Stevens said.

Franklin will take his time in naming a starter prior to the season opener, which comes Saturday, Sept. 3, against Kent State.

Follow us on Twitter. @centrecogazette

AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

PAGE 19

Scintillating Sophomore All eyes on RB Barkley as 2016 season begins

By JOSE RUIZ correspondent@centrecountygazette.com

UNIVERSITY PARK — Last year the face of Penn State football was former starting quarterback Christian Hackenberg.

However, Hackenberg left after his junior year and is with the NFL’s New York Jets. That leaves many fans wondering who will carry the torch as the new team leader and best player.

Luckily, for Nittany Lion fans, they won’t have to look for long. Sophomore running back Saquon Barkley has emerged as the new face of the team.

Labeled as a “superstar” by offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead, Barkley will now be the guy that everybody is looking at in the offense to produce — game in and game out.

“You’d like a guy that could be 220 pounds. Well, he’s quick and he’s fast, but he’s 170 pounds. He’s one of these guys that has a lot of the traits that you’re looking for,” said Penn State head football coach James Franklin. “He’s got the mentality. He’s got the size. He’s got the quickness. He’s got the speed. He’s got the power. He’s got the strength. He’s got a lot of desirable traits. I think that’s what differentiates him.”

Barkley is the second-leading returning Big Ten running back after rushing for 1,076 yards as a freshman. At this time last year, Barkley was just a nervous freshman with no expectations coming into the season. Now he is the veteran, a 1,000-yard rusher and, ac-

cording to his new offensive coordinator, the leader of the new offense.

“I think the thing we’ve seen from Saquon in the spring and heading into camp is a maturity and an ability to handle the leadership role,” Moorhead said. “That is incumbent upon guys who are as good as him.”

Though a sophomore, Barkley has try to come forward as one of the team’s vocal captains.

“I like to talk,” he said. “I don’t want to be a leader because of what I bring to the game or my talent or because I’m able to jump over someone or make a guy miss. I want to be a leader because guys actually respect me.”

Barkley said that not all of his teammates may be able to comprehend his role as a leader.

“I know it’s hard for a guy like Nyeem (Wartman-White) to see me as a fellow leader. He’s 23, and I’m 19. So I just try to work my butt off every single day and never complain. Hopefully people will take note,” Barkley said.

Heading into this season, Barkley will face challenges he didn’t last year.

He won’t take any teams by surprise this year, as he will become the focal point of the defensive plans against the Nittany Lions. Yet, that doesn’t seem to bother him in the slightest.

“If someone comes to a game with the mindset that they think I’m talented enough that I can take over a game and they want to stop me and they do stop me … that opens up Chris Godwin, DaeSean Hamilton, Saeed Blacknall,

TIM WEIGHT/Gazette file photo

PENN STATE running back Saquon Barkley is coming off a phenomenal freshman campaign and will be the player to watch this season.

Trace McSorley and Tommy Stevens.

We just won the game,” Barkley said.

Another thing that will change a lot for him is the offense he is in. At Fordham, Moorhead’s backs averaged between 250 and 300 carries in a season, which would present a significant workload increase for Barkley, who had just 182 caries last year. Moorhead said he’s mindful of the potential wear and tear of his star back and wants to work in backs Mark Allen, Andre Robinson and, potentially, freshman Miles Sanders into the rotation during games.

Yet Moorhead still sees the big potential his running back has.

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PAGE 20

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

Walker’s ‘best four years’ ending

By MICHAEL D. KRESOVICH correspondent@centrecountygazette.com

UNIVERSITY PARK — Mill Hall’s own Von Walker, who is entering his final year of football at Penn State, is looking to bring energy and excitement to Penn State’s special teams.

It has been four years since Walker was an absolute menace on Friday nights for the Central Mountain Wildcats, owning a total of 14 school records. Now, he will play his final season on the pristine grass at Beaver Stadium.

“It’s been the best four years of my life so far and I’m going to miss it,” Walker said during Penn State football’s media day.

Walker has pretty much done it all for the Lions during the course of his three years.

In his freshman season,Walker was one of only 12 true freshmen to see game action, first seeing it at MetLife Stadium during a neutral site game against Syracuse. After starting the season at running back, Walker found himself playing safety on the opposing side of the ball. He also acted as a kick returner for the special teams unit, accumulating 99 yards on six returns.

During the spring 2014 practices, Walker was officially moved from offense to defense. He made appearances in 12 games during his sophomore season, finishing third in special team tackles with five.

Walker earned his first collegiate start, which came against Northwestern. As a “special team specialist” for the Blue and White, Walker wreaked havoc on the opposition.

Walker has enjoyed many career highlights as a Nittany Lion.

Walker found himself being selected to the All-Academic Big Ten team for the first time in his career.

He was named one of five captains for the Nittany Lions to start off his junior season. Walker’s blocked punt against Big Ten rival Michigan led to the Nittany Lion’s sole touchdown of the game. It just happened to be the first blocked punt for the Nittany Lions since Mike Hull did it against Ohio State in 2012. In a game against Army, Walker recovered his first career fumble. He ended his junior season by leading the Nittany Lions in punt coverage tackles with six.

Walker discussed how special teams coordinator Charles Huff wants to really be aggressive due to the importance of special teams.

TIM WEIGHT/Gazette file photo

VON WALKER is hoping for a big year as he gears up for his final season with the Nittany Lions.

“Coach Huff told us that the first year we were just getting our feet wet, the second year we were getting comfortable and this year we’re going to go out and play all out,” he said.

Be prepared to see a very explosive special teams unit coming this fall to Happy Valley. Huff, who will enter his third season as part of the Penn State staff, is more than excited to get the upcoming season under way.

“I kind of feel like a parent at Christmas that knows what’s in the box that the kids are going to get a chance to open. So we’re excited,” Huff said.

Still, the Nittany Lions are going to be taking it one game at a time this fall.

“You can’t focus on the future,” Walker said. “You’ve got to worry about the task right ahead of you.”

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AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

PAGE 21

Bob: Former Penn State Defensive Tackle and passionate perennial gardener

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Lock Haven 208 E. Church St. Lock Haven, PA 17745 814.689.3140

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PAGE 22

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

2016 Big Ten Composite Schedule SEPT. 1

Indiana at Florida International Oregon State at Minnesota

SEPT. 2

Furman at Michigan State

SEPT. 3

Kent State at Penn State Murray State at Illinois Miami (Ohio) at Iowa Howard at Maryland Hawaii at Michigan Fresno State at Nebraska Western Michigan at Northwestern Bowling Green at Ohio State Eastern Kentucky at Purdue Rutgers at Washington Wisconsin vs. LSU (at Green Bay, Wisconsin)

SEPT. 9

Maryland at Florida International

SEPT. 10

Penn State at Pittsburgh North Carolina at Illinois Ball State at Indiana Iowa State at Iowa Central Florida at Michigan Indiana State at Minnesota Wyoming at Nebraska Illinois State at Northwestern Tulsa at Ohio State Cincinnati at Purdue Howard at Rutgers Akron at Wisconsin

SEPT. 17

Temple at Penn State Western Michigan at Illinois North Dakota State at Iowa Maryland at Central Florida Colorado at Michigan Michigan State at Notre Dame Oregon at Nebraska Duke at Northwestern Ohio State at Oklahoma New Mexico at Rutgers Georgia State at Wisconsin

SEPT. 24

Penn State at Michigan Wisconsin at Michigan State Nebraska at Northwestern Iowa at Rutgers Wake Forest at Indiana

Colorado State at Minnesota Nevada at Purdue

OCT. 1

Minnesota at Penn State Michigan State at Indiana Northwestern at Iowa Purdue at Maryland Wisconsin at Michigan Illinois at Nebraska Rutgers at Ohio State

OCT. 8

Maryland at Penn State Purdue at Illinois Iowa at Minnesota Indiana at Ohio State Michigan at Rutgers BYU at Michigan State

OCT. 15

Nebraska at Indiana Minnesota at Maryland Northwestern at Michigan State Iowa at Purdue Illinois at Rutgers Ohio State at Wisconsin

OCT. 22

Ohio State at Penn State Wisconsin at Iowa Michigan State at Maryland Illinois at Michigan Rutgers at Minnesota Purdue at Nebraska Indiana at Northwestern

OCT. 29

Penn State at Purdue Minnesota at Illinois Maryland at Indiana Michigan at Michigan State Northwestern at Ohio State Nebraska at Wisconsin

NOV. 5

Iowa at Penn State Michigan State at Illinois Maryland at Michigan Purdue at Minnesota Wisconsin at Northwestern Nebraska at Ohio State Indiana at Rutgers

NOV. 12

Penn State at Indiana

Michigan at Iowa Ohio State at Maryland Rutgers at Michigan State Minnesota at Nebraska Northwestern at Purdue Illinois at Wisconsin

NOV. 19

Penn State at Rutgers Iowa at Illinois Indiana at Michigan Ohio State at Michigan State Northwestern at Minnesota Maryland at Nebraska Wisconsin at Purdue

NOV. 25

Nebraska at Iowa

NOV. 26

Michigan State at Penn State Purdue at Indiana Rutgers at Maryland Illinois at Northwestern Michigan at Ohio State Minnesota at Wisconsin

DEC. 3

Big Ten Championship Game (at Indianapolis)

2016-17 BIG TEN BOWL LINEUP

Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl (Orlando, Fla.) Capital One Orange Bowl (Miami Gardens, Fla.) Foster Farms Bowl (Santa Clara, Calif.)

Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl (Nashville, Tenn.)

Holiday Bowl (San Diego) Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl (Fort Worth, Texas) New Era Pinstripe Bowl (New York) Outback Bowl (Tampa, Fla.) Quick Lane Bowl (Detroit) Rose Bowl (Pasadena, Calif.)

TaxSlayer Bowl (Jacksonville, Fla.) Zaxby’s Heart of Dallas Bowl (Dallas)

azette g y t n u o rec @cent

AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Make Thursday Your Day to pick up The Centre County Gazette Here are just a few locations:

Burkholder’s (indoor) Centre County Visitors Center (indoor) Dairy Queen (indoor) The Deli (outdoor) Downtown Improvement District (indoor) Giant (indoor) IHOP (outdoor) Jersey Mikes (outdoor) Meyer Dairy (indoor) Minit Mart West College Ave (indoor) Nittany Lion Inn (indoor)

Northland Bowl (indoor) Ollie’s at Hills Plaza (indoor) Penn State HUB (indoor) Penn Stater Conference Center (indoor) Schlow Library (outdoor) Snappy’s (indoor) The State Theatre (outdoor) Uni-Marts (indoor) University Park Airport (indoor) Waffle Shops (indoor) Walmart (indoor) Weis Markets (indoor) Wegmans (indoor)

PAGE 23

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

Eagles try to turn things around

By PAT ROTHDEUTSCH sports@centrecountygazette.com

PHILADELPHIA — There is a completely different vibe around the Philadelphia Eagles as the beginning of the 2016 NFL season approaches.

Every year, it seems, the Eagles are a mystery. That’s been the case for at least the last five seasons, and it was especially true before the last three under Chip Kelly. Kelly brought great promise when he arrived from Oregon, and at first his highpowered offense and unusual coaching style produced wins.

Kelly’s teams averaged nine wins per season over those three years, but last year’s 7-9 record and late season collapse did not sit well with owner Jeffrey Lurie, and Kelly was gone.

Now it’s Doug Pederson at the helm, and he has brought big changes, although there is still not very much clarity about where the Eagles are headed.

Even though Pederson had no head coaching experience, it wasn’t a big surprise that the Eagles hired him. Pederson was a protégé of long-time coach Andy Reid in Kansas City, and he will more than likely bring Reid’s style of football back to Philadelphia.

How well Reid has fared with the Chiefs after he left Philadelphia apparently was not lost on Laurie.

The Chiefs won 31 games since Reid took over, and no one in the NFL throws the ball more than an Andy Reid team. So there’s no reason to think that Pederson will do anything different when the Eagles start playing.

That could be a big problem because the quarterback situation with the Eagles is, to be kind, complicated.

Sam Bradford is the incumbent, but when Kelly left and the Eagles drafted Carson Wentz second overall in the draft, Bradford demanded a trade. Pederson, before and after the draft, has consistently said that Bradford will be his starter, but Bradford does not want anything to do with being a caretaker until Wentz is ready to take over.

The situation since has normalized, with everyone saying they are all on the same page, yet it hasn’t been the most comfortable way to take over a new team for Pederson.

Philadelphia Eagles Sept. 11 Sept. 19 Sept. 25 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 6 Nov. 13 Nov. 20 Nov. 28 Dec. 4 Dec. 11 Dec. 18 Dec. 22 Jan. 1

2016 Schedule

CLEVELAND at Chicago PITTSBURGH at Detroit at Washington MINNESOTA at Dallas at N.Y. Giants ATLANTA at Seattle GREEN BAY at Cincinnati WASHINGTON at Baltimore N.Y. Giants DALLAS

1 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

4:25 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

4:25 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

8:25 p.m.

1 p.m.

CHRIS SZAGOLA/AP Photo

SAM BRADFORD (7) is the Philadelphia Eagles’ incumbent quarterback, and word is he isn’t interested in being a caretaker for newly drafted QB Carson Wentz (11).

The Eagles also signed free agent Chase Daniel in the off season — before the draft — so there are two experienced quarterbacks ahead of Wentz going into camp. It will be interesting to see how all of these questions, at the most important position in the West Coast offense, work themselves as the team begins to play games.

All three quarterbacks played in the Eagles’ opening preseason win over the Bucs, but Wentz was injured and he could be out of action until early in the regular season. Wentz’s injury just adds another question to the whole quarterback situation.

Quarterback is not the only pressing issue with the Eagles.

Last season they ranked 30th in the NFL in total defense, 32nd against the run (last), 28th against the pass and 28th in points allowed. They did register 37 sacks, but that may have been at the expense of the defensive backfield because they were constantly bringing extra rushers.

There will be a new defensive coordinator this year in Jim Schwartz, the former head coach of the Detroit Lions, and he will bring back the 4-3 alignment that the team used successfully for so many years under Reid.

In his time as a defensive specialist with the Lions, Titans and Bills, Schwartz was known for bringing intense pressure with just four rushers, something the will help the Philly Dbacks immensely. That seems to be the plan, anyway.

The offensive line also had its problems last season. ProBowlers Jason Kelce and Jason Peters both had subpar seasons. Peters, who apparently was not a fan of the up-tempo Kelly offense, is hoping to rebound under Peterson’s more traditional approach, but he has been hobbled lately with some nagging injuries.

Kelce should get a boost from upgrades at both guard positions. In the offseason, the Eagles signed former Texan Brandon Brooks and former Penn Stater Stefen Wisniewski, and they will be joined by second-year guard Malcolm Bunche and second-round draft pick Isaac Seumalo out of Oregon State.

Tackle Lane Johnson looked like a rising star and was set to anchor the right side opposite Peters, but he is now facing a 10-game suspension from the NFL. An improved offensive line would have gone a long way toward easing the transition into Peterson’s systems, but with Peters and Johnson both question marks, that idea is in serious jeopardy.

Eagles, Page 28

AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

Steelers looking for Lombardi No. 7

By ZACH SEYKO correspondent@centrecountygazette.com

PITTSBURGH — Last season, the Pittsburgh Steelers lost to the Denver Broncos in the divisional round, breaking the hearts of Black and Gold fans everywhere.

The defining moment of the match came when running back Fitzgerald Toussaint fumbled the ball in Denver territory. Denver quarterback Peyton Manning proceeded to drive down the field for the lead-changing touchdown.

The injury bug once again bit the Steelers in 2015. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was sidelined with ankle and foot injuries throughout the season. Starting center Maurkice Pouncey missed all of the 2015 campaign due to a broken fibula. To add insult to these injuries, the Steelers lost star running back Le’Veon Bell to a serious injury halfway through the season.

The Steelers are back for vengeance and look poised to return for a deep playoff run in the 2016-2017. The Steelers focused on defense in the draft by snatching up young talent to strengthen the secondary for years to come. Pittsburgh selected Artie Burns, from the University of Miami, and Sean Davis, from the University of Maryland. Pass defense was one of the Steelers’ biggest weaknesses for the past few seasons, and the front office felt it was the time to address the issue with high picks.

The Steelers remained quiet in free agency per usual, as they do not typically sign big names unless they are in-house.

The team retained cornerback William Gay, wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey, captain Robert Golden and guard Ramon Foster. The moves were crucial to the organization because veteran leadership and chemistry is now intact for the upcoming season. In addition to their in-house signings, the Steelers were contrarian to their habits and signed tight end Ladarius Green away from the San Diego Chargers.

On the offensive side of the ball, the Steelers are stable at the quarterback position. Roethlisberger is expected to play to his Pro Bowl potential, as long as he can stay healthy. Providing the depth behind him are quarterbacks Bruce Gradkowski and Landry Jones. Gradkowski missed time last season due to

Pittsburgh Steelers Sept. 12 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Nov. 6 Nov. 13 Nov. 20 Nov. 24 Dec. 4 Dec. 11 Dec. 18 Dec. 25 Jan. 1

2016 Schedule

at Washington CINCINNATI at Philadelphia KANSAS CITY NEW YORK JETS at Miami NEW ENGLAND at Baltimore DALLAS at Cleveland at Indianapolis N.Y. GIANTS at Buffalo at Cincinnati BALTIMORE CLEVELAND

7:10 p.m.

1 p.m.

4:25 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

4:25 p.m.

1 p.m.

4:25 p.m.

1 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

4:25 p.m.

1 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

GENE J. PUSKAR/AP Photo

ALL EYES will be on Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger as the squad tries to get back to the postseason in 2016.

injury, while Jones filled in when needed, but did not display overwhelming game play.

Moving over the backfield and receivers, the Steelers seem to improve this facet of the game each season. Bell is motivated by his past injuries to turn in the best season of his career, with surprise 2015 free agent stud DeAngelo Williams backing him up. Antonio Brown continues to increase his production year in and year out and has taken midseason form in training camp early on.

Although the Steelers lost beloved tight end Heath Miller to retirement and rising wide receiver Martavis Bryant to a season-long suspension, the organization has high hopes for their replacements. Sophomore tight end Jesse James and Green aim to give Pittsburgh a dual tight end threat, and wide receiver Sammie Coates is eager for the chance to be a star on the field.

In the trenches, the Steelers front office kept the offensive line together as best as they could. Left tackle Kelvin Beachum walked away from Pittsburgh and took his talents to Jacksonville on a contract that would have been too costly and risky for the Black and Gold. The Steelers will look to former U.S. Army Capt. Alejandro Villanueva to solidify his role as the full-time blindside protector for Big Ben. With the anticipated return of Pouncey to the O-line, Pittsburgh is in great shape to have a dominating presence on the line of scrimmage.

Flipping over to the other side of the ball, the team has an urgent desire to get back to what has made Steelers glorified in the past: Defense. Keith Butler is in his second season as the defensive coordinator and is poised to lead a squad filled with young talent.

The defensive line possesses extreme talent needed for the 3-4 defense to be successful in Cameron Heyward and Stephon Tuitt. Steve McLendon opted not to come back to Pittsburgh as their starting nose tackle. Pittsburgh responded by drafting small school alum Javon Hargrave. Hargrave was a freak at South Carolina State, amassing 22 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks in his senior season. There are concerns about his experience since he spent four years in FCS football, but the Steelers believe he his a diamond in the rough.

Steelers, Page 28

AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

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PAGE 27

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

Penns Valley, from page 9

Eagles, from page 24

“Last year, we had a lot of underclassmen in starting roles, and they got the experience that they needed. They’ve grown.

They’ve set goals for themselves. They are a focused group.

With that experience, we are not necessarily looking at one player. We are going to spread the ball around to all of the skill players we have at our disposal.”

In the backfield, returning players include senior Colten Wenrick, senior Takoda Bubb, junior Brent Fegley, senior Hunter Addleman and senior Dillon Steiger. Junior Justin Sands was last season’s backup quarterback.

The Rams open up their season with an unusually long trip (three hours) to the Pottsville area Friday, Aug. 26, to play Marian Catholic from District 11.

They then return home to play Clearfield (Sept. 2) before going on the road again for games at BEA (Sept. 9) and Central (Sept. 16). After that there are home games with Huntingdon (Sept. 23), Bellefonte (Oct. 7), Tyrone (Oct. 21), and Cowanesque Valley from Westfield. (Oct. 28).

There are also away games at P-O (Sept. 30) and Chestnut Ridge (Oct. 14).

Martin Tobias said that this team’s success will depend on a balanced offense and a tough, experienced defense.

“One of our goals every year is to be 50-50,” he said. “And part of that goal is we want to run the ball on every play and throw whey we want to. We don’t want to be in a position where we have to throw. So if we can put ourselves in a spot where we can choose and pick when we want to throw the ball, that helps our chances. We feel comfortable doing either.”

At running back, wide receiver and tight end, the Eagles have experienced, if not flashy, groups of players.

Ryan Mathews, 33-year-old Darren Sproles, Kenjon Barner and fifth-round draft pick Wendell Smallwood are the running backs, while Zach Ertz (75 catches, 853 yards) and veteran Brent Celek are the tight ends.

Jordan Matthews and Nelson Agholor are the biggest threats at wide receiver.

The Eagles were middle-of-the-pack in most major offensive categories last season, so Pederson will be looking to create a spark there somewhere with his new offense.

It’s not all bad news for this team, however. There are two areas where the Eagles should be outstanding.

The defensive line will be anchored by Pro Bowl tackle Fletcher Cox along with ends Brandon Graham, Connor Barwin and Vinny Curry. Throw in run-stopping tackle Bennie Logan and rookie Alex McCalister out of Florida, and this is unit ready to cause big problems for opposing offenses.

In addition, during the past two seasons, the Eagles’ special teams were among the best in the NFL, and with coach Dave Fipp returning, that will be a major emphasis again. Sproles, beside his duties at running back, had a Pro Bowl year as a punt returner.

In all, the Eagles are all over the map in the preseason predictions. Some have them picked to be in last place in the NFC East behind New York, Dallas and Washington. One source had them winning just three games all season, while others have them in the seven-to-eight win range with the winner of the division coming in with either nine or 10 wins.

The Eagles are a team that has much to do in a very short period of time. Eagles’ fans are going to be asked to be patient as Pederson and his staff try to bring together all the different elements of the team. As most football people know, however, patience has not been the most endearing quality of Philadelphia football fans.

State High, from page 14 guys working at it, and I’m confident by the end of camp, we’ll have the best guys in there for the job we need to do.”

Senior Aziz Salamy will be the key to the Little Lions’ secondary. He played at the cornerback position last year and will again take that role this year. Fellow senior Mark Wess will lead the group of safeties.

John Sheehan, a senior, will be the team’s placekicker, and Clark will handle punting duties. A “consistent” Mason Mellot, a senior, will be the long snapper.

Lintal said the key for State College to once again make a run at the state title, it will be vital the team stays healthy and stays strong throughout the season.

“You have to stay healthy and you have to maintain your strength, so we have t make sure we make time to get in the weight room and make time to lift during the season,” said Lintal. “So, that at the end, when you really need all that, you have guys that are healthy and guys that are strong enough to make that run.”

The Little Lions open the season with an unfamiliar foe Friday, Sept. 2, at J.P. McCaskey in Lancaster, followed by Hollidaysburg, which the team hasn’t played for several years.

Besides those two unfamiliar schools, Lintal said he is happy with the way the schedule turned out, and in fact, even feels “a little lucky.”

“Last year, we played a lot of our tough games at home,” he said. “They revamped the conference a little and a lot of those tough teams have to come back and play us at home this year.

I definitely feel like we’re at more of an advantage at Memorial Field.”

Home games this year include Mifflin County on Friday, Sept. 6, Mechanicsburg on Friday, Sept. 23, Cumberland Valley on Friday, Oct. 7, Harrisburg on Friday, Oct. 21, and Central Dauphin on Friday, Nov. 4.

“We’re just going to take it one play at a time and one game at a time,” said Lintal. “We need to keep the kids focused on what they can control, and try to dominate on that.”

Steelers, from page 26 Ryan Shazier is expected to command the defense this season, rising from the ranks of a pedestrian rookie to an experienced veteran. Butler is entrusting the speedy middle linebacker to call plays and be the leader of the defense on the field.

“We know what he can do physically,” said Butler. “We’re going to ask him to make checks and let him call the defense.

He took it pretty well and got used to it.”

As mentioned before, the Steelers made it a priority to improve the secondary. Cornerback William Gay re-signed with Pittsburgh and provides a much-needed veteran presence to the developing players. The Steelers are going to have depth at cornerback, but still lack the experience that NFL clubs strive for.

The special teams unit will be similar to last year’s edition. Chris Boswell seized the position and gave Pittsburgh the confidence to move forward with him as the full-time kicker. While Jordan Berry is the favorite to remain the starting punter, the Steelers brought in former Duke punter Will Monday to challenge him. The return teams will primarily use Markus Wheaton and Brown again, but rookie wide receiver Demarcus Ayers could surprise some and find his way into the starting return roles.

Overall, the Steelers are in one of the best situations to make a run for the Super Bowl. Year in and year out, Pittsburgh’s seasons hinge on injuries to key players. Expect the Steelers to claim the wild card spot and upset some of the higher seeds, at the very least. With Roethlisberger at the helm and a plethora of weapons to attack with, the Steelers can make a serious playoff run and find their way to Houston in February pending injuries.

AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

PAGE 29

2016 NFL Week-by-Week Schedules

WEEK 1

WEEK 4

Byes: Vikings, Buccaneers

Panthers at Broncos, 8:30 p.m.

Dolphins at Bengals, 8:25 p.m.

WEEK 7

SUNDAY, OCT. 2

Bears at Packers, 8:25 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 8 SUNDAY, SEPT. 11

Buccaneers at Falcons, 1 p.m.

Vikings at Titans, 1 p.m.

Browns at Eagles, 1 p.m.

Bengals at Jets, 1 p.m.

Raiders at Saints, 1 p.m.

Chargers at Chiefs, 1 p.m.

Bills at Ravens, 1 p.m.

Bears at Texans, 1 p.m.

Packers at Jaguars, 1 p.m.

Dolphins at Seahawks, 4:05 p.m.

Giants at Cowboys, 4:25 p.m.

Lions at Colts, 4:25 p.m.

Patriots at Cardinals, 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 12 Steelers at Redskins, 7:10 p.m.

Rams at 49ers, 10:20 p.m.

WEEK 2

THURSDAY, SEPT. 29

Colts vs. Jaguars in London, 9:30 a.m.

Titans at Texans, 1 p.m.

Browns at Redskins, 1 p.m.

Seahawks at Jets, 1 p.m.

Bills at Patriots, 1 p.m.

Panthers at Falcons, 1 p.m.

Raiders at Ravens, 1 p.m.

Lions at Bears, 1 p.m.

Broncos at Buccaneers, 4:05 p.m.

Rams at Cardinals, 4:25 p.m.

Saints at Chargers, 4:25 p.m.

Cowboys at 49ers, 4:25 p.m.

Chiefs at Steelers, 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY, OCT. 3

Giants at Vikings, 8:30 p.m.

Byes: Packers, Eagles

THURSDAY, OCT. 20 SUNDAY, OCT. 23

Giants vs. Rams in London, 9:30 a.m.

Saints at Chiefs, 1 p.m.

Colts at Titans, 1 p.m.

Vikings at Eagles, 1 p.m.

Browns at Bengals, 1 p.m.

Redskins at Lions, 1 p.m.

Raiders at Jaguars, 1 p.m.

Bills at Dolphins, 1 p.m.

Ravens at Jets, 1 p.m.

Buccaneers at 49ers, 4:05 p.m.

Chargers at Falcons, 4:05 p.m.

Patriots at Steelers, 4:25 p.m.

Seahawks at Cardinals, 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY, OCT. 24

WEEK 5

Texans at Broncos, 8:30 p.m.

Byes: Panthers, Cowboys

Cardinals at 49ers, 8:25 p.m.

WEEK 8

49ers at Panthers, 1 p.m.

Cowboys at Redskins, 1 p.m.

Bengals at Steelers, 1 p.m.

Saints at Giants, 1 p.m.

Dolphins at Patriots, 1 p.m.

Chiefs at Texans, 1 p.m.

Titans at Lions, 1 p.m.

Ravens at Browns, 1 p.m.

Seahawks at Rams, 4:05 p.m.

Buccaneers at Cardinals, 4:05 p.m.

Jaguars at Chargers, 4:25 p.m.

Falcons at Raiders, 4:25 p.m.

Colts at Broncos, 4:25 p.m.

Packers at Vikings, 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 19 Eagles at Bears, 8:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, OCT. 9

Jaguars at Titans, 8:25 p.m.

WEEK 3

WEEK 6

THURSDAY, SEPT. 15 Jets at Bills, 8:25 p.m.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 18

THURSDAY, OCT. 6

Patriots at Browns, 1 p.m.

Eagles at Lions, 1 p.m.

Bears at Colts, 1 p.m.

Titans at Dolphins, 1 p.m.

Redskins at Ravens, 1 p.m.

Texans at Vikings, 1 p.m.

Jets at Steelers, 1 p.m.

Falcons at Broncos, 4:05 p.m.

Bengals at Cowboys, 4:25 p.m.

Bills at Rams, 4:25 p.m.

Chargers at Raiders, 4:25 p.m.

Giants at Packers, 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 10 Buccaneers at Panthers, 8:30 p.m.

Byes: Jaguars, Chiefs, Saints, Seahawks

THURSDAY, OCT. 27 SUNDAY, OCT. 30

Redskins vs. Bengals in London, 9:30 a.m.

Packers at Falcons, 1 p.m.

Patriots at Bills, 1 p.m.

Jets at Browns, 1 p.m.

Lions at Texans, 1 p.m.

Chiefs at Colts, 1 p.m.

Seahawks at Saints, 1 p.m.

Raiders at Buccaneers, 1 p.m.

Chargers at Broncos, 4:05 p.m.

Cardinals at Panthers, 4:25 p.m.

Eagles at Cowboys, 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY, OCT. 31

THURSDAY, SEPT. 22

THURSDAY, OCT. 13

Texans at Patriots, 8:25 p.m.

Broncos at Chargers, 8:25 p.m.

Vikings at Bears, 8:30 p.m.

Byes: Ravens, Rams, Dolphins, Giants, Steelers, 49ers

SUNDAY, SEPT. 25

SUNDAY, OCT. 16

WEEK 9

Cardinals at Bills, 1 p.m.

Raiders at Titans, 1 p.m.

Redskins at Giants, 1 p.m.

Browns at Dolphins, 1 p.m.

Ravens at Jaguars, 1 p.m.

Lions at Packers, 1 p.m.

Broncos at Bengals, 1 p.m.

Vikings at Panthers, 1 p.m.

Rams at Buccaneers, 4:05 p.m.

49ers at Seahawks, 4:05 p.m.

Jets at Chiefs, 4:25 p.m.

Chargers at Colts, 4:25 p.m.

Steelers at Eagles, 4:25 p.m.

Bears at Cowboys, 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 26 Falcons at Saints, 8:30 p.m.

49ers at Bills, 1 p.m.

Eagles at Redskins, 1 p.m.

Browns at Titans, 1 p.m.

Ravens at Giants, 1 p.m.

Panthers at Saints, 1 p.m.

Jaguars at Bears, 1 p.m.

Rams at Lions, 1 p.m.

Steelers at Dolphins, 1 p.m.

Bengals at Patriots, 1 p.m.

Chiefs at Raiders, 4:05 p.m.

Falcons at Seahawks, 4:25 p.m.

Cowboys at Packers, 4:25 p.m.

Colts at Texans, 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY, OCT. 17

Jets at Cardinals, 8:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, NOV. 3

Falcons at Buccaneers, 8:25 p.m Sunday, Nov. 6 Steelers at Ravens, 1 p.m.

Cowboys at Browns, 1 p.m.

Jaguars at Chiefs, 1 p.m.

Jets at Dolphins, 1 p.m.

Lions at Vikings, 1 p.m.

Eagles at Giants, 1 p.m.

Panthers at Rams, 4:05 p.m.

Saints at 49ers, 4:05 p.m.

Colts at Packers, 4:25 p.m.

Titans at Chargers, 4:25 p.m.

Broncos at Raiders, 8:30 p.m.

NFL schedules, Page 30

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

NFL schedules, from page 29

MONDAY, NOV. 7

Chiefs at Broncos, 4:25 p.m.

Panthers at Raiders, 4:25 p.m.

Patriots at Jets, 8:30 p.m.

Bills at Seahawks, 8:30 p.m.

Byes: Cardinals, Bears, Bengals, Texans, Patriots, Redskins

MONDAY, NOV. 28

WEEK 10

WEEK 13

THURSDAY, NOV. 10

Browns at Ravens, 8:25 p.m.

SUNDAY, NOV. 13

Chiefs at Panthers, 1 p.m.

Texans at Jaguars, 1 p.m.

Broncos at Saints, 1 p.m.

Rams at Jets, 1 p.m.

Falcons at Eagles, 1 p.m.

Bears at Buccaneers, 1 p.m.

Packers at Titans, 1 p.m.

Vikings at Redskins, 1 p.m.

Dolphins at Chargers, 4:05 p.m.

49ers at Cardinals, 4:25 p.m.

Cowboys at Steelers, 4:25 p.m.

Seahawks at Patriots, 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY, NOV. 14

Bengals at Giants, 8:30 p.m.

Byes: Bills, Lions, Colts, Raiders

WEEK 11

THURSDAY, NOV. 17

Saints at Panthers, 8:25 p.m.

SUNDAY, NOV. 20

Bills at Bengals, 1 p.m.

Steelers at Browns, 1 p.m.

Ravens at Cowboys, 1 p.m Jaguars at Lions, 1 p.m.

Titans at Colts, 1 p.m.

Buccaneers at Chiefs, 1 p.m.

Cardinals at Vikings, 1 p.m.

Bears at Giants, 1 p.m.

Dolphins at Rams. 4:05 p.m.

Patriots at 49ers, 4:25 p.m.

Eagles at Seahawks, 4:25 p.m.

Packers at Redskins, 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY, NOV. 21

Texans vs. Raiders at Mexico City, 8:30 p.m.

Byes: Falcons, Broncos, Jets, Chargers

WEEK 12

THURSDAY, NOV. 24

Vikings at Lions, 12:30 p.m.

Redskins at Cowboys, 4:30 p.m.

Steelers at Colts, 8:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, NOV. 27

Cardinals at Falcons, 1 p.m.

Bengals at Ravens, 1 p.m.

Jaguars at Bills, 1 p.m.

Titans at Bears, 1 p.m.

Giants at Browns, 1 p.m.

Chargers at Texans, 1 p.m.

49ers at Dolphins, 1 p.m.

Rams at Saints, 1 p.m.

Seahawks at Buccaneers, 4:05 p.m.

Packers at Eagles, 8:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, DEC. 1

Cowboys at Vikings, 8:35 p.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 4

Chiefs at Falcons, 1 p.m.

Dolphins at Ravens, 1 p.m.

49ers at Bears, 1 p.m.

Eagles at Bengals, 1 p.m.

Texans at Packers, 1 p.m.

Broncos at Jaguars, 1 p.m.

Rams at Patriots, 1 p.m.

Lions at Saints, 1 p.m.

Bills at Raiders, 4:05 p.m.

Redskins at Cardinals, 4:25 p.m.

Giants at Steelers, 4:25 p.m.

Buccaneers at Chargers, 4:25 p.m.

Panthers at Seahawks, 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY, DEC. 5

Colts at Jets, 8:30 p.m.

Byes: Browns, Titans

AUGUST 25, 2016

Colts at Vikings, 1 p.m.

Lions at Giants, 1 p.m.

Saints at Cardinals, 4:05 p.m.

49ers at Falcons, 4:05 p.m.

Patriots at Broncos, 4:25 p.m.

Raiders at Chargers, 4:25 p.m.

Steelers at Bengals, 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY, DEC. 19

Panthers at Redskins, 8:30 p.m.

WEEK 16

THURSDAY, DEC. 22

Giants at Eagles, 8:25 p.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 24

Dolphins at Bills, 1 p .m.

Falcons at Panthers, 1 p.m.

Redskins at Bears, 1 p.m.

Chargers at Browns, 1 p.m.

Vikings at Packers, 1 p.m.

Titans at Jaguars, 1 p.m.

Jets at Patriots, 1 p.m.

Buccaneers at Saints, 1 p.m.

Colts at Raiders, 4:05 p.m.

49ers at Rams, 4:25 p.m.

Cardinals at Seahawks, 4:25 p.m.

Bengals at Texans, 8:25 p.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 25

WEEK 14

Ravens at Steelers, 4:30 p.m.

Broncos at Chiefs, 8:30 p.m.

Raiders at Chiefs, 8:25 p.m.

MONDAY, DEC. 26

THURSDAY, DEC. 8 SUNDAY, DEC. 11

Steelers at Bills, 1 p.m.

Chargers at Panthers, 1 p.m.

Bengals at Browns, 1 p.m.

Bears at Lions, 1 p.m.

Texans at Colts, 1 p.m.

Vikings at Jaguars, 1 p.m.

Cardinals at Dolphins, 1 p.m.

Redskins at Eagles, 1 p.m.

Saints at Buccaneers, 1 p.m.

Broncos at Titans, 1 p.m.

Jets at 49ers, 4:05 p.m.

Seahawks at Packers, 4:25 p.m.

Falcons at Rams, 4:25 p.m.

Cowboys at Giants, 8:30 p.m.

Lions at Cowboys, 8:30 p.m.

WEEK 17

SUNDAY, JAN. 1, 2017

Rams at Seahawks, 8:25 p.m.

Saints at Falcons, 1 p.m.

Ravens at Bengals, 1 p.m.

Packers at Lions, 1 p.m.

Jaguars at Colts, 1 p.m.

Patriots at Dolphins, 1 p.m.

Bears at Vikings, 1 p.m.

Bills at Jets, 1 p.m.

Cowboys at Eagles, 1 p.m.

Browns at Steelers, 1 p.m.

Panthers at Buccaneers, 1 p.m.

Texans at Titans, 1 p.m Giants at Redskins, 1 p.m.

Raiders at Broncos, 4:25 p.m.

Cardinals at Rams, 4:25 p.m.

Chiefs at Chargers, 4:25 p.m.

Seahawks at 49ers, 4:25 p.m.

NOTE: Sunday night games in Weeks 5-15 subject to change; Week 17 game TBD.

SATURDAY, DEC. 17

POSTSEASON

MONDAY, DEC. 12

Ravens at Patriots, 8:30 p.m.

WEEK 15

THURSDAY, DEC. 15

Dolphins at Jets, 8:25 p.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 18

Eagles at Ravens, 1 p.m.

Browns at Bills, 1 p.m.

Packers at Bears, 1 p.m.

Buccaneers at Cowboys, 1 p.m.

Jaguars at Texans, 1 p.m.

Titans at Chiefs, 1 p.m.

AFC and NFC wild-card games Saturday, Jan. 7, and Sunday, Jan. 8 AFC and NFC divisional playoffs Saturday, Jan. 14, and Sunday, Jan. 15 AFC and NFC championship games Sunday, Jan. 22

SUPER BOWL LI

Sunday, Feb. 5, at Houston

AUGUST 25, 2016

THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

PAGE 31

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THE CENTRE COUNTY GAZETTE — FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AUGUST 25, 2016

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